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What does it look like to begin a completely new chapter of life—and even find a new home—in Maine later in life?

In this episode of Elegant Maine Living, host Elise Kiely sits down with Karen Nelson, a former healthcare executive who spent decades working in Boston’s leading academic medical systems, including Dana Farber and Mass General Brigham systems, before choosing to design a new lifestyle in Maine.

After being widowed, Karen met her partner Richard during the COVID pandemic. Together they made the thoughtful decision to begin again—building a relationship, choosing a new home, and creating a shared lifestyle rooted in the values they care about most.

But this conversation goes beyond career. It explores the deeply personal experience of reinvention, connection, and the courage to create a new life in Maine.

For anyone curious about relocating to Maine, designing a lifestyle around community, or finding the right Maine home in a new stage of life, Karen’s story offers thoughtful insight and inspiration.

What You'll Hear in This Episode

• Karen’s career journey in healthcare leadership and regulatory administration
• Why intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning shaped Karen’s professional path
• Dating and building a relationship later in life
• Meeting her partner Richard during the COVID pandemic
• A memorable first date walking for hours along the Charles River in Boston
• Why they chose to start fresh instead of moving into one another’s homes
• How they began imagining a shared future and lifestyle beyond Boston
• The early conversations that ultimately led them to consider homes and lifestyle opportunities in Maine

A Conversation About Reinvention and the Maine Lifestyle

Karen’s story reflects something many people quietly experience: reaching a moment when careers evolve, children grow, relationships change, and the question becomes—what does the next chapter look like?

For Karen and Richard, that question led them to rethink not just where they would live, but what kind of lifestyle they wanted their home to support.

This thoughtful conversation explores the idea that a home is more than a property—it’s a place that supports connection, curiosity, and the life you want to build.

For anyone considering moving to Maine, buying a home in coastal Maine, or designing a lifestyle centered on community and nature, this

Elegant Maine Living explores Maine’s homes, communities, and people—through the lens of lifestyle, values, and thoughtful living. I host conversations with leaders, creators, and advisors who help illuminate what it truly means to live well in Maine.

Connect with Elise

🌐 Website & Listings:EliseKiely.com
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Have Questions or Topic Suggestions, e-mail Elise at

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Please remember this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not create an attorney client or real estate advisor client relationship. Please reach out to me directly if I can assist you in your real estate journey.