Embracing Change: Midlife Reinvention Stories from Season 3

Welcome to the Age of Reinvention! Join host Emily Bron as she shares inspiring stories from 20 fantastic guests who have redefined their lives after midlife. In season three, discover extraordinary transformations of individuals over 50 who have relocated abroad, embraced creativity, and pursued new passions. Hear from artists, entrepreneurs, community builders, and wellness experts who prove it’s never too late to follow your dreams. This episode features captivating stories of immigration, career shifts, and continuous self-discovery. Tune in for real-life inspiration and examples on how reinvention is possible at any stage of life.

TIMESTAMPS:

02:02 Immigrant Stories of Reinvention
05:16 Midlife Professionals Transforming Their Lives
08:56 Unique Journeys of Reinvention
12:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to the Age of Reinvention. I’m your host, Emily Bron, who has been undergoing professional and personal reinvention for the last seven years. I cannot wait to share the 20 fantastic guests personal stories and give you an overview of our conversations in the season three episodes. Our podcast explores the incredible transformation people experience during and after midlife.

I’ve had the privilege of speaking. With individuals who have redefined themselves after 50, relocated abroad discovered new passions and embraced creativity and personal growth often in entirely new fields. This season, I’m sharing their stories to inspire you, offering real life ideas. And examples in demonstrating the reinvention is possible At any age and stage of life from artists and entrepreneurs to community builders and wellness experts, their midlife experiences prove that it’s never too late.

To follow your dream, overcome challenges, stay active, and create your desired life. Whether you are looking to make a significant change or are simply curious about how others are reinventing themselves, you are coming to the right place. Let’s do the overview of each of reinvention. Season three. We started with the four immigrant stories.

First, we meet tro. A master of theatrical costume design from the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, Russia, who immigrated to Canada many years ago. Alla, when retired, founded puppets for you, a puppet theater beloved in Toronto, Russian speaking community. She shares her journey of learning puppetry, acting, and clowning.

Her passion for traveling and her future projects involving seniors, working or participating in puppet theater. Next, we hear and learn a lot from Juliana Kolesova, a multimedia distinguished artist whose creative evolution was shaped. By moving from Russia to Canada and then to Montenegro. Juliana discusses how cultural transitions have enriched how art and how efforts to balance technological advancements of our times with handcrafted techniques, thereby presenting and developing her creativity.

And personal professional integrity. Dr. Alexander Schick’s story takes us from solid state physics at the Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute in Russia to the celebrated poetic translations of the best poets of English speaking literature, his immigration to Canada. And the onset of his active retirement stage opened new creative avenues highlighting the power of embracing art in literature as lifelong passions.

Alexander has already published several books of poetic translations, which have deserved. Multiple accolades. Il Mendelsohn recounts his immigration journey from pursuing medical studies in Russia to establishing a business in the us. His story is one of the adaptation, multiple self-discovery and continuous reinvention with a

future for slow travel abroad and community engagement as part of his future retirement plans. Following all five stories of midlife professionals who re reinvented themselves after 50, Stephanie, we from the US shares how transition from a structured career in chemistry. To entrepreneurship. She emphasize finding joy, overcoming burnout, and preparing for cultural adaptation through future expat experiences she planning to have in Panama, maybe Italy and beyond.

A Canadian founder of inspired tenacity describes her evolution from career and clinical genetics to becoming an author, speaker, and advocate for women’s empowerment. She highlights the courage to embrace change and the impact of storytelling on personal growth. Marina Belilovskiy journey of reinvention began with her immigration from Moscow to New York.

She transitioned from a speech pathologist to an IT programmer and later back to licensed speech pathologist in English in the us. During the pandemic, she created a YouTube channel Basket of Possibilities, which inspires the Russian speaking immigrant community through art and positivity. Recently, she relocated to Florida where she continued reinventing herself, providing online training and discovering passions.

And new social circles. Susan Younger from the US shared how diverse career path from architecture and massage therapy to leadership in personal development. Her journey highlights the value of simplicity, relationship building. And embracing technology to enhance communication.

Dr. Karen Falkenberg from Colorado US discussed her transformation from research, chemical engineer, professor in college to a fitness and nutrition expert through her action framework. Program after serious car accident, Karen rebuilt her life by combining science and psychology to redefine health and fulfillment in midlife.

