Podcast founder Andrea Rathborne and the iconic Betty White share the same birth date - January 17th. In 2022, as Betty would have celebrated her 100th birthday, Andrea turned 50 - half betty’s age. This milestone sparked a powerful reflection: Betty White achieved more between 50 and 100 than in her first 50 years, suggesting that midlife is not an end but a bold, new beginning. Inspired by Betty’s legacy, Andrea saw turning 50 as the gateway to a second, even greater life chapter - one full of possibility, reimagination, and purpose.

This vision gave rise to Half Betty, a bold and vibrant community where midlife women come together to feel supported, inspired, informed, and deeply valued. It’s a space where the stories of their next chapter take shape and the extraordinary potential of their second scene unfolds.

Gather, listen, subscribe and share!

Website: www.halfbetty.com
Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne
Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen
Audio recorded by: Lincoln Woo
Episode 1 and Trailer courtesy of: Jar Audio
Podcast mentors: Jen Moss of Jar Audio and Neil McPhedran of Podium Podcast Co.

In this episode of the Half Betty Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Rhonda Roberts Smid - a powerhouse in theater, film, TV, fitness, and education. Rhonda gets real about midlife, sharing how she flipped the script from seeing it as a decline, to embracing it as a celebration. We dive into her experiences as a performer, coach, and mentor, and her passion for helping women own their midlife with confidence.

She opens up about resilience, breaking free from societal expectations and why personalized care—both physical and mental—is key. Plus, her dedication to diversity and building a strong, supportive community shines through.

Stick around for Rhonda’s words of wisdom and how you can connect with her. This one’s packed with inspiration!

Bio 

Rhonda Roberts is a seasoned performer, educator, and dance adjudicator with an extensive career spanning stage and screen. She was part of the original 2000 Toronto company of The Lion King, understudying Sarabi before taking over the role of Shenzi. Her stage credits also include Beauty and the Beast, the U.S. First National Tour of Ragtime, and productions at the renowned Stratford Festival. On screen, she has appeared in The Boys (Amazon Prime), Chicago, Hairspray The Movie, and various other film and television roles.

Beyond performance, Rhonda has dedicated over 35 years to teaching dance and more than 20 years to adjudicating, primarily across Canada. She has been a sought-after adjudicator for competitions nationwide and has led dance workshops throughout the country. For the past five years, she has been instructing at the University of Toronto while also choreographing and teaching at performing arts schools in Toronto, including Etobicoke School of the Arts, Mayfield Secondary School, and Canada’s National Ballet School.

In 2012, she founded The Art of Balance (TAB), a studio merging dance, fitness, and holistic practices to foster well-being. Recognized as one of CanFitPro’s Top 3 Fitness Professionals in 2016, she continues to advocate for dancer health and diversity through organizations like Healthy Dancer Canada, where she chaired the BIPOC Advocacy Working Group.

Rhonda holds a Sociology degree from McMaster University and a Musical Theatre diploma from Randolph College for the Performing Arts, where she earned both a full scholarship and the Triple Threat Award.

Linkedin Rhonda Roberts Smid

Website Tab Fitness 

Instagram Rhonda on Instagram

Sponsor Information

Voes & Company

We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they’re as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last—without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that’s why we’ve partnered with Voes & Co to bring our listeners 50% off any pair of shoes! Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes 

Ally Global Foundation

Childhood is priceless—until someone puts a price on it. When sex trafficking and exploitation threaten childhood, we need to rally everyone and everything to protect it. That’s why our friends at Ally Global Foundation are building community-led solutions in Canada—to tackle root causes and educate communities. For free prevention resources for your children or school, or to support Ally in protecting childhood, visit ally.org Because every child deserves safety and freedom.

Connect with us

Website link here

Instagram link here

LinkedIn link here

Facebook link here

Leave a voicemail for us

https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/

Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne

Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen

Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen

Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke

Episode sponsors: Ally Global Foundation and Voes and Company

In this episode, our guest Christa Hull shares stories from her midlife journey and career transformation. She shares what it was like working with some of Vancouver’s top lifestyle brands, while also struggling with hormone changes, sleep issues, mood swings, and the grief of losing her mother suddenly. Christa talks about the moment she decided to step away from the fast-paced corporate world, choosing instead to slow down, prioritize self-care, and embrace practices including meditation, therapy, and mindful living.

She also dives into her transition into entrepreneurship—building a coaching and consulting business centered on leadership and community. Recently, she teamed up with her colleague Michelle Lazar to launch a masterclass on community marketing. Throughout our conversation, Christa reflects on the power of authenticity, the importance of community, and how embracing change can lead to something even better. 

