Does winter ever feel like it's got you in a grip of gray skies, cold mornings, and an endless case of the blahs?

I feel you, and trust me—you’re not alone. In this episode, I get real about my experiences with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and how the winter months can take a toll on our mood and energy. But don’t worry—I’m not just here to talk about the problem. I’m sharing my favorite tips, tricks, and stories to help us all find light (literally and figuratively!) during the colder months.

• What Seasonal Affective Disorder is and how it might show up in your life.
• My personal experiences with SAD and how it impacts my winter routine.
• Why light therapy can be a game-changer and how to use it effectively.
• Simple ways to stay active and keep moving, even when it’s freezing outside.
• How to create a cozy home environment to lift your spirits.
• The power of self-care, staying warm, and leaning into social connections.
• Practical tips for maintaining a positive mindset during the darker months.

So, grab your coziest blanket, a hot cup of something delicious, and tune in. Let’s beat those winter blues together!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Female Founders Collective

Midlife on Purpose: Workbook

CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP:

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Have you ever felt trapped in a situation that seemed impossible to escape?

In this episode, I sit down with the brave and resilient Christie Deiter as she shares her journey through financial and emotional abuse—and how she found her way to freedom. Christie opens up about a pivotal moment on January 31, 2023, when an emotional breakdown with her ex finally pushed her to seek help and regain control of her life.

Our conversation dives deep into the hidden and often misunderstood world of financial abuse. Christie and I talk candidly about the real impact of abuse on family dynamics, how to recognize the red flags, and why reaching out for support is so important. Christie’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter how hard things get, it’s possible to reclaim your life, find strength in yourself, and start over.

Here’s what we dive into in this episode:

• How to identify and understand financial abuse, and why it often goes unnoticed.
• How a single night on January 31, 2023, changed her life forever.
• Practical steps for seeking support and building financial independence.
• How Christie found resilience and strength through self-care, wellness, and the power of authenticity.
• Why building your own path and finding your voice matters—no matter what you’ve been through.

Join us for this inspiring episode, where Christie’s journey reminds us all that even the darkest chapters can lead to brighter, bolder futures.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

DAIS (Domestic Abuse Intervention Services)

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Young Star

Midlife on Purpose: Workbook

CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP:

Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episode

Website: www.katyripp.com

Instagram: @katyripp

Pinterest: @katyripp

Facebook: @katy.ripp

CONNECT WITH CHRISTIE DEITER:

Instagram: @christiedeiter

You’ve probably heard some of the rumors: “If I’m an organ donor, doctors won’t try as hard to save me” or “I can’t have an open casket funeral if I donate my organs.”

Let’s be honest—organ donation is often misunderstood, and these myths can make people hesitate when deciding whether or not to become a donor.

In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with three incredible organ procurement coordinators—Abbey, Kayla, and Louise—who give us a behind-the-scenes look at the world of organ donation.

Together, we unravel the misconceptions, share powerful personal stories, and talk about the emotional highs and lows of their work. Whether you're already registered as an organ donor or still on the fence, this episode will open your eyes to the life-changing impact of organ donation.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Powerful stories of loss and healing from both donors' families and recipients
• The emotional complexities organ donation professionals face every day
• A breakdown of the organ allocation process and why every donor matters
• Debunking common myths about organ donation
• Why it’s so important to have open, honest conversations with loved ones about your end-of-life wishes

As Abbey, Kayla, and Louise share, talking about organ donation can bring so much peace and clarity—not just for you, but for the ones you leave behind.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to save a life through organ donation, or if you're simply curious about the process, this episode is for you. Tune in, get inspired, and maybe even start a conversation about how you can make a difference through the gift of life.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Midlife on Purpose: Workbook

Donate Life Wisconsin Website - Register as a donor, donate, and learn more here!

CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP:

Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episode

Website: www.katyripp.com

Instagram: @katyripp

Pinterest: @katyripp

Facebook: @katy.ripp