When Justin Schenck was in high school, he would have been a contender for the “least likely to succeed” superlative. He had a 1.7 GPA; his mom was in the middle of her 20-year battle with opioids and his dad was in jail. So how did he become a successful entrepreneur and podcaster and a coveted speaker? Between ages 19 and 30, when Justin was chasing all the things society told him he “should,” what he was really chasing was happiness. Then he realized that the version of happiness that he was chasing wasn’t real. The real lesson was that everything we’re searching for is internal but most of us are searching for it externally. Guest Bio Justin Schenck is an entrepreneur, speaker and the host of the top rated podcast the Growth Now Movement. He has been named a Top 8 Podcaster to follow by INC Magazine, featured in Thrive Global and chosen as an ‘Icon of Influence’ in the new media space. Justin’s podcast is currently played in more than 100 countries every week and he has gone on to help countless people grow their brands and business with his company PodBrand.io. He is also the host and creator of one of the go to events for entrepreneurs and forward thinkers: Growth Now Summit LIVE!Learning How to Love Yourself Before Turning 40In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie talks to Justin Schenck, a successful entrepreneur and longtime podcaster. Justin shares his personal journey, from a difficult upbringing to finding success and happiness in his thirties. He talks about how he overcame limiting beliefs and adversities, and the importance of self-awareness in his transformation. Justin also talks about the societal pressures he faced in his twenties and how he realized that true happiness comes from within. He shares his daily practices for self-care and growth, as well as his perspective on turning 40 and embracing the next phase of life. Highlights from this episode include:Justin's challenging upbringing and how he overcame the odds to become a successful entrepreneurThe role of self-awareness in Justin's journey and how it shaped his mindset and actionsThe realization that external achievements and societal ideals don't guarantee happinessJustin's four daily practices for self-care and personal growthThe importance of getting uncomfortable, surrounding yourself with the right people, and taking action to overcome limiting beliefs and challengesResources mentioned in this episode:Podfest: An annual podcasting conference that Justin and Stephanie both attendAndy Frisella, Real AF PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast.After listening to today’s episode, you might be wondering, what’s self awareness?Self awareness is being conscious of both our own behaviors and how we are perceived by others. In the context of the discussions on The Forty Drinks Podcast, self-awareness is what many people come to during their midlife transition. Like Justin, they realize that what they’ve been doing isn’t working and isn’t making them happy. Just knowing that you’re not happy is a sign of self-awareness. Serban realized that his life was fine - no better, no worse - and that he wanted more than that. Tara followed a path of shoulds straight through college and to a career that, while it may have been stable, dependable and well paying (just like her parents said), left her broken into a million pieces. Figuring out what it was that she wanted and what...

Mindy Aisling was in her 30s and living her best life on the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest. But when she was 35, Mindy and her son and husband were on the way to the pumpkin patch when an intoxicated driver crossed the center line and hit them head on. She spent three months in a hospital bed and several years recovering from the accident. In this conversation, she talks about what she learned from that experience. Guest Bio Mindy Aisling is an ICF-Certified Authenticity Empowerment Coach who teaches people how to develop a strong sense of self and use the power of their authenticity to create a fulfilling life.Turning 40 and finding a new identity based on your new realityIn this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie talks to Mindy Aisling, a woman who experienced a major life transition in her mid-thirties. Mindy's life was going smoothly until a car accident at the age of 35 left her and her son with serious injuries. Mindy shares her journey of physical and emotional healing, as well as her struggle with PTSD and anxiety following the accident. She discusses the importance of self-compassion and the process of grieving and letting go of past versions of herself. Mindy also talks about reconnecting with her true self and the changes she made to live a more authentic life. She emphasizes the need for self-care and the power of trusting and taking leaps of faith. Mindy's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there can be growth and transformation.Highlights from the episode include:Mindy's experience of the near-fatal car accident and the physical and emotional impact it had on her and her familyThe unexpected challenges of recovery and the journey of healing from a traumatic eventThe importance of self-care and building a strong foundation for emotional well-beingThe process of grieving and letting go of past versions of oneselfThe power of vulnerability and authenticity in building meaningful connections with othersThe role of resilience in navigating life's challenges and pursuing personal growthThe importance of self-awareness and staying connected to oneselfResources mentioned in this episode:Mary Oliver's quote: "Someone once gave me a box of darkness, and it took me years to discover that that too was a gift."In summary, Mindy's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of embracing life's challenges. Her journey of healing and self-discovery serves as an inspiration for anyone navigating a major life transition. Remember to rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast if you enjoyed this episode.What is it like recovering from a major illness? Like most things in life, our paths back from an injury or illness are unique to ourselves. While the physical issues may feel like a burden during the experience, it’s possible to shift your thinking to find silver linings and even valuable lessons. Mindy was a dancer who tore her calf muscle and had to give up the thing she loved. She found a way forward by finding a new way to use her body knowledge, transposing it into a new career. In another example, Kari calls her brain tumor the best case of bad luck because the tumor was completely benign, albeit huge. She did a lot of reflection during her recovery and made some decisions about how she wanted to live her life differently. Guest ResourcesFind Mindy on Facebook

