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Melissa Davey took the adage about it's never too late to try something new quite seriously. This wasn't about jumping out of an airplane kind of stuff. In her sixties, she retired from a lengthy corporate career to pursue her second act and dream of becoming a filmmaker. I always tell teens I coach or meet who are stressed about picking a college major and choosing a career path, that the average American changes careers, not just jobs, seven times in their lifetimes. You never know when circumstances allow you to drop the grind and forge a new direction, like you heard Australian Maddy Reynolds do in a WASP episode a few weeks ago when she dumped the corporate world to become a pro trail runner. Melissa was the Vice President of Social Security and Managed Disability at GENEX for 22 years, sat on the company's executive team, and worked throughout the United States to create and deliver services to the disability insurance marketplace. But after a day on the set with famed screenwriter and filmmaker M Night Shyamalan, she decided to take a risk and left her career to jump into the unknown. Pursuing her dream of becoming a filmmaker became a reality in late 2018 when Melissa completed her first feature film, Beyond Sixty, which highlights stories of women making similar jumps, including the woman behind the original voice of Siri, the Madam CJ Walker biographer, and the sculptor of Lady Gaga's Fame perfume carriage. During 2019, Melissa's film was accepted by and screened at eight film festivals throughout the United States and Canada, winning awards and confirming that it is never too late to learn something new. Picked up by a distributor and released in 2021, the film is currently available on most streaming platforms. Melissa's second film, Climbing into Life, details the inspiring life story of Dierdre Wolownick, the oldest woman to ascend El Capitan, who also happens to be the mother of famed free solo climber Alex Honnold. The film is currently making the film festival rounds. Melissa is a champion to show that it isn't too late for people over 60, particularly women to explore new pathways and make a profound impact on the world. It's such a great message to share, and she does it with an infectious energy as you'll find out in this episode.Melissa Daveymelissadavey.combeyondsixty.commelissa@melissadavey.comFacebook Beyond Sixty DocumentaryInstagram @beyond60project and @climbing_into_lifeBill Stahlsilly_billy@msn.comFacebook Bill StahlInstagram and Threads @stahlor and @we_are_superman_podcastYouTube We Are Superman PodcastSubscribe to the We Are Superman Newsletter!https://mailchi.mp/dab62cfc01f8/newsletter-signup
Dr. Lynn Hellerstein of Vision Beyond Sight speaks with Melissa Davey, documentary filmmaker, producer and director, to talk about how at age 65, she decided to quit her long corporate career and follow a childhood fantasy of becoming a filmmaker. Having produced the multi-awarded documentaries Beyond Sixty and Climbing into Life, Melissa is about creating hope and challenging the way people think about aging, confirming we are still relevant as we age. Turning 75 now, she inspires all of us to realize that retirement is just reframing, and regardless of our age, we can overcome our fears in the pursuit of new goals, and take baby steps to accomplish them. Check out Melissa's documentaries! Beyond Sixty presents ordinary women above the age of 60 with extraordinary stories and achievements. Climbing Into Life is the story of Dierdre Molownick, a never an athlete who, upon the inspiration of her children who loves extreme sports, conquered the vertical cliff face of El Capitan. Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Developmental Optometrist, co-owner of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, P.C., award-winning author and international speaker, holds powerful and inspiring conversations with her guests in the areas of health, wellness, education, sports and psychology. They share their inspirational stories of healing and transformation through their vision expansion. Vision Beyond Sight Podcast will help you see with clarity, gain courage and confidence. Welcome to Vision Beyond Sight! Also available on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Audible and Stitcher.
Learn more about Melissa at: Beyond SixtyShow notes with time stamps:
Documentary filmmaker Melissa Davey sits down with host Candice Bloch in this episode to discuss her filmmaking journey and her latest film, Climbing Into Life. The film is about the remarkable story of Dierdre Wolownick, an accomplished writer, artist and musician who got into rock climbing later in life and, at age 66, became the oldest woman to ascend Yosemite's famed El Capitan. The two also talk about Melissa's first feature, Beyond Sixty, and her goals of challenging stereotypes about women's aging. Listen in to hear great advice about filmmaking and life, get inspired by Melissa's personal story of finding filmmaking at age 65, and rethink your own possibilities for the years that lie ahead.To learn more about Melissa and her films, visit: https://melissadavey.com/---Subscribe to learn more about filmmaking, production, media makers, creator resources, visual storytelling, and every aspect that brings film, television, and video projects from concepts to our screens. Check out the MediaMakerSpotlight.com show page to find even more conversations with industry professionals that inspire, educate, and entertain!We on the Women in Film & Video (WIFV) Podcast Team work hard to make this show a great resource for our listeners, and we thank you for listening!