If you're navigating midlife shifts, this episode is full of wisdom, encouragement, inspiration and the perfect injection of laughter, just when it is needed. 

Bio

Christa is a connector, creator, leader and people alchemist. With more than two decades leading purpose-driven lifestyle brands, Christa has worked closely with founders to help fuel growth for a variety of businesses–from start-ups to global brands. She specializes in building brand love through relationship-based and experiential strategies. Christa creates ripples of impact through leadership development and community engagement, generating culture that fosters connection to self, community, and the world. Christa lives in Vancouver, Canada. with her husband and two children and is deeply inspired by the natural world. 

Linkedin Christa Hull

Business partner Michelle Lazar 

Website Community Academy

Website ChristaHull.com

References

Hysterical Podcast 

Hysterical Website

Psychologist Dr. Julie Colwell 

Sponsor Information

Voes & Company

We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they’re as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last—without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that’s why we’ve partnered with Voes & Co to bring our listeners 50% off any pair of shoes! Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes 

Ally Global Foundation

Childhood is priceless—until someone puts a price on it. When sex trafficking and exploitation threaten childhood, we need to rally everyone and everything to protect it. That’s why our friends at Ally Global Foundation are building community-led solutions in Canada—to tackle root causes and educate communities. For free prevention resources for your children or school, or to support Ally in protecting childhood, visit ally.org Because every child deserves safety and freedom.

Gather, listen, subscribe and share!

Connect with us

Website link here

Instagram link here

LinkedIn link here

Facebook link here

Leave a voicemail for us

https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/

Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne

Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen

Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen

Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke

Episode sponsors: Ally Global Foundation and Voes and Company

Meet Emma May, a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur known for her resilience and ambitious endeavors. Emma shares her journey from law to real estate, and then to founding her own clothing line Sophie Grace, aimed at providing comfortable yet stylish workwear for women. She recounts her transformative experiences, including leading a community effort to mitigate flood damage in Calgary, raising significant capital for her business, and navigating the challenges of ADHD. Emma emphasizes the importance of supportive communities, overcoming fear, and seizing opportunities as she moves into the next phase of her life. The episode concludes with Emma's plans for future adventures and reflections on living life to its fullest.

Bio 

Emma May is a visionary entrepreneur, activist, and business leader whose career spans law, politics, real estate, and fashion. A former corporate lawyer, she has navigated the worlds of entertainment law and public service, including her role as Executive Director for the Office of the Premier in Southern Alberta under Premier Jim Prentice.

Her journey is one built of courage, adaptability, commitment and ambition—falling in love with business, pivoting to balance motherhood with professional fulfillment, and continually seeking new intellectual challenges. As a real estate leader, she has played a key role in shaping Alberta’s property landscape, bringing strategic insight and bold decision-making to every venture she pursues.

In 2018, Emma stood in her closet, frustrated by the lack of streamlined, elegant, mix-and-match clothes for professional women. Rather than accept the gap in the market, she created Sophie Grace, a digitally-driven fashion brand designed for busy women who want to look and feel polished, professional and comfortable with minimal effort.

Emma’s work is driven by a deep understanding and compassion for the challenges modern women face—navigating careers, families, and personal aspirations. Through Sophie Grace, she continues to redefine workwear, championing simplicity, sophistication, and empowerment in every piece. And, not stopping at creating design that supports women in how they easily dress for their careers, Emma also continues to build her own second scene and path forward - in style. 

Linkedin Emma May

Website Sophie Grace

Instagram Emma May

Sponsor Information

Voes & Company

We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they’re as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last—without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that’s why we’ve partnered with Voes & Co to bring our listeners 50% off any pair of shoes! Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes 

Ally Global Foundation

Childhood is priceless—until someone puts a price on it. When sex trafficking and exploitation threaten childhood, we need to rally everyone and everything to protect it. That’s why our friends at Ally Global Foundation are building community-led solutions in Canada—to tackle root causes and educate communities. For free prevention resources for your children or school, or to support Ally in protecting childhood, visit ally.org Because every child deserves safety and freedom.

Connect with us

Website link here

Instagram link here

LinkedIn link here

Facebook link here

Leave a voicemail for us

https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/

Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne

Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen

Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen

Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke

Episode sponsors: Ally Global Foundation and Voes and Company

While we originally planned to launch “Half George” as an April Fools’ gag to replace “Half Betty,” we realized that the stories of men, their mid-lives, and mental health are deeply significant and deserving of genuine support. Instead of sharing “Half George” on April 1st, we decided to release this special stand-alone episode today, April 2nd.

