Fear to Belonging: How to Step Into Rooms That Were Meant for You Artwork

Life Over 40

Life Over 40 is the go-to podcast for women redefining what it means to thrive after 40. Each week, we dive into real, unfiltered conversations on topics like healthy aging, career reinvention, relationships, parenting, infertility, and starting over.

Hosted by Jese Gary, this podcast features relatable stories and expert advice to inspire and empower women in this transformative stage of life. Whether you’re looking for motivation, advice, or a sense of community, you’re in the right place.

Tune in, subscribe, and join the conversation. Life over 40 is just the beginning!

All Episodes

Life Over 40

Fear to Belonging: How to Step Into Rooms That Were Meant for You

December 31, 2025 • Jese Gary • Season 3 • Episode 4

Struggling with fear, rejection, or feeling like you don’t belong in certain rooms?
In this episode, we talk honestly about how women over 40 can move from fear to confidence and step into spaces that were meant for them.

In this episode of Life Over 40, Jese Gary sits down with Deb Lester to unpack the deep connection between belonging, visibility, and self-trust. Together, they explore how fear of rejection, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome quietly keep so many women stuck—personally and professionally. Deb shares insights from her Conquer Club community and offers practical, encouraging advice to help women rebuild confidence, show up authentically, and stop shrinking themselves.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to earn your seat at the table—or questioned whether you truly belonged—you’re not alone. This conversation is for the woman who’s ready to stop hiding, trust herself again, and step fully into her next chapter.

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why belonging is essential for growth after 40
How fear and rejection can block opportunities (and how to move through them)
The role of self-trust in building confidence
Why perfectionism hurts visibility and authenticity
How community can restore courage, clarity, and connection

📚 Resources Mentioned

On Your Terms by Nick Segal
Daring Greatly by Brene Brown

💌 Stay Connected
Subscribe to my newsletter for more honest conversations, tools, and encouragement for navigating life and purpose after 40.

👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a woman who needs this reminder today.

#LifeOver40 #WomenOver40 #Belonging #WomenEmpowerment #MidlifeConfidence #Authenticity #Community #OvercomingFear