Hey Reader,
Welcome to our community! Whether you’re new or a longtime reader, I’m so glad you’re here. Together, we’re redefining what it means to live fully in midlife and beyond—embracing embodiment, empowerment, and body liberation, free from the constraints of diet culture and ageism. All bodies are celebrated here as we build our truly unique community for those in midlife and beyond. Thank you for being part of this journey!
I've been missing from social media and our newsletter for quite a while, but I'm back! First, I want to say a big thank you to those who sent me emails and DMs to check on me. It means more than you know to hear that you feel seen and impacted by me and the work I am doing in the world. I so appreciate those of you who took the time to let me know that you miss me and my content.
You may have seen my reel on social media explaining why I've been away. Completing my manuscript left me pretty depleted of creative juices. This was also about the time those of us in the USA began to experience the inhumane ugliness and relentless, daily heartbreak of these last few months. And then I got Covid for the first time, which kicked my butt!
So, I rested. I needed to restore my creative energy and spirit. I needed to soften my striving around creating content.
I understand that during dark and uncertain times, it is important to keep creating and doing what brings beauty and love into the world. So I'm showing up and happy to report feeling wind underneath my wings again. I've missed you and our community. We have lots to talk about, and I am energized with ideas for us! First, a few updates about what's going on.
Unapologetic Aging Book
“How’s wellness culture workin' out for you? Debra Benfield’s UNAPOLOGETIC AGING offers a much-needed antidote to the toxic mix of fatphobia, ageism, and diet culture that swirls around us all. A registered dietitian and nutritionist, Benfield brings decades of experience to this radical, compassionate approach to nourishing and caring for your body on your terms—no matter how thin, young, or virtuous you aren’t. Drawing on eye-opening insights, thoughtful storytelling, and accessible practices, UNAPOLOGETIC AGING will equip you to reject harmful “norms” and embrace your evolving self.”
Ashton Applewhite, author of THIS CHAIR ROCKS: A MANIFESTO AGAINST AGEISM
I am making plans for fun and meaningful gatherings (in-person and virtual) as we approach pub day, December 16th. This is more than a book launch—it’s a movement to reclaim how we nourish and care for ourselves in midlife and beyond. Please let me know if you want to plan an event near you!
I’m gathering a small group of passionate readers to help spread the word in meaningful, heart-centered ways. As part of our team, you'll receive special perks, the inside scoop, access to more in-depth content, my deepest gratitude, and surprises along the way! Details are coming soon.
Join the team bringing age-affirming, body-liberating words into the world.
Moving to Substack
I am finally making the move over to Substack.
- NO, you don't need to do anything.
- NO, there will not be a paywall.
- YES, it will be easier for you to leave comments and for us to have a conversation, which I am really looking forward to!
I would love to hear from you if you have anything you want me to write about or questions you would like to ask. Please hit reply and let me know what you're thinking about.
It feels good to be back, and I am so glad you are here!
With Love and Respect,
Deb
P.S. We need our community now more than ever! If you are interested in coaching and community to support you, I have a few options to offer:
Small Group Coaching Program
Visit this page to learn more about what happens in my small group coaching program and hear what past participants say about their experiences. You can add your name to the waiting list to be first in line.
Membership
Is this you? You've already done some work to free yourself of diet culture. You are looking for a community of women your age who share a commitment to feeling less fear and dread about aging and more at peace with the body changes that come along with it.
I have an invitation-only membership that meets twice monthly for 75 minutes and provides access to a private community (not on social media). We meet via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at 9 a.m. PT and 12 p.m. ET. Please get in touch with me if you are interested.
1:1 Coaching
I am opening up a limited number of spots for 1:1 coaching in 2025. Please reach out if you are interested in getting on the list. If you've been a client in the past, you will be given priority.
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