To 50 and Beyond - Sobriety for Midlife Women

In my final episode, I want to share a little backstory into where I am at this stage of my life and business, where I'm going, and respond to some of my listeners topics they shared. I think it will be helpful for women who are working on living alcohol-free in midlife and beyond.  Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast since 2018.  I'm giving you a big virutal hug (forgot to do this in the episode).  You ROCK!    To stay in touch with me and learn more about upcoming events inside ELEVATE... Join my email community  Visit my website  Find me on Instagram    Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Will Continue to Help Me Share the Podcast If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168   If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can donate a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot      

5/21/26 • 20:54

Episode #357 Hey there!  I'm glad you're here.  If you miss drinking alcohol, you are not the only one.  In this episode, I share what missing drinking in my first year felt like, why the six-month mark is a time to really care for yourself, and what missing drinking alcohol truly is for me. It's not about alcohol. It's about nostalgia and youth more than anything. You'll walk away from this episode knowing you are not alone, that missing alcohol is valid, that you can miss it and stay alcohol-free, and that what you do with that feeling is what matters. Thank you for listening.  Peace.    Mentioned in This Episode:  Drinking a Love Story, by Caroline Knapp   Get Started in Living Alcohol-Free  I offer flexible, personalized packages to help you get started and stay alcohol-free. Working with me is a creative collaboration that gets you clear on where you want to be and how to get there from the very first call. To learn more about working together, email me at hellolori@lorimassicot.com .  I'm easy to talk to and here to help. This is a no pressure email exchange.     Coffee Keeps Me Going If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc  

5/20/26 • 15:41

I have so much love and appreciation for my listeners. I want to give you a heads up that I will be ending To 50 and Beyond in the next two to three weeks. I've put a lot of thought into this and have decided it's time. I'm ending on a high note. If you have a question or something you would like to share to be included in the final episodes, please send me an email at hellolori@lorimassicot.com. Thank you for listening.  ✌🏻    

5/13/26 • 03:51

Hey there!  I hope you're having a lovely day.  If you've been wanting to start a journaling practice but can't seem to make it stick, list-making might be your answer.  In this episode, I talk about why list-making is a journaling practice, especially if you've been telling yourself you don't have the time or don't know what to write. I share the story of the journal that led me to go alcohol-free in August 2013, and I give you a list of list of list ideas you can start using right now, including a few specifically for women working on living alcohol-free. Grab your journal, a piece of paper, a post-it, or a napkin and try a list out today!  List Ideas from This Episode: Things I know for sure about me (or: who I am and who I'm not) My why power list (all the reasons why you want to be alcohol-free, or why you're making any change) Worry list (dump out what you're worried about, then note worst/best case scenario) Things I've worried about that have never happened One to three things I want to focus on this month/week/day Brain dump (everything out, keep it or toss it) Save it for later list Good news and gratitude list Yay me list (your wins, going back as far as you want) My rituals and self-care list When I have a thought about drinking (time, what's happening, what I did to work through it) What helps me stay alcohol-free / what doesn't Habit inventory (habits that help me, habits working against me) No longer buying list (things I'm no longer willing to purchase) No longer buying into list (my own BS or outdated messages) Things I'd rather not do list Three things I know for sure about me and alcohol (my truth list) Play it forward list (what happens if I take one sip) Favorites lists (colors, words, decades, people, food, smells, places) Glimmer moments (tiny micro moments of joy) Solo dates to try this month Songs that make me feel nostalgic, relaxed, or confident Hobbies I want to try this month Books I want to remember / books I want to read Things people have said that I want to remember (or forget) What I appreciate about being my age What's hard about being my age Places I've traveled or want to travel Concerts I've seen or want to see Five pieces of advice I'd give my 25-year-old self Five things my 90-year-old self will want me to start today Reverse bucket list (everything I've already done) Bucket list (everything I want to do) What do I need less of right now / what do I need more of Funny - I didn't think I shared this many, but I also have a lot more ideas. ✌🏻 Have ideas for list, I would love to hear them - send me an email to share.   Private Coaching That Meets You Where You Are and Helps You Get to Where You Want to Be I offer flexible, personalized packages to help you get started and stay alcohol-free. Working with me is a creative collaboration that gets you clear on where you want to be and how to get there from the very first call. To learn more about working together, email me at hellolori@lorimassicot.com .  I'm easy to talk to and here to help.     You can send me a coffee to support the show  If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc  

5/8/26 • 14:11

Hey there!  If you're choosing an alcohol-free lifetyle and taking your weekends back, welcome to The No Longer Giving Up My Weekends to Alcohol Club. There are so many midlife women who are a part of this club, including me since 2013.  In this episode, I share a simple way to plan your weekends to protect your choice to stay alcohol-free.  Thank you for listening. I'm with you.  Peace.    If you need help in getting started in living alcohol-free, please reach out for a complimentary call to learn more about private coaching.  I offer flexible, personalized packages to help you get started and stay alcohol-free. Working with me is a creative collaboration that gets you clear on where you want to be and how to get there from the very first call. To learn more about working together, email me at hellolori@lorimassicot.com. I'm easy to talk to and here to help. This is a no pressure email exchange.   If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can send me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going. I thank you in advance.             

5/1/26 • 07:53

#355 Hello! In this short episode, I share why staying true to your choice to live alcohol free matters, and what to do when someone tells you that you can have just one drink or that you don't really need to stop. I talk about why we are vulnerable in the early stages, and some simple things you can say when you are put on the spot. I also share what it was like when I got sober in 2013 and what I heard from friends and family, including my husband about what my drinking and not drinking.  I'm so happy that I didn't take this advice.  Thank you for listening.  I'm with you.  Private Coaching That Meets You Where You Are and Helps You Get to Where You Want to Be I offer flexible, personalized packages to help you get started and stay alcohol-free. Working with me is a creative collaboration that gets you clear on where you want to be and how to get there from the very first call. To learn more about working together, email me at hellolori@lorimassicot.com .  I'm easy to talk to and here to help. This is a no pressure email exchange.   Coffee Keeps Me Going If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can send me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   You can visit my website here.  Email me here.           

4/29/26 • 06:58

Hey there! Thank you for being here.  In this episode, I'm talking about something very important - rest and how to rest. I share Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith's seven types of rest, and talk about different ways to be proactive with rest throughout the week so your energy bank isn't in a deficit.  You can read the full transcript, here.  Mentioned in this episode:  Cheryl Coulombe's workouts  Dr. Dalton-Smith's seven ways to rest framework   Thank you for listening!  Email me here   

4/24/26 • 11:45

Episode #354  Hey there! I'm glad you're here.  I am talking about alcohol and my drinking. If you're not in a place to listen to an episode about this topic, skip it and come back later.  This episode is for you if you're finding it challenging being in your kitchen, cooking, or grocery shopping without drinking or buying alcohol. I'm here to give you some simple suggestions that will support you in staying alcohol-free in two places you frequent often. In the episode, I talk about why these two areas can be difficult, how to make your kitchen alcohol-free friendly, and give you my best tips to help you meal plan and shop with intention.  To read the full episode notes with everything I talked about, click here.  Thank you for listening. I'm with you!  Email me here.  If you want to work with me and connect with other women who are living alcohol-free, join ELEVATE, my online community here.    Support Me and the Podcast If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me going.    Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If enjoyed this episode, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc    

4/22/26 • 20:28

Hey there! For the past couple of years, I've thought about ways to bring back a version of my original weekend podcast, The Sitch On Saturday (yup, I used to say "Sitch") to help you reflect, reimagine, and take care of yourself throughout the week. The Weekend Shift came to me at 2:30 am, and I recorded this first episode just hours later. It feels good, and I'm so excited to be with you twice a week now. Listen in for a simple reflection to help you end your week and head into the next with a little more clarity. Thank you for listening.  See you on Wednesday, 4/22, with an episode about meal planning and staying alcohol-free at the grocery store. Enjoy your weekend!  xo    Join ELEVATE  When you can't figure out what to do to stay alcohol-free or feel uninspired, there is camaraderie and guidance from me inside ELEVATE.   If you feel you could benefit from extra accountability and support, find out more and join ELEVATE now.   Coffee Keeps Me Going If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot   Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc    

4/17/26 • 05:38

Episode #353 Hello! I know what it feels like to be in a place where you are reassessing your relationship with alcohol, cutting back, and taking breaks. I also know what it looks and feels like to realize that drinking less and placing rules on your drinking is not how you want to drink. This short episode is a look inside what the two years leading up to me ultimately going alcohol-free was like, and how those two years led me to the acceptance I needed to go alcohol-free. Mentioned in this episode: The Night I Started Drinking at 14  Thank you for listening! I'm with you.    Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please consider leaving a rating and review. Taking time helps other midlife women find the show, and is greatly appreciated.  Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc   If you would like to further support my work, you can send me a coffee.  👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot   Say hello by sending me an email.  Visit my website to learn more about private coaching and my online community, ELEVATE.   

4/15/26 • 11:37

Episode 352  Hello there!  This episode goes out to midlife women who are working on living alcohol-free. You are the solution is a core belief of mine. This episode is about what that actually means in practice. I share my own story of stopping drinking at 45, smack in the middle of midlife, with no clue what I would do without alcohol. I talk about the loop of no solution that alcohol creates, why midlife women are drinking in 2026, and I walk you through simple, practical ways to apply "you are the solution" in your daily life.  I'm with you!    If you enjoyed this episode, consider supporting my work by sending me a coffee My coffee shop is open and I would be so thankful to have a cup on you.  👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   Your 5-minute rating and review help me so much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168   Mentioned in This Episode   Work With Me Privately  Join ELEVATE       

4/8/26 • 18:07

Episode #351 Hey there! I'm glad you're here.   I'm so happy to have Donna Ferris back on the podcast. Donna joined me years ago to talk about her first book and memoir, We've Got to Stop Meeting Like This, and today we're doing something a little different. Instead of an interview, we sat down together to talk about what we each expected before getting sober and what we've actually experienced on the other side. You'll hear a bit more about Donna's story in this episode, and I'm linking her first episode in the show notes if you want the full background. Donna's second book, Bounce Back Stronger: Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Happens, is out now. She's also the host of the Bounce Back Stronger podcast and a life coach who focuses on habit change, overcoming loss, writing to heal, and redefining what success looks like. In this episode, we talk about what we expected before we stopped drinking, and what we experienced after we stopped drinking.  We talk about the difference in how we feel and sleep, our confidence and trust in ourselves, and what we wouldn't be doing today if not for our sobriety.  I thank you for being here and apologize for a bit of sound quality issues.  Sending you a hug!    Find Donna and her resources here:  Donna's first episode on Two 50 and Beyond Donna's new book Bounce Back Stronger: Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Donna's memoir: We've Got To Stop Meeting Like This Bounce Back Stronger podcast Donn's website Annie Grace on Dan Harris     Join ELEVATE - my online community for midlife women who are living alcohol-free.    Coffee Keeps Me Going If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc  

4/1/26 • 31:17

Episode 350  Grab your poster board or foam board, some magazines, and a glue stick. We are about to get crafty. If you're looking for a creative project to help you get clear on what you want in your life right now, this episode is for you. A mood board is a visual representation of how you want to feel right now, this season, this chapter. A mood board is made up of images, quotes, words, and notes to yourself that match the feeling you want to carry into spring. I'm walking you through a reflection to help you put yours together. It's fun to create, but it's also a helpful way to pause and get honest about what you want and don't want this season. Prompts from this episode: Where are you today and what are you proud of yourself for accomplishing? What do you want to create this spring?  What will you invite in? What are you ready to release? What will you remind yourself of?   Mentioned in this episode: Canva (free mood board templates)   If you would like to support me and the podcast, sending me a coffee means a lot!  Send me a coffee at my Ko-fi  shop Thank you in advance!    Spend spring with me inside ELEVATE Join Me Inside ELEVATE My online community for women in midlife and beyond who are living alcohol-free. By joining, you will receive my ELEVATE Your Spring book to help you really document your spring alcohol-free.  Join ELEVATE   Thank you for listening! You ROCK! 

