In episode 54 of Midlife Reclaimed, we dive into one of the most quietly complex areas of midlife burnout recovery—relationships and intimacy.
Whether you’re partnered or not, midlife often brings emotional and relational shifts that can leave us questioning what connection, desire, and closeness mean now. This conversation is an open, compassionate look at how burnout impacts intimacy—and how we can gently reconnect with ourselves and each other.
Together with a special guest expert, we explore:
- Why desire can feel like it disappears during midlife or burnout
- The most common relational challenges women face in this season
- What healthy intimacy actually looks like (and how to rebuild it)
- Practical steps for nurturing communication and closeness
This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered, “Is it supposed to feel this hard?” or “Can we get back to what we had—or something better?”
Guest: Isiah McKimmie is one of Australia’s most highly qualified Sex and Relationship Experts. She’s a Couples Therapist, Sex Therapist, Sexologist, and Coach who has spent over a decade helping women and couples build deeper intimacy and connection.
With two Master’s degrees (Relational Psychotherapy and Sexual Counselling), a Postgraduate Diploma in Sexology, and a certificate from the Institute for the Advanced Studies of Human Sexuality, Isiah combines clinical depth with practical tools.
Website: https://isiah-mckimmie.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isiahmckimmie.sexologist/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Isiah
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isiah-mckimmie-52320153
She’s worked with thousands of people, writes a widely-read weekly advice column, lectures in Couples Therapy, and is known for her warm, relatable approach to topics many find difficult to talk about.
Host - Shannon Swales: a psychologist dedicated to empowering individuals with essential mental health skills to prevent, navigate & grow from midlife burnout. Having overcome burnout in her early midlife, Shannon guides others from chronic stress to wellness with balance & empathy. Join her as she shares transformative experiences & insights on growth through adversity.
If you enjoy the Midlife Reclaimed Podcast, join our community:
• Midlife Reclaimed Online Community: A space to come home to yourself - Find Out More & Join here
• Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn @shannon.a.swales
• 1:1 Therapy: www.burnoutpsychologysupport.com/burnout-therapy
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Disclaimer: This podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship with Shannon Swales. The views expressed are general & not a substitute for personalised therapy. If in distress, seek professional help. Remember—you don’t have to face your struggles alone.
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