Guest: Rebecca “Becky” Galli Episode Theme: Love, Loss, Healing & Rethinking What’s Possible After 40 This week on Mature Allure, Sherri O. sits down with author and columnist Rebecca Faye Smith Galli, whose extraordinary life journey redefines courage and resilience. Becky has endured devastating losses—the death of her 17-year-old brother, her son’s degenerative illness and passing, her daughter’s autism diagnosis, a difficult divorce, and a sudden, life-altering paralysis just nine days later. Yet through every hardship, she has discovered a powerful philosophy rooted in honesty, connection, and the belief that life can be good—no matter what. In this deeply moving and inspiring conversation, Becky shares how she rebuilt her life, how writing became her anchor, and why “keeping moving” is at the heart of her healing. She talks about raising children with special needs, building support networks, and finding purpose again through her books Rethinking Possible and Morning Fuel. Whether you’re navigating grief, caring for family, reinventing yourself after 40, or simply seeking hope, this episode offers wisdom you’ll carry with you long after listening. 🔑 Key Highlights: 1. “You need a boat crew for every storm.” Becky explains how grief taught her the importance of finding the right people—therapists, friends, family, communities—to support you through life’s hardest seasons. 2. Turning pain into purpose through writing. A simple email exchange after her paralysis unexpectedly launched Becky’s writing career, leading to newspaper columns, books, and her signature weekly reflections, “Thoughtful Thursdays.” 3. “Life can be good—no matter what.” Becky shares the positive reframing she learned from her parents, illustrated by her unforgettable “milkshakes” story—an example of choosing possibility even when things don’t go as planned. 📘 Featured Work by Rebecca Galli Rethinking Possible — Becky’s powerful memoir about rebuilding life after unimaginable loss. Morning Fuel — A 366-day collection of inspirations designed to uplift, encourage, and ground your mornings. Discover more of Becky’s writing at RebeccaFayeSmithGalli.com (http://RebeccaFayeSmithGalli.com). 🎧 Listen Now If you’re seeking hope, perspective, and proof that reinvention is possible at any age, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this deeply moving and surprisingly funny episode of Mature Allure, host Sherri O. sits down with Amy Weinland Daughters — keynote speaker, sports journalist, satirist, and award-winning author of Dear Dana: That Time I Went Crazy and Wrote All 580 of My Facebook Friends a Handwritten Letter. Amy shares the extraordinary story of how one handwritten note to a childhood friend turned into a two-year pen-pal relationship and ultimately inspired her to write 580 handwritten letters to every one of her Facebook friends. The result? Transformative connection, healing, unexpected vulnerability, and powerful insights into what it means to be seen and valued in midlife. Together, Sherri and Amy explore: Why handwritten letters impact our mental and emotional wellness — especially after 40 The science behind handwriting, stress reduction, and emotional clarity How letter writing deepens empathy, presence, and gratitude in a digital world Why midlife is the perfect time to reconnect with others and rediscover yourself How Amy wrote 580 letters and the surprising reactions she received Her inspiring connection with “Dana” and the powerful story of Parker, grief, resilience, and hope Her book’s multiple awards and how the recognition has shaped her as a storyteller Revisiting her inner child through her second book, You Cannot Mess This Up Why she believes writing a simple, two-sentence note can change your entire outlook Amy also shares practical advice for anyone wanting to start writing letters today — even if you haven’t picked up a pen in 20 or 30 years. ✍️ About Amy Weinland Daughters Amy is a passionate advocate for connection in a disconnected world. From keynote talks to workshops, she speaks nationally about the power of handwritten notes to improve relationships, strengthen personal resilience, and build community. Her books include: Dear Dana — Gold Medal Winner for Nonfiction (Relationships, Memoir & Essays, 2023) You Cannot Mess This Up — a humorous, heartfelt time-travel memoir exploring family and self-discovery Learn more at amydaughters.com (http://amydaughters.com) — her mailing address is there if you want to send her a letter (and she will write back!). Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of Mature Allure, Sherri O. sits down with Kevin Murphy, professional artist, educator, and founder of Evolve Artist, to explore what it truly takes to master art, creativity, and life. Kevin shares his journey from humble beginnings to creating a life of purpose and generosity through art, emphasizing the importance of hard work, systems, and understanding the fundamentals. Kevin breaks down his unique approach to art education, including his four-step system for mastering painting, and shares why he believes “talent” is overrated, while discipline, a strong foundation, and thoughtful practice are everything. He also touches on life lessons about taking risks, staying motivated by purpose, and the power of giving back. Listeners will gain insight into: How to break through fear and risk aversion. Kevin’s philosophy of education and how anyone can learn to create incredible art. The science and psychology behind visual perception and painting. Kevin’s non-traditional approach to art, blending classical training with modern techniques. Ways to get started with Evolve Artist resources, whether beginner or advanced. For those ready to elevate their creativity or just curious about making sense of the visual world, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable advice, and a fresh perspective on art, learning, and life. Connect with Kevin Murphy: Explore free resources and learn more about his programs at Evolveartist.com/ma (https://lp.evolveartist.com/mature-allure/). Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if one photo shoot could completely change the way you see yourself? In this empowering episode of the Mature Allure podcast, host Sherri O. sits down with Liz Hansen, owner and photographer of Chicago Boudoir Photography (https://chicago-boudoir.com/), to explore how boudoir photography helps women—especially those over 40—reclaim confidence, self-love, and a renewed sense of beauty. Liz shares her journey from family photographer to full-time boudoir entrepreneur, her bold leap into business ownership, and the thousands of women she’s helped rediscover their worth through the lens. She discusses how sensual photography becomes a powerful act of self-acceptance, and why “sexy is not a size—it’s a vibe.” From celebrating scars and milestones to redefining beauty beyond society’s narrow ideals, this episode is a powerful reminder that every woman deserves to feel seen, celebrated, and confident—exactly as she is. 🎧 Tune in to hear: The transformative power of boudoir photography for women over 40 How embracing vulnerability leads to greater confidence and self-acceptance The story of a client who used boudoir to celebrate life after a heart attack Liz’s courageous entrepreneurial journey and lessons on taking bold risks Why beauty isn’t about size, shape, or age—it’s about owning your power ✨ “Sexy isn’t a size—it’s a state of mind.” Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this heartfelt and empowering episode of the Mature Allure Podcast, host Sherri O. welcomes back acclaimed author and executive ghostwriter Cheril N. Clarke for a deep dive into her newest novel, Before I Am Erased, part of her acclaimed Keyhole Chronicles series. The novel follows a 64-year-old Ethiopian-American woman living with Parkinson’s who refuses to be silenced or erased by age, illness, or society’s expectations. With wit, honesty, and emotional depth, Cheril explores sisterhood, resilience, and the many ways women continue to reinvent themselves in midlife and beyond. ✨ Special Feature: Cheril reads Chapter One of Before I Am Erased, giving listeners a front-row seat to her captivating storytelling. This excerpt introduces the novel’s heroine and her close-knit circle of friends, offering a vivid glimpse into the book’s themes of courage, humor, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood. ✨ In This Episode: How Cheril created a 64-year-old protagonist who challenges stereotypes about aging women The inspiration behind Before I Am Erased and The Keyhole Chronicles universe Why it’s vital to write fully realized, mature female characters The joy of sisterhood, friendship, and second chances in midlife A live reading from Before I Am Erased — a sneak peek you won’t want to miss 🎧 Tune in to hear how Cheril’s storytelling celebrates visibility, vitality, and reinvention at every age. 📚 Learn more about Cheril’s books and writing at CherilNClarke.com (https://cherilnclarke.com/)and on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B002BLWQ1W?ccs_id=bf876714-70c9-4039-84ab-12e65d4fa097). Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if cleaning your closet could transform more than just your wardrobe? In this inspiring episode of the Mature Allure podcast, host Sherri O. welcomes back Paola Arencibia, founder of Serious Style, for a heartfelt conversation about fashion, identity, and the power of personal transformation. Paola Arencibia shares how the simple act of decluttering your closet can become a sacred practice—one that helps you reconnect with your body, your story, and your confidence. Together, Sherri and Paola explore: ✨ How your closet reflects your self-talk and emotional energy ✨ Why your wardrobe should celebrate who you are—not apologize for it ✨ How to identify your “power pieces” that spark joy and self-expression ✨ The emotional freedom that comes from letting go of clothes (and beliefs) that no longer fit This isn’t just about style—it’s about self-worth, renewal, and reclaiming your space. 🎧 Tune in, take a deep breath, and get ready to fall back in love with your closet—and yourself. Learn more about Paola Arencibia: Substack: - (https://matureallure.net/)https://seriousstyleinc.substack.com/p/when-comfortable-stops-being-comfortable?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadttedkbdJPRuq7H89Aik161wNYRwWowGa0bKUfEnfXpavwP2-Y0XjdqckSzw_aem_QmFhQ0GrINXZZY8ptjqLxQ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paola-arencibia/ Instagram: @seriousstyle_mia (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Gift from Paola Arencibia of Serious Style: Download her Closet Redemption Guide (https://www.serious-style.com/closet-redemption) (https://www.serious-style.com/closet-redemption) Enter code - FREE150 Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the key to peace, purpose, and resilience isn’t about doing more — but getting quiet? In this calming and powerful episode of Mature Allure, host Sherri O. sits down with Elaine Glass — personal coach, author, and creator of Get Quiet — to explore how silence, stillness, and self-awareness can transform our lives from the inside out. After a life-changing divorce, Elaine began a journey of deep self-discovery that led her to uncover the healing power of the labyrinth — an ancient meditative path that helped her reconnect with her body, spirit, and inner wisdom. Now, she guides others to do the same through her coaching practice and her new book, Get Quiet. Together, Sherri and Elaine dive into: 💫 What inner resilience really means — and how to build it 💫 The link between emotional healing and physical wellness 💫 How “getting quiet” is not about silence, but awakening 💫 Simple daily steps to clear mental and emotional clutter 💫 Why midlife is the perfect time to rediscover your soul’s voice This conversation is a gentle reminder that peace isn’t something you have to chase — it’s something you already hold within you.   📖 Learn more about Elaine at ElaineGlass.com (http://ElaineGlass.com) Learn more about Mature Allure: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, host Sherri O. sits down with survivor, advocate, and poet Laura Reutter for a deeply moving conversation about resilience, healing, and finding strength through creativity and community. Laura opens the episode with her original poem “Whispers of Resilience”—a powerful reminder of worthiness and wholeness beyond diagnosis. She shares her personal journey from breast cancer diagnosis to life after treatment, including the heartbreak of reconstruction loss and the empowering choice to reclaim her body with tattoos. As a patient navigator and community advocate, Laura sheds light on the importance of support systems, the difference between medical and personal guidance, and why flexibility is crucial as treatment information evolves. From dragon boat racing to art bras, her story is a testament to the many ways survivors rise, connect, and thrive. If you or someone you love has been touched by breast cancer, this conversation is a beacon of hope and a reminder that healing is as much about community and creativity as it is about medicine. ✨ “Rise up with whispers of resilience. You are worthy. You are whole.”  What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why “there’s no such thing as cancer light” and what that means for survivors. The role of patient navigators in supporting women through treatment and recovery How tattoos, art, and creative expression can be forms of empowerment after loss The healing power of community through support groups and dragon boating Why resilience means embracing flexibility and rejecting the idea of a “new normal” 💬 Memorable Quotes “Rise up with whispers of resilience. You are worthy. You are whole.” “I lost my OEM breasts…and then I lost my second set. That brought me to my knees.” “Sometimes you don’t need a doctor’s advice—you need someone who’s been there.” “Cancer didn’t change; the information changed. Stay flexible.” 