Midlife Strategies for Badass Women is the go-to podcast for bold, brilliant women over 40 who are done playing small and ready to reinvent their lives—without guilt, filters, or apologies. Hosted by Badass Midlife Strategist - Sue Willoughby, each weekly episode delivers unfiltered conversations, real stories of reinvention, and practical strategies to help you break free from the crap that’s holding you back and finally live life on your damn terms. Whether you’re navigating a midlife reset, rediscovering your passions, building confidence, or launching your next chapter—this podcast gives you the mindset shifts, clarity, and community to make it happen. 🔥 Expect: No-BS life advice and midlife strategies that actually work Inspiring interviews with women who’ve transformed their lives Soul-stirring solo episodes packed with truth and action Coaching-style episodes to help you reclaim your purpose, power, and passion This isn’t a podcast about “getting through” midlife. It’s about owning it—louder, wiser, bolder, and unapologetically YOU. Subscribe now and start rewriting the rules of what’s possible in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Episodes
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
Tuesday Oct 01, 2024
In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with David Buck, a seasoned business development expert with over 35 years of experience. David, the founder of Kairos Management Solutions and author of The Time Optimized Life, shares powerful insights into the difference between time management and time optimization. Together, they dive into practical strategies like time blocking, minimizing distractions (hello, smartphone!), and how to transform busywork into meaningful productivity. David’s wisdom on balancing Kronos (measured time) with Kairos (quality time) offers a fresh perspective on creating more value in your daily life. Tune in to learn how you can gain control over your schedule, prioritize what matters, and ultimately lead a richer, more efficient life.
Takeaways
- Being busy doesn't equate to being productive.
- Time optimization focuses on value rather than just managing time.
- Time blocking is a powerful tool for enhancing focus.
- Minimizing distractions is crucial for maintaining productivity.
- Work sprints can help maintain energy and focus.
- It's important to create specific time blocks for tasks.
- Understanding Kronos and Kairos time can shift your perspective on productivity.
- Corporate environments may struggle more with time optimization than entrepreneurial settings.
- Shifting from a Kronos mindset to a Kairos mindset can enhance productivity.
- Focusing on high-value tasks can lead to greater efficiency.
Sound Bites
"We are constantly complaining that we don't have enough time."
"What is the difference between time management and time optimization?"
"Time blocking can help you focus better."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Time Optimization
05:39 Implementing Time Blocking
08:53 Starting Small and Adapting
10:40 Minimizing Distractions and Focusing on Priorities
12:40 Strategies for Managing Distractions
15:57 Work Sprints and Taking Breaks
19:38 Marrying Your Calendar and Tasks
21:59 Identifying Triggers and Avoiding Distractions
24:41 Understanding Your Optimal Productivity Zone
29:48 The Power of Kairos Time
37:30 Managing Distractions and Planning Time
41:40 The Importance of Patience in Time Optimization
Connect with David Buck
Website: https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davetimebuck
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infinitylifestyledave/
Book: https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/the-time-optimized-life-book/
Free Gift: Get Chapter 1 https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/get-chapter-1/
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
StanStore: https://stan.store/sue_willoughby
Keywords
time management, time optimization, productivity, time blocking, distractions, work sprints, Kronos, Kairos, efficiency, entrepreneurial mindset
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
In this enlightening episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes mystic intuitive and clairvoyant healer Audrye Arbe. Broadcasting from her serene home in Costa Rica, Audrye shares her incredible journey of embracing her natural gifts from a young age, including her empathic abilities and metaphysical insights. Together, they dive deep into Audrye’s work as a clairvoyant, her experiences with intuitive healing, and her fascinating practice of painting frequency stones to elevate energy and promote well-being. Audrye also explores topics like genetic karmic patterning, raising personal vibration, and the power of heart-brain coherence in fostering peace and prosperity. Prepare for a heartfelt, soul-stirring conversation that inspires you to tune into your own intuition and uplift your frequency.
Takeaways
- Audrey was born a mystic intuitive and embraced her gifts.
- Intuition is a natural ability that everyone possesses.
- Not everyone is open to growth and development.
- Emotional sensitivity can be both a gift and a challenge.
- Creating art can be a form of energy healing.
- Frequency stones are designed to uplift and bring peace.
