PENELOPE MATHIESON

I am driven, endlessly curious, and deeply committed to giving back.

 

At the height of an accomplished corporate career, my passion shifted. Volunteer work wasn’t just fulfilling – it was calling me to something greater. I took a leap, joined the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and transitioned into the nonprofit sector. I never looked back. Helping others has always been my greatest joy.

 

Now, my latest passion is NEXT CHPTR CHATS™ – not just a podcast, but a movement. A lifeline for women stepping into the unknown, searching for meaning beyond the careers that once defined them.

 

At 70, I’ve felt the sting of ageism: the unspoken message that my experience holds less value. But I refuse to accept that. Purpose doesn’t retire. We still have so much to give.

 

Retirement sounds like freedom, until reality sets in. The structured days disappear. Social circles fade. Purpose? Suddenly missing. What now?

 

That’s where volunteering comes in. Giving back fills the void, offering joy, connection, and renewed purpose. Meanwhile, charities – especially post-pandemic – need us as much as we need them. NEXT CHPTR CHATS™ bridges that gap, helping women reignite our  purpose while making a real impact.

 

But this is about more than purpose. We’re also tackling a critical issue: access to healthcare for mature women. No one warns you about the unexpected changes your body and mind will face. The things you once took for granted now demand attention, and navigating the system can feel impossible.