Episodes

  • Reclaiming Joy: Why Fun is Essential After 50
    Jun 24 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    Fun isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential, especially as we navigate the exciting adventures of midlife! Today, we’re diving into why joy, play, and all those giggles we used to have aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re downright necessary for our well-being. We’ve all been there, right? Juggling responsibilities and forgetting to pencil in some good old-fashioned fun. But let me tell you, when we skip the fun, everything feels heavier, and that’s no way to live! So, grab your favorite drink—be it coffee, tea, or something a bit sparkly—and let’s chat about how we can reclaim joy in our lives, because trust me, we don’t age out of needing fun; we just need to make room for it!

    Timestamps:

    00:01 - The Importance of Laughter

    00:33 - The Importance of Joy and Fun in Midlife

    06:18 - Finding Joy in Our Schedules

    07:23 - Overcoming Barriers to Joy

    11:22 - Reclaiming Fun: A Necessity for Joy

    Key Takeaways:

    • Recognize and reject the "invisible woman" stereotype by embracing your experiences as sources of strength and vitality.
    • Focus on internal confidence and self-acceptance over external appearances to authentically project your presence and charisma.
    • Adjust your posture and speaking habits to convey confidence; sit tall, use clear, intentional speech, and avoid ending statements as if they are questions.
    • Continuously challenge negative self-talk by affirming the value of your experiences and the validity of your contributions.
    • Observe and emulate the subtle qualities of individuals who exemplify strong presence to enhance your own demeanor while maintaining your authenticity.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • podagingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!


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    13 mins
  • The Weight We Carry: More Than Just Numbers on a Scale
    Jun 17 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    In this episode of "Aging with Grace and Style," Valerie dives deep into the concept of presence and how to amplify it in our lives as women over 50. Valerie breaks down the idea of presence as a combination of confidence, self-acceptance, and portraying a sense of purpose. She challenges common stereotypes associated with aging and discusses practical ways to cultivate a more impactful presence, such as adjusting posture, refining the way we speak, and adopting an empowering mindset. Using personal anecdotes and relatable advice, Valerie inspires you to embrace your age with confidence and redefine what it means to be a woman over 50 in today's world.

    Timestamps:

    00:02 Introduction to owning your power and presence over 50

    01:16 The true essence of presence and self-belief

    02:25 Challenging societal pressures and the quest for perfection

    03:42 Addressing the "invisible woman" stereotype and its impacts

    06:10 Empowering responses to age-related stereotypes

    07:04 Practical tips for enhancing self-presence

    09:37 Using your voice effectively to command respect

    11:21 Looking ahead to communication strategies for respect and presence

    12:10 Weekly challenge: Observing and emulating presence

    13:06 Closing thoughts and invitation to engage with the podcast community

    Key Takeaways:

    • Recognize and reject the "invisible woman" stereotype by embracing your experiences as sources of strength and vitality.
    • Focus on internal confidence and self-acceptance over external appearances to authentically project your presence and charisma.
    • Adjust your posture and speaking habits to convey confidence; sit tall, use clear, intentional speech, and avoid ending statements as if they are questions.
    • Continuously challenge negative self-talk by affirming the value of your experiences and the validity of your contributions.
    • Observe and emulate the subtle qualities of individuals who exemplify strong presence to enhance your own demeanor while maintaining your authenticity.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • pod.agingwithgraceinstyle.com

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!


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    17 mins
  • Ditch the Stress: Unplug and Discover the Joy of Soft Living!
    Jun 10 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for a little more ease in your everyday hustle, you’re not alone! Today, we’re diving into the concept of the “soft life” — not the Instagram-perfect version, but the real deal that’s all about choosing peace, intention, and joy over the daily grind. We’re chatting about how to build a routine that resonates with your values, especially as we navigate life after 50. Think of it as a gentle nudge to let go of the pressure to perform and embrace a life that nourishes you instead. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s explore eight practical steps you can take to introduce more softness into your daily rhythm. Because, honestly, isn’t it time we all learned to breathe a little easier?

