CRANK THE 3RD: Exploring the entrepreneurial + creative side of life post 50

Trevor Young
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  • MARKETING
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CRANK THE 3RD: Exploring the entrepreneurial + creative side of life post 50

CRANK THE 3RD is a weekly podcast in which we explore the entrepreneurial and creative side of life post 50. You've survived the first two professional chapters of your lives - 20s to mid-30s (chapter 1) and mid-30s and through your 40s (chapter 2). Welcome to the 3rd chapter! By this stage of your professional life, you've seen a lot, done most things, made some cash, expanded your horizons and probably are more comfortable in your skin than at any other time. But it’s not necessarily all sunshine and roses either. At some stage, many of us reach a point where we ask: “Is that all there is?” While we have oodles of experience under our belts and are a lot more sure of ourselves and confident in our own abilities, we also live in a fast-paced volatile world. Technology is ever-changing, and the AI wave has only just begun. A sense of uncertainty is never far away. We know that if we stand still, we run the risk of losing relevance. No matter how savvy, experienced and connected we are, certain challenges remain. But on the upside, the number of opportunities staring us in the face is enormous, and unprecedented! The goal of CRANK THE 3RD is to inspire energised, forward-thinking 50 and 60-somethings to continue to think expansively and creatively about their current situation, and to ponder, plot and plan the exciting road they have ahead of them. You’ve put in the hard yards: now it’s time to capitalise! Let’s dive in! ------------------------------ Follow Trevor on Twitter

  1. 5 MAR

    295: Becoming more audacious in today's AI world: a guide for business owners over 50 - with Mark Schaefer

    In a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence and automation, it's easy to feel like we're losing our edge as human professionals. But what if I told you that the key to standing out and thriving in this AI-driven landscape isn't about competing with machines, but rather embracing our uniquely human qualities? This is the theme of this fascinating conversation with Mark Schaefer, a marketing strategy consultant, keynote speaker, and author of the newly-released book, Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World. Mark's insights shed light on how we can leverage human connection and creativity to carve out our niche in a rapidly evolving business landscape. At the heart of Mark's philosophy is the concept of being audacious. But what does that really mean in the context of our professional lives? It's not about grand gestures or risky stunts. Instead, it's about creating moments of awe in our everyday interactions and work. Mark defines audacity as "something that creates a moment of awe in your life." It's about doing something that makes people sit up and take notice, something that sparks curiosity and connection. In a world where AI can churn out competent work at lightning speed, it's these human touches that truly set us apart. Also touched on during this conversation is Mark's own journey, how he started blogging at age 49 and how it changed his life immeasurably. Inspiring stuff! Here are a few quotes from Mark: "You can't outsmart AI. You have to out human AI.""What's a little thing we can do to add awe to someone's day? To just create that spark of an emotional connection between us.""The great mindset today is to do something so interesting, so generous, so unmissable that other people can't wait to talk about it, because those are the great storytellers and that is what is believed." VISIT MARK'S WEBSITE - https://businessesgrow.com/ If you like what you hear on the podcast, I'd love it if you could rate and review the show via your podcast app (especially if you're on Apple Podcasts) - thank you!

    50 min

  2. 21 FEB

    294: Embracing change in your 50s - how Karen Muldoon made the leap from corporate sales to health practitioner

    Are you feeling stuck in your corporate career, yearning for a change that aligns with your passions? Karen Muldoon's journey from tech executive to functional nutrition practitioner might just be the inspiration you need! In this episode, I sit down with Karen to explore her transition from a successful 30-year career in the corporate world to launching her own business focused on helping professional women navigate menopause. We discuss the challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons learned along the way. Embracing a new path Karen shares insights on: The moment she realised it was time for a career changeHow her personal health journey sparked a new passionThe importance of continuous learning and investing in yourself Building a business from scratch We delve into: The process of choosing the right educational programStrategies for launching an online business, including the use of social media advertisingThe power of community and creating a safe space for clients Overcoming challenges and self-doubt Karen offers advice on: Dealing with the fear of putting yourself 'out there' onlineThe importance of perseverance in the face of setbacksHow to leverage your existing skills in a new industry Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking to start your own business, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips. Karen's story demonstrates that it's never too late to pursue your passions and make a meaningful impact in the world. Key takeaways: The value of investing in coaching and education when starting a new ventureHow to build an online presence and attract clients through various platformsThe importance of giving yourself time to grow and evolve in your new role If you're ready to explore new possibilities and take control of your professional future, this episode is a must-listen. Karen's journey proves that with passion, determination, and the right support, it's possible to create a fulfilling career change while in your 50s. Connect with Karen on LinkedIn

    58 min

  3. 12 FEB

    293: The power of clarity and credibility for over-50 entrepreneurs and professionals - with Mitchell Levy

    Are you struggling to articulate your unique value proposition after decades of professional experience? You're not alone. Many seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders find themselves grappling with the "curse of knowledge" - having so much expertise that it becomes challenging to communicate their core offering clearly. In this episode, I sit down with global credibility expert and executive coach Mitchell Levy to explore the power of clarity and credibility for over-50 entrepreneurs and professionals. We delve into the importance of honing your message and positioning yourself effectively in today's fast-paced business landscape. Unlocking the Power of Clarity Mitchell shares insights on: The concept of a Customer Point of Possibilities (CPOP) and how to craft one in under 10 wordsWhy casting a wide net in business often backfires, and the benefits of "picking a lane"Strategies for aligning your business offerings with your personal brand Building Credibility in the Digital Age We also explore: The 10 core values of credibility and why integrity is the cornerstoneHow authenticity and vulnerability contribute to your professional reputationPractical tips for leveraging LinkedIn to showcase your expertise Embracing Lifelong Learning And finally, Mitchell emphasises the importance of continuous growth, sharing: His approach to running multiple businesses while staying professionally relevant and up to dateThe value of surrounding yourself with diverse perspectives, including younger generationsWhy attending conferences and pursuing certifications can spark new ideas and opportunities Whether you're looking to refine your personal brand, boost your credibility, or navigate the next phase of your career, this conversation offers valuable insights for professionals at any stage. Tune in to gain clarity on your unique value proposition and learn how to communicate it effectively in today's competitive marketplace. CONNECT WITH MITCHELL - https://mitchelllevy.com/

    55 min

  4. 5 FEB

    292: Special episode - The importance of being AI-savvy in your 50s and beyond [ Incl. RECAP of Valerie Khoo's 'Reinvention' interview ]

    Are you a seasoned professional feeling the pressure to stay relevant in today's rapidly changing business landscape? You're not alone. As someone with decades of experience under your belt, you've accumulated a wealth of knowledge, skills, and wisdom. But in a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed and AI is reshaping industries, how do you leverage your expertise while staying current? ___________________ This episode is a little different. The key message is the importance for business owners and professionals aged 50 and over to stay relevant by keeping up with technology, particularly AI. To bring this idea to life, I've created a recap of a previous interview with Valerie Khoo, who I've dubbed the 'Queen of Reinvention'. This recap, generated by Google NotebookLM, will really bring home to you the power of AI in action, as it pertains to content creation. In addition, you get to listen to key take-outs from my chat with Valerie (episode 288 - What successful professional reinvention looks like in practice) - this has been Crank The 3rd's most popular episode thus far. So, whether you're considering a career pivot, launching a new venture, or simply want to stay relevant in your field, this episode offers valuable insights for professionals at any stage. Tune in to gain inspiration and practical tips for navigating the exciting road ahead in your business, career, and lifestyle design. Oh, and don't forget to keep abreast of what's happening in the world of AI - use it to your advantage!

    26 min

  5. 29 JAN

    291: Turning a side project into a flourishing enterprise (and discovering your purpose along the way) - with Mark Masters

    This episode is for anyone who's closing in on 50 years of age, or maybe you're older but your professional purpose still eludes you. Perhaps you've been running a business for ages but you want to extend your entrepreneurial boundaries and pivot into doing something different, something that is more interesting and meaningful than what you're doing currently? If so, you're going to love this conversation with Mark Masters, founder of You Are The Media, as we discuss his journey of discovering purpose through continuous effort. Mark's story is a testament to the power of persistence, as he shares how a side project evolved into a thriving community-driven business. Mark takes us through his transformation from running a small but traditional marketing and advertising agency to building a fully sustainable marketing learning community called You Are The Media. He emphasises the importance of finding your voice and choosing yourself, rather than waiting for opportunities to come knocking. Evolution of a side project We discuss how Mark's newsletter, which began in 2013, gradually grew into a multifaceted platform including: A paid membership spaceLive events across the UKEducational initiatives Mark highlights the challenges and rewards of nurturing a side project into a full-fledged business, stressing the value of patience and persistence. Building a community-centric business A key theme of our conversation is the shift from a "me-centric" to a "we-centric" approach in business. Mark shares insights on: Creating opportunities for community members to step up and leadFostering a culture of mutual support and learningThe importance of trust in delegating responsibilities Finding purpose and staying relevant For professionals in their third decade of business, Mark offers valuable advice on: Aligning your values with your workThe power of continuous learning and adaptationEmbracing new challenges to maintain relevance We also touch on the loneliness of entrepreneurship and how joining communities can combat isolation and fuel personal growth. Key takeaways for aspiring community builders Mark provides practical tips for those looking to start their own communities: Choose a medium you're passionate about and can consistently produceAlign your project with your core valuesFocus on participation and engagement, not just content creationBe patient and prepared for the long haulJoin other communities to learn and grow This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to find their purpose, build a community-driven business, or stay relevant in an ever-changing professional landscape. QUOTABLE QUOTES FROM MARK "I realized that the strength is when you feel a part of a community with everybody, with everyone else on your side. Community is central to what I do." "I am an example of how a community became the business and that's really empowering." "Side projects can be risky, but they can also create the most joy and reward that we've ever stepped into." "I'm with my heroes now and that's a liberating place to be." CONNECT WITH MARK WebsiteLinkedIn

