What powerful lessons did Karleen Savage learn about the difference between being right and effectively resolving conflicts, and how can these insights apply to your own relationships?

In this episode, hostage and crisis negotiator Karleen Savage shares her profound journey of transformation through conflict resolution and healing in personal relationships. She reveals how a long-hidden brain injury in her spouse led her to pursue a master's degree in conflict resolution and negotiations. This experience challenged her core beliefs about ‘being right’ and effective communication, teaching her that correctness does not always lead to resolution. 

Through her training and experience, Karleen designed the Savage Theory of Resolution®, a five-skill model that can be used to resolve any conflict. She emphasizes the power of genuine curiosity, open dialogue, and empathy in resolving conflicts and rebuilding connections. Karleen's insights into navigating marital challenges, self-awareness, and liberating oneself from expectations provide an understanding of the transformative potential of understanding and curiosity. Listeners are encouraged to approach conflicts with openness to build more resilient and fulfilling relationships.

Karleen Savage is a certified hostage and crisis negotiator with years of experience in business and domestic mediation. She's also an expert on conflict resolution, with a master's degree in the subject. Karleen has made it her life's work to help others resolve their conflicts peacefully and amicably. Karleen has come up with the Savage Theory of Resolution®, a five-skill model that can be used to resolve any conflict. Formerly an adjunct professor, Karleen has negotiated to open up mediation for counties impacting hundreds of thousands of people into the future. She also started a mediation internship program with a local university. She currently offers various online courses on conflict communications through her site, KarleenSavage.com.

A mom to seven grown children and married for more than three decades, Karleen knows a little about resolving conflicts! 

In This Episode: 

• (00:00) Introduction to Karleen Savage's Career Journey
• (04:36) Conflict Resolution Through Understanding
• (07:12) The Impact of a Spouse’s Hidden Brain Injury  
• (12:00) Transformative Skills in Hostage Negotiations  
• (15:56) Reimagining Marital Dynamics with a Brain Injury
• (18:31) The Role of Curiosity in Healing Relationships  
• (26:38) Revitalizing A Long-Term Marriage
• (30:10) Shifting from Caretaker to Partner in Marriage
• (38:15) Advice to a Younger Self, Growth and Understanding in Relationships 
• (42:30) Self-Awareness In Transforming Personal Relationships
• (43:11) Asking the Right Questions, and Tools to Improve Your Relationships Now
• (49:00) Learning Things You Never Knew - Curiosity
• (51:56) Final Reflections, Getting in Touch
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!

About the show: 

Welcome to Life in Transition, a podcast, and community designed for those navigating the transformative midlife journey. Our mission is to guide you through this pivotal time, offering inspiration, tools, and a supportive community to help you live with intention, clarity, and purpose. Here, we explore stories of real people facing changes, reimagining their careers, and building meaningful relationships—all to live a life with no regrets.

Whether you're feeling stuck in your career, redefining personal goals, or seeking a renewed sense of purpose, Life in Transition provides insightful content to spark your journey. Beyond the podcast, we offer exclusive coaching services, community-based programs, and online courses, tailored to support you in navigating life's complexities with confidence and resilience.

Join us as we dive into actionable strategies and heart-to-heart conversations to transform your mindset and help you create the life you've envisioned. 

About the host: 
I’m Art Blanchford, and this is Life in Transition, a podcast about making the most of the changes we’re given. As a married father of three teenagers, long-time global business executive, and adventurer, I’ve been through hundreds of transitions in my life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness I could never have imagined. You’ll get to hear all about them on this podcast so that together, we can create more love and joy in our lives — no matter what transitions we go through.

Resources:

KarleenSavage.com

Karleen Savage TedX Talk

Art Blanchford LinkedIn

lifeandtransition.online /mltm

Email Art Blanchford

lifeintransitionpodcast.com

instagram.com/lifeintransitionpodcast

facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095280279752

Join Our Community: art-blanchford.mykajabi.com/mid-life-transition-mastery-community
 

My new book "PURPOSEFUL LIVING" is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

Explore our website https://lifeintransitionpodcast.com/ for more in-depth information and resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

The views and opinions expressed on the “Life In Transition” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition Podcast, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.

Have you ever felt like you were chasing success but still felt unfulfilled? 

In this special episode, I reflect on my own year of transitions and share the lessons that have helped me create a life of purpose and connection.