- Genetic karmic patterning influences our beliefs and behaviors.
- Healing can be done remotely and effectively.
- Raising your vibration is essential for personal and collective wellness.
- Self-care practices are crucial for maintaining a balanced life.
Sound Bites
"I was born a mystic intuitive."
"I always wanted to know why this, why that."
"I learned not everybody wants to really grow."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Audrey Arby
07:27 Empathy and Sensing the World
10:16 Trusting Intuition and Sticking Up for Yourself
13:53 Painting Frequency Stones for Beauty and Positive Energy
15:47 Programming Crystals and Creating Frequency Stones
17:04 Living in Peace, Beauty, and Wellness
19:24 Adapting to a New Culture
21:46 The Importance of Healing Work
28:28 Guided Breathing Exercise to Raise Your Vibration
Connect with Audrye Arbe
Website Link: https://www.AudryeNow.com
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/audrye
Instagram Link: https://instagram.com/AudryeNow
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Sunday Sep 22, 2024
Sunday Sep 22, 2024
In this special bonus episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby celebrates the fall equinox and her milestone 65th birthday with a heartfelt reflection on life, growth, and embracing the beauty of midlife. Sue shares her personal journey of self-discovery, transformation, and the joy of creating a life worth living. Tune in as she talks about the power of letting go, much like the vibrant autumn trees shedding their leaves, to make room for new beginnings. Whether you’re navigating your own midlife journey or just looking for a boost of inspiration, this episode offers wisdom, warmth, and an invitation to embrace where you are and where you’re headed next.
Get ready for some real talk, seasonal inspiration, and a special birthday celebration! Plus, Sue has an exciting free gift for listeners who join her email list.
Takeaways
- This is a milestone birthday for me, turning 65.
- I tend to celebrate milestone birthdays as achievements.
- Midlife doesn't have to be seen as downhill; it can be a time of growth.
- I feel like I still have a ton of things that I want to do.
- The fall equinox symbolizes change and new beginnings.
- I love the beauty of autumn and the changing colors.
- Letting go is essential for personal growth and renewal.
- I encourage listeners to reflect on their own life transformations.
- Engaging with my audience is important to me.
- Happy fall equinox and birthday week to me!
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Subscribe and get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
Keywords: milestone birthday, fall equinox, personal growth, life transitions, midlife coaching, Libra season, self-reflection, embracing change, seasonal transitions, life achievements
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
Tuesday Sep 17, 2024
In this special episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Remy Drabkin, a trailblazing queer winemaker, co-founder of Wine Country Pride, and mayor of McMinnville, Oregon. Remy is not just breaking barriers in the wine industry; she’s reshaping her community and beyond with innovative sustainability practices, including the development of a carbon-sequestering concrete that could revolutionize climate impact. Remy shares her journey of founding Remy Wines, creating the world’s first Queer Wine Fest, and her relentless pursuit of positive change through thoughtful leadership. From tackling DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) in a traditionally conservative industry to her mayoral ambitions to "recode" local governance for more inclusive outcomes, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with intention, resilience, and impact.
Tune in as I explore what drives Remy’s passion for community, sustainability, and justice, and learn how she balances an extraordinary life of public service and business leadership—all while staying true to her authentic self.
Takeaways
- Unexpected encounters can lead to meaningful connections.
- Locking away technology can cause anxiety for many.
- Behavior plays a crucial role in how we adapt to change.
- Disconnection from technology can be beneficial.
- Chance meetings can lead to new opportunities.
- The experience at the Ellen show was memorable and unique.
- Understanding the impact of technology on our lives is essential.
- Anxiety can stem from the inability to access our devices.
- The importance of being present in the moment.
- Meeting new people can change the course of our lives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Remy Drabkin's Journey
05:48 Starting Remy Wines and Maintaining a Small Winery
07:09 Incubating Nonprofits and High Impact Events
11:31 Innovating the Wine Industry: Queer Wine Fest and Carbon Sequestering Concrete
14:51 Creating Lasting Change and Fixing Government Systems
20:01 Changing Housing Code for Better Outcomes
29:06 Challenges Faced as a Woman, Gay, and Perceived Age
30:48 Queer Wine Fest: Creating a Home and Network
32:34 Challenges from Within the Queer Community
35:10 Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Wine Industry
36:08 Remy Drabkin: A Leader in Urban Design and Government
44:14 Innovative Projects: Mixed-Use Redevelopment and Carbon Sequestering Concrete
Connect with Remy Drabkin
Website - https://www.remywines.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/remywines
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/remywines/
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
Autumn Renewal Fall Retreat 2024
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes the irrepressible Lynne Bowman, author of the Amazon bestseller "Brownies for Breakfast," a cookbook for diabetics and the people who love them. At 78, Lynne is living proof that age is just a number, brimming with wisdom, wit, and stories that span her incredible life—from creative director roles in Silicon Valley to collaborating with TV legend Deirdre Hall, and even moonlighting as a wedding planner.
Sue and Lynne dive into a vibrant discussion about living authentically, the importance of creating community around the kitchen table, and breaking free from societal expectations. They explore how Lynne's philosophy of "eating joyfully" can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life and why simplicity in food and life is often the best path forward. Lynne also shares her thoughts on unconventional education, societal shifts among younger generations, and her unique approach to resilience.
From mushroom soup spiced with bourbon to the power of gathering in shared spaces, this conversation is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and life lessons. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to embrace your creativity, revamp your relationship with food, or just enjoy a good story, this episode is sure to nourish your soul.
Takeaways
- Genius soup is a versatile and flexible recipe that allows for creativity in adding ingredients.
- The soup is made with a base of celery, carrots, and onions, which provide a delicious flavor.
- Adding ingredients like spinach and arugula can enhance the taste and nutritional value of the soup.
- The conversation highlights the love for the flavor of celery.
Sound Bites
- "Another recipe in the book that people love and ask me about is called genius soup. Guess why?"
- "Well, probably, but because it's genius. It's genius."
- "Just you chop it all up, throw it in there, saute it."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
06:11 Nurturing Creativity and Finding Your Passion
16:22 The Changing Attitudes Towards Driving
20:01 The Joy of Cooking and the Power of Soup
25:17 Favorite Soup Recipes and Cooking Tips
30:32 Leaving a Positive Legacy and Making a Difference
32:25 Eating Well for Health and Well-being
41:34 Creating Physical Environments for Connection and Community
50:53 The Value of Small Homes and Trailer Parks in Fostering Community Connect with Lynne Bowman
Website http://lynnebowman.com
Facebook https://facebook/lynneparmiterbowman
Instagram http://instagram.com/lynneparmiterbowman
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
Autumn Renewal Fall Retreat 2024 - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events/p/autumn-renewal-transform-empower-and-embrace-your-freedom
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
In this transformative episode, Sue Willoughby sits down with Brendalyn Carpenter Player, a retired Army civilian public affairs director and founder of Brendalyn Player Communications, to uncover the hidden strengths of introversion. Brendalyn, an unapologetic introvert and cerebral palsy warrior, shares her powerful journey from hiding in the shadows to embracing her quiet power. She reveals how her late discovery of her introvert superpower allowed her to thrive in high-visibility roles and transform her approach to leadership and self-acceptance. Dive into this heartfelt conversation as Brendalyn discusses the importance of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and how to harness introversion as a unique strength rather than a weakness. With practical strategies, inspirational insights, and a call to action, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to honor their quiet nature and step confidently into their authentic self. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, Brendalyn’s story will challenge you to rethink your own inner narrative and embrace the power that lies within.
Takeaways
- Some people develop coping mechanisms to hide their insecurities and not draw attention to themselves physically.
- There can be various reasons why someone may feel like they don't speak well or don't want to be present or seen.
- Wearing a mask can make people feel like they need to perform in a lesser manner than what they actually have to offer.
- It's important to create a safe and supportive environment where people feel comfortable being themselves and expressing their true potential.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Organic Conversation
04:23 Understanding and Embracing Introversion
06:22 Discovering Introvert Strengths
10:07 Challenges Faced by Introverts in Professional Environments
15:40 Creating Inclusive Environments for Introverts
20:22 Empowering Introverts through Self-Acceptance
25:50 Embracing Your Unique Qualities as an Introvert
31:14 Navigating Social Environments with Confidence
37:21 The Value of Introverts in Leadership
40:13 Recognizing and Supporting Introverted Individuals in Organizations
42:12 Harnessing Your Quiet Power for Extraordinary Impact
Connect with Brendalyn!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticintrovertspace/
Website: https://unapologeticintrovertspace.com/
Take the Introvert Quiz - Text INTROVERT to 931-202-9777
Watch for Brendalyn's New Book: "The Unapologetic Introvert: It's time to unlock your quiet power and thrive"
Connect with Sue!