    47 min

  6. 22 JAN

    290: From Corporate ladder to solopreneur success: Starting your first business at 53 - with Graham White

    Transitioning from a corporate career to entrepreneurship can be daunting, especially when you're in your early 50s and have been handed a 'pink slip' from your employer of two decades. But for Graham White, this leap became an opportunity to reinvent his professional life and create a thriving solo communications consulting practice.. In this episode, Graham shares his journey from being a seasoned PR executive to launching his own business at 53. He offers valuable insights for professionals considering a similar path, emphasising the importance of self-belief, strategic planning, and leveraging decades of experience. Key takeaways from Graham's entrepreneurial journey: Embrace change: Sometimes, unexpected career shifts can lead to new opportunities for growth and fulfillment.Leverage your network: Tap into professional relationships built over the years to find clients and collaborators.Start lean: Keep overheads low and focus on delivering value to clients from day one.Find your niche: Specialise in areas where you have deep expertise to differentiate yourself in the market.Maintain work-life balance: Structure your business to allow for personal time and pursuits outside of work. Graham also discusses the emotional journey of leaving a long-term corporate role, the importance of having a supportive family, and how to navigate the initial challenges of solo entrepreneurship. Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: Assess market opportunities before making the leapSecure a good accountant for financial guidanceBuild a network of fellow entrepreneurs for support and adviceBe prepared to handle all aspects of the business yourselfStay open to collaboration and new opportunities Whether you're contemplating a career change or simply curious about the realities of starting a business later in life, Graham's story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for navigating this exciting transition. CONNECT WITH GRAHAM ON LINKEDIN

    46 min

  7. 23/12/2024

    289: Quick wrap-up of 2025 (what have you missed?)

    Thank you for listening to CRANK THE 3RD - in this quick solo edition, I recap the episodes published since relaunching the podcast, previously known as 'Reputation Revolution'. Catch you in the next episode!

    14 min

  8. 11/12/2024

    288: What successful professional reinvention looks like in practice - with Valerie Khoo

    Look up the word 'eclectic' in the dictionary and there will be a picture there of this week's guest - her name is Valerie Khoo, and when it comes to professional evolution, Valerie is the Queen of Reinvention! Valerie has who has successfully navigated careers in accounting, PR, journalism, public speaking, entrepreneurship, and the visual arts. She’s a published author and the founder of the Australian Writers' Centre, which has trained over 100,000 students worldwide since opening its doors in 2005. Valerie also hosts the popular podcast - So You Want to be a Writer - which has over three million downloads - and, if that wasn’t enough, she was for several years the curator of Sydney's Lunar Festival, which is one of the city's major arts and cultural events. Valerie’s creative journey took an unexpected turn when she picked up a paintbrush and discovered her passion for visual art. If you’re keen to better understand what it takes to reinvent yourself professionally - perhaps you’re keen to get out of corporate and do something new, or take on a different project outside of the business you run - if building a portfolio career is on your radar - then you will love this inspiring conversation with Valerie Khoo! CONCLUSION: Valerie's story is a testament to the power of curiosity and adaptability in forging a fulfilling and creative career. Her journey encourages us to explore new avenues, embrace lifelong learning, and challenge conventional career paths for personal and professional growth. VALERIE'S QUOTABLE QUOTES: “Always give in to your curiosity because for sure it’s leading you somewhere that you’re actually meant to go.” “It’s never too late. It’s just never too late.” “Embracing new things and learning new things is so important for your health.” “I think mentors are really important, and that was something I discovered way too late in life.” “You can leap. You don’t have to ladder climb.” CONNECT WITH VALERIE ON INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/valeriekhoo

    45 min
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4.9
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

CRANK THE 3RD is a weekly podcast in which we explore the entrepreneurial and creative side of life post 50. You've survived the first two professional chapters of your lives - 20s to mid-30s (chapter 1) and mid-30s and through your 40s (chapter 2). Welcome to the 3rd chapter! By this stage of your professional life, you've seen a lot, done most things, made some cash, expanded your horizons and probably are more comfortable in your skin than at any other time. But it’s not necessarily all sunshine and roses either. At some stage, many of us reach a point where we ask: “Is that all there is?” While we have oodles of experience under our belts and are a lot more sure of ourselves and confident in our own abilities, we also live in a fast-paced volatile world. Technology is ever-changing, and the AI wave has only just begun. A sense of uncertainty is never far away. We know that if we stand still, we run the risk of losing relevance. No matter how savvy, experienced and connected we are, certain challenges remain. But on the upside, the number of opportunities staring us in the face is enormous, and unprecedented! The goal of CRANK THE 3RD is to inspire energised, forward-thinking 50 and 60-somethings to continue to think expansively and creatively about their current situation, and to ponder, plot and plan the exciting road they have ahead of them. You’ve put in the hard yards: now it’s time to capitalise! Let’s dive in! ------------------------------ Follow Trevor on Twitter

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