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November 4, 2025 81 mins

In this conversation, Heather and Dolly discuss the complexities of life transitions, focusing on the concept of being 'whelmed' and the importance of wringing out ‘our sponge’. They explore the challenges of balancing caregiving roles, personal aspirations, and the need for pauses to manage overwhelm. The conversation emphasizes the value of curiosity and self-awareness in navigating life's pressures – especially during midlife.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or affiliated organizations.

Host: Heather Gates, MPH, Owner & Strategy Partner, Human-Centered Strategy, LLC
Guest: Dolly Pressley Byrd, CNM, PhD, Department of OB/GYN Chair, OB/GYN Specialists, MAHEC

Takeaways
•Midlife is a unique time of transition.
•Being 'whelmed' is a state of constant re-balancing.
•Curiosity helps in understanding personal needs.
•Pausing can help manage overwhelm.
•Life transitions sometimes require letting go.
•Decision fatigue can lead to overstimulation.
•Active listening fosters better relationships.
•Leadership involves empowering others.

Chapters
•00:00 Introduction to Life Transitions
•18:25 Balancing Caregiving and Personal Goals
•30:47 The Importance of Pausing
•55:33 Curiosity and Self-Awareness
•57:58 Leadership and Empowerment
•1:02:23 The Concept of Being “Whelmed” 

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