Becoming In the Middle

I had an experience where I didn't show up as I wanted to for my friend. In addition to feeling guilty, I'm trying to figure out how I can do better. Interesting in more of my thoughts? Follow my writing on Substack.

Why is obedience considered the first law of heaven? That is the question I recently sat with. The answer finally came and I'm so excited to share the insight I got. This episode is heavy on my spiritual beliefs, so here are some links if you want to learn or understand more of where I'm coming from: What is the Temple? What is the Endowment? What is the Plan of Salvation and Exhaltation? Obedience Guide to the Scriptures: JOY Doctrine & Covenants 130:20  

Obligation can be a good thing when it comes to a job, or respecting the law. But sometimes obligation can rob us of joy. Lately I've noticed where obligation feels more preformative then authentic. Obligation is driven from external forces. Agency comes from the inside first and is reflected outward. When obligation is unexamined and unquestioned, it tends to lead to resentment and in the end, robs us of joy. Follow my writing on Substack.

This episode was born because of a dream I recently had. The invitation I want to share is to be brave enough to evaluate the underlying motivations to our actions. Whether it's feeling disappointed in someones gratitude, or lack of; or whether it's taking an honest look of what's really going on when we are offended. I'm getting vulnerable on this episode. I'm not proud of the truth, but I can't do better until I can be honest...so here goes. Follow my writing journey over on Substack.  

Recently I've been feeling a little lost in my day to day. And I've started to wonder if 'surrendering' some of my titles/roles was a mistake. Did I make the wrong choice? This is a peek into what feels scary about this process of making space for something new. And I'm realizing, the real work I'm doing isn't what I thought it was. Join me on my Substack to follow my writing jourey.

I thought insecurities were only for the young and inexperienced. But putting myself in the job market has introduced insecurity on a new level. But I'm choosing to notice that insecurity means that I'm trying willing to get out of my comfort zone and try something new. Sure, it's uncomfortable, but that's the price to be paid for growth. Here is the article I mentioned, if you want the background. Join me on substack here.

I thought I understood what identity was, until I took an ax to mine. As I've surrendered different roles over the last few months, I've had to go deeper to understand what identity truly is. I'd love to know your thoughts on identity. You can join the conversation over on Substack.

A recap of my pause and what identiy pieces I was surprised to surrender. Also a introduction of sorts for Season 2...how things will look a little different. Join me on Substack here to read more of my long-form thoughts. Reach out at [email protected] to share your own observations with me!

Welcome to Season 2! Some changes you may notice: Instead of speaking authoritatively, I'm speaking from my real-time lived experience. It won't be tidy, it won't be scripted, just me sharing what's true for me today. It may feel random because I'm sharing whatever I'm currently metabolizing. I'm letting go of time and order and structure--mostly. I'm sharing observations more than conclusions. I'm walking along side you, rather than in front of you. I'm trusting you to make the connections that are helpful for your life, gather insights for your situation, and find resonnance in our shared but unique paths. I'm also sharing over on Substack - you can check out what I'm thinking about here. In this episode I mention temples. If you'd like to know more about temples you can click here.

The final episode of Season 1! In this episode, I share how my life is lived in 7-year cycles. As I've felt the current cycle coming to a close, I've been pondering what comes next. Just as trees loose its leaves in the fall, letting go of past growth is an important process of resting and preparing for a new season of growth. With this observation of nature, I am taking a pause before I jump into Season 2. My pause is time to go inward and make space in my life for the next 7-year cycle. Embodying creation principles, I'll be doing the inner work to lay the foundation of what lies ahead. I'm so grateful to be wrapping up a expansive and incredible cycle of growth, and can't wait to create what comes next! Stay tuned... Be sure to follow me on Instagram @becominginthemiddle and get on my email list so you don't miss the beginning of Season 2!

