Do you feel guilty resting—even when you’re exhausted?Do you end the day feeling like you did everything… yet still fell short?Are the “shoulds” stealing your peace—and your time? If that sounds familiar, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. So many moms don’t struggle with motivation or discipline—we struggle with the nonstop mental noise of shoulds: You should do more You should handle this better You should be able to keep it all together In today’s episode, I’m exposing 5 hidden habits that quietly keep moms stuck in guilt, overwhelm, and decision fatigue—and showing you how to break free without blowing up your life or adding more to your plate. We’ll talk about: Why letting every “should” run the show drains your time and confidence How over-explaining your decisions reinforces guilt The boundary mistake that keeps moms overextended Why putting yourself last isn’t sustainable (or necessary) And the mindset shift every mom needs to stop comparing her capacity to someone else’s season You’ll walk away with: Permission to question the invisible rulebook you’ve been living by Simple language to make decisions without guilt Practical boundary shifts that actually work in real life A reminder that your capacity is not a moral issue—it’s information If you’re a mom of tweens or teens who feels stretched thin, overwhelmed by expectations, or stuck in the “shoulds,” this episode is for you. Ready to stop carrying the weight of guilt and start choosing yourself with confidence? Press play.Believing the BEST is yet to come!xoSarah If you’ve been putting your dreams or self-care on hold, I help moms create a real-life balance plan inside my 1:1 coaching. We uncover pockets of time, prioritize what matters, and make it happen without guilt or overwhelm.[Book a FREE 1:1 Coaching Session — LINK]

Do you feel like you can’t take a moment for yourself without feeling guilty?Do you wonder how to pursue a small dream or self-care practice without disrupting your family’s routine?Have you tried to “find time” for yourself but end up exhausted and frustrated? In this episode, I’ll show you how to reclaim tiny pockets of time for self-care or personal goals, fit them seamlessly into your life, and do it without stealing from your family or feeling guilty. You’ll learn: How to use tiny 10–20 minute windows for self-care that actually stick How to choose a dream or practice that fits your current life, not some ideal schedule How to communicate small shifts to your family so everyone adapts easily The practical steps I used to reclaim my time and still show up fully as a mom By the end, you’ll walk away with actionable, realistic ways to prioritize yourself while still being present for your kids. Action Step: Identify one 10–20 minute block this week. Decide what self-care or small goal you’ll pursue during that time. Tell your family why it matters, and notice how it shifts your energy and focus. If you’ve been putting your dreams or self-care on hold, I help moms create a real-life balance plan inside my 1:1 coaching. We uncover pockets of time, prioritize what matters, and make it happen without guilt or overwhelm.[Book a FREE 1:1 Coaching Session — LINK] Join our Facebook community for moms of tweens & teens prioritizing their time, sharing wins, and supporting each other.

If you’re tired of feeling stretched, scattered, and responsible for everything, this episode is your reset. I’m breaking down one time management strategy that helps overwhelmed midlife moms create breathing room, make confident decisions, and finally feel in control of their days again.You’ll learn how to choose one clear focus, connect it to a meaningful WHY, and build rhythms that reduce decision fatigue — all without adding more to your already full plate. If you’ve been carrying the mental load alone, this is the clarity and calm you’ve been craving.Cheering you on!xo,Sarah_____________________________________________________About Your Host:Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the shifting seasons of motherhood. A former journalist and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence through honest stories, practical steps, and encouragement along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com/coaching or join the free community, Midlife Moms Connect, for additional encouragement and resources.Connect with Sarah at sarah@westmetromom.com

If the holidays leave you exhausted, overcommitted, and wondering when YOU get to enjoy any of it—this episode is your reset.This week, we’re breaking down the exact micro-boundaries that help busy moms protect their time, simplify decisions, and feel more balanced during the most overwhelming season of the year. I’m sharing the moment I realized I was running the whole holiday machine while everyone else was relaxing—and the simple shifts I made that brought my joy (and sanity) back. You’ll walk away with: The one boundary that immediately gives you breathing room Two tiny decisions that protect your time without disappointing anyone A simple way to say “Not right now”—minus the guilt If you’re craving more peace, more presence, and more moments that actually matter… this episode will help you take back your December with confidence. xo,Sarah______________________________________ About Your Host:Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the shifting seasons of motherhood. A former journalist and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence through honest stories, practical steps, and encouragement along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com/coaching or join the free community, Midlife Moms Connect, for additional encouragement and resources.Connect with Sarah at sarah@westmetromom.com

