In this heartfelt episode, Stephanie sits down with Ann Plucinak, who shares her journey through grief, career changes, and personal growth as she navigated the challenging waters of midlife. Ann's story begins with the sudden loss of her father, a pivotal moment that set her on a path of self-discovery and healing. Through her narrative, listeners will find a story of resilience, the power of therapy, and the importance of embracing life's absurdities.

Episode Highlights: 

• Ann recounts the sudden career move that took her and her husband from New Hampshire to Cleveland, setting the stage for a series of life-altering events.
• The emotional impact of losing her father unexpectedly and how it plunged her into a deep grief that she worked through with the help of a perceptive therapist.
• Ann's struggle with finding a new job in Cleveland, dealing with her identity tied closely to her career, and how she eventually found a role that perfectly blended her skills and passions.
• The unique way Ann chose to celebrate her 40th birthday with a whimsical and ridiculous cake smash photo shoot, symbolizing a reclaiming of joy and the start of a new chapter.
• How Ann feels her father’s presence in small, meaningful moments, particularly through the appearance of cardinals, providing comfort and a sense of ongoing connection.

Ann beautifully illustrates how the intertwining of joy and sorrow can lead to profound personal growth. Her journey is a reminder that while grief can deeply affect us, it also offers a unique opportunity to rediscover and reshape our lives. Whether you're dealing with loss, a career transition, or simply seeking a spark of joy, Ann's story offers inspiration and practical insights into navigating life's unpredictability with grace and humor. 

Please consider rating, following, or reviewing the podcast if you enjoyed this episode and found Ann's story as uplifting as we did.

Tell me a fantastic “forty story.”

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