2025 40 Over 40 Series: Jena Regan
“You can start over at any age and I’m living proof of that. Life will break your heart, test your faith, and hand you loss you don’t think you can survive. But if you keep showing up, you’ll be amazed at what you’re capable of building from the ashes.“
Jena’s story:
You can start over at any age and I’m living proof of that. Life will break your heart, test your faith, and hand you loss you don’t think you can survive. But if you keep showing up, you’ll be amazed at what you’re capable of building from the ashes.
At 22, I earned my Master of Arts in Counseling and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana, later certified to supervise other counselors. I spent decades in healthcare, as a therapist, manager, business development leader, and private practice owner, while serving on boards and strengthening mental health resources in my community.
I wasn’t blessed with children of my own. Something life decided for me but I’ve learned that purpose doesn’t always arrive in the ways we expect. My life’s calling became about helping others heal, creating connection, and pouring love into people wherever I could. In many ways, I’ve been surrounded by family through the friends I’ve gained and the lives I’ve touched along the way.
Life didn’t go as planned. I’ve faced deep loss and long seasons without family to lean on. I didn’t realize how much strength my mom and Papaw had instilled in me until I had no one left to call and had to stand completely on my own. That’s when I discovered that resilience wasn’t something I wished for; it was already in me.
Those losses taught me to forgive, to let go, and to live with gratitude. I laugh every day and try not to take life too seriously. At 52, when many think about slowing down, I started again. I got my real estate license and became a top producer my first month. I now serve as Director of Business Development at a local hospital while growing my real estate business across Mississippi and Louisiana.
I’m also planning to become licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Mississippi and obtain my real estate license in Alabama in the near future. I’ve learned you can do it alone and still live boldly, laugh loudly, and build something beautiful from the ashes.
I’m forever grateful for my mom, who taught me positivity, my Papaw, my hero, who taught me to be gracious, thoughtful, and loyal, my Aunt CC and Ninny, who inspired my love of style and individuality, Maurice, my “adopted dad,” who showed me that family isn’t just blood and taught me punctuality, and my sweet nephew Leighton, whose short life reminds me every day how precious time is.
I couldn’t keep going without my best friends — my biggest supporters who cheer me on, catch me when I stumble, and fill the spaces loss once left behind. I hope I give back to them as much as they give to me. I love the life I’ve built, the peace I’ve found, and the beautiful people I’ve gained along the way. And if you’re in my circle, you already know, don’t bet against me. I don’t burn out easy; I’m a machine when it comes to showing up for the people I care about.
What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges?
This decade has been about freedom, fearlessness, and growth. I’ve built two careers I love, surrounded myself with people who lift me higher, and finally found the peace I spent years chasing. The most rewarding part has been realizing that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. You can start over at 40, 50, or 60 and still win big.
The challenge has been walking through grief while still showing up strong. But it’s also where I found my deepest strength, my sense of gratitude, and my faith that joy always returns if you let it.
What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?
This one, my 50s. I’m stronger, more confident, and more self-assured than I’ve ever been. I laugh louder, love deeper, and care less about what doesn’t matter. I’ve learned that peace isn’t found in perfection, it’s found in knowing who you are and being proud of the life you’ve built.
If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?
Nothing. Every risk, heartbreak, and wrong turn brought me here. I’ve always been a risk-taker, and even the tough lessons made me wiser and stronger. I don’t believe in regret. I believe in growth.
What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by?
You can survive anything and still choose joy. Forgive often, stay thoughtful and loyal, and don’t take life too seriously. Positivity is powerful. Give generously, love fiercely, and never stop fighting for your own beautiful life.
What has bought you the most joy in your life?
The people. My friends who’ve become my chosen family, my mentors and colleagues, and the loved ones I carry in my heart. My mom, Papaw, Aunt CC, Ninny, Maurice, my sweet nephew Leighton and many more continue to bring me joy through the lessons they left behind and the way they shaped my heart.
I find joy in building new things, helping others, and living with purpose and in laughing, every single day.
What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?
Being part of the 40 Over 40 Project was empowering and fun. Brandi has a rare gift. She captures not just how you look, but who you are. She made me feel confident, beautiful, and proud of the woman I’ve become. The experience reminded me that life doesn’t end after 40. It just gets better, bolder, and more real.
You are more beautiful than you know!
To book your own fabulous Portrait Session, contact us through the inquiry form below.
Much love,
Brandi
International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer
Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, 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.