Up First from NPR – "Can Old Age Be a New Beginning?"

Release Date: January 19, 2025
Host: Aisha Rascoe
Reporter: Anthony Brooks
Duration: Approximately 26 minutes

Introduction: Rethinking Retirement and Life's Third Act

In the January 19, 2025 episode of Up First from NPR, host Aisha Rascoe delves into the transformative concept of the "third act of life." Challenging the traditional notion that life’s productivity wanes with age, the episode explores how an increasing number of individuals are reinventing themselves later in life, seeing old age not as an end but as a vibrant new beginning.

Personal Catalyst for Exploration

Anthony Brooks, a former NPR reporter and longtime correspondent at WBUR in Boston, discusses the genesis of his series "Third Act." Reflecting on his own life-changing experiences, including a significant health scare and the loss of his father, Brooks became fascinated with stories of late-life reinvention.

"I was coming to terms with this idea that there's a lot more of my life behind me than ahead of me... intrigued with stories of people who found ways to reinvent themselves late in life in interesting and inspirational ways." (01:51)

Spotlight on Tom Andrew: From Medical Examiner to Methodist Deacon

One of Brooks' poignant stories is that of Tom Andrew, a former chief medical examiner in New Hampshire. After witnessing the devastating effects of the opioid crisis and feeling powerless against societal complacency, Andrew made a bold career shift at 61. Instead of choosing a traditional retirement, he pursued seminary school to become a Methodist deacon, aiming to mentor youth and combat drug abuse.

"I spent 20 years on the assessment end... I wanted to work with young people and let them see that there's a better way than that pill or that powder or that joint that's offered to them by their erstwhile friend." (04:32)

Andrew's transition exemplifies finding new purpose and contributing significantly to the community in his later years. By age 66, he had successfully integrated into his role, experiencing renewed fulfillment and a deeper sense of purpose.

"His life has new purpose... he seems to be really thriving in this third act." (05:20)

Juliana Richardson: Preserving Black History Through "History Makers"

Another compelling narrative is that of Juliana Richardson, a Harvard Law graduate who left a promising career in corporate law to document the oral histories of Black Americans. Facing a midlife crisis after her home shopping channel failed, Richardson reignited her passion for black history by founding History Makers, an extensive archive now housed in the Library of Congress.

"Sometimes at your darkest moment, the thing that's intended for you is right there." (13:03)

Despite initial skepticism and financial hurdles, Richardson persevered, amassing close to $40 million in funding and recording approximately 4,000 interviews. Her work not only preserves invaluable histories but also inspires others to contribute meaningfully regardless of age.

"If we do this right, it will be something that hopefully makes society a richer place." (15:45)

Natalie Jones: From Cleaning Hotel Rooms to Clinical Therapy

Natalie Jones's story highlights resilience and determination. Growing up in a working-class family with no expectation of higher education, Jones faced a tumultuous midlife crisis after a divorce. At 41, with two young children and no college degree, she pivoted her life trajectory by pursuing a degree in human services.

"I'm walking across the parking lot with tears rolling down my eyes, saying, oh my God, I'm in college. And I was just so thrilled to be there." (21:32)

Nearly two decades later, Jones earned her master's degree and became a licensed clinical therapist, dedicating herself to helping others despite limited resources. Her journey underscores that reinvention is attainable with perseverance and passion.

"I'm constantly saying to people, you can write your own script." (21:59)

The Ace of Cups: Rocking into Their 70s

The episode also features the inspiring tale of The Ace of Cups, an all-female rock band from the 1960s that faced sexism and industry barriers. After decades of obscurity, the band reunited in their 70s to release their first album in 2018, symbolizing that it's never too late to pursue artistic passions.

"We're in our 60s, from the 60s." (24:08)
"By 1972, the band was pretty much done... decades after they first performed, the Ace of Cups finally released their first album." (25:17)

Their resurgence not only celebrates enduring creativity but also challenges age-related stereotypes in the music industry.

Insights on Longevity and Purpose

Brooks emphasizes the significant increase in life expectancy—from an average of 47 years in 1900 to nearly 80 today—allowing individuals ample time to explore new avenues in their later years. The concept of middlescence is introduced, likening this life stage to adolescence—a period of change and opportunity.

Moreover, the discussion touches on the U-shaped theory of happiness, which posits that happiness declines in middle age but rises again in the later years, suggesting that older age can be a time of renewed joy and fulfillment.

"There's research on this, the so-called U-shaped theory of happiness... it can be a really great time to reimagine your life." (07:17)

Overcoming Financial and Social Barriers

The episode acknowledges that reinvention in later life often requires financial stability, yet it showcases examples like Natalie Jones, who overcame economic hardships to pursue her passion. Brooks argues that creativity and resourcefulness enable individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to find meaningful new paths.

"You can always find people, no matter their social economic status, that are really creative and resourceful." (18:33)

Conclusion: Embracing the Third Act

"Can Old Age Be a New Beginning?" serves as an uplifting exploration of how increasing longevity offers unprecedented opportunities for personal growth and societal contribution. Through the stories of Tom Andrew, Juliana Richardson, Natalie Jones, and The Ace of Cups, the episode illustrates that with courage and determination, the later stages of life can be profoundly transformative and fulfilling.

"Keep hope alive. You can do it." (26:06)

Produced by: Andrew Mambo
Edited by: Jenny Schmidt
Engineer: Jimmy Keeley
Supervising Producer: Liana Simstrom
Executive Producer: Irene Noguchi

For more inspiring stories from Anthony Brooks and the "Third Act" series, visit wbur.org.