2025 40 Over 40 Series: Michele Woodberry

“No matter the season of life, I’ve learned that resilience, determination, and a positive spirit can carry you further than talent or luck ever could.“

 

Michele’s story:

I am a retired teacher and coach with a lifelong dedication to education, mentorship, and personal growth. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from Mississippi State University and have spent my career inspiring students both in the classroom and on the track. Passionate about fitness, travel, and nurturing relationships, I continue to lead an active and fulfilling life surrounded by family and friends. Guided by my personal motto, “Never quit—always persevere,” my resilience, determination, and a steadfast commitment to living with purpose continues in my retirement life.

 

What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? 

In my 40’s, some of the most rewarding moments came from watching the seeds I had planted in my earlier years begin to blossom—both professionally and personally. As a teacher and coach, I had the privilege of seeing my students grow into confident, capable individuals, and I took pride in knowing I played a role in their journeys. As a mother of 3 and a grandmother of 1, I had the privilege of seeing my kids become confident and capable young adults and my granddaughter grown into a smart, beautiful little girl ready to take on Kindergarten. My 40’s also brought deeper family connections and a greater appreciation for the balance between work, health, and personal fulfillment. Traveling, staying active, and nurturing friendships became vital sources of joy. However, this decade wasn’t without its challenges. Navigating career demands while managing personal responsibilities required resilience, and I faced moments of self-doubt and fatigue. Still, I met those hurdles head-on, relying on my guiding belief: Never quit—always persevere. Those years shaped me into a stronger, more grounded version of myself.

What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?

My 40’s has been my favorite decade to live through because it marked a season of renewal, reflection, and deep personal fulfillment. At the end of my 40’s after years of dedicating myself to teaching and coaching, I stepped into retirement with a heart full of gratitude and a new sense of freedom. The past year has allowed me to reconnect with myself and the people I love—spending more time with family and friends, exploring new places through travel, and prioritizing my health and fitness. It was a time of letting go of the fast pace of professional life and embracing slower, more meaningful moments. There were certainly challenges—adjusting to a new rhythm, navigating a rapidly changing world, and finding new purpose outside of my career—but I met them with the same perseverance that carried me through every stage of life. This decade reminded me that growth doesn’t stop when work ends; it just takes a new form.

If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?

If given the opportunity, I would worry less and trust the process more. Looking back, there were times—especially in my career and personal life—when I let doubt or fear of the unknown weigh heavier than necessary. I was always driven to do my best, but sometimes I forgot to pause and simply enjoy the moment. If I could do it differently, I would give myself more grace, take more chances without overthinking, and believe more fully that everything would work out in time. Life has taught me that growth comes not just from doing, but from being—being present, being open, and being kind to yourself along the way.

What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by? 

The top life lesson I have never forgotten—and have lived by—is this: “Never quit—always persevere.” Life will test you in unexpected ways, whether through career challenges, personal losses, or moments of doubt, but perseverance has always been my anchor. As a mother, teacher, and coach, I saw firsthand the power of pushing through adversity, and I tried to model that strength for my children, students, and athletes. That mindset carried me through tough times and helped me celebrate the good ones with even more gratitude. No matter the season of life, I’ve learned that resilience, determination, and a positive spirit can carry you further than talent or luck ever could.

What has bought you the most joy in your life? 

As a mother of three, a grandmother of one, and a retired teacher and coach, the greatest joy in life has come from witnessing the growth and journeys of my children and grandchild. There is a deep, unmatched fulfillment in watching my children become the individuals they were meant to be—navigating life with resilience, courage, and purpose. Welcoming a granddaughter has brought a whole new kind of love, one that fills my heart with wonder and love. The relationships I’ve built over the years, both in my family and through teaching and coaching, have been incredibly meaningful. Knowing that I played a part in shaping young minds, inspiring confidence, and helping others discover their potential has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. Some of the most joyful moments, though, are the simplest ones—rocking my granddaughter to sleep, sharing laughter around the dinner table, or simply sitting in quiet contentment with those I love. These moments, filled with presence and connection, have brought me the deepest sense of peace and happiness.

What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?

Working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as part of the 40 Over 40 Project was an incredibly empowering and transformative experience. It was not just about capturing a moment in time through photography—it was about embracing the beauty, strength, and wisdom that come with age. Brandi has a unique ability to make you feel comfortable, confident, and seen, which allowed me to reflect on the journey I’ve had and all the growth I’ve experienced over the years. The project itself was a celebration of women over 40, showcasing our diverse stories and achievements. It felt like a true honor to be part of such a powerful initiative, reminding me of the importance of self-expression, self-love, and celebrating where we are in life, no matter our age.

 

 

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You are more beautiful than you know!

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Much love,

Brandi

International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer

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Brandi Stage is an international award-winning portrait photographer based in Bay St. Louis, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.