Becoming a Corporate Productivity Expert: Sharon’s Story
The physical limitations of aging, a desire to downsize, and a newfound passion led Sharon to shift gears from residential organizing to productivity training. She now runs fun and informational programs in companies, with the goal to share time-saving strategies her...
Becoming a Motorcycle Racer at 46: Rebecca’s Story
After her divorce, Rebecca bought a Vespa scooter. Soon enough, she would trade up to a motorcycle and meet a welcoming community of riders, who encouraged her to start racing. Tell us a little about your background... I was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and was the...
Opening a Coffee Shop at 47: Vicky’s Story
The death of her brother was the catalyst for Vicky to take that leap of faith. She left her high tech career behind and opened Mazama Coffee Co., a specialty coffee house and micro-bakery in the suburbs of Austin, Texas. Tell us a little about your...
Becoming an Abstract Painter at 60: Brigitte’s Story
When Brigitte saw an announcement for painting classes in the window of her local gallery, she signed up on a whim. Little did she know how freely and easily she would paint, launching her next act as an artist. Tell us a little about your background… I am a nomad,...
Becoming a humorist in midlife: Elaine’s Story
A surprising breakdown in midlife led Elaine to come to terms with the past and create a new future for herself. She became a prolific humor blogger, author, and speaker, and even went on to launch her own publishing company. Tell us a little about your background… I...
Connecting with Audiences Through the Art of Taiko: Iris’s Story
A desire to reconnect to her heritage in midlife led Iris to try her hand at taiko, a modern drumming practice with Japanese roots. She was hooked and soon founded an ensemble dedicated to the teaching and performance of taiko. Tell us a little about your background…...
Writing a Novel About Alzheimer’s: Marianne’s Story
Marianne had always dreamed of becoming an author. It took an encounter with an elderly couple, in her capacity as a nurse, to help her complete her first novel, Blue Hydrangeas. She is now working on her second. Tell us a little about your background… I’m not a nurse...
Launching a Handbag and Accessories Business: Julie’s Story
As her oldest child was applying to college, Julie realized she needed to plan for her next act. She rekindled her passion for fashion and launched J. Markell Designs, with the goal to provide more reasonably-priced exotic-skin handbags and accessories. Tell us about...
Giving Former Inmates and Teen Mothers a Chance: Susan’s Story
When her beloved brother-in-law, Curt, passed away too young, Susan reevaluated her life, got involved with restorative justice, and opened Curt’s Café, with the mission to help at-risk, underserved young adults coming out of the prison system. Three years later, she...
Launching a Program to Empower Purposeful Retirement: Eva’s Story
When an unexpected illness hit her daughter, Eva chose to reconsider her path and craft the second half of her life in a way that’s true to her passions. She has launched Indigo, a VIP membership club that connects older adults with opportunities, experiences, and...