Ep.176 Mom Rediscovered: Midlife Identity, Body Image, and the Power of Self-Compassion

Ever feel like you’re doing everything for everyone—and slowly disappearing from your own life?In this raw and relatable episode, host Michele Folan sits down with writer and coach Jen Butler, author of the forthcoming memoir Mom Rediscovered, to talk about the messy, brave work of finding yourself again—after kids, after moves, and after the coping habits that promised relief but delivered fog.Jen opens up about her seven-year alcohol-free journey, her decisive breakup with diet culture, and the “soft rock bottom” that sparked it all. We unpack:How sobriety led to radical self-compassionThe dopamine “easy buttons” women often turn to—and how to replace themWhat curating your social media inputs can do for your inner weatherHow strength training, protein, and bone health became part of her midlife healingThe simple life-circle exercise to spot what’s not workingTherapy threads through Jen’s story as a practical, stigma-free tool for connecting the dots between motherhood, partnership, and identity. She shares how writing the hardest scenes—hangovers, shame, and all—became deeply healing.If you’re curious about gray-area drinking, breaking up with diet culture, or building a midlife you actually want to live, this conversation will meet you where you are and gently nudge you forward.👉 Preorder Mom Rediscovered, share this episode with a friend who needs it, and leave a review to help more women find this space.https://jenbutlerwrites.com/https://www.instagram.com/jenbutlerwrites/_________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.