Late Boomers

Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins

Welcome to Late Boomers, the podcast that is your guide to creating a third act with style, power and impact! Join your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, as they bring you conversations with successful artists, entrepreneurs and entertainers who have set themselves up for an amazing third act. Everyone has a story, and Cathy and Merry take you along for the ride on each interview, recounting the journey each guest has taken to get where they are, and inspiring you to create a path to success as you look toward your own third act!

  1. The Surprising Science Behind Why We Love Music at Any Age

    7 HRS AGO

    The Surprising Science Behind Why We Love Music at Any Age

    In this episode, we unlock the mysteries at the heart of music: what makes it so powerful, and why does it move us so deeply, no matter our age? We sit down with musician, scholar, and interdisciplinary thinker Kurt Ellenberger to explore how music merges art, science, philosophy, and even evolutionary biology. Whether you’re a lifelong musician, a curious listener, or you’re thinking of dusting off your piano keys for a fresh start, this episode gives you a brand-new perspective on the sounds that weave through our lives. Key TakeawaysOur Brains Love Symmetry: Kurt explains why octaves feel “complete” and harmonious, tying music’s emotional impact to simple mathematical relationships (02:10, 04:31).Music Is More Than Notes: The mind-blowing realization that when we listen to, or make music, our brains are performing instant calculations to resolve tension and create “musical stories” and we all fill in the missing notes together (09:52, 22:01).Creativity Deepens with Age: It’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Studies show that learning music, even as a late bloomer, not only brings joy but can improve your cognitive abilities by up to 10 IQ points! (35:00)Universal Power of Sound: Birds, humans, and the natural world all crave order, symmetry, and consonance in sound and vision, underscoring music’s evolutionary significance (12:06).Genre Mashups: The roots of jazzy Christmas music reveal hidden overlaps between Broadway, jazz, and pop, showing how different disciplines and cultures continually influence each other (29:36, 31:04).Science Enhances Emotion: Understanding the mathematics or biology behind music deepens our emotional connection to it, making music not less magical, but more miraculous (33:25). Are you ready to rediscover the joy of music or ignite your creativity? We challenge you: pick up a new instrument, join a choir, or simply listen more closely to the harmonies you love. You’re never too old to be moved or to make your own music! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Share this conversation with the music lovers in your life, and if you’re considering taking up music or are already on your journey, let us know! Leave a comment or reach out to us. Want to ask Kurt a question or learn more? Visit him at kurtellenberger.com. Let’s keep the music and the conversation going, because life doesn’t slow down after 50. In fact, it only gets better! With gratitude, Cathy & Merry

    39 min
  2. Late Boomers Spotlight: How Poetry Became Autumn Williams’s Lifeline

    MAR 25

    Late Boomers Spotlight: How Poetry Became Autumn Williams’s Lifeline

    Welcome to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy and Merry, and this episode is one we’re especially excited to share with you. Today, we dive into the quiet yet powerful world of poetry, exploring how it can help us process life’s biggest challenges and find hope—even in the midst of chronic illness. Our conversation features Autumn Williams, poet and author of the deeply moving book Clouds on the Ground. Autumn’s journey with myalgic encephalomyelitis (chronic illness) led her to poetry as an outlet, a form of escape, and a way to help others process their own struggles. Her perspective and her work remind us that beauty and resilience can flourish against the toughest odds. We start by reflecting on how poetry slows us down, encourages introspection, and gives voice to experiences that are hard to explain. Autumn shares how being bedbound sparked her love for free verse poetry, a style that felt liberating when her life was so restricted. She talks about writing poems that, while inspired by personal pain, are universal enough for anyone to find themselves in. Autumn reads several poems from Clouds on the Ground, and we discuss the remarkable imagery, the art on her book’s cover, and the role of nature in her healing. She describes her creative process, balancing writing with being a parent to six children, and how she reclaimed agency and meaning through writing. We also touch on the self-publishing process, building a creative team, and how responses from readers have truly touched her. Key Takeaways: Poetry can be a powerful tool to process emotions, loss, illness, and dreams.Free verse opened up creative freedom for Autumn, and helped her escape the confines of chronic illness.Her poems are intentionally written to be universal, allowing readers to insert their own stories and struggles, and find comfort and hope.The journey of self-publishing involves building the right team, taking your time, and honoring your voice and vision.Autumn’s experience reminds us to honor pain, sit with it, and recognize value in ourselves even when life doesn’t go as planned.The feedback Autumn received shows the transformative power of sharing our stories, and how art can truly move others. If you’re seeking inspiration or healing, we encourage you to explore Autumn’s poetry. You can sign up for her newsletter to receive her chapbook Waves for free, and check out Clouds on the Ground for her full collection of poems. Subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you listen to podcasts, share this episode with a friend who could use some encouragement, and visit our website at lateboomers.us for more episodes and updates. Until next time, keep learning, creating, and making bold moves at every age! — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    28 min
  3. Letting Go of Perfectionism and Discovering Meaning in the Messy Middle of Life

