After a year and a half away, I’m back — and my life looks completely different.

In this episode, I share the major transitions that collided all at once:

• my dad’s passing and navigating the many “firsts” that followed

• leaving my marriage

• moving back to the Pacific Northwest

• and the wild timing of creating my “Fearless Transitions” talk right before walking through some of the biggest transitions of my own life

I also talk about one of the biggest realizations from this past year and a half — that I didn’t simply end a chapter…

I closed the book on the last 30 years of my life.

This comeback episode sets the stage for what’s ahead this season. I’ll be sharing more of the stories, lessons, surprising moments, and insights that came from this time — including conversations I recorded with my dad — but today’s episode is about opening the door and letting you into where I am now.

I reflect on:

• the grief and the unexpected magic woven into this past year

• how surrender reshaped me

• why I’m calling this next era Midlife Magic

• and what’s shifting in how and when I’ll release episodes

If you’re also moving through your own transitions, big or small, I hope this episode meets you right where you are.

Subscribe to get new episodes as they land — I’m not following a strict schedule.

And yes, I’m still coaching and will have limited openings in the new year.

Here’s to Midlife Magic.

And to whatever fire is shaping your next chapter.

Charis chats with Tim Brand, founder and CEO of Many Hands, a nonprofit impacting lives across three countries. Tim shares his journey from the nonprofit world to dedicating his life to philanthropy, driven by a big vision. The essential elements of living congruently, making impactful choices, and the emotional journey of writing his book, 'Standing on the Shoulders.' This inspiring conversation covers the broad scope of Many Hands’ work, the importance of generosity, and the legacy Tim's father left behind. You will gain insights on living a purpose-driven life and contributing meaningfully to the world.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:04) Tim Brand's Background and Many Hands

(01:56) Transition from For-Profit to Non-Profit

(05:26) The Vision and Challenges of Many Hands

(06:42) Personal Stories and Inspirations

(10:46) The Importance of Values and Alignment

(30:10) Achievements and Impact of Many Hands

(32:57) Agricultural and Educational Initiatives

(33:18) Empowering the Marginalized

(33:49) Public School Programs in the Bahamas

(34:34) Inviting People on the Impact Journey

(36:00) Reflecting on a Father's Legacy

(36:22) The Inspiration Behind the Book

(48:04) Lessons on Generosity and Legacy

(56:54) Final Reflections and Call to Action

Resources: 

• Tim's Book (available on paperback, Audible, Kindle, and hardcover): https://amzn.to/3xDWhSD
• Tim's Websites:

www.mh4h.org

www.mh4a.org

www.manyhandsthrift.org

www.manyhandsimpact.com

• Tim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-brand-73bb867/
• Get my free Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

Charis chats with Bill Protzmann, founder of Musimorphic, to explore music's profound impact on mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Bill shares his personal journey from a challenging past of suicidal thoughts to becoming a beacon of hope through music therapy. They discuss how music can be a powerful tool for self-care, recovery, and personal development. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in how music can transform lives and provide inner peace.

(00:00) Introduction: Charis Santillie's Journey

(00:58) Meet Bill Protzmann: The Power of Music for Self-Care

(02:07) The Art of Coaching with Music

(13:14) The Role of Silence in Music Therapy

(18:02) Bill Protzmann's Musical Journey

(22:43) The Impact of AI on Human Connection

(33:39) The Power of Music in Human Connection

(34:09) Sharing Musical Experiences

(35:33) The Therapeutic Value of Music

(38:43) Seeking Support and Therapy

(40:47) Music as a Tool for Personal Growth

(43:59) The Quest for Positive Change

(52:32) Overcoming Personal Struggles with Music

(59:02) Final Thoughts and Inspirations

Resources: 

