Thu, July 17, 2025

The Wild Walk Home - Part 2 of 2

Andrea and Krista are honoured to welcome Nadia George to the podcast—an award-winning actor, activist, and trauma integration clinician based in Toronto.  The conversation is a heartfelt continuation of Nadia George's transformative journey, as she shares her recent experiences after traveling to El Salvador. Andrea and Krista welcome Nadia back for part two, where she recalls pivotal moments that have reshaped her midlife perspective, including the significant spiritual and personal growth she gained from the trip. Nadia describes how instrumental this journey was for her in feeling more grounded, confident, and connected to her roots. Themes of community, empathy, and self-discovery are central as she reflects on her emotional highs and lows, interactions with the local people, and cultural reconnection. The discussion also touches on the broader concept of Turtle Island, community, and the importance of helping and supporting one another. We invite you to part two of our two-part conversation with Nadia George. Bio Nadia George is an award-winning actor, public speaker, and somatic consultant specializing in trauma-informed practices. Of Northern European, Salvadoran, and Nahua Indigenous descent, she uses her lived experience—from growing up in Canada to navigating the child welfare system—to advocate for environmental justice, clean drinking water, and mental health awareness. Drawing from over a decade in social services, Nadia supports both corporate and entertainment sectors with trauma-informed consulting, including therapeutic care for TV productions. Her frontline activism includes delivering water filtration systems and leading educational workshops in remote communities across Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Her work has earned national recognition, including the 2023 Waterfront Award for Community Activism and the 2021 Ontario Premier’s Award. Notable collaborations include Ronald McDonald House and the mini-series Little Bird . Linkedin Nadia George Website Nadia George Instagram NadiaGeorgeOfficial Facebook NadiaGeorgeOfficial YouTube Nadia George References Fotocan “Friends of the Orphans Canada” — is a Canadian charity that supports NPH (Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos) orphanages and surrounding communities in Latin America. They organize volunteer trips, sponsor children and families, and fund programs like education, healthcare, clean water, and housing in countries such as the Dominican Republic, Bolivia, P

Wed, July 09, 2025

The Wild Walk Home - Part 1 of 2

Andrea and Krista are honoured to welcome Nadia George to the podcast—an award-winning actor, activist, and trauma integration clinician based in Toronto. Nadia shares her rich cultural background, rooted in her Canadian upbringing and her newly realized Salvadorian Nahua heritage. She also expresses her tireless advocacy for clean drinking water, mental health, and environmental justice. The conversation spans her wide-ranging career across social services, corporate consulting, and the entertainment industry. Nadia opens up about her personal journey of self-discovery, including the life-changing revelation of her biological father and the healing that followed. She reflects on the wisdom of different life stages—connecting with both her 13-year-old and imagined 80-year-old self—as she navigates the transformation of midlife. She also shares her plans for an upcoming trip to El Salvador to reconnect with her roots, volunteer work with Fotocan (read more below), and meet her newfound family. Throughout, Nadia emphasizes the power of community, self-care, and lifelong growth. This is part one of a two-part conversation you won’t want to miss. Bio Nadia George is an award-winning actor, public speaker, and somatic consultant specializing in trauma-informed practices. Of Northern European, Salvadoran, and Nahua Indigenous descent, she uses her lived experience—from growing up in Canada to navigating the child welfare system—to advocate for environmental justice, clean drinking water, and mental health awareness. Drawing from over a decade in social services, Nadia supports both corporate and entertainment sectors with trauma-informed consulting, including therapeutic care for TV productions. Her frontline activism includes delivering water filtration systems and leading educational workshops in remote communities across Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Her work has earned national recognition, including the 2023 Waterfront Award for Community Activism and the 2021 Ontario Premier’s Award. Notable collaborations include Ronald McDonald House and the mini-series Little Bird . Linkedin Nadia George Website Nadia George Instagram NadiaGeorgeOfficial Facebook NadiaGeorgeOfficial YouTube Nadia George References Fotocan “Friends of the Orphans Canada” — is a Canadian charity that supports NPH (Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos) orphanages and surrounding communities in Latin America. They organize volunteer trips, sponsor children and families, and fund programs

