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What’s Next? Conversations with Boomers is a candid, cross-generational dialogue exploring life after the milestones—career shifts, retirement, relationships, family, reinvention, and everything in between. Hosted by Barb Desmarais, a retired family & parenting coach and public speaker, each episode dives into honest stories and lived wisdom from Boomers navigating their “what’s next?” moments, offering insights that resonate across generations. Thoughtful, curious, and sometimes funny, the show bridges perspectives and sparks conversations about how we age, adapt, and continue to dream.
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Send us a text In this latest conversation with our favourite Boomers, Barb and Tim revisit the topic of avoidant attachment—why it happens, how it shows up, and what it feels like when you're in a relationship with someone who has it. Building on their previous discussion, they explore the nuances between dismissive and fearful avoidance, the classic pursuer–distancer dynamic, and why so many people are suddenly recognizing these patterns in themselves and others. Tim opens up about his own ...
Send us a text In this insightful episode, Barb sits down with our favourite relationship coach Tim Wade to explore the often misunderstood world of Avoidant Attachment. Together, they unpack how this attachment style develops, what it looks like in relationships, and why those with avoidant tendencies may struggle with closeness despite craving connection. Tim sheds light on the emotional patterns that drive avoidant behavior and offers practical advice for fostering deeper intimacy — whethe...
Send us a text Barb returns from a dreamy mother-daughter trip through France — and she’s still glowing from the experience. From the bustling cafés of Paris to the charm of Lyon and the serene beauty of Annecy, Barb reflects on what made this journey so special. Along the way, she and her daughter Claire (not featured on the episode) even made a spontaneous detour to Art Basel Paris — because sometimes the best moments are the ones you don’t plan. Barb shares her thoughts on finding the righ...
Send us a text In this very special episode, Barb is joined by one of our favourite podcast regulars, the insightful, licensed mental health counsellor, Jackie Adams, of jackieadamscounseling.com. Barb and Jackie sit down and they both share their expertise on nurturing meaningful friendships as we age. From keeping connections strong to recognizing when a friendship has naturally run its course, Jackie helps us navigate the delicate balance between holding on and letting go. Tune in for...
Send us a text In this episode, we explore the concept of the “Senior Encore”—the growing movement of older adults re-entering or reinventing their place in the job market. Our special guest, Mike Dwyer of Emplana Career, shares insights on how seniors can leverage their wealth of experience, adapt to today’s changing work landscape, and find renewed purpose in meaningful roles. Whether it’s a career pivot, part-time engagement, or a full-on return to the workforce, this conversation sheds li...
Send us a text In this episode, Barb sits down with singer-songwriter John Michael Ferrari to explore his remarkable journey through music. From his early beginnings to his evolution as an award-winning artist, to being considered for a Grammy nomination, John Michael shares stories of resilience, reinvention, and the passion that fuels his creativity. He opens up about the challenges of breaking into the industry later in life, the inspiration behind his songs, and what keeps him motivated t...
Send us a text In the premiere episode of Season 13, Barb sits down with our special guest and friend of the pod, Denise Torgerson, to explore the fine line between self-care and being seen as selfish. Together, they dig into our understanding of taking time for ourselves, why boundaries can feel uncomfortable but necessary, and how to reframe “selfish” as a step toward healthier living. With Denise’s warmth and wisdom, this conversation offers practical insights—and a few laughs—on find...
Send us a text In our Season 12 finale of What’s Next? Conversations with Boomers, Barb is joined by the vibrant and hilarious Colleen Landry. After retiring from her career as a teacher, Colleen found an unexpected new path as a social media sensation, quickly building a devoted following on Instagram and TikTok. Barb and Colleen dive into her journey of embracing creativity in this new chapter, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the joy of connecting with people through humor and ...
Send us a text In this week’s episode, Barb takes a break from guests and sits down with her producer, Mela, for a candid chat about one of the worst parts of online dating: scammers. From fake profiles and too-good-to-be-true stories to the subtle red flags that often get overlooked, Barb and Mela unpack how these schemes work and share practical tips on how to be more discerning when navigating technology. Whether you’re dipping your toes into online dating or have been scrolling for a whil...
Send us a text In this week's episode, Barb welcomes back special guest and mental health professional Jackie Adams for a heartfelt continuation of their discussion on betrayal. This time, Jackie opens up about her own healing journey—sharing personal insights, hard-earned wisdom, and the tools that helped her move forward after being hurt. Together, Barb and Jackie explore the path to recovery after betrayal in friendships, family, or other important platonic relationships, offering guidance...
Send us a text In an age that often feels uncertain and overwhelming, how do we stay grounded and connected to what truly matters? This week, we welcome back our beloved podcast regular, Denise Torgerson, for a heartwarming conversation about rediscovering joy in the simple, everyday moments of life. From quiet mornings with a cup of coffee to adorable moments with grandkids, long walks with our pets, and the healing power of time spent in nature, Barb and Denise share how tuning into the sma...
Send us a text In this deeply personal and moving episode, Barb sits down with mental health and marriage counsellor Jackie Adams, who opens up about the most devastating chapter of her life: betrayal. After 32 years of marriage, Jackie’s husband revealed a pattern of infidelity that shattered the foundation of their relationship and ultimately led to divorce. With honesty, grace, and insight, Jackie walks us through her experience—from the moment of discovery, through the emotional aftermath...
Send us a text In this energizing episode, Barb welcomes certified personal trainer and strength coach Caylee Alzner to talk about one of the most powerful tools for healthy aging: strength training. Caylee breaks down the myths around lifting weights later in life and introduces the key principle of progressive overload—a method that helps build strength, improve mobility, and maintain independence as we age. Tailored specifically for Boomers, this conversation explores why it's never too la...
Send us a text In this empowering episode, Barb is sits down with renowned physician and healthy aging expert, Dr. Gillian Lockitch, for a conversation that could change the way you think about getting older. With decades of experience in medicine and a personal journey that exemplifies vitality in later life, Dr. Lockitch shares her top 5 evidence-based strategies for healthy aging—covering everything from nutrition and movement to mindset, sleep, and purpose. Whether you're in your 50s or w...
Send us a text In this deeply reflective episode, Barb Desmarais is joined once again by our good friend, Tim Wade, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about one of life’s most difficult challenges: letting go of people when a relationship has run its course. Whether it's a friend, a partner, or even a family member, parting ways can feel like a kind of death—but it can also be the most loving choice you make, not just for them, but for yourself. Tim opens up about his personal experienc...
Send us a text In this heartfelt episode, we explore what it truly means to "let go" after the loss of a loved one — and whether that's even the right phrase. Our special guest, grief educator and coach Denise Torgerson, invites us to reframe our understanding of loss, suggesting that instead of letting go, we consider the power of letting in. Denise shares her wisdom on how to integrate grief into our present reality, embracing the ongoing connection we have with those who have passed. Toget...
Send us a text In this special Pride Month episode, Barb sits down with her dear friend and neighbour, Candace Macpherson, a proud lesbian and advocate for authenticity, visibility, and love. Candace shares her personal journey of coming out and living openly in a time when being LGBTQIA+ was far less accepted than it is today. Candace and Barb reflect on the evolution of the language we use to refer to the LGBTQIA+ community. They speak on what’s changed, what still needs to change, and what...
Send us a text This week, we dive into the digital world with one of our favourite guests, Denise Torgerson. Barb and Denise breakdown what they love and hate about social media, and how much it has deeply impacted us in our daily lives. From staying connected with family to falling for misinformation, social media has reshaped how boomers engage with the world. Whether you're a seasoned scroller or just dipping your toes into the digital waters, this episode offers a lively discussion on giv...
Send us a text In this week's thought-provoking episode, Barb sits down with Barb Wade, leadership coach and speaker, to explore the dramatic evolution of women’s roles in society. From the traditional expectations of the past—where women were often confined to caregiving and homemaking—to today’s landscape of greater economic power, personal choice, and independence, the two Barbs dive into how these shifts have reshaped family dynamics, careers, and self-identity. Drawing on Barb Wade’s exp...
Send us a text Downsizing isn’t just about sorting through belongings—it’s about untangling the emotions tied to a lifetime of memories. In this fun, light-hearted episode of What’s Next? Conversations with Boomers, Barb sits down with Richard Ferguson once again, founder of It’s Time to Downsize, to explore the practical and emotional challenges of letting go. Why do we hold onto things we no longer need—and how do we finally release them? Richard shares his expert insights on navigating the...
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