Retirement Rebel

Hello, and welcome back to "Retirement Rebel." This is your host, Siobhan Daniels, ready to dive into a truly inspiring episode. Now, usually, our introductions set the scene for what's to come, and today's no different. We've covered three pivotal topics that inform our conversation and, without a doubt, will resonate with many.

Firstly, we broached the subject of physical and emotional rejuvenation through an activity as challenging yet reinvigorating as cold water swimming. Sara Barnes eloquently shares her voyage of discovery, having turned to the icy embrace of open waters after a surgery that tested her both physically and mentally. It's remarkable how embracing the chill of nature has not just been a path to recovery for Sara but a route to finding a community, a sense of self, and an enduring strength that defies expectations.

The second key subject is the power of a supportive community. It's a recurring theme that I hold dear on this podcast. Sara's story underscores the importance of women lifting each other up—especially us women who are navigating midlife and beyond. The fact that Sara's book, "Cold Fix," is selling like hotcakes indicates that the message of unity and shared strength, particularly among those who might feel left out by society, is getting through.

Lastly, we touch upon the idea of rewriting the script for our lives as we age. Whether it's overcoming ingrained fears or embarking on new adventures, we discuss how essential it is to trample those self-limiting beliefs and embrace a 'what's the worst that can happen' attitude. Sara embodies this rebellious spirit, not just in her day-to-day life but also through the empowering words she commits to the page. We both advocate for an outlook on ageing that is positive, proactive, and unapologetically spirited.

These subjects aren't just idle chatter. They're profound insights offering a lens into the way we, as a community of rebels, approach the autumn of our lives—not as a time to wind down, but as a new chapter to embark upon with a gung ho spirit and a warrior’s heart. Let's carry these themes throughout our conversation today and see where they lead us. Let's continue to challenge ageism together, embracing every splash of cold water and every twist in our path as we share this rebel life.

Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to the podcast for FREE on your podcast app of choice, or play it directly from the website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Key Points:

04:02 Sportive cycling events across rugged terrain, challenging fun.

09:23 Underestimated surgery recovery, needed help from family.

13:13 Understanding and overcoming feelings of darkness.

14:30 Kids organised a crucial, uplifting recovery picnic.

18:22 Discovering Instagram, global connections, and self-discovery.

22:07 Women's podcast promotes self-discovery and inspiration.

24:18 Agreement, action, and support for women's empowerment.

28:02 Middle-aged characters rediscover self-love through swimming.

33:13 Embracing ageing positively and sharing vibrant adventures.

33:56 Advice: Address physical limitations for active years.

39:44 Early rebel sneaks into backyard bathtub. Plasterer warned.

42:55 Discovering inner warrior, challenging ageism, enabling women.

43:56 Connect with us to keep the conversation.

Guest Info

Sara Barnes

From cycling hundreds of miles in the mountains to being unable to walk more than a few steps without pain, I have learnt the hard way how to grow old actively. From the moment I first immersed in cold water following major leg surgery in February 2017 I felt it begin to heal me and unlock my creative and romantic spirit.

I have wanted to be a published author since I had high tea with my Great Aunty Milly in Hove, Sussex and she pinned me down with her beady eyes and told me I would be a writer. Dreams do come true, even if you have to wait and keep trying for many years, like me. The Cold Fix, a narrative non fiction book was published when I was 60, then my debut novel, The Winter of Our Lives, when I was 61. Now, at the age of 62, although I'm not as mobile as I used to be I still have an adventurous spirit. My mantra is that you are never too old to follow your dreams, fall in love, skinny dip in a mountain stream or write another book.

I swam with Simon Reeves in an episode of his The Lakes on BBC2 in 2022 and chatted on BBC Woman's Hour about my personal challenge of swimming with 60 different people in 60 different places in my 60th year. I've recently downsized and moved in a small town after 30 years of rural isolation. My dream is to buy a tiny piece of land in Scotland or France. It has to have a stupendous view, access to good water and room to park my campervan, Gloria.

Links and Resources:

• "Cold Fix," a nonfiction book by Sara Barnes
• A community of like-minded cold water swimmers
• Sara's second book, "The Winter of Our Lives"
• Vertebrae Books (publisher)
• One More Chapter (publisher)
• @bumbleBarnes (Sara Barnes' Instagram handle)
• The Lake District (place mentioned where Sara lives)
• The Pyrenees (location where Sara cycled)

Quotes:

"I don't think I really appreciated how bad it was going to be. I think I still had that warrior mentality and I still thought, I'm invincible, I can do this."

