Late Boomers

Hosted by Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins

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Aug 2026

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Welcome to Late Boomers, the podcast that is your guide to creating a third act with style, power and impact! Join your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, as they bring you conversations with successful artists, entrepreneurs and entertainers who have set themselves up for an amazing third act. Everyone has a story, and Cathy and Merry take you along for the ride on each interview, recounting the journey each guest has taken to get where they are, and inspiring you to create a path to success as you look toward your own third act!

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August 26, 202633 min

Revisiting the Past: Dorothy Ward on Historical Fiction, Memory, and Strong Women

Welcome back to Late Boomers ! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins . In this episode, we dive deep into the world of historical fiction with educator, novelist, and storyteller Dorothy Ward, whose acclaimed novel, Light Which Impresses , beautifully explores themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring strength of women through the lens of history. If you’re fascinated by stories that connect the past to our present, or if you’re finally ready to write your own narrative, this conversation will both inspire and motivate you. We’re thrilled to welcome Dorothy Ward to discuss her journey from lifelong educator to published novelist at the age of 71! We explore why historical fiction is more relevant than ever, what inspired the unique structure of Light Which Impresses , and the meticulous research that brings her story to life. Dorothy Ward shares candid insights about recreating early 20th-century El Paso and the Mexican Revolution, crafting powerful women who defy expectations, and how her own background influenced the narrative. Whether you’re a writer, a lover of history, or someone seeking encouragement to start something new in your own life, you’ll find wisdom and practical advice throughout this episode. Key Takeaways Why Historical Fiction Matters: Dorothy Ward explains how stepping into the past through fiction helps us build empathy and understand today’s challenges, especially around topics like migration and resilience (01:28). Inspirations Behind the Novel: The title of Light Which Impresses comes from a 100-year-old Kodak camera manual, a metaphor for memory and the double-edged power of truth (02:54). Unique Narrative Structure: The story weaves together interviews with the protagonist as an older woman and her youthful experiences against a backdrop of revolution, making history come alive and personal (05:47). Strong, Unconventional Female Characters: Inspired by real women of the Mexican Revolution, Dorothy Ward’s protagonists break the mold and show the unheralded strength of women throughout history (09:08). The Research Process: Dorothy Ward reveals how she balanced exhaustive research walking tours, period photography, and vintage vehicles with compelling storytelling (17:30). Advice for Aspiring Writers: It’s never too late to start! The most important step? Sitting down and writing, planning and talking about writing won’t get your story on the page (29:02). Practical Writing Tips: Embrace rewriting, cut down the excess, and always read your work out loud to catch what doesn’t sound right (30:50). If today’s conversation sparked your curiosity or your creativity, we encourage you to pick up a copy of Light Which Impresses available at Amazon, Bookshop.org, or wherever you buy books. Connect with Dorothy Ward and learn more about her work at dorothypward.com . Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts and on our YouTube channel . Leave us a review and share this episode with friends who love history, literature, and inspiring new beginnings. Remember, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

August 19, 202653 min

How to Write Your Story: Book Coaching, AI Tools, and Publishing Secrets After 50

Welcome to another inspirational episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy and Merry , and today we’re diving into a topic so many of us dream about but rarely act on: writing a book. Have you ever said, “Someday I’ll write my book”? What if that someday is today ? Our guest is Dr. Rhonda Lawson, an award-winning author, book coach, and literary strategist who’s making it her mission to help people just like us get their stories onto the page and into the hands of readers. Dr. Rhonda Lawson brings a unique perspective, transitioning from U.S. Army Master Sergeant to successful author and founder of Meet the World Image Solutions. Whether you want to leave a legacy for your family, grow your business, jumpstart a speaking career, or simply prove to yourself that you can do it, this episode is for you! Key Takeaways Everyone has a story worth telling : As Dr. Rhonda Lawson reminds us at 06:02, “your story matters,” and even the most “ordinary” lives are full of lessons, courage, and inspiration. Focus on your message, not just your story : People may not care about your biography, but they do care about the message and meaning behind it (17:01). Overcome self-doubt : The biggest obstacle is often yourself (12:14). Don’t talk yourself out of writing; just start! Start small and specific : Use Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s “sun diagram” technique to brainstorm themes and narrow your focus (13:24). Publishing has never been more accessible : Learn why self-publishing might give you more control and fit your lifestyle (24:45). AI is a tool, not a solution : Let AI help brainstorm or outline, but keep your voice at the forefront (35:32). Storytelling wins over perfect prose : Readers crave authentic, engaging stories more than flawless writing (32:22). Marketing is part of the job : Simple tricks, like adding your book to your email signature and organic social media posts, help you reach more readers (40:08). Find your writing community : Writing can feel lonely, but joining groups (like Dr. Lawson’s Write to Win Writers Community) can help you stay motivated (47:21). Just start : Don’t worry about being perfect. Write it all down, then shape and edit later (44:52). Has this episode given you the push you’ve been waiting for? If so, we challenge you: start writing your story this week even if it’s just one paragraph! Share this episode with someone who dreams of writing a book. Want more inspiration? Visit Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s website and check out her Horizons Author Lounge podcast. And of course, subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite platform especially on YouTube to support our mission of inspiring new chapters, no matter your age. Remember: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Start your story today! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

