Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess

Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess is the podcast for women who’ve hit midlife and are wondering, What the hell happened? ICF Life & Confidence coach Sharon Wilkes-Burt takes you through the identity crises, the confidence wobbles, and the downright weirdness of life in messy middle with journal prompts, real talk, and a generous splash of radical kindness. If life feels like an unfinished book, let’s scribble in the margins together.

Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess is a education podcast hosted by Sharon Wilkes-Burt, with 27 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Sharon Wilkes-Burt hosts Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess, a education show with 27 episodes published.

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  Episode #27

  Why the menopause conversation is incomplete - With Jodie Allsopp Studley

  Sep 13, 20261 hourS3

  In this engaging conversation, Sharon Wilkes-Burt and Jodie Allsopp Studley delve into the complexities of midlife, exploring themes of self-discovery, creativity, and the challenges of parenting. Jodie shares her unique approach to journaling through visual art, contrasting it with traditional written diaries. They discuss the expectations of youth versus the realities of adulthood, the importance of visualization in achieving goals, and Jodie's journey from dental therapy to naturopathy. The conversation highlights the significance of adventure in life and the role of mentors in navigating challenges. In this conversation, Jodie Allsopp Studley shares her journey through motherhood, personal loss, and the challenges of self-discovery. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, health, and the value of life experiences in shaping one's identity. The discussion highlights the need for support and mentorship, especially during times of change and uncertainty, and the significance of trusting oneself amidst life's challenges. In this conversation, Sharon Wilkes-Burt and Jodie Allsopp Studley explore the evolving landscape of personal development for women, particularly in midlife. They discuss the importance of understanding hormonal changes, the need for community support, and the significance of self-care and communication. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of breaking the silence around menopause and encourages women to embrace their voices and experiences. The Glow Deeper Retreat is a one-day, in-person experience for women ready to sit with themselves properly — no "manifest your best life" fluff, just structured, guided space to actually reflect. We start with a hands-on makeup workshop — unhurried, no pressure to "get it right," just a gentle way in. Then we move into the journalling and reflective work this podcast is built on: the same questions I ask my guests every episode, except this time i Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

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  Episode #26

  Capturing the NOW with Anna Debenedictis

  Aug 30, 202656 minS3

  The childhood message that you are not enough can follow you for decades - until one crisis forces you to rewrite the whole story. Sharon Wilkes-Burt sits down with photographer and creative Anna Debenedictis for a deeply personal conversation about friendship wounds, identity, motherhood, and the unexpected path back to yourself. Anna shares the moments that shaped her, from being the youngest child in a traditional Italian family in Montreal to chasing big dreams in New York, studying photography at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and building a life across Canada, the U.S., England, Ireland, and Australia. Along the way, she opens up about the teenage friendship betrayal that still echoes in her life, the pressure to shrink herself, and the years of putting everyone else first. You'll discover: Why the first heartbreak for many women comes from friends, not romance How Anna learned to trust her ambition, even when the world around her did not What happened when marriage, motherhood, and identity collided Why IVF, a health scare, and a surprise pregnancy changed everything How her photography business became a way to preserve the family memories she once longed to be part of Sharon and Anna also unpack the quiet emotional cost of being the dependable one - the one who smiles, performs, and holds everything together while falling apart on the inside. By the end, Anna’s story becomes something bigger than one woman’s journey. It’s a reminder that reinvention is possible, that motherhood is not “just” anything, and that the version of you from before the world told you who to be might still be waiting to come forward.Essential listening if you’ve ever felt lost in a life transition, outgrown an old identity, or needed a reminder that the messiest chapters can become the most meaningful. Guests Anna Debenedictis is a photographer and mother known for turning family moments into legacy images, shaped by a life lived across multiple countries and a personal journey through reinvention, loss, and self-discovery. Find more of Anna's work at https://www.instagram.com/thelifestylephodographer/ https://thelifestylephodographer.com.au/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of Anna's journey 01:14 Unraveling the concept of life's many unravelings 02:32 Discovering Anna's teenage self and dreams 04:11 The impact of friendship and heartbreak at 16 07:03 Anna's early influences and childhood in Montreal 11:17 Moving to New York and pursuing dance and photography 21:12 The importance of friendship and family in her life 25:44 Motherhood in her 30s and 40s 36:14 The unraveling of marriage and starting anew 41:43 The point where the wheels fell off 43:29 Hiding feelings and inner struggles 50:14 The shift to legacy and memory keeping 55:18 Advice to young Anna and reflections on authenticity Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