"So if you can absorb that knowledge, get them to show you how to do something, then you can do it yourself."

"I found that there was this great big tribe, if you like, of equally crazy people who just love being in the cold water."

If you enjoy the show, then please consider giving us a review; it would mean the world to me and will help others make informed decisions to give the show a try. 

Head to Podchaser to leave your glowing review

Website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Instagram: Siobhan - Host

Instagram: Matt - Producer

Podcast Production: www.kult.media

Buy My Book: Retirement Rebel

Sign Up For My Newsletter

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Copyright 2026 Siobhan Daniels

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

Hello, my rebellious friends! I'm Siobhan Daniels, your guide and ally on this exhilarating journey we call "Retirement Rebel". In today’s episode, we're welcoming the incredible Jo Moseley, who, like many of us, has found her stride and voice in an age where society has often told us to slow down.

Our introduction paved the way for three key subjects that both Jo and I hold close to our hearts. 

Firstly, we're addressing the transformative power of adversity. Life threw Jo more curveballs than most—a divorce, the responsibility of being a single mum, and the heartache of losing her parents. It’s in the throes of these struggles that she discovered the cathartic joy of paddleboarding, which didn't just offer her solace but became a cornerstone of her life story. We discuss how diving into such passions can act as a conduit for personal renaissance, something Jo demonstrates so beautifully.

The second subject that both of us believe is essential is the rejection of society’s rather dated and, frankly, inaccurate perceptions of ageing. We refuse to accept that our latter years are just about decline. Jo speaks candidly about her adventures, her filmmaker and author pursuits, and even taking up skateboarding, approaching 60! She embodies the message that turning sixty is not the end of excitement but rather the start of new, daring chapters in our book of life. We both passionately advocate for a mindset where age is not a barrier but a badge of courage.

And thirdly, we delve into the importance of support and community. Jo and I, through our own channels, aim to repay the kindness and help we've received over our journeys. Our shared ethos is to provide a platform for voices like ours to be heard—voices that have often been marginalised or silenced by misconceptions about what ageing women are capable of. We're here to not only challenge those ideas but to create a space where people, regardless of their age, can come together, learn from one another, and embrace the rebels within.

Together, Jo and I aim to inspire, encourage, and sometimes gently nudge our listeners towards embracing their inner rebel and living life to its absolute fullest. So, buckle up, my friends. This episode is all about breaking moulds and celebrating the sheer, unadulterated joy of being alive at any age.

Don’t forget to follow / subscribe to the podcast for FREE on your podcast app of choice, or play it directly from the website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Key Points:

04:29 Riding a million meters, grief, reinvention.

07:46 Elderly need vibrant and practical products.

12:29 Defying age limits, inspiring women to succeed.

16:19 Encouraging women to try new activities. Leadership.

19:14 Short, precious life. Pursue dreams and skateboard goals.

22:41 Finding joy and calm in everyday moments.

24:13 Encourages others and pays back kindness received.

29:48 Celebrating life, wisdom, and natural ageing gracefully.

31:06 Ageism perpetuates negative attitudes towards growing older.

34:16 Intergenerational dialogue to bridge understanding gaps.

39:10 Unexpected encounter while leaving a skateboard shop at Christmas.

41:23 Joy and inspiration at 60.

Guest Info

Jo Moseley is a dynamic bestselling author, award-winning filmmaker, engaging speaker, podcaster, and creative freelancer. Celebrated for her insights into aging gracefully, adventure, solo travel, and making meaningful changes, Jo's work radiates positivity and empowerment. Her debut bestselling book, "Stand Up Paddleboarding in Great Britain," has inspired countless individuals to explore the UK's waters.

Beyond writing, Jo crafts authentic, impactful campaigns for clients like Inghams Walking and Lovat Parks, sharing their stories with creativity and passion. Her speaking engagements span from adventure festivals to the Royal Geographic Society, captivating audiences with her stories of courage and fresh starts.

Jo's filmmaking prowess is showcased in her award-winning films "Found at Sea" and "Finding Joy," highlighting the joy and wellness the outdoors brings. Her story is further celebrated in "Brave Enough - A Journey Home to Joy," a film by Frit Tam.

Committed to philanthropy, Jo has embarked on various challenges, including a 162-mile paddle boarding journey for charity and climbing "Everest" in her backyard for the Skipton Foodbank. As an ambassador for Seaful Charity and Patron of The National Women's Register, she's a beacon of hope, advocating that it's never too late for adventure or to make a difference.

Discover more about Jo's adventures and projects at https://www.jomoseley.com/, where she continues to share her belief in the power of embracing life's journeys, regardless of age.

Links and Resources:

• Jo Moseley's book on paddleboarding
• Jo Moseley's upcoming book about the Lake District
• Online screenings of Jo Moseley and Frit Tam's film
• Jo Social Media

Quotes:

 "Keep your mouth shut. You don't need to comment on a woman's ability to do something. It's not a requirement."

 "I'm a bit afraid and I'm going to do it anyway, and I'm just going to see how it goes and test my limits and go out of my comfort zone."

 "Have I done enough? Have I contributed enough? Have I failed myself? Have I failed my family? You think of all these questions and so rather than just say, oh, it's all going to be fine, and dismissing any questions, it's like you want to explore them and say, I'm not the only one that wakes up and thinks, damn, I never became an astronaut."

If you enjoy the show, then please consider giving us a review; it would mean the world to me and will help others make informed decisions to give the show a try. 

Head to Podchaser to leave your glowing review

Website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Instagram: Siobhan - Host

Instagram: Matt - Producer

Podcast Production: www.kult.media

Buy My Book: Retirement Rebel

Sign Up For My Newsletter

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Copyright 2026 Siobhan Daniels

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

Hello, retirement rebels! It's Siobhan Daniels here, your guide to redefining the narrative of ageing and embracing life beyond traditional retirement expectations.

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of conversing with the inspiring Barbara Scully, a strong advocate for challenging ageist stereotypes and reshaping societal perceptions about women in their 60s and beyond. Together, we delved into three key subjects that lay at the heart of our discussion.

Firstly, we explored the societal challenges faced by women in their late 50s and approaching 60, specifically in the workplace. We shed light on the undervaluation and voicelessness often experienced due to assumptions about retirement age and changing pension eligibility. Barbara shared powerful insights into the impact of ageism and sexism, touching upon the fear that women have of not being taken seriously if they choose to embrace their natural appearance, like letting their hair go grey. This led us into an engaging conversation about the importance of individual choice and not succumbing to societal pressures, especially when it comes to appearance and lifestyle decisions.

The second key subject revolved around defying age-related stereotypes and celebrating the beauty of ageing. Barbara and I passionately discussed the significance of embracing one's age and making choices that align with personal preferences, reframing the narrative from one of limitation to one of liberation. We collectively expressed the belief that getting older can bring about freedom, confidence, and the opportunity to pursue long-postponed dreams, all while challenging the societal norms and beliefs that attempt to limit this stage of life.

Finally, we delved into the courageous and rebellious spirit that ignites within us as we embrace life beyond traditional expectations. Barbara bravely shared her own experience of doing a stand-up comedy gig in Dublin, despite feeling terrified. We explored the transformative power of doing things that intimidate and scare us, ultimately finding fulfilment and growth in the process.

So, retirement rebels, join me in celebrating individual choices, defying age-related stereotypes, and embracing the rebellious spirit within us as we journey through the later years of life. The stage is set for a vibrant conversation that challenges norms and celebrates the wisdom and power of older women. Stay tuned for the rest of this episode, where we delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Barbara's insights, experiences, and rebellious spirit.

Remember, the rebel is within you!

Don’t forget to follow / subscribe to the podcast for FREE on your podcast app of choice, or play it directly from the website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Key Points:

03:14 "Empowerment through menopause and age positivity book."

08:30 Elderly and female stereotypes impact society negatively.

11:17 Age can bring confidence and bravery for women.

13:55 Older women hold valuable wisdom from experience.

17:31 Choosing to embrace grey hair is empowering.

22:02 Rediscovering freedom and dreams in later life.

24:59 Empower older women through relatable positive messages.

26:37 Social media gives voice to women of all ages.

29:41 Embrace independence, pursue goals, leave memorable legacy.

34:38 As you age, look after your health.

36:06 Learn about yourself, plan for happiness, enjoy life.

40:08 Encouraging women to age better, embracing self-worth.

Guest Info

Barbara Scully, a Dublin-based writer and broadcaster, has become a prominent voice in Ireland's media landscape. Her insightful opinion pieces and features are regularly published in Ireland's national press and magazines, and she's a familiar presence on both television and radio.

