Ep. 16 Starting Stand‑Up After Fifty: Mandy Scotney Goes All In
Earlier this year, I sat in the audience at a women’s comedy line‑up and realised something confronting: I didn’t see myself anywhere on that stage, and I left wondering, “Where are all the comedians over 50?” So I went searching and came across new comedian, academic and “hobby hard” enthusiast Mandy Scotney.
In this episode, I talk with Mandy about how she found her way into stand‑up in her mid‑50s, reclaimed her childhood dream of being on stage, and began turning stories she once felt ashamed of into material that lands powerfully with audiences.
She shares her journey to being selected for the Sydney Comedy Festival’s Fresh program with her debut show “Married For Six Weeks”, all while juggling a PhD and work in mental health and business.
Underneath the laughs, this is a conversation about visibility, ageism and refusing to shrink as you grow older. It’s about deciding that you’re not “too old,” that your voice matters, and that joy, curiosity and self‑expression are valid reasons to try something bold, whether or not it ever becomes a career.
Also covered:
What it really takes to start something completely new in your mid‑50s—and why joy is a good enough reason to begin
How Mandy thinks about “hard hobbies” and why doing things for love, not outcomes, can change how we approach this stage of life
The realities of late‑night open mics, tough crowds and learning to fail in public without letting perfectionism take over
Turning a six‑week marriage and other painful stories into comedy that connects deeply with audiences and helps others feel less alone
Why visibility for women over fifty matters, how ageism shows up, and what it means to refuse to shrink as you grow older
Keywords
Women over 50, comedy, life transitions, storytelling, representation, curiosity, resilience, personal growth, mental health, new adventures
Guest: Mandy Scotney
Web - www.mandyscotney.com
Instagram - @mandy_scotney
Email - mandy@mandyscotney.com
A message from me:
I offer one-on-one coaching, small-group programs and a monthly online discussion group to support women navigating career and life changes. If you’re at a crossroads and want to create your own path and truly flourish – on your own terms, get in touch: https://www.flourishafterfifty.com.au/contact-us
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