This episode is dedicated to all the men who have unexpectedly connected with “Half Betty,” related to its themes, and reached out with questions. We hope this provides a space for bold vulnerability and connection—a place where men can share their midlife journeys and reflect on building their next, best chapters.

Join hosts Chris Rathborne and Kyle Gruen—our husbands—as they explore the midlife experience for men. Inspired by icons like George Burns and George Clooney, “Half George” mirrors the spirit of “Half Betty” while focusing on topics such as health, fitness, fatherhood, friendships, and navigating challenges like parental aging, loss, and grief (especially during the pandemic). It also touches on how remote work has brought unexpected family time and balance.

For now, “Half George” remains a stand-alone episode. But perhaps one day it will grow into something more. To all the men listening: thank you for your curiosity, your willingness to relate, and your questions. We see you—and we appreciate you.

Enjoy this heartfelt exploration of midlife stories with Chris and Kyle.

Linkedin Chris Rathborne

Instagram Chris Rathborne

Linked in Kyle Gruen

Instagram Kyle Gruen

Photo credit Bee Chalmers Photography
Instagram Bee Chalmers Photographer

Half Betty and Half George Logo: Tessa Brauer

Connect with us

Website link here

Instagram link here

LinkedIn link here

Facebook link here

Leave a voicemail for us

https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/

Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne

Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen

Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen

Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke

Andrea and Krista are joined by love coach, TED speaker and now Author, Francesca Hogi! Inspired by their attendance at Reese Witherspoon's Shine Away event, their Half Betty conversation explores midlife transformations, love, and personal development and growth. Francesca (aka Franny - an approved nickname) introduces her ‘Self Love’ Formula, which includes self-compassion, self-worth, self-validation, self-care, and self-gratitude. She emphasizes the power of human connection, shared stories, and the importance of operating from a place of love rather than fear. This episode also touches on navigating friendships and romantic relationships in midlife, and Francesca's personal journey, which includes moving on from a long-term relationship, finding new love and moving to Paris.

Bio 

Francesca Hogi helps people find true love inside and out. A former corporate lawyer turned matchmaker turned love coach, Francesca is a TED speaker, host of Dear Franny Podcast, and internationally recognized expert on dating and relationships. She’s been featured in media outlets such as The Today Show, Marie Claire, The New York Times, Harper's Bazaar and The Huffington Post. She coaches individuals and groups, and is the founder of The True Love Society, a community for people seeking deeper self and romantic love. Her first book, How to Find True Love, was released on April 8th 2025. Prior to her love career, Francesca competed on two seasons of the iconic reality show Survivor.

Book How To Find True Love

Linkedin Francesca Hogi 

Website FrancescaHogi.com

Instagram DearFranny

Podcast Dear Franny

Patreon The True Love Society

Five Words: Determined, Intuitive, and Adaptable (big rule breaker : ) three words instead of five)

Sponsor Information

Voes & Company

We love Voes & Co because they are the perfect mix of style, comfort, and sustainability. Designed to effortlessly complement any outfit—from casual to chic—they’re as versatile as they are timeless. Made with next-generation vegan materials, their footwear is soft, breathable, and built to last—without any cruelty. We want you to step out in style and comfort so that’s why we’ve partnered with Voes & Co to bring our subscribers 50% off any pair of shoes! 

Please use this link to purchase https://voesandcompany.com/discount/BettyLovesVoes 

Loba

Forget the cheap plastic cases — Loba is designed with high-end finishes and customizable LED lights that glow when it’s time to take your pills. It connects to WiFi through the Loba App, where you can set daily reminders and let visual cues do the work for you. Inside are 7 daily pill pods, making it easy to stay on track without the mental load. If you take vitamins or supplements, Loba is the upgrade your wellness routine deserves. We partnered with LOBA to offer our subscribers 10% off! 

Please use this link to purchase https://shoploba.com/HALFBETTY

Connect with us

Website link here

Instagram link here

LinkedIn link here

Facebook link here

Leave a voicemail for us

https://www.halfbetty.com/voicemail/

Founder/Host: Andrea Rathborne

Producer/Co-Host: Krista Gruen

Editors: Andrea Rathborne & Krista Gruen

Audio Engineer: Ryan Clarke

Episode sponsors: LOBA and Voes and Company