Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell

Jo Blackwell
  • 4.5 (4)
  • PHILOSOPHY

Real, honest, and inspiring conversations for women 50+ — because ageing on our own terms never gets old! Whether you’re navigating menopause, rediscovering purpose, or embracing your next chapter, this podcast is your weekly dose of connection, confidence, and community. Join Jo Blackwell — author and host of the Midlife & Beyond community on Substack and YouTube — as she chats with inspiring women about reinvention, wellbeing, ageing on our own terms, and finding joy in midlife and beyond, and reflects on the life lessons she's carrying with her into her "third age". Pull up a chair — the kettle’s on! email jo@joblackwell.co.uk to take part in the podcast. Browse the website to see how I can help you to become more visible in life and in business. Original Music: Dan Blackwell joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

  1. How to Be Happy

    3D AGO

    How to Be Happy

    What is happiness, really — and can we learn to be happier? In this week’s conversation, Jo talks to Christina Lenway, a Happiness Educator and author, about the science and practice of happiness. Christina shares how a personal crisis led her to study happiness academically and discover evidence-based ways to create more joy, meaning, and fulfillment in everyday life. They explore how happiness isn’t a destination but a skill — one we can strengthen through intention, awareness, and daily practice. From “dialing up the good” emotions to using breathwork and gratitude to shift perspective, Christina explains simple, practical tools anyone can use to feel lighter, calmer, and more at peace. This is an inspiring and grounded look at how midlife can be a time to reclaim happiness on your own terms — not by pretending everything’s fine, but by choosing how you respond, finding purpose, and building emotional resilience. Thanks for reading Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell! Subscribe for so you don’t miss new posts and episodes. 💡 In This Episode * Why happiness is a learnable skill, not a lucky accident * The surprising science behind positive emotions * How to “dial up” joy and “dial down” negativity * What Viktor Frankl and the Holocaust can teach us about inner freedom * The difference between healthy optimism and toxic positivity * How breathwork and gratitude retrain your brain for happiness * Why knowing your values and strengths is key to fulfillment * Courage, authenticity, and choosing who you want to be — not who life made you —Connect with Jo Blackwell Links: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. Thanks for reading Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    28 min
  2. Things I Let Go of in My 50s

    OCT 28

    Things I Let Go of in My 50s

    In this solo episode, I open up about the things I let go of in my 50s - from 20/20 vision and flexibility to old identities that no longer fit - and the powerful things I’ve gained in their place. Our 50s can feel like a season of loss, but they can also be a time of rediscovery. Now in my 60s, I see how letting go made space for self-knowledge, resilience, and wisdom, and how ageing can be a beautiful act of becoming. If you’re navigating midlife, this episode is for you. Together, we’ll explore what we lose, what we find, and how to embrace this transformative decade with strength, courage, and a little humour. —Connect with Jo BlackwellNewsletter: joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.comYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondInstagram: @joblackwell_midlifeEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk 🎧 Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    14 min
  3. Is Self-Care Selfish?

    MAY 12

    Is Self-Care Selfish?

    Is self-care selfish - or essential? In this honest and uplifting conversation, Jo Blackwell chats with Honor Marks, founder of Honestly with Honor and creator of Magical Midlife MEtreats, about why caring for yourself in midlife isn’t indulgent - it’s vital. Together, they explore guilt, boundaries, and the power of female friendship, along with the story behind Honor’s MEtreats - creative, connection-filled getaways for women who need a break that truly restores. If you’ve ever struggled to put yourself first, this episode will help you see self-care not as selfish, but as sacred. Learn more: honestlywithhonor.com/magical-midlife-metreats —Connect with Jo Blackwell Links: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    24 min
  4. 9 Things I Wish I Knew Sooner About Life, Love, and Happiness