Barbara's diverse 'Portfolio Career' evolved accidentally, with past roles including Public Relations and Fundraising Manager for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, a word-processing teacher, and a decade-long stint in the travel industry during the 80s. She also took a ten-year hiatus from her paid career to focus on family life, a period she recalls as blissful.

Married to photographer Paul Sherwood, Barbara is a mother to three daughters and a grandmother to two. Her household in the Dublin suburb of Dun Laoghaire is bustling with a large bouncy dog, four cats, and even a resident fox in the garden.

Barbara's daily essentials for a balanced life include good coffee (specifically a flat white), regular indulgence in large bubble baths, daily walks or cycle rides with her dog, frequent trips to West Cork, a stack of books for her reading pleasure, and gin (sans ice). Discover more about her and her work at www.barbarascully.com.

Links and Resources:

• Book Wise Up, Wisdom, Power and the Older Woman" by Barbara Scully
• Instagram https://www.instagram.com/barbarascully111/
• X/Twitter https://twitter.com/barbarascully

Quotes:

 "We see older people as a burden on society and as passive kind of contributors to society. But then, obviously, on top of that, general ageism, women then have the sexism, which actually gets worse very often as you get older."

"I'm a huge believer in the power of older women. You will have gained wisdom in each of your decades of your life. Wisdom purely comes from our lived experience."

"Social media gets a bad rap a lot of the times, but social media has helped women to get a voice."

If you enjoy the show, then please consider giving us a review; it would mean the world to me and will help others make informed decisions to give the show a try. 

Head to Podchaser to leave your glowing review

Website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Instagram: Siobhan - Host

Instagram: Matt - Producer

Podcast Production: www.kult.media

Buy My Book: Retirement Rebel

Sign Up For My Newsletter

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Copyright 2026 Siobhan Daniels

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

Hello, Retirement Rebels! Today's episode is bound to ignite your rebellious spirit and challenge the ageist norms that have crept into our culture. As I sat down with Ashton Applewhite, we delved into three pivotal topics that are sure to resonate with each and every one of you.

Firstly, we explored the U-curve of happiness, delving into the fascinating phenomenon that indicates people are happiest in their childhood and later in life but grapple with challenges during midlife. This opens up a profound discussion about the perception of happiness at different stages of life, encouraging us to seek joy and fulfilment regardless of our age.

Secondly, we tackled ageism in the workplace, a pervasive issue that affects the careers of older individuals. From concerns about mandatory retirement to biases against older workers, we're looking at ways to address these barriers and champion a culture of inclusivity, respect, and opportunity for everyone.

Lastly, we delved into the significance of creating a retirement rebel community that challenges ageist attitudes and champions the wisdom and power of older women. I feel motivated to take the lead in challenging stereotypes and promoting a more welcoming and supportive world for retirement rebels everywhere as a result of our insightful conversation with Ashton Applewhite.

Let's band together as Retirement Rebels and dive into this empowering discussion that promises to pave the way for a future that celebrates the beauty and power of ageing.

Dont forget to follow / subscribe to the podcast for FREE on your podcast app of choice or play it directly from the website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Key Points:

• 00:00 Age denial, human nature, old age misconceptions.
• 05:22 Regret about book rights, seeking review attention.
• 08:02 Ageism universal, powerful, and important prejudice.
• 09:13 Comparing prejudices is a losing battle.
• 12:25 Age should not define our relationships or experiences.
• 16:12 Midlife can bring increased responsibilities and challenges.
• 19:04 Combat ageism through cultural change and education.
• 23:12 Age not a reliable measure in healthcare.
• 25:12 Increasing representation of older voices, especially women.
• 28:46 Ageing presents challenges beyond our control, but...
• 33:57 Privileged bias in older people's sense of purpose.
• 34:50 Embracing ageing brings welcome changes and wisdom.
• 38:28 The World Health Organisation launched campaign combating ageism.
• 41:34 Spending time with mixed-age groups is enlightening.
• 45:58 Change your thinking, change the world.
• 48:02 The pandemic brought older women together, seeking liberation.
• 52:57 Reflecting on conversation with Ashton Applewhite, addressing ageism.
• 53:54 Creating retirement rebel community and transforming societal attitudes.

