Modern Midlife Hits Different (Especially for Mothers) - Jessie Harrold

From Medicine Stories by Amber Magnolia Hill

January 20, 2026 · 1h 22m

About this episode

The episode explores the unique challenges and transitions of midlife, particularly for mothers, emphasizing the need for compassion and community.

Midlife is a powerful threshold, one that is often misunderstood or endured in shame and solitude. In this episode, we explore the in-between terrain where old identities dissolve and new ways of being have not yet fully emerged. Jessie and I reflect on how today's societal pressures collide with the emotional and biological realities of midlife and motherhood, creating an unprecedented landscape that calls for more compassion, more community, and more honest conversations. By naming and honoring these transitions, especially those unique to women, we open the door to self-discovery, validation, and personal and collective growth. Links: Medicine Stories Patreon (extended convo w/ Jessie on The Freebirth Fallout) The Costa Rica Healing Waters Nature Immersion Retreat w/ Amber, November 2026 Jessie's website Jessie on Instagram Find Your Wise Woman Archetype The Mythic Medicine herb shop Mythic Medicine on Instagram Medicine Stories Facebook group Music by Mariee Siou (from her beautiful song Wild Eyes)

People in this episode

Host: Amber Magnolia Hill

Guest: Jessie Harrold

Topics covered

midlife
motherhood
identity
societal pressures
self-discovery
community
compassion

Keywords

midlife
motherhood
identity
self-discovery
societal pressures
community
compassion

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Medicine Stories, The Costa Rica Healing Waters Nature Immersion Retreat, Mythic Medicine, Medicine Stories Patreon, Medicine Stories Facebook group

Books & works: Wild Eyes