RenewHer

Genell Lemley
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

RenewHer is a podcast dedicated to empowering women over 50 to embrace bold new challenges and cultivate a mindset focused on growth and resilience. You’ll hear inspiring stories of women who have stepped beyond their comfort zones, and gain practical brain health strategies to sharpen focus, boost energy, and build resilience. If you’re ready to grow, stretch, and rediscover what’s possible, RenewHer will guide you every step of the way.

  1. 6d ago

    42 | When Life Rewrites the Script: Louise Taylor on Reinvention, Authenticity, and Starting Again

    What happens when the life you thought you were building suddenly changes? After more than 35 years in corporate marketing leadership, Louise Taylor was laid off at 59. Then COVID brought her job search to a halt. What could have been the end of one chapter became the beginning of an entirely new life. Today, Louise is the founder of The Firefly Effect, where she helps heart-centered entrepreneurs build businesses that reflect who they truly are. But her reinvention goes much deeper than a career change. Louise shares her journey of learning to stop hiding, find her voice, embrace authenticity, and create a life that feels aligned with who she is today. What We'll Discuss ➡️ Being laid off at 59 and navigating an unexpected career transition➡️ How COVID created a forced pause that changed the direction of her life➡️ Moving from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship➡️ Why authenticity became central to Louise's work➡️ Learning to stop hiding and take down the "mask"➡️ The impact of suppressing emotions and needs for years➡️ Discovering ADHD in her 60s and learning to embrace her neurodivergence➡️ Moving from downtown Toronto to a slower, more intentional life➡️ Giving yourself permission to want something different➡️ What it means to truly renew your life Key Takeaways ✅ Sometimes an ending is an invitation.✅ Authenticity starts with knowing yourself.✅ What you once saw as a weakness may be part of your strength.✅ You are allowed to want something different.✅ What got you here may not be what gets you there. Timestamps 00:00 Highlight Clip - Start Where You re00:36 Welcome01:02 Meet Louise03:54 The Layoff at 5906:28 When COVID Changed Everything08:33 The Forced Pause and Reset11:23 A New Door Opens: Consulting16:59 The Identity Crisis of Starting Over20:15 The Origin of the Firefly Effect29:23 Staying Invisible to Stay Safe31:18 Breaking Down the Mask36:04 When the Body Stores Trauma43:54 Discovering ADHD at 6247:00 Leaving Toronto for Small Town Life51:22 Would She Have Changed Without the Push56:43 Advice for Women 50+57:47 What Renewing Your Life Means to Louise Today60:00 Closing   Connect with Louise Learn more about Louise and The Firefly Effect through the links in the episode description. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisemctaylor/Email: louise@fireflyeffect.ca Website: https://fireflyeffect.ca/ Resources Mentioned  Brene Brown TED Talk: The Power of Vulnerability The Body Keeps the Score, by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D. Anatomy of the Spirit, by Caroline Myss   Loved This Episode? If this conversation encouraged you to embrace a new challenge or rediscover a passion, I'd love for you to: Follow RenewHer so you never miss an episode. Leave a rating and review—it helps more women discover the show. Share this episode with a friend who may be wondering what's next after 50. Remember, it's never too late to learn something new, chase a dream, or begin again. Your next chapter may be your most fulfilling one yet. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website: RenewHer Wellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

    42 | When Life Rewrites the Script: Louise Taylor on Reinvention, Authenticity, and Starting Again

  2. Aug 12

    41 | Why We Worry: Understanding the Worry Loop

    Have you ever noticed how quickly your brain can go to “What if?” What if something goes wrong?What if I made the wrong decision?What if something happens to someone I love? Worry can feel like preparation. We think through possibilities, analyze potential outcomes, and try to anticipate what might happen next. But there’s an important difference between problem-solving and worrying. In this episode, we explore why we worry, what happens when our brains start generating possible problems, and how we can get caught in a worry loop—even when there may be nothing we can actually do about the outcome. What You’ll Learn Why we worry and why our brains are wired to anticipate potential threats How the brain can respond to things that might happen as though they deserve our attention now The difference between problem-solving and worry, and how “What if?” can lead to either Why uncertainty can fuel worry and keep us caught in a worry loop Key Takeaway Ask yourself: Am I solving a problem—or am I rehearsing a possibility? If there’s something you can do, take the next step. But if there isn’t, continuing to think through every possible outcome may not give you more control. Sometimes, the most helpful thing you can do is recognize: I don’t have to solve a problem that doesn’t exist yet. Until next time, remember: not every “what if?” needs an answer. Loved This Episode? If this conversation encouraged you to embrace a new challenge or rediscover a passion, I'd love for you to: Follow RenewHer so you never miss an episode. Leave a rating and review—it helps more women discover the show. Share this episode with a friend who may be wondering what's next after 50. Remember, it's never too late to learn something new, chase a dream, or begin again. Your next chapter may be your most fulfilling one yet. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website: RenewHer Wellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

  3. Aug 5

    40 | It's Never Too Late to Challenge Yourself: Running a Marathon at 62 & Continuing to Grow

    At every stage of life, there are opportunities to learn, grow, and explore what's next. In this episode of RenewHer, I sit down with my longtime friend, Rachel Kyllo, whose story is a powerful reminder that life after 50 can be a season of continued growth, curiosity, and discovery. Throughout her 40+ years of building a successful corporate career, Rachel continually found ways to grow beyond the workplace. Whether training for her first marathon in her 60s, exploring gourmet cooking, or developing a passion for food photography, she reminds us that pursuing new passions can be woven into every season of life. We also talk about the leadership lessons Rachel learned during her corporate career, the value of having a coach, the importance of accountability, and why staying curious may be one of the keys to continuing to learn, grow, and explore at every stage of life. Whether you're considering a career transition, retirement, a new hobby, or simply wondering what's next, Rachel's story will inspire you to embrace new possibilities with confidence and curiosity. In This Episode, We Discuss: How Rachel built a fulfilling 40-year career with one company The leadership lessons she learned about servant leadership and putting people first Why she decided to run her first marathon at age 62 The role coaching and accountability played in achieving an ambitious goal What crossing the marathon finish line taught her about herself How gourmet cooking and food photography became creative passions Creating memorable family experiences through food Approaching retirement with curiosity, purpose, and openness Why staying curious keeps life exciting in every season Rachel's personal definition of renewal Key Takeaways Curiosity is one of the greatest catalysts for continued growth. Big goals become achievable with the right support, accountability, and commitment. You don't have to wait for retirement to pursue interests outside of work. Every season of life offers opportunities to learn, grow, and embrace new challenges. The most meaningful adventures often begin by simply saying "yes." Timestamps 00:00 Highlight Clip 00:25 Welcome 00:49 Meet Rachel 02:28 Career Journey In Food 06:08 Leadership And Culture 08:36 Deciding to Run A Marathon 12:19 Training Support And Coach 16:16 Race Day Highs Lows 18:17 Second Marathon With Daughter 19:29 Gourmet Cooking Origins 21:41 Food Challenges And Photography 24:43 Family Food Tours Favorites 30:58 Grandma Joy At The Cabin 32:40 Retirement Next Chapter 34:36 Curiosity Renewal Closing 36:39 Final Thanks Call To Action Connect with Rachel Follow Rachel's food photography and culinary adventures on Instagram: @cabinfoodlove Rachel’s Running CoachSam RenikoffWebsite:  https://www.samrenikoff.com/ Email: samrenikoff@gmail.com Resources Mentioned Every Woman's Marathon At Home cookbook by Chef Gavin Kaysen  The Bear-inspired recipe collection  Loved This Episode? If this conversation encouraged you to embrace a new challenge or rediscover a passion, I'd love for you to: Follow RenewHer so you never miss an episode. Leave a rating and review—it helps more women discover the show. Share this episode with a friend who may be wondering what's next after 50. Remember, it's never too late to learn something new, chase a dream, or begin again. Your next chapter may be your most fulfilling one yet. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website: RenewHer Wellness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

    40 | It's Never Too Late to Challenge Yourself: Running a Marathon at 62 & Continuing to Grow

