Pursue Your Spark - Midlife, Fitness, Nutrition, Mindset, Health, women over 50

Heike Yates
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Pursue Your Spark - Midlife, Fitness, Nutrition, Mindset, Health, women over 50

It’s 3 a.m., and you’re staring at the ceiling, thinking, How did I end up feeling so stuck? You’re not alone. We’re here to help you break free from those limiting beliefs and outdated habits. With clear, practical strategies, we help you take control and thrive in midlife, using fitness and wellness tools for real transformation. Unlike other midlife podcasts that offer broad advice, we focus on tangible, practical, and actionable steps that make a difference. Whether building confidence, managing the stress of balancing work and family, or overcoming self-doubt, we break it down into simple, doable, and energy-boosting tips. We’re here to help you confidently say 'YES, I CAN!' and make complicated information easy to understand so you can take action. Let’s shake off what’s holding you back and start living the life you truly want. Pursue Your Sparkk podcast is where midlife women come to take action—not just listen. I'm Heike Yates. For more than thirty-five years, I've been committed to empowering women in midlife and helping them transform their bodies and lives. Let’s shake off what’s holding you back and start thriving together. 🎙️See a list of other "niche podcasts" that I produce https://heikeyates.com/category/podcast/ 🤩 ⁠Visit My Website!⁠ https://heikeyates.com/ 🆓 Grab your free Midlife Reset Guide https://heikeyates.com/l/midlife-reset/ 🆓 Grab your free Intermittent Fasting Cheat Sheet https://heikeyates.com/l/fasting-cheat-sheet/ ⭐️ ⁠Join the Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jumpstart 🙋‍♀️ ⁠https://heikeyates.com/courses/fasted-fit-over-50-jump-start/ 🤩 ⁠Join the 8-week Pursue Your Spark Blueprint ⭐️ https://heikeyates.com/l/spark-blueprint/ 💥 ⁠Follow me on Instagram⁠ https://www.instagram.com/heikeyates/ ❤️ ⁠Join the club!⁠ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepursueyoursparkclub

  1. 2D AGO

    234. Caregiving, Parkinson’s, and a Son’s Mission / Dr. George Ackerman

    What if your biggest heartbreak became your most extraordinary mission? After losing his mother to Parkinson’s, Dr. George Ackerman turned grief into purpose—creating a movement that’s shaking up awareness around this devastating disease. In this powerful episode, George shares what Parkinson’s looks like, what most caregivers never talk about, and why his mission, Together for Sharon, inspires a global fight for change. You’ll hear his full story in Episode 234: Caregiving, Parkinson’s, and a Son’s Mission. George opens up about the early signs of Parkinson’s disease are stiffness, internal tremors, changes in movement—and how his mom lived with symptoms for years before being diagnosed. He also dives into the emotional toll caregiving takes, especially when you’re doing it all out of love and without a roadmap. His honesty about guilt, exhaustion, and the need to “just be there” is something every caregiver will relate to. As a law enforcement professional and educator, George is using his unique background to advocate for better training and awareness across the board—including in police departments, where understanding Parkinson’s symptoms could literally save lives. He also shares the incredible reach of Together for Sharon, from his interviews with top neurologists to featuring stories from everyday families worldwide. He believes no one should feel alone, whether they're navigating symptoms, supporting a loved one, or simply trying to understand what Parkinson’s really means. This episode is packed with heart, hope, and powerful takeaways. If you're a caregiver, have Parkinson’s in your family, or just want to be more informed, George’s story will motivate you to take action—because awareness can lead to change. How to support Parkinson's and connect with George: Website https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ Email togetherforsharon@gmail.com LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ackerman-ph-d-esq-mba-00871a82/ TikTok    https://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020 Twitter/X https://twitter.com/togetherforsha1 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/togetherforsharon/ Podcast https://www.togetherforsharon.com/podcast-interviews/