3/25/26 • 13:11

Episode #349  Hey there!  If you've heard me talk about my online community and aren't really sure what it is or how it works, or if you've been curious about joining my community, this episode is for you.   If you're inside ELEVATE, thank you for taking the leap with me! 🫶   This is one of those episodes, where I said to myself, why in the heck have you not done this sooner?  Before you dive in, this is an honest look at why I believe in community in midlife and in living alcohol-free, especially in 2026. I will give you a peek into how my community, ELEVATE, formerly Team Alcohol-Free, works.   I have a short rapid fire FAQ that I'll go through to answer most of the questions I've received over the years.    I'm not a fan of long enrollment pages, so I made a summary that you can find here.    In honor of ELEVATE, turning 3 today, I'm offering a special anniversary enrollment that ends on 4/1/26. As we start the new chapter together as midlife and beyond women who are done with alcohol and focused on living fulfilling alcohol-free lifestyles, it's a really great time to join.  Meet new women who are coming in with you and get started this week.  Join ELEVATE today.    Reach Out  Send me an email  Private Coaching enrollment         

3/18/26 • 21:47

Episode #348  Hey there! I'm glad you're here.  I recorded this short and sweet episode to let you know if you're in the middle of a transition in your life, or multiple transitions, I'm here. Sometimes, that is the best thing I can offer - to let you know you're not alone during this time.  In this episode, I share two transitions I'm recognizing with a move and my son living at home. I also talk about why it's helpful to recognize when you're in the "middle"  of a transition, and some simple things I do for myself.  I share a story about my mom and how I learned from a young age that life happens - just keep pushing through. I don't want to do this anymore, I want to get on my back and float a bit.  I'm sending you love wherever you are and with whatever transtion you are in.  Please reach out to me if you would like to say hello and share.  Mentioned: What I'm Doing to Take Care of Myself Right Now  My email: hellolori@lorimassicot.com My website has gotten a face lift: lorimassicot.com Join my newsletter - The Moment    If You Want to Support Me and the Podcast: Coffee Keeps Me Going If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc   Thank you for listening! See you next week.  xo  Lori

3/11/26 • 12:56

Episode #347 Hey there! I hope you're having a nice day.  If you are curious about living alcohol-free, and ready to make it a lifestyle, or if you've decided to live alcohol-free and you're months or more in and you're not sure if it's the lifestyle for you, this episode is for you. In this episode, I give you my perspective of an alcohol-free lifestyle and what my decision to go alcohol-free gave me in the first two years of living alcohol-free.  It's an honest look into my experience after 30 years of being a drinker, a party girl, and a woman smack dab in the middle of life (well, a little beyond).  I also offer a reflection for those who are in it and aren't sure if the lifestyle is for them.  I'm with you. Thank you for being here with me.    Private Coaching That Meets You Where You Are and Helps You Get to Where You Want to Be I offer flexible, personalized packages to help you get started and stay alcohol-free. Working with me is a creative collaboration that gets you clear on where you want to be and how to get there from the very first call. To learn more about working together, email me at hellolori@lorimassicot.com .  I'm easy to talk to and here to help. This is a no pressure email exchange.   Coffee Keeps Me Going If the podcast has supported you and you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee here: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/lorimassicot Every cup helps keep me and To 50 and Beyond going.   Your 5-Minute Rating and Review Helps So Much If the podcast has supported you, please rate and review To 50 and Beyond. It helps other midlife women find the show. Apple Podcasts Open this link in the app → Scroll to Ratings & Reviews → Tap Write a Review 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/to-50-and-beyond-podcast/id1345136168 Spotify Open this link → Tap the three dots → Select Rate Show 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/1OHSInNsfXpinvxPpeZBZc            

