The Myth of The Midlife Crisis: Regaining Control of Middlescence with Barbara Waxman

In this episode, Emily Capodilupo sits down with gerontologist, leadership coach, and author of The Middlescence Manifesto Barbara Waxman to explore the powerful idea of “middlescence” — a transformative stage of life between young and late adulthood. Together, they unpack why midlife isn’t a crisis, but an opportunity for reinvention, alignment, and growth. Listeners will learn how mindset, purpose, relationships, and joy directly impact an individual’s healthspan and longevity. Emily and Barbara share the best strategy to use wearable data as a tool for self-awareness rather than self-judgment. This conversation is full of practical insights on flourishing at every age, redefining success, and building a life that feels both healthy and deeply meaningful.

(00:33) Intro to Barbara Waxman

(01:00) What is Middlescence? How To Redefine Midlife

(03:20) Addressing This New Life Stage & Creating Change

(06:22) Coaching People Through Midlife

(08:15) Debunking The Concept of the Midlife Crisis

(09:57) Key Lifestyle Shifts From a Life Coach

(12:23) 7 Lifestyle Levers: Where People Start To Prepare for Middlescence

(17:21) Reframing Longevity: Live Better, Not Just Longer

(19:37) How Barbara Uses WHOOP Data In Her Practice

(25:54) Lifestyle Considerations For A Healthy Life Beyond Longevity & Healthspan

(34:51) How People in Their 20s, 30s, 40s,and 50s Can Increase Longevity

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