In this episode of the Sendy Mom podcast, Becky Brouwer interviews Ans Brouwer — an extraordinary 81-year-old who reflects on her childhood in the Netherlands during World War II, her years at a music conservatory, and a life shaped by faith, family, and courageous choices. Ans inspires listeners to live purposefully, embrace challenges, and surround themselves with good influences.
Meet Ans Brouwer: Ans Brouwer is 81 years old but doesn't look a day over 65 — and acts like she's about 25. She was born in the Netherlands during World War II, the oldest grandchild of a large family who made sure the baby never went hungry, even during the devastating Hunger Winter. She later studied at a music conservatory, moved to Australia, and eventually made her way to America — a life full of bold choices made for family, faith, and personal growth.
Ans is spunky, positive, unapologetically herself, and full of surprises. She says what she means and means what she says. I know Ans well — we met in person the day before I got married, and she became my mother-in-law. I am lucky. This is what a real Sendy woman looks like.
What You'll Hear:
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction of Ans Brouwer
03:30 Childhood in the Netherlands During WWII
05:14 Family Dynamics and Resilience
06:58 Dad's Escape from a Nazi Work Camp
09:14 Adventures and Risks in Youth
11:26 Riding the Barges to School
15:01 Falling in the Ice
19:46 Be a Coffee Bean
23:40 Moving to Australia and New Beginnings
25:27 Self Advocacy at the Conservatory of Music
34:10 The Cold War and a Fresh Start
43:26 Faith, Community, and When Your Child Chooses a Different Path
50:38 The Journey to America
53:08 Staying Active and Engaged at 81
55:55 Rapid Fire Questions
Find all the Resources Here:
Keep Listening:
17. The Joy of Motherhood and Hyde Park Academy
26. Teaching Children to Work, Love, and Be Bored with Dorothy Scoresby
