Fixer Upper star Joanna Gaines talks midlife crisis in personal new interview

As Joanna and Chip Gaines journey through two decades of marriage, they find themselves embracing a new chapter in life with open arms. 

In a heartfelt interview with People, Joanna, 45, shared insights into their evolving dynamic.  While Joanna lightheartedly refers to this transformation as a "midlife crisis," it's evident that their perspectives on life have matured. "We just see life differently now," she states, acknowledging the profound shift in their outlook.

This shift marks a significant turn for the couple, who have become household names through their popular show "Fixer Upper" and its spinoffs. 

Known for her calm, organized demeanor, Joanna is now exploring uncharted territories with hobbies like horseback riding and beekeeping. "It's definitely a more real way to live, and so I'm thankful for that," she reflects on these new ventures, recognizing the value in embracing the moment and allowing herself to feel more deeply, even when it's challenging.

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For Chip, 49, the change involves slowing down and focusing on supporting Joanna. "I want to be her biggest cheerleader,” he expresses, showing his unwavering support for his partner's endeavors. “I’m like, ‘Hey, you go do whatever. My knees are killing me.’”

The Gaineses' evolution extends beyond their personal growth to their family and business ventures. They recently experienced the bittersweet milestone of sending their eldest son, Drake, 18, to college, while also launching a podcast network, announcing new Magnolia reality shows, completing the extensive Hotel 1928 project in Waco, and debuting "Fixer Upper: The Hotel."

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Their daughters, Ella, 17, and Emmie, 13, have given their stamp of approval to the boutique hotel, likening it to something they'd expect in New York City, a sentiment Joanna cherishes as a "big win."

The couple acknowledges the challenges and joys of their children finding their paths. Chip encourages independence, telling Joanna, "You need your own identity. Learn some stuff. And then if you want to come back years later and teach us, we’re here.” 

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The departure of Drake for college was a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time. "It’s this tension of joy and pain, all in one breath," Joanna recalls.

Amid these changes, the youngest member of their family, Crew, 5, offers a fresh perspective. 

Joanna shares, "The greatest gift of having a kid go off to college and having a 5-year-old is that perspective. We don’t want to waste these moments."

© Joanna Gaines on Instagram

Their relationship continues to flourish, with daily conversations about dreams and aspirations. "Mine are real practical," Chip says, while Joanna's are "big adventure and all this Technicolor." 

This exchange symbolizes how they've influenced each other over the years. Joanna credits Chip for her openness to change, "If Chip weren’t my partner, I would probably still be in the corner."

Joanna now firmly believes in embracing change, reflecting on their journey, "We’ve had so much change in our lives, and the proof is there: Change is hard, but it’s always beautiful."

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