Dr Alice MacKinnon, a Doctor of Adult Education and longtime storyteller, explains why the stories we choose to share in our elder years become some of the most powerful tools for connection, healing, and wisdom.

We explore:

• Why wisdom stories, not outrage, are what the world is starving for
• How reclaiming the matriarchal voice is cultural repair
• Why deep listening creates real safety and generational healing

Alice and Jennifer offer a simple call to action:

Share a story that matters, and make space for another woman to do the same.

Your story is medicine. It’s time to tell it.

The power of stories that matter @ 0:01

Jennifer and Alice discuss the importance of sharing stories that hold wisdom, guidance, and inspiration, in contrast to the sensationalism and anger that often dominates online and media narratives. They emphasize the need to reclaim the art of storytelling, especially among women and elders, as a way to shape a more compassionate, sustainable, and regenerative future.

Reclaiming the matriarchal voice @ 6:30

Alice explains how the patriarchal system has historically suppressed the voices of women, especially older women, and the critical need for those voices to be heard. She contrasts the extractive, competitive mindset of the patriarchy with the collaborative, nurturing approach of the matriarchy, and the importance of women coming together to share their stories and wisdom.

The power of listening and creating safe spaces @ 24:57

Jennifer and Alice discuss the importance of deep listening and creating safe spaces for women to share their stories. They share an example of a community meeting where the women's stories were finally heard by the men, leading to a breakthrough in understanding. They emphasize the need to practice listening skills and discernment to ensure stories are shared in appropriate contexts.

Sharing stories for healing and hope @ 35:39

Alice and Jennifer emphasise the urgent need for women to share their stories of wisdom, healing, and hope, as a counterpoint to the anger and division prevalent in media and society. They discuss strategies for women to start sharing stories with trusted friends and in small groups, and highlight the power of collective storytelling to shape a better future.

Sharing stories that matter @ 1:05:18

Jennifer and Alice issue a call to action for listeners to share this podcast episode with a friend and start a monthly story-sharing practice. They also promote their own "Stories That Matter" community, which provides a supportive space for women to learn the art of storytelling and deep listening.

Sharing Stories That Matter

https://jenniferjefferies.com/sstm-program/

What started as a meme has become a muzzle. The word Karen is now used to shame women into silence, to make us doubt our right to speak up.

In this raw, no-BS episode, Jennifer calls out how this label keeps women small, and how changing our self-talk, language, and even scent rituals can help us reclaim power from the inside out.

It’s time to retire the mockery and rise as women who use our voices, unapologetically, fiercely, and together.

The problem with the "Karen" label @ 0:00

Jennifer discusses how the term "Karen" has evolved from describing entitled behavior to becoming a way to mock and silence women who speak up or challenge the status quo. She argues that this reinforces the idea that there is a "right" and "wrong" way for women to use their voices, and that this undermines women's collective confidence and empowerment.

The power of our self-talk @ 4:29

Jennifer emphasizes how the words we use, even in casual self-deprecation, can have a profound impact on our physiology and self-perception. She encourages reframing negative self-talk with more empowering language, as our bodies and minds respond to the stories we tell ourselves.

Aromatherapy and affirmations as tools @ 8:31

Jennifer discusses how essential oils and affirmations can be used together to help shift our emotional state and self-perception. She recommends specific oils like geranium, rose, frankincense, and sweet orange to address issues like self-judgment, emotional walls, and lack of joy.

Breaking the cycle of self-mockery @ 10:30

Jennifer calls on women to stop participating in the "casual cruelty" of mocking themselves and other women, as this reinforces the idea that women should stay small and quiet. She encourages choosing kinder, more empowering language, as this can help heal something ancient within us and pave the way for women to speak their truth unapologetically.

Recap and key message @ 11:57

Jennifer concludes by emphasizing that when women use their voices, it makes it safer for others to do the same. She reframes the term "Karen" as a "legendary woman who's strong enough to use her voice unapologetically," and states that this is how women will rise - one unapologetic truth at a time.

She packed the caravan, took the dog, and didn’t ask for permission. Anne Martin chose aliveness after loss. After the death of her husband, she listened to the quiet voice that said now and travelled Australia solo with her dog Rosie - not to prove anything, but to live.

