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. Leading With Presence: Lessons in Resilience and Integrity After 50

    10 HR AGO

    Leading With Presence: Lessons in Resilience and Integrity After 50

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re Cathy and Merry, your co-hosts, and we’re thrilled to have you join us for another powerful episode focused on reinventing, redefining, and reimagining life after 50. In this episode, we dive deep into the meaning of real leadership, especially in uncertain and emotionally charged environments. Our guest, Jay Jacobson, brings decades of experience leading through crises, grief, and transitions, having represented funeral directors before the US Senate and having written the insightful book, Lead by Legendary Example. We talk about what it means to be present as a leader, how to mentor effectively, and why adaptability, faith, and resilience are crucial. Jay’s insights are not only vital for anyone in a leadership position, but especially for boomers stepping into new roles as mentors, caregivers, business owners, or the emotional anchors of their families. Episode OverviewDefining real leadership today: beyond titles and charismaThe importance of presence and integrity in high-stakes situationsJay’s behind-the-scenes experience testifying before the US SenateRegulation challenges in the funeral industry amid changing timesLessons from major crises, including the United Flight 232 tragedyHow faith anchors leaders and provides resilience in griefWhy mentorship is essential to long-lasting leadershipThe impact of COVID-19 on grief rituals, funeral practices, and business adaptationPractical steps for leading yourself and others through uncertainty and reinvention Key TakeawaysPresence matters: True leadership is about being present, actively listening, and understanding both spoken and unspoken cues.Integrity comes first: Trust and accountability are non-negotiable without them, nothing else matters.Adaptability is essential: Life throws curveballs, and strong leaders know how to pivot, adapt, and find opportunities in adversity.Mentorship is a legacy: Passing on wisdom to the next generation is how we ensure continuity and growth in every arena.Rituals and community have meaning: Marking endings and beginnings, especially in times of loss, matters deeply for healing.Faith (in any form) can be an anchor: A sense of purpose and meaning helps sustain leaders through the toughest times.Self-care is not optional: Step back, reconnect with your mission, and allow yourself room to rest and recharge. If today’s conversation resonated with you, we invite you to: Subscribe to Late Boomers so you never miss an inspiring episodeShare this episode with friends or family who are navigating leadership or reinventionLeave us a review tell us what leadership challenges you’re facing or what topics you’d love for us to explore next Remember, it’s never too late to lead with intention and to become the kind of leader the world (and your life) needs. Thanks for listening and being a part of our community! With gratitude, Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    38 min
  2. Unlocking Home Equity: The Truth About Reverse Mortgages for Baby Boomers

    13 MAY

    Unlocking Home Equity: The Truth About Reverse Mortgages for Baby Boomers

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re Cathy and Merry, your guides to creating your next chapter with passion, purpose, and possibilities. In this insightful episode, we dive deep into a topic that’s high on the minds of many Baby Boomers and their families: reverse mortgages, what they are, how they work, and whether they could be the financial solution you’ve been looking for. Our special guest is Kevin Guttman, a senior mortgage broker, reverse mortgage specialist, and three-time Amazon bestselling author, with over 21 years of experience. As one of only a small number of certified Reverse Mortgage Professionals in the country, Kevin brings a wealth of knowledge, a transparent approach, and a passion for educating seniors and their families. In this episode, we cover: What makes a reverse mortgage different from a traditional mortgageThe top misconceptions and myths about reverse mortgagesHow reverse mortgages can provide financial flexibility without requiring you to leave your homeWho makes an ideal candidate (and who doesn’t)Creative ways retirees are using reverse mortgages to improve their livesKey protections and recent regulatory changes that make reverse mortgages saferImpact on heirs and estate planning considerationsCommon mistakes to avoid and how to start the conversation with your familY Whether you’re thinking about tapping into your home equity, seeking greater financial security in retirement, or simply want to learn about every option available, this episode is packed with actionable insights and compelling real-world stories. Key Takeaways Reverse mortgages offer flexibility: you can access your home’s equity as a lump sum, monthly payments, or via a line of credit, with no monthly mortgage payment required.You do NOT lose ownership of your home, you remain on the title, and the only way the loan is repaid is through sale or refinance when you leave the home.Reverse mortgages are highly regulated and now much safer thanks to government reforms, mandatory counseling, and protections for non-borrowing spouses.This financial tool isn’t for everyone: It’s best for those planning to remain in their home long-term and can manage property expenses.Your heirs have options: they can pay off the loan, sell the home, or request extensions if needed, and there’s rarely pressure for a rushed decision.Education is key, don't fall for myths and misinformation, and always work with a trusted, experienced reverse mortgage professional.Start the family conversation early, and use the “toolbox” approach. Getting informed now means you'll be ready, even if you never need it. If you’re a homeowner approaching or in retirement, or if you have aging parents, this episode is a must-listen. Listen now, subscribe, and share this episode with friends and family who can benefit from understanding their financial options. For more resources, visit reversemortgagerevolution.com for Kevin’s free consumer guide, short educational videos, and to learn more about his Amazon bestselling book, “A Reverse Mortgage Changed My Life.” Subscribe to Late Boomers so you never miss an episode filled with expert advice and inspiring stories. Remember, it’s never too late to create the life you want start exploring your next chapter today! — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    44 min
  3. Finding Belonging and Creativity in Irish Music Sessions After 50

    6 MAY

    Finding Belonging and Creativity in Irish Music Sessions After 50

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Host Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins. In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Tara Conahan, founder of Obsessionediquette.com, to unpack the world of Irish traditional music sessions and the universal lessons they offer about belonging, creativity, and venturing into new communities especially after 50. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a curious listener, or simply someone eager to embrace new experiences, this conversation is for you. Tara Connaghan joins us all the way from Donegal, Ireland, to share her wisdom on “session etiquette”—the unspoken social codes that help us connect and thrive, not only in music circles but everywhere in life. We dive into what makes music sessions in Ireland (and beyond) both inviting and intimidating, how newcomers can read a room and ease their anxiety, and why it’s okay to be a beginner at any age. Tara Conahan highlights how etiquette isn’t about rigid rules but about bringing positive, collaborative energy to any group setting. We also explore: The surprising origins and evolution of Irish music sessionsWhy it’s normal to feel anxious joining an established group (and how to get past it)The role of elders in passing on music, wisdom, and confidenceListening as an underrated and essential way to participateHow to gracefully navigate awkward first encountersWhy real belonging means being valued and heard Key TakeawaysSession Etiquette is Universal: It applies not just to music, but to jobs, social circles, and any situation where you’re joining something that existed before you (02:43).You’re Not Alone in Feeling Anxious: Everyone from beginners to professionals faces uncertainty when entering new spaces. A little reconnaissance helps reduce the pressure (06:37).Reading the Room: Adjust your energy by thinking about how you’ll affect others, not just how they’ll affect you (10:12).Belonging is About Value: Authentic inclusion happens when everyone feels valued and heard (12:45).Start Small, Get Comfortable: Visit sessions a few times before joining in, and start with those that suit your skill level (18:10).It’s Okay to Walk Away: If a group isn’t welcoming, don’t force it find a community where you feel genuine belonging (25:29).Music Connects Generations: Sessions can bring together everyone from young kids to elders, fostering intergenerational bonds and wisdom (21:35).Bring Music Into Your Life: Make a list of 10 songs or albums that shaped your life and revisit your own soundtrack (25:50). We invite you to reflect on your own life’s soundtrack! Take a few minutes this week to list ten tracks, albums or genres that marked major chapters or memories for you. See where the music takes you and let it inspire creativity and connection in your life. If you’re intrigued by the world of Irish sessions, check out Tara Conahan’s work at obsessionediquette.com for more resources and inspiration. Finally, don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode designed to empower your journey of reinvention, creativity, and meaningful connection. Be bold. Stay curious. Find your session. — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    30 min
  4. Redefining Success and Happiness in the Second Half of Life with Johanna Danaher

    29 APR

    Redefining Success and Happiness in the Second Half of Life with Johanna Danaher

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, here to champion reinvention, resilience, and vibrant living in the second half of life. In this episode, we’re joined by expert transition coach and founder of Anchor to Aspire, Johanna Danaher, for a powerful conversation about navigating major life changes, rethinking retirement, and embracing new beginnings at any age. Whether you’re contemplating a career pivot, facing unexpected change, or simply asking “What’s next?” This episode is packed with actionable insights, honest reflections, and inspiration tailored for boomers and anyone standing at a crossroads. Key Takeaways Transitions are natural and can stir up a mix of excitement, fear, and even grief. Give yourself space to pause, process, and honor what you’re leaving behind (08:38).Defining success for yourself is crucial, especially when society's version may not match your own (04:31).Happiness is a daily practice and intentional choice, not a destination you “arrive” at (05:36).Being “busy” can be an avoidance mechanism instead, give yourself the gift of silent reflection (11:00).Shifting your energy and mindset from “victim” to “creator” opens new possibilities and empowers you in any transition (13:13).Building and enforcing healthy boundaries at home and at work is essential for energy management and authentic living (22:39).Fear and anger are natural responses to change; reframing fear as “fuel” can propel you toward transformation (26:07). Are you standing at a crossroads? This episode is your permission slip to pause, reflect, and step boldly into your next act. Visit Johanna Danaher’s website at anchortoaspire.com or connect with her on LinkedIn for more resources and group experiences. If this conversation resonated with you, please subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform and share this episode with a friend! Remember, it’s never too late to create, grow, or pivot into a life that energizes you. Let’s do it together. Stay tuned for more inspiration, and as always, keep blooming, Late Boomers! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    31 min
  5. Dream On: Overcoming Loss and Living Your Best Life at Any Age

    22 APR

    Dream On: Overcoming Loss and Living Your Best Life at Any Age

    Welcome to another inspiring episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and today, we’re diving into one of the most universal—and challenging experiences: how to rebuild a meaningful life after loss. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a career, or a dream, these moments can shake us to our core. But as we discuss with our extraordinary guest, Chanoa Inez, these experiences can also become powerful catalysts for transformation and new purpose. Chanoa is the author of Dream On and the founder of a unique personal branding program. She joins us to share her moving story of sudden loss, the emotional journey that followed, and the tools that helped her not just survive, but thrive. Key TakeawaysGrief affects more than just your emotions; it can impact your health in unexpected ways.Joy and happiness are not the same; joy is an energized, authentic state that can’t be faked.Healing starts with self-love: treat yourself with the kindness and compassion you offer to friends.Meditation and spending time in nature are powerful tools for introspection and renewal.Reinvention is possible at any age. Your desires are there for a reason, and it’s never too late to pursue them.Baby steps matter. Taking small actions can break through fear and open the door to possibility.Cultivating your personal brand begins with your essence and self-understanding, not with external image alone. Feeling inspired to start your own journey of reinvention? Here’s what you can do next: Subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform and YouTube so you never miss an empowering story!Check out Chanoa’s website at chanoainez.com and her book Dream On (available on Amazon, Audible, Apple Books, and Kobo).Try Chenoa’s exercise: write yourself a love letter and keep it close for those days when confidence feels shaky.Remember you can always reinvent, no matter your age or circumstance. Reinvention truly is your birthright! Thank you for joining us on Late Boomers. If today’s episode moved you, share it with someone you care about. We’ll see you next time with more stories about thriving and dreaming at every stage of life! — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    31 min
  6. Reinventing Storytelling After 50: Laura Van Wormer on Fictional Podcasts and Creative Comebacks

    15 APR

    Reinventing Storytelling After 50: Laura Van Wormer on Fictional Podcasts and Creative Comebacks

    We are thrilled to welcome Laura Van Wormer, prolific novelist and creator of the fictional podcast Class of 74. Laura shares her incredible journey from bestselling novels and a dramatic life-changing accident to innovating storytelling in the audio space. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing, reinventing yourself, or diving into creativity later in life, this episode is for you. We kick things off by exploring why so many people unlock their creative potential in their 50s and beyond. Laura opens up about her recovery from a devastating car accident, how it reshaped her approach to writing, and why fiction podcasts are making a comeback as modern-day radio dramas. We discuss the nuts and bolts of publishing, why editors are actually air traffic controllers, and the real steps to finding a literary agent. Laura also encourages aspiring creators at any age to harness the power of life experience in their work. Key TakeawaysCreativity Has No Age Limit: Life after 50 is the perfect time to explore writing, audio storytelling, or any creative pursuit. Laura’s journey proves it’s never too late to start.Fiction Podcasts Explained: Learn how Laura’s Class of 74 blends the intimacy of novels, the energy of radio plays, and the real-time feedback of serial storytelling (09:10).Publishing Industry Inside Scoop: Laura demystifies how editors and agents operate, why networking matters, and practical tips for breaking in (27:32, 32:12).Harnessing Life Experience: Our guest shares how personal stories enrich a writer’s voice and make their characters come alive (46:41).Overcoming Creative Fear: Laura’s advice: just do it, and take small steps even if you’re scared (51:04).Podcasting for Older Adults: We discuss the accessibility of podcasts and ways for boomers to embrace new tech without fear (48:12). Ready to ignite your creativity? Subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube channel! If you’ve been inspired to start your own story, let us know in the comments. Share this episode with a friend or family member who could use a spark to help them discover podcasts and creative projects. Don’t forget: If not now, when? Leave a comment—what resonated with you most from Laura’s story or our conversation? We want to hear from you! Stay curious, stay creative, and keep embracing your next adventure. — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    56 min
  7. 8 APR

    Digital Safety for Boomers: Avoiding Scams and Mastering Online Security with Chris Parker

    Our guest today is Chris Parker, founder of whatismyipaddress.com, one of the world’s most trusted resources for understanding IP addresses, online privacy, and digital security. We live more of our lives online than ever before banking, shopping, medical portals, travel, and social media are all part of our everyday routines. Boomers in particular are fast becoming prime targets for scammers and hackers, and most of us didn't grow up learning how to protect ourselves in this digital landscape. Chris Parker has spent decades demystifying the Internet for everyday folks, and he shares his most practical, easy-to-understand advice for boosting your online safety. Key TakeawaysEveryone is a Target: As Chris reminds us at 03:17, hackers and scammers aren’t looking for the richest or the most famous. Everyone is fair game, especially those with higher net worth and less time to recover from losses.Password Safety Matters: Password reuse is a leading cause of account breaches. Chris shares why unique passwords and two-factor authentication are essential for every account, especially your email and financial platforms at 13:36.Recognize Scams & Red Flags: From “wrong number” texts to sophisticated emails crafted with AI, online threats adapt fast. Assume emails and messages could be fake, and verify before responding 09:14.Be Careful with Public WiFi: Use trusted networks or a VPN whenever possible, and avoid connecting to free, unsecured WiFi at places like airports 19:23.Limit What You Share on Social Media: Anything you post can be used against you—not just by advertisers but scammers and thieves who share information across networks 22:36.Take Immediate Action if Scammed: Contact local authorities, financial institutions, and loved ones right away for support and advice 27:21.Adopt a Mindset of Cautious Curiosity: Approach everything online with a healthy skepticism, asking: “How can this be used as a scam?” 39:54. Visit whatismyipaddress.com for more tips on protecting your digital life. Subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform and YouTube. Share this episode with friends and family who need to hear it because it’s never too late to learn something new and stay safe online. Don’t forget to leave a review or comment. We love hearing your thoughts and stories! — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    42 min
  8. The Surprising Science Behind Why We Love Music at Any Age

    1 APR

    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 Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    39 min

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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!