Description

Episode 4: Jen’s Story

“I can make my own decisions – and watch me make my first one.”

In our fourth episode, Jen from New York City (by way of Houston, TX) shares how she found a new rulebook for life after a terrible loss. 

Growing up, Jen turned to her mom for guidance on every decision, big or small. But shortly after graduating from college, Jen's mom was diagnosed with cancer. Jen was thrust into “a new universe” and overnight, became a caretaker, a support system for her dad and sister, and a daughter wishing for a miracle. After her mom’s passing, Jen came to realize that honoring her mom would require her to chart her own course in life.

Jen’s Story is a tender, unflinching look at how we move forward after the unthinkable happens.

You’ll relate to Jen’s story if you’ve ever:

• Felt responsible for a parent’s happiness
• Lost a parent or a beloved parental figure at a young age
• Tried on different "hats" or personalities to fit in
• Relied on a parent for decision-making growing up, and later struggled to trust your instincts
• Consulted a psychic, tarot reader, or other mystic for advice
• Left a job without your next career move figured out 
• Felt you were "born to be in your thirties"

Resources from the episode: 

• Berkeley's Favorite Book: The Artist's Wayby Julia Cameron – Ever felt that something is holding you back from pursuing your purpose? The Artists' Way is beloved by creatives around the world (from writers to filmmakers to entrepreneurs) for helping them reimagine their lives. Check out this review in the New York Times or pick up a copy at your favorite independent bookstore today.

Meet Your Host: Berkeley Joy Mashburn
Berkeley is a former political campaigner turned full-time creative enjoying the end of her twenties (Berkeley turns 30 in August). After years of private scribbling and longing for the right creative outlet, Berkeley realized nothing inspires her more than intimate conversations with friends about their unique yet relatable lives. On Exiting Our Twenties, Berkeley interviews old friends and new about pivotal experiences in their twenties. Through exploring these stories, Berkeley aims to bring hope and self-confidence to women of all ages, while reminding women in their late twenties and early thirties that the best is yet to come.

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Share Your Story
If you’re a woman in your late twenties or early thirties with a story to tell (trust us—everyone has one), fill out the guest form linked HERE or at ExitingOurTwenties.com. We’d love to hear from you!