Late Boomers

Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins
  • 5.0 (34)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

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. 5d ago

    Rethinking Aging and Wellness with Brown's Gas: Innovations for Life After Fifty

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and today we’re bringing you a truly enlightening episode with inventor, engineer, and Eagle Research founder George Wiseman. We’ll take a deep dive into the fascinating world of Brown’s gas, hydrogen technology, and its revolutionary potential for wellness, aging, and living life to the fullest no matter your stage or age. Are you ready to challenge the idea that aging means inevitable decline? So are we! That’s why we’re excited about this episode, where innovation meets health and aging is redefined with cutting-edge science and real-life stories. George Wiseman joins us to share his decades-long journey with Brown’s gas, a unique hydrogen-based technology originally designed for alternative energy and fuel efficiency but now showing significant promise for home wellness and anti-aging. From growing up off-grid on a remote ranch in British Columbia to becoming a leader in alternative healing technologies, George’s story is as bold and inspiring as the science he’s championing. Key TakeawaysBrown’s gas is more than hydrogen: It includes a special form of electrically expanded water, providing both powerful nutrition and energy to the body (15:50).Hydrogen deficiency may be a root cause of many chronic illnesses and accelerated aging (13:01). Brown’s gas inhalation may support regeneration, immune function, pain relief, and more.Safety and proper dosing matter: George cautions against “more is better” thinking, emphasizing that 2% hydrogen is scientifically proven to be the therapeutic optimum (24:12).Tested results: George and many users report reductions in pain, reversal of scars, improved mobility, and enhanced mental acuity. There are even cases of significant healing from serious illnesses when using Brown’s gas consistently (26:21, 37:32).George’s story is personal: He devoted his life to this technology after the loss of his late wife, striving to help others avoid needless pain and suffering (48:07).Empower yourself: As we age, it’s vital to stay curious, seek evidence, and make informed choices about your health; don’t just accept the status quo (44:01). If today’s conversation sparked your curiosity, don’t stop here! Visit George’s website at eagle-research.com to learn more about AquaCure and his research.Share this episode with fellow boomers and loved ones who want to rethink what’s possible for their health and wellness.Subscribe to the Late Boomers podcast on YouTube and your favorite streaming platform for more interviews with innovators, thinkers, and those living life on their own terms. Remember: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible! Thank you for tuning in and staying curious, Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Rethinking Aging and Wellness with Brown's Gas: Innovations for Life After Fifty

  2. Sep 23

    Harnessing AI Without Losing Your Human Touch

    Welcome to another enlightening episode of Late Boomers! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and we're thrilled to bring you stories and strategies that help you create powerful new chapters in your life and work. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of artificial intelligence with the fabulous Kimberly Inez Mays. Kimberly is not just an expert in AI strategy, she's passionate about empowering organizations and individuals to leverage AI in meaningful, human-centered ways. Together, we explore how boomers and late boomers can embrace cutting-edge technologies like AI without losing that irreplaceable personal touch, the value of decades of lived experience, or the authenticity your clients crave. Key TakeawaysAI as an Amplifier, Not a Replacement:Kimberly Inez Mays reminds us that AI is a tool to amplify your expertise, not erase it. Don’t rush into adopting all the latest tools from FOMO focus on what supports your unique value and lived experience 02:58.Spotting Bias and Hallucination in AI:Responsible AI means understanding its limitations. Kimberly teaches us how to recognize AI-generated bias, “hallucinations” (confidently wrong outputs), and sycophancy (excessive flattery) and why subject-matter knowledge matters more than ever 06:14.Start Small and Build Confidence:If you’re unsure where to start, don’t dive in with mission-critical tasks. Try low-stakes activities like using AI for research or even making a fridge-based recipe get comfortable, then scale up 32:02.Maintaining Authenticity & Human Connection:Authentic communication is key. Use AI to support your voice, not mimic others. Kimberly shares her strategy: turning spoken-word content into written pieces that truly reflect your style, tone, and actual voice 16:07.AI Governance and Trust:Even for small teams, setting guidelines about how you use AI is essential especially if you handle sensitive data or serve vulnerable populations. Always prioritize consent, privacy, and clear communication with your customers 23:26.Leverage Lifelong Experience:Your decades of judgment, perspective, and relationship-building are assets that AI cannot replicate. Kimberly encourages us to harness AI as a means to share, amplify, and broaden the impact of what we already know 34:14. We hope you feel inspired and empowered to begin (or deepen) your AI journey on your terms, with your values front and center. If you found value in this episode, please: Subscribe to Late Boomers on YouTube and your favorite podcast platformLike, share, and leave a review to help others find our showConnect with Kimberly Inez Mays on LinkedIn or by email at kim@kimberlyinezmayes.com for more insights Remember: It's never too late to rethink what's possible. Stay curious and keep bringing your human superpowers to every new chapter! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Harnessing AI Without Losing Your Human Touch

  3. Sep 16

    Matt Hancock on Embracing Creativity, Overcoming Fear, and Synthwave Inspiration

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We're your hosts, Cathy and Merry, and in this special episode, we’re diving deep into the world of synthwave music, creativity, and personal reinvention. We’re thrilled to be joined by Matt Hancock, the creative force behind Deco Luxe and the brand-new, cinematic synthwave album, Eventide. Our conversation explores the intersection of music, nostalgia, technology, and what really happens when you choose to pursue a creative dream no matter your age. Whether you grew up on ‘80s synthpop or you’re just discovering these retro-futuristic sounds, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice for any late bloomer looking to write a new chapter. Key TakeawaysReinventing Yourself is Always Possible: Matt Hancock shares his powerful journey of transformation navigating life’s dark moments and channeling his experiences into meaningful, uplifting music.The Power of Nostalgia: We discuss the sights, sounds, and even the technology of earlier eras (like cassettes!) can spark creativity and emotional resonance in surprising ways.Creativity Has No Age Limit: Matt Hancock encourages everyone, regardless of life stage, to give themselves permission to explore hidden creative sides, start new artistic projects, and keep learning.Process Over Perfection: From meditative synthesizer sessions to embracing analog and digital technology, Matt Hancock demonstrates that the act of creating is more important than the pursuit of perfection.AI & Authenticity in Art: We delve into how technology has democratized music creation, but why authenticity and the human touch still matter especially in an era of AI-generated content.Letting Go of Expectations: Matt Hancock reminds us to detach from expected outcomes and focus on making art that stays true to ourselves. If this episode sparked an idea or inspired you to revisit an old passion or even try something new for the first time let this be your sign to start today! Check out Deco Luxe’s new album Eventide stream it on all platforms and follow @deco.lux.music on Instagram and YouTube for behind-the-scenes contentSubscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast app and on YouTube for more inspiring conversations about reinvention, creativity, and making the most of every chapterShare this episode with a friend or fellow late bloomer who might need a nudge to pursue their creative dreams Let’s rethink what’s possible because it’s never too late for your next big chapter. Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Matt Hancock on Embracing Creativity, Overcoming Fear, and Synthwave Inspiration

  4. Sep 9

    Healing Old Wounds: Laurie Kirk’s Lessons on Family, Stories, and New Chapters

    Welcome to another unforgettable episode of Late Boomers! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins , and today we bring you a powerful and deeply moving conversation with novelist Laurie Kirk, author of Baby Marvin. If you’ve ever wondered how past losses, family secrets, and even ghosts can shape and heal our lives, this episode is for you. In this episode, we dive into Laurie Kirk’s late-blooming writing journey, which began in 2021 after a transformative experience with a life coach. Laurie Kirk opens up about discovering she is a "womb twin survivor," and how this revelation unraveled a thread of profound loneliness that shaped her entire life. We explore how Laurie channeled her experiences into her writing blending tragedy, comedy, and horror, and why she believes it’s never too late to start a new creative chapter. Laurie Kirk also shares the inspiration behind Baby Marvin, a psychological horror thriller about fractured identity, duality, and what happens when loss and loneliness collide with rage and revenge. Listen as she takes us through her creative process, transitioning from screenplays to novels, and finds healing and even humor in the company of her dearly departed yes, some ghosts are welcome! Key TakeawaysIt’s Never Too Late: Laurie Kirk’s story is a reminder that meaningful creative work can begin at any age. Whether you’re 30, 60, or beyond, your best days and stories may still lie ahead.Healing Through Forgiveness: Laurie shares how forgiveness, both for herself and her late parents, paved the way for healing, even decades after loss.Turning Pain Into Art: We discuss how grief, loneliness, and personal trauma can become raw material for creative, and often humorous, storytelling.The Power of Humor in Darkness: Laurie’s journey proves that laughter and levity are essential tools for tackling the deepest wounds and for making even haunted stories shine with humanity.Ghosts That Comfort, Not Haunt: Laurie Kirk talks about sensing the presence of lost loved ones, and how they continue to inspire and support her writing.Practical Steps for Late Bloomers: From working with a life coach to exploring meditation, Laurie’s willingness to confront her past is a roadmap for anyone seeking meaning and renewal later in life. If Laurie Kirk’s story inspires you, we encourage you: Don’t wait to start your next chapter! Whether it’s writing a novel, rekindling a passion, or simply starting a healing conversation, it’s truly never too late. Let this episode be your spark. Subscribe to Late Boomers on YouTube and your favorite podcast app, and like this episode to help other late bloomers find us. Share your own story or what you want to begin next we’d love to hear from you! And remember, as we always say: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Healing Old Wounds: Laurie Kirk’s Lessons on Family, Stories, and New Chapters

  5. Sep 2

    Remembering Dolly Parton: Stories, Laughter, and Legacy of the Queen of Country Music

    Welcome to a deeply heartfelt episode of Late Boomers. We’re Merry Elkins and Cathy Worthington, and today we gather to honor and remember the legendary Dolly Parton. For our 300th episode, we're sitting down for a very personal conversation, reflecting on the precious moments and memories that connected us to Dolly—through Cathy’s late husband, Ken Kragen, who managed Kenny Rogers and helped shape some of the most iconic moments in country music. In this special tribute, we share never-before-told stories about Dolly’s kindness, humor, and dazzling presence. We bring you inside the glitz of the CMA Awards, the warmth of the recording studio, and the laughter backstage. You’ll hear what made Dolly so extraordinary not just as a superstar, but as a friend, a mentor, and a beloved family member to so many. Key TakeawaysDolly’s True Nature: We recount how Dolly was every bit as genuine, loving, and quick-witted behind the scenes as she appeared in public. Her humor—always sparkling, sometimes cheeky—and her generosity of spirit touched everyone she met (07:14, 16:11).Memorable Duets and Milestones: Relive the creation of “Islands in the Stream” and other chart-topping collaborations with Kenny Rogers, and go inside their legendary stage chemistry (03:03, 10:28).Backstage Adventures: From singing in the backup choir for Kenny & Dolly’s Christmas special to glamorous nights in sequins at the awards shows, Cathy Worthington shares what it was like to be part of these musical milestones (05:15, 19:04).A Star’s Wit, Warmth, and Work Ethic: Dolly’s humor lit up every room—whether in press conferences in Perth or when gently teasing friends. She never stopped working, creating, or caring for those around her (16:40, 28:44).Dolly’s Legacy of Kindness: Above all, Dolly’s love for her family, her generosity, and her belief in giving someone your smile if they don’t have one shines as her enduring legacy (24:35).Making Dreams Reality: Learn how Dolly’s determination and savvy business sense overcame every obstacle—from bringing Dollywood alive to developing a Broadway show based on her life (25:00, 27:02). Thank you for joining us as we celebrate and remember Dolly Parton’s incredible life, music, and spirit. If Dolly touched your life, too, please subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform or our YouTube channel, and share this episode with fellow Dolly fans. We would love to hear your favorite Dolly memory or song—leave us a comment or review, and help keep her legacy alive. Remember, as Dolly said and we believe, if you see someone without a smile, give them yours. It’s never too late to spread kindness and live your dreams, just as Dolly did, right up to the very end. Thank you for listening, and for helping us honor an unforgettable legend—Dolly Parton. Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Remembering Dolly Parton: Stories, Laughter, and Legacy of the Queen of Country Music

  6. Aug 26

    Revisiting the Past: Dorothy Ward on Historical Fiction, Memory, and Strong Women

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins . In this episode, we dive deep into the world of historical fiction with educator, novelist, and storyteller Dorothy Ward, whose acclaimed novel, Light Which Impresses, beautifully explores themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring strength of women through the lens of history. If you’re fascinated by stories that connect the past to our present, or if you’re finally ready to write your own narrative, this conversation will both inspire and motivate you. We’re thrilled to welcome Dorothy Ward to discuss her journey from lifelong educator to published novelist at the age of 71! We explore why historical fiction is more relevant than ever, what inspired the unique structure of Light Which Impresses, and the meticulous research that brings her story to life. Dorothy Ward shares candid insights about recreating early 20th-century El Paso and the Mexican Revolution, crafting powerful women who defy expectations, and how her own background influenced the narrative. Whether you’re a writer, a lover of history, or someone seeking encouragement to start something new in your own life, you’ll find wisdom and practical advice throughout this episode. Key TakeawaysWhy Historical Fiction Matters: Dorothy Ward explains how stepping into the past through fiction helps us build empathy and understand today’s challenges, especially around topics like migration and resilience (01:28).Inspirations Behind the Novel: The title of Light Which Impresses comes from a 100-year-old Kodak camera manual, a metaphor for memory and the double-edged power of truth (02:54).Unique Narrative Structure: The story weaves together interviews with the protagonist as an older woman and her youthful experiences against a backdrop of revolution, making history come alive and personal (05:47).Strong, Unconventional Female Characters: Inspired by real women of the Mexican Revolution, Dorothy Ward’s protagonists break the mold and show the unheralded strength of women throughout history (09:08).The Research Process: Dorothy Ward reveals how she balanced exhaustive research walking tours, period photography, and vintage vehicles with compelling storytelling (17:30).Advice for Aspiring Writers: It’s never too late to start! The most important step? Sitting down and writing, planning and talking about writing won’t get your story on the page (29:02).Practical Writing Tips: Embrace rewriting, cut down the excess, and always read your work out loud to catch what doesn’t sound right (30:50). If today’s conversation sparked your curiosity or your creativity, we encourage you to pick up a copy of Light Which Impresses available at Amazon, Bookshop.org, or wherever you buy books. Connect with Dorothy Ward and learn more about her work at dorothypward.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts and on our YouTube channel. Leave us a review and share this episode with friends who love history, literature, and inspiring new beginnings. Remember, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Revisiting the Past: Dorothy Ward on Historical Fiction, Memory, and Strong Women

  7. Aug 19

    How to Write Your Story: Book Coaching, AI Tools, and Publishing Secrets After 50

    Welcome to another inspirational episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy and Merry, and today we’re diving into a topic so many of us dream about but rarely act on: writing a book. Have you ever said, “Someday I’ll write my book”? What if that someday is today? Our guest is Dr. Rhonda Lawson, an award-winning author, book coach, and literary strategist who’s making it her mission to help people just like us get their stories onto the page and into the hands of readers. Dr. Rhonda Lawson brings a unique perspective, transitioning from U.S. Army Master Sergeant to successful author and founder of Meet the World Image Solutions. Whether you want to leave a legacy for your family, grow your business, jumpstart a speaking career, or simply prove to yourself that you can do it, this episode is for you! Key TakeawaysEveryone has a story worth telling: As Dr. Rhonda Lawson reminds us at 06:02, “your story matters,” and even the most “ordinary” lives are full of lessons, courage, and inspiration.Focus on your message, not just your story: People may not care about your biography, but they do care about the message and meaning behind it (17:01).Overcome self-doubt: The biggest obstacle is often yourself (12:14). Don’t talk yourself out of writing; just start!Start small and specific: Use Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s “sun diagram” technique to brainstorm themes and narrow your focus (13:24).Publishing has never been more accessible: Learn why self-publishing might give you more control and fit your lifestyle (24:45).AI is a tool, not a solution: Let AI help brainstorm or outline, but keep your voice at the forefront (35:32).Storytelling wins over perfect prose: Readers crave authentic, engaging stories more than flawless writing (32:22).Marketing is part of the job: Simple tricks, like adding your book to your email signature and organic social media posts, help you reach more readers (40:08).Find your writing community: Writing can feel lonely, but joining groups (like Dr. Lawson’s Write to Win Writers Community) can help you stay motivated (47:21).Just start: Don’t worry about being perfect. Write it all down, then shape and edit later (44:52). Has this episode given you the push you’ve been waiting for? If so, we challenge you: start writing your story this week even if it’s just one paragraph! Share this episode with someone who dreams of writing a book. Want more inspiration? Visit Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s website and check out her Horizons Author Lounge podcast. And of course, subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite platform especially on YouTube to support our mission of inspiring new chapters, no matter your age. Remember: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Start your story today! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    How to Write Your Story: Book Coaching, AI Tools, and Publishing Secrets After 50

  8. Aug 12

    Death, Healing, and the Power of Gratitude in Everyday Life

    Welcome, Late Boomers family! In this deeply moving and illuminating episode, Cathy and Merry sit down with Steven Ferrara, author of "Grief to Gratitude," to explore an experience every one of us will eventually face, loss, grief, and the mysteries of our own mortality. Most of us avoid talking about death, leaving us unprepared and isolated when loss inevitably comes. Together, we discuss how shifting the conversation and finding new perspectives on death can profoundly change how we live each and every day. As baby boomers, these themes resonate deeply; whether it’s the loss of parents, spouses, siblings, friends, or even children, nearly all of us are navigating these challenges. After losing his 23-year-old son, Steven Ferrara turned to journaling as a lifeline through inconceivable pain, a journey that eventually became his powerful and bestselling book. In our conversation, he shares what helped him survive such trauma, why our culture often gets grief wrong, and what can happen if we choose curiosity, compassion, and healing over guilt or blame. Key TakeawaysFacing Death Changes How We Live: Steven Ferrara reveals that changing our perspective on death isn’t just about coping it’s about living more fully and with greater purpose (01:48).The Healing Power of Acceptance: Discover why acceptance is essential for healing and how letting go of blame opens the path to growth and peace (10:05).Why Sympathy Isn’t Enough: We discuss why sympathy may not serve the grieving and what genuine, loving support really looks like (08:53, 29:17).The Transformational “New Paradigm” on Death: Learn how Steven Ferrara’s view that life is an ongoing, eternal journey can ease fear and shift grief to gratitude (20:29).Gratitude as a Healer: Understand how finding gratitude for the relationship, for memories, or simply for being alive is the key to moving through grief and living more fully (47:25).How to Support the Grieving: Practical, heartfelt advice on what to say (and not to say) when someone you love is grieving, and why small, tangible acts of kindness mean so much more than “let me know what I can do” (39:31, 40:29).Learning from Loss: Why life’s challenges including the deepest losses are opportunities for growth, learning, and spiritual connection (32:19). If you or someone you care about is moving through grief or facing loss or if you want to live your days with more depth, compassion, and appreciation this episode is a must-listen. Steven Ferrara offers profound wisdom on how journaling, meditation, and reframing loss can bring not just peace, but renewed life, connection, and meaning. Has this conversation touched your heart or made you rethink how you approach grief or comfort others? Share this episode with someone you love who may be grieving or searching for hope and healing.Subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t miss a single episode.Join our community by subscribing to our YouTube channel for more inspiring conversations.Want to dive deeper into Steven Ferrara’s work? Find his book "Grief to Gratitude" and resources at stephenferrara.com. Remember: it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Let's transform our perspective on loss and embrace gratitude together! – Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Death, Healing, and the Power of Gratitude in Everyday Life
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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!

Information

  • Creator
    Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    304
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright eWomenPodcastNetwork
  • Show Website
    Late Boomers