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Michael Perzel spent thirty-one years in insurance, twenty-six of them running his own brokerage out of Northeast Philadelphia. He retired comfortably at sixty-six with everything you're supposed to want. And then he did the thing almost nobody does — he turned around and told the truth about where he came from.

Between 1967 and 1975, Michael was a kid in the Abbotsford projects and then on Bleigh Avenue in Mayfair, living a life that reads like fiction: drugs, gang violence, motorcycle clubs, pharmacy burglaries, arrests that made the local papers, a friend who overdosed in his arms. Some of it is funny. Some of it isn't. All of it is true. It became Livin' It — covered by NBC 10 Philadelphia, South Philly Review, and Boomer Magazine, and now an audiobook.

It exists because of Rick Mowat. A Juilliard-trained writer and director who's built a career shaping true crime into story, Rick is also Michael's friend — and the man who listened to one of these stories told bar-stool style and said four words that changed the back half of a life: we've got a book here.

In this episode: what reinvention actually costs when it comes late, which relationships shift and which ones hold, how you rebuild your social and occupational life from scratch in your sixties, and why almost nobody transforms alone. Michael tells it. Rick explains what he heard that Michael couldn't.

In this episode:
— Mayfair in 1971, and what "fearless" really was
— The moment prison stopped being an abstraction
— Why a kid who robbed pharmacies ended up managing other people's risk
— What Rick asked that Michael didn't want to answer
— The difference between stability and being fully alive
— Plus, The Final Hang

Livin' It is available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook. Link below.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FG1M9FRN?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_3D6AHEJ82GEF8SEKW0RC&bestFormat=true

Joy of the Hang™ is hosted by Sharon Stevenson — conversations about community, connection, and the relationships that make a life worth living.

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What have 100 meaningful conversations taught me about life, relationships, resilience, motherhood and reinvention?

For the 100th episode of Joy of the Hang, we’re turning the tables. My daughter, Haley, takes over the microphone — and this time, I’m answering the questions.

We talk about the life lessons I’ve learned (some the hard way), what motherhood has taught me, the moments that have shaped who I am, and what I know now that I wish I had understood years ago.

Haley also asks me about the nearly 100 people I’ve interviewed on Joy of the Hang: the conversations I’ll never forget, the guests who surprised me, the stories that changed my perspective, and the lessons that have stayed with me long after the microphones were turned off.

But this episode is about more than looking back.

We talk about getting older without becoming smaller. Starting over. Taking risks. Navigating relationships. Finding purpose. Learning when to hold on — and when to let go. And what it means to keep reinventing yourself as life changes around you.

There are some laughs, some vulnerable moments, and a few questions I definitely wasn't prepared for.

After 100 episodes spent asking other people about their lives, Haley gave me the chance to reflect on mine.

And maybe that's the biggest lesson of all: we're never finished becoming who we're meant to be.

In this episode:
• Life lessons I wish I'd learned earlier
• Motherhood and what my children have taught me
• Reinvention and starting over at any age
• Resilience through life's unexpected chapters
• My most memorable Joy of the Hang conversations
• Relationships, purpose and personal growth
• What I've learned from interviewing nearly 100 remarkable people
• What's next for me — and for Joy of the Hang

Episode 100 of Joy of the Hang with Sharon Stevenson.

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Send us Fan Mail

What have 100 conversations taught me about life lessons, relationships, resilience, motherhood and reinvention?

For the 100th episode of Joy of the Hang, we're turning the tables. My daughter, Haley Stark, takes over the microphone — and this time I'm the one answering. Haley is a Harvard graduate with dual degrees in psychology and theater, and now serves as Executive Director of the Lowell House Opera at Harvard. She turns 25 in November. I interviewed her back in Episode 44. She has been waiting to return the favor.

We talk about the life lessons I learned the hard way, what motherhood has taught me, the moments that shaped who I am, and what I understand now that I wish I had known years ago.

Haley also asks about the nearly 100 guests I've interviewed on Joy of the Hang: the conversations I'll never forget, the people who surprised me, the stories that changed my perspective, and the lessons that stayed with me long after we stopped recording.

But this episode is about more than looking back. We get into getting older without getting smaller. Starting over. Taking risks. Navigating relationships. Finding purpose. Knowing when to hold on and when to let go. What it means to keep reinventing yourself as life changes around you — and where Joy of the Hang goes from here.

There are laughs, some vulnerable moments, and a few questions I was not prepared for.

After 100 episodes spent asking other people about their lives, Haley gave me the chance to reflect on mine. Maybe that's the biggest lesson of all: we are never finished becoming who we're meant to be.

In this episode:

• Life lessons I wish I'd learned earlier
• Motherhood and what my children have taught me
• Reinvention and starting over at any age
• Resilience through life's unexpected chapters
• A mother-daughter conversation across two generations
• My most memorable Joy of the Hang interviews
• Relationships, purpose and personal growth
• What's next for me — and for Joy of the Hang

If these conversations have meant something to you over the last 100 episodes, follow the show and share this one with someone who needs it.

 Listen to Haley's own episode: Joy of the Hang Episode 44.

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when you reach the point in life when you could slow down—but you’re nowhere near finished?

In this special episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with someone she knows better than almost anyone: her husband, entrepreneur Scott Stevenson.

Scott has spent his career building businesses, leading teams, taking risks, and turning ideas into reality. Now, rather than embracing the traditional idea of retirement, he’s doing what he calls rewiring—redirecting decades of experience, ambition, and relationships into something entirely new.

That next chapter is Sarasota Motor Club, a private automotive community built around far more than cars. Scott shares the vision behind the club, what it takes to bring an ambitious concept from idea to reality, and the leadership lessons he’s learned along the way.

Sharon and Scott also get candid about entrepreneurship: making decisions when there is no playbook, handling setbacks, knowing when to trust your instincts, and why successful people still need something meaningful to build toward.

This conversation isn’t really about retirement. It’s about relevance, purpose, and refusing to let age determine when your most interesting work is behind you.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why Scott believes in rewiring instead of retiring
• The leadership principles that have shaped his career
• What decades of entrepreneurship have taught him about risk and resilience
• The story and vision behind Sarasota Motor Club
• Why community and relationships matter more as we get older—not less
• What it means to build something because you’re passionate about it, not because you have to
• Why your next chapter may be more exciting than the one you just finished

If you’ve ever wondered, “What am I going to do with the next 20 years?”—this conversation may change the question entirely.

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan Mail

What if the greatest benefit of joining a gym has nothing to do with your body?

In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with David Rafuse, founder of Blended Athletics and creator of Train With Us, to explore the powerful connection between fitness, mental health, community, and belonging.

While most people think of exercise as a way to improve physical health, David has witnessed something even more profound: people walking through the gym doors looking for fitness and leaving with confidence, friendships, accountability, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Together, Sharon and David discuss why loneliness has become one of the greatest public health challenges of our time, how meaningful relationships are built through consistency rather than convenience, and why showing up—whether in the gym or in life—is often the hardest and most important step.

If you've ever struggled to find your people, stay motivated, or build healthy habits that last, this conversation will remind you that real transformation rarely happens alone.

In This Episode:

• Why community is essential for long-term health and wellness
• How fitness creates confidence beyond the gym
• The surprising connection between exercise and mental health
• Why loneliness is affecting people of every age
• The role of accountability in creating lasting habits
• How consistency builds trust and meaningful relationships
• What it really means to belong

Whether you're looking to improve your health, strengthen your relationships, or simply feel more connected, this episode offers practical wisdom and an inspiring reminder that we are stronger together.

https://blendedathletics.com/

🎧 Listen now and discover why finding your community may be the healthiest decision you ever make.

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 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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Human trafficking isn't something that only happens in foreign countries or in Hollywood movies. It's happening in neighborhoods across America, often hiding in plain sight.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Monica Morton, one of the nation's leading experts on human trafficking, to uncover the truth behind one of the world's fastest-growing criminal enterprises.

Drawing from decades of investigative work and survivor advocacy, Monica explains how traffickers groom victims, who is most at risk, and why so many misconceptions prevent people from recognizing the warning signs. She also shares what every parent, grandparent, educator, and community member should know to help protect those they love.

This conversation is eye-opening, emotional, and ultimately hopeful. If you've ever believed, "It could never happen here," this episode may change your perspective forever.

In this episode, you'll learn:
• The biggest myths about human trafficking
• Who is most vulnerable—and why
• How traffickers use social media to groom victims
• Warning signs every family should recognize
• What to do (and what not to do) if you suspect someone is being trafficked
• How awareness can save lives

This isn't just another interview. It's information that could one day protect someone you love.

If this episode impacted you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Awareness is one of our most powerful tools in the fight against human trafficking.

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when talent, timing, and purpose finally align?

In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with acclaimed jazz vocalist Barbara King to discuss her remarkable journey from singing in the choir at college to sharing the stage with legendary artists like Patti LaBelle, Kirk Franklin, and Kirk Whalum.

Barbara opens up about the courage it takes to pursue a creative calling, the lessons she's learned from decades in music, and why it's never too late to step fully into your purpose. We also discuss her acclaimed debut album, Perfect Timing, and how faith, perseverance, and authenticity have shaped her journey.

Whether you're a lover of jazz, an aspiring artist, or someone contemplating a new chapter in life, Barbara's story is a powerful reminder that our dreams don't have expiration dates.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

•  Barbara's journey into jazz and inspirational music 
•  The meaning behind her album Perfect Timing
•  Performing alongside legendary musicians 
•  How creativity and faith fuel resilience 
•  Reinvention and finding purpose later in life 
•  Why it's never too late to follow your dreams 
•  The role music plays in connection and healing 

Connect with Barbara King:
https://www.barbarakingjazz.com

Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that inspire connection, courage, and living with purpose.

#JoyOfTheHang #BarbaraKing #JazzSinger #JazzMusic #InspirationalMusic #WomenInMusic #Reinvention #MusicAndHealing #Purpose #FollowingYourDreams

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan Mail

What makes a great conversation? Is it asking the right questions, truly listening, or simply being present?

In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Julian Phillips, an Emmy-winning journalist whose career has spanned more than three decades in television news, including national roles at Fox News and a year serving as Deputy Commissioner of Public Information for the New York City Police Department.

After spending a lifetime telling other people's stories, Julian opens up about the power of meaningful conversation, the importance of curiosity, and why food often becomes the bridge that brings people together. We also explore what happens when we step away from the noise of our busy lives and rediscover the simple joy of human connection.

From breaking news and high-pressure communication to sharing meals and creating community, Julian's journey reminds us that our most meaningful moments often happen around a table and within authentic conversations.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

•  What makes someone a great storyteller 
•  Why curiosity is one of life's greatest gifts 
•  Lessons learned from decades in television journalism 
•  The role food plays in creating connection and community 
•  How meaningful conversations can change our relationships 
•  Why listening may be our most underrated skill 
•  Finding purpose and reinvention in a new chapter of life 

Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that inspire connection, curiosity, and a more meaningful life.

#JoyOfTheHang #JulianPhillips #Storytelling #Journalism #HumanConnection #Conversation #FoodCulture #Community #EmmyWinner #SocialWellness

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan Mail

What if aging isn't something that simply happens to us? What if we could influence how we age?

In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Dr. Sandra Kaufmann, physician, researcher, and author of The Kaufmann Protocol, to explore the cutting-edge science of longevity and what it really means to age well.

Dr. Kaufmann explains why we age at the cellular level, the seven key mechanisms that drive aging, and how today's science may allow us to slow the process and improve both lifespan and healthspan.

We also discuss practical strategies for protecting your brain, preserving your energy, and making choices today that could significantly impact how you feel decades from now.

Whether you're 40, 60, or beyond, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about aging and leave you inspired to take charge of your future.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

•  Why we age at the cellular level 
•  The difference between lifespan and healthspan 
•  The seven drivers of aging 
•  How lifestyle choices influence longevity 
•  The role of supplements and emerging science 
•  What you can do today to age better tomorrow 
•  Why it's never too early—or too late—to invest in your future health 

Connect with Dr. Sandra Kaufmann:
https://kaufmannprotocol.com

Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that help you live with greater connection, purpose, and well-being.

#JoyOfTheHang #SandraKaufmann #Longevity #HealthyAging #Biohacking #TheKaufmannProtocol #AntiAging #Healthspan #Wellness #AgingWell #SocialWellness

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.

Send us Fan Mail

What if true healing isn't found in doing more, but in slowing down?

In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Myra Maldonado, owner of Salt Caves & Spa, to explore the powerful connection between stress, wellness, and healing. We discuss why so many people are living in a constant state of overwhelm and how practices like salt therapy, mindfulness, and intentional self-care can help us reconnect with ourselves and others.

Myra shares her journey into the wellness industry, the science and benefits behind halotherapy (salt therapy), and why creating spaces for restoration and human connection may be one of the most important forms of medicine available today.

If you've been feeling exhausted, disconnected, or simply in need of a reset, this conversation is your invitation to pause, breathe, and prioritize your well-being.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

•  The hidden effects of chronic stress on the body 
•  What salt therapy is and how it works 
•  Why rest is essential for healing 
•  The connection between wellness and human connection 
•  Practical ways to create more peace and balance in everyday life 
•  Why self-care is not selfish—it's necessary 

Connect with Myra Maldonado:
https://thesaltcaveslwr.com/

Subscribe to Joy of the Hang for conversations that help you build connection, resilience, and a more meaningful life.

#JoyOfTheHang #MyraMaldonado #SaltTherapy #Wellness #SelfCare #StressRelief #MentalHealth #Healing #SocialWellness #Connection

Support the show

 Be sure to click the Follow button so you never miss an episode of Joy of the Hang! Join the conversation with us on Instagram @joyofthehang
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 If you love what you hear, consider becoming a supporter of the show with a small monthly investment—it helps us keep bringing you inspiring stories, meaningful conversations, and great content week after week.