Life’s 2nd Act: A journey into finding direction and purpose

Homelessness: the real midlife crisis, it can happen to anyone!

In this conversation I explore the complex issue of homelessness in midlife with Hilary Bartle, CEO of StonePillow. 
 
Hilary highlights the various causes, societal perceptions and the transformative work being done by Stonepillow. She emphasises that homelessness can affect anyone, regardless of their background and stresses the importance of early intervention and support. 
 
You will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness and the critical role of community support in facilitating recovery and reintegration into society.
 
Takeaways
Homelessness can happen to anyone, regardless of background.
Early intervention is crucial to prevent homelessness.
Mental health issues often contribute to homelessness.
Substance abuse can exacerbate the challenges of homelessness.
Societal stigma affects how homeless individuals are perceived.
Building trust with clients is essential for effective support.
Community support plays a vital role in recovery.
Stonepillow focuses on prevention and recovery services.
Engagement with local charities can facilitate help.
Personal responsibility is key to overcoming homelessness.
 
 
Chapters
 
00:00 - Introduction to Homelessness in Midlife
02:06 - Understanding the Causes of Homelessness
04:58 - The Profile of the Homeless
07:52 - The Impact of Mental Health and Substance Abuse
10:58 - Recognising Warning Signs and Seeking Help
13:57 - The Role of Society and Stigma
16:59 - Stonepillow's Approach to Support
21:09 - Building Trust and Engagement with Clients
24:52 - Transformational Stories of Recovery
29:00 - How to Help Those in Need
31:53 - The Current State of Homelessness
36:01 - Closing Thoughts
 
Find out more about Stonepillow:
https://stonepillow.org.uk/
 
 
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Sanjani's journey: acceptance, letting go, stillness, clarity and new beginnings

In this conversation, Sanjani Shah shares her journey following an unexpected redundancy from her long-term role at the Body Shop. 
 
What’s followed… ‘It's been the best 12 months of my life’ she says.
 
Emphasising the importance of choice in response to life's challenges, she discusses how her spiritual practices helped her navigate feelings of fear and uncertainty. Sanjani reflects on the power of vulnerability, the significance of slowing down to gain clarity and the joy of exploring new opportunities. 
 
Ultimately, she highlights the importance of energy and self-belief in manifesting a fulfilling future, especially during midlife transitions.
 
Takeaways
You have the choice to how you respond to anything
Acceptance came faster than expected
Spiritual practice helped her stay grounded
Locking my phone away helped manage external chaos
Letting go of expectations was liberating
Energy is everything in navigating life
Taking time out allowed for self-discovery
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:35 - The Shock of Redundancy
06:23 - Acceptance and Spiritual Practices
10:49 - Finding Stillness and Clarity
12:37 - The Power of Vulnerability
15:35 - Navigating Fear and Self-Doubt
19:03 - Exploring New Opportunities
22:19 - The Journey of Self-Discovery
28:11 - Shifting Perspectives and Energy
32:58 - Manifesting New Beginnings
35:19 - Lessons from Midlife and Beyond
 
 
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Carolyn's journey: navigating loss, discovering resilience, purpose & spirituality, finding purpose & personal growth

In this episode, I have the privilege of chatting with Carolyn Mayling, who shares her remarkable journey through midlife.
 
The conversation begins with Carolyn recounting her heart-wrenching experience of losing her daughter, Rosie, to a sudden illness. During this difficult time, she discovered an incredible strength within herself. She also delves into the profound impact of grief on her family and how it led her to create a charity in Rosie’s honour. This charity provides support and music therapy to children in hospitals.
 
Throughout the discussion, we explore themes of resilience, the significance of support, and the enduring legacy of love that transcends loss. Carolyn candidly shares her compelling decision to pursue motherhood again later in life. She also discusses the profound impact of losing Rosie on her marriage and the challenges she faced during her battle with cancer. Carolyn emphasises the transformative power of spiritual awakening and the importance of support and community in overcoming adversity.
 
Carolyn reflects on her newfound strength and her future aspirations. She continues her ongoing charity work and shares her writing endeavours, showcasing her resilience and determination.
 
 
Takeaways
The journey of grief is deeply personal and unique
Finding strength in the face of unimaginable loss is possible
Creating a legacy can be a powerful way to honour loved ones
Support systems are crucial for bereaved families
The importance of open conversations about grief and loss
Resilience can emerge from the darkest experiences
It's essential to seek help and support during tough times
The IVF journey was filled with emotional ups and downs
Motherhood at 54 brought new light and purpose to Carolyn's life.
Grief can significantly impact relationships, leading to challenges in communication
Support from friends and family is crucial during difficult times
Spiritual beliefs provided Carolyn with comfort and guidance
Finding strength in adversity can lead to personal growth and confidence.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:58 - Life Before
05:50 - The Onset of Illness: A Mother's Despair
09:01 - The Diagnosis: A Journey Through Uncertainty
12:01 - The Heartbreaking Decision: Letting Go
14:59 - Coping with Loss: A Family's Struggle
18:01 - Creating a Legacy: The Birth of a Charity
21:07 - Support for Families: Building a Community
23:44 - The Journey to IVF: A Compelling Decision
30:03 - Navigating Grief: The Impact of Loss on Relationships
31:17 - Facing Adversity: Cancer and Personal Struggles
36:04 - Spiritual Awakening: Finding Comfort in Beliefs
39:00 - Resilience and Strength: Lessons Learned Through Loss
41:24 - Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Charity Work
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 Learn more about Carolyn:
www.carolynmayling.com
 
Roșie's Rainbow Fund:
www.rosiesrainbowfund.co.uk
 
The Future is Rosie:
https://amzn.eu/d/9w4tmeU
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Jonathan's journey: Beating imposter syndrome / Reframing self-doubt / Importance of support

In this episode, I chat to Jonathan Besser.
 