As your kids get older, your schedule shifts in a way no one really prepares you for. Suddenly you have little pockets of time—twenty minutes here, an hour there—and instead of feeling freeing, they can feel confusing, unproductive, or even guilt-filled. In this episode, we’re talking about why that happens, what it really means and how to move forward with confidence. Whether you find yourself overcommitting because you feel like you “should”… or wasting time because you don’t know what you actually want anymore… neither reaction is a failure. They’re clues. And today, I’m breaking down how to understand them, what this new season is trying to tell you, and how to start using your time in ways that feel purposeful and good—without the pressure to do more. You’ll also get one simple tactic you can use today to make those small pockets of time more intentional. If you’re ready to feel less behind and more grounded in this in-between season of motherhood, this episode is for you.xoSarah_______________________________ About Your Host:Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the shifting seasons of motherhood. A former journalist and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence through honest stories, practical steps, and encouragement along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com/coaching or join the free community, Midlife Moms Connect, for additional encouragement and resources.Connect with Sarah at sarah@westmetromom.com

In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, we continue our pre-empty nest series, exploring the delicate in-between stage of motherhood — that space where your kids are growing more independent, and the next season feels just around the corner. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I savoring these moments enough?” or “How can I keep growing my relationship with my kids as they change?” this episode is for you. I share a personal story about finding old keepsakes and the powerful reminder that slowing down and being present is the best way to prepare for what’s ahead. You’ll learn five practical ways to stay grounded in the here and now: how to practice presence, make space for your emotions, start small with your own dreams, let go of comparison, and mark meaningful moments with your family. Plus, I offer a simple weekly reflection to help you pause, breathe, and truly savor this season. Whether you’re feeling bittersweet, excited, or a little lost in the transition, this episode will encourage you to lean into today while gently preparing for tomorrow.xoSarah_________________________________________ About Your Host:Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the shifting seasons of midlife motherhood. A former journalist and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence through honest stories, practical steps, and encouragement along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com or join the free community, Midlife Moms Connect, for additional encouragement and resources.Connect with Sarah at sarah@westmetromom.com

This episode of Midlife Unscripted continues our pre-empty nest series, but even if your kids aren’t ready to leave yet, these 5 steps will help you reclaim your time, rediscover your identity, and show up as your best self. Join Sarah as she walks you through practical, simple ways to make time for yourself, reset your energy, and embrace your purpose as a midlife mom. Whether you’re juggling kids, household chaos, and ever-changing routines, these strategies will help you prioritize self-care, strengthen your faith, and feel more grounded in your identity. Perfect for busy moms navigating the pre-empty nest phase or parenting tweens or teens, this episode is your guide to showing up fully — without guilt — for both yourself and your family. About Your Host:Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the shifting seasons of midlife motherhood. A former journalist and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence through honest stories, practical steps, and encouragement along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com or join the free community, Midlife Moms Connect, for additional encouragement and resources.Connect with Sarah at sarah@westmetromom.com Keywords: Midlife Mom, Mom identity, Rediscover yourself, Self-care for moms, Make time for yourself, Faith and purpose, Parenting teens, Pre-empty nest, Mom energy reset, Practical self-care

In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, host Sarah Colbert, creator of West Metro Mom, explores what it really feels like to enter the pre-empty nest stage — that quiet, in-between season when your kids still need you, but not quite in the same way. If you’re a midlife mom navigating the early signs of the empty nest, this episode will help you rediscover your purpose, reimagine your identity, and find peace in the transition. Sarah shares her personal story of noticing the subtle shifts at home, learning to let go of control, and using new pockets of time to reconnect with herself. Through honest reflection and practical encouragement, she reminds us that this season isn’t about losing your purpose — it’s about remembering who you are and what lights you up outside of motherhood. Key Takeaways: Recognizing the Pre-Empty Nest Stage: Spot the subtle signs that your parenting role — and your daily rhythm — are changing. Redefining Your Role: Why this transition can be a powerful chance to rediscover who you are beyond your kids. Embracing the In-Between: How to hold space for both pride and sadness as your teens grow more independent. Practical Shifts: Simple, meaningful ways to use newfound time for reflection, hobbies, or faith growth. Mindset Matters: Why this isn’t the end of something, but the beginning of rediscovering you. About Your Host: Sarah Colbert is the voice behind Midlife Unscripted, a podcast for moms navigating the in-between years — when your kids still need you, but not in the same way. A former journalist turned storyteller and mom of three teens, Sarah helps women rediscover purpose, peace, and confidence in the pre-empty nest years through honest stories, practical conversations, and a little humor along the way. Learn more at westmetromom.com or follow along or Book a FREE call now. If you want more encouragement, join me in the Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email Sarah anytime at sarah@westmetromom.com Keywords: pre-empty nest stage, midlife moms, rediscover yourself, motherhood identity, empty nest transition, letting go, finding purpose again, midlife confidence, balance and change, parenting teens, motherhood growth, west metro mom, midlife unscripted podcast

Hey moms—are you in that in-between season, wondering what’s next now that your kids are getting older? In this episode, I chat with Karen Johnson, a midlife mom who gave up her career to raise her kids and is now figuring out life after kids, rediscovering herself, and exploring her next chapter. If you’re navigating the pre-empty nest, feeling stuck in your mom identity, or ready to start something new, this conversation is packed with honest encouragement and practical ideas for thriving in midlife. If you loved this episode: Grab Karen's book: What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up? And Other Thoughts From a 40-Something Mom (purchase book now) Connect with Karen on Facebook Join me in the upcoming four-part series on the pre-empty nest season—starting next week! Share your thoughts in my quick [market research survey]to help shape future episodes and resources for moms in this in-between season. xoSarah__________________________If you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

Ever feel like you’ve lost touch with the things that used to light you up? I know that feeling all too well. In this episode, I’m sharing how we, as midlife moms, can reignite passions we’ve put on pause—whether that’s painting, journaling, running, baking, reading for fun, or simply doing something that makes us feel alive again. If you’ve been feeling stuck, unmotivated, or like you’ve lost a piece of yourself in the busyness of motherhood, I want you to know—you’re not alone. Together, we’ll walk through simple, doable steps to rediscover your creativity, confidence, and sense of purpose—without guilt, pressure, or perfection. I’ll share what happened when I finally picked up something I hadn't in a long time and how that moment reminded me that my joy matters. You’ll also learn how to carve out time for yourself, why reigniting your passion brings back energy and balance, and how small sparks of creativity can help you feel more grounded, fulfilled, and like you again. This episode is for every midlife mom navigating identity shifts, burnout, or that strange “in-between” season of motherhood. You’ll leave encouraged to take the first small step toward rediscovering who you are—beyond your to-do list.xoSarahIf you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

Do you ever feel like if you didn’t do it, it just wouldn’t get done? The laundry, the appointments, the meals, the moods, the mental checklists that never seem to end. It’s called the mental load of motherhood — and if you’re the default parent, it can feel like you’re carrying the world on your shoulders. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, we’re talking about how to share the weight without losing yourself. You’ll learn how to recognize the invisible load you’ve been carrying, why resentment sneaks in when it goes unspoken, and how to step out of “martyr mom” mode into real partnership at home. Through honest conversation and faith-filled encouragement, we’ll look at what it means to let go of control, set healthy boundaries, and trust God to carry what we can’t. Because in this season of midlife motherhood, you don’t have to do it all — and you were never meant to. If you’ve been feeling unseen, overwhelmed, or stuck in “I’ll just do it myself” mode, this episode will help you find peace, strength, and confidence again. ✨ You’ll learn how to: Recognize and name the invisible load you’re carrying Stop letting resentment quietly damage your relationships Ask for help and create partnership in your home Let go of guilt and trust God with what’s too heavy to carry alone Tune in to rediscover your energy, confidence, and joy — one small shift at a time. Listen now and share this episode with a mom friend who’s been carrying it all — because we’re not meant to do motherhood alone. xoSarah If you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

I know how real the quiet grief of midlife motherhood can feel—the ache when teens don’t need us the same way anymore, the bittersweet shift when the house feels quieter, and the reminder that we’re no longer at the center of their world. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I’m talking about that hidden grief, why it feels so heavy, and practical ways to move through it with hope. My heart is that you’ll feel less alone, find words for what you’re carrying, and start to see what’s possible in this new season of motherhood.xoSarah If you want more encouragement, join me in my free Facebook community, Midlife Moms Connect, or email me anytime at sarah@westmetromom.comTo connect or learn more about working with me go to www.westmetromom.com/coaching

Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to start something new in midlife? In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Cárdenas—a fifth-generation Texan, former teacher, and now an award-winning children’s book author. Courtney has walked through the same midlife transitions so many of us face: raising kids, navigating health challenges, and figuring out what’s next when life looks different than you imagined. Her story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step. Whether you’re dreaming of writing, starting a business, or simply rediscovering what lights you up, this conversation will inspire you to believe it’s possible—even in the middle of real life. If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure of your next chapter, this episode will give you hope, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on the possibilities waiting for you in midlife. xoSarah Resources & Links Mentioned: Connect with Courtney: Instagram or Her Book 💌 Join my weekly newsletter, Midlife Moms Connect, for encouragement, practical tips, and midlife inspiration: [newsletter link] 🌟 Explore 1:1 coaching to help you find clarity, confidence, and courage in midlife transitions: [coaching link] 📘 Join our supportive Midlife Moms Connect Facebook Group to connect with other midlife moms: [link] ✉️ Reach out and connect via email: sarah@westmetromom.com

Have you ever thought, “It’s too late for me to start something new”? In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I’m breaking down the myth that opportunity only belongs to the young. Midlife is not the end of your story—it’s the launchpad for fresh dreams and renewed purpose. Together, we’ll explore why this season is uniquely powerful for moms of teens, how to start small without overwhelm, and the faith-based truths that remind us we are right on time. xoSarah Resources & Links Mentioned: 💌 Join my weekly newsletter, Midlife Moms Connect, for encouragement, practical tips, and midlife inspiration: [newsletter link] 🌟 Explore 1:1 coaching to help you find clarity, confidence, and courage in midlife transitions: [coaching link] 📘 Join our supportive Midlife Moms Connect Facebook Group to connect with other midlife moms: [link] ✉️ Reach out and connect via email: sarah@westmetromom.com

Have you ever felt like the ground beneath you suddenly gave way—through a crisis, a transition, or unexpected change? In this episode, I share my personal story of sudden financial loss and uncertainty—and how faith, mindset, and small practical steps helped me navigate the chaos.I truly hope that episodes encourages you that it is possible to regain footing, find courage, and embrace your next chapter in midlife.XOSarah Questions to consider: Where in your life right now do you feel like the ground is shaky? What’s one small step you could take this week to regain your footing? Who—or what—can remind you that you’re not walking this season alone? Resources & Links Mentioned: 💌 Join my weekly newsletter, Midlife Moms Connect, for encouragement, practical tips, and midlife inspiration: [newsletter link] 🌟 Explore 1:1 coaching to help you find clarity, confidence, and courage in midlife transitions: [coaching link] 📘 Join our supportive Midlife Moms Connect Facebook Group to connect with other midlife moms: [link] ✉️ Reach out and connect via email: sarah@westmetromom.com Scripture Inspiration:Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Your next chapter matters. Take one step, make one choice, and trust that God is already making a way forward.

In this honest and heartfelt episode, I open up about walking through a season marked by fear, shame, and feeling stuck—and how faith, community, and gratitude helped me find my footing again. You’ll hear the story of how I took small, shaky steps toward resurrecting a dream I had quietly tucked away, and what I learned about courage along the way. We’ll talk about how to recognize when fear is keeping you stuck, how to lean on prayer and the people who lift you up, and how to move forward even when you don’t have it all figured out. If you’ve ever felt like you’re in a season of “in-between,” this one’s for you. My hope is that it reminds you: you’re not behind, you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to take the next faithful step toward what God’s calling you to. XOSarah ✨ Want extra encouragement each week? Subscribe to my Midlife Moms Connect newsletter for tips, inspiration, and reflections to help you confidently navigate what’s next. OR connect with the Midlife Moms Connect private facebook group ✨ Looking for personal guidance? I offer coaching for midlife moms who want clarity and confidence as they step into their next chapter—find out more here. ✨ Let’s connect directly: email me sarah@westmetromom.com

In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I chat with Karey Hall, founder of Halloway Vacation Retreats, about how one family cabin sparked a fulfilling next chapter in her life. Karey shares how she tapped into her gifts and passions from before motherhood, creating meaningful opportunities in creativity, hospitality, and community—without turning her life upside down, all while still raising her kids. If you’re a midlife mom looking to rediscover your gifts, explore what’s next, and pursue new passions while balancing family life, this episode is full of practical inspiration and encouragement. Want more weekly guidance, tips, and encouragement? Join my email list to get insights straight to your inbox. And if you’re ready to take a deeper step into designing your next chapter, explore 1:1 coaching to clarify your gifts, passions, and what’s next for you. Book a FREE call today!You can always email me at sarah@westmetromom.com. I'd love to hear from you!XOSarah

Ever feel like you’re waiting for the perfect moment to finally focus on yourself? You’re not alone—so many midlife moms put their own dreams on hold while raising kids, running a household, and supporting everyone else. In this episode, I’m sharing four powerful mindset shifts that helped me stop waiting and start saying yes to the things that make me come alive—even when life was messy and I didn’t feel ready. You’ll learn how to build confidence, embrace the imperfect middle, ask for help, and give yourself permission to evolve.Let's get to it!XOSarah________________________ ✨ Ready for more support? Join my free Midlife Moms Facebook Group [link] where we talk about rediscovering yourself beyond motherhood.Book a FREE discovery call NOW! Or email me sarah@westmetromom.comAnd if you’re ready for deeper transformation, check out my 1:1 Coaching Program designed to help midlife moms stop waiting and start living their next chapter with confidence. 

Feeling overwhelmed, overcommitted, and just plain over it? You’re not alone, friend. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, we’re getting honest about what happens when being capable turns into constantly doing too much. If you’re a high-capacity midlife mom juggling growing teens, full calendars, and zero margin—you need this conversation. We’ll unpack why your exhaustion isn’t a failure, how to know when you’re carrying more than what’s actually yours, and the subtle difference between peace and pressure when making decisions. You’ll learn: ✅ How to tell if you’re doing too much (even when you can handle it) ✅ Why saying “no” might be the most faithful thing you do this season ✅ A simple mindset shift to reclaim purpose and margin—without blowing up your life ✅ One powerful question to ask before saying yes again This episode is for the midlife mom who’s ready to stop striving and start stewarding her energy, calling, and identity with more wisdom and less burnout. 🎧 Tune in and get practical steps to lighten your load, reclaim your purpose, and move forward with clarity.XOSarah🔗 Links + Next Steps:→ Join The Unscripted Circle for ongoing support→ Interested in coaching? Learn about The Midlife Momentum Method or email sarah@westmetromom.com→ Don’t miss next week’s episode: Are you doing to much? We'll talk about how you can tell and why it may be holding you back in this season of life.

Feeling stuck in midlife? Learn how one simple gratitude mindset shift can help you find peace, clarity, and purpose—even in hard times. In this episode, you’ll discover realistic gratitude practices for busy moms, how to stop comparison from stealing your joy, and ways to hold space for both the hard and the hopeful._________________________ Ever look at your life and think, "I should be further along by now.” Same. I’ve been there—especially in those in-between seasons where you’re not quite where you were, but not yet where you want to be. In this episode of Midlife Unscripted, I share the story of how one simple gratitude mindset shift helped pull me out of that funk—and how it can help you, too. If you’ve been searching for: How to get unstuck in midlife Practical gratitude practices for busy moms How to find peace when life feels hard…this conversation is for you. ✨ Here’s what you’ll learn: Why gratitude isn’t just a “nice idea”—it’s a proven mindset tool that brings clarity, peace, and emotional resilience What to do when the want of more starts stealing your joy Simple, realistic daily gratitude habits you can start today How to hold space for both the hard and the hopeful If you’re a midlife mom feeling stuck in the what’s next space—or wrestling with comparison, burnout, or frustration—this episode will meet you right where you are. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start moving forward with purpose. XOSarah 🔗 Links + Next Steps:→ Join The Unscripted Circle for ongoing support→ Interested in coaching? Learn about The Midlife Momentum Method or email sarah@westmetromom.com→ Don’t miss next week’s episode: Are you doing to much? We'll talk about how you can tell and why it may be holding you back in this season of life.