Embracing Transformation: Alicia Johnson on Wonder-Based Trauma Recovery and Reinvention
In this episode of Act Three, hosted by Cara Gray, we delve into a captivating conversation with Alicia Johnson, a writer and transformation specialist. Alicia discusses her upcoming book, 'Buried Treasure,' which blends memoir and practical guidance for trauma recovery through wonder and self-revelation. She also shares her inspiring journey of returning to the modeling industry with Ford Models, breaking barriers as a mature, curvy model. Join us as Alicia talks about her approach to aging, her work in personal and professional renewal, and her exciting future projects, including her forthcoming novel 'Hudson.' Plus, insights on how to plan and intentionally design your third act of life. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:24 Guest Introduction: Alicia Johnson 02:18 Alicia's Modeling Journey 03:06 The Ford Modeling Agency Story 08:59 Representation and Aging in Fashion 15:29 Alicia's New Home Plans 20:23 Back to the Book: Wonder-Based Trauma Recovery 21:00 Personal Trauma and Lifelong Research 21:33 Synthesizing Research During Covid 23:27 The Role of Play and Imagination in Healing 24:32 The Body Keeps the Score 25:57 Making Friends with Your Brain 29:36 Understanding Personal Trauma 32:37 Transformational Projects and Brand Strategy 38:02 Future Projects and Personal Growth 45:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts To purchase Alicia’s Books or connect with her: https://www.aliciaellejohnson.com/ Forbes Article: How Mature, Plus-size Models are Creating Their Own Runways https://www.forbes.com/sites/kristenphilipkoski/2025/01/30/how-mature-plus-size-models-are-creating-their-own-runways/ This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my consulting practice. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 third-act blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com. Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/
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Finding Purpose through Service and Courage with John Graham
In this episode of 'Act Three,' host Cara Gray sits down with John Graham, an author, adventurer, former diplomat, and executive director of the Giraffe Heroes Project. John shares his incredible journey of seeking purpose, from hitchhiking through revolutions to climbing dangerous mountains and serving as a U.S. Foreign Service officer and a peacebuilder with the United Nations. He discusses the transformative power of finding meaning through service and highlights his work with the Giraffe Heroes Project, which inspires people to take courageous actions for the common good. Cara and John discuss the importance of finding purpose at any stage of life and offer insights on how to intentionally design a meaningful third act. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:24 Guest Introduction: John Graham 02:02 Early Adventures and Life Lessons 06:35 Diplomatic Career and Foreign Service 08:17 United Nations and Anti-Apartheid Efforts 18:13 Giraffe Heroes Project: Inspiring Stories 27:10 Finding Purpose in Life 30:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Giraffe Heros Project: https://www.giraffe.org/ John’s Website: johngraham.org Find John on Socials: https://www.facebook.com/giraffeheroes https://www.instagram.com/johngraham3440 https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnagraham1/ This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my consulting practice. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 third-act blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com. Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/
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Transforming Life's Challenges into Opportunities: Kevin Newby's Journey & Insights
In this episode of Act Three, host Cara Gray welcomes Kevin Newby, a versatile professional with over 25 years of experience in startups, marketing and executive leadership. Kevin discusses his journey from traditional advertising to digital, his experience with startups, and the challenges of corporate transitions and acquisitions. He also shares personal insights from his throat cancer diagnosis and how it influenced his career and led him to executive life coaching. Kevin offers a compelling narrative on self-advocacy, professional growth, and the power of mentorship. This episode provides valuable lessons on navigating life's challenges and finding purpose in transformation. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:23 Meet Kevin Newby: A Creative Problem Solver 01:36 Transitioning to Digital: Early Career Challenges 02:53 Navigating Acquisitions and Corporate Changes 06:20 Founding Kadium: Belief and Hustle 09:18 Joining Havas: A New Role and Challenges 16:33 Personal Struggles and Career Impact 20:27 Facing Financial Fears 20:48 Navigating Cancer Treatments 21:13 Self-Reflection and Realizations 23:32 Post-Cancer Challenges 25:43 Joining the Mankind Project 31:37 Embracing Coaching and New Beginnings 36:28 Ideal Clients and Coaching Philosophy 38:55 Conclusion and Contact Information You can find Kevin here: https://www.kevinnewby.coach/ This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my consultancy. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/. Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/
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Shaping a Lifelong Legacy in the Performing Arts with Elvi Moore
In this episode of 'Act Three,' host Cara Gray sits down with Elvi Moore, a distinguished figure in the performing arts world whose career spans over five decades. From her beginnings as an associate professor at the University of Chicago to her roles at the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington Ballet, Elvi shares her journey and contributions to the arts. She also discusses founding the Laurel Fund for Performing Arts and her continued retirement endeavors, including owning Curves franchises and promoting young artists. Dive into Elvi's inspiring story and explore how purpose and passion can shape a fulfilling life post-retirement. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:23 Guest Introduction: Elvi Moore 01:22 Early Career at the University of Chicago 02:44 Transition to Arts Administration 04:32 National Symphony Orchestra and Washington Ballet 06:12 Founding the Laurel Fund for Performing Arts 12:02 Curves Franchise Venture 15:49 Board Memberships and Book Clubs 17:30 Travel and Future Plans 19:12 Advice for Approaching Retirement 20:21 Conclusion and Sponsor Message
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The Healing Power of Laughter: Transforming Lives and Workplaces with Dani Klein Modisett
In this episode of Act Three, host Cara Gray welcomes Dani Klein Modisett, a comedian, writer, actor, and founder of Laughter On Call. Dani shares her compelling journey of developing laughter therapy for Alzheimer’s patients, inspired by her mother’s diagnosis. The discussion expands to her innovative work using comedy to enhance workplace culture, her transition to virtual services during COVID-19, and her initiatives like 'Lunchtime Laughter' live streams. Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, Dani underscores the profound impact of laughter on mental wellness, community building, and team unity. The episode encapsulates her dual efforts in engaging seniors and corporate teams with interactive, humor-based activities, emphasizing the essential role of connection and authenticity in life's transitions. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, purpose-driven work, and the healing power of laughter. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:23 Guest Introduction: Dani Klein Modisette 02:13 The Birth of Laughter on Call 07:25 Memorable Moments and Success Stories 16:02 Teaching Stand-Up at UCLA 20:43 The Call That Changed Everything 22:04 Pregnancy and Career Shift 22:38 Writing and Motherhood 23:31 The Birth of a New Show 24:16 Transitioning to Long-Form Writing 25:03 Philosophy on Career Transitions 26:21 The Courage to Keep Going 27:37 Unexpected Turns and New Beginnings 30:14 Entrepreneurial Journey 35:24 Laughter On Call: Vision and Future 40:04 Conclusion and Contact Information To connect with Dani and learn more about Laughter on Call: https://www.laughteroncall.com/ Dani’s Forbes 50 Over 50 profile: https://www.forbes.com/profile/dani-klein-modisett/ This podcast is sponsored by Good Morning Freedom, my retirement coaching firm. I help executives and professionals plan the non-financial part of their retirement, like how to discover new purpose and how you want to spend your time. I offer a 1:1 coaching retirement blueprint package where we work together to discover some new avenues of exploration for your Act Three. This coaching is completely custom and will provide you with a ton of resources and support as you transition to this new stage of life. For all the details, please go to goodmorningfreedom.com/services. Connect with Cara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraliveslife/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caraliveslife/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cara.a.gray/
The past few years have caused many of us to rethink how we live our lives. And for those of you approaching retirement, the question becomes more urgent - now what? How do you find new meaning and purpose?
I’m Cara Gray, third-act consultant, multi-passionate entrepreneur and seeker of life’s answers. Join me as I explore inspiring conversations with those thriving in their "third act." Hear first-hand as former executives, professionals, and creatives share their authentic journeys of self-discovery.
Learn how they forged new identities, found community, manage wellness, and uncovered what makes them feel alive. And though each story is unique, they all paint a hopeful picture of how to live with purpose, passion, and vitality at any age.
Join me each week as I unlock wisdom and insights from those thriving in Act Three. Because it's never too late to thoughtfully shape the rest of your life.
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