Third Act Unscripted's Podcast

In this candid, unfiltered episode, Annie and Katie grab a metaphorical cup of coffee and dive into what it means to be a mom in midlife. They explore the surprising shift in maternal instinct, the pressure to uphold holiday traditions, and the emotional terrain of navigating the in-between space—no longer full-time mothers, not yet grandmothers. What kind of mom do you want to be in this chapter? Tune in as they unpack that questi...

In this heartfelt episode, Katie and Annie dive deep into the question many of us face when entering our third act: How do we find the courage to make meaningful change? Inspired by a Simon Sinek video, the duo challenges the myth that courage is something we muster from within, proposing instead that it is born from connection—through community, support, and soul friendships.

Through stories of Navy SEALs, trapeze artists, and thei...

In this powerful episode of Third Act Unscripted, Katie and Annie sit down with Stacey Kauffman, founder and CEO of SK Collective and The Rising. Stacey shares her courageous journey from media executive to purpose-driven entrepreneur, reflecting on the burnout, misalignment, and wake-up calls that led to a major life transformation. As a single mother of two navigating divorce, career upheaval, and deep personal reckoning, St...

In this episode of Third Act Unscripted, Tanya Montasterio shares her powerful journey of leaving behind a high-powered tech career and a picture-perfect life in Washington to move—sight unseen—to a tiny village in Ireland. What began as a search for home turned into a profound journey of self-reconnection, courage, and redefining success on her own terms. From corporate contracts to crystal beadwork, Tanya’s third act is a story o...

In this episode, we’re tackling that all-too-familiar feeling of being stuck in your third act. Whether you're unsure of what’s next or just caught in the loop of same-old routines, we’re sharing five simple things you can do right now to break the cycle and start feeling more inspired and alive. These aren't major life overhauls—they're small shifts that open doors to new energy, new insights, and new versions of yo...

When you're on the brink of big change, there's one essential ingredient you can't do without: community. In this episode, Annie and Katie dive into why creating or joining a supportive group is vital during major life transitions, especially in the third act. From Melinda Gates’ “truth council” to their own experience forming a mastermind, they explore how collective energy, mentorship, and shared intention can fuel...

In this episode, Katie and Annie dive into the restless feeling that often emerges in the third act of life—the quiet urge to grow, to move, or to reimagine what “home” means. From boredom as a soul nudge, to resisting the pull of people-pleasing, to exploring new places and possibilities, they share honest stories and powerful questions to help you listen to your inner compass. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it time for a change?” t...

 In this episode, we dive deep into the bold, heart-led decision to live life on your terms—right now. Whether it’s leaving a job, shifting a long-held belief, or admitting that what once lit you up no longer does, this conversation invites you to consider: What if you're allowed to change your mind?

Through laughter, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom, we explore how courage is the turning point from fear to possibility, and how ...

In this episode, we explore the freedom and fear that come with midlife reinvention. We talk about why this stage feels so unfamiliar, how biology and culture play a role, and why it’s time to welcome your “crazy” ideas for the future. Whether it’s living on a lavender farm, going back to school, or simply creating more space in your days, this conversation is an invitation to dream without limits and design a lifestyle that feels ...

In this episode, Annie and Katie share personal stories and powerful insights about the importance of releasing control and learning to trust the natural unfolding of your third act. From a fog-filled mountain in Spain to unexpected clarity sparked by a comment on TikTok, they explore how forcing outcomes can keep us stuck—and how slowing down creates space for truth, presence, and aligned action.

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This week, Annie and Katie continue exploring the Hero’s Journey—focusing on the phase where things start to get real: tests, allies, and enemies. They share personal stories of unexpected connections, online trolls, and moments of clarity that show up when you commit to something meaningful. Whether you're facing doubts, discovering new support systems, or navigating resistance, this episode reminds you that it's all par...

Episode Description:

In this episode of Third Act Unscripted, Katie shares the hilarious and humbling experience of completely flaming out on a Spanish test while studying abroad. But what starts as a funny story quickly reveals deeper layers—childhood memories, old patterns of perfectionism, and the discomfort of being a beginner again. Annie and Katie unpack what it means to “level up or give up,” why midlife often echoes our earl...

 In this enlightening episode, Annie and Katie sit down with mythologist, author, and speaker Allison Stieger to explore how mythology and the "heroic journey" can help us navigate life's transitions, particularly in the third act. From understanding archetypes to finding allies in our own stories, Allison shares profound insights and practical advice to help listeners embrace their path with intention. This episode ...

In this episode of Third Act Unscripted, Annie and Katie dive into the concept of the shadow—a term popularized by Carl Jung to describe the unexpressed or rejected aspects of ourselves. They explore how understanding and integrating our shadow can help us reclaim energy, heal hidden wounds, and move toward greater wholeness. Through personal stories, they share practical steps to identify and embrace the shadow with compassion, se...

 In this episode of Third Act Unscripted, Katie and Annie dive deep into the often subtle, yet powerful signs that signal the start of a midlife transition. From feelings of restlessness and dissatisfaction to low-grade anxiety and flatness, they share personal experiences of navigating this phase. Together, they explore how returning to your true self is less about finding a clear path and more about reconnecting with who you are ...

In this episode of Third Act Unscripted, Annie and Katie explore two essential components of thriving in life’s third act: building deep, authentic soul friendships and embracing the possibility mindset through Party Pods. They discuss the value of cultivating connections that go beyond surface-level relationships, offering support, compassion, and honesty. They also introduce Party Pods—creative, uplifting spaces where you can exp...

What if your dreams were trying to tell you something important? In this episode, we explore how dreams can serve as guideposts on the journey of self-discovery and transformation. Annie and Katie share personal dream experiences—some unsettling, some profound—that have shaped their paths. From lost passports to powerful encounters in the dream world, they discuss how dreams reflect our inner work, fears, and potential for growth.

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In this episode, Annie and Katie sit down with Reverend Seifu, a former Microsoft executive turned Zen Buddhist priest and the Executive Director of Spiritual Directors International. Together, they explore themes of transformation, finding alignment, and navigating life's challenges with trust and grace. Reverend Seifu shares insights from his personal journey, including his "dark night of the soul," and discusses h...

In this episode, Annie and Katie dive deep into the ego and the higher self—two parts of our inner world that shape how we experience life. They share personal stories, insights, and practical strategies for recognizing and navigating the tension between these aspects of ourselves. From self-awareness to building a connection with the higher self, they explore how to make space for personal growth and liberation in the third act of...