Thanks to a long-distance relationship that turned toxic after she got pregnant and moved to be near her partner, Aveline Clarke had to navigate a messy five years in her late 30s. During this time she was trapped personally and geographically with two of her three children, before she could get back onto the path of her life. She introduced - and vigorously refuted - the concept of “spiritual gaslighting,” as in, "you attracted him for a reason." She talks about how she found the strength and resilience to survive this difficult chapter of her life. Guest Bio Aveline is the founder of Journey Point, where she assists businesses to connect meaningfully with their core customer while helping them to connect with their purpose in business. She is the host of the 6 Star Business podcast, and the Founder and Captain of the 6 Star Community starship that helps guide and empower 6 Star Entrepreneurs to bring their voice, genius, impact and purpose to the world. She's a mum of homeschooled twin boys, tends to a veggie garden, loves Formula 1 and plant based cooking, and took up surfing in 2021 to surf with her son. Her journey has been an exploration of life and learning who she really is, and coming back to 'self'. Now she gets to share that with others and help inspire them to be more authentic and purposeful in business.Turning 40 and getting a crash course in adulthood 2.0In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie talks to Aveline Clarke, who shares her harrowing story of being trapped personally and geographically during her late thirties and early forties. Aveline opens up about her relationship with a narcissistic partner, the birth of her twin boys, and the unraveling of her life after moving to be with her boyfriend. She recounts the emotional and financial struggles she faced, including a court order taken out against her by her partner and the subsequent legal battles. Aveline discusses the lack of support from friends and the fickle nature of relationships during difficult times. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Aveline persevered and found strength in personal growth and mindset work. Finally, she shares how she eventually escaped her situation and returned to Queensland with her boys. Highlights from the episode:Aveline's realization that her partner was only interested in control of her and their twins and the unraveling of their relationship.The court order he took out against her that essentially trapped her, and her challenges in the Australian legal system, including a judge who was vocal about making “mincemeat” of her. The lack of support she experienced from friends and the fickle nature of relationships during difficult times.Aveline coped with her entrapment through personal growth and mindset work, which helped her find strength and resilience.The eventual escape from her situation and return to Queensland with her twin boys.Aveline's story is a testament to resilience, gratitude, and the power of choice. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast.What are toxic relationship types? Toxic or unhealthy relationships come in many forms and guises. Many times, we begin a relationship thinking the best of our new partner and ignoring red flags or warning signs. In this episode, Aveline didn’t learn her relationship was toxic until she was pregnant and had moved to be with her partner. In a previous episode, Toby thought her boyfriend was being thoughtful and caring when he asked her where she had been or who she had seen that day. She didn’t realize it was the first steps toward controlling behavior. Kari was in a different type of toxic...

In her late 30s, Amy Tsai was frustrated she couldn’t achieve what she wanted in her business, which led her to meditation and introspection. Then she learned that her mom had made a conscious decision when she was an infant NOT to pick her up when she was crying. This information helped her unravel the feelings of frustration that had been showing up in her relationships her entire life. After working through these issues, she feels much less stressed - and characterizes stress as a belief system that can be changed. Guest Bio Amy Tsai has been a health & fitness coach for women for 25 years. She has helped women lose their weight for good, get strong in their bodies and overcome their mental obstacles so they can live an energetic and fulfilling life.Since turning 40, almost 14 years ago, she has been focusing more on helping women navigate through hormonal and physical changes along with their weight challenges as this can be difficult and sometimes feels like there’s no solution. But there are solutions to stubborn later-in-life weight. Just because women are older doesn’t mean they have to suffer in their bodies. No way! In fact, Amy believes in the opposite, you can reach all your weight-loss goals and live your best life yet.Turning 40 and realizing it’s not my faultIn this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie interviews Amy Tsai, who shares her journey of self-discovery and personal growth, which led her to start her own business and overcome deep-rooted limiting beliefs and relationship patterns. She discusses the importance of mindset work and meditation in her transformation, as well as the impact of her earliest childhood experiences on her self-worth and relationships. Amy also talks about the power of emotional freedom and the role of stress in our lives. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and finding joy and happiness in life.Highlights from the episode:Amy's earliest childhood experiences and their impact on her self-worth and relationships.The role of mindset work and meditation in Amy's journey of self-discovery.The importance of emotional freedom and overcoming deep-rooted limiting beliefs and patterns.How stress is linked to our beliefs and mindset, and ways to reduce stress.Amy's journey of starting her own business and finding joy in helping women.Resources mentioned:Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell MaltzThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der KolkThe Surrender Experiment by Michael A. SingerThis episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone going through a midlife transformation. Don't forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast if you enjoyed this episode.FAQDoes your relationship with your parents affect future relationships? Abso-get-down-lutely! The way we interact with the world and the people in it is based on our experiences with our parents and caregivers in our formative years. We develop securely when our parents and caregivers show that they are paying attention to our basic needs from our first moments all the way through our childhood. Attunement is absolutely critical for us to develop a foundational feeling of safety and an understanding that we can trust the people closest to us. When these needs aren’t met, we are likely to develop what’s called early childhood or developmental trauma. And when these issues are left unresolved, attunement wounds can lead to serious interpersonal issues throughout our lives. When that attunement didn’t happen well, or where we have early or developmental trauma, we can have trouble in our relationships, from becoming a...

In this episode, Stephanie interviews Rachel Isabela, a first-generation American, about her journey of healing and personal growth. Rachel shares her experiences growing up with an emotionally absent father and the impact it had on her self-worth. She discusses her tumultuous marriage and the moment she made the decision to leave for the sake of her son. Rachel emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and forgiveness in her healing process. She also explores the effects of 80s parenting and the lack of emphasis on children's emotional well-being. Rachel shares her approach to parenting and the changes she has made to prioritize communication and emotional awareness with her son.Guest Bio Rachel is the top banana at Heal Sing Love where she helps fatherless daughters of physically or emotionally absent fathers create happier lives. Using her own experience as a fatherless daughter and her personal evolution towards healing, she teaches women to realize how powerful, loveable and worthy they actually are and always have been, no matter what they learned in childhood. She hosts two podcasts: Empowered Fatherless Daughters and GenX Ladies Say Anything.Turning 40 and Forgiving an Emotionally Absent FatherIn this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, host Stephanie interviews Rachel Isabela, a first-generation American who shares her journey of healing and personal growth. Rachel discusses her childhood, marked by the emotional absence of her father, and how this led to seeking validation from others and engaging in emotionally promiscuous behavior. She shares her experience of a tumultuous marriage and the moment she made the decision to leave for the sake of her young son. Rachel delves into the importance of self-awareness and the process of forgiving her father and herself. She also explores the impact of growing up in the 80s and the lack of emphasis on children’s emotional well-being. Rachel also discusses her approach to parenting and the changes she has made to prioritize communication and emotional awareness with her son.Highlights from the episode include:- Rachel's realization at a young age that her father didn't like her and the impact it had on her self-worth- The red flags she ignored in her marriage and the emotional and psychological abuse she endured- How a diagnosis of gallstones led to her decision to leave her marriage and prioritize her son's well-being- The importance of self-awareness in healing and personal growth- Rachel's perspective on parenting style in the 80s and the lack of emphasis on children’s emotional well-beingResources mentioned in the episode:- "You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise Hay- "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman- "The Body Keeps The Score" by Bessel van der Kolk- "When The Body Says No" by Gabor MatéWhat are emotionally absent parents? Emotionally absent parents are those who may physically be present in a child's life, but are unable to provide the emotional support, validation, and connection that children need for healthy development. This absence can manifest in various ways, such as a lack of attention, affection, or engagement with the child's emotions and experiences. Children who grow up with emotionally absent parents often struggle with low self-esteem, a sense of unworthiness, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. They may seek validation and attention from others, leading to emotional promiscuity or seeking surrogate parental figures outside of the family. This can result in a range of challenges, including difficulties with setting boundaries, making healthy choices, and developing a strong sense of self. The impact of emotionally absent parents can also extend into adulthood, affecting romantic relationships, friendships, and overall emotional well-being.In another episode,