Fri, June 27, 2025

As A Canadian

During this episode Andrea and Krista are in conversation with Ragini Kapil, a Vancouver-based writer, director, performer, and educator. Inspired by her mother, a trailblazing Indo-Fijian educator in special education, Ragini's work is imbued with humor, empathy, and honesty.  After a career in education, Ragini transitioned to the creative world but faced a challenging recovery from a back fracture and concussion. Despite these setbacks, she emerged stronger, writing and directing award-winning films, performing standup comedy, and teaching English to newcomers in Canada. Ragini's story underscores themes of resilience, compassion, authenticity, and visionary thinking. She shares her transformative journey, the impact of her cultural roots, and the importance of self-advocacy and joy in pursuing one's passions. In this Half Betty episode, Andrea and Krista sit down with Ragini Kapil -  a Vancouver-based writer, director, performer, and educator. Inspired by her mother, a visionary Indo-Fijian special education teacher, Ragini brings humour, empathy, and honesty to everything she creates. After a successful career in education, Ragini transitioned into the creative world - a path disrupted by both a serious back fracture and a concussion. Her recovery was difficult, but also transformative. Emerging stronger, she went on to write and direct award-winning films, perform stand-up comedy, and teach English to newcomers in Canada. Ragini’s story is one of resilience, vision, and deep compassion. In this conversation, she shares her journey, the impact of her cultural heritage, and the power of self-advocacy, authenticity, and joy in pursuing a purpose-driven life. Bio Ragini Kapil is a Vancouver-based writer, director, performer, and lifelong educator whose work is rooted in story, resilience, and reinvention. Inspired by her mother, an Indo-Fijian educator, Ragini grew up navigating life as an outsider - a perspective that sharpened her wit and storytelling instincts. After years as a dedicated teacher and creative school leader, Ragini transitioned from education to pursue her artistic aspirations. Despite significant health challenges, she has achieved notable milestones, including the award-winning short film All Kinds of Weather and the feature script Good Marriage Material . She has also built a thriving stand-up comedy career, performing at the Vancouver Fringe Festival and Yuk Yuk's. Beyond film and comedy, Ragini has lent her voice to a recurring character on PBS Kids’ Skillsville , narrated an audiobook, created the documentary The Comedy Doula , and performed in the devised theatre piece Heirlooms and Baggage . Most recently, she has taught English to Canadian newcomers and cherishes her role as a grandmother to three fierce granddaughters. Linkedin <a href="https://www.linked

Tue, June 17, 2025

Bad Brownie

Andrea and Krista dive into Madeleine’s inspiring work in social entrepreneurship, her feminist values, and the energy she brings as an instigator and creative force. Madeleine reflects on her formative years, including her rebellious nature as a child, which influenced her life’s work.  She shares her journey of finding purpose through initiatives like G Day - a series of events aimed at empowering girls entering adolescence.  The conversation highlights her transition into midlife, marked by her decision to quit alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing profound personal growth and a return to more authentic living.  The episode concludes with a teaser about Madeleine’s upcoming project, ‘Autumn Collective’, which focuses on community-building for women in midlife and menopause.  And, stay tuned for a Madeleine Part two!  Bio   I recently turned 57 and have been post-menopausal for 4 years. My background is as a social entrepreneur with a strong legacy in the menstrual health and equity space.  Around 10 years ago I started realizing that I was developing an unhealthy relationship with one of my favourite things: wine. Long story short, going on four years fully sober today, I believe that being menopausal basically saved me, in that I could no longer tolerate night sweats and my diminishing ability to tolerate a 'couple of glasses' of wine a day.  Today, I'm working on launching an event series called ‘Autumn Collective’ for folks in the menopausal transition (includes peri- to post-) to explore, support and celebrate ourselves at this time in life. Linkedin Madeleine Shaw Instagram Madeleine Shaw Website: Madeleine Shaw YouTube: Madeleine Shaw Medium: Madeleine Shaw Substack: Madeleine Shaw Book Greater Good  Events G Day   Madeleline’s Five Words Creative, generative, feminist, instigator, Bad Brownie Good Reads Are you there God? It’s me, Margaret by Judy Bloom  <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Quit-Like-Woman-Radical-Obsessed/dp/1984825070/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.P7yrR5s1i8Z49w83UGQPd8-YZiDiFqRgmIsDZcHsZlb5y-2-vpaNjBA5FB7_LTgSRK_veXlQM-r2c5UtTozCxGa56DDLpf7FszotEKivrjJnwVP_64FndBW6DC1AImzKb6bi0TKfqrYUHEcbCxpCZQX6jELz23SbCgo4j67ubeD3NscuR0sZZfw9FpecIlbNGZ0x