What happens when the kids are mostly grown—but not quite gone? In this honest heart-to-heart conversation, Alicia sits down with two friends who are walking through the same season of life: launching some kids into adulthood while still raising the last few at home. Together, they share the honest ups and downs of this in-between phase—what's been surprisingly hard, unexpectedly beautiful, and what they're looking forward to as they create a new rhythm for themselves. You'll hear them talk about: The emotional shift of letting go and rediscovering who they are The surprise of adult children moving back home (and what that really feels like) Finding purpose and peace in this next chapter of motherhood If you've ever wondered what now? after your kids start leaving the nest, this conversation will remind you—you're not alone, and the best chapters are still ahead.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

In this conversation, I sit down with Gregory Jack, a coach for young adults, to explore the unique struggles facing today's emerging generation. From loneliness and dating challenges to friendship struggles and the pressure of feeling behind in life, Gregory shares insight into the emotional world of young adults—and how parents can show up in supportive, meaningful ways. Together, we discuss: Why so many young adults feel disconnected and unsure of themselves What parents can do (and avoid) to strengthen relationships with their grown children How to offer support without control How young adults can better understand the parent's perspective If you're navigating the delicate shift from parenting to partnering with your adult kids—or if you're a young adult longing for understanding—this conversation offers practical wisdom, empathy, and hope for building deeper connection across generations. Learn more about Gregory and his work: Gregory-Jack.com @gregory.d.jack Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Do you find yourself drawn to drama, overthinking, or trying to control everything around you? You're not alone — and your brain isn't broken. In this episode, we explore why the brain becomes addicted to negative emotions like drama, worry, and control, and how these patterns actually feel like safety to the nervous system. You'll learn: The neuroscience behind emotional addiction — why your brain seeks predictable over calm How drama, control, worry, and fixing can hijack your nervous system The real cost of these patterns on your relationships, energy, and peace of mind Practical, science-based steps to retrain your brain to find safety, calm, and clarity Whether you're noticing these patterns in yourself or someone you love, this episode gives you insight and actionable steps to break the cycle and begin becoming the calm, grounded, and empowered woman God designed you to be.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

If you've ever asked yourself, "What's next for me?" — you're not alone. In this episode, we explore the beautiful invitation that comes when one season of life ends and another begins: the chance to rediscover purpose. We'll talk about why having a purpose matters so deeply — how it gives direction, energy, and meaning to our days — and why it's especially vital in midlife, when roles and routines start to shift. You'll learn: How purpose enriches your life and connects you to something bigger Why identifying your gifts, talents, and curiosities can reveal what's next Simple ways to start uncovering purpose right where you are This conversation will leave you feeling hopeful, grounded, and ready to create a life that feels both meaningful and alive again.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

You thought this season would bring more space. But between grown kids who still need you, aging parents who rely on you, and a body that doesn't bounce back like it used to… you feel stretched thin. You love your people deeply. But if you're honest, exhaustion, disappointment, and guilt have crept in. It's not that you've lost your faith — you've just lost your footing. In this episode, we'll talk about: ✨ Why it's normal to feel this way when the "finish line" keeps moving. ✨ How permission, perspective, and presence can help you breathe again. ✨ Why making space for these emotions isn't weakness — it's the first step to recalibrating for the longer race. If you've been silently whispering "I can't keep this up", this conversation is for you.   Sign up for a Catch Your Breath call here   Subscribe to the newsletter here  

