In this episode Lucy and Lisette, feeling 70-years-young, reflect on their experiences of turning 70 and discuss their plans and remember childhood traditions for the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

Their discussion touches on:

• Both Lisette and Lucy feel youthful and energised at age 70, though they acknowledge the milestone of turning 71 next year sounds somehow older. Lisette describes herself as a "young 70-year-old" who is still physically active and engaged. Lucy feels she is consolidating her life experiences and wisdom at this age. They discuss the perspective that comes with their life experiences.
• The two friends reminisce about their contrasting childhood Christmas traditions back in the 1950s and 1960s. Lucy describes the very ordered and traditional Christmas celebrations of her youth in an almost 'Mary Poppins' London, while Lisette recalls more low-key family gatherings in the Netherlands without a strong religious aspect.
• As older adults, both have embraced more flexibility and simplicity in how they observe the holidays. Lucy has even skipped putting up a tree this year to avoid the pressure; while Lisette has never had a Christmas tree in her own home. They touch on the different pressure Christmas brings as a parent (Lucy) and a non parent (Lisette).
• Looking ahead to 2025, Lisette plans to focus on finishing a non-fiction book on using money for good that she's working on and staying open to new opportunities as they arise. Lucy wants to finish writing a novel set in her childhood, which is a more personal creative project separate from her business writing.
• They discuss the challenges of writing fiction based on one's own life experiences, and how to balance including personal details with making the story accessible to readers.They talk about their different 'writing habits' and agree that both appreciate the freedom of an "evolving life" at this stage.
• Their conversation touches on the role of family, the changing nature of traditions, and the mixed feelings that can accompany the holidays.

Overall, this episode presents an insightful and relatable discussion of aging, creativity, family and the lived experiences of two vibrant 70-year-olds.

#merrychristmas #whitechristmas #christmastree #newyears #yearofbeing70 #being70 #celebrations #familychristmas #parents #christmasstockings #christmaspresents #christmasdinner #roastturkey #brusselsprouts

Welcome to The Year of Being 70 Podcast Ep. 8:

‘’How Can Women Get Their Experiences of Abuse Taken Seriously?’’

In this insightful episode, Lisette and Lucy dive deep into the challenges women face when trying to get their experiences of abuse and harassment taken seriously, especially in the workplace where power imbalances are all too common.

🌟 Episode Highlights 🌟

Lisette and Lucy open up about their personal experiences with unwanted sexual advances and harassment in the workplace and elsewhere. They share how the culture at the time made it difficult for women to speak up or confront inappropriate behavior.

🌟 Weekly Reflections

Lisette reflects on how she always drew a clear line when dealing with inappropriate behavior. Lucy shares her experiences of silence due to fear of causing workplace conflict. Together, they discuss feeling unsafe in public spaces and how women often deal with harassment without support.

🌟 Key Discussion Themes

1. The challenges of speaking out against abuse – especially when perpetrators hold positions of power

2. Workplace cultures that normalize casual sexism and sexual harassment

3. The role of fiction in raising awareness, featuring works like the play and book ‘Prima Facie’

4. Personal stories of abuse and how women are often dismissed or minimized, being labeled as 'overly sensitive' or 'middle-aged'

💬 Engaging and Empowering Conversation

Lisette and Lucy share their reflections on feeling threatened or unsafe and how this constant vigilance affects them as women, particularly as they navigate the impacts of abuse and harassment throughout their lives.

✨ Why You Should Watch or Listen

This episode offers valuable insights for everyone – whether you're a woman facing workplace abuse, in a leadership position, or a man who wants to better understand women’s experiences and become a true ally. Lisette and Lucy’s open conversation explores what it feels like to be a woman of any age subjected to unwanted attention or serious breaches of safety and rights.

✨ Empowering Your Journey

The episode highlights the ongoing problem of sexism and the importance of women supporting each other. It shows how speaking out and supporting one another can be a powerful weapon against harassment and abuse, breaking the silence and stigma that often surrounds these issues.

Thank you for joining us on this inspiring journey with The Year of Being 70 Podcast! 🌟

📌 Stay Connected:

We’d love to hear your thoughts on personal experiences with abuse, harassment, or sexism. Share your story in the comments below, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and stay connected!

#being70 #yearofbeing70 #womenempowerment #sexualabuse #notallmen #sexualabusesurvivor #banter #womensvoices #primafacieplay #menabusingwomen

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Lisette and Lucy dive deep into the contrasting paths of choosing motherhood and embracing a child-free lifestyle, exploring the impact of women’s expectations, parenthood choices, and the challenges of balancing family and career. This discussion celebrates the diverse life choices for women and sheds light on navigating societal norms while staying true to personal fulfilment.

🌟 Episode Highlights 🌟

In this episode, Lisette and Lucy reflect on a significant difference in their lives:

Lucy chose motherhood, raising four children—two by birth and two through adoption—over two marriages. Her journey with adopting children and embracing the joys of grandparenting brings unique insights into parenting challenges and rewards.

Lisette decided early in life to live child-free and has never regretted it. She shares her experience of navigating societal views on child-free living, finding life fulfilment beyond parenting, and thriving through women’s empowerment through choice.

🌟Weekly Reflections:

Lisette experienced a deep sense of inner peace, acting from a place of "being and allowing" rather than reacting from an "egoic place." Her work as an external examiner for a healing school further emphasises her commitment to personal growth and helping others achieve balance.

Lucy celebrated securing additional angel investment for her Book Magic AI book-writing app and enjoyed a weekend caring for her young grandchildren, highlighting the balance between career and family.

🌟 Key Discussion Themes:

Choosing Motherhood:

Lucy shares how deciding to have children, and later adopting children, profoundly shaped her life.

Child-Free Living:

Lisette provides insights into living child-free by design, emphasising the importance of finding fulfilment without children and embracing childless women’s perspectives.

Parenthood Choices:

They discuss parenthood vs career, the social pressures on women, and the challenges of motherhood versus the rewards of living without kids.

Adoption Stories:

Lucy’s journey includes touching experiences of adopting vs birthing children, navigating adoption experiences, and understanding the role of family and personal growth.

Women and Societal Expectations:

Both reflect on breaking societal norms for women, redefining women thriving without children, and finding balance between parenting and personal growth.

💬 Engaging and Empowering Conversation:

This heartfelt episode delves into:

Life without children and overcoming the stigma of being childless.

The role of women in family dynamics, from grandparenting experiences to balancing family and professional growth.

Empowering women to make decisions about parenthood that align with their values.

✨ Why You Should Watch:

Whether you’re a parent, exploring child-free living, or reflecting on life decisions for women at 70, this episode offers valuable insights into women’s life journeys. It’s a celebration of individuality, honouring the beauty of both parenthood and choosing a child-free lifestyle.

✨ Empowering Your Journey:

Every choice is valid, whether it’s embracing motherhood, living child-free, or focusing on career and personal growth. Thank you for being part of this inspiring journey with The Year of Being 70 Podcast! 🌟

📌 Stay Connected:

We’d love to hear your thoughts on motherhood vs child-free living, adoption and family building, or navigating social expectations of motherhood. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your views in the comments!

#being70 #yearofbeing70

Welcome to The Year of Being 70 Podcast – Ep. 6 | Two Friends on Mental Health, Widowing, and Life Reflections

Where Lucy McCarraher and Lisette Schuitemaker, two lifelong friends, share their insights and reflections on life at 70. This episode dives deep into themes of mental health, widowing, grief, and life reflections, exploring the personal and emotional challenges they’ve faced as they journey through aging.

In this episode, Lisette discusses her work on a book about widowing and the profound emotional and practical challenges that widows face. They talk about the complexities of grief, how to offer support to those who are grieving, and how to cope with the difficult emotions surrounding loss.

Both Lucy and Lisette share personal stories about their earlier years, reflecting on their midlife reflections and how they navigated difficult times, including depression and identity crises. Lisette opens up about her struggles with depression and how she found strength by confronting her anger and sadness. Lucy reflects on her move to Australia at 21, where she co-founded a theatre magazine, and how that experience sparked her entrepreneurial journey, despite not having the word for it at the time. She talks about the experience of interviewing Mel Gibson at the start of his career!

This episode is filled with valuable insights for listeners grappling with mental health, emotional challenges, and the journey of aging. Lucy and Lisette both reflect on their experiences of aging, the challenges they’ve faced, and how they continue to find resilience, strength, and self-discovery in later life.

As introverts, they also discuss the balance between socializing and maintaining solitude, a topic that is deeply relevant for many. They share their experiences of loneliness in older age, coping with aging, and the importance of supportive friendships during later years. The discussion provides a powerful look at mental health in older adults, offering insights into mental health struggles in older age and how to build emotional resilience.

Throughout the episode, Lucy and Lisette reflect on their life at 70 and the lessons they’ve learned from the experiences that shaped their mental health. They talk about emotional struggles in widowhood, the importance of grief support, and the journey of healing after a difficult life event.

As they share their journey through the emotional challenges of aging, they dive deep into how mental health can evolve in later years, and how they have found new purpose and personal growth after 70. Their conversation is filled with wisdom for anyone looking to understand the complex relationship between grief and mental health, and the power of friendship after loss.

Key themes covered include:

1. The impact of aging and mental health

2. Coping with grief and loss

3. The importance of support for widows and widowhood

4. Coping with aging and finding purpose in later years

5. Mental health and women’s mental health

6. How introverts cope with loss and loneliness

7. Resilience, strength, and emotional healing in later life

8.The role of friendship and supportive friendships in midlife

9.Self-care tips for widows and emotional resilience in older adults

This episode is a heartfelt and open discussion about the challenges of growing older, coping with life changes, and finding meaning in later life. If you're navigating similar issues or simply interested in personal stories about mental health and personal growth after 70, this episode will resonate deeply with you.

We hope you find comfort, connection, and inspiration in this episode. If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from hearing about mental health and grief in the later stages of life.

Don’t forget to comment below – we’d love to hear your thoughts on...

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Year of Being 70 Episode 5: How Do We Dress to Be Cool, Stylish, and Sexy in Our 70s?

In this episode Lucy and Lisette are joined by @CerilCampbell, a celebrated Celebrity Stylist, to explore how to embrace fashion for women over 70 and celebrate confidence and style in your 70s.

Whether you're looking for tips on dressing stylish at 70 or inspiration for sexy fashion for older women, this conversation is tailored just for you!

We discuss how clothing can empower women to feel confident, beautiful, and true to themselves as they age. From choosing age-appropriate clothing for 70s to experimenting with colours and patterns that flatter your look, this episode offers insights into creating a wardrobe that reflects your unique personality and life stage.

Ceril shares her expert advice on 70s style tips, including the importance of a supportive bra, finding flattering clothes for older women, and using accessories, haircuts, and makeup to enhance your best features.

As we redefine aging and fashion, we dive into the evolving perceptions of what it means to look and feel your best in the third phase of life. Ceril's journey from fashion design, costume designer for film and TV to styling celebrities is an inspiring reminder that fashion is not about looking younger but about embracing timeless fashion for older women and dressing for the body you have now.

Discover practical advice for maintaining effortless style, selecting chic and elegant clothing, and creating over-70 style inspiration that suits your lifestyle. Whether you're interested in redefining aging with fashion, sustainable fashion, or tips on how to feel sexy in your 70s, this episode has it all.

Ceril's top three tips?

1) Avoid being a slave to trends but don’t fall into a style rut

2) Embrace who you are now and dress to suit your current body shape, and

3) Use accessories, haircuts, and makeup to enhance your best features.

We’re thrilled to have you here as we celebrate fashion and aging gracefully. Let this conversation inspire you to explore style for mature women, embrace body positivity at 70, and enjoy the freedom to express your individuality through empowering style choices. Share your thoughts in the comments—because fashion for us older women is a journey, not a destination!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring content .Hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode!

#TheYearOfBeing70 #HowToDressInYour70s #CoolStylishSexyIn70s #FashionForWomenOver70 #StyleInYour70s #DressingStylishAt70 #SexyFashionForOlderWomen #AgingAndFashion #FashionForOlderWomen #ConfidenceAndStyleIn70s #70sStyleTips #BodyPositivityAt70 #TimelessFashion #FashionTipsForWomenOver70 #StyleForMatureWomen #AgeAppropriateClothing #Over70StyleInspiration #DressToFeelConfident #ChicAndElegantClothing #FashionAndAgingGracefully #HowToLookChicInYour70s

Welcome to The Year of Being 70 Podcast with Lucy McCarraher and Lisette Schuitemaker.

In this episode, Lucy and Lisette reflect on how the cultural shifts of the 60s and 70s influenced their identities, relationships, and views on the world. Growing up in such a significant period of change, they share how societal expectations and personal experiences shaped their self-discovery, individual voices, and ultimately, the women they are today.

They discuss:

Feminism and Gender Roles: Lucy and Lisette delve into the rise of feminism and its lasting impact on their lives. They discuss how growing up in this era made them more aware of gender expectations and opened doors for future generations of women.

Relationships and Marriage: From early boyfriends to marriage and family life, they reflect on their own romantic experiences, as well as how societal views on relationships and marriage evolved during this time. They candidly share stories of love, loss, and learning to navigate partnerships on their own terms.

Discovering Personal Identity: Lucy talks about discovering her identity as a writer and novelist, describing her journey of overcoming family pressures and financial constraints to pursue her creative passions. Lisette shares her struggle with depression and the ways in which suppressing parts of herself shaped her journey to self-acceptance and fulfilment.

Class and Social Divide: The two friends explore how class divides and social circles influenced their perspectives and experiences. While Lucy had exposure to a diverse range of social classes, Lisette grew up in a more conventional, sheltered environment. They discuss how these different backgrounds influenced their understanding of privilege, opportunity, and connection.

The Power of Friendship: Through everything, the enduring friendship between Lucy and Lisette has been a pillar of support. They reflect on the importance of friendships in personal growth and how a trusted confidant can provide perspective and encouragement during pivotal moments.

In this candid conversation, Lucy and Lisette not only recount their past but also reflect on the lasting impact of these years on their later lives. They discuss how they’ve each navigated the challenges of staying connected to their roots while forging their own paths.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the cultural revolution, self-discovery, or simply a nostalgic look at life in the 60s and 70s. Their stories, while rooted in a different era, resonate deeply today as they touch on universal themes of identity, empowerment, and finding one’s voice.

We hope you enjoy this rich exploration of friendship, growth, and resilience on The Year of Being 70 with Lucy McCarraher.

Watch, subscribe, and join us on this journey of reflection and insight on Lucy McCarraher’s channel!

#Being70 #yearofbeing70 #podcast #1960s #1970s #feminism #boyfriends #marriage #SelfDiscovery #Friendship #FeministMovement #CulturalRevolution #IdentityJourney #LifeLessons #SocialChange #PersonalGrowth #WomenEmpowerment #ComingOfAge #SexualRevolution #ClassDivide #WriterLife #TrueFriendship #LifeInThe60sAnd70s

Welcome to The Year of Being 70 - Episode 3 | Achieving Goals, Writing Books, and Money Mindset at 70 Podcast! In Episode 3, Lisette Schuitemaker and Lucy McCarraher dive deep into topics of achieving goals in later life, writing books at 70, and cultivating a money mindset at 70.

As two inspiring women over 70, they share their personal journeys and reflections on personal growth after 70. This episode is full of wisdom, stories of financial empowerment for older women, and insights into how to continue to grow and succeed in later years.

Lucy McCarraher talks about her experience using the innovative Book Magic AI—a book-writing app that has become a game-changer in her own writing process at 70. Surprisingly, even experienced writers like Lucy have found this AI-assisted writing tool incredibly helpful. She explains how the app helps streamline the writing process, making it easier to stay organized and on track. However, Lucy makes it clear that the app isn't about writing your book content for you. Instead, it’s a tool that enhances the creative process.

Lisette Schuitemaker, another seasoned writer, discusses her reservations about needing AI writing tools for experienced writers. While she feels confident in her abilities to write without external help, she’s excited to explore the app herself during her upcoming writing retreat at 70.

As the conversation unfolds, Lucy questions whether they made the right choice by publicly starting their podcast, sharing their experiences of turning 70.

Is it possible that people will start to think they’re “too old” to pursue new projects? This thought-provoking discussion explores how we can all embrace aging gracefully without fear of societal judgment.

In addition, Lucy and Lisette take a deep dive into the topic of money—its role in their lives, overcoming fears of aging, and shifting their money mindset in older women. They reflect on the biases and challenges they've faced, and how they’ve worked to overcome financial fears. With candid insights, they discuss financial independence at 70 and offer valuable perspectives on how to manage money, success, and aging.

This episode is an essential listen for anyone looking for inspiration for older women, particularly those navigating life milestones after 70. It’s a refreshing look at how to achieve personal goals in older age, whether it's writing a book at any age, retirement and career goals, or embracing new technology in writing at 70.

If you're inspired by this conversation, be sure to check out ''Book Magic AI'', the tool that Lucy swears by for writing a book with AI assistance. Learn more about this incredible app at https://bookmagic.ai/ and start your own writing journey today!

We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Do you have any experiences with writing in later life or overcoming fears of aging? Leave a comment below to share your story, or let us know if you have any topics you'd like us to discuss in future episodes of The Year of Being 70 Podcast.

Don't forget to subscribe, like, and share with friends who are looking for financial empowerment after 70, personal growth in later years, and inspiration for older women. Join us as we continue our journey of celebrating milestones after 70 and defying the typical expectations of aging!

#TheYearOfBeing70 #WritingBooksAt70 #AchievingGoalsLaterInLife #MoneyMindsetAt70 #PersonalGrowthAfter70 #FinancialEmpowermentForOlderWomen #AIWritingTools #WritingInLaterLife #BookMagicAI #WomenOver70 #LifeAfter70 #InspirationForOlderWomen #AgingGracefully #WritingRetreats #FearOfAging #FinancialIndependence #AgingAndMoney #GoalSettingAt70 #WomenEmpoweringWomen #MoneySuccessAt70 #FinancialFreedomAfter70 #LifeMilestonesAfter70 #OvercomingFearsOfAging

Welcome to Episode 2 of The Year of Being 70 Podcast – Ep. 2: Eldest Daughters, Milestones & Life in the 1950s!

In this episode, hosts Lucy McCarraher (@lucymccarraherauthor) and Lisette Schuitemaker dive into the journey of turning 70, sharing personal stories and reflections on aging, family dynamics, and the significant societal changes they witnessed. They discuss their experiences of growing up in different environments, from growing up in the 1950s to the cultural shifts that shaped their lives.

In This Episode, They Discuss:

✨ Lucy McCarraher's birthday celebration and the emotional challenges of accepting tributes and compliments, which bring forth reflections on societal norms of the 1950s and the expectations placed on women at different life stages.

✨ The experience of being eldest daughters and the dethronement that happens when the first sibling arrives. This moment marks a significant shift in their roles and continues to influence family dynamics throughout life.

✨ The Eldest Daughter Effect, the title of Lisette Schuitemaker's book, and her research into the common character traits found in eldest daughters, including the responsibility and leadership roles they often take on.

✨ The first decade of their lives, born in 1954, was marked by extraordinary societal changes. Lucy experienced this transformation from the fashion-forward Chelsea's King’s Road, while Lisette’s experience was shaped by life in suburban Holland, reflecting the generational differences in their upbringings.

As they reflect on life lessons from 70 years, Lucy and Lisette explore how women’s experiences at 70 can be both empowering and challenging. They share their thoughts on turning 70 gracefully, embracing the wisdom of aging, and celebrating the milestones in aging that come with this life stage. They also discuss the importance of family roles in childhood and how the impact of birth order continues to shape personal growth and relationships.

If you are turning 70 or have recently celebrated this milestone, this podcast episode will resonate with you. Lucy and Lisette would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on their conversation, especially about how your experience compares with theirs. Share your reflections on the challenges of being the eldest, women’s reflections on aging, and how societal changes in the 1950s influenced your life.

Key Themes of This Episode Include:

✨ Eldest daughters and the Eldest Daughter Effect – how the role of the first-born daughter shapes personality, relationships, and life choices.

✨ Family dynamics and how birth order psychology can affect a person’s sense of responsibility, leadership, and self-perception.

✨ The intersection of generational differences in upbringing, as Lucy McCarraher’s experience in Chelsea’s King’s Road contrasts with Lisette Schuitemaker’s life in suburban Holland.

✨ Societal changes in the 1950s, including how the world evolved during the hosts' childhood and how these shifts are reflected in their life stories of eldest daughters.

✨ Celebrating 70 years, reflecting on life lessons from 70 years, and navigating the emotional and personal challenges that come with aging.

✨ How women can thrive after 70 and embrace personal growth at 70 as they reflect on their past and look toward the future.

✨ Milestones in aging and the significance of these life stages in shaping women’s aging journeys.

If you're reflecting on family roles, the role of eldest daughters, or simply want to join a meaningful conversation about life in the 1950s and personal reflections on aging, this episode will offer deep insights. Lucy and Lisette’s candid discussion of their personal stories and experiences will encourage you to reflect on your own life’s milestones.

Leave a comment below or connect with them on LinkedIn to join the conversation:

Lucy McCarraher on...