Episodes
Monday Oct 23, 2023
From The End of Her Rope to Making Bold Moves in 3 Months, with Laura Volz
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Monday Oct 23, 2023
EP373: Today I have a special guest who agreed to come on the podcast to share the incredible journey she’s had since she signed up for a free training workshop I did earlier this year. Meet Laura Volz, who after that workshop made, what she calls, the very “scary” decision to join the Second Half SPARK School and go deep in the self-exploration, subconscious brain rewiring, and vision-setting work we do there.
That decision has changed the trajectory of her life in ways she could not have even imagined back at the beginning of 2023. In fact, she wrote me an email in just 3 months after she joined and here’s an excerpt:
“When I watched your free workshops on Facebook, I was at the end of my rope. I felt like you were talking directly to me. I knew there had to be more for me. But What?? How do I find it?? How do I know??
I decided to sign up for your Sparked Second Half School. I don't usually do this kind of thing. I didn't know what to expect and It was very scary. I decided that as frightened as I was, of the unknown, I was more afraid of not knowing. I have been treading water in life for a very long time and I am tired.”
I’m so happy she got to the point where she finally took action and that working with me in the Second Half SPARK School was exactly what she needed. What she realized very quickly is that she was not living the life she wanted and that was no longer acceptable. And wow, did she ever take big bold action!
In this episode, Laura talks about:
- Her lifelong fear of speaking up and how she learned that, as a people pleaser, she had always put everyone else’s priorities ahead of hers.
- How much she hated her job, knowing she could retire, but afraid to let go of that secure income.
- How the decisions she’s made have impacted her relationship with her husband.
- The incredibly courageous and BOLD big moves she’s made in a very short time that the old Laura would have never been brave enough to make!
Our conversation is proof that the unknown future that lies ahead for each of us is one we have the power to create. And that unknown, but better-than-we-can-imagine, future can begin today with one simple action.
Let Laura’s story inspire give you hope that you too can gain the knowledge (and courage) you need in an incredibly short period of time and move very quickly into the better life you long for.
If Laura’s story resonates and you are ready to stop accepting the life that isn’t making you happy, then the Second Half SPARK School is open for a very short time this week. (10/23/23 - 10/26/23) Just think what is possible for you in just 3 months…
And the best part? Whatever it is you might think is possible, is just the tip of the surface! Laura is just another example of the many students who have joined the school and had amazing transformations. And what they all had in common is that they didn’t think it was possible until it was!!!
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) the podcast (if you haven't already) so you don't miss any new episodes.
You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Friday Oct 20, 2023
Friday Oct 20, 2023
EP372: Today’s guest, Penny Richardson, one of my Second Half SPARK School students, is a great example of how you can drastically change your life no matter how old you are. She shares her transformative journey towards self-discovery and growth and opens up about the pivotal realization that she was hindering her own progress and blaming external factors for her lack of action.
She also reflected on her tendencies to seek validation from others and discussed the moment she recognized the importance of prioritizing her relationship with herself and her faith.
In this episode, Penny shares:
- The pivotal moment where she realized she was holding herself back and blaming external factors for her inaction.
- How she discovered the ability to change her negative mindset into a positive, empowering one, and the impact that had on her actions and lifestyle.
- Her breakthroughs from what she learned in the Second Half SPARK School
- How the changes within her influenced her relationships, especially with her husband, showing that changing oneself can ripple outward and affect others
Penny's journey exemplifies the tremendous impact of how shifting one's mindset and thoughts to break free from self-imposed limitations, and embracing personal growth can make a positive difference in both personal and collective lives.
Her story serves as an inspiration for anyone seeking transformation and the courage to follow their authentic path towards a more happy and fulfilling life.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) the podcast (if you haven't already) so you don't miss any new episodes.
You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
The 10 Signs That You May Be Afraid of Change, Even If You Are Unhappy
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
Tuesday Oct 17, 2023
EP371: Are you feeling stuck in mud? Like you can't budge in the direction of positive change, even though you're not happy with where you are in life?
Well if that's you, you are likely what I call a "Scared Settler," someone who chooses to settle for the life she isn't happy in because she is more scared of change, of the unknown that she is fearing will be worse - not better.