Deidre Harter’s second marriage was a harrowing journey of lies, fraud, and her husband’s imprisonment, all while she was raising their young son. It took seven years for her to realize she wasn’t satisfied and that she had a choice: either examine what’s going on and make some changes, or bury her head in the sand and keep going. She found the courage to ask the difficult questions: What is really true? What do you want? Where are we going? Deidre emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and embracing one's self-worth in order to make positive changes in life. Deidre was ultimately able to embrace her self-worth in order to make positive changes in her life.Guest Bio Deidre Harter is a CPA who worked in public accounting as a small business advisor (basically a coach working for someone else) and tax consultant for 20 years. She moved into entrepreneurship 13 years ago and started her own coaching program shortly thereafter. A few years later, she met her business partner through divine intervention, combined their "super powers" and founded https://encoreempire.com/ to help ambitious women scale their service-based online business without all the guesswork.They do this through holistic business coaching where they help build the strategies, systems and support entrepreneurs need to create more consistent revenue while getting back their time. It's been rewarding to give so many the power of economic freedom. Deidre believes in building relationships with other women who have a similar mission to explore possibilities for collaboration or referral so we can change the lives of others together.Turning 40 and Becoming VulnerableIn this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie welcomes guest Deidre Harter who shares a life-altering experience. Deidre discusses her journey through her first adulthood, where she followed the path that others had set out for her, and her subsequent transition into her second adulthood, where she started making decisions based on her own internal compass. She shares the challenges she faced in her second marriage, including her husband's arrest and imprisonment for wire fraud, and how she ultimately found the strength to leave the relationship. Deidre also talks about her shift into entrepreneurship and her current work as a coach and consultant for female entrepreneurs over 40. Throughout the conversation, Deidre emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and the power of embracing one's self-worth and talks about where she found hers.Highlights from the episode include:Deidre's experience of the pressure to follow societal expectationsThe challenges she faced in her marriage and the turning point that led her to leaveThe impact of her life experiences on her personal growth and self-confidenceDeidre's transition into entrepreneurship and her current work as a coach and consultantThe importance of self-reflection and embracing one's self-worthIf you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast.FAQWhat causes personal growth? Personal growth is an individual process, unique to each of us, but there are several elements that are common to many. The first is the impetus for personal growth. That can be triggered by either a major event, usually something painful, or by a feeling of discomfort with the status quo. Sometimes, people find themselves asking uncomfortable questions like, “Is this all there is?” The second thing that’s common to many people about personal growth is the deep practice of self-reflection, looking at past situations and reflecting on behaviors and choices that either led to that outcome, or that could have changed it.

In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast Karel Chan discusses her journey to find peace and happiness. Karel shares her search for love and longing to become a mother, and how these desires shaped her relationships and decision-making. She discusses her formative adult years, the challenges she faced in relationships, and the inner child healing work she undertook to find self-acceptance and self-love. Karel also reflects on her decision to prioritize her own happiness and let go of the idea of having a traditional family, and how this ultimately led her to find a balanced and fulfilling relationship with her partner. This episode explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and finding peace in unexpected places.Guest Bio Karel Chan is a happiness and mindfulness coach. She guides soulful women in connecting with mind, body, and spirit to discover their highest selves and purpose, so that they can live a happy and soul-driven life. She has healed multiple mental and emotional wounds and afflictions using mindfulness, authentic self-love, and unwavering self-compassion and it is her mission to help others do the same.Turning 40 and Making Peace with Your PathIn this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, host Stephanie interviews Karel Chan about her journey to finding peace and happiness in her life. Karel shares her experiences of searching for love and longing to become a mother, and how these desires shaped her relationships and decision-making. She discusses her formative adult years, the challenges she faced in relationships, and the inner child healing work she undertook to find self-acceptance and self-love. Karel also reflects on her decision to prioritize her own happiness and let go of the idea of having a traditional family, and how this ultimately led her to find a balanced and fulfilling relationship with her partner, Derek. This episode explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and finding peace in unexpected places.Highlights from the episode:Karel's search for love and longing to become a mother in her twenties and thirtiesThe challenges she faced in relationships and her pattern of trying to "fix" broken partnersThe importance of inner child healing and learning to love and accept oneselfThe realization that her deep desire for motherhood was connected to her own journey of embodying pure loveThe decision to prioritize her own happiness and let go of societal expectations Finding a balanced and fulfilling relationship with her partner, Derek, after doing the inner workI hope listeners will be inspired by Karel’s story of overcoming challenges, healing past wounds, and making peace with her path. Tune in to hear Karel's powerful insights and reflections on love, motherhood, and the importance of honoring oneself. Don't forget to rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast if you enjoyed this episode.What does a woman’s desire to have a baby feel like? The desire to be a mother comes in as many flavors as there are grains of sand at the beach. The Forty Drinks Podcast has shared a variety of stories about motherhood, including Tara’s desire to become a mother on her own at age 40 and Carey’s decision to become a mother despite her predisposition to mental health challenges. Guest ResourcesKarel’s Gift to You: Love Your Self Well - A self-love and self-compassion intensive

