196: Fearless pivots with Susan Dabbar

Susan Dabbar is the founder and editor-in-chief of Provoked by Susan – a bold, unapologetic digital magazine for women 50+, challenging and redefining how older women are seen, heard and represented. Susan's career has been shaped by fearless pivots. She began as a naval architect designing nuclear submarines, went on to shape brand strategy at companies including Disney and Nestlé, played professional poker, worked as an international education consultant – and then, in her 60s, launched a media platform because she couldn't find content that truly respected women's intelligence and lived experience. We talk about: -Why Susan launched Provoked after retiring – and why she wasn't finished yet The cultural gap in media for women over 50 (and why "Good Housekeeping" still exists) -Designing nuclear submarines – and knowing when it's time to walk away -What poker taught Susan about patience, power and underestimation -The myth of "passion" and why it can hold women back -How women learn to stop performing and start making space for themselves -The rise of the "I don't give a f***" woman – and why it matters -Female friendship as an underestimated source of power -The coming wealth transfer – and what it could mean when money lands in women's hands -Why AI risks reinforcing ageism and sexism if women don't shape it -Building something meaningful in your 60s – and aiming high without apology And more. f you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you're listening. Order Rachel's book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. FeedSpot #5 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts FeedSpot #7 in 100 Best Midlife Women Podcasts FeedSpot #2 in 10 Best UK Life Hacks Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.