Confidence didn’t come before the journey. It grew because of it. Anne is a rock and roll dancer, teacher, and founder of Tiny Tappers, a dance group for children with special needs where belonging matters more than perfection.

This episode is about trusting yourself, choosing joy, and stepping forward when life changes shape. Grounded. Brave. Fully alive.

Introductions and Casual Conversation @ 0:00

Jennifer and Anne engage in casual conversation as they set up and test the recording equipment. They discuss the purpose of the meeting, which is for an informal chat, and ensure the technical aspects are working properly.

Anne's Solo Caravan Adventure @ 5:00

After the passing of her husband, Anne decided to fulfill their dream of traveling to New South Wales. Despite initial hesitation, she listened to her intuition and set out on a solo road trip with her dog Rosie. Anne shares how she overcame her fears, learned new skills, and found a sense of freedom and confidence through the journey.

The Impact of Anne's Story @ 9:11

Anne's story of solo travel was featured in a local publication, inspiring other women to embark on similar adventures. She shares how she creatively addressed safety concerns, like using a makeshift "passenger" in the car, which ended up resonating with readers and encouraging more women to explore solo travel.

The Joys of Dancing @ 20:26

Anne discusses her lifelong passion for dancing, which she shared with her late husband. She explains how dancing has been a source of joy, confidence, and community for her, and how she now teaches dance classes with her new partner, Trevor. Jennifer and Anne reflect on the physical, mental, and social benefits of dancing.

Founding Tiny Tappers @ 25:35

Anne shares her experience of founding the Tiny Tappers dance group for children with special needs in Townsville. She describes how she initially struggled to adapt her teaching approach, but ultimately found great fulfillment in creating a space for the children to express themselves through music and movement.

Advice for Women Seeking Courage @ 32:06

Anne encourages women who may be doubting themselves to listen to their intuition and take the first step, even if it feels risky. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief and not overthinking, and shares how her own journey has taught her to trust her gut and embrace new experiences.

Contact Anne Martin

https://www.borderrockers.com/

https://www.facebook.com/borderrockers

https://www.instagram.com/border_rockers/

The art of listening deeply. Professor Jackie Huggins AM FAHA is one of Australia’s most respected elders, and this is a conversation that asks us to slow down and listen properly. A proud Bidjara and Birri Gubba Juru woman, she is an author, historian, and lifelong advocate whose work has shaped national conversations on truth-telling, reconciliation, and Indigenous women’s voices. As co-author of Auntie Rita and a contributor to landmark national inquiries, Jackie speaks with history, dignity, and lived wisdom about reconciliation as unfinished generational work, the necessity of deep listening and action from non-Indigenous Australia, the responsibility and honour of elderhood, mentoring younger activists, and the ongoing fight for justice, treaty, and truth-telling. This is not a conversation to skim - it’s one to sit with, deeply.

Lifelong commitment to reconciliation @ 0:00

Jackie Huggins discusses her 30-year experience working in reconciliation, inspired by her mother's work. She sees reconciliation as unfinished business that will continue for generations, as the country must acknowledge the lies and truths of its history.

The importance of deep listening @ 6:58

Jackie emphasizes the need for deep listening and action from non-Indigenous Australians to truly address the country's history and move forward. She believes Indigenous voices and solutions are often dismissed or not taken seriously.

Mentoring the next generation @ 25:37

In the later stages of her career, Jackie focuses on mentoring young Indigenous activists and campaigners, passing on her wisdom and experience to empower the next generation to continue the fight for justice and self-determination.

The role of Indigenous elders @ 48:20

Jackie discusses the respected position of Indigenous elders in her community, and how she has grown into that role, using her voice to guide and correct younger community members. She sees this as a great honor and responsibility.

Advice for the next generation @ 1:00:22

Jackie's key advice to younger women, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, is to never give up, to stay true to themselves, and to keep fighting for justice and a better future, even in the face of challenges and obstacles.

Ongoing fight for treaty and truth-telling @ 1:04:00

Jackie remains hopeful that the Uluru Statement from the Heart will eventually lead to treaty and truth-telling processes, despite current setbacks. She believes the fight will continue, with younger generations carrying it forward.