    Timestamps:

    00:20 - Finding Everyday Peace

    01:49 - Embracing the Soft Life

    06:13 - Establishing Boundaries for a Soft Life

    08:12 - Reframing Productivity and Soft Evenings

    10:07 - Introducing the Soft Life Concept

    Key Takeaways:

    • Recognize and reject the "invisible woman" stereotype by embracing your experiences as sources of strength and vitality.
    • Focus on internal confidence and self-acceptance over external appearances to authentically project your presence and charisma.
    • Adjust your posture and speaking habits to convey confidence; sit tall, use clear, intentional speech, and avoid ending statements as if they are questions.
    • Continuously challenge negative self-talk by affirming the value of your experiences and the validity of your contributions.
    • Observe and emulate the subtle qualities of individuals who exemplify strong presence to enhance your own demeanor while maintaining your authenticity.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • podagingwithgraysinstyle.com
    • chatgpt.com

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • ChatGPT
    • Insight Timer

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!


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    14 mins
  • Unlock Your Next Chapter With These 3 Powerful Questions for Midlife
    Jun 3 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    Let’s dive into some real talk about what we truly want out of life, shall we? Today, we’re tackling three vital questions that every woman over 50 should be asking herself. Seriously, if you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure about your next chapter, this episode is like that refreshing breeze on a hot summer day! We chat about how these questions helped me reconnect with my purpose and embrace who I’m becoming. Plus, I’ll share some personal stories and tips for making small shifts that can lead to big changes in your life. So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s explore how to live our best lives with grace, style, and a sprinkle of sass!

    Timestamps:

    00:02 - Reflecting on Personal Needs

    02:02 - Embracing Change: What Do You Want?

    03:53 - Embracing New Beginnings

    04:54 - Starting a New Chapter

    Key Takeaways:

    • Recognize and reject the "invisible woman" stereotype by embracing your experiences as sources of strength and vitality.
    • Focus on internal confidence and self-acceptance over external appearances to authentically project your presence and charisma.
    • Adjust your posture and speaking habits to convey confidence; sit tall, use clear, intentional speech, and avoid ending statements as if they are questions.
    • Continuously challenge negative self-talk by affirming the value of your experiences and the validity of your contributions.
    • Observe and emulate the subtle qualities of individuals who exemplify strong presence to enhance your own demeanor while maintaining your authenticity.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • podagingwithgraceinstyle.com

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!

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    7 mins
  • The Invisible Weight: Unpacking Mental Load in Midlife
    May 27 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    Ever felt like you’re just plain old tired? Well, it turns out it's not just your body that needs a break—it's your mind, heart, and soul that are waving the white flag of surrender! Today, we’re diving deep into the invisible load of emotional labor that so many of us are carrying around, especially in midlife. We're chatting about the quiet toll it takes on our mental health and how we can start to reclaim our joy and resilience, one tiny step at a time. So grab your favorite cozy blanket and maybe a snack, and let’s explore how we can lighten that load while laughing and sharing some uplifting moments together. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t just okay—it’s downright essential!

    Timestamps:

    00:16 - Understanding the Mental Load

    00:45 - The Invisible Weight of Emotional Labor

    04:49 - The Burden of Strength

    07:50 - Understanding Mental Health and Healing

    09:21 - Exploring Mental Health Resources

    Key Takeaways:

    • Mental health isn't just about crises; it's about the daily care we give ourselves and each other.
    • The invisible weight of emotional labor can feel like carrying the world, especially for women.
    • Rest and asking for help isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of wisdom and self-care.
    • Movement can be medicine; even a little stretching or walking can shift our mindset positively.
    • Reconnecting with our purpose can reignite joy; it doesn't have to be a grand mission, just something for you.
    • Loneliness can be a significant mental health risk, so reaching out to friends is crucial for support.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • therapyforblackgirls.com
    • psychologytoday.com
    • nami.org
    • pod.agingwithgraceinstyle.com

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    • Therapy for Black Girls
    • Psychology Today
    • NAMI
    • LifeWorks
    • Tellus

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

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    13 mins
  • Your Voice Matters: How I Found My Groove in Podcasting Over 50
    May 20 2025

    Summary:

    We're diving into a heartfelt celebration of two years of podcasting today! Join me as I reflect on this wild ride of hitting record for the very first time, feeling all kinds of nervous, but knowing deep down that my voice had to be shared. Together, we’ll explore the lessons learned, the laughter shared, and those moments when I almost tossed in the towel. It's about more than just strategies; it's about showing up and embracing the beautiful, messy journey of growth and connection. So, whether you’ve been with me since the beginning or just popped in for a listen, let’s raise a virtual toast to aging with grace and style—because, trust me, this is just the beginning!

