102 episodes

Interested in making your midlife years amazing but not feeling your best and that perhaps, menopause has not been necessarily kind?  Do you want to get focused on setting realistic fitness goals, refining your nutrition, and improving your overall physical and mental well-being, but don't know where to start?Asking for a Friend is a midlife podcast that gets your health, wellness, and fitness questions answered by experts in their fields and features women just like you, who are stepping out to make their lives and the lives of others more fulfilled. Host Michele Folan is a 26-year veteran of the health industry, coach, mom, wife, and self-professed life-long learner, who wants you to feel encouraged to be all you were meant to be. How do you want the next 20+ years to look? What do you control? Aren't you worth it? Tune in to celebrate this time of our lives with honesty, wisdom, and humor, because no one said we have to go quietly into this chapter.Michele Folan is a certified nutrition coach with the FASTer Way program. If you would like to work with her to help you reach your health and fitness goals, sign up here:https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolanIf you have questions about her coaching program, you can email her at mfolanfasterway@gmail.comFollow us on Facebook at @Asking for a Friend Pod and on Instagram @askingforafriend_pod. https://www.youtube.com/@askingforafriend_pod/featuredThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Asking for a Friend - Health, Fitness & Personal Growth Tips for Women in Midlife Michele Henning Folan

    • Health & Fitness
    • 5.0 • 69 Ratings

Interested in making your midlife years amazing but not feeling your best and that perhaps, menopause has not been necessarily kind?  Do you want to get focused on setting realistic fitness goals, refining your nutrition, and improving your overall physical and mental well-being, but don't know where to start?Asking for a Friend is a midlife podcast that gets your health, wellness, and fitness questions answered by experts in their fields and features women just like you, who are stepping out to make their lives and the lives of others more fulfilled. Host Michele Folan is a 26-year veteran of the health industry, coach, mom, wife, and self-professed life-long learner, who wants you to feel encouraged to be all you were meant to be. How do you want the next 20+ years to look? What do you control? Aren't you worth it? Tune in to celebrate this time of our lives with honesty, wisdom, and humor, because no one said we have to go quietly into this chapter.Michele Folan is a certified nutrition coach with the FASTer Way program. If you would like to work with her to help you reach your health and fitness goals, sign up here:https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolanIf you have questions about her coaching program, you can email her at mfolanfasterway@gmail.comFollow us on Facebook at @Asking for a Friend Pod and on Instagram @askingforafriend_pod. https://www.youtube.com/@askingforafriend_pod/featuredThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    Ep.101 Navigating Midlife Health: Empowering Women with Smart Choices and Self-Care

    Ep.101 Navigating Midlife Health: Empowering Women with Smart Choices and Self-Care

    When was the last time you went to the doctor and felt like you had a true champion in your corner? Someone rooting you on to not only improve your biomarkers and lose a few pounds, but a health care provider who gets excited for your small health wins and encourages you to live your healthiest life, not only in words but by example. Meet Dr. Tolu Olabintan.

    Tolu's journey from Nigeria to the U.S. has infused her medical practice with deep empathy. We dissect the challenges and strategies for women's fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being, and we explore the 'whys' and 'hows' of maintaining an active lifestyle and managing cravings, packaging wisdom from personal struggles into actionable advice.

    Imagine starting each day grounded in a routine that fuels your body and mind, ready to face the world with a go-getter attitude. This episode peels back the layers on how such morning rituals, consistent self-care, and a thirst for knowledge, can shape our health. Dr. Olabintan's story emphasizes the power of epigenetics, where our daily habits speak directly to our genes, influencing our health in profound ways. Join us as we illuminate the connection between our lifestyle choices and the legacy we leave in our DNA.

    Wrapping up with a passionate call to action, we underscore the need for comprehensive health screenings tailored to the unique challenges of midlife. We share tips on navigating the maze of medical tests, the importance of patient involvement, and how to tackle stress and sleep disruptions head-on. You can check out Tolu's YouTube channel where she interviews doctors from around the world.

    Tune in to hear: 
    - Why Dr. Olabintan encourages a "brain dump" to help with stress and anxiety 
    - What bloodwork to ask for at your next appointment
    - Upgrading and being intentional about your "thought life" 

    You can find Dr. Tolu Olabintan at:
    https://www.livingspringmedicals.com/
    https://www.youtube.com/@dr.tolulopeolabintanmd62
    https://www.instagram.com/dr_olabintanmd/
    https://www.facebook.com/Eniabire
    I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
    https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

    Have questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.
    mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

    Follow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:
    https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/
    https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/

    Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow!
    https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAF

    This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    • 36 min
    Ep.100 My Journey to Becoming a Coach: Finding Purpose in Health, Nutrition & Fitness

    Ep.100 My Journey to Becoming a Coach: Finding Purpose in Health, Nutrition & Fitness

    As I uncork the champagne for the 100th episode of "Asking for a Friend," I'm taking a moment to share a slice of my life's journey—a true midlife pivot. It's been a road paved with the trials of menopause, a quest to get my body back, and an unexpected turn toward the world of nutrition and fitness with the FASTer Way program. Beyond my own very positive results, this path has led me to become a certified nutrition coach, determined to empower others to take control of their health.