• Bill Protzmann’s Musimorphic Quest Program: https://quest.musimorphic.com or go to https://musimorphic.com/musimorphic-quest-remembering-how-to-be-human/ (I love this page!)
• Bill’s Musimorphic Website: https://www.musimorphic.com
• Bill’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billprotzmann/ (Bill offers free 50-minute alignment sessions to anyone who's a first-level connection to him on LinkedIn. Send him a DM there if you’re interested.)
• Bill’s Facebook and Instagram: @Musimorphic
• Bill’s LinkTree (includes all social and recorded music links): https://linktr.ee/Musimorphic 
• Bill’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5fg36DMzTRrcEpI3NgpQhQ
• Bill’s YourTango: https://www.yourtango.com/experts/bill-protzmann
• Bill’s eBook “Staying Sober For Thirty Days”: https://musimorphic.com/musimorphic-sobriety/
• Bill’s eBook “How To Implement Desire”: https://musimorphic.com/musimorphic-level-up/
• Get my free Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

I'm excited to share our latest episode of Charis Chats, where I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Katie Ann Powell, a professional harpist who has played for over 20 years in 7 different countries. She’s also a financial counselor…money and music…quite a combo, right?!

She is truly one of a kind. From hearing about her magical beginnings with the harp at a VERY young age to her transformative experience with financial literacy, I know you’ll find Katie Ann’s energy absolutely infectious.

I invite you to listen to this heartwarming and motivational episode. Whether you're a music enthusiast, someone seeking financial empowerment, or simply in need of some inspiration, this episode has something for everyone.

(0:00) Introduction

(0:49) Introduction of guest Katie Ann Powell

(2:07) Katie Ann's podcast and career

(3:13) Katie Ann's journey with the harp

(10:00) Transition to financial counseling

(14:05) The breakthrough moment with budgeting

(20:13) The psychology of money and behavior

(22:47) The impact of money personalities on relationships

(29:24) Budgeting and life priorities

(39:56) Tips for managing finances and relationships

(57:08) Closing words from Charis Santillie

Resources: 

• Katie Ann’s Full Confidence Ahead Podcast: https://katieannpowell.podbean.com/
• Katie Ann on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harpist_katie_ann/
• Get my FREE Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

I recently stumbled upon this mind-blowing phone hack in a podcast, and it's been an absolute game-changer for me. You know how our phones have this sneaky way of sucking us in, making us spend way more time on them than we'd like? Well, this hack is like the ultimate secret weapon against that.

Picture this: You're scrolling through your phone, checking emails, browsing social media, doing all the usual stuff, right? But then, you make one simple tweak— and suddenly the allure of the screen loses its grip on you.

It's like magic! Since I started using this hack, I've found myself way more present in the moment, less glued to my phone, and just overall more in control of my time.

Resources: 

• Get my FREE Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

Meet Ral West, a seasoned entrepreneur whose story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination spans four decades.

Starting in Alaska's vibrant tourism industry, Ral and her husband built and sold a thriving business to Alaska Airlines. Along the way, they overcame market shifts and financial hurdles, emerging stronger and more determined than ever.

Join me as Ral shares her exciting journey. Her story is sure to inspire you to navigate challenges and find success on your own terms. 

(0:00) Introduction

(0:49) Guest introduction: Ral West, the entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience

(6:18) Ral's childhood experiences and entrepreneurial journey

(10:22) Overcoming business challenges and taking risks in business

(16:19) The journey of growing the business and making tough decisions

(20:04) Embedding the company culture into the team and systems

(24:58) The process and aftermath of selling the business

(30:30) Operating multiple cruise ships and dealing with challenges during COVID-19

(33:39) The importance of staying active and vibrant post-retirement

(40:16) Coaching and consulting in the current business landscape

(48:00) Embracing change regardless of age and the power of a positive mindset

(49:54) Closing words from Charis Santillie

Resources: 

• Ral West Livin' the Dream website: https://www.ralwest.com/
• Get Ral's Free pdf "Six Essential Secrets to Business Success" here: https://www.ralwest.com/secrets
• Follow Ral on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RalWestLTD/
• Follow Ral on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ralwestltd/
• Follow Ral on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ral-west-livin-the-dream/
• Ral's upcoming course: "Overcome Overwhelm: Create a Smooth Running Business with Less Stress"
• Get my FREE Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

A client recently shared that I am “skilled at interrogating reality.”

Here’s the thing: Our understanding of reality isn't singular or absolute—it's shaped by our unique perspectives and experiences. 

The truth usually lies in the gray areas, and often even exists in a paradox.

