NEVER TOO LATE: Stories of Re-Invention (NTL)

"Time is going either way, so do it anyway!"This week, I sit down with Mark Astor — attorney, founder of a unique law firm, and a fierce advocate for families navigating mental health and addiction crises. Mark’s journey from burnout to purpose-driven work is powerful, personal, and a masterclass in what it means to reinvent not just a career, but a calling. His advocacy, his heart for families, and his vision for transforming the legal response to addiction is genuinely inspiring.Learn more about Mark here: https://mentalhealthaddictionlawfirm.com/about-mark-astor/🎧 Listen to Mark’s episode here:• Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent• iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/48007e11-9500-4c97-8fa4-2c3f9c07f4c4/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-inventionIf Mark’s story resonates, please listen, subscribe, and share.You never know who might need to hear that it’s never too late to change your life.#NeverTooLatePodcast #MarkAstor #Reinvention #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAdvocacy #RealStoriesOfReinvention #PodcastRelease

In this rich and deeply human conversation, I’m joined by The Rev. Hillary Kimsey—Episcopal priest, spiritual guide, writer, and gentle companion to those navigating the complexities of faith and life. Hillary brings a refreshing blend of candor, humor, and contemplative insight as we explore what it means to remain awake to the truth of our lives, especially when the path gets muddy.We talk about spiritual direction as a space for honesty, the gift of asking better questions, and how grief, doubt, and joy all become teachers when we learn to listen. Hillary shares her own story with humility and clarity, offering wisdom for anyone feeling unmoored, in transition, or seeking a more authentic relationship with God, themselves, and others.If you’ve ever wondered how to hold your spiritual life with more grace, integrity, and compassion, Hillary’s voice will feel like a steadying hand. Key Themes:What spiritual direction really offers (and what it doesn’t)Navigating seasons of deconstruction and reconstructionListening to the body, intuition, and spiritThe courage of honest questionsHow healing often arrives slowly—and unexpectedlyA grounding, tender, and beautifully insightful episode that will stay with you. The Rev Hillary's Links:  https://saintantonys.com/home/clergy/https://www.youtube.com/@vicarstantonys2950https://www.instagram.com/motherhillaryLINKSiTunes    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify   https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinventIHeart     https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/48007e11-9500-4c97-8fa4-2c3f9c07f4c4/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention#NeverTooLatePodcast,  #ReinventionStories, #LifeReinvention, #DreamForward,#RealStories, #AviationLife, #PilotStories, #FlyingHigh, #AviationCommunity, #PilotLife, #FriendshipGoals, #LifeLessons, #ResilienceJourney, #CourageToChange, #NewBeginnings, #ItsNeverTooLate, #KeepDreaming, #PurposeDrivenLife, #ChasingDreams,#HopeAndResilience,

“Letting Go to Live Forward: A Conversation with Monica Ricci”In this episode, I sit down with Monica Ricci—speaker, coach, and longtime guide in the world of simplicity and intentional living—to explore what it really means to let go so we can move forward with clarity and joy.Monica goes far beyond decluttering. She invites us into the deeper work: releasing old narratives, shifting internal limits, and choosing new patterns that align with the life we actually want to live. With her trademark humor, candor, and warmth, Monica offers practical wisdom for navigating change, creating spaciousness, and cultivating a life of meaning rather than accumulation.Whether you're standing at a crossroads, feeling weighed down, or simply hungry for a more intentional way to live, this conversation will give you tools—and courage—to step into what’s next.Key Themes:Why letting go is an internal, not just external, practiceHow our stories shape our sense of possibilityHow small shifts open big doorsThe emotional and spiritual side of declutteringCreating a life rooted in values, not volumeA rich, energizing, deeply human conversation. You’ll walk away lighter.VISIT MONICA's Website: https://monicaricci.net LINKSiTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent#MeaningfulLife #LettingGo #NavigateChange #SelfCompassion #FlawedHuman #LifeLessons #ReelsOfInstagram

What if your greatest health struggle became your calling?Former law enforcement officer Susan Robbins faced chronic illness that turned her world upside down — until she discovered the science of epigenetics. Now, she helps others unlock their body’s wisdom and rewrite the story of their health and purpose.💡 Healing from the inside out🌱 The magnitude of epigenetics💪 Why it’s never too late to thrive🔗 Connect with Susan Robbins:Website: healthyawakening.coPodcast: Everyday EpigeneticsFree Ebook: Personalized Health GuideInstagram: @susanrobbins_epigeneticcoachFacebook: Healthy Awakening🎧 Listen now on Never Too Late: Stories of Reinvention with Eric Cooter.iTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinventAmazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/48007e11-9500-4c97-8fa4-2c3f9c07f4c4/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention#NeverTooLatePodcast, #ReinventionStories,#LifeReinvention,#DreamForward,#RealStories,#AviationLife,#PilotStories,#FlyingHigh,#AviationCommunity,#PilotLife,#FriendshipGoals,#LifeLessons,#ResilienceJourney,#CourageToChange,#NewBeginnings,#ItsNeverTooLate,#KeepDreaming,#PurposeDrivenLife,#ChasingDreams,#HopeAndResilience,

🎙️ Guest: Faith Phillips — Novelist, Screenwriter, Producer, Citizen of the Cherokee Nation From corporate law to Hollywood and back to her Cherokee roots, Faith Phillips has lived a story of courage, creativity, and purpose. A novelist, screenwriter, and producer, Faith’s work illuminates justice, identity, and the healing power of storytelling. In this episode, Faith joins host Eric Cooter to share her remarkable journey — from leaving behind a successful law career to writing truth-driven stories that empower her community and amplify Native voices. Together, they explore how storytelling transforms pain into purpose and why it’s never too late to begin again. ✨ In this episode: Growing up in the Ozark foothills and Cherokee Nation Leaving law to follow a creative calling The emotional and ethical power of true storytelling Producing The Girl Scout Murders and writing for justice Her upcoming projects on MMIW and Mankiller Shell Courage, faith, and what it means to “start over again every day” 📚 Learn more about Faith Phillips: 🌐 nama.media/faith-phillips https://nama.media/faith-phillips 📺 The Girl Scout Murders – YouTube https://nation.foxnews.com/the-girl-scout-murders-nation/ 📚 Faith’s books available on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B009XIHZBM 💬 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/faithphillips/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/faith.phillips.79/ 💬 X - https://x.com/phillips_faith 🎧 Never Too Late: Stories of Reinvention — conversations with people who dared to start over and discovered new purpose along the way. 🕊️ Because it’s never too late to tell your story — especially when that story can change the world. LINKS iTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent #NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilience

📝 Description:What happens when a Fortune 500 executive trades boardrooms for a mission of healing, faith, and purpose? In this episode of Never Too Late: Stories of Reinvention, Eric reconnects with longtime friend and former colleague Jacquie Fazekas-Varner — owner of Bama Health Foods, founder of Bama Wellness Advocacy, and a certified Health and Leadership Coach. After 30 years leading in the corporate retail world, Jacquie felt a divine nudge toward something deeper — helping others live healthier, more faith-centered lives. Through her business, nonprofit, and bestselling books, she’s empowering communities to rediscover wholeness in body, mind, and spirit. 🎙️In this inspiring conversation, Jacquie and Eric talk about:Leaving corporate success to follow God’s callingFinding purpose in wellness, faith, and serviceThe power of self-awareness, leadership, and daily spiritual groundingHow to live “the better way — God’s way”💡 “Every person already has the power within them to live their most healthful, passionate, and purpose-filled life. Sometimes, we just need the space and support to discover it.” — Jacquie Fazekas___________________________________________________________________________________LEARN MORE about Jacquie and her work!Bama Health FoodsE: info@bamahealthfoods.comW: www.BamaHealthFoods.com1923 Bessemer Rd., Birmingham, AL 35208 Bama Wellness Advocacy - Non-Profit: https://bamahealthfoods.com/bamawellnessadvocacy/ Jacquie's Books"Beyond the Surface" https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1720028869/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0"Unlock your Inner Warrior" https://www.amazon.com/Unlock-Your-Inner-Warrior/dp/1946265268/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2U3SYCJ39PGFU&keywords=unlock+your+inner+warrior&qid=1553136817&s=gateway&sprefix=unlock+your+inner+%2Caps%2C156&sr=8-1___________________________________________________________________________________ 🔔 Subscribe and follow for more stories of courage, faith, and reinvention.🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.#NeverTooLatePodcast #JacquieFazekas #FaithAndWellness #PurposeDrivenLife #Reinvention WHERE TO LISTEN/WATCH the PODCAST🎙️iTunes                                   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138🎙️Spotify                                  https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2🎙️IHeart                                    https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148🎥 YouTube                              https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent🎙️Amazon                                https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/48007e11-9500-4c97-8fa4-2c3f9c07f4c4/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention

What if the things that scare or stretch you are actually invitations to grow?In Part B of my conversation with The Rev. Janie Koch, we continue to explore how faith, curiosity, and a willingness to be uncomfortable can open unexpected paths of calling and renewal. From disillusionment with the church to rediscovering joy in ministry, Janie’s journey is both funny and deeply human — a reminder that reinvention often begins when we stop playing it safe.💬 “If it frightens you, jump in; if it embarrasses you, you’ll learn from it.”That’s not just advice — it’s a roadmap for living with courage and grace.🎧 Never Too Late: Stories of ReinventionReal stories of people finding purpose, laughter, and hope in the second (or third!) act of life.👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss Janie’s full two-part episode — rich with insight, humor, and heart. #NeverTooLatePodcast #FaithJourney #Reinvention #Courage #EpiscopalChurch #LGBTQInclusion #Calling #JanieKochLINKSiTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilienceLINKSiTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilience

What if the things that scare or stretch you are actually invitations to grow?In Part A of my conversation with The Rev. Janie Koch, we explore how faith, curiosity, and a willingness to be uncomfortable can open unexpected paths of calling and renewal. From disillusionment with the church to rediscovering joy in ministry, Janie’s journey is both funny and deeply human — a reminder that reinvention often begins when we stop playing it safe.💬 “If it frightens you, jump in; if it embarrasses you, you’ll learn from it.”That’s not just advice — it’s a roadmap for living with courage and grace.🎧 Never Too Late: Stories of ReinventionReal stories of people finding purpose, laughter, and hope in the second (or third!) act of life.👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss Janie’s full two-part episode — rich with insight, humor, and heart. #NeverTooLatePodcast #FaithJourney #Reinvention #Courage #EpiscopalChurch #LGBTQInclusion #Calling #JanieKochLINKSiTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilienceLINKSiTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilience

In this episode of Never Too Late: Stories of Reinvention, host Eric Cooter welcomes The Rev. Dr. John F. Toles — Episcopal priest, author, vintner, and storyteller — for a thoughtful conversation about transformation, calling, and the art of beginning again.John’s story spans boardrooms, vineyards, pulpits, and pages. Once an ambitious young businessman chasing wealth in Dallas, he walked away from it all in search of meaning — landing in the mountains of Montana, where faith and creativity found him again. From that turning point came a new life: nearly 20 years of priesthood and a writing career that produced the Father Anthony Savel Mystery series and Springhill, a finalist for the 2025 Oklahoma Book Award.Check out Fr. John's Website: http://johnftoles.com👉 In this episode, you’ll hear:How ambition gave way to a deeper pursuit of purposeThe surprising ways faith and storytelling intertwineWhy risk and reinvention are essential to growthWhat wine-making can teach us about patience, process, and joyHow John continues to find wonder and meaning through ministry and creativity📚 Learn more about John’s books and blog at www.johnftoles.com🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube.LINKSiTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/never-too-late-real-stories-of-re-invention/id1841411138Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2 IHeart https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-never-too-late-real-stori-297417148YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NeverTooLateReinvent#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilience

From golf pro to pilot, from marketing to healthcare leadership — McKenna Houston’s life is proof that curiosity can lead to incredible places. In this episode of Never Too Late: Real Stories of Reinvention, McKenna shares how following his interests — not just his plans — opened doors to unexpected careers and lasting purpose.If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to change direction or rediscover what inspires you, McKenna’s story will remind you: curiosity isn’t just a trait — it’s a compass.LINKS: https://linktr.ee/ntlpodcast_reinvent#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #hopeandresilience

Part 2 – Finding Family and Fulfilling a DreamIn part two, Joe’s remarkable journey continues as he uncovers the truth about his American father, discovers two sisters he never knew existed, and ultimately leaves Germany for a new life in the United States. There, he finally realizes his childhood dream of becoming a professional pilot. This episode is a story of perseverance, identity, and the power of following your dreams — no matter how long it takes.

Part 1 – From Germany to the Skies (Joe’s Early Journey)Born in Germany, Joe Engelmann’s story begins in postwar Europe — the son of a German mother and an American airman he never knew. In this first episode, Joe shares his early life growing up in Germany, his military service, and the two IT companies he built from the ground up. Through it all, a lifelong dream took shape — to become a professional pilot. Episodes 1 and 2 are stories you will not want to miss.

The Rev. Sarah Shirley shares her remarkable journey of reinvention, from nonprofit leadership to ordination to military chaplaincy and now, parish ministry in Mexico. With experience spanning the Air Force, higher education, financial coaching, and spiritual direction, Sarah brings wisdom for anyone navigating change, loss, and new beginnings.🎥 Also Available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/G_HzBCH84xc#NeverTooLatePodcast, #careerchange, #ReinventionStories #LifeReinvention #DreamForward #RealStories #AviationLife #PilotStories #FlyingHigh #AviationCommunity #PilotLife #FriendshipGoals #LifeLessons #ResilienceJourney #CourageToChange #NewBeginnings #ItsNeverTooLate #KeepDreaming #PurposeDrivenLife #ChasingDreams #HopeAndResilience

Welcome to the very first episode of Never Too Late. I’m your host, Eric Cooter, and in this episode I step into the guest chair to share my own story of reinvention.Since the age of 15, I dreamed of being a professional pilot. But life took me down other roads first—corporate management, ordained ministry, and years of serving as a priest and diocesan leader in the Episcopal Church. Along the way, I carried both joy and heartbreak, success and setback, and always that quiet pull back to aviation.Eventually, through courage, resilience, and a leap of faith, I found my way back to the skies—flying jets, serving as a captain, and now teaching future aviators as a simulator instructor.This is a story about following your calling, navigating loss and transition, and holding onto the belief that it’s never too late to rediscover your passion, rewrite your story, and begin again.

In this episode of Never Too Late: Real Stories of Reinvention, I sit down with my longtime friend Paul Scott, a fellow pilot whose journey in aviation has been marked by resilience, growth, and camaraderie. Paul and I first connected decades ago through flying, and our paths have continued to intersect in surprising and meaningful ways. Together we reflect on the lessons learned in the cockpit and in life—about trust, discipline, friendship, and finding new purpose when the winds change direction.Join us for an honest and uplifting conversation about chasing dreams, navigating setbacks, and embracing reinvention at every stage of life.

What does it take to leave behind a successful career in public relations and step into the unknown world of chaplaincy, seminary, and church planting?In this episode of Never Too Late, I sit down with my friend and colleague, The Rev. Adrienne Hymes, whose journey is a powerful story of courage, faith, and reinvention. Adrienne spent more than a decade in the fast-paced world of PR and marketing in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., before answering a new call to ministry.From her work as a College Chaplain, to founding and leading the first Episcopal church in Wesley Chapel, Florida, Adrienne has faced loss, challenge, and transition with resilience and grace. Today, she serves both in parish ministry, while also exploring the intersection of faith and health through studies at Duke University.This conversation is about listening to your inner call, stepping into uncertainty, and discovering joy in unexpected places. Adrienne’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to dream forward and live into new chapters of life.👉 Subscribe for more inspiring stories of reinvention, resilience, and hope.Video Available on:YouTube: https://youtu.be/sIzCYsIl3goAudio available on:SPOTIFY:https://open.spotify.com/show/0AzeRDsgXGzFEQBx2pP5U2#NeverTooLatePodcast #Reinvention #FaithAndLife #Ministry #Chaplaincy #CareerChange #Hope #Resilience

Welcome to NEVER TOO LATE: Real Stories of Re-invention, where we share the  stories of dream chasers, career changers, and people with the courage to reinvent themselves. I’m Eric Cooter, and each episode I sit down with someone who has taken a leap, discovered a new path, or found joy in the unexpected. These conversations are about hope, resilience, and reminding us all that it’s never too late to "chase your dreams