Authority Magazine: How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life

Thank you Authority Magazine for this interview: “How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life, Travel Journalist Lisa Niver“

Embrace Uncertainty. Starting something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you don���t have all the answers. Early in my journey, I remember feeling like I needed to have everything figured out before I took the leap. However, I quickly learned that uncertainty is a natural part of growth. When I embarked on my travel adventures, I often found myself in unfamiliar situations with no clear plan, but those were often the most rewarding experiences. During safari in Africa with Abercrombie and Kent, the itinerary was flexible. You get up early and hope to see the animals. Whether on expedition in the Galapagos or Antarctica, you have to trust the guides and go with the flow.

Many successful people reinvented themselves in a later period in their lives. Jeff Bezos worked on Wall Street before he reinvented himself and started Amazon. Sara Blakely sold office supplies before she started Spanx. Dwayne ���The Rock��� Johnson was a WWE wrestler before he became a successful actor and filmmaker. Arnold Schwarzenegger went from a bodybuilder, to an actor to a Governor. McDonald���s founder Ray Kroc was a milkshake-device salesman before starting the McDonalds franchise in his 50s.

How does one reinvent themselves? What hurdles have to be overcome to take life in a new direction? How do you overcome those challenges? How do you ignore the naysayers? How do you push through the paralyzing fear?

In this series called ���Second Chapters; How I Reinvented Myself In The Second Chapter Of My Life ��� we are interviewing successful people who reinvented themselves in a second chapter in life, to share their story and help empower others. As a part of this interview series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lisa Niver

Lisa Niver is an award-winning author and travel journalist who has explored over 100 countries across all seven continents. From diving vibrant reefs and famous wrecks to walking along active volcanoes, her adventures span thrilling encounters with nature and diverse cultures. A passionate storyteller and author of  Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty , Lisa inspires audiences with her fearless spirit and global experiences. Whether skydiving, swimming with whales, or hula-hooping with Maasai warriors, she embodies the transformative power of exploration and reinvention.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we start, our readers would love to ���get to know you��� a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory?

Thank you for including me in this series! Growing up, I loved getting lost in books, immersing myself in worlds of imagination and adventure. I wasn���t great at sports, and it took years to realize that vision issues were part of the problem. My first big trip changed everything ��� suddenly, the world wasn���t just in books or history lessons; it was alive and vibrant, waiting to be explored. That experience sparked my curiosity and opened my eyes to the endless stories, cultures, and histories out there, inspiring a lifelong passion for discovery.

Can you please give us your favorite ���Life Lesson Quote���? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

One of my favorite life lesson quotes is, ���Leap, and the net will appear.��� This mantra has guided me through some of the most pivotal moments in my life. While working at Club Med in Eleuthera, Bahamas, I had the chance to try the flying trapeze, an experience that taught me to embrace fear and trust myself. It mirrored the bigger leaps I���ve taken, like leaving medical school at UCSF to find a path that felt more aligned with who I am. Later, I left teaching to pursue my passion for travel and scuba diving, working on cruise ships and discovering a world of underwater wonders. Each leap into the unknown has opened doors to adventures I never could have imagined.

You have been blessed with much success. In your opinion, what are the top three qualities that you possess that have helped you accomplish so much? If you can, please share a story or example for each.

Thank you for your kind words! I believe the top three qualities that have helped me achieve my goals are curiosity, resilience, and a sense of adventure.

Curiosity: I���ve always been driven by a desire to learn and explore. When I left teaching to work on cruise ships, it was my curiosity that pushed me to dive deeper ��� literally and figuratively ��� into the underwater world. Scuba diving became not just a passion but a gateway to understanding marine ecosystems and sharing those stories with others.Resilience: Life���s challenges often require us to adapt and keep moving forward. When I left teaching, it felt like I was abandoning a secure path, but I leaned on my resilience to forge a new one. That decision led me to experiences like backpacking across Southeast Asia, where I again discovered the importance of facing fears and embracing change.A Sense of Adventure: Adventure fuels my life and choices, from traveling to see the Shwedagon Pagoda and the leg-rowers in Myanmar, to swimming with whale sharks in the Philippines. One of my most memorable adventures in the Philippines was dancing and hula-hooping with the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm���s dancing inmates ��� a surreal and joyful experience that exemplifies finding connection in the most unexpected places. Another favorite memory is taking a polar plunge in Antarctica with Quark Expeditions ��� freezing, exhilarating, and a perfect reminder to leap into the unknown with an open heart.

Each quality has guided me through different stages of my life, helping me turn challenges into opportunities and dreams into realities.

Hula Hooping in jail! https://youtu.be/jjVIlO2xugo

Let���s now shift to the main part of our discussion about ���Second Chapters���. Can you tell our readers about your career experience before your Second Chapter?

