From Midlife to Best Life

Episode 15: Redefining Career Identity After Job Loss

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Ana and Manreet discuss the complexities of career transitions, particularly in midlife. They explore the emotional impact of layoffs, the struggle of redefining one's identity beyond professional roles, and the importance of building a support system during challenging times. Manreet shares her personal journey from being an immunologist at a large biotechnology company, being affected by an unexpected layoff, to embracing new opportunities in teaching, highlighting the lessons learned along the way about resilience, self-discovery, and the value of community.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Guest: Manreet Chehal [LinkedIn Profile]
Key Takeaways:
Conversations about career struggles should be normalized 
Identity can be multifaceted and is not be solely defined by one's job
Experiencing a layoff can lead to a profound sense of loss and identity crisis
Building a support system is crucial during times of transition
Reaching out to former colleagues can provide unexpected support and validation
Embracing new opportunities can lead to personal growth and fulfillment
The emotional journey of job loss is similar to grieving a loved one
Self-discovery is a continuous process, especially during midlife transitions
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Career Transitions
04:28 Identity and Professional Growth
08:59 The Impact of Layoffs on Self-Perception
13:01 Navigating Career Expectations and Personal Life
15:12 The Emotional Journey of Job Loss
18:44 Building a Support System
23:20 Embracing New Opportunities
27:31 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Resources:
Contact me if you'd like to chat about what next steps could look like: www.anayun.ca 
Normalize and understand the grieving process with resources like Grief Recovery book
Reframe your layoff: check out my personal layoff reflection
Check out Guy Winch's resources on building emotional resilience and his TedTalk: How to Practice Emotional First Aid
Take an opportunity to rediscover your professional identity, check out my vision board blog article
When you are ready to dive in, check out resources below:
LinkedIn Learning – free with through your local library.  Over 16,000 courses and instructional courses on interviewing; resumes; marketing plans; LinkedIn and everything in-between.
LinkedIn Learning Role Play:  As Career Coaches seek practical tools to boost a candidate’s confidence, LinkedIn Learning’s Role Play offers a game-changing solution. This AI-powered platform simulates real-world interview scenarios, allowing candidates to rehearse responses to common questions in a safe, interactive environment. It provides instant feedback on tone, clarity, and delivery—helping job seekers refine their communication skills and reduce interview anxiety. With customizable scenarios across industries, it’s ideal for candidates at any career stage. Encourage your candidates to use Role Play as part of their interview prep—it’s like having a virtual coach available 24/7 and is a great resource for alumni candidates too. 
 
The Job Bank’s “Get to Know Yourself” resource is a valuable tool for Canadian career coaches to guide candidates through self-reflection as the foundation of career planning. It offers quizzes and exercises to help individuals identify their strengths, skills, values, and preferences, enabling them to make informed career decisions aligned with their authentic selves. Coaches can use this resource to facilitate discussions, encourage honest self-assessment, and connect candidates with labour market information and training options. By integrating these tools, coaches empower candidates to explore suitable career paths confidently and strategically, making the transition smoother and more purposeful.  
LinkedIn Career Explorer is a dynamic tool that uncovers hidden career paths by mapping existing skills to thousands of roles.
Why It Matters:
Skill Mapping: Reveals a list of skills for a particular role and unexpected career paths by highlighting transferable skills and probability match.
Upskilling: Identifies missing skills and links to LinkedIn Learning courses, streamlining professional development
Networking & Jobs: Connects candidates to professionals in target roles and local job postings which help to increase a candidates LinkedIn profile and presence.
Strengths Finder:  Candidates often question their strengths – what are they good at or known for?  Have them check out this free survey to discover their character strengths, as a way to discover greater joy in living in alignment with themselves. Strengthen connections by applying what they’ve learned and helping them to answer the interview question – what's your greatest strength?  
 
OpportuNext uses Canadian Labor Market Information (LMI) to provide data-driven insights into job roles with strong growth prospects and competitive wages. By entering a current job title, users are presented with relevant career options, highlighting roles that match their skills and offer positive employment outlooks.  

Episode 14: Sex, Sexuality, and Eroticism in Fostering Healthy Relationships

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Fernanda Souza and Ana discuss the complexities of sexuality, particularly in midlife. They explore how societal expectations and personal experiences shape our understanding of sexuality and relationships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of intentionality in maintaining erotic connections and the need for open discussions about sexuality with future generations. Key insights include the distinction between sexuality and sex, the evolving nature of women's sexual experiences, and the necessity of education in fostering healthy relationships.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Guest: Fernada Souza [Instagram | website]
Key Takeaways:
Sexuality is relevant throughout life, not just in youth.
Midlife can bring challenges to sexual intimacy due to various life demands.
Intentionality is crucial for maintaining erotic connections in relationships.
Women often transition from being objects of desire to subjects of their own desire in midlife.
Education about sexuality is essential for personal and relational growth.
Complacency in long-term relationships can lead to dissatisfaction.
Creating erotic space requires effort and planning, not just spontaneity.
Open conversations about sexuality with children are vital for their understanding.
The brain plays a significant role in sexual experiences and desires.
Understanding the difference between sexuality and sex can enhance intimacy.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Topic of Sexuality
00:49 Exploring Midlife and Sexuality
03:19 Defining Sexuality vs. Sex
07:52 The Role of Women in Sexuality
12:34 The Impact of Caretaking on Sexuality
18:18 Exploring Gender Dynamics in Relationships
24:48 The Evolution of Women's Sexuality
31:47 The Importance of Sexual Education
36:06 Key Takeaways and Resources for Sexual Awareness
Resources:
Come as you are and Come together by Emily Nagoski
So tell me about the last time you had sex by Ian Kerner
Taking sexy back by Alexandra Solomon
Untrue by Wednesday Martin
Mating in captivity and State of Affairs by Esther Perel
Tell me what you want and The Psychology of Human Sexuality by Justin Lehmiller
Reclaiming Pleasure: A Sex Positive Guide for Moving Past Sexual Trauma and Living a Passionate Life by Holly Richmond
 

Episode 13: The Power of Play in Reclaiming Joy and Creativity

Episode Summary:
In this uplifting episode of From Midlife to Best Life, Ana welcomes Kirsten Anderson, a Play, Communication, and Leadership Coach who is on a mission to bring more playfulness into the workplace and beyond. From owning an award-winning toy store to coaching corporate teams, Kirsten shares her fascinating journey from toyologist to playologist and how she helps people rediscover creativity, connection, and flow through play.
Together, Ana and Kirsten explore why adults stop playing, how toxic productivity limits joy, and why playfulness isn’t frivolous, it’s essential for innovation, well-being, and meaningful work. You’ll learn how to spot your own “flow moments,” how to integrate playful thinking into your day-to-day life, and how a simple mindset shift can reignite joy and purpose.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Guest: Kirsten Anderson [website: https://integrateplay.com/ | LinkedIn Profile]
Key Takeaways
Play does not equal less productivity; it's a myth.
Play is essential for creativity and innovation.
Adults often stop playing due to societal pressures.
Toxic productivity can hinder our ability to play.
Playfulness can be a corporate value that enhances culture.
Midlife is a great time to rediscover play.
Barriers to play include fear of judgment and societal expectations.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Playfulness in Midlife
04:21 The Concept of Prescribing Play
05:59 Benefits of Play in the Workplace
08:25 Barriers to Adult Play
10:49 The Importance of Playfulness
17:54 Playfulness as a Corporate Value
20:49 Playfulness and Creativity
24:42 Overcoming Barriers to Play
30:22 Final Thoughts and Resources
Recommended Resources:
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin​​
Choose your own adventures - playful paths to success playbook
 

Episode 12: A Journey to Purposeful Living: Layoff to Entrepreneurship

Episode Summary:
In this episode of 'From Midlife to Best Life', host Ana engages in a heartfelt conversation with her guest Lara Tiro about the journey of purposeful living, especially during midlife. They explore the challenges and opportunities that come with career transitions, the impact of layoffs, and the importance of self-discovery. Lara shares her personal experiences and insights on embracing change, finding her purpose as an entrepreneur, and the significance of living intentionally. The discussion emphasizes the value of resilience, community suppoty, and the non-linear nature of career paths, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique journeys.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Guest: Lara Tiro [website: www.rebelcpg.com | LinkedIn Profile | podcast website: munchingonmolecules.com
| Podcast LinkedIn | Streaming Platforms: Spotify and Apple Podcast]
 
Key Takeaways
Midlife can be a time of clarity and purpose.
Purposeful living involves aligning with your passions.
Career transitions can lead to new beginnings.
Layoffs can be opportunities for reinvention.
No career path is linear; embrace the winding journey.
Persistence and small steps lead to success.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Purposeful Living
05:46 The Journey of Purposeful Living
09:10 Navigating Career Changes and Layoffs
11:59 Embracing Wholehearted Living
17:51 Finding New Beginnings After Layoffs
27:15 Transitioning from Employee to Consultant: The Initial Steps
32:58 The Importance of Mindset in Pursuing Passion Projects
36:18 The Value of Asking for Help in Entrepreneurship
40:13 Key Takeaways for Navigating Career Pivots
43:00 Embracing the Journey: The Non-Linear Path of Entrepreneurship
Resources for entrepreneurs:
WeBC: we-bc.ca
The Forum: https://www.theforum.ca/
 

Episode 11: Layoff Experience and Cultivating Resilience

Episode Summary:
In this episode of "From Midlife to Best Life," host Ana welcomes career coach Trudy Hallam from LHH Knightsbridge. Together, they explore the emotional and practical aspects of navigating career transitions, especially during layoffs. Trudy shares insights on how to prepare for unexpected changes, the importance of maintaining a "kudo file," and how to leverage personal branding in job searches. Ana shares her own experience with the recent layoff and how she turned it into an opportunity to re-discover herself. Tune in to discover how career coaching can be a vital support system in uncertain times. 
Takeaways: 
Layoffs are disruptive but normal experiences. They bring shock, sadness, and identity loss, but they can also create opportunities to pause, re-evaluate, and pivot in one’s career. Be vulnerable. Be kind. Be human.
Be proactive before a layoff happens. Keep a “kudos file” with performance reviews, accomplishments, and samples of work stored outside your work computer. This ensures you have evidence of your skills and achievements if access is cut off.
Take advantage of outplacement and career coaching services. Many people don’t use these resources, but they provide resume support, interview preparation, training, and guidance on navigating the job market.
Think beyond traditional full-time roles. Contract, part-time, or portfolio careers can offer flexibility, new experiences, and pathways into unexpected opportunities.
Develop and market your personal brand. Employers look for more than hard skills. Highlight transferable strengths (e.g., leadership, problem-solving, creativity) and communicate what makes you unique.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Guest: Trudy Hallam [LinkedIn Link]
Resources:
LinkedIn Learning – free with through your local library.  Over 16,000 courses and instructional courses on interviewing; resumes; marketing plans; LinkedIn and everything in-between.
 
LinkedIn Learning Role Play:  As Career Coaches seek practical tools to boost a candidate’s confidence, LinkedIn Learning’s Role Play offers a game-changing solution. This AI-powered platform simulates real-world interview scenarios, allowing candidates to rehearse responses to common questions in a safe, interactive environment. It provides instant feedback on tone, clarity, and delivery—helping job seekers refine their communication skills and reduce interview anxiety. With customizable scenarios across industries, it’s ideal for candidates at any career stage. Encourage your candidates to use Role Play as part of their interview prep—it’s like having a virtual coach available 24/7 and is a great resource for alumni candidates too. 
 
The Job Bank’s “Get to Know Yourself” resource is a valuable tool for Canadian career coaches to guide candidates through self-reflection as the foundation of career planning. It offers quizzes and exercises to help individuals identify their strengths, skills, values, and preferences, enabling them to make informed career decisions aligned with their authentic selves. Coaches can use this resource to facilitate discussions, encourage honest self-assessment, and connect candidates with labour market information and training options. By integrating these tools, coaches empower candidates to explore suitable career paths confidently and strategically, making the transition smoother and more purposeful.  
 
LinkedIn Career Explorer is a dynamic tool that uncovers hidden career paths by mapping existing skills to thousands of roles.
Why It Matters:
Skill Mapping: Reveals a list of skills for a particular role and unexpected career paths by highlighting transferable skills and probability match.
Upskilling: Identifies missing skills and links to LinkedIn Learning courses, streamlining professional development
Networking & Jobs: Connects candidates to professionals in target roles and local job postings which help to increase a candidates LinkedIn profile and presence.
Strengths Finder:  Candidates often question their strengths – what are they good at or known for?  Have them check out this free survey to discover their character strengths, as a way to discover greater joy in living in alignment with themselves. Strengthen connections by applying what they’ve learned and helping them to answer the interview question – what's your greatest strength?  
 
OpportuNext uses Canadian Labor Market Information (LMI) to provide data-driven insights into job roles with strong growth prospects and competitive wages. By entering a current job title, users are presented with relevant career options, highlighting roles that match their skills and offer positive employment outlooks.  

Episode 10: Momento Mori & Aging Parents

Summary
 
In this episode, Iris and Jodi discuss the concept of Memento Mori, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our mortality to inspire action and live fully. Jodi shares her journey of creating the Four Thousand Mondays platform, which encourages people to seize the day and pursue their dreams. They also explore the challenges of caring for aging parents, the emotional complexities involved, and the lessons learned about life, death, and the importance of compassion. The conversation highlights the need to confront our fears and regrets, ultimately motivating listeners to live with intention and purpose.
 
Takeaways
Memento Mori encourages us to remember our mortality.
Counting the Mondays we have left can motivate us to take action.
We often delay our dreams, thinking we have more time.
Caring for aging parents can be both challenging and rewarding.
Facing regrets of omission is crucial for a fulfilling life.
Life is about making meaningful connections and experiences.
We should not shy away from discussing death and aging.
Self-compassion is essential when dealing with life's challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Memento Mori and Life's Shortness
01:49 The Impact of Memento Mori on Life Choices
04:13 Personal Stories and Motivations Behind Memento Mori
07:07 Operationalizing Carpe Diem: Tips for Living Fully
10:05 Facing Fears and Regrets: The Importance of Action
12:48 Pre-Gret: A New Perspective on Regret
15:17 Living with Intention: Making Dreams a Reality
20:24 Embracing the Topic of Death
24:55 The Impact of Aging Parents
26:56 Navigating the Challenges of Caregiving
33:30 Reflections on Life and Death
38:07 Living Life to the Fullest
 
Resources
Connect with Jodi on Linkedin, Instagram, or her website, https://fourthousandmondays.com/.  
Book by Jodi Wellman: You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets
Book by Irvin D. Yalom: Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death

Episode 9: Career Reinvention & Starting a Business

Summary
In this episode, Iris engage in a deep conversation with Elena, who shares her journey of reinventing herself and starting a coaching business at midlife. They discuss the challenges and realizations that come with this transition, the importance of values in career choices, and practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. Elena emphasizes the significance of self-awareness, confidence, and the support of loved ones in navigating career changes and pursuing one's passions.
Takeaways
Elena started her coaching business to make an impact on others' lives.
Getting older brought a mix of confidence and realism for Elena.
Midlife is a time for reflection and potential reinvention.
Values play a crucial role in career decisions and fulfillment.
It's never too late to pursue a new career path.
Self-talk can significantly influence one's motivation and actions.
Building a supportive network is essential for success.
Starting small can lead to significant changes in life and career.
Embracing creativity can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Chapters
00:00 Reconnecting After Years07:18 Navigating Family Responsibilities10:13 Supporting Career Transitions13:56 Lessons from Career Coaching20:38 Letting Go and Rebuilding Identity25:27 Aligning Career with Values32:07 Starting a Business at Midlife41:14 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth
Resources
Book by by Andrea Fruhling and Norman Amundson: Career Wayfinder: Discovering your career through delightfully practical projects.
Podcast by Mjuriel Wilkins: Coaching Real Leaders
Connect with Elena on LinkedIn or through her website, Impact Career Coaching.
 

Episode 8: Career Transition

Summary
In this episode, Ana and Iris discuss the complexities of career changes, sharing personal stories and insights on recognizing the need for change, the use of vision boarding, and the role of support systems. They emphasize the significance of asking the right questions, experimenting with new paths, and embracing self-compassion throughout the journey. The conversation also touches on the Ikigai model and the barriers that often hinder career transitions, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own paths and aspirations.
 
Takeaways
Recognizing dissatisfaction is the first step to change.
Vision boarding can provide clarity on what you truly want.
Asking fundamental questions can lead to deeper insights.
Support from friends and coaches is invaluable during transitions.
Experimenting with new paths can uncover hidden passions.
The Ikigai model helps identify fulfilling career intersections.
Self-compassion is crucial when facing career challenges.
Comparison to others can hinder personal growth and happiness.
Reflecting on long-term happiness can guide career decisions.
Embracing the journey of self-discovery is essential for fulfillment.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Midlife Career Changes06:07 Getting Unstuck: The Vision Board Experience15:56 The Role of Support Systems in Career Transitions20:08 Embracing the Messy Process of Discovery24:24 Design Thinking and Experimentation in Career Paths28:23 Understanding Ikigai: Finding Purpose in Work30:40 Overcoming Challenges in Career Change35:24 Reflection and Moving Forward
Resources
Book by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans: Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life; Designing Your Life website
Book by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles: Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life
Book by Timothy Clark, Alexander Osterwalder, Yves Pigneur, Bruce Hazen, and Alan Smith: Business Model You: The One-Page Way to Reinvent Your Work at Any Life Stage; Business Model You website

Episode 7: Divorce

Summary
In this episode, Ana and her guest and family lawyer Jonathan Bellamy, engage in a candid discussion about divorce, particularly in the context of midlife. They share insights on the legal aspects of divorce, the importance of prenuptial agreements, and the emotional challenges that often accompany the dissolution of a marriage. The conversation also touches on the evolving definitions of marriage, the stigma surrounding divorce, and practical advice for those considering separation. Throughout the episode, the importance of open communication and self-kindness is emphasized as essential components of navigating these life transitions.
Takeaways
Divorce can happen at any age, but midlife is common.
Understanding oneself is crucial during midlife and divorce.
Modern marriage has evolved beyond traditional definitions.
Prenuptial agreements are becoming more common and necessary.
Legal definitions of divorce involve separation and intention.
Stigma around divorce is decreasing but still present.
Emotions play a significant role in divorce proceedings.
Having hard conversations is essential for healthy relationships.
Clients often neglect to seek legal protection before marriage.
Self-kindness is vital during the divorce process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Conversations04:27 Defining Modern Marriage09:46 The Importance of Prenuptial Agreements15:02 Legal Aspects of Divorce21:45 First Steps After Deciding to Divorce
Resources
Bellamy Law - Barrister & Solicitors https://lawyervancouver.net/ 
Legal Aid for people with low income: https://legalaid.bc.ca/ 
Family Law Act: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/divorce/family-justice/the-family-law-act 

Episode 6: Breakup

Summary
 
In this episode, Ana and her guest, Harjeet, discuss the complexities of breakups, exploring the emotional and biological impacts of relationship endings. They delve into the stages of grief associated with breakups, offering practical tips for healing and emphasizing the importance of social support. The conversation highlights the potential for personal growth and self-discovery that can arise from navigating the pain of a breakup, along with resources for further support.
 
Takeaways
Breakups are a form of social grief that can affect us deeply.
Understanding the biological response to breakups can help in healing.
Grief is not a linear process; it can involve moving back and forth between stages.
Having a solid social support system is crucial during a breakup.
It's important to recognize and articulate what support you need from others.
Writing down both the positives and negatives of a relationship can aid in healing.
Healing from a breakup involves addressing both the loss and any trauma from the relationship.
Self-awareness and reflection are key to personal growth after a breakup.
Therapy can provide a safe space to process emotions and experiences.
You will get through the pain and reconnect with yourself.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Breakups and Personal Growth07:49 Navigating the Stages of Grief13:33 The Role of Social Support in Healing23:58 Learning and Growth from Breakups29:03 Key Takeaways and Resources for Healing
Resources
Book by John Gottman Ph.D. and Nan Silver: What Makes Love Last?: How to Build Trust and Avoid Betrayal
Book by Sally Winston: Overcoming Anticipatory Anxiety: A CBT Guide for Moving past Chronic Indecisiveness, Avoidance, and Catastrophic Thinking
Book and TED Talk by Dr. Guy Winch: How to Fix a Broken Heart
TED Talk by Antonio Pascual-Leone: How to Get Over The End of a Relationship
Book by John Kim: Break Up On Purpose: A Catalyst for Growth
Book by Amy Chan: Breakup Bootcamp: The Science of Rewiring Your Heart