Your Life Over 50

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode of Your Life Over 50, host Jean Green welcomes Josephine Smedley, founder of JAS & Joy2, for an inspiring conversation about storytelling, self-discovery, community, and the courage to choose yourself.

With more than 35 years of experience in public service, Josephine shares how her passion for community engagement led her to create a business that uses storytelling to amplify unheard voices, build meaningful connections, and inspire positive change.

But this conversation goes beyond business. Josephine opens up about her personal journey of healing, learning to recognize the difference between who she truly is and who she had to become to survive difficult experiences.

Together, Jean and Josephine explore what happens when women spend years caring for others, putting their own dreams aside, and eventually asking, "What about me?"

Josephine offers encouragement and practical wisdom about rediscovering your purpose, trusting your inner voice, taking action even when the path isn't clear, and learning to "take the lessons and not the luggage."

Whether you're beginning a new chapter, exploring a long-forgotten dream, or simply wondering what's next, this conversation is a reminder that your story matters, your experiences have value, and it's never too late to choose you.

You don't have to have everything figured out. Sometimes clarity comes after you begin moving.

We don't always know what's holding us back until we begin looking at what we're carrying.

Josephine Smedley’s contact information:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmedley4community

Instagram: jasandjoy2

Facebook: Josephine Smedley

If you have questions about this podcast or if you think you would like to be a guest on the show, contact me at:

email: [email protected]

Guest: Mychelle Thomas Host: Jean Green

Mychelle Thomas, a Sacramento native, retired after more than 30 years with the State of California. Part of that time was spent in public health cancer detection, teaching women about the importance of mammograms. When a routine screening she almost skipped found breast cancer during the COVID pandemic, Mychelle had to live what she had been teaching.

In this conversation, Mychelle talks openly about her diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. She describes the faith she was raised in and how it deepened through her illness. She explains how her daughter and son supported her, why she waited months to tell the rest of her family, and why she would not make that choice again. She also shares practical things she learned from other patients in waiting rooms, and simple ways friends can support someone going through cancer.

How a childhood spent in church gave Michelle a foundation she leaned on as an adult

Why she almost skipped the mammogram that found her cancer (it involved a free gift)

Attending a surgical consult alone during COVID, with her son joining by FaceTime with questions from an oncologist friend

Choosing a lumpectomy, and learning the cancer had not spread to her lymph nodes

Four rounds of chemotherapy and 18 rounds of radiation

Shaving her head the day of her son’s virtual wedding, as a way to take back some control

Reacting badly to the blood-count injections, and her pharmacist cousin’s “everyone bakes the cake differently” explanation of different brands

Losing her brother to cancer, and how that loss stayed with her through treatment

Keeping her diagnosis from extended family through the holidays, and the lesson she learned

The surprise celebration her cousins planned once she finished treatment

Finding community in infusion and radiation waiting rooms

What she learned from a fellow patient about the arm on the side where lymph nodes were removed (no blood pressure readings or blood draws)

Why she now speaks up when she sees a new, unexplained mark on another woman’s skin

Keep your screenings. Mychelle’s yearly mammogram found her cancer early, even though she almost cancelled the appointment.

Bring someone with you, even virtually. Treatment appointments are overwhelming, and a second set of ears helps.

Let your people in. Mychelle’s biggest regret was not telling her family sooner, which put extra pressure on her children.

Ask questions and talk to other patients. Some of the most useful information she got came from other patients, and she then confirmed it with her doctor.

Small support matters. A text message, a funny GIF, a fruit basket, or a “thinking of you” can mean a lot to someone in treatment.

Life after treatment is part of the journey. Mychelle now exercises five to six days a week, volunteers at her church, and mentors women facing a diagnosis.

“I know I seem tough. I know I seem strong... I don’t think I can do this.”

“If these older people are going through it and they’re fighting, what makes me say I can’t do this?”

“I feel like now I have a testimony.”

“You learn who your true friends are when you go through something like this.”

“Once the journey’s over, you have to find yourself and keep pushing.”