    35 min

  2. MAR 20

    233. Overcoming Fear of Failure in Midlife

    You know that feeling—you want to start fresh with your health, maybe try a new workout or finally commit to better nutrition, but something stops you. That nagging thought: What if I fail? We're tackling exactly that in Episode 233: Overcoming Fear of Failure in Midlife. Fear of failure feels bigger after 50 because you’ve tried before, and maybe it didn’t stick. Maybe past diets left you feeling like a failure, or life got in the way of your best intentions. But what if failure wasn’t proof you can’t do this—what if it was just part of learning? Midlife brings enough change as it is. Your energy fluctuates, your body feels different, and let’s be real—your schedule is packed. The idea of starting over again can feel exhausting. But the truth? You don’t need a total life overhaul. Breaking past fitness failures after 50 and figuring out how to make fitness and nutrition work after 50 starts with small, sustainable steps. So many midlife women tell me they feel stuck because they’ve “failed” before. But failure isn’t final—it’s feedback. I’ve been there, too. When I created Pilates with Resist-A-Ball, I had moments of doubt that almost stopped me from moving forward. In this episode, I’m sharing that story and showing you exactly how to overcome fear of failure in midlife with my SPARK framework—a simple way to shift your mindset, take action, and build momentum without feeling overwhelmed. You don’t have to get it perfect, and you don’t have to do it all at once. Small wins build confidence and energy, like starting with two short workouts a week or focusing on non-scale victories. You are not too old, and it is not too late. The only way to fail is to stop trying. Fear is normal, but it doesn’t have to keep you stuck. Mentions:  #145 – 5 Ways How to Stop Sabotaging Yourself Forever Get on my book pre-launch list Belly Bliss Course  Book a 15-minute Spark Breakthrough Call with me, and together we’ll uncover what’s keeping you stuck in your fitness and wellness journey. This quick assessment will help you create clarity, cut through the noise, and finally start making progress in a way that works for YOU in midlife. CLICK HERE to schedule your call.

    30 min

  3. MAR 6

    232. How To Own Your Power and Pleasure In Midlife / Sue Camaione

    What if everything you’ve been told about confidence, desire, and pleasure in midlife is completely wrong? For so many women, midlife feels like a turning point—you’ve checked the boxes, followed the rules, and still wonder… is this it? In Episode 232: How to Own Your Power and Pleasure in Midlife, we’re diving deep into what it takes to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace confidence, and own your desires without apology. I’m joined by Sue Camaione, author of The Practical Seductress: How I Learned to Take My Hat and Run. She’s sharing her powerful journey of self-discovery, pleasure, and stepping into her full power. We talk about reclaiming pleasure and desire in midlife, shedding outdated expectations, and feeling confident and sexy after 50, even if you've been stuck in old narratives. Too often, women in midlife feel like they have to tone it down, play small, or shrink themselves to fit outdated roles. But what if this stage of life is actually your time to expand, own what you want, and live unapologetically? We break down the mindset shifts and real-life actions that make all the difference—reconnecting with your body, speaking up for your needs, or fully embracing the pleasure and joy you deserve. If you're tired of waiting for permission and ready to own your midlife confidence, this episode is for you. You’ll walk away feeling empowered to stop second-guessing yourself and start living boldly, thriving fully, and reclaiming your power. So, if you’re ready to step into your strength, claim your desires, and start living life on your terms, hit play now! How to reach Sue: Website Link: www.suecamaione.com  Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/sue.camaione.author LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scamaione/  X: https://x.com/SuzyC19584106  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue_camaione/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@suecamaione Mentions: Belly Bliss Course Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air!

    46 min

  4. FEB 20

    231. Finding Strength and Resilience During Uncontrollable Events

    Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. One moment, you’re managing your routine, tackling your to-do list, and feeling in control. And then, something happens—a phone call, a change in the weather, or news you weren’t prepared for—and suddenly, your world feels upside down. In Finding Strength and Resilience During Uncontrollable Events, we’re diving into what it means to navigate life’s most challenging moments with clarity and confidence. While we can’t control every curveball life throws, we can control how we respond. In this episode, I share personal stories, real-life examples, and practical tools to help you build resilience so you can stay grounded even when life feels uncertain. We’ll explore the emotional impact of unexpected challenges, why resilience is a game-changer, and how my S.P.A.R.K. framework can guide you toward clarity, action, and lasting momentum. We’ll also discuss how to build resilience after loss—whether that’s the loss of a loved one, a shift in identity, or a significant life transition. Acknowledging emotions like fear and frustration isn’t weakness; it’s the first step to finding strength during uncontrollable events. The more we understand our emotional responses, the more we can shift our mindset and focus on what we can control. Remember, life’s challenges don’t define you—how you respond does. Today, reflect on how far you’ve come and know that brighter days are ahead. Mentioned In The Show Episode 96. How To Build Resilience/Multi Guest Interview Belly Bliss Course California Wildfire and Disaster Relief Get on my book pre-lauch list Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air!

    26 min

  5. FEB 6

    230. Why Self-Care Feels So Damn Hard For Midlife Women / Lesley Logan

    Feeling like self-care is selfish? You’re not alone. For midlife women over 50, guilt often sneaks in and stops us from putting ourselves first. And let’s be honest—Why Self-Care Feels So Damn Hard for Midlife Women is something we’ve all wondered about. Here’s the truth: self-care isn’t about spa days or bubble baths. It’s about creating habits that help us thrive. Setting boundaries. Avoiding burnout. Showing up as our best selves. In episode 230, I’m joined by Lesley Logan, a second-generation certified Pilates teacher, author, and host of the Be It Till You See It podcast. Lesley is passionate about helping women prioritize themselves through movement, mindset, and self-care. She shares her journey of overcoming perfectionism and embracing guilt-free self-care. Her advice is simple: Focus on the basics—sleep, movement, and proper nutrition. These small but powerful habits create the foundation for thriving in midlife. We also discuss the guilt many women feel when prioritizing themselves. Lesley challenges this mindset head-on and reminds us that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When you take care of yourself, you can give more energy, love, and support to the people who matter most. Lesley shares practical tips to make self-care easier. Create a schedule that prioritizes you. Build habits that fit into your daily life. Ask for help when needed—and let go of the guilt. Self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Thriving in midlife starts with putting yourself first. Tune in to episode 230 to hear Lesley’s advice and learn how to make guilt-free self-care a regular part of your life! How to connect with Lesley: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air! Check out the Belly Bliss course HERE! Join my pre-launch book release right here.

    39 min

  6. JAN 23

    229. Why Losing Motivation Is Not Your Fault

    Ever feel like you’ve hit a wall and can’t figure out why your motivation has disappeared? Here’s the thing: losing motivation isn’t your fault. Motivation isn’t some steady, unshakable thing. It changes as we go through life, just like we do. What lit you up in your 20s and 30s might not feel right now, and that’s okay. Life throws us curveballs—work, family, caregiving—and sometimes it feels like there’s no room left for you. Add in sneaky traps like comparing yourself to others (or your younger self), trying to do everything at once, or waiting for the “perfect” moment, and it’s no wonder we feel stuck. But here’s the thing: losing motivation isn’t failure—it’s growth in disguise. In this episode, I’m breaking down why motivation fades, how to stop beating yourself up over it, and what you can do to feel excited again. Spoiler: it doesn’t involve drastic changes or all-or-nothing thinking. This episode is for you if you’re ready to ditch the guilt and rediscover your spark. Let’s talk about what really matters and how small, meaningful steps can make a big difference.   Episode Links: Sign up for the Fasted and Fit Over 50 Jump Start Course Join my pre-launch book release Episode 025. Boost And Increase Motivation with These 6 Effective Tips Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air!

    31 min

  7. JAN 9

    228. Building a Business That Aligns with Your Purpose / Shannon Russell

    Has your 9-5 lost its spark? If what once excited you now feels like a grind, it might be time for a change. Shannon Russell, CEO of Second Act Success, joins me to share her journey and expert advice on transitioning to a career that aligns with your purpose and brings fulfillment. After a successful career in TV production, Shannon pivoted to entrepreneurship to gain freedom and flexibility. Through self-reflection, she identified her values—family time and creating meaningful work—and built a business on her own terms. Key Lessons from Shannon: Overcome Self-Doubt: Your skills and experiences form a "lifelong resume" that proves you can succeed in a new venture. Redefine Success: Moving to a purpose-driven career means shifting your definition of achievement to align with what truly matters to you. Practical Steps for Your Career Transition: Reflect: List all your personal and professional titles to recognize your skills and unique experiences. Research: Explore 2-3 business ideas you’re passionate about while still in your current job. Start Small: Take consistent, small steps daily to build momentum toward your dream career. Shannon’s story reminds us that career transitions take perseverance and purpose. By focusing on your values and taking actionable steps, you can create a career you love at any stage of life. Episode links: Register for Heike's Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Course Have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it my way, and I’ll answer it on air! Connect with Shannon: Website  Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