    MAR 18

    Letting Go of Perfectionism and Discovering Meaning in the Messy Middle of Life

    Welcome to another inspiring episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy and Merry, and today we’re diving into topics that truly resonate with so many in our community: letting go of perfection, embracing life’s messy middle, and finding ongoing joy in reinvention. This week, we’re thrilled to be joined by Lorie Kleiner Eckert—author, fiber artist, motivational speaker, and author of High on Life—whose honest wisdom and humor shine a fresh light on what it means to age boldly and with intention. In this episode, we chat with Lorie about the meaning behind her book High on Life (and yes, we even unpack the meaning of "chai"), the powerful lessons drawn from her Jewish heritage, and the value of imperfection in our “third act.” We explore why so many of us are obsessed with perfection and get Lorie’s no-nonsense advice for those feeling stuck or hesitant about reinventing themselves—no matter their age. We also touch on essential topics like destigmatizing therapy, the healing power of journaling, honoring our ancestors authentically, and using humor to tackle life’s challenges, from body image to aging and self-doubt. And for all you creatives (and non-creatives!), Lorie shares how her passion for quilting has shaped her storytelling and connection with audiences everywhere. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Chai means “life” in Hebrew—a concept that inspires finding joy even when life gets tough.Perfection is overrated! Embracing “good enough” leads to more joy, resilience, and self-acceptance.Reinvention isn’t just possible at any age—it’s something we all have experience with, and a simple two-step approach makes each new chapter manageable.Mental health is for everyone—normalizing therapy and journaling can help us process, heal, and thrive in everyday life, not just in crisis.Honoring our roots is a lifelong journey; remember to credit past generations, but see their struggles with honesty, not just nostalgia.Humor truly is healing—being able to laugh at life’s curveballs helps us own our stories and reclaim our joy.Small victories matter! Keeping an “accountability log” or quick journal can help you celebrate daily steps forward and remind yourself how magnificent you are. If you take just one thing from today’s episode, we hope it’s the encouragement to write down your own stories, in whatever form works for you. Whether it’s a funny snippet from family life or a simple list of accomplishments—these moments are your legacy and your proof that you are always growing and reinventing. Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. You can find High on Life wherever books are sold, plus Lori’s companion journal on Amazon. To connect with Lorie and explore more of her stories, visit loriekleinereckert.com. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs a little inspiration, and keep living boldly in your third act. We’ll be back with more conversations soon! With gratitude, Cathy & Merry P.S. – If not now, when? Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    43 min
  4. Eating Like a Human: Beverly Meyer on Food First, Paleo, and Wellness Wisdom

