What if everything you've lived through isn't something to put behind you, but something to put to work?
In this delicious conversation, I chat with Julienne B. Ryan, a Communication Catalyst, speaker, author, coach, and lifelong storyteller who has built a career around helping people connect through listening, humor, curiosity, and authentic communication.
Julienne's own story is fascinating. From being a shy little girl in Queens who somehow landed a Trident gum commercial, to recruiting and HR, to discovering that her real superpower was helping people see, hear, and appreciate one another, her journey is a wonderful reminder that our gifts don't always reveal themselves in the ways we expect.
And then we get into the good stuff.
We talk about why your stories matter, how storytelling creates bridges between generations, and why "facts and emotions equal memory." Julienne shares how she learned to stop trying to communicate like everyone else and finally own the qualities people valued most in her: showing up, making people laugh, listening, and telling stories.
We also dig into something especially important for ProAgers: the stories we tell ourselves about getting older.
Julienne has a wonderful challenge for us: Who's writing the script?
Because those old messages - "not me," "not now," "I missed the boat," "why bother?" - can become limitations we don't even realize we've accepted.
We talk about finding your voice without raising it, navigating digital distraction, why picking up the phone can save a relationship, how introverts have a tremendous communication superpower, and why being truly listened to may be one of the greatest luxuries we can give another human being.
And Julienne has a simple message for anyone who thinks they aren't a storyteller:
Your stories are hiding in plain sight.
Your experiences, your mistakes, your triumphs, the things that lit you up, the problems you've solved, the lessons you've learned... they're all part of the wisdom you carry forward.
You don't have to shrink with age. You don't have to become someone you're not. You can own your story, use your voice, build bridges, and keep contributing.
Because your life experience isn't baggage. It's your superpower.
Connect with Julienne:
Visit J. Ryan Partners to learn more about Julienne's work, workshops, storytelling, and communication resources.
And if this conversation made you think of someone whose experience, stories, or wisdom deserves to be heard, please share this episode with them.
If you found inspiration from this conversation, please rate, review and share this episode.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, so be sure to hop on over to Don’t Be Caged By Your Age on LinkedIn or Instagram. Or leave a message on the website here.
Looking for a few simple ways to age well? Here are two products I use and genuinely recommend:
🚶♀️ Favorite Walking Pad – I use it almost every day while watching my favorite shows. It's quiet, easy to store, and makes getting more steps simple and enjoyable.
🥤 Favorite Protein Powder – Getting enough protein becomes even more important as we age. This is my go-to because it's easy to digest, delivers 25g of protein per serving, and supports healthy muscles and bones.
Waving from Boston – cheers!
Ande ♥
CONNECT with me online - I'd love to learn how you're shattering ageism!
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