Because the truth is, she sees other people who have it much worse so she continues to talk herself into staying in the mediocre life she's living, with zero passion or purpose about what she does every day.
She is far from excited about what's on her To Do list, which zaps all of her energy, so she escapes into non-productive, time-wasting activities, like scrolling social media. She ignores these feelings and instead continues going about her days doing the same things she did yesterday that will never get her out of the rut she's in.
And if she's over 50, she is probably blaming menopause for that lack of energy?! I'm sure you can now see why she can't get motivated to take action. Don't get me wrong! I know menopause can be a bitch. I had the worst hot flashes imaginable for a few years but when you find blame outside of yourself, it's a convenient way to excuse your non-action.
She doesn't understand the problem and she doesn't know how to stop the cycle she's gotten into because, although she'd like to be happier, she's not at the miserable state yet which often drives most people to say "enough is enough" and finally take action.
So she stays stuck, settling for her mediocre life.
I know this and can tell you ALL about her because I WAS HER!!!
And that's the reason I'm so passionate about helping women to get out of this stuck place with this podcast, my free trainings, and my Second Half SPARK School.
So if my description hits home, know that you are not alone and there is hope because if I can get out of that mediocre place - missing out on the things that make me most passionate - then anyone can.
I urge you to take this seriously and make the rest of your life the best part of your life. There is so much for you to do in the time you have left so don't spend it settling!
The first step is awareness and now, if this episode topic resonated with what's going on in your life right now, you have that!
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) the podcast (if you haven't already) so you don't miss any new episodes.
You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
EP370: Today’s guest, Mary Carroll Moore is a multi-talented, Amazon-bestselling author. Mary's journey is nothing short of remarkable as she has worn many hats throughout her life, from being a chef and cooking-school owner to a celebrated cookbook author and syndicated columnist for the Los Angeles Times.
Following a breast cancer diagnosis at age 50, Mary made a transformative decision to pursue her lifelong dream of writing fiction. She went back to school and got her Master’s of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Goddard College and published her first novel at age 55. And her book was nominated for a PEN/Faulkner award!
In this episode, Mary shares:
- the inspiration behind her latest book
- her transition from a successful and lucrative food journalism career to writing fiction
- how her cancer diagnosis gave her the courage to follow a long-desired dream
To hear how Mary is embracing this second half of life is awe-inspiring, as she talks about her latest pursuit of yet another lifelong dream—learning to fly!
Tune in to this episode to discover more about Mary's incredible journey and the important message she models to no longer delay your dreams!
Other ways to find and connect with Mary are:
Website: https://www.marycarrollmoore.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marycarrollmoore
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marycarrollmoore/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) the podcast (if you haven't already) so you don't miss any new episodes.
You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Are You A Dream Doer, Dream Delayer, or Non-Dreamer?
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
Tuesday Oct 10, 2023
EP369: Unfortunately, most of us fall into the latter two categories of Dream Delayers or Non-Dreamers. But we all began life as Dream Doers and we can get back into dreaming very easily.
But in order to do that, you must understand the importance of having dreams. You need to know that it's ok to want more. As long as it is what YOU desire and excites you.
Don't make the mistake of going after someone else's dreams for you which is a mistake many of us make. We get into the wrong jobs because our parents dreamed of jobs that would make them proud. And we want that for them so and we think that will make us happy but we get there and BOOM! We realize we don't have any passion for that work.
That is just one simple example of why you need to dream. Dream about work that will drive you with deep passion and purpose. And imagine what that would look like...
To do that, carve out time to think about what you love to do in your spare time. Maybe there's something there that could be turned into a career or maybe just a hobby at first.
What else would you want if money wasn't an issue?
Pretend you have the funds to do anything you wanted. You have no limits. No restrictions on vacation time or other responsibilities in your life.
Where do you want to travel?
What do you want to do before you die? (And I'm not trying to be morbid! We're all gonna die so whether you're 15 or 50, you need a bucket list!!!)
Who do you want to meet, interview, learn more about?
What skill do you want to develop?
What have you been delaying or scared to try?
Don't be afraid of your dreams. The truth is that your dreams are in you for a reason. You are meant to pursue them.
Don't let them die with you. Go after them! Let the universe know what they are so you can have help. Believe it or not, you don't have to do all of the heavy lifting.
