“Mountain biking teaches you how to play, how to have fun, and how to bring back your creativity out in nature.”

Meet Jessica, a former Silicon Valley tech executive who traded her corner office for the thrill of mountain trails, becoming a mountain biking coach and community advocate.

In this week’s episode, you’ll hear how this self-proclaimed "non-athlete" conquered her fears, defied cultural expectations, and found joy on two wheels. With her 50th birthday on the horizon, Jessica made a bold career change. She left her high-powered corporate job to pursue her passion for mountain biking, becoming a certified instructor and an advocate for the sport.

But this isn't just about personal triumph. Jessica's on a mission to revolutionize the sport, bringing more women and girls into the exhilarating world of mountain biking. She's breaking barriers, building community, and proving that it's never too late to reinvent yourself.

Get ready for an episode packed with life lessons and a contagious enthusiasm that'll leave you ready to tackle your own midlife adventures. Jessica's story serves as an inspiring reminder that it's never too late to pursue new paths and find happiness in unexpected places.

To learn more about the organizations that Jessica supports:

Silicon Valley Mountain Bikers (www.svmtb.org)

FB @svmtb, IG @siliconvalleymountainbikers

Epiphany Trails (https://epiphanytrails.my.canva.site/)

FB @epiphanytrails, IG @ephiphany.trails

San Jose Composite youth mountain bike team (www.https://www.sanjosemtb.org/)

FB @sjcomposite, IG @sjcomposite

Girls Rock MTB (www.girlsrock-mtb.com)

FB @girlsrockmtb, IG @girlsrockmtb

Ninja MTB

https://ridelikeaninja.com/

National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA)

https://nationalmtb.org/

✅ About The Midlife Happiness Project.

Have you been wondering, "There’s got to be more to life than just a busy career or raising kids,"? Well, you’re in the right place! The Midlife Happiness Project is here to help you uncover the secrets to a happier, more fulfilling life in your 40s, 50s, and 60s.

Each week, your host Sarah Reynolds chats with amazing people who have discovered fresh sources of joy and purpose during this transformative phase of life. Our guests offer inspiring stories about new passions and pursuits they have found to stay challenged and fulfilled in their midlife stage. Sarah also speaks with a range of experts to explore science-backed methods to boost your happiness and well-being.

So, join us each week as we uncover inspiring stories and practical tips to help motivate you to take that next exciting step towards a happier, more fulfilling life. New, inspiring episodes every Thursday.

"When we did our first gig, my heart was definitely pumping. I told myself, remember to breathe. Once we got playing and I was feeling the groove, it was such a rush!"

Meet Kevin, mild mannered father, husband, and business executive during the day. Bassist for a high-octane rock band by night.

In this inspiring episode of The Midlife Happiness Project, our guest Kevin describes how he discovered newfound joy by joining a rock band in his midlife years. Kevin shares how he transitioned from casual guitar playing to learning bass guitar and performing live with his band, Third Rail. He discusses the challenges and rewards of this journey, including overcoming stage fright, balancing band commitments with work and family life, and the thrill of connecting with audiences.

Kevin emphasizes the importance of embracing new challenges and stepping out of one's comfort zone, regardless of age. He highlights how pursuing this passion has added excitement and purpose to his life, providing goals to strive for and experiences to anticipate. The episode also touches on the social benefits of joining a band and the unexpected ways it has connected him with his musically-inclined children.

This heartwarming conversation serves as a reminder that it's never too late to pursue dreams and find new sources of happiness. Kevin's story encourages listeners to be open to opportunities and take risks, showcasing how introducing a new hobby or skill can significantly enhance life satisfaction in midlife and beyond.

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Kevin's on the Midlife Happiness Project!

If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

"It's doing what you love, but also building something that serves a greater purpose than just me climbing in Yosemite"

Meet Kush, a former tech executive who boldly left his successful Silicon Valley career to launch a new podcast focused on his passion as an outdoor sports enthusiast.

In this week’s episode, Kush shares his transformative experience of combining his love for outdoor sports with his professional skills to build something meaningful. Sarah and Kush discuss the challenges and rewards of starting a podcast, the importance of consistency in pursuing one's passions, and how this career pivot to podcasting has brought Kush joy and purpose.

This episode offers valuable insights for anyone contemplating a midlife career change or seeking to inject more excitement into their lives. Learn how embracing your interests, particularly ones that you’re passionate about, can lead to newfound happiness and fulfillment.

Tune in to the Midlife Happiness Project for more inspiring stories of individuals who have found joy and purpose in their midlife years. Let Kush's journey as a successful podcaster motivate you to explore new possibilities and rediscover your passions!

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Check out Kush's Ageless Athlete podcast!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agelessathletepodcast/

Website: https://www.agelessathlete.co/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@agelessathletepodcast

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Kush's on the Midlife Happiness Project!

If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

“There is definitely the element of being deliberate. How much time is involved? Is this an independent activity or something we want to do together? If together, then it’s a no-brainer!”

Meet Karen and Dave, a happily married couple of 46 years who share their “secrets” to a long-lasting, fulfilling relationship

In this week’s episode, you’ll hear how Karen and Dave have cracked the code to keeping their bond strong through the different stages of life.

The key, they say, is being intentional and staying “in sync” about nurturing their relationship, while also respecting each other's independence. Whether it's volunteering together as naturalists or pursuing individual hobbies, Karen and Dave have found the right balance. They emphasize the importance of constantly learning and tackling new challenges as a team.

What's particularly inspiring is Karen and Dave's fearless approach to trying new things, even if they don't excel at them right away. Their attitude is that happiness comes from the journey, not just the destination. This mentality has helped their relationship grow closer over the decades, rather than growing apart.

For couples navigating the empty nest or retirement years, Karen and Dave's story offers a roadmap for maintaining passion, partnership, and purpose. Their insights are sure to motivate listeners to reflect on their own relationships and how they can add more joy to the years ahead.

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Karen and Dave's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

“It was a path I was supposed to be on, and I took a 25 year detour and that’s okay. And now, coming back to Karate, I feel like I’m back on the path.”

Meet Charlie, a husband, father of three, and tech company CEO, who rediscovered his passion for karate after 25 years away from a dojo.

In today’s episode, Charlie recounts a harrowing experience on a secluded beach in Santa Barbara, where his childhood karate training helped him protect his wife and himself from a dangerous attacker. This life-altering event reignited Charlie’s love for karate, leading him back to his old training grounds of the dojo.

Charlie delves into his early fascination with martial arts icons like Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris, and how karate provided him with a sense of discipline and resilience during his youth. He describes the powerful influence of his senseis and the dojo’s blend of rigorous training and ancient Japanese traditions, which instilled in him a deep respect for martial arts.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The profound physical and mental benefits of karate, including discipline, respect, and the pursuit of personal growth
• How karate offers a sanctuary from Charlie’s demanding life as a CEO and a father
• How the skills and benefits of karate can be shared across generations

Tune in to hear Charlie’s inspiring story and discover how revisiting childhood passions can bring joy and purpose in midlife. Plus, stay tuned for Sarah’s wrap-up on research into the broader benefits of martial arts for adults. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to rekindle their passions and embrace new challenges.

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Charlie's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

“I created this business on my own terms, it keeps me stimulated, keeps me happy, keeps me learning, but allows me to still live my life, which is awesome.”

Meet Christy, a mother and experienced corporate executive, who decided to dive into entrepreneurship and started a company in her 50s.

In this episode, Christy reveals how she intentionally crafted a business model that not only fulfills her professional aspirations but also allows her to prioritize her family life. Her story is a testament to redefining success on personal terms and finding balance between career ambitions and personal fulfillment.

Christy’s new venture is more than just a commercial endeavor; it’s a mission to promote healthier living and sustainable practices. Through her innovative approach to growing fresh vegetables, she’s empowering people to take control of their food sources and enhance their overall well-being.

Check out Christy’s company: www.PlantedPlaces.com

In this episode, you’ll gain insight into:

• The unique challenges and rewards of starting a business in your midlife
• How to integrate personal values into an entrepreneurial venture
• How jumping into entrepreneurship later in life is not as uncommon as you might think

This episode is not only a source of inspiration but also a practical guide for those looking to make meaningful changes in their own lives. Whether you’re intrigued by the possibilities of entrepreneurship, passionate about sustainable living, or simply interested in stories of personal growth and success, this conversation offers a wealth of wisdom and motivation. Tune in to discover how Christy is making a difference and how you can apply her insights to your own journey.

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Christy's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

“Going back to what you enjoyed doing when you were young can be the foundation for an activity as an adult, and that has brought me real satisfaction and happiness. It doesn’t have to be something new and unusual.”

Meet Andrew, a financial services professional turned expert in historical military art. Andrew’s childhood hobby of collecting toy soldiers sparked a lifelong interest in history, leading him to become a leading authority on soldier artists from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

In this episode, Andrew delves into his journey from a hobbyist to a respected historian. From organizing major exhibitions to authoring books, Andrew's passion for history has inspired him to explore a range of new paths to explore this fascinating niche.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How Andrew turned a hobby into a passion, now using his expertise to write books and give lectures
• How revisiting this hobby led to finding a new community of like-minded peers
• How a childhood hobby can lead to personal fulfillment and happiness later in life

And . . . don't miss Sarah's wrap-up, where she discusses the psychological benefits of hobbies and how they can significantly enhance our happiness. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking inspiration to revisit an old hobby, this episode offers valuable and inspiring lessons on pursuing passions at any stage of life.

Check out Andrew's website: https://www.andrew-wolf.com/

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Andrew's on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/

“When you start doing a routine and do it with regularity, the way the body and the mind works is that it starts to give you a sense of stability and fulfillment.”

On today’s episode, I dive deep into the art of routine with an expert on the subject, Angel Iscovich. Angel shares his profound insights and practical advice on how establishing routines, which he calls “routineology”, can transform your life.

In our conversation, Angel discusses the science behind routines, emphasizing how they can enhance productivity, improve mental health, and bring a sense of stability in our chaotic lives. He also expands on his concept of "routineology," which is a structured approach to creating and maintaining effective daily habits.

You’ll learn how to apply specific strategies to your own life, including:

• the key elements of successful routines, including the importance of consistency
• the power of small incremental changes
• and how to tailor routines to fit individual lifestyles

Angel also addresses common challenges people face when trying to stick to a routine and offers actionable strategies to overcome these obstacles.

Whether you're struggling to establish a morning routine, looking to boost your work efficiency, or seeking more balance in your personal life, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips. Tune in to discover how you can harness the power of routines to achieve your goals and enhance your overall well-being and happiness.

Learn more about Angel and the Art of Routine: https://www.angeliscovich.com/

Purchase Angel's book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1510764550/

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Join us each week as we uncover more inspiring stories like Angel’s on the Midlife Happiness Project! If you liked this episode, please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and a review. And don’t forget to share the happiness with your friends!

Watch this episode on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeHappinessProject

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midlifehappinessproject/