The Gifts of Compassion: What Midlife Women Need Most (But Struggle to Give Themselves)

In this episode, Shannon is joined by Dr. Stan Steindl to explore the true meaning of compassion — beyond kindness or a fleeting feeling — as a powerful practice that transforms how we relate to ourselves and others.They unpack why so many of us, especially women in midlife, find it easier to give compassion than receive it, and explore the common fears and blocks that get in the way. Together, they discuss how shifting the tone of our inner voice softens self-criticism without losing motivation, and why compassion is about doing what’s good for us, not just what feels good.Stan also shares a simple guided practice to help you begin widening your circle of compassion — to include yourself. 🌻🧡Host: Shannon Swales: Psychologist, writer, and midlife woman who’s walked through burnout and come out the other side. Shannon combines clinical wisdom with lived experience to support others navigating chronic stress, burnout, and big life transitions. Through gentle conversations and evidence-based insights, she helps women reconnect with themselves, reclaim their energy, and grow through what once felt like breaking points.Guest: Dr. Stan Steindl is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and author passionate about helping people understand and transform suffering through compassion. He is the creator of Compassion in a T-Shirt, a YouTube channel and podcast exploring self-compassion and compassion-focused therapy, and the author of The Gifts of Compassion and its companion workbook.Connect with Stan’s work: stansteindl.com | Compassion in a T-Shirt | The Gifts of CompassionIf you enjoy the Midlife Reclaimed Podcast, join our community:• Midlife Reclaimed Online Community - a place for women to come back home to self• Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn• 1:1 Burnout Therapy hereSubscribe to my Mailing List and receive a free eJournal to assist in coming back to yourself.Disclaimer: This podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship with Shannon A Swales. The views expressed are general & not a substitute for personalised therapy. If in distress, seek professional help. Remember—you don’t have to face your struggles alone.DisclaimerEngaging with this podcast does not intend to create, nor does it create, a therapist-client relationship between you and Shannon A Swales. All views, opinions, and tips expressed by me or my guests are general in nature and not a replacement for personalised therapy. As I have done for myself, I encourage anyone experiencing distress to seek professional support. In Australia, if you are in a life-threatening emergency, please dial 000. For immediate counselling, contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or 13YARN (13 92 76) for First Nation Australians. Stay safe, and remember—you don’t have to face your struggles alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.