In this episode of Her Next Act, Joan Paul sits down with Kim Thomas, founder of New England Coastal Creative, to explore what it truly means to embrace creativity in midlife and use it as a force for connection, confidence, and community.

Kim’s next act emerged from lived experience, career pivots, creative risk-taking, and a deep desire to build the kind of community she once needed herself. What started as a spark grew into a thriving creative collective that now brings together women founders, artists, entrepreneurs, and influencers across New England.

Episode Highlights:

• Why midlife can be the most powerful season for creative expression
• How trusting your creativity (even after setbacks) leads to reinvention
• The role community plays in helping women take bolder risks
• Why women struggle with visibility, self-worth, and charging their value and how that shifts with age and the wisdom that comes with it.
• The difference between having an idea and committing to it
• How Kim’s events like Bloom and Elevate are helping women amplify their next act

This conversation is an honest, energizing reminder that creativity doesn’t diminish with age it sharpens. And when women stop waiting for permission and start building together, the ripple effect can be transformative.

If you’re in midlife, sitting on an idea, craving connection, or wondering if it’s “too late” to start something new this episode is your sign.

About the Guest
Kim Thomas is the founder of New England Coastal Creative and Shorelines Illustrated, platforms dedicated to elevating women, creativity, and coastal New England living through community and curated experiences.

Connect with Kim:

• New England Coastal Creative: necoastalcreative.com | @necoastalcreative
• Shorelines Illustrated: shorelinesillustrated.com | @shorelinesillustrated

Learn more and follow along with me - Joan Paul

Website: https://hernextact.com/

instagram: @hernextact

facebook: @joanpaul

The Griswold Inn

Thank you for listening and remember, you're never too old, and it's not too late! That one day is now!

xojoan