3/4/26 • 22:36

In this episode, I take you back to 1982 when I was 14 years old and the night I became a "party girl." I share the story of my first real experience with alcohol at a date party, from getting ready in my bathroom with my sweet mom Carol Jean, to wearing that pink striped dress that hid my nervous hives, to discovering how alcohol made me feel lighter, looser, and more confident. This was the night that changed everything. It's when I told myself, "I'm cool as long as I have alcohol," and started chasing that feeling for the next 30 years. I reflect on why remembering this moment is so important to staying sober today, and what that 14-year-old version of me would think about the life I'm living now at 58. Thank you for being here. I'm with you.    Support Me & The Pod  Leave a rating and review on Apple  Buy Me a Coffee   Stay Connected Sign up to receive my newsletter in February.  Schedule a Discovery Session for Private Coaching    

2/25/26 • 05:52

Hello!  I recorded an episode to let you know what I'm doing to take care of myself and my anxiety right now. These are some of my favorites that I focus on throughout the week, not daily as a "work from home" gal.  I wanted to check in with you to let you know I'm still here and offer ideas to find relief without drinking alcohol.  Here are the daily prompts that I walk you through to practice:  Ask yourself: What do I need less of right now? What do I need more of right now? What can I do for myself right now? What can I let go of for today? You don't need to answer all of them. One is enough. I'm sending you a big hug.    Stay Connected  Please send me an email if you want to say hello or share what you're doing right now to take care of yourself.  Sign up to receive my newsletter in February.    Support Me and My Work  Leave a rating and review on Apple  Buy Me a Coffee    Your support means the world to me.  Thank you for being here.  Peace.       

1/29/26 • 13:30

Happy 2026!  Thank you for listening to the podcast. I appreciate you!  In this episode, I offer you a different take on "New Year, New You" energy.  I hope that you take time to reflect on how far you've come in life and go "all in" on what you want and don't want in 2026.  I'll be back to the podcast, but right now I'm doing a lot of reflecting and soul-searching. To stay in touch, you can join The Moment, my twice-a-month newsletter. For personalized support through private sessions, feel free to email me. To walk alongside me and other women living alcohol-free, you can join Team Alcohol-Free.  

1/2/26 • 04:30

Hello! I'm so happy to be here with you.  I'm popping in to check in with you this holiday season. As 2025 comes to a close, I want to offer words of encouragement to help you navigate the holiday alcohol-free.  Whether this is your first year, your second, or many years in. I talk about growth, discomfort, awkward moments, grief, and why outgrowing alcohol is a sign that you're evolving, which is a good thing! I also share where I am right now, slowing down, focusing on one thing at a time, and letting intuition and flow guide me.  And a personal story from my first sober Christmas and what changed in the years that followed, along with a reminder that you're not alone in this season. There are so many women walking through this right alongside you, including me. I'm with you. Thank you for being here with me.  ✌🏻 Mentioned in this episode:  Join the Team Alcohol Free waitlist Join my email community for the upcoming 2025 reflection Send me an email to say hello 

12/17/25 • 08:01

Episode 343 Hello, friend! Happy holidays and happy season of midlife and beyond! This episode was inspired by a walk I took this morning and the possibilities that open up when you walk with the topic of wonder. I invite you to walk with wonder during the holiday season and the season of midlife, using curiosity instead of pressure to explore what's possible for you. Wonder expands your perspective and opens doors you may not have touched or considered in a long time (or ever!)  I share simple prompts you can take with you anywhere, but I suggest taking a walk with this one!  I'm with you.  I appreciate you so much for listening.  XO   Mentioned in This Episode • Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown • My 2025 Holiday Gift Guide for Midlife Women Living Alcohol-Free: https://www.lorimassicot.com/2025giftguide   Stay in touch and work with me in December:  • TAF enrollment for 2025 closes on 12/1: https://www.lorimassicot.com/teamalcoholfree • Schedule a 60-minute Clarity Session: https://www.lorimassicot.com/ • Join my email newsletter, The Moment: https://www.lorimassicot.com/email-sign-up