August 12, 202651 min

Death, Healing, and the Power of Gratitude in Everyday Life

Welcome, Late Boomers family! In this deeply moving and illuminating episode, Cathy and Merry sit down with Steven Ferrara, author of "Grief to Gratitude," to explore an experience every one of us will eventually face, loss, grief, and the mysteries of our own mortality. Most of us avoid talking about death, leaving us unprepared and isolated when loss inevitably comes. Together, we discuss how shifting the conversation and finding new perspectives on death can profoundly change how we live each and every day. As baby boomers, these themes resonate deeply; whether it’s the loss of parents, spouses, siblings, friends, or even children, nearly all of us are navigating these challenges. After losing his 23-year-old son, Steven Ferrara turned to journaling as a lifeline through inconceivable pain, a journey that eventually became his powerful and bestselling book. In our conversation, he shares what helped him survive such trauma, why our culture often gets grief wrong, and what can happen if we choose curiosity, compassion, and healing over guilt or blame. Key Takeaways Facing Death Changes How We Live: Steven Ferrara reveals that changing our perspective on death isn’t just about coping it’s about living more fully and with greater purpose (01:48). The Healing Power of Acceptance: Discover why acceptance is essential for healing and how letting go of blame opens the path to growth and peace (10:05). Why Sympathy Isn’t Enough: We discuss why sympathy may not serve the grieving and what genuine, loving support really looks like (08:53, 29:17). The Transformational “New Paradigm” on Death: Learn how Steven Ferrara’s view that life is an ongoing, eternal journey can ease fear and shift grief to gratitude (20:29). Gratitude as a Healer: Understand how finding gratitude for the relationship, for memories, or simply for being alive is the key to moving through grief and living more fully (47:25). How to Support the Grieving: Practical, heartfelt advice on what to say (and not to say) when someone you love is grieving, and why small, tangible acts of kindness mean so much more than “let me know what I can do” (39:31, 40:29). Learning from Loss: Why life’s challenges including the deepest losses are opportunities for growth, learning, and spiritual connection (32:19). If you or someone you care about is moving through grief or facing loss or if you want to live your days with more depth, compassion, and appreciation this episode is a must-listen. Steven Ferrara offers profound wisdom on how journaling, meditation, and reframing loss can bring not just peace, but renewed life, connection, and meaning. Has this conversation touched your heart or made you rethink how you approach grief or comfort others? Share this episode with someone you love who may be grieving or searching for hope and healing. Subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t miss a single episode. Join our community by subscribing to our YouTube channel for more inspiring conversations. Want to dive deeper into Steven Ferrara’s work? Find his book "Grief to Gratitude" and resources at stephenferrara.com . Remember: it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Let's transform our perspective on loss and embrace gratitude together! – Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

August 5, 202642 min

Beyond the Prescription: Healing Through Mindset, Lifestyle, and Functional Medicine

Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re Cathy and Merry, and we’re thrilled to bring you another inspiring and empowering episode that will challenge the way you think about your health, medications, and aging well. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of functional medicine with Jen Germain, a certified functional medicine health coach who has helped over 200 clients transform their lives through personalized lifestyle changes, nutrition, and whole-body healing. Jen brings her own powerful story of overcoming a daunting Crohn’s diagnosis and shows us why a prescription for life doesn’t have to be the final word. We open up the conversation about why so many of us end up on multiple medications as we age and why "managing symptoms" isn’t the same as true healing. Together with Jen, we explore the surprising root causes of chronic illness that conventional medicine often overlooks, such as stress, poor sleep, and mindset, and learn actionable strategies for taking back control of our well-being. Whether you’re struggling with a new diagnosis, feeling dismissed by conventional doctors, or just ready to create a new health chapter, this episode will give you hope, practical tools, and the motivation to be your own advocate. Key Takeaways Medication is not always destiny: The conversation focused on how a chronic diagnosis does not mean you’re sentenced to medication for life. Functional medicine investigates and addresses the root causes, not just the symptoms. Advocacy is essential: A key theme that emerged was the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. The discussion explored sample questions to ask your physician and encouraged listeners not to settle if they feel dismissed or unheard. Lifestyle changes work: One concept discussed was the power of personalized changes in diet, stress management, relationships, sleep, and even light exposure. Small consistent changes can add up to big improvements—even later in life. Mindset matters: The discussion explored how mindset, self-talk, and beliefs (“I’ll always be this way” or “I can’t live without sugar”) can quietly sabotage healing. A positive mindset and self-love are critical to any health transformation. It’s never too late: Several points were raised, including real-life examples from older adults who saw remarkable improvements in their health and quality of life proving it’s never too late to start taking positive steps. If you’ve ever wondered if you could do more for your health or if “treating the root cause” instead of just managing symptoms sounds appealing this episode is for you! Be sure to: Listen now and become an active participant in your own healthcare journey. Share this episode with a friend or loved one who needs motivation or a fresh perspective. Subscribe to Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite platform and on YouTube so you never miss an inspiring conversation. Connect with Jen Germain at Compass Health Coaching LLC or find her on social media for more practical tips and support. Remember what we always say: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Stay curious, ask questions, and start your own new chapter today! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

July 29, 202646 min

Preserving WWII Family Stories: Lessons on Resilience, Hope, and Healing Across Generations

Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and in this episode, we dive deep into the enduring power of World War II stories and the profound impact of personal and family histories across generations. We’re joined by author and speaker Caroline Crocker, whose emotionally rich WWII book series explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the miracles of hope that can emerge even in the darkest times. In this inspiring conversation, Caroline shares her journey of transforming her family’s real-life stories, many rooted in her parents’ experiences in wartime Netherlands, into compelling narratives. We talk about why preserving personal stories matters, how hardship and hope are passed down through families, and the lessons we can all learn from the past. We also explore: The hidden emotional impact of history on families and how trauma can affect future generations The process of gathering and documenting family stories with accuracy, empathy, and heart Incredible moments of kindness, miracles, and acts of survival that shaped lives and legacies during WWII The importance of forgiveness and compassion in healing and moving forward Key Takeaways Preserving Personal Histories: Capturing your family's stories whether through conversation, recordings, or writing is a gift to future generations. As Caroline Crocker explains, these stories shape not only our sense of self but also our ability to empathize and connect with others 31:41. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Stories from WWII highlight the extraordinary strength people can find during unimaginable hardship, reinforcing that resilience and kindness are timeless human traits 06:44. Generational Impact: Trauma and hardship don’t just affect those who live through them they shape families for decades. Understanding this can help us be more compassionate with ourselves and others 40:24. The Power of Forgiveness: Choosing to forgive, rather than hold onto bitterness, plays a critical role in personal healing and the ability to rebuild a meaningful life 36:42. Bringing History Alive: By weaving research with personal accounts, Caroline Crocker reminds us that history is made up of real people, real choices, and unforgettable moments of both tragedy and hope 17:13. If this episode moved you, we encourage you to start a conversation with your family about their own stories. Record those memories, digitize old tapes, or simply sit down and listen. Visit Caroline Crocker’s website at ramblingruminations.com to learn more about her books and discover resources on preserving your own family history. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. Like, comment, and share this episode with someone who would be inspired by Caroline Crocker’s message. Remember, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible and together, we can keep these vital stories alive for generations to come! -Cathy and Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

July 22, 202650 min

Beyond Organic: Smarter Choices for Healthier Homes, Foods, and Less Toxic Living

Welcome back to the Late Boomers Podcast! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins , and we’re thrilled you’re joining us for another episode dedicated to helping you reinvent your health and well-being at any age. In Episode 294, we dive into a topic affecting every single one of us: environmental toxins and what “clean living” really means. With so many buzzwords organic, natural, chemical-free it can be overwhelming to distinguish helpful tips from clever marketing. That’s why we invited Amy Hartshorn, founder of Green Living Now and veteran advocate for non-toxic living, to demystify how to make healthier choices that fit our real lives. For over 34 years, Amy Hartshorn has been at the forefront of teaching practical, approachable ways to reduce toxins in our homes, food, and daily routines. As co-owner of a certified organic farm in Vermont, she brings a hands-on perspective on what really matters in food, soil, and consumer safety. In this episode, we discuss: How marketing labels like “natural” and “wild-caught” can be misleading Ways to prioritize your food budget for the biggest health impact The truth about greenwashing and how to read between the lines on packaging Easy first steps to reduce toxins in your home without spending a fortune The importance of soil health, indoor air quality, and what families should know about furniture, fragrances, and plastics The healing power of nature and community, as seen in Amy’s transformative retreats Key Takeaways Perfection isn’t the goal: Small, steady improvements like swapping out a scented laundry detergent for fragrance-free can make a real difference (09:00, 41:08). Not all labels are created equal: “Natural” is a meaningless term, and “wild-caught” is only trustworthy if certified by credible organizations like the MSC (10:07, 44:51). Start with high-impact swaps: If organic isn’t in the budget for everything, focus on the “Dirty Dozen” produce and prioritize organic meat and dairy for the biggest benefit (15:14). Fragrances are hidden toxins: Remove air fresheners, plugins, and heavily scented products from your home for an easy, impactful win (28:01, 41:08). Read ingredient lists, not just claims: The real story about what you’re buying is on the back of the label (25:39). Our choices matter: Every dollar spent sends a message about what we value, and we wield more power as consumers than we sometimes realize (24:10). Community and nature heal: Amy Hartshorn shares moving stories of how farm retreats and horse therapy have changed lives, showing that holistic change goes beyond our shopping carts (32:07). If today’s conversation made you think twice about air freshener, food labels, or what’s lurking in your cleaning supply closet, share this episode with a friend or family member who’d benefit from a more informed approach to healthier living. We’d love for you to subscribe to The Late Boomers Podcast wherever you listen don’t miss future conversations with experts who help you live your best next chapter. Check out more resources from Amy Hartshorn on greenlivingnow.com , and find her podcast, Green Living Now, for deeper dives and practical guidance. Leave us a review, connect on YouTube, and remember every step towards cleaner living counts, no matter when you start. It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible! — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

July 15, 202645 min

The Power of Faith, Kindness, and Intimacy in Thriving Long-Term Relationships

Welcome to another episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and we’re thrilled you’re joining us on this journey of reinvention, connection, and growth at every stage of life. In this episode, we dive deep into the foundations of thriving, lasting relationships with our insightful guests, Bruce Chalmer and Judy Alexander, co-hosts of the “Couples Therapy in Seven Words” podcast. Bruce Chalmer, an experienced couples therapist and author of several books including “The Passion Paradox,” joins us alongside Judy Alexander, retired educator, author, and “the real person” on their podcast. Together, they blend wisdom from decades of helping couples and add a generous dose of real-world humor and humanity. We explore everything from surviving betrayal, rekindling passion, and navigating intimacy in long-term relationships, to how faith, kindness, and a willingness to face uncomfortable truths can help couples not just survive challenges but come out even stronger. Key Takeaways Forgiveness After Betrayal : Bruce Chalmer reminds us that healing from betrayal is possible, but it’s not guaranteed or easy it requires immense courage and honest engagement (02:35). Betrayal Beyond Infidelity : Betrayal in relationships isn’t just about sex it can involve finances, addiction, and emotional wounds between friends, siblings, and partners (03:26). The Truth About Communication : Most relationship issues aren't really about how we communicate; they’re about what we’re communicating hurt, mistrust, or contempt (05:41). The Seven-Word Formula : “Be kind, don’t panic, and have faith.” This powerful mantra underpins lasting relationships and guides partners through life’s inevitable obstacles (04:35, 26:45). Stability vs. Intimacy : All couples need both stability (reliability, predictability) and intimacy (honesty, aliveness) but these can sometimes feel at odds. The key is learning to tolerate anxiety and embrace honest vulnerability (12:27). Practical Tools for Rekindling Connection : Emotional openness, respect, and humor matter. Judy Alexander also shares her unique creative journey into biblical erotica, showing that reinvention can spice up relationships at any age (20:36). Sacred, Good, and Plain Old Sex : The distinctions between different kinds of sexual experiences as relationships mature, good sex adds intimacy; sacred sex adds meaning and connection to something bigger (35:09). Sexual Fulfillment at Any Age : True sexual and emotional connection often reaches its peak in our 60s and 70s, thanks to maturity, communication, and creativity not just hormones or acrobatics (42:03). We hope you found today’s episode as inspiring and practical as we did! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with one friend who could use a dose of hope, humor, and wisdom in their relationships. Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. For more from Bruce Chalmer and Judy Alexander, check out their podcast “Couples Therapy in Seven Words,” Bruce’s website , or Judy’s book “The Blue Tent: Erotic Tales from the Bible” (as Laria Zilber). Remember, it’s never too late to grow, to connect, and to create the life and relationships you truly want. Thank you for listening. It means the world to us. See you next time on Late Boomers! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

