Welcome to another unforgettable episode of Late Boomers! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins , and today we bring you a powerful and deeply moving conversation with novelist Laurie Kirk, author of Baby Marvin. If you’ve ever wondered how past losses, family secrets, and even ghosts can shape and heal our lives, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we dive into Laurie Kirk’s late-blooming writing journey, which began in 2021 after a transformative experience with a life coach. Laurie Kirk opens up about discovering she is a "womb twin survivor," and how this revelation unraveled a thread of profound loneliness that shaped her entire life. We explore how Laurie channeled her experiences into her writing blending tragedy, comedy, and horror, and why she believes it’s never too late to start a new creative chapter.

Laurie Kirk also shares the inspiration behind Baby Marvin, a psychological horror thriller about fractured identity, duality, and what happens when loss and loneliness collide with rage and revenge. Listen as she takes us through her creative process, transitioning from screenplays to novels, and finds healing and even humor in the company of her dearly departed yes, some ghosts are welcome!

• It’s Never Too Late: Laurie Kirk’s story is a reminder that meaningful creative work can begin at any age. Whether you’re 30, 60, or beyond, your best days and stories may still lie ahead.
• Healing Through Forgiveness: Laurie shares how forgiveness, both for herself and her late parents, paved the way for healing, even decades after loss.
• Turning Pain Into Art: We discuss how grief, loneliness, and personal trauma can become raw material for creative, and often humorous, storytelling.
• The Power of Humor in Darkness: Laurie’s journey proves that laughter and levity are essential tools for tackling the deepest wounds and for making even haunted stories shine with humanity.
• Ghosts That Comfort, Not Haunt: Laurie Kirk talks about sensing the presence of lost loved ones, and how they continue to inspire and support her writing.
• Practical Steps for Late Bloomers: From working with a life coach to exploring meditation, Laurie’s willingness to confront her past is a roadmap for anyone seeking meaning and renewal later in life.

If Laurie Kirk’s story inspires you, we encourage you: Don’t wait to start your next chapter! Whether it’s writing a novel, rekindling a passion, or simply starting a healing conversation, it’s truly never too late. Let this episode be your spark.

Subscribe to Late Boomers on YouTube and your favorite podcast app, and like this episode to help other late bloomers find us. Share your own story or what you want to begin next we’d love to hear from you!

And remember, as we always say: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible.

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Welcome to a deeply heartfelt episode of Late Boomers. We’re Merry Elkins and Cathy Worthington, and today we gather to honor and remember the legendary Dolly Parton. For our 300th episode, we're sitting down for a very personal conversation, reflecting on the precious moments and memories that connected us to Dolly—through Cathy’s late husband, Ken Kragen, who managed Kenny Rogers and helped shape some of the most iconic moments in country music.

In this special tribute, we share never-before-told stories about Dolly’s kindness, humor, and dazzling presence. We bring you inside the glitz of the CMA Awards, the warmth of the recording studio, and the laughter backstage. You’ll hear what made Dolly so extraordinary not just as a superstar, but as a friend, a mentor, and a beloved family member to so many.

• Dolly’s True Nature: We recount how Dolly was every bit as genuine, loving, and quick-witted behind the scenes as she appeared in public. Her humor—always sparkling, sometimes cheeky—and her generosity of spirit touched everyone she met (07:14, 16:11).
• Memorable Duets and Milestones: Relive the creation of “Islands in the Stream” and other chart-topping collaborations with Kenny Rogers, and go inside their legendary stage chemistry (03:03, 10:28).
• Backstage Adventures: From singing in the backup choir for Kenny & Dolly’s Christmas special to glamorous nights in sequins at the awards shows, Cathy Worthington shares what it was like to be part of these musical milestones (05:15, 19:04).
• A Star’s Wit, Warmth, and Work Ethic: Dolly’s humor lit up every room—whether in press conferences in Perth or when gently teasing friends. She never stopped working, creating, or caring for those around her (16:40, 28:44).
• Dolly’s Legacy of Kindness: Above all, Dolly’s love for her family, her generosity, and her belief in giving someone your smile if they don’t have one shines as her enduring legacy (24:35).
• Making Dreams Reality: Learn how Dolly’s determination and savvy business sense overcame every obstacle—from bringing Dollywood alive to developing a Broadway show based on her life (25:00, 27:02).

