Older Women & Friends: Stories of Aging Well

The older we get, the more loss and grief we experience. For me, my brother's death by suicide when I was 33 and he was 30 turned my life upside down.I turned to writing a book to help me work through my grief. Dead Serious: A Book For Teenagers About Teen Suicide tells the stories of parents who lost a child to suicide, teens who attempted suicide, and friends of teens who took their own lives.I am dedicating today, my 81st birthday, to GOOD GRIEF, the organization that helps children, teens, and families learn from each other as they adapt and rebuild their lives. Good Grief builds resilience in children, strengthens families, and empowers communities to grow from loss and adversity.You can check out the organization's website at:https://good-grief.org/And you can help sustain Good Grief by donating today as part of the AgeWise Podcastathon. It's easy:Donate to Good Grief Here: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/acpfgg/Or Text "agewise" to 50155Thanking you in advance.

Evelyn challenges many of society's assumptions about aging. She explains why curiosity, lifelong learning, resilience, and purpose matter far more than the number of candles on a birthday cake. Jane Leder sits down with Evelyn Kelly, a 91-year-old author, world traveler, professor emeritus of genetics, and passionate advocate for healthy aging to explore what it truly means to live a vibrant, purposeful life at every age.Having written 22 books, traveled to 90 countries across all seven continents, and continued pursuing new goals well into her nineties, Evelyn challenges many of society's assumptions about aging. She explains why curiosity, lifelong learning, resilience, and purpose matter far more than the number of candles on a birthday cake.Evelyn reflects on growing up during the Great Depression and World War II, building a successful academic career, becoming fascinated with genetics and gerontology, and later discovering a new passion for travel writing with her daughter. Together, they discuss how travel can improve mental well-being, build resilience, strengthen confidence, and help older adults step outside their comfort zones and embrace new experiences.The conversation also explores ageism, retirement, independence, emotional health, community, friendships across generations, widowhood, self-efficacy, and maintaining an active lifestyle after 60, 70, 80, and even 90. Evelyn shares practical wisdom on staying mentally engaged, adapting to physical changes, finding purpose after retirement, and refusing to let age define what's possible.Whether you're navigating retirement, searching for purpose later in life, caring about healthy aging, or simply looking for uplifting real-life stories from extraordinary older women, this episode offers powerful encouragement and actionable inspiration for creating a meaningful, joyful future.

 Jane sits down with Diane Heiler to talk about her memoir, A Widow's Fire. Diane shares the remarkable story of losing her beloved husband of 25 years to lung cancer and the emotional reality of becoming his caregiver during the final years of his life. She speaks openly about anticipatory grief, caregiver burnout, and the overwhelming loneliness that followed his passing, while revealing how journaling, poetry, and self-reflection became powerful tools for healing. Diane also reflects on the experiences that shaped her long before widowhood—including divorce, single motherhood, entrepreneurship, and learning to trust her own strength. She courageously discusses Widow's Fire, the often misunderstood emotional and physical longing for connection after losing a spouse, and explains why finding companionship, happiness, or even love again should never be met with guilt or shame.Throughout the conversation, Diane shares practical wisdom on emotional resilience, rebuilding life after loss, navigating life transitions, traveling with a new partner while honoring cherished memories, and transforming heartbreak into purpose through writing. Her story is an inspiring reminder that grief and joy can exist together, and that healing doesn't mean leaving the past behind—it means carrying love forward while embracing a meaningful new chapter.Whether you're coping with the loss of a spouse, caring for someone with cancer, rebuilding after divorce, searching for purpose after retirement, or simply looking for encouragement about aging well, this conversation offers compassion, hope, and honest insight for every stage of life's journey.https://awidowsfire.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-heiler-9707202a/https://medium.com/authority-magazine/diane-heiler-on-the-5-things-you-need-to-be-a-successful-author-or-writer-775f33422d6fhttps://www.huffpost.com/entry/widow-traveling-europe-with-boyfriend-in-80s_n_6a411e17e4b0f4826b45e175

