The Midlife Chrysalis

🔥 One night on air changed everything for Tamsen Fadal.She was at the top of her game as a TV anchor when she suddenly started forgetting words and sweating through live broadcasts, without realizing she was entering menopause. That moment became the turning point that led her from journalism to advocacy. In this conversation, Tamsen shares how she turned confusion into purpose, launching The M Factor documentary and her book How to Menopause.✨ Join us as we talk about redefining midlife, breaking the silence, and helping women everywhere navigate this powerful new chapter. Timestamps:00:43 Early Life and Losing Her Mother02:44 Lessons from Her Mother and Family Values04:06 Breaking Into TV News and Facing Stereotypes07:11 Sexism and Ageism in the Media Industry09:12 Defining Her On-Air Brand and Early Career Years11:46 Moving to New York and Personal Life Changes15:36 Advice to Her 40-Year-Old Self17:01 Health Issues, Misdiagnosis, and Menopause23:28 TikTok & Creating Awareness25:29 Street Interviews, Documentary, and The Book30:28 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause34:16 Hormone Therapy and Medical Education Gaps36:35 Finding Certified Menopause Practitioners38:48 How Men and Coworkers Can Be Supportive41:25 Reframing Midlife and the “Bolden Years”44:37 Purpose, Creativity, and Daily Motivation46:28 Redefining Retirement and Lifelong Energy48:22 Wisdom Bumper Sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MenopauseAwareness, #Perimenopause, #MidlifeEmpowerment, #WomensHealth, #MenopauseSupport, #MenopauseEducation, #TamsenFadal, #ChipConley, #HowToMenopause, #TheMFactor, #MidlifeCrisisMyth, #BoldenYears, #HormoneTherapy, #MenopauseAdvocate, #MidlifeReinvention

What if awe was the secret ingredient to happiness? 🌿 In this episode, I sit down with UC Berkeley psychologist Dacher Keltner to explore how awe, compassion, and moral beauty can transform the way we live and age. We dive into the science of wonder — from the power of collective joy to how simple “awe walks” can boost your health, purpose, and connection.✨ Join us as we uncover why we’re truly born to be good and how awe might just be the key to midlife renewal.🎧 Tune in for the full conversation and get inspired to see life with fresh eyes. Timestamps:00:00 Chip welcomes Dacher and reflects on their friendship00:18 Why people smile when they talk about Dacher01:06 How early experiences shaped his empathy03:32 Journey into psychology and emotion science06:42 Discovering emotion in the human face07:31 Writing Born to Be Good and redefining human nature09:42 Science of compassion, gratitude, and kindness13:15 How the study of awe began14:17 What awe is and how it feels18:24 Collecting awe stories from around the world20:33 The eight wonders of awe21:00 Collective effervescence and shared joy23:44 Synchronizing with others through movement and emotion25:01 How screens disrupt human connection27:00 Moral beauty and the power of witnessing goodness31:32 Moral beauty within community and everyday life32:39 Awe and moral beauty in midlife36:33 The Awe Walk study and its health benefits39:47 Finding awe in daily moments41:25 Inside Dacher’s “Cultivating Awe” workshop43:51 Practicing awe through grief and gratitude45:09 Wisdom bumper sticker: seeing hidden beauty in people47:35 Love (agape) as the essence of awe49:10 Closing reflections and gratitude Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#awe #DacherKeltner #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #CultivatingAwe #BornToBeGood #MoralBeauty #CollectiveEffervescence #ScienceOfAwe #HumanConnection #Mindfulness #EmotionalIntelligence #MidlifeWisdom #GratitudePractice #FindingPurpose

What happens when one of the NFL’s most celebrated athletes walks away from fame, fortune, and the life everyone else wanted for him? In this powerful episode, Ricky Williams, now known as Errick Miron, opens up about his transformation from Heisman Trophy winner to healer, teacher, and astrologer. He shares how depression, self-discovery, and spirituality reshaped his identity and helped him find peace beyond the game.If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to let go and start over, this conversation will change the way you think about success, purpose, and freedom.🎧 Listen now and discover how Ricky Williams became Errick Miron and found his true self. Timestamps:00:42 Early Ambitions and Upbringing02:19 Choosing the University of Texas04:54 College Glory and the Heisman Dream07:37 NFL Reality Check10:00 Mental Health and Identity Crisis15:00 Discovering New Passions16:14 Leaving the NFL & Coming Back19:47 Journey to Australia and Discovering Ayurveda22:32 First Encounter with Astrology24:26 Return to Football with New Purpose26:31 Preparing for Life After Sports29:02 Retirement & Going Back to Astrology38:41 Evolutionary Astrology Explained42:46 Meeting His Wife & Becoming Errick Miron47:21 Redefining Masculinity49:42 Upcoming Workshop: Evolving Identity52:16 Wisdom Bumper Sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#RickyWilliams #ErrickMiron #MidlifeChrysalis #EvolvingIdentity #NFLtoAstrology #MentalHealthJourney #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney #AthleteTransformation #AstrologyForGrowth #LifeAfterSports #SelfDiscovery #PersonalGrowth #MasculineHealing #MindfulnessInMidlife

What if the path to a meaningful life had nothing to do with fame or success and everything to do with service and soul?In this captivating conversation, Rainn Wilson opens up about his transformation from Hollywood ego to spiritual seeker, sharing how faith, meditation, and humility helped him rediscover purpose beyond the spotlight. Together with Chip Conley, he explores why midlife can be a sacred turning point when the soul finally takes the lead.👉 Watch now to learn how Rainn’s journey can help you reconnect with your own soul. Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:55 What Is a Soul?05:52 Chip‘s Definition of Soul08:18 Humans on a Spiritual Journey09:32 Growing Up Baha’i13:58 The 1960s Spiritual Revolution17:31 Hollywood, Faith & the Dark Night of the Soul21:01 Becoming Dwight Schrute22:50 Famous in Midlife29:01 The Ego and Hollywood31:38 Letting the Soul Lead34:08 Devotion & Daily Practice40:03 The Soul Boom Workbook42:24 How the Workbook Came to Be44:41 Wisdom Bumper Sticker49:24 Chip’s Reflections and Takeaways Learn more about MEA at https://www.meawisdom.com/#RainnWilson #SoulBoom #MidlifeChrysalis #ChipConley #SpiritualRevolution #Bahaifaith #SoulJourney #ModernSpirituality #EgoAndSoul #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealthAwareness #ServiceAndPurpose #ConsciousLiving #SpiritualAwakening

What if the worst thing that ever happened to you became the very thing that set you free? 🌱 In this deeply moving episode, Dr. BJ Miller—physician, amputee, and palliative care visionary—shares how a near-fatal accident in college transformed his understanding of life, loss, and what it really means to live fully. From his journey through unimaginable pain to founding Mettle Health, BJ reveals how facing mortality can open the door to compassion, creativity, and peace.If you’ve ever feared aging, grief, or change, this conversation will completely shift your perspective.👉 Watch now and discover how to turn life’s hardest moments into your greatest teachers. Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:36 The Accident That Changed Everything04:17 Processing Grief and Feeling “Seen”09:27 Rebuilding Life in His 20s14:46 From Art History to Medicine16:24 Discovering Palliative Care20:27 What Palliative Care Really Means24:26 Spiritual Dimensions of Caregiving27:16 What We Get Wrong About Death29:42 Making All Healthcare Palliative32:44 Founding Mettle Health36:56 Advice for Caregivers41:25 The Power of Grief43:50 BJ’s Midlife Chrysalis47:49 What People Regret Most Before Death51:48 Dying as a Creative Act55:25 Wisdom Bumper StickerLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#BJMIller #MidlifeChrysalis #ChipConley #EndOfLifeCare #PalliativeCare #HospiceCare #GriefAndHealing #MidlifeWisdom #CaregivingJourney #FindingMeaning #LifeAndDeath #SpiritualGrowth #EmotionalResilience #MindfulLiving #AuthenticLife

