Life in Transition Podcast

Art Blanchford

I’m Art Blanchford, and this is Life in Transition, a podcast about making the most of the changes we’re given. As a married father of three teenagers, long-time global business executive, and adventurer, I’ve been through hundreds of transitions in my life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness I could never have imagined. You’ll get to hear all about them on this podcast so that together, we can create more love and joy in our lives — no matter what transitions we go through.

  1. Why Midlife Gets Easier When You Finally Start Saying No

    1D AGO

    Why Midlife Gets Easier When You Finally Start Saying No

    We are really excited to have a new sponsor — Verity Partners. Please check them out at http://verity.nm.com/lifeintransition About The Show:   The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online. Resources: Company Website: https://langoliving.com Instagram:   / lango_living   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Six-Step Transformation System: Available at langoliving.com Tools: Journal entries and resources available at langoliving.com mailto:art@artblanchford.com Life in Transition Website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ Life in Transition on IG   / lifeintransitionpodcast   Life in Transition on FB   / life-in-transition-100095280279752   Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIV... Verity Partners: http://verity.nm.com/lifeintransition   Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.   The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained. Copyright 2026.

    19 min
  2. Why Retirement Is a Dangerous Fantasy

    MAR 5

    Why Retirement Is a Dangerous Fantasy

    About The Show:   The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online.   00:00 The Biggest Thing I Realized Was Everything 00:38 Introducing Chip Scholz 01:07 Chip Scholz's Background 03:23 Chip Scholz's Sales Career 09:15 The Realization of Mortality 15:53 Emotionality After the Stroke 26:46 The 5x5 System for Networking 29:22 Chip Scholz's Big Break 36:33 Seer Gumby: Always Flexible 41:00 People Who Have Purpose Thrive 54:42 The Five C's   Resources: Company Website: https://langoliving.com Instagram:   / lango_living   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Six-Step Transformation System: Available at langoliving.com Tools: Journal entries and resources available at langoliving.com mailto:art@artblanchford.com Life in Transition Website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ Life in Transition on IG   / lifeintransitionpodcast   Life in Transition on FB   / life-in-transition-100095280279752   Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIV...   Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.   The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.   #LifeInTransition #MidlifeGrowth #SecondHalfOfLife #PurposeDriven #MeaningfulWork #PersonalGrowth #SelfLeadership #Resilience #MindsetShift #GrowthMindset

    1h 8m
  3. Why Worthiness Isn't Earned (And What That Means for Your Transformation)

    FEB 26

    Why Worthiness Isn't Earned (And What That Means for Your Transformation)

    "Are you navigating transformation alone when the fabric of community is waiting to hold you?" What happens when you refuse to stay trapped? Leann Rose Crook shares her journey through eight major life transformations—from single mom on welfare to salon owner to leading 50 men in Iraq's desert. Her message? "You are absolutely good enough." Not because of achievements. Simply because you're human. Leann reveals the grade five moment that sparked her lifelong purpose, the profound realization that "we are all the same" she discovered on tribal floors in Iraq, and a simple five-question exercise to identify your own purpose. Her story challenges the myth of going it alone. We're not meant to be independent threads—we're meant to weave ourselves into the fabric of community, especially during transformation.Leann Rose Crook is a Transformation Mentor, Identity Recovery Coach, and founder of Lango Living. After navigating eight major life transformations—from single mom on welfare to salon owner to leading occupational health and safety training for 50 men in Iraq—Leann developed a practical six-step transformation system for women navigating major life change. Her keynote "Desert Rose in Iraq" draws from seven years working in Iraq and Oman. Today, Leann helps women who feel like everything has shifted—divorce, job loss, burnout, or relocation—rebuild their identity, reclaim their power, and take ownership of their next chapter. About The Show: The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online. In This Episode:  (00:00) Opening and Most Meaningful Transformation (02:51) From Hairdresser to Leading Men in Iraq (09:37) Recognizing When Change Is Needed (15:17) Community vs Independence in Transformation (26:05) You Are Good Enough—Worthiness as Birthright (37:58) Finding Purpose Through Your Greatest Moments (39:08) The Five-Question Exercise for Discovering Purpose (45:51) Tools, Resources, and Call to Action Like, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback.Resources:Company Website: langoliving.comInstagram: @lango_livingFacebook: Lango Living ProfileSix-Step Transformation System: Available at langoliving.comTools: Journal entries and resources available at langoliving.comEmail Art BlanchfordLife in Transition WebsiteLife in Transition on IGLife in Transition on FB Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922 Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions. The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

    50 min
  4. The Ambassador's Path: From Army Ranger to Appalachian Trail to Community Service

    FEB 19

    The Ambassador's Path: From Army Ranger to Appalachian Trail to Community Service

    “I saw my father do it. So I have a better understanding on how to do it, how to serve, how to lead." - Barry Farmer What happens when a decorated US Army veteran walks away from 23 years of service? Barry Farmer didn't slow down—he discovered his true calling. After raising seven children and adopting three more, Barry threw himself into Jacksonville's nonprofit world, joining three boards and becoming a Human Rights Commissioner. But burnout led him to the Appalachian Trail. "When you feel useless, become useful to somebody," a hostel owner told him. That wisdom transformed everything. Barry's parents never preached servant leadership—they lived it. Now he's weaving a community fabric where isolated threads become something stronger together. His message? More than average isn't about salary. It's about heart.   Barry Farmer, trail name "Ambassador," is a retired US Army veteran with 23 years of honorable service, including completing Army Ranger School as one of three African Americans in his graduating class. After retiring as a major in 2021, Barry threw himself into Jacksonville community service, joining three nonprofit boards and serving as a Human Rights Commissioner (2022-2024). He completed Leadership Jacksonville Cohort 2024 and served as President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity's Jacksonville chapter. A father to seven children and three adopted nieces/nephews, Barry completed the Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2025, summiting on September 11th.   About The Show: The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online.   In This Episode:  (00:00) From Combat to Community Service (05:03) Finding Purpose Through Nonprofit Work (11:11) Building Community Fabric Together (17:06) The Sacrifice of Servant Leadership (20:14) Day One on the Appalachian Trail (24:40) When You Feel Useless Become Useful (30:21) Parents' Legacy of Silent Service (34:27) Following Your Heart to the Trail (41:58) Mission Beyond Yourself (46:10) How to Connect With Barry   Like, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback. Resources: Email: barryb.farmer21@gmail.com Facebook: Barry B. Farmer Email Art Blanchford Life in Transition Website Life in Transition on IG Life in Transition on FB Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922 Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions. The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

    49 min
  5. From Tragedy to Tech: Building KLEENUP After Losing Everything

    FEB 12

    From Tragedy to Tech: Building KLEENUP After Losing Everything

    “You must speak the language. Because that's the only way to tap into local people." - Jon Shukurov What happens when an immigrant entrepreneur faces the loss of his brother, his daughters, and nearly his entire business? AsrorJon Shukurov shares his journey from Uzbekistan to becoming Maryland's Small Business Person of the Year. A bizarre pool incident—yes, literally—became the catalyst for his transformation through personal development. "Whatever you have now is because who you are," he heard at rock bottom. That moment changed everything. Jon reveals how consuming personal development content, "cleansing his circle," and focusing on traction over funding built both his cleaning empire and the KLEENUP tech platform. His wisdom on language, ambition, and resilience offers a roadmap for anyone facing life's toughest transitions. AsrorJon Shukurov is a serial entrepreneur, author, and the 2023 SBA Maryland Minority Owned Small Business of the Year. He immigrated from Uzbekistan 21 years ago and founded Interworld Cleaning in 2009, scaling it into an award-winning commercial and residential cleaning company. Jon is co-founder of KLEENUP, a technology-enabled marketplace connecting people with vetted, insured local cleaners. He's the author of The Immigrant's Companion: Making Your American Dream a Reality and focuses on building practical systems and scalable solutions that help many people simultaneously. About The Show:  The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online. In This Episode:  (00:00) Opening: From Devastation to Phoenix Rising  (01:32) Multiple Life Transitions: The Journey Begins  (04:26) Building KLEENUP: The Technology Transition  (07:34) Ideas vs. Execution: What Really Matters  (11:18) Marketplace Dynamics: Removing the Middleman  (21:09) Managing People: Creating Human Connection at Scale  (27:23) Rock Bottom: When His Daughters Disappeared  (31:51) Changing Circles: The Loneliness of Growth  (39:17) The Immigrant's Keys: Language and Ambition  (48:51) The One Tool for Navigating Any Transition  Like, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback. Resources: AsrorJon Shukurov LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asrorjonshukurov/ Website: ansimpact.com Company: KLEENUP (peer-to-peer cleaning marketplace) Company: Interworld Cleaning (commercial and residential cleaning) Book: The Immigrant's Companion: Making Your American Dream a Reality (available on Amazon) Award: 2023 Maryland Minority Owned Small Business of the Year (SBA) Email Art Blanchford Life in Transition Website Life in Transition on IG Life in Transition on FB Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922 Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions. The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

    54 min
  6. Power With, Not Power Over: Rod Collins' Blueprint for the AI Era

    FEB 5

    Power With, Not Power Over: Rod Collins' Blueprint for the AI Era

    What happens when you give 50 people—from CEOs to recent college graduates—equal voice in solving complex business problems? Rod Collins discovered the answer while leading the Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program through its greatest five-year growth period in 65 years. "Nobody is smarter than everybody," Rod insists. He shares how staying silent when he thought the group was heading down the wrong path led to breakthrough solutions he never imagined. From eliminating air crashes through cockpit collaboration to preventing AI tyranny, Rod's "power with" approach revolutionized not just business results but how we think about leadership itself. Sometimes chaos first leads to the best order. Rod Collins is an author, songwriter, and former business executive who pioneered collective intelligence leadership during his 33 years at the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association's Federal Employee Program. As Chief Operating Executive, he led the organization through its greatest five-year growth period in its 65-year history, achieving record-breaking financial and operational performance. His book "Nobody Is Smarter Than Everybody: Why Self-Managed Teams Make Better Decisions and Deliver Extraordinary Results" captures his revolutionary approach to power-with leadership. Now in semi-retirement, Rod writes books, monthly Substack columns, and music. Learn more at rodcollins.net. About The Show:  The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online. In This Episode:  (00:00) Opening: Power With Not Power Over (03:26) Transitioning From Auditor To Operations Leader (07:31) Designing The Collective Intelligence Workshop (18:03) Discovering Unanimous Agreement Every Time (25:06) Why People Volunteered For These Meetings (31:19) Choosing Chaos First Not Last (38:50) How Aviation Eliminated Crashes With Networks (46:48) Applying Power With To Family Life (52:31) The Future Of AI And Power Structures Like, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback. Resources: Website: rodcollins.net Book: "Nobody Is Smarter Than Everybody: Why Self-Managed Teams Make Better Decisions and Deliver Extraordinary Results" Monthly Substack column (link available on website) YouTube channel with original songs (link available on website) Email Art Blanchford Life in Transition Website Life in Transition on IG Life in Transition on FB Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922 Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions. The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

    1 hr
  7. What Happens When Life Strips Away Your Identity Three Times

    JAN 29

    What Happens When Life Strips Away Your Identity Three Times

    What would you discover about yourself if you lost everything you thought defined you… What happens when a 4x4 truck ends your professional running career at 20? Rob Rene found out. Then the pandemic took his corporate identity. Then came stage 3 melanoma. Three devastating transitions. Three chances to give up. Instead, Rob discovered faith isn't about Sunday church—it's daily relationship with God. He researched our broken medical system, learned his cancer's specific mutation, and fought back naturally. Fourteen months later, his tumors have shrunk 50%. "Fighting cancer is about starving it and getting your immune system strong enough to attack." Rob now helps others through Exodus Strong and Biohackingville, merging biblical wisdom with modern science. His message: if you have breath in your lungs, God still has a plan. Rob Rene is a faith-based AI wellness futurist, founder of Exodus Strong and creator of Biohackingville. After a truck accident ended his professional running career at age 20, he spent 20+ years in corporate sales before the pandemic sparked his deep dive into holistic health research. Currently battling stage 3 melanoma naturally (tumors down 50% in 14 months), Rob merges biblical wisdom with modern science through his products and community. His work focuses on four pillars: red light therapy, frequency medicine, molecular hydrogen supplementation, and faith. He hosts the "I Am Pain Free Podcast" and lives with his blended family. About The Show:  The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online. In This Episode:  (00:00) The First Truck: Career-Ending Accident (06:05) Looking in the Mirror: Identity Crisis (14:39) Accepting God's Plan After Loss (19:24) Twenty Years of Corporate Success (22:10) The Second Truck: Pandemic Awakening (27:28) Uncovering Medical System Corruption (33:38) Reading the Bible and Finding Faith (43:28) Red Light Therapy and Holistic Healing (54:18) The Third Truck: Stage 3 Melanoma (1:04:41) Tools for Navigating Major Transitions (1:09:28) Exodus Strong and Biohackingville Resources Like, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback. Resources: Company Website: ExodusStrong.com - Biblical wellness supplements with red light therapy Community Platform: Biohackingville.com - Natural health repository and community I am Pain Free Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmPainFree Email Art Blanchford Life in Transition Website Life in Transition on IG Life in Transition on FB Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922 Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions. The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