11/23/25 • 15:21

https://www.lorimassicot.com/coaching-servicesHey there!  I'm sharing my interview with my friend Noelle Van on her podcast, The Change Effect, because it's all of our favorite topics that we discuss on To 50 and Beyond!  In this episode, we talk about:  The myth of "rock bottom" and why real change begins with your decision, not a catastrophic event. How negotiating and bargaining with alcohol keeps us stuck Navigating the unique challenges of quitting alcohol in midlife The ways alcohol-free living can bring clarity, emotional freedom, and renewed energy during the perimenopause and menopause transition. The importance of accountability, support, and community when breaking free from drinking Rediscovering your true self, embracing self-care, and finding peace with "being enough" at every age. The ongoing journey of recovery, self-compassion, and redefining success beyond productivity and external achievements. Why change is the catalyst for creating the life you deeply desire. If you're contemplating your relationship with alcohol, struggling with change in midlife, or simply ready to put yourself at the center of your own story, this honest and inspiring episode is for you.  You can find Noelle here.  Thank you for listening!    Mentioned in this episode:  Team Alcohol-Free enrollment  Join my 2x a month newsletter, The Moment  Private Coaching is available for six-week or 60-minute sessions Send me an email to say hello!   

11/12/25 • 40:38

Episode #341 Hello there! I'm glad you're here.  Today, I want to have a conversation about the word "still" — how it can either make us feel stuck, like we're not doing enough, or trapped in frustration and confusion. But it can also be a word we use to empower ourselves. This year especially, I've had heartfelt conversations with women who feel like they're in a transition, still figuring things out. Whether it's about their relationship with alcohol or their life in general. There's a lot of outgrowing happening, a lot of evolving, and I want to talk about what it really means to be "still" in the middle of all that. If you're feeling stuck, unsure, or frustrated, know you are not alone. Build yourself up today and reframe how you're using still.  You'll hear: How "still" can feel limiting or powerful depending on how you use it. My honest experience with quitting alcohol and the unexpected challenges. Common struggles women face midlife when changing their relationship with alcohol. I'm with you 100%.  Take care of yourself this week. Peace. ✌🏻Before you go...   Could You Do Me a Favor? A Quick Apple Podcast Review Hearing from you is SO helpful as I sit down behind the mic each week.   If this or any other episode helped you, please consider taking a few minutes to help me reach more women in midlife who need to know that living alcohol-free is possible.   Here's how to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts:  Open the Apple Podcasts app on your phone. Search for "To 50 and Beyond" and open the show page. Scroll down to the Ratings & Reviews section. Tap "Write a Review," choose your star rating, and share whatever feels right. Tap "Send" to submit your review. I read all of my reviews and will send you a virtual hug after reading yours.  Thank you for your support!    Mentioned in this episode:  Join my newsletter, The Moment Join Team Alcohol-Free  Email me 

10/29/25 • 13:26

Episode #340  Have you ever found yourself saying you want to try something new or stop doing something? If you said, Yes! This episode is for you!  "Broken-record-idis" is a thing, and I share my recent experience declaring an "opposite day"—a simple practice of intentionally doing something opposite of your usual routine, especially in midlife. Whether it's skipping the grocery store to avoid wine, taking a different walk route, or wearing something unexpected, small shifts can spark joy and motivation. Planning a day to do the "opposite" is about breaking monotony, releasing natural dopamine, and inviting a fresh perspective without pressure or big commitments.  If you try it and want to share with me, I would love to hear from you!  If you are interested in private coaching or have questions about Team Alcohol-Free, you can send me an email here.  Thank you for listening! See you soon:)    Mentioned in this episode:  Frieda McFadden books - I talk about The Perfect Son  The movie I saw over the weekend.  I forgot to mention that I enjoyed both the book and the movie!    NEW Inside Team Alcohol-Free  Team Alcohol Free's new three-month subscription option gives you the opportunity to try out our community during the holidays and into 2026.  We are a community of midlife and beyond women working together to create and live an alcohol-free style that feels good to us.  You can find enrollment details here.       