In this episode of Older Women & Friends, Jane Leder welcomes bestselling author, leadership expert, and aging well advocate Erika Andersen for a thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to create your best life after 60.Drawing from her acclaimed book, The New Old: Crafting Your Best Later Life, Erika shares a practical roadmap for aging well, finding purpose, embracing change, and staying engaged, curious, and fulfilled in later life. Rather than viewing aging as a period of decline, she challenges women over 50 to see it as an opportunity for reinvention, growth, freedom, and possibility.Erika explains why becoming the boss of your own life is one of the most important keys to healthy aging. She discusses how creating a personal vision, building meaningful relationships, overcoming ageism, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose can dramatically improve happiness, emotional health, and overall well-being.She also shares fascinating research showing that people with a positive mindset about aging can live significantly longer, while offering practical strategies for strengthening confidence after 50, managing self-talk, practicing mindfulness, cultivating gratitude, and adapting gracefully to life's inevitable transitions.The conversation explores loneliness after 60, community for older women, life after retirement, active aging, emotional resilience, lifelong learning, and finding joy in new experiences. Erika reveals why your 60s, 70s, and beyond can become some of the most meaningful, productive, and rewarding years of your life.Whether you're navigating a major life transition, searching for deeper fulfillment, building a new chapter after retirement, or simply looking for inspiration on aging gracefully, this episode is filled with practical wisdom, encouragement, and actionable insights.

Jane Leder sits down with legendary fashion designer, entrepreneur, breast cancer survivor, and pro-aging advocate Diane Gilman for an unforgettable conversation about women over 50, aging well, reinvention, purpose, confidence, and creating a meaningful life at every age.Known worldwide as the “Queen of Jeans,” Diane Gilman transformed the fashion industry after age 60 by designing jeans specifically for middle-aged women, eventually selling nearly 25 million pairs worldwide. But this episode isn’t just about fashion. It’s about what happens when success, aging, health challenges, and purpose collide.After surviving breast cancer in her 70s, Diane experienced a profound shift in perspective. Instead of slowing down, she embraced reinvention, challenged ageism, launched a new career in podcasting, and became a powerful voice for older women who refuse to become invisible.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Diane Gilman reinvented her life and career after 60The story behind creating jeans for real women and changing an industryHow breast cancer transformed her outlook on aging and purposeWhy ageism remains a challenge for older women—and how to overcome itThe importance of confidence, self-worth, and independence after 50How to find purpose, fulfillment, and happiness later in lifeWhy it’s never too late to start something newThe role of mindset, wellness, and healthy aging in long-term successHow to create a meaningful legacy in your 60s, 70s, and beyondPractical life advice for women embracing reinvention and personal growth

This episode explores how our earliest family experiences—especially the complex bond between mothers and daughters—shape our mental health, emotional patterns, self-worth, and relationships across the lifespan. From childhood attachment and unmet emotional needs to adulthood independence and identity, this discussion uncovers the hidden layers that influence how women navigate life after 50, retirement, and aging well.Dr. Debra Mandel shares real-life insights from her clinical experience, including how shame, emotional wounds, and communication breakdowns often carry into midlife and beyond—impacting long-term relationships, confidence after 50, and overall wellness. You’ll learn how to recognize these patterns and begin the journey toward healing, clarity, and transformation.This episode also dives into the evolving realities of older women’s lifestyle, aging gracefully, and dealing with aging emotionally in a fast-changing world. From generational differences and modern family dynamics to the challenges of ageism, loneliness after 60, and shifting social roles, this conversation offers both validation and actionable guidance.🔍 Episode Takeaways:●     How mother–daughter relationships evolve in midlife and beyond●     The deep connection between shame, self-worth, and emotional health●     How early family dynamics shape relationships after 50●     Practical tools for healthy communication, active listening, and emotional healing●     How to rebuild confidence, independence, and personal identity after 50●     The importance of mental health after retirement and life transitions●     How to navigate family conflict, boundaries, and generational differences●     Why community, social connection, and support systems matter more than ever●     How to find purpose in life after 50 and create fulfillment in later lifehttps://drdebraonline.com/https://www.instagram.com/dr.debramandel/?hl=enhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/Debra-Mandel/author/B0CMJZ65XT?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=d6d868b6-35b9-43e0-adef-f093e0020883https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-mandel-636a304b/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg8Rr98_iwmpnx0_gz2BdBw

What happens when women over 50 are forced to take control of their finances after divorce, retirement, caregiving, or the loss of a partner? Or what about women who want to be financially savvy at any time in their lives?In this episode of Older Women & Friends: Stories of Aging Well, host Jane Leder sits down with wealth management expert and Super Woman Wealth author Regina McCann Hess to discuss financial independence for women over 50, retirement planning, divorce recovery, aging well, and building lasting money confidence.Growing up in a financially unstable household after her parents’ divorce, Regina learned early how deeply money fears, emotional health, and independence shape women’s lives. Now, after more than 25 years in wealth management, she helps older women navigate life transitions, retirement, caregiving, widowhood, gray divorce, financial planning, and long-term security with confidence and clarity.This conversation explores:financial literacy for womenretirement and aging wellmoney mistakes after divorcecaregiving burnout and women’s health after 50financial scams targeting older womenbuilding confidence after 50women and investingemotional relationships with moneylong-term care planningself-worth, independence, and reinvention later in lifeIf you’re searching for practical life advice for women over 50, healthy aging for women, financial wellness, personal growth after 50, or inspiration to take control of your future, this episode delivers both emotional insight and actionable wisdom. It's a great place to start!Perfect for listeners who love aging well podcasts, women empowerment stories, lifestyle podcasts for women, inspirational stories podcasts, and real conversations about money, retirement, emotional health, and fulfillment after 50