Stephanie McLaughlin kicks off season four of the Forty Drinks Podcast by exploring the concept of the "Ick" - that feeling of something not quite fitting in our lives as we approach or pass our 40th birthday. She shares her own experience and the mission of the podcast, which is to make it common knowledge that there is a transition most of us face around age 40 and to showcase different versions of that transition so that no one feels alone. Stephanie also previews the upcoming season and discusses the trends she has noticed in her conversations with guests.Navigating the 'Ick': Stories of Transformation and GrowthWelcome to the Forty Drinks Podcast, season four! In this episode, host Stephanie McLaughlin dives into the topic of the "Ick" - that feeling of something not quite fitting in our lives as we approach or pass our 40th birthday. Stephanie shares her own experience and the mission of the podcast: to make it common knowledge that there is a transition most of us face around age 40, and to showcase different versions of that transition so that no one feels alone. She discusses the introvert-extrovert dynamic and how it impacts how we process information. Stephanie also gives a preview of the upcoming season and shares some of the trends she has noticed in her conversations with guests. Tune in to hear more about this transformative stage of life and the stories of those who have navigated it.Highlights from this episode include:- The concept of the "Ick" and feeling like something doesn't fit anymore- The importance of trusting our own thoughts and feelings over external authorities- The potential for minor adjustments or major life changes during this transition- The impact of childhood experiences on adult lives- The desire to find fulfillment, meaning, and alignment in life- The role of intuition and self-reflection in making important decisions- Embracing change and getting comfortable with uncertaintyTune in to hear more about this transformative stage of life and gain insights from those who have navigated it. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating, following, or reviewing the podcast. Do you have the Midlife Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you love is suffering from this insidious midlife malaise. www.fortydrinks.com/ick  Listen, Rate & SubscribeApple Podcasts SpotifyAmazon PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/Communications

Episode Introduction AdaPia d'Errico experienced three major awakenings between her early thirties and early forties. The first was “who am I?” The second was “what the hell am I doing?” And the third was an awakening in her physical body. She discusses the concept of identity in addition to her struggles with cultural differences, societal pressures, burnout, and health issues. AdaPia emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, trusting the universe, and focusing on how she wants to feel. This episode offers valuable insights into personal growth, finding purpose, and embracing vulnerability.Guest BioAdaPia d'Errico, is an entrepreneur, investor, advisor, and co-founder of Womxn of Wealth, an organization dedicated to empowering women to take wealth creation firmly into their own hands through brass-tacks financial advice, mentorship, community, and practical guidance on creating abundance at every level. WOW is more than a mastermind; it is a movement! AdaPia is a Principal at Alpha Investing, a real estate private equity firm where she oversees investor growth, communications, and marketing. She is also the General Partner of Bitcoin Mining Womxn, a pioneering digital asset syndication platform. AdaPia is a force for positive change in the world of finance and is passionate about empowering women to become stewards of personal and global wealth.Turning 40 and Finding Purpose Through Ego Death In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie talks to AdaPia d'Errico, a FinTech entrepreneur and co-founder of Women of Wealth. AdaPia shares her journey of three major awakenings that occurred between her early thirties and early forties. In her twenties, AdaPia moved to Europe and got married, but struggled with cultural differences and societal pressures. At 32, she experienced her first awakening, realizing she didn't know who she truly was. This led her to leave her marriage and return home to Canada. At 38, AdaPia hit burnout in her career and experienced an ego death, questioning her identity and purpose. She explored spirituality and self-reflection during this time. Her third awakening occurred at 41 when she experienced a relapse of Crohn's disease. Despite the physical challenges, she felt a deep sense of gratitude and love, and learned to trust her body and the universe. AdaPia found integration and purpose through co-founding Women of Wealth, a group that empowers women in finance. She realized that her true purpose was to help women understand and take control of their financial futures. Throughout her journey, AdaPia learned the importance of self-reflection, trusting the Universe, and focusing on how she wants to feel. She embraces the power of choice and shows up in the world with love and kindness.This episode is a powerful reminder to listen to our intuition, embrace vulnerability, and find purpose in unexpected places. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast or - even better! - share this episode with someone you know who would enjoy it.SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationsGuest ResourcesJoin the Women of Wealth CommunityAdaPia D’Errico’s websiteDo you have the Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you love is suffering from the Ick. www.fortydrinks.com/ick  Listen, Rate &...

Dr. Lisa Petty calls herself a “midlife alchemist,” who helps women navigate the big questions of midlife after arriving there with a sense of panic and uncertainty about her own identity and purpose. This led her to pursue a master's degree and eventually a doctorate focused on the wellbeing of women at midlife. She says the concept of “having it all,” introduced into the culture in the early 1980s by Helen Gurley Brown, the former editor of Cosmopolitan Magazine, quickly turned toxic. It went from an aspiration to a command. Having it all now meant doing it all. Lisa emphasizes the importance of tuning into our bodies, following our intuition, and embracing our own unique journey of self-discovery. Guest BioDr. Lisa Petty started her career as a holistic nutritionist and health researcher, and quickly became recognized as a speaker, journalist, award-winning author and media health expert. After several years coaching women who struggled to follow through on their health goals, Lisa earned a PhD for her research on how midlife women experience self-care in the face of the social pressures on them to be perfect in every facet of their lives. Her new book “Forget About Having It All: The Midlife Woman’s Guide to Creating the Life you Want” is a combination of research findings and Lisa’s own story of midlife self-discovery. Through a combination of research and channeled wisdom, Lisa now helps midlife women navigate midlife and create the life they really want.Turning 40 and Abandoning the Toxic Concept of ‘Having It All’In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, host Stephanie speaks with Lisa, a midlife alchemist and holistic nutritionist. Lisa shares her journey from a soul-sucking career in finance to finding her true calling in holistic nutrition. As she navigated the challenges of raising a child with a heart defect, Lisa delved into the world of holistic health and became a teacher and coach. However, as her own children grew up and she faced an empty nest, Lisa felt a deep sense of panic and uncertainty about her identity and purpose. This led her to pursue a master's degree focused on midlife women and their relationship with food and wellbeing. Eventually, Lisa obtained her doctorate and became an expert in self-care for women at midlife. Throughout the episode, Lisa emphasizes the importance of tuning into our bodies, following our intuition, and embracing our own unique journey of self-discovery. She encourages women to recognize the distractions and societal expectations that often hinder their wellbeing and to embrace their own power as creators. The episode concludes with a reminder to listeners to follow the glimmers of joy and authenticity in their own lives. Highlights from the episode:Lisa's transition from a soul-sucking career in finance to holistic nutrition and a doctorate in the wellbeing of women at midlife.The challenges women face in taking care of their wellbeing and the societal expectations placed on them.The toxic concept of ‘having it all,’ first espoused in Helen Gurley Brown’s seminal 1982 book, “Having It All.”The importance of tuning into our bodies and following our intuition for self-discovery.How to recognize and embrace the glimmers of joy and authenticity in our lives as mini spiritual awakenings.Overall, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips for women navigating the complexities of midlife and finding their true selves. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the Forty Drinks Podcast.SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationsLisa’s Special Offer for Forty Drinks Listeners

Paula Conroy is an ex-banker turned entrepreneur who uses the ancient Indigenous wisdom of traditional Rites of Passage to help people make their way through the transitions we face at different points in our lives. After experiencing a dark night of her own soul, and working her way through the healing journey, Paula realized that she placed her power outside herself - in the job, the title, the achievement - to feel self worth. She realized she was even looking at turning 40 as another place to find self worth. She thought this was the age where she’d finally feel old enough to have a voice in the world.Guest BioPaula is a transformational leader who supports women to transition from one stage of life to the next in a really healthy way. She uses the ancient wisdom inherent in traditional Rites of Passage processes to bring awareness to the elements that are required to ensure that these inevitable transitions in life are done well.Paula's main focus is to support women to become aware of their fragmented parts, recognise how to heal these aspects of self, and bring them into wholeness, therefore discovering the possibility of moving powerfully into their next stage of maturity and into their full potency of Womanhood.Paula spent 15 years in Senior Leadership positions within Global Banking, managing large, complex, multi-jurisdictional teams. She recognises the criticality of Conscious Leadership of Self as an essential capacity to cultivate, prior to taking on the responsibility to lead others. Feminine leadership capacities have been buried under the current culture and ways of training, and Paula is stewarding women through transformational journeys to discover this for themselves.Turning 40 and Honoring the Magic of Traditional Rites of PassageIn this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, host Stephanie talks to Paula Conroy about her transformative experience around turning 40. Paula shares her journey of self-discovery and growth, starting from her early adult years working in banking to her transition into motherhood and entrepreneurship. She discusses the challenges she faced as a younger woman in a male-dominated industry and the internal struggles she felt in finding her place and feeling worthy. Paula also delves into the concept of archetypes, specifically the maiden, mother, and crone, and how they relate to different stages of a woman's life. Stephanie and Paula explore the importance of developing a relationship with one's own mind and ego, and the need to create intentional space for introspection and self-reflection. They discuss the process of uncovering and integrating past traumas and experiences, allowing for healing and personal growth. Paula also introduces the concept of Rites of Passage and the role they play in guiding individuals through life's transitions. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of feeling and how our current culture often discourages the expression and exploration of emotions. Stephanie and Paula emphasize the significance of building our capacity to be with our feelings and the positive impact it can have on our relationships and personal development. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more incredible stories like Paula’s to our listeners. Until next time, Cheers! 🍸SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationAdditional ResourcesPaula’s Gift to You: Explore The Frequency Circles Get to Know The...

For Sascha Siegmund, the month before his 40th birthday was a whirlwind of rapid change, from leaving a safe, stable job in finance with no plan to next steps, to a 10-day Buddhist silent retreat. After the turmoil of his job and leaving it unceremoniously after almost eight years, and the fear of what he’d do next, the silent retreat helped him find calm. Sascha said “in order to be healthy as an individual you have to become conscious.” Through our lives, beginning when we are children, we adopt behaviors and strategies to deal with the world. He said most people run on autopilot and if we want to think or act differently, we need to become conscious about the choices and decisions we make. Guest BioOriginally from Germany Sascha has lived in France, the Netherlands, Belgium & China and has traveled to many more countries especially in Latin America and Asia. After some 15+ years working in corporates and NGOs he now uses his natural curiosity, knowledge and experience as a Corporate Trainer, and Coach.Being a discoverer of the inside & outside world Sascha is passionate about human potential as well as physical and mental well-being. During his career and life he realized that the limit to growth and development for both individuals and businesses is the human dimension. Driven to empower individuals to explore, discover and live their individual strengths Sascha supports his clients finding their authentic self, meaning and motivation. As a result they move from a ‘reaction’ to a ‘creation’ mode, becoming entrepreneurs of their lives.Sascha works with companies and the European Institutions on leadership, communication, stress-management, organizational development in order to create environments where people can be their best.Turning 40 and Becoming ConsciousIn this episode, I sit down with Sascha Siegmund, who shares his journey from working in financial compliance to discovering - and following - his true passion for connecting with people. Join us as we explore his life in Brussels, Belgium, his love for European culture, and his transformative experience at a 10-day silent retreat. If you've ever felt unfulfilled in your career and wondered what it would be like to take a leap of faith, this episode is for you.Episode HighlightsSascha's Background: Learn about Sascha's upbringing in Germany, his studies in European culture, and his diverse career path.Career in Compliance: Understand Sascha's experience working in a financial institution and why it left him feeling unfulfilled.The Decision to Leave: Hear about the pivotal moment when Sascha decided to leave his job and the rapid transition that followed.10-Day Silent Retreat: Dive into Sascha's experience at a 10-day silent retreat, where he reconnected with himself and found clarity.Turning 40: Reflect on the significance of turning 40 and the profound changes that came with this milestone in Sascha's life.Sascha’s story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue what truly matters to you. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more incredible stories like Sascha's to our listeners. Until next time!SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationsIkigai Coaching with SaschaFind Sascha on FacebookFind Sascha on InstagramDo you have the Ick? Download Stephanie’s...

