In this inspiring episode of the Holistic Wealth podcast, our special guest is Joy Fox, an 89-year-old solo traveler whose remarkable story has captivated audiences worldwide. Joy’s journey, which began with heartbreak and resilience with a broken engagement, has been featured as one of the BBC’s top travel stories of 2024. Written by Mia Taylor— a former guest of the Holistic Wealth podcast herself—this story chronicles Joy’s incredible adventures and a lifetime of overcoming challenges.
Living Through World War II
The turbulence of World War II marked Joy Fox’s childhood. Growing up in England, Joy and her family endured constant bombings under Hitler's regime. They were forced to move from house to house to evade danger, often living in one bedroom in fear and uncertainty, these formative years instilled in her a profound sense of resilience. Resources were scarce, and survival was paramount, leaving an indelible mark on how she perceived financial security. Please tune in to this inspiring episode of the Holistic Wealth podcast and discover how Joy continues to inspire generations with her boundless spirit and zest for life in this episode on: Holistic Wealth and Breaking Barriers at Age 89: Solo Travel with World War II Survivor, Joy Fox.
Resources Used In This Episode:
- Holistic Wealth Expanded and Updated: 36 Life Lessons to Help You Recover from Disruption, Find Your Life Purpose and Achieve Financial Freedom.
- Holistic Wealth Personal Workbook
- Personal Financial Identity Quiz
- Trauma of Money Certification Program
The Move From England to Canada
After the war, Joy emigrated from England to Canada, determined to create a new life. There, she met her husband, who became her partner in rebuilding not only their finances but also her trust in abundance. Through his encouragement, Joy began to reframe her relationship with money, gradually healing from the trauma of her wartime experiences. In this episode, Joy also discussed how she took an early retirement from the Ontario Public Service and started her own business. Joy created CansPEP, the Canadian Society of Professional Event Planners out of a need to gather independent planning professionals as a strong group of entrepreneurs.
Selling Her Engagement Ring
Joy’s journey as a solo traveler began in the most unexpected way: selling her engagement ring after a broken relationship. At just 20 years old, she took the proceeds and embarked on her first trip, traveling from her small village in Wivenhoe, England, to Italy. That journey sparked a lifelong passion for exploration, one that has taken her to countless destinations across the globe.
Today, Joy’s adventurous spirit remains undeterred. Her solo travels and unrelenting curiosity earned her the prestigious JourneyWoman Evelyn Hannon Award for Solo Travel, celebrating her as a trailblazer for women over 50. As a child, Joy recalled the stories her mother had shared of her voyages to Egypt, China and India with Fox's father, who was a Pipe Major with the Royal Scots. Fox's older brother Alan had often talked of his trips to Venice and the beauty of the city. With those bits. For her 90th birthday this year, Joy has planned another major trip to celebrate this milestone.
Taking the Holistic Wealth Personal Financial Identity Quiz
Joy recently took the Personal Financial Identity Quiz on the Institute on Holistic Wealth website and identified as a Minimalist - which aligned perfectly with how she has lived her life. For Joy, the quiz reaffirmed the importance of financial resilience and mindful spending, lessons she’s carried with her since her wartime upbringing
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