#24: From Ladder to Lattice: Finding Freedom in Midlife Work

#25: Joy in a Jar: How a Flower-Fueled Mission Took Root

Let’s go back - way back - back to the very beginning of my passion for flowers, from my great-aunt Ethel’s snapdragons to the tiny backyard garden where it all began. You'll hear how this love of blooms eventually led to the creation of my floral business and my discovery of the Growing Kindness Project—a nonprofit dedicated to spreading joy through flowers. As a proud Growing Kindness Ambassador, I share how I’ve adapted the mission to fit my life and schedule, and why giving flowers away continues to bring me just as much joy as growing them.  In this episode, you’ll learn: * How early memories shape our passions * The origin story of the Growing Kindness movement * Three ways you can get involved—whether or not you grow flowers * How giving can be a healing, empowering act (and good business energy! Resources Mentioned: Become a Growing Kindness Gardener [https://www.growingkindnessproject.org/gardeners] Growing Kindness Podcast [https://www.growingkindnessproject.org/podcasts/growing-kindness-stories-of-kindness-generosity-and-community-that-inspire-hope/episodes/2149099717] More about my floral work: sereneandgreen.com [https://www.sereneandgreen.com/]   🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 LINKS + MENTIONS: 🌟 Grab my freebie: “Ignite Your Spark: 5 Questions to Guide Your Side Hustle Journey” https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark] 📩 Connect with Betsy hello@betsyblockblooms.com [hello@betsyblockblooms.com] 💻 Website https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/ [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/] 👉 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/ [https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/]

#24: From Ladder to Lattice: Finding Freedom in Midlife Work

In this episode of The Blooming Solopreneur, I dive into a powerful shift in how we think about work, aging, and purpose. Inspired by a recent talk from Australian author Bec Wilson, I explore the idea of our 50s and 60s as Prime Time—not the end of our working years, but the beginning of something intentional and fulfilling. You’ll hear: * How I turned down a top job to lean into flexibility and fulfillment * The difference between the “old” and “new” shape of life * Why a side business can be the perfect tool for creating choice * The concept of trading the ladder for a lattice What work can really mean in this chapter of life Whether you’re dreaming of freedom, craving purpose, or just wondering what’s next, this episode is for you. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 LINKS + MENTIONS: Bec Williams + Prime Time https://www.primetimers.net/ [https://www.primetimers.net/] Prime Time: The handbook for those in the prime of their life [https://www.amazon.com/Prime-Time-handbook-those-prime/dp/0733652212] 🌟 Grab my freebie: “Ignite Your Spark: 5 Questions to Guide Your Side Hustle Journey” https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark] 📩 Connect with Betsy hello@betsyblockblooms.com [hello@betsyblockblooms.com] 💻 Website https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/ [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/] 👉 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/ [https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/]

#23: Start Small, Serve Big: Why In-Person Services Are the Smartest Way to Begin

In this episode, Betsy shares why she believes that personal, in-person service businesses are the ideal starting point for midlife women ready to dip their toes into entrepreneurship. Drawing from her own experience starting Serene & Green—a gravesite care business launched with just the tools in her garage—Betsy walks through the four big reasons service-based businesses offer flexibility, low startup costs, and meaningful human connection. If you’ve been overthinking your business idea or worrying that AI will replace your opportunities, this episode will remind you that your hands, heart, and creativity are your greatest assets. What You’ll Learn * Why service-based businesses are the fastest and most flexible way to start * How low overhead and minimal tools can make your first steps risk-free * The hidden power of direct customer relationships (and how they grow your business naturally) * Ways to build flexibility and freedom into your work schedule * Ten reflection questions to help you brainstorm your perfect service idea   🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 LINKS + MENTIONS: Serene & Green https://www.sereneandgreen.com/ [https://www.sereneandgreen.com/] 🌟 Grab my freebie: “Ignite Your Spark: 5 Questions to Guide Your Side Hustle Journey” https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark] 📩 Connect with Betsy hello@betsyblockblooms.com [hello@betsyblockblooms.com] 💻 Website https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/ [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/] 👉 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/ [https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/]

#22: The Bright Side of Solopreneurship: 7 Unexpected Rewards

Being a solopreneur can be tough—but it’s also deeply rewarding. In this episode, I’m sharing 7 of the most meaningful and often overlooked rewards of building a business on your own terms. From flexibility and confidence to rediscovering joy and purpose, these lessons have shaped my journey—and might just inspire yours. If you’re a midlife woman considering a side hustle or in the early stages of building your business, let this episode remind you: it’s not just about making money. It’s about becoming the version of yourself you were meant to be. What you’ll hear in this episode: * How solopreneurship gives you flexibility and ownership of your time * Why personal growth is baked into the entrepreneurial journey * The impact of role modeling passion and purpose for your family * How building your own thing increases confidence and joy * Why making values-aligned decisions is the best part of business 🔗 Listen now and tag a friend who needs a dose of encouragement!   🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 LINKS + MENTIONS: 🌟 Grab my freebie: “Ignite Your Spark: 5 Questions to Guide Your Side Hustle Journey” https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark] 📩 Connect with Betsy hello@betsyblockblooms.com [hello@betsyblockblooms.com] 💻 Website https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/ [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/] 👉 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/

#21: Overcoming Loneliness as a Solopreneur

Running a business solo doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Today, I open up about the often-unspoken experience of loneliness as a solopreneur—and the practices I’ve embraced to stay connected, motivated, and grounded. From forming a rock-solid accountability partnership, to volunteering in my community, to investing in lifelong friendships, I share real-life strategies for making this path feel a little less lonely and a whole lot more joyful. Whether you’re in the early stages of building a business or deep in the weeds, this episode is your reminder that connection isn’t a distraction—it’s essential. 🎧 What you'll hear: * Why 81% of small business owners are solopreneurs * The emotional highs and lows of building something alone * How one Zoom partner helped me stay accountable for two full years * Why community and friendships are part of the success formula You don't need a team to feel supported—you just need the right people in your corner.   🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 LINKS + MENTIONS: Foggy Oak Acres [https://www.foggyoakacres.com/] Appleford [https://applefordestate.com/] 🌟 Grab my freebie: “Ignite Your Spark: 5 Questions to Guide Your Side Hustle Journey” https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/spark] 📩 Connect with Betsy hello@betsyblockblooms.com [hello@betsyblockblooms.com] 💻 Website https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/ [https://www.betsyblockblooms.com/] 👉 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/betsyblockblooms/