Living Your Sparked Second Half

EP425: Today’s guest is Kristin Ericksen, the inspiring founder of "Break Free, Make It Happen." Kristin spent 25+ years as a celebrity personal trainer working with high-profile clients in Los Angeles and New York City and using that experience and wisdom gained has transitioned into a new career as a peak performance coach and keynote speaker. She’s truly passionate about her mission of helping women find clarity, courage, and confidence. 

She and I talked about:

- The power of the "athletic mindset" and how it shapes resilience.

Prepare to be inspired by Kristin's journey and her actionable advice on moving forward with purpose. Her story resonates with those looking to step into their full potential, offering valuable tools for building courage and confidence. Our conversation is filled with energy, insight, and a roadmap for anyone ready to transform their mindset and align with their true purpose.

This episode is more than just a discussion; it's a call to action. Kristin's journey reminds us that adversity can be the catalyst for a more empowered life. Tune in to learn how you, too, can become unstoppable by embracing your strengths, overcoming limitations, and stepping into a future defined by clarity and confidence.

Other ways to find and connect with Kristin are:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinrericksen/  

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected]  or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                           

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP424: Today’s guest is Rebecca (Becky) Faye Smith Galli, an author and columnist who writes about love, loss and healing, and whose life story is one of profound tragedy transformed into a beacon of resilience and hope. 

Becky recounts her journey marked by significant loss, including the heartbreaking death of her brother and the many challenges that followed: raising children with special needs, losing a child, navigating a divorce, and confronting permanent paralysis. 

Becky shares her career shift from IBM to author, using her personal story to inspire others through her books, “Rethinking Possible” and “Morning Fuel”. Her insights throughout the episode reveal the profound power of perspective, the art of active waiting, and how embracing life’s unpredictability can lead to finding joy in the present. She discusses the deep influence of her life events on her writing and her passion for connecting with others who face similar challenges. 

We talked about:

• The tragic loss of her 17-year-old brother at a young age and its impact to her family. 

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, offering a deep dive into what it means to hold onto hope while navigating difficult realities. Listen in and let Becky’s candid reflections encourage you to appreciate life’s moments, however imperfect, and actively seek joy despite challenges.

Other ways to find and connect with Beck are:

Website: www.BeckyGalli.com or www.RebeccaFayeSmithGalli.com 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                         

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP423: In this solo episode, I talk about my recent experience of going back to the place of my birth, where I spent the first 18 months of my life and many of my summers growing up, to attend a beloved aunt's funeral in Massachusetts and the profound reflections it prompted. 

I share two key lessons, involving some pretty incredible secrets, which everyone needs to hear! You see, my aunt was a secret keeper and I talk about two of the biggest secrets of her life that are juicy enough for a best selling novel. One of her secrets was revealed many years ago, and, as a result, drastically changed the trajectory of someone’s life. 

The other secret was held until her death and now it’s unraveling and will likely have significant emotional consequences for those who are still living.

As you listen to these personal stories about the life-changing choices my aunt made, I hope the lessons I gained and have reflected on inspire you to make time to nurture meaningful relationships, show up honestly and openly without hiding any part of you, and make courageous choices that honor your true self.

Tune in for a heartfelt narrative that might just encourage you to take action in your own life.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                       

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP422: Today I have a returning guest, Sandy Weiner, who is the Chief Love Officer at Last First Date. She's an internationally known TEDx speaker, dating and relationship coach, author, and podcast host, and she recently released a new book, “Love At Last,” featuring 18 inspiring love stories that prove it’s never too late to find meaningful relationships. 

In this episode, Sandy shares her expertise in how she helps individuals overcome emotional hurdles, emphasizing the value of embracing vulnerability and self-awareness, especially after the age of 40, when dating can feel different but also more meaningful. We also touch on the evolving world of dating, and how different it is today, in a tech-driven environment, than when the women of my generation first began dating. 

Other topics we cover are: 

- How the pandemic reshaped first dates.

This episode is a heartwarming and motivating reminder that love and the personal growth gifts that come with it are possible at any stage of life. Sandy wants everyone who desires a partner and is ready to break down emotional barriers, to have hope that love can be found in the most unexpected ways.

If you are seeking love for the first time or rediscovering it after divorce or the loss of a partner and are ready to embrace the next romantic chapter of your journey, make sure to tune into this conversation with Sandy. 

Other ways to find and connect with Sandy are:

Website: https://lastfirstdate.com/   

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP421: Today’s guest is Denise Corbo, a retired educator and the founder of Storybook Treasures. Denise shares her inspiring journey from stumbling into her first teaching gig as a high school cosmetology teacher, to finding her passion as an elementary school teacher, and then to starting a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy and spreading the love of books to grade school children. 

In this episode, Denise opens up about her personal experiences, sharing how her own shy childhood and undiagnosed learning challenges fueled her passion for teaching and finding creative ways for her students, especially those who struggled to read, to succeed. 

Denise talks about how she got the idea to start her company, Storybook Treasures, the early challenges she faced, and the determination that drove her forward. From financial hurdles to skepticism about her vision, she remained steadfast in her mission to make a difference in the lives of children. 

We chatted about:

• How she got into teaching cosmetology. 

Denise's story serves as a powerful reminder that even the smallest steps can lead to a large impact, especially when driven by a purpose that brings value to others. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, heart, and a call to action that invites all of us to make a difference in the lives of young learners.

If you’d like to connect with Denise and/or order a subscription to receive your own Storybook Treasure every other month (or gift one!), get in touch with her at one of the following links:

Website: https://www.storybooktreasures.org/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StoryBookTreasures/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storybook-treasures-inc/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storybook_treasures/

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                       

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright                       

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma                

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma            

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP420: Today’s guest is Paula Swope, her social media followers call Paula the most relatable self-help author ever. She is a self-empowerment leader and author of Thought Snob: The Modern Spiritual Playbook for a Better Life. 

Paula shares her incredible journey of transformation, from being raised in rural Kentucky to believe her impoverished life was all that was possible, to becoming a prominent voice in the self-help space. Once she discovered her thoughts were actually lies she had been programmed to believe from a young age, she was able to change her mindset and overcome the odds that many who come from similar backgrounds never can.

In this episode, we talked about:

• Paula’s upbringing and the limiting beliefs she had to overcome.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to break free from self-limiting beliefs and step into a life of personal empowerment. Paula’s story is not just inspiring—it’s a blueprint for taking control of your own narrative, no matter where you come from.

Tune in to hear Paula’s wisdom and be reminded that your reality is only limited by the thoughts you think each and every day. 

Other ways to find and connect with Paula are:

Website: http://www.paulaswope.com/ 

Thought Snob: https://thoughtsnob.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepaulaswope/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PBSwope/ 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                      

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright                      

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma                

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma           

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP419: Today’s guest is Linda Ward, a life coach and writer with a passion for adventure, self-love, and personal growth. Linda shares her incredible journey of spending three transformative months in Italy with her husband, an experience sparked by her husband's dream and their shared love for travel. 

Linda reflects on major life transformations, including her divorce at age 47, and how she found love, first for herself and then with a new partner, in her late fifties. She emphasizes the power of loving yourself, building confidence, and embracing courage to follow what lights you up, even when life presents challenges. 

In this episode, we talked about:

• Creating deep, meaningful connections through travel, while facing the challenges of a worldwide pandemic.

Linda explains how Italy became not just a destination but a place of deep personal transformation, where daily habits of self-love and positive self-talk led to profound growth. She opens up about how this adventure allowed her to navigate life’s challenges with courage and joy.

Her wisdom as a life coach shines through as she offers practical advice for others who want to pursue passions and create a life filled with joy and adventure, no matter their stage in life.

For anyone facing challenges at midlife, Linda’s story will leave you hopeful and excited about embracing life and exploring new adventures and will provide practical advice to help you take those first steps.

