Tackling Ageism, Resilience & Women's Mental Health with Dr. Michelle Montero

Welcome back to Living and Loving Each Day: Bridging Barriers! I’m your host, Susan Janzen, and I’m thrilled you’re here. This week, we dive into a rich and deeply relevant conversation with the incredible Dr. Michelle Montero—a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Alchemy Performance Consulting LLC.

Michelle brings a powerful combination of clinical expertise and heart-centered care to her work with individuals and athletes. Her focus? Everything from identity and anxiety to trauma, career transitions, and women’s mental health—a topic especially close to both of our hearts.

A Journey Rooted in Caregiving

Before she was a psychologist, Michelle began her journey as a caregiver in assisted living facilities at the age of 18. While most of her peers were working in restaurants, she was spending her time learning from the wisdom of the elderly. These early experiences planted a deep understanding of aging, invisibility, and the need for compassionate connection—lessons that continue to guide her work today.

Over time, her career evolved to include work with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, college counseling centers, athletic teams, and ultimately, her own private practice. Today, she’s a fierce advocate for women and marginalized communities, using a trauma-informed, empowerment-based approach in everything she does.

Let's Talk About Ageism

One of the most powerful themes of our conversation was ageism, especially as it relates to women. Michelle shared how aging can often make people feel invisible—regardless of how vibrant, intelligent, or experienced they are. Our society tends to idolize youth, often sidelining the voices and contributions of older individuals—especially women.

We reflected on how this shows up in different professions and daily interactions, and how it can lead to feelings of being dismissed or overlooked. As Michelle wisely said, “You can be vibrant and worthwhile, and yet the world starts to see you as obsolete.”

Breaking the Silence & Staying Connected

So what can we do? Michelle encouraged us all to speak up—not defensively, but curiously. When someone makes an insensitive comment, simply ask, “What did you mean by that?” Opening that dialogue plants seeds of awareness.

She also reminded us of the importance of staying connected. Isolation can be one of the most damaging parts of aging, and connection is a powerful remedy. Whether it’s through lifelong learning, reaching out to others, or simply having meaningful conversations—we need each other.

The Wisdom in Every Story

This episode reminded me just how much wisdom exists in the stories of those who’ve lived and learned. As someone who’s worn many hats—a singer, real estate agent, and now resilience coach—I’ve seen how valuable our voices can be, no matter our age.

Michelle closed with this beautiful message: “Lead with curiosity. Talk to people your age, and those who aren't. People are pretty incredible—and we feel better when we’re connected.”

With Love and Light and resilience 💛
Sue Janzen