Ever wondered what it really means to start over when the world thinks you’ve peaked? In this episode, Daniel Pink, bestselling author of Drive and The Power of Regret, reveals why midlife isn’t a crisis but a creative turning point. He talks about becoming a beginner again after 50, how regret can guide us toward what truly matters, and why lasting motivation comes from autonomy, mastery, and purpose, not paychecks.👉 Watch now to learn how to reinvent yourself with clarity, courage, and curiosity. Timestamps:01:15 Early Career & Al Gore Years04:12 Leaving Politics for Book Writing07:05 The Book “Drive” & Science of Motivation11:10 Leadership & Purpose Within Organizations14:13 Living an Average Mid-40s Reality17:08 The Midlife Chrysalis & Year-Long Sabbatical22:04 Writing for The Washington Post25:58 Becoming a Rookie at 5030:00 The Science of Timing32:03 Evaluating Autonomy, Mastery & Purpose34:21 How He Wrote “The Power of Regret”37:42 The Wisdom in Regret39:24 Anticipated Regret in Action42:34 On Retirement & Regeneration46:16 The Idea of Gap Year at 5049:38 Regenerative vs. Retirement Communities51:49 Upsides & Downsides of Aging55:20 Dan’s Wisdom Bumper Sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#DanielPink #ChipConley #ModernElderAcademy #MidlifeChrysalis #ThePowerOfRegret #DriveBook #AutonomyMasteryPurpose #MotivationScience #MidlifeReinvention #CareerReinvention #FindingPurpose #AgingWithPurpose #LifelongLearning #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift

What happens when the person you love most slowly begins to disappear before your eyes? In this deeply emotional and inspiring conversation, Emma Heming Willis opens up about life with Bruce Willis following his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and how she turned heartbreak into purpose. Joined by Helen Christoni, co-founder of Make Time Wellness, the two reveal why women’s brain health is so often ignored, what every caregiver needs to hear, and how to rediscover joy even in the hardest seasons of life.👉 Watch now and learn how making time for yourself might just be the most powerful act of care there is. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:54 How Helen and Emma created Make Time Wellness04:47 Hormones, estrogen loss, and dementia risk06:03 Helen’s personal connection to dementia08:04 Starting Make Time as Bruce’s symptoms appeared08:51 How Emma met Bruce Willis and first signs of FTD12:05 Understanding anosognosia and early dementia signs15:29 The meaning of ambiguous loss for caregivers18:45 Practical tools and exercises for caregivers20:37 Redefining self-care and “making time”21:20 How others can help caregivers in real ways24:09 The caregiving crisis and policy change needed28:43 Gender roles and men’s perspective on caregiving31:00 Make Time Wellness mission and products34:49 Bruce Willis’s current condition and progression38:20 How their daughters are coping and family life39:24 Emma’s and Helen’s advice for caregivers40:57 Wisdom bumper sticker44:57 Closing reflections and gratitude Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#EmmaHemingWillis #HelenChristoni #MidlifeCaregiving #WomensBrainHealth #CaregiverSupport #FrontotemporalDementia #DementiaAwareness #MakeTimeWellness #MidlifeResilience #SelfCareReimagined #MidlifeWisdom #WomenSupportingWomen #CaregivingJourney #FindingJoyAgain #ModernElderAcademy

