The Present Day Wise Woman

“They say when a woman reaches a certain age, she starts to disappear. But my guest today knows that being ‘lost’ is often just the beginning of a bigger story.Today, I’m joined by investigative powerhouse Rachel Hartigan. A veteran journalist with over a decade at National Geographic, Rachel has reported on everything from the road to women’s suffrage to complex genetics.The former editor of the Washington Post’s Book World, she has spent her most recent years in the trenches searching for the truth behind a legend: Amelia Earhart. Her new book, Lost, doesn't just look for a plane; it uncovers the fearless, extraordinary woman who refused to stay silent.Amelia Earhart's Adventurous Spirit @ 0:00Rachel Hartigan discusses how Amelia Earhart's curious and adventurous spirit led her to try many different things, from learning the mandolin to flying experimental aircraft. Earhart saw flying as "for the fun of it" rather than needing to justify her dangerous flights.Earhart's Unconventional Path to Fame @ 9:25Hartigan explains that Earhart did not immediately burst onto the world stage as a famous aviator. Instead, she had a circuitous journey, bouncing between various jobs and living in different cities before finally achieving fame in her 30s as the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean as a passenger.Earhart's Complicated Personal Life @ 10:46Hartigan describes Earhart's complicated personal life, including her long engagement to an engineer who wanted her to be a traditional housewife, which she ultimately could not accept. Earhart later married her publicist but maintained a desire for independence and freedom.Theories on Earhart's Disappearance @ 13:00Hartigan outlines the various theories about what happened to Earhart and her navigator when they disappeared during their attempted around-the-world flight, including the castaway theory, the capture by the Japanese theory, and the spy theory. She notes that the mystery of Earhart's fate continues to captivate people.Earhart as an Inspiration for Women @ 24:40Hartigan reflects on how Earhart's life and spirit can inspire women today, particularly her willingness to simply "do it for the fun of it" rather than feeling the need to justify her actions or conform to gender norms. Hartigan sees Earhart as a symbol of women's fight for greater freedom and opportunity.The Ongoing Fight for Women's Equality @ 29:40Hartigan and Jefferies discuss the parallels between the women's suffrage movement and the ongoing fight for women's equality, noting that progress takes time and sustained effort. They highlight the importance of sharing the stories of courageous women who refused to be silenced, as this can inspire and empower others to keep pushing for change. Contact Rachel HartiganWebsite: https://www.rachelhartiganauthor.comBlueSky: rjhartigan@bsky.social LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheljhartigan/Instagram: @rj_hartigan

In this raw, unscripted conversation, Jennifer names what so many midlife women feel but are told to dismiss: you’re not angry or “hormonal”, you’re done. Done with nonsense, over-explaining, soothing egos, and tolerating inefficiency. She explains how the natural drop in estrogen isn’t a problem to fix, but a biological rite of passage that removes the social buffering women have relied on for decades, restoring honesty, boundaries, and self-trust. As tolerance drops, clarity rises, not because we care less, we actually care more, but because our nervous systems stop sacrificing energy to keep others comfortable. Wisdom doesn’t fade without estrogen; it sharpens. Midlife changes for women @ 0:00Jennifer discusses how many women experience a distinct shift in midlife, where they no longer feel mean or angry, but rather feel "done" - done with nonsense, pleasing others, and managing other people's lack of ability. This change is driven by the natural hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause, which fundamentally rewire a woman's biology and willingness to sacrifice emotional energy.Estrogen's role in emotional regulation @ 3:26Jennifer explains how estrogen acts as a "social lubricant", allowing women to be more empathetic, attuned, and tolerant of others' behaviors and inefficiencies. As estrogen naturally drops, this buffer disappears, causing women to become less tolerant of "stupidity" and more direct in speaking their truth.The freedom and challenges of midlife wisdom @ 8:27Jennifer describes the freeing experience of no longer feeling the need to support or accommodate things that "don't need or deserve it". However, this can create challenges in relationships, as partners may struggle with the woman's newfound directness and unwillingness to justify her boundaries. Ultimately, this is a natural part of a woman's rites of passage into wisdom and self-trust.Recap: Midlife is a time of transition @ 12:07Jennifer emphasizes that the drop in tolerance experienced by women in midlife is not due to anger, but rather the natural process of their biology stopping the masking of their true selves. This is a time for women to nurture themselves and their communities without the previous filters, allowing their deep wisdom to shine through.

Stop shrinking. Stop rushing. It’s time to inhabit your authority.In this episode, Jennifer Jefferies sits down with writer, emotion coach, and self-described "Stillness Ninja," Dr. Alice Mackinnon. As the co-creator of the Wise Woman in Residence program, Alice is on a mission to help women move from the exhausting performance of "doing it all" to the quiet, unshakable power of being.We dive deep into why mindfulness is actually a martial art—a discipline of groundedness that allows you to hold your center even when the world is in chaos. We explore how to stop shrinking and start leading from a place of quiet authority, using our stories as medicine and "compassionate badassery" as the fuel for the modern matriarch.This isn’t just an interview; it’s a rally cry for every woman ready to rise strong and refuse to disappear quietly.Jennifer introduces Alice as a writer, emotional coach, and "compassionate badass" who has spent decades helping people find their center. They discuss their co-creation of the Wise Woman in Residence program, which aims to help women stop shrinking and start leading from a place of quiet, unshakable authority.Mindfulness as a martial art @ 4:23Alice explains her concept of "mindfulness as a martial art" - the discipline and commitment required to continually return to a state of groundedness and centeredness, even amidst chaos. She emphasizes that mindfulness is not a destination but an ongoing practice.The power of calm presence @ 7:02Jennifer and Alice discuss the importance of embodying calm presence, especially as women age, and how this calm presence can be contagious and have a ripple effect on those around them. They contrast this with the tendency to try to "perform" authority rather than simply being it.Accessing ancestral wisdom @ 11:01Alice shares how she connects with the wisdom of her ancestors and the natural world around her, and how slowing down and being present allows her to align with this ancient pattern language of wisdom.Regulating the nervous system @ 12:46Jennifer and Alice explain the importance of regulating the nervous system to maintain calm presence, and share practical tools like breathing, feeling the feet on the ground, and squeezing the fingernails to help anchor oneself in the present moment.Embodying wisdom versus performing it @ 23:48The discussion explores the difference between trying to "perform" wisdom versus simply embodying it, and how the latter allows one's true presence and authority to shine through without effort.The importance of the wise woman's voice @ 51:33Jennifer and Alice emphasize the critical need for the voices and wisdom of elder women to be heard and respected in society, and how their absence leaves a void that impacts the entire community.Invitation to the Wise Woman in Residence program @ 1:12:00In closing, Jennifer and Alice invite listeners to join their Wise Woman in Residence program, which is designed to support women in transitioning into the next phase of life with grace, presence, and the reclamation of their innate wisdom.The Wise Woman In Residence: https://jenniferjefferies.com/wwir/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliceionamackinnon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sally.mackinnon.73LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alice-mackinnon-phd-3b0014244/Substack: https://alice803.substack.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alicemackinnon7382

No one should have to choose between dignity and basic needs.
In this confronting and necessary episode, we sit down with Rochelle Courtenay, the force behind Share the Dignity, the charity that changed how Australia talks about period poverty.What began as a single “check your privilege” moment became a national movement, shifting policy, smashing stigma, and restoring dignity to hundreds of thousands of women and girls.We talk honestly about:The hidden reality of period poverty in AustraliaHow lack of access impacts education, mental health, and self-worthWhat it really takes to turn personal outrage into systemic changeThis isn’t a feel-good charity chat.
It’s a wake-up call, and a masterclass in how one woman’s refusal to stay silent is reshaping a country.Rochelle's personal journey and the inspiration behind Share the Dignity @ 0:00Rochelle shares how learning about period poverty in Australia was a "checkmate your privilege" moment for her, as she had never realized that access to period products was not a given for everyone. This realization, combined with her own experiences with endometriosis and the lack of education around menstruation, motivated her to start Share the Dignity to ensure all women and girls have access to essential period products with dignity.The impact of period poverty on women and girls @ 5:28Rochelle explains how the lack of access to period products can significantly impact a woman or girl's life, leading to isolation, missed school or work, and feelings of shame and low self-worth. She emphasizes the need to remove the stigma and shame around menstruation through education and advocacy.Share the Dignity's programs and advocacy efforts @ 8:04Rochelle discusses Share the Dignity's key initiatives, including the biannual Dignity Drives to collect and distribute period products, the "It's in the Bag" program to provide holiday gift bags to women in need, and the organization's advocacy work to push for free period product access in schools, workplaces, and public spaces across Australia.The power of data and the Bloody Big Survey @ 31:20Rochelle shares how Share the Dignity's Bloody Big Survey, which has collected over 150,000 responses, has provided critical data to support their advocacy efforts and push for systemic change around period poverty. She emphasizes the importance of this data in engaging with government and driving real policy shifts.Rochelle's personal growth and advice for her younger self @ 40:59Reflecting on her journey, Rochelle shares the wisdom she would impart to her 18-year-old self - to not care what others think and to embrace her own worth, as this has been key to her ability to create meaningful change through Share the Dignity.Contact RochelleInstagram: @sharethedignityaustraliaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharethedignityWebsite: https://www.sharethedignity.org.au/Another Bloody Podcast: https://www.sharethedignity.org.au/another-bloody-podcastMenstruation Animation: https://youtu.be/Z1X63KD_BbY?si=b6T7kGeRCu10Yf0c

From the comedy stage to prime-time radio, Wendy Harmer has spent decades using humour and heart to amplify women’s stories and challenge the status quo. In this conversation, she reflects on her journey as a fearless storyteller, from her first nervous open mic night to becoming one of Australia’s most influential voices. Wendy shares the resilience shaped by her childhood, the dynamics of her unconventional marriage, and a passionate call for women to resist any attempt to take away their power.Wendy's unconventional marriageWendy describes her and her husband Brendan's unconventional marriage, where she is the primary breadwinner while he stays home and focuses on environmental activism. They discuss how this arrangement was seen as a potential trend 30 years ago, but the percentage of stay-at-home husbands has remained low.Wendy's resilience and overcoming adversityWendy discusses her childhood experiences, including being born with a bilateral cleft palate and lip, and the challenges she faced growing up with a visible physical difference. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her resilience and approach to life.Wendy's journey into comedyWendy shares how she discovered her passion for stand-up comedy after attending a cabaret show and realizing the lack of women represented in the comedy scene. She describes her first open mic night experience and how it felt like her calling, despite not feeling particularly nervous.Wendy's advice for womenIn response to Jennifer's request, Wendy delivers a passionate call to action for women, urging them to stay strong, resist any attempts to take away their rights and power, and continue to be their "wonderful and true and extraordinary selves."

