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

Susanne's journey: getting unstuck and freeing yourself from past storylines

In this episode I speak with transformative coach Susanne Kubik about her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Susanne shares her experiences of breaking free from a life of perfectionism and control.
 
The conversation explores themes of emotional health, the importance of acknowledging feelings, and the journey towards finding inner peace and authenticity, especially during midlife transitions.
 
 
Takeaways
Feeling at peace with oneself is a profound gift.
Many people live behind masks of perfection and control.
Suppressing emotions can lead to feelings of numbness.
Corporate environments often discourage emotional expression.
Embracing change is a gradual process.
Broadband Consciousness Methodology helps in self-discovery.
Core desired feelings are essential for fulfilment.
Breaking negative thought cycles requires practice and self-compassion.
Creating space for self-reflection is crucial for personal growth.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:06 - Susanne's Journey of Self-Discovery
02:34 - The Impact of Suppressed Emotions
06:15 - Navigating Corporate Life Without Feelings
09:11 - The Slow Process of Embracing Change
11:34 - Understanding Broadband Consciousness
15:17 - Core Desired Feelings and Their Importance
16:44 - Reflecting on the Past and Future
18:39 - Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thinking
23:19 - Embracing Midlife Transitions
26:11 - Creating Space for Self-Reflection
30:25 - Listening to the Inner Whisper
34:39 - Embracing the Second Act
40:07 - Final Thoughts on Authentic Living
 
Learn more about Susanne:
https://susannekubik.com/home
 
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Alan's journey: coming from 'behind the mask' of OCD and embracing his 2nd act.

In this episode, I speak with Alan Sowersby, who shares his journey of battling OCD throughout his career.
Alan discusses the challenges he faced while hiding behind a mask of confidence, the tipping point that led him to seek help, and how he rediscovered his passion for writing. Through poetry and self-expression, Alan learned to embrace his vulnerabilities and celebrate his neurodiversity, ultimately finding empowerment in sharing his story.
Takeaways
Alan battled with OCD throughout his career, impacting his personal and professional life.
He felt like he was living behind a mask, projecting confidence while struggling internally.
The turning point for Alan came when he realised he needed help and sought therapy.
Writing became a therapeutic outlet for Alan, allowing him to express his emotions.
His retirement speech marked a significant moment of vulnerability and authenticity.
Alan's journey emphasises that it's never too late to rewrite your own story.
He learned to embrace his neurodiversity and celebrate his unique experiences.
Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, and can lead to empowerment.
Transformation is possible at any age when one embraces authenticity. 
Chapters
00:00 - The Mask of Perception
02:05 - Understanding OCD and Its Impact
11:07 - The Tipping Point: Coming Out from Behind the Mask
18:22 - Act Two: Rediscovering Passion Through Writing
30:22 - Embracing Authenticity and Vulnerability
 
Learn more about Alan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-sowersby-5342969/
 
The book 'Breaking my Silence':
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Breaking-My-Silence-longer-anxiety/dp/1916920764
 
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Dan's journey: learning that good enough... is good enough!

In this episode, I speak with Dan Bowsher about his personal journey through breakdown, the challenges of midlife and the creation of his podcast, ‘Good Enough Chats’.
Dan shares his experiences with mental health, the importance of listening to friends, and the realisation that perfectionism can hinder personal growth.
The conversation highlights the significance of open discussions about mental health, especially among men, and the journey towards finding contentment and self-acceptance.
Takeaways
Burnout can manifest unexpectedly and lead to profound personal change.
Perfectionism can be a significant barrier to personal growth.
Creating a supportive environment for mental health discussions is essential.
Listening to friends can be a game changer in their mental health journey.
Self-employment can bring its own set of challenges post-burnout.
Finding contentment is about managing expectations and self-belief.
The journey of recovery is ongoing and requires constant self-awareness.
Good Enough Chats aims to de-stigmatise mental health issues for men.
Sharing personal experiences can help others feel less isolated. 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:08 - Navigating Midlife: Challenges and Opportunities
05:59 - Burnout: Recognising the Signs and Recovery
08:51 - The Impact of Burnout on Self-Employment
11:49 - The Role of Perfectionism in Personal Growth
15:10 - Good Enough Chats: A Platform for Honest Conversations
17:57 - Common Themes in Mental Health Conversations
20:52 - The Importance of Listening and Support
24:13 - Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Directions
27:04 - Finding Contentment: What Does Good Enough Mean?
35:47 - Conclusion and Takeaways
 
Learn more about Dan:
https://www.settsocial.com/
 
Good Enough Chats:
https://www.youtube.com/@GoodEnoughChatshttps://amzn.eu/d/hU2Yjkz
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Shawn's Journey: 're-discovering' his passion and charting a new course!

In this episode, I speak with Shawn Hamill, who shares his transformative journey from a successful corporate career to a life of purpose and balance. 
After realising he was on a fast track to burnout, Sean reflects on his life and decides to reconnect with his dreams. He talks about the importance of finding balance among career, self and family and how he and his wife embraced a sailing adventure to rediscover their passions. 
Shawn emphasises the significance of taking small steps towards change and the power of purpose in guiding one's life decisions.
 
Takeaways
Success can lead to burnout if not balanced
Reflecting on life can reveal deeper desires
Reconnecting with your dreams is essential
Finding balance requires attention to all life pillars
Change is scary but necessary for growth
Small steps can lead to significant changes
Purpose can guide you towards fulfillment
Embracing adventure can lead to self-discovery
Listening to your inner voice is crucial
Life is a series of opportunities to learn
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:36 - A Life of Success and Reflection
03:54 - The Awakening of Dreamer Sean
09:13 - Finding Balance in Life
13:36 - The Decision to Change
19:49 - Embracing the Journey
24:10 - Lessons Learned from the Adventure
30:55 - The Power of Purpose
33:31 - Encouragement for Change
38:15 - Final Thoughts 
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Learn more about Shawn:
https://www.shawnhamillconsulting.com/about
Buy the book: ''WITHOUT A COMPASS: Charting Course for a Deeper, More Meaningful Life'' - https://amzn.eu/d/hU2Yjkz
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The Midlife Mentors: maintaining your relationship amidst life's challenges

In this episode of Life's 2nd Act, I speak with Claire and James Davis, founders of a successful luxury fitness retreat company and hosts of the Midlife Mentors podcast. 
They discuss the challenges and transformations that come with midlife, including finding purpose, navigating relationships, and understanding hormonal changes. The conversation emphasises the importance of communication, self-awareness and support in maintaining healthy relationships during this transitional phase of life.
 
Takeaways
Midlife is a time for reflection and reassessment of values.
Finding purpose can be a journey that requires patience and exploration.
Hormonal changes affect both men and women differently during midlife.
Communication is essential for navigating relationships in midlife.
Therapy can be a valuable tool for couples to strengthen their bond.
Women often experience a shift in power and wisdom during menopause.
Men may face challenges related to testosterone decline in midlife.
Social connections are crucial for mental health and well-being in midlife.
Staying curious and open to change can lead to personal growth.
Midlife should be viewed as an opportunity for transformation rather than a crisis.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Intro
02:53 - Learning about Claire and James - the Midlife Mentors
08:23 - Finding Purpose and Passion in Midlife
14:01 - Understanding Hormonal Changes in Midlife
18:39 - The Midlife Crisis: A Gender Perspective
21:21 - Communication: The Key to Relationship Success
28:02 - Maintaining Relationships Amidst Life's Challenges
34:50 - Embracing Change: Lessons from the Journey
39:30 - Final Thoughts to Midlife Men and Midlife Women
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Learn more about Claire and James
https://themidlifementors.com/
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-midlife-mentors/id1463373998
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Dawn's journey: listening to your inner voice with work, direction & alcohol

In this episode of Life's 2nd Act, I speak with Dawn Barnes about her career journey, the challenges of burnout, and the transformative power of intuition.
Dawn shares her experiences of navigating midlife changes and the importance of listening to one's inner wisdom.
The conversation delves into practical strategies for personal growth, stress management and the impact of giving up alcohol on her life.
Dawn emphasises the significance of living authentically and being true to oneself as a pathway to fulfillment and happiness.
 