What if everything you’ve been taught about happiness and success is upside down?In this episode of Midlife Chrysalis, Chip Conley talks with Arthur Brooks, Harvard professor, bestselling author, and former French horn prodigy, about his remarkable journey from the concert stage to the world of behavioral science. Together, they unpack why strivers burn out, how our brains shift from fluid to crystallized intelligence, and the simple formula that can turn midlife from a crisis into a transformation.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Listen now and start rethinking your own second curve. Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:06 Arthur Brooks’ origins and family background02:59 Religious upbringing and conversion to Catholicism04:56 Navigating academia and faith in secular environments07:08 Early music training and struggles to become the best13:06 Striver mentality and American entrepreneurship DNA16:41 Leaving music for economics and behavioral science20:52 Imposter syndrome and skills learned from performance22:33 Becoming CEO of the American Enterprise Institute (AEI)29:05 Burnout, midlife shift, and vital plane encounter 32:19 Plane encounter with a famous figure and reflection on decline35:47 Realizing the need for a second curve38:10 How we move from fluid to crystallized intelligence42:43 Airbnb and the role of “modern elder” wisdom45:02 Advice for shifting into careers built on crystallized intelligence46:56 The danger of pride and Dante’s frozen Satan metaphor49:40 Learning to want less: the secret to second-curve happiness54:39 Editing life instead of accumulating - reverse bucket lists55:55 Generativity, religion, and aging with meaning57:16 Policy thoughts on midlife education and wisdom schools1:01:59 Wisdom bumper sticker1:05:28 Closing reflections from Chip Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

What happens when a world-famous photographer nearly loses everything — and turns it into a movement redefining aging?In this powerful conversation, David Stewart shares his journey from shooting Vogue covers and working with Andy Warhol’s circle, to battling a life-threatening autoimmune disease that forced him to rethink everything. Out of crisis came transformation — and the creation of Ageist and Super Age, two platforms challenging stereotypes about aging and proving that purpose, health, and vitality don’t fade with time.Watch now to discover how to stay healthier, live longer, and embrace your true greatness.Timestamps:00:00 Catching up: Manhattan, travel, and life during Covid01:36 Childhood, school struggles, and proving people wrong04:07 Studying engineering, switching to political science, and discovering photography06:14 Declaring himself a photographer, early Vogue ad, and move to Paris07:01 Life in New York: Andy Warhol’s scene, magazine covers, and big clients08:02 Health crisis, autoimmune disease, and a year in hospital10:00 Turning point: removing his spleen and changing lifestyle11:01 The birth of Ageist: challenging age stereotypes in media and advertising14:50 White-light moment with AT&T campaign and marketing blind spots18:50 Age dysmorphia, beauty industry challenges, and why older audiences are complex21:27 From Ageist to Super Age: growth, readership, and global impact25:27 Health transformation and connecting mindset with the body30:00 Teaching moments: embodied wisdom, confidence, and breaking limits33:55 What Super Age does: informing, inspiring, and offering trusted tools35:10 Longevity pillars: sleep, fitness, stress management, and community37:31 Why grip strength and VO₂ max matter for longevity41:42 Smart habits vs. fads: avoiding “dumb stuff” and focusing on basics44:39 Managing stress, hormetic adaptation, and resilience45:00 Why men chase longevity more than women46:04 Thoughts on Brian Johnson and longevity biohacking47:50 The future of health: AI-driven personalized medicine51:28 Wearables: when they help vs. when they hurt53:12 Passing wisdom to the next generation: embracing greatness and usefulness56:15 Final reflections: passion, usefulness, and living as a contenderLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#Longevity #HealthyAging #RedefiningAging #SuperAge #Ageist #MidlifeReinvention #MindsetMatters #AgingWell #LifeAfterCrisis #HealthTransformation #Vitality #BreakingAgingStereotypes #AgingStrong #LongevityLifestyle #AgelessLiving

What happens when a bestselling writer and a former corporate executive dive deep into life’s second half?In this powerful conversation, Anne Lamott and Neal Allen share raw, funny, and moving stories about midlife transformation, spiritual awakening, recovery, and how to finally silence that relentless inner critic. From faith and writing to intimacy, aging, and finding purpose, their wisdom will leave you inspired — and maybe even rethinking your own path.👉 Don’t miss this chance to hear life-changing insights from two voices who know the journey inside out. Watch now and discover how midlife can become your most powerful chapter yet.Timestamps:00:00 From Corporate Life to Spiritual Coaching06:08 Annie’s Christian Spirituality08:19 Annie’s Childhood, Religion & Humor12:46 Embracing Christianity in a Ghetto Church14:40 Annie’s Left-Wing Christianity Views17:23 Anne’s Washington Post Columns on Aging21:04 Imposter Syndrome & Life After 5024:50 The Value of Intimacy & Deeper Connection28:51 Taming the Inner Critic Workshop33:46 Wisdom Bumper StickersLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#AnneLamott #NealAllen #MidlifeChrysalis #SpiritualGrowth #LifeAfter50 #InnerCritic #WritingCommunity #RecoveryJourney #ChristianSpirituality #PersonalTransformation #MindfulnessPractice #AgingWisdom #SpiritualCoaching #SelfAwarenessJourney #FaithAndHealing

