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

Bradley's journey: financial success... isn't enough!

In this episode, I speak to Bradley Worsfold, a successful entrepreneur and businessman. He shares his journey of finding a new direction and purpose after selling his business. 
 
Bradley discusses the challenges of transitioning from a business owner to a ‘retiree’ and the need for a new chapter in life. He shares his experience of starting a venture with his wife and finding satisfaction in supporting her passion.
 
Bradley's beliefs is to have faith in yourself, surround yourself with good people, and find satisfaction in what you're doing.
 
Takeaways
Having a clear sense of purpose is important for personal fulfilment and satisfaction.
Financial success alone is not enough to bring happiness and fulfilment.
Transitioning from a business owner to retirement can be challenging and may require finding a new chapter in life.
Supporting and being involved in a loved one's passion can bring a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Having faith in yourself, surrounding yourself with good people, and finding satisfaction in what you're doing are key to success.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:16 - Finding Direction and Purpose
09:17 - Building and Selling a Business
12:39 - Redefining Success After the Sale
14:36 - The Challenge of Retirement
16:29 - Starting a New Chapter: The Gallery Venture
20:17 - Advice for Selling a Business
21:44 - Personal Growth and Learning
22:43 - Legacy and Impact
23:39 - Goals and Aspirations
26:06 - The Importance of Direction and Purpose
28:04 - Final Thoughts
 
Find out more about https://haydengallery.co.uk/
 
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
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Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv
 
 

From the ego to the soul: the shift in the 2nd act

In this episode, I speak to Debbie Thomas, a psychotherapist, about the transformative phase in midlife.
 
We discuss the shift from the ego-driven first act to the soul-driven second act, the importance of finding meaning and purpose, and the challenges and opportunities that come with this stage of life.
 
Debbie emphasises the need to acknowledge and explore feelings of anxiety and loss, and to give oneself permission to change and pursue new interests.
 
She also highlights the value of therapy or life coaching in navigating this transition and finding a sense of direction and fulfilment, as well as her personal story into her second act.
 
Takeaways
The second act of life is a natural and expected phase of growth and change.
Feelings of anxiety and loss during midlife can be signals for the need for change and exploration.
Finding meaning and purpose in the second act is important for personal fulfillment and wellbeing.
Giving oneself permission to change and pursue new interests is crucial.
Therapy or life coaching can be valuable in navigating significant life transitions and finding direction and fulfillment.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:05 - Understanding Integrative Psychotherapy
04:31 - Sense of Purpose and Second Act Concerns
08:41 - Shifting Meaning and Purpose in the Second Act
11:01 - Common Feelings and Challenges in Midlife
13:54 - The Value of Talking and Seeking Support
20:25 - Exploring Different Aspects of Self
23:13 - The Importance of Intimacy and Relationships
25:37 - Giving Yourself Permission for Change
28:06 - Embracing the Opportunities of the Second Act
29:34 - Debbie's Personal Journey and Transformation
34:17 - Advice for Navigating the Second Act
39:31 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
Find out more about Debbie: www.debbiethomastherapy.co.uk/
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
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Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv
 

Navigating the world of work: the challenges & opportunities

In this episode, I speak to Richard Alborough about the challenges and opportunities of finding a job and navigating the world of work.
We discuss topics such as age discrimination, the skills gap, salary expectations, and the importance of maintaining a strong professional network.
Richard emphasises the importance of staying positive and proactive in your job search, as well as continuously updating your skills and keeping your CV current. He also shares his own experiences and insights on maintaining motivation and finding purpose in your career.
 
Takeaways
Stay positive and proactive in your job search, even in the face of challenges and rejections.
Maintain a strong professional network and don't be afraid to reach out for help and opportunities.
Continuously update your skills and keep your CV current to stay competitive in the job market.
Find motivation and purpose in your career by focusing on the positive impact you can make and the achievements you can attain.
Embrace change and be open to new opportunities, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:09 - Exploring the World of Work in Your 50s
11:13 - Navigating Career Growth and Redundancy
13:34 - The Role of AI in Recruitment
15:56 - Barriers and Solutions: Age Discrimination and the Skills Gap
27:14 - Advice for Those Facing Challenges and Those Seeking Growth
30:37 - Richard's Personal Experience and Outlook
32:30 - Finding Purpose and Staying Positive
39:37 - Conclusion
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
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Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

Mike's journey: burnout to balance & the power of personal energy

In this episode I speak to Mike Ford, founder of Grateful Lemon.
 
Mike shares his journey of finding a new sense of purpose and direction in life after burnout hit him hard.
 
He discusses the importance of wellbeing and its link to performance and how he’s shifted his mindset and habits to prioritise personal energy. 
 
Mike emphasises the power of conscious thoughts, rewiring negative self-talk and practicing gratitude. 
So many practical tips to put ourselves in the best place we can be.
 
Overall, Mike's story is a testament to the transformative power of making intentional choices and embracing personal growth.
 
Takeaways
Finding a new sense of purpose and direction in life requires self-reflection and a willingness to make intentional choices.
Prioritising personal energy and wellbeing is essential for performance and overall fulfillment.
Conscious thoughts and self-talk play a significant role in shaping our mindset and emotions.
Practicing gratitude and focusing on positive emotions can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life.
Improving sleep quality is a keystone habit that can positively impact various aspects of life, including physical and mental well-being.
Making small, intentional changes in habits and mindset can lead to significant personal growth and transformation.
Chapters
 
00:00 - Introduction to Mike and his journey
02:04 - Finding purpose and direction in life
07:32 - Recognising the need for change and overcoming burnout
23:08 - The power of conscious thoughts and positive self-talk
25:07 - The keystone habit: Improving sleep quality
32:50 - Embracing personal growth and transformation
37:42 - Closing thoughts and reflections
 
Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv
 

Cathy's journey: life as an actor, navigating uncertainty, embracing reinvention!

In this episode, I speak to Cathy Walker, an actress in her mid-50s, about navigating uncertainty, finding direction and purpose in mid to later life. 
 
Cathy shares her experiences as an actor, including the challenges of the industry and the joy of creative collaboration. She also discusses societal pressures on women and the importance of embracing reinvention.
 
Cathy emphasises the role of faith for her in providing a sense of direction and hope. She highlights the value of being open to new opportunities and finding fulfillment in unexpected places.
 
 
Takeaways
Embrace uncertainty and be open to new opportunities
Trust yourself and be confident in who you are
Find fulfillment in unexpected places and embrace reinvention
Faith can provide a sense of direction and hope
 
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:31 - Cathy's Journey as an Actress
03:25 - Navigating Uncertainty and Lack of Stability
05:23 - Gratitude and Embracing Each Day
06:19 - Challenges and Odds of Being an Actress in Your 50s
10:34 - The Joy of Acting and Embracing Creativity
21:34 - Purpose Finding You
23:59 - The Role of Faith in Providing Direction
29:11 - Embracing Uncertainty and Reinvention
32:03 - Lessons Learned and Looking Forward
35:20 - Conclusion
 
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv
 
 
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I would love to... but where's the money coming from?

In this episode, I speak to Stuart Wilson about the current borrowing landscape, attitudes towards retirement planning and the options available, such as equity release.
 
We also explore the shift from retirement time to ‘living time’, and how equity release has transformed lives of some. 
 
Stuart also touches on his personal position  at 54, recently being made redundant and how we don’t reflect as much as we should on what we have achieved in life.
 
Takeaways
The borrowing landscape for post-55ers has become more challenging, with changes in interest rates and the mortgage market.
Attitudes towards retirement planning have shifted, with more focus on living time rather than retirement time.
Equity release is a popular option for leveraging the value of one's home to fund retirement, but it requires specialist advice.
There is still confusion surrounding retirement planning and the options available.
Reflecting on one's achievements and being kind to oneself are important aspects of later life.
Financial stability and the ability to explore new opportunities are key factors in navigating the uncertainties of later life.
 
Chapters
00:00 - Intro and Setting the Scene 
03:24 - The Current and Changing Borrowing Landscape
08:34 - Options for Those Looking for More Money 
13:27 - The Power of Equity Release
14:00 - Evolution of Products
17:00 - Equity Release: Stories
24:30 - Stuart’s Personal Story
26:51 - Navigating the Uncertainties of Later Life
30:56 - Stuart’s Close to Death Experience
38:50 - Conclusion and Take Always 
 
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

Reflections from Las Vegas

In this 'bonus' episode, I reflect on my past conversations and my personal journey.
What have I learnt so far? Am I any closer to finding my personal purpose? Why Las Vegas?
In this short episode I touch on the importance of embracing change, stepping out of comfort zones and finding a sense of purpose, some key takeaways from previous guests, including the power of talking to others, the value of patience and resilience, and the significance of health and well-being.
 
Takeaways
Embrace change and uncertainty with an open mind and courage.
Talking to others is a powerful way to understand oneself.
Patience and resilience are important when navigating life's transitions.
Prioritise health and well-being to embrace change more effectively.
It's never too late to make positive changes and pursue a fulfilling life.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and why Las Vegas
03:47 - Reflections on Simon Humphreys and Michael Esau
05:50 - Reflections on James Upton
07:45 - Reflections on Rachel Williams
10:09 - Reflections on Neil Pitts
11.55 - My thoughts
13:39 - Upcoming Conversations: Acting, Career Choices, Financial Stability, Burnout and Self-Relationship Challenges
 
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv

Neil's journey: working to LIVE... it is possible!

In this episode, I speak to Neil Pitts, an ‘amateur adventurer' as he likes to call himself’ who embodies the art of working to live. Neil shares his journey of breaking free from a job he hated and finding purpose in pursuing his passions. 
He emphasises the importance of embracing change and having a positive attitude. Neil also discusses his experience of battling long COVID and his remarkable trip to ski the length of Norway. 
 
Neil’s approach of ‘knowing that everything will be alright’ runs through as a common theme.
 
Takeaways
Define yourself by the experiences you have, not just your job.
Embrace change and take risks to live a fulfilling life.
Build confidence by pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone.
Find a balance between work and play to prioritise your passions.
Maintain a positive attitude and believe that everything will be alright.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:17 - Defining Yourself Beyond Your Job
04:42 - Taking a Different Approach to Life
07:03 - Embracing Change and New Opportunities
09:18 - Building Confidence and Overcoming Fear
11:26 - Finding Direction and Purpose
12:20 - Balancing Work and Play
15:34 - The Benefits of Working to Live
21:22 - Skiing the Length of Norway
25:13 - Challenges and Setbacks
27:36 - Pride and Lessons Learned
31:26 - Future Adventures and Pursuing Dreams
34:46 - Final Thoughts
35:39 - Conclusion
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Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Find out more about Simon Burgess
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/lifes2ndact?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=e6404aa8-44c8-4530-a097-891dbf3faeea
 
Life's 2nd Act is produced by www.sugarsnap.tv