Ep 2 - Get to Know Your Hosts (2026)

Episode 4: Money, Power & Reinvention | The ShelfIt’s not too late to own your value — it’s overdue!What happens when you reach your 50s and start asking yourself: Do I keep playing the same game, or do I invent a whole new one?In this episode of The Shelf, Patsy and Lydia get real about money, power, career changes and financial independence in midlife. We’re challenging the idea that women over 50 should slow down, step aside or settle for less.From navigating career pivots and being overlooked in the workplace to taking control of your finances after separation or divorce, we explore what it means to reclaim your independence, recognise your worth and make decisions on your own terms.We also talk about the experience, knowledge and expertise that midlife women bring to the table — and what happens when that value goes unrecognised. For some, reinvention means a new career; for others, it’s building a business, pursuing a passion or simply choosing themselves for a change.Because financial independence isn't just about money. It's about having choices, control, confidence and peace of mind.So, whether you're rethinking your career, getting your finances in order, starting something new or wondering what comes next, this conversation is your reminder that you haven't missed your moment.You've earned your experience. You know your value. Now it's time to own it.And if all that reinvention calls for a little treat along the way? Well, we're not here to judge! Your takeaway: Financially, professionally and emotionally — claim your value. You've earned it.Pull up a chair, join the conversation and own your space on The Shelf.#TheShelf #LifeAfter50 #WomenAndMoney #FinancialIndependence #Reinvention #WomenInLeadership #MidlifeWomen

A Fresh Take on Health | The ShelfWhat does being healthy actually look like after 50?For years, many women were taught to measure their health by the number on the scales. But as we get older, we start to realise that health is about so much more than weight.In this campfire, Patsy and Lydia take a fresh, honest and often humorous look at what it means to feel healthy in our 50s and beyond. From the diets we tried in our younger years—from cabbage soup and SlimFast to calorie counting and the latest “miracle” plan—to the moment our bodies start giving us signals we can no longer ignore.We talk about blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, hormones, menopause, sleep, stress, joint pain and energy—and the importance of finally listening to what our bodies are telling us.Because perhaps energy is the new skinny.Instead of waking up asking, “How much do I weigh?”, what if we asked, “How do I feel?”This conversation is about moving, resting, hydrating, finding mental clarity, managing stress and appreciating what our bodies allow us to do and enjoy. It’s also about letting go of the idea that rest is laziness, slowing down is failure, or our bodies need to be constantly punished or changed.Most importantly, we ask what happens when we stop fighting our bodies and start listening to them.So, rather than setting another weight-loss target, we leave you with a different question:What is one thing your body is asking you for right now?More sleep?More water?More movement?Less stress?A little more kindness?Your body has been talking to you for years.Perhaps now is the time to listen.Welcome to The Shelf — where we take real conversations about life after 50 off the shelf and explore what they can teach us about living well.Until next time… STAY CURIOUS.Recording courtesy of Cheeky Monkey Studios

From Independence to I Do: Love, Marriage & Partnership After 50What happens when you've spent years building a life you love on your own terms—and then love comes along?In this Campfire, The Shelf explores From Independence to I Do and asks whether marriage after 50 is really about needing someone… or consciously choosing someone to share the next chapter with.Patsy and Lydia dive into the changing face of love later in life, from people marrying later, choosing long-term relationships without marriage, and discovering love after divorce or bereavement, to those who simply found their person a little later than expected.We explore why independence can actually make later-life relationships stronger, the challenges of merging two established lives, and why there is no single blueprint for what a successful partnership has to look like. From separate routines and favourite chairs to "Living Apart Together", today's relationships are increasingly being designed around the people in them rather than following a traditional template.And then there's the bigger picture: adult children, grandchildren, former spouses, families, friendships, finances, new traditions—and the possibility of a genuine second chance at love.Because perhaps love after 50 isn't about completing someone. It's about finding someone who complements the life you've already created.We also look at the changing marriage landscape, including declining marriage rates, people marrying later and the rise of cohabitation, alongside the particular experiences of Black women over 50 in the UK.Most importantly, we ask what love actually looks like in this stage of life. Maybe it's less about grand gestures and more about morning coffee, checking that someone got home safely, sharing a laugh, having honest conversations, and being completely accepted—with all the history, scars, triumphs, and imperfections that come with getting older.So, Shelfies…Are you moving from independence to partnership—or quite happily staying independent?Have you been happily cohabiting and suddenly found yourself facing the question of marriage? Are you divorced or widowed and wondering whether you'd do it all again? Or are you thinking, "We're good. Marriage isn't necessary!"We want to hear from you.Pull up a chair, join the Campfire and tell us what you think.Until next time, keep turning the pages of your story—and never underestimate the possibilities waiting in your next chapter.#TheShelfPodcast #LoveAfter50 #MarriageAfter50 #DatingAfter50 #LifeAfter50 #WomenOver50 #SecondChances #Relationships #Partnership #CampfireRecording courtesy of Cheeky Monkey Studios

When we were younger, joy often happened by accident.Now? We create it.In this Campfire, we’re talking about something that can become even more important as we get older: choosing joy deliberately.Life after 50 isn't about winding down. For many of us, it’s about finally creating a life that works on our terms—after years of careers, children, parents, responsibilities and putting everyone else first.We explore how our relationship with joy changes with age, and ask the question:When did you start putting yourself back on the list?From fresh flowers, books and travel to theatre, cooking, football, gardening and coffee with friends, we talk about why the little things can bring some of the biggest moments of happiness—and why joy doesn't have to be expensive, extravagant or Instagram-worthy.We also get real about protecting our peace. Boundaries with children, friendships, saying no, social media, our time and, perhaps most importantly, our energy. Because protecting your peace isn't selfish—it’s an act of self-respect.And, of course, we share our own Joy Lists—five things currently bringing us joy. From flying off to new destinations and enjoying our own company, to love, laughing with the children and sitting together recording The Shelf.Because the second half of life isn't about waiting for happiness to arrive.It's about intentionally creating a life where joy has room to stay.So, here's your challenge:What is ONE thing you've deliberately chosen to enjoy this week?Tell us in the comments or wherever you're listening. And remember…Own your space on The Shelf. ❤️Courtest Cheeky Monkey Studios

Today, we’re talking about something that feels huge, liberating, and maybe a little scary: being yourself! Because midlife isn’t a time to shrink, hide, or ‘fit in’. It’s the time to show up fully, on your own terms —wrinkles, opinions, and all!Tossing societies timelines out of the window. We’re making our own rules, claiming our voice, our choices, and even our mistakes — without shame. It’s deciding who we are and refusing to shrink.This includes saying no when everyone expects you to say yes. Socialobligations, family pressures… forget ‘should.’ There’s freedom in that.You stop asking permission for your own life.Don't forget to follow, like and subscribehttps://www.instagram.com/_theshelfrenaissance/https://youtu.be/vTQJtSVthM4

How well do you know the hosts Patsy and Lydia? How well do you think they know each other? Get settled in for this insightful and funny campfire where the hosts ask each other short, unexpected questions. They aimed to answer each within 5 seconds. You'll see this wasn't always the case. You'll get to know Patsy and Lydia a little bit more after this Campfire. Don't forget to check out our back catalogue. Lots of topics discussed, disected and picked off The Shelf. We'd love to hear your thoughts on our new and previous seasons, also on what you'd like to see in the future. You can find us on https://www.youtube.com/@TheShelf-StayCurioushttps://www.instagram.com/_theshelfrenaissance/Recording courtesy of CheekyMonkeyStudios

We’re finally back — after a little hiatus, a lot of life, and probably toomany cups of tea and wine.Four seasons of The Shelf, can you believe it? The good, the shocking, the hilarious,the moments where we just stared at each other!If you’re new here — welcome. Some campfires are waiting foryou in our back catalogue.Pull up a chair and settle in with a glass of something you like.And if you’ve been with us from the start — then you know the journey.Welcome back to The Shelf with Patsy and Lydia.

In this campfire  we explore the impact of hostile environments ️urging listeners to delve deeper into its effects on individuals and society. From systemic discrimination to personal attacks, hostile environments create spaces where individuals (victims) feel marginalised, oppressed, and unsafe.Recent discussions, like Vinicius Junior's experience at Real Madrid and Diana Abbott's struggle to be heard, shed light on the pervasive nature of hostility in professional sports and politics. These instances underscore the challenges faced by those navigating discriminatory spaces.Alarming statistics reveal the daily discrimination faced by black women, emphasizing the urgent need for action to address systemic injustices and foster inclusive environments where all individuals are valued.While the challenges are daunting, simple actions like promoting diversity, implementing anti-discrimination policies, and fostering open dialogue can help combat hostile environments. Together, we can dismantle structures that perpetuate injustice and create a society where everyone can thrive.As Donna Summer's iconic song "Enough is Enough" reminds us, it's time to stand up against injustice. Join us in this important conversation, follow us for updates on future campfires  and share your thoughts with friends and colleagues. Together, let's create a more inclusive and equitable world. Stay curious, and keep striving for positive change.

Patsy and Lydia take you through 2023 in summary format where they were missing from the cosy campfires of The Shelf but front and centre in all things called life. There were many highs and celebrations for them in 2023, but there were also some sad times. Pull up your favour tipple of choice, sit back and take a listen. You'll also get a glimpse of what's to come in 2024 Credits Produced by X Block Studios

Its a New Year, its a new day and we're feeling good......We look back at memories made in 2022 with mixed emotions.... happiness, pain and some apprehension of what's to come. We commit to ' moving & showing up differently' we take an 'honest' look at 'How' we looked...I'm thinking of my own Christmas/NY pics/selfies, especially so where I've not felt that great and its all captured within that 'stilled' memory for life, we've all been there, after all 'a pic/selfie tells a thousand words'. Maybe like the many you're thinking a wardrobe revamp would help as you're tired of struggling to find things you love and fit you like they did 'way back when'. If that's you and you're wanting to gift yourself a late NY 'treat' that's a guaranteed investment in YOU, take some time and explore the services of a Personal Stylist. Like Cinders your 'fairy clothes mother' will be there to 'hold your hand' and take away the noise, pain and drama of the mystery that is, ‘what to and what not to wear' to coach you so you’re more aware of YOUR ‘own’ personal style. A signature style just for YOU to make YOU feel and look amazing and ‘ready to do’ in any situation on any given day, week, month or year. Buzz words such as Style Personality & Style Recipe these 'phrases' will be revealed in this humorous but informative campfire. Joining 'The Shelf 'conversation today we have The lovely soul, Claire. A business owner, wife, mother of two sons and a dog. who I quote "loves living life to the full, with fun, fashion and style". Claire is everyday glam, just take a look at her website. Supporting her clients to invest in their own self-esteem and confidence - "Transformation of mind & style accessing power to become UNSTOPPABLE!' "The clothes you wear speak volumes about you - even before you say a word". I Got Style is an inclusive business empowering all genders and non-conforming genders through coaching & transformation of your mind and style. Taking you on a journey to explore you within a safe space, working from the inside out. Curious, Intrigued? Get your self 'Shelf ready, armed with your tipple of choice and The Shelf’s latest Campfire. Sit back, relax and join us as we discover how 'style therapy' saves YOU time, money and frustration, educates you about colours so you can become your own personal Stye Director. After all, "Fashions fade, style is eternal" - Yves saint laurent www.igotstyle.co.uk