And as you pursue your dreams, while being content with whatever you have at the moment - which is key - know that others are watching and will be inspired by you. So be the example and inspire others to do the same!
If you enjoyed today’s topic, don't forget to hit that review button and subscribe so you never miss out on our future episodes!
You can sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Friday Oct 06, 2023
The Soulmate That Never Showed Up Until She Was Ready, with Katie Carrol
Friday Oct 06, 2023
Friday Oct 06, 2023
EP368: Today’s guest, Katie Carroll, a compassionate soul whose life has been dedicated to nurturing and helping others shares her story of overcoming burnout and depression. As the eldest of three siblings and the only girl, Katie's love for children and innate desire to assist people guided her towards a fulfilling career in pediatric nursing.
With over 21 years of experience in the field, Katie has become a fierce advocate for her little patients. However, her purpose-fueled journey deepened as Katie decided to help burned-out nurses so she became a certified health coach and personal trainer, and she now empowers individuals in high-stress careers to embrace self-care and overcome burnout.
In this episode, Katie shares:
- Her story of burnout and dealing with depression
- Her thoughts about her failed dream of having a husband and four kids by her mid 30s.
- What it was that made her friend tell her she was “glowing.”
- The scariest thing she ever did that turned into a pivotal point in her life.
Katie is proof the universe has a plan for each of us and the plan often surpasses our own expectations - on a timeline only it knows! She encourages us to embrace the beauty of life and believe that it can be better than we ever imagined.
Tune in to gain insights on how to thrive in this life we've been gifted from the lens of Katie and how she overcame and discovered the wonders of self-healing for the mind, body, and spirit.
Other ways to find and connect with Katie are:
Website: https://katiecarrollcoaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katie.carroll.988
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiecarrollcoaching/
Podcast: https://coachinscrubs.libsyn.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) the podcast (if you haven't already) so you don't miss any new episodes.
You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: https://www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Why Are You Not Getting What You Want?
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
Tuesday Oct 03, 2023
EP367: Today's episode was inspired by a fantastic conversation with a recent guest about why we might not be getting what we want. You know, that dream, that burning desire, that hasn't quite materialized yet?
Well, there are reasons for that, and I'm here to break them down for you.
Remember that big goal you've had on your wishlist forever? Whether it's a soulmate, a dream job, or a significant life goal—these tips apply.
In this episode, I explain:
- Why clarity about what you desire is so important.
- Why many of us are too future-focused.
- What happens when we become too "needy" about what we want.
What I've come to understand is that the universe has a magical way of delivering when you've made these shifts. So know what you want, don't hesitate to dream big, and start the work to align yourself with what feels good to you today. You might just be surprised by what shows up on your doorstep sooner than you think.
If you enjoyed today’s topic, don't forget to hit that review button and subscribe so you never miss out on our future episodes!
You can sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Friday Sep 29, 2023
Friday Sep 29, 2023
Today’s guest, Maria Leonard Olsen, shares her captivating life story. A woman of immense talent and ambition, Maria is a lawyer, journalist, author, and devoted mother to two wonderful children. She is also a podcaster and mentor to women in recovery.
Maria's dedication to philanthropy is evident through her involvement in various boards, including those of Children's National Medical Center BOV, the Catholic Coalition for Special Education, GirlsUp, and the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Washington. However, one of her most notable things we talked about in this episode is her journey as a recovering alcoholic.
In this episode, Maria shares:
- Overcoming alcoholism and her gradual emergence from depression
- Her life-affirming journey that led to her helping other women in recovery
- Valuable life lessons she learned about courage, trusting yourself and being intentional
- Finding her true self and how that opened up a more passion-filled and purposeful life.
Maria's commitment to empowerment extends beyond her writing—she leads writing and empowerment retreats for women and co-hosts the "Inside Out" radio show on WPFW-fm, 89.3, in Washington, D.C. Furthermore, she hosts the "Becoming Your Best Version" podcast, sharing wisdom and insights to inspire personal growth and self-discovery.
Her latest book, "50 After 50—Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life," offers invaluable insights and perspectives on navigating the later stages of life with purpose and enthusiasm. Maria's passion for sharing her experiences and knowledge has led her to speak at numerous events, including TEDx CUNY in 2021, where she discussed "Using Life’s Challenges as a Force for Good."
Other ways to find and connect with Maria are:
Website: http://www.marialeonardolsen.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiftyafter50/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FiftyAfter50/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marialeonardolsen
Becoming Your Best Version Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/becoming-your-best-version/id1562910379
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe to (or follow) the podcast (if you haven't already) so you don't miss any new episodes.
You can also sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me at lauriewright@notyouraveragegrandma.com or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Who Are You Really? (A Happier Life Begins With This Question)
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
Tuesday Sep 26, 2023
EP365: In today's episode I start with a simple question: Who are you really?
It might appear simple on the surface but it's meant to get you thinking about how you are showing up in the world. Are you hiding the real you, playing the roles taking the actions of the person you think you should be - to fit in, to get along, or to be accepted and valued?
If you're not sure, I share in this episode how you can tell so listen in and see what resonates most. I talk about the two versions of the "current you": the one in self denial and the one that is self actualized.
I also talk about the "future you" and how important it is to know that no matter what version of the "current you" is showing up today, you have a choice in who you show up as tomorrow. You can rediscover the real you by breaking the habits that have become so ingrained in you from doing them for so long that you are operating subconsciously.
That means most of us aren't even aware we are walking around as fake versions of ourselves! Yikes!
So it's time to find the real you, the OG version, the one who's been lost along the road of life, because the path to true happiness can't be found until you find her.
And there's no better time to start than now!
Some suggestions for next steps are:
- Read the book "Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life" by Brian Tracy
- Read the book "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself" by Joe Dispenza
- Attend my upcoming free training "Ignite Your Second Half Soul! (CLICK HERE to sign up now!)
If you enjoyed today’s topic, don't forget to hit that review button and subscribe so you never miss out on our future episodes!
You can sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Friday Sep 22, 2023
Friday Sep 22, 2023
EP364: Today’s guest, Laura Strachan, is someone I met 3 years ago when she joined a free training I did on Facebook, because she was so depressed she couldn’t get out of bed. Fortunately she took action that day and signed up for my training which changed her life.
I asked Laura to join me on my podcast today because we recently met in-person at my retreat and I was reminded of how she not only learned new mindset habits that gave her guidance and direction of purpose but how she continues to grow and explore new opportunities that unfold and challenge her. She is a master at continually to expand outside of her comfort zone.
I asked Laura to share her most recent breakthroughs, new lessons learned from the retreat experience and her tips on how she continues to shine her positive light on the world and gets divine guidance on the purpose-driven second half she’s created.
We dive into the importance of embracing change and not settling for complacency in life. Laura also recounts her own life-changing journey, emphasizing the significance of small actions and being open to unexpected opportunities, ultimately showcasing the incredible impact of micro-changes and being of service to others.
In this episode, Laura shares:
- How she opens herself up to opportunities by following and listening to her intuition
- Why the retreat environment was key to her receiving the guidance she needed and how to create that environment in the busy world we live in
- The one tool she uses that helps her shift her negative and fear-based thinking into more helpful thoughts
- The importance of finding mentors and cultivating relationships with like-minded people who are on similar journeys
Laura shares her transformative journey of the past 3 years and her latest exciting news about what she’s doing as well as a big trip she and I have planned to go on next year. Today she is a completely different person than the one I met. Her story is a testament that you can change your life in a moment by one small action.
Listen in and be inspired by Laura to take action on making your second half one of positivity, connection, and trust in the divine guidance that is there just waiting for you to get quiet, tune in, and hear it.
Click on the following link to listen to the previous episode (185) that covers Laura’s initial transformation, including her cancer journey and butterfly story: A Simple, Inspired Action Led To A Transformed Life with Laura Strachan
Books she mentioned:
Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself
If you enjoyed today’s topic, don't forget to hit that review button and subscribe so you never miss out on our future episodes!
You can sign up for my newsletter on my website, or if you'd like to connect with me, you can email me or send a message using any of the sites below:
Website: www.notyouraveragegrandma.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaurieColvinWright
Instagram: www.instagram.com/not_your_average_grandma
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NotYourAverageGrandma
Note: Not Your Average Grandma is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.