100 episodes

Get inspired to make the rest your BEST!

Living Your Sparked Second Half Laurie Wright

    • Education
    • 4.8 • 36 Ratings

Get inspired to make the rest your BEST!

    A Life-Altering 100 Day Commitment to Share A Photo, with Mary Jo Hoffman

    A Life-Altering 100 Day Commitment to Share A Photo, with Mary Jo Hoffman

    EP398: Today’s guest is Mary Jo Hoffman, a former aeronautical engineer turned artist and photographer, who shares her transformative journey from engineering to becoming a full-time “still” photographer who engages deeply with the natural world through a daily creative practice.
    Mary Jo is celebrated for a 100 day project, where she commited to take one photograph of nature every day. That daily commitment not only surpassed its first 100 days but has continued over several years resulting in stunning photographs. 
    In this episode we talked about:
    Her transition from aerospace engineer to artist in her mid-40s and now a published author at age 59.
    The inspiration behind her ongoing project, "STILL," and her daily ritual of capturing still photos of nature.
    Reflections on the importance of embracing creativity and noticing the beauty in the everyday.
    The importance of being present and how creative practices are a channel for that.
    Our discussion also covered the interesting relationship between creativity and mathematics and gave encouragement to embark on your own 100 day creative journey. 
    Mary Jo's husband, Steve, is a food writer, and their experiences as a family living in France further enrich our discussion, highlighting how embracing creativity and mindfulness can lead to fulfilling second acts in life.
     
    Other ways to find and connect with Mary Jo and her husband are:
    Website: https://stillblog.net/ 
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryjohoffman/ 
    Mary JO's Book: STILL: The Art of Noticing
    Steve Hoffman's Book: A Season for That
    Steve Hoffman’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sjrhoffman 
     
    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.
    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:

    Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com              
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright               
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma             
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma    
     
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    • 51 min
    Choosing Drastic Change and A Passionate Endeavor After the Empty Nest, with Jeanne Blasberg

    Choosing Drastic Change and A Passionate Endeavor After the Empty Nest, with Jeanne Blasberg

    EP397: Today’s guest is Jeanne Blasberg, a seasoned author on the brink of releasing her third book, who shares her captivating story of starting anew at the age of 58 by bravely venturing into the realm of regenerative farming alongside her husband in a state she had never visited, leaving behind their former life in bustling Boston.
    Our conversation unravels the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which served as a catalyst for Jeanne to reevaluate her existence and how she was contributing to the world after launching her 3 children. What that process led to was a profound shift towards minimizing her material possessions and moving towards a sustainable lifestyle focused on cultivating the land and developing a new model for food sourcing.
    In this episode we talked about:
    Her transition to regenerative farming in Wisconsin and how launching a brand new business at this stage in life has stretched her in positive ways.
    The term reinvention and what it means to each of us having both gone through midlife pivots.
    Her latest novel,'Daughter of a Promise,' and how writing has impacted her life.
    How connecting with nature has been key for her on this personal growth path.
    Jeanne offers insights into her writing process, revealing how storytelling and the transformations of her characters has influenced her life choices. Listen as we explore the profound wisdom and courage gleaned from Jeanne's remarkable journey towards a life rich in purpose and connection.
    Other ways to find and connect with Jeanne are:
    Website: www.jeanneblasberg.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanneblasbergauthor/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanneblasbergauthor/ 
    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.
    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:

    Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com             Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright              Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma            YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma   
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    • 38 min
    Travel Must-Haves: The Things You Didn’t Know You Need For Your Next Trip

    Travel Must-Haves: The Things You Didn’t Know You Need For Your Next Trip

    EP396: I’ve been shopping on Amazon in preparation for my upcoming trip to Thailand so I thought it would be helpful to share with several of the gadgets and goodies I've recently snagged. These items are sure to make your travel experience, not just more convenient, but downright enjoyable.
    I've curated a list of 12 game-changing products that run the gamut, from helpful gadgets and useful gear to comfy clothing. Ever heard of an Apple AirTag that will reduce your travel worries? Or a hanging dresser that you put your clothes into and then pack in your suitcase so you don’t have to spend unnecessary time unpacking and organizing when you arrive at your destination?
    Throughout the episode, I'll be emphasizing just how versatile and utterly essential these affordable items are in tackling common travel challenges, AND I’m giving you the product links below for easy reference.
    While podcast episodes don’t typically require you to consume them visually, this is one you might want to watch on my YouTube channel so you can see what these products look like.
    If you're ready to level up your travel game and make your next adventure more fun, join me in this episode of 'Living Your Sparked Second Half.' Your convenient, worry-free journey awaits!
    Here are the products I shared:
    Sockwell Women's Heart Throb Compression Socks
    SublimeWare International Power Adapter
    Conair TravelSmart Dual Voltage Hair Dryer
    ODODOS Tummy Control Yoga Athletic Shorts
    ODODOS Women's Black Palazzo Lounge Pants
    OLLY Extra Strength Sleep Gummies (60 count)
    Inflatable Travel Neck Pillow
    Biaggi Hangmates ZipCube Hanging Shelves
    OlarHike Travel Toiletry Hanging Bag
    BevLedge Airplane Window Organization Station 
    Apple AirTag
    Biaggi Carry Cube Backpack
    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.
    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:

    Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com  
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright   
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma   
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma    
                 
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
                 
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    • 31 min
    What Would You Put On A “Before I Die” List?

    What Would You Put On A “Before I Die” List?

    EP395: In today’s episode, I explore the profound impact of confronting mortality and emphasize focusing on filling the life you have left with meaning and joy by creating a 'Before I Die' list. Or perhaps it’s better termed “What I Want to Do More of” list?
    Triggered by a friend's unexpected death and another friend's close encounter with it, I reflect on the fragility of life and the necessity of prioritizing experiences and connections that align with personal values over mundane To Dos.
    I talk about:
    The unpredictability of life and the importance of living a life aligned with what you love most.
    The significance of identifying your personal values and how those narrow down what you should be doing, in case you are unclear.
    A few personal examples of actions I’ve taken to bring more of what is important to me into my life.
    What happened to my friends is proof that life is truly is unpredictable so I encourage you to actively pursue what brings you joy and spend your time in ways that are meaningful to you, thereby enhancing both your life and the lives of those around you - because a more joyful you makes others feel good! 
    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.
    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:

    Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma   
                 
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    • 31 min
    A 30th College Reunion Question That Changed Her Life, with Delia Lloyd

    A 30th College Reunion Question That Changed Her Life, with Delia Lloyd

    EP394: Today's guest is Delia Lloyd, a multifaceted professional with a rich and diverse background spanning higher education, media, policy, and the nonprofit sector. My desire to have a conversation with Delia sprouted from an article she wrote about a conversation she had with a group of college friends at her 30th reunion that started with an impromptu question posed by a classmate about long term goals.
    What she found unusual wasn’t the goal itself that each person shared - you’d expect different goals from a group of people who had pursued different paths in life - but the epiphany she had later, upon further reflection, about the way in which each person responded to the question. 
    As I was reading her words, I realized I had a kindred spirit in Delia. Her goal setting style, common with go-getters and Type A personalities, wasn’t setting her up for success. And her reunion provided her with a shake-up. It created an opportunity for deep reflection that led to massive changes. Coincidentally, my 30th high school reunion did the same for me.
    I love it when a conversation steers someone to a new way of thinking and potentially an internal shift that comes, not instantaneously but after thoughtful contemplation. And that is what happened to Delia as a result of this conversation with old classmates. Then she took this new perspective to her computer screen and shared it openly with the world giving others, like me, helpful insights into the challenges some of us may have with goal setting.
    In this episode, we talk about:
    Her goal-setting style and realization that HOW we set goals is as important as WHAT goals are set.
    The concept of “Maker” vs “Manager” and how the roles we play in life impact the way we do everything, including how we set goals.
    Her diverse career journey, with insights into the pivotal moments that led her to shift into something new while continuing to hone her writing skills which has been a lifelong passion.
    How following a passion and staying committed to it will lead you to a career that truly sparks you.
    Listen in to gain valuable insights into Delia's experiences, discovering actionable tips to ignite your own passions and a life that aligns with your authentic self. Join me and Delia as we explore the intricacies of goal-setting, staying true to your passions, and the delicate dance between the roles of a Maker and Manager in the pursuit of a sparked second half.
    Other ways to find and connect with Delia are:
    Website: https://realdelia.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delialloyd/?originalSubdomain=uk Twitter: https://twitter.com/realdelia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delia.b.lloyd Blogs: https://realdelia.com/delia-lloyd-adulthood-blog/ 
    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.
    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:

    Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com            Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright             Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma           YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma  
     
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    • 38 min
    Tap Into Your Creativity By Capturing Memories

    Tap Into Your Creativity By Capturing Memories

    EP393: In today’s episode, I dive deep into the realm of creativity by sharing a recent creative project I completed that brought me unexpected joy.
    Understanding the tendency many of us have to disregard our creative spirit in the busy, time-crunched world we live in, I emphasize the importance of recognizing our innate creativity, which often lies dormant due to the constant bombardment of information and responsibilities we face in our day-to-day lives. 
    I talk about:
    The idea that instigated a creative project I embarked on over the holidays, and why I was inspired to do something I had never done.
    The multiple benefits it brought and why my project is something everyone should do.
    How I was inspired to run a 4 week Creativity Challenge with a small group of women, for accountability, where we select and complete our own individual creative project.
    As I unveil the details of my chosen project, let my actions inspire YOU to begin your own creative project. Maybe you’ll choose a similar project or, perhaps, after listening, a different idea will come to you. 
    Have you been thinking about a creative project, but it hasn’t gotten to the doing stage yet? Let this podcast episode be a sign that it’s time to take action on that great idea. The benefits await you! It’s time to let your inner creativity shine!!!
    If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.
    You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:

    Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma  
                 
    Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

    • 22 min

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
36 Ratings

36 Ratings

M. R. Saferstein ,

Enlightening and inspiring

As a guest on Living Your Sparked Second Half, I found Laurie Wright to be delightful in every way. She asks excellent questions which lead to a great discussion on how we, as women, often recreate ourselves in our later years. In each episode, the guests share kernels of wisdom. I especially recommend this podcast to those who, in midlife, are thinking about what comes next!

Theresatruenorth ,

Not Your Average Lives

I love the way Laurie shines a spotlight on women over 40. We’re such a youth oriented society, and women in particular seem to be “dismissed” when our beauty starts to fade. Yet this is exactly when we’re truly coming in to our wisdom and power! Laurie’s podcast is fun, informative, and inspiring. Check it out. You’re in for a treat!

jennywaterswellness ,

Who has time to waste being average!

Laurie’s podcast is very inspiring! Her solo podcasts as well as the ones with guests have lots of hidden gems on how not to live an average midlife!

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