In this episode I explore the powerful principle: how it is anywhere is how it is everywhere. The patterns you notice in one part of your life often show up in other areas too. Maybe the way you speak to yourself about your body also mirrors how you approach your relationships. Or the habits you carry at home ripple into your work and faith. I'll share personal examples of where I've seen this principle at play and how reflecting on it has helped me uncover deeper truths about myself. More importantly, I'll guide you through a simple practice: asking "Where else is this showing up in my life?" When you begin to notice, you gain the power to change. Transformation doesn't always begin with huge leaps—it often starts with small shifts in awareness that unlock growth across your entire life. 👉 Listen in to learn how one insight in a single area can spark healing, peace, and progress everywhere.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Have you ever wondered why certain challenges seem to come back around, even after you thought you had already overcome them? Maybe it's an old habit, a familiar frustration, or a repeating pattern in your relationships. It's easy to see these moments as failures or proof that you're "back at square one." But what if they're actually invitations to grow? In this episode, we'll explore the idea of the spiral of growth. When you revisit old patterns, you're not looping back to the same place—you're meeting them at a higher level, as a stronger and wiser version of yourself. We'll also talk about the principle of the container: how when you desire more of anything, you'll be invited to expand your capacity to hold more. These moments of "repeat challenges" aren't setbacks at all—they're signs you're being stretched for the next stage of your becoming. What you'll learn in this episode: Why repeating patterns don't mean you've failed How to use the spiral of growth to reframe challenges The principle of the container and how it applies to your capacity How to see repeating struggles as opportunities to grow at a higher level If you've ever felt discouraged by facing the "same old" struggles, this episode will help you see them as markers of progress and invitations to step into more of who God designed you to be.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Do you ever catch yourself thinking, "They should know what I need," or "They should treat me differently"? In this second part of the Rules Are Made to Be Broken series, we dig deeper into the rules we unconsciously create for other people—and how those rules can quietly drain our joy and connection. At the root of every rule is a feeling we're trying to reach. The problem? When we place that responsibility on someone else, we give away our power and place unnecessary pressure on the relationship. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Recognize the hidden "shoulds" you've placed on others Understand the feelings at the root of your expectations Take responsibility for meeting your own needs without waiting for someone else to do it Reclaim your personal agency so you can show up empowered, peaceful, and authentic in your relationships See why "should" thinking keeps us in victimhood—and how to break free When you stop outsourcing your needs and start using your agency, you step out of victimhood and into freedom. Your relationships lighten, your self-respect grows, and you begin to feel better—because your well-being is finally back in your own hands.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Like you, I'm feeling the heaviness of the events this week. In this episode I'm sharing an experience I had about a month ago when I had to ask myself a hard question. It seems to have come full circle after this week, and I'm learning that the most important way I can help be the change I hope to see in the world is to go inward first.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Do you ever catch yourself living by invisible rules you never really chose? Rules like "I should always keep the house perfect" or "They should know what I need without me asking." These kinds of self-imposed rules can quietly run the show, often creating stress, guilt, or frustration. In this episode, I invite you to look at the rules you've created for yourself—and for others. You'll learn how to: Recognize the hidden "rules" guiding your daily life Use a simple exercise to identify which rules are serving you and which are not Give yourself permission to rewrite or release the rules that keep you stuck Spot how "shoulds" sneak into your relationships (sometimes even disguised as questions) and how to shift them This is part one of a two-part series, where we'll begin by breaking down the personal and relational rules that may be weighing you down. It's time to loosen the grip of the "shoulds" and step into more freedom, ease, and authenticity.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

In this episode, I share a conversation about building routines that nurture mind, body, and spirit. We explore how stillness strengthens the mind, grounding connects us to the body, and alignment brings us back to God and our values. Two big ideas that came out of this discussion were the benefits of getting outside in nature and the practice of prayer journaling—both powerful ways to create space for presence and spiritual connection. You'll also hear practical examples from women who are weaving these practices into their own lives. What you'll learn in this episode: Why routines that honor mind, body, and spirit feel more balanced How time in nature can restore clarity and peace The benefits of prayer journaling for spiritual connection Simple practices to bring grounding, stillness, and alignment into your day If you've been craving a routine that feels more life-giving and connected, this conversation will spark ideas and encouragement to try for yourself.   To listen to the full episode text me @ [email protected] and I'll send you the link. Subscribe to my newsletter here.   To hear more about Janine's journey of climbing the Timpanogos Cave Trail this summer, find her videos here.

Just like your browser has a default homepage it returns to, you have a default emotional state that you naturally settle into—your emotional ground zero. In this episode, I explore how these default emotions become our unconscious status quo and shape our entire life experience, and more importantly, how to change them. In This Episode: I break down the Law of Creation and show you how your thoughts create your emotions, your emotions drive your actions, and your actions create your results—plus why most people get stuck in this cycle without realizing it. You'll hear stories from three different phases of my life where I operated from completely different default emotions, and how I finally figured out that I could actually change these automatic responses. I walk you through my 3-step process for reprogramming any emotional default: getting aware of the stories you're telling yourself, choosing better narratives, and then practicing them until they stick. Subscribe to my newsletter here.

What do you do when you look back on your journey and feel like you have nothing to show for it? For years, I told myself the story that I had wasted time—that I should be farther along in my personal growth and becoming. But recently, I realized I've been deep in the inner work of transformation, and none of that time was wasted. In this episode, I share how the past 8 years have been a season of profound inner change—navigating kids leaving the nest, unexpected choices my children made, shifts in my faith practices, and the new physical realities of an aging body (hello, perimenopause). Using the metaphor of a butterfly's cocoon, I'll show you why unseen transformation is just as valuable as the kind you can point to on the outside. If you've ever felt behind in your becoming, this conversation will help you see your journey with new eyes—and maybe even embrace the cocoon you're in right now. You'll hear: How the story you tell about your transformation shapes your experience of it Why slow, unseen seasons of growth matter more than we think The butterfly cocoon metaphor that reframes your "hidden" becoming How to rewrite your own transformation story to see the beauty in it   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

How do you build meaningful adult friendships, parent without controlling your kids, and shift from a victim mindset to emotional freedom? In this insightful episode, I sit down with Eric to explore the mindset shifts and relationship strategies that lead to greater peace, connection, and personal power. We talk about what it means to step into emotional maturity, make intentional choices in parenting and friendship, and let go of the need to control outcomes. You'll hear us unpack: How to form and maintain intentional adult friendships—without chasing people who aren't invested Why parenting without control strengthens connection and increases long-term influence How expectations in relationships often lead to frustration—and what to focus on instead The powerful difference between agency vs. victim mentality—and how stepping into agency brings relief and emotional clarity Whether emotional growth can be measured—and how to notice your progress If you're ready to experience more freedom, connection, and grounded confidence in your relationships, this conversation is for you.   The reel that started it all   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

What does it look like to grow yourself and your family—at the same time? In this episode, I'm joined by Amber, a remarkable woman and mother of 11, who is intentionally prioritizing her own personal development while supporting a busy household. Together, we talk about the power of stillness, the importance of dreaming with God, and how to navigate major life shifts with trust and grace. We explore: Why awareness is the first step to discovering the right path for you The challenge of finding balance in a house full of people Amber's morning routine (it starts with movement, not meditation!) How she makes time for stillness and spiritual inspiration The surprising way her husband's career change opened doors for their kids to gain confidence and work ethic The idea of God-seeded desires and how to dream beyond our own limited expectations If you've ever felt stretched thin, unsure of how to chase your dreams while caring for others, or you're craving space to listen to the whisperings of your soul—this conversation will encourage and ground you. ✨ Share this with a friend who's navigating motherhood, transition, or a desire for deeper connection with God. 📲 Follow the show and leave a review to support the show and help more women find it! 📩Subscribe to the newsletter here

Midlife is full of change—kids grow up, roles shift, and the question of "What's next?" can feel both exciting and overwhelming. In today's episode, I talk with my friend Jill, a faith-based life coach who works with women navigating this very transition. We talk about: Why midlife goals require a clear why (and how to find yours) The gift of not putting pressure on yourself How to keep your goals light, fun, and meaningful Why mimicking others can be a useful place to begin The role of opposition in making joy deeper and more lasting This conversation is both tender and empowering. Whether you're deep in the trenches of change or just feeling a shift coming, you'll leave this episode reminded that joy isn't the reward for reaching the goal—it's something you can cultivate along the way.   Jill's website Jill's podcast Jill's freebies   Subscribe to my newsletter here