10/22/25 • 15:54

Episode #339 This episode is inspired by a few of my listeners who reached out to me via my email. I've heard from so many women over the past seven-plus years who have said, I'm on day one, and I've heard from a couple of listeners recently who have shared their experiences and their challenges with staying alcohol free on vacation and in restaurants. In this episode, you will hear more about my first vacation sober, my experiences in a restaurant in the early days, and honest reminders to help you stay alcohol-free on vacation and in restaurants. You will also hear a straightforward reminder and message to help you redefine "another day one" if you have gone back to drinking and are starting fresh. I'm with you!  Thank you for listening.  Find things here... To read this episode's full show notes, click here.  Write to me here.  Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit here.  Join my email newsletter, The Moment, here.   

10/15/25 • 23:55

Episode #338 Hello there! I'm happy you're here.  Today's episode is a conversation among midlife friends. Our guest today is Noelle Van. Noelle has been on the podcast twice before, starting with episode 24 (see below).  She is someone I appreciate having conversations with because she is authentically herself.  During this episode, Noelle and I talk about where Noelle is with getting older - the joys and challenges. Noelle talks about how being in recovery has helped in other areas of her life and where she is now in long-term recovery.  Noelle talks about her life in Corporate and how to identify burnout, and take the first steps towards transitioning out of the Corporate world, and more good stuff about change in midlife.  Thank you for listening. I appreciate you.  To read this episode's full show notes, head on over here.    Check out Noelle's past episodes:  Episode #24: High Functioning Alcoholism and Hiding Your Drinking  Episode 230: How to Start a Journal Practice Contact Noelle here.  Noelle's website  Noelle's podcast: The Change Effect The Sober Leap book   Contact Lori here Lori's website  Free resource: The Daily Sobriety Toolkit Join the newsletter here    Team Alcohol-Free enrollment (closes October 31st)    

10/8/25 • 47:32

Episode 337 Picture us sitting down with our favorite beverage and notebooks, and I ask you: What do you want to focus on and not focus on before the clock strikes midnight on 1/1/2026? It's a question I asked myself before I recorded this episode, and this is what we're talking about today! I share a letter I wrote to myself on 12/31/24 with my goals and dreams for 2025. I talk about what is working in my life that I want to continue to focus on in 2025, a few things I want to start, and something I want to let go of and not focus on.  Throughout the episode, I check in with you to help you get clear on the progress you've made, the things you are doing that are working in your life, and what you want to spend your time focusing on and not focus on for the remainder of the year.  I have a correction:  I mentioned SMART goals and incorrectly used the acronym. The correct meaning is: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Thank you for allowing me to be human and make mistakes 😊. I would LOVE to hear from you! Send me an email to share what you're focusing on and not focusing on for the rest of 2025.  Thank you for listening!    You can read the transcript of this episode here.    Mentioned in this episode:  Join The Moment (bi-weekly newsletter)    Lift With Cee YouTube Channel Cheryl Coulombe's challenges I've done this year (and am doing) Weight Watchers App THE Notebook I use and love    Work With Me  Download the free Daily Sobriety Toolkit here.  Private Coaching + Community Community only: Team Alcohol-Free   

