Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

What does it take to live fully as yourself—after decades of hiding who you really are?

In this moving episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with Wendy Cole, a transgender woman who began her transition at age 67, after more than 45 years of trying to survive a life that never fit.

Wendy’s story is one of pain, resilience, and ultimately liberation. From her early childhood awareness of her gender identity, to the medical and societal gaslighting that kept her silent for decades, to finding the courage to step into her truth—this conversation offers deep insight into what it means to live authentically.

💬 In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why gender identity is hardwired—and misunderstood by most of society
  
  
• How decades of suppression shaped Wendy’s mental health and relationships
  
  
• What finally sparked her transition and self-acceptance
  
  
• The impact of therapy, spiritual growth, and community
  
  
• How Wendy is now helping others by educating, speaking, and co-hosting the “Demystifying Transgender” podcast
  
  

This episode isn’t just for people within the LGBTQIA+ community—it’s for anyone who wants to better understand identity, inclusion, and what it means to meet someone with empathy instead of assumptions.

🎧 Listen now and be part of a conversation that’s long overdue.

🔗 Learn more about Wendy’s work: https://www.meetwendycole.com

🔗 https://www.facebook.com/wcole212

🔗 https://www.instagram.com/wcole212/

 

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Anniversary
[00:01:02] - Wendy Cole's Early Life
[00:06:29] - Societal Challenges and Struggles
[00:10:39] - Transition Journey and Self-Discovery
[00:15:35] - Transition Process and Reflections
[00:18:57] - Gender Incongruence and Society
[00:20:39] - Anniversary, Pride Month, and Ongoing Conversations
[00:21:30] - Horses, Coaching, and Authenticity
[00:24:36] - Project Collaborations and Mastermind Group
[00:34:15] - Advocacy, Misinformation, and Awareness
[00:39:07] - Community Support and Safety
[00:43:34] - Importance of Open Conversation
[00:46:10] - Connecting with Wendy and Closing Remarks
[00:50:08] - Closing Credits and Next Episode Preview

 

Thanks to my amazing Producer and editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you are curious about starting your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

 

FOLLOW and CONNECT
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Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

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An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!  

I am Sue Willoughby, transformational life coach & host of A Life Worth Being—a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This channel is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive.

Each week, we bring you powerful video podcasts filled with real-life stories of transformation, resilience, and courage. Expect raw, heart-centered conversations and life-changing insights designed to help you break boundaries and start crafting a life brimming with purpose, joy, and passion. This is more than just a channel; it’s a community. 

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