Professor Jackie Huggins Books

https://www.uqp.com.au/books/sister-girl-reflections-on-tiddaism-identity-and-reconciliation

https://shop.aiatsis.gov.au/products/auntie-rita-revised-edition

Catherine McGregor AM is one of Australia’s sharpest strategic minds, a decorated military officer, war historian, and fearless public intellectual. With over three decades of operational service across the Army and Air Force, including command in Timor-Leste, she has advised Chiefs of the Army, shaped national defence thinking, and earned the Order of Australia.

Today, she brings that same clarity and courage to the national conversation as a writer and broadcaster. Incisive, uncompromising, and impossible to ignore.

Introductions and background | 0:00
Jennifer introduces Catherine McGregor, a decorated military officer, war historian, and public intellectual. Catherine shares how she was influenced by the writings of Carl Jung and his concept of the “afternoon of life,” a time of introspection and personal growth in later adulthood.

Reflecting on regrets and making peace | 2:16
Catherine discusses her regrets and her efforts to make peace with them as she enters the “afternoon” of her life. She shares her disappointment, as a young man, at having missed the opportunity to serve in the Vietnam War, like many of her peers.

Transitioning in the military | 16:43

Catherine reflects on her experience transitioning while serving in the military, noting that it paradoxically provided the safest environment for her to do so. She shares how the military supported her through the process, in contrast to the discrimination she has faced in other contexts.

Passion for cricket and writing | 27:13
Catherine discusses her lifelong love of cricket, which has been a constant in her life, even through difficult periods. She expresses a desire to write a book, though she has struggled with the process, and shares her admiration for the writing of William Faulkner.

Advocating for the trans community | 53:14
Catherine expresses gratitude for being invited to speak on a women’s podcast and voices concern about the current backlash against the trans community in Australia. She shares her desire to use her platform and legal training to support and advocate for vulnerable trans people.

Finding joy in life | 1:00:57
Catherine shares the sources of joy in her life, including her dog, music, poetry, and meaningful connections with friends. She reflects on the importance of self-acceptance and not striving for perfection.

How to follow Catherine
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-mcgregor-344b14355/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cate.mcgregor.7

Connect With Jennifer Jefferies

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

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

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.jenniferjefferies.com⁠

Today’s Wise Woman is internationally acclaimed author Anna Funder — the brilliant mind behind Stasiland, All That I Am, and Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life.

In this powerful conversation, we dive into women, work, and the invisible labour that keeps the world turning. Anna shares how her background in human rights shaped her writing, why telling women’s untold stories matters, and what resistance looks like — on the page and in life.

It’s a deep, gutsy chat about truth, courage, and reclaiming the narratives history tried to erase.

Women's historical contributions @ 0:02

Anna discusses how women's accomplishments throughout history have often been overlooked or erased, using examples from art history and the lives of women activists. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and reclaiming this lost history, rather than reinventing the wheel each generation.

The invisible labor of women @ 1:19

Anna explains how women's essential work of care, organization, and emotional support for families and communities is often devalued and taken for granted. She argues this work should be recognized as valuable and not solely defined as a woman's duty.

Conscience and truth-telling in writing @ 2:51

Anna describes how her conscience and commitment to truth-telling guide her creative process as a writer. She discusses the backlash she has faced for revealing uncomfortable truths, and encourages other women to write their stories despite the risks.

Resisting patriarchy through storytelling @ 3:46

Jennifer and Anna discuss how women's stories and voices can be a powerful form of resistance against patriarchal systems. They emphasize the importance of women supporting each other and using their platforms to amplify marginalized perspectives.

Advice for the next generation @ 48:52

In closing, Anna offers words of encouragement for young women writers and thinkers, advising them to trust their voices and not be deterred by self-doubt or fear of backlash.

Connect with Anna Funder

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

Website: https://www.annafunder.com/

Connect With Jennifer Jefferies

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

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

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠

Website: https://www.jenniferjefferies.com

Bold isn’t loud, it’s grounded. Jennifer reframes boldness as a gentle, steady presence rooted in truth, not theatrics. Drawing on cross-cultural insights and the science of psychological safety and self-compassion, she reveals why calm leaders create braver teams. With simple, Bare-Arse-Minimum practices, she shows how soft boundaries, steadiness, and compassionate ambition build real courage. Gentle boldness isn’t weakness, it's power done wisely.