  4. Aug 4

    39 |The Expectations That Steal Our Peace

    Have you ever noticed how a small, ordinary moment can reveal something much bigger about yourself? In this episode of RenewHer Reflections, I share a story about my dog Peyton and our daily walks. As she’s gotten older, our walks—especially during the warmer months—don’t always go the way I expect them to. Sometimes she stops, rests, changes direction, or simply decides she’s done. For a while, those moments challenged my patience. But over time, I began to see those walks differently. What started as a simple morning routine became a reminder that the way we experience everyday moments often has less to do with what happens and more to do with how we approach it. This reflection is an invitation to pause and consider: Where might your own expectations be creating frustration—and what might you notice if you looked at the moment in front of you a little differently? What You’ll Learn How an unexpected lesson from my dog Peyton changed the way I viewed our walks Why everyday frustrations can sometimes reveal more about our own expectations than the situation itself How shifting our perspective can create more peace and presence How to notice the moments of joy we may be overlooking Key Takeaways We don’t always get to choose what happens, but we can choose how we respond. Expectations shape the way we experience everyday moments. A small shift in perspective can change the way we see a situation. Sometimes the moments we didn’t plan for become the moments we remember. If this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear about it. Have you ever found yourself struggling to focus because of constant noise or other distractions? Share your experience in the comments or connect with me on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little more understanding—and a little more grace—for their brain. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

  5. Jul 28

    38 | When the Noise Won't Stop: What It's Doing to Your Brain

    Have you ever been so distracted by constant noise that you couldn't think straight? That's exactly what happened to me this week as construction crews spent days replacing our shared driveway. The endless backup alarms, heavy equipment, and nonstop activity left me feeling mentally exhausted, tense, and far less productive than usual. What I discovered is that I wasn't imagining it—and neither are you if you've ever struggled to focus in a noisy environment. In this episode of Brain Notes, I share my personal experience and explain the fascinating brain science behind why constant noise is so difficult to ignore. You'll learn what's happening inside your brain, why your patience may wear thin, and a few simple ways to protect your focus when your environment is working against you. What You'll Learn Why repetitive noises—like construction backup alarms—are especially difficult for the brain to ignore. What the brain's orienting response is and how it helps keep us safe. How constant environmental noise affects focus, memory, creativity, and productivity. Why prolonged noise can activate your brain's stress response. Simple, practical strategies to reduce mental overload when you can't control your surroundings. Key Takeaways Your brain is constantly scanning your environment for potential threats, even when you think you've tuned out the noise. Filtering distractions requires mental energy, leaving fewer resources available for concentration and decision-making. Persistent noise can contribute to stress, irritability, cognitive fatigue, and reduced productivity. Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do for your brain is simply change your environment. Understanding how your brain works allows you to respond with self-compassion instead of self-criticism. If this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear about it. Have you ever found yourself struggling to focus because of constant noise or other distractions? Share your experience in the comments or connect with me on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a little more understanding—and a little more grace—for their brain. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

  6. Jul 24

    37 | Discipline Isn’t the Whole Story: What Helps Me Keep Showing Up

    For years, people have commented on how disciplined I am when it comes to exercise. But through seasons of grief, surgeries, and starting over, I’ve learned that discipline is only part of the story. In this RenewHer Reflection, I share what my fitness journey has taught me about commitment, consistency, and the importance of having a plan, accountability, and something meaningful to work toward. What You’ll Learn Why discipline alone isn’t always enough to maintain consistency How I rebuilt my strength after loss, setbacks, and major life interruptions The three things that help me stay committed: a plan, accountability, and a meaningful goal Why understanding what works for you matters more than following someone else’s system Key Takeaways Getting started again is often the hardest part. A clear plan can make it easier to take action. Accountability helps us follow through when motivation fades. Meaningful goals give us a reason to keep showing up. The right routine is the one that works for you. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Small habits can make a big difference—and your brain is worth investing in. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

  7. Jul 22

    36 | Reinventing Your Life—One Chapter at a Time | Judy Tierney

    Is it ever too late to reinvent yourself? In this inspiring episode of RenewHer, I sit down with Judy Tierney—entrepreneur, real estate investor, and co-founder of Be There Excursions—to explore what it really takes to begin again after 50. Judy's journey has taken her from corporate America to consulting, real estate, and now to building a boutique travel company that helps women experience the world in meaningful ways. Together, we talk about overcoming fear, embracing change, building a strong support network, and pursuing the dreams that refuse to let go. Whether you're considering a career change, planning for retirement, or simply wondering if there's something more waiting for you, Judy's story is a powerful reminder that reinvention has no expiration date. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why it's never too late to write a new chapter How Judy's parents nurtured curiosity, independence, and confidence from an early age Leaving corporate America to travel the world for more than a year—and how that experience changed her life The unexpected path that led her into real estate investing at age 26 Recognizing when it's time to pivot—even from a successful career Overcoming fear and uncertainty when starting something new The importance of taking small steps before making a major life change Why having a supportive community makes reinvention easier How regret can become a powerful motivator for action The story behind Be There Excursions and its immersive small-group travel experiences for women Judy's advice for women who feel they're too old, too comfortable, or too afraid to pursue something new   Key Takeaway Reinvention isn't reserved for one season of life—it's available whenever you're willing to say yes to what's calling you next. Sometimes the biggest obstacle isn't age or ability; it's believing you still have permission to begin again. Timestamps 00:00 Welcome01:16 Introducing Judy and reinvention journey04:17 Judy's childhood and early influences06:21 Becoming a landlord and discovering real estate investing09:24 Judy's career pivots and knowing when it's time for change15:11 The challenges and fears of reinvention18:05 Taking small steps toward something new19:30 Lessons learned from multiple chapters of life22:12 The role of support and community23:19 Using regret as a guide for what comes next28:16 Launching Be There Excursions and creating meaningful travel experiences32:07 Advice for women who are afraid to make a change33:36 Closing reflection: renewal and the next chapter Connect with Judy Tierney Learn more about Be There Excursions and upcoming women's travel experiences: Website: https://betherexcursions.com Email: Judy@betherexcursions.com Follow Be There Excursions on LinkedIn and Instagram for travel inspiration and upcoming adventures. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/be-there-excursions  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethereexcursions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/judy.tierney  If You Enjoyed This Episode... If this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another woman who may be wondering if it's too late to pursue a dream. Your support helps more women discover that their next chapter may be their most meaningful one yet. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

    36 | Reinventing Your Life—One Chapter at a Time | Judy Tierney

  8. Jul 21

    35 | 6 Simple Ways to Improve Your Brain in Minutes | Brain Notes

    Can you really improve your brain in just a few minutes a day? According to neuroscience, you can. In this episode of Brain Notes, Genell shares six simple, science-backed habits that can help support brain health, improve focus, boost creativity, and strengthen your brain over time. Inspired by Biohack Your Brain by neuroscientist Kristen Willeumier, Ph.D., these practical strategies are easy to incorporate into your daily routine—no major lifestyle overhaul required. Whether you're looking to sharpen your thinking, increase your energy, or simply take better care of your brain, you'll walk away with actionable ideas you can start using today. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why your brain is capable of changing throughout your life. How a brisk walk can improve creativity, focus, and mental performance. Why doing simple tasks with your nondominant hand strengthens your brain. The brain-boosting benefits of blueberries. How learning one new word each day supports memory and cognitive health. Why practicing gratitude can reduce stress and improve your mood. The surprising reason dark chocolate can be good for your brain. Key Takeaways: Your brain has the ability to adapt and grow through neuroplasticity. Small, consistent habits can have a meaningful impact on brain health. Movement, nutrition, learning, and gratitude all play a role in keeping your brain healthy. You don't have to make dramatic changes to experience lasting benefits—simple daily actions add up. Resources Mentioned: Biohack Your Brain by Kristen Willeumier, Ph.D. WordGuru.co – Daily vocabulary emails and brain-training quizzes. Free Resource: Want to improve your focus, energy, confidence, and mental clarity? Download my free guide: 👉 Fog to Clarity: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Increase Your Mental Edge If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Small habits can make a big difference—and your brain is worth investing in. Connect with Genell Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Subscribe to my YouTube channel RenewHer with Genell  Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental Edge Check out my website LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genelllemley/ Email: genell@renewherwellness.com

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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

RenewHer is a podcast dedicated to empowering women over 50 to embrace bold new challenges and cultivate a mindset focused on growth and resilience. You’ll hear inspiring stories of women who have stepped beyond their comfort zones, and gain practical brain health strategies to sharpen focus, boost energy, and build resilience. If you’re ready to grow, stretch, and rediscover what’s possible, RenewHer will guide you every step of the way.

Information

  • Creator
    Genell Lemley
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Genell Lemley / RenewHer Wellness, All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    RenewHer

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