    Timestamps:

    00:06 - The Beginning of a Journey

    03:54 - Five Lessons Learned in Two Years

    05:48 - Embracing Your Voice and Purpose

    10:05 - Embarking on New Ventures

    12:46 - A New Beginning: Embracing Change and Growth


    Key Takeaways:

    • Recognize and reject the "invisible woman" stereotype by embracing your experiences as sources of strength and vitality.
    • Focus on internal confidence and self-acceptance over external appearances to authentically project your presence and charisma.
    • Adjust your posture and speaking habits to convey confidence; sit tall, use clear, intentional speech, and avoid ending statements as if they are questions.
    • Continuously challenge negative self-talk by affirming the value of your experiences and the validity of your contributions.
    • Observe and emulate the subtle qualities of individuals who exemplify strong presence to enhance your own demeanor while maintaining your authenticity.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • pod.agingwithgraceinstyle.com


    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!





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    14 mins
  • Comparison Trap: The Sneaky Habit We All Need to Ditch!
    May 13 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    Comparison can be a sneaky little gremlin that creeps into our lives, making us question our worth and journey, especially as we navigate this fabulous stage of life over 50. If you've ever found yourself scrolling through social media, feeling like everyone else has it all figured out while trying to remember where you put your keys, then this chat is totally for you! We’re diving deep into the comparison trap—what it is, how it shows up in our lives, and, most importantly, how we can break free before it breaks us. Trust me, by the end of this episode, you’ll feel lighter, freer, and way more confident in measuring your life with your unique ruler. So grab your coffee (or tea, no judgment here!), get comfy, and kick those comparison woes to the curb together!

    Timestamps:

    00:15 - Navigating Social Comparison

    01:25 - Welcome to Aging with Grace and Style

    05:25 - Understanding the Impact of Comparison

    06:38 - Breaking Free from the Comparison Trap

    10:18 - Embracing Your Unique Journey

    11:21 - Embracing Your Own Journey

    Key Takeaways:

    • Recognize and reject the "invisible woman" stereotype by embracing your experiences as sources of strength and vitality.
    • Focus on internal confidence and self-acceptance over external appearances to authentically project your presence and charisma.
    • Adjust your posture and speaking habits to convey confidence; sit tall, use clear, intentional speech, and avoid ending statements as if they are questions.
    • Continuously challenge negative self-talk by affirming the value of your experiences and the validity of your contributions.
    • Observe and emulate the subtle qualities of individuals who exemplify strong presence to enhance your own demeanor while maintaining your authenticity.

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • pod.agingwithgraceinstyle.com

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!




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    13 mins
  • Strength Isn't Always Loud: Finding Your Quiet Power
    Apr 29 2025

    Show Notes:

    Summary:

    Strength isn’t always about being bold and loud; sometimes, it’s simply choosing to breathe through a tough moment. Today, we dive into the idea that strength looks different for everyone, especially during those challenging seasons where we might feel like we’re barely holding it together. Whether it’s taking a moment to rest, having a hard conversation, or celebrating those tiny wins, every little step counts! We’ll discuss how real strength often happens in the quiet, unseen moments and why being gentle with ourselves is totally okay. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s explore how you’re doing better than you think!

    Timestamps:

    00:09 - Understanding Strength in Different Seasons

    00:57 - Welcome to Aging with Grace and Style

    02:48 - Finding Your Quiet Strength

    05:28 - Nurturing Yourself Through Tough Times

    07:14 - Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Care

    08:35 - Embracing Strength in Vulnerability

    Key Takeaways:

    • When life feels heavy, remember that you're doing better than you think, even if it doesn't feel like it.
    • Strength isn't always about being loud and bold; sometimes it's about being quietly courageous and resilient.
    • In those quiet moments when no one is watching, true strength often shines the brightest.
    • Celebrate the small wins every day, because even making it through the day is a significant achievement.

    Let's connect:

    Are you on our email list? If not, join here.

    Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads @iamvaleriehatcher.

    Have questions, comments or feedback? Email hello@agingwithgraceandstyle.com

    Join Us Next Time:

    If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    Stay tuned for more inspiring chats, tips, and stories about the midlife journey.

    See you soon!

    Links referenced in this episode:

    • pod.agingwithgraceinstyle.com

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    10 mins