Melissa Davey, age 74, retired from a lengthy corporate career in 2016 to pursue her second act and dream of becoming a filmmaker. At age 65, after a day on the set with the famous Director M. Night Shyamalan, she decided to take a risk and left her career to jump into the unknown. Pursuing her dream of becoming a filmmaker became a reality in late 2018 when Melissa completed her first film, Beyond Sixty, a feature length documentary about women over the age of sixty. During 2019 Melissa's film was accepted by and screened at 8 film festivals throughout the United States and Canada, winning awards and confirming that it is never too late to learn something new. Melissa recently completed her second documentary, Climbing into Life, the story of Dierdre Wolownick who is the mother of Alex Honnold (Free Solo). The film has been accepted into thirteen film festivals so far and won has won several awards so far.
The Shincheonji church is an international Christian sect which started in South Korea. But the group is being accused of bizarre recruitment strategies at a number of Australian universities and former members have made allegations of ‘coercive control' tactics that include love bombing and sleep deprivation. Medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Reged Ahmad about the experiences of families of current members, as well as former members, about life on the inside You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport
Connect with Melissa DaveyMelissa Davey, now in her 70's, retired from a lengthy corporate career in 2016 to pursue her second act and dream of becoming a filmmaker.Melissa began her early career in Legal Services. As a Paralegal, Melissa represented more than one thousand individuals before the Social Security Administration and was a national substantive law trainer for the Legal Services Corporation.In 1994 Melissa was recruited to the for-profit company, Genex, headquartered in Wayne, PA, to build their national Social Security advocacy program. As the Vice President of Social Security and Managed Disability for 22 years, Melissa sat on the company's executive team and worked throughout the United States to create and deliver services to the disability insurance marketplace.At age 65, after a day on the set with M Night Shyamalan, she decided to take a risk and left her career to jump into the unknown.Pursuing her dream of becoming a filmmaker became a reality in late 2018 when Melissa completed her first feature film, Beyond Sixty. During 2019 Melissa's film was accepted by and screened at 8 film festivals throughout the United States and Canada, winning awards and confirming that it is never too late to learn something new.Picked up by a Distributor and released in 2021, the film is currently available on most streaming platforms, including AppleTV, PrimeVideo, Vimeo, Vudu and YouTubeTV.Melissa's second film, Climbing into Life details the inspiring life story of Dierdre Wolownick, the oldest woman to ascend El Captain. The film is currently making the film festival rounds.Connect with Host Terry LohrbeerIf you are a Boomer and feel you would make a great guest please email Terry with your bio and any other info you would like to share at: terry@kickassboomers.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2658545911065461/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrylohrbeer/Instagram: kickassboomersTwitter: @kickassboomersWebsite: kickassboomers.comTerry's editing company:Connect to Premiere Podcast Pros for podcast editing:premierepodcastpros@gmail.com LEAVE A REVIEW and join me on my journey to become and stay a Kickass Boomer!Visit http://kickassboomers.com/ to listen to the previous episodes. Also check us out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email terry@kickassboomers.com and connect with me online and on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
The Shincheonji church is an international Christian sect which started in South Korea. But the group is being accused of bizarre recruitment strategies at a number of Australian universities and former members have made allegations of ‘coercive control' tactics that include love bombing and sleep deprivation. Medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Reged Ahmad about the experiences of families of current members, as well as former members, about life on the inside of this alleged ‘doomsday cult'
Ever wonder what it takes to completely reinvent yourself later in life? In this episode, I sit down with filmmaker Melissa Davey for the second time to get an update on her life since she quit her corporate career to become a filmmaker. We dive into the making of her second film, Climbing Into Life, the story of Dierdre Wolownick, the oldest woman to climb El Capitan. Melissa talks about what it's been like producing her second full length documentary and navigating the film festival circuit. She also shares the ups and downs of bringing this inspiring story to life and what keeps her motivated as she continues to follow her creative path. If you've ever felt it's too late to try something new, this conversation will change your mind! Tune in for a boost of inspiration and insights on following your passions at any age.