Redefining boldness as gentle presence @ 0:00

Jennifer discusses how boldness is often misunderstood as loud, forceful behavior, when in reality true boldness can be quiet, grounded, and gentle. She shares insights from her experiences in China and Australia that helped her reframe her understanding of boldness.

The science behind gentle boldness @ 5:28

Jennifer explores research on psychological safety and self-compassion, which shows that creating environments of trust and treating ourselves kindly are key to cultivating courage and innovation. She explains how this scientific evidence aligns with the wisdom of "wise women" and the natural resilience of trees.

Practical tips for embodying gentle boldness @ 13:07

Jennifer provides several actionable suggestions for how leaders can apply the principles of gentle boldness, including leading with steadiness rather than spectacle, responding calmly to mistakes, being compassionate in ambition, protecting recovery time, and setting soft boundaries. She emphasizes that small, consistent steps can compound into greater courage and authenticity.

Recap: Embracing your true, grounded self @ 17:33

Jennifer concludes by encouraging the listener to embrace their own gentle boldness, rooting themselves in their values and truth rather than trying to conform to external expectations of what it means to be "bold." She emphasizes that the boldest act is simply being your authentic self.

Connect With Jennifer Jefferies

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/

For Jin Hee, saying “no” isn’t selfish, it’s the foundation of real self-care. After studying naturopathy and aromatherapy in Australia, she returned to Korea as a pioneer, blending Western personalised care with Korean traditions and later developing MannaTouch™ and Brown Iris Kinesthetic Aromatherapy Point Therapy.

She opens up about the emotional load Korean women carry, the loss of traditional practices, and how boundaries saved her from burnout. Now leading IAA Korea and representing AIA USA, she shares the wisdom she wishes she’d known earlier: be less afraid and choose yourself sooner.

Jinhee's background and pioneering work in Korea @ 0:00

Jinhee is a Korean naturopath and aromatherapist who studied in Australia for 30 years. She has been a trailblazer in bringing natural therapies and aromatherapy to Korea, and is the president of the International Aromatherapy Association in Korea as well as the international representative for the Alliance of International Aromatherapists in the USA.

Challenges of introducing Western natural therapies in Korea @ 11:01

Jinhee discussed the differences between the Western and Korean approaches to natural medicine, noting that in Korea there is more of a focus on constitution and standardized treatments, versus the more personalized Western approach. This made it challenging to introduce natural therapies in Korea initially.

The heavy burden on Korean women @ 15:17

Jinhee shared how in Korean culture, women are expected to take on immense family responsibilities, caring for their immediate and extended families. This can lead to women suppressing their emotions and neglecting their own health, as they feel guilty prioritizing themselves.

The decline of traditional Korean practices @ 43:08

Jinhee lamented the decline of traditional Korean practices like making large batches of kimchi, as younger generations move away from these time-honored customs in favor of more Western-influenced lifestyles and eating habits. This represents a cultural shift that concerns Jinhee.

Jinhee's personal journey of learning to say "no" @ 55:01

Jinhee shared how it took her years to learn to say "no" and prioritize her own self-care, as it went against the cultural expectations placed on Korean women. This was a difficult but important lesson that allowed her to avoid burnout.

Advice for her younger self @ 57:20

If Jinhee could go back in time, she would advise her younger self to be less afraid and try more new things, rather than feeling constrained by cultural expectations.

Contact Jin Hee

https://www.aromaiaa.org/

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

Connect With Jennifer Jefferies

Facebook:

⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠

Instagram:

⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠

LinkedIn:

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠

YouTube:

⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠

You’d think after decades of speaking to rooms full of people, I’d be bulletproof.
But standing on that TED red dot — my knees shook. My heart was in my throat. My inner critic was loud:
“Who are you to say this?”
“Don’t mess it up.”
And my wise woman whispered back: “Do it scared.”

Fear isn’t weakness. It’s proof you care. It means what you’re about to do matters. That day, fear became my teacher.

It taught me that courage doesn’t arrive neatly wrapped. It shows up as shaking hands, sweaty palms, and a pounding heart that still says go anyway.

