As a middle-aged mama, I hear it all the time—women saying things like, “I can’t do this,” or “That’s not what people our age do.” Somewhere along the way, we started believing that new dreams have expiration dates. That we’re too old, too busy, or just too far gone to begin again.
And honestly? I’m over it.
I’m tired of hearing women—brilliant, capable, resilient women—talk themselves out of joy. We’ve spent so many years saying yes to everyone else. The lunches, the lessons, the permission slips, the calendars. We keep the trains running, but at what cost?
Lately, I’ve realized how often I sound more like a taskmaster than a person. My kids mostly hear me barking out the schedule—“Shoes on!” “Snack in your bag!” “Let’s go, we’re late!” I’m the voice of logistics. The keeper of time. But I don’t want that to be the only version of me they know.
I want my daughters to see a mom who tries new things. Who laughs loudly. Who shows up for herself with the same energy she gives to everyone else. I want them to believe that grown women can still dream big, start fresh, and make room for delight—at any age.
And that’s why I’m building something new.
This season of life deserves its own file—its own record of bold, joyful, slightly rebellious action. I’m calling it The Forty Files, and it’s a podcast, a movement, and a middle-finger to the idea that we’re done evolving once we hit a certain age. Each episode features stories from the messy middle—and I want your voice in the mix.
So here’s your invitation:
What’s something you’ve always wanted to do—but haven’t yet?
Big or small. Silly or serious. Tell me.
I’ll be featuring listener submissions as part of The Forty Files podcast and creating a community list of dreams, dares, and personal revolutions.
Because it’s not too late. You’re not too old. And we’re just getting started.
The Forty Files 