    27 min

  8. 12/26/2024

    227. Break Through Overwhelm To Find Your Focus and Energy

    Feeling overwhelmed and stuck in midlife? You’re not alone. For many women over 50, juggling commitments and trying to keep up with wellness trends can feel like an uphill battle. The good news? Overcoming overwhelm doesn’t require big resolutions or drastic overhauls—it’s about starting small and focusing on what truly matters. That’s exactly what we explore in episode 227: Tiny Shifts to Beat Overwhelm in Midlife. We explore why feeling stuck is common and how recognizing it is the first step toward change. Whether repeating the same routines or saying yes when you want to say no, identifying what’s draining your energy helps you move forward. From there, we explore the power of tiny, consistent actions—like adding a 5-minute habit—that creates momentum without adding stress. This episode also helps you challenge limiting beliefs, like “It’s too late for me,” and reframe your mindset to make space for growth. We’ll even tackle guilt, a familiar but surprising sign that you’re breaking old patterns and prioritizing what truly matters. If you’re ready to get unstuck and gain clarity, this episode offers actionable tips to help you shift from overwhelmed to thriving—one small step at a time. Start today by picking just one insight to apply this week. Progress isn’t about perfection but building habits that fit your life and goals. Big changes start with small, consistent actions. If you’re ready for more support in overcoming overwhelm and gaining clarity, my Pursue Your Spark Blueprint will guide you. Starting January 6th, we’ll take it step-by-step, making it simple, achievable, and tailored to your busy life. Here is the link to see if you’re a good fit for the program. Links Mentioned In The Show: Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Eps. 224.- 5 Transformative Habits For Midlife Mastery Join my pre-launch book release

    31 min
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    4.9
    out of 5
    77 Ratings

    About

    It’s 3 a.m., and you’re staring at the ceiling, thinking, How did I end up feeling so stuck? You’re not alone. We’re here to help you break free from those limiting beliefs and outdated habits. With clear, practical strategies, we help you take control and thrive in midlife, using fitness and wellness tools for real transformation. Unlike other midlife podcasts that offer broad advice, we focus on tangible, practical, and actionable steps that make a difference. Whether building confidence, managing the stress of balancing work and family, or overcoming self-doubt, we break it down into simple, doable, and energy-boosting tips. We’re here to help you confidently say 'YES, I CAN!' and make complicated information easy to understand so you can take action. Let’s shake off what’s holding you back and start living the life you truly want. Pursue Your Sparkk podcast is where midlife women come to take action—not just listen. I'm Heike Yates. For more than thirty-five years, I've been committed to empowering women in midlife and helping them transform their bodies and lives. Let’s shake off what’s holding you back and start thriving together. 🎙️See a list of other "niche podcasts" that I produce https://heikeyates.com/category/podcast/ 🤩 ⁠Visit My Website!⁠ https://heikeyates.com/ 🆓 Grab your free Midlife Reset Guide https://heikeyates.com/l/midlife-reset/ 🆓 Grab your free Intermittent Fasting Cheat Sheet https://heikeyates.com/l/fasting-cheat-sheet/ ⭐️ ⁠Join the Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jumpstart 🙋‍♀️ ⁠https://heikeyates.com/courses/fasted-fit-over-50-jump-start/ 🤩 ⁠Join the 8-week Pursue Your Spark Blueprint ⭐️ https://heikeyates.com/l/spark-blueprint/ 💥 ⁠Follow me on Instagram⁠ https://www.instagram.com/heikeyates/ ❤️ ⁠Join the club!⁠ https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepursueyoursparkclub

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