In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne is joined by Wendy Garcarz to explore what it really means
for women over 50 to claim visibility, autonomy and impact. They discuss the hidden gender bias in
social media algorithms, the authority and voice gap that still holds women back, and how ageism
continues to sideline talented, experienced professionals.
Wendy shares her personal insights on silencing the inner critic, embracing lifelong learning, and
seeing midlife not as a decline but as a bold new adventure. This conversation is a rallying call for
women to speak up, share their ideas, and ensure their voices are truly heard.
Key Takeaways
Algorithmic bias is real and rising: women’s posts, especially those about women’s issues, are seeing sharp declines in reach and engagement, suggesting confirmation bias baked into platforms’ metadata and AI.
Visibility + ageism: women 50+ are routinely sidelined, from funding barriers (even opening business accounts) to being overlooked for promotions and mentoring roles, despite vast transferable skills and resilience.
Don’t shelve expertise: organisations are stronger and more sustainable when senior women are present; yet too many firms “bench” experienced women at 50+.
Tame the inner critic: notice whose voice it uses (it may mimic family) and respond with calm, child-friendly reframes. The subconscious reasoner formed around age seven needs reassurance, not combat.
Share one idea a day: a low-pressure practice to stop self-silencing and build everyday authority and visibility.
Lifelong learning is a posture: curiosity (“I don’t know, yet”) keeps your voice fresh and credible at any age.
Best Moments
“People think they’re looking through a window online, they’re looking through a mirror.”
“Why would you put that intelligence and resilience into mothballs?”
“You wouldn’t buy Ronaldo and keep him on the bench.” (on sidelining senior women)
“We don’t grow old; we get old when we stop growing.”
About the guest
Wendy Garcarz is the founder of Refirement, a bold movement that helps women redefine
retirement as a vibrant new beginning. With over 20 years’ experience as a strategist and futurist,
she empowers women over 50 to thrive with purpose, confidence and possibility. Alongside her
work, Wendy also writes gripping espionage thrillers under the pen name Wendy Charlton, weaving
powerful themes of resilience and ageing into her storytelling. Passionate about visibility and voice,
she challenges stereotypes and inspires women to embrace their next chapter with courage.
Find out more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garcarz-06b75b2/
About the host
With over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.
Find out more: https://anneleatherland.co.uk/
