Aging Gratefully with Cathy Dawes Scroggs

"Appreciate the moment, appreciate nature, don't sweat the small stuff, and keep friends and family near" are just some of the suggestions from retired social worker Mary Beth Reese. Reese tells us about her late-teenage years as a nun, which changed her life and viewpoint when she left the Sisters of Loretta many years ago. Reese also discusses her many years working with teens as a substance abuse prevention counsellor and her personal journey as a long-time caregiver for her husband with frontotemporal lobe dementia.

Who knew this prominent Chamber of Commerce leader had a life-changing experience at the age of 19? Lyle Butler shares that and much more about the love of his family and grandchildren, telling us to "Never take life for granted." He also talks about starting the fourth quarter in his life--which, by the way, does not yet include retirement.

While emphasizing he's barely in his 60s,  Brian McNulty shares his story of retiring from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers after many years and now owning two businesses. McNulty stresses staying active both physically and mentally. He also talks about Boy Scouts and its importance in his life, mentioning a sign in his former office that read, "Growing Old is Mandatory, Growing Up is optional.

Although still well under the typical retirement age, Trooper Ben Gardner recently retired from the Kansas Highway Patrol and continues to build his vast social media following and give motivational talks throughout and outside of Kansas. His #HelpMore movement has inspired many. With his childhood years in special education classrooms, Trooper Ben tells us he is still trying to identify who he is, and suggests to those of us who are in our senior years to figure out what we're passionate about.

Kathy and Tom Neill met on a blind date--with Kathy knowing from the first date that Tom was the man she was going to marry. They have been married for 56 years and have much to share about their careers in education and the pharmaceutical business, the importance of their family and Catholic faith, travels all-over the world, and a shared love of singing. The Neills tell us to "get out and enjoy life," to "accept things the way they are," and to "enjoy every moment when things are good." 

"Love to live" is one piece of advice from Diane DeNoon Hawk, who has found joy again in her later-in-life marriage to State Senator and Dr. Tom Hawk. Both tragically lost spouses they loved dearly, but began attending events together as friends--before falling in love. Tom also suggests making an effort to make new friends, and he mentioned the importance of adding young people to that list while referring to previous podcast guest and Centennarian,,  the late C. Clyde Jones' suggestion. This couple shared careers in the educational field, with Tom also serving in governmental office at the state level.

Lindy and Jack Lindquist spent most of their careers in extension and 4-H and met while working together--they became friends, then married,  and have celebrated 42 years of marriage since. Both suggest taking advantage of new opportunities and just "do it"-- and not to be scared. Jack adds to "Stop and smell the roses," but also to reach down to help someone up in times of need. You don't want to miss this couple's engaging story and history.

Being a good volunteer, a good leader, and especially a good friend are ways Larie Shoap hopes to be remembered. Working in the banking industry for 43 years, Larie has a lot to share from her experiences, including specific suggestions regarding financial considerations in our later years and other words of wisdom, such as the importance of listening to everybody else for ideas.

Making a difference in people's lives has always been important to Jim Reed, who knew as a junior in high school that he wanted to be in the ministry. Since being ordained as a Methodist minister in 1965, Jim has served as a "faithful servant," and he shares his own ups and downs during these later years of his life. 

This amazing man of faith, lover of history, and educator, Kevin Larson, shares his life journey. Getting out, staying active, and truly caring about people are just a few thoughts from this learned historian and minister, who also shares the tragic loss of his wife.

While Gerald Schmidt—a former Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Deputy, Army brat, and Vietnam veteran—travelled the world, he is quite content with his retirement years. While admitting to a few regrets over the years, he suggests making the best of life and enjoying each day.

Larry and Kay Weigel went from being 16-year-old high school sweethearts to over 60 years of marriage, and have so much to say. With Larry's time on Tex Winter's basketball team and Kay as a K-stepper twirler. They lead us through their delightful life as they age gratefully.

Although he is relatively young, in his 50's, Don Stubbings shares his work as Director of Associates for the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. This group, which has a rich history, includes many older adults in its mission. Stubbings gave up 24 years in law enforcement, including training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, when he felt called to work with the Sisters, but he feels all his background has brought him where he is today. His wife and two daughters keep him grounded, and he shares how faith and keeping active sustain him.

This dynamic woman in her 80s has travelled the world, working in Morocco and the Congo. She managed to raise two sons, earn her Master's Degree in Computer Science for a second career, and then worked many years in that field at Farm Bureau. Judy Regehr also tells us about her fight for life after being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer and the need to advocate for ourselves medically. Still, she tells us, "Don't be afraid of aging," and emphasizes the importance of adaptability as things are always changing.

"Become involved" and "Be social" are just a few thoughts on how to age gratefully from Judy Lundberg, who has lived in Manhattan, KS, most of her life, with fond memories of her late husband and their Tuttle Creek Lake home. While working many jobs in Manhattan, her years at the K-State Student Union Bookstore and First Presbyterian Church bring back some of her fondest memories. Judy also shares her efforts in dealing with grief after losing many family members in a short period of time.

Ron Trewyn, a Vietnam veteran and Vice President for Research Emeritus at Kansas State University, truly has a story to tell. He not only wrote the book "Vietnam's War of Hate—Proud Military Veterans Vilified at Home," but he also shares his difficult return home. Ron offers valuable suggestions for Aging Gratefully, reminding us to value each day, value friends and family, and remember the "we" instead of "me" in this often divisive world.

As one of the very first women's basketball players for Kansas State University in the '60's, retired educator Mary Stamey has an inspiring story to tell. Losing her childhood home to the Tuttle Creek Dam construction, Mary shares her love of children and how blessed she is to have lived in the different eras she has experienced. Her belief in humanity and positive outlook on life truly are inspiring.

Many of us in our later years deal with dizziness or balance issues, and Emily Nichols, who has a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Level 2 Certification in Vestibular Rehabilitation, tells us about the work she does. She also serves clients with water or aquatic therapy and tells us about the benefits, plus advises us about the need to move and get out into the community in our older years

This unique interview with Gayle Doll, former Director of Gerontology at Kansas State University, gets into the history of nursing homes and also her study of sexuality in older adults. Gayle also shares her personal story of aging after working so many years in this field. You don't want to miss this interview.

Leslie and Bruce Snead have been married for 52 years--both retired now from the educational field, with Bruce also spending many years in city commission and mayoral service, share how they are coping during their later years in life. Listening to your body and getting the care you may need, also anticipating and preparing for late-life transition, are just some of the words of wisdom from this couple.

'Don't go to bed angry' are words of advice from this special Valentine's Day couple, Diana and Preston Chapel. Staying connected and needing to listen are other thoughts from this retired military couple. Diana also shares her transition to a whole new career in the ministry and the difference that it has made in both of their lives.

"Living forward" and "not counting my days" are just some words of wisdom from Karen and Tom Roberts, retired from the education and engineering fields. These high school sweethearts continue to keep busy, with the sometimes challenging role of caring for older parents and other relatives/friends in their late 90's.

Sitting all day is not the answer, according to Physical Therapist Travis Nichols. Travis shares his passion for working with older clients with a variety of techniques such as Functional Dry Needling, individualized personal training, and other physical therapy methods as he brings his expertise to each individual in their own home.

Retired Wamego Police Chief Paul Schliffke may be a "newbie" at being retired (retiring at the end of 2025), but his hope for a legacy is that his children continue positively and do good things. Paul tells us he learned from his own parents to "treat people as you want to be treated," and he offers suggestions for us in our golden years regarding scams and security concerns.

"Keep active, if not physically, mentally," are words of advice from retired K-State accountant Susan Keller. Susan shares how she survived a horrific accident, leaving her badly injured the year of her retirement, and how she continues to keep active with her husband, 4 dogs, and the many activities she participates in--she also talks about how much Manhattan has changed in the nearly 60 years she's lived here.