    MAR 11

    Eating Like a Human: Beverly Meyer on Food First, Paleo, and Wellness Wisdom

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy and Merry, and today’s episode is an eye-opening guide to “creating your third act with style, power, and impact.” In this conversation, we dive deep with Beverly Meyer, renowned natural health educator, speaker, and host of the “Primal Diet – Modern Health” podcast. Beverly is a true pioneer in the fields of holistic nutrition and functional health—and her motto of “food first” is more relevant than ever. What’s Inside This EpisodeJoin us as we unpack decades of Beverly’s experience and uncover why the path to better health starts on your plate. Beverly shares her own story of overcoming chronic health challenges—from battling persistent viruses in college to becoming an influential advocate for the primal and paleo approaches to eating. If you’ve ever wondered about the power of real, hearty foods versus supplements, or felt overwhelmed by health fads, this episode is tailor-made for you. Key TakeawaysFood First Philosophy: Discover why focusing on proteins, good fats, and vegetables is foundational for optimal health—and why “eating like a human” works.Busting Nutrition Myths: Learn why grains and sugar are not suitable foods for humans and how the paleo diet is rooted in our biology—not just another fad.Herpes Viruses & Diet: Hear Beverly’s personal health journey with herpes viruses, Epstein-Barr, and more, and how dietary choices can directly impact viral management.Supplements: When & When Not: Beverly breaks down why she’s “not a pill pimp,” and how diet, lifestyle, and sleep are the real foundation—supplements come later.Sleep & Stress: Understand the importance of sleep and the incredible role of the neurotransmitter GABA in regulating anxiety, mood, and overall brain health.Vitamin K2 for Boomers: Most people haven’t heard of K2, but you’ll learn why it’s essential, how it works alongside vitamin D, and which foods and supplements provide it.Wellness Warrior Mindset: Get actionable tips for taking charge—even if you feel overwhelmed or intimidated by holistic health. Beverly gives practical, forgiving steps to reclaim a sense of control, starting with what you eat and how you sleep. Our Call to ActionReady to revamp your approach to health, one meal at a time? Start by evaluating what’s truly on your plate. Consider removing grains and processed sugars and focusing on nourishing, real foods—your body and mind will thank you. For those wanting extra guidance, check out Beverly’s powerful resources at ondietandhealth.com and her podcast “Primal Diet – Modern Health.” Curious about GABA, paleo recipes, or how to get more K2? Beverly is also active on Pinterest—dive in for actionable inspiration. Don’t forget: Subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts and follow us on YouTube. If you loved these practical strategies and want more wisdom for your own third act, explore other episodes at lateboomers.us. Take care of yourselves—remember, it’s never too late to make bold, healthy moves! With clarity and encouragement, Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    44 min
  5. Unlocking Brain Health After 50: Neuroplasticity, Growth, and Reinvention with Dr. Tere Linzey

    MAR 4

    Unlocking Brain Health After 50: Neuroplasticity, Growth, and Reinvention with Dr. Tere Linzey

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and today’s episode dives into one of our most exciting and empowering topics yet—brain health, neuroplasticity, and the incredible power of reinvention at any age. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Tere Linzey, a licensed educational psychologist and founder of BrainMatterZ. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Linzey specializes in helping people of all ages strengthen critical brain functions like memory, attention, processing speed, and executive skills. If you’ve ever wondered whether cognitive decline is inevitable as you age, get ready for some surprising—and reassuring—news! We explore why keeping your brain active is a game-changer, how simple daily habits can help you maintain and even enhance your cognitive abilities, and why “use it or lose it” isn't just a saying—it’s science-backed truth. Dr. Linzey also shares research-backed tips, practical exercises, and fresh perspectives that will inspire you to make your brain’s health a top priority. Key TakeawaysCognitive Decline Is Not Inevitable: According to Dr. Linzey, it’s a lack of use—not age—that erodes our mental sharpness. Your brain thrives on challenge and engagement.Neuroplasticity Explained: The brain is always learning and adapting. What you practice becomes hardwired—so focus on habits that move you toward your goals.Why Adults Over 50 Have a Unique Advantage: Now is a powerful time to focus on your brain. Reinvention, learning new skills, and even changing careers can stimulate neuroplasticity.The Power of Physical and Mental Exercise: Activities like ping pong, pickleball, and Dr. Linzey’s “brain cards” combine movement with mental focus to boost cognitive fitness.Practical “Brain Optimization” Methods: From pen-and-paper planning to timed brain games, there are fun and accessible ways to stay sharp. Socialization, exercise, and novelty are top performers for brain health.Beware Over-Reliance on Technology: As much as digital tools are helpful, using them as a crutch can dull your critical thinking. Offset screen time with real-world activities.Maintenance is Key: Treat your brain like any other essential system in your life. Maintenance, variety, and challenge keep you vibrant—at any age. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please follow us on your favorite podcast platform, leave us a review, and share this conversation with someone who needs a reminder that it’s never too late to reinvent, learn, and thrive. For show links, brain card resources, and more inspiration, visit lateboomers.us. Let’s keep this conversation going—send us your questions or stories of reinvention! Stay curious, keep growing, and remember: it’s never too late to boom. Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    42 min
  6. Fitness Over 50: Building Strength, Balance, and Confidence for a Vibrant Third Act

    FEB 25

    Fitness Over 50: Building Strength, Balance, and Confidence for a Vibrant Third Act

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We're your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and today we're diving into a topic that's close to our hearts—and so important to living our best third act: Fitness After 50. Whether you're just entering this milestone or already thriving in your 60s, 70s, or beyond, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and real stories to help you stay strong, independent, and energized at every age. We sit down with Michael Guadagnino, author of Fitness Over 50, 60, 70, and Beyond, who shares his passion for helping boomers unlock their potential through movement—no matter their starting point. Michael sheds light on why the habits we build post-50 make such an impact on our longevity, happiness, confidence, and daily independence. We also bust some damaging fitness myths, talk about the power of functional strength, and get actionable tips for building a routine that feels good—without intimidation. Key Takeaways: It’s Never Too Late: Michael’s story about Joan Campbell, who began exercising at 59 and was still swimming into her 90s, is proof that transformation is possible at any age.Ditch the Comparison Game: The most important shift is to listen to your own body, stop comparing yourself to others, and build your unique path to fitness.Functional Fitness Is the Goal: We discuss why being able to move well in daily life—not just in the gym—matters so much as we age.Strength Training Matters: Especially for women, building muscle is critical for balance, metabolism, and fall prevention, but getting started doesn't have to be overwhelming.Start Simple, Start Small: You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership—Michael gives great examples of calisthenics, resistance bands, and walking.Mindset Makes the Difference: Embracing aging, letting go of fear and negative self-talk, and celebrating small wins can transform how you approach fitness.Move More, Sit Less: Michael’s motto, “Movement is life,” underlines how important it is to simply keep moving, stretch, and keep blood flowing—even just a few times a week. Ready to Take the First Step? Michael’s advice is to pick one simple thing you can do today—whether it's a short walk, a few chair exercises, or writing down a small goal. Progress, not perfection, is what counts! If you found this episode motivating, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review. Share Late Boomers with a friend who's ready to feel stronger and more confident in their third act. For more insights and to connect with us or our guests, visit lateboomers.us. You can also find us on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. Thank you for listening, for moving, and for living boldly with us! With love, Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    18 min
  7. Discovering Joy and Meaning Across Oceans and Cultures with Alison Gieschen

    FEB 18

    Discovering Joy and Meaning Across Oceans and Cultures with Alison Gieschen

    Welcome, Late Boomers! We're Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and this week, we set sail on a truly transformational journey with Alison Gieschen—author, former horse farm owner, educator, and intrepid world sailor. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to leave everything behind and follow a lifelong dream? In this inspiring episode, Alison shares how she dared to reinvent her life, selling her horse farm and embarking on an adventure with her husband to sail around the world. From the lush hills of upstate New York to the remote islands of French Polynesia, Alison opens up about her life's boldest moves, the storms she’s weathered—physically and emotionally—and how it all fuels her work as a writer. We dive deep into Alison’s bestselling books, The Seven and A Mermaid’s Tale, the profound lessons she’s learned traveling to over 49 countries, and the universal themes of courage, culture, and resilience that weave through her stories. You'll also hear incredible anecdotes, like surviving life-threatening storms at sea, encounters with solo sailors, and how her lifelong love of horses continues to inspire her writing—even while anchored in paradise. Key TakeawaysReinvention Is Possible at Any Age: Alison’s journey from horse farmer to global sailor proves it's never too late to answer the call of adventure.Facing and Managing Fear: Learn how Alison turned fear into fuel, surviving tumultuous ocean storms and emerging with a deeper understanding of her own resilience.The Transformative Power of Travel: Discover how experiencing different cultures shaped Alison's worldview and the authentic characters in her novels.Writing from Life: Hear how personal stories, hardships (like her son’s bullying), and the solace of animals are woven into her fiction and children’s books.Simplicity Breeds Joy: Alison discusses the happiness she’s witnessed in communities with few material possessions, offering a powerful message for all of us in the West.Finding Community on the Water: Even in the vastness of the ocean, Alison found deep connection and camaraderie with fellow sailors from around the world.Actionable Inspiration for Listeners: Alison encourages everyone to carve out distraction-free time to pursue creativity—and to be brave enough to make the leap toward that “someday” dream. Ready to be inspired for your own third act—or maybe just to ignite your curiosity about life’s possibilities? We invite you to: Subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you listen to podcasts (Apple, Spotify, etc.) so you never miss these empowering conversations.Check out Alison Gieschen’s books, especially The Seven, A Mermaid’s Tale, Sienna, Riding the Waves of Reality, Blue Ridge, and The Legend of Altor—perfect whether you’re a horse lover, adventurer, or in need of a dose of hope.Visit our website at lateboomers.us for more inspiring content and to get in touch.Share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement to take that leap into their own new chapter. Remember, it’s never too late to reinvent, to set your course in a new direction, and to live your adventure with style, power, and impact. Stay curious. Stay bold. And join us next week for another episode of Late Boomers! With love, Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    38 min
  8. Mindset Transformations: How Boomers Can Rethink Success and Happiness