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Holly to talk about navigating the empty nest transition—and how this season can be a launchpad for midlife reinvention and purpose. Holly spent the last decade exploring different jobs to reconnect with herself after active mothering. Now, she's heading back to school and leaning into her next chapter with clarity and courage. We talk about: Finding your identity after motherhood How a personal why statement and core values serves as a guiding light through this transition Making time for your goals as an empty nester Building self-trust by keeping your word to yourself Living authentically in midlife and beyond Knowing how our brain works to understand our choices and behavior   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Wellness isn't just physical. Carol explains how tending to emotional, spiritual, financial, and social wellness created lasting change--and helped to heal her physically. It's never too late, and you're never too old to prioritize your wellness and becoming.   Want more support in your own becoming journey? Subscribe to my newsletter here.

What if all it takes to change your life is one brave step? In this heartfelt episode, I talk with my friend and mentor, Angie, about what real growth looks like—from self-awareness and intentional living to the courage to try, even when you don't know how it will turn out. I f you're ready to stop waiting and start becoming, this conversation will meet you right where you are.   Mentioned in the episode: BootCamp 10-4 Good Buddy Angies Option GRM (if you're curious about the non-profit she started 22 years ago)   Subscribe to my newsletter here

Another conversation in the Summer of Conversations series. This delightful conversation with Janine was inspiring as she tells the story of a goal she wrote down 40 years ago, and then accomplished it decades later. She has spent a lifetime reinventing herself and has learned that it's okay if becoming takes time.   To learn more about Janinie's work follow these links: Website Facebook Group   Subscribe to my newsletter here

Another great conversation in the "Summer of Conversations" series. This conversation with Anthony was insightful as we talked about principles of becoming as he is navigating changes in his career. As a self-identified 'worrier' we talked about ways he can replace worry with other attributes that will align with his goals. So many great insights that can apply to many different situations!   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

The first in a series of conversations about becoming. This beautiful episode demonstrates how becoming happens even in devastating loss. Kelsie opens her heart and shares the reason she is learning to embrace the idea of becoming broken. Check out this beautiful video of the Art of Kintsugi Subscribe to my newsletter here

There's two ways to look at becoming, and neither is good or bad. But like a boat in the ocean, learning how to drop anchor or use the rutter will help you get to the desired destination. This episode is exploring two different lenses we can view 'becoming' through. Which one are you currently using?   Subscribe to my newsletter here. Want to connect? Email me @ [email protected] Follow me on Instagram @BecomingInTheMiddle     .

Rather than fear this new technology, let's learn how to use it for good! I'm sharing how I used AI to help my process of becoming. It gave me simple insights and suggestions that would have taken me hours to come to on my own. Now I can take what it offered and tweak it to fit me. How are you using AI?   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Why do relationships feel so hard sometimes? They are arguabley the most important aspect of our lives, yet they can cause us to feel so much pain. I'm sharing three personal stories and the principle that has brought me peace.   Sucscribe to my newletter here.

What if becoming your best self doesn't mean adding more to your already full plate? In this episode, we explore how true transformation starts not with doing more, but with paying attention—to your thoughts, your reactions, and the life you're already living. You'll learn how to uncover who you already are by being present, intentional, and awake in your everyday moments.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

This episode takes two principles and marries them into one beautiful practicing of Having. Sharing my take aways from "The Having" by Suh Joon Lee. This practice is changing my life, one moment at a time. If you're ready to take your current gratitude practice to the next level, this is for you.   Subscribe to the newsletter here. Find me on Instagram here.

I share two thoughts about the trailer from the road trip metaphor (ep 20). I don't want to discount the difficulty it is to leave the trailer and take to the driver's seat. Be sure to listen to episode 20, so you're not completely lost :).   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

You're either driving the trailer or riding in it. This metaphor hit me hard on my walk recently. Humor me as I use this idea to teach a powerful principle of our individual journeys.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

If you're looking for a solution to a heavy situation, you might be overlooking the power of a small shift. A change in perspective may feel insignificant, but many small shifts lead to massive change for the better.   Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Stress seems to be part of our modern lives, but there is one way you could cut donw your stress-level. In this episode I talk about our desire to help other people avoid negative emotion. We try to manage their emotions by controlling their environment, conversations, and experiences. Doing this not only increases our stress, but blocks them from potential development. I give real-life examples to help you identify where you might be inviting unnecessary stress into your life. I also share one principle that has reduced my stress significantly.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.      

