Why Midlife Is the Moment to Reconnect with Your Wild, Worthy Self | Dr. Elizabeth O’Brien

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Welcome to the Say YES to Yourself! Podcast—the show for midlife women, empty nesters, and anyone navigating life after divorce, burnout, or big transitions. If you're ready to shed cultural expectations, reconnect with your true self, and put your joy first—you’re in the right place.

In this episode, Wendy welcomes Dr. Elizabeth O'Brien, UC Foundation professor and author of The Power in the Middle, for a powerful conversation about reclaiming the version of ourselves we knew before the world told us who to be.

After a mentor challenged her on playing it safe, Elizabeth found herself digging through old photo albums, searching for proof that she once knew how to take up space. And there she was—eight years old, mid-swing, mouth wide open, wild and free. That girl didn’t need permission. She just was.

They explore:

• How the behaviors that once protected us may no longer serve us, and how to let them go
• How taking a step back from emotional labor lets others lead the way they need to lead
• Why silence is scary but necessary, and how self-soothing through discomfort is where the real growth happens

This is a conversation about agency, boundaries, and the sacred return to your original knowing.

Connect with Dr. O'Brien:

Her website: dreobrien.com

Instagram @drelizabethobrien

Facebook

Get her book, The Power in the Middle: Navigating your Midlife with Confidence

On Amazon

On Bloomsbury with discount code: GLR BD8  (for 20% off)

Resources Link: The Power in the Middle

Referenced in this Episode:

The Num

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