Ep 230 From Misery to Confidence, Maturity and Triumph in Midlife


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This week on episode 230 I'm joined by Brandee Brown.

Brandee introduces the concept of "coming off mute" as more than just finding her voice; it's her journey woven with personal trauma, self-reflection, and eventual empowerment.

Brandee opens up about her past experiences, which she describes metaphorically as a "bloodline bruise," and how they had placed her on mute for many years.

From a young age, trauma led to a silence trained by protective instincts within her family, which she carried into adulthood. This journey of rediscovering her voice is now symbolized in her workshop and forthcoming book under her company, Magnify Success.

At the age of 45, Brandy experienced what I describe as an "awakening." It was during a pivotal situation involving a family communication that Brandee finally came off mute.

Her reaction to an inadvertently shared group message led her to courageously voice her discomfort. This was the breaking point where Brandee connected past painful experiences to her present power, using them as fuel for a purposeful future.

The realization helped her understand the assignment (as she calls it) of traumas in her past; they were not barriers but rather the catalysts for her voice.

We also explore the notion of leadership, not limited to professional settings but including self-leadership. Brandee's evolution into various leadership roles, whether in organizations or community boards, came with the recognition that "every interaction is a relationship."

The essence of coming off mute for Brandee lies in amplifying her voice to foster personal and communal growth. By prioritizing self-leadership, she transitioned into a mature and confident leader, embodying the real power of her voice.



For some of us, purpose becomes evident later in life. Brandee describes her traumatic life instances as divine designs, each contributing to her greater mission. She perceives her journey as divinely orchestrated, offering her a purpose to motivate others.

With an upcoming book and workshops, she channels her experiences into guiding others to "magnify success" in their lives.

In this week's episode I celebrate Brandee's calling, highlighting how sharing her story imparts valuable lessons to the world.

Let's do this...



Where You Can Listen To This Week's Episode:

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Watch on YouTube


From Misery to Confidence, Maturity and Triumph in Midlife

In episode 230 Brandee Brown takes us on her decades-long journey that is both powerful and transformative. Drawing from over 30 years of career and leadership roles, Brandee introduces us to the concept of "coming off mute," a profound awakening that transformed her life and career. Through personal stories of overcoming trauma and silencing self-doubt, she underscores the importance of finding your voice, building confidence, and embracing self-leadership.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1️⃣ Coming Off Mute: Brandee shared her powerful journey of overcoming past traumas and what she calls "coming off mute." This is not just a workshop she facilitates but also the essence of her upcoming book. It's all about stepping into your own power, recognizing your voice, and amplifying it in both personal and professional settings.

2️⃣ Divine Timing and Awakening: At the age of 45, Brandee experienced a divine awakening that helped her recognize the patterns in her life that kept her silent. This divine moment led her to embrace her purpose and realize the impact of self-leadership and embracing one's voice.

3️⃣ Confidence and Maturity: Brandee emphasized the interconnectedness of confidence and maturity. Her journey is a testament to how life experiences, both joyful and challenging, can build resilience and confidence over time. This realization is something she hopes to inspire in others who may be navigating similar paths.

Main Takeaway: Embracing your voice and stepping into your true self can happen at any age. Brandee's journey shows that it's never too late to find purpose and fulfillment by coming off mute, gaining confidence, and using your voice to make a difference in the world.

Tune in to episode 230 to discover what it means to "come of mute" and the impact on others.


The Coach's Corner

Weekly insights and actionable tips from my lens as an executive coach—helping you lead, grow, and thrive in midlife and beyond.

You’re Not in Crisis—You’re Craving Clarity

“Is this all there is…or do I just need something to change?”

This question is not always voiced out loud. It doesn’t always look dramatic. It may not be these exact words. But if you’ve been feeling restless, unfulfilled, or stuck in a life that looks fine on the outside—but doesn’t quite feel like you on the inside—then you’re not alone.

This feeling— and yes, it is a feeling — doesn’t come with a specific age. It doesn’t wait until you turn 40 or check a certain life milestone off your list.

It shows up when you’ve been doing everything right… and still feel like something is missing.

The Real “Crisis” No One Talks About

There’s a stereotype about the midlife crisis that’s long overdue for retirement. It involves sports cars, spontaneous divorces, or dramatic reinventions. But the deeper truth is far more human—and far more hopeful.

This isn’t a breakdown. It’s a breakthrough waiting to happen.

It’s a moment to pause and ask:

Are the choices I’m making aligned with what really matters to me now?

That question is at the heart of a powerful shift—from drifting to leading yourself.

And that’s where the Values & Fulfillment Alignment Guide comes in. Continue reading this article, download the VFA guide and start gaining more clarity.


Questions to ponder from episode #230.

How does Brandee Brown define the concept of "coming off mute," and why is it significant in her life?

Brandee mentioned that her journey to coming off mute is a celebration of her midlife fulfillment. How has her career and personal experiences led her to this concept?

What is the importance of self-leadership in Brandee's journey, and how does it relate to the broader concept of leadership within different contexts?

How does Brandee describe the relationship between her experiences of trauma and the development of protective behaviors, such as being on mute?

In what ways does Brandee's story inspire others to recognize and amplify their voices, particularly in leadership roles?

If any of these questions resonate with you, tune into episode 230.


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Video Humor of the Week!

Reader, let's laugh a little! We can all use a little more laughter in our lives.

This week's comedic break features Tyler Boeh explaining how to get respect when shopping at Home Depot...😎


Stay fulfilled,
Bernie Borges
Host, Midlife Fulfilled Podcast | Fulfillment Architect

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Each Thursday the Thriving Midlifer Newsletter helps men and women over 40 thrive across the five key pillars of life: Health, Fitness, Career, Relationships, and Legacy.

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