    11/28/2024

    9 Things I Wish I Knew Sooner About Life, Love, and Happiness

    In this solo episode, Jo Blackwell reflects on nine life lessons she wishes she could share with her 18-year-old self. Each one is a message of self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment — from navigating early marriage and motherhood to understanding self-worth and the courage to choose joy. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, questioned your choices, or felt weighed down by expectations, this episode is your reminder that it’s never too late to embrace who you truly are. Listen in for an honest reflection on life, love, ageing, and happiness — and join Jo in celebrating the beauty of becoming. 💬 What would you tell your younger self? —Connect with Jo Blackwell Links: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    9 min
  5. Let them go: Embracing Your Empty Nest

    11/21/2024

    Let them go: Embracing Your Empty Nest

    Have you just waved your child off to university, college, or maybe even to start a new life far away? Whether it's their first big step out on their own or they're starting a new chapter as adults, this episode is all about the unique, sometimes challenging experience of “letting go.”Let’s talk about what it really means to be there for them—without hovering—and how to make sure you’re also taking care of you. Here’s to honoring the journey and moving forward with love. 💖 Share your experiences in the comments!—Connect with Jo Blackwell Links: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    9 min
  6. The New "OLD"

    11/14/2024

    The New "OLD"

    In today's world, growing older isn't what it used to be. We now expect a longer, more active life than our parents' and grandparents' generations.This episode explores how the stages of life have evolved over the past century and introduces two thought leaders, Chip Conley and Barbara Waxman, who have reshaped how we view ageing.Covering how life expectancy has shifted from the early 1900s to now, how adolescence was discovered, and why midlife is no longer just a pit stop. We discuss "Middlescence," a new life stage that mirrors adolescence but in reverse, and how this transitional period can help us prepare for a fulfilling second half of life.Whether you're in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, this video offers empowering insights on how to embrace midlife and beyond. Discover the concept of wisdom workers, the importance of mentorship, and why ageing in the 21st century is more about growing whole than growing old.📺 Watch the TED Talks mentioned in the video: Chip Conley and  Barbara Waxman—Connect with Jo Blackwell Links: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    10 min
  7. 10 things I Quit at 60

    11/07/2024

    10 things I Quit at 60

    **10 Things I Quit in My 50s That Made Me Happier in My 60s** 🌟 In this solo episode, I share the 10 life-changing things I gave up in my 50s that have improved my life in my 60s. From quitting uncomfortable clothing and rushing through life to ditching doom-scrolling and learning to say "no," these decisions have boosted my happiness and well-being. If you're in your 50s or beyond, or simply looking for ways to simplify and improve your life, this video is for you! Join the conversation in the comments on YouTube – what do you no longer do that makes you happier? Subscribe for more conversations about life after 50, 60, 70 Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    10 min
  8. If you think you're old, you are!

    10/31/2024

    If you think you're old, you are!

    Feeling like you're too old to chase your dreams? Think again. In this Podcast, I share personal stories, from a shocking hospital visit to conversations that challenged my views on aging. The words we hear, both from others and ourselves, have the power to shape how we live. If you’re telling yourself you’re too old to run that 5K, fall in love, or start a new career, then you might be limiting your potential. I challenge you to rethink those beliefs and see aging in a new light. Let’s break free from the stereotypes and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead! Join the conversation in the comments on YouTube – what limiting beliefs about age hold you back? Subscribe for more conversations about life after 50, 60, 70 Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

    6 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Real, honest, and inspiring conversations for women 50+ — because ageing on our own terms never gets old! Whether you’re navigating menopause, rediscovering purpose, or embracing your next chapter, this podcast is your weekly dose of connection, confidence, and community. Join Jo Blackwell — author and host of the Midlife & Beyond community on Substack and YouTube — as she chats with inspiring women about reinvention, wellbeing, ageing on our own terms, and finding joy in midlife and beyond, and reflects on the life lessons she's carrying with her into her "third age". Pull up a chair — the kettle’s on! email jo@joblackwell.co.uk to take part in the podcast. Browse the website to see how I can help you to become more visible in life and in business. Original Music: Dan Blackwell joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

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