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
In this captivating episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with Frida Karsberg, a dynamic Equus coach, Reiki master, and former Swedish TV producer who now calls Los Angeles home. Frida shares her incredible journey from Stockholm to the sprawling city of LA, revealing the challenges she faced along the way, from adapting to a new culture to discovering her true calling in the world of equine-assisted coaching and healing. Together, Sue and Frida dive deep into the transformative power of intuition, the healing energy of Reiki, and the wisdom of horses, offering listeners a unique blend of practical insights and spiritual inspiration. Whether you're curious about Equus coaching or seeking ways to connect more deeply with your intuition, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and the kind of honest conversation that makes you feel like you're chatting with old friends. Don't miss it!
Join Our Autumn Renewal Retreat! Takeaways:
- Coaching horses can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-reflection.
- The horse's refusal to cooperate served as a wake-up call for Sue to work on herself.
- Self-awareness is crucial for personal and professional development.
- Challenging experiences can lead to valuable insights and growth.
- Sue's story highlights the transformative power of self-reflection.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:01 Frida's Journey from Sweden to Los Angeles
07:58 The Power of Equus Coaching
15:45 Reiki: A Natural Flow of Energy
24:59 Trusting Your Intuition
29:46 Autumn Renewal Retreat
Keywords: coaching, horses, self-reflection, personal growth, self-awareness, professional development Connect With Frida karsberg
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fridakarsbergcoach/
Website: https://www.fridakarsberg.com/
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
In this invigorating episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby dives into the world of fitness and well-being with special guest Alicia Jones, a renowned fitness expert dedicated to helping women over 50 reclaim their health and vitality. From personal struggles to becoming a leader in her field, Alicia shares her journey and the transformative strategies that have helped countless women thrive in their golden years.
Tune in as they discuss the challenges of staying fit as we age, the importance of strength training, and why focusing on building lean muscle is crucial for longevity. Whether you're a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, Alicia’s insights on nutrition, exercise, and mindset will leave you feeling motivated and empowered to take control of your health journey.
Plus, find out how Sue, now 64, plans to embark on a 12-week fitness challenge under Alicia’s guidance—proving that it’s never too late to get fit and feel fabulous!
Join us for a conversation full of practical tips, real-life stories, and plenty of laughs as we explore how to live your best life at any age.
Listen now to get inspired, get moving, and make your health a priority!
Keywords
fitness, health, women over 50, motivation, strength training, high-intensity interval training, accountability, tailored approach, muscle mass, bone density, lean muscle mass, fueling the body, weight training, women over 50, bonking, nutrition, accountability, community, fitness program
Takeaways
- Finding activities that motivate and spark joy is crucial for staying consistent with fitness goals.
- Strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are beneficial for women over 50, improving muscle mass, bone density, and overall quality of life.
- A tailored approach to fitness and nutrition is necessary, considering individual health, hormones, and lifestyle.
- Accountability, whether through group classes or one-on-one coaching, can help maintain motivation and consistency in fitness routines. Maintaining lean muscle mass is crucial for strength and quality of life, especially for women over 50.
- Proper nutrition, including sufficient calories and carbohydrates, is essential for sustaining muscle strength and energy during workouts.
- Bonking, a state of low energy and strength, can be avoided by fueling the body adequately before and during exercise.
- Weight training is highly beneficial for women over 50, improving strength, stamina, and core stability.
- Accountability and community support play a significant role in achieving fitness goals.
