Unfiltered and Unbound

The podcast episode discusses the phenomenon of imposter syndrome and provides practical strategies for overcoming it. It explores the origins of imposter syndrome, the impact of feelings on competence, the importance of evidence, and the shift from perfectionism to value.TakeawaysImposter syndrome is a common experience for ambitious and capable individuals.Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome include separating feelings from facts, building a hype folder, and shifting from perfection to value.Chapters00:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome06:03 Shifting from Perfection to ValueSources Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The Imposter Phenomenon in High Achieving Women.Young, Valerie (2011). The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women.Hibberd, Jessamy (2019). The Imposter Cure.Harvard Business Review: Articles on the Artifact Method and managing self‑doubt.Questions? Got a topic you want covered? Send me an email [email protected]://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunboundhttps://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunbound

https://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunboundDating after 50 is equal parts exciting, ridiculous and mildly terrifying — and Barbara Smit is our woman in the field. She's not an expert. She's just actually out there: she's met the apps, survived the messages, dodged a scammer or two, and lived to file this report. In one of the most honest conversations of the season, we get into ghosting, the charming "blue-eyed, blonde Aussie" scammer nobody warns you about, the pub-based safety system Barbara swears by — and the quiet, unglamorous work of figuring out who you are after 20 years of marriage.No fairytales. No "just put yourself out there!" No toxic positivity. Just the field report.In this episode(01:23) The 2026 dating landscape — and why you supposedly can't just meet someone at the pub anymore(02:40) Four years single, 20 years married: "Okay, who am I actually?"(05:10) Losing yourself in a marriage — and getting some help to find your way back(09:24) The unexpected good: respectful younger men who genuinely give her hope(11:31) Ghosting, and the dark patch of 12 men in a row — "It's not me, it's them"(14:04) Cougar, gold digger, lonely — the labels women cop no matter who they date(16:10) The scammer who wasn't a Nigerian prince — $20, then $50, then $100, then $5,000(20:16) The shame women carry about being scammed — and why we need to talk about it(22:48) The "hello baby, hello darling" red flag(24:44) Barbara's safety system: public first dates, a signal to the bar staff, and an exit through the kitchen(28:11) Boundaries — set them before you go in, because most will push(31:00) For the woman who doesn't know where to start: fix yourself first, find your sisters in arms(35:08) The dating survival kit: a book on stoicism, a bestie, and a good local barman(36:43) The field report headline: terrifying, ridiculous, funny — and, somehow, still funAbout our guestBarbara Smit is Kate's "woman in the field" — a Perth local, originally from South Africa, who's spent the last few years navigating midlife dating firsthand after a 20-year marriage. She's generous, funny and refreshingly unfiltered about all of it, scams included.Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunbound

The episode discusses the underrepresentation of women over 50 in advertising and the impact of this demographic on consumer spending. It highlights the need for brands to recognize and market to this demographic effectively.TakeawaysUnderrepresentation of women over 50 in advertisingThe significant impact of women over 50 on consumer spendingChapters00:00 The Invisible Market10:33 The Commercial Success of Inclusive Marketinghttps://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunboundhttps://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunboundA copy of the research article this podcast episode is based on is located here -https://spectacular-syrniki-ec0636.netlify.app/

Navigating Grey Divorce: Practical Advice and Emotional InsightsIn this episode of Unfiltered and Unbound, we delve into the realities of separation later in life — a journey filled with emotional, legal, and financial considerations. Ella Hickman, a family law specialist, shares grounded advice on managing the process with confidence, emphasizing the importance of support, early legal guidance, and emotional well-being.Main topics include:The emotional journey of grey divorce and common feelingsKey legal steps and practical document gatheringHandling finances, superannuation, and property divisionStrategies to avoid conflicts and support adult childrenWhen to seek urgent legal advice and mediation benefitsChallenging myths about life after divorce and rebuilding identityTimestamps: 00:00 - What makes grey divorce uniquely challenging and empowering02:21 - What is grey divorce and why is its prevalence increasing?04:44 - Emotional triggers and reassessment in midlife07:41 - Overcoming the fear of money and financial insecurity10:23 - Managing shame and social perceptions around separation13:05 - Reinventing yourself and thriving post-divorce16:15 - Practical first steps for women considering separation19:13 - The importance of legal advice and early planning34:33 - How mediation facilitates fair and cost-effective outcomes37:02 - Immediate legal considerations in high-risk situations38:50 - Supporting adult children through separation46:37 - Surprising realizations women have about life after divorce47:30 - Overcoming fear to start anew and find happinessResources & Links:Legal Aid AustraliaBuy Me a Coffee -  Support independent podcastsFollow me on facebook https://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunboundConnect with Ella Hickman:Hickman Family LawyersThis episode offers compassionate insights and actionable advice for women facing the complex realities of grey divorce, emphasizing that new beginnings are not just possible — they can be transformative.

The episode delves into the importance of financial awareness and the need for women in their 50s to have open conversations about finances. It highlights the impact of social conditioning, the importance of financial literacy, approaching conversations with aging parents, starting small to reduce stress, and the empowerment through financial understanding.TakeawaysFinancial awarenessConversations about financesConnect with Kate:InstagramPodcast WebsiteEmail: [email protected] me a coffeehttps://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunboundFacebook https://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunbound

The conversation delves into the importance of critical thinking and decision-making, defining critical thinking, managing cognitive load, the impact of role models and biases, setting boundaries, teaching critical thinking to adults, and innovative tools for critical thinking. The conversation delves into the evolution of critical thinking, its role in decision-making, the impact of AI, personal stories, practical exercises for improvement, and the empowerment that comes from critical thinking. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining agency and responsibility in decision-making and the need for more responsible decision-making in the face of increasing information availability.TakeawaysCritical thinking is a combination of skills, knowledge, and attitudeSetting boundaries and making decisions in advance can help manage cognitive load and decision fatigue Critical thinking is essential for maintaining agency and responsibility in decision-making.The evolution of critical thinking is influenced by the increasing availability of information and the need for more responsible decision-making.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Critical Thinking and Decision Making10:42 Role Models and Biases in Decision Making16:38 Setting Boundaries and Strategic Thinking24:17 Innovative Tools for Critical Thinking30:40 The Impact of AI on Critical Thinking42:10 Practical Exercises for Improving Critical Thinking50:04 Empowerment Through Critical ThinkingConnecting with BethanHome | Bethan Winn: Critical Thinking and Communications TrainerBethan on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanwinn/Order a copy of Bethan's book the Human Edge https://www.bethanwinn.com.au/product-page/pre-order-the-human-edgeBuy me a coffeehttps://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunboundInstagramPodcast WebsiteEmail: [email protected] me on Facebook for behind the scenes, upcoming episode notifications, and sending through any questions or guest suggestions you might have.https://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunbound

In this brief episode, Kate shares her personal experience of unplugging during a weekend getaway and reveals the surprising benefits of intentionally disconnecting from technology to be more present. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress or improve your connections, this reflection offers simple but powerful ways to practice mindfulness in everyday life.Main Topics:The importance of being present versus being perpetually connectedPersonal benefits observed from disconnecting over a weekendSmall actionable steps to incorporate digital detox practices into daily routinesThe impact of boundary-setting around your time and attentionEncouragement to experiment with phone-free moments to enhance mental clarityTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Why I took a weekend off FROM MY DEVICES 00:28 - How I prepared for my digital detox experience 00:51 - The mental clutter caused by constant phone use 01:20 - What I noticed after unplugging: being present and connected 01:48 - How to recognize if you're half-elsewhere during social interactions 02:14 - The value of intentional boundary-setting with technology 02:41 - Practical tips for small, manageable digital detox experiments 03:04 - Why missing out on instant responses isn’t a loss 03:33 - Final encouragement: start small, be consistent, stay present 04:01 - Invitation to share your own digital detox experiences 04:08 - Support the show through reviews and donationsResources & Links:Buy Me A Coffee (to support the show)Connect with Kate:InstagramPodcast WebsiteEmail: [email protected] me a coffeehttps://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunboundhttps://www.facebook.com/unfilteredandunbound