Oh, boy, this is an episode that a ton of older women need to hear, and that includes yours truly!In this episode, my guest is Deb Benfield, registered dietitian, nutritionist, and author . Our focus: how older women can break free from decades of body shame, ageism, and diet culture—and begin rewriting their relationship with their bodies with compassion, dignity, and truth.For many women over 50, body image struggles don’t disappear with age—they often intensify. Shaped by lifelong cultural messaging, family influences, and societal expectations around beauty and thinness, these internal narratives can impact emotional health, mental health, self-worth, and overall well-being across the lifespan.Together, Deb and I unpack what it really means to pursue aging well—not by controlling the body, but by caring for it. We also explore the growing pressures facing women in midlife and beyond, including the rise of weight-loss drugs, unrealistic beauty standards, and the persistent belief that our value is tied to how we look.🌿 In this episode, you’ll discover:How your “body story” was formed—and how to begin rewriting it with awareness and self-compassionWhy diet culture and internalized ageism continue to affect women well into later lifeThe powerful shift from trying to control your body to learning how to care for itPractical, research-informed tools to reduce negative self-talk and improve emotional and mental healthHow to build a more compassionate, supportive relationship with your body as a lifelong partnerWhy self-care is essential—not indulgent—for personal growth, resilience, and fulfillmentHow to navigate cultural pressures and reclaim your sense of purpose, wisdom, and self-worthWhether you’re exploring reinvention, seeking deeper self-awareness, or simply tired of the exhausting cycle of body criticism, this episode offers a refreshing and realistic path forward.✨ This is a conversation about more than body image—it’s about reclaiming your life, your voice, and your freedom as a woman.It’s never too late to embrace aging, redefine what it means to live well, and choose a path of self-respect, confidence, and unapologetic authenticity.https://www.debrabenfield.com/bookhttps://www.debrabenfield.com/

In this compelling episode of Older Women and Friends, host Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women sits down with licensed marriage and family therapist Dr. Becky Whetstone to explore one of the fastest-growing social trends today: gray divorce—and why more older women are choosing to redefine love, relationships, and personal fulfillment after 50.With over two decades of clinical experience—and four marriages of her own—Dr. Becky brings a rare combination of professional expertise and lived experience to this powerful conversation. Together, they unpack the emotional, psychological, and societal factors shaping modern relationships, especially during major life transitions like aging, retirement, and shifting identity.Why are women initiating nearly two-thirds of divorces later in life? What really happens behind the scenes in long-term marriages? And how can individuals navigate relationship challenges while prioritizing self-care, purpose, and emotional well-being?This episode dives deep into the realities of aging and relationships, revealing how patterns like emotional disconnection, lack of communication, and unmet needs often build over time. Dr. Becky explains how attachment styles, personal history, and self-worth influence our relationship choices—and how we can break unhealthy cycles to create a more meaningful life.You’ll also discover practical tools for deciding whether to stay in a marriage or move on, including key questions every couple should ask before making a life-changing decision. The conversation also explores alternative relationship models like “living apart together” (LAT), showing that modern relationships don’t have to follow traditional rules to be successful.Beyond relationships, this episode highlights the importance of personal growth, independence, and reinvention in later life. As we age, we often reevaluate our priorities—seeking deeper purpose, stronger friendships, and a more authentic sense of self. For many older women, this stage becomes an opportunity to reclaim identity, build confidence, and embrace a new chapter with clarity and intention.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why gray divorce is increasing among older womenThe most common reasons long-term relationships break downHow to evaluate your marriage before making a decisionThe role of emotional connection, communication, and attachment stylesHow self-worth and identity evolve across the lifespanWays to rebuild life after divorce with confidence and independenceThe importance of friendships, support systems, and social connectionsHow alternative relationship models can support modern lifestylesWhy personal growth, wisdom, and self-care are essential for aging wellhttps://doctorbecky.com/about-doctor-becky/https://www.linkedin.com/in/marriagecrisismanager/https://medium.com/@doctorbecky

What does it really mean to age well?In this thought-provoking episode of Older Women and Friends, host Jane Leder sits down with renowned gerontologist Tracey Gendron, author of Aging Unmasked: Exploring Ageism and How to End It. We cover a lot of ground: • Why aging is about growth, development, and lifelong learning• How older women can embrace their age with confidence and authenticity• The surprising psychological benefits of growing older, including the “positivity effect.”• Why meaningful friendships and intergenerational relationships matter throughout the lifespanThis episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:Aging well with confidence and purposeDr. Gendron also shares powerful insights from her research and global talks, encouraging listeners to own their age proudly and reject outdated stereotypes about older adults.If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate aging with purpose, curiosity, and self-acceptance, this episode will inspire you to rethink what it means to grow older.Because aging isn’t something to resist—it’s something to understand, embrace, and celebrate.https://www.traceygendron.com

In this thought-provoking and uplifting episode of “Older Women and Friends,” host Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women, sits down with singer, writer, and vintage fashion enthusiast Mollie Kaye for a powerful conversation about loneliness, visibility, personal expression, and the surprising ways older women can create meaningful connections in everyday life.As many women move through midlife and beyond, they often face new challenges, including social isolation, changing identities, retirement transitions, and a sense of becoming invisible in a culture that tends to prioritize youth. In this episode, Mollie shares her deeply personal story of confronting loneliness after turning 50 and discovering an unexpected path toward connection and community.Her journey began with a simple yet creative experiment: every Tuesday, she dressed in elegant, vintage-inspired 1950s clothing while running everyday errands. What started as a fun personal challenge quickly evolved into something much bigger. Strangers began stopping her to talk, compliment her outfits, share their own memories, and start spontaneous conversations. These small moments of interaction revealed something profound — self-expression can become a powerful bridge to human connection.🎧 In This Episode You’ll Discover:Why loneliness and social isolation are increasingly common for older adultsHow personal style and self-expression can create unexpected human connectionsThe psychological benefits of being visible and authentic at any ageHow creativity and individuality support confidence and emotional well-beingWhy older women often feel overlooked—and how to reclaim visibility and voicePractical ways to build community, friendships, and meaningful interactions in everyday lifeHow embracing uniqueness can help people age with purpose, joy, and confidenceWhether you are an older woman navigating life after midlife, someone supporting aging parents, or simply interested in the evolving conversation around aging well, social connection, and personal empowerment, this episode offers inspiration, practical insights, and a fresh perspective on how we can stay connected and engaged at every stage.https://www.instagram.com/reels/C9imhzayMAQ/https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mollie-kaye-expression-bridge-connection-9oise/https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=mollie+kaye

"Without IMPERNANCE There Is No Expansion" - Kat MillerWelcome to Older Women and Friends, where host Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women, meets fascinating women who are redefining what it means to grow older with wisdom, independence, and purpose.In this powerful episode, Jane talks with psychotherapist Kat Miller, who challenges everything that we think we know about aging. While many believe aging means decline and loss, Kat offers a radical and refreshing perspective: aging can be a path to cognitive expansion, emotional depth, freedom, and joy.Together, Kat and Jane explore how ageism shapes our cultural beliefs — and how older women themselves often internalize harmful stereotypes about aging. Kat explains why breaking free from ageism is the first step toward “aging freely,” and how natural declines in speed, energy, and independence can actually create growth in wisdom, adaptability, clarity, and meaningful connection.This episode dives into:The hidden benefits of cognitive slowing and expanded thinkingWhy impermanence can bring peace instead of fearHow aging reshapes independence and deepens relationshipsWhy talking about impermanence can help us relax and improve the quality of our lives.Jane and Kat also discuss purpose after retirement, redefining self-care in later years, and how older women can embrace their changing energy, shifting priorities, and evolving roles with confidence.If you’ve ever wondered:Is aging really all loss?How do I prepare emotionally for later life?What does aging well actually mean?How can I live with more freedom and less fear?This conversation invites you to rethink aging — not as something to resist, but as something to inhabit fully.Because aging isn’t the end of becoming — it’s a new chapter of becoming wiser, freer, and more fully yourself.Author FieldJane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Womenwww.agefreely.comhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibVcoFUfItIhttps://mariashriver.com/collection/games/

Join me and guest Sara Zeph Geber, an expert on solo aging, as we discuss the growing number of adults 50+ choosing to live independently. This episode explores the opportunities and challenges of aging without immediate family support, offering insights into financial planning, healthcare, social connections, and building intentional communities. Sara and I highlight the positives of solo aging, including independence, flexibility, and emotional well-being