Episodes
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Special Offer for My Listeners:
As a gift to my listeners, I am offering a free 60-minute zoom session with me to chat about where you are at and do a bit of dreaming about your next chapter! You can book time with me via: https://CaraGray.as.me/60minutes. I will also put this link in the show notes or reach me via email at [email protected]. I love this work. I love helping people discover how to live inspiring lives. And I look forward to meeting you and hearing about your journey!
Transcription of Episode:
This is episode 24 of the Act Three podcast, the final episode of Season 2 and I want to take this opportunity to thank all of my previous guests for their time and thank my growing audience for their support. If you are enjoying this podcast, please make sure you are following it. And if you are really enjoying the podcast, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. That would mean the world to me.
Today is going to be a solo podcast. I realized that while I have been busy interviewing others about their Third Act, I’ve never taken the opportunity to introduce myself.
So here I am! My name is Cara Gray and I am a certified retirement coach - which means I help my clients plan the non-financial part of their retirement. I assume clients that come to me have worked closely with their financial advisors over the years and have planned well for their future. But I do find that the focus has been on money and not about how they are really going to live their lives. I look at these years as an incredible opportunity to design what you want your life to look like. When has there been a time where you have the freedom to make decisions and actually thoughtfully plan how you want to spend your time. Who you want to spend it with. Where you want to live. We’ve often been constrained by the limitations of our careers in terms of time and geography and now that is over!
You should also know that I struggle with the word “retirement”. I’ve even chosen to call this podcast Act Three as an alternative. But using the word retirement helps my communication - it’s more clear what I do - which is a relatively new field. And when I use the word retirement, think of Serena Williams. Think of Tom Brady. Think of younger people who are obsessed with the concept of FIRE which means they have reached financial independence and can now choose how they want to spend their time. That’s the vibe I operate from.
I look at this time in your life as a beginning. What have you always wanted to do, but haven’t had the time to explore? It’s possible that you haven’t even let yourself have those thoughts and dreams because you’ve been so busy with your life and your job over the years. You may want to start a new venture. You may want to try on another totally different career. You may want to be a mentor for the next generation and work part-time at a startup. You may want to travel the world. You may want to learn about and become an expert in a totally new field like artificial intelligence or wine or horticulture. Or maybe you want to write a book and launch a speaking career. The point is that absolutely anything is possible! And what I do is help you uncover the possibilities and start dreaming them into your reality.
We are also going to talk about the very big word that is PURPOSE. Some of you have been lucky enough to have had careers that gave us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Others of you can’t exactly use that word to describe your life’s work, but you did feel needed and essential and those concepts are similar and need to be replaced as you transition to our next chapter. Now that you are going to have the opportunity to choose how you spend your time you can intentionally choose to live with purpose and that, my friends, is a gift. I also want to share that this work is my purpose and I feel grateful to be helping others discover theirs.
In my client work we also look at things like your health, both physical and mental, and make sure you have a plan to optimize both. We also will spend some time talking about your relationships and social networks that become more important as we age and often need to be replaced when you leave your main career. My work is holistic in scope. We want to have a plan for all areas of your life so that you continue to grow and thrive at this time in your life where you also can experience a vast amount of freedom.
At the end of our work together, I put together what I call Your Retirement Blueprint. This document is full of all the things we identified for you to explore, some short and long term goals that we agree on together, plus a ton of resources that make it easy for you to start exploring and prototyping some of the possibilities that are exciting for you. Your work with me is just the beginning of your retirement exploration. The last Blueprint that I put together was nearly 30 pages to give you an idea! This is a document that you will reference long after our time together. But if you want some additional time with me to hold yourself accountable as you dig into the Blueprint, that can be arranged.
You intuitively know that transitions go more smoothly if you have a plan and some goals and accountability that align. When the transition happens well, awesome things follow. But if there is a poor transition, years can be lost. Let's make sure you don't lose any of your hard-earned time.
