2026 is here, and we are galloping into it with clarity, humor, and a few dragons. We are kicking off the year by sharing what we're letting go of from 2025 (comparison, pressure, scarcity) and what we're calling for in 2026 (creativity, presence, joy, money, and more).

Expect Celine Dion skating routines, Stranger Things finale tears, birthday reflections, and a reminder that the blessing of age is knowing what lights you up, and where to give that light back. From travel plans and business expansions to confidence, calendars, and career shifts, this is a joyfully honest look at growth, aging, and the power of knowing yourself.

🌎Ready to book your next vacation? Contact Lee Kennelly at lee.kennelly@smartflyer.com to get started!

Resources mentioned:

The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
The Big A** Calendar
SmartFlyer Travel | Contact: lee.kennelly@smartflyer.com

Some key takeaways from this episode:

Aging brings clarity, not limitation. Liz shares why her 72nd birthday feels powerful, not limiting. With age comes the deep freedom of knowing who you are, what turns you on, and how to give that power back to the world. Aging is not about sitting down. It's about standing even more firmly in your moment.
Resolutions don't work when they're rooted in comparison. Lee reminds us that you don't need five books on your nightstand or 18 goals in motion to feel worthy. Stop measuring your life against someone else's checklist. Define success by what lights you up… and then go do more of that.
You can reinvent at any age (and you should). Whether it's public speaking, writing a book, launching a travel business, or planning your year with a giant-ass wall calendar, 2026 is about trusting your next step even if it looks different from the last one. The dragon is back. Let's ride.

🔥SWTHZ South Park is a contrast therapy experience for wellness lovers who want the biohacking benefits of saunas and cold plunges in a luxurious, private environment. Get $10 off your first session with code LKSWT10, or use code LKSWT when purchasing a membership!

☕️MUD/WTR is a coffee alternative consisting of 100% organic cacao, ayurvedic herbs and functional mushrooms. With just a fraction of caffeine found in coffee, you get energy, focus and immune support without the crash! Use this link for 15% off your purchase, or $20 off PLUS a 15% discount if you subscribe!

Hilliard Studio Method takes working out to the next level to produce results that are nothing short of a total mind-body transformation. If you're ready to get in incredible shape, you can work out with us in-person at our Charlotte studio, join classes from home via Zoom, or sign up for our on-demand streaming service!

Be Powerful with Liz & Lee is focused on helping you find your inner power and for us to share our thoughts on society, culture, and current events. As the team behind Hilliard Studio Method in Charlotte, North Carolina, we love all things wellness and will also share info on how to live your healthiest life mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Podcast contact info:

202. What We're Bringing Into 2026 | Liz's Book, Lee's Travel Biz & Fire-Breathing Horses