As the Chosen Chief of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids, Eimear Burke helps people across Ireland create profound rites of passage that honour both ancient tradition and personal transformation. But she's more than a spiritual guide - she's a captivating storyteller who brings Ireland's timeless tales to life at the very sacred sites where these legends were born.An Arch Druidess in the Druid Clan of Dana and member of the Noble Order of Tara, Eimear bridges the wisdom of our ancestors with the needs of today's seekers. At 66, she embodies her own teachings about embracing life's natural cycles, viewing each phase not as something to fear, but as an opportunity for growth and deeper wisdom.Today, we're honoured to speak with Eimear Burke, joining us from the enchanting landscapes of Kilkenny, Ireland. After dedicating 30 years to healing minds as a Counselling Psychologist, Eimear answered a deeper calling - retiring to become a Celebrant who masterfully weaves psychology with Celtic spirituality.Eimear's background and role @ 0:00Jennifer introduces Eimear Burke as a retired counseling psychologist who now embraces her calling as a celebrant, weaving together psychology and Celtic spirituality. Eimear is the chosen chief of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids, bridging ancestral wisdom with today's spiritual seekers.Aging and the cycle of life @ 1:38Eimear shares her perspective on aging, emphasizing that it is not something to be feared or avoided. She discusses the natural cycle of life, death, and rebirth, and how each phase allows space for something new to emerge. Eimear embraces her age of 66 and the wisdom that comes with it, noting that she would never go back to her 20s or 30s.Connecting with ancestral wisdom @ 6:39Eimear explains the importance of connecting with ancestral pathways, teachings, and energies, which reminds us that time is an illusion. By tapping into these resonances, we can find profound insights and nourishment, regardless of our age or location.Druidry and the path of self-discovery @ 17:11Eimear describes the three levels of Druid training - the bardic, ovate, and druidic - which focus on developing creativity, finding one's place in the landscape, and ultimately, discovering one's true self. She emphasizes the importance of listening to the land and allowing it to teach, rather than relying on books or external authorities.Magic and the animistic worldview @ 21:06Eimear discusses the role of magic in Druidry, which is not about manipulation but rather about being in tune with the natural world and noticing the synchronicities and "magic" that occur. She shares examples of how the elements and landscape respond to Druid ceremonies, demonstrating the interconnectedness of all things.Reclaiming women's stories and voices @ 23:56Eimear explains how she approaches storytelling, focusing on giving voice to the female characters in traditional myths and legends. She emphasizes the importance of solidarity and not being afraid to call out the patriarchal biases that have often dominated these narratives.Embracing elderhood and speaking up @ 36:00Eimear emphasizes the importance of elders staying "young enough and to be here long enough to be seen," and not succumbing to societal pressures to conform to certain expectations. She encourages speaking out against the "games" and narratives that seek to control and limit us, and instead, finding the courage to be our authentic selves.Recap and closing thoughts @ 53:53Eimear concludes by emphasizing the importance of not being afraid to speak out, especially in solidarity with others. She encourages embracing diversity and not being threatened by differences, but rather, waking up to ourselves and our true power.Contact EimearWebsite: www.druidry.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eimear_burke_druid/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082675274272

In this tender and truth-filled episode, Jennifer sits down withDr. Alice MacKinnon — emotion coach, mindfulness teacher, and proud apprentice to the way of the Crone. Together they explore what it really means to flourish from the inside out, to age as initiation, and to embody the calm, grounded wisdom that our world so deeply needs. Alice shares how Emotional Freedom Techniques, mindful movement, and gentle presence can help us return to ourselves as we navigate this powerful season of life — the time of the Wise Woman.Becoming a Wise Woman @ 0:00Jennifer and Alice discuss the journey of becoming awise woman or "crone" - a process that is an ongoing apprenticeship rather than a destination. They explain how it involves releasing old patterns, embodying presence and emotional freedom, and deepening one's connection to nature and the earth.Accessing Inner Wisdom @ 6:17Alice shares how as she has aged, she has gained adeeper understanding and compassion for her younger selves and inner parts. She has developed tools like tapping and qigong to calm her nervous system and access her inner wisdom and stillness.Building Community @ 27:12Jennifer and Alice discuss the importance of communityand connection with other women on the wise woman path. They share examples of the supportive communities they have built, including online programs, in-person gatherings, and a "crone collective" they participate in.Reclaiming the Crone @ 33:03Jennifer and Alice explore the history and reclamationof the word "crone", tracing its origins to "crown" and thepower and wisdom of older women. They discuss ways that crones can use their voice and presence to positively impact the world, from peaceful protest to holding space for healing.Closing Reflections @ 45:02In closing, Alice offers a message of encouragement towomen approaching or in this stage of life, reminding them that they deserve the richness, connection, and sense of purpose that this phase can bring.Jennifer emphasizes the importance of seeing oneself as worthy of a seat at the table. CONTACT ALICETHE WISE WOMAN WAY program with Alice and Jenhttps://jenniferjefferies.com/the-wise-woman-way-101/Website: https://aliceionamackinnon.com/QiGong Online Class with Alice: https://aliceionamackinnon.com/qigong-online-classes/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sally.mackinnon.73Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliceionamackinnon/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alice-mackinnon-phd-3b0014244/

Burnout did not sneak up on women. And menopause did not suddenly become a problem that needed fixing.In this episode, Jennifer Jefferies cuts through the noise and names what many women feel but rarely hear said out loud. That exhaustion, brain fog, emotional flatness and quiet rage so many women over 40 carry is not a personal failure. It is the result of systems that learned how far they could stretch women, then profited when we finally broke.This is an unfiltered conversation about burnout, menopause, nervous system overload and the industries that benefit from keeping women tired, compliant and doubting themselves. It is also a powerful reframe of midlife as a moment of clarity, authority and wisdom rather than decline. If you have ever asked yourself what is wrong with me, this episode offers a far better question.00:00 – Burnout and menopause were engineered, not accidentalWomen’s exhaustion was ignored, then monetised once it became visible. Midlife women are told they are the problem while others profit.01:20 – Burnout is framed as personal failure to protect systemsCalling burnout a resilience issue avoids accountability for broken work and social structures.02:40 – Menopause exposes burnout, it does not cause itHormonal change collides with decades of emotional load, caregiving and pressure already carried by women.04:30 – You cannot fix systemic overload with supplementsThe wellness industry treats symptoms while ignoring the root cause. Burnout packaged as self-care is still burnout.06:20 – Women’s emotional labour props up modern cultureThe system relies on women coping, adapting and absorbing stress until capacity breaks.08:30 – Menopause becomes the perfect scapegoatMidlife women are medicalised instead of supported, allowing workplaces and industries to avoid change.10:40 – The nervous system is the missing pieceChronic stress keeps women in survival mode, disrupting sleep, weight, motivation and health.13:10 – A regulated midlife woman threatens the status quoRested, self-trusting women stop people pleasing, question urgency and leave draining systems.15:00 – Real support looks differentStabilisation before optimisation, rest without guilt, strength without punishment and authority without apology.16:40 – The real questionNot “what’s wrong with me?” but “who benefits from me staying tired?”Connect With Jennifer JefferiesFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠⁠Website: ⁠https://www.jenniferjefferies.com⁠

Healing, truth, and what becomes possible when we actually listen to the body.I’m joined by Inna Segal, global pioneer in energy medicine and bestselling author of The Secret Language of Your Body. After years of illness and the stillbirth of her child, Inna experienced a profound personal healing that changed everything.We talk about why the body never lies, how emotions lodge themselves in our tissues, why symptoms shift when we don’t listen, and why midlife is a powerful,often confronting, initiation into deeper healing.This isn’t surface-level wellness.
It’s about responsibility without blame, listening without bypassing, and letting the body lead the way back to wholeness.Importance of listening to the body @ 0:00 Inna Segal discusses how the body never lies and how most people don't know how to listen to it. She explains that we often suppress or run away from uncomfortable physical sensations instead of delving into them to understand the underlying emotional and energetic causes.Emotions and the body @ 2:29 Inna explains how emotions are stored in different parts of the body, and how we often generalize and confuse emotions because we don't understand the specific storylines they represent. She provides examples of how rejection can manifest in different areas of the body.Displacement of symptoms @ 9:44 Inna discusses how the body can displace symptoms as a protective mechanism, and how this process has changed in the post-COVID era. She shares a detailed example of a client's health journey to illustrate how unresolved emotional issues can manifest physically over time.Responsibility vs. blame in healing @ 20:12 Inna emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's healing journey without self-blame. She shares her own experience of needing to prioritize her own emotional processing while caring for others, and provides guidance on how to create the space and conditions for this work.Midlife as a time of transformation @ 43:38 Inna explains why midlife, particularly the transition to menopause, is a time when suppressed emotions and unresolved issues tend to surface. She contrasts this natural process with the common medical approach of simply trying to "balance hormones" rather than addressing the deeper underlying causes.Practical steps for self-exploration @ 56:54 Inna provides a step-by-step process for women to begin reconnecting with their bodies and emotions, including breathing exercises, journaling, and using tools like her Heart Healing Cards to facilitate self-reflection and reclamation. Contact Innahttps://www.innasegal.com/https://www.instagram.com/innasegalauthor/https://www.facebook.com/inna.segal1https://www.linkedin.com/in/inna-segal-a70b7221/https://www.youtube.com/InnaSegal

Three weeks ago, Beth Hanishewski underwent a double mastectomy.She’s not here for sympathy. She’s here because navigating work, leadership, and relationships in the midst of cancer treatment has sharpened the message she’s been teaching for decades: that real strength isn’t muscling through. It’s quieter than that. It’s choosing your attitude, tending your mindset, setting clear boundaries, and letting support in.Beth is often called the Swiss Army knife of coaches. Not because she has all the answers, but because she has an uncanny ability to see straight to the heart of a problem and break complex challenges into small, doable steps. She does it with humanity, humour, and a depth that cuts through noise.Yes, Beth is an internationally recognised speaker, coach, and writer with over 20 years’ experience. She’s shared stages with Jack Canfield, Robin Sharma, Lisa Nichols and Mike Dooley. But what defines her work isn’t hype, it’s her depth, her clarity, and her lived integrity.In this conversation, we talk about quiet courage, agency in hard moments, navigating relationships and boundaries during illness, redefining resilience, embracing the Crone, and trusting your inner wisdom, especially when life throws you a plot twist you didn’t order. Chicken Farmer Turned Coach @ 0:00Beth shares how she unexpectedly became a chicken farmer, despite initially resisting the idea. She describes falling in love with the chickens and how they have become an integral part of her life and work as a mindset coach.Metastatic Breast Cancer Diagnosis @ 7:29Beth reveals her diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer, which she discovered through a routine medical appointment. She provides details on the aggressive nature of her cancer, the treatment plan, and the emotional journey of processing this unexpected "plot twist" in her life.Navigating Relationships and Boundaries @ 25:37Beth discusses the importance of managing relationships and setting boundaries during her cancer journey. She shares insights on how to have compassionate yet clear conversations with loved ones about privacy, support, and her needs. Beth emphasizes the power of saying "no" and prioritizing self-care.Redefining Resilience and Strength @ 33:19Beth reflects on the myths surrounding resilience and strength, highlighting how quiet courage, mindset, and the ability to receive support are more important than "muscling through" difficult circumstances. She shares how her cancer experience has amplified her understanding of these concepts.Embracing the Crone @ 59:20Beth and Jennifer explore the concept of the "crone" - the wise, powerful, and unapologetic older woman. They discuss reclaiming this archetype, the importance of speaking one's truth, and the dichotomy of caring deeply while also not caring what others think.Advice for Her Younger Self @ 1:07:46If Beth could whisper wisdom to her 18-year-old self, she would encourage herself to trust her intuition and inner wisdom more, rather than constantly seeking external validation and influence.CONTACT BETHhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bethhanishewski/https://www.facebook.com/mindsetcoachinghttps://www.instagram.com/mindsetcoaching/https://bethhanishewski.com/

If you’re less interested in fitting in and more interested in living in alignment with who you actually are now, this one’s for you.Today I’m joined by Inessa Love, co-founder of Sassy Silver Surfers, a movement born from a quiet refusal to shrink.Inessa didn’t take up surfing to prove anything.She took it up because something in her said now.Not louder. Not faster. Just truer.This conversation isn’t about conquering waves or chasing youth. It’s about the rebellion that comes with age, the kind that doesn’t shout, doesn’t perform, and doesn’t explain itself.We talk about changing your mind without apology, navigating spaces that weren’t built for you, and why midlife isn’t the end of becoming, it’s where discernment finally takes the lead.Introductions and Surfing Journeys @ 0:00Jennifer introduces Inessa, co-founder of Sassy Silver Surfers, a community of midlife women who have taken up surfing. They discuss how they both started surfing later in life and the journey of overcoming fears and redefining their goals.Redefining Success and Embracing Change @ 3:53Inessa shares how she initially tried to progress to bigger waves, but then realized she didn't need to perform or push herself beyond her comfort zone. She emphasizes the importance of defining success on your own terms and being open to changing your goals as your needs and interests evolve.Navigating the Male-Dominated Surf Culture @ 12:17Jennifer and Inessa discuss the challenges of being women in a traditionally male-dominated sport, and how they've learned to navigate the lineup and choose their battles. They emphasize the importance of finding supportive communities and not letting the negativity of others hold them back.The Power of Role Models and Community @ 40:14Inessa highlights the value of seeking out role models, both online and in real life, to inspire and empower midlife women. She also emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community, as it can be a powerful antidote to the cultural messages that tell women to stay small and quiet as they age.Embracing Authenticity and Not Fitting In @ 43:07In a reflective moment, Inessa shares that a key lesson for her has been to embrace not fitting in, and to focus on being true to herself rather than trying to conform to societal expectations. She encourages others to do the same, and to not let the pressure to fit in hold them back from pursuing their passions.Contact Inessa LoveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassysilversurfersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/808225893264023

Dr Alice MacKinnon, a Doctor of Adult Education and longtime storyteller, explains why the stories we choose to share in our elder years become some of the most powerful tools for connection, healing, and wisdom.We explore:Why wisdom stories, not outrage, are what the world is starving forHow reclaiming the matriarchal voice is cultural repairWhy deep listening creates real safety and generational healingAlice and Jennifer offer a simple call to action:Share a story that matters, and make space for another woman to do the same.Your story is medicine. It’s time to tell it.The power of stories that matter @ 0:01Jennifer and Alice discuss the importance of sharing stories that hold wisdom, guidance, and inspiration, in contrast to the sensationalism and anger that often dominates online and media narratives. They emphasize the need to reclaim the art of storytelling, especially among women and elders, as a way to shape a more compassionate, sustainable, and regenerative future.Reclaiming the matriarchal voice @ 6:30Alice explains how the patriarchal system has historically suppressed the voices of women, especially older women, and the critical need for those voices to be heard. She contrasts the extractive, competitive mindset of the patriarchy with the collaborative, nurturing approach of the matriarchy, and the importance of women coming together to share their stories and wisdom.The power of listening and creating safe spaces @ 24:57Jennifer and Alice discuss the importance of deep listening and creating safe spaces for women to share their stories. They share an example of a community meeting where the women's stories were finally heard by the men, leading to a breakthrough in understanding. They emphasize the need to practice listening skills and discernment to ensure stories are shared in appropriate contexts.Sharing stories for healing and hope @ 35:39Alice and Jennifer emphasise the urgent need for women to share their stories of wisdom, healing, and hope, as a counterpoint to the anger and division prevalent in media and society. They discuss strategies for women to start sharing stories with trusted friends and in small groups, and highlight the power of collective storytelling to shape a better future.Sharing stories that matter @ 1:05:18Jennifer and Alice issue a call to action for listeners to share this podcast episode with a friend and start a monthly story-sharing practice. They also promote their own "Stories That Matter" community, which provides a supportive space for women to learn the art of storytelling and deep listening.Sharing Stories That Matter https://jenniferjefferies.com/sstm-program/

What started as a meme has become a muzzle. The word Karen is now used to shame women into silence, to make us doubt our right to speak up.In this raw, no-BS episode, Jennifer calls out how this label keeps women small, and how changing our self-talk, language, and even scent rituals can help us reclaim power from the inside out.It’s time to retire the mockery and rise as women who use our voices, unapologetically, fiercely, and together.The problem with the "Karen" label @ 0:00Jennifer discusses how the term "Karen" has evolved from describing entitled behavior to becoming a way to mock and silence women who speak up or challenge the status quo. She argues that this reinforces the idea that there is a "right" and "wrong" way for women to use their voices, and that this undermines women's collective confidence and empowerment.The power of our self-talk @ 4:29Jennifer emphasizes how the words we use, even in casual self-deprecation, can have a profound impact on our physiology and self-perception. She encourages reframing negative self-talk with more empowering language, as our bodies and minds respond to the stories we tell ourselves.Aromatherapy and affirmations as tools @ 8:31Jennifer discusses how essential oils and affirmations can be used together to help shift our emotional state and self-perception. She recommends specific oils like geranium, rose, frankincense, and sweet orange to address issues like self-judgment, emotional walls, and lack of joy.Breaking the cycle of self-mockery @ 10:30Jennifer calls on women to stop participating in the "casual cruelty" of mocking themselves and other women, as this reinforces the idea that women should stay small and quiet. She encourages choosing kinder, more empowering language, as this can help heal something ancient within us and pave the way for women to speak their truth unapologetically.Recap and key message @ 11:57Jennifer concludes by emphasizing that when women use their voices, it makes it safer for others to do the same. She reframes the term "Karen" as a "legendary woman who's strong enough to use her voice unapologetically," and states that this is how women will rise - one unapologetic truth at a time.

She packed the caravan, took the dog, and didn’t ask for permission. Anne Martin chose aliveness after loss. After the death of her husband, she listened to the quiet voice that said now and travelled Australia solo with her dog Rosie - not to prove anything, but to live.Confidence didn’t come before the journey. It grew because of it. Anne is a rock and roll dancer, teacher, and founder of Tiny Tappers, a dance group for children with special needs where belonging matters more than perfection. This episode is about trusting yourself, choosing joy, and stepping forward when life changes shape. Grounded. Brave. Fully alive. Introductions and Casual Conversation @ 0:00Jennifer and Anne engage in casual conversation as they set up and test the recording equipment. They discuss the purpose of the meeting, which is for an informal chat, and ensure the technical aspects are working properly.Anne's Solo Caravan Adventure @ 5:00After the passing of her husband, Anne decided to fulfill their dream of traveling to New South Wales. Despite initial hesitation, she listened to her intuition and set out on a solo road trip with her dog Rosie. Anne shares how she overcame her fears, learned new skills, and found a sense of freedom and confidence through the journey.The Impact of Anne's Story @ 9:11Anne's story of solo travel was featured in a local publication, inspiring other women to embark on similar adventures. She shares how she creatively addressed safety concerns, like using a makeshift "passenger" in the car, which ended up resonating with readers and encouraging more women to explore solo travel.The Joys of Dancing @ 20:26Anne discusses her lifelong passion for dancing, which she shared with her late husband. She explains how dancing has been a source of joy, confidence, and community for her, and how she now teaches dance classes with her new partner, Trevor. Jennifer and Anne reflect on the physical, mental, and social benefits of dancing.Founding Tiny Tappers @ 25:35Anne shares her experience of founding the Tiny Tappers dance group for children with special needs in Townsville. She describes how she initially struggled to adapt her teaching approach, but ultimately found great fulfillment in creating a space for the children to express themselves through music and movement.Advice for Women Seeking Courage @ 32:06Anne encourages women who may be doubting themselves to listen to their intuition and take the first step, even if it feels risky. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief and not overthinking, and shares how her own journey has taught her to trust her gut and embrace new experiences.Contact Anne Martinhttps://www.borderrockers.com/https://www.facebook.com/borderrockershttps://www.instagram.com/border_rockers/

The art of listening deeply. Professor Jackie Huggins AM FAHA is one of Australia’s most respected elders, and this is a conversation that asks us to slow down and listen properly. A proud Bidjara and Birri Gubba Juru woman, she is an author, historian, and lifelong advocate whose work has shaped national conversations on truth-telling, reconciliation, and Indigenous women’s voices. As co-author of Auntie Rita and a contributor to landmark national inquiries, Jackie speaks with history, dignity, and lived wisdom about reconciliation as unfinished generational work, the necessity of deep listening and action from non-Indigenous Australia, the responsibility and honour of elderhood, mentoring younger activists, and the ongoing fight for justice, treaty, and truth-telling. This is not a conversation to skim - it’s one to sit with, deeply.Lifelong commitment to reconciliation @ 0:00Jackie Huggins discusses her 30-year experience working in reconciliation, inspired by her mother's work. She sees reconciliation as unfinished business that will continue for generations, as the country must acknowledge the lies and truths of its history.The importance of deep listening @ 6:58Jackie emphasizes the need for deep listening and action from non-Indigenous Australians to truly address the country's history and move forward. She believes Indigenous voices and solutions are often dismissed or not taken seriously.Mentoring the next generation @ 25:37In the later stages of her career, Jackie focuses on mentoring young Indigenous activists and campaigners, passing on her wisdom and experience to empower the next generation to continue the fight for justice and self-determination.The role of Indigenous elders @ 48:20Jackie discusses the respected position of Indigenous elders in her community, and how she has grown into that role, using her voice to guide and correct younger community members. She sees this as a great honor and responsibility.Advice for the next generation @ 1:00:22Jackie's key advice to younger women, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, is to never give up, to stay true to themselves, and to keep fighting for justice and a better future, even in the face of challenges and obstacles.Ongoing fight for treaty and truth-telling @ 1:04:00Jackie remains hopeful that the Uluru Statement from the Heart will eventually lead to treaty and truth-telling processes, despite current setbacks. She believes the fight will continue, with younger generations carrying it forward.Professor Jackie Huggins Bookshttps://www.uqp.com.au/books/sister-girl-reflections-on-tiddaism-identity-and-reconciliationhttps://shop.aiatsis.gov.au/products/auntie-rita-revised-edition

Catherine McGregor AM is one of Australia’s sharpest strategic minds, a decorated military officer, war historian, and fearless public intellectual. With over three decades of operational service across the Army and Air Force, including command in Timor-Leste, she has advised Chiefs of the Army, shaped national defence thinking, and earned the Order of Australia.Today, she brings that same clarity and courage to the national conversation as a writer and broadcaster. Incisive, uncompromising, and impossible to ignore.Introductions and background | 0:00Jennifer introduces Catherine McGregor, a decorated military officer, war historian, and public intellectual. Catherine shares how she was influenced by the writings of Carl Jung and his concept of the “afternoon of life,” a time of introspection and personal growth in later adulthood.Reflecting on regrets and making peace | 2:16Catherine discusses her regrets and her efforts to make peace with them as she enters the “afternoon” of her life. She shares her disappointment, as a young man, at having missed the opportunity to serve in the Vietnam War, like many of her peers.Transitioning in the military | 16:43Catherine reflects on her experience transitioning while serving in the military, noting that it paradoxically provided the safest environment for her to do so. She shares how the military supported her through the process, in contrast to the discrimination she has faced in other contexts.Passion for cricket and writing | 27:13Catherine discusses her lifelong love of cricket, which has been a constant in her life, even through difficult periods. She expresses a desire to write a book, though she has struggled with the process, and shares her admiration for the writing of William Faulkner.Advocating for the trans community | 53:14Catherine expresses gratitude for being invited to speak on a women’s podcast and voices concern about the current backlash against the trans community in Australia. She shares her desire to use her platform and legal training to support and advocate for vulnerable trans people.Finding joy in life | 1:00:57Catherine shares the sources of joy in her life, including her dog, music, poetry, and meaningful connections with friends. She reflects on the importance of self-acceptance and not striving for perfection.How to follow CatherineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-mcgregor-344b14355/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cate.mcgregor.7Connect With Jennifer JefferiesFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠⁠Website: ⁠https://www.jenniferjefferies.com⁠

Today’s Wise Woman is internationally acclaimed author Anna Funder — the brilliant mind behind Stasiland, All That I Am, and Wifedom: Mrs Orwell’s Invisible Life.In this powerful conversation, we dive into women, work, and the invisible labour that keeps the world turning. Anna shares how her background in human rights shaped her writing, why telling women’s untold stories matters, and what resistance looks like — on the page and in life.It’s a deep, gutsy chat about truth, courage, and reclaiming the narratives history tried to erase.Women's historical contributions @ 0:02Anna discusses how women's accomplishments throughout history have often been overlooked or erased, using examples from art history and the lives of women activists. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and reclaiming this lost history, rather than reinventing the wheel each generation.The invisible labor of women @ 1:19Anna explains how women's essential work of care, organization, and emotional support for families and communities is often devalued and taken for granted. She argues this work should be recognized as valuable and not solely defined as a woman's duty.Conscience and truth-telling in writing @ 2:51Anna describes how her conscience and commitment to truth-telling guide her creative process as a writer. She discusses the backlash she has faced for revealing uncomfortable truths, and encourages other women to write their stories despite the risks.Resisting patriarchy through storytelling @ 3:46Jennifer and Anna discuss how women's stories and voices can be a powerful form of resistance against patriarchal systems. They emphasize the importance of women supporting each other and using their platforms to amplify marginalized perspectives.Advice for the next generation @ 48:52In closing, Anna offers words of encouragement for young women writers and thinkers, advising them to trust their voices and not be deterred by self-doubt or fear of backlash.Connect with Anna FunderInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/annafunderauthorWebsite: https://www.annafunder.com/Connect With Jennifer JefferiesFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠Website: https://www.jenniferjefferies.com

Bold isn’t loud, it’s grounded. Jennifer reframes boldness as a gentle, steady presence rooted in truth, not theatrics. Drawing on cross-cultural insights and the science of psychological safety and self-compassion, she reveals why calm leaders create braver teams. With simple, Bare-Arse-Minimum practices, she shows how soft boundaries, steadiness, and compassionate ambition build real courage. Gentle boldness isn’t weakness, it's power done wisely.Redefining boldness as gentle presence @ 0:00Jennifer discusses how boldness is often misunderstood as loud, forceful behavior, when in reality true boldness can be quiet, grounded, and gentle. She shares insights from her experiences in China and Australia that helped her reframe her understanding of boldness.The science behind gentle boldness @ 5:28Jennifer explores research on psychological safety and self-compassion, which shows that creating environments of trust and treating ourselves kindly are key to cultivating courage and innovation. She explains how this scientific evidence aligns with the wisdom of "wise women" and the natural resilience of trees.Practical tips for embodying gentle boldness @ 13:07Jennifer provides several actionable suggestions for how leaders can apply the principles of gentle boldness, including leading with steadiness rather than spectacle, responding calmly to mistakes, being compassionate in ambition, protecting recovery time, and setting soft boundaries. She emphasizes that small, consistent steps can compound into greater courage and authenticity.Recap: Embracing your true, grounded self @ 17:33Jennifer concludes by encouraging the listener to embrace their own gentle boldness, rooting themselves in their values and truth rather than trying to conform to external expectations of what it means to be "bold." She emphasizes that the boldest act is simply being your authentic self.Connect With Jennifer JefferiesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewomanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/

For Jin Hee, saying “no” isn’t selfish, it’s the foundation of real self-care. After studying naturopathy and aromatherapy in Australia, she returned to Korea as a pioneer, blending Western personalised care with Korean traditions and later developing MannaTouch™ and Brown Iris Kinesthetic Aromatherapy Point Therapy.She opens up about the emotional load Korean women carry, the loss of traditional practices, and how boundaries saved her from burnout. Now leading IAA Korea and representing AIA USA, she shares the wisdom she wishes she’d known earlier: be less afraid and choose yourself sooner.Jinhee's background and pioneering work in Korea @ 0:00Jinhee is a Korean naturopath and aromatherapist who studied in Australia for 30 years. She has been a trailblazer in bringing natural therapies and aromatherapy to Korea, and is the president of the International Aromatherapy Association in Korea as well as the international representative for the Alliance of International Aromatherapists in the USA.Challenges of introducing Western natural therapies in Korea @ 11:01Jinhee discussed the differences between the Western and Korean approaches to natural medicine, noting that in Korea there is more of a focus on constitution and standardized treatments, versus the more personalized Western approach. This made it challenging to introduce natural therapies in Korea initially.The heavy burden on Korean women @ 15:17Jinhee shared how in Korean culture, women are expected to take on immense family responsibilities, caring for their immediate and extended families. This can lead to women suppressing their emotions and neglecting their own health, as they feel guilty prioritizing themselves.The decline of traditional Korean practices @ 43:08Jinhee lamented the decline of traditional Korean practices like making large batches of kimchi, as younger generations move away from these time-honored customs in favor of more Western-influenced lifestyles and eating habits. This represents a cultural shift that concerns Jinhee.Jinhee's personal journey of learning to say "no" @ 55:01Jinhee shared how it took her years to learn to say "no" and prioritize her own self-care, as it went against the cultural expectations placed on Korean women. This was a difficult but important lesson that allowed her to avoid burnout.Advice for her younger self @ 57:20If Jinhee could go back in time, she would advise her younger self to be less afraid and try more new things, rather than feeling constrained by cultural expectations.Contact Jin Heehttps://www.aromaiaa.org/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aromainsightcarddkoreaConnect With Jennifer JefferiesFacebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠

You’d think after decades of speaking to rooms full of people, I’d be bulletproof.But standing on that TED red dot — my knees shook. My heart was in my throat. My inner critic was loud:“Who are you to say this?”“Don’t mess it up.”And my wise woman whispered back: “Do it scared.”Fear isn’t weakness. It’s proof you care. It means what you’re about to do matters. That day, fear became my teacher.It taught me that courage doesn’t arrive neatly wrapped. It shows up as shaking hands, sweaty palms, and a pounding heart that still says go anyway.It taught me that when you chase comfort, you shrink. But when you face fear, you grow into the version of yourself you’ve been waiting for.And it reminded me that fear doesn’t disappear when you hit midlife — it just changes shape. It’s not about climbing mountains anymore; it’s about being seen, being heard, being real.So next time fear shows up, don’t wait for it to leave.Grab it by the hand and take it with you.Because the magic isn’t on the other side of fear — it’s through it.Here are a few lessons I learned that might help youwhen life hands you that next opportunity to stretch and grow:Growth feels messy, not magical. The wobble, the nerves, the “what-am-I-doing?” moments, I shook, I cried and I stood my ground, they are the real signs you’re expanding.Confidence comes after courage. We don’t wait to feel ready, we do the thing, and then the courage turns into confidence.Surrender beats control. When we trust ourselves and the process, everything starts to flow instead of force.Being seen is part of healing. Letting ourselves be visible, imperfect and real, opens the door for others to do the same.Integration is the real growth. The stretch is one thing, but how we embody what we’ve learned after? That’s where the magic lands.And yes, I still had my secret weapon that day: a few drops of frankincense and bergamot in my palms. I inhaled, grounded, and remembered — I’ve got this.So here’s my bare-arse-minimum reminder for you, wise woman:You can be scared. You can shake. You can still rise.Do it anyway.Connect With Jennifer JefferiesFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/presentdaywisewoman ⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thepresentdaywisewoman⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferjefferies/⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferjefferiesoz/ ⁠⁠