“When we face fear, it shrinks. When we ignore it, it grows.”

In this episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, let explore the real reason behind procrastination — that fear — and how it keeps us from achieving our dreams.

Through a relatable story about "El," discover how avoidance and inaction often mask deeper anxieties. Let me share a practical, 7-step plan to help women name their fears, define desired outcomes, and take empowered baby steps toward their goals.

So, whether you're paralyzed by the fear of failure, rejection, or responsibility, this episode will help you shift from stuck to strategic with courage and clarity.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro

1:06 - Is it procrastination or fear?

2:03 - What is the nature of fear?

3:11 - How to face your fear?

4:15 - Step #1: Name the fear.

5:26 - Step #2: Define the best outcome.

6:13 - Step #3: Identify what’s in your power.

6:49 - Step #4: List actionable steps.

8:13 - Step #5: Prioritize and break it down.

9:18 - Step #6: Schedule everything.

10:50 - Step #7: Ask for help.

11:46 - What are the common fears that can hold you back & what to do about it?

14:47 - How to take action today?

15:32 - FREE Download: Ignite Your Confidence & Sour With Self-Esteem

Quotations:

“Fear will keep us from all the dreams that we have in our hearts.”

“Procrastination is often fear in disguise.”

“You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a plan.”

“What gets scheduled gets done.”

“Don’t get stuck because you have a dream but no plan.”

Resources:

🗓️ Get a copy of The BraveHearted Woman Planner: braveheartedwoman.com/offers/bHky3uoX/checkout

🎁FREE Download: Ignite Your Confidence & Sour With Self-Esteem: braveheartedwoman.com/ignite_your_confidence_ebook

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s NEW book FOR ONLY $3- [ON SALE] The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife: https://themakingofabraveheartedwoman.com/book-bhw

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at: dawn@braveheartmentor.com

💞 Website: https://braveheartedwoman.com/

💞 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravehearted_woman

💞 Facebook:...

In this week's episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, I am joined by my friend and returning guest, Michelle Steffes—an executive performance coach, international speaker, and author of Necessary Significance: A Heart-Mind Approach to Captivating Leadership.

Michelle opens up about the powerful story behind her reinvention. Thirteen years ago, she faced an unexpected and painful career upheaval that left her questioning her worth and future. But instead of giving in to despair, she took bold, brave steps, allowing God to reshape her path. Today, she’s leading with purpose, helping others rise through heart-centered leadership and the science of transformation.

We talk about the neuroplasticity of the brain, emotional resilience, and why balancing empathy with excellence is the key to powerful leadership — whether you’re running a company, managing a team, or leading your family. Michelle also shares insights from her newest book, a concise 48-page guide packed with practical tools for leaders who want to create connection, loyalty, and impact.

If you’re in a season of reinvention or feel like your best days are behind you, this episode will remind you: God’s not done with you yet. Your next chapter may be your most significant one.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Guest Intro

2:46 - The Bravehearted Story of Michelle Steffes

11:34 - How to reframe and rewire

13:54 - Why is the book only 48 pages?

15:30 - What is heart-mind kind of leadership?

18:27 - The meaning behind the title ‘Necessary Significance’

20:18 - The brain science of team loyalty and culture

24:08 - #1 tip for midlife women

Quotations:

"We can’t birth our future if we’re still grieving our past." - Dawn Damon

"Significance is something we all desire—and it never goes away." - Michelle Steffes

"You will outlive your problems—God has a next in store for you." - Dawn Damon

"Self-leadership is the most important part of leadership." - Michelle Steffes

"Your greatest days are still ahead of you—but you have to believe it and speak it." - Dawn Damon

"Excellence without empathy isn’t leadership—it’s authority." - Michelle Steffes

Resources:

📞 Connect with Michelle:

⭐ ipvconsulting.com

⭐ linkedin.com/in/michellesteffes/

⭐ facebook.com/MichelleLSteffes/

📚Get a copy of Michelle’s new book - Necessary Significance: A Heart Mind Approach to Captivating Leadership

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📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s NEW book FOR ONLY $3- [ON SALE] The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife: themakingofabraveheartedwoman.com/book-bhw

🎁 Get a copy of Dawn’s FREE resources for midlife women:

Did you know that clutter might quietly be stealing your peace, productivity, and joy?

