Send us a text

In this engaging conversation, Jacqui shares her journey as a debut author and podcaster, discussing her book 'The Daphne Project' and the themes of self-discovery and midlife transitions. She reflects on her experiences with self-publishing, the creative process, and the importance of community, all while navigating the challenges of life changes. The discussion also touches on her podcasting journey, the joy of storytelling, and her unique hobby of axe throwing, culminating in her aspirations for future projects.

Jacqui Lents, a proud Michigan native, is a debut author and the host of an award-winning podcast, Jacqui Just Chatters. When she is not writing, you can find her planning her next trip, solving mysteries with her husband, or tossing axes responsibly.

www.jacquilents.com

IG @jacquilents

FB https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069970208082

Takeaways

Jacqui's journey into writing was sparked by a desire for creativity after leaving a toxic teaching career.

The character Daphne reflects Jacqui's own life changes and existential questions in midlife.

Midlife transitions can be overwhelming, but they also offer opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Self-publishing allowed Jacqui to share her work with her mother sooner than traditional publishing would have allowed.

Jacqui emphasizes the importance of community and support in both writing and axe throwing.

Her podcast, 'Jacqui Just Chatters', was born out of boredom and a desire to connect with others.

Jacqui's approach to podcasting is centered around storytelling and sharing unique perspectives.

Winning an award for her podcast was a surprising and validating experience for Jacqui.

Jacqui's future projects include sequels to 'The Daphne Project' and exploring new characters.

The conversation highlights the importance of embracing change and pursuing passions at any age.

Insta @hearmeroarhere

Facebook Hear Me Roar

YouTube @hearmeroarhere

Get in touch: hearmeroarhere@gmail.com or via our website hearmeroarhere.com

Send us a text

Trigger warning: This episode mentions childhood sexual abuse. There are no graphic descriptions. The focus is on healing.

Summary: In this episode, Jenny Hodgson shares her inspiring journey from childhood trauma to healing and self-acceptance. She discusses the impact of her past experiences on her mental health, the recognition of PTSD, and the therapeutic techniques that helped her reclaim her life. Jenny emphasises the importance of support systems, mindfulness practices, and finding joy in hobbies as essential components of her recovery. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of hope in overcoming adversity.

Bio: After what felt like a lightbulb moment in her teens, Jenny Hodgson changed from being a laidback kid into a highly driven, slightly obsessive perfectionist. A published writer at 21, winner of scholarships and an Ivy League graduate, she became a Fast Streamer and senior civil servant before moving into the private sector. She even featured in a national newspaper for her achievements.

Then she hit her 40s, her past caught up with her and her life as she knew it changed forever. Now she’s getting back to being that laidback kid and living a new type of life that she never imagined was possible.

Takeaways:

Jenny transformed from a laid-back teen to a perfectionist after a pivotal moment in her life.

Childhood trauma led to years of struggle with self-worth and PTSD symptoms.

The Me Too movement triggered Jenny's memories of past abuse, leading her to seek help.

Nightmares were a constant for Jenny, stemming from her childhood trauma.

Therapy helped Jenny understand the connection between her trauma and mental health issues.

EMDR therapy was a turning point in Jenny's healing journey.

Mindfulness practices, like meditation and knitting, became essential tools for Jenny.

Jenny found joy in life again through hobbies and community activities.

Support from family and friends played a crucial role in Jenny's recovery.

Jenny emphasizes the importance of never giving up and finding hope in healing.

Insta @hearmeroarhere

Facebook Hear Me Roar

YouTube @hearmeroarhere

Get in touch: hearmeroarhere@gmail.com or via our website hearmeroarhere.com

Send us a text

In this engaging conversation, Margaret Marlow (Grumpy and Me) shares her journey from retirement to finding purpose through writing and building a supportive online community. She discusses the challenges of ageing, the importance of laughter, and her recent forays into technology and weight loss. The dialogue highlights the significance of kindness in online interactions and the joy of connecting with others, regardless of age. Margaret's humorous take on life and her reflections on confidence and purpose resonate deeply, making for an inspiring and uplifting discussion.

Margaret is 72, a mam of 3 and a wife of one. She is a Geordie by birth and a Knutsfordian by adoption. She fell into the Civil Service after school because she could walk to work and her dad said it was a good job for a girl. At school, her report said she “wasted time in silliness”; in her opinion silliness is never wasted.

She’s never really enjoyed hobbies, but she reads a lot and faffs with flowers. She does enjoy a good piano piece from Alexis Ffrench to Rachmaninov. In her 60s she started her Facebook page, ‘Grumpy and Me’ where she entertains her 29 thousand followers and makes them laugh a lot.

https://www.facebook.com/grumpyandi

Instagram: @thehouse_no15

https://www.youtube.com/@MegMarlow

Takeaways

Retirement can lead to a loss of purpose and boredom.

Writing became a way to express thoughts and connect with others.

Building a community online can foster positivity and laughter.

Kindness is essential in online interactions.

Age should not limit one's ability to learn and grow.

Embracing technology can be daunting but rewarding.

Weight loss journeys can be shared and documented for accountability.

Confidence can wane with age, but it can be rebuilt.

Finding joy in small things can enhance life satisfaction.

Humour can bridge gaps and create connections.

Insta @hearmeroarhere

Facebook Hear Me Roar

YouTube @hearmeroarhere

Get in touch: hearmeroarhere@gmail.com or via our website hearmeroarhere.com