In this episode, we welcome Aileen Harvey, co‑host of the "You Keep Me Sane" podcast. Aileen opens up about her upbringing in Glasgow, Scotland, including her experience as a latchkey kid—something many GenX listeners will instantly recognize. She reflects on her early love of singing, music, dancing, and athletics, and how anxiety shaped her relationship with performing.
Aileen also shares memories from her university years, including the months she spent living in America. Our conversation explores how many GenX parents have worked to break cycles of generational trauma, and Aileen offers thoughtful insight into becoming a mother later in life.
She speaks candidly about the profound impact of losing her father—an event that shifted the entire trajectory of her life. Aileen also recounts the many adventures she’s taken with her daughter and the joy of fulfilling her lifelong dream of living in Spain.
We dive into the realities of perimenopause and menopause, as well as what dating looks like in midlife. We also discuss the "You Keep Me Sane" podcast, which she co‑hosts with previous guest Julie Fahy. Together, they explore topics that deeply resonate with women navigating midlife, especially around self‑worth.
Our time with Aileen was an absolute delight. Her adventurous spirit and courageous approach to self‑discovery are sure to inspire listeners. We especially loved learning so much about Scotland!
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:25 Exploring Glasgow: Aileen's Roots
06:05 Family Background and Heritage
20:59 Childhood
26:33 School Sports and Activities
32:30 The Pressure of Performance
36:25 Self-Worth and Family Dynamics
40:44 Navigating Puberty and Parental Guidance
48:36 Healing and Closure with Family
53:05 Childhood Fears and Stranger Danger
59:13 The Impact of Performance Anxiety
01:03:43 Struggles with Eating Disorders
01:12:56 The Quest for Validation and Self-Worth
01:22:41 Dreams and Aspirations: From College to Career
01:27:58 Career Choices and Life Changes
01:29:47 Being Held Up at Knifepoint
01:32:30 Move to England and Getting Engaged
01:37:56 Getting Married and Move to London
01:39:50 Coping With The Loss of a Parent
01:47:21 The Journey of Self-Discovery
01:52:19 Life Changes and New Beginnings
01:55:51 Parenting Perspectives and Growth
02:00:56 Traveling With Daughter and Settling in Spain
02:05:59 You Keep Me Sane Podcast
02:10:19 Perimenopause and Menopause
02:33:10 Choosing a Partner
02:35:38 Dating in Our Generation
02:40:19 The Evolution of the Roles in Marriage
02:44:20 Music Scene in Scotland
02:49:27 Spending Time in America
02:51:12 How Americans Are Perceived by The Scots
02:53:32 5 Year Vision
Check Aileen Out Here:
Website: https://www.youkeepmesane.com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ykms03
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youkeepmesane.pod
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YKMS-01
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YouKeepMeSanePod
Check Us Out Here:
https://genxadultingpodcast.com
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