Thank you for joining us as we celebrate and remember Dolly Parton’s incredible life, music, and spirit. If Dolly touched your life, too, please subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite podcast platform or our YouTube channel, and share this episode with fellow Dolly fans.

We would love to hear your favorite Dolly memory or song—leave us a comment or review, and help keep her legacy alive.

Remember, as Dolly said and we believe, if you see someone without a smile, give them yours. It’s never too late to spread kindness and live your dreams, just as Dolly did, right up to the very end.

Thank you for listening, and for helping us honor an unforgettable legend—Dolly Parton.

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Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins . In this episode, we dive deep into the world of historical fiction with educator, novelist, and storyteller Dorothy Ward, whose acclaimed novel, Light Which Impresses, beautifully explores themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring strength of women through the lens of history.

If you’re fascinated by stories that connect the past to our present, or if you’re finally ready to write your own narrative, this conversation will both inspire and motivate you.

We’re thrilled to welcome Dorothy Ward to discuss her journey from lifelong educator to published novelist at the age of 71! We explore why historical fiction is more relevant than ever, what inspired the unique structure of Light Which Impresses, and the meticulous research that brings her story to life. Dorothy Ward shares candid insights about recreating early 20th-century El Paso and the Mexican Revolution, crafting powerful women who defy expectations, and how her own background influenced the narrative.

Whether you’re a writer, a lover of history, or someone seeking encouragement to start something new in your own life, you’ll find wisdom and practical advice throughout this episode.

• Why Historical Fiction Matters: Dorothy Ward explains how stepping into the past through fiction helps us build empathy and understand today’s challenges, especially around topics like migration and resilience (01:28).
• Inspirations Behind the Novel: The title of Light Which Impresses comes from a 100-year-old Kodak camera manual, a metaphor for memory and the double-edged power of truth (02:54).
• Unique Narrative Structure: The story weaves together interviews with the protagonist as an older woman and her youthful experiences against a backdrop of revolution, making history come alive and personal (05:47).
• Strong, Unconventional Female Characters: Inspired by real women of the Mexican Revolution, Dorothy Ward’s protagonists break the mold and show the unheralded strength of women throughout history (09:08).
• The Research Process: Dorothy Ward reveals how she balanced exhaustive research walking tours, period photography, and vintage vehicles with compelling storytelling (17:30).
• Advice for Aspiring Writers: It’s never too late to start! The most important step? Sitting down and writing, planning and talking about writing won’t get your story on the page (29:02).
• Practical Writing Tips: Embrace rewriting, cut down the excess, and always read your work out loud to catch what doesn’t sound right (30:50).

If today’s conversation sparked your curiosity or your creativity, we encourage you to pick up a copy of Light Which Impresses available at Amazon, Bookshop.org, or wherever you buy books. Connect with Dorothy Ward and learn more about her work at dorothypward.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Late Boomers wherever you get your podcasts and on our YouTube channel. Leave us a review and share this episode with friends who love history, literature, and inspiring new beginnings.

Remember, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible.

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Welcome to another inspirational episode of Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy and Merry, and today we’re diving into a topic so many of us dream about but rarely act on: writing a book. Have you ever said, “Someday I’ll write my book”? What if that someday is today?

Our guest is Dr. Rhonda Lawson, an award-winning author, book coach, and literary strategist who’s making it her mission to help people just like us get their stories onto the page and into the hands of readers. Dr. Rhonda Lawson brings a unique perspective, transitioning from U.S. Army Master Sergeant to successful author and founder of Meet the World Image Solutions. Whether you want to leave a legacy for your family, grow your business, jumpstart a speaking career, or simply prove to yourself that you can do it, this episode is for you!

