Refire, Don’t Retire: Igniting Passion in Life’s Next Chapter A Conversation with Dr. Cynthia Barnett

Welcome to a new episode of ABWilson’s Heart of the Matter, the podcast where we explore extraordinary stories through a lens of curiosity, positivity and connection.

This week I sat down with Dr. Cynthia Barnett; educator, author, lifelong learner and joyful advocate for second acts. With warmth and candor, Dr. Barnett shares how enthusiasm, determination and a love of learning have guided her life, from earning a doctorate after an initial exam setback to helping others discover fresh purpose later in life. 

Cynthia reflects on the daily practices that keep her grounded: early mornings, a decades-long gratitude journal, sunrise walks by the ocean and simple, consistent self-care. She speaks openly about navigating divorce and rebuilding with creativity and resolve, revealing how persistence, problem-solving and faith in possibility can carry us through the hardest seasons. 

Her impact stretches from classrooms to community. Cynthia founded Amazing Girls Science and leads Technovation teams, inviting girls to solve real problems with apps and AI while building confidence and teamwork. She also created a movement she calls “Refire, Don’t Retire,” and authored ‘Re-Fire. Don’t Retire’, encouraging people to treat the next chapter as renewal, not retreat. 

Cynthia’s story is also one of joy. She describes her garden as a living canvas and celebrates the small moments, grandchildren picking the first harvest, quiet wins and shared laughter. She now combines travel and teaching as a cruise lecturer, proving that curiosity and service can turn dreams into a way of life. 

Listen to clips from our conversation:

Part 1

Part 2

I’d love to hear your Appreciation Nuggets. Send me an email.

With gratitude,

Aderonke

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