Welcome back, Late Boomers! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and in this episode, we open the door to a topic that quietly but profoundly shapes every part of our lives: mindset. If you’ve ever wondered how your habits of thought can influence your success, resilience, happiness, and even how you approach aging and reinvention, you’re in the right place.

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Michael Graham, founder of Mindset Matters Consulting. Michael’s background is as unconventional as it is inspiring: from high-stakes presidential protection details and endurance triathlons, to law enforcement supervision and elite coaching, his journey is a masterclass in the power of mindset under pressure—and how mental shifts can spark transformation at any stage of life.

Introduction & Michael’s Unique Story:

We kick off with Michael’s fascinating entry into law enforcement and how serving alongside the Secret Service on presidential details taught him about mindset, leadership, and decision-making under pressure.

The Power of Preparation & Courage:

Michael explains how training for every contingency—not just in policing, but also as an Ironman athlete—trains the mind to respond rather than react, and how these lessons apply in everyday life.

How Endurance Sports Reshape Thinking:

From grueling physical challenges to powerful mental visualizations, Michael reveals how focusing on the present, harnessing higher vibrations of gratitude and love, and reframing setbacks became superpowers that carried him through extreme endurance events.

Defining Mindset and Breaking Old Patterns:

We dive into what “mindset” really means, why it’s foundational to success, and how shifting self-talk and noticing your thoughts are critical first steps to change.

Mindset Shifts as We Age:

Michael shares beautifully about the evolution of mindset in our later years—how we can become kinder to ourselves, focus less on differences, forgive ourselves more readily, and continue learning without shame.

Leadership, Organizations & Measurable Change:

We explore how intentionality, values-driven leadership, and genuine compassion can drastically improve not just individual performance, but organizational culture … and, yes, profits too!

The Secrets to Successful Mindset Shifts:

Michael gives actionable ways to catch negative self-talk and reset with powerful affirmations and consistency. He also draws on his own leap into consulting, encouraging listeners to notice both their longings and any lingering discontent—and to take action on what calls them.

1. Mindset is strategy, not fluff: Our thoughts shape emotions, drive actions, and ultimately create our results. Change your thinking to change your life.
2. Notice your self-talk: The first step to change is awareness—“notice what you’re noticing” and take action to re-pattern self-limiting beliefs.
3. Preparation brings peace: Planning for the predictable makes the preventable possible, giving you strength and confidence under pressure at any age.
4. Kindness begins with yourself: Especially as we age, give yourself grace, forgive mistakes, and never stop learning—much like a child learning to walk!
5. Follow your longings: Pay attention to that inner nudge toward something more—your desires are part of your soul’s instructions, not just selfish whims.
6. Intentional leadership raises everyone up: Organizational success flows from clear values, compassion, and support at every level.
7. Affirmations and repetition rewire self-image: You cannot outperform your belief in yourself, so feed your mind what you want to believe—consistently.

Are you ready to rethink what’s possible and create your own extraordinary third act? Start today by noticing your mindset. What do you long for? Where do you feel discontent? Give yourself permission to follow your curiosity and improve your self-talk.

We invite you to share this episode with a friend, subscribe, and leave us a review! For more wisdom on reinvention and thriving at any age, check out our website at lateboomers.us or listen to all our episodes at ewnpodcastnetwork.com.

And if Michael Graham’s story resonated with you, explore his work at mindsetmattersconsulting.com.

As we always say, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible.

— Cathy & Merry