Putting "one foot in front of the other" are just a few words of advice from this widower of more than 3 years. Mike Shepherd's barbershop music and many leadership roles with the group, as well as travel, time with children and grandchildren, and gardening, have kept him moving and in good spirits as he ages gratefully.

Inaugural guest Robbin Cole, a retired mental health professional, rejoins producer Dave Lewis and Cathy on the first anniversary of this Aging Gratefully Podcast. We reminisce about a dear centenarian friend, C. Clyde Jones, who recently passed away, and explore how grief impacts us all, especially during the holiday season. Join us for a thought-provoking, very open discussion on shifting our focus during down times in our lives.

"Do not just sit in a chair," but "get out there, get engaged, and do something," are thoughts from Steven Graham, who recently retired from an active career in agriculture. Steven shares how he continues to keep busy with a variety of boards and groups, but most importantly with numerous friends and the loving support of his wife.

From his early days in Chicago to 40-plus years at the Manhattan Mercury as Executive Editor for many of those years, Bill Felber obviously enjoys being able to set his own agenda in retirement. Bill has a wonderful perspective on striving not to worry, even though he was in a very high-stress occupation for so many years, and he shares other thoughts during this transitional period of his life.

Enjoy this whimsical and touching episode beginning with a very special chat including Santa and Mrs. Claus, followed by a talk with Lynda and Stephen Bachelor, who share what transitioning to retirement has meant for them. This retired military couple shares what has kept their marriage of 50-plus years going, and they offer solid words of wisdom on how to age gratefully. 

Jim and Sally Lindquist share information about their busy careers in extension service, providing practical and research-based education on agriculture, food safety, health and nutrition, youth development and community development, and even specialized programs for seniors. This delightful couple, who started out in locales far apart in Kansas and Louisiana, found each other later in life, and talk about the importance of appreciating each other and making health a priority in their later years.

Stay positive and keep on keeping on are just some words of advice from Peg Jansen, who has been a teacher, a Mary Kay business entrepreneur, and a health and wellness businesswoman. This wife, mother of 2, and grandmother of 6 talks about how God has a plan for each one of us--which has helped her through many ups and downs in her life.

Don't be afraid to ask for help or to offer help are some thoughts from nonprofit manager, active community volunteer, and "community activist"  Debbie Nuss. Debbie shares her life experiences with the passing of her husband and soul mate, as well as a childhood with a very young mother, in this episode of "Aging Gratefully."

Doing what you want to do now is just one suggestion from Roni Deeds and Sally Garvin of Triple AAA Manhattan, KS., who share 21 travel tips for seniors for a smoother vacation. Roni quotes one of her clients who puts it best: "I want to cover the earth before the earth covers me." Join us in this episode for a variety of travel suggestions and a glimpse at these 2 ladies' own "bucket lists."

This coach, banking/financial expert, former city commissioner, husband, and father shares his philosophy of being positive and doing things that give you great pleasure. Rich Jankovich also tells about his near-death experience and how it changed his outlook on life and relationships with others in many ways. You don't want to miss this episode.

An educator for more than 40 years, with nearly 30 years as a school district superintendent, Denise O'Dea has learned to embrace her age, saying, "You can't stop the years going by." Finding joy in her children, grandchildren, school district, flower garden, and even in being able to walk three miles a day, Denise truly is an inspiration as she wants to be remembered for making a difference in the life of a child or in the communities she's lived.

Find what gives you joy and pursue it. Find new things, and care about other people and their situations. These are thoughts from lifetime musician, teacher, dancer, and actress Linda Uthoff. While music and being on stage are a huge part of her life, Linda also shares how much family and other groups mean to her in these later years.

Being open to the opportunities God has put in front of us is just one belief State Senator Brad Starnes mentions during his discussion on this episode of Aging Gratefully. Brad adds that finding your niche and focusing on what's important has also gotten him through life. Brad shares his memories of years of being a coach, teacher, principal, and school superintendent, and even opens up about his son, who died by suicide, in this moving visit.  

