It's a new series of The Bibliotherapists, and for our second episode we are joined by Sam Baker; journalist, author, broadcaster, professional bookworm and creator of The Shift.

Having spent decades in magazine land, today Sam, 59, is known for ‘endlessly banging the drum for women in midlife and beyond’.

🎧 5 takeaways from our conversation with Sam

1. Midlife Can Be a Catalyst

Sam challenges the narrative of decline and instead urges us to embrace midlife as an opportunity to reset, redefine and reclaim personal power.

2. Menopause is a Mental Health Issue

From brain fog to burnout, Sam shares how hormonal shifts in her late 40s impacted her identity, confidence and career.

“I thought I’d be running the world by 50. Instead, I was on the floor.”

3. Rest is Revolutionary

After a 20-year career in magazines, Sam hit a wall, forcing her to reevaluate rest, and understand that stepping back to breathe wasn’t weakness, but the beginning of a new way forward.

4. There’s No One Way to Be a Woman Over 40

Through her podcast and book, The Shift, Sam amplifies the voices of all kinds of women navigating midlife with authenticity.

“Midlife is not a crisis. It’s a chance to ask: who am I now?"

5. Books as Tools for Change

From memoirs to novels and feminist essays, Sam believes the right book at the right time can change your entire mindset — especially when navigating big transitions.

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The Bibliotherapists is a podcast celebrating the healing power of words, hosted on - and featuring writers and creatives from - the Substack platform.

Find Sam on Substack > https://theshiftwithsambaker.substack.com/

Toni (The Shelf Help Cluhouse) on Substack > https://shelfhelpclub.substack.com/

Tanya (withEase) on Substack > https://tanyalynch.substack.com/

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