Third Act Unscripted is a podcast and community dedicated to individuals embracing the transformative phase of midlife, often referred to as the "third act" of life. Hosted by Annie Clay and Katie Swartz, the show delves into themes of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful change. Through authentic conversations and reflective storytelling, the podcast encourages listeners to intentionally create their next chapter and become the person they truly long to be. Whether it's rediscovering passions, making significant life transitions, or seeking deeper self-awareness, Third Act Unscripted offers insights and inspiration for crafting a life aligned with one's true self.
In this episode, Annie and Katie dive into what it means to navigate your third act solo—and why that can be a powerful and even joyful experience. From redefining what "alone" really means to exploring the space of “no thing,” they reflect on the freedom, potential, and unexpected creativity that can come from embracing solitude in midlife. Whether you’re single by choice or circumstance, this conversation offers a fresh...
In this episode, we sit down with Suzi, a midlife fitness creator who never expected to become an online inspiration. What started as a TikTok fitness challenge turned into a powerful third act focused on health, joy, and helping other women feel strong in their bodies. Suzi shares how she overcame the fear of judgment, what it’s really like to post your workouts online after 50, and why it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
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Angela Forte joins Third Act Unscripted to share her inspiring journey from divorce and doubt to confidence, clarity, and TikTok stardom. In this honest and uplifting conversation, Angela opens up about reinventing herself after 50, embracing her health and appearance without apology, and finding new purpose in unexpected places. We talk about doing the hard things, navigating relationships, and why midlife is the perfect time to s...
In this episode, Katie and Annie are joined by mindfulness teacher and entrepreneur Rachel Wixey, who shares her inspiring journey of leaving behind a successful business to pursue a life aligned with her purpose. Together, they explore what it means to let go of control, embrace daily practices that support emotional well-being, and make space for creative freedom in your third act. Rachel’s story is a powerful example of how tuni...
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.
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...
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.