    FEB 11

    Mindset Transformations: How Boomers Can Rethink Success and Happiness

    Welcome back, Late Boomers! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and in this episode, we open the door to a topic that quietly but profoundly shapes every part of our lives: mindset. If you’ve ever wondered how your habits of thought can influence your success, resilience, happiness, and even how you approach aging and reinvention, you’re in the right place. This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Michael Graham, founder of Mindset Matters Consulting. Michael’s background is as unconventional as it is inspiring: from high-stakes presidential protection details and endurance triathlons, to law enforcement supervision and elite coaching, his journey is a masterclass in the power of mindset under pressure—and how mental shifts can spark transformation at any stage of life. What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeIntroduction & Michael’s Unique Story: We kick off with Michael’s fascinating entry into law enforcement and how serving alongside the Secret Service on presidential details taught him about mindset, leadership, and decision-making under pressure. The Power of Preparation & Courage: Michael explains how training for every contingency—not just in policing, but also as an Ironman athlete—trains the mind to respond rather than react, and how these lessons apply in everyday life. How Endurance Sports Reshape Thinking: From grueling physical challenges to powerful mental visualizations, Michael reveals how focusing on the present, harnessing higher vibrations of gratitude and love, and reframing setbacks became superpowers that carried him through extreme endurance events. Defining Mindset and Breaking Old Patterns: We dive into what “mindset” really means, why it’s foundational to success, and how shifting self-talk and noticing your thoughts are critical first steps to change. Mindset Shifts as We Age: Michael shares beautifully about the evolution of mindset in our later years—how we can become kinder to ourselves, focus less on differences, forgive ourselves more readily, and continue learning without shame. Leadership, Organizations & Measurable Change: We explore how intentionality, values-driven leadership, and genuine compassion can drastically improve not just individual performance, but organizational culture … and, yes, profits too! The Secrets to Successful Mindset Shifts: Michael gives actionable ways to catch negative self-talk and reset with powerful affirmations and consistency. He also draws on his own leap into consulting, encouraging listeners to notice both their longings and any lingering discontent—and to take action on what calls them. Key TakeawaysMindset is strategy, not fluff: Our thoughts shape emotions, drive actions, and ultimately create our results. Change your thinking to change your life.Notice your self-talk: The first step to change is awareness—“notice what you’re noticing” and take action to re-pattern self-limiting beliefs.Preparation brings peace: Planning for the predictable makes the preventable possible, giving you strength and confidence under pressure at any age.Kindness begins with yourself: Especially as we age, give yourself grace, forgive mistakes, and never stop learning—much like a child learning to walk!Follow your longings: Pay attention to that inner nudge toward something more—your desires are part of your soul’s instructions, not just selfish whims.Intentional leadership raises everyone up: Organizational success flows from clear values, compassion, and support at every level.Affirmations and repetition rewire self-image: You cannot outperform your belief in yourself, so feed your mind what you want to believe—consistently. Are you ready to rethink what’s possible and create your own extraordinary third act? Start today by noticing your mindset. What do you long for? Where do you feel discontent? Give yourself permission to follow your curiosity and improve your self-talk. We invite you to share this episode with a friend, subscribe, and leave us a review! For more wisdom on reinvention and thriving at any age, check out our website at lateboomers.us or listen to all our episodes at ewnpodcastnetwork.com. And if Michael Graham’s story resonated with you, explore his work at mindsetmattersconsulting.com. As we always say, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    51 min
5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Late Boomers, the podcast that is your guide to creating a third act with style, power and impact! Join your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, as they bring you conversations with successful artists, entrepreneurs and entertainers who have set themselves up for an amazing third act. Everyone has a story, and Cathy and Merry take you along for the ride on each interview, recounting the journey each guest has taken to get where they are, and inspiring you to create a path to success as you look toward your own third act!