Tue, June 03, 2025

Sacred Synchronicity

In this episode, Founder and Host Andrea Rathborne and Producer/Co-Host Krista Gruen sit down with Andréa (Drea) Bendewald to discuss Drea's journey as the Founder, Host, and Executive Producer of 'Circle This,' an Anti-Small Talk podcast.  Drea shares her extensive experience leading circle conversations, spanning over 30 years, and explores her passion for meaningful connection, relationships, human insight, and inspiring moments. The episode details Drea and Andrea’s serendipitous meeting at the 2024 Shine Away Event (Hello Sunshine’s annual gathering in LA), which they describe as 'Sacred Synchronicity.' They recount their bonding experience through common mid-life changes, such as launching new businesses (podcasts) and sending children off to college. The discussion also delves into the art of circling, the importance of listening and receiving, and the unfolding of Drea's own midlife transformation.  The conversation, just as a circle does, meets back at the start with reflections on the strength and necessity of vulnerability, unedited and honest expression, the art and practice of both giving and receiving and, the gift of serendipity, synchronicity and raising ones hand to say “Yes - I’m here. I see and hear you - you are witnessed”.  Bio   You may recognize Andréa (Drea) from her work on iconic shows like Friends , Seinfeld , Two and a Half Men , Entourage , The Morning Show , and films like Employee of the Month . With a career rooted in storytelling, Drea has spent decades on screen—and now, she brings that same passion to the world of personal transformation. As a beloved acting coach and teacher at UCLA’s Professional Program for Acting on Camera, Drea has helped countless performers tap into their truth. But her deepest calling? Creating space for authentic connection. She’s the founder of The Art of Circling —a modern mindfulness practice rooted in ancient ritual that fosters connection, healing, and empowerment through story-sharing and deep listening. What began in person has grown into a global movement, with virtual women's empowerment circles, retreats, and transformational workshops. Featured in People , The New York Times , Hollywood Reporter , and more, Drea is on a mission to bring peace, harmony, and divine balance to women everywhere—one circle at a time. Linkedin Andréa Bendewald Podcast Circle This   Instagram Andréa Bendewald IMDB Andréa Bendewald Andrea and Drea met last year (2024) during Hello Sunshine ’s

Sat, May 17, 2025

Seen, Heard and Remembered

In this episode of the Half Betty Podcast, hosted by Andrea Rathborne and Co-hosted/Produced by Krista Gruen we feature the inspiring story of Chloë Angus. Chloë is a Vancouver-based fashion designer who transitioned from designing inclusive fashion to developing wearable robotic exoskeletons after a spinal cord injury. Chloë shares her experiences growing up in a remote community, establishing a successful fashion career, and advocating for technological advancements to improve mobility for disabled people. The conversation highlights her resilience, advocacy for inclusive design, and the importance of community support in overcoming personal and professional challenges. Chloë also discusses her involvement in projects to improve spinal cord injury care standards and her continuous efforts to innovate in both the fashion and technology sectors. Bio  Chloë Angus is a designer, entrepreneur, and advocate whose extraordinary journey stretches from a remote corner of British Columbia’s rugged coast to national recognition in Canadian fashion—and now, to the forefront of robotic innovation. Home-schooled and one of many in a lively, creative family, Chloë launched her first company at just 23. She transitioned from landscaping to fashion with the creation of Chloë Angus Design , a brand celebrated for its inclusivity, sustainability, and timeless design. In 2015, at the age of 40, Chloë sustained a spinal cord injury that left her paralyzed from the waist down. She never lost her drive or creative vision.. Instead, she expanded it—pioneering adaptive fashion and empowering other wheelchair users through thoughtful, stylish design. Today, Chloë is the Director of Lived Experience at Human In Motion Robotics , where she plays a pivotal role in developing the world’s most advanced wearable robotic exoskeleton—a device with the potential to transform mobility for people with paralysis, including herself. Now 50, and marking nearly a decade of life as a paraplegic, Chloë offers a perspective that is as powerful as it is personal. With sharp insight, a wicked sense of humor, and unshakable optimism, she speaks to the beauty of adaptation, the complexity of identity, and the unexpected possibilities that come with midlife. Linkedin Chloë Angus Website ChloëAngus.com Website HumanInMotion.com   Instagram Chloë Angus Design Facebook Chloë Angus Design Five Words: Angus, advocate, Adventurer Sponsor Information Voes & Company</

Thu, April 17, 2025

Transformation is like a Tuesday

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 <a href="https://voes

Bonus · Wed, April 02, 2025

Half George

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 & <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista

Mon, March 17, 2025

Sparkling Shorts and high-tops

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

Fri, March 07, 2025

Centre Stage

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. D

Mon, February 17, 2025

Goosebumps and Hard Nips

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 <st

Fri, January 17, 2025

Introducing Half Betty

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.

Trailer · Thu, November 28, 2024

Half Betty Podcast - Trailer