This is a little different from my usual format. I hit record and just started talking to help me process a devastating loss our family just experienced. I'm a newbie at loss stuff, so it was helpful for me to just talk it through...thanks for being my "listening ears."   Subscribe to the newsletter here.  

Thought work often leads to powerful transformation. We are often so anxious to get to a new thought, but in this episode I want to sit with the power that comes from simply becoming aware of the thoughts that cause our suffering. In this episode, I refer to Byron Katie's work about questioning your thoughts. But before you can question them, you've got to know what they are. In my experience becoming aware is 80% of the work to be done. Once you are aware, the rest is pretty simple.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Have you ever caught yourself replaying a past event and feeling the same frustration, hurt, or disappointment over and over again? The stories we tell ourselves about past experiences shape how we see the world, our relationships, and even our own worth. But what if those stories aren't the full truth? In this episode, we'll explore how the meanings we attach to past events impact our lives—and how we have the power to change them. You'll learn why questioning your stories matters, how to shift your perspective, and a simple journaling exercise to help you move forward with more peace, confidence, and joy. Register for the Take Action Call here Register for the Newsletter here

When we feel negative emotion, we often think that something has gone wrong. But the truth is negative emotion is part of life, and can actually hold seeds of growth and progress. Listen to get the 3 steps I use whenever negative emotion comes up for me. These steps will help you to not only move past the negative emotion, but also mine the nuggets of wisdom and insight your true self has to offer. Register for the free call I mentioned : Maintaing Clarity When the World Feels Chaotic (March 25 1:00 PM MST) Subscribe to my newsletter here.

Maybe you are ready for some help. How do you know if you need a coach or a therapist? In this episode I share my personal experience with both, and my opinion of how they are similar and different. The benefits of having someone to support me have changed my life.  The message I hope listeners take away-if you need help, GET IT!   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

How do you actually change the things about yourself that don't align with who you want to be? We start with patterns. Patterns are the responses, behaviors, and ways of thinking that are happening in the backgroud automatically - think autopilot. Patterns are good, and we want patterns working so our brains have space to work on more complex challenges. However, we want to make sure the patterns are aligned with the person we want to be, the very best version of ourselves. In this episode, we'll talk about common obstacles that come up when we try to change old patterns; two tools to use when practicing new patterns; how to stay committed to the work of creating new patterns. If you have a question or topic you'd like me to cover in future episode's, email me your ideas at [email protected], and I'll work it in to a coming episode :).   Subscribe to my awesome newsletter here.

If you've been feeling stuck or frustrated with life, you may be asking the wrong questions. We have thousands of thoughts running through our heads every day. Many of those thoughts are in the form of questions :). In this episode, we'll chat about two different categories of questions: dead end questions and creation questions. They have different characteristics and lead to very different answers. If you're ready to get unstuck, maybe you need to ask a different question.   Subscribe to my newsletter here.

The relationship we have with ourselves sets the tone for all other relationships in our lives. When we practice self-compassion and accept our own flaws, we become naturally more understanding of others' imperfections. Our self-love becomes an invitation for others to be their true selves around us, leading to more meaningful and authentic connections. Warning - I climbed up on my soapbox in this episode :). It makes me sad to watch women believe that putting everyone else's needs above her own is the way to love others. If you want better relationships, you've got to start with the most important one.   If you want to get my newsletter every week you can subscribe here.

If you feel hopeless regarding relationships or situations in your life, you may be surprised at the tip I offer in this episode to feel more hopeful. We often think the solution to our frustrations lie outside ourselves. But when we realize we have all that we need to feel hopeful, life gets so much better! If you're ready to feel less frustrated and more hopeful, listen in, this is for you! Subscribe to my weekly "Become on Purpose" newsletter here.