Today, Stephanie sits down with her first guest, Janna Hartley, to explore a transformative journey through midlife challenges, personal growth, and self-discovery.  Janna shares her story of overcoming grief and anxiety, embracing change, and finding joy in a “Year of No Fear.” From roller derby to radical self-acceptance, this episode is a deep dive into how pivotal moments can shape our paths and lead us to live more authentically.

Turning 40 and the Year of No Fear

Episode Highlights: 

• Roller Derby Beginnings: Janna discusses how joining a roller derby team in 2007 helped her cope with the loss of her fiancé and sparked a journey of self-discovery.
• Professional Partnership:  Stephanie and  Janna reminisce about their 12-year professional relationship, starting from their first meeting at the Manchester St. Patrick's Parade.
• The Year of No Fear:   Janna shares insights from the year she decided to confront her anxieties head-on, which included public stunts like going to a bar in a Halloween costume on Valentine’s Day.
• Personal Loss and Recovery:   Janna opens up about the suicide of her fiancé, Steve, in 2006, and how it impacted her life and mental health.
• Transformative Decisions:  From buying a car to starting new hobbies,  Janna discusses how she made conscious decisions to shape her life post-tragedy.
• Creative Expression:  The evolution of  Janna’s personal style and how her "mermaid do" hair and roller derby alter ego helped her express her inner self.
• Letting Go:   Janna talks about giving away Steve’s guitars as a symbolic gesture of moving forward and healing.

Janna’s story unfolds as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of facing one’s fears. Her journey from grief to empowerment, punctuated by both poignant and light-hearted moments, offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of navigating midlife changes.

If this episode inspired you or sparked reflection, please remember to rate, follow, and review the 40 Drinks Podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and continue bringing you compelling stories like  Janna’s.

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Research Links Jeremy Lalonde’s Face Your Fear Challenge winner

Jeremy Lalonde’s Face Your Fear Compilation Video

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