Moving Forward After Redundancy: Insights from Karen’s JourneyIn this episode, Karen shares her raw, real experiences navigating redundancy—highlighting how she turned a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth, health, and new skills. Whether you're facing similar upheaval or supporting someone who is, her story offers practical strategies and mindset shifts to move forward with purpose.Key TopicsThe emotional and psychological impact of redundancy and the importance of processing feelingsPractical steps taken immediately after redundancy, including routines and routinesThe role of physical activity and structured training in mental resilienceHow to re-enter the job market: networking, updating skills, and managing expectationsMaintaining social connections and the power of kindness during tough timesLeveraging learning and hobbies to build confidence and create a new identityOvercoming shame and embracing self-worth beyond workTips for staying motivated with the “10-minute rule” and setting achievable goalsThe importance of routines in restoring purpose and structurePractical advice for crafting a positive mindset during career transitionsTimestamps00:00 - The emotional toll of redundancy and what happens after the shock02:08 - Karen shares her multiple redundancies and lessons learned05:11 - The significance of purpose and connection during layoffs06:36 - The distress of silence and the importance of support networks07:19 - Practical first steps after redundancy: calling loved ones, rituals08:02 - Establishing routines: exercise, sleep, and small achievements09:03 - The power of physical activity in mental recovery10:42 - Finding joy in simple activities like library visits and knitting12:22 - Structuring your week: training, hobbies, and social commitments18:09 - Overcoming motivational hurdles: the 10-minute rule19:49 - Managing practicalities: job searching, networking, and outplacement services20:12 - The importance of reconnecting with your network and managing expectations23:56 - Confronting ageism and the value of updating your resume26:33 - The role of social support and kind gestures in recovery29:16 - Discovering personal strengths: resilience, dedication, and kindness30:11 - Practical tips: protecting yourself from sunburn, maintaining consistency31:13 - Addressing shame and redefining self-worth after redundancy33:31 - Summing up: patience, goals, routines, and self-kindness35:17 - Final advice: Viewing redundancy as an opportunity, not a setbackResources & LinksLinkedIn LearningOutplacement Services – What are they?Connect with Kate:LinkedInKate’s LinkedIn Article on RedundancyRemember:Redundancy is not the end—it's an opportunity for a new chapter. Take time to process, rebuild routines, and redefine your purpose. Reach out to network, learn new skills, and prioritize self-kindness. Your next success story could be just around the corner. 

Most of us start something new thinking we need to be perfectly ready. But what if the biggest lesson is understanding that you don't? Kate shares a candid behind-the-scenes look at launching her podcast, revealing how embracing imperfection and starting messy made her stronger—and more inspired than ever.This episode is a refreshingly honest reflection on the power of beginning without certainty, especially for women over 50 navigating change and reinvention. Kate opens up about the unexpected lessons she learned: that confidence comes from simply taking the first step, even when you feel unprepared. She discusses how her show evolved from a plan and became a movement about women reclaiming space, speaking their truth, and building resilience in life's second act.You'll discover:Why starting messy is the most powerful way to growThe importance of courage over perfection in transformationHow women over 50 are redefining success and visibilityThe surprising ways embracing discomfort accelerates growthWhy your biggest breakthroughs happen just outside your comfort zoneThis episode is essential listening if you've ever hesitated to start something because you're not 'ready'—or if you're craving authentic stories of reinvention that inspire action. Kate's candid insights challenge you to ditch perfection, embrace uncertainty, and step boldly into your next chapter.Season 2 is already in the works, fueled by renewed excitement and a deeper understanding of what it means to grow at any age. Join her for a raw, inspiring coffee break as she shares the lessons that can change how you approach your own journey of reinvention.Perfect for women in midlife, entrepreneurs, or anyone craving honest conversation about courage, growth, and making it happen—despite the doubts. Tune in, get inspired, and start messy today.Want to buy me a coffee and support the show? https://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunbound

SummaryKate explores the systemic barriers women face in AI adoption at work, highlighting how these challenges threaten women's economic security and leadership roles. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing these issues and encourages awareness and action. keywordsAI, women in tech, workplace inequality, AI bias, leadership, systemic barriers, AI ethics, gender gap, automation, organizational change key  topicsSystemic barriers to AI adoption for womenImpact of management practices on women's AI useGender-based penalties and recognition in AI workWomen in AI leadership and governance rolesThe future of women's economic security in AI-driven workplacesTitlesThe Hidden Gender Gap in AI AdoptionHow Systemic Bias Limits Women's AI Use at Work sound bites"Women are early governance architects in AI.""Women are doing the invisible work that shapes AI.""Notice when something feels off with AI at work."Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Power and Gender in AI00:31 Women’s Perception of AI as Cheating00:43 Research Findings on Women’s AI Usage and Encouragement01:17 Recognition and Penalties for Women Using AI02:27 The Systemic Disadvantage: Women’s Job Vulnerability to AI04:34 Women’s Leadership in AI and Ethical Oversight06:01 The Power Problem: Exclusion and Invisible Work06:59 Call to Awareness and Next Steps resourcesLean In Research on AI in the Workplace - https://leanin.org/research/ai-women-gender-gap-data#!Chief's Report on Women Leaders in AI - https://chief.com/women-leaders-agentic-ai-study-2026

The conversation delves into the concept of neuroplasticity and the idea that individuals have the permission to pursue new pursuits at any age. It challenges societal myths and encourages the exploration of new opportunities, emphasizing the potential for growth and change at any stage of life.TakeawaysNeuroplasticityPermission to pursue new pursuits at any age

Explore the art of saying no without guilt, especially for women, by understanding the science, cultural influences, and practical strategies to set boundaries with confidence.Main Topics Covered:The neurological and psychological science behind difficulty saying noCultural and gender standards shaping boundaries and assertivenessMindset shifts and language techniques to assertively declinePractical scripts and phrases for quick boundary-settingInviting small acts of saying no to build stronger boundaries over timeIn this episode:How the fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses influence women’s tendency to over-acceptThe difference between true guilt and false guilt, and why women experience the latter more oftenThe societal expectations from childhood that reinforce women’s obligation to keep others comfortableResearch findings on women’s stress responses and how they impact boundary-settingFour mindset reframes: saying no is a way to say yes to yourself, and why it’s more empathetic than you thinkCommon misconceptions about the consequences of saying no, including the likelihood of negative reactionsPractical language swaps, including using “I don’t” instead of “I can’t” to strengthen your boundariesScripts for declining work and social requests confidently and without over-explainingAn invitation to practice one small no this week to create space for a genuine yesTimestamps: 00:00 - The importance of learning to say no guilt-free 00:07 - How often do you say yes when you mean no? 00:35 - The science behind women’s nervous system responses: fight, flight, freeze, fawn 01:05 - Fawning as a protective response and its impact on women 01:37 - The difference between true guilt and false guilt 02:05 - How cultural and societal conditioning influences women’s boundary issues 02:50 - The biological “tend and befriend” stress response in women 03:16 - The double standard: assertiveness in men vs. women 03:45 - The impact of societal expectations and the likability backlash for women 04:36 - Four mindset reframes to shift how you perceive saying no 05:04 - Why every no is a yes to your authentic self 05:32 - How saying no can foster better, more genuine connections 06:01 - The myth that the worst-case scenario will happen when you decline 06:35 - Why people who care about you will respect your boundaries 07:03 - Using "I don't" instead of "I can't" to express boundaries 07:37 - The power of saying “I don’t” as an identity, not just an external blockage 08:06 - How to politely buy time before responding 08:33 - Essential phrases for declining work or social invitations 09:15 - Validating your no without over-explaining 09:43 - The importance of brief, clear boundaries without unnecessary justification 10:00 - An invitation to practice one small no this week 10:36 - No as a door opening to what is genuinely yours.midlife women podcastmidlife woman communitywomen overcoming midlife challenges