📣 If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, and don’t forget to leave a review—your support helps amplify these important stories. 👉 Follow the Mature Allure Podcast for more stories of resilience, healing, and inspiration. 🔗 Stay Connected Connect with Laura Reutter: LinkdedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-reutter-chw-cn-ba-41579750/) Learn more about Mature Allure: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure (https://www.matureallure.net/) podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What if the peace you’ve been searching for in the world has been within you all along? Welcome to Mature Allure. Today I’m joined once again by the incredible Udo Erasmus—renowned health educator, creator of Udo’s Choice, and author of the bestselling Fats That Heal, Fats That Kill. Udo blends science, spirituality, and lived experience to remind us that the answers we seek aren’t “out there”—they’re already within. In this powerful conversation, Udo explores why focus is the deepest freedom we have, how heartache can be a doorway back to peace, and why unconditional love begins with self-knowledge. Drawing on decades of research and over 50 years of practicing stillness, he shares how setting clear standards for your life changes everything. Together, we dive into what it means to rediscover peace, reframe love, and live from a place of alignment with our truest nature. This episode is an invitation to pause, turn inward, and reconnect with the peace and love already flowing through you. In this episode, you’ll hear: [00:02:00] Why focus is the greatest freedom we have and how it shapes your reality. [00:04:00] How heartache signals disconnection—and why it can lead you back to peace. [00:16:00] The role of stillness in reconnecting with inner love and harmony. [00:24:00] Udo’s experiment with unconditional love and lessons from failing forward. [00:41:00] How self-love is truly self-knowledge, and why it transforms your life. Key Takeaways: Heartache isn’t a mistake; it’s an invitation to reconnect with yourself. Unconditional love begins with self-knowledge and flows outward naturally. Where you place your focus defines your reality—set clear standards. Connect with Udo: (https://udoerasmus.com/) Website:https://udoerasmus.com/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theudoerasmus/ Instagram: @udoerasmus (https://www.facebook.com/theudoerasmus/https://www.instagram.com/udoerasmus/) Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories. Reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ever been told that midlife is the beginning of the end? What if it’s actually the start of your greatest creative rebirth? Welcome to Mature Allure. I’m your host, Sherri O, and in this solo episode, I share my personal journey of losing both my full-time jobs at 52 and how that moment of devastation became the catalyst for something extraordinary—the birth of this very podcast. Midlife is often labeled a crisis, but I want to show you how it can be a sacred time of renewal, reinvention, and boundless possibility. I open up about the turning point that forced me to pivot, the challenges that tested my strength, and the clarity that reshaped my future. I also reflect on inspiring guests from past episodes, like Sarah Bajak and Eileen Block, who embody the beauty of midlife transformation. And I leave you with a powerful challenge: write your own midlife manifesto—a guide to what excites you, what you’re ready to let go of, and what you’re willing to do even if it scares you. This episode is your reminder that midlife isn’t a decline—it’s a threshold into a braver, more authentic, and joy-filled chapter of life. Key Takeaways: Midlife isn’t the end—it’s a rebirth filled with creativity, courage, and curiosity. Losing everything can open the door to rediscovering your true voice and purpose. Writing your own midlife manifesto can help you reframe this chapter as creation, not crisis. Learn more about Sherri O.: Website: https://matureallure.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4matureallure/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mature.allure Instagram: @mature.allure (https://www.instagram.com/mature.allure/) Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mature Allure podcast for more inspiring stories and discussions on self-love and empowerment. For feedback, questions, or suggestions for future episodes, reach out to us through our website or social media channels. We’d love to hear from you! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.