    1h 15m
  8. Choosing Peace Over Panic: One Man's Journey From Corporate Firing to Faith-Fueled Freedom

    JAN 22

    Choosing Peace Over Panic: One Man's Journey From Corporate Firing to Faith-Fueled Freedom

    How do you choose peace when the world expects you to panic? Michael Klassen, founder of the 5AM Podcast, shares his journey from senior broadcast producer to faith-fueled entrepreneur after an unexpected termination in October 2024. Despite nearly six years with the company, Michael walked out of the boardroom with peace, not panic. A prophetic dream months earlier had revealed this "better deal." His father taught him to make decisions based on what brings peace versus what steals it—wisdom that transformed crisis into opportunity. From farm responsibilities to launching a global podcast, Michael's story reveals how choosing peace, embracing hard things, and trusting divine guidance creates abundant life even in devastating transitions. Michael D. Klassen is the founder and host of the globally growing 5AM Podcast, dedicated to helping people transform their mornings and lives. Based in Canada, Michael brings a diverse professional background spanning broadcasting, production, and project management. After nearly six years as a senior broadcast producer, Michael experienced an unexpected career transition in October 2024 that led him to launch the 5AM Podcast in January 2024. Raised on a farm where he learned responsibility and authenticity early, Michael's journey has been shaped by his lifelong faith walk beginning at age five. His approach combines practical wisdom with spiritual guidance to help listeners worldwide embrace new possibilities. About The Show:  The Life in Transition, hosted by Art Blanchford focuses on making the most of the changes we’re given every week. Art has been through hundreds of transitions in his life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness he could never have imagined. On the podcast Art explores how to create more love and joy in life, no matter what transitions we go through. Art is married to his lifelong partner, a proud father of three and a long-time adventurer and global business executive. He is the founder and leader of the Midlife Transition Mastery Community. Learn more about the MLTM Community here: www.lifeintransition.online. In This Episode:  (00:00) Father's Wisdom on Peace (12:45) God's Six-Month Preparation (16:49) MidLife Transition Mastery  (23:13) Launching 5AM Podcast in Faith (30:33) First Aid for Life Decisions (36:15) Transition Mastery Coaching Ad (41:56) Hard Things Make You Stronger (48:43) Farm Lessons and Authentic Living (55:03) Life Abundantly or Death Like, subscribe, and send us your comments and feedback. Resources: Website: 5ampodcast.com (that's the number 5) Social Media: @5ampodcast on all platforms (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.) Email Art Blanchford Life in Transition Website Life in Transition on IG Life in Transition on FB Join Our Community: https://www.lifeintransition.online/ My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://www.amazon.com/PURPOSEFUL-LIVING-Wisdom-Coming-Complex/dp/1963913922 Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions. The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

    1h 2m

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5
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About

I’m Art Blanchford, and this is Life in Transition, a podcast about making the most of the changes we’re given. As a married father of three teenagers, long-time global business executive, and adventurer, I’ve been through hundreds of transitions in my life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness I could never have imagined. You’ll get to hear all about them on this podcast so that together, we can create more love and joy in our lives — no matter what transitions we go through.