By now you would have seen the countless stories about supermodel Elle Macpherson and her breast cancer treatment choices. Most of the headlines and articles amplified her decision to forgo some standard medical treatments in favour of alternative therapies. But what crucial information was missing? Guardian Australia medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Nour Haydar about the controversy and how to make sense of the claims and products pushed by the wellness industry. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport
"Tomorrow I'm going to quit my job and I'm going to make a movie," said filmmaker Melissa Davey. And so she did. Here's her story . . . In this inspiring replay of a recent episode of AGE BETTER, I sat down with Melissa Davey, a woman who boldly transitioned from a successful corporate career to becoming a documentary filmmaker focusing on midlife women. Melissa shares her unique story, from her early days in advocacy, where she listened to and represented countless individuals, to a serendipitous encounter with filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan that changed the course of her life. This chance meeting inspired Melissa to leave her corporate job and dive headfirst into the world of filmmaking. Her first documentary, "Beyond 60," shines a light on extraordinary women over the age of 60, proving that remarkable achievements have no age limit. But, since the episode aired in June, Melissa has been on an amazing journey with her latest documentary, “Climbing into Life”. Just recently, she premiered the film at the Sacramento International Film Festival, where it won the Outstanding Documentary Award! The response to the film has been phenomenal, with audiences raving about the film's powerful message: that it's never too late to embrace new challenges and truly live life to the fullest . . . no matter what your age. Key Takeaways: There is Power in a Good Story: Listening to and sharing stories is a potent way to advocate for and connect with others. Openness to Growth: Different perspectives and opinions foster personal growth and empathy. Serendipity and Dreams: Sometimes, a chance encounter can ignite the pursuit of your dreams. Don't be afraid to take detours and explore new paths. Being Fearless: It's never too late to chase your aspirations, even in midlife. Manage and overcome your fears. Getting Your Support System in Place: Seek guidance and support from those who have navigated similar transitions. It's OK to Fail if You Learn Something: Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and stay open to new experiences. Learn More About Melissa Davey: Website: https://melissadavey.com https://www.beyondsixty.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/climbingintolife https://www.facebook.com/BeyondSixtyProject LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-davey--16484b6 Instagram: https://Instagram.com/beyond60project https://instagram.com/climbing_into_life https://instagram.com/gettingoldbutwhocares Articles: https://www.inquirer.com/philly/business/small_business/m-night-shyamalan-asked-this-grandmother-a-question-triggering-her-career-change-at-65-20171206.html https://film.org/melissa-davey-and-beyond-sixty/ https://verilymag.com/2023/05/beyond-sixty-creating-visibility-for-older-women-and-their-stories-2023 You Tube Movie Trailers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KU1BZIefY2s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6JXH1mdWIM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Labor is resisting calls from a Senate inquiry and health experts for a total ban on gambling advertisements. Tamsin Rose speaks to Sydney mother Bronwyn, whose son started problem gambling at 17, and Guardian Australia's medical editor Melissa Davey about why there is an urgent need for reform You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport
"Tomorrow I'm going to quit my job and I'm going to make a movie," said filmmaker Melissa Davey. And so she did. Here's her story . . . In this inspiring episode of AGE BETTER I sat down with Melissa Davey, a woman who boldly transitioned from a successful corporate career to becoming a documentary filmmaker focusing on midlife women. Melissa shares her unique story, from her early days in advocacy, where she listened to and represented countless individuals, to a serendipitous encounter with filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan that changed the course of her life. This chance meeting inspired Melissa to leave her corporate job and dive headfirst into the world of filmmaking. Her first documentary, "Beyond 60," shines a light on extraordinary women over the age of 60, proving that remarkable achievements have no age limit. Melissa's latest project, "Climbing Into Life," continues this theme, exploring the life of 72-year-old Dierdre Wolownick. Key Takeaways: There is Power in a Good Story: Listening to and sharing stories is a potent way to advocate for and connect with others. Openness to Growth: Different perspectives and opinions foster personal growth and empathy. Serendipity and Dreams: Sometimes, a chance encounter can ignite the pursuit of your dreams. Don't be afraid to take detours and explore new paths. Being Fearless: It's never too late to chase your aspirations, even in midlife. Manage and overcome your fears. Getting Your Support System in Place: Seek guidance and support from those who have navigated similar transitions. It's OK to Fail if You Learn Something: Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and stay open to new experiences. Learn More About Melissa Davey: Website: https://www.beyondsixty.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/climbingintolife https://www.facebook.com/BeyondSixtyProject LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-davey--16484b6 Instagram: https://Instagram.com/beyond60project https://instagram.com/climbing_into_life https://instagram.com/gettingoldbutwhocares Articles: https://www.inquirer.com/philly/business/small_business/m-night-shyamalan-asked-this-grandmother-a-question-triggering-her-career-change-at-65-20171206.html https://film.org/melissa-davey-and-beyond-sixty/ https://verilymag.com/2023/05/beyond-sixty-creating-visibility-for-older-women-and-their-stories-2023 YouTube Movie Trailers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KU1BZIefY2s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6JXH1mdWIM LEARN MORE ABOUT AGE BETTER PODCAST Age Better podcast delves into a diverse range of topics, including finance, work, health, fitness, style, makeup, hair, nutrition, travel, relationships, sex, menopause and more. Each week, I'll bring you the latest insights, expert opinions, and actionable advice. Stick with Me! Let's embark on this remarkable journey together! We'll explore new concepts, challenge old beliefs, and inspire one another to not just embrace but genuinely LOVE our bodies, minds, and spirits as we get older. Listen and Subscribe To join this adventure, remember to subscribe or follow the "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Yep, you can watch it or just listen! Share Your Ideas and Questions Your questions have spurred many episodes, so please keep them coming! Share your ideas for topics and guest suggestions at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, you'll learn about a new study that shows drugs like Ritalin aren't so smart after all, how frozen rat kidneys could lead to a medical revolution, and a new study that shows how people with curly hair are extra cool. Find episode transcripts here: https://curiosity-daily-4e53644e.simplecast.com/episodes/smart-drugs-frozen-organ-transplant-curly-hair-coolSmart Drugs “'Smart Drugs' Make You Worse at Solving Complex Problems, New Study Finds.” by Elizabeth Bowman, et al. 2023.https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.add4165“People who use ‘smart drugs' worse at complex tasks, study finds.” by Melissa Davey. 2023.https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/jun/15/people-who-use-smart-drugs-worse-at-complex-tasks-study-findsFrozen Organ Transplant “Scientists Successfully Unfroze Rat Organs and Transplanted Them - a 'Historic' Step that Could Someday Transform Transplant Medicine.” by Marion Renault. 2023.https://www.statnews.com/2023/06/21/cryogenic-organ-preservation-transplants/“Organ Donation Statistics.” HRSA. 2023.https://www.organdonor.gov/learn/organ-donation-statistics“Vitrification.” Wikipedia. N.d.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VitrificationCurly Hair Cool “Life Before Air Conditioning: Curly Hair Kept Early Humans Cool.” by Francisco Tutella. 2023.https://www.psu.edu/news/research/story/life-air-conditioning-curly-hair-kept-early-humans-cool/“Human scalp hair as a thermoregulatory adaptation.” by Tina Lasisi, et al. 2023.https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2301760120Follow Curiosity Daily on your favorite podcast app to get smarter with Calli and Nate — for free! Still curious? Get exclusive science shows, nature documentaries, and more real-life entertainment on discovery+! Go to https://discoveryplus.com/curiosity to start your 7-day free trial. discovery+ is currently only available for US subscribers.
The Albanese government has announced the biggest smoking reforms in a decade – banning non-prescription vapes and hiking the tax on tobacco. Health minister Mark Butler says these reforms will close ‘the biggest loophole in Australian health care history' that saw nicotine vapes marketed and sold to children. Medical editor Melissa Davey explains why the government has chosen this approach, and what these reforms means for vape users and sellers
The health minister has accused the vaping industry of making a ‘new generation of nicotine addicts' amid rising reports of vaping addiction in teenagers and nicotine poisoning in toddlers. This comes as a vaping reform inquiry reveals an ‘overwhelming' number of health experts and authorities support tighter border controls around nicotine vaping products. Medical editor Melissa Davey explores what Australia's vaping crackdown – expected within the year – could look like, and the impact of vaping on kids
This weeks episode is an inspiring reinvention story about following your passion at any age. My guest Melissa Davey left her comfortable corporate position at the age 65 to become a documentary filmmaker. She had always had an interest in film but had no experience in the film industry before she set out this journey. Her first film Beyond 60 @beyond60 was released at the film festivals last year documenting the lives, lessons and experiences of 8 women over the age of 60. Such incredibly poignant stories and insights. I actually watched the film twice. Highly recommend it. Now at the age of 72 Melissa is about to release her second film Climbing into Life @climbingintolife. In this episode Melissa and I talk about what made her take the leap, how she navigated the unknown, what kept her going when things got hard as well her insights and advice for other women who may be sitting on the fence of a long held dream. This might be one my most favourite conversations yet. Melissa is a true badass and left me feeling beyond inspired to keeping chasing dreams and stepping out of my comfort zone. I cant wait for you all to hear this one. https://melissadaveydocumentaryfilmmaker.com/ Sponsor: https://hemplily.com/
Melissa Davey talks about retiring from the corporate world at the age of 65 to become a filmmaker. Her documentary Beyond 60 can be viewed on several streaming platforms. Hear her story on 95.7 BEN-FM hosted by Kathy Romano.
