Her Next Act ~ Right Here, Right Now

Joan Paul
  • 4.8 (17)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Biweekly

A podcast for women in their 50s, 60s and beyond wanting to be inspired to create a more expansive and fulfilling life. The show features conversations with women who are navigating this sometimes puzzling phase of life and are in the midst of their "next act." You're not too old and it's not too late!

  1. 1d ago

    A Life Reimagined: How One Bold Decision Changed Everything

    What if the life you built isn't the life you want anymore — and you're only halfway through? In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan sits down with Cindy Sheahan, who left her marriage, her job, and her Denver life in her mid-50s and now calls Palermo, Sicily home. What began as a 12-day hike in Ireland turned into three months on the road, and then into a decade of full-time travel that she says she can't imagine living without. Cindy is refreshingly honest about how it actually happened. There was no lightning bolt she describes it as a dripping faucet, years of "this is fine" until fine wasn't enough. She talks about the therapist who finally asked her what she wanted, the hardest step of the entire process (moving across the hallway into a spare bedroom), and the boss who told her to just go. Together, Joan and Cindy dig into what it costs and what it takes: the real numbers behind funding a travel lifestyle, why she rents to travel nurses instead of using Airbnb, staying in hostels more than a hundred times in her 50s and 60s, meeting a Frenchman on a dating app in Nepal, and why she has zero interest in living with him. This conversation is a reminder that you're not too old and it's not too late — and that most of us already know what we want. We've just pushed it down so long it's hard to say out loud. Episode Highlights: ➔ The nine-year-old who wrote "flight attendant" every year, and the hairdresser quote at 18 that stuck for decades  ➔ Why the decision came as a slow drip rather than a single dramatic moment  ➔ The therapist who said "I'm giving you permission" — and why that was the thing Cindy needed to hear  ➔ Why moving into the spare bedroom was harder than moving out of the house entirely  ➔ How a 12-day hike in Ireland quietly grew legs and became a three-month trip  ➔ The practical money conversation: rental income, travel nurses as tenants, and living well in Palermo on 2,000 euros a month  ➔ Hostels, night trains, and solo travel safety — what she's actually experienced in ten years on the road  ➔ The 26-year-old she met in a Vietnam hostel kitchen whose wedding she flew to Zanzibar for  ➔ Meeting her French partner in Nepal, and why living apart is the point, not the compromise  ➔ Finding your tribe when your tribe doesn't live in your ZIP code  ➔ Why she waived Medicare Part B, and how Italian citizenship through ancestry changed her healthcare picture  ➔ What "flashpacker" means, and the eight-euro Uber that explains it perfectly  ➔ Why everyone wants to know what's next — and why "not a clue" is the most freeing answer she has Find out more about Cindy Sheahan: Website: Posts From A Flashpacker: https://postsfromaflashpacker.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/postsfromaflashpacker/ Mentioned in this episode: The Five Regrets of the Dying — Bronnie Ware  Theo of Golden Howard Thurman on doing what makes you come alive Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  2. Jul 19

    From Dream to Bestselling Author: Julie Gerstenblatt's Next Act

    What does it take to turn a lifelong dream into a reality? In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan sits down with bestselling author Julie Gerstenblatt to explore the winding path from aspiring writer to traditionally published novelist. Julie shares how years of persistence and believing in herself ultimately led to publishing two bestselling historical novels Daughters of Nantucket and The Stargazer of Nantucket. Through every chapter, she never let go of her dream of becoming an author. Julie opens up about navigating self-doubt, embracing unexpected opportunities, and discovering that success often comes from being willing to pivot, take risks, and trust the process. Together, Joan and Julie discuss what it really looks like to build a creative career in midlife, why community and relationships matter as much as talent, and how claiming your identity before you feel "ready" can change everything. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder that your dreams don't have an expiration date. Sometimes the path takes longer than expected, but every experience along the way prepares you for your next act. Episode Highlights: ➔ Julie's lifelong dream of becoming a published author and why she never gave up on it ➔ How self-publishing became an important stepping stone toward traditional publishing ➔ The surprising power of declaring your dreams before you fully believe them yourself ➔ Why rejection, setbacks, and changing direction are often necessary parts of the creative journey ➔ How Julie reinvented herself by shifting from contemporary fiction to historical fiction ➔ The role community, mentors, and unexpected supporters played in helping her succeed ➔ Why embracing discomfort and taking creative risks opened doors she never anticipated ➔ How historical research, storytelling, and a love of Nantucket became the foundation of her bestselling novels ➔ What it means to fully step into a new identity after years of hard work and perseverance ➔ Why it's never too late to pursue a lifelong dream and create a meaningful second act Find out more about Julie Gerstenblatt: Website: Julie Gerstenblatt: https://www.juliegerstenblatt.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliegerstenblatt/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.gerstenblatt/ Purchase Books: Stargazer of Nantucket Daughters of Nantucket Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  3. Jun 17

    Walking into a Next Act: Stephanie Wilson Follows Her Passion with 31Daily

    What happens when you follow a middle-of-the-night idea and trust yourself enough to see where it leads? In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan sits down with Stephanie Wilson, founder of 31 Daily, cookbook author, former broadcast journalist, private chef, and storyteller, to discuss creativity, reinvention, and building a fulfilling life in midlife and beyond. Ten years ago, Stephanie launched 31 Daily after a late-night moment of inspiration. What began as a simple place to collect recipes evolved into a thriving online community reaching thousands of readers around the world. Along the way, she discovered that some of life's most meaningful next acts come not from careful planning, but from following curiosity, passion, and purpose. Together, Joan and Stephanie explore what it means to create a life that feels rich, intentional, and aligned with who you are becoming. They discuss the challenges of balancing ambition and fulfillment, the importance of creativity at every stage of life, and why it's never too late to pursue new possibilities. This conversation is a powerful reminder that your next chapter doesn't have to fit anyone else's expectations. Sometimes the most meaningful transformations begin with one small idea and the courage to follow it. Episode Highlights: ➔ How a middle-of-the-night inspiration led Stephanie to create 31 Daily and launch an entirely new chapter of her life ➔ Why creativity is essential for fulfillment, especially during life's transitions and empty nest years ➔ The surprising power of following curiosity instead of focusing solely on outcomes ➔ How Stephanie transformed decades of experience in journalism, cooking, event planning, and writing into a successful online business ➔ The challenges of balancing passion, work, family life, and avoiding burnout ➔ Why many women underestimate the possibilities available to them after age 50 ➔ The importance of trusting your instincts, taking action, and staying open to unexpected opportunities ➔ How storytelling, food, gathering, and meaningful rituals can help create a richer and more connected life ➔ Lessons learned from building a creative business over the past decade ➔ Why it's never too late to pursue a dream, reinvent yourself, or create your own next act Find out more about Stephanie Wilson: Website: https://www.31daily.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/31daily1/ Substack: https://31daily.substack.com/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/31daily/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/31Daily/ About Stephanie Wilson: Stephanie Wilson is the founder of 31 Daily, a lifestyle and food website dedicated to helping people create meaningful moments through seasonal recipes, afternoon tea traditions, entertaining, and everyday living. A former broadcast journalist, private chef, caterer, cookbook author, and novelist, Stephanie combines her love of storytelling, history, food, and hospitality to inspire readers around the world. Through her work, she encourages others to celebrate everyday life with intention, beauty, and connection. Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  4. Jun 3

    Honoring 250 Years of Legacy

    In this solo episode of Her Next Act, Joan shares a brief personal update of a milestone that has been generations in the making. While Her Next Act typically features inspiring conversations with women navigating reinvention, purpose, and new beginnings, this week Joan is stepping away from her regular interview format to focus on an extraordinary family celebration: the 250th anniversary of The Griswold Inn in Essex, Connecticut. Known affectionately as "The Gris," The Griswold Inn has welcomed guests since 1776 and remains one of America's most historic inns. Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  5. May 20

    Encore: Navigating Loss Journeys in Midlife: A Conversation with Dr. Alicia Farrell

    In this episode of HER NEXT ACT ~ Right Here, Right Now, host Joan Paul is in conversation with cognitive psychologist Dr. Alicia Farrell for a second time on the podcast. In this episode they share personal stories of loss and resilience, setting the stage for insightful discussions. They explore how various types of loss, from identity and purpose to the death of loved ones, affect our lives and how resilience can be nurtured. The conversation delves into strategies for processing grief, the importance of expressing negative emotions, and how seemingly insurmountable challenges can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Dr. Farrell offers practical advice on desensitizing to discomfort and taking steps towards a fulfilling life, punctuated by a personal anecdote that highlights the healing power of humor.  Episode Highlights: ➔ Different Types of Loss and Their Impact ➔ Strategies for Thriving After Loss ➔ The Role of Resilience in Coping with Loss ➔ Grieving the Loss of What Could Have Been ➔ Overcoming Regret and Finding New Passions ➔ Desensitizing to Discomfort and Change ➔ The Power of Humor in Healing ➔ Embracing Possibility and Moving Forward Connect with Dr. Alicia Farrell: Website: https://aliciafarrellphd.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliciafarrellphd/ Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  6. May 6

    Her Next Act: Storytelling with Impact

    In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan Paul sits down with award-winning playwright, author, and lyricist Robin Pullen to explore how curiosity, creativity, and collaboration can fuel a thriving second act well into your 60s and beyond. If you've ever quietly held onto a childhood dream, or wondered whether it's too late, this conversation will encourage you to start. This episode is a beautiful reminder that creativity has no expiration date, and that the dreams we tuck away in childhood often have a way of finding us again, more vividly and when we collaborate we can finally bring them to life. What You'll Learn in This Episode:  → How childhood dreams often re-emerge later in life when we have the space to pursue them  → Why it's never too late to reach for something you've always wanted to do  → The power of telling overlooked stories, especially those of women in history  → How collaboration with other creatives can amplify your work and give you courage  → How to build community around your work and use it as a force for good  → How curiosity is the secret to staying vibrant, no matter your age About Robin: Robin Pullen is an award-winning playwright, lyricist, and author whose work spans children's musicals, plays, and picture books. A retired special education and gifted teacher for over 3 decades, Robin is the creator of the play Cows in a Snowstorm; Caro's Comet, a musical and picture book celebrating astronomer Caroline Herschel, and Amelia the Island, a chapter book and musical honoring the rich history of Amelia Island, Florida. Her latest project, Wild Women of Amelia, debuts in March 2027 at Amelia Musical Playhouse and has grown into a community-driven movement supporting women-led charities. Robin believes deeply in the power of stories to inspire children, build community, and empower women of every age to step into what's next. Website: https://pullenplaywright.com/ Books: Amelia, The Island: https://storyandsongarts.org/bookstore/kids-young-adults/ Caro's Comet: The Celestial Cinderella: can be found wherever you buy books If this episode spoke to you, follow Her Next Act so you don't miss upcoming conversations designed to support you through life's transitions and help you step into what's next. And if you know someone who's been quietly holding onto a creative dream, share this episode with them, it might be exactly the encouragement they need to start. Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  7. Apr 22

    A Gap Year to Inspire Your Next Act

    In conversation with Lindsey Goldstein, author of Gap Year  In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan Paul sits down with author Lindsey Goldstein to explore what it really means to start over in midlife. If you’ve ever wondered who you are beyond the roles you’ve held, mother, partner, professional this conversation will resonate deeply. Lindsey shares the story behind her debut novel Gap Year, a powerful reflection on identity, reinvention, and the courage it takes to follow the quiet pull of “what if.” Together, Joan and Lindsey dive into the emotional and practical realities of midlife transitions from empty nest to career shifts to unexpected life changes and how those moments can become the beginning of something new. This episode is a reminder that even when life feels uncertain, it may actually be opening the door to something more aligned, more meaningful, and more you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: → Why midlife transitions often spark identity questions and how to navigate them → The emotional impact of empty nest, career shifts, and relationship changes → How to reconnect with parts of yourself that may have been set aside → Why it’s never too late to pursue something you’ve always wanted to do → How travel, space, and stepping outside your routine can lead to clarity → The power of listening to your inner voice—even without a clear plan About the Guest: Lindsey Goldstein is the author of the debut novel Gap Year, a story centered on midlife reinvention, identity, and the courage to begin again. With a background in physical therapy and storytelling, her work is deeply inspired by real-life experiences, human connection, and the belief that it’s never too late to change your path. Connect with Lindsey: Website: https://www.lindseygoldsteinauthor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldsteinlindsey/ Substack: lindseygoldstein.substack.com If this episode spoke to you, follow Her Next Act so you don’t miss upcoming conversations designed to support you through life’s transitions and help you step into what’s next. And if you know someone navigating a season of change, share this episode with them it might be exactly what they need to hear. Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

  8. Apr 8

    Living in Alignment: How Our Homes Shape Change with Kim Costa

    What if the life you’re trying to create starts with the space you’re living in? In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan sits down with Kim Costa, realtor, author, and creator of the Wheel House™ method, to explore how our homes shape not only how we live, but who we become. Kim’s journey is a powerful example of what it looks like to realign your life from the inside out. From working decades in a career that didn’t fit, to rebuilding her life in midlife and stepping into work that feels deeply purposeful, she shares how clarity often comes after we pause long enough to listen. Together, they explore the connection between environment, identity, and possibility, and why your home may be the missing piece in your next chapter. This conversation is a reminder that your next act isn’t just about what you do… it’s about where and how you choose to live. If you’ve been feeling stuck, misaligned, or unsure what’s next, this episode will invite you to look closer at the space around you, and what it’s quietly asking you to change. Episode Highlights: ➔ How your home environment influences your emotions, decisions, and sense of possibility ➔ Kim’s pivotal moment of realizing she had been living out of alignment for decades ➔ The role of life transitions (divorce, empty nesting, career shifts) in redefining what “home” means ➔ Why many women struggle to answer the question, “What do I want?” and how to begin exploring it ➔ The concept of “Stay, Go, or Reno” and how to evaluate whether your current home supports your next chapter ➔ How creating the right environment can help you heal, rebuild, and step into a more aligned life ➔ Moving through fear, resistance, and imposter syndrome when stepping into something new Find out more about Kim Costa: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kim.e.costa/ Website: https://www.lifestylefoundations.com/ Book: Live in Your Wheel House™ Available from any online retailer and through independent bookstores Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul Website: https://hernextact.com/ instagram: @hernextact facebook: @joanpaul The Griswold Inn Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now! xojoan

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A podcast for women in their 50s, 60s and beyond wanting to be inspired to create a more expansive and fulfilling life. The show features conversations with women who are navigating this sometimes puzzling phase of life and are in the midst of their "next act." You're not too old and it's not too late!

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