40 and Giving Zero F's

Honest, funny essays about midlife, ambition, pleasure, and not putting your life on hold.

By Amanda

· Launched 9 months ago

The Concert Wasn't the Point

We took the kids to see Dave Matthews. They'll probably remember the broken door.

The Problem with Halfway to 80

What a cruise ship nightclub taught me about getting older.

Girls Trips Are a Non-Negotiable

Not because I need a break from my life—but because this is the life I'm building.

So I Asked... Nat Sang What She's Not Waiting For Anymore

On confidence, reinvention, and refusing to wait for the right time.

I Wanted Flowers, So I Bought Flowers

On the tiny decisions that make life feel richer.

Becoming a Redhead

On hair dye, identity, and choosing yourself on purpose.

41 and Giving Zero F's

How a fictional thong bikini accidentally changed my life.

Nat and Amanda - Part 2 : Growth on Substack, Creativity in Midlife and Music

A recording from Amanda | 40 & Giving Zero F’s and Nat Sang's live video.

I’ve Never Been That Kind of Mother

On loving my kids deeply without making them my entire life.

You Can’t Just Tell Them to Be Confident

Raising daughters in a world that teaches them not to be.

I’m Grateful But I Still Want More

On loving your life and still expanding it.

I’m Done Shrinking

What happens when you stop trying to be less noticeable.

You’re Not Too Busy

You’re just choosing something else.

Just Because Our Kids Are Friends Doesn’t Mean We Should Be

On choosing your own people—even in the world of mom friendships.

Note: Each section represents a distinct essay or personal reflection.