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In this week’s episode of Her Next Act, host Joan Paul welcomes Lydia Dean, humanitarian, author, and co-founder of GoPhilanthropic Foundation and Ethos Journeys. Lydia shares her extraordinary path from building a picture-perfect life in Florida to letting it all go in search of meaning, purpose, and authenticity.

What begins as a conversation about courage quickly expands into a deeply human story about listening to the voice within, embracing discomfort, and rediscovering the light that exists inside each of us. Lydia opens up about the moment she realized that “having it all” wasn’t enough; the house, the business, the family and then the painful unraveling that followed when she dared to ask "Now what?"

From moving her family to Provence, to creating a global philanthropic travel company that connected everyday travelers with grassroots changemakers, Lydia shares how travel became both a classroom and a catalyst for awakening. She also discusses her latest project, Ethos Journeys, and how the Camino pilgrimage reignited her creative spirit and led her to begin writing her third book.

Through honest conversation, Joan and Lydia explore what it means to balance being and doing, how privilege and purpose intersect, and why small, simple acts of love and curiosity can ripple out to change the world.

Whether you’re navigating midlife transitions, re-examining success, or simply longing for something more, this episode will inspire you to pause, listen, and trust the quiet call of your own inner knowing.

Episode Highlights

• The moment Lydia realized she was living the dream, but not her dream
• Navigating marriage, motherhood, and the calling of her purpose
• The “cracking open” that led her to question everything
• Moving to Provence and learning the art of simplicity
• How GoPhilanthropic redefined global connection and contribution
• The burnout, the body’s wisdom, and learning to just be
• Why small, heartfelt actions create lasting impact
• The Camino and awakening to the light within

This episode is a beautiful reminder that the path to fulfillment isn’t about doing more it’s about the journey to who you are.

Books Mentioned:
Jumping the Picket Fence
Light Through the Cracks

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