What if the most painful disruptions in life—illness, job loss, divorce, or even an empty nest, were actually the keys to growth?Bestselling author Bruce Feiler shares how “life quakes” shake up our stories and push us to rewrite them. From his own battle with cancer and family upheaval to studying hundreds of life transitions, Bruce reveals why resilience is a skill, not a trait, and how rituals, creativity, and storytelling can turn crisis into renewal. Dive into his powerful seven tools for navigating transitions, learn why the myth of the midlife crisis is outdated, and how to finally become the hero of your own story.✨ Tune in to discover how to transform life’s hardest moments into your greatest turning points.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:40 Introduction to Bruce Feiler02:24 Background, early life & first book07:09 Life quakes and losing control of your story12:15 Knowing when a transition is complete18:11 The three stages of transition24:40 Seven tools for navigating transitions30:31 Acceptance and rituals to mark change35:18 The ritual renaissance & new book preview41:28 Routine vs. ritual explained45:09 Shedding habits & finding creativity49:19 Updating your story & unveiling your new self51:19 The debate: midlife vs. transitions at all ages58:51 Wisdom bumper sticker01:04:22 Closing reflections & gratitudeLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#BruceFeiler #LifeQuakes #MidlifeTransitions #ReinventYourself #LifeIsInTheTransitions, #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingCrisis #FindingMeaning #ResilienceInMidlife #RewriteYourStory #RitualsAndRenewal #MidlifeReinvention #SelfDiscoveryJourney #ThrivingThroughChange #BeTheHeroOfYourStory

How do you survive when the person you can’t live without begins to destroy you?In this powerful episode of Midlife Chrysalis, Elizabeth Gilbert joins Chip Conley to share the raw story behind her new memoir, All the Way to the River. She opens up about walking alongside her partner through addiction and relapse, confronting her own patterns of codependency, and finding healing through recovery and surrender. It’s an honest, unfiltered look at love, loss, and what it really takes to stand on your own two feet.Tune in now to hear Elizabeth Gilbert as you’ve never heard her before. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:40 Introduction to Elizabeth Gilbert03:06 All the Way to the River book06:06 Why it took 7 years to write07:21 A forensic look at repeating patterns10:36 Love vs. addiction in relationships13:49 How Liz met Raya & their evolving bond19:55 Confessing love during Raya’s illness25:31 Grief, loss, and missing her friend27:18 Writing in solitude & surrendering to truth35:00 Surrender, recovery, and true powerlessness41:21 Dark thoughts & God’s voice45:15 What sex & love addiction means for Liz51:36 12-step practices & six years of abstinence54:35 Reflections on MEA and retreat power58:22 Wisdom bumper stickerLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeChrysalis #ElizabethGilbert #AllTheWayToTheRiver #GriefJourney #AddictionRecovery #LoveAndLoss #Codependency #HealingFromTrauma #12StepRecovery #SexAndLoveAddiction #SpiritualGrowth #MemoirWriting #MidlifeWisdom #EmotionalSobriety #LifeLessons

