S1 Ep178: Empowerment Through Self-Discovery: Redefining Midlife

Midlife is Not a Crisis—It’s an Awakening

Too often, women in midlife find themselves at a crossroads, feeling lost, unfulfilled, or unsure of their next steps. Society tells them that their best years are behind them, that their purpose is to serve others, and that reinvention is for the younger generation. But Frances Scadden, a Midlife Empowerment Coach, is here to change that narrative.

With a background in Learning & Development and Change Management, Frances now dedicates her career to helping women break free from societal “shoulds,” rediscover their true identity, and cultivate unshakable self-confidence. Her message is clear: Midlife isn’t the end—it’s an opportunity to redefine what’s possible.

Frances’ Journey: From Feeling Lost to Living Boldly

Like many of the women she now coaches, Frances knows what it’s like to feel disconnected from yourself. Her own journey to empowerment wasn’t a straight path—it was a winding road through personal struggles, single motherhood, toxic relationships, and the exhausting corporate grind.

"I remember waking up one day feeling like a stranger in my own life. I had spent years being everything for everyone else—the rock, the caregiver, the fixer. And somewhere along the way, I got lost."

Frances grew up in a challenging household, witnessing firsthand the impact of staying in unfulfilling situations. She became a single mother at 21, left an unhealthy marriage, and later found herself trapped in an alcoholic relationship. Despite all this, she pushed forward—earning a university degree, climbing the corporate ladder, and striving to “change the world.” But the reality of corporate life—sexual discrimination, bullying, and burnout—left her questioning if this was truly the life she wanted.

Then, in 2020, she made a decision: It was time to put herself first. That decision led her to coaching, where she now helps women do the same—rediscover themselves, reclaim their confidence, and step boldly into the next phase of life.

The Biggest Challenges Women Face—And How to Overcome Them

Through her coaching, Frances has identified six major obstacles that hold women back from living fully in midlife. Here’s what they are and how to break free:

1. The Should Syndrome – Breaking Free from Societal Expectations

• Women are conditioned to be caregivers, partners, and professionals—all at once.
• This endless pressure drains their energy, leaving no time for self-discovery.
• Solution: Challenge the “shoulds” and start asking, What do I truly want?

2. The Inner Critic – Retraining the Voice of Doubt

• Many women struggle with guilt, feeling selfish for wanting more.
• Self-doubt keeps them from taking risks and setting boundaries.
• Solution: Learn to recognize and reframe negative self-talk. Confidence grows with action.

3. The Midlife Myth – Rejecting the Idea That It’s “Too Late”

• Society treats midlife as a decline rather than an opportunity.
• Women often feel invisible or irrelevant.
• Solution: Shift the mindset—midlife is a new beginning, not the end.

4. The Lone Warrior Trap – Seeking Support Without Guilt

• Women believe they must do everything alone.
• This mindset leads to exhaustion and isolation.
• Solution: Surround yourself with a supportive community. You don’t have to go it alone.

5. The Energy Drain – Prioritizing Yourself Without Guilt

• Years of giving to others leads to burnout.
• Withou