He shares his transformative journey through midlife, discussing the unexpected challenges he faced after a career shift at 40, including imposter syndrome and the importance of support networks.
 
He emphasises the value of lifelong learning, self-discovery and embracing change as essential components of personal growth. Jonathan's insights highlight the significance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and the power of reflection in overcoming self-doubt.
 
He also discusses his upcoming book, which encapsulates ideas that have changed the world of work, and his passion for helping others navigate their own journeys. 
 
Takeaways
Recognising and addressing imposter syndrome is crucial for personal growth.
Support networks play a vital role in navigating life's challenges.
Embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Lifelong learning is essential for personal and professional development.
Self-reflection helps in understanding one's motivations and goals.
Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to significant growth.
It's important to be kind to yourself during difficult times.
Collaboration enhances learning and development.
Writing can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.
Finding purpose in midlife can lead to a fulfilling life.
Chapters
 
00:00 - Introduction03:07 - The Impact of Imposter Syndrome05:50 - The Role of Support Networks09:05 - Embracing Change and Growth11:59 - The Journey of Self-Discovery14:47 - The Importance of Lifelong Learning18:12 - Finding Purpose in Midlife20:54 - Overcoming Self-Doubt24:04 - The Power of Reflection26:58 - Writing as a Tool for Growth30:03 - Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
 
Learn more about Jonathan:
Intrepid-leadership.co.uk
 
Learn more about the book:
www.50ideas.world
 
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Lost your Midlife Mojo? Reclaim it, there's magic on the other side!

In this episode of Life's 2nd Act, I speak with Ali Spooner, the 'Midlife Mojo Coach', about the challenges and transformations that come with midlife.
We discuss the feeling of losing one's mojo, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of confidence in navigating this phase of life. Ali shares insights on how to identify the signs of losing mojo, the impact of change and loss, and the differences in how men and women cope with these transitions. 
 
The conversation emphasises the importance of communication, rediscovering purpose, and the coaching process to help individuals move through their midlife challenges and find fulfillment.
 
Takeaways
Losing your mojo can feel uncomfortable and disorienting
Taking action is crucial to moving through midlife challenges
Self-awareness is the first step to change
Midlife transitions can be as significant as moving into adulthood
Gender differences influence how individuals cope with midlife changes
Rediscovering personal values is essential for fulfillment
The coaching process helps individuals identify their strengths and passions
Surrounding yourself with supportive people can aid in recovery
Embracing change and curiosity can lead to personal growth
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:08 - Understanding Mojo and Its Loss
05:57 - The Impact of Change and Loss
09:09 - Gender Differences in Coping
11:54 - Identifying Temporary vs. Permanent Loss
15:05 - The Role of Confidence in Midlife
17:59 - The Importance of Communication
20:55 - Rediscovering Purpose and Values
23:58 - The Coaching Process Explained
27:04 - Embracing Change and Taking Action
29:55 - Finding Joy and Fulfillment in Midlife
 
Learn more about Ali:https://spoonfulinsight.co.uk/
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Midlife Musings: 'Stuck' in midlife, let's talk about it.

In this 'Midlife Musing' I reflect on my experiences of feeling stuck and the journey towards reinvention.
I touch on the importance of acknowledging feelings of uncertainty, taking small steps towards change, and prioritising health and well-being.
Through self-reflection and connection with others, I explore how to we can navigate this phase of life, encouraging others to embrace their evolving identities and seek clarity through action.
 
Takeaways
Midlife can be tough, but it's important to keep moving forward
Feeling stuck is a common experience in midlife
Acknowledging feelings of uncertainty is a necessary step towards growth
It's okay to feel lost sometimes; it can lead to deeper meaning
Reinvention doesn't have to be overwhelming; small steps matter
Action leads to clarity and helps overcome feelings of paralysis
Surrounding yourself with inspiring people can fuel growth
Embracing change is essential for personal evolution
We don't have to navigate midlife challenges alone
 
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Midlife Musings: Aging is a privilege - no one talks about this.

In this episode of Life's 2nd Act, it's time for another 'Midlife Musing' on aging...
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, where did the time go? or Am I too old for this?
Today, I'm flipping the script on aging. Aging isn't something to fear, it's a privilege!
Society tells us to fight it, but what if we saw it for what it truly is? An opportunity. A gift.
A chance not everyone gets.
In this episode, I'll share a fresh perspective on aging, why we should embrace it and how to live fully at every stage of life.
Let's change the way we think about getting older!
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Midlife Musings: 'Just be yourself', but how?

In this episode of Life's 2nd Act, I explore the theme of authenticity in midlife. I chat through the common feelings of discontent and the societal pressures that lead individuals to question their true selves.
 
I chat about the importance of living in alignment with your values and desires, particularly during midlife, often described as a crossroads... NOT a crisis.
 
I discuss the challenges people can face in embracing their true selves, including conditioning, fear of judgment and comfort zones.
 
Finally, I offer a few practical steps (I've learnt through chatting to the podcast guests) to begin your journey towards authenticity, encouraging small, intentional changes that can lead to a more fulfilling life.
 
Takeaways
Many people feel like they're playing a role in life.
Midlife can be a time for second chances.
Living authentically means aligning with your true values.
Conditioning from society can hinder authenticity.
Fear of judgment keeps us from changing our lives.
Comfort zones can feel safe but are often unfulfilling.
Small steps can lead to significant changes.
Reconnecting with past passions is essential.
Setting boundaries protects your energy.
Living authentically leads to greater life satisfaction.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Life's 2nd Act01:07 - Understanding Authenticity in Midlife03:57 - Challenges to Living Authentically05:27 - Steps to Embrace Your True Self07:52 - Conclusion and Call to Action
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