BEYOND THE COMPASS is a documentary changing the narrative about women and aging—proving adventure, growth, and discovery have no expiration date.

Our culture paints the later years as a decline, especially for women. But this is the story of women challenging societal perceptions of aging by growing tougher, wilder, and infinitely more fascinating as they get older. The documentary captures the journey of 10 women aged 62-87 as they navigate both literal and metaphorical waters in an epic adventure on the rugged Maine coast on a wilderness expedition.

Although each woman comes from a unique life experience, they build community through adventure—pushing their physical and emotional boundaries, confronting fears, and discovering newfound strength and resilience by sailing and sleeping on a 30’ open sailing vessel, climbing a fire tower, and traversing a desolate island.

Demonstrating the continued capacity for adventure, learning, and personal transformation, this narrative aims to inspire younger generations to eagerly anticipate their own wrinkles, knowing they signify the emergence of a truly captivating main character.

Meet the Expedition Crew

  • Anne (79)

    Anne is a contemplative retired social worker who returned to school at 50. She thrives at balancing her introverted nature with meaningful engagement.

  • Dagny (83)

    Dagny is a past-life regression therapist and former Outward Bound instructor, who has embodied resilience and determination in challenging gender norms throughout her life.

  • Elisabeth (66)

    Elisabeth is an outdoor enthusiast who perseveres despite 5 joint replacements and the loss of a partner. She demonstrates remarkable adaptability in wilderness settings.

  • Fiona (74)

    Fiona is a cancer survivor and self-described renaissance woman. She embraces "the ordinary self," challenging patriarchal notions of exceptional womanhood while bringing profound appreciation for life's precious nature to everything she does.

  • Jan (68)

    Jan is a breast cancer survivor who approaches life with intentionality and humor, naturally facilitating others' growth.

  • Lynne (72)

    Lynn is president of her Georgia Appalachian Trail group. She is a grandmother of 16 who balances wild adventure with nurturing leadership.

  • Michelle (62)

    Michelle embodies a profound journey of self-discovery and gentle rebellion against societal expectations. In recent years, she’s deliberately shifted from family-focused caregiver to adventure protagonist.

  • Noreen (67)

    Noreen has exemplified resilience in many aspects of her life. She was widowed young and has three children. Having spent her career as a nurse, she’s made a meaningful difference in many people’s lives, and now looks forward to focusing on her own self-discovery.

  • Sharon (87)

    Sharon is a legal pioneer and conservationist, faces aging's challenges with pragmatic determination, and lives by her motto, "say yes when it comes up."

  • Peals (76)

    Expedition Leader

    Peals is a maritime legend with a near 50-year career as an outdoor educator. She combines profound expertise with disarming humility and sharp humor, inspiring generations of sailors.

  • Julia (45)

    Expedition Leader

    Julia is a mother, licensed captain, long time experiential educator, engineer, former crew member of Antarctic research vessels, and has been on countless wilderness expeditions around the world.

  • Nicki (34)

    Expedition Leader

    Nicki is a licensed captain, expedition leader, and outdoor educator, leading people in transformative wilderness journeys.

Meet the Film Crew

  • Lia-Lucine Cary

    Director/Producer/Second Camera/Editor

    Drawing from her background in anthropology and education, Lia crafts narratives that blend cultural preservation with authentic human connection. Her experience spans documentary, narrative film, and reality TV production, allowing her to create compelling stories that maintain cinematic imagery while capturing genuine moments. Her work includes award-winning short documentaries "Betty Moon" (2024) and "Rooted Reinvention" (2022), as well as assistant director for the critically acclaimed narrative film "Growing Pains" (2024). Lia-Lucine prioritizes authentic relationships and diverse voices. 

  • Nicki Ripple

    Director/Producer/Assistant Editor/Expedition Leader

    Through her work as a sailing instructor, Nicki has spent her career connecting with people in moments of vulnerability and resilience. Her craftsmanship as a carpenter for major TV shows complements her understanding of the visual and physical storytelling elements. Her works include major network series Sinking Springs (2023), and Task Force (2024).

  • Artur Cary

    Director of Photography

    Artur is a cinematographer with over a decade of experience crafting compelling visual narratives. His portfolio spans from narrative film to documentary, each reflecting his commitment to precision and cinematic excellence. Artur specializes in creating visually striking stories that authentically connect with audiences.

  • Nina Shepperson

    Marketing Producer

    Nina has worked in Marketing and Development for the past four years, and is currently the Digital Marketing Manager for a hotel group in Maine—leading strategic online campaigns and digital outreach. Besides all that, she has a cat and loves the beach.

  • Rachel Loomis Lee

    Development Producer

    Rachel brings over two decades of nonprofit fundraising and development experience, and has championed innovative initiatives to drive mission impact. Through her work in film, nonprofits, and beyond, Rachel continues to inspire collaboration and storytelling that bring people together.

  • Susan Bryant

    Sound/Field Recordist

    An accomplished field audio recordist whose work includes acclaimed documentaries such as Sonic Sea (2016) and Television Event (2020). Known for her ability to create comfortable environments for subjects across diverse settings—from remote locations to formal events—she brings both technical expertise and interpersonal warmth to every production.

  • Tierney Weymueller

    Production Assistant/Chase Boat Captain

    With a background in environmental science and wilderness education, Tiereny serves as a licensed captain and works as an outdoor educator on tallships throughout the country.

  • Genevieve Bristol

    Photographer/Production Assistant

    Gen is an outdoor enthusiast and currently runs a photography business on the East Coast. She continuously finds ways to explore and capture the beauty of wilderness areas throughout the United States.

"I always shrink and shudder when people talk about amazing women and adventurous women. This course isn’t about them—it’s about ordinary women with ordinary lives. We're learning to embrace those lives fully. Because within each of us lies something uniquely remarkable, something others might see as extraordinary."

— Fiona, age 74