Takeaways
Dawn's career in global marketing led to burnout.
The birth of her children prompted a career reevaluation.
Intuition played a crucial role in her transformation.
Burnout can manifest in various ways, often unnoticed.
Listening to intuition can guide life decisions.
Mindset significantly impacts personal growth and well-being.
Taking quiet time helps in tuning into intuition.
Dawn helps others manage stress and find balance.
Giving up alcohol was a pivotal decision for Dawn.
Living authentically is essential for a fulfilling life.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:54 - Dawn's Career Journey and Transformation
05:45 - Understanding Burnout and Its Impact
09:08 - The Role of Intuition in Life Changes
14:12 - Developing Intuition for Personal Growth
16:37 - Dawn's Current Work and Helping Others
26:06 - The Decision to Give Up Alcohol
34:48 - Final Thoughts on Living Authentically
 
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Learn more about Dawn and how she helps people and teams feel better so they can do their best work, at work, everyday.
https://dawn-barnes.com/
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Stephen's journey: being there for others - from the City to the Samaritans

In this episode, I speak with Stephen Thariyan about his personal journey from a successful career in finance and the city to volunteering with the Samaritans. 
 
Stephen shares his experiences in the high-pressure world of finance, the catalyst for his change and the profound impact of listening to those in crisis. He emphasises the importance of empathy, resilience and the privilege of being a supportive presence for others. 
 
The conversation highlights the need for more volunteers at the Samaritans and encourages listeners to embrace change and seek purpose in their lives.
 
 
Takeaways
Listening can be a life-saving skill
Volunteering with Samaritans is a humbling experience
Change can lead to personal growth and fulfilment
Samaritans provide a vital service for those in distress
Empathy is crucial in helping others
Volunteering can help alleviate personal stress
It's important to embrace change and take risks
Everyone has the potential to make a difference
Finding purpose can come from unexpected places
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Life's Second Act Podcast
00:56 - The Importance of Listening in Crisis
01:52 - Stephen's Journey: From the City to the Samaritans
05:12 - The High-Stakes World of Finance
09:47 - Catalyst for Change: Leaving the Corporate World
15:55 - Finding Purpose: Volunteering with Samaritans
20:11 - The Role of Samaritans: Listening Without Judgment
25:08 - Personal Growth Through Volunteering
29:57 - Encouragement for Others: Embracing Change
35:02 - Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey
 
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Can you be there for people who desperately need someone?https://www.samaritans.org/support-us/volunteer/
 
 If you need someone to talk to, the Samaritans listen. Whatever you're going through, call them free any time on 116 123. They won't judge or tell you what to do. https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
 
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Paul's ‘midlife crisis’ journey: finding purpose amid a crisis

In this episode of Life's 2nd Act, I speak with Paul Sutton about the challenges and reflections that come with midlife.
He shares his personal journey feeling disconnected, questioning his purpose and struggling to figure out what’s missing. Paul’s story is one so many of us men can relate to. 
We explore personal experiences of feeling trapped, the journey of self-discovery and the importance of seeking understanding and resources during this transitional period.
The conversation delves into balancing work and passion, finding purpose in the 2nd act of life and the significance of community and conversation in navigating these changes.
 
Takeaways
- The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and complex
- Seeking resources like podcasts can aid in understanding midlife crises
- Journaling helped Paul process his thoughts and feelings
- Creating a daily tick list provided structure and accountability
- Midlife transitions are natural and should be openly discussed
- Community support is crucial during challenging times
- Finding purpose beyond family is essential for personal well-being
- Men's mental health issues need more societal attention
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Midlife Challenges
03:32 - Personal Reflections on Midlife Crisis
12:02 - Seeking Understanding and Resources
15:24 - The Journey of Self-Discovery
22:20 - Balancing Work and Passion
27:30 - Finding Purpose in the Second Act
31:23 - The Importance of Community and Conversation
34:27 - Journaling and ’Tick List’ Tools to Help
42:25 - Closing Thoughts
 
Find out more about Paul's podcast:
http://www.middlemanpodcast.com/
 
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Find out more about this show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
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Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv