Midlife Talkshop

What if midlife isn’t about slowing down—but about a creative and meaningful comeback?
On this episode of Midlife Talkshop, we sit down with Steve Van Dam, founding member of the 90s band Everything, best known for their hit song “Who Got the Hooch?” Steve shares stories from the road, touring with iconic bands like Dave Matthews Band, and what it’s been like to reunite with his band nearly 30 years later for a comeback tour.
But this conversation goes beyond nostalgia. Steve is also the founder of Light The Music, an organization bringing music creation into schools and community centers, especially for underserved communities, giving young people access to creativity, confidence, and hope for a brighter future.
In this episode, we talk about:-Creativity and reinvention in midlife-Turning life experience into impact-Behind-the-scenes tour stories (funny and inspiring!)-Why some of our most meaningful chapters happen later in life
The Golden nugget from this episode:“Your soul purpose-what you should be doing, is this intersection of your skills, your experience and your passion— what you love to do, what you’re good at doing and what you have experience with— at the intersection of that, is your sweet spot. And here’s the thing, it’s not just what’s going to fulfill you the most— it’s where you’re going to outcompete everybody because nobody else has that same thing. It’s not like you should just be doing that because it makes you feel good, it’s because you’re going to be the BEST at that.” - Steve Van Dam
Whether you’re navigating midlife, dreaming of a second act, or just love great stories from the music world, this episode will inspire you to see midlife as a time of opportunity and growth.
Listen and follow Midlife Talkshop for more conversations that prove your best chapter is ahead.
Links for mentions in this episode:Midlife Talkshop: https://linktr.ee/midlifetalkshoppodcast | @midlifetalkshoppodcastThe Band Everything: https://thebandeverything.com | @thebandeverything @steverythingLight the Music: https://www.lightthemusic.com | @lightthemusicShannon Montsinger Music On Apple Music produced by Steve Van Dam: https://music.apple.com/us/album/fly/1042784857 | @shannonmontsingermusic

“A Peaceful Christmas” — Creating a Season with Less Stress and More Meaning.  In midlife, over the holidays we don’t need chaos.  We need peace, purpose, and connection.
In this episode, we cover:-Choosing Your Season “Theme”: One word that sets the tone for your season— not a resolution, not a goal. (Examples: Peace, Joy, Simplicity, Connection, Wonder, Presence)-Setting an Intention That Matches Your ThemeYour intention is the "how" behind the theme — a simple sentence to quietly guide your actions.
You'll Follow along for Guided Prompts to:1. Pick your Theme (trusting your first instinct!)2. Write a short, repeatable Intention3. Name one decision this week you can reshape to match your theme4. Share it with someone to stay accountable
-Bonus: At the end of the episode, Rhonda & Shannon share their Top Gift Ideas (with links).
Rhonda & Shannon’s Top Gift Ideas
Experiences over Stuff!- Art & Crafts Class- Year round passes to Amusement Park- Spa Giftcards for Facials, Massages & Nails-Wellness Therapy Giftcards for Red Light Therapy, Hot/Cold Therapy, Vibroacoustic, Salt Cave, Float Studio
Shannon’s Favorite Gift Ideas: 
Therasage Infrared Sauna
https://amzn.to/4iEMQWe;
Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask
https://amzn.to/4iBnpox;
Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity by Eric Topol, MD
https://amzn.to/4awDWYF
Rhonda’s Favorite Gift Ideas:
Meat Injector Syringe (for flavorful cooking over the holidays)
https://amzn.to/48v8reY;
Vitamix Blender
https://amzn.to/4rAEIKe
Charities:
Rhonda’s Charities of Choice - St Jude Impact the lives of St. Jude kids - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; Girls to Women Girls2Women-VA | Empowering girls through group mentoring
Shannon’s Charities of Choice - Chesterfield County animal shelter Amazon Wish list Amazon.com; Monetary Donations To make a monetary donation, checks can be mailed to the animal shelter at 9300 Public Works Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832. Make checks payable to Chesterfield County Police Foundationwith Animal Services Donation as the subject;  Chesterfield County Christmas Mother - Give Help | CCH Christmas Mother
 
 
 
 

Episode 11 is HERE… and it’s a game changer. If you’ve ever stood in front of a closet, a pantry, or that one room in your house thinking, “Where do I even start?” — this one’s for you. This week on Midlife Talkshop, we sit down with a professional decluttering expert who knows exactly why we get stuck… and how to finally create space that feels calm, clear, and peaceful again. She breaks down the mindset, the method, and the magic behind letting go — and trust me, you’re going to feel SO inspired to take action after this episode. Tune in and get ready to make space for a lighter, brighter life. Find Mary and Declutter My House on Instagram @DeclutterMyHouseRVA. Find Midlife Talkshop on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Instagram & Facebook.

Rhonda & Shannon sit down with Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Siobhan Carlton to talk about the 6 pillars of her "Metabolism Makeover for Midlife" Masterclass. You can find Siobhan online at: www.HealthyLivingWithSiobhan.com  and on Instagram @SiobhanCarlton.

Rhonda and Shannon sit down with author and founder of To Be, Coaching + Consulting, Dr. Amber Tichenor, PhD to discuss her latest book, "Behind Frenemy Lines - Rising Above Female Rivalry to be Unstoppable Together". Amber is deeply passionate about addressing the phenomenon of rivalry between women and she consults with organizations on the importance of bringing this to light, what it looks like in the workplace, the challenges and behaviors it presents along with coping and recovery steps. Together they unpack tips for navigating female rivalry and "mean girl" behavior-- even in midlife. Find Amber Tichenor online https://www.drambertichenorphd.com/ and purchase the book "Behind Frenemy Lines" on Amazon https://a.co/d/fJrE26g

Rhonda & Shannon invite their first Podcast guest onto the show-- Best-selling author, international motivational speaker, actor, radio host and life coach, John Seeley M.A. Having worked with many of the top teachers and visionaries, John uses his extensive knowledge and wisdom to transform people worldwide. We talk about one of his incredible books, "Get Unstuck Now" and how people can find their healing path to resolve their issues and create different results in their lives. Find John online at https://bluemoonwonders.com/ Order "Get Unstuck Now" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/ate211W

Rhonda and Shannon dive into simple, meaningful ways to kick off the school year feeling calm, organized, and connected. They share real-life tips for keeping your mind and body healthy, finding balance in the chaos, and offering those reassuring “Mom moments” our kids need most.

In this episode, Rhonda and Shannon remind us that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Discover how to weave physical, mental, spiritual, and social care into your weekly routine to nurture your whole self and live with greater peace and purpose. Email us with questions or requests for topics to cover in our next episode: midlifetalkshop@gmail.com

Rhonda and Shannon explore four key pillars that can boost your longevity — Sleep, Nutrition, Exercise, and Mindset. They share simple, practical tips to help you make small but powerful changes that support a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life. Tune in for inspiration, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way as they remind us that living well starts with everyday choices.

What would your 80-year-old self tell you today? Rhonda and Shannon share timeless lessons about protecting your energy, prioritizing rest, eating well, nurturing faith, and following your gut — reminders to live with purpose, peace, and joy right now.