Currently, Karen is a health and fitness expert for accomplished professionals. Helping them maximize their health and ness. We also shared several non very standard stories, starting from Denise and James Gordon Empty Nesters. In their fifties, recount their decision to sell all their possessions in California and travel to different regions of the United States in search for a new home for the midlife stage of life.

Their podcast, Skip Town All Stars Chronicles the adventures search. And obstacles along the way, emphasizing the importance of community and connection and redefining what home truly means for them. After two years of traveling and looking and discovering in different US states and also self reflection.

Emma Murphy from Ireland. Founder of the International Eating Freely Program, addresses emotional and binge eating for people over shifting. She shares her invention from therapist to entrepreneur, building a global network of specialists. And encouraging listeners to rewrite their stories via improved mental health.

Cathy Barrow’s story combines music and entrepreneurship highlighting how innovative music offers marketing strategies and dedication to creative growth. Cathy’s immigration journey from the Boston US to Mexico. Her creative work with the local filler morning orchestra, as well as her subsequent marketing projects worldwide reflect her passion for promoting classical music and her continue professional and personal retention.

Jennie Eriksen currently co-founder of Event Raptor in Norway, shares her career transition from voice order professional to tech entrepreneur. Her work direction shifted from acting in the UK theater. To working with advertising publishers and virtual event organizers while living in different countries.

She street the power of resilience and community building, providing that it’s never too late to embrace new opportunities despite health challenges.

Dr. Valeriy Starodubtsev from the US joins the conversation with his innovative approaches to improving longevity and health span. He discusses aging as a systemic disease and introduces his company’s program, which is based on hypoxic technology, and specialized device he developed in Russia. His insights encompasses practical application of his technology, ethical challenges in stem cell research, and the importance of community in adaptation for individuals seeking reinvention in midlife.

In the Age of Reinvention, Eco Living, and Intentional Community Special episode series, I spoke with visionaries and community leaders who are actively designing new ways of living rooted in sustainable construction practices, freedom and community collaboration. From Eco villages and regenerative communities to decentralized self-sufficient lifestyles, these pioneers are redefining what it means to live with purpose and in harmony with the nature and planet.

Charlotte Tweed, a former Canadian now based in Mexico. As a Liberty Travel coach shares insight from the Liberty in our lifetime conference In drag, the conference focused on the free private city foundation and Eco living intentional communities worldwide. Charlotte discusses projects such as Montelibera in Montenegro and Liberstad.

As well as a concept of see studying, leading, offering, practical advice on enhancing personal freedom and finding like-minded communities. I also participated in this conference online. So in this episode we, shared our opinion. We explored the inspiration behind various projects. Discussed the practical aspects of building such communities and examined the profound mindset shifts required to thrive within such a communities.

Whether you are curious about alternative living or seeking actionable insights for your life journey. This stories will inspire you to think beyond the conventional and embrace new living options and opportunities. Nicole Reese, currently based in the US is a real leader in Eco living and intentional communities.

She was discussing her journey from discovering Eco Villages while living in Mexico at age 19 to founding the Terrenity Information Resource and becoming the Executive Director of Operations in Region Tribe. Please check this company’s names later, terrenity and Region Tribe. Sometimes written together, region, tribe.

The conversation covers mindset shifts for thriving when living in intentional communities Eco gentrification in different countries and fostering inclusivity when living in community settings. Nicole also shares her vision for Global Eco Village development, including a longevity village in Sardinia, Italy.

The project for seniors. She was working at the time. We had conversation.

The next Story, and Heroes Or Sofer and Zuzana Martakova from Freedom Company. Global citizens currently developing a new type of community in Portugal, they discuss their initiative to create self-sufficient decentralized villages. They explore libertarian self governments models and economic ideas, individual freedom.

Community connection and the challenges of building such communities. The conversation underscores the importance of living in harmony with yourself, with nature, utilizing sustainable construction materials, capitalizing on opportunities in this case. Working in business opportunities within Eco Villages and setting long-term goals for creating resilient communities.

Tatiana Butanka, currently in Montenegro shares her involvement in the Monte Libera community development in country of Montenegro. She discusses her IT sales and marketing background while she was working in different countries and her current efforts to combine crypto technology with community values. Her story and actually story of development of pioneering Monte Leber community highlights self-sufficiency, ecological resilience, and passion for libertarian ideas and the implementation by members of communities.