July 8, 202632 min

The Surprising Reasons Older Adults Lose Appetite and What To Do About It

We’re Cathy and Merry, and welcome to another thoughtful, lively episode of Late Boomers! Today we’re diving into a topic that affects so many older adults, but often remains undiscussed: why does appetite decrease as we age, and what can we do about it? Inspired by an AARP Bulletin article, “Why Aren’t I Hungry?”, we explore the real-life effects of losing your appetite and thirst later in life. We share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and the science behind changing eating habits, all with our signature Late Boomers flair! Whether you or someone you love has noticed eating less, skipping meals, or simply not feeling as thirsty anymore, this episode is for you. We break down why these changes happen, what warning signs to look for, and actionable advice for staying healthy and energized at any age. Key Takeaways Why Appetite Changes with Age : Our metabolism naturally slows down, hormones shift, and senses of taste and smell can decline, making food less appealing. Medications, dental and digestive issues, and even loneliness can all contribute to a reduced desire to eat 02:04, 04:12, 06:09. The Hidden Danger of Dehydration : As we grow older, our thirst signals weaken, putting us at risk for dehydration which can mimic other health problems or even cause dangerous falls 01:20, 17:06, 18:20. Social Eating Matters : Sharing meals with friends and family can help restore the enjoyment of food and encourage healthier eating and hydration habits 07:26, 30:09. Protein & Muscle Health : Maintaining muscle mass is crucial so adequate daily protein and strength training are both essential. From collagen and protein powders to Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, we share our protein-boosting hacks 11:53, 13:42. Smart Hydration Strategies : Don’t wait until you’re thirsty! Build in water breaks throughout your day, especially first thing in the morning, and remember that certain fruits, veggies, and even soups can help you stay hydrated 19:01, 22:35. Listening to Your Body : Unintentional weight loss and persistent low appetite aren’t just a “normal part of aging.” Talk to your doctor if you notice ongoing changes in appetite, taste, or hydration levels it could be a sign of something deeper 24:47, 31:59. If you found today’s episode helpful, please share it with at least one friend or family member who might benefit from these insights . Make sure to subscribe to Late Boomers on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts, so you never miss an episode filled with healthy aging tips and real-life inspiration. And remember what we always say: It’s never too late to think and rethink what’s possible! Stay healthy, stay hydrated, and keep living your Late Boomer life to the fullest! Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

July 1, 202654 min

Reinventing Life’s Chapters: Maxim Langstaff on Music Legends, Sasquatch, and Creative Curiosity