As a gift to my listeners, I am offering a free 60-minute zoom session with me to chat about where you are at and do a bit of dreaming about your next chapter! You can book time with me via: https://CaraGray.as.me/60minutes. I will also put this link in the show notes or reach me via email at [email protected]. I love this work. I love helping people discover how to live inspiring lives. And I look forward to meeting you and hearing about your journey!
Until then, be well. And thanks for listening.
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Julie Danis is not just a former marketing executive but also a writer, storyteller, and an advocate for creative exploration. In this episode, Julie shares her diverse career journey, her transitions, and how she has embraced her third act with a vibrant mix of creativity, resilience, and openness to new experiences.
Show Notes:
[00:00:00] Introduction to the podcast and sponsorship note from Good Morning Freedom.
[00:01:00] Julie Danis’s introduction and career background.
[00:02:00] Julie shares insights from her solo show, "Life's Too Short and So Am I," and her ongoing journey in exploring different identities and careers.
[00:04:00] Deep dive into Julie’s major career shifts from marketing and advertising to storytelling and writing.
[00:06:00] Memorable moments from her career, including global insights and the intricacies of market research.
[00:10:00] Transition from corporate roles to creative pursuits, including her stint at Second City and writing for the Chicago Tribune.
[00:14:00] Discussion on the 2010 layoff and attending the More Magazine reinvention conference
[00:16:00] The role of reinvention in Julie’s life and career, influenced by coaching and self-discovery.
[00:18:00] Exploration of the documentary film writing process and its impact on Julie’s career trajectory.
[00:20:00] Reflections on navigating freelance work
[00:22:00] Current projects, including live storytelling and ongoing writing efforts.
[00:24:00] Julie’s honorary role as the council general of Liechtenstein in Chicago.
[00:28:00] Final thoughts and advice for listeners approaching retirement and looking to reinvent their third act.
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Missing episodes?
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Episode Description:
In this enlightening episode of Act Three, host Cara Gray chats with Alex Hayes-Griffin, a former banker who transitioned to a fulfilling career as an independent advisor and coach. After a dynamic banking career, Alex shares insights on planning for the next life stage, embracing new identities, and finding personal and professional fulfillment. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone contemplating or navigating significant life transitions.
Key Moments:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Act Three and today's guest, Alex Hayes-Griffin.
[00:01:00] Alex’s banking career and his pivot to independence.
[00:02:00] The realization and planning phase before transitioning out of banking.
[00:05:00] The pivotal moments leading to Alex's decision to leave banking.
[00:08:00] The impact of the pandemic on Alex’s transition and personal life changes.
[00:10:00] Challenges faced during the transition and overcoming them.
[00:13:00] Alex's approach to learning and embracing new skills post-banking.
[00:18:00] Experiencing freedom alongside anxiety and the complexities of significant life changes.
[00:20:00] Personal growth and changes experienced since the transition.
[00:22:00] Advice for others contemplating a significant career or life change.
[00:26:00] Supporting his wife's entrepreneurial journey with Wondercoat.
[00:30:00] Alex’s ideal client and where to find his coaching services.
Resources Mentioned:
To connect with Alex for coaching or advisory services, visit AHGXAI.
Wondercoat: Boutique business specializing in Dachshund coats, founded by Alex’s wife.
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Episode Highlights:
Introduction to Joan Rosenthal: Cara introduces Joan, detailing her impressive background in finance and her impactful transition to philanthropy.
Early Career Challenges: Joan shares her experiences starting out in a predominantly male industry during the 1970s, highlighting the challenges and societal expectations of women at the time.
The Transition to Philanthropy: Joan discusses her decision to retire early and shift her focus towards nonprofit work, motivated by a desire to contribute more directly to societal improvement.
Involvement in Nonprofit Organizations: An in-depth look into Joan's roles in various organizations, with a focus on her passion for education and supporting underserved communities.
Wellmet Philanthropy: Joan delves into her involvement with Wellmet Philanthropy, a women's giving circle that funds emerging organizations and leaders, explaining the process and the impact of collective philanthropy.
Advice for Transitioning to Act Three: Joan offers advice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in retirement, including how to find organizations that match personal passions and how to leverage professional skills for nonprofit success.
Key Quotes:
"You're not done at retirement; you're just transitioning to a stage where you can choose to focus on what truly matters to you." - Joan Rosenthal
"The power of collective giving is immense. Through Wellmet Philanthropy, we've been able to support initiatives that truly make a difference in people's lives." - Joan Rosenthal
Joan’s Philanthropic Ventures:
www.wellmetphilanthropy.org
www.friendsny.org
www.Bronxworks.org
www.Wpti.orgFind a women’s giving circle: https://philanos.org/
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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About Chris Farrell:
Chris Farrell is an esteemed voice in the realms of business, economics, and personal finance, contributing to platforms such as Minnesota Public Radio, Marketplace from American Public Media, and several notable publications. He is the author of impactful books like The New Frugality, Unretirement, and Purpose and a Paycheck, which challenge traditional narratives around aging, retirement, and the workforce.
Episode Highlights:
The Redefinition of Retirement: Chris discusses his journey into exploring the theme of retirement and how longevity, improved health, and a desire for continued purpose are reshaping what retirement looks like.
Unretirement and The Third Act: Unpacking the concept of 'unretirement,' Chris shares insights into how people are choosing to blend work, purpose, and leisure in their later years, moving away from the notion of retirement as a full-stop to active, engaged living.
Combating Ageism in the Workplace: With anecdotes and evidence, Chris addresses the progress made in fighting age discrimination and the value that experienced workers bring to the economy.
Intergenerational Collaboration: Debunking myths of generational conflict, Farrell highlights the shared values across generations in the workplace and the richness that diverse experiences bring to societal progress.
Gig Economy and Retirement Planning: Offering perspectives on the gig economy as a flexible work option for retirees, Chris encourages an experimental mindset towards post-retirement work, emphasizing the importance of social security, Medicare, and personal savings in planning for retirement.
Purpose, Passion, and Planning: Echoing the mission of Good Morning Freedom, Chris and Cara discuss the importance of finding purpose and passion in retirement, stressing the significance of financial literacy and proactive planning for a fulfilling third act.
Guest's Upcoming Projects:
Chris hints at another book in the early stages of development, promising more insightful explorations into the themes of work, retirement, and purpose.
Host’s Comments:
Cara Gray reflects on the enlightening conversation with Chris Farrell, reiterating the importance of rethinking retirement as an opportunity for growth, learning, and meaningful engagement. She encourages listeners to explore their passions and consider the non-financial aspects of retirement planning through Good Morning Freedom’s retirement blueprint package.
Closing Remarks:
Chris Farrell’s insights into the evolving landscape of retirement underscore a shift towards a more purpose-driven, engaged, and flexible approach to the later stages of life. This episode invites listeners to contemplate their own 'act three,' encouraging a reimagined perspective on retirement that embraces opportunity, purpose, and continued contribution.
Chris’ Books:
Purpose and a Paycheck
Unretirement
The New FrugalityThis podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Guest Introduction:
Joan Pagano, a leading authority in strength training for women and bone health, shares her vast experience and knowledge. With a career that began in 1988, Joan has dedicated herself to empowering women through exercise, specifically focusing on strength training and osteoporosis prevention. Her work, including a comprehensive 10-part series on the best exercises for osteoporosis prevention, has made her a respected figure in the fitness industry.
Celebrity Training Insights:
Joan shares fascinating anecdotes from her time training Jacqueline and Carolyn Kennedy, offering a glimpse into her approach to personalized fitness and the importance of strength training at any age.
The Path to Specializing in Women's Strength Training:
Discover how Joan’s career path and personal experiences led her to specialize in strength training for women, particularly those recovering from breast cancer and those at risk for or living with osteoporosis.
Key Takeaways from "Strength Training Exercises for Women":
Joan discusses the highlights from her book, emphasizing the importance of starting with bodyweight exercises and progressing based on individual needs and goals. She underscores the empowering nature of strength training and its benefits for overall health and well-being.
Customizing Exercise Programs:
Learn how Joan tailors exercise programs to meet her clients' specific health histories, objectives, and lifestyles, ensuring that each program is both safe and effective.
Debunking Strength Training Myths:
Joan addresses common misconceptions about strength training, highlighting the adaptability of strength training routines to meet current needs and goals rather than constantly increasing intensity.
Finding the Right Trainer:
Tips on how to find a qualified trainer, including the importance of certifications from reputable organizations and the value of word-of-mouth recommendations.
Exercises to Avoid with Osteoporosis:
Joan provides crucial advice on which movements to avoid if you have osteoporosis or osteopenia, stressing the importance of modifying exercises to prevent injury.
Looking Ahead:
Joan shares her insights on the future of women's fitness, particularly the growing awareness and education around strength training for bone health.
Conclusion:
Cara and Joan wrap up the conversation with details on how listeners can find more information, access Joan’s resources, and the importance of incorporating strength training into one's fitness routine.
For more information and resources from this episode, visit Joan Pagano’s website at Joan Pagano Fitness and check out her book, "Strength Training Exercises for Women," available on Amazon.
www.joanpaganofitness.com
www.facebook.com/JoanPaganoFitness
www.linkedin.com/in/joanpagano
www.twitter.com/JPaganoFitness
www.youtube.com/user/joanpagano
www.pinterest.com/jpaganofitness
sign up for free fitness tips here!
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Our new Retirement MERCH Collection - stylish hoodies, sleek t-shirts, and classic baseball caps, each crafted to embody the spirit of retirement. It's not just about kicking back and relaxing; it's about embracing Freedom, stepping into a new phase of being Rewired, and thriving in your Act Three. Our collection celebrates these moments with designs that are minimal yet chic, modern yet timeless - perfect for you or as thoughtful gifts for your retired friends and family. https://goodmorningfreedom.myshopify.com/
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Guest Introduction:
Today's episode features a special guest, David Campbell, a distinguished American technology executive, corporate board member, and the founder of All Hands and Hearts, a non-profit organization focused on natural disaster response and rebuilding efforts. With a rich history of leadership roles across various sectors, David shares insights from his multifaceted career and his journey towards philanthropy.
Episode Highlights:
Career Insights: David recounts his experiences in the technology sector, including his time at IBM and his pivotal role in growing Computer Task Group. He discusses the importance of building a positive organizational culture and the transition to BBN Technologies, where he contributed to the development of the ARPANET.
Board Leadership: David shares his extensive involvement in various boards, emphasizing the significance of community engagement and corporate responsibility, particularly in the Buffalo, NY area. His commitment to civic organizations demonstrates the value of active participation in local development.
Founding All Hands and Hearts: The story of All Hands and Hearts is a testament to David's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to humanitarian aid. Originating from a spontaneous decision to aid tsunami victims in Thailand, the organization has grown into a global force for disaster response, relying on volunteers and donations to make a tangible difference.
Philanthropic Pathways: David offers practical advice for individuals seeking to engage in philanthropy, introducing a matrix to help align personal interests with potential areas of impact. He emphasizes the importance of engaged philanthropy and provides resources for finding and evaluating organizations to support.
Life Beyond Retirement: Highlighting the search for purpose post-retirement, David encourages listeners to consider volunteerism and philanthropy as avenues for meaningful engagement. He shares his ongoing role as a mentor and the joy derived from connecting people with causes that resonate with them.
Links from the Episode:
Donate: https://www.allhandsandhearts.org/
https://www.neidonors.org/
https://www.guidestar.org/
https://www.charitynavigator.org/
https://www.interaction.org/
https://www.amazon.com/All-Hands-Evolution-Volunteer-Powered-Organization/dp/1632990628/
Final Thoughts:
David Campbell's journey from technology executive to philanthropic leader illustrates the profound impact that one individual can have on both local and global communities. His advice for finding purpose and making a difference in retirement offers valuable insights for anyone looking to redefine their Act Three.
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Episode Overview:
In this inspiring episode of "Act Three," host Cara Gray sits down with Cynthia Round, a trailblazing brand strategist known for revitalizing legacy brands and making them relevant to new audiences. Cynthia shares her journey through the advertising world, her strategic pivot into meaningful nonprofit work, and her role in making art accessible to all at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Through her stories, Cynthia offers invaluable insights into identity, career evolution, and the art of thriving in life's third act.
Show Highlights:
Cynthia's Groundbreaking Career: From advertising at P&G and Ogilvy to impactful roles at United Way Worldwide and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Cynthia's career is a testament to her pioneering spirit and commitment to purposeful work.
The Power of Mentoring: Reflecting on the mentors who shaped her journey, Cynthia emphasizes the importance of mentorship and how it can guide and transform lives, encouraging listeners to seek or become mentors themselves.
Embracing Act Three: Cynthia discusses the concept of "Act Three" - a stage of life filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and giving back. She shares personal anecdotes and advice on navigating this phase with curiosity and openness.
Redefining Identity: Addressing how one's identity evolves over time, Cynthia encourages embracing a broader sense of self that goes beyond professional accomplishments, highlighting the richness of life's experiences.
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Our new Retirement SWAG Collection - stylish hoodies, sleek t-shirts, and classic baseball caps, each crafted to embody the spirit of retirement. It's not just about kicking back and relaxing; it's about embracing Freedom, stepping into a new phase of being Rewired, and thriving in your Act Three. Our collection celebrates these moments with designs that are minimal yet chic, modern yet timeless - perfect for you or as thoughtful gifts for your retired friends and family. https://goodmorningfreedom.myshopify.com/
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Summary:
In this episode, host Cara talks with oboist Joey Savalaggio about his 19-year career with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, and his transition to designing innovative educational programs that use classical music to promote literacy and creativity.
Key Topics Covered:
How Joey first fell in love with classical music and decided to pursue it professionally
Highlights from Joey's tenure as Principal Oboe with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra
Joey's current work creating musical storytelling programs for students and adults
Using music composition and performance techniques to teach literacy skills
Partnering with local school boards and libraries on creative educational initiatives
The process of writing interactive stories set to music with students
Adapting programs for blind/visually impaired students
Joey's decision to return to his hometown of Sudbury, Ontario after retiring from the MSO
Expanding his programming and finding ways for people to learn more about his work
Get in contact with Joey at Babu Press: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100042021054665
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Our new Retirement SWAG Collection - stylish hoodies, sleek t-shirts, and classic baseball caps, each crafted to embody the spirit of retirement. It's not just about kicking back and relaxing; it's about embracing Freedom, stepping into a new phase of being Rewired, and thriving in your Act Three. Our collection celebrates these moments with designs that are minimal yet chic, modern yet timeless - perfect for you or as thoughtful gifts for your retired friends and family. https://goodmorningfreedom.myshopify.com/
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Guest Spotlight:
Victor Poleshuck, a retired obstetrician and gynecologist, shares his extensive experience in the medical field, his active retirement life, and his commitment to lifelong learning and community involvement. Polshuk discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, the transition to retirement, and his current pursuits, including teaching at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, traveling the world, and his involvement in the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
Key Highlights:
Career Reflections: Victor looks back on his fulfilling career in obstetrics and gynecology, highlighting the evolution of medical practices and his passion for teaching.
Retirement Activities: A deep dive into Victor's retirement life, showcasing his active involvement in education, music, travel, and community service.
Travel Adventures: Victor shares fascinating stories from his travels, including a recent trip along the Silk Route and his plans for future adventures.
Community Engagement: Insights into Victor's contributions to the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and his efforts to bring classical music to new audiences.
Family and Legacy: A touching discussion on the importance of family, particularly Victor's involvement in his grandchildren's lives and how this shapes his retirement experience.
Advice for Retirees: Victor offers valuable advice for professionals approaching retirement, emphasizing the importance of finding purpose and staying active.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute: https://www.rit.edu/osher/
Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra: https://rpo.org/
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.Our new Retirement SWAG Collection - stylish hoodies, sleek t-shirts, and classic baseball caps, each crafted to embody the spirit of retirement. It's not just about kicking back and relaxing; it's about embracing Freedom, stepping into a new phase of being Rewired, and thriving in your Act Three. Our collection celebrates these moments with designs that are minimal yet chic, modern yet timeless - perfect for you or as thoughtful gifts for your retired friends and family. https://goodmorningfreedom.myshopify.com/
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of "Act Three," host Cara Gray sits down with Natalie Wester, an early retiree, radical reinventor, and champion of authentic living. Natalie shares her remarkable journey from a successful career in public relations to becoming a National State Teacher of the Year, an international solo traveler, and a whiskey distillery bourbon maker. Now living her dream life in Portugal, Natalie discusses the power of permission, the importance of embracing change, and how midlife women can reimagine their futures.
Key Points Discussed:
Natalie's Diverse Career Path: From the first Black officer VP at a prestigious PR firm to an award-winning teacher, and beyond.
Journey to Early Retirement: How personal loss and a desire for happiness led Natalie to retire early and explore the world.
Life in Portugal: Natalie shares why she chose Portugal as her new home and the joys of living on the ocean without the fear of hurricanes.
The Hot Goddess Blog: Natalie's venture into blogging to share unapologetically authentic stories and insights for midlife women.
Dating Abroad: Insights into the international dating scene and Natalie's personal experiences as a single, retired expat.
Advice for Nearing Retirement: Natalie emphasizes the importance of taking one step at a time and not being overwhelmed by the big picture.
Featured Guest: Natalie Wester, early retiree, storyteller, and blogger at the Hot Goddess.
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Our new Retirement SWAG Collection - stylish hoodies, sleek t-shirts, and classic baseball caps, each crafted to embody the spirit of retirement. It's not just about kicking back and relaxing; it's about embracing Freedom, stepping into a new phase of being Rewired, and thriving in your Act Three. Our collection celebrates these moments with designs that are minimal yet chic, modern yet timeless - perfect for you or as thoughtful gifts for your retired friends and family. https://goodmorningfreedom.myshopify.com/
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
The Hot Goddess: Follow Natalie's blog for more stories and insights on living a fulfilling life in retirement at thehotgoddess.com.
Instagram: Connect with Natalie on Instagram @retired_rewired_inspired.
Closing Thoughts: Natalie's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue a life you love. Whether through career changes, international adventures, or personal reinventions, embracing the possibilities of Act Three can lead to profound happiness and fulfillment.
Listen, Share, Subscribe: Don't forget to listen, share this episode with friends, and subscribe to "Act Three" for more inspiring stories and expert advice on living your best life after retirement.
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Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Act Three," host Cara Gray welcomes Erica Baird and Karen Wagner, founders of Lustre, a platform showcasing retired career women as vibrant, relevant, and fun. They discuss breaking stereotypes of retirement and aging, sharing their experiences as career women and the changes they faced post-retirement.
Key Points:
Journey to Lustre: Erica and Karen reflect on their careers, challenges as pioneering women in their fields, and their distinctive styles.
Founding of Lustre: Motivated by feeling undervalued post-retirement, they created Lustre to redefine retired women's image and role.
Lustre's Impact: Discussion on how Lustre provides a fresh perspective, with stories, events, and a membership program.
Retirement Redefined: Erica and Karen share their visions for Lustre's future and their dreams for retired women's recognition and representation.
Special Moments:
Personal anecdotes from Erica and Karen's careers.
The realization and action against the outdated perception of retired women.
Insights into Lustre's events and the sense of community they foster.
Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to visit Lustre's website (https://www.lustre.net/), consider membership (only $65 annually!), and join the movement redefining retirement for women.
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Our new Retirement SWAG Collection - stylish hoodies, sleek t-shirts, and classic baseball caps, each crafted to embody the spirit of retirement. It's not just about kicking back and relaxing; it's about embracing Freedom, stepping into a new phase of being Rewired, and thriving in your Act Three. Our collection celebrates these moments with designs that are minimal yet chic, modern yet timeless - perfect for you or as thoughtful gifts for your retired friends and family. https://goodmorningfreedom.myshopify.com/
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Guest: Jenni Antonicic, yoga/meditation teacher and former wine professional
Links Mentioned:
Tejas Yoga Studio - Where Jenni teaches yoga classes (in person and online): https://tejasyogachicago.com
Jenni's website: https://www.jennianneyoga.com/
Key Topics Covered:
Jenni's background working in the stressful wine business and how it impacted her health
How she first discovered yoga and the profound personal experiences ("yoga moments") that led her to become a teacher
Who she enjoys teaching yoga to (more mature students) and why
The importance of staying physically and mentally active as you age - the concept of your "comfort zone" vs. overwhelm
How big life transitions like retirement are times of high "neuroplasticity" where you can reshape how you want your next phase to look
How yoga studios can provide community connections, which can be very valuable especially in retirement
Timecodes:
[00:01] Introducing Jenni and her current work as a yoga/meditation teacher
[00:03] Jenni describing her past career in the stressful wine business
[00:10] How Jenni first started taking yoga classes and why she was drawn to continue
[00:15] The "yoga moment" that made Jenni realize she was on the wrong career path
[00:17] Deciding to go through yoga teacher training without initially intending to teach
[00:26] The importance of staying active physically and mentally as you age
[00:35] Big life transitions as times of "neuroplasticity" to reshape yourself[00:36] How yoga studios can provide community connections
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Introduction
Bob Lies has had an extensive career in chemical engineering and supply chain management, holding leadership roles at companies like Dial and Tyson Foods.
After retiring, Bob spent a year as a substitute teacher at a local grade school. He found it very rewarding to help students have those "lightbulb moments".
Bob is now part of the Inspired Leadership Initiative at the University of Notre Dame, discerning what he wants to do next in the "third act" of his career.
Key Takeaways
Early in his career, Bob moved from chemical engineering roles into supply chain because he was interested in the leadership and business aspects. The move to supply chain happened at the right time.
Two big changes during Bob's supply chain career were increased automation in forecasting/planning and improved use of data through technology. This changed how supply chain decisions were made.
As VP of Supply Chain Planning at Tyson Foods, Bob led the company through big challenges - implementing a new ERP system and then navigating COVID-related food supply shifts. It was rewarding to see the leadership team pull together.
Substitute teaching appealed to Bob as a way to do something very different. He found it fulfilling to contribute to those "lightbulb moments" of student learning.
Bob is exploring various roles at Notre Dame including teaching, mentoring, and consulting through the Innovation Center to see what fits for the next chapter.
Bob's advice to others looking to transition careers is that you have to get out of your routine and be open to new experiences. Programs like ILI can facilitate this transition.
Notre Dame's ILI Program - https://ili.nd.edu/
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Summary: Jeanne Thompson shares her experience transitioning from a successful 30-year corporate career to retirement. She gets real about the emotional struggles, loss of identity and purpose, and finding new meaning.
Key Takeaways:
Jeanne spent over 30 years working in financial services, most recently as SVP at Fidelity Investments helping people plan for retirement. Despite her expertise, she still struggled with the transition.
The first few months of retirement were depressing. She lost her sense of purpose, identity, community, and structure. She advises honoring the grief process.
It took time to figure out who she was and what brought her joy outside of work. She found fulfillment in hobbies like pickleball, writing a book, and making videos.
Her advice: Do a self-assessment of your interests and relationships outside work pre-retirement. Stay present - focus on what brings you joy right now, not the past.
She started making videos on TikTok as a creative outlet. Her TikTok blew up (80k views on first video) and led to consulting work. She now has a sizable following.
TikTok handle: @jdawgretires
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Key Points:
Frish's work at the gallery focused on connecting people through art and examining deeper questions about life, love, loss, etc. This inspired her interest in more spiritual and meaningful conversations later in life.
In 2009, she read an article about palliative care and felt called to have conversations in that space, leading her to eventually create her letter writing service.
As a "letter midwife", Frish guides people through telling their stories and crafting letters to convey what matters most. This is often for people in palliative care or hospice, but she helps all kinds of people write meaningful letters.
A letter writing session involves deep listening, asking thoughtful questions, and guiding the person to find the right words for their letter. She then provides a typed version for them to finalize.
Memorable letters have included a mother writing her values to her young sons, and a woman reconciling with estranged parents. Each letter and conversation is meaningful in its own way.
While emotionally heavy, Frish finds this work energizing and fulfilling. It has deepened her connections with others.
Advice for near retirement: reflect on when you've felt most yourself lately and look to where you get energy. Follow what lights you up.
Frish's website: mylastingletters.com
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Overview
Dave Evans is a lecturer at Stanford, management consultant, and co-founder of Electronic Arts. He is the co-author of the books Designing Your Life, Designing Your Work Life, and Designing Your New Work Life.
The conversation focuses on applying the principles from Designing Your Life to retirement and Act 3 of life.
Key TakeawaysThe pandemic caused people to re-evaluate their lives and careers, leading to an increased interest in "designing your life." Many realized that going back to the pre-pandemic status quo was no longer desirable.
Quiet quitting reflects long-standing workplace disengagement and lack of meaning, not a new phenomenon. The difference now is an unwillingness to continue tolerating lack of meaning and purpose at work among younger generations.
Personal practices like meditation, journaling and yoga are important for cultivating awareness and meaning. They help develop capacities for being present and having "alive" experiences.
Impact and meaning are different. Impact comes from accomplishments focused on the future. Meaning comes from experiences of coherence, community, flow and wonder in the present moment.
In retirement and Act 3, wayfinding to discover the next version of oneself often takes much longer than expected. Exploration is a project in itself, not just a quick step to figuring everything out.
Later life can be uniquely satisfying as people gain more freedom and complete earlier accomplishments. The invitation is to not just continue previous patterns out of fear, but discover greater meaning and aliveness.
Mentioned ResourcesBooks:
Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Designing Your New Work Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Falling Upward by Richard Rohr
The Second Mountain by David Brooks
Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks
Website: www.designingyour.life
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/ -
In this episode, I interviewed Connie Lindsey, former Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Northern Trust in Chicago. We discussed:
Her career journey at Northern Trust and decision to "rewire" instead of retire
Serving on nonprofit boards and pursuing civic engagement
Writing a book and her goals during this next phase of life
Advice for people nearing retirement: get your finances in order, envision how you'll spend your time, maintain your health
Her new podcast "Joy in the Breakthrough"
https://cantv.org/joyinthebreakthrough/
https://open.spotify.com/show/2Rz9C400f5aKeLj2cSxjeB?si=e4a637b1a45b49fc
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Key Points:
Jake had a 30+ year career with the Wall Street Journal as a reporter and editor. His identity was very tied to his work.
He attended the Distinguished Careers Institute at Stanford, a program for people seeking reinvention in their 50s and 60s.
The program focuses on purpose, community, and wellness. Jake found the community aspect invaluable in supporting reinvention.
He explored topics like spirituality, improv, memoir writing, and play. These opened him up to new ways of thinking and being.
After the program, he serendipitously found a new role leading the United States-Japan Foundation.
He feels more open-minded and less ego-driven in this next phase of life.
United States-Japan Foundation: https://us-jf.org/
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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Summary:
Dena was a special education teacher for 36 years in New Jersey public schools. She retired in 2018 at age 60.
In 2004, Dena visited Nigeria and was inspired to start the Dream School Foundation, providing educational resources and infrastructure to schools there. This became her passion project in retirement.
When funding ran out for Dream School, Dena pivoted to pursuing work she is passionate about that can also support her financially.
She got certified to teach yoga and now teaches yoga for women over 50, prenatal yoga, yoga for addiction recovery, and yoga for the elderly.
Dena also recently got a job as an educational consultant with the New Jersey Education Association, coaching teachers in underperforming school districts.
Key Takeaways:
It's important to have a purpose and passion project lined up for retirement. Dena was prepared with her nonprofit work when she left teaching.
Be open to pivoting when circumstances change. Dena creatively pieced together yoga teaching and educational consulting to continue doing meaningful work.
Look for opportunities to be of service, even if they are small. Helping others gives life meaning.
Links:
The Dream School Foundation website: http://www.dreamschoolfoundation.org
This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services.
Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
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