They also care about permaculture and developing new type of lifestyle and community living.

Ciara Heneghan, chairwoman of Home Full Ireland discusses her initiative to build self-sufficient villages. To eradicate homeless. Inspired by her son’s concern, homeless Kiara emphasized the importance of communities, holistic medical centers in this communities and power of storytelling to promote social in local community and worldwide.

Together. All these stories reveal the limitless possibilities of transformation and growth when people discover their new purpose and pursue it despite various obstacles, especially in midlife. Our two podcast topics, age of Reinvention Redefine Freedom, Lifestyle, and Purpose in Midlife, and Eco living an intentional community inform and inspire us, reminding us that it’s never too late to pursue our passions, learn new skills, overcome challenges, and live genuinely.

What can you expect from the age of reinvention? Season four. We will continue to share stories of guests who reinvent themselves after the age of 50. We will also give a voice to experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders of intentional communities from different countries. What can you expect from me, Emily, in the mid of 2025, while continuing to speak and seek new, inspiring guests, ideas and stories of reinvention worldwide.

I plan to travel to South America. My first time visiting Bueno Aires. In other regions in Argentina, as well as Uruguay to learn more about the unique lifestyles and cultures of these two countries and local expat communities. I will also participate in the Liberty International Conference and Network.

Details of which and impressions will be shared with you in our special episodes later this fall here. We reached the end of season three. Thank you for being part of this exploration into the inspiring lives of individuals who have chosen. To reinvent themselves and pursue their dreams wherever they may be.

From selling possessions to traveling, finding a new home, and building self-sufficient communities, we have seen that it’s never too late to make a change. Remember the key teams of reinvention, resilience, and passion. Can guide us toward our discoveries and transformation. Stay tuned to the next season where we will bring you even more captivating stories and insights.

Until then, keep dreaming, exploring, and embracing the life journey. Thank you for listening, and goodbye for now. Follow us for updates and behind the scene content on our social media channels, and feel free to connect and share your stories of reinvention with us.

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Welcome to an overview of the Age of Reinvention podcast series, Season 3

I’m Emily Bron, your host. For the past seven years, I have been undergoing my own professional and personal reinvention.

Our podcast explores the incredible transformations people experience during and after midlife. I’ve had the privilege of speaking with individuals who have redefined themselves after 50, relocated, discovered new passions, and embraced creativity and personal growth, often in entirely new fields.

I would like to share the 20 fantastic guests’ personal stories and give you an overview of our conversations in the Season 3 Episodes.

This season, I’m sharing their stories to inspire you, offering real-life ideas and examples, and demonstrating that reinvention is possible at any age and stage of life. From artists and entrepreneurs to community builders and wellness experts, their midlife experiences prove that it’s never too late to follow your dreams, overcome challenges, stay active, and create the life you want.

I explore their experiences, lessons learned, and practical advice for navigating the twists and turns of life’s second act. Whether you’re looking to make a significant change or are simply curious about how others are reinventing themselves, you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s get started with the 4 Immigrants stories.

First, we meet Alla Petrova, a master of theatrical costume design from the Bolshoi Theatre who immigrated to Canada. Alla founded Puppets4U, a puppet theatre beloved in Toronto’s Russian-speaking community. She shares her journey of learning puppetry, acting, and clowning, her passion for travelling, and her future projects involving seniors in puppet theatre.

Please, check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2FRgaFFHx3J1cHmHIwWxTc?si=ae48c8c0beab48ee

Next, we hear from Juliana Kolesova, an artist whose creative evolution was shaped by moving from Russia to Canada and then to Montenegro. Juliana discusses how cultural transitions have enriched her art and her efforts to balance technological advancements with handcrafted techniques to preserve her creative integrity.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/68rYr7b7ObZ0NQsEUHT4uC?si=2f55286cf6614f0e

Dr. Alexander Shik’s story takes us from solid-state physics at the Ioffe Physical Technical Institute to celebrated poetic translations. His immigration to Canada opened new creative avenues, highlighting the power of embracing art and literature as lifelong passions.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1zMsp9e3Cmt1nmRgpJcYmv?si=e81cc8cf80fc441d

Kirill Mendelson recounts his journey from medical studies in Russia to business in the United States. His story is one of adaptation, self-discovery, and continuous reinvention, with a vision for slow travel and community engagement.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5kYZfYGRyIW6HB4ylZkkJ0?si=7d42074e2d00481a

Stephanie Weiss shares her transition from a structured career in chemistry to entrepreneurship. She emphasizes finding joy, overcoming burnout, and preparing for cultural adaptation through experiences in Panama, Italy, and beyond.

Please check the full Episode below.

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6T3yurY9V6aVhOkM6TmicN?si=4e70790dd5fb4cad

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5A03rkO5aaJRMfWjYAU2k6?si=70dfda9901c04bc9

Cathy Derksen, founder of Inspired Tenacity, describes her evolution from clinical genetics to becoming an author, speaker, and advocate for women’s empowerment. She highlights the courage to embrace change and the impact of storytelling on personal growth.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1wY4mSE6VFap0mAAhiaAqk?si=9132fa129ca44f66

Marina Belilovskiy’s journey of reinvention began with her immigration from Moscow to New York. She transitioned from a speech pathologist to a programmer and back. During the pandemic, she created a YouTube channel, ‘Basket of Possibilities,’ inspiring the Russian-speaking community through art and positivity.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2tPYKdX5ym31xcvGnmNVxz?si=ef7588b02e084cbe

Susan Younger shares her diverse career paths, from architecture and massage therapy to leadership in personal development. Her journey highlights the value of simplicity, relationship-building, and embracing technology to enhance communication.

Please check the full Episode below.

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/22gFomdxUTV4xwNbV32W1T?si=3e7e270be23043da

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/34b1a7Epp8V0qyROjtS9GI?si=cdcc82fe46b54881

Dr. Karen Falkenberg discusses her transformation from a research chemical engineer to a fitness expert through her ‘Actions Framework.’ After a serious car accident, she rebuilt her life by combining science and psychology to redefine health and fulfillment in midlife.

Please check the full Episode below.

Part 1:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/5JWaX0HWIkVKupuNp3F3bj?si=7d874faf60304411

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6n20nOAqoVXyMJUWRRdhl2?si=4157452134da4ebe

Emma Murphy, founder of the Eating Freely program, addresses emotional and binge eating for people over 50. She shares her personal reinvention from therapist to entrepreneur, building a global network of specialists and encouraging listeners to rewrite their own stories.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7qInvscXPjFImJKs2QnLPg?si=5f6b5983e18e4165

Denise and James Gordon recount their decision to sell their possessions and travel the United States in search of a new home. Their podcast, ‘Skip Town All Stars,’ chronicles their adventures, emphasizing the importance of community connection and redefining what home truly means.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0mrW0T1ROfeSZKZSqVwDR8?si=eafea91465dc49a2

Cathy Barrow’s story combines music and entrepreneurship, highlighting her innovative marketing strategies and dedication to creative growth. Cathy’s journey from Mexico to marketing projects worldwide reflects her passion for continual reinvention.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7nLNwCO7g8ZqAdgU7i0mn2?si=e10103752cc247d0

Jennie Eriksen, co-founder of EventRaptor, shares her career shift from voiceover professional to tech entrepreneur. Her work in virtual events demonstrates the power of resilience and community building, proving it’s never too late to embrace new opportunities.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3MyiajakkjJQGhvdnrQw31?si=8a2bce39198749d6

Dr. Valery Starodubtsev joins the conversation with his innovative longevity and health span improvement approaches. He discusses aging as a systemic disease and introduces his company’s program based on hypoxic technology and a specialized device from Russia. His insights include practical applications of this technology, ethical challenges in stem cell research, and the importance of community and adaptation for midlifers seeking reinvention.

Please check the full Episode below:

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0nd3eIEBiKEWm700YBCwgn?si=fe594027623d4918

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0oOo3z0xfjsiiwfOBrN3uh?si=af139eed650d42a1

Age of Reinvention: Eco-Living and Intentional Communities
In this special series, I spoke with visionaries and community leaders actively designing new ways of living rooted in sustainability, freedom, and collaboration. From eco-villages and regenerative communities to decentralized, self-sufficient lifestyles, these pioneers are redefining what living with purpose and harmony with the planet means.

We’ll explore the inspiration behind their projects, the practical aspects of building such communities, and the profound mindset shifts necessary to thrive in them.

Whether you’re curious about alternative living or seeking actionable insights for your own journey, these stories will inspire you to think beyond the conventional and embrace new possibilities.

Charlotte Tweed from Liberty Travel Coach Company shares insights from the Liberty in Our Lifetime conference held in Prague. The conference focused on the Free Private City Foundation and eco-living intentional communities. Tweed discusses projects like Montelibero, Liberstad, and the sea-steading concept, offering practical advice on enhancing personal freedom and finding like-minded communities.

Please check the full Episode here:

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3lkGHu5IntpLDait2nejHj?si=c65cf41d5ecc440a

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ldsNyFuc81Z57qkcbwMae?si=f1051ce054bd4c0c

Nicole Reese, a leader in sustainable living and intentional communities, discusses her journey from discovering eco villages at 19 to founding Terrenity and becoming the Executive Director of Operations at Region Tribe. The conversation covers mindset shifts for thriving in intentional communities, eco-gentrification, and fostering inclusivity. Nicole also shares her vision for global eco village development, including a longevity village in Sardinia.

Please check the full Episode below.

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Ry0WPS0xAJu6OHWlYpADU?si=32db119d42d840b6

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6lnAUbabjPSlk5aVAEgi8b?si=02c14418f0c24bf4

Or Sofer and Zuzana Martakova from FreeTh’m company discuss their initiative to create self-sufficient, decentralized villages. They explore sustainability, individual freedom, community connection, and the challenges of building such communities. Their conversation highlights the importance of construction materials, employment opportunities, and long-term goals for creating resilient communities.

Please check the full Episode below.

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6UfRbzNIGQyC6mIrxXipqt?si=f6527bff6ad6453b

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5QCWTeRYn05ElxWQg9ilEs?si=8af172497a644518

Tatiana Butanka shares her involvement in the Montelibero community in Montenegro. She discusses her background in IT, sales, and marketing, and her efforts to combine technology with community values. Her story highlights self-sufficiency, ecological resilience, and her personal passion for permaculture and sustainability.

Please check the full Episode below.

Part 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/422DX4pYanEitYfvxnfOPO?si=10ddf40f15694cb4 

Part 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0k3we6psuPSc5bKkfYqgUe?si=58f107f2c29f470b

Ciara Heneghan, chairwoman of Homefulness Ireland, discusses her initiative to build self-sufficient villages to eradicate homelessness. Inspired by her son’s concern for the homeless, Ciara emphasizes the importance of inclusive communities, holistic medical centers, and the power of storytelling to promote social change.

Please check the full Episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6wKVpSWZx0Avhh6S5BgXnU?si=e2f302ad7c214f7b

Together, all these 2 Age of Reinvention stories reveal the limitless possibilities of transformation and growth when people discover their new purpose and pursue it despite various obstacles, especially in midlife. Our two podcast topics, Age of Reinvention, Redefine Freedom lifestyle and Purpose in Midlife, and Eco Living and an Intentional Community inform and inspire us, reminding us that it’s never too late to pursue our passions, learn new skills, overcome challenges, and live genuinely.

What can you expect from the Age of Reinvention, season four?
We will continue to share stories of guests who reinvent themselves after age 50.
We will also give a voice to experts, entrepreneurs, and leaders of intentional communities from different countries.

What can you expect from me, Emily, in mid-2025?
While continuing to speak and seek new, inspiring guests, ideas and stories of reinvention worldwide, I plan to travel to South America for the first time, visiting Buenos Aires and other regions in Argentina and Uruguay to learn more about the unique lifestyles and cultures of these two countries and local expat communities.

I will also participate in the Liberty International Conference and the Business Networking event, details of which and impressions will be shared with you in our special episodes later this fall.

Here we reached the end of season three.
Thank you for being part of this exploration into the inspiring lives of individuals who have chosen to reinvent themselves and pursue their dreams wherever they may be.

Remember, the key teams of reinvention, resilience, and passion can guide us toward our discoveries and transformation. Stay tuned for the next season.

We will bring you even more captivating stories and insights. Until then, keep dreaming, exploring, and embracing the life journey. Feel free to connect and share your stories of reinvention with us.