Every interaction, challenge, or mundane moment is an opportunity to test your own lens and filtering system. Curiosity and openness to alternative perspectives gives you access to more peace of mind and a vibrant life.

Join me in interrogating reality.

What you’ll learn:

• How individual perceptions influence each of our interpretations of the world around us
• Why I challenge black-and-white thinking
• How expanding your mental horizons and welcoming diverse viewpoints will enrich your experience

Resources: 

• Get my FREE Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

Just like navigating while driving a car, sometimes we make a wrong turn and feel like we missed an opportunity. But what if we approached these moments with the same non-judgmental mindset as our navigation apps? 

There are no wrong turns in life, only reroutes. Every decision and outcome, planned or not, is part of your own adventure. Think about a time when something didn't go as planned—maybe a business opportunity fell through or a relationship ended. Looking back, you'll realize that new paths eventually appeared, leading to growth and fulfillment.

Let's challenge ourselves to welcome these reroutes without judgment. Instead of scolding ourselves for missed turns, let's focus on forward motion. Every reroute is full of possibilities if we embrace the unexpected.

What you’ll learn:

• Discover how to bounce back from setbacks and challenges with grace and determination
• Learn to see every detour as a chance to explore new paths and possibilities
• Appreciate the beauty of life's unpredictability and find fulfillment in the stops along the way

Resources: 

• Get my FREE Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

I know many of you are facing the challenges of getting the best support for your aging loved ones. 

Ensuring that our family members are well cared for often requires more than just love and patience—it really requires preparedness and understanding, especially in areas like long-term care planning and managing finances.

Join me as Nancy sheds light on critical aspects such as navigating care facility negotiations and the importance of clear leadership in decision-making. Nancy May brings a wealth of knowledge and support to family members managing the complexities of eldercare.

(0:00) Introduction

(2:49) Personal Experiences and Challenges in Caregiving

(6:11) Understanding the Realities and Costs of Care Facilities

(15:38) The Importance of Leadership and Organization in Managing Care

(19:43) Managing a Team of Caregivers: Difficulties and Effective Strategies

(24:39) Emotional Differences and Challenges in the Business of Caregiving

(28:06) The Role of Financial Advisors and Doctors in Elder Care

(34:17) Nancy's One-on-one Consulting and Book Overview

(36:55) Nancy's Podcast "Eldercare Success" and the Role of Technology in Elder Care

(41:03) Creating Positive Experiences for Elderly Parents and Support Options

(46:38) Dealing with the Emotional Charge and Anxiety of Elderly Care

(47:33) Closing Remarks

What You'll Learn:

• The importance of preparedness
• Quality of care facilities
• Navigating family dynamics and decision-making
• Practical aspects of caregiving
• Emotional challenges and support networks

Resources: 

• Nancy May's Podcast: Eldercare Success https://eldercaresuccess.live/
• Nancy's Book: How to Survive 911 Medical Emergencies: Step-by-Step Before, During, After! https://amzn.to/4awZ1zy (Amazon affiliate link)
• Nancy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caremanity10/
• Nancy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EldercareSuccess
• Nancy on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CareManity
• Nancy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareManity
• Get my FREE Life Transition Toolkit: https://www.charisyourlife.com/toolkit
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/

Imagine a compass in your hand. This is the compass of your life. 

Now, ask yourself, where is the magnet that orients this compass? Is it deep within you, or is it somewhere outside of you?

Are you seeking direction and validation from external sources? Do you find yourself chasing moving targets, whether it's approval from others, career success, or social media recognition?

Join me as we uncover the secrets to finding your true north and living a more purposeful and authentic life.

What you'll learn:

• The pitfalls of relying solely on external validation for direction
• How to cultivate a stronger connection with your values and passions
• Techniques to listen to your inner voice amidst the noise of daily life
• The transformative power of trusting yourself and your inner guidance

Resources: 

• Get my FREE training: The First Step to Better Balance in Your Life https://www.charisyourlife.com/freetraining
• Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/charisyourlife 
• Follow me on Facebook: https://facebook.com/charisyourlife/ 
• Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/charisyourlife/
• Follow me on YouTube: https://charisyourlife.com/youtube/
• Follow me on Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/charisyourlife/
• My website: https://charisyourlife.com/