Dr. Tayler Ava Friar returns to the show to share what she’s been up to since our last conversation. She also shares her reflections on living between France and Mexico, the importance of community and sisterhood, and how she plans to age well abroad.

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Meet Dr. Tayler

Dr. Tayler Ava Friar is a TEDx speaker, Fulbright scholar, and international bestselling author whose work bridges art, leadership, and global impact. As the first African American woman to earn a PhD in Art History from the University of Cape Town, she brings a visionary lens shaped by her experience at Google, the United Nations, and the World Bank. On a mission to smash the myth of the “starving artist,” she’s developed an AI tool that makes funding and grant writing more accessible for creatives around the world. Featured in Vogue and Business Insider, Dr. Friar is a captivating storyteller who helps audiences see the power of creativity and culture to transform the way we lead and live.

Dr. Tayler's Original Episode

Connect with Dr. Tayler

Website: www.artunknown.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tayleravafriar
Instagram: www.instagram.com/tayleravafriar
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tayleravafriar
What has changed for you since your last appearance on the podcast?
So much has changed since we last spoke! I completed my PhD and became the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in Art History from the University of Cape Town, which still feels surreal to say. I was also selected as the only postdoctoral Fulbright scholar traveling to Turkey, where I’ll be based in Istanbul in 2025 writing a chapter of my upcoming book. The project explores my calling as an art historian—amplifying Black voices in places you wouldn’t expect to find them—and Istanbul offers such a fascinating lens to discuss Blackness, especially through the life of James Baldwin, who lived there for over a decade and inspired generations of other Black writers seeking creative freedom.

I’ve also signed with a literary agent and am thrilled to be writing my first solo book. And on a totally different but connected note, I’ve just launched an AI tool for grant writing, designed specifically for creatives—artists, writers, nonprofits, and scholars—to help smash the myth of the “starving artist.” As a certified grant writer and Fulbright scholar, I know how crucial funding is, especially now when competition is fierce. This tool makes it easier to access the money that keeps creative work alive. If you’re listening and that sounds like you, follow me on LinkedIn to become an early adopter.

How do you feel about aging abroad?

If at all possible, don’t do it alone. Aging abroad can be such a beautiful experience, but it’s really shaped by the community you build around you. I live in San Miguel de Allende, where almost everyone is significantly older than me, and that’s actually been such a gift. It’s helped me understand what aging well really means—having support, friendship, and a sense of belonging.

To me, aging as a woman means aging in community and staying close to your passions and hobbies. Right now, we’ve had more rain than we’ve seen in five years, and the hills are covered in wildflowers. We do these silent wildflower walks three times a week—it’s such a grounding reminder to be amongst things that free your soul.

And, of course, money and access matter. You want to plan in ways that let you worry less about finances and focus more on the life you’re creating. So, align yourself with environments—and people—that make the journey pleasant and reflect your values. Aging abroad isn’t just about where you live; it’s about how you choose to live.

Reflections on healthcare, beauty, caring for aging parents, empty nesting, or aging transitions?

I’ve gathered my wisdom on beauty and wellness from every country I’ve ever lived in—and I carry it with me like a toolkit for resilience.

In Thailand, I was introduced to Ayurvedic practices and nutrition that felt ancient and intuitive. Years later, when I began experiencing significant hair loss and flare-ups from psoriasis on my scalp and face, it was those remedies—oils, herbs, and mindful nourishment—that helped me find some healing.

In South Africa, I learned about bold, unapologetic beauty. I saw women commit to their look—whether it was a fiery lip or a 30-inch wig to the hips. It wasn’t about trends. It was about pride. Confidence. Declaration. That stayed with me.

France taught me that skincare is sacred. But it’s not just about creams—it’s about ritual, about slowing down enough to let your skin breathe, your spirit rest. And being around older French women reminded me that while beauty might be visible, the soul is what truly speaks.

Now, I’m in a season of transition. Thinking about how I want to age, where I want to live, and how I’ll care for both myself and my family. I’ve seen what it looks like to retire without a safety net, and I know I want a different future. I want the freedom to not have to work—and the means to support the ones I love.

That’s why healthcare is non-negotiable. I’m intentionally positioning myself in countries where care is affordable, accessible, and dignified. Because to age well isn’t just about skincare or savings—it’s about choosing softness, sovereignty, and structure that supports you long-term.

And for me, that journey started by learning to listen to the body—and to the world.

What’s your personal philosophy on aging gracefully?

For me, aging gracefully isn’t about resisting time—it’s about deepening into who you truly are. I think grace comes from alignment: being surrounded by beauty, community, and purpose that reflect your values. I’ve learned that curiosity keeps you young—whether that’s traveling, learning something new, or simply being open to wonder.

In my experience, aging well is really about joy, connection, and freedom. The freedom to create, to rest, to say no, and to live life on your own terms. When you’re living in rhythm with your passions and nurturing meaningful relationships, aging stops feeling like decline—it starts to feel like arrival.

This Episode Covers:

Living Abroad: A Journey Through Continents
Reflections on Home and Identity
Perspectives on Aging and Beauty
The Essence of Moving Abroad
The Importance of Community
Planning for Retirement
Healthcare Considerations Abroad
The Power of Sisterhood
Living as a Black Woman Globally
True Wellness and Self-Care
The Journey of Entrepreneurship
Art Unknown and Future Projects
Episode Credits:
Christine Job-Creator & Host