Michelle Jacobs: The “Shoulds” Women Carry Around Aging, Health & Reinvention

What happens when you realize the life you built no longer fits who you’re becoming?In this episode of Beyond Should, Lucy sits down with Michelle Jacobs, co-founder and COO of Womaness, to unpack reinvention, women’s health, leadership, and the cultural narratives women inherit around aging. From walking away from corporate life to building a company dedicated to women in midlife, Michelle shares what it looked like to stop seeking approval, trust her instincts, and create something entirely new.Together, they explore why so many women feel disconnected from their bodies, the lack of education around perimenopause and menopause, and why midlife can become a powerful season of clarity, confidence, and reinvention. They also discuss women and risk-taking, investing in women-led businesses, and the importance of taking up more space.More about Michelle: Michelle Jacobs is Co-Founder and COO of Womaness, a brand changing the conversation around aging, midlife, and menopause through clinically and doctor-tested products that address symptoms from hot flashes to sleep to fine lines. Womaness is available on Womaness.com, Amazon, and Ulta Beauty.A strategic development leader, Michelle spent 20 years building brands before co-founding Womaness — spanning sales, partnerships, licensing, logistics, and financial management across categories from home and décor to health and baby. She began her career in licensing, then led client relationships for Polo Ralph Lauren and Lancôme at a digital media agency. After earning her MBA, she marketed billion-dollar brands like Centrum and Advil to retailers ranging from corner bodegas to Costco.Michelle later spent a decade at Time Inc., launching the licensing and retail business for Real Simple, Cooking Light, and InStyle with partners including Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Crate & Barrel. She was then recruited by QVC/HSN to lead the retail rollout for the Joy Mangano brand — yes, inventor of the Miracle Mop.Stay connected:Connect with Michelle Jacobs Check out The Murmuration CollectiveInterested in 1:1 Coaching with LucyConnect with us on Instagram & LinkedInSubscribe to our monthly newsletterBeyond Should is creatively supported by a team of dynamic women: Host and Founder of TMC : Lucy Reynolds Executive Producer: Lauren LoGrassoProducer: Daniela Silva  Marketing Manager: Esti MacInnes