What happens when one of America’s most celebrated pastors dares to question everything?In this unfiltered conversation, Rob Bell, once dubbed the “punk rock pastor” and author of the explosive bestseller Love Wins, opens up about the controversy that made him Christianity’s most talked-about heretic, why he walked away from his megachurch at the height of fame, and how midlife pushed him to reinvent himself.From faith and psychedelics to wisdom traditions, AI, and the art of living an unpigeonholable life, Rob’s journey is as provocative as it is inspiring. Whether you see him as a rebel, visionary, or outlaw, one thing’s clear: you won’t walk away from this episode thinking the same.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:35 Meet Rob Bell02:08 Following a Calling & Evolving05:16 Early Life & First Sermons11:04 Starting Mars Hill Church13:02 Performance Art Preaching15:01 Controversy & Pushback16:44 Rise to Time’s 100 Most Influential People21:10 Leaving the Church & Midlife Transition26:25 Reinventing in His 40s29:58 Evolving Faith & Moving Beyond Doctrine31:46 The Greatest Unlearning35:00 Surfing, painting & daily rituals38:15 Reconnecting with Spirituality40:25 On Psychedelics & Temples44:57 From Knowledge to Wisdom51:16 Redefining Intelligence54:56 Rob’s Wisdom Bumper Sticker57:47 Closing ReflectionsChip shares key takeaways on creativity, freedom, and living beyond expectations.Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#RobBell #MidlifeChrysalis #PunkRockPastor #LoveWins #SpiritualJourney #MidlifeTransitions #FindingPurpose #WisdomTraditions #SpiritualAwakening #FaithAndCreativity #LeavingReligion #SpiritualGrowth #Unpigeonholable #MidlifeSpirituality #CareerEvolution

What if aging wasn’t about slowing down—but about leveling up?In this powerful conversation, Marc Freedman, founder of Encore.org (now CoGenerate), unpacks the surprising history of retirement, why communities like Sun City reshaped how we see aging, and how we can flip the script on what it means to grow older. From encore careers to intergenerational mentorship, Marc shows why midlife is no dead end—it’s a launchpad for purpose, impact, and connection.If you’ve ever wondered how to thrive after 50, find meaning in your “second act,” or simply stay relevant in a rapidly changing world, this episode will change how you see the road ahead.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:39 Marc Freedman as Chip’s “modern elder”02:46 How aging became feared, not revered04:26 Why older people are no longer revered07:30 Rise of retirement communities13:14 Why people question retirement as a goal15:56 Marc’s personal view on retirement18:36 The origins & evolution of CoGenerate24:10 Why intergenerational connection matters27:46 What CoGenerate does to help31:52 Big policy ideas for the future37:31 Tips for those nearing retirement44:15 Upcoming workshop with Chip48:47 Wisdom bumper sticker50:51 How does Marc measure success54:00 Wrapping upLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MarcFreedman #EncoreCareers #ModernElder #MidlifeReinvention #FindingPurpose #LifeAfterRetirement #GenerationalCollaboration #CrossGenerational #AgingWell #WisdomAtWork #EncoreOrg #CoGenerate #ModernElderAcademy #SecondActCareers #PurposeDrivenLife

Author, speaker, and “Radiant Rebel” Karen Walrond joins Chip Conley for a warm, inspiring conversation on how to age with joy, live on your own terms, and keep your spark alive.From growing up between Trinidad and the U.S., to leaving engineering and law for a creative life, Karen’s story is full of bold choices and unexpected turns. She shares cultural insights on aging, how to break free from the “success script,” and the seven playful experiments from her new book In Defense of Dabbling that prove it’s never too late to try something new.Packed with heart, humor, and practical wisdom, this episode will leave you smiling and inspired to chase your own adventures.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:45 Introduction to Karen Walrond01:58 Growing up & career journey06:50 Midlife shift toward writing and creative work11:38 Cultural perspectives on aging in Trinidad vs. the U.S.16:55 Defining the “Radiant Rebellion”19:14 Resisting societal scripts23:06 Aging in non-white cultures31:43 Collaboration with Brené Brown36:12 Introducing In Defense of Dabbling40:03 The 7 attributes of dabbling44:08 Why trying new things matters as we age50:42 Karen’s experience teaching at MEA workshops53:11 Karen’s wisdom bumper sticker57:10 Chips’s closing reflections on joy, culture, and lifelong learningLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#AgingBoldly #MidlifeReinvention #RadiantRebellion #LifeOnYourOwnTerms #NeverTooLate #MidlifeTransformation #CuriosityAndPlay #JoyfulAging #BreakingFree #LiveFully #MidlifeMotivation #RedefiningSuccess #KeepYourSparkAlive #IntentionalLiving #TrySomethingNew

What happens when a Harvard scholar, devoted Mormon, and mother of a child with Down syndrome begins to hear psychic messages—and decides to tell the truth no matter the cost?In this powerful conversation, Martha Beck shares how leaving her religion, embracing polyamory, and facing her deepest fears led her to a life of radical integrity, joy, and healing.If you’ve ever felt stuck, out of alignment, or afraid to be fully yourself—this episode will change how you see everything.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:56 Meet Martha Beck03:02 Growing Up Mormon, Academic Journey, and Her Son’s Diagnosis10:53 Leaving Mormon Church & Reframing Midlife14:47 Losing Religion, Finding Soul, and Polyamory19:20 Returning to True Nature Through Rebellion21:23 Lessons from Her Son with Down Syndrome27:10 Psycho-Neuro-Immunology & Integrity30:58 Shaman Sickness & Becoming a Healer33:24 A Simple Path to Inner Stillness40:01 The Radical Power of Not Lying41:43 How to Listen to Your Body’s Response52:27 Martha’s Bumper Sticker WisdomLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MarthaBeck #ChipConley #TheWayOfIntegrity #MidlifeTransformation #SpiritualAwakening #LeavingMormonism #DownSyndromeParenting #PolyamoryJourney #LifePurpose #InnerHealing #TrustYourself #ModernElder #SelfDiscovery #PsychicExperiences #AnxietyAwareness

What happens when a self-made billionaire steps away from the company she built and faces the big question: What’s next?In this inspiring episode, the founder of Spanx opens up about her journey from door-to-door sales to creating a global brand, the emotional challenges of selling her company, and how she’s redefining success, purpose, and identity in midlife. It’s a raw and uplifting conversation about reinvention, intuition, and finding meaning beyond business.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:56 Family background and kids03:47 Childhood struggles and early mindset shift06:32 Discovering Wayne Dyer and self-growth09:00 Letting go of law school plans09:46 Intuition and coping mechanisms13:25 Selling fax machines and rethinking her path14:17 The idea for Spanx is born18:40 Building Spanx and landing Neiman Marcus22:37 Growing Spanx without advertising25:30 Selling Spanx and facing an identity shift31:51 Midlife change and grief34:44 Creating Sneaks brand43:54 Psychology behind the second venture47:32 Perimenopause, health issues, and PMDD50:19 Modern Elder Academy experience53:37 Focusing on presence and meaning55:42 Introverts, extroverts, and integration58:17 Feminine energy as a superpower59:42 Wisdom bumpersticker1:02:26 Chip’s final thoughtsLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#SarahBlakely #Spanx #FemaleEntrepreneur #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessSuccess #Motivation #Inspiration #FounderStory #StartupJourney #MindsetMatters #SuccessTips #BusinessAdvice #SelfMadeWoman #EntrepreneurMindset #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis

What if midlife isn’t a breakdown—but a breakthrough?In this powerful conversation, world-renowned writer Pico Iyer shares the surprising lessons he’s learned from 50 years of friendship with the Dalai Lama, losing everything he owned, and finding stillness in the chaos. From walking away from success in New York to building a soulful life in Japan, Pico reveals how true freedom comes not from having more—but from letting go. This episode is a masterclass in finding purpose, inner peace, and meaning in the second half of life.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:13 Meet Pico Iyer02:02 Why TED Keeps Inviting Pico Back02:50 Pico’s favorite TED talk04:04 Early Life Across Continents05:17 What “Home” Really Means07:21 Stillness and the Midlife Chrysalis12:33 Moving from Park Avenue to Kyoto15:31 The Value of Being an Expat18:10 Inner Calm in a Chaotic World22:31 Everyday Stillness Practices29:24 A Lifetime with the Dalai Lama37:34 Living in Absence of Answers42:29 Pico’s Anticipated Regret46:11 What Makes MEA So Special50:47 Awe, Community, and Transformation53:27 Pico’s Wisdom Bumper Sticker56:27 Episode Key TakeawaysLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeChrysalis #PicoIyer #ChipConley #MidlifeTransformation #ModernElder #Stillness #InnerWisdom #SpiritualGrowth #LifePurpose #DalaiLama #HomeAndSoul #ExpatLife #GratitudePractice #Resilience #MindfulLiving

What happens when a successful actor—and the son of a Hollywood legend—hits midlife and starts asking deeper questions?In this powerful episode, Scott Eastwood opens up about building his own identity beyond Clint Eastwood’s shadow, what 40+ films have taught him, and why he’s now prioritizing purpose over fame. He reflects on masculinity, mentorship, mistakes, and what it really means to grow wiser with age.What happens when a successful actor—and the son of a Hollywood legend—hits midlife and starts asking deeper questions?In this powerful episode, Scott Eastwood opens up about building his own identity beyond Clint Eastwood’s shadow, what 40+ films have taught him, and why he’s now prioritizing purpose over fame. He reflects on masculinity, mentorship, mistakes, and what it really means to grow wiser with age.Feeling your own shift? Subscribe to The Midlife Chrysalis and explore Modern Elder Academy’s workshops designed to help you thrive in midlife and beyond.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:41 Chip’s Relationship With His Dad 08:28 A Prolific Film Career09:38 Working with Clint Eastwood10:51 Carving His Own Path13:54 New Projects & Genre Exploration15:52 Masculinity in Modern Culture18:09 Growing & Maturing as a Man19:26 Questioning & Redefining Midlife21:32 Childhood Dreams & Creative Shifts24:05 Aging, Directing & Creative Control27:1 Time, Regret & Following Your Gut31:51 The Outpost Movie & Hyperbaric Healing35:07 Real Wellness, Not Wellness Trends37:16 Life Lessons & Emotional Maturity39:44 How Scott Hopes to Be Remembered41:31 Lessons from Mom & Dad43:20 Having Mentors & Becoming One44:13 Scott’s Wisdom Bumper Sticker49:13 Healing a Father-Son RelationshipLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#ScottEastwood #MidlifeChrysalis #ChipConley #ClintEastwood #MasculinityToday #ActorLife #FilmIndustry #PersonalGrowth #LegacyAndIdentity #MidlifeReflection #LifeLessons #EmotionalMaturity #CreativeJourney #WellnessWisdom #FollowYourGut

What happens when one of the most thoughtful voices in public life hits a wall?In this deeply personal conversation, Krista Tippett opens up about burnout, walking away from success, and rediscovering joy in midlife. From letting go of exhaustion to falling in love again, she shares the hard-won wisdom that’s reshaping how she lives, works, and loves. It’s a moving reminder that it’s never too late to begin again, so don’t miss this one.Subscribe for more powerful conversations that spark reflection, reinvention, and real change in midlife.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome and Setup00:46 Introducing Lee and the Unique Cast of Guests01:52 What Makes a Great Interviewer?06:12 Interviewing John O’Donohue09:57 Thresholds and Transitions12:58 Krista’s Childhood and Upbringing in Oklahoma17:40 The Bible as Her First Text of Imagination20:00 Interviewing Richard Rohr and Men’s Spiritual Lives23:36 Krista’s Midlife Reflections27:06 Midlife Chrysalis and Personal Transformation30:53 Building a Life Around Love and Friendship35:36 What She’d Regret Not Doing38:09 What Brings Joy Now42:03 Defining Wisdom and Growing Wiser46:26 Staying Grounded Through Rituals and Attention51:43 Rethinking Retirement54:29 The Aging Brain and Synthesizing Wisdom57:46 Wisdom Bumper StickerLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeWisdom #OnBeing #KristaTippett #MidlifeTransformation #SpiritualGrowth #LifeAfter40 #InnerLife #FindingPurpose #EmotionalResilience #WomenOver40 #BecomingWise #SoulfulLiving #PersonalGrowthJourney #AgingWithGrace #DeepConversations