This past year, I’ve experienced incredible milestones, including publishing my book and deepening my relationships through intentional practices. I also explored transformational processes like the Hoffman Process, which taught me to let go of the need for external significance. Instead, I’ve focused on what truly matters—faith, family, friends, and meaningful work.

Join me as I share practical tools for reflecting on the past year, setting intentions for the future, and creating a vision for a life that aligns with your values. If you’re ready to start 2025 with clarity and purpose, this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in to hear how you can design a fulfilling life through reflection, connection, and growth.

• Annual Reflection Process: I review photos and journal about my highlights each year to savor the moments that brought me joy and progress.
• Prioritizing Relationships: My deepest fulfillment has come from nurturing meaningful connections with family and friends.
• Faith and Family at the Core: Focusing on my core values has helped me align my life with what truly matters.
• Redefining My Goals: Instead of chasing societal measures of success, I’ve set goals that align with my values and passions.
• Avoiding Distractions: I’ve learned to dedicate uninterrupted time to meaningful projects, avoiding the pitfalls of multitasking.
• Letting Go of Significance: Releasing the need for external validation has brought me closer to a life of true contentment.
• Vision Through Letters: Writing letters to envision my ideal future has been a powerful tool for planning and intention-setting.

Mentioned on the Show:

Arthur Brooks’ Strength to Strength

Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic

Jerry Colonna’s Reboot

Ellen Langer’s Mindfulness

Chip Conley’s Learning to Love Midlife

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

What happens when your lifelong identity suddenly shifts?

Leon Taylor, Olympic medalist and athlete mentor, shares his journey from the 10-meter diving platform to becoming a guiding light for athletes navigating life transitions.

Leon opens up about his Olympic triumphs, including a historic synchronized diving medal for Team GB, and the personal challenges that followed his retirement due to injuries. With honesty and wisdom, he discusses the identity crisis many athletes face when their careers end and how he found purpose through mentoring, speaking, and exploring holistic practices like yoga.

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, curiosity, and self-discovery. Leon offers profound lessons on savoring life’s moments, battling ego, and shifting from a self-centered to an others-focused mindset. Whether you're navigating a career pivot, grappling with an unexpected change, or simply seeking inspiration, Leon’s story will leave you empowered to embrace your own transitions.

🎧 Tune in now to gain insights into thriving through change and uncovering new possibilities for a fulfilling life.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Olympic Triumphs and Challenges: Leon shares the highs of his Olympic career and the physical toll that led to his retirement, showing the resilience required for elite competition.
• Identity Crisis Post-Retirement: Losing his athletic identity was a profound challenge, mirroring transitions many face in careers or personal growth. Letting go of the old is essential for embracing the new.
• Savoring the Present Moment: Leon emphasizes slowing down to appreciate life’s moments instead of rushing toward the next goal.
• Curiosity as a Guide: Exploring new passions like mentoring and yoga helped Leon rediscover purpose and joy after sports.
• Service Over Self: Helping others became more rewarding than personal accolades, highlighting the fulfillment found in contributing to others' growth.
• Mind-Body Reconnection: Practices like yoga played a key role in Leon’s physical and emotional healing, fostering balance and clarity.
• Transitions as Growth Opportunities: Leon reframes transitions as openings for new possibilities, encouraging optimism and curiosity in life’s changes.

Connect with Leon:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

X

LinkedIn

Mentioned on the Show:

Leon Taylor’s Coaching and Mentoring Services

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

What if the thoughts running your life weren’t even yours?

In this deeply insightful episode of Life in Transition, Art Blanchford sits down with Bob Hurd, a performance coach, Navy veteran, and advocate for living authentically. Bob shares his transformative journey from a five-year-old boy riddled with fear and self-doubt to a man who calls himself "the most loved person on the planet."

Bob reveals how early beliefs—rooted in trauma—shaped his perception of self-worth, driving decades of destructive behaviors despite outward success. Through self-awareness, mindset work, and a dedication to being rather than doing, Bob learned to break free from these patterns and embrace a life filled with peace, purpose, and love.

Discover how identifying recurring thoughts, creating meaningful practices, and cultivating a relationship with your inner being can help you navigate your own life transitions. Bob’s message reminds us that change begins within—and that we are far more powerful than we can imagine

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Your thoughts shape your reality: Bob emphasizes the importance of understanding and reframing the inner narratives that drive behavior.
• The power of being overdoing: True transformation starts with who you are being, not just what you do.
• Awareness is the first step: Observing recurring thoughts and creating a relationship with them is key to shifting your mindset.
• Success doesn’t equal fulfillment: Bob shares how outward achievements failed to heal his inner turmoil.
• Morning practices matter: Intentional daily practices, such as affirmations and reflections, help anchor your identity and foster growth.
• Self-love and compassion are essential: Bob stresses the need to forgive yourself, embrace your worth, and treat yourself with kindness.
• Transformation is a gradual journey: Growth is ongoing, but the rewards of peace and alignment make the process worthwhile.

Connect with Bob:

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Facebook

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

What does it mean to embrace life's transitions fully?

In the 50th episode of Life in Transition, Art Blanchford brings together an extraordinary panel of past guests and listeners to reflect on the milestones and transformations that shape our lives.

From discovering new life purposes to navigating through moments of deep uncertainty, this episode dives into the wisdom gained from authentic conversations. Jim Hunt shares his courageous journey from a tech career to becoming a therapist, while Gavin Fluke discusses moving from doing to being in his retirement. Listeners like Simit and Justin offer heartfelt reflections on the importance of safe, judgment-free spaces in uncovering their deepest desires.

As Art and the panel reflect on the podcast’s global reach, they emphasize the power of connection, vulnerability, and taking small, deliberate steps toward fulfillment. This celebratory episode is not just a reflection on midlife—it’s a powerful guide for anyone looking to find meaning in their transitions and create a life aligned with their values.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Midlife as a Crossroads – Redefine what excites and fulfills you at this stage of life.
• Authentic Connections – Vulnerable conversations help uncover truths about yourself and others.
• From Doing to Being – Shift focus from task lists to being present in the moment.
• Transitions vs. Changes – True growth happens within; transitions require internal work.
• Reflection is Key – Use moments of pause to gain clarity and find direction.
• Judgment-Free Zones – Safe spaces are essential for exploring desires and letting go of shame.
• The Power of Sharing – Authentic stories inspire transformation and a sense of belonging.

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

How do we rebuild our lives after trauma?

In this episode of Life in Transition, host Art Blanchford sits down with Mark Berridge, former corporate leader turned author and resilience advocate, to share an extraordinary story of survival, acceptance, and personal growth. Following a life-changing accident that left him with a severe spinal cord injury, Mark opens up about his journey of physical recovery, mental resilience, and rediscovering his life’s purpose.

Mark describes how he learned to “make friends with uncertainty” and set realistic goals focused on incremental progress rather than immediate results. From daily physical therapy to emotional acceptance, Mark’s journey emphasizes the power of small, consistent actions. Through embracing vulnerability, asking for help, and celebrating minor victories, Mark found a renewed sense of meaning, realizing that even small steps forward can lead to profound transformation. His story is a testament to the human spirit's power and how, even amid uncertainty, we can strive to live a fulfilling and impactful life.

This episode offers listeners invaluable insights on handling life’s unpredictability, creating purpose from pain, and finding strength to move forward—one step at a time.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Turning Setbacks into Growth: Mark’s life changed after a severe accident, but he chose to see it as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.
• The Power of Incremental Progress: Mark emphasizes how taking small, actionable steps helps in navigating recovery and setting a foundation for success.
• Making Friends with Uncertainty: Mark shares his perspective on managing life’s unpredictability and embracing ambiguity as part of the journey.
• The Value of Support: Mark discusses how asking for and accepting help from others has positively impacted his recovery and mental resilience.
• Redefining Strength: Rather than focusing on the limitations of his physical body, Mark found inner strength and resilience through mental toughness and small daily victories.
• Learning from Life’s Challenges: Mark’s experience has given him a new outlook on life, where he values meaningful experiences and relationships above previous corporate achievements.
• Celebrating Small Wins: Mark highlights how recognizing minor improvements, even standing up after surgery, helped sustain his motivation and redefine his sense of accomplishment.

Connect with Mark Berridge:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

Mentioned on the Show: A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible Moments

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

What does it take to turn pain into purpose?

In this episode of Life in Transition, Art speaks with Wesley Hamilton, founder of “Disabled But Not Really.” Wesley’s story is one of resilience and determination: a life-changing incident left him paralyzed, but his journey didn’t end there. In the years since, he has redefined his life and identity, emerging stronger than ever before. Wesley discusses the transformative power of accepting limitations while refusing to let them define you.

From dealing with the depression and isolation that came with his injury to becoming a devoted single father, Wesley’s journey shows us the power of mindset and finding purpose. He speaks on the importance of seeing beyond the surface, both in how we view ourselves and how we view others. With candor and passion, Wesley shares how he shifted from feeling defeated to reclaiming his life, ultimately becoming an advocate for others with disabilities. This conversation offers listeners tools to focus on what they can control and build resilience even in the face of life’s greatest challenges.

You can watch more of Wesley’s journey in this episode of Queer Eye on Netflix.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Finding Purpose in Pain: Wesley describes how he turned his injury into a catalyst for personal growth and advocacy.
• Overcoming Societal Judgments: The importance of seeing people for who they truly are beyond physical limitations.
• Parenting as Motivation: How becoming a father fueled Wesley’s resolve to overcome his challenges.
• Healing Through Health: How shifting to a healthier diet helped Wesley combat depression and reclaim his physical well-being.
• The Power of Words: Wesley’s daughter called his wheelchair a "Superman chair," inspiring him to see his potential rather than his limitations.
• Living Beyond Labels: Redefining disability and choosing to live a life defined by purpose and resilience, not limitations.

Connect with Wesley:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

LinkedIn

Mentioned on the Show:

https://disabledbutnotreally.org/ .

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

What happens when grief enters your life? How do you move forward when everything feels shattered?

In this episode of Life in Transition, Art Blanchford sits down with grief activist Lisa Keefauver to dive into the messy, complicated layers of grief. Lisa opens up about her personal journey of loss, including the tragic death of her husband and how that led her to a path of activism and healing.

With warmth and wisdom, Lisa shares how grief isn’t something you "move on" from, but something you can move forward with. Through her own experiences and her work with others, she emphasizes the importance of holding space for grief and seeing it as a catalyst for transformation. Whether you’re dealing with personal loss or supporting someone who is, this episode provides profound insights on navigating grief, finding community, and reclaiming joy in the midst of sorrow.

Listeners will gain practical tools for reimagining their own grief journeys, along with a fresh perspective on how loss can lead to personal growth and deeper emotional understanding. Tune in for a conversation that will leave you feeling seen, supported, and empowered to embrace the complexity of grief.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Grief as a Catalyst for Growth: Lisa explains how her personal grief transformed her into an advocate and activist.
• The Importance of Community: Building a support system and finding ways to speak openly about grief.
• Healing Isn’t Linear: Lisa emphasizes that the grief journey doesn’t follow a set timeline, and it’s important to honor every emotion.
• Moving Forward, Not Moving On: How to navigate life after loss without feeling pressured to "move on" from the pain.
• Reimagining Grief: Lisa’s mission to change the way we view grief, seeing it as an essential part of life’s growth.
• Holding Space for Grief: The importance of acknowledging grief instead of avoiding or pathologizing it.
• Tools for Grief: Practical advice for dealing with loss and fostering emotional resilience

Connect with Lisa Keefauver:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram
• X
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Mentioned on the Show:

Grief is a Sneaky Bitch: An Uncensored Guide to Navigating Loss

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

Are you ready to turn your life’s biggest challenges into your greatest opportunities for growth? In this episode of Life in Transition, Dre Baldwin shares his powerful insights on navigating life’s twists and turns with the right mindset. Known for his discipline, resilience, and approach to achieving excellence, Dre dives into the strategies that helped him thrive through every transition in his life.

From his career shift as a professional athlete to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Dre opens up about the mindset tools he used to stay focused and motivated, even in the face of setbacks. He discusses the importance of self-discipline, goal setting, and how to reframe challenges into opportunities for growth. Dre’s approach isn’t just about surviving transitions; it’s about embracing them as a vital part of your journey to self-mastery and success.

Dre offers practical advice on how to strengthen their resilience, maintain a growth-oriented mindset, and turn life’s inevitable changes into stepping stones for achieving their dreams. Whether you’re facing a career shift, personal loss, or simply looking for ways to level up your mindset, this episode provides the actionable tools and inspiration you need to make it happen.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Reframing Challenges: Dre explains how shifting your perspective on challenges can transform them into opportunities for personal growth.
• Mindset Mastery: Techniques for developing a mindset that thrives in times of uncertainty and transition.
• The Power of Self-Discipline: How staying disciplined can help you navigate any life shift with clarity and purpose.
• Goal Setting for Success: Dre’s strategies for setting clear, actionable goals that drive long-term growth.
• Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones: How to use failures and obstacles as learning tools for future success.
• Resilience Building: Dre’s tips on how to strengthen your resilience in the face of life’s ups and downs.
• Embracing Change: The importance of embracing life’s transitions as a path to discovering your true potential.

Connect with Dre Baldwin :

Website: DreAllDay

Instagram: @drebaldwin

LinkedIn: Dre (DreAllDay) Baldwin

Facebook: Dre Baldwin

Youtube: Dre Baldwin

Mentioned on the Show:

• My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

What if midlife is not a crisis, but a chrysalis for transformation?

This compelling question drives the conversation in this episode of Life in Transition with guest Chip Conley, best-selling author, hospitality entrepreneur, and founder of the Modern Elder Academy (MEA). Chip, who has navigated his own midlife challenges—including a near-death experience and redefining his identity—shares profound insights on how midlife can be a time of renewal and reinvention, rather than a period of crisis.

At age 50, after building a highly successful boutique hotel company, Chip faced a turbulent period where his personal and professional life crumbled. But instead of seeing it as the end, Chip reframed his experience as a period of shedding—letting go of old identities to embrace something new. “I molted my identity, much like a snake sheds its skin,” Conley shares, describing the necessity of outgrowing old roles and labels. This process of molting allowed him to reimagine his life, eventually leading to his role as a mentor to the founders of Airbnb and later the creation of MEA.

In this enlightening episode, Chip’s reflections offer listeners practical wisdom on how to navigate the messy middle of midlife and emerge stronger on the other side. Whether you’re going through your own transition or looking to support someone else, these insights serve as a powerful reminder that midlife can be a time of flourishing, not fading.

In this episode, we'll talk about:

• Molting Old Identities: Chip Conley discusses the process of letting go of outdated identities and roles, and how this creates space for personal growth and reinvention in midlife.
• Navigating Transitions: Chip’s near-death experience offered him a new perspective on life, prompting him to embrace urgency and purpose in every moment.
• Midlife Wisdom: Chip explains how the Modern Elder Academy helps people cultivate wisdom and reframe their relationship with aging, turning midlife from a crisis into an opportunity for transformation.
• The Importance of Community: Chip highlights the lack of social infrastructure for people in midlife and how having a support system is crucial for navigating life’s transitions.
• Relationships and Growth: As we change in midlife, so do our relationships. Chip stresses the importance of empathy and recognizing how personal growth impacts others.
• Letting Go of Toxic Relationships: In some cases, personal growth may mean leaving behind relationships that no longer serve us, and Chip discusses how to navigate this difficult process.
• Living with Urgency and Purpose: Inspired by his experiences, Chip advocates for living every day as if it were your last, focusing on what truly matters.

Connect with Chip:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Mentioned on the Show:

Books:

• Wisdom at Work: The Making of a Modern Elder – A book by Chip Conley where he shares his journey at Airbnb and his insights on becoming a modern elder.
• Learning to Love Midlife – Chip referenced his writing on midlife transitions, particularly focusing on the concept of becoming "nobody" and shedding old identities.
• Becoming Nobody by Ram Dass – Chip mentioned this book while discussing the shedding of identities in midlife.

Modern Elder Academy (MEA):

• Website: MEAwisdom.com – Chip’s academy focuses on helping people navigate midlife transitions and cultivate wisdom through in-person and online programs.
• The Anatomy of a Transition: A free resource available on the MEA website that outlines the stages of transition (Ending, Messy Middle, New Beginning).

Podcasts and Fireside Chats:

• Chip mentioned his popular online fireside chats featuring thought leaders like Gloria Steinem and Dr. Mark Hyman, which draw hundreds of attendees for intimate discussions on various topics.

Movies and Talks:

• Chip referenced Ellen Langer, a prominent psychologist, during his conversation about aging and mindfulness, highlighting a fireside chat he had with her.

Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.
Facebook
Instagram
X
LinkedIn
YouTube

Explore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.

Life’s transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. Join my FREE community or sign up for a small, facilitated group—supportive spaces filled with expert guidance, valuable resources, and meaningful connections to help you thrive.

My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6

The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.