The Midlife Chrysalis

Feeling stuck in midlife? You might be in your chrysalis, not a crisis.In this Wisdom Wednesday episode, Chip Conley breaks down why midlife often feels confusing and heavy, and why that “messy middle” is actually the beginning of real transformation. Chip shares:• The three stages of every transition and where most people get stuck• What really happens inside the messy middle• Why men and women experience midlife so differently• How transitional intelligence (TQ) helps you move forward with clarity If you’re wondering whether something is wrong, or whether you’re simply evolving, this episode offers the reassurance and perspective you need.If you enjoyed this, follow the show, leave a rating, and join us next week for more Wisdom Wednesday insights. Timestamps:00:00 Film Festival & Holiday Mood01:55 Crisis vs Chrysalis and the Hollywood Myth05:15 The Three Stages of Transition07:07 Emotions in the Messy Middle09:33 Finding Your Through Line11:21 Ritualizing Endings13:16 How Men Experience Midlife15:40 How Women Experience Midlife15:53 Why Women Navigate Midlife Differently19:27 Identity, Purpose, and Feeling Stuck21:35 Chip’s Personal Midlife Story22:42 Why Men Resist This Work Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeChrysalis #MidlifeTransition #MidlifeCrisis #MessyMiddle #PersonalGrowthJourney #LifeTransitions #ChipConley #TransitionalIntelligence #MidlifeWisdom #SelfDiscovery #MidlifeWomen #MidlifeMen #EmotionalWellbeing #LifeReinvention #GrowthMindset

What if midlife became your chance to ROAR, not retire?In this powerful conversation, bestselling author and longevity visionary Michael Clinton shares why your 40s, 50s, and beyond are actually the most exciting and opportunity-filled decades of your life. From his rise to the top of Hearst Magazines to running marathons on seven continents and earning a new degree at 67, Michael reveals how reinvention is not only possible, it’s essential. He breaks down the ROAR framework for reimagining your future, explains why “life layering” is the antidote to midlife crisis, and dives into the emerging world of longevity science, age-positive culture, and purpose-driven living. If you’ve ever wondered what’s next, or what’s possible, this episode shows you how to build a richer, more meaningful second half of life. Watch now and start reimagining what your future can be. Timestamps:00:00 Michael’s Santa Fe moment01:31 Early life, father’s influence, love of words05:27 A career in publishing08:02 Midlife awakening at 3910:50 Climbing Kilimanjaro and building an adventurous life12:32 Returning to school at 6715:56 The ROAR framework begins20:00 Ageism, language shifts, modern role models25:13 Life layering and building new identities27:45 Preparing for post-career life29:01 Reinvention stories and reimagineers30:51 Relationships, editing your circle, and support systems35:25 Growth mindset and lifelong curiosity37:33 Longevity insights and the next book39:18 Why longevity is having a cultural moment44:01 Why the US is falling behind on lifespan45:22 Rethinking work, age diversity, and longer careers49:56 Longevity clinics and new health models52:57 Longevity travel and residential communities54:35 Wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeReinvention #Longevity #PurposeAfter50 #ReimaginingAging #LifeLayering #ROARMethod #SecondHalfOfLife #HealthyAging #MidlifeAwakening #RewireNotRetire #AgingWell #LiveLongerBetter #MidlifeTransformation #ModernAging #LifelongLearning

Ever wondered why some people get stronger, wiser, and more grounded with age?In this powerful conversation, Laird Hamilton and Gabby Reece reveal why midlife is actually the most dynamic, resilient, and liberating season of life. They open up about growing up on islands, how they met, what keeps their partnership strong, and why presence, patience, and community matter more than ever. From breathwork and injury recovery to identity shifts, parenting, and purpose, they share the hard-earned wisdom that helps them stay grounded, strong, and deeply connected.If you’re ready to see midlife as a chrysalis, not a crisis, this episode is for you. Watch now. Timestamps:00:00 Welcome00:09 Childhood and Island Upbringing05:06 How Gabby and Laird Met09:24 Navigating Two Athletic Careers14:26 Relationship with Your Aging Body21:46 Breathwork and Training Philosophy26:04 Books and Science Behind Breathwork29:42 Midlife Crisis vs Midlife Chrysalis37:59 What Gets Better With Age41:51 Relationship With Risk and Mortality45:36 Presence and Stillness51:47 Wisdom Bumper Sticker54:17 Closing Remarks Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#LairdHamilton #GabbyReece #MidlifeWisdom #MidlifeChrysalis #HealthyAging #LongevityLifestyle #BreathworkTraining #MindBodyHealth #MidlifeTransformation #AgingWell #PeakPerformance #AthleteMindset #MidlifeGrowth #ModernElder #ChipConley

What if the secret to living longer isn’t in your genes… but in your mindset?In this Wisdom Wednesday episode, Chip Conley reveals the surprising research showing how a simple shift in how we think about aging can add years—yes, actual years—to our lives. From Becca Levy’s longevity findings to Carol Dweck’s growth-mindset principles, Chip breaks down why curiosity, openness, and lifelong learning may be the real fountain of youth. You’ll learn why “I’m too old to…” is one of the most dangerous beliefs we carry, how anticipated regret can propel us into action, and why midlife is actually one of the most powerful stages for reinvention.If you’re ready to rethink what’s possible in your next chapter, this episode will change how you see aging forever.Tune in now and start shaping the mindset that shapes your life. Timestamps:00:00 Canadian spelling banter02:56 Shifting mindset on aging05:59 Anticipated regret as motivation07:50 Lifelong learning and curiosity10:09 What gets better with age11:21 You’re not “too old” for anything14:18 Mindset as invisible life framework15:40 Weekly mindset assignment and closing remarksWhich of the 12 Reasons Most or Least Resonates With You? https://chipconley.com/reasons-quiz/ Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#wisdomwednesday #midlifegrowth #agingmindset #growthmindset #proaging #lifelonglearning #longevitymindset #chipconley #meaprogram #mindsetshift #curiosityasapower #midlifetransitions #positiveaging #mindsetmatters #livebetterlonger

What if everything you’ve believed about midlife is completely outdated?In this powerful conversation, Marianne Williamson sheds light on the truth about aging, visibility, and what it truly means to enter the second half of life with purpose. She shares raw reflections on menopause, identity shifts, modern rites of passage, and why midlife is less a crisis and more a spiritual turning point. Marianne also speaks about wisdom, reinvention, societal expectations, and how embracing your “third chapter” can unlock a deeper, more courageous version of yourself.If you’re ready to rethink aging and step into your next chapter with clarity and confidence, watch the full episode now. Timestamps:00:00 Midlife awakening as unmapped territory01:16 Aging, visibility, and grief for past identities04:30 Rites of passage and communal transitions08:13 Policy, culture shift, and public support11:49 Government support for wisdom schools13:06 Reflections on running for president18:34 Midlife crisis vs chrysalis19:14 Phase transition of society21:31 Pattern recognition, memory, and wisdom24:40 Teaching wisdom to younger generations27:45 Family patterns, shadows, and generational conditioning34:43 “Our deepest fear” and women’s empowerment38:59 Cellular memory of witch burning41:38 Sisterhood, bravery, and supporting each other43:56 Re-inspiring midlife and visibility as women age47:00 Presence, faith, and receiving life’s lessons49:16 Chapter three as a crescendo50:52 Midlife as a call to the soul52:04 Wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#midlifeawakening #midlifecrisis #midlifewomen #agingwell #spiritualgrowth #womenswisdom #reinvention #mariannewilliamson #midlifetransformation #menopausejourney #mindfulnesspractice #lifepurpose #selfreinvention #modernelder #innerwisdom

What if living to 100 is more realistic than you think?Longevity expert Dan Buettner breaks down the real habits behind the world’s longest-living people, from food and movement to purpose, community, and stress relief. He explains why Americans age faster, what actually adds years to your life, and how simple daily choices can transform your future health.A simple, science-backed path to your best chapter yet. Watch now. Timestamps:01:25 What society gets wrong about aging04:05 Dan’s early life and big expeditions06:33 Why anti-aging shortcuts don’t work09:10 Proven habits for longevity15:42 The alcohol debate and new research18:56 Benefits of drinking moderately21:29 Why 65 isn’t “old” anymore25:02 What the US gets wrong about health28:51 Processed food, inactivity, and social media30:52 Blue Zones work in US cities35:13 What’s happening in original Blue Zones37:40 New insights for Dan’s next book39:59 Dan’s divorce and midlife chrysalis42:31 How Blue Zones became a concept46:17 What Dan would regret not doing48:45 Dan’s experience at MEA51:07 Netflix series and frozen meals success51:58 Wisdom bumper-sticker55:19 The role of humility and aging55:59 The need for a rite of passage at 5056:19 Why midlife can be the best stage of life Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#BlueZones #Longevity #DanBuettner #HealthyAging #LiveLonger #HealthSpan #MidlifeChrysalis #AgingWell #LongevitySecrets #LiveTo100 #HealthyLiving #PurposefulLiving #HolisticHealth #LifestyleMedicine #Wellbeing

What if midlife is actually the start of your happiest years?In this episode, Chip Conley and Derek Gehl break down why life often gets better after 50, from rising emotional intelligence and deeper wisdom to feeling more like your true self. Chip explains why “growing whole” matters more than “staying young,” how Carl Jung’s insights can reshape your mindset, and why a pro-aging outlook can change your health, relationships, and purpose.If you want a fresh, hopeful take on midlife, don’t miss this conversation. Watch now.Tune in, and take the quiz! 👇 https://chipconley.com/reasons-quiz/"The Midlife Checkup Quiz" Timestamps:00:00 Welcome to Wisdom Wednesday03:12 Beauty of Santa Fe winters03:15 Introducing Chip’s book04:32 Growing whole as we grow older06:31 Integrating all parts of ourselves07:46 Stories about aging from Chip’s parents09:18 Why Chip founded MEA11:20 Midlife Checkup Quiz12:07 Time affluence and midlife14:29 Creating a pro-aging friend group16:34 Closing thoughts Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/Which of the 12 Reasons Most or Least Resonates With You?https://chipconley.com/reasons-quiz/ #MidlifeWisdom #ProAging #AgingWell #MidlifeGrowth #UCurveOfHappiness #EmotionalIntelligence #LifeAfter50 #MidlifeTransformation #HealthyAging #ChipConley #MidlifeMindset #PersonalGrowthJourney #WisdomWednesday #IdentityGrowth #MEACommunity

What happens when Don Lemon gets truly unfiltered?In this heartfelt, funny, and deeply honest conversation, Don opens up about aging with confidence, coming out in midlife, letting go of old shame, and the freedom that comes from no longer needing anyone’s approval. We talk about identity, love, sex, wisdom, and why his mantra “old people be knowing” captures the real gift of growing older.Don also reflects on the state of media, the “prime” controversy, and how stepping away from traditional news helped him reclaim his voice and his joy. If you’re ready for truth, evolution, and a warm reminder that life after 50 can get better, tune in. Watch now. Timestamps:00:00 Chip’s episode opening00:57 Don on aging and happiness02:34 Don’s childhood and early years03:38 Politics, Reagan, and identity06:52 Dating while closeted09:52 College years and social life12:17 First gay bar experiences16:20 Don’s coming-out story19:47 Coming out publically in a book21:41 Midlife chrysalis and confidence25:10 What gets better with age28:28 The “prime” controversy explained34:07 State of media and independence36:30 Politics, division, and future outlook37:26 Don on never retiring38:49 Possible regret 10 years from now40:24 Don’s wisdom bumper sticker43:543 Judy Garland and music icons46:50 Chip’s reflections Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/ Keywords:#DonLemon #midlife #agingwell #lifeafter50 #midlifefreedom #midliferenaissance #comingoutstory #lgbtqstories #authenticitymatters #selfacceptance #personaltransformation #midlifewisdom #findingyourvoice #reinventyourlife #unfilteredconversation

Grief isn’t just an emotion, it’s energy that lives in the body until we face it.I sit down with Meghan Jarvis, a trauma therapist and grief mentor who’s helped countless people find their way through loss. Meghan shares her own story of heartbreak, how grief and trauma intertwine, and the six simple practices she teaches to move that heavy energy through the body and back toward healing. We also talk about midlife transitions, why so many of us feel stuck, and how community can bring us back to life.👉 Tune in for a real, hopeful conversation about what it truly means to grieve, heal, and grow. Timestamps:00:00 Childhood loss that led her to grief work02:13 Uncovering long-buried trauma06:02 What trauma teaches about safety and fear09:29 Grief as energy moving through the body11:07 How stored grief affects physical health13:02 Losing her parents and lessons learned17:29 Checking into treatment and finding purpose19:32 The vagus nerve and how the body heals22:19 Midlife transitions and hidden grief24:18 Helping clients rewrite their stories26:12 The six pillars of the Grief Mentor Method31:11 Mindfulness, nourishment, and rituals for healing39:13 Why midlife brings old losses back42:21 Signs of unresolved grief43:55 Finding meaning and joy after healing47:43 MEA as a space for renewal51:44 Meghan’s wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeHealing #GriefJourney #EmotionalHealing #MeghanJarvis #LifeTransitions #MidlifeGrowth #HealingAfterLoss #MindBodyConnection #GriefSupport #TraumaRecovery #FindingPurpose #PersonalGrowth #MidlifeAwakening #MentalHealthAwareness #ChipConley

What if everything you’ve believed about aging and retirement is wrong?In this week’s Wisdom Wednesday, Chip and Derek dive into the surprising truth about aging. Why retirement often makes us less healthy, how community and purpose keep us alive longer, and why our “crystallized intelligence” actually gets stronger well into our 60s and 70s. They explore the real ingredients of a meaningful midlife, the magic of third-vault conversations, and the stories of people who’ve traded old scripts for more inspired lives.If you’re ready to feel hopeful, energized, and a little more excited about the years ahead, watch the full episode. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:34 Welcome to Wisdom Wednesdays01:43 The origins of age 65 retirement02:59 How retirement affects lifespan04:08 Fluid intelligence vs crystallized intelligence06:01 What people need the most after 5008:27 Chip’s own “mini retirement”10:07 Rethinking the three-stage life11:58 The litigator who became a baker14:11 Keeping your options open16:15 Changing habits by changing habitat17:16 The concept of the third vault20:12 Deeper conversations with aging20:56 Episode wrap-up and closing remarks Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#midlifechrysalis #agingwell #longevitymindset #midlifetransformation #purposeafter50 #crystallizedintelligence #rethinkingretirement #healthyaging #midlifewisdom #lifepurpose #aginggracefully #lifestages #livingto100 #midlifecommunity #wisdomwednesdays

Ever wonder if slowing down might actually wake you up? In this episode, I sit down with Susan Cain, the bestselling author of Quiet and Bittersweet, to talk about the hidden strengths of introverts, the surprising beauty in melancholy, and why midlife can be the most creative and peaceful chapter of your life. We dig into what it really means to live with depth, authenticity, and joy, without the noise.✨ Hit play and join us for a quiet conversation that might just change how you see yourself. Timestamps:00:18 The Quiet Life Community01:23 Susan’s early career as a corporate lawyer02:18 Realizing law wasn’t her path03:25 The success of Quiet and its life-changing impact06:09 Defining introversion and extroversion09:43 Chip’s story: from introvert to social alchemist11:35 Why people grow more introverted with age13:24 Reputational confusion and being open17:56 What is “Worktrovert”20:17 Deeper happiness through the bittersweetness23:05 Daily practices to balance beauty and melancholy25:44 The power of remembering mortality27:45 Chip’s near-death experience and slowing down30:31 Slowing life down in midlife and releasing ambition33:01 Leaving law and embracing a quiet, creative life38:31 How awareness of death deepens appreciation for life40:53 What Susan’s working on now43:07 Liz Gilbert’s TED Talk and creative pressure45:50 Susan’s advice for aspiring writers49:41 Wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#SusanCain #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #QuietLife #Introversion #Bittersweet #SelfDiscovery #MidlifeTransformation #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalGrowth #QuietPower #LifeTransitions #MindfulLiving #AuthenticLife #CreativityAndCalm

What happens when two New York City professionals lose their jobs, move to a tiny rural town, and accidentally build one of America’s most beloved skincare brands?Brent and Josh of Beekman 1802 reveal how kindness, community, and old-fashioned wisdom became the backbone of their business and their midlife reinvention. They share how loving your neighbor can be a real strategy, why contentment matters more than achievement, the 51% rule that keeps their partnership strong, and how better aging starts with simple kindness to yourself and others, all delivered with warmth, wisdom, and humor.👉 If you’re ready for a kinder, clearer way to think about midlife, just press play. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:59 Meet Brent & Josh of Beekman 180202:47 How Brent & Josh met04:18 Brent’s upbringing & coming out journey06:01 Becoming goat farmers & starting Beekman 180207:19 How the brand got its name09:09 Turning a recession into a business opportunity10:35 Growing from homemade soap to a global brand12:54 The idea behind Goat Wisdom book16:33 Their favorite principles20:46 Community, kindness & homophobia25:38 Brent’s family and true Christian acceptance28:41 Being partners in love and business29:56 The 51% Rule for decision-making32:06 Radical transparency as kindness34:37 Personal midlife philosophies38:42 What they’d regret in 10 years40:36 Redefining success as contentment41:55 “Better aging,” social connection & kindness45:16 Farm wisdom for life48:56 Wisdom bumper stickers52:12 Chip’s closing reflections Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeTransformation #GoatWisdom #Beekman1802 #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #BetterAging #KindnessCulture #EntrepreneurJourney #LifeReinvention #ContentmentOverAchievement #LGBTQEntrepreneurs #ModernElders #AgingWisdom #MidlifeReinvention #SmallTownStories

In the very first episode of Wisdom Wednesdays, Chip Conley and Derek Gehl sit down for a thoughtful, honest conversation about what wisdom really means in midlife. Chip shares the down-to-earth definition that guides his life and talks about the small, consistent practices that help him turn everyday experiences into something meaningful.If you’re ready for conversations that spark growth, clarity, and courage…▶️ Start with Episode 1 and begin your wisdom journey with us. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:22 Welcome to Wisdom Wednesdays01:37 What is wisdom and why it matters02:55 Life lessons as raw material03:32 Mindfully sharing wisdom05:28 Can wisdom be cultivated08:06 The problem with AI wisdom08:51 The chef metaphor10:52 Wisdom during cancer treatment12:51 Chip’s wisdom bumper sticker14:12 How to start your wisdom practice15:54 Final reflection Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#WisdomWednesdays #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #MidlifeWisdom #PersonalGrowthJourney #ModernElder #LifeLessons #MidlifeTransformation #EmotionalWellbeing #MindfulLiving #SelfAwareness #MidlifePurpose #JournalingPractice #InnerGrowth #ThrivingInMidlife

Midlife isn’t a crisis. It’s your greatest awakening.In this inspiring episode, gerontologist and coach Barbara Waxman redefines aging through the lens of “Middleessence,” a stage of growth, purpose, and renewal. She reveals how to reclaim energy with her Energy Audit, why mindset matters more than genetics for longevity, and how lifestyle medicine helps you live undiminished at every age.✨ Learn how to flourish, not fade, in your next chapter.▶️ Watch now on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcasts. Timestamps:00:00 Meet gerontologist Barbara Waxman00:28 How she became a gerontologist02:56 What is “middle essence”07:18 Adolescence vs. middle essence13:37 Why happiness rises after 5016:42 Debunking the midlife crisis myth18:53 Redefining legacy and purpose20:19 Barbara’s own midlife awakening23:03 What is the Energy Audit24:36 What lifestyle medicine really means28:55 The 7 lifestyle levers for thriving30:42 Mindset’s power in longevity32:41 Mindset studies that changed lives35:18 Well-being burnout explained36:23 Self-care vs. self-indulgence38:10 Solitude, introverts, and renewal40:09 Unlocking longevity and the third span45:46 Living undiminished and flourishing46:49 Wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MidlifeChrysalis #BarbaraWaxman #MidlifeTransformation #MiddleEssence #LongevityMindset #HealthyAging #LifestyleMedicine #WomenOver40 #LifeTransitions #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #AgingWell #HumanFlourishing #EnergyAudit #PurposefulLiving

What if aging isn’t about decline, but about becoming more alive than ever?The bestselling author and spiritual teacher Mark Nepo opens up about how surviving cancer reshaped his entire understanding of life, creativity, and purpose. He reveals the wisdom behind The Fifth Season, a time in life when the inner world begins to shine brighter than the outer one, and shares how to live and create with authenticity in midlife and beyond.Mark’s reflections will move you, ground you, and remind you what it truly means to be present, wholehearted, and free.🎧 Watch now and rediscover how beauty, suffering, and friendship all become part of life’s greatest art: your own becoming. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:23 The Fifth Season: Creativity in midlife04:10 What the “Fifth Season” really means05:28 How cancer changed Mark’s life09:58 Facing death and finding purpose12:00 What cancer taught him about life13:18 Chip’s own cancer story17:10 Realizing he was a poet22:14 How Oprah discovered his book24:47 Success, humility, and staying grounded29:59 Mark’s Pirouettes poem34:32 Creativity as a spiritual act42:17 Aging and letting go of old identities43:26 The tea ceremony and making lists46:30 The poetry of friendship51:14 Teaching at MEA55:12 Free Fall poem56:03 Wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MarkNepo #TheBookOfAwakening #TheFifthSeason #MidlifeChrysalis #ChipConley #MidlifeWisdom #SpiritualGrowth #MidlifeCreativity #PersonalTransformation #CancerSurvivor #MindfulnessJourney #AgingGracefully #PurposeInMidlife #SpiritualAwakening #PoetryOfLife #OprahBookClub #SoulWork #LivingFully #EmotionalHealing #AuthenticLiving

🔥 One night on air changed everything for Tamsen Fadal.She was at the top of her game as a TV anchor when she suddenly started forgetting words and sweating through live broadcasts, without realizing she was entering menopause. That moment became the turning point that led her from journalism to advocacy. In this conversation, Tamsen shares how she turned confusion into purpose, launching The M Factor documentary and her book How to Menopause.✨ Join us as we talk about redefining midlife, breaking the silence, and helping women everywhere navigate this powerful new chapter. Timestamps:00:43 Early Life and Losing Her Mother02:44 Lessons from Her Mother and Family Values04:06 Breaking Into TV News and Facing Stereotypes07:11 Sexism and Ageism in the Media Industry09:12 Defining Her On-Air Brand and Early Career Years11:46 Moving to New York and Personal Life Changes15:36 Advice to Her 40-Year-Old Self17:01 Health Issues, Misdiagnosis, and Menopause23:28 TikTok & Creating Awareness25:29 Street Interviews, Documentary, and The Book30:28 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause34:16 Hormone Therapy and Medical Education Gaps36:35 Finding Certified Menopause Practitioners38:48 How Men and Coworkers Can Be Supportive41:25 Reframing Midlife and the “Bolden Years”44:37 Purpose, Creativity, and Daily Motivation46:28 Redefining Retirement and Lifelong Energy48:22 Wisdom Bumper Sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#MenopauseAwareness, #Perimenopause, #MidlifeEmpowerment, #WomensHealth, #MenopauseSupport, #MenopauseEducation, #TamsenFadal, #ChipConley, #HowToMenopause, #TheMFactor, #MidlifeCrisisMyth, #BoldenYears, #HormoneTherapy, #MenopauseAdvocate, #MidlifeReinvention

What if awe was the secret ingredient to happiness? 🌿 In this episode, I sit down with UC Berkeley psychologist Dacher Keltner to explore how awe, compassion, and moral beauty can transform the way we live and age. We dive into the science of wonder — from the power of collective joy to how simple “awe walks” can boost your health, purpose, and connection.✨ Join us as we uncover why we’re truly born to be good and how awe might just be the key to midlife renewal.🎧 Tune in for the full conversation and get inspired to see life with fresh eyes. Timestamps:00:00 Chip welcomes Dacher and reflects on their friendship00:18 Why people smile when they talk about Dacher01:06 How early experiences shaped his empathy03:32 Journey into psychology and emotion science06:42 Discovering emotion in the human face07:31 Writing Born to Be Good and redefining human nature09:42 Science of compassion, gratitude, and kindness13:15 How the study of awe began14:17 What awe is and how it feels18:24 Collecting awe stories from around the world20:33 The eight wonders of awe21:00 Collective effervescence and shared joy23:44 Synchronizing with others through movement and emotion25:01 How screens disrupt human connection27:00 Moral beauty and the power of witnessing goodness31:32 Moral beauty within community and everyday life32:39 Awe and moral beauty in midlife36:33 The Awe Walk study and its health benefits39:47 Finding awe in daily moments41:25 Inside Dacher’s “Cultivating Awe” workshop43:51 Practicing awe through grief and gratitude45:09 Wisdom bumper sticker: seeing hidden beauty in people47:35 Love (agape) as the essence of awe49:10 Closing reflections and gratitude Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#awe #DacherKeltner #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #CultivatingAwe #BornToBeGood #MoralBeauty #CollectiveEffervescence #ScienceOfAwe #HumanConnection #Mindfulness #EmotionalIntelligence #MidlifeWisdom #GratitudePractice #FindingPurpose

What happens when one of the NFL’s most celebrated athletes walks away from fame, fortune, and the life everyone else wanted for him? In this powerful episode, Ricky Williams, now known as Errick Miron, opens up about his transformation from Heisman Trophy winner to healer, teacher, and astrologer. He shares how depression, self-discovery, and spirituality reshaped his identity and helped him find peace beyond the game.If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to let go and start over, this conversation will change the way you think about success, purpose, and freedom.🎧 Listen now and discover how Ricky Williams became Errick Miron and found his true self. Timestamps:00:42 Early Ambitions and Upbringing02:19 Choosing the University of Texas04:54 College Glory and the Heisman Dream07:37 NFL Reality Check10:00 Mental Health and Identity Crisis15:00 Discovering New Passions16:14 Leaving the NFL & Coming Back19:47 Journey to Australia and Discovering Ayurveda22:32 First Encounter with Astrology24:26 Return to Football with New Purpose26:31 Preparing for Life After Sports29:02 Retirement & Going Back to Astrology38:41 Evolutionary Astrology Explained42:46 Meeting His Wife & Becoming Errick Miron47:21 Redefining Masculinity49:42 Upcoming Workshop: Evolving Identity52:16 Wisdom Bumper Sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#RickyWilliams #ErrickMiron #MidlifeChrysalis #EvolvingIdentity #NFLtoAstrology #MentalHealthJourney #SpiritualAwakening #HealingJourney #AthleteTransformation #AstrologyForGrowth #LifeAfterSports #SelfDiscovery #PersonalGrowth #MasculineHealing #MindfulnessInMidlife

What if the path to a meaningful life had nothing to do with fame or success and everything to do with service and soul?In this captivating conversation, Rainn Wilson opens up about his transformation from Hollywood ego to spiritual seeker, sharing how faith, meditation, and humility helped him rediscover purpose beyond the spotlight. Together with Chip Conley, he explores why midlife can be a sacred turning point when the soul finally takes the lead.👉 Watch now to learn how Rainn’s journey can help you reconnect with your own soul. Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:55 What Is a Soul?05:52 Chip‘s Definition of Soul08:18 Humans on a Spiritual Journey09:32 Growing Up Baha’i13:58 The 1960s Spiritual Revolution17:31 Hollywood, Faith & the Dark Night of the Soul21:01 Becoming Dwight Schrute22:50 Famous in Midlife29:01 The Ego and Hollywood31:38 Letting the Soul Lead34:08 Devotion & Daily Practice40:03 The Soul Boom Workbook42:24 How the Workbook Came to Be44:41 Wisdom Bumper Sticker49:24 Chip’s Reflections and Takeaways Learn more about MEA at https://www.meawisdom.com/#RainnWilson #SoulBoom #MidlifeChrysalis #ChipConley #SpiritualRevolution #Bahaifaith #SoulJourney #ModernSpirituality #EgoAndSoul #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #MentalHealthAwareness #ServiceAndPurpose #ConsciousLiving #SpiritualAwakening

What if the worst thing that ever happened to you became the very thing that set you free? 🌱 In this deeply moving episode, Dr. BJ Miller—physician, amputee, and palliative care visionary—shares how a near-fatal accident in college transformed his understanding of life, loss, and what it really means to live fully. From his journey through unimaginable pain to founding Mettle Health, BJ reveals how facing mortality can open the door to compassion, creativity, and peace.If you’ve ever feared aging, grief, or change, this conversation will completely shift your perspective.👉 Watch now and discover how to turn life’s hardest moments into your greatest teachers. Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:36 The Accident That Changed Everything04:17 Processing Grief and Feeling “Seen”09:27 Rebuilding Life in His 20s14:46 From Art History to Medicine16:24 Discovering Palliative Care20:27 What Palliative Care Really Means24:26 Spiritual Dimensions of Caregiving27:16 What We Get Wrong About Death29:42 Making All Healthcare Palliative32:44 Founding Mettle Health36:56 Advice for Caregivers41:25 The Power of Grief43:50 BJ’s Midlife Chrysalis47:49 What People Regret Most Before Death51:48 Dying as a Creative Act55:25 Wisdom Bumper StickerLearn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/#BJMIller #MidlifeChrysalis #ChipConley #EndOfLifeCare #PalliativeCare #HospiceCare #GriefAndHealing #MidlifeWisdom #CaregivingJourney #FindingMeaning #LifeAndDeath #SpiritualGrowth #EmotionalResilience #MindfulLiving #AuthenticLife