Episódios

  • In this episode, I speak to Michael Fry. He shares his deeply moving journey of resilience and recovery from addiction, mental health struggles and personal loss. He reflects on his childhood, the impact of his brother's death, the challenges of marriage and fatherhood and ultimately a breaking point at 55. His life then changed, with the help of Stonepillow he found his path to recovery and finding joy in life again. Michael emphasises the importance of community, compassion and self-forgiveness in his transformative journey. TakeawaysMichael reached a breaking point at 55, feeling hopeless.His childhood was marked by early addiction and a love for performance.Addiction escalated in his teenage years, affecting relationships.The loss of his brother had a profound impact on his life choices.He struggled with intimacy and relationships throughout adulthood.Misdiagnosed mental health issues contributed to his struggles.Michael's marriage faced challenges due to his addiction.Compassion from his ex-wife played a crucial role in his recovery.Hitting rock bottom led to a turning point in his life.Michael now finds daily joy and purpose in his work and community. Chapters00:00 - Introduction02:04 - The Breaking Point: A Dark Moment05:50 - Childhood and Early Influences10:08 - The Struggles of Addiction14:11 - Loss and Its Impact17:53 - Marriage and Fatherhood Challenges22:00 - The Role of Compassion in Recovery26:01 - Hitting Rock Bottom30:06 - The Path to Recovery33:49 - Finding Joy and Purpose38:11 - Reflections on Midlife and Growth To learn about the support from Stonepillow:https://stonepillow.org.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysHomelessness 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 Midlife02:06 - Understanding the Causes of Homelessness04:58 - The Profile of the Homeless07:52 - The Impact of Mental Health and Substance Abuse10:58 - Recognising Warning Signs and Seeking Help13:57 - The Role of Society and Stigma16:59 - Stonepillow's Approach to Support21:09 - Building Trust and Engagement with Clients24:52 - Transformational Stories of Recovery29:00 - How to Help Those in Need31:53 - The Current State of Homelessness36:01 - Closing Thoughts Find out more about Stonepillow:https://stonepillow.org.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

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  • 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. TakeawaysYou have the choice to how you respond to anythingAcceptance came faster than expectedSpiritual practice helped her stay groundedLocking my phone away helped manage external chaosLetting go of expectations was liberatingEnergy is everything in navigating lifeTaking time out allowed for self-discovery Chapters00:00 - Introduction01:35 - The Shock of Redundancy06:23 - Acceptance and Spiritual Practices10:49 - Finding Stillness and Clarity12:37 - The Power of Vulnerability15:35 - Navigating Fear and Self-Doubt19:03 - Exploring New Opportunities22:19 - The Journey of Self-Discovery28:11 - Shifting Perspectives and Energy32:58 - Manifesting New Beginnings35:19 - Lessons from Midlife and Beyond

    Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysThe journey of grief is deeply personal and uniqueFinding strength in the face of unimaginable loss is possibleCreating a legacy can be a powerful way to honour loved onesSupport systems are crucial for bereaved familiesThe importance of open conversations about grief and lossResilience can emerge from the darkest experiencesIt's essential to seek help and support during tough timesThe IVF journey was filled with emotional ups and downsMotherhood at 54 brought new light and purpose to Carolyn's life.Grief can significantly impact relationships, leading to challenges in communicationSupport from friends and family is crucial during difficult timesSpiritual beliefs provided Carolyn with comfort and guidanceFinding strength in adversity can lead to personal growth and confidence. Chapters00:00 - Introduction02:58 - Life Before05:50 - The Onset of Illness: A Mother's Despair09:01 - The Diagnosis: A Journey Through Uncertainty12:01 - The Heartbreaking Decision: Letting Go14:59 - Coping with Loss: A Family's Struggle18:01 - Creating a Legacy: The Birth of a Charity21:07 - Support for Families: Building a Community23:44 - The Journey to IVF: A Compelling Decision30:03 - Navigating Grief: The Impact of Loss on Relationships31:17 - Facing Adversity: Cancer and Personal Struggles36:04 - Spiritual Awakening: Finding Comfort in Beliefs39:00 - Resilience and Strength: Lessons Learned Through Loss41:24 - Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Charity Work--- Learn more about Carolyn:www.carolynmayling.com Roșie's Rainbow Fund:www.rosiesrainbowfund.co.ukThe Future is Rosie:https://amzn.eu/d/9w4tmeU Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysRecognising 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 --- Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysLosing your mojo can feel uncomfortable and disorientingTaking action is crucial to moving through midlife challengesSelf-awareness is the first step to changeMidlife transitions can be as significant as moving into adulthoodGender differences influence how individuals cope with midlife changesRediscovering personal values is essential for fulfillmentThe coaching process helps individuals identify their strengths and passionsSurrounding yourself with supportive people can aid in recoveryEmbracing change and curiosity can lead to personal growth Chapters00:00 - Introduction03:08 - Understanding Mojo and Its Loss05:57 - The Impact of Change and Loss09:09 - Gender Differences in Coping11:54 - Identifying Temporary vs. Permanent Loss15:05 - The Role of Confidence in Midlife17:59 - The Importance of Communication20:55 - Rediscovering Purpose and Values23:58 - The Coaching Process Explained27:04 - Embracing Change and Taking Action29:55 - Finding Joy and Fulfillment in Midlife

    Learn more about Ali:https://spoonfulinsight.co.uk/

    --Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysMidlife can be tough, but it's important to keep moving forwardFeeling stuck is a common experience in midlifeAcknowledging feelings of uncertainty is a necessary step towards growthIt's okay to feel lost sometimes; it can lead to deeper meaningReinvention doesn't have to be overwhelming; small steps matterAction leads to clarity and helps overcome feelings of paralysisSurrounding yourself with inspiring people can fuel growthEmbracing change is essential for personal evolutionWe don't have to navigate midlife challenges alone

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    Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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!

    -

    Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndact-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysMany 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.Chapters00:00 - 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---Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • Yay! I’m celebrating ONE YEAR of Life’s 2nd Act! And for today’s episode, I’m mixing things up with something COMPLETELY NEW and I'm still shaking my head in disbelief with this ‘conversation’. Over 24 amazing guests, countless moments, insights, stories, and a whole lot of reflection have brought us here, and it’s like nothing I’ve ever done before. I’ve collaborated with technology to relive the past year’s insights and create a whole new way to reflect. It’s a little experimental, but there is so much going on beneath the surface of this one. Thanks to Notebook LM by Google for the 'colab' on this one. I would love to know your thoughts to this show. TakeawaysAging affects our cognitive processing speed.Success doesn't always equate to fulfillment.Listening to our intuition is crucial for change.Fear can be reframed as a signpost for growth.Embracing uncertainty can lead to new opportunities.Relationships evolve and require open communication.Self-awareness helps us recognise weak signals for change.It's never too late to pursue new passions.Confidence builds through taking action.Imperfection is part of the human experience.Let me know your thoughts for pushing the show [email protected] --Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysFeeling 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 --Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
  • 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.

    TakeawaysAlan 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. Chapters00:00 - The Mask of Perception02:05 - Understanding OCD and Its Impact11:07 - The Tipping Point: Coming Out from Behind the Mask18:22 - Act Two: Rediscovering Passion Through Writing30:22 - 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 --Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
  • 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

    --

    Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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 balancedReflecting on life can reveal deeper desiresReconnecting with your dreams is essentialFinding balance requires attention to all life pillarsChange is scary but necessary for growthSmall steps can lead to significant changesPurpose can guide you towards fulfillmentEmbracing adventure can lead to self-discoveryListening to your inner voice is crucialLife 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

    --

    Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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

    --

    Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
  • 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

    --

    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/

    Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745

  • 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. TakeawaysListening can be a life-saving skillVolunteering with Samaritans is a humbling experienceChange can lead to personal growth and fulfilmentSamaritans provide a vital service for those in distressEmpathy is crucial in helping othersVolunteering can help alleviate personal stressIt's important to embrace change and take risksEveryone has the potential to make a differenceFinding purpose can come from unexpected placesChapters00:00 - Introduction to Life's Second Act Podcast00:56 - The Importance of Listening in Crisis01:52 - Stephen's Journey: From the City to the Samaritans05:12 - The High-Stakes World of Finance09:47 - Catalyst for Change: Leaving the Corporate World15:55 - Finding Purpose: Volunteering with Samaritans20:11 - The Role of Samaritans: Listening Without Judgment25:08 - Personal Growth Through Volunteering29:57 - Encouragement for Others: Embracing Change35:02 - 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/

    --

    Follow Life's 2nd Act:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifes2ndactFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556551936745
  • 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

    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

  • In this episode, I speak to John Hird.

    John, a seasoned accountant, shares his journey of looking for work in his 50s and the challenges he faced, including being told he was ‘overqualified’ for roles.

    He also discusses his brief experience as a prison officer and his decision to start a YouTube channel. John offers advice to others in their 50s, encouraging them to be patient and open to new opportunities.

    Takeaways

    Being told you are overqualified can be a common challenge for 'older' job seekers.Transitioning to a new career or trying something different in your 50s is possible and can bring a sense of purpose.YouTube offers opportunities for older content creators to share their life experiences and connect with an audience.Patience is key when looking for a new direction in life; the right opportunity will come along.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Challenges of Finding Work in Your 50s05:03 - Navigating Career Changes and 'Over-qualification'11:10 - Trying New Career Paths: From Accountant to Prison Officer18:44 - Discovering YouTube and Content Creation23:02 - The Potential of YouTube for Sharing Knowledge29:17 - Advice for Those Considering YouTube and Embracing Change

    34:11 - Conclusion

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    John's channels:

    https://www.youtube.com/@WeFade2Grey

    https://www.youtube.com/@ManchesterWise

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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

  • In this episode, I speak to Tim Farmer, an expert in mental capacity and brain function.

    We discuss the importance of understanding mental capacity as we age and how it affects decision-making. Tim shares his journey and passion for helping vulnerable adults and improving assessments of mental capacity.

    We explore the difference between mental capacity and brain function, the signs of cognitive decline, and ways to build resilience.

    Tim also explains how to support aging parents and make decisions on their behalf. He emphasises the need to embrace the inevitable decline and take proactive steps to minimise its impact.

    Takeaways

    Mental capacity is a legal term that refers to decision-making abilities, while brain function is a biological concept that relates to how the brain works.As we age, our brain function changes, and our decision-making processes evolve. It's important to be aware of cognitive decline and its signs, such as memory loss, decreased attention span, and increased confusion.To maintain cognitive health, it's crucial to keep the brain active through activities like puzzles and to prioritise social connections for mental well-being.When it comes to supporting aging parents, look out for signs of cognitive decline, such as memory loss and risky decision-making. Have open and supportive conversations, and consider legal protections like lasting power of attorney.Embrace the inevitable decline and take proactive steps to minimize its impact, such as seeking professional advice and setting up legal protections early on.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Introduction

    02:28 - Exploring Mental Capacity and Decision-Making

    06:43 - Differences Between Mental Capacity and Brain Function

    08:36 - Changes in Brain Function and Decision-Making as We Age

    15:20 - Signs of Cognitive Decline in Aging Parents

    18:45 - Supporting Aging Parents and Taking Proactive Measures

    24:01 - Prevalence of Dementia and Building Resilience in Life's Second Act

    27:24 - Strategies for Embracing Change and Making Personal Transformations

    31:44 - Tim's Journey and Looking Forward to the Future

    38:54 - Conclusion

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    https://www.timfarmer.co.uk/

    'Grandpa on a Skateboard' on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grandpa-Skateboard-practicalities-assessing-decisions-ebook/dp/B08JZ55WJB

    'Tim Farmer - The Assessor's Notebook' on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theassessorsnotebook

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    Find out more about the show: www.lifes2ndact.com

    Find out more about Simon Burgess

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