- Alicia offers a free masterclass and a 12-week program to help women over 50 improve their fitness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Alicia Jones and her work with women over 50
04:49 Alicia's personal journey and the importance of finding motivation
10:28 Inspiration from Alicia's mother and grandmother
13:36 Finding motivation and accountability in fitness
17:41 The importance of strength training and HIIT for women over 50
20:59 Consistency and building lean muscle for long-term results
25:14 Activities that spark joy and sustain motivation
27:18 Maintaining Bone Health and the Role of DEXA Scans
36:17 The Value of Accountability and Community Support
Connect with Alicia Jones
FREE Masterclass - 3 Phase Food and Fitness Formula
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
In this heartfelt episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Alexa Budd, a board-certified physician assistant and founder of Dragonfly Healing and Wellness. Alexa shares her transformative journey from losing her father unexpectedly to navigating her own health crises, which led her to question traditional medicine and explore holistic, root-cause approaches to healing.
Alexa's story is a powerful testament to resilience, intuition, and the body's incredible ability to heal when given the right environment. She discusses her unique approach to women's health, fertility, and autoimmune disorders, revealing how she integrates Western medical knowledge with bio-energetic practices to uncover and address the true origins of illness.
Join us as we dive deep into the importance of listening to your body, the signs that guide us, and the profound impact of slowing down to find joy and meaning in every moment. Whether you're struggling with your own health or seeking a more meaningful life, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to keep seeking the answers you deserve.
Tune in to discover how healing can be a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, and why it's never too late to rewrite your health story.
Key Takeaways:
- The journey from grief to growth
- How to recognize and address the root causes of health issues
- The power of integrating holistic practices with traditional medicine
- Tips for creating an environment conducive to healing
- The importance of slowing down and staying present in the moment
Special Offer: Mention this podcast episode and use the code "PODCAST" to receive 50% off your first consultation with Alexa Budd.
Connect with Alexa
https://www.dragonflyhealingandwellness.com/
https://www.instagram.com/buddalexa/
https://www.facebook.com/intuitivewellnesspa
Connect with Sue
https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Join us in this captivating episode of "A Life Worth Being," where host Sue Willoughby sits down with the remarkable Laurie James. Laurie, a mother of four, a divorcee, a recovering caregiver turned author, and a somatic relationship coach, shares her transformative journey from loneliness to belonging. Inspired by her youngest child leaving the nest, Laurie's podcast "Confessions of a Free Bird" follows her insightful memoir "Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go."
In this episode, Laurie opens up about the challenges of raising four teenage daughters while caring for her ailing parents and navigating a crumbling marriage. She discusses the profound impact of somatic healing and how it guided her to not only survive but thrive. Dive deep into the layers of Laurie's life as she explains the importance of connecting with our bodies, processing trauma, and finding joy in midlife.
Laurie and Sue explore the intricacies of somatic experiencing, the power of emotional healing, and practical ways to regulate the nervous system. Laurie's candid stories and expert insights provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to embrace discomfort and cultivate self-compassion.
Whether you're dealing with your own midlife transitions or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers a heartfelt and empowering conversation about resilience, healing, and self-discovery. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, humor, and the transformative power of somatic healing.
Takeaways
- Somatic healing can be a powerful tool for emotional healing.
- Practicing equanimity allows one to be present in any emotional state.
- Embracing discomfort is necessary for letting go and completing the healing process.
Sound Bites
- "And that's why it's so powerful when you're doing like a somatic healing session"
- "Equanimity is a beautiful thing and not many people can"
- "Embracing that discomfort is another thing that I really work on"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Laurie James and her Journey
04:18 Exploring the 'Sandwich Generation'
06:14 The Struggle to Find Belonging
08:33 Balancing Responsibilities and Self-Care
12:22 The Impact of Stress on the Body
17:34 Understanding Somatic Healing
21:27 Connecting with the Body
24:15 Slowing Down and Mindfulness
26:25 The Impact of Past Trauma
30:34 Completing the Fight, Flight, or Freeze Response
33:29 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Health
37:28 The Importance of Self-Compassion and Self-Care
Connect with Laurie James
Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go
Confessions of a Freebird Podcast
FREE “Beginners Guide to Somatic Healing”
Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Sue Willoughby
Sue Willoughby is the Founder of Willoughby Coaching, where women over 40 confront their obstacles and change the trajectory of their lives through the power of Equus Coaching. Equus Coaching emphasizes the profound impact of non-verbal communication and self-awareness as clients engage with horses, gaining insights into their leadership, communication style, and personal growth. Sue took great comfort in working with horses during some of the darkest, most difficult periods of her life, and she now finds fulfillment in being the kind of mentor she wished she had in the past.