Before embarking on my ���Second Chapter,��� my life was an adventure in itself. My then-husband and I left everything behind to journey across Asia for over three years, immersing ourselves in the wonders of the world. We hiked to remote temples, explored bustling markets, and swam in turquoise seas. But even as we chased incredible experiences together, cracks began to show, and eventually, our marriage fell apart.

I found myself returning to the U.S. from Thailand alone, heartbroken, and unsure of what came next. Determined not to let that be the end of my story, I decided to reinvent myself. I launched into a project called ���50 Challenges Before 50,��� forcing myself out of my comfort zone and confronting my fears.

And how did you ���reinvent yourself��� in your Second Chapter?

In my Second Chapter, reinventing myself meant stepping into new adventures and challenging my limits in ways I never expected. After returning from Asia, navigating heartbreak, and rediscovering my purpose, I embarked on experiences like skydiving in California and mountain biking through the rugged trails of Northstar Resort in Lake Tahoe. Each challenge pushed me beyond my comfort zone, teaching me the power of resilience and self-discovery.

These moments helped me reshape my identity and embrace growth in every sense ��� physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I realized that true transformation happens when we take risks and explore the unknown. Through each adventure, I not only developed new skills but also gained a deeper understanding of myself and what it means to live fully.

This journey ultimately became the foundation of my memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty, capturing the essence of personal reinvention and the strength to keep evolving. There were so many times when I was doing the 50 challenges and when I was writing my book, that I nearly gave up and gave in. I did not think I could keep going. But somehow, with rest and encouragement from friends and family, I did. My Second Chapter is a celebration of embracing change and discovering the limitless possibilities that come with stepping into the unknown.

Sky Diving: https://youtu.be/bMz9PvKVxvc

From Terrified to Blessed: Skydiving for my Birthday: https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/terrified-blessed-skydiving-birthday/

Can you tell us about the specific trigger that made you decide that you were going to ���take the plunge��� and make your huge transition?

The specific trigger that made me decide to take the plunge and make my huge transition was the moment I returned to the U.S. from Thailand alone. After years of traveling with my former husband, facing the reality of divorce and rebuilding my life on my own was overwhelming and terrifying. The pain of heartbreak combined with the uncertainty of what came next sparked a deep desire for change ��� a need to reclaim my independence and rediscover who I truly was.

It was in that moment of vulnerability and uncertainty that I realized I couldn���t go back to the life I had before. I needed to take risks, challenge myself, and explore a new path. The decision to reinvent myself wasn���t about escaping my past; it was about embracing the opportunity to grow, heal, and thrive in a way that aligned with my authentic self. This became the driving force behind my journey into my Second Chapter.

What did you do to discover that you had a new skillset inside of you that you haven���t been maximizing? How did you find that and how did you ultimately overcome the barriers to help manifest those powers?

To uncover a new skillset within myself, I immersed myself in experiences that pushed my boundaries and deepened my storytelling for Brave-ish. After years of personal exploration, I discovered hidden strengths ��� resilience, adaptability, and the ability to connect deeply with diverse communities ��� were essential in sharing my journey.

From swimming with stingless jellyfish in Palau to scuba diving with bull sharks in Mexico, each adventure became a crucial part of my narrative. Teaching Maasai warriors to hula hoop in Kenya and walking with polar bears and wolves in Canada with Churchill Wild were transformative moments that highlighted my capacity for embracing the extraordinary. Sometimes you do not know what can happen unless you take the first step. I faced fears head-on and channeling those moments into powerful reflections within my writing.

These adventures allowed me to craft an award-winning (ten awards so far!) story that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. Each experience added depth to my journey, illustrating the beauty of stepping into the unknown and harnessing those moments to inspire growth and connection.

Churchill Wild: https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/polar-bear-safari-churchill-wild-2024/

How are things going with this new initiative? We would love to hear some specific examples or stories.

My memoir, Brave-ish, has truly been a transformative journey. Writing it would have been invaluable, even if it had never been published. The process helped me explore my own growth, face fears, and embrace vulnerability in ways I never imagined. Receiving awards has been a beautiful validation of that work, but the real reward has been connecting with readers, listeners, and individuals across the world through events, podcasts, and television appearances.

These experiences have allowed me to meet so many inspiring people, each with their own unique stories of resilience and transformation. Whether sharing my journey on stage at international events or engaging in heartfelt conversations on podcasts and TV, I���ve realized the power of storytelling to unite and inspire. The community I���ve built continues to grow, bringing people together from all walks of life, each seeking to navigate their own paths of discovery and courage.

Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?