    Marking the second anniversary of our heartfelt conversations, I'm grateful to you, our dedicated listeners, for sharing in the ebbs and flows of this podcasting voyage. With the start of my coaching business, I'm extending a personal invitation to those of you yearning to write your own stories of transformation. Whether you're seeking one-on-one coaching or just a spark of inspiration to ignite change, I encourage you to reach out. Your next chapter may just be a message away, and I stand ready to guide you through every step, squat, and spoonful toward feeling better in your own skin.
    I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
    https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

    Have questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.
    mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

    Follow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:
    https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/
    https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/

    Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow!
    https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAF

    This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    • 14 min
    Ep.99 Embracing the Leap: Redefining Midlife with Passion, Career Changes, and Second Acts

    Ep.99 Embracing the Leap: Redefining Midlife with Passion, Career Changes, and Second Acts

    There comes a moment when the safety net of a steady job no longer serves the soaring ambitions of our spirit. That's precisely what I faced before embarking on the entrepreneurial journey that has led me here, sharing my story with you. This episode is a tribute to those transformative crossroads in life. I'm joined by Shannon Russell, a former TV producer turned career transition coach, who echoes my sentiments as we dive into the transitions that redefine our personal and professional lives. Together, we uncover the courage it takes to leap into the unknown and the joy that awaits when you dare to chase what truly ignites your passion.

    Facing midlife with a yearning for more can be as daunting as it is exhilarating. In our candid conversation, Shannon and I peel back the layers of what it takes to shift gears from a successful career to one that's aligned with our evolving dreams. We talk about the pandemic's role in prompting self-reflection and the unique hurdles and breakthroughs that come with setting new life goals for women in midlife. It's not just about finding a new job; it's about curating a life that's filled with happiness and meaning, and we're here to show you that it's never too late to ask yourself what truly makes you happy.

    Wrapping up our heart-to-heart, we turn the spotlight on the inspiring tales of women who've written books and started coaching enterprises – all in the prime of their lives. We tackle the fears of failure and the societal whispers that might attempt to dissuade, yet we stand firm on the importance of finding joy at any stage. Shannon's Second Act Success coaching is a testament to the power of support and resources available to anyone ready for their own second act. Our discussion is not just an episode; it's an invitation to step into a world where your career and passions align, filled with the promise of a fulfilling new chapter.

    You find Shannon Russell and Second Act Success at:
    https://www.instagram.com/secondactsuccess/
    https://secondactsuccess.co/


    I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
    https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

    Have questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.
    mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

    Follow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:
    https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/
    https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/

    Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow!
    https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAF

    This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    • 32 min
    Ep.98 Menopause With a Fresh Perspective: Unwrapping the Humor in Life's Sweatiest Moments

    Ep.98 Menopause With a Fresh Perspective: Unwrapping the Humor in Life's Sweatiest Moments

    Ever found yourself chuckling because you couldn't remember why you walked into a room or when trading war stories about hot flashes with your friends? Well, you're in for a treat! Join me as I sit down with the ever-delightful Brenda Bowen, who writes under the whimsical pen name Haut Flasch, to discuss her sweet take on menopause in "Goodnight Night Sweats." She partnered with the equally talented illustrator Jessie Hartland, aka Mina Pauze, to bring to life a parody of the favorite children's book, "Goodnight Moon," with a skillful blend of humor and artistry that turns the daunting world of menopause into something we can all giggle about. Brenda's candid storytelling and personal reflections offer both comfort and camaraderie, making this natural transition feel less like an ending and more like the beginning of a new, albeit sweatier, chapter.

    Our conversation takes us on a safari through the menopausal experiences of the animal kingdom—yes, even orcas have hot flashes—and back to the human world where Brenda shares the top-reads currently on her nightstand. We don't stop there; we're talking about self-care routines that go beyond the typical spa day, highlighting why a good yoga session or a restorative walk can be just the ticket for clarity and managing stress. So, whether you're looking for a laugh, a good book, or some sage self-care advice, join us!

    https://zandoprojects.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/zandoprojects/

    Goodnight Night Sweats is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop, and Books-A-Million
    I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
    https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

    Have questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.
    mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

    Follow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:
    https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/
    https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/

    Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow!
    https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAF

    This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    • 22 min
    Ep.97 Breaking Free from Yo-Yo Dieting: Defining Emotional Eating and Mindful Wellness

    Ep.97 Breaking Free from Yo-Yo Dieting: Defining Emotional Eating and Mindful Wellness

    Have you ever found yourself trapped in the endless cycle of yo-yo dieting, where each triumphant loss is followed by a discouraging gain? Margie Odom, therapist, author, and former yo-yo dieter, joins us to offer a lifeline to those entangled in this frustrating dance with the scale. Together we peel back the layers of emotional eating, exploring how our past shapes our eating habits and our relationships with food. Margie shares her evolution from a school counselor to a sought-after guide in the realm of emotional eating, providing a beacon of hope for sustainable change.

    As we traverse the intricate connection between dieting, body image, and our emotional well-being, we discover that emotional eating isn't the villain it's often made out to be. From the joys of holiday feasts to the dark cloud of diet relapse, we tackle how to break free from the harmful patterns of restrictive eating and embrace a lifestyle that nourishes both the body and the soul. Listeners will gain insights into mindful eating, the celebration of food, and the cultivation of a positive body image, equipping them with the tools needed to chart a new course towards health and happiness.

    The journey doesn't end with what's on our plates; our final leg takes us through the scenic route of personal wellness. We discuss the power of finding joy in physical activities like pickleball or yoga, and how emotional work is critical for those who've undergone bariatric surgery or are wrestling with weight maintenance. Margie inspires with success stories of clients who've embraced mindfulness and self-compassion, charting a path for listeners to uncover their own weight from within. Join us, and let Margie guide you towards a more content, balanced, and healthier self.

    Margie's book:
    The Weight Within: Healing Emotional Eating from the Inside Out

    You can find Margie Odom at:
    https://weightwithin.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/theweightwithin/
    https://www.facebook.com/weightwithin


    I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
    https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

    Have questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.
    mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

    Follow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:
    https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/
    https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/

    Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow!
    https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAF

    This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    • 30 min
    Ep.96 Radiant Skin & Total Wellness: The Synergy of Nutrition and Skincare

    Ep.96 Radiant Skin & Total Wellness: The Synergy of Nutrition and Skincare

    Unlock the secrets to radiant skin and a nourished body with clinical esthetician and wellness coach Lisette Manuel as we explore the deep connection between diet, nutrition, and skincare. Lisette brings a wealth of knowledge to our conversation, highlighting the impact of essential nutrients like proteins, vitamin C, and antioxidants on our skin's health, while also warning against the pitfalls of processed sugars. Get ready to embrace an inside-out approach to beauty that could revolutionize your skincare regimen and well-being, especially through the transformative midlife years.

    Are you curious about the buzz around collagen and the trifecta of skincare staples – hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol? Lisette and I dive into the modern dietary deficiencies and how supplementing with high-quality collagen can benefit not only your skin but also your hair, nails, and joint health. We share experiences and dissect how these powerful skincare essentials work in harmony to combat the signs of aging, ensuring your skin care routine is as effective as possible.

    The journey towards confidence and self-care can take many forms, and in this episode, we also touch upon the transformative art of cosmetic tattooing and its power to restore wholeness to clients. Lisette opens up about her experiences as an artist and the emotional impact of her work. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into her literary contribution, "Prepare to Pause," a guide to navigating the often misunderstood stage of menopause. With her dual presence on social media through https://www.instagram.com/dermakhealthandbeauty/ and https://www.instagram.com/preparetopause/  Lisette offers a candid look into her professional insights, inviting listeners to connect with her inspiring journey.

    You can find Lisette Manuel's book, "Prepare to Pause", on Amazon or lulu.com.


    I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
    https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

    Have questions about Faster Way? Feel free to reach out.
    mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

    Follow Asking for a Friend on Social media outlets:
    https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/
    https://www.facebook.com/askforafriendpod/

    Please provide a review and share. This helps us grow!
    https://lovethepodcast.com/AFAF

    This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

    • 46 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
69 Ratings

69 Ratings

Sarah B. Wellness ,

A Must-Listen for Midlife Women

Asking for a Friend" is a gem of a podcast for midlife women. With Michelle’s sharp intellect and exceptional interviewing skills, she delivers compelling and informative episodes.

Each conversation feels like a heart-to-heart chat with a trusted friend, covering a wide range of topics relevant to midlife. Michelle and her guests offer diverse perspectives and invaluable wisdom.

TheLykkeViking ,

Fabulous podcast!

Michele is truly a gifted podcaster! Her kindness, candor, curiosity and desire to share meaningful information and stories with her listeners is evident in all she does. She has a way of shining a light on the essence of our shared experiences and making you feel seen and heard. We all want the friend who isn’t afraid to ask the sometimes tough questions and get to the substance. I had the privilege of being a guest and was so flattered and honored to share my story. Thank you, Michele!!

Kristin Marie Jackson ,

She found her Way

Michele has a gift. She is full of light and it comes across in her voice I was interviewed on this podcast and she is down to watch and she really puts you at ease .

I love the fast she is trying to give midlife women hope and strategies to help thrive through this better side of life. It’s all right online with my passion of helping women become the healthiest, happiest version of themselves!

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