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At Brave Starts, we’re always inspired by the journeys of our members — people who’ve built rich professional lives and are now looking to rediscover purpose, confidence, and connection in midlife.
Denise’s story perfectly captures the essence of what our community is all about.
🎥 Watch Denise’s story on YouTube: Why Denise loves Brave Starts and what you can expect when you join our community
Finding Brave Starts at a Crossroads
“I actually came across Brave Starts by accident,” Denise says with a smile. “I think I heard about it on a podcast — possibly the Working It one — and it just really resonated.”
At the time, Denise had been running her own business for around 15 years. “I was at a bit of a crossroads,” she explains. “I’d built something successful, but I was starting to wonder what was next. I was curious — where do people like me hang out? And that’s how I found Brave Starts.”
Discovering a Supportive and Curious Community
What struck Denise first was the community. “There’s a regular group that meets, and it’s such a safe space,” she says. “Wherever you are on your career journey — whether you’re thinking about what’s next, feeling uncertain, or battling that voice that says, I’m too old — you realise you’re not alone.”
Being able to connect with others who understand that experience has been powerful. “You meet people like you,” she explains. “That sense of identification is something that’s hard to find elsewhere.”
Structure, Support, and New Friendships
Beyond the community, Denise says the structured approach at Brave Starts stood out. “There’s a really clear framework, and a lot of expertise behind it,” she notes. “Some of it confirmed things I already knew, but much of it opened my eyes to things I hadn’t considered.”
She also didn’t expect the friendships that would form along the way. “I’ve had virtual coffees with other members — sharing advice, swapping stories, and just supporting each other. It’s been such a lovely bonus.”
A Confidence Boost — and a New Perspective
Reflecting on her progress, Denise says the transformation has been surprising. “If you’d asked me in December what my confidence was like, I’d have said it was pretty high,” she laughs. “But now, it’s at a completely different level. Brave Starts helped me realise that age really is just a number — and that I still have so much more to give.”
A One-Stop Hub for Career Change in Midlife
In Denise’s words:
“If you want a supportive network, access to high-quality information, and a one-stop shop for career change later in life — Brave Starts is the place to go. It’s all here.”
About Brave Starts
At Brave Starts, we’re a non-profit membership organisation supporting midlife professionals to make meaningful career changes and move forward with purpose.
Our coaching workshops, masterclasses, and online and in-person events are designed to help you find clarity, take control, and build a network of like-minded peers.
As a non-profit, we put member needs first — designing everything based on real evidence of what works.
Our members are mainly professionals in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who are curious, open-minded, and ambitious for themselves.
👉 Learn more at www.bravestarts.com