• Everyone has a story worth telling: As Dr. Rhonda Lawson reminds us at 06:02, “your story matters,” and even the most “ordinary” lives are full of lessons, courage, and inspiration.
• Focus on your message, not just your story: People may not care about your biography, but they do care about the message and meaning behind it (17:01).
• Overcome self-doubt: The biggest obstacle is often yourself (12:14). Don’t talk yourself out of writing; just start!
• Start small and specific: Use Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s “sun diagram” technique to brainstorm themes and narrow your focus (13:24).
• Publishing has never been more accessible: Learn why self-publishing might give you more control and fit your lifestyle (24:45).
• AI is a tool, not a solution: Let AI help brainstorm or outline, but keep your voice at the forefront (35:32).
• Storytelling wins over perfect prose: Readers crave authentic, engaging stories more than flawless writing (32:22).
• Marketing is part of the job: Simple tricks, like adding your book to your email signature and organic social media posts, help you reach more readers (40:08).
• Find your writing community: Writing can feel lonely, but joining groups (like Dr. Lawson’s Write to Win Writers Community) can help you stay motivated (47:21).
• Just start: Don’t worry about being perfect. Write it all down, then shape and edit later (44:52).

Has this episode given you the push you’ve been waiting for? If so, we challenge you: start writing your story this week even if it’s just one paragraph! Share this episode with someone who dreams of writing a book.

Want more inspiration? Visit Dr. Rhonda Lawson’s website and check out her Horizons Author Lounge podcast. And of course, subscribe to Late Boomers on your favorite platform especially on YouTube to support our mission of inspiring new chapters, no matter your age.

Remember: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Start your story today!

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Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork.

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Welcome, Late Boomers family! In this deeply moving and illuminating episode, Cathy and Merry sit down with Steven Ferrara, author of "Grief to Gratitude," to explore an experience every one of us will eventually face, loss, grief, and the mysteries of our own mortality.

Most of us avoid talking about death, leaving us unprepared and isolated when loss inevitably comes. Together, we discuss how shifting the conversation and finding new perspectives on death can profoundly change how we live each and every day. As baby boomers, these themes resonate deeply; whether it’s the loss of parents, spouses, siblings, friends, or even children, nearly all of us are navigating these challenges.

After losing his 23-year-old son, Steven Ferrara turned to journaling as a lifeline through inconceivable pain, a journey that eventually became his powerful and bestselling book. In our conversation, he shares what helped him survive such trauma, why our culture often gets grief wrong, and what can happen if we choose curiosity, compassion, and healing over guilt or blame.

• Facing Death Changes How We Live: Steven Ferrara reveals that changing our perspective on death isn’t just about coping it’s about living more fully and with greater purpose (01:48).
• The Healing Power of Acceptance: Discover why acceptance is essential for healing and how letting go of blame opens the path to growth and peace (10:05).
• Why Sympathy Isn’t Enough: We discuss why sympathy may not serve the grieving and what genuine, loving support really looks like (08:53, 29:17).
• The Transformational “New Paradigm” on Death: Learn how Steven Ferrara’s view that life is an ongoing, eternal journey can ease fear and shift grief to gratitude (20:29).
• Gratitude as a Healer: Understand how finding gratitude for the relationship, for memories, or simply for being alive is the key to moving through grief and living more fully (47:25).
• How to Support the Grieving: Practical, heartfelt advice on what to say (and not to say) when someone you love is grieving, and why small, tangible acts of kindness mean so much more than “let me know what I can do” (39:31, 40:29).
• Learning from Loss: Why life’s challenges including the deepest losses are opportunities for growth, learning, and spiritual connection (32:19).

If you or someone you care about is moving through grief or facing loss or if you want to live your days with more depth, compassion, and appreciation this episode is a must-listen. Steven Ferrara offers profound wisdom on how journaling, meditation, and reframing loss can bring not just peace, but renewed life, connection, and meaning.

Has this conversation touched your heart or made you rethink how you approach grief or comfort others?

• Share this episode with someone you love who may be grieving or searching for hope and healing.
• Subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t miss a single episode.
• Join our community by subscribing to our YouTube channel for more inspiring conversations.
• Want to dive deeper into Steven Ferrara’s work? Find his book "Grief to Gratitude" and resources at stephenferrara.com.

Remember: it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Let's transform our perspective on loss and embrace gratitude together!

– Cathy & Merry

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Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork.

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Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re Cathy and Merry, and we’re thrilled to bring you another inspiring and empowering episode that will challenge the way you think about your health, medications, and aging well.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of functional medicine with Jen Germain, a certified functional medicine health coach who has helped over 200 clients transform their lives through personalized lifestyle changes, nutrition, and whole-body healing. Jen brings her own powerful story of overcoming a daunting Crohn’s diagnosis and shows us why a prescription for life doesn’t have to be the final word.

We open up the conversation about why so many of us end up on multiple medications as we age and why "managing symptoms" isn’t the same as true healing. Together with Jen, we explore the surprising root causes of chronic illness that conventional medicine often overlooks, such as stress, poor sleep, and mindset, and learn actionable strategies for taking back control of our well-being.

Whether you’re struggling with a new diagnosis, feeling dismissed by conventional doctors, or just ready to create a new health chapter, this episode will give you hope, practical tools, and the motivation to be your own advocate.

• Medication is not always destiny: The conversation focused on how a chronic diagnosis does not mean you’re sentenced to medication for life. Functional medicine investigates and addresses the root causes, not just the symptoms.
• Advocacy is essential: A key theme that emerged was the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare. The discussion explored sample questions to ask your physician and encouraged listeners not to settle if they feel dismissed or unheard.
• Lifestyle changes work: One concept discussed was the power of personalized changes in diet, stress management, relationships, sleep, and even light exposure. Small consistent changes can add up to big improvements—even later in life.
• Mindset matters: The discussion explored how mindset, self-talk, and beliefs (“I’ll always be this way” or “I can’t live without sugar”) can quietly sabotage healing. A positive mindset and self-love are critical to any health transformation.
• It’s never too late: Several points were raised, including real-life examples from older adults who saw remarkable improvements in their health and quality of life proving it’s never too late to start taking positive steps.

If you’ve ever wondered if you could do more for your health or if “treating the root cause” instead of just managing symptoms sounds appealing this episode is for you!

Be sure to:

• Listen now and become an active participant in your own healthcare journey.
• Share this episode with a friend or loved one who needs motivation or a fresh perspective.
• Subscribe to Late Boomers Podcast on your favorite platform and on YouTube so you never miss an inspiring conversation.
• Connect with Jen Germain at Compass Health Coaching LLC or find her on social media for more practical tips and support.

Remember what we always say: It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible. Stay curious, ask questions, and start your own new chapter today!

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Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork.

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Welcome back to Late Boomers! We’re your hosts, Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins, and in this episode, we dive deep into the enduring power of World War II stories and the profound impact of personal and family histories across generations. We’re joined by author and speaker Caroline Crocker, whose emotionally rich WWII book series explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the miracles of hope that can emerge even in the darkest times.

In this inspiring conversation, Caroline shares her journey of transforming her family’s real-life stories, many rooted in her parents’ experiences in wartime Netherlands, into compelling narratives. We talk about why preserving personal stories matters, how hardship and hope are passed down through families, and the lessons we can all learn from the past.

We also explore:

• The hidden emotional impact of history on families and how trauma can affect future generations
• The process of gathering and documenting family stories with accuracy, empathy, and heart
• Incredible moments of kindness, miracles, and acts of survival that shaped lives and legacies during WWII
• The importance of forgiveness and compassion in healing and moving forward

• Preserving Personal Histories: Capturing your family's stories whether through conversation, recordings, or writing is a gift to future generations. As Caroline Crocker explains, these stories shape not only our sense of self but also our ability to empathize and connect with others 31:41.
• Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Stories from WWII highlight the extraordinary strength people can find during unimaginable hardship, reinforcing that resilience and kindness are timeless human traits 06:44.
• Generational Impact: Trauma and hardship don’t just affect those who live through them they shape families for decades. Understanding this can help us be more compassionate with ourselves and others 40:24.
• The Power of Forgiveness: Choosing to forgive, rather than hold onto bitterness, plays a critical role in personal healing and the ability to rebuild a meaningful life 36:42.
• Bringing History Alive: By weaving research with personal accounts, Caroline Crocker reminds us that history is made up of real people, real choices, and unforgettable moments of both tragedy and hope 17:13.

If this episode moved you, we encourage you to start a conversation with your family about their own stories. Record those memories, digitize old tapes, or simply sit down and listen. Visit Caroline Crocker’s website at ramblingruminations.com to learn more about her books and discover resources on preserving your own family history.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Late Boomers Podcast on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform. Like, comment, and share this episode with someone who would be inspired by Caroline Crocker’s message. Remember, it’s never too late to rethink what’s possible and together, we can keep these vital stories alive for generations to come!

-Cathy and Merry

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Welcome back to the Late Boomers Podcast! We’re Cathy Worthington and Merry Elkins , and we’re thrilled you’re joining us for another episode dedicated to helping you reinvent your health and well-being at any age.

In Episode 294, we dive into a topic affecting every single one of us: environmental toxins and what “clean living” really means. With so many buzzwords organic, natural, chemical-free it can be overwhelming to distinguish helpful tips from clever marketing. That’s why we invited Amy Hartshorn, founder of Green Living Now and veteran advocate for non-toxic living, to demystify how to make healthier choices that fit our real lives.

For over 34 years, Amy Hartshorn has been at the forefront of teaching practical, approachable ways to reduce toxins in our homes, food, and daily routines. As co-owner of a certified organic farm in Vermont, she brings a hands-on perspective on what really matters in food, soil, and consumer safety.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How marketing labels like “natural” and “wild-caught” can be misleading
• Ways to prioritize your food budget for the biggest health impact
• The truth about greenwashing and how to read between the lines on packaging
• Easy first steps to reduce toxins in your home without spending a fortune
• The importance of soil health, indoor air quality, and what families should know about furniture, fragrances, and plastics
• The healing power of nature and community, as seen in Amy’s transformative retreats

• Perfection isn’t the goal: Small, steady improvements like swapping out a scented laundry detergent for fragrance-free can make a real difference (09:00, 41:08).
• Not all labels are created equal: “Natural” is a meaningless term, and “wild-caught” is only trustworthy if certified by credible organizations like the MSC (10:07, 44:51).
• Start with high-impact swaps: If organic isn’t in the budget for everything, focus on the “Dirty Dozen” produce and prioritize organic meat and dairy for the biggest benefit (15:14).
• Fragrances are hidden toxins: Remove air fresheners, plugins, and heavily scented products from your home for an easy, impactful win (28:01, 41:08).
• Read ingredient lists, not just claims: The real story about what you’re buying is on the back of the label (25:39).
• Our choices matter: Every dollar spent sends a message about what we value, and we wield more power as consumers than we sometimes realize (24:10).
• Community and nature heal: Amy Hartshorn shares moving stories of how farm retreats and horse therapy have changed lives, showing that holistic change goes beyond our shopping carts (32:07).

If today’s conversation made you think twice about air freshener, food labels, or what’s lurking in your cleaning supply closet, share this episode with a friend or family member who’d benefit from a more informed approach to healthier living.

We’d love for you to subscribe to The Late Boomers Podcast wherever you listen don’t miss future conversations with experts who help you live your best next chapter.

Check out more resources from Amy Hartshorn on greenlivingnow.com, and find her podcast, Green Living Now, for deeper dives and practical guidance.

Leave us a review, connect on YouTube, and remember every step towards cleaner living counts, no matter when you start.

It’s never too late to rethink what’s possible!

— Cathy & Merry

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Late Boomers is part of the eWomenPodcastNetwork.

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