In this episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, let me uncover a hidden force that may be draining your energy and mental clarity: clutter.

With an estimated 300,000 items in the average home, many midlife women are unknowingly living in environments that increase stress, disrupt focus, and sabotage emotional well-being.

Discover the four major types of clutter and how each can impact your health, mindset, and even your relationships. This episode offers both practical strategies and compassionate encouragement for those who feel overwhelmed, disorganized, or stuck.

So, if you’ve been feeling scattered, unmotivated, or exhausted in your own space, this episode may hold the breakthrough you didn’t know you needed. It’s time to clear the chaos, reclaim your space, and find the peace that’s been waiting for you!

Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro

1:13 - What is clutter and why it matters

2:50 - 4 types of clutter

7:04 - The impact of clutter on your health and relationships

9:17 - How decluttering helps you

12:08 - Benefits of having an organized space

16:26 - Practical tips on how you can start to declutter today

20:21 - FREE Download: 10 steps to declutter your home

Quotations:

"Clutter is not benign — it’s always active and often negatively affecting your life."

"The mess brings stress."

"Decluttering your space will bring you to a happy place."

"When your home is clean and organized, you can finally let your eyes rest — and your soul, too."

"Decluttering is a self-esteem project; it reminds you that you’re capable and worthy of peace."

"You’re not just cleaning your house — you’re clearing a path to your dreams."

Resources:

🎁FREE Download: 10 Steps to Declutter Your Home - braveheartedwoman.com/blog/10steps-declutter

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s NEW book FOR ONLY $3- [ON SALE] The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife: https://themakingofabraveheartedwoman.com/book-bhw

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at: dawn@braveheartmentor.com

💞 Website: https://braveheartedwoman.com/

💞 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravehearted_woman

💞 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braveheartedwoman

💞 Podcast: https://the-bravehearted-woman.captivate.fm/listen

“Mom is one of your names… but it’s not your only name.”

In this week's episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, I am joined by Kate Battistelli ~ a bestselling author, speaker, and former Broadway actress. Known for her powerful journey from the spotlight of New York theater to the sacred calling of motherhood, Kate shares her story of radical faith, transformation, and purpose.

Kate opens up about her brave decision to leave a successful Broadway career — where she starred in over 1,000 performances of The King and I alongside Yul Brynner — to become a full-time homeschooling mom. Now a sought-after mentor, podcaster, and author of titles like The God Dare and The After Party of the Empty Nest, Kate encourages women to embrace the unknown, trust God's leading, and rediscover who they are beyond the title of "Mom."

Together, we explore how the empty nest season isn’t the end — it’s the after party! A time to celebrate your journey, reflect on your accomplishments, and step boldly into the second half of life with renewed purpose.

Whether you're wrestling with identity, seeking God’s direction, or wondering what comes next, this episode is a powerful reminder that the “impossible” is God’s comfort zone—and He’s calling you to dream big.

Don’t miss this uplifting conversation—perfect for midlife women looking for a fresh start, spiritual direction, and renewed courage.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Guest Intro

1:35 - The Bravehearted Story of Kate Battistelli from Broadway to a small city

5:18 - How to trust God’s plan

15:08 - The After Party of the Empty Nest: Mom Is Not Your Only Name

17:10 - How Kate rediscovered her identity and calling in midlife

23:24 - Practical tips for facing emptiness

27:28 - #1 tip for midlife women

Quotations:

“Sometimes you just have to do it afraid.” – Kate Battistelli

“You have to choose to be chosen to change the world.” – Kate Battistelli

“If you have a pulse, you have a purpose.” – Dawn Damon

“Start now for then — don’t wait until your nest is empty to start dreaming again.” – Kate Battistelli



Resources:

📞 Connect with Kate at katebattistelli.com

📚Get a copy of Kate’s new book: The After the Party of the Empty Nest: Mom is Not Your Only Name at katebattistelli.com/the-after-party-of-the-empty-nest/

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📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s NEW book FOR ONLY $3- [ON SALE] The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife: themakingofabraveheartedwoman.com/book-bhw

🎁 Get a copy of Dawn’s FREE resources for midlife women: braveheartedwoman.com/resources

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at:

Feeling stuck, unmotivated, or like you're circling the same mountain over and over again? You're not alone — and more importantly, you don't have to stay there!

