E118 How Cancer and Divorce Led One Woman to Her Life’s Purpose

What happens when the life you’ve built looks picture-perfect from the outside, but inside you’re struggling with depression, misalignment, and major life challenges like illness and heartbreak?

In this episode of The Midlife Purpose Project, Erica Carrico shares her deeply personal journey from being a free-spirited traveler to building a corporate career in Sydney—a life that left her battling depression despite its shiny exterior. After a doctor encouraged her to reevaluate her path instead of relying solely on medication, she discovered life coaching and uncovered her true calling.

But Erica’s path to purpose was anything but linear. Along the way, she faced skepticism from her family about starting a coaching business while planning for her own family, took a nonprofit management role that felt misaligned, endured a painful divorce, and even battled cancer. Each challenge tested her resolve, but ultimately brought her closer to her dharma—her soul’s purpose.

✨ In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Why outward success can still feel empty if it’s not aligned with your soul.
  • How a cancer diagnosis and divorce became catalysts for Erica’s transformation.
  • What it takes to leave behind cultural, family and corporate expectations and step into purpose.
  • Why listening to your inner voice—especially in life’s hardest seasons—can change everything.
  • How realigning with your soul’s purpose is a practice, not a destination.

Erica’s story is a reminder that even in the midst of heartbreak, illness, and uncertainty, it’s possible to realign with your true self and live a life of meaning.

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