Today, we published the 44th episode of my podcast The Midlife Chrysalis with one of our Wisdom Wednesday conversations with me and MEA’s CEO Derek Gehl (my interviews with thought leaders like Liz Gilbert, Martha Beck, Arthur Brooks, and Dan Buettner are published on Mondays and Fridays). We’re just about to surpass 1 million downloads in our first seven months. I’d have to say three of my work highlights for 2025 were starting the podcast, curating our second annual MEA Film Fest, and purchasing the first two homes in our Golden Girls collection “Boommate Homes.”
One of my favorite parts of my podcast interviews is finishing each episode with the question, “What’s a wisdom bumper sticker you’ve learned through the school of hard knocks and what’s the origin story?” For writer Anne Lamott whose faith is a central part of her life, it’s “You are pre-approved” (here’s her episode with her husband Neal). For TV journalist Hoda Kotb, it’s “Never ever, ever let anyone tell you what the odds are” (her episode).
For “The Office” actor Rainn Wilson, it’s “The meaning of life is service” (his episode). And, for Heisman Trophy winner and NFL player Ricky Williams (now known as Errick Miron) who’s come into his own as a world-class astrologer in midlife, it’s “The fruit is juiciest at maturity (his episode). I think this particular interview was my favorite of the year! I’m excited to be co-leading a workshop with Ricky/Errick at MEA Santa Fe February 8-12 called “Evolving Identity: Learning How to Let Go.”
If there’s a lesson in all of this for me, it’s this: You’re not too old at 65 to try something new: whether it’s learning to surf, speak Spanish, start a podcast, curate a film festival, or create a mutual mentorship relationship with someone a couple generations younger than you.
In 2026, how could you become a joyful beginner at something new?
-Chip
P.S. Speaking of podcast episodes, here’s a perfect one for any of you who are focusing on your health in January, What Midlife Health Really Requires, in which I interview one of the best known couples in the wellness world, Jeff Krasno and Schuyler Grant. They will be leading a workshop Feb 2-7 at MEA Baja on “Good Stress: Why Embracing Challenge is the Key to Lasting Vitality” which is perfect for both individuals who have New Year’s resolutions around their health as well as couples as an early Valentine’s Day present.