In this episode of Beyond 60: Unscripted, Ruth sits down with Fawn Lopez and Tom Schreier, Founding Director of the Inspired Leadership Initiative (ILI) at the University of Notre Dame. The ILI is a unique program for individuals who have completed their career, inviting them to reimagine their next stage of life surrounded by a diverse group of peers and the dynamic Notre Dame community. This conversation was recorded in 2025 while Tom was still leading the program full-time. While he has since stepped away from daily operations, he remains passionate about the ILI’s mission and so has stayed engaged with the program, which is now led by Professor John Duffy.

Whether you're contemplating your next move after a fulfilling career or seeking inspiration for purposeful living beyond 60, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on embracing change and making meaningful contributions in the next phase of life.

Learn about the Inspired Leadership Initiative: https://ili.nd.edu/

Guest Bio:

Tom Schreier is the Founding Director of the Inspired Leadership Initiative at the University of Notre Dame, a program designed to help accomplished professionals pivot into new purpose-driven chapters after their primary careers. Before leading ILI, Tom built an extensive career in finance and investment management, holding leadership roles at Northwest Airlines, Credit Suisse First Boston, Piper Jaffray, FAF Advisors, and Nuveen Investments, where he helped grow assets under management to over $225 billion. He currently serves as Lead Director for Piper Sandler Companies, sits on the Allina Health Board, and remains active in civic and nonprofit leadership. Tom holds a B.A. in economics and German from Notre Dame and an M.B.A. from Harvard University.

Love after 60 can feel equal parts exciting and intimidating, especially if you have been out of the dating world for a while. In this episode of Beyond 60: Unscripted, host Ruth Williams-Brinkley is joined by dating coach Bela Gandhi for a fun, honest conversation about what it really takes to open your heart again in this season of life. Together, they talk about the fears that often show up when you start dating again, how to spot red flags early, why “spark” is not the same thing as compatibility, and how to build confidence through clear boundaries, supportive community, and a plan that keeps you grounded. Bela also shares practical guidance for online dating, profiles and photos, first dates, and how to protect your peace while staying open to possibility. It is a warm, empowering listen timed perfectly for Valentine’s, whether you are partnered, dating, or simply curious about what could be next.

Meet the Guest:

Bela Gandhi is the founder of Smart Dating Academy and a nationally recognized dating and relationship expert. Known for her upbeat, no shame approach, Bela helps people date with clarity, avoid common pitfalls like ghosting and red flags, and find healthy relationships built on real compatibility. She is also the host of the Smart Dating Academy podcast, where she shares advice, client stories, and practical tools for finding love at any age.

Explore Smart Dating Academy: www.smartdatingacademy.com

The Smart Dating Academy Podcast: https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/podcast

In this episode of Beyond 60: Unscripted, we dive into one of the biggest questions we all face—What’s next? Ruth Williams-Brinkley and special guest host Fawn Lopez sit down with executive coach and author Dr. Leslie Braksick, co-founder of MyNextSeason, to explore how to navigate major life and career transitions with intention and joy. Leslie shares expert insights on preparing for life beyond 60, building a meaningful next chapter, and embracing new opportunities. Whether you're planning for retirement, considering a career shift, or simply wondering what your next season might look like, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice. Plus, don’t miss this week’s Silver Lining, a powerful reminder about the role of gratitude in a joyful life. Tune in and get inspired for your next season!

Meet the Guest:

Dr. Leslie Braksick is an executive coach, entrepreneur, and author who has dedicated her career to helping leaders navigate major life and career transitions. As co-founder of MyNextSeason, she works with individuals and companies to ensure that transitions aren’t just successful—but fulfilling. A trusted advisor to Fortune 500 executives, Leslie has also co-authored several influential books on leadership and career reinvention. She serves on multiple boards, including the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and is passionate about helping others find joy and purpose in their next chapter.

Buy Revealing Your Next Season on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Revealing-Your-Next-Season-Transitioning/dp/B0DJSQFS2H/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=

Welcome to the very first episode of Beyond 60: Unscripted! Join host Ruth Williams-Brinkley as she kicks off a bold new conversation about thriving beyond 60. In this episode, Ruth shares her personal journey, discuss why aging today looks nothing like it did for past generations, and reveals the exciting topics ahead—love, health, purpose, reinvention, and so much more! Plus, don’t miss the debut of The Silver Lining, a quick and uplifting tip to help you embrace this vibrant season of life. If you’re ready to rewrite the script on what it means to age, this podcast is for you. Grab your coffee (or wine!), hit play, and let’s get started!

Meet the Host of Beyond 60: Unscripted

Ruth Williams-Brinkley is a former healthcare executive with over 40 years of leadership experience. She served as president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States and previously held CEO roles at Kaiser Permanente Northwest and KentuckyOne Health. Recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Leaders in Healthcare, Ruth now serves on multiple boards and is passionate about helping others navigate life’s next chapter with purpose and vitality.