Do you remember the last years of the 20th century just before the Millennium, when everything seemed to change? Is Yoko Ono a name you recognise – do you remember her Amsterdam honeymoon ‘Bed In’ with John Lennon?

In this episode of The Year of Being 70 Ep 16, two lifelong friends, Lucy and Lisette, who turned 70 last year, reflect on their personal changes in the period of their lives from 1994 to 2000, the political and social environment of that time, as well as recalling the rise of The Beatles and the social revolution they personified in the 1960s.

Key Highlights of this Episode

• Turbulent times for Lucy

Lucy experienced significant personal life changes in this period, including getting divorced, remarried, moving house several times, eventually to the country, and dealing with the death of her father who went blind in his later years.

• Transformation for Lisette

Lisette had a transformative experience playing a "game of transformation" which helped her gain insights into her own struggles with depression and led her to discover the Findhorn community. This was a major turning point that put her on a new spiritual trajectory.

• The last era of hope and renewal?

Both women discuss the social climate in their respective countries (UK and Netherlands) during this time, recalling a sense of hope and progress that they feel has not been replicated in more recent years. They look back on the broader political context, including the Labour government’s victory in the UK, a sense of prosperity and renewal, and the Netherlands' approach to tackling challenging societal issues like euthanasia through inclusive dialogue and consensus-building.

They compare the differences in the education systems between the UK and Netherlands, with the Netherlands seeming to have a more egalitarian and multilingual approach.

• Celebrating an Eldest Daughter

It was artist Yoko Ono’s 92nd birthday today, and in celebrating her ground-breaking work – and questioning whether younger people even know her name – Lucy and Lisette explore the legacy of Yoko Ono. It includes her relationship with John Lennon, their ‘Bed In’ in Amsterdam to ‘Give Peace A Chance’, and the impact of the Beatles, the music and cultural shifts of that era that have resonated through the decades.

Why You Should Listen

If you enjoy hearing about recent social history, from people who lived though it, this episode provides a thoughtful, personal, and historical lens on the period from 1994 to 1999. Lisette and Lucy look back to the rise of the Beatles and recall the innovative creativity of Lennon and McCartney, and the hysterical response of their fans. They remember how Yoko Ono, a pioneering artist in her own right, was blamed for the breakup of the Fab Four.

Join the Conversation

What are your recollections of the end of the 20th century – if you were old enough to be there? If you enjoyed this discussion of a fascinating political era, as well as the personal journeys of these old (in every sense) friends, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and tap the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of The Year of Being 70. Subscribe now and join the journey!

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