I’m Art Blanchford, and this is Life in Transition, a podcast about making the most of the changes we’re given. As a married father of three teenagers, long-tim...
Embracing Life’s Curveballs: Mark Berridge on Resilience and Reinvention
How do we rebuild our lives after trauma?In this episode of Life in Transition, host Art Blanchford sits down with Mark Berridge, former corporate leader turned author and resilience advocate, to share an extraordinary story of survival, acceptance, and personal growth. Following a life-changing accident that left him with a severe spinal cord injury, Mark opens up about his journey of physical recovery, mental resilience, and rediscovering his life’s purpose.Mark describes how he learned to “make friends with uncertainty” and set realistic goals focused on incremental progress rather than immediate results. From daily physical therapy to emotional acceptance, Mark’s journey emphasizes the power of small, consistent actions. Through embracing vulnerability, asking for help, and celebrating minor victories, Mark found a renewed sense of meaning, realizing that even small steps forward can lead to profound transformation. His story is a testament to the human spirit's power and how, even amid uncertainty, we can strive to live a fulfilling and impactful life.This episode offers listeners invaluable insights on handling life’s unpredictability, creating purpose from pain, and finding strength to move forward—one step at a time.In this episode, we'll talk about:Turning Setbacks into Growth: Mark’s life changed after a severe accident, but he chose to see it as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.The Power of Incremental Progress: Mark emphasizes how taking small, actionable steps helps in navigating recovery and setting a foundation for success.Making Friends with Uncertainty: Mark shares his perspective on managing life’s unpredictability and embracing ambiguity as part of the journey.The Value of Support: Mark discusses how asking for and accepting help from others has positively impacted his recovery and mental resilience.Redefining Strength: Rather than focusing on the limitations of his physical body, Mark found inner strength and resilience through mental toughness and small daily victories.Learning from Life’s Challenges: Mark’s experience has given him a new outlook on life, where he values meaningful experiences and relationships above previous corporate achievements.Celebrating Small Wins: Mark highlights how recognizing minor improvements, even standing up after surgery, helped sustain his motivation and redefine his sense of accomplishment.Connect with Mark Berridge:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramYouTubeMentioned on the Show: A Fraction Stronger: Finding Belief and Possibility in Life’s Impossible MomentsLet's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeExplore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it nowThe views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.
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46:49
From Tragedy to Triumph: Wesley Hamilton on Resilience and Purpose
What does it take to turn pain into purpose?In this episode of Life in Transition, Art speaks with Wesley Hamilton, founder of “Disabled But Not Really.” Wesley’s story is one of resilience and determination: a life-changing incident left him paralyzed, but his journey didn’t end there. In the years since, he has redefined his life and identity, emerging stronger than ever before. Wesley discusses the transformative power of accepting limitations while refusing to let them define you.From dealing with the depression and isolation that came with his injury to becoming a devoted single father, Wesley’s journey shows us the power of mindset and finding purpose. He speaks on the importance of seeing beyond the surface, both in how we view ourselves and how we view others. With candor and passion, Wesley shares how he shifted from feeling defeated to reclaiming his life, ultimately becoming an advocate for others with disabilities. This conversation offers listeners tools to focus on what they can control and build resilience even in the face of life’s greatest challenges.You can watch more of Wesley’s journey in this episode of Queer Eye on Netflix.In this episode, we'll talk about:Finding Purpose in Pain: Wesley describes how he turned his injury into a catalyst for personal growth and advocacy.Overcoming Societal Judgments: The importance of seeing people for who they truly are beyond physical limitations.Parenting as Motivation: How becoming a father fueled Wesley’s resolve to overcome his challenges.Healing Through Health: How shifting to a healthier diet helped Wesley combat depression and reclaim his physical well-being.The Power of Words: Wesley’s daughter called his wheelchair a "Superman chair," inspiring him to see his potential rather than his limitations.Living Beyond Labels: Redefining disability and choosing to live a life defined by purpose and resilience, not limitations.Connect with Wesley:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeLinkedInMentioned on the Show:https://disabledbutnotreally.org/ .Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeExplore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.
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53:50
Reimagining Grief: How to Heal and Grow with Lisa Keefauver
What happens when grief enters your life? How do you move forward when everything feels shattered?In this episode of Life in Transition, Art Blanchford sits down with grief activist Lisa Keefauver to dive into the messy, complicated layers of grief. Lisa opens up about her personal journey of loss, including the tragic death of her husband and how that led her to a path of activism and healing.With warmth and wisdom, Lisa shares how grief isn’t something you "move on" from, but something you can move forward with. Through her own experiences and her work with others, she emphasizes the importance of holding space for grief and seeing it as a catalyst for transformation. Whether you’re dealing with personal loss or supporting someone who is, this episode provides profound insights on navigating grief, finding community, and reclaiming joy in the midst of sorrow.Listeners will gain practical tools for reimagining their own grief journeys, along with a fresh perspective on how loss can lead to personal growth and deeper emotional understanding. Tune in for a conversation that will leave you feeling seen, supported, and empowered to embrace the complexity of grief.In this episode, we'll talk about:Grief as a Catalyst for Growth: Lisa explains how her personal grief transformed her into an advocate and activist.The Importance of Community: Building a support system and finding ways to speak openly about grief.Healing Isn’t Linear: Lisa emphasizes that the grief journey doesn’t follow a set timeline, and it’s important to honor every emotion.Moving Forward, Not Moving On: How to navigate life after loss without feeling pressured to "move on" from the pain.Reimagining Grief: Lisa’s mission to change the way we view grief, seeing it as an essential part of life’s growth.Holding Space for Grief: The importance of acknowledging grief instead of avoiding or pathologizing it.Tools for Grief: Practical advice for dealing with loss and fostering emotional resilienceConnect with Lisa Keefauver:WebsiteFacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeMentioned on the Show:Grief is a Sneaky Bitch: An Uncensored Guide to Navigating LossLet's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeExplore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.
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55:17
Navigating Life's Biggest Transitions: Dre Baldwin's Strategies for Success
Are you ready to turn your life’s biggest challenges into your greatest opportunities for growth? In this episode of Life in Transition, Dre Baldwin shares his powerful insights on navigating life’s twists and turns with the right mindset. Known for his discipline, resilience, and approach to achieving excellence, Dre dives into the strategies that helped him thrive through every transition in his life.From his career shift as a professional athlete to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Dre opens up about the mindset tools he used to stay focused and motivated, even in the face of setbacks. He discusses the importance of self-discipline, goal setting, and how to reframe challenges into opportunities for growth. Dre’s approach isn’t just about surviving transitions; it’s about embracing them as a vital part of your journey to self-mastery and success.Dre offers practical advice on how to strengthen their resilience, maintain a growth-oriented mindset, and turn life’s inevitable changes into stepping stones for achieving their dreams. Whether you’re facing a career shift, personal loss, or simply looking for ways to level up your mindset, this episode provides the actionable tools and inspiration you need to make it happen.In this episode, we'll talk about:Reframing Challenges: Dre explains how shifting your perspective on challenges can transform them into opportunities for personal growth.Mindset Mastery: Techniques for developing a mindset that thrives in times of uncertainty and transition.The Power of Self-Discipline: How staying disciplined can help you navigate any life shift with clarity and purpose.Goal Setting for Success: Dre’s strategies for setting clear, actionable goals that drive long-term growth.Turning Setbacks into Stepping Stones: How to use failures and obstacles as learning tools for future success.Resilience Building: Dre’s tips on how to strengthen your resilience in the face of life’s ups and downs.Embracing Change: The importance of embracing life’s transitions as a path to discovering your true potential.Connect with Dre Baldwin :Website: DreAllDayInstagram: @drebaldwinLinkedIn: Dre (DreAllDay) BaldwinFacebook: Dre BaldwinYoutube: Dre BaldwinMentioned on the Show:My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeExplore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.
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38:15
How to Reimagine Midlife with Chip Conley
What if midlife is not a crisis, but a chrysalis for transformation?This compelling question drives the conversation in this episode of Life in Transition with guest Chip Conley, best-selling author, hospitality entrepreneur, and founder of the Modern Elder Academy (MEA). Chip, who has navigated his own midlife challenges—including a near-death experience and redefining his identity—shares profound insights on how midlife can be a time of renewal and reinvention, rather than a period of crisis.At age 50, after building a highly successful boutique hotel company, Chip faced a turbulent period where his personal and professional life crumbled. But instead of seeing it as the end, Chip reframed his experience as a period of shedding—letting go of old identities to embrace something new. “I molted my identity, much like a snake sheds its skin,” Conley shares, describing the necessity of outgrowing old roles and labels. This process of molting allowed him to reimagine his life, eventually leading to his role as a mentor to the founders of Airbnb and later the creation of MEA.In this enlightening episode, Chip’s reflections offer listeners practical wisdom on how to navigate the messy middle of midlife and emerge stronger on the other side. Whether you’re going through your own transition or looking to support someone else, these insights serve as a powerful reminder that midlife can be a time of flourishing, not fading.In this episode, we'll talk about:Molting Old Identities: Chip Conley discusses the process of letting go of outdated identities and roles, and how this creates space for personal growth and reinvention in midlife.Navigating Transitions: Chip’s near-death experience offered him a new perspective on life, prompting him to embrace urgency and purpose in every moment.Midlife Wisdom: Chip explains how the Modern Elder Academy helps people cultivate wisdom and reframe their relationship with aging, turning midlife from a crisis into an opportunity for transformation.The Importance of Community: Chip highlights the lack of social infrastructure for people in midlife and how having a support system is crucial for navigating life’s transitions.Relationships and Growth: As we change in midlife, so do our relationships. Chip stresses the importance of empathy and recognizing how personal growth impacts others.Letting Go of Toxic Relationships: In some cases, personal growth may mean leaving behind relationships that no longer serve us, and Chip discusses how to navigate this difficult process.Living with Urgency and Purpose: Inspired by his experiences, Chip advocates for living every day as if it were your last, focusing on what truly matters.Connect with Chip:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInMentioned on the Show:Books:Wisdom at Work: The Making of a Modern Elder – A book by Chip Conley where he shares his journey at Airbnb and his insights on becoming a modern elder.Learning to Love Midlife – Chip referenced his writing on midlife transitions, particularly focusing on the concept of becoming "nobody" and shedding old identities.Becoming Nobody by Ram Dass – Chip mentioned this book while discussing the shedding of identities in midlife.Modern Elder Academy (MEA):Website: MEAwisdom.com – Chip’s academy focuses on helping people navigate midlife transitions and cultivate wisdom through in-person and online programs.The Anatomy of a Transition: A free resource available on the MEA website that outlines the stages of transition (Ending, Messy Middle, New Beginning).Podcasts and Fireside Chats:Chip mentioned his popular online fireside chats featuring thought leaders like Gloria Steinem and Dr. Mark Hyman, which draw hundreds of attendees for intimate discussions on various topics.Movies and Talks:Chip referenced Ellen Langer, a prominent psychologist, during his conversation about aging and mindfulness, highlighting a fireside chat he had with her.Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeExplore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.
I’m Art Blanchford, and this is Life in Transition, a podcast about making the most of the changes we’re given. As a married father of three teenagers, long-time global business executive, and adventurer, I’ve been through hundreds of transitions in my life. Many have been difficult, but all have led to a depth and richness I could never have imagined. You’ll get to hear all about them on this podcast so that together, we can create more love and joy in our lives — no matter what transitions we go through.