I���m incredibly grateful for The Jet Set TV���s support throughout my journey. Their encouragement has allowed me to share my travels with a broader audience, culminating in my own recent travel TV special on Ireland. One of the most memorable experiences from the special was taking an Irish dancing lesson from two world champions. Dancing alongside Trad on the Prom, Ireland���s number one Irish Music, Song and Dance company, was a truly magical experience. The energy and passion they bring to the stage are unmatched. Learning traditional steps from such international world champions was a moment where travel, culture, and community came together in the most beautiful way.

During the special, I made chocolate with a nun at Kylemore Abbey, went on a hawk walk at Dromoland Castle, and interviewed with the founder of Wild Ireland, where I learned about the lynx, foxes, and bears that Killian McLaughlin is bringing back to their native habitats.

Not only did I have the privilege of learning about traditional Irish music from world champions at Trad on the Prom, but I also had a lesson on the bodhr��n from Malachy Kearns, a renowned craftsman of these traditional instruments. I cannot wait to share more segments on The Jet Set TV!

Ireland TV Special:��https://youtu.be/h1rIvYuti6U THIS SEGMENT is an AWARD WINNER! It won a 2025 Silver Telly Award!

The Jet Set TV segments: https://lisaniver.com/the-jet-set-tv-segments/

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started in this new direction?

Traveling to Antarctica with Quark Expeditions was a truly unforgettable experience, my 7th continent visited. One of the most memorable moments was stand up paddleboarding through the icy waters, I had an unintentional polar plunge that day but found out that my dry suit worked! Later the same day, I jumped in only in my bathing suit for a proper polar plunge and it was much colder! I loved it.

I hula-hooped on the fast ice south of the Antarctic circle. I always wanted to travel to my final continent but never imagined that I would Standup Paddleboard and Polar Plunge, Hula-hoop and see the ice from the sky in a helicopter all south of the Antarctic Circle.

The expedition was made even more special by the presence of female guides, all of whom shared their deep knowledge and passion for conservation. Their stories and expertise enhanced the journey, making it a profound exploration of both nature and human resilience in such a remote, untouched environment.

During the journey, we encountered vast colonies of Gentoo, Ad��lie and Chinstrap penguins and their chicks, as well as four different types of seals and four different types of whales. We saw so much every single day. Our zodiac cruises and landings through ice-filled bays provided a sense of tranquility and adventure, connecting us deeper to the raw, untouched beauty of the continent. I had always hoped to make it to Antarctica, but this expedition was beyond my wildest dreams. I was also so very honored to place a signed copy of BRAVE-ish in the onboard library and then to see someone reading it in the Ambassador���s Lounge!

Antarctica videos: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLv_jKkCiDQcTw0oS3dPpw_iX5PTVnpOG0
Spectrum TV News segment talking about Antarctica: https://youtu.be/tuaapnQ_UYM

Did you ever struggle with believing in yourself? If so, how did you overcome that limiting belief about yourself? Can you share a story or example?

Yes, there have been moments when I struggled with believing in myself. Writing my memoir, Brave-ish, was a deeply personal and vulnerable experience. Doubts would creep in ��� wondering if my stories were meaningful enough or if I had the strength to share such personal truths. There were many tears, countless therapy sessions, and moments of overwhelming self-doubt that made the process feel like a daunting climb.

However, I was fortunate to have a supportive network ��� friends, family, and an incredible developmental editor who believed in my journey. Their unwavering encouragement, coupled with insightful feedback, pushed me through the tough moments. With each revision, I began to find my voice and trust in the narrative I was creating.

A pivotal moment came when I found an agent who not only saw the potential in my manuscript but deeply understood my story. Chip MacGregor���s passion for the project was evident and Debra Englander at Post Hill Press believed in the themes of vulnerability, transformation, and resilience in my memoir. Their support and confidence in the project affirmed my decision to share my journey with the world.

Through this experience, I realized that self-belief grows when supported by those who understand and champion your vision.

Brave-ish on Post Hill Press: https://posthillpress.com/book/brave-ish-one-breakup-six-continents-and-feeling-fearless-after-fifty

In my own work I usually encourage my clients to ask for support before they embark on something new. How did you create your support system before you moved to your new chapter?

Building a support system before stepping into my new chapter was essential. I realized early on that going it alone was not sustainable, especially during such a transformative process. Here���s how I cultivated that support:

I leaned on my close friends and family who knew me best. Their unwavering belief in my potential and encouragement helped me navigate the ups and downs of writing a memoir. These relationships provided a safe space to express doubts and fears without judgment, offering insights and reassurance along the way.

I worked with a developmental editor who brought expertise and objectivity to my work. She helped shape my narrative, giving me the tools to refine my voice and craft a story that resonated deeply with readers.

I joined communities that valued storytelling and personal growth. Engaging with writers��� groups like David Hochman���s UPOD Academy, attending workshops with writers like Alka Joshi, and joining in zooms with other writers allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who were going through similar journeys. These connections provided a wealth of shared experiences, advice, and support that felt invaluable in moments of self-doubt.

Creating this network took time and intention, but it proved to be a cornerstone of my success. It reinforced the idea that no journey is truly solitary, and having a circle of supporters empowers you to take bold steps forward.

Starting a new chapter usually means getting out of your comfort zone, how did you do that? Can you share a story or example of that?

I started my career in the classroom and my science students helped me get started on YouTube and iMovie. You can now find my class, Travel Writer 101, on Udemy.

In my book, Brave-ish, I share how small steps lead to big changes, and this philosophy is central to my teaching. My course is designed to help students navigate the steps and share their travel experiences. Connecting with readers and now students again is one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

Travel Writer 101: https://www.udemy.com/course/travelwriter101/?referralCode=6F108929DCB31E524D87

What are your ���5 things I wish someone told me before I started��� and why?

Here are 5 things I wish someone told me before I started:

Embrace Uncertainty
Starting something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you don���t have all the answers. Early in my journey, I remember feeling like I needed to have everything figured out before I took the leap. However, I quickly learned that uncertainty is a natural part of growth. When I embarked on my travel adventures, I often found myself in unfamiliar situations with no clear plan, but those were often the most rewarding experiences. During safari in Africa with Abercrombie and Kent, the itinerary was flexible. You get up early and hope to see the animals. Whether on expedition in the Galapagos or Antarctica, you have to trust the guides and go with the flow.Focus on Connection Over Perfection
I used to spend a lot of time perfecting my work before sharing it with others. What I���ve learned is that connection often outweighs perfection. While quality is important, sharing honestly often resonates more. This realization hit home when I first started a newsletter in 2008 from my backpacking trip to share with my former science students. It wasn���t perfectly polished, but the response from families was overwhelming because of the personal story it told.Celebrate Small Wins
Early in my career, I always celebrated every small win. When I started on YouTube after a trip to Taiwan in 2010, I was thrilled with every milestone ��� whether it was 100 views, 1,000 views, or eventually, reaching 1 million views. Each step, no matter how small, felt like a victory. Now, with over 2.25 million views, I���ve come to realize that every small accomplishment builds momentum and contributes to the bigger journey. Each milestone has taught me the importance of recognizing progress, no matter how incremental, and the power of celebrating those achievements along the way.Ask for Help
I was hesitant to ask for help, believing I needed to do everything alone. Over time, I realized that asking for support and collaborating with others leads to more growth and richer experiences. When I worked on my memoir, Brave-ish, I sought out the guidance of a developmental editor who helped shape my narrative. Her feedback and insights were invaluable, making my memoir better and more focused.Trust Your Instincts
There were moments when I second-guessed my decisions, worrying if they were the right path. What I���ve learned is to trust my instincts more. For instance, deciding to focus on my memoir despite initial doubts proved to be the right decision. Over time, as it gained recognition and earned TEN AWARDS, I realized that following my passion was the best choice, even when the road seemed uncertain.

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?

If I could inspire a movement, it would be centered around the idea that being kind is more important than being smart. I always tell my students that knowledge is valuable, but kindness is what truly changes the world. Small acts of kindness create ripples that extend far beyond what we can see.

Right now, my heart is especially focused on the hostages still being held for nearly 500 days ��� bringing them home is a cause that transcends politics and borders. Every Shabbat since Oct 7, 2023, I have posted about this on social media. I believe that advocating for their safe return is not just a matter of justice, but of humanity.

We are very blessed that some very prominent names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them.

Reese Witherspoon. Without a doubt. She has been a game-changer in bringing women���s stories to the screen, turning powerful books into must-watch movies and TV series. My book Brave-ish is all about stepping out of your comfort zone, taking risks, and redefining courage ��� messages that resonate deeply with her work.

After creating my Ireland TV special, I realized how much I love sharing stories in a longer format. A show based on Brave-ish would inspire others to embrace adventure, push past fear, and say yes to the unknown. Reese, if you���re reading this ��� let���s make it happen!

How can our readers further follow your work online?

Thank you so much for this opportunity!
FIND MORE ABOUT ME HERE:

My book: Brave-ish

Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty

My travel site: We Said Go Travel

https://www.wesaidgotravel.com/category/we-said

My podcast: MAKE YOUR OWN MAP

Make Your Own Map

My videos on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@LisaNiver

On Social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisaniver

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisaniver

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisaniver

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.niver

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/wesaidgotravel/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaellenniver/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lisaniver.bsky.social

Threads https://www.threads.net/@lisaniver

Substack https://lisaniver.substack.com/

MSN https://www.msn.com/en-us/channel/source/Lisa%20Niver/sr-cid-f791cc4863cb2175

Thank you so much for sharing these important insights. We wish you continued success and good health!

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