

Midlife Momentum: Menopause, Hormones & Weight Loss for Women Over 40
Debbie Harbec, Menopause Coach
Are you over 40 and navigating perimenopause, menopause, hormone changes, weight gain, low energy, and the emotional shifts of midlife?I'm Debbie Harbec, a certified menopause coach, and I created this show to deliver practical, evidence-based tips and conversations to help you feel strong, clear-headed, confident, and back in control of your body and life.Each episode breaks down what you need to know and what actually works in midlife, including: Menopause and perimenopause symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, sleep, mood); Hormones, metabolism, and midlife weight loss; Strength, movement, and fitness after 40; Stress, anxiety, and mindset shifts in midlife; Identity changes, confidence, and personal reinvention.You’ll hear expert interviews with doctors and specialists, honest coaching conversations, and real-life strategies you can use immediately,,, without extreme diets, burnout workouts, or misinformation.If you’re tired of feeling stuck in your body, confused by conflicting menopause advice, or frustrated that what used to work no longer does, Midlife Momentum will help you build strength, energy, and momentum - one smart step at a time.🎧 New episodes weekly for women ready to feel healthy, fit, and fabulous in midlife.If you'd like to know more about working with me, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com or @debbieharbec on Instagram.Music Credit:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/sunny License code: 8IEJIZYHBOCC8EWB
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 2, 2025 • 14min
89: The Hidden Cost of Putting Others First
Are you depleted at the end of each day?Do you feel like you give your everything to everyone—your family, your job, your friends—and you’re running on empty? 😩I know it starts with good intentions, because I've lived this too.You want to be helpful. Supportive. Reliable.But over time, that constant giving starts to drain you.And before you know it, a quiet resentment sneaks in…🔹 Why does no one seem to notice how much you do?🔹 Why are you the one always saying “yes” when you really want to say “no”?🔹 Why do you feel guilty for even thinking about putting yourself first?Here’s the hard truth:When you don’t make yourself a priority, it doesn’t just hurt you—it affects everyone around you. Your energy, your body, and your relationships… they all take a hit. 😕On this episode, I’m breaking down:✨ The silent build-up inside you—and how to spot it before it poisons your relationships✨ The surprising cost to others (even if you think you’re hiding it)✨ The effect on you and how a shift in thinking can change it allAfter you listen, hit reply and tell me: What’s one thing you’re going to do for yourself today? I’d love to hear! 💜Enjoy the episode,Debbie➡️ Enjoying my podcast? You can buy me a tea ☕... I'd love it!Curious about working with me? Book a time to talk, it's always free: https://calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultationIf you'd like to find out more about me and what I do, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com ,Email me at debbie@debbieharbeccoaching.com,Find me on Instragram @debbieharbec, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/debbie.harbec.coach

Mar 26, 2025 • 38min
88: Shattering the Stigma: How Leaders Can Normalize Menopause at Work with Tara Lehman
Nearly half the workforce will experience menopause—yet most workplaces aren’t talking about it.Our leaders need to step up.That's why I invited Tara Lehman to the podcast, to talk about how leaders can help normalize menopause at work.I’m diving into why education, open conversations, and workplace support matter—and how we can shift from stigma to support.Whether you're a leader yourself, an advocate for change, or just looking for ways to feel more understood in your workplace, this episode is for you.Tune in to hear:✅ Why menopause needs to be part of workplace wellness initiatives✅ How to lead by starting (and navigating) uncomfortable but necessary conversations✅ The benefits of implementing menopause support groups and policies at work✅ What leaders can do to create a more inclusive, supportive environmentIt’s time to break our silence, speak up, and create real change.Enjoy the episode,DebbieCheck out the video version of this podcast on Youtube: https://youtu.be/RTy37eoC5jc➡️ If you're really enjoying my podcast, and want to express your appreciation, buy me a tea ☕... I'd absolutley love it!Here's Tara's bio:Tara Lehman is a leader, who cares about great leadership and businesses where team collaboration, great communication, and achieving goals is the norm. As a career, leadership and business coach she helps her clients by empowering and supporting them with their goals, challenges and struggles. Tara and her sister Barb opened Twin Life Coaching & Business Services in 2017 with Tara creating their division Amplifying Leadership in 2023. Tara’s aim is to help support people moving careers, to help leaders and businesses to meet current challenges, achieve goals, and develop skill, and to help grow inclusive workplaces.To connect with Tara:Website: http://www.twinlifecoaching.ca/ ; http://www.amplifyingleadership.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-lehmanThanks for listening!If you'd like to know more about working with me, visit me at https://debbieharbeccoaching.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/debbieharbec/ on Instagram.Or book a time to talk with me:https://calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultation

Mar 19, 2025 • 13min
87: How to Stop Starting Over Every Monday: Getting Through Self-Sabotage in Midlife
Ever feel like you're stuck in the Monday restart cycle?You start the week motivated, determined to eat better, work out, or finally stick to that new habit... but by Thursday, things fall apart.And then you’re promising yourself, "Okay, for real this time… Monday, I start fresh."Sound familiar? You're NOT alone.And more importantly—you don’t have to stay stuck in this loop.Today on the podcast I'm talking about:👉 Why we keep falling into the "all or nothing" trap (and how to escape it)👉 The sneaky ways self-sabotage shows up—even when you really want to succeed👉 How coaching helps break the cycle for good—so you stop hitting reset every week👉 The 3 small but powerful shifts that will help you stay consistent (without perfection)Enjoy this episode and keep moving forward!Debbie➡️ Enjoying my podcast? You can buy me a tea ☕... I'd love it!Join my 10-Day Spring Into Spring Challenge! It starts March 20th… Here’s the link:https://mailchi.mp/441a3f24372a/10-day-spring-into-spring-2025Curious about working with me? Book a time to talk, it's always free: https://calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultationIf you'd like to find out more about me and what I do, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com ,Email me at debbie@debbieharbeccoaching.com,Find me on Instragram @debbieharbec, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/debbie.harbec.coach

Mar 12, 2025 • 13min
86: Carbs Are Not the Enemy: Why We Need Carbs to Thrive in Midlife
Want to lose weight right now, in perimenopause or menopause? Maybe you've thought about cutting carbs. I'm asking you to thing again. I want to share with you why I think carbs are essential - not the enemy - especially as we navigate perimenopause and menopause. And it's not just me, there's science behind it. Here’s what I'm talking about:✅ What types of carbs you need, and how much ✅ The protective effect of carbs on muscle ✅ The surprising way carbs support brain health and mood ✅ What kind of carbs to focus on for stable blood sugar and energy ✅ Keto and very low-carb diets — my take on them💡 If you've been confused by all the mixed messages about carbs, this episode will give you clarity — and take away the guilt!Keep moving forward,Debbie➡️ Enjoying my podcast? You can buy me a tea ☕... I'd love it!Curious about working with me? Book a time to talk, it's always free: https://,calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultationIf you'd like to find out more about me and what I do, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com ,Email me at debbie@debbieharbeccoaching.com,Find me on Instragram @debbieharbec, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/debbie.harbec.coach

Mar 5, 2025 • 40min
85: No Age Limit: Building Muscle, Confidence, and Longevity with Joan MacDonald
Do you know Joan MacDonald (@trainwithjoan)?If you’ve ever thought, “It’s too late for me to change,” I can’t wait for you to hear this episode.At 70, Joan was overweight, struggling with high blood pressure, and facing the reality of declining health.Instead of accepting it, she made a decision that would change her life: She picked up weights, revamped her nutrition, and lost 70 pounds.Now, at almost 79, she’s in the best shape of her life, rocking serious muscle definition, living her dream of travel, and inspiring over 2 million people on Instagram.In this episode, Joan shares:🚀 The mindset shifts that helped her break free from limiting beliefs about aging💪 Why she believes in weight training at every age🥗 How she's used smart nutrition to transform her body📸 Why she’s no longer afraid to step in front of the camera✈️ How she’s making bigger plans now than she ever didIf you’ve ever doubted what’s possible for you, Joan is proof that you can rewrite your story at any age.I know that listening to Joan will change the way you think about aging, strength, and what’s possible for you.Tell me your biggest takeaway—I’d love to hear it!Keep moving forward with strength and vitality,Debbie➡️ If you're really enjoying my podcast, and want to express your appreciation, buy me a tea ☕... I'd absolutley love it!Here's Joan's bio:Joan MacDonald is living proof that it’s never too late to transform your life. At the age of 70, Joan faced serious health issues, so she decided to sit in the driver's seat and take back control. Through consistency and discipline, Joan shed over 70 pounds, built strength—both physically and mentally—and redefined what aging can look like. Today, she inspires a community of over 2 million people worldwide, proving that real change IS possible at any stage of life.Her message is simple: Resilience, self-love, and small, daily actions lead to lasting transformation. By sharing her journey through workouts, nutrition insights, and motivation, she has built a thriving community that supports and uplifts one another.Joan MacDonald is more than a fitness inspiration—she’s a testament to what’s possible when you commit to yourself, regardless of your age.To connect with Joan:Website: https://www.trainwithjoanofficial.com/aboutInstagram: @trainwithjoanThanks for listening!If you'd like to know more about working with me, visit me at https://debbieharbeccoaching.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/debbieharbec/ on Instagram.Or book a time to talk with me: https://calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultation

Feb 26, 2025 • 38min
84: Desire, Discomfort, and Discovery: Navigating Sex and Intimacy in Midlife with Marie-Josée Bourassa
Midlife and menopause can change everything about how you experience intimacy, your body, and your relationships.But that doesn’t mean pleasure, confidence, or connection have to disappear.In this week’s episode, I've invited Marie-Josée Bourassa, founder and manager of the Méno-Joie Clinic here in Montreal, back to the podcast (she was with us on Episode 58, too!)This time, we’re diving deep into a topic that isn’t talked about enough: Sex, intimacy, vaginal health, and body confidence in midlife.Here’s what we’re covering:✔️ Why vaginal dryness and discomfort happen—and the steps to heal & prevent it✔️ The power of orgasms (yes, they’re essential for your health!)✔️ How self-pleasure can help you reconnect with your body & boost confidence✔️ Body image shifts in midlife and how to feel sexy again✔️ Ways to strengthen intimacy and communication in your relationshipMidlife isn’t the end of your sensuality—it’s a chance to redefine it on your terms.You deserve pleasure, connection, and a body you feel amazing in.Enjoy the episode!DebbieP.S. You can view this podcast episode with Marie-Josée on my YouTube channel➡️ And if you're really enjoying my podcast, and want to express your appreciation, buy me a tea ☕... I'd absolutley love it!Here's Marie-Josée's bio:Marie-Josée Bourassa, is the founder and manager of the Méno-Joie Clinic here in Montreal, Canada. Her aim with this clinic is to help women who are suffering through the transition of menopause, and to offer them a safe environment that prioritizes compassionate medicine. Before opening the clinic, she was an accomplished nurse clinician and a leader in healthcare services in Quebec, with an expertise in women’s health and decades of managerial experience all of which have prepared her to lead the way in offering health care services to mature women. MJ is also the 2021 recipient of the prestigious Jeanne-Mance Award for her contribution to the development of nursing care, as well as improving overall health care for the population.To connect with Marie-Josée and the Méno-Joie clinic:Website: https://menojoie.com/Email: info@menojoie.comPhone number: 1-514-252-5272Instagram: @cliniquemenojoieThanks for listening!If you'd like to know more about working with me, visit me at https://debbieharbeccoaching.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/debbieharbec/ on Instagram.Or book a time to talk with me: https://calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultation

Feb 19, 2025 • 16min
83: 5 Mindset Shifts to Stop Struggling and Start Owning Menopause
25 years ago, I was introduced to the concept of mindset, and it completely changed the path of my life.At the time, I thought success, happiness, and health were mostly about willpower and circumstances—But I quickly learned that the way we think about challenges shapes how we experience them.Fast forward to today, and I see the same truth in menopause.The symptoms, the changes, the uncertainty—it can all feel overwhelming.But when we shift our mindset, everything shifts with it.In this latest episode, I’m sharing 5 powerful mindset shifts that will help you move through menopause feeling more empowered, confident, and even positively excited —because struggling through it isn’t the only option.Enjoy!Debbie➡️ Enjoying my podcast? You can buy me a tea ☕... I'd love it!Curious about working with me? Book a time to talk, it's always free: https://,calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultationIf you'd like to find out more about me and what I do, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com ,Email me at debbie@debbieharbeccoaching.com,Find me on Instragram @debbieharbec, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/debbie.harbec.coach

Feb 12, 2025 • 18min
82: Move Through It or Slow Down? Understanding Pain vs. Discomfort in Midlife
Have you ever wondered whether you should push through discomfort—or if it’s a sign to slow down? 🤔It's an issue I've been dealing with recently, and I know you're probably experiencing discomfort or pain at this time, too.So in this episode, I'm breaking it down:✅ The difference between discomfort and pain – and why it matters in midlife✅ When to push through (whether it’s a workout or an emotional challenge)✅ When to stop, slow down, or seek support 💡✅ How menopause changes the way we experience pain 🌀✅ Practical tools to tune into your body and mindPain isn’t always a bad thing—but knowing which signals to listen to can make all the difference in how you feel and function.Let me know what resonates with you—I’d love to hear your thoughts!Keep moving forward,Debbie➡️ Enjoying my podcast? You can buy me a tea ☕... I'd love it!Curious about working with me? Book a time to talk, it's always free: https://,calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultationIf you'd like to find out more about me and what I do, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com ,Email me at debbie@debbieharbeccoaching.com,Find me on Instragram @debbieharbec, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/debbie.harbec.coachHere are the resources I mentioned in this episode:"Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience", by Brené Brown"Radical Compassion: Learning to Love Yourself and Your World with the Practice of RAIN", by Tara BrachMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/sunny License code: 8IEJIZYHBOCC8EW

Feb 5, 2025 • 37min
81: It's Getting Hot in Here with Jane Costello
Jane Costello writes rom-coms.And now she's written one for us ladies in midlife.It's called, "It's Getting Hot in Here" and it's a fun, sexy, and relatable read that will have you smiling, laughing, and probably shedding a few tears, too.Jane is currently on her book tour in the US, but I'm so grateful she took the time to talk to us (and that her team me an advance copy which I quickly devoured❤️ ) The North American release of the book was yesterday, so run (or surf) to your nearest book store and grab yours! (I was honestly so nervous and excited about this interview, but Jane was so gracious and lovely, she made me feel at ease even when I was blanking 😳) So, in this fun episode, I talk to Jane about...📕 Why she needed to write this book❤️ The loveable characters and the relatable ups and downs for a woman going through the craziness of midlife and perimenopause📋 Her top tips on becoming a published author (or anything else you're dreaming of)🎁 What's coming next... is it a sequel??I really loved ❤️ this book, and Jane was such a joy to talk to and laugh with.I hope you enjoy this episode and I'd love to hear your impressions of the book! DebbieP.S. You can view this podcast episode with Jane on my YouTube channel➡️ And if you're really enjoying my podcast, and want to express your appreciation, please buy me a tea ☕... I'd absolutley love it!Here's Jane's bio:Jane Costello is a British bestselling author of 15 novels, five of which were published under the name ‘Catherine Isaac’. Her new book, IT’S GETTING HOT IN HERE, is a spicy rom com about a 40-something TV exec and mum-of-two navigating perimenopause, a moody teenager, the to-do list from hell . . . and some delightfully steamy thoughts about a handsome new colleague at work. Her novels have been translated into 26 languages, and she’s been honoured to win a Romantic Novelists’ Award - twice!Connect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janecostellobooks/Website: https://www.catherine-isaac.com/Or, to buy her book, "It's Getting Hot in Here", in Canada, go to Indigo Books, or Amazon.Thanks for listening!If you'd like to know more about working with me, visit me at https://debbieharbeccoaching.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/debbieharbec/ on Instagram.Or book a time to talk with me: https://calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultation

Jan 29, 2025 • 19min
80: Energy Vampires: What's Really Draining You (and How to Reclaim Your Power)
Are you tired of feeling drained? 😩It can be super frustrating when you're trying to create healthy habits or work on a passion project, but you just don't have the energy to make them happen.In this episode, I'll explore...🧛♀️ What an energy vampire is (hint: it’s not just people, but habits, mindsets, and hidden stressors)🚫 How to identify the biggest energy drains in your life—from one-sided relationships to decision fatigue💡 Simple, practical ways to reclaim your time and energy without guiltTake a listen and let me know—what’s the biggest energy vampire in your life right now? I’d love to hear from you!Here’s to reclaiming your energy and feeling your best,Debbie➡️ Enjoying my podcast? You can buy me a tea ☕... I'd love it!Curious about working with me? Book a time to talk, it's always free: https://,calendly.com/debbie-harbec-coaching/free-consultationIf you'd like to find out more about me and what I do, visit me at www.debbieharbeccoaching.com ,Email me at debbie@debbieharbeccoaching.com,Find me on Instragram @debbieharbec, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/debbie.harbec.coachMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/sunny License code: 8IEJIZYHBOCC8EW


