Episode 19: What now? Creating Your Next Chapter-A conversation with Bonnie Wiscombe

When the kids leave home—or even as they grow more independent—it’s common for women in midlife to ask: What now? After decades of pouring energy into raising families, many women feel both excited and unsure about the next chapter.

In this empowering episode of Midlife with Brooke, Brooke Oniki talks with Bonnie Wiscombe, online business coach and certified life coach, about how women can rediscover themselves, step into new callings, and create meaningful impact in the “mission phase” of life.

Bonnie shares her own story of raising ten children while building businesses online, and how she now helps women explore what lights them up in midlife—whether it’s starting a business, launching a nonprofit, or simply reconnecting with passions they’ve put on hold.

You’ll learn:

• Why midlife isn’t the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new chapter
• How to reframe “empty nest” as a mission phase full of opportunity
• Practical steps to rediscover who you are and what you love
• Why it’s okay (and even necessary) to look foolish and try new things
• How to balance education, work, and rest in every phase of life
• The importance of entertaining new dreams, even if you never thought they were possible

Reflection Prompts:

• What did I love as a child that I might explore again now?
• If I couldn’t fail, what would I love to try?
• Where am I holding myself back out of fear of “getting it wrong”?

✨ Free Resource from Bonnie Wiscombe:

Bonnie offers a free mini-course, Start an Online Business, to help you explore different types of businesses and service opportunities that could fit your next chapter. (Link in the show notes.)

✨ Bonus for Listeners:

Brooke also recorded two deeply personal conversations just for women in midlife:

• Menopause Explained with Nurse Practitioner Gretchen Fors
• Enjoying Sex in Midlife with Certified Sex Coach Julie Merrill

These bonus podcast episodes are not available publicly—you can get them delivered straight to your inbox here: Get the Bonus Episodes

✨ Want one-on-one support for your midlife transition?

Schedule a free coaching session with Brooke here: Book Your Call