Why do we save our favorite things for “someday” that never comes? In this episode, host Dara Levan sits down with author and former magazine editor Susan Kleinman to explore how we can stop playing it safe and start building a life filled with everyday joy. From the decision to paint her home office purple to the deeper lesson learned from her mother-in-law’s unworn sweaters, Susan shares her philosophy on choosing color, authenticity, and presence over the dull safety of “beige.”Susan also discusses her debut novel, All Afternoon, and its themes of self-deception and the price of staying stagnant. Together, they tackle the messy realities of midlife, finding gratitude during times of war, and why being honest with yourself is the key to a truly authentic life. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a rut, this conversation is the wake-up call you need to start wearing the good jewelry today. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Painting walls purple for joy 3:44 - Dara’s red bathroom story 4:40 - Susan’s collection of 35 glasses 6:18 - The lesson of saved sweaters 9:40 - The story of MJ Rose & jewelry 12:07 - Susan’s father’s Parkinson’s gratitude 17:22 - Life is all the things at once 25:24 - The origin of “All Afternoon” 29:18 - The price of growth vs. stagnation 33:53 - Being honest with yourself 40:35 - The truth about motherhood 45:42 - Where to find Susan Kleinman 46:09 - Outro RESOURCES: Susan's Website: <a href="https://www.susankleinman.com/">SusanKleinman.com</a>Susan on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/susan_kleinman/">@susan_kleinman</a>Susan on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/susankleinman">Susan Kleinman</a> (look for the banner with her book) Dara Levan / Every Soul Has a Story: •    https://www.instagram.com/dara.levan/ •    Website: daralevan.com

Finding Radiance in the Messy Middle of Life | Susan Kleinman

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