10/1/25 • 21:58

Episode #335  Drinking thoughts can be frustrating after you stop drinking. I have had many conversations with women recently that prompted this episode.  If you're in "them", you're going to get through them. Drinking to quiet the thoughts only makes them stick around.  In this episode, I talk about the most common thoughts many midlife women experience, like "I could have just one," "I deserve a drink," and "Why can't I drink like others?"  I share a walk-through of what my day looked like after I stopped drinking—from waking up proud of not drinking, through the growing anticipation and stronger thoughts by afternoon and evening, to making it through despite the discomfort. I talk about some of the reasons why these thoughts come up and why they did for me personally. And, I share ideas to help you navigate these thoughts without drinking and remind you that, in time, they won't be as consistent.  If you're in "the thoughts", you're going to get through them. Drinking to quiet the thoughts only makes them stick around.  I'm with you!    Download the free Daily Sobriety Toolkit here.    Mentioned in this episode:  Article: Imagining Future Events Changes the Brain to Improve Healthy Decision Making Send me an email ✉️ Hellolori@lorimassicot.com   Private Coaching for Midlife Women  You and me = a Team to help you create and live an alcohol-free lifestyle.  I'm so passionate about the work that I do. I would love to help you if you are looking for guidance in either getting started or maintaining your sobriety.  You are not alone in this. If you would like to learn more about private coaching, please schedule a complimentary discovery session here.  Join my Community   Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free.  Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!  Go here to enroll

9/17/25 • 24:14

Episode 334  Hello! Thank you for being here today.  This episode offers hope to anyone seeking to change their drinking, as well as to family members who wish to support their loved ones through the process with compassion and understanding. I'm honored to welcome our guest, Amber Hollingsworth, to the podcast.  Amber is a master addiction counselor, founder of Hope For Families Recovery Center, and creator of the YouTube channel Put The Shovel Down. With over two decades of experience, she's helped thousands of families navigate addiction recovery using innovative, relationship-focused strategies like the Invisible Intervention. Known for her relatable, no-nonsense approach, Amber's philosophy is centered on empowerment and compassion, believing that people don't need to hit rock bottom to recover and that recovery is about redirecting addictive energy toward positive, fulfilling life goals. She emphasizes that individuals and families have the influence and strength to create lasting change through trust, safety, and a strengths-based approach, rather than relying on shame or control. You will hear Amber talk about: The true process of changing your drinking—and where to begin by taking intentional breaks from alcohol The early signs it may be time to rethink your drinking, and what Amber calls "stage three" Why is moderation so challenging, given how alcohol impacts brain chemistry and self-control How to navigate what Amber describes as "the bargaining stage" to stay alcohol-free What to expect in early sobriety and how to approach a break from drinking The instincts family members have that can unintentionally hinder progress—and what they can do to truly support a loved one Amber offers hope, insight, and actionable tools for anyone facing change or supporting someone they love. Click here for Amber's YouTube playlist.  Connect with Amber  Hope For Families Recovery Center    Connect with Lori  Private Coaching complimentary discovery session  Join my community Team Alcohol-Free  Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit     

9/10/25 • 38:14

Episode #333 Hey there! I'm so happy you're here.  Today, I'm talking to two of my favorite people, Leigh and Anne Walkup. The sisters are back on the podcast to share their thoughts on aging (the joys and the challenges), perimenopause, and we talk about the different seasons of life.  We also talk about recovery and sobriety in the news - it's good news and it's here to stay, as you will hear. The sisters share their thoughts about what recovery is like and why it's beneficial to embrace. They also share their favorite beauty product at the moment, what they're reading and watching, and the latest from their Fall issue of Front Porch Life Magazine.  It's a fun episode! Thank you for listening!    Mentioned in this episode:  Front Porch Life Magazine The Southern Lady Cooks Wow hair product  The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah Winter Rose by Jennifer Donnelly    Leigh and Anne's past episodes: Build More Discipline When Alcohol is the Reward Forgiveness, Messing Up, and Moving On The Benefits of Going All In    Enroll in Team Alcohol-Free  Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free.  Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!  Go here to enroll  

9/3/25 • 48:53