154. Friendships in Midlife: Why They Change, End, and Grow Stronger

Wellness: Rebranded - Intuitive eating, diet culture, mental health, weight training, food freedom, food relationship

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Friendships are one of the most important pieces of our health and wellness puzzle, but in midlife, they can look very different than they did in our 20s or 30s. Some friendships fade, some deepen, and some need a little “redesigning” to stay healthy and supportive.

In this episode, we get real about the ups and downs of friendships in our 40s, 50s, and beyond. From the pain of being ghosted by a lifelong friend to the relief of no longer putting up with draining relationships, we explore how midlife changes our approach to connection, boundaries, and community.

We share personal stories—both heartbreaks and joys—and talk about why friendships are not just emotional, but also physical health lifelines. You’ll hear about redesigning relationships, the role of boundaries, and why even one or two solid friendships can be more powerful than a dozen “okay-ish” ones.

In this episode:

• Why some friendships naturally fade (and why it’s not always about you)
• How to “redesign” a friendship before letting it go
• The role of confidence, clarity, and boundaries in midlife relationships
• Why loneliness—physical or emotional—can harm health more than you realize
• How strong friendships can become an essential part of your wellness journey

Resources:

Intuitive Eating Starter Kit: Use code PODCAST to get this for just $14 https://elizabethharrisnutrition.com/starterkit

Trainers: Become the Go-To Expert at Your Gym with Tara’s free mini course: https://www.taradeleonfitness.com/

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Elizabeth Harris, MS, RDN, LDN

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Tara De Leon, Master Personal Trainer

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Maria Winters, LCPC, NCC

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