Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Host Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins. In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Tara Conahan, founder of Obsessionediquette.com, to unpack the world of Irish traditional music sessions and the universal lessons they offer about belonging, creativity, and venturing into new communities especially after 50.

Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a curious listener, or simply someone eager to embrace new experiences, this conversation is for you. Tara Connaghan joins us all the way from Donegal, Ireland, to share her wisdom on “session etiquette”—the unspoken social codes that help us connect and thrive, not only in music circles but everywhere in life.

We dive into what makes music sessions in Ireland (and beyond) both inviting and intimidating, how newcomers can read a room and ease their anxiety, and why it’s okay to be a beginner at any age. Tara Conahan highlights how etiquette isn’t about rigid rules but about bringing positive, collaborative energy to any group setting.

We also explore:

• The surprising origins and evolution of Irish music sessions
• Why it’s normal to feel anxious joining an established group (and how to get past it)
• The role of elders in passing on music, wisdom, and confidence
• Listening as an underrated and essential way to participate
• How to gracefully navigate awkward first encounters
• Why real belonging means being valued and heard

• Session Etiquette is Universal: It applies not just to music, but to jobs, social circles, and any situation where you’re joining something that existed before you (02:43).
• You’re Not Alone in Feeling Anxious: Everyone from beginners to professionals faces uncertainty when entering new spaces. A little reconnaissance helps reduce the pressure (06:37).
• Reading the Room: Adjust your energy by thinking about how you’ll affect others, not just how they’ll affect you (10:12).
• Belonging is About Value: Authentic inclusion happens when everyone feels valued and heard (12:45).
• Start Small, Get Comfortable: Visit sessions a few times before joining in, and start with those that suit your skill level (18:10).
• It’s Okay to Walk Away: If a group isn’t welcoming, don’t force it find a community where you feel genuine belonging (25:29).
• Music Connects Generations: Sessions can bring together everyone from young kids to elders, fostering intergenerational bonds and wisdom (21:35).
• Bring Music Into Your Life: Make a list of 10 songs or albums that shaped your life and revisit your own soundtrack (25:50).

We invite you to reflect on your own life’s soundtrack! Take a few minutes this week to list ten tracks, albums or genres that marked major chapters or memories for you. See where the music takes you and let it inspire creativity and connection in your life. If you’re intrigued by the world of Irish sessions, check out Tara Conahan’s work at obsessionediquette.com for more resources and inspiration.

Finally, don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode designed to empower your journey of reinvention, creativity, and meaningful connection.

Be bold. Stay curious. Find your session.

— Cathy & Merry

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