Hey there, welcome!
I’m Karen. These days that name comes with all kinds of connotations: Privileged. Entitled. Obnoxious.
As much as I’d like to say I am NONE of that – there’s probably some truth in there somewhere. There’s always an element of truth in any joke or meme. And while I wish the stereotype had been plunked down on another name, I guess it might as well be mine.
So here I am. Redefining Karen. Exploring who I am in this second half of life. Remembering who I was before all of the hats I’ve worn in my life (mother, daughter, sister, wife, publisher, entrepreneur, health coach, clean beauty advocate). Checking my unconscious assumptions & often unrecognized privilege. While also remembering how to lighten up & play again.
If you’re anything like me, you are beginning to recognize what a transformational stage of life this is.
Whether you’re already in the throes of menopause or just beginning to experience early signs of perimenopause – you need a place. To explore. To think. To process. To share. To be heard. Seen.
It’s not just about the changes happening in your body (although those are certainly a challenge to deal with). It’s about adjusting to your changing identity, recognizing your wisdom, finding your voice, getting back to YOU.
And ironically, all of this change happens at a time when we as women start to feel invisible. Have you felt that yet?
That’s why I’m here. To share these conversations & this powerful stage of life with you. To walk this road together. To carve a path & empower other women along the way. So we can bring our fullest expression to this planet – at a time when it is needed most.
Looking back, I’ve had my share of successes. I’m in peak health. I raised two amazing women who are now building lives of their own. I am enjoying a happy, playful 30-year marriage to my best friend. I’ve built my own businesses, developed expertise in non-toxic living, participated in advocacy work for safer products, studied nutrition & eating psychology. I’ve coached, mentored, advocated, educated, trained & developed.
Yet with ALL of this incredible experience & expertise, the more I learn, the more I know I need to learn. And UNlearn. In fact, as women, I think we have a LOT to unlearn as we reach this stage of life.
So again, welcome. If you’re yearning to live your best life as you age & you’d like to surround yourself with women who feel the same. Who don’t want to struggle against aging, but to embrace it. To live life as the fullest expression of themselves. To age with confidence & grace. You’re in a good place.
Jump in. Subscribe to my newsletter – LIFT – follow me on your favorite social channel (see links below) – and let’s share this journey. Together.
Let’s stay connected!
Karen Friend Smith, Certified Health Coach & Clean Beauty Advocate