5D AGO

09 | Stronger With Age: Why Your 50s Are a Launchpad

What does it mean to truly live at your prime — not at 25, but at 50+? In this episode of RenewHer, I sit down with Giselle Carson — corporate immigration attorney, two-time immigrant, five-time Ironman, 29-time marathoner, ultra-marathoner, author, and lifelong student of growth. But this conversation isn’t about credentials. It’s about endurance — in life, in reinvention, and in becoming. Giselle immigrated from Cuba to Canada at 15 without speaking the language, leaving her family and everything familiar behind. She later immigrated again — this time to the United States — rebuilding her identity, career, and future once more. Along the way, she transitioned from physical therapy to law, built a nationally respected corporate immigration practice from the ground up, and discovered endurance athletics in adulthood. What stands out most isn’t the medals or finish lines. It’s her mindset. We talk about: ✅ Reinventing yourself more than once ✅ The discipline that creates freedom ✅Training your mind to stay calm in uncertainty ✅ What endurance sports teach us about leadership and life ✅ Competing against yourself instead of others ✅ Fear — and what’s waiting on the other side of it ✅Why she believes she is just getting started in her 50s Giselle shares the story of running an ultra-marathon in the rain, starting last at the starting line, and finishing in a state of flow — not because conditions were perfect, but because she had trained her mind to stay steady. Her message is simple and powerful: Growth doesn’t stop at midlife. It accelerates — if you let it. If you’ve ever wondered whether your biggest chapter might still be ahead of you… this episode will remind you that expansion is always available. You are not behind. You are becoming. 00:00 Highlight Clip 00:31 Welcome to Renew Her + What You’ll Get From This Show 00:51 Meet Giselle Carson: Immigration Attorney, Endurance Athlete, Author 04:56 Giselle’s Origin Immigration Story: From Cuba to Canada as a Teen 06:38 Reinvention & Growth: Languages, Citizenship, and Becoming a Lawyer 08:16 Fear, Discomfort, and the “We’re Meant to Grow” Mindset 10:28 Career Evolution: From PT to Litigation to Corporate Immigration 16:50 How Endurance Entered Her Life: From 5Ks to Boston Marathon 20:58 Ironman Training: Structure, Discipline, and Freedom Through Planning 25:07 Ultra Marathon Comeback: The Guana 50K in the Rain 28:30 Race-Day Mindset: Your Plan, Your Pace, Your Flow State 32:37 Community Mindset That Carries Into Life 34:22 Prime in Midlife: New Goals, Marathons, and Writing the Next Chapter 36:27 Tackling a Technical Trail: Training, Uncertainty, and Building Confidence 40:09 Fear & Resistance: How to Start, Build Habits, and Lean on Community 43:43 Ultra Lessons for Work & Life: Systems, Resets, Pivots, and Mile-by-Mile Focus 47:55 Making Time: What to Let Go of to Protect Your Energy 52:20 58 and Still Expanding: The Comfort Crisis, Discomfort, and Reinvention 57:27 Pick One Goal & Keep Evolving: Community, Mindset, and What’s Possible 59:18 Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect: LinkedIn, Show Notes, and Final Send-Off 01:02 Final Outro: Take the Next Small Step and Join the Renew Her Community How to connect with Giselle Carson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisellecarsonimmigration YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTPgPK7-m0RMXdDEbAWXffQ Website: https://marksgray.com/practices/us-immigration-corporate-and-compliance/ Newsletter: Corporate Immigration and Compliance with Giselle Carson, Esquire Giselle's book: The Corporate Immigration Advantage: How to Hire, Retain and Thrive with Global Talent in a Competitive World Books Giselle referenced: The War of Art, by Steven Pressfield Turning Pro, by Steven Pressfield Comfort Zone, by Michael Eastern Genell's Resources Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Schedule a free Discovery Session with me.Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental EdgeCheck out my website

1h 3m

FEB 11

8 | Your Unlived Life Is Waiting for You

What happens when life looks successful on the outside — but something inside feels unfinished? In this episode of RenewHer, Genell Lemley sits down with Cathryn Baker, a former founder who built and sold two multimillion-dollar companies and then, unexpectedly, found herself bored, disconnected from her confidence, and quietly questioning what was next. At 67, Cathryn made a bold decision to begin again — launching a coaching business, moving to rural Texas, and listening to a message she couldn’t ignore: your unlived life is waiting for you. This conversation is an honest, grounded exploration of intuition, identity, confidence, and what it really means to start a new chapter later in life — without burning everything down or pretending fear doesn’t exist. In this episode, you'll hear about: What it feels like when success no longer brings fulfillment — and why that misalignment can sneak up quietly How confidence can erode after selling a company and stepping out of an identity you’ve held for decades The surprising moment that sparked Cathryn’s third act — and why she paid attention to it Why boredom, fear, and guilt often show up right before meaningful change The difference between “reinventing” yourself and reawakening parts of who you already are What starting a business at 67 actually looks like — including self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and courage in action How intuition, routine, connection, and support make big transitions sustainable The three-step framework Cathryn uses to help women move toward what’s next: recognizing opportunity, understanding what holds you back, and taking action 00:00 Your Unlived Life Is Waiting for You00:27 Welcome to RenewHer01:13 Meet Cathryn Baker: A Third Act Begins03:39 Starting a Business at 29 With No Safety Net07:06 When Success Turns Into Boredom — and Lost Confidence10:08 The Text That Changed Everything15:45 Why Coaching Became the Next Chapter22:00 Choosing to Stay When It Gets Uncomfortable36:40 Rejuvenation, Not Reinvention38:58 Advice for the Woman Standing at the Edge of Change43.28 Final Reflections & Closing Resources Subscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Schedule a free Discovery Session with me.Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental EdgeCheck out my website. How to connect with Cathryn BakerLinkedIncbaker@thinkavanzara.comWebsite

46 min

JAN 28

7 | Still Becoming: What the Mountain Revealed After the Climb

In this final episode of a two-part series, I share the soul of my 29029 Everesting experience. Part one was about the physical and mental challenge. This episode is about what happened afterward — when the noise faded, the body rested, and something quieter but deeper emerged. This isn’t a story about climbing a mountain. It’s about identity, connection, gratitude, and what becomes possible when you say yes to a challenge that changes you from the inside out. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why the deepest realization didn’t happen at the finish line How identity shifts before the goal is reached The role of connection and community in resilience and brain health Rewriting stories about age, strength, and what’s possible What it means to still be becoming TiIMESTAMPS00:00 Highlight: The Power You’ve Underrated 00:22 Welcome to RenewHer 00:56 The Inner Climb Begins 02:08 When the Noise Faded 04:06 The Soul Work of Connection 05:23 From Proving to Expanding 06:49 Rewriting the Story 08:21 Sacred Moments on the Mountain 09:04 Still Becoming 09:50 What I Carried Home 10:25 Your Mountain Is Calling 11:01 What’s Coming Next 111:36 Thank You for ListeningRESOURCESSubscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Schedule a free Discovery Session with me.Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental EdgeCheck out my website.

12 min

JAN 14

6 | Climbing the Mountain Within: What 36 Hours on a Mountain Taught Me About Myself

In this episode of RenewHer, Genell takes you on her 29029 Everesting journey at Whistler—a 36-hour challenge to climb the equivalent of Mount Everest through eight full ascents. This isn’t just a story about a mountain. It’s about courage, determination, and discovering what you’re truly capable of. From early excitement to the “messy middle,” moments of doubt, and even panic in the dark, Genell shares the mental and emotional challenges that came with each step—and the tools, mindset, and support that helped her keep moving forward. Along the way, she reflects on presence, resilience, and self-belief, and the surprising lessons that stayed with her long after the climb. Whether you’re facing a personal challenge, a career pivot, or simply looking to stretch yourself in new ways, this episode offers insight and inspiration for pushing past fear, doubt, and your own limits. Join Genell and discover how taking on big challenges can reveal strength you didn’t know you had—and inspire confidence in yourself that lasts far beyond the summit. 🎙 Listen now and take the first step toward your own Everest.00:00 Highlight: Embrace Your Inner Strength 00:21 Welcome to the RenewHer podcast 00:49 The 29029 Challenge Explained 01.16 The Challenge Beyond the Physical 02:01 The Journey Begins: First Ascents 04:00 Facing the Messy Middle 04:49 The Fueling Issues 05:53 When the Quit Voice Shows Up 06:28 Night Hike and Mental Struggles 08:26 Step by Step, Breath by Breath 11:09 The Final Ascent: From Doubt to Determination 12:57 Reflecting on the Experience 14:54 Conclusion: What's Your Everest? 15:57 Closing Remarks and Next Episode TeaserRESOURCESSubscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Schedule a free Discovery Session with me.Get my free guide: Fog to Focus: 4 Proven Brain Habits to Reclaim Your Mental EdgeCheck out my website.

17 min

12/31/2025

5 | The Brain Behind Reflection

Reflection is often misunderstood.Many of us associate it with self-judgment, pressure to fix what went wrong, or the feeling that we need to “figure everything out” before moving forward. But true reflection isn’tabout diagnosing, problem-solving, or judging yourself. It’s about awareness and understanding.In this episode of RenewHer, we explore reflection through a gentle neuroscience lens — what reflection really is, what it isn’t, and what’s actually happening in your brain when you pause to look back… and when you look ahead.You’ll learn how reflection engages key areas of the brain involved in memory, insight, emotional processing, and self-awareness — including the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, limbic system, and default mode network. When practiced with curiosity instead of judgment, reflection becomes a powerful neurological tool for clarity, calm, and intentional decision-making.Most of this episode is an invitation. An invitation to look back and look forward.I guide you through simple past- and future-focused reflection prompts — not to analyze your life or force answers, but to notice what mattered, what feels complete, and what you may want to carry forward into the next chapter.No journaling required, unless you choose to.No pressure for answers.Just space to pause, notice, and listen.Whether you reflect regularly or tend to avoid it altogether, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate approach that works with your brain — not against it.And remember — success starts with your brain. Renew your brain. Renew your life. Past Reflection Questions: Looking Back As you reflect on the past year, remember: these questions are invitations to notice, not to judge.1. What are three things you’re grateful for this year?2. What achievements — big or small — are you proud of this year?3. What did this year teach you about yourself?4. What challenges taught you the most? And what did they teach you?5. Which relationships brought you energy and joy this year — and which relationships drained your energy or need attention?6. Looking back, what’s one thing you wanted to do but didn’t — and what might have gotten in the way? Future Reflection Questions: Looking Ahead Future reflection isn’t about predicting the future — it’s about helping your brain prepare for what’s next with intention.1. As you think about the year ahead, how do you want to feel more often?2. What do you want to carry forward into the next year?3. What do you want to protect more intentionally in the year ahead — your energy, time, health, or peace?4. What challenges might you face, and how can you prepare for them?5. What’s one bold step you can take early in the year?6. As you look ahead, what’s one thing you really want to do?00:00 Introduction to Reflection and RenewHer Podcast 00:45 Understanding Reflection: A Neuroscience Perspective 03:38 The Brain's Role in Reflection 05:10 Reflecting on the Past Year: Prompts and Insights 10:48 Future Reflection: Planning and Anticipating the Year Ahead 16:10 Conclusion 16:53 What's AheadSubscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Check out my website.

18 min

12/17/2025

4 | Why Your Brain Hates New Year's Resolutions

Every January, we hear the familiar “new year, new you” mantra. But what if your brain actually hates resolutions? In this episode, I explain why resolutions often fail, from all-or-nothing thinking to unrealistic expectations that clash with how your brain naturally functions. I’ll walk you through the difference between vague resolutions and specific, actionable goals that are realistic, aligned with your values, and achievable step by step. Plus, I’ll share six practical strategies to help your goals stick—from keeping it simple and setting bite-sized steps to celebrating progress, journaling, using affirmations, and handling setbacks with grace. All of these strategies are designed to work with your brain, supporting motivation, focus, and habit formation.If you’ve ever started the year motivated only to feel frustrated by February, this episode is for you. Learn how to create goals that your brain actually loves—and that will help you build lasting habits without stress or guilt.Key Takeaways:- Why resolutions often fail and what your brain really needs for change - The difference between resolutions and actionable, brain-friendly goals - Six practical strategies to make your goals stick - How focusing on one goal at a time supports your brain and builds lasting habits - How structuring goals around your brain’s natural reward and habit systems boosts success - Why progress—not perfection—is the key to success. 00:00 Highlight and Introduction00:42 The Problem with New Year’s Resolutions01:54 Resolutions vs. Goals: Understanding the Difference02:59 Why Resolutions Clash with How Your Brain Works04:56 Six Brain-Friendly Tips to Achieving Your Goals07:27 Conclusion: Embrace Realistic, Aligned Goals08.52 Final ThoughtsSubscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters.Schedule a free Discovery Session with me.Check out my website.

9 min

12/03/2025

3 | Success Starts with Your Brain

Success Starts with Your Brain: Foundational Insights for Women Over 50 In the second episode of Renew Her, brain fitness coach Genell Lemley highlights the profound importance of brain health in every aspect of life. She emphasizes the often-ignored role the brain plays in our overall well-being, success, and happiness. This episode delves into common cognitive issues such as forgetfulness, lack of focus, and mood swings, explaining how they can affect various aspects of life, from work to relationships. Genell reassures listeners that these challenges are common but addressable, stressing that the brain is adaptable and can improve at any age. She shares personal anecdotes and actionable tips on how small daily choices can strengthen the brain, ultimately enhancing clarity, confidence, and energy. The episode invites listeners to become more aware of their cognitive states and encourages taking manageable steps towards better brain health, reinforcing the mantra: 'renew your brain, renew your life.'00:00 Introduction: The Overlooked Power of the Brain 00:28 Welcome to RenewHer: Meet Your Host 00:57 The Foundational Role of the Brain in Your Life 02:57 The Impact of Brain Health on Work and Daily Life 03:59 Emotional and Physical Consequences of Brain Fatigue 06:00 The Changeable Nature of the Brain 06:49 Practical Choices to Renew Your Brain 07:37 Invitation to Self-Awareness and Future Episodes 08:26 Conclusion: Embrace What's Possible

9 min

11/19/2025

2 | It's Time to Renew, Not Retreat

In the first episode of RenewHer, host Genell, an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Dr. Amen Brain Health Coach, welcomes listeners to a podcast designed for women over 50 ready to reclaim their focus, energy, confidence, and purpose. Genell shares a powerful message about the endless opportunities for growth and accomplishment at any age, countering societal whispers that suggest slowing down with age. She discusses her personal story of loss, reinvention, and the discovery of brain health's critical role in overall well-being. Genell emphasizes how proactive steps can improve cognitive function and quality of life, offering a preview of upcoming topics, including brain optimization, resilience, and self-empowerment. Join her in exploring practical ways to thrive in this exciting new chapter of life.00:29 – Welcome to RenewHer: Reclaiming Your Next Chapter01:50 – The Power of Growth at Any Age03:48 – Introducing Genell: My Story and Passions06:41 – Beliefs and Values: What I Stand For07:46 – My Journey: From Corporate to Brain Health Coach11:09 – The RenewHer Framework: Optimizing Your Brain and Life12:19 – Conclusion: Embrace Your Season of Renewal12:46 – Outro: Thank You and Subscribe

13 min

11/11/2025

1 | Welcome to RenewHer

What if your 50s were just the beginning of something bold, vibrant, and limitless? RenewHer is the podcast for women over 50 ready to reignite their energy, reclaim their purpose, and embrace new challenges. I’m Genell Lemley, a brain health coach, and in this trailer, you’ll get a glimpse of what’s coming in future episodes: inspiring stories of women stepping outside their comfort zones, plus practical brain health tips to boost focus, energy, resilience, and manage self-doubt. Subscribe and join the journey!

2 min

RenewHer

Episodes

09 | Stronger With Age: Why Your 50s Are a Launchpad

8 | Your Unlived Life Is Waiting for You

7 | Still Becoming: What the Mountain Revealed After the Climb

6 | Climbing the Mountain Within: What 36 Hours on a Mountain Taught Me About Myself

5 | The Brain Behind Reflection

4 | Why Your Brain Hates New Year's Resolutions

3 | Success Starts with Your Brain

2 | It's Time to Renew, Not Retreat

1 | Welcome to RenewHer

Trailer

1 | Welcome to RenewHer

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