Have you ever found yourself feeling lonely in midlife—even when your life is full of family, work, and responsibilities? You're not alone. As our children grow up, careers evolve, and the routines that once built friendships naturally begin to disappear, many women find themselves craving deeper connection without knowing where to find it.

In this episode, I'm sharing a very personal story about creating a local Facebook community that has grown into something far beyond what I ever imagined. What started as my own response to the emotions of becoming an empty nester has become a thriving community where women are building real friendships, trying new things together, and proving that meaningful connection is still possible in midlife.

We'll also talk about the growing body of research showing that loneliness isn't just an emotional struggle—it's a significant health issue that can impact cognitive function, heart health, and healthy aging. If you've been feeling disconnected, this episode is your reminder that your next chapter doesn't have to be lonely.

In this episode:

[00:48] How becoming an empty nester inspired me to create a Facebook group for women seeking connection in midlife

[03:09] The story behind launching Our Next Chapter Annapolis—without a business plan or knowing what it would become

[04:14] What happened when 25 women, many of them strangers, showed up for our very first winery gathering

[06:17] How the community took on a life of its own as women began organizing book clubs, happy hours, coffee dates, and Mahjong nights

[07:19] Why hosting a Mahjong night at my home became an even more meaningful experience than I expected

[08:55] The heartfelt messages women shared afterward about overcoming fear, loneliness, and the courage it took to simply show up

[11:21] Why celebrating small acts of courage matters so much during midlife

[12:05] How Mahjong became more than just a game—it became a reason for women to gather and build lasting friendships

[12:54] The latest menopause research linking loneliness and social isolation with cognitive decline and healthy aging

[15:11] Why creating intentional spaces for connection may be one of the most important things we can do for our health and well-being

[16:49] My encouragement for anyone who's been talking themselves out of reaching out, joining a group, or trying something new

[17:45] An update on my Tuscany and Costa Rica retreats and why they offer a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with yourself during this next chapter

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Check out my new Substack! A chance to meet with me directly in The Gathering. 

https://mymenopausemedicine.substack.com/

My upcoming wellness retreats. 

https://www.wetravel.com/users/meadow-hill-wellness

Annapolis Facebook Group 

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/14i1CYi25eB/

If this episode resonated with you, I'd love for you to share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don't forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps more women find this space so we can all rise and thrive together.

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!