Redefining Aging and Purpose: How Dr. Deborah Heiser Is Turning Generativity Into a Global Movement
On this episode of The Breakout, we dive into the misunderstood and often overlooked gifts of aging with Dr. Deborah Heiser, psychologist, award-winning researcher, and founder of The Mentor Project. We explore how embracing the emotional trajectory of aging—not just the physical one—can lead to greater fulfillment, purpose, and legacy. Listen to the episode here.
In a world obsessed with youth and peak performance, Dr. Heiser flips the script with compelling research and real-life stories. She introduces us to the concept of generativity, a life stage centered on giving back, mentoring, and meaning-making and shows us how it holds the key to lasting fulfillment and impact.
Meet Dr. Deborah Heiser: A New Voice for Aging and Generativity
Dr. Heiser is a developmental psychologist, TEDx speaker, and Thinkers50 Radar honoree who has spent decades studying aging, emotional well-being, and human development. Through her nonprofit, The Mentor Project, she connects world-class mentors with mentees across the globe, building legacy and impact through mentorship, volunteering, and philanthropy.
Follow Deborah on LinkedIn to learn more about her work on redefining what it means to grow older with purpose.
Generativity: The Breakout Stage We’ve Been Missing in Leadership and Life
Most of us see aging as a decline. But Dr. Heiser’s research reveals something radically different: while our physical peak may be behind us, our emotional trajectory keeps rising. Emotional maturity, clarity, and a desire to contribute all increase as we age, and that’s where generativity lives.
She explains that generativity, a term coined by psychologist Erik Erikson, is a developmental milestone where people shift from individual achievement to purpose-driven contribution. This is when many begin to mentor, volunteer, and engage in philanthropy, finding deeper meaning in life beyond success or status.
The Mentor Project was born from this insight. It’s not just about career transitions, it’s about personal transformation. When older professionals give their time, experience, and wisdom freely, they not only build others up but also reclaim their relevance and joy.
Emotional Fulfillment Through Meaning-Making
Dr. Heiser shares that aging becomes emotionally fulfilling when we stop chasing superficial benchmarks and start embracing what gives us meaning. Whether it’s teaching STEM to kids, mentoring young professionals, or volunteering in your community, aging offers a new phase of personal growth.
Her mission is to change the narrative around aging and to remind us that we matter, more, not less, as we mature.
Strategies for Leadership and Life: How to Embrace Generativity
If you’re in your 40s or beyond, it might be time to ask yourself:
- What have I always wanted to do but never had time for?
- How can I give back in a way that feels meaningful?
- What would legacy look like for me?
Deborah encourages listeners to:
- Explore mentoring or volunteering opportunities (check out The Mentor Project)
- Join community organizations like Rotary Clubs or local chambers
- Shift from achievement-based identities to impact-based living
She also highlights the importance of connection, warning that isolation, especially in later years, undermines emotional health and purpose. Generativity, then, becomes not just a leadership trait but a lifesaving one.
Guest’s Inspiring Takeaways
- Generativity is real and measurable. The Mentor Project has donated over $3.5 million worth of mentorship hours across 5 countries.
- Giving back isn’t reserved for retirement. It starts with a single action, mentoring a student, helping a peer, or volunteering locally.
- Your life’s purpose may just be one bold question away: “What have you always wanted to do, but never gave yourself permission to try?”
Summary & Reflection
Dr. Deborah Heiser’s episode is a masterclass in emotional intelligence, leadership, and legacy-building. By reframing aging as a time of exponential emotional growth, Deborah gives us permission to dream, contribute, and matter more than ever before.
If you’re navigating change, feeling stuck in midlife, or wondering what’s next, this conversation is your call to action.
Listen to The Breakout on our website for more from Dr. Deborah Heiser
You’ll hear:
- Why emotional growth increases with age
- How to give back in ways that feel authentic
- The science behind meaning-making and fulfillment
About The Breakout Podcast
Dive into transformative tales of personal growth with The Breakout podcast by Abbracci Group’s thought leaders, Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther. Join them bi-weekly as they chat with inspiring guests who offer practical insights on breaking boundaries, boosting confidence, and living boldly. Subscribe today to listen to our upcoming episodes filled with inspiration, motivation, and practical advice to help you unleash your full potential! Join our Breakout community
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