Creative Curiosity Welcome back to the Late Boomers Podcast! We're Cathy and Merry, and in this episode, we embark on a fascinating journey with our guest, Maxim Langstaff. Maxim has worn many creative hats: music executive, filmmaker, dog lover, and now novelist. Together, we explore how the art of storytelling evolves across a lifetime, blending history, folklore, fact, and imagination. This episode is a goldmine for anyone passionate about music history (think The Beatles and John Denver!), the enduring mysteries of Sasquatch, and the creative process, whether in novels, film, or music. We dive deep into Maxim’s creative evolution, discuss his latest novel Sasqet , unpack the cultural differences between Sasquatch and Bigfoot, and share behind-the-scenes stories from the heart of the music industry. Plus, we talk about how staying curious and open to new adventures lets us all reinvent ourselves at any stage in life. Key Takeaways Embracing Creativity Later in Life: It’s never too late to begin a new creative chapter. Maxim Langstaff shares how his journey from music and film into novel writing was sparked by solitude, curiosity, and a love of storytelling (02:12–03:34). The Power of Storytelling Whether through songs, novels, or films, storytelling connects us via empathy and shared beliefs (11:00–12:59). Music, especially, is a universal language that transcends boundaries. Fact vs. Fiction: The Magic of Myths We discuss why mysterious legends like Sasquatch persist through centuries and how our need for belief often outweighs a strict adherence to fact (05:49–10:11). Myths can be nutritious for the human imagination and serve deep cultural purposes. Sasquatch vs. Bigfoot: Maxim distinguishes between the indigenous-rooted Sasquatch and the pop-culture phenomenon of Bigfoot, offering a thoughtful perspective on how we shape myths to fit our comfort zones (06:45–08:05, 43:41–45:00). Behind the Scenes with Legends: From working with Sir George Martin, “the fifth Beatle,” to collaborating with John Denver, Maxim recounts career-defining lessons in honesty, risk-taking, and authenticity (13:57–19:16). Nature, Curiosity & Lifelong Growth: Maxim reveals how his dog and time in nature taught him humility, resilience, and the importance of being curious qualities essential to storytelling and life (34:43–36:46). Advice for Late Bloomers: For those looking to write, create, or reinvent: start with curiosity and let your passion guide you. Don’t chase outcomes—chase the process (46:53–48:43). The Future of Sasqet : In addition to a sequel, Maxim is working to adapt his novel into a streaming TV series, aiming to bring its message to a new generation (49:16–50:57). If you love stories that blend music, myth, and inspiration to show it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, share this episode with a friend ! And if Maxim’s journey sparked your curiosity, visit sasqetthebook.com to learn more about his work (and maybe read the book before it hits the screen!). Don’t forget to subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite platform and on YouTube! Leave us a review or comment; we’d love to hear your thoughts and your own late-blooming adventures. As we always say: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

June 24, 202641 min

Find Purpose and Reinvent Yourself After Retirement: Solving the Post-Career Identity Crisis

Welcome back to the Late Boomers podcast! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re approaching retirement or have already stepped into this exciting new chapter. We’re diving deep into the process of redefining purpose, identity, and fulfillment after leaving a long-held career, with the incredible Anne van Leynseele, founder of Rarified Life. In this powerful conversation, we explore the reality of retirement beyond the fantasy of a “permanent vacation.” Anne shares her personal journey of reinvention, her work helping individuals transition through major life changes, and the innovative tools she’s developed, including her workbook "Preferment," designed to guide you toward a meaningful post-career life. We talk candidly about the emotional stages people go through after stepping away from work, the challenge of identity loss, and the breadth of opportunities available to create connection, purpose, and joy in later life. Key Takeaways Retirement is a Beginning, Not an End: Anne reveals how retirement can be an invitation to design a unique, fulfilling life not just a time of scaling down, but of broadening your experiences and passions. Identity Beyond Your Job: Learn why so many successful people struggle with the transition—even with strong financial planning and discover strategies to move beyond work-based identity. Emotional Milestones of Retirement: We discuss the common emotional hurdles, such as loss of structure and purpose, and how to navigate anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. You'll hear inspiring stories of transformation and resilience. Practical Tools for Reinvention: Anne’s workbook, "Preferment," offers short, engaging exercises to help you rediscover passions, define new values, and set purposeful goals. The Power of Community & Relationships: Building new friendships, intergenerational connections, and engaging in social activities from golf and mahjong to volunteering are essential for cognitive and emotional well-being. Redefining Success: We break down how to let go of the productivity guilt and embrace a broader, more rewarding definition of what accomplishment looks like after retirement. Accessible Next Steps: Whether it’s joining local groups, looking for free activities, or volunteering online, there’s something for everyone regardless of budget or mobility. If anything in today’s conversation resonated with you, we encourage you to start asking yourself: What will I do with my retirement? Not just during it. Head over to www.rarifiedlife.com to learn more about Anne van Leynseele’s work and discover her workbook, "Preferment." You can also find her resources and tips for getting on board with new interests. Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts, and check out our YouTube channel for more insightful conversations. As always, keep dreaming, keep growing, and keep creating that next great chapter because as we learned today, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork