In this powerful conversation, Cyrus Mejia—one of the original founders of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary—shares the extraordinary origin story behind what has become the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the country. From settling in a remote red-rock canyon with only $5,000 and a vision, to challenging a century-old system that routinely killed millions of shelter animals each year, Cyrus and his team proved that compassion, collaboration, and sheer grit could spark a national movement. He walks us through the early days of building a sanctuary from scratch, the spiritual energy of Angel Canyon, and how Best Friends evolved into a nationwide force with data-driven strategies, partnerships, and on-the-ground teams supporting shelters across the U.S.

Cyrus also dives into the emotional and philosophical side of the work—how art, kindness, transparency, and community form the backbone of true social change, and how he stays grounded in the face of overwhelming need. He offers wisdom on avoiding burnout, navigating group dynamics, and finding meaning and moxie in purpose-driven work. Whether you’re an animal lover, a volunteer, or someone searching for deeper purpose in midlife and beyond, this conversation is a moving reminder that ordinary people, armed with compassion and conviction, can change the world one life at a time.

Cyrus's Info:

https://www.cyrusmejia.com/about-the-artist

https://bestfriends.org/

**The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This podcast contains links to other third party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser.

Mary Davison is a true inspiration who found a profound sense of meaning and moxie after turning 50. Her remarkable journey into long-distance hiking began at age 60 with the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier, which quickly ignited a passion few can match. Her incredible dedication led her to become a certified Triple Crowner, meaning she successfully completed the three most challenging and prestigious trails in the United States: the Appalachian Trail (AT), the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). These three trails alone total approximately 8,000 miles, but Mary didn't stop there. She also has tackled the ancient pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago and most recently the vast, coast-to-coast American Discovery Trail.

Now hiking in her 80s and still actively section-hiking, Mary continues to defy expectations and redefine what's possible in later life. She brings a deep, philosophical perspective to her physical challenges, famously stating that "Age is not just a number. It does make a difference eventually. Doesn't mean you can't do anything. It just means you have to do them differently." She has documented her extensive adventures, sharing her hard-won wisdom and practical advice for embracing new challenges. Mary's life is a testament to the idea that regardless of age, you can always find your next big adventure and start wherever you are.

Mary's Info:

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=mary+e+davison&crid=2S3B3P2KPMTYG&sprefix=mary+davison%2Caps%2C192&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_12

https://thetrek.co/meet-old-lady-on-the-trail-81-year-old-triple-crowner-mary-e-davison/

https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/mary-davidson-thru-hiking/

**The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This podcast contains links to other third party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser.

Loneliness after 50 is one of those topics few people talk about, yet almost everyone feels. In this episode of Meaning and Moxie After 50, Leslie Maloney gets real about what it means to feel disconnected in midlife — when the kids are grown, work routines fade, and social circles shift. She explores why loneliness hits so many women at this stage, the emotional and physical toll it can take, and why it’s not a sign of weakness but a powerful signal that something in your life is ready for renewal.

Through honest reflection and heartfelt encouragement, Leslie shares how to start rebuilding connection — with yourself, with others, and with the world around you. Whether you’ve been craving more friendship, purpose, or simply a sense of belonging, this episode will remind you that loneliness isn’t the end of the story.

Connect with Leslie at:

www.meaningandmoxieafter50.com

**The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This podcast contains links to other third party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser.