From Midlife to Best Life

Episode 20: Leaning into a career change and overcoming stagnation

Episode Summary:
Most people stay stuck because they’re afraid to confront their own inner saboteurs, until they learn to listen, understand, and call their inner leaders into action. Brian Duff reveals how embracing discomfort, trusting the unknown, and re-aligning with your core values can ignite powerful change, personally and professionally.
In this episode of From Midlife to Best Life, Brian shares his inspiring journey from a science-driven career in biotech to a fulfilling coaching practice, illustrating how midlife is a perfect time for reinvention. You'll discover how midlife can become a season of freedom, self-awareness, and intentional living, rather than a period of stagnation.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Brian Duff: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
Key Takeaways:
Recognize physical sensations to enhance self-awareness during change
Use curiosity to transform internal saboteurs into sources of insight
Trust the unknown to navigate transformation successfully
Call upon inner allies to counteract sabotaging voices
Normalize discomfort to reduce isolation and foster growth
Align actions with personal values for sustained change
Unlearn outdated assumptions to adapt and grow
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Conversations
02:37 Brian's Journey: From Science to Coaching
05:07 Understanding Midlife: Freedom and Reflection
07:58 The Comfortable Hole: Recognizing Stagnation
10:44 Navigating Change: The Role of Saboteurs
13:15 The Power of Awareness and Curiosity
16:20 Embracing the Unknown: Trusting the Process
18:59 Resentment and Its Impact on Life
21:44 Finding Your Inner Allies
24:21 The Shift After Change: Personal Growth
27:13 Final Thoughts: Embracing Change and Curiosity
 
Resources:
Are You Mad At Me? by Meg Josephson
Brian's recommended reads and tools

Episode 19: Financial Strategies for Midlifers (part 2)

Episode Summary:
In Part 2 of the financial discussion on "From Midlife to Best Life," Ana and Eldon Phukuile continue exploring financial strategies and frameworks. They focus on practical steps for achieving financial stability and wealth, emphasizing the importance of saving, investing, and tax efficiency. Eldon provides insights into the differences between financial stability and wealth, and how investing bridges the gap. The episode aims to empower listeners to take control of their financial future by starting small and being intentional with their financial decisions.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Eldon Phukuile: LinkedIn | Instagram
Key Takeaways:
Understanding Wealth vs. Financial Stability: wealth is about long-term asset growth, while financial stability focuses on short-term needs. Investing is key to transitioning from stability to wealth.
Four-Step Financial Framework
Save Money: prioritize saving by paying yourself first.
Grow Money: invest savings to outpace inflation.
Tax Efficiency: understand how different accounts are taxed to maximize benefits.
Protection: use insurance to safeguard assets and ensure smooth wealth transfer.
Investing in Education: Eldon highlights the importance of investing in education for future financial security, aligning with personal values.
Estate Planning: proper planning ensures that assets are transferred efficiently to heirs, minimizing tax burdens.
Starting Small: begin with small savings and gradually increase investments. Consistency and discipline are key.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Financial Stability02:16 Defining Wealth and Financial Stability05:02 The Importance of Investing06:58 Starting Your Financial Journey09:29 Four Steps to Financial Success12:22 Balancing Obligations and Savings16:08 Investing in Education and Values20:46 Estate Planning and Wealth Transfer25:22 Working with Financial Advisors30:14 Conclusion 
Resources:
Paragon Financial University: attend financial education sessions to learn how to increase your net worth.
Calculator.net: use this website for financial calculations, including mortgage and retirement income calculators.
Fidelity Investments Newsletter: subscribe to "The Upside" for investment insights and advice from experienced advisors. Visit Fidelity.ca and scroll to the middle of the page to subscribe.

Episode 18: Financial Stability and Literacy in Midlife (part 1)

Episode Summary:
In Episode 18 of "From Midlife to Best Life", Ana and her guest, financial consultant Eldon Phukuile, delve into the complexities of financial stability during midlife. They discuss the pressures faced by midlifers, such as supporting both aging parents and children, and the importance of planning for a stable financial future. Eldon shares insights on financial literacy, emphasizing the need for budgeting, saving, investing, and estate planning. The conversation aims to destigmatize financial discussions and encourage listeners to start planning for their financial future, regardless of their current situation, thoughtfully leading to Episode 19 that unpacks financial strategies and practical tips.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Eldon Phukuile: LinkedIn | Instagram
Key Takeaways:
Financial Pressures in Midlife: midlifers often face unique financial pressures, including supporting both older and younger generations. It's crucial to plan for these challenges.
Importance of Financial Literacy: understanding basic financial concepts like budgeting, saving, and investing is essential. Eldon emphasizes starting with small steps and gradually building financial knowledge.
Investing in the Future: Eldon advises listeners to invest in their future by saving and growing their money in tax-efficient ways. He highlights the importance of starting early to take advantage of compounding growth.
Estate Planning: proper estate planning is vital to ensure that assets are transferred smoothly to heirs, minimizing tax burdens.
Living According to Values: while financial planning is important, it's also crucial to live according to personal values and enjoy life, balancing present enjoyment with future security.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Financial Stability in Midlife05:45 Understanding the Emotional Impact of Midlife11:08 The Intimidation of Financial Planning16:40 Steps to Financial Literacy22:14 The Reality of Retirement Planning27:15 Resources for Financial Education
Resources:
Paragon Financial University: attend financial education sessions to learn how to increase your net worth.
Calculator.net: use this website for financial calculations, including mortgage and retirement income calculators.
Fidelity Investments Newsletter: subscribe to "The Upside" for investment insights and advice from experienced advisors. Visit Fidelity.ca and scroll to the middle of the page to subscribe.

Episode 17: Property Ownership as a Midlife Milestone

Episode Summary:
In this episode, realtor Theo Gannon shares why investing in real estate during midlife isn’t just about property, it’s about a mindset shift that can set the stage for your best years ahead. You’ll discover how midlife brings clarity, confidence, and the power to make intentional decisions that align with your goals. Theo breaks down why owning a home is a cultural and emotional milestone for many, and how the right timing can unlock opportunities, especially in Vancouver’s shifting market.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Theodora Gannon: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
Key Takeaways:
Vancouver’s real estate market is a buyer’s paradise right now, with abundant inventory and stabilized interest rates
Midlife brings a unique perspective that empowers better financial and lifestyle choices
It is important to take a holistic, advisory approach: working with mortgage specialists, financial planners, and trusted realtors
The new government initiatives and rebates make pre-sale opportunities more accessible
Tips on how to manage pressure and uncertainty around homeownership during turbulent economic times
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Conversations02:45 Understanding Midlife and Home Ownership04:35 Cultural Perspectives on Home Ownership07:02 Navigating the Home Buying Process09:34 The Role of Real Estate Advisors11:46 Market Trends and Opportunities13:29 Managing Uncertainty in Real Estate16:02 The Importance of Financial Planning18:23 Exploring the Greater Vancouver Market21:04 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers22:52 Strategic Planning for Current Homeowners25:31 Final Thoughts and Resources
Resources:
Brad and Theo Gannon team is a trusted source for real estate advice in Vancouver. Their website offers insights into the local market and personalized guidance for buyers and sellers.
Government of Canada GST Rebate Program: this program provides information on eligible properties and rebates available for home buyers, which can be crucial for those looking to maximize their investment. Learn more. This resource does not substitute legal or real estate advice.

Episode 16: Dating Etiquette in Midlife

Episode Summary:
In this episode of 'From Midlife to Best Life', Ana and Kevo explore the multifaceted experiences of midlife, focusing on personal growth, the intricacies of dating, and the unique challenges faced in Vancouver. They discuss the importance of owning one's journey, the evolution of dating etiquette, and the significance of human connection. Kevo shares insights from his life as a podcaster and musician, while also reflecting on the dating scene in Vancouver and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation culminates in a fun game about dating preferences, providing a light-hearted conclusion to a deep and meaningful discussion.
Host: Ana Yun [Instagram | Website: www.anayun.ca | LinkedIn Profile]
Guest: Kevin Cabell at The Great Northern Way Podcast
Key Takeaways:
Midlife is a time for ownership of one's journey.
Dating in midlife is about building connections.
Modern dating etiquette has evolved and can be confusing.
Human connection is at the heart of dating.
Time is our most valuable currency in relationships.
Vancouver's dating scene has its unique challenges.
It's important to communicate expectations in dating.
Dating should be an opportunity to learn about others.
Personal growth often stems from unexpected experiences.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Conversations01:36 Exploring Life in Canada05:23 Finding Happiness in Choices07:24 Defining Midlife08:51 The Impact of Podcasting10:19 The Importance of Dating14:53 Redefining Dating Expectations18:08 Navigating Modern Dating Challenges19:05 The Paradox of Ethical Non-Monogamy20:54 Navigating Vancouver's Dating Scene24:04 Challenges of Dating in an Expensive City25:14 The Happiness Factor in Vancouver25:37 Rapid Fire Dating Questions
Resources:
Logan Ury: How to not die alone book and audiobook
Esther Perel: Mating in Captivity book
Matthew Hussey: dating coach
Book a conversation at anayun.ca 

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.