Episode 64 - Losing Friends in Midlife and Reflecting on Legacy

In this deeply personal episode, I share the recent loss of my colleague and friend, Nicole, who passed away at just 52 years old. Nicole was a bright light—an incredible mom, mentor, author of Pelvic Floor Secrets, and a woman who touched countless lives through her work and her heart. Attending her memorial reminded me not only of the fragility of life but also of the importance of legacy and the way we want to be remembered.

Midlife has a way of reshaping our friendships, our identities, and our priorities. Losing someone at this stage hits differently—it makes us pause and ask: What impact am I leaving behind? Am I truly living the life I want?

In this conversation, I talk about grief, the evolving nature of friendships, my own journey through separation after 30 years of marriage, and the lessons midlife continues to teach me. More than anything, I want to encourage you to reflect on your own legacy, take action on the things you’ve been putting off, and never underestimate the power of showing up for yourself and the people you love.

Takeaways from this episode:

• Why losing friends in midlife feels different and heavier
• How grief can invite us to reflect on our own lives and priorities
• The importance of self-care and modeling resilience for our families
• Why legacy isn’t about perfection—it’s about love, service, and authenticity
• A reminder that no days are promised, so don’t wait to live fully

Pelvic Floor Secrets Book. https://www.facebook.com/nicolethornefitness

Thank you for listening and I would like to remind you that I have an amazing event coming up!

Registration is now OPEN for our next Flip Flops & Hot Flashes retreat in Cahuita, Costa Rica January 31 - February, 2026.

If you want to learn more, just go to flipflopsandhotflashes.com

Thank you for listening.