In this mini episode of 50 Women Over 50, a podcast for women who are at a crossroads in life and are seeing inspiration to take their next step, we delve into a question that many women face: should I let my hair go gray? Join host Sherrilynne Starkie in exploring this topic with insightful interviews with three remarkable women who have embraced their silver strands.

Featured Interviews:

Ann Douglas: author of 25 non-fiction books including her latest, “Navigating the Messy Middle: A Fiercely Honest and Wildly Encouraging Guide for Midlife Women.” Listen to the full interview in Episode 22: Over 50 and Navigating the Messy Middle.

Sharon Jones: A leadership trainer and author of “Tread Gently: For the Emotionally Clumsy.” Listen to the full interview in Episode 21: Over 50 and Taking Life’s Reins.

Michelle VanderBosch: Owner of Rebel Petal, a florist in Manotick, South Ottawa. Listen to the full interview in Episode 6: Over 50 and Still a Rebel.

These conversations highlight the diversity of experiences and perspectives among women navigating midlife transitions. Whether you're considering embracing your natural hair colour or simply curious about the journey, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Sherrilynne Starkie started this show as a creative project with the goal of interviewing 50 women past their 50th birthday to learn how they see the world, what lessons they’ve learned and what advice they have for us all. She’s been blogging and podcasting for 20 years as part of a successful marketing and communications career. 

Subscribe to 50 Women Over 50 wherever you get your podcasts and please share it with your friends. 

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Episode 3 of Season 2 of 50 Women Over 50 tackles a question that many women approaching their 50th birthday are asking.  How should I celebrate? The show features interviews with 22 women who describe how they chose to mark 50 years. 

From the laughter-filled gatherings to the quiet moments of reflection, from adventurous escapades to unexpected twists, these women showed us that turning 50 isn't just a milestone; it's an opportunity to embrace life in all its beauty and complexity.

Topics Discussed: 

• Having a 50th Birthday party
• Spending your 50th birthday alone
• Keeping your 50th birthday a secret
• Quiet reflection on your 50th birthday
• Taking the trip of lifetime to celebrate 50 years
• Celebrating your 50th birthday in lockdown
• Making memories with your 50th birthday

Featured Guests: 

• Patti Handy, Certified Financial Coach , Focusing on Faith Over Fear
• Stephanie Cotsirilos, Author, Embracing a Multi Ethnic Legacy
• Hillary Seacrest, Musician and Podcaster, Much Style & Wise Counsel
• Alison Wearing, Performer and Writing Coach, Embracing New Fire of Life
• Martina Clark, Activist and Author, Living Well with HIV
• Basia Vanderveen, Realtor, Age is a Mental State
• Michelle Vanderbosch, Florist, Still a Rebel
• Anna Epp, Portrait Photographer, No Time for Ridiculousness
• Rita Rich, Radio News Broadcaster, Navigating Life as a Widow
• Tina Davidson, Composer and Author, Harmonizing with Hidden Truths
• Lyn Bowman, Cookbook Author, Eating Brownies for Breakfast
• Susan Murphy, Broadcaster and Coach, Overcoming Husband’s Suicide
• Nicola O’Connell, Freelance Journalist, Balancing the Sandwich Generation
• Marie Fitzpatrick, Communications Professional, Making Life Great
• Julie Ellis, Entrepreneur, Big Gorgeous Goals
• Sharon Jones, Corporate Trainer & Author, From Divorce to Inner Peace
• Christine Borax, Biker and Painter, Finally on a Good Road
• Kathy Buckworth, Media Personality, Breaking Grandma Stereotypes
• Julie Cole, Entrepreneur, Mom of Six & Me Time
• Agnes Knowles, Podcaster Boomer in a Corvair
• Kerri Diffin, Sales professional, Living in Sobriety

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Episode 2 of Season 2 of 50 Women Over 50 tackles a question that many women are asking: Is it too late to change job or career after 50 years of age? The show features interviews with 11 women who have dared to make a big change. 

Often hitting the big 5-0 becomes a catalyst for a career shift that brings newfound purpose and fulfillment. And the women in this episode are not just talking careers; they are talking about transformations, discoveries, and the pursuit of total happiness. These stories are nothing short of inspiring, showcasing the diversity of paths these amazing women have taken when they found themselves at a turning point.

From groundbreaking career shifts to personal reinventions, these midlife women are living proof that it's never too late to chase your dreams. 

Topics Discussed: 

• It’s now or never
• Leaving a successful career to find more meaningful work
• “Having it all!”
• Fulfilling lifelong dreams
• A change is as good as a rest
• Ageism at work

Featured Guests: 

• Basia Vanderveen, Realtor
• Sharon Jones, Leadership Trainer
• Ann Carden, Business Consultant
• Dr. Norma Dunning, Author
• Brigitta Hoeferle, CEO
• Janelle Anderson, Confidence Coach
• Stephanie Cotsirilos, Author
• Dyna Vink, Certified Health & Nutrition Coach
• Susan Murphy, TV News & Voice Coach
• Ann Bell, Sex Expert
• Greta MacClain, Executive Director

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

In the next episode of the 50 Women Over 50 podcast, Host Sherrilynne Starkie is diving deep into the burning questions that resonate with women over 50 and tackles a question that she herself struggled with and many other women are asking: Is it too late to change job or career at this point in our lives?  

Episode 2 drops February 13th. Don't miss it. 

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

In this, the first episode of Season 2 of 50 Women Over 50, you’ll find powerful stories of incredible women who have faced the challenging decision of whether or not to continue in a marriage or a long-term relationship. They share their intimate journeys of heartache, resilience, and transformation. From rediscovering authenticity to navigating financial independence. These amazing women offered insights that go beyond the surface, exploring the multifaceted aspects of relationships and personal growth. It's a raw and honest exploration of the complexities involved in making such a life altering decision at a pivotal age. In this episode, you'll hear tales of courage, strategic planning, and the pursuit of happiness. 

Topics Discussed: 

• The reasons they decided to leave.
• What they feared most. 
• How splitting up changed them. 
• How to leave a long-term relationship. 

Featured Guests: 

• Kirsten Beske, Clinical Psychotherapist & Transition Coach
• Tina Davidson, Composer & Author
• Nancy Erickson, Publisher
• Susan Gold, Author
• Heather Marasse, Leadership Coach
• Barbara Ann Mojica, Educator & Children’s Book Author
• Candace Sampson, Radio & TV Personality
• Alison Wearing, Playwright & Author

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Host Sherrilynne Starkie gives a sneak peek peek into what's coming up on "50 Women Over 50" in the next few months. 

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Host Sherrilynne Starkie welcomes Sandra Markus, a marketing and communications consultant and the driving force behind the I Care for Rare advocacy campaign to the 50 Women Over 50 podcast.
 

As the mother of a young man with a rare neurological disease, Sandra is on a mission to improve the lives of patients, families and caregivers living with rare disorders. In this interview she shares how her life changed when her son graduated high school and his established health care and social support systems stopped almost overnight.
 

Sandra explains, “Zach is my son who was born with a rare disorder, and it gave me great relief that while I was working, he was in school. He graduated during the pandemic, and that was the turning point for our whole family.”

Sandra Markus
Sandra Markus is a brand, marketing and communications expert with over three decades of industry experience. She has worked with local, national and international brands of all types, ranging from public-sector and not-for-profits to private-sector consumer and technology. She’s an IABC certified strategic business communicator and is a Past President of IABC Ottawa. Her elder son, Zach, was diagnosed at 18 years old with CHD2 myoclonic encephalopathy in 2018. Sandra is sharing her story with the hope that together, the patients, families and caregivers of those living with rare diseases and disorders can come together and show support for much-needed healthcare and community care reform.
• Sandra Markus
• I Care for Rare
• The I Care for Rare Podcast
• CHEO
• Roger Neilson House
• Kiwanis Club of Ottawa
• The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch
• The Curse of Oak Island
• Next! The Power of Reinvention in Life and Work by Joanne Lipman

About the 50 Women Over 50 Podcast:
Sherrilynne Starkie started this show as a creative project with the goal of interviewing 50 women past their 50th birthday to learn how they see the world, what lessons they’ve learned and what advice they have for us all. She’s been blogging and podcasting for 18+ years as part of a successful marketing and communications career and has loved learning from all the women she interviewed. Subscribe to 50 Women Over 50 wherever you get your podcasts and please share it with your friends.

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Host Sherrilynne Starkie welcomes children’s book Author Carrie E. Pierce to the 50 Women Over 50 podcast.
Having experienced heartbreak and tragedy firsthand and seeing many of her dreams come true, Carrie speaks honestly about life with a rich insight into the human heart. In this interview she shares her own journey through grief to a new life in new community with new friendships and a new, positive perspective of life over 50.
Carrie says, “I have faced my most crushing loss and I'm still standing. I am, for the first time, getting an opportunity to find out who and what I really am.”
Carrie E. Pierce
Carrie E. Pierce has over 20 years of experience in publishing, radio & TV. She is a published author and ghostwriter. Her children's book Abby Apple Tree was named a finalist for an Eric Hoffer Award. She is a partner in Morgan Pierce Media & Publishing. And her subscription service Letters from Elizabeth, delivers thoughtfully penned letters twice a month to women who suddenly find themselves alone after a major life change later in life.
• Carrie E. Pierce
• Abby Apple Tree by Carrie E. Pierce
• The Tail of Tommy Tomlinson’s Tennis Shoes by Carrie E. Pierce
• Hope is the First Dose: A Treatment Plan for Recovering from Trauma, Tragedy and Other Massive Things by W. Lee Warrner M.D.
• Imperial Woman: The Story of the Last Empress of China by Pearl S. Buck
• The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
• Monarch of the Glen
• Union Gospel Mission
About the 50 Women Over 50 Podcast:
Sherrilynne Starkie started this show as a creative project with the goal of interviewing 50 women past their 50th birthday to learn how they see the world, what lessons they’ve learned and what advice they have for us all. She’s been blogging and podcasting for 18+ years as part of a successful marketing and communications career and loves learning from all the women she interviews. Subscribe to 50 Women Over 50 wherever you get your podcasts and please share it with your friends. Get each weekly episode dropped into your inbox by subscribing here.

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Host Sherrilynne Starkie welcomes actor, lawyer and writer Stephanie Cotsirilos to the 50 Women Over 50 podcast.
Stephanie’s extended family’s roots in Greece, Peru, and Asia have shaped her journey as an author, lawyer, and performing artist.

In this interview Stephanie discusses her experience of being widowed shortly after she and her husband had adopted a baby boy from Peru. She shares her incredible journey and the many pivots she’s made in navigating life’s many twists and turns.
Stephanie says, “What a privilege it is to have the time and the good health to enjoy nature’s beauty. I’m gifted with great good fortune.”

Stephanie Cotsirilos
Stephanie Cotsirilos is the author of the novella My Xanthi, essayist in Beacon Press' award-winning anthology Breaking Bread: Essays from New England on Food, Hunger, and Family, Story of the Week author and finalist in Narrative Magazine's Fall 2022 Story Contest, and published finalist in Mississippi Review’s 2019 Prize in Fiction. Twice nominated for the Pushcart Prize, her work has appeared in print and online venues including McSweeney’s, The New Guard, and various media. A 2023 Sewanee Writers Conference member, she was previously Katahdin (Patrice Krant) Fellow in residence at Storyknife’s inaugural retreat for women writers in Alaska.
• Stephanie Cotsirilos
• My Xanthi by Stephanie Cotsirilos
• ILAP
• Portland Ballet
• My Kitchen Rules

About the 50 Women Over 50 Podcast:
Sherrilynne Starkie started this show as a creative project with the goal of interviewing 50 women past their 50th birthday to learn how they see the world, what lessons they’ve learned and what advice they have for us all. She’s been blogging and podcasting for 18+ years as part of a successful marketing and communications career and loves learning from all the women she interviews. Subscribe to 50 Women Over 50 wherever you get your podcasts and please share it with your friends. Get each weekly episode dropped into your inbox by subscribing here. If you’d like to be one of the 50 Women over 50 featured on this podcast apply by clicking here.

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.  

Host Sherrilynne Starkie welcomes Marilyn Shannon, a successful a successful speaker, coach, author and facilitator to the 50 Women Over 50 podcast.

Marilyn describes herself as a stigma squisher and listening freak. She’s the number one best selling author of the book series “In Just One Afternoon Listening to the Hearts of’.

In this interview Marilyn discusses breaking down stigmas, the importance of relationships, the challenges of aging, the impact of social media, and the joys of being a grandmother.

Marilyn says, “We have to all learn from each other. We're all on the same page, whether we realize it or not, whether we're blue, black, yellow, green, short, tall, whatever. We're all the same and we need to be on the same page.”

Marilyn Shannon
Marilyn Shannon is an experienced speaker, author, coach, and facilitator. Her messages are always impactful and holistic in nature, fun and informative. She is the number one selling author for her book series, "In Just One Afternoon - Listening into the hearts of...". Thus far, she has released books about Men, Twins, Millennials, People Impacted by Opioid Addiction and Black Fathers. Future book topics include divorcees, families who have lost children, the greatest generation, and many more. Marilyn believes that the best coaches are those that have lived their own lives, have triumphed, and faced the challenges and opportunities that life has in store. Marilyn also believes that being a great speaker and author takes those same challenges and opportunities. Her experiences have helped her develop a sense of what life means and what is available to us when we are authentic and listen deeply.
• Marilyn Shannon
• In Just One Afternoon
• Free Conflict Training Video
• The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World by Jonathan Freedland
• Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family by Robert Kolker
• MSNBC
• PRISM
• Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

About the 50 Women Over 50 Podcast:
Sherrilynne Starkie started this show as a creative project with the goal of interviewing 50 women past their 50th birthday to learn how they see the world, what lessons they’ve learned and what advice they have for us all. She’s been blogging and podcasting for 18+ years as part of a successful marketing and communications career and loves learning from all the women she interviews. Subscribe to 50 Women Over 50 wherever you get your podcasts and please share it with your friends. Get each weekly episode dropped into your inbox by subscribing here. If you’d like to be one of the 50 Women over 50 featured on this podcast apply by clicking here.

Elevating the voices and stories of women navigating the enriching complexities of midlife, '50 Women Over 50' is an empowering podcast that draws inspiration from the experiences of 50 incredible women.