It taught me that when you chase comfort, you shrink. But when you face fear, you grow into the version of yourself you’ve been waiting for.

And it reminded me that fear doesn’t disappear when you hit midlife — it just changes shape. It’s not about climbing mountains anymore; it’s about being seen, being heard, being real.

So next time fear shows up, don’t wait for it to leave.Grab it by the hand and take it with you.Because the magic isn’t on the other side of fear — it’s through it.

Here are a few lessons I learned that might help youwhen life hands you that next opportunity to stretch and grow:

• Growth feels messy, not magical. The wobble, the nerves, the “what-am-I-doing?” moments, I shook, I cried and I stood my ground, they are the real signs you’re expanding.
• Confidence comes after courage. We don’t wait to feel ready, we do the thing, and then the courage turns into confidence.
• Surrender beats control. When we trust ourselves and the process, everything starts to flow instead of force.
• Being seen is part of healing. Letting ourselves be visible, imperfect and real, opens the door for others to do the same.
• Integration is the real growth. The stretch is one thing, but how we embody what we’ve learned after? That’s where the magic lands.

And yes, I still had my secret weapon that day: a few drops of frankincense and bergamot in my palms. I inhaled, grounded, and remembered — I’ve got this.

So here’s my bare-arse-minimum reminder for you, wise woman:You can be scared. You can shake. You can still rise.
Do it anyway.

Connect With Jennifer Jefferies

Facebook:

⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠⁠

Instagram:

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠⁠

LinkedIn:

⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠⁠

YouTube:

⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠⁠

In a world full of noise, hype, and broken promises, the brands that last are the ones that create experiences people actually feel. And no one understands that better than Neen James.

For over two decades, Neen has helped global icons stand out by doing something deceptively simple and incredibly powerful, prioritising focus, presence, and real human connection. Her research into the luxury mindset, the only study of its kind, flips the idea of luxury on its head. It’s not about price tags or polish. It’s about how people are made to feel long after the moment has passed.

In this conversation, Neen and Jennifer reconnect after nearly 20 years and dive into the cultural shifts Neen experienced moving from Australia to the US, what it takes to start over from scratch, and how communication changes across cultures. Neen unpacks her four luxury mindsets, shares hard-earned wisdom for women finding their voice in the second half of life, and reflects on the legacy she’s building through her new book, Exceptional Experiences.

This is a conversation about attention, courage, connection, and why unforgettable experiences are never accidental.

Reconnecting After 20 Years @ 0:00

Jennifer and Neen catch up after not seeing each other in person for around 20 years. They reminisce about their past interactions, including Neen's speaking event where Jennifer received a standing ovation, which was a new experience for the Australian.

Cultural Differences Between Australia and the US @ 3:49

Neen discusses the significant cultural differences she experienced when moving from Australia to the US, particularly around work ethic, individualism vs. collectivism, and how praise and accomplishments are expressed. She highlights how she had to adapt her communication style to be better understood.

Neen's Journey to the US @ 7:32

Neen shares the story of how she and her husband ended up moving from Australia to the US, initially considering a move to Asia before ultimately being invited to the US. She describes the challenges of starting over in a new country and building a network from scratch.

Defining Luxury and the Four Luxury Mindsets @ 20:24

Neen explains her personal definition of luxury, which is centered around human connection and experiences rather than material possessions. She discusses the four luxury mindsets she identified through research - the reluctant and removed, the pro-prioritizer, the confident and content, and the luxury lover.

Empowering Women to Find Their Voice @ 30:30

Neen provides advice for women, especially those in the second half of their careers, on how to build confidence, speak up, and make a meaningful impact. She emphasizes the importance of being kind to oneself and using one's voice and experience to help others.

Neen's Legacy and Advice for the Future @ 39:59

Neen reflects on how her work, including the book "Exceptional Experiences", is part of her legacy and mission to make a positive impact. She encourages women to find ways to give back and mentor others, using their wisdom and experience to make a difference.

How to Follow and Contact Neen James

Website: https://neenjames.com/

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/neenjames/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenjames/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AussieNeen

Connect With Jennifer Jefferies

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

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

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠⁠