If you’ve ever felt caught off guard by aging or unsure how to rebuild after loss, episode 398 of the Grief and Happiness podcast is for you. Author and artist J.J. Hubal shares the moment she “woke up old” and how that shock—combined with deep grief—pushed her to rethink her life. Through candid stories and her signature humor, she reveals how small, brave steps and saying “yes” can spark unexpected renewal. Her journey shows that your next chapter can begin at any age.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
(01:22) J.J.’s journey as a writer, artist, and teacher
(05:23) How deep loss in her 60s sparked Goodbye Old, Hello Bold
(08:51) Why aging can feel sudden—and why honesty helps
(11:32) The turning point that made her ask, “Now what?”
(14:10) How saying “yes” creates new possibilities at any age
(17:27) Why tiny steps matter more than big dramatic changes
(21:41) How creativity and community rebuilt her confidence
(24:52) The power of stepping outside your comfort zone
(29:41) How keeping your “pilot light” lit fuels renewal
(33:54) What happens when you keep showing up anyway
(36:27) Why embracing aging unlocks untapped potential
J.J. Hubal is a lifelong writer, artist, and former special education teacher whose work combines gentle humor, honesty, and simple, expressive illustrations. Her book Goodbye Old, Hello Bold grew from her own journey through aging and reinvention, capturing her philosophy of “I write and draw what I live.” Now retired from teaching, she devotes her time to writing and cartooning, offering relatable, uplifting guidance to anyone navigating change or seeking renewed purpose later in life.
In this episode, J.J. shares candid insights on aging, grief, and rebuilding a life when everything familiar seems to fall away. She describes how accumulated loss in her 60s left her feeling directionless, and how writing and drawing became the tools that helped her move forward, one small step at a time. Her reflections highlight the power of saying yes, embracing tiny acts of courage, and recognizing new possibilities even when motivation is low. J.J.’s stories offer listeners a hopeful reminder that meaning, creativity, and connection can flourish at any age when we choose to stay open to what’s next.
Connect with JJ Hubal:
Book: JJ Hubal - A Week at the Beach
Book: JJ Hubal - Living With Your Higher Power
Book: JJ Hubal - Goodbye Old, Hello Bold
Let's Connect:
The Grief and Happiness Alliance
Book: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief
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