Kate Bevilaqua shares her journey from elite racing to retirement, discussing the mental and emotional adjustments, redefining success, and finding purpose beyond the finish line. She emphasizes the importance of having a transition plan and offers valuable advice for athletes facing similar transitions.TakeawaysDon't live in regretTake that chanceStress less and be presentChapters00:00 The Elite Finish Line06:04 The Shift in Perspective12:04 Mental Toughness and Adjustment18:07 Post-Retirement Plans23:53 Key Takeaways and AdviceWant to buy me a coffee and support the show? https://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunbound

The conversation explores the topic of burnout in the Australian workplace context, highlighting the impact on individuals and organisations. It delves into the paradoxes of burnout, the unique challenges faced by different demographics, and the need for systemic change to address the issue.TakeawaysBurnout affects individuals and organisations, and requires systemic change for effective solutions.The impact of burnout is influenced by demographic factors, workplace conditions, and management quality.Identity crisis, Career burnout, People-pleasing, Invisible woman syndrome, Perimenopause symptoms, Performance fatigue.

Weight training for women over 50 has become a vital medical intervention, with a focus on muscle as the currency of health. The combination of strength training and aggressive protein targets is key, and heavy resistance training is essential for preserving bone and muscle, managing metabolic health, and protecting the mind.TakeawaysMuscle is the currency of health for women over 50Heavy resistance training is essential for preserving bone and muscle, managing metabolic health, and protecting the mindChapters00:00 Hormones, Muscle, and Health

The conversation with Jo covers her journey of self-discovery, redefining retirement, the power of pressure, time management and priorities, overcoming challenges in triathlon, imposter syndrome and finding your tribe, giving back and athlete safety, and the importance of backing yourself. Jo's story emphasizes the significance of investing in oneself and balancing career with personal passions.TakeawaysInvesting in yourself is keyBalancing career and personal passionsChapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery12:44 Overcoming Challenges in Triathlon21:28 Imposter Syndrome and Finding Your Tribe26:39 Giving Back and Athlete SafetyJo's Socialshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-hurley-05369b20/https://www.instagram.com/johurley_/Want to buy me a coffee and support the show? https://buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunbound

The conversation explores the importance of frequent small interactions in maintaining bonds and the role of shared interests in making new friends. It delves into the challenges of maintaining work friendships, reassessing and reevaluating friendships, and the significance of common interests in making new friends. The barriers to meeting like-minded women and the effort and consistency required in social connection are also discussed.TakeawaysFrequent small interactions maintain bondsShared interests are key to making new friendsChapters00:00 The Importance of Frequent Small Interactions05:55 Maintaining Work Friendships11:50 Making New Friends and Common Interests17:58 Effort and Consistency in Social ConnectionUnfiltered & Unbound is completely independent and unsponsored. That means no ads, no brand deals, just honest conversation. If this show is adding something to your life and you want to support it, I have a Buy Me a Coffee link in the show notes. Even a small one means a lot — it keeps this going and it tells me you're out there listening. I appreciate every single one of you.buymeacoffee.com/unfilteredunbound

The podcast episode features a conversation about life after turning 50, focusing on freedom, authenticity, and new experiences. The hosts share personal stories and insights, encouraging listeners to embrace change and pursue new adventures.TakeawaysEmbracing authenticityLetting go of people-pleasingChapters00:00 Celebrating Women Over 5005:22 Embracing Authenticity12:30 Fearless Pursuit of New Experiences19:29 Starting a New Podcast