The Bonus Years: Midlife Is About Reinvention Not Retirement | Pam McLean
The Bonus Years: Midlife Is About Reinvention Not Retirement | Pam McLean  
Podcast: The Midlife Chrysalis
Published On: Fri Jan 23 2026
Description: Midlife isn’t the end of the story, it’s the chapter where something new wants to begin.In this episode of Midlife Chrysalis, Chip Conley sits down with Pam McLean, pioneering coach, co-founder of the Hudson Institute of Coaching, and a guiding voice on adult development and the “bonus years.” Together, they explore why midlife isn’t about stepping back, but about letting go and moving forward with intention.Pam shares:Why releasing old identities is essential for growthWhat the “bonus years” make possible at any ageHow Life Forward helps reframe change as opportunityWhy discomfort, grief, and curiosity are part of becomingWhat truly makes a great coach — in life and in leadershipThis is a warm, thoughtful conversation for anyone standing at a crossroads and wondering what comes next. Watch now and discover how midlife can become a powerful new beginning. Timestamps:03:32 Pam’s early life and background04:17 From clinical psychology to coaching07:06 How coaching has developed09:31 Life Forward and Hudson Institute11:46 The midlife happiness curve14:53 Cancer as a life teacher16:06 Hudson Institute and MEA connection18:08 Letting go of old identities21:50 Navigating major life transitions26:27 Why experimentation matters27:39 Men vs women in midlife31:01 What makes a great coach33:47 Why people choose coaching35:15 Gender balance in coaching35:51 Coaching in the age of AI38:20 How to choose the right coach40:38 Creativity later in life42:41 Wisdom bumper sticker Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/