She packed the caravan, took the dog, and didn’t ask for permission. Anne Martin chose aliveness after loss. After the death of her husband, she listened to the quiet voice that said now and travelled Australia solo with her dog Rosie – not to prove anything, but to live.
Confidence didn’t come before the journey. It grew because of it. Anne is a rock and roll dancer, teacher, and founder of Tiny Tappers, a dance group for children with special needs where belonging matters more than perfection.
This episode is about trusting yourself, choosing joy, and stepping forward when life changes shape. Grounded. Brave. Fully alive.
Links & References:
Connect With Anne Martin
Website: https://www.borderrockers.com/
Connect With Jennifer Jefferies
Show Note:
Introductions and Casual Conversation @ 0:00
Jennifer and Anne engage in casual conversation as they set up and test the recording equipment. They discuss the purpose of the meeting, which is for an informal chat, and ensure the technical aspects are working properly.
Anne’s Solo Caravan Adventure @ 5:00
After the passing of her husband, Anne decided to fulfill their dream of traveling to New South Wales. Despite initial hesitation, she listened to her intuition and set out on a solo road trip with her dog Rosie. Anne shares how she overcame her fears, learned new skills, and found a sense of freedom and confidence through the journey.
The Impact of Anne’s Story @ 9:11
Anne’s story of solo travel was featured in a local publication, inspiring other women to embark on similar adventures. She shares how she creatively addressed safety concerns, like using a makeshift “passenger” in the car, which ended up resonating with readers and encouraging more women to explore solo travel.
The Joys of Dancing @ 20:26
Anne discusses her lifelong passion for dancing, which she shared with her late husband. She explains how dancing has been a source of joy, confidence, and community for her, and how she now teaches dance classes with her new partner, Trevor. Jennifer and Anne reflect on the physical, mental, and social benefits of dancing.
Founding Tiny Tappers @ 25:35
Anne shares her experience of founding the Tiny Tappers dance group for children with special needs in Townsville. She describes how she initially struggled to adapt her teaching approach, but ultimately found great fulfillment in creating a space for the children to express themselves through music and movement.
Advice for Women Seeking Courage @ 32:06
Anne encourages women who may be doubting themselves to listen to their intuition and take the first step, even if it feels risky. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief and not overthinking, and shares how her own journey has taught her to trust her gut and embrace new experiences.