Mychelle shares her personal experience in this episode. It is not medical advice. If you notice any change in your breast, including a lump or an unexplained mark, talk with your doctor and keep up with your screenings.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Your Life Over 50, and share it with someone who might need to hear Mychelle’s story.

Contact: [email protected] 

What if your home could become a cozy getaway for dogs? In this episode of Your Life Over 50, host Jean sits down with Julie Mattox, owner of Julie's Doggy Bed and Breakfast in Sacramento. For 20 years, Julie has provided short term care, when families takes a vacation or has to be away from home for a few days, right in her own home. There are no kennels and no cages, just comfy couches, a big backyard, and lots of love.

Julie shares how a bad experience finding care for her own pets led her to start the business. She also talks about how she helps nervous dogs feel safe, why she took a professional pet sitting course, and how she's grown her business without spending a dime on ads. She even opens up about the hardest part of the job: saying goodbye to the pets she's come to love.

Julie also works full-time as a civil engineer, so she knows a thing or two about planning for retirement. She leaves listeners with heartfelt advice about building community before and after you retire, so you never have to feel alone.

Whether you're a dog lover, thinking about a side business, or just wondering what your next chapter might look like, this warm and honest conversation is for you. 

If you have questions about Your Life Over 50, the podcast, contact me: [email protected]

                                                               NOTES

In this episode of Your Life Over 50, Jean sits down with leadership coach Nicole van Kupperveld, founder of Organizations by Design, to explore what really happens as a result of working in toxic workplaces, and how women can reclaim their voice and leadership.

Nicole shares her powerful story of landing her dream job… only to be fired six weeks later. What felt like a devastating experience became the turning point that led her to uncover a deeper truth about leadership—one that many women have never been taught.

Together, Jean and Nicole talk about:

Nicole reminds us that what you’re feeling is not just you and you’re not alone. There is a different way forward.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to shrink, change, or silence yourself to succeed… this conversation will remind you that your voice, your way, and your leadership already matter.

👉 Nicole’s resources, leadership assessment, and contact information can be found at: @feminineinspiredleadership and website: www.feminineinspiredleadership.ca

Wendy shares how many of us—especially those who have spent years caregiving, managing responsibilities, and putting others first—find ourselves overwhelmed with “too many tabs open” in our minds. Through relatable stories and practical insights, she explains how clarity and joy are deeply connected: when we gain clarity about what truly matters, we naturally create room for more ease, peace, and fulfillment.

Together, Jean and Wendy discuss:

Wendy also introduces practical tools like her “worry and gratitude” method and encourages listeners to begin with just a few quiet moments to sort through what truly matters.

This conversation is a gentle reminder that you can carry responsibility without carrying chaos—and that it’s never too late to create a life that feels lighter, calmer, and more joyful.

In case you missed the information of Wendy’s books, Tedx Talk or her 10-minute Clarity Reset Guide, the links are here:

Here's the link to Wendy's 10-Minute Clarity Reset Guide: https://tinyurl.com/10minclarityreset

Wendy's website: https://www.wendyelover.com/ 

Wendy's email: [email protected]

Wendy's TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyaPr78CUpA

Wendy's books on Amazon:My Cape Is At The Cleaners: Choosing Happy Over Perfect: https://a.co/d/08rF9w6o Too Many Tabs Open: Finding Clarity When Everything Feels Important: https://a.co/d/092twuXr 

In this episode of Your Life Over 50, Jean sits down with Tharon Green, a visual designer for the technology publication CNET, about how he built a career in the tech world and why smartphones have become powerful creative tools.

Tharon shares how his passion for technology began with video games and art school, where he studied 3D modeling and digital design. After graduation, he joined a small startup reviewing technology products and eventually found himself contributing to tech reviews, particularly audio devices like Bluetooth speakers and earbuds. That experience gave him a behind-the-scenes look at how tech companies test and review products.

Today, Tharon works remotely as a visual designer for CNET, creating motion graphics, thumbnails, and visual content for their website and YouTube channel. Being part of the tech industry has continued to fuel his interest in new gadgets, especially smartphones and cameras.

During the conversation, Tharon explains how smartphone cameras, especially those in newer iPhones, have become powerful tools for photography and video. While professional photographers may still benefit from dedicated digital cameras for specialized work like weddings or sports photography, hobbyists and beginners can achieve impressive results using the camera that’s already in their pocket.

Tharon encourages listeners who want to start creating content, whether for YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or photography, to start with what they already have. Most modern smartphones, including iPhones and Android devices from the past few years, are capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos.

For anyone feeling intimidated by technology, Tharon’s message is simple: you don’t need expensive equipment to get started. Your smartphone is already a powerful creative tool.

Jean and Tharon close the conversation with plans for a future episode focused entirely on iPhone photography and tips for beginners. 

In this heartfelt episode of Your Life Over 50, Jean sits down with longtime friend Edna Gabaldon, whose life has been dedicated to service, caregiving, and faith.

Edna shares her remarkable journey of 33 years of government service, including 20 years in the United States Air Force as an operating room technician and 13 years working with the Department of Veterans Affairs as a social worker helping veterans navigate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Throughout the conversation, Edna reflects on the deeply personal side of her work—supporting veterans through trauma, guiding them through the VA system, and witnessing moments when clients rediscovered hope. She speaks candidly about the emotional weight of helping others heal, especially while also navigating similar challenges at home with her husband, a Vietnam-era veteran living with PTSD.

Edna also shares the personal values that shaped her life: faith, service to others, resilience, and family. From raising three children who followed careers in service and healthcare, to caring for her husband through illness while recovering from her own stroke, Edna’s story is one of perseverance and gratitude.

Listeners will hear thoughtful reflections on:

Edna also discusses the joy of staying connected through a long-running virtual book club, a simple but meaningful way to maintain friendships and avoid isolation later in life.

With honesty and warmth, she reminds listeners that life’s journey may be challenging, but it is also filled with blessings—especially when approached one day at a time with faith, gratitude, and compassion for others. 

 Guest: Mare Brighton - Dream Lifter and Founder of Connection Project 360 Host: Jean, Your Life Over 50

In this heartfelt episode of Your Life Over 50, Jean sits down with Mare Brighton — a self-described Dream Lifter — who helps people activate their bucket lists, live with intention, and move through life with fewer regrets.

Mare shares the moving story that inspired her work: two teenage girls who dreamed fearlessly, one of whom tragically passed before ever setting foot in Europe — yet lived her dream daily. That story became the seed of Mare’s lifelong mission to help others “live their dreams while they’re living.”

Listeners will discover: ✨ The difference between a bucket list and a living intention list — and why 50 is the “sweet spot” for active dreams. ✨ How to recognize which dreams are truly yours (and which belong to others). ✨ What “Judgment Dragons” are — and how to silence the voices that keep you from dreaming big. ✨ Why sharing your dreams with “safe people” can help make them real. ✨ The power of community in lifting one another’s dreams, not just our own.

Jean and Mare also explore how rewriting your list can reflect life’s seasons, and how “playing” with your dreams brings joy back into the process of self-discovery.

Connect with Mare: 🌐 connectionproject360.com

 Free Virtual Office Hours: Tuesdays at 6:00 PM Mountain Time (5:00 PM Pacific) Coming Soon: Dream lifting workbook (available December) Connection Project 360 Podcast: Available through her website

Perfect for anyone over 50 looking to reignite their dreams and live with more intention and less regret.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, uninspired, or unsure what’s next, this episode will remind you that it’s never too late — and you can still play, dream, and live intentionally at any age.

🎧 Tune in, share with a friend, and let’s keep lifting each other’s dreams — one story at a time.

Connect with Your Life Over 50: www.facebook.com/groups/yourlifeover50/ 

Email: [email protected] 

 From Minnesota Cabin to Peru Paradise - Laura's Adventure-Filled Life

Guest: Laura Dias, Retreat Host & Adventure Enthusiast

Ever wondered what it's like to completely change your life and follow your dreams? Our amazing guest Laura Dias did exactly that! Born and raised in Minnesota (where everyone "goes up north" to the lakes), Laura has always been what she calls "joyously map obsessed."

Laura's adventure story began early - she saved up money from two jobs to take her first big trip to Europe right after high school. But the real magic happened when she moved to Peru about eight years ago. What started as a business trip to find alpaca products turned into something incredible when she met Carlos, a local guide who was only making $100 for leading 17-day jungle treks to Machu Picchu!

Seeing how unfairly he was being paid, Laura suggested they start their own company. And that's exactly what they did! Retreats and Tours Peru was born, offering transformational retreats in the Sacred Valley near Cusco.

Laura's retreats aren't your typical tourist trips. They focus on the ancient energy of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, taking guests to less crowded places where they can really connect with:

Amazing Incan history and stories

The beautiful Quechua indigenous culture

Stunning archaeological sites

The transformational power of stepping outside your comfort zone

The retreat season runs from April through November (avoiding the rainy season), and they currently host about 4 retreats per year with room to grow up to 32!

Here's where Laura really shines - her philosophy on adding adventure to your life is pure gold:

Start Small: You don't need to climb Mount Everest! Adventure can be as simple as:

Putting cinnamon in your tea instead of honey

Taking a walk down a path you've never explored

Trying a new restaurant in your town

Eating dinner at 6pm instead of 7pm

Break the Routine: Laura explains that routines can hold us captive. When you do the same things every day, years can fly by without you even noticing. But you remember every trip you took and every adventure you had!

Change Your Mindset: Instead of seeing challenges as problems, try viewing them as adventures. As Laura says, "Adventure is fun. A problem can be difficult. But if you can train your brain to see things as adventure... it's a much better way."

Laura shares this brilliant insight: The word "happiness" comes from the same root as "happenings." You need things happening in your life to be truly happy! Plus, when you step out of your routine, your brain produces endorphins that make you feel better.

She also reminds us that:

Depression comes from thinking too much about the past

Anxiety comes from thinking too much about the future

Happiness lives in the present moment

For women whose kids have grown up, Laura has encouraging words: "You have more choice than you've ever had in your life!" While being a parent required routines and structure, now you can literally do whatever you want. The key is taking small steps to rediscover what that might be.

Ready to add some adventure to your life? Laura has a Facebook group called "Ignite Your Life" where she posts daily "sparks" - little adventure ideas to get you started. Look for the badge-shaped logo with a little road!

Want to visit Peru?

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: Ignite Your Life group

LinkedIn: Retreats & Tours Peru

Laura's story proves that it's never too late to completely change your life and follow your dreams. Whether you're ready for a transformational retreat in Peru or just want to start with small daily adventures, the most important thing is to take that first step outside your routine.

As Laura says, "Adventure calls you" - you just have to be brave enough to answer! 

✨ Episode Summary ✨

In this episode of Your Life Over 50, I sit down with the inspiring Kathy Hyland—a life coach, confidence mentor, and what she lovingly calls a “life enthusiast.” Kathy shares her journey of moving from self-doubt to self-defined, and how one small, fearless step at a time helped her create a brand-new chapter filled with purpose and joy .

Kathy opens up about leaving behind a long corporate career, navigating the uncertainty of midlife, and rediscovering her passions after raising her daughter. She talks about the power of reinvention, the importance of letting go of “shoulds,” and why midlife is actually the best time to create the life you’ve always dreamed of.

We also dive into her growing series of books—Purpose, Mindset Clarity, Goals, and the upcoming Self-Love—all rooted in her mission to help women build confidence, uncover passions, and reclaim their joy. Kathy’s practical tips, from journaling to vision boards, remind us that even the smallest step can set us on a path toward freedom, fulfillment, and self-love.

This conversation feels like having tea with a friend who sees the possibilities in you even when you’ve forgotten they’re there. Whether you’re seeking a fresh start, wanting to tap into your creativity, or simply needing encouragement that you’re not alone, Kathy’s story will leave you smiling, hopeful, and ready to take that next step.

🌿 Listen in and be reminded—it’s never too late, it’s just in time.

Kathy’s contact information:

Facebook: Kathy Hyland, This happy chapter.

Instagram: KathyHyland_happyjourney.

Amazon: Kathy Hyland_happyjourney.

Linkedin: Kathy Hyland.

Check out Your Life Over 50 Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/yourlifeover50/