Episode #316: Sandra Beck Certainty Is a Comfort—“Maybe” Is a Strategy: Navigating Uncertainty with Allison Carmen

Most people spend a surprising amount of energy trying to eliminate uncertainty. Allison Carmen argues that’s the wrong goal. On this episode of Coach Talk Radio, Sandra Beck sits down with Allison Carmen, author of The Gift of Maybe and A Year Without Men, to examine how our need for certainty quietly shapes our decisions, habits, and even our stress levels. From binge-watching familiar TV reruns to rigid routines that give us a sense of control, we often default to what feels predictable—even when it keeps us stuck. This conversation takes a different approach. Instead of trying to control every outcome, Allison introduces the concept of “maybe” as a tool—one that creates space for possibility, reduces anxiety, and helps you move forward without needing all the answers upfront. Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, a relationship shift, or just the daily uncertainty of life, this episode offers a more realistic way to think about the unknown. Not as something to eliminate, but something to work with. For additional resources, explore AARP at aarp.org/CoachTalk and take advantage of the exclusive listener offer from Magnesium Breakthrough at magbreakthrough.com/coachtalk using code COACHTALK. Listen to Coach Talk Radio on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.