Paul Padmore was made redundant from his position at a startup in London in his early 40s, which led to feelings of embarrassment, shame and failure that he harbored for a long time. Ultimately, he realized that the important part was “to be in the arena” and able to learn and grow. He said, “ If we don't try and if we don't experience these moments, then growth is negligible.” Paul pondered failure for more than a year before he ginned up the confidence to launch the My Perfect Failure podcast where he has conversations with people about failure, what it means to them and how they deal with it. Guest BioPaul Padmore is a renowned social well-being enthusiast, best known for hosting the podcast, ‘My Perfect Failure’. Focusing on the principle that failure is never permanent, Paul aims to educate his audience about the benefits a positive mindset can have for both your career and personal life.Turning 40 and Leaning into the Concept of FailurePaul Padmore joins us to discuss the profound lessons he's learned from failure. From being made redundant to finding resilience and growth in unexpected places, Paul's journey is a testament to the power of embracing setbacks. His insights into failure, success, and personal development are not only enlightening but also deeply relatable. Tune in to hear Paul's unique perspective on how failure can be a treasure trove of opportunity.Episode Highlights: Redundancy and Personal Growth: Paul's experience of being made redundant from a startup, the feelings of failure, and the personal growth that emerged from it.The Concept of Failure: A deep dive into how failure is perceived, the stigma around it, and how it can be seen as a gain rather than a gap.Imposter Syndrome and Starting a Podcast: Paul's journey of starting a podcast on failure, battling imposter syndrome, and finding joy in connecting with others.Insights from Failures: How failures can be seen as opportunities for learning, personal and professional development, and the importance of being in the arena.Stephanie's Experience with Redundancy: Stephanie shares her own experiences with being made redundant and the lessons learned from those situations.Thank you for joining us on this enlightening conversation about failure, growth, and resilience. Paul's insights remind us that setbacks are not the end but rather a beginning to new opportunities and personal development. If you enjoyed this episode, please don't forget to rate, follow, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you compelling conversations and valuable insights.SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationsMy Perfect Failure on Instagram My Perfect Failure Podcast on AppleMy Perfect Failure WebsiteBrene Brown, Daring GreatlyDr. Benjamin Hardy,

Indra Rinzler is a healer and a teacher who has studied spiritual modalities for more than 50 years. He mainly works with astrology and Enneagram of Personality, which he explains in this episode. Indra shares his unique journey of self-discovery that started at the age of 24, which he believes helped him avoid a major life transition around the age of 40. As an  astrologer, Indra can identify the cosmic ingredients that led him to not buy into any of the “shoulds” or other conditioning passed on from his family and society. That allowed him to live what he calls his “true life” and avoid the crash so many of us face around 40. Guest BioIndra Rinzler is a lifetime spiritual seeker. He’s a healer, teacher, and offers life readings for clients. Astrology and the Enneagram of Personality are the main modalities that he shares. He’s been studying astrology and spirituality for fifty years. He first learned of the Enneagram of Personality in 1999. He uses these two modalities individually and in combination. His focus is to help clients to wake up to who they really are. He works to help people to live beyond their conditioned stories and to live more in the moment.Turning 40 and Using Astrology and Enneagram to Understand Your PersonalityIn this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Indra Rinzler, a spiritual guide who has spent more than 50 years on the spiritual path. Indra's unique perspective on life, spirituality, and personal growth is both enlightening and thought-provoking. If you've ever wondered about the spiritual path, astrology, or the Enneagram, this episode is a must-listen.Here are some of the key highlights from our conversation:Indra shares his unique journey of self-discovery that started at the age of 24, which he believes helped him avoid a major life transition around the age of 40.We delve into Indra's upbringing and his decision to forge his own path, which led him to astrology and understanding the influence of conditioning on our lives.Indra discusses his approach to business, emphasizing authenticity over marketing and the importance of attracting the right people to what he does.We explore Indra's deep connection to numbers and how this relates to his work in astrology and the Enneagram.Indra provides a fascinating breakdown of spiritual awakening at different ages, offering insights into the unique challenges and breakthroughs that can occur at each stage of life.Finally, Indra explains his approach to guiding people onto the spiritual path, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, observing one's own behavior, and understanding personal patterns.Indra's wisdom and insights provide a unique perspective on the spiritual path and personal growth as we face a potential reckoning of identity around age 40. If you enjoyed this episode, please remember to rate, follow, and review our podcast. Your feedback and support are greatly appreciated.SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationsEmail Indra to request your astrological birth chart Indra’s WebsiteFind Indra on FacebookDo you have the Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you love is suffering from the Ick. www.fortydrinks.com/ick

When Carey Kirkella got pregnant at age 40, she had already been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and had survived two manic episodes, which - for her - are brought on by stress and lack of sleep. She knew she was predisposed to have postpartum mental health issues, so she worked to put a preventative care plan in place - most of which fell apart during labor, delivery and the aftermath. She ended up slipping into another manic episode and went to a maternal postpartum facility where she was separated from her newborn baby for about 10 days. Carey shares this story, along with how these episodes have helped her uncover her life purpose and create a spirituality practice that works for her. Guest BioCarey Kirkella is an award-winning photographer and the creator of The L.E.N.S. Method™ creative photography workshops with a focus on personal growth. In addition to her programs, she works with purpose-driven brands, creating powerful story-telling images that help them share their messages with the world. Carey is passionate about mental health, motherhood, messages from the Universe, and connecting with others who are on a mission to help improve our world. She currently lives in Brooklyn, NYC with her husband, 5 year old son and their sweet rescue dog.Turning 40 and Using Mental Health Challenges and Resilience to Uncover a Life’s Purpose In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Carey Kirkella, a talented photographer and a brave woman who shared her deeply personal journey through postpartum issues caused by bipolar disorder, and her spiritual experiences. Carey’s “forty story” is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of mental health awareness and advocacy, and the strength that comes from sharing our stories.Episode HighlightsCarey's Bipolar Disorder Journey: Carey shared her experiences with bipolar disorder, which she prefers to describe as being a highly sensitive empath with a touch of psychic ability. She had her first manic episode in her late twenties, triggered by post-traumatic stress and financial stress.Premonition of 9/11: Carey worked as a photo editor and staff photographer for the Wall Street Journal, located across the street from the Twin Towers. She quit her job two months before the 9/11 attacks due to a strong premonition that the towers would come down.Postpartum Issues: After giving birth to her first child at 40, Carey experienced severe postpartum issues. Despite her best efforts to put preventative measures in place, she ended up being separated from her newborn for 10 days due to postpartum psychosis.Spiritual Experiences: Throughout her life, Carey has had profound spiritual experiences, including premonitions and connections with the spiritual realm. These experiences have played a significant role in her mental and emotional well-being.Advocacy for Mental Health: Carey's journey has made her a strong advocate for mental health, particularly for women dealing with postpartum issues. She emphasizes the importance of sharing experiences and providing support for others going through similar situations.Finding Purpose: Going through all she has helped Carey uncover her purpose. She’s a creative person and a photographer by trade and she’s bringing those skills together with self-development and spirituality to create workshops and programs that help other people use creative photography as a tool to develop their own emotional resilience and raise their vibration.Mentioned Links and ResourcesCarey Kirkella's Photography and WorkshopsThe Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle Conversations with God by Neale Donald WalschIf you enjoyed this episode, please remember to rate, follow, and review our podcast. Your support...

