Late Boomers

Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins
  • 5.0 (33)
  • 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. 3d ago

    Beyond Organic: Smarter Choices for Healthier Homes, Foods, and Less Toxic Living

    Welcome back to the Late Boomers Podcast! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins , and we’re thrilled you’re joining us for another episode dedicated to helping you reinvent your health and well-being at any age. In Episode 294, we dive into a topic affecting every single one of us: environmental toxins and what “clean living” really means. With so many buzzwords organic, natural, chemical-free it can be overwhelming to distinguish helpful tips from clever marketing. That’s why we invited Amy Hartshorn, founder of Green Living Now and veteran advocate for non-toxic living, to demystify how to make healthier choices that fit our real lives. For over 34 years, Amy Hartshorn has been at the forefront of teaching practical, approachable ways to reduce toxins in our homes, food, and daily routines. As co-owner of a certified organic farm in Vermont, she brings a hands-on perspective on what really matters in food, soil, and consumer safety. In this episode, we discuss: How marketing labels like “natural” and “wild-caught” can be misleadingWays to prioritize your food budget for the biggest health impactThe truth about greenwashing and how to read between the lines on packagingEasy first steps to reduce toxins in your home without spending a fortuneThe importance of soil health, indoor air quality, and what families should know about furniture, fragrances, and plasticsThe healing power of nature and community, as seen in Amy’s transformative retreats Key TakeawaysPerfection isn’t the goal: Small, steady improvements like swapping out a scented laundry detergent for fragrance-free can make a real difference (09:00, 41:08).Not all labels are created equal: “Natural” is a meaningless term, and “wild-caught” is only trustworthy if certified by credible organizations like the MSC (10:07, 44:51).Start with high-impact swaps: If organic isn’t in the budget for everything, focus on the “Dirty Dozen” produce and prioritize organic meat and dairy for the biggest benefit (15:14).Fragrances are hidden toxins: Remove air fresheners, plugins, and heavily scented products from your home for an easy, impactful win (28:01, 41:08).Read ingredient lists, not just claims: The real story about what you’re buying is on the back of the label (25:39).Our choices matter: Every dollar spent sends a message about what we value, and we wield more power as consumers than we sometimes realize (24:10).Community and nature heal: Amy Hartshorn shares moving stories of how farm retreats and horse therapy have changed lives, showing that holistic change goes beyond our shopping carts (32:07). If today’s conversation made you think twice about air freshener, food labels, or what’s lurking in your cleaning supply closet, share this episode with a friend or family member who’d benefit from a more informed approach to healthier living. We’d love for you to subscribe to The Late Boomers Podcast wherever you listen don’t miss future conversations with experts who help you live your best next chapter. Check out more resources from Amy Hartshorn on greenlivingnow.com, and find her podcast, Green Living Now, for deeper dives and practical guidance. Leave us a review, connect on YouTube, and remember every step towards cleaner living counts, no matter when you start. It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible! — Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Beyond Organic: Smarter Choices for Healthier Homes, Foods, and Less Toxic Living