In this episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, I share 10 proven steps to help you break free from the rut that's been holding you back. Whether you're facing the same old obstacles, feeling the weight of procrastination, or just know deep down that you're meant for more, this episode is packed with the inspiration and strategy you need to reignite your momentum.

Let me walk you through the transformational journey of recognizing your current reality, discovering the “why” behind your stuckness, and building a clear, exciting vision for your future. You'll learn how to take small but mighty action steps, create a written plan, and find the right accountability partner to fuel your success. Plus, I will give you encouragement and practical tools — including powerful mindset shifts — to help you move from stuck to unstoppable.

If you're ready to find your brave spirit and live your dreams, this episode is your fresh start!

Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro

1:03 - Are you stuck in a rut?

2:41 - STEP 1: Acknowledge the rut.

3:45 - STEP 2: Discover why you are here.

5:07 - STEP 3: Write down everything.

6:24 - STEP 4: Determine where you’d rather be.

7:36 - STEP 5: Write down your “better place” on paper.

7:57 - STEP 6: Decide on 3 actions you will take.

10:54 - STEP 7: Write those action steps down.

11:44 - STEP 8: Take action.

14:07 - STEP 9: Feed your spirit with certainty.

14:57 - STEP 10: Make yourself accountable.

16:27 - Do you need help?

Quotations:

"A rut is not much different than a grave, except for it has the ends cut out."

"If you can see it with the eyes of your heart, you can move toward it with the steps of your faith."

"Small, consistent actions are what create massive transformation over time."

"Your dream is God's invitation for you to step into His plan for your life."

"Face fear with a plan — not just wishful thinking."

"Accountability isn't punishment; it's the bridge between goals and accomplishment."

Resources:

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s NEW book FOR ONLY $3- [ON SALE] The Making of a BraveHearted Woman: Courage, Confidence, and Vision in Midlife: https://themakingofabraveheartedwoman.com/book-bhw

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at: dawn@braveheartmentor.com

💞 Website: https://braveheartedwoman.com/

💞 Instagram:...

"Anxiety is not permanent. It has come to pass, not to stay.”

In this episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, I share my personal battle with anxiety during my 30s and early 40s, sharing how trauma, stress, and life transitions contributed to overwhelming panic attacks.

Also, let me share the science behind anxiety, its physical and emotional symptoms, and why midlife women often experience a resurgence during perimenopause or postmenopause. So, you'll learn how anxiety functions as an internal alarm system—and how, at times, it misfires, sending false warnings that can leave you feeling overwhelmed or frozen. I’ll guide you through practical, proven techniques to help you manage anxiety.

Whether you're facing daily stress or experiencing full-blown panic attacks, this episode is filled with encouragement, understanding, and tools to help you feel grounded, confident, and back in control of your life. Remember, you're not broken — anxiety can be a messenger inviting you to heal, reclaim peace, and live bravely.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro

1:03 - Understanding anxiety in midlife

5:46 - How to transition your panic to power

7:08 - My personal journey in battling anxiety

12:36 - Common symptoms of anxiety

18:26 - Practical tips for managing anxiety

26:39 - Dawn #1 tip for the day

Quotations:

"You are not broken. There's nothing wrong with you if you're experiencing anxiety."

"The more we try to control others, the less control we have over our own joy."

"You can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you think, respond, and recover."

Resources:

💌Do you want to learn more about anxiety and how to manage it? Email me with “PDF anxiety” at dawn@braveheartedwoman.com, and I’ll send you a copy

🎁 Check out my resources that will help you navigate your midlife journey: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/resources

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at: dawn@braveheartmentor.com

💞 Website: https://braveheartedwoman.com/

💞 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravehearted_woman

💞 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braveheartedwoman

💞 Podcast: https://the-bravehearted-woman.captivate.fm/listen

Download the full transcript here.

“Menopause isn’t a mystery — it’s a biological transition.”

In this week's episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, I am joined by Carin-Luna Ostaseski, a trailblazing entrepreneur and the founder of Hot or Just Me?, an online shop and vibrant support community created specifically for women navigating the challenges of perimenopause and menopause.

Carin deep dives into the common myths and misconceptions surrounding perimenopause, offering truth and clarity that will leave you feeling educated and empowered. She explores the emotional rollercoaster many women face and shares ways to build mental resilience and maintain a positive mindset, even during hormonal chaos.

Carin also unpacks lifestyle changes—from nutrition and movement to sleep hygiene—that can drastically ease symptoms and improve overall well-being.

So, if you’ve been curious about natural remedies, cognitive health, or what steps you can take now in your 30s and 40s to prepare for this transition, this episode is your must-listen guide.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Guest Intro

2:48 - Carin’s Braveheart story on transitioning to be a menopause advocate

4:02 - Myths & misconceptions about menopause

6:21 - The common symptoms of perimenopause

9:30 - Understanding Perimenopause vs. Menopause (and what to do about it)

22:36 - Carin’s #1 tip for midlife women

Quotations:

“Midlife isn’t a decline—it’s a privilege. This is the season where we earn our stripes.” – Carin Luna-Ostaseski

“Take care of your body. It’s the vessel for the journey — and you only get one.” – Carin Luna-Ostaseski

“We give our cars oil changes and tune-ups — our bodies deserve the same care and attention.” – Carin Luna-Ostaseski

“Sleep is foundational. Create an environment where your body feels safe enough to rest.” – Carin Luna-Ostaseski

“Perimenopause doesn’t have to derail your life. With the right tools, you can thrive through it.” – Dawn Damon

“Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s cellular care. You’re not just caring for yourself, you’re sustaining your ability to care for others.” – Dawn Damon



Resources:

📞 Connect with Carin at hotorjustme.com

🔍 Find an expert wherever you are menopause.org

🎁 Use the code “bravehearted” to get a 10% discount when you shop here

_____________

📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s FREE resources for midlife women: braveheartedwoman.com/resources

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at: dawn@braveheartmentor.com

💞 Website: https://braveheartedwoman.com/

💞 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravehearted_woman

💞 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braveheartedwoman

💞 Podcast:...

“Self-care isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency. Aim for 85%, not 100%, and give yourself grace.”

In this week's episode of The BraveHearted Woman Podcast, I am joined by Cara-Michele Nether, founder of the Strength and Vitality Wellness Center, to discuss the essentials of self-care and well-being for midlife women. Cara shares her personal health journey, including overcoming hyperthyroidism, and highlights the critical role of food, movement, mindset, and cellular health in maintaining vitality.

Cara introduces a five-step framework to help women stay consistent with their wellness practices, emphasizing the power of small, sustainable steps over drastic changes. Also, she debunks myths around perfection in self-care, advocating for an 85% rule—allowing flexibility and grace without guilt.

Tune in for practical wisdom and encouragement to prioritize your well-being with confidence!

Timestamps:

0:00 - Guest Intro

2:48 - Cara’s Braveheart story on prioritizing your well-being in midlife

7:54 - Understanding the role of food and nutrition in midlife

10:02 - The common reasons why you might be holding back

17:44 - The 5-step framework to achieve holistic health

27:37 - Cara’s #1 tip for embracing health and vitality

29:07 - That ONE myth about midlife’s health and wellness

Quotations:

"Women in midlife don’t need another diet; they need a sustainable plan that actually fits their life.” – Cara Michele-Nether

“The food you eat is either fueling your energy or feeding your exhaustion. Choose wisely.” – Cara Michele-Nether

“Movement is medicine. Your body thrives when you make motion a daily habit.” – Cara Michele-Nether

“Your mindset shapes your health. If you believe you can feel better, you will find the way.” – Cara Michele-Nether

“You don’t have to do it alone — community and expert support can make all the difference in your wellness journey.” – Cara Michele-Nether

“Wellness isn’t just about what you eat or how you move; it’s about how you think, how you rest, and how you show up for yourself every day.” – Cara Michele-Nether

Resources:

📞 Connect with Cara-Michele at strengthvitalitywellness.com

Cara-Michele's Link for the Self-Care Roundtable https://strengthvitalitywellness.com/events

_____________

📚 Get a copy of Dawn’s FREE resources for midlife women: braveheartedwoman.com/resources

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute strategy call with Dawn: https://www.braveheartedwoman.com/book-a-call

Connect with your BraveHeart Mentor, Dawn Damon:

💞 Email me at: dawn@braveheartmentor.com

💞 Website: https://braveheartedwoman.com/

💞 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravehearted_woman

💞 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braveheartedwoman

💞 Podcast: https://the-bravehearted-woman.captivate.fm/listen

Download the full transcript