Can you imagine starting over your career age 65 years old? The idea seems pretty daunting, but for Melissa Davey it was something she actively strove to do. She left her corporate job of 20 years and became a documentary maker. Her first documentary is called Beyond 60 This documentary centers around the lives of women that society has disregarded and flips that narrative on its head. The women in this documentary run the gamut of expertise, from a fine artist who has worked with Lady Gaga to a veterinarian who swam across the English Channel at the tender age of 62 This has to be one of my favourite interviews to date, Melissa is so interesting and I totally want to be her when I grow up. You can watch the documentary here at ___________________________________________________________ Do you want all your menopause resources in one place? To pick up your free copy, simply head to amandathebe.com/meno-resource/ PS don't forget to leave me a nice, juicy review! It really helps support this podcast. Much Love, Amanda x
Now a spry 72 years young, Melissa Davey can add filmmaker, director, and executive producer to her list of accomplishments. After almost 3.5 decades in both nonprofit and for profit legal services for the disabled, an interaction with M. Night Shyamalan changed everything. At 65, Melissa left corporate America to pursue her dream of film making. In 2018, Melissa Davey completed her first film, Beyond Sixty, a feature length documentary about women over the age of sixty. Talk about reinventing yourself and your path. In this episode, you will learn that it is truly never too late to learn something new or take a risk. We discuss how one story or interaction can truly change your life. We discuss the impacts of ageism and how to confront them or overcome them. We learn how she went from knowing nothing about film making to winning multiple awards at various film festivals in the USA and Canada. Please take a moment and watch this movie: we promise you will not regret it. Links to view this film are easily accessible through our website with one-to-two clicks: Watch Movie. Melissa's second film, Climbing into Life, is currently in post-production. Women have the ability to do anything they want if they try. What is it going to be? Our Non-Profit Spotlight is: World Central Kitchen ___ Connect with Katie Harms @ katie@katieharms.com or Lisa Rubin @ lisa@wardobeconsulting.net We are thankful to our sponsors Continental Diamond and Rustica Bakery.
Emily and Mike work through the duality of holding close (like some grandkids naturally do!) and letting go (as we age). Sometimes holding close is easy and natural, and letting go is hard. When we age, everything gets harder, but it's vital to make and maintain connections. Emily's special guest returns from the previous episode: filmmaker Melissa Davey, who produced The Beyond Sixty Project. Her film is now streaming on several platforms--have a look!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Episode 42: People used to retire at 65 because it was the end. But with medical technology and general health getting better all the time, a person's life doesn't have to stop just because they age. Melissa Davey was in the throes of corporate America, successful in both the non-profit and for-profit worlds. However, after the excitement started to fade, she realized that she needed a change.After a chance encounter with M. Night Shyamalan, she suddenly had a different dream—one that had never even occurred to her before. Before she knew it, she was making her own documentary—highlighting women beyond 60. Links:Check out “Beyond Sixty”, Melissa Davey's documentary. What's next?What are your views, comments or questions on living your dreams after retirement? Share them with us at info@seniorityauthority.org! Stay Connected:Cathleen ToomeyLinkedIn: Cathleen ToomeyWebsite: Seniority AuthorityFacebook: Seniority AuthorityInstagram: seniorityauthorityTikTok: seniorityauthoritySubscribe to our podcast + download each episode on Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.
Melissa Davey was a senior, corporate executive turning 65 and facing a key decision point in her work life -- Do I stay or do I go? At the same time, an odd series of events resulted in her winning a charity auction to spend a day on a movie set with director M Night Shyamalan. Shadowing Mr. Shyamalan for a day put her on the path to becoming a filmmaker. She completing her first feature film in 2018. Beyond 60 is a documentary that profiles nine, vibrant women and their "after 60" accomplishments. Now 72, Ms. Davey will release her second film, "Climbing Into Life" in early 2023.
A new report shows fentanyl overdose deaths are on the rise in Australia and experts are warning that the potent drug could rapidly emerge as a major killer like it is in the US. Medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Laura Murphy-Oates about why deaths are rising and how to prevent an overdose crisis
If you recently received an email or text from your GP clinic saying they can no longer bulk bill – you're not alone. Increasingly, GPs in Australia say the amount they are reimbursed by the government isn't enough to cover expenses, and they have no option but to pass costs on to patients. Medical editor Melissa Davey explores why GP appointment costs are rising and how the Labor government plans to overhaul this system
With Omicron infections on the rise and Australia now averaging about 30,000 new Covid cases a day, health authorities have expanded access to oral antivirals and made the fourth dose of the Covid vaccine accessible to an additional 7.4 million people. Medical editor Melissa Davey talks to Jane Lee about the latest Covid announcements and whether these measures are enough to combat this new wave
Today on Feminine Roadmap trailblazer Melissa Davey shares the adventure of Beyond Sixty. Melissa left a corporate job that she actually loved at 66 to pursue a dream. What was her dream? Her dream was to become a documentary filmmaker. The challenge was that she had no idea how to make that happen. This episode is her story of the adventure to Beyond Sixty, the documentary she made about women living extraordinary lives beyond sixty. Melissa searched for women who had stories that are interesting, inspiring and even a little unexpected. After looking at hundreds of women she chose nine who were willing to share their stories on film. Melissa is on a mission to inspire women (and men) to realize that no matter where you've been in your life, you can jump off where you are and move away from fear. Her advice? Follow the detours, try a different path and pay attention to what's around you, what interests you. Melissa shares how she followed the detours in her own life to the adventure Beyond Sixty. Now she's just finished filming what will be her second documentary on the eve of her 72nd birthday? Curious? Inspired? Grab a cuppa something wonderful and listen to her amazing journey.
On Sunday Australia recorded its 10,000 Covid death since the virus emerged. In 2022 alone, there have been more than four times as many deaths as the previous two years combined. Jane Lee speaks to medical editor Melissa Davey about how Australia got to this point and what the numbers tell us, and Liz Beardon, who lost both her parents to Covid
At 65 years old, Melissa Davey made the decision to leave her successful corporate career and become a filmmaker. Now almost 72, Melissa's first film, Beyond Sixty, is in distribution and she has completed filming her second film which is in post production. Her films focus on the resilience and continued relevance of older women.
With Australia's Covid cases per capita among the highest in the world, new antivirals such as Paxlovid and Lagevrio as well as intravenous treatments like sotrovimab are offering some hope for the severely ill, elderly and immunocompromised. However Australia's peak body for GPs says some people at greatest risk of dying from Covid are being prevented from accessing these treatments. Medical editor Melissa Davey breaks down what Australia's high case numbers and deaths mean, how these new treatments work, and the barriers to accessing them.
My guest, Melissa Davey changed careers at 65 and become a documentary filmmaker. For more than two decades she worked at https://www.genexservices.com/ (GENEX Services Inc.,) where she was recruited to build and operate the company's Social Security representation division. Prior to GENEX, Melissa had almost twenty years of diversified experience in the field of disability. Her second act is fueled by a lifelong passion for film and story-telling. Her film, https://www.beyondsixtyproject.com/ (Beyond Sixty,) is a documentary feature film about women over the age of 60. The film features the https://www.beyondsixtyproject.com/all (stories of 9 women,) ordinary in the way we all are and just as interesting. They include https://www.slashgear.com/780287/this-is-the-real-voice-behind-siri/ (Susan Bennett, the original voice of Siri,) the Madam CJ Walker biographer, https://www.beyondsixtyproject.com/paula-yankauskas (Paula Yankauskas,)who, in September 2016, became the oldest U.S. woman to swim the English Channel. To name just a few. “From a very early age women are made to believe that our relevance has an expiration date. My goal with the film is to show the power of resilience and the wisdom of experience we bring to the table. I created Beyond Sixty to challenge the way we think about aging and the value of our own stories.” We talked about how young people see us—some told Melissa they were tired of the stereotypes of aging women as irrelevant, feeble, unhappy—and how we see ourselves and others our age. It's not always pretty! Do you think you're too old to follow your big dream?... I asked Melissa if this felt like a really big leap. “Yeah, it was a big leap. However, my whole life has taken a kind of circuitous route at all times. Mainly because I'm so curious about things. So, I will change it up here and there and try new things. But never anything this drastically different.”How our perception of things changes “There comes this sense of self, which is a much deeper as you get older. Fear is lessened. It's not that it's not there. You don't want to fail. The fear, just it lessens somehow and it's manageable and you almost like expect it to be there. And it's like, okay, come on fear we're going to go try something else now.I wondered how much she had to sell her idea, herself as an unknown film maker, etc. “I really didn't have to pitch too much, which surprised me. I was just myself. And with the women that I brought in knew I'd never made a film before.” The cool thing about the production company “The three owners of this production company in Philly were three very young men. And I was referred to them just to have the conversation, to see if they could point me in the right direction. They were like, what a great idea. We want to hear these stories. These were 28, 30 year old guys. So that was exciting.”Who says we can't get along with the younger gens. Some of my takeaways · You really are never too old to make your dream come true · Aging does not diminish a person's ability to be relevant and contribute · Everyone's story has the power to help someone else at any age Find The Beyond Sixty project https://www.instagram.com/beyond60project/ (on Insta) and https://www.facebook.com/BeyondSixtyProject/ (Facebook) If one of your goals is to age in great health, looking like the fabulon you are inside, laughing and loving all the way then start with my https://rebelliouswellnessover50.com/power5/ (Power of 5 mini email workshop). All a woman needs to stay—or get—fit, healthy, sassy and sane. And if you're at that tipping point called peri-menopause, you might be interested in my book,...
Why is it, in some cases, one member of a household tests positive to Covid-19 while those living with them may develop symptoms yet return negative tests? Medical editor Melissa Davey talks to Jane Lee about why test results can be hit and miss and how the onset of cooler weather has people wondering: is it Covid, or a cold?
At least three people have died from a mosquito-borne virus – Japanese encephalitis – which is spreading across the south of Australia for the first time. Experts have linked the outbreak to climate change, with extreme rainfall across parts of Australia creating ideal conditions for mosquitoes to thrive. Guardian Australia's medical editor, Melissa Davey, explains what you need to know about Japanese encephalitis virus and what this outbreak tells us about the future of disease in Australia
Melissa Davey retired from a lengthy corporate career at the end of 2015 to pursue her second act and her dream of becoming a filmmaker, which she made a reality when she completed her film Beyond Sixty. It's a feature length documentary about women over the age of 60 who have lived remarkable lives and have remarkable and inspiring stories to share with the rest of us.Her life-long love of film, reading about how films are made, seeing as many films as she could, put her in a position to take advantage of an opportunity that came her way, when she was the highest charity auction bidder for a day on a film set with director M. Night Shyamalan. His question to her, “What do you really want to do?” set in motion a new chapter in her life when she decided to leave her long-time corporate job and become a filmmaker. Topics include:Facing the fear of making a big life changeHer practice of Life Layering through her interest in all aspects of film prepared her for this momentTaking a self-inventoryHow taking a detour led her to meet M. Night Shyamalan, who asked her the question that would change her lifeHer film, Beyond Sixty, and three of the women profiled in the film, including Susan Bennett, the original voice of Siri; Peggy Bradnick Jackson, who has turned her traumatic abduction as a teenager into a plea for mental illness awareness; and A'lelia Bundles, the great great granddaughter and biographer of Madam C.J. Walker, the first Black woman millionaire.Her next projectMelissa Davey, age 71, retired from a lengthy corporate career at the end of 2015. Pursuing her dream of becoming a filmmaker became a reality in late 2018 when Melissa completed her first film, Beyond Sixty Project, a feature length documentary about women over the age of sixty. During 2019 Melissa's film was accepted by and screened at 8 film festivals throughout the United States and Canada, winning awards and confirming that it is truly never too late to learn something new. The film was picked up by a distributor in late 2020 and was released in Spring, 2021.Resources:Beyond Sixty Project
As Omicron continues to spread in aged care homes, mounting deaths and severe staff shortages have placed pressure on the federal Government to act urgently – but are they doing too little, too late? Guardian Australia medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Laura Murphy-Oates on the stark realities being faced by frontline workers battling Covid-19.
With a record number of Australians infected with Covid-19 over the summer and a new subvariant of Omicron emerging, some people may be wondering - can I get infected again? Laura Murphy-Oates speaks to medical editor Melissa Davey about the Omicron variant, immunity, and the best way to prevent reinfection
From questionable Covid treatments to life-saving inventions and discoveries about the natural world – medical editor Melissa Davey and science writer Donna Lu talk to Laura Murphy-Oates about the best and worst science stories of 2021
Motivated by her lifelong dream of becoming a filmmaker, Melissa Davey made a pivotal career and life change at the age of 65. After a successful career in disabilities advocacy and social security law, Melissa decided to pursue her dream of becoming a filmmaker. This dream became a reality in 2018. Melissa's award-winning debut film, Beyond Sixty Project, is a feature length documentary about women over the age of 60. Melissa's first career included representing over 1000 people before the social security administration. In 1994 she was recruited by the for profit company GENEX, where she built the company's social security advocacy program, and developed a consistent national program for disability case management as well as return to work programs for the disabled. She was also a Former Executive with 35 years of experience in Social Security Disability Law and Case Management. Melissa served as Director and Vice President of Community Connections and Community Workshop What You Will Hear in This Episode: Melissa personal story and how she arrived where she is today Developing independence and resilience The incident that sparked Melissa's transformation from executive to filmmaker Lessons learned The continuing relevance of women as they age and how important their stories are to share with the world, especially the younger generation How working on the film changed Melissa's life Advice for middle-life women who want to make a big career change but worry that it's too late Quotes “We all experience the fear factor all the time.” “You can jump through fear and get where you want to go.” “It is the age that allows you to take more chances.” “It feels younger to be so engaged in something new.” “It's never too late.” “Try new things, go down different paths, meet new people and keep your eyes open because when you are on that dark road, you have no idea what might be there waiting for you.” Mentioned: www.beyondsixty.com https://bonniemarcusleadership.com/ Gendered Ageism Survey Results Forbes article 5 Tips to own the superpower of your age Not Done Yet! Not Done Yet! Amazon Bonniemarcusleadership.com The Politics of Promotion Fb @Bonnie.Marcus LinkedIn: @Bonniemarcus Twitter: @selfpromote IG: @self_promote_
The Omicron variant of Covid has prompted governments around the world to reintroduce border restrictions, with Australia shutting the border to southern Africa and delaying the reopening date for international students and visa holders. The federal government has called for calm, describing the variant as ‘manageable', but what do we actually know about it? Laura Murphy-Oates speaks to medical editor Melissa Davey about what scientists have discovered so far about Omicron and our evolving approach to combating Covid variants
Booster shots and rapid antigen testing are part of the next phase of Australia's pandemic response, but what role will they play, and how effective are they? Medical editor Melissa Davey explains to Laura Murphy-Oates
The AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine has been linked with a rare blood-clotting condition called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS). But in Australia, the death rates from this condition have been much lower than overseas. Medical editor Melissa Davey explains to Laura Murphy-Oates how a team of specialists including Dr Vivien Chen drastically reduced deaths from the condition.
For their 39th podcast, "A Labor of Love - Melissa Davey's Film Release," Kyra and Sandy are excited to speak with a former guest Melissa Davey, who recently released her film "Beyond Sixty" to rave reviews. This is a dream come true for Melissa, who had no prior film experience. At age 70, she is on to her next movie production!
In the conclusion of the series on aging, host Emily Morgan talks with filmmaker Dana Glaser, who has written and directed A Case of Blue, a story of an aging man who contemplates a series of second chances and finds a clearer view of himself in the process. (Photo: Tom Hussey) EPISODE NOTES Our extraordiary cover art for this episode comes from a photo series about reflecting on our younger selves by Dallas photographer Tom Hussey. See the series at tomhussey.com. Dana's movie is available at https://www.acaseofblue.com. An earlier film of his that was mentioned is "The Evolution of Dad," a 2010 documentary about fatherhood in the U.S. It's available on DVD or online stream (vimeo.com/ondemand.evolutionofdad). Congrats to Melissa Davey on her film Beyond Sixty, now widely available on demand through both TV and Internet services. For more info see https://www.beyondsixtyproject.com/watch-nowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Laura Murphy-Oates speaks to David Marr and Melissa Davey about the high court decision that quashed George Pell's child sexual abuse convictions
The cardinal has failed in his attempt to overturn his conviction for child sexual abuse crimes. Why did two judges reject his appeal and why did the third judge disagree? David Marr and Melissa Davey discuss the case and consider what happens now for George Pell Victim advocates cheer as Pell appeal rejected: ‘Hallelujah – proof there is a God' David Marr: At the verdict George Pell didn't flinch; he just pursed his lips a little. He was going back to jail How to listen to podcasts: everything you need to know
Over two days in Melbourne, lawyers put to the Victorian court of appeal arguments about whether George Pell's convictions should be put aside. David Marr and Melissa Davey highlight the most interesting discussions from the court and ask some key questions: did Pell's defence fail because his team argued it was impossible for the crimes to be committed? Did the prosecution fail to sing the praises of the role of the jury? What must the three judges be thinking? • David Marr: after a train wreck of a day, George Pell's fate hinges on alibi evidence
In an extraordinary sitting of the county court of Victoria, chief judge Peter Kidd sat and delivered a detailed sentence to George Pell for the five counts of child sexual abuse he had been found guilty of. Melissa Davey tells David Marr why this was a ‘masterclass' verdict and brings us the personal accounts of those harmed by Pell's crimes. Read the judge's full sentencing remarks here David Marr: George Pell's jailing defies the might of Rome but his fall is too appalling for celebration
In 2018 George Pell found himself in a Melbourne courtroom facing five charges of child sexual abuse. The cardinal had hired one of the top defence barristers in the state, who argued that what Pell was accused of was completely impossible. But at the end of the trial Pell sat impassively as in a hushed courtroom he was found guilty of all charges. How did he lose this case? Melissa Davey sat in on the trial and tells David Marr the details only someone who was in the courtroom would know • David Marr: Brutal and dogmatic, George Pell waged war on sex – even as he abused children • Follow live updates on the reaction to Pell's conviction
David Marr and Melissa Davey examine the response to the royal commission's final report which was made public on 15 December, including the reaction from senior figures in the Catholic church. The story includes powerful testimony about the long-term impact of abuse from a man who suffered severe sexual and physical assault in a Christian Brothers school, John Hennessey. Warning: some of the material in this podcast is explicit and upsetting The Reckoning, part 1: the road to the commission The Reckoning, part 2: the appalling truth
David Marr and Melissa Davey follow the royal commission into institutional responses to child sexual abuse – from the hearings in Ballarat in Victoria, ground zero of Australia's abuse scandal, to a powerful final gathering in Sydney. The story includes evidence from Australia's most notorious child abuser, Gerald Ridsdale, and his victims. Warning: some of the material in this podcast is explicit and upsetting The Reckoning, part 1: the road to the commission Royal commission delivers its final report