  2. Jul 15

    The Power of Faith, Kindness, and Intimacy in Thriving Long-Term Relationships

    Welcome to another episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and we’re thrilled you’re joining us on this journey of reinvention, connection, and growth at every stage of life. In this episode, we dive deep into the foundations of thriving, lasting relationships with our insightful guests, Bruce Chalmer and Judy Alexander, co-hosts of the “Couples Therapy in Seven Words” podcast. Bruce Chalmer, an experienced couples therapist and author of several books including “The Passion Paradox,” joins us alongside Judy Alexander, retired educator, author, and “the real person” on their podcast. Together, they blend wisdom from decades of helping couples and add a generous dose of real-world humor and humanity. We explore everything from surviving betrayal, rekindling passion, and navigating intimacy in long-term relationships, to how faith, kindness, and a willingness to face uncomfortable truths can help couples not just survive challenges but come out even stronger. Key TakeawaysForgiveness After Betrayal: Bruce Chalmer reminds us that healing from betrayal is possible, but it’s not guaranteed or easy it requires immense courage and honest engagement (02:35).Betrayal Beyond Infidelity: Betrayal in relationships isn’t just about sex it can involve finances, addiction, and emotional wounds between friends, siblings, and partners (03:26).The Truth About Communication: Most relationship issues aren't really about how we communicate; they’re about what we’re communicating hurt, mistrust, or contempt (05:41).The Seven-Word Formula: “Be kind, don’t panic, and have faith.” This powerful mantra underpins lasting relationships and guides partners through life’s inevitable obstacles (04:35, 26:45).Stability vs. Intimacy: All couples need both stability (reliability, predictability) and intimacy (honesty, aliveness) but these can sometimes feel at odds. The key is learning to tolerate anxiety and embrace honest vulnerability (12:27).Practical Tools for Rekindling Connection: Emotional openness, respect, and humor matter. Judy Alexander also shares her unique creative journey into biblical erotica, showing that reinvention can spice up relationships at any age (20:36).Sacred, Good, and Plain Old Sex: The distinctions between different kinds of sexual experiences as relationships mature, good sex adds intimacy; sacred sex adds meaning and connection to something bigger (35:09).Sexual Fulfillment at Any Age: True sexual and emotional connection often reaches its peak in our 60s and 70s, thanks to maturity, communication, and creativity not just hormones or acrobatics (42:03). We hope you found today’s episode as inspiring and practical as we did! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with one friend who could use a dose of hope, humor, and wisdom in their relationships. Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. For more from Bruce Chalmer and Judy Alexander, check out their podcast “Couples Therapy in Seven Words,” Bruce’s website, or Judy’s book “The Blue Tent: Erotic Tales from the Bible” (as Laria Zilber). Remember, it’s never too late to grow, to connect, and to create the life and relationships you truly want. Thank you for listening. It means the world to us. See you next time on Late Boomers! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    The Power of Faith, Kindness, and Intimacy in Thriving Long-Term Relationships

  3. Jul 8

    The Surprising Reasons Older Adults Lose Appetite and What To Do About It

    We’re Cathy and Merry, and welcome to another thoughtful, lively episode of Late Boomers! Today we’re diving into a topic that affects so many older adults, but often remains undiscussed: why does appetite decrease as we age, and what can we do about it? Inspired by an AARP Bulletin article, “Why Aren’t I Hungry?”, we explore the real-life effects of losing your appetite and thirst later in life. We share personal anecdotes, practical strategies, and the science behind changing eating habits, all with our signature Late Boomers flair! Whether you or someone you love has noticed eating less, skipping meals, or simply not feeling as thirsty anymore, this episode is for you. We break down why these changes happen, what warning signs to look for, and actionable advice for staying healthy and energized at any age. Key TakeawaysWhy Appetite Changes with Age: Our metabolism naturally slows down, hormones shift, and senses of taste and smell can decline, making food less appealing. Medications, dental and digestive issues, and even loneliness can all contribute to a reduced desire to eat 02:04, 04:12, 06:09.The Hidden Danger of Dehydration: As we grow older, our thirst signals weaken, putting us at risk for dehydration which can mimic other health problems or even cause dangerous falls 01:20, 17:06, 18:20.Social Eating Matters: Sharing meals with friends and family can help restore the enjoyment of food and encourage healthier eating and hydration habits 07:26, 30:09.Protein & Muscle Health: Maintaining muscle mass is crucial so adequate daily protein and strength training are both essential. From collagen and protein powders to Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, we share our protein-boosting hacks 11:53, 13:42.Smart Hydration Strategies: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty! Build in water breaks throughout your day, especially first thing in the morning, and remember that certain fruits, veggies, and even soups can help you stay hydrated 19:01, 22:35.Listening to Your Body: Unintentional weight loss and persistent low appetite aren’t just a “normal part of aging.” Talk to your doctor if you notice ongoing changes in appetite, taste, or hydration levels it could be a sign of something deeper 24:47, 31:59. If you found today’s episode helpful, please share it with at least one friend or family member who might benefit from these insights. Make sure to subscribe to Late Boomers on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts, so you never miss an episode filled with healthy aging tips and real-life inspiration. And remember what we always say: It’s never too late to think and rethink what’s possible! Stay healthy, stay hydrated, and keep living your Late Boomer life to the fullest! Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    The Surprising Reasons Older Adults Lose Appetite and What To Do About It

  4. Jul 1

    Reinventing Life’s Chapters: Maxim Langstaff on Music Legends, Sasquatch, and Creative Curiosity

    Creative Curiosity Welcome back to the Late Boomers Podcast! We're Cathy and Merry, and in this episode, we embark on a fascinating journey with our guest, Maxim Langstaff. Maxim has worn many creative hats: music executive, filmmaker, dog lover, and now novelist. Together, we explore how the art of storytelling evolves across a lifetime, blending history, folklore, fact, and imagination. This episode is a goldmine for anyone passionate about music history (think The Beatles and John Denver!), the enduring mysteries of Sasquatch, and the creative process, whether in novels, film, or music. We dive deep into Maxim’s creative evolution, discuss his latest novel Sasqet, unpack the cultural differences between Sasquatch and Bigfoot, and share behind-the-scenes stories from the heart of the music industry. Plus, we talk about how staying curious and open to new adventures lets us all reinvent ourselves at any stage in life. Key TakeawaysEmbracing Creativity Later in Life:It’s never too late to begin a new creative chapter. Maxim Langstaff shares how his journey from music and film into novel writing was sparked by solitude, curiosity, and a love of storytelling (02:12–03:34).The Power of StorytellingWhether through songs, novels, or films, storytelling connects us via empathy and shared beliefs (11:00–12:59). Music, especially, is a universal language that transcends boundaries.Fact vs. Fiction: The Magic of MythsWe discuss why mysterious legends like Sasquatch persist through centuries and how our need for belief often outweighs a strict adherence to fact (05:49–10:11). Myths can be nutritious for the human imagination and serve deep cultural purposes.Sasquatch vs. Bigfoot:Maxim distinguishes between the indigenous-rooted Sasquatch and the pop-culture phenomenon of Bigfoot, offering a thoughtful perspective on how we shape myths to fit our comfort zones (06:45–08:05, 43:41–45:00).Behind the Scenes with Legends:From working with Sir George Martin, “the fifth Beatle,” to collaborating with John Denver, Maxim recounts career-defining lessons in honesty, risk-taking, and authenticity (13:57–19:16).Nature, Curiosity & Lifelong Growth:Maxim reveals how his dog and time in nature taught him humility, resilience, and the importance of being curious qualities essential to storytelling and life (34:43–36:46).Advice for Late Bloomers:For those looking to write, create, or reinvent: start with curiosity and let your passion guide you. Don’t chase outcomes—chase the process (46:53–48:43).The Future of Sasqet:In addition to a sequel, Maxim is working to adapt his novel into a streaming TV series, aiming to bring its message to a new generation (49:16–50:57). If you love stories that blend music, myth, and inspiration to show it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, share this episode with a friend! And if Maxim’s journey sparked your curiosity, visit sasqetthebook.com to learn more about his work (and maybe read the book before it hits the screen!). Don’t forget to subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite platform and on YouTube! Leave us a review or comment; we’d love to hear your thoughts and your own late-blooming adventures. 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

    Reinventing Life’s Chapters: Maxim Langstaff on Music Legends, Sasquatch, and Creative Curiosity

  5. Jun 24

    Find Purpose and Reinvent Yourself After Retirement: Solving the Post-Career Identity Crisis

    Welcome back to the Late Boomers podcast! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re approaching retirement or have already stepped into this exciting new chapter. We’re diving deep into the process of redefining purpose, identity, and fulfillment after leaving a long-held career, with the incredible Anne van Leynseele, founder of Rarified Life. In this powerful conversation, we explore the reality of retirement beyond the fantasy of a “permanent vacation.” Anne shares her personal journey of reinvention, her work helping individuals transition through major life changes, and the innovative tools she’s developed, including her workbook "Preferment," designed to guide you toward a meaningful post-career life. We talk candidly about the emotional stages people go through after stepping away from work, the challenge of identity loss, and the breadth of opportunities available to create connection, purpose, and joy in later life. Key TakeawaysRetirement is a Beginning, Not an End: Anne reveals how retirement can be an invitation to design a unique, fulfilling life not just a time of scaling down, but of broadening your experiences and passions.Identity Beyond Your Job: Learn why so many successful people struggle with the transition—even with strong financial planning and discover strategies to move beyond work-based identity.Emotional Milestones of Retirement: We discuss the common emotional hurdles, such as loss of structure and purpose, and how to navigate anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. You'll hear inspiring stories of transformation and resilience.Practical Tools for Reinvention: Anne’s workbook, "Preferment," offers short, engaging exercises to help you rediscover passions, define new values, and set purposeful goals.The Power of Community & Relationships: Building new friendships, intergenerational connections, and engaging in social activities from golf and mahjong to volunteering are essential for cognitive and emotional well-being.Redefining Success: We break down how to let go of the productivity guilt and embrace a broader, more rewarding definition of what accomplishment looks like after retirement.Accessible Next Steps: Whether it’s joining local groups, looking for free activities, or volunteering online, there’s something for everyone regardless of budget or mobility. If anything in today’s conversation resonated with you, we encourage you to start asking yourself: What will I do with my retirement? Not just during it. Head over to www.rarifiedlife.com to learn more about Anne van Leynseele’s work and discover her workbook, "Preferment." You can also find her resources and tips for getting on board with new interests. Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts, and check out our YouTube channel for more insightful conversations. As always, keep dreaming, keep growing, and keep creating that next great chapter because as we learned today, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Find Purpose and Reinvent Yourself After Retirement: Solving the Post-Career Identity Crisis

  6. Jun 17

    Cultivating Joy, Energy, and Purpose: Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Doubt in Midlife and Beyond

    Welcome to another inspiring episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and we’re thrilled you’re joining us for a powerful conversation about finding joy, energy, and purpose, especially during life’s big transitions. In this episode, we sit down with psychotherapist, speaker, and author Elke Scholz, whose book Loving Your Life empowers people to overcome anxiety and self-doubt by reconnecting with their authentic selves. Whether you’re navigating retirement, caregiving, health shifts, relationship changes, or just wondering what’s next, this episode is packed with insight and practical tools to help you thrive. Key TakeawaysSelf-awareness begins by noticing your energy where it rises and falls throughout your day. Start small and practice regularly.Your body never lies: Trust its signals, especially in uncertain times.Anxiety isn’t your enemy; it’s a messenger. Learn to “invite it in,” explore what it’s trying to tell you, and respond with self-compassion.Gratitude isn’t just something you “feel” when things go well, practice it intentionally to build happiness and resilience.You’re not alone: Even successful people (including therapists and coaches) experience self-doubt. Community and honest conversations matter.Redefine success for yourself at every stage; prioritize health, inner peace, and relationships.Practical tools and a growth mindset can help you create a life you truly love, no matter your age or stage. Grab Loving Your Life from your favorite bookseller or visit Elke Scholz’s website for free calming techniques and other resources. If you found value in this episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share Late Boomers with friends, family, and anyone ready to create their next exciting chapter. For more resources and to stay updated on future episodes, visit our website and follow us on social media. Your next chapter is waiting and we’re here to help you thrive! Remember: It’s never too late to create a life you truly love. Shine bright and practice every day! Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Cultivating Joy, Energy, and Purpose: Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Doubt in Midlife and Beyond

  7. Jun 10

    Secrets of Storytelling: Michael Mandaville on Film, Fiction, and the Power of Reinvention

    Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Mery Elkins, and on this episode, we dive deep into the world of creativity, reinvention, and storytelling with our remarkable guest, Michael Mandaville. In our conversation, we celebrate the art and perseverance behind storytelling—whether through film, fiction, or personal reinvention. Our guest, Michael Mandaville, is a best-selling novelist (with Murder in the City of Light reaching #1 on Amazon), filmmaker, martial artist, entrepreneur, and a true champion of creative exploration. Together, we discuss the realities of making movies, the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry, the powerful influence of AI, and how reinvention is possible at any stage of life. Key TakeawaysThe Power of Perseverance: Michael Mandaville shares how creating stories, whether novels or films, requires years of dedication, resilience, and the ability to push through rejection and obstacles. Hitting #1 on Amazon in four categories was a meaningful marker of authenticity and effort 02:32.Creativity Across Disciplines: From sorting script pages as a child on Hollywood sets to directing Liam Neeson, Michael’s journey shows that creative talent can span industries and forms, including martial arts, which taught him discipline and adaptability 25:03.The Changing Face of Film: We explore how streaming, AI, and new technology have transformed movie-making and storytelling, allowing indie creators and boomers with rich life experiences unprecedented access and influence 17:51.Resourcefulness in Action: Michael reveals how he directed a feature film on a $10,000 budget by leveraging available resources and thinking outside the box, reminding us that starting imperfectly is better than not starting at all 34:24.Reinvention is Vital: Whether learning prompt engineering for AI or using YouTube to master new skills, Michael’s story is a testament to lifelong learning, adaptability, and the importance of jumping into projects before “perfect circumstances” arrive 41:24.Relationships & The Human Side of Hollywood: Michael’s anecdotes about working with stars like Liam Neeson reveal the importance of respect, communication, and understanding different working styles in creating magic on set 28:20.Advice for Aspiring Creatives: Don’t wait for everything to be perfect; take action, adapt, and let momentum drive your creative journey—whether you want to write a book, make a film, or embark on something new 39:43. Connect with Michael MandavilleFind his books on AmazonVisit his website: www.creativeexplorer-michaelmandaville.com/ Inspired to start your next creative project or ready to reinvent yourself? Hit subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone dreaming of their “next chapter.” For more stories of creativity, resilience, and reinvention, keep tuning in to Late Boomers—because it’s never too late to begin your best chapter yet! Stay curious, stay creative, and see you next time on Late Boomers! Cathy and Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Secrets of Storytelling: Michael Mandaville on Film, Fiction, and the Power of Reinvention

  8. Jun 3

    Fix the Foundation First: Practical AI Tips for Business Owners Over 50

    Welcome to another episode of Late Boomers, the podcast for those of us who are redefining what it means to age, work, and thrive in this fast-changing world. We’re Cathy and Merry, and in this week’s episode, we dive deep into one of the most talked-about topics in business today: artificial intelligence (AI), especially how it can help boomers like us not just keep up, but lead the way. Are you still personally handling every task in your business? Do you feel buried in emails, invoices, and social media posts, all while wondering if AI is only for the tech giants? This episode is for you! We sit down with the incredible Antonio Thornton, founder of Aixios and a systems expert who’s generated over $113 million in revenue for clients across 19 industries. Antonio brings 27 years of systems engineering and 30 years of direct response marketing to the table, and today he shares his actionable, real-world strategies to help boomers leverage AI without getting lost in tech jargon. This episode is packed with honest stories, practical frameworks, and a fresh perspective on how AI can rescue (not replace) seasoned business owners, consultants, and entrepreneurs. Key TakeawaysAI is for all of us not just techies: Antonio debunks the myth that AI is out of reach for boomers and small businesses. In fact, now is the perfect time to embrace it (35:08).The $15/hr trap: If you’re stuck juggling endless low-value tasks, you’re limiting your own growth. Learn how to get out of the “CEO bottleneck” and focus on high-value, revenue-generating activities (04:24).Fix the foundation first: Don’t automate dysfunction! Discover why building solid operational systems before implementing AI is crucial for success (10:41).Practical frameworks: Simple exercises like Antonio’s “Time Bank” can quickly reveal where your time (and money) are leaking and help you identify what to automate or delegate immediately (28:57).AI as a business partner: Real-world examples of custom AI operating systems that drastically cut down on busywork, prevent burnout, and even enable owners to finally take vacations without their companies grinding to a halt (22:05).You’re not too late: AI moves fast, but plenty of the early obstacles have been worked out. It’s not about being replaced by AI, it's about leveraging it to outpace your competition (34:22).The best tools to focus on: Out of hundreds launching daily, Antonio recommends prioritizing useful, ethical, and powerful platforms, such as Claude AI, for tangible business results (37:35). Are you ready to see where your time and revenue are leaking? Start today by trying Antonio’s Time Bank exercise: set a timer for every 15 minutes, write down what you’re doing, and categorize each task as revenue-generating or not. You’ll be amazed at what you discover! Want to learn more and get practical resources to kickstart your own AI-powered reinvention? Head over to aixios.ai/boomers for a free AI quick-start guide just for our listeners! If today’s conversation energized you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a fellow business owner or entrepreneur in your circle. It’s never too late to reinvent your business or yourself. Let’s keep thriving, Cathy & Merry Mentioned in this episode: Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork. eWomenPodcastNetwork

    Fix the Foundation First: Practical AI Tips for Business Owners Over 50
See All (294)

5
out of 5
33 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!

Information

  • Creator
    Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    294
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright eWomenPodcastNetwork
  • Show Website
    Late Boomers