Guest Info

Ashton Applewhite, an accomplished writer and dedicated activist, began her journey with an unexpected bestseller, "Truly Tasteless Jokes." She found her true passion in tackling social issues, notably with her groundbreaking book, "Cutting Loose: Why Women Who End Their Marriages Do So Well." This work led Ashton to influential roles in the Council on Contemporary Families and significant activist movements. During her 17-year tenure at the American Museum of Natural History, she covered a wide array of topics before shifting to full-time activism in 2017.

Ashton's focus on combating ageism is highlighted in her influential blog and book, "This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism." Her efforts to change how people view aging have received recognition from prominent media outlets and organizations like the UN, including a standing ovation at TED 2017. In 2018, she co-founded the Old School Anti-Ageism Clearinghouse, committing to a vision of a world where age is not a barrier to living well. More about her work can be found at www.thischairrocks.com.

Links and Resources:

• Old School Ageism Clearinghouse
• "This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism" by Ashton Applewhite
• Centre for Ageing Better
• "Wise Up" by Barbara Scully
• Ashton Applewhite's website for further resources

Quotes:

 "Ageism is the one prejudice that every human encounters."

"I mean, you often see it in terms of older women giving fewer f's, right? And to be liberated from what the world thinks of you, if that opinion is that you were never good enough, thin enough, blonde enough, perky enough, is massively liberating."

"The first step for anyone is to examine our own attitudes towards age and ageing, because we can't do anything. Most bias is unconscious, and we can't do anything about it if we're not aware of it."

If you enjoy the show, then please consider giving us a review; it would mean the world to me and will help others make informed decisions to give the show a try. 

Head to Podchaser to leave your glowing review.

Website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Instagram: Siobhan - Host

Instagram: Matt - Producer

Podcast Production: www.kult.media

Buy My Book: Retirement Rebel

Sign Up For My Newsletter

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Copyright 2026 Siobhan Daniels

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

Welcome to Retirement Rebel, the podcast that challenges the status quo of ageing and redefines what it means to live boldly after 60.

In this episode, we delve into the personal journey of our tenacious host, Siobhan Daniels, as she shares her own experiences and motivations for becoming a Retirement Rebel.

We'll explore the raw truths that led her to embark on this rebellious path and the transformative power that comes with breaking free from societal expectations.

Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, empowerment, and inspiration and prove that life after 60 is about living authentically, vibrantly, and without bounds.

Website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Instagram: Siobhan - Host

Instagram: Matt - Producer

Podcast Production: www.kult.media

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Copyright 2026 Siobhan Daniels

L4fSeVzZiGLRk8POtPQC

Mentioned in this episode:

🎵 Discover All About the Music with composer Neil Brand!

Discover new music and rediscover old favourites as Neil and his famous guests — including Mark Kermode, Annika Rice, Bruno Tonioli, and Keith Primer Jones — explore the songs that have shaped their lives. With Neil at the piano, each episode uncovers what makes this music so powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

Hello there!

I'm Siobhan Daniels, and I’d like to introduce you to my podcast, 'Retirement Rebel: Life After 60.' This isn't just any podcast; it's a journey, an exploration, and a rebellion against the ordinary.

In my late fifties, life threw its curves at me. I faced personal loss, battled menopause, and struggled with the isolating world of journalism. At a crossroads, I chose the path less travelled. I embraced my inner rebel, gave up my home, and hit the road in a motorhome. It was the start of a journey to rediscover joy, purpose, and myself.

But my story is just the beginning. 'Retirement Rebel: Life After 60' is about going further and meeting incredible people who've also earned the title 'Retirement Rebel.' Together, we're challenging the stereotypes of ageing and retirement.

What will we discover? Passions reignited in later life, struggles turned into triumphs, and the endless possibilities that come when you refuse to be defined by age. We'll explore how ageist attitudes can be transformed and share those exhilarating moments of rebellion that redefine what it means to grow older.

This podcast is for anyone who's ever felt sidelined by their age, who yearns for more than just a tranquil retirement. It's for those who believe, as I do, that the most vibrant chapters of our lives are still to be written.

You can listen on all major podcast platforms, like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. 

Share in our stories, contribute your own, and become part of a movement. Together, let's embark on this journey with 'Retirement Rebel: Life After 60' and prove that life after sixty is not about ageing; it's about living with audacity, zest, and authenticity.

Website: www.retirementrebel.co.uk

Instagram: Siobhan - Host

Instagram: Matt - Producer

Podcast Production: www.kult.media

This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free.

Copyright 2026 Siobhan Daniels

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