After a fulfilling career, including time as Assistant Dean of K-State's College of Agriculture, Dean of Global Campus, and many years with community colleges, Duane Dunn exudes a sense of peace as he continues his transition of aging gratefully. Duane tells us it "isn't worth it to be angry" and adds he's not as frustrated or stressed as he was at times during his active working life.  

Married for 51 years, Deanna and Brady Burton have a lot to share, with both their careers in education taking them across the state of Kansas. The 2 of them might be retired from education, but continue to be active with part-time jobs. The importance of staying physically and mentally active, as well as spending as much time as possible with family, are just a few suggestions from the Burtons.

Having fun, apparently, is a big part of what goes on at the Manhattan Senior Center of Riley County. Director Liz Nelson and Program Coordinator Dane Schmidt have a lively discussion on this Aging Gratefully Podcast episode, talking about the many activities and services offered, including games, music, talks, exercise sessions, Halloween parties, and wonderful meals. They also share some insights with the many clients they work with who are aging gratefully.

Taking life day by day and doing the best we can are suggestions from Lori Bishop, who has 40-plus years in nonprofit management, primarily as Executive Director of the Flint Hills Volunteer Center and Director of the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP of Riley County. Lori not only shares her own personal story, including the death of one of her sons by suicide, but also talks about the incredible services and volunteer opportunities with the groups she continues to direct. 

Continuing to stay community-minded is important, according to retired Riley County Fire Chief and Emergency Director Pat Collins. Pat shares how he is spending his days later in life, as he still does volunteer fire/rescue work and serves with his local township. Pat stresses the importance of financial considerations, though, as many of us find unexpected expenses with taxes, insurance, and medical issues as we reach this stage of our lives.

Meadowlark Hills' Michelle Haub and Katie Sigman rejoin "Aging Gratefully" to talk about the Memory Program, that offers free services for those throughout the community who are dealing with memory issues. Through their day to day work with clients and care-givers, these two women offer encouragement through the many ways they help those with dementia, Alzheimers, and other memory issues as they learn to deal with the disease and to make the most of each moment.

Dave and Sonya Baker are living full lives, with Dave in the Kansas Baseball Hall of Fame after years of playing and coaching, and Sonya still serving as Curriculum Integrity Manager at Kansas State University after nearly 50 years in higher education. "You're only as old as you feel" and "God puts you where he wants you to be" are just some thoughts from this amazing and inspiring couple who are best friends after all their years together.

For 40-plus years, Julie Govert Walter has worked with older Kansans in her role as Executive Director of the North Central Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging. She reminds us all to be grateful and to remember that even if we're older and gray, we still have something to say. Julie also shares important information about services offered and regarding the upcoming Sunflower Fair geared for older Kansans on September 16th in Salina.

"Look around you" and "try ways to get engaged" are thoughts from retired K-State Dean of Libraries Lori Goetsch as she transitions to her new stage of life. Lori shares highlights of her career, but also tells us how work with the local animal shelter, singing, and serving as president of the local Fairy Godmothers that serves women in need has helped fill her days. 

"Do what you enjoy" and "Find Something to keep you busy" are suggestions from Donna Keyser, a retired registered dietician who worked with several school systems and now teaches yoga four days a week. Donna shares stories about her earlier life as the oldest of four girls on a ranch with her race horse trainer dad and a bit later as a single mom. She has some diet and exercise thoughts, but mostly encourages moderation.--

After 52 years of marriage and active career lives, Carol and Michael Warden have a lot to share about Aging Gratefully. "Give and Take," and remembering to say "I love you: are just some suggestions from this couple, despite Michael's Parkinson's diagnosis attributed to Agent Orange in Vietnam. 

Keep going, listen, and learn to tolerate the unknown are thoughts coming from Dee McKee, who really has not retired, with her continuing commitment as a county commissioner. Dee also mentions saying a prayer and "letting go" at times for God to handle things.Dee shares her early days in a big family on a Spearville, Ks. farm. to her work with special education and current role in county government.