In a solo episode, Stephanie reflects on a recurrence of the Ick in her own life and what she’s doing to try to work her way through it. Reflections: A Recurrence of the IckSometimes you can do the work, you can make it to the other side and build a life that suits you perfectly - and you can STILL have weeks or seasons that just don’t feel good. I’m in one now and I'll tell you about it in this episode.SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationsDo you have the Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you love is suffering from the Ick. www.fortydrinks.com/ick Listen, Rate & SubscribeApple Podcasts SpotifyGoogle Podcasts

After surviving a challenging childhood, David Richman achieved success as an executive at a Wall Street firm. His personal life, though, was a mess. He was a stressed out, overweight smoker with low self-esteem who spent most of his life trying to please others. While he learned many lessons in his professional life, he never thought to apply them to his personal life. Looking back, he says it’s amazing how much he accomplished in relation to how little awareness he had of himself. When that awareness of himself kicked in David says he was enthralled with the idea that he could actually matter. “Until you believe that you matter, you don't. And, I just didn't know that I mattered.”Guest BioDavid is an author, public speaker, and endurance athlete whose mission is to form more meaningful human connections through storytelling. His first book, Winning in the Middle of the Pack, discussed how to get more out of ourselves than ever imagined. With Cycle of Lives, David shares stories of people overcoming trauma and delves deeply into their emotional journeys with cancer. He continues to do Ironman triathlons and recently completed a solo 4,700-mile bike ride.Turning 40 and Recognizing the Person in the Mirror MattersIn this episode of the 40 Drinks Podcast, I had the pleasure of talking to David Richman, a man who transformed from an unhappy overweight smoker to an endurance athlete. David's story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and the will to change. His “forty story” is filled with lessons about self-worth, resilience, and the importance of taking care of yourself.Here are some of the key highlights from our conversation:David's early life was marked by challenges and obstacles, some self-imposed and others a result of his upbringing. Despite these difficulties, he managed to become an executive at a major Wall Street firm by his early thirties. However, his personal life was a stark contrast to his professional success. He was overweight, a smoker, and in an abusive relationship.A conversation with a friend served as a wake-up call for David. His friend pointed out that David was the problem in his life, not the people or circumstances around him. This prompted David to take a hard, honest look at himself and his choices.David began to question his decisions and his lifestyle. He realized that he had been living his life trying to please others rather than focusing on his own happiness and well-being.David's journey to self-improvement began with a commitment to quit smoking and lose weight. He decided to become an athlete, a goal that seemed far-fetched at the time but would later become a reality.David started his journey towards becoming an athlete by buying a pair of running shoes and gradually increasing his running distance. He later participated in half and full Ironman races, 50-mile runs, 100-mile runs, and a 5,000-mile solo bike ride.Realizing that no one else is watching or judging him was both freeing and empowering.David's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to change your life. His journey from an overweight smoker to an endurance athlete is a testament to the power of self-reflection, determination, and the will to change. If you enjoyed this episode, please remember to rate, follow, and review the 40 Drinks Podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories like David's to our listeners.SponsorThe Forty Drinks Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/CommunicationYou might like: David's book, "Winning in the Middle of the Pack," in which David describes how to push...

Tara McFarland followed a path of shoulds straight through college and to a career that, while it may have been stable, dependable and well paying (just like her parents said), left her broken into a million pieces. Her journey back to herself passed through a spiritual awakening and some ‘woo woo’ stuff she wasn’t quite sure her analytical mind believed in. Despite that, she finally felt like she was in a flow, versus constantly fighting what was happening around her. She started thinking of the ‘woo woo’ stuff akin to God and religion. Feeling connected to something larger has helped her get more grounded, even though it sounds like it wouldn't necessarily do that.Guest BioTara is a catalyst for change in the engineering industry. She challenges the status quo of societal norms, helping her clients unlock the gifts they buried long ago under layers of expectations of how one “should” be as an engineer. Her journey back to herself began when she burned out of her 20-year civil engineering career landing on her living room floor shattered. Recognizing she was deeply unhappy and completely out of alignment, she chose to lean into support from people around her, unleashing a life-changing emotional and spiritual awakening.Guiding her clients with understanding and compassion, Tara creates a sacred space to examine their old stories and create new ones. Bridging the worlds of analytical thinking and intuitive flow, they learn to embrace all of themselves, unlock their gifts and lead with audacity.Turning 40 and Realizing the Crushing Power of the Wrong PathTara McFarland worked as an engineer for the government department that owned and operated dams in the western United States making sure that the dams are safe for the people who live below them.She wasn’t a typical STEM student. She was an artistic kid, a ballet dancer and she loved to read, though she was good at math. Her family was very science oriented. Her parents are both geologists and, as the oldest of four, Tara felt that it was expected that she would follow a science or engineering path. Her parents encouraged her to pursue engineering because it was a stable, dependable career; she’d always have a job and get paid well. Her course of study at the Colorado School of Mines was grueling and it was during that period that she picked up a habit of perfectionism. She went from being a straight A student to a C student and felt like it was a constant struggle to get through the material. She says she put on blinders and climbed straight up the achieving ladder, from bachelor’s degree to master’s degree to jobs where she could continue to achieve and advance. By her 30s, though, she had found a balance in the engineering world and a niche that fit her. In her early 40s she got promoted to a program manager, her first non-technical role and one that she thought would continue her professional advancement. However, she was missing key communication and leadership skills and there wasn’t enough support or training available to ensure her success. Instead she started to realize she felt like a square peg in a round hole.  Most of her career, she struggled with feeling like an imposter despite positive performance reviews. Internally, she was a wreck. Externally she had her armor and put on a good facade of knowing what she was doing. She was aggressive because she felt like she always had to prove herself. And she thought there would come a day and a position where she’d finally feel effective and then she would be happy. She was constantly searching for signs of worthiness in her job by pursuing promotions. Tara says we’re conditioned to make things work, even if it doesn’t feel good for us.  During this time, Tara was having chronic issues with her neck and shoulders. Her childhood love of ballet led her to be a Jazzercise...

Before becoming a champion for the podcasting industry, Larry Roberts had dreams of becoming a martial arts champion. A child of the ’80s and a fan of “The Karate Kid,” ninjas and the movies of Jean-Claude Van Damme and Steven Segal, he vigorously pursued karate and, later, mixed martial arts. That dream was crushed by limitations from a birth defect that should have killed him by age 4 but didn’t. He replaced his pursuit of sports glory with a vigorous pursuit of drinking and partying. By the time he turned 40, he was stuck in a dead end job and deep in alcoholism and felt like life was pointless. But at 41, he reached out for help and went to rehab. Today, he works as hard as he ever did, but now it’s to elevate podcasters instead of crushing opponents.  Guest BioAfter burning out in the corporate world, Red Hat Media founder Larry Roberts took a dive into a new realm of opportunities. His goal was simple: to find excitement in what he was doing every day.He found it in droves.Since 2014, Larry has been making himself a household name within the podcasting industry, speaking on stages of national and global trade events including Podfest Multimedia Expo and Podcast Movement, hosting shows that reached the top 1.5% of podcasts, and being named to Podcast Magazine’s 40 Over 40 in Podcasting.With technology and media changing faster than many can hit play, Larry and his team have committed themselves to staying at the forefront of the industry. Larry is aptly seen as a thought leader in the AI space, teaching workshops and hosting speaking engagements to help creators utilize new technology, and will continue to push business owners out of their comfort zone and into a chapter of innovation and growth.Turning 40 and Outgrowing Cobra Kai Energy 🐍Larry Roberts was born with an inverted sternum that would have suffocated him before age 5 if he hadn’t had reconstructive surgery. Because of this, his childhood was pretty sheltered. He went to private school for most of his life, except for two semesters - one in eighth grade and one in high school, both of which ended up in fights and drove him back to private school. Admittedly, Larry has always had a mouth on him (which is what makes him a great podcaster) and it got him in trouble almost everywhere he went. It being the early 1980s, a teenage boy would have been influenced by the Karate Kid, the emergence of ninjas in Western popular culture and the movies of Claude Van Damme and Steven Segal. Larry thought, if he could only fight, then he’d be able to solve all his problems. So he started studying karate and has experience with a wide variety of martial arts. Through his teens and twenties he studied and taught karate. When the UFC debuted in 1993, Larry knew he wanted to go to the “big show.” He wanted to be a professional fighter so he trained with the best coaches he could find and fought in a handful of low-level professional fights. He was on his way to a professional fight, the biggest fight of his career, and the night before the match he was training with his coach when another coach walked by and said seven words that changed his life, “your cardio is a bit suspect, bro.” Larry was crushed because he had invested everything into being ready for this competition. Because of his birth defect, his lungs had not developed normally, which left him with about 60% lung capacity. Larry ended up pulling out of that fight. But he went home and told everyone he had won because he couldn't face the prospect of letting people down or not meeting expectations. Fighting had become his whole identity for about 20 years and it was ripped away that night. He went through an extreme identity crisis, which led him to start partying. He became the guy who hosted the big parties for every pay-per-view UFC event. He was still...

Sandy Demarest and her husband built their life in a small, quintessentially New England city that is objectively lovely, but it never felt like “home” to Sandy. Despite her best efforts over the course of a decade to make it work, she became unhappy enough that her state of mind was affecting her family. She and her husband decided to uproot themselves and start over again three hours away. And as she was driving the U-Haul to the new house, Sandy found herself wondering, and worrying, “what if it’s not better there?”Guest BioFor more than 25 years, Sandy has worked in career development, coaching and training with leaders and professionals embarking on their next life and work role. Her focus is supporting people midlife and beyond to proactively chart their future to envision a fulfilling destination beyond full time work and family responsibilities. Bringing people together to create a meaningful next chapter is a large part of Sandy’s work. Whether clients need a trusted partner, a group dedicated to each person’s success or a community of like-minded seekers, she creates the right environment, so you don’t have to do this alone She truly believes in living with intention and purpose; helping her clients to discover their purpose, connect with values and bring their dreams to center stage. As the founder of Demarest Directions, a coaching and training business, Sandy is a Certified Career Management, Executive Leadership, A Strengths Based Coach and Retirement Options Coach with a focus on transitions, retirement lifestyle coaching, and aging well with purpose and vitality! On the personal side, Sandy lives in Amherst, NH with her husband of 38 years and chocolate lab pup, Shelby. She loves spending family time with her three grown daughters and granddaughter!Turning 40 and Learning the Importance of PlaceSandy Demarest was newly married in the late 1980s in southern Connecticut where the average cost of a home was $1 million. The young newlyweds weren’t sure how they would ever get to own their own home, so they started looking elsewhere. After a weekend visit to Burlington, Vermont, they wondered if that would be a nice place to set down their roots. They moved to a neighboring small town with a sense of adventure and the will to make things work. She found out she was pregnant. They survived some financially lean years. They bought a condo, had twins and finally bought that house they had talked about years before.  Busy with kids and settling into their first home, Sandy started to get a very quiet nagging feeling that, much as she loved her house, it didn’t feel like home. Winters were long and very dark. Burlington is one of the cloudiest cities in the country. She felt isolated and had trouble making friends, despite having little kids and plenty of opportunity to connect with other young moms. She didn’t feel the sense of community.  But she thought, “I’m in this really cool, hip palace. I should like it. What’s wrong with me?”Over the next three to four years, Sandy poured herself into different activities and different ways to connect with people and the community, but nothing quite worked. She started to think - and occasionally talk to her husband - about moving, but that felt impossible since he had built his business there. She tried hard to make it work, but the disconnection started to create some real problems for her. Usually a positive person, she became very unhappy and her state of mind started to affect the family. Sandy and her husband made a plan. Her husband looked at different opportunities in his industry within driving distance of Burlington so he could build new clientele but continue to service the business he had worked so hard to grow. They knew the transition would be challenging financially while her husband built up a new local clientele, but they decided to go for it....