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  Episode #25

  Amy Jacobson on Shrinking, Showing Up & Sitting in Discomfort

  Aug 23, 20261h 7mS3

  Amy Jacobson built a career reading human behaviour for a living, but it took a corporate exit at 40, a skeptical husband, and a full-blown midlife reckoning before she turned that skill on herself. In this episode, Amy takes us through the decades: the bullied teenager who's since made peace with those years, the 20-something so desperate to fit in she made choices she's not proud of, the exhausted 30-something juggling mum guilt and other women's judgement, and the 40-something who finally realised her husband, kids and business aren't more important than her... just as important. We talk imposter syndrome in someone whose literal job is emotional intelligence, why she still doesn't call herself an author despite two Wiley-published books, and her advice for anyone stuck in their own version of "is this it?": stop problem-solving for five minutes and ask what's actually triggering you. KEY TOPICS: Amy's teenage years and self-perception The role of resilience and choices in adolescence Midlife crisis and redefining success The impact of menopause on identity The importance of curiosity and self-awareness CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Unraveling the Diary of a Midlife Mess 01:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Different Life Stages 10:53 Navigating the Twenties: Aspirations and Identity 17:45 The Blur of Motherhood in the Thirties 24:51 Judgment and Identity in Motherhood 31:07 Personal Growth Through Entrepreneurship in the Forties 34:36 The Journey of Self-Trust 37:00 Navigating Menopause and Identity 39:33 Slowing Down: A Hard Lesson 43:05 The Power of Human Stories 49:34 Curiosity and Unraveling 55:10 Embracing Uncertainty and Self-Compassion 01:01:40 Journaling as a Tool for Reflection 01:03:08 Advice to My Younger Self https://amyjacobson.com.au/books/ https://www.instagram.com/amyjacobson_ei/ Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

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  Episode #24

  When Imposter Syndrome Buys A Bus - With Sonia Bell

  Aug 9, 20261h 10mS3

  In this engaging interview, Sonia Bell shares her journey through life's pivotal moments, from childhood curiosities to becoming a dedicated teacher and lifelong learner. Discover how her experiences with family, education, and self-discovery shaped her into the inspiring woman she is today. Sonia Bell shares her inspiring journey from teaching challenges to creating a mobile classroom business that supports homeschooling and children with special needs. Discover her insights on resilience, system reform, and empowering families. Chapters 02:50 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Journaling 05:57 Reflections on Childhood and Family Dynamics 08:58 Aspirations and Influences: The Path to Teaching 12:01 The Impact of Teachers and Memorable Experiences 14:54 The Struggles of Young Adulthood and Relationships 18:06 Understanding Neurodivergence and Personal Growth 24:51 Sonia's Unique Path to Education 27:29 Reinventing Life in the Thirties 36:03 Navigating the Challenges of Teaching 39:23 The Impact of Motherhood and Advocacy 46:57 The Evolution of Teaching and Its Challenges 48:37 The Challenges of Traditional Teaching 50:02 Breaking Free from the System 52:27 Creating a New Educational Model 54:18 Helping Students with Unique Needs 56:24 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 57:31 The Unraveling Moment 01:01:15 Building a Unique Educational Service 01:04:27 Becoming Braver and More Confident 01:09:28 Showing Up for Yourself 01:11:47 Advice to My Younger Self key topics Childhood influences and early education Life challenges and resilience during divorce Discovering neurodivergence and embracing identity Balancing motherhood, education, and personal growth The impact of teachers and mentors on Sonia’s life Self-awareness and the journey to authenticity Personal journey from teaching to entrepreneurship Creating a mobile classroom for homeschooling and special needs Overcoming systemic challenges in education Empowering families and children with medical needs Building confidence and trust in oneself www.thetouringteacher.com.au Email: learn@thetouringteacher.com.au https://www.instagram.com/thetouringteacherperth/ Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

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  Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess

  Mentors, Migration and the Madness of Menopause with Michelle Heslop

  Aug 2, 20261h 11m

  More than just laughs, this episode reveals how life's wildest journeys—from childhood antics to international adventures—shape who we become. Michelle shares stories from her unforgettable teen years growing up in South Shields, her wild adventures in Greece, and how her relentless drive turned a tiny salon into a thriving business, all while juggling family, friendship, and her quest for self-discovery. Discover how her entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and unshakeable positivity propelled her through the chaos, highlighting lessons many women face but rarely talk about: the unraveling of identity during perimenopause, navigating loss, and the importance of self-care at any age. You'll hear how the law of attraction, a healthy dose of naivety, and sheer persistence led her to Australia—a chapter that marked both a physical and emotional migration.In this candid conversation, Michelle and Sharon break down: Childhood memories of mischief and innocence before life got complicated How the menopause journey can feel like an identity crisis—plus practical advice on managing those symptoms The power of positivity, affirmations, and trusting the universe when life takes unexpected turns The significance of building a chosen family abroad, and the bittersweet realities of missing home Why self-compassion, putting your oxygen mask first, and rewriting your story are your secret weapons If you're navigating life's twists and turns, feeling the weight of societal expectations, or simply craving stories of resilience and humor, this episode is your antidote. Perfect for women over 40, entrepreneurs, or anyone seeking inspiration to embrace change and find joy in the unraveling. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and rediscover your inner strength—because life's messiness is where the magic begins. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

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