Other ways to find and connect with Linda are:

Website: https://www.couragedaily.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CourageDaily4U 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/couragedaily4U/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-ward

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                     

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright                     

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma                

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma          

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP418: Today’s guest is Amy Weiland Daughters, an accomplished keynote speaker, letter writer, satirist, sports journalist, and the award-winning author of two books: Dear Dana: That time I went crazy and wrote all 580 of my Facebook friends a handwritten letter and You Cannot Mess This Up: A true story that never happened. 

Known for her deep love of storytelling and human connection, Amy shares the fascinating story behind her first book and how it led to reigniting old friendships, forging new, meaningful connections, and changing lives. Amy also has a deep love of sports, which she and I connected on, and which is how Amy’s writing career got started.

In this episode, we talked about:

• The power of old fashioned letter writing and how taking the time to put pen to paper is a true act of kindness which is sure to bring unexpected surprises to both the sender and the receiver.

Amy is absolutely convinced that when human beings connect individually in a meaningful way that nothing can separate them, and this conversation with Amy is packed with heartfelt wisdom and stories that will resonate with anyone interested in cultivating deeper human connections.

Amy is a delight to humankind and will surely inspire you to pick up a pen or pencil and drop a note to someone you know and may have been thinking about before you pressed play on this episode. Let the fact you are listening today be a sign to reach out and connect. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! 

Other ways to find and connect with Amy are:

Website: https://www.amydaughters.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyweinlanddaughtersauthor 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smokinhotamys/ 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                    

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright                    

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma                 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma         

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP417: In today’s episode I have two special guests, Laura Smith and Tasha Lorentz, who have joined forces to create a unique event that brings together experts in the field of organization, crossing a wide range of topics - from tips on how to better organize/declutter your home, to mastering your health through meal planning, and even understanding the mindset that drives disorganization - that, if you participate, has the potential to create a better life for you and the people you share your life with.

Their Get Organized HQ Virtual Summit is an annual event that takes place this year from Monday, 9/9 through Saturday, 9/14 and offers over 100 free sessions in a vast array of topics, all focused in some way on getting more organized.

They invited me to be a speaker this year so I invited them to come on the podcast and share:

• Why they do this event which revealed Laura’s heartwarming story that led to her passion about organization.

To sign up for this event, CLICK HERE. Listeners are encouraged to take advantage of the free sessions which kick off on Monday, 9/9. Once you sign up, you will receive emails every day on what sessions will be available to watch as well as how to get lifetime access to all of the sessions.

My session will be aired on Friday, 9/13 at 10am EST and will be available to watch for 24 hours.

If you are listening to this episode AFTER 9/14, when the event is over, you can CLICK HERE to grab the ALL ACCESS pass which gives you immediate access to all of their 2024 event content, including lots of extra freebies and bonuses from the speakers and from Laura and Tasha.

Sign up today, then hop into the Facebook Group - you’ll get the link in email after you sign up - and start learning how to foster a more organized, peaceful and joyful home environment. And please tell your friends about it! They’ll love you for it!

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) this podcast so you don't miss any new episodes.

You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at [email protected] or send a message using any of the sites below:


Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                   

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

EP416: Today’s guest is Donna Ferris, who I first met when she was a guest on my podcast over two years ago (Episode 220). I invited Donna back to get an update on her life and talk about her new book, Bounce Back Stronger: Finding Peace and Purpose No Matter What Happens, which is a unique book with a workbook aspect meant to help people navigate through difficult times in life.

Our conversation focuses on why Donna wrote this book, which is filled with powerful stories from her journey, as well as the various tools that helped her overcome significant personal challenges, including a painful divorce, the tragic loss of her fiancé, and the unexpected news that her youngest child was transitioning to a new gender.

In this episode, we talked about:

• The tools in the book that have helped Donna through her hardest times.

This episode is rich with personal stories, practical advice, and inspiring thoughts on resilience and healing, offering listeners valuable insights into living a life filled with peace and purpose.

To learn more about Donna and her work, you can go to:

Website: ​​http://www.donnayferris.com/  

If you'd like to connect or reach out to ME, you can find me at:

Website: www.notyouraveragegrandma.com                 

Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.