Living Your Best Encore: Tracy Jovolos

What was your previous job/career, and how many years did you dedicate to it? Would you be open to sharing your age?

My previous career was in Information Technology and Strategic Planning. I'm 62 now and fully embracing the privilege of getting older. I've shifted into what I like to call my creative reinvention phase — creating another life story that begins after 60.

 I've discovered that it doesn't matter what our careers were. At this age, no one cares what you used to do — they care about what you're doing now. At my 40th high school reunion, no one asked about my work history. It's like we've all stepped onto a new, level playing field — incredibly freeing.

 What sparked your current journey—whether you’re still working, enjoying retirement, or embracing a “second act? 

My journey was sparked when I was around 40, watching how people treated my Aunt Audrey as she got older. It opened my eyes to the subtle — and not-so-subtle — ways aging can make people feel invisible. A friend and I started developing a documentary on aging, but without the right skills or experience, it stalled. And when we asked older adults if they’d watch a documentary about aging, many said, “Why would I want to watch something depressing like that?” 

Years later, that stuck with me. What if I made it a comedy series instead of a documentary? That’s when I began developing three different comedy series concepts, each exploring a different stage of older adulthood.

What was the defining moment that led you here?

The defining moment that led me here was when I spoke with a development manager at a production company a year ago. She encouraged me to focus on After Work — the series that speaks directly to people over 50, especially those approaching or navigating retirement. It was a lightbulb moment. This demographic is the largest — and most overlooked — in North America. And this particular stage of life is rich with untold stories, reinvention, humour, and heart.

That conversation was the turning point. It confirmed what I already felt: this time of life deserves to be seen, understood, and celebrated.

And the best part? My friends and I are living this stage right now — with all the surprises, struggles, laughter, and growth that come with it. I believe this makes me highly qualified to tell these stories — because I'm not imagining them... I'm living them.

What is one powerful lesson you learned later in life that you wish you could have whispered to your younger self?

Choose your partner wisely — it will be the most important decision you ever make.

I wish I could have whispered to my younger self, “Marry someone who is your biggest champion.” After years of unhappiness and a ten-year divorce, I realized how much time I had lost trying to make the wrong relationship work. I’ve since shared this lesson with my kids, and watching them choose partners who truly support them has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

I won’t waste any more of mine — and I’d tell my younger self: don’t wait to value your own happiness.

Please complete this sentence:  The thing I value most about where I am in life right now is...

My autonomy.

What I value most about where I am in life right now is the freedom to live boldly and purposefully. I’ve shed the shackles of youth and stepped into a phase where I’m no longer chasing approval — I’m focused on impact. That freedom gave me the courage to create After Work, a comedy series that shines a light on aging and aims to squash ageism by reflecting real stories of older adults. I’m using my voice, experience, and creativity to help others have a better aging experience — and I’ve never felt more energized.

Tracy Jovolos, Creator, known for her zest for life and bold spirit, is passionate about reshaping how society views aging. A former IT and strategic planning professional, she entered the entertainment industry as an outsider to create After Work, a comedy series that challenges ageism and offers a vibrant perspective on life after retirement. Choosing humour and television to reach a wide audience, Tracy aims to overturn outdated stereotypes and inspire those who still have much to contribute.

Based in North Vancouver—the setting for her series—Tracy is also developing 50 Something and Above Ground. A mother of two adult daughters, she champions the idea that life is far from over. Tracy inspires others to embrace this mindset through both her creative work and her advocacy. Passionate about social justice for older adults, she spent five years volunteering as a care home companion. She’s also a dedicated environmental advocate, focusing especially on combating litter and pollution.

To read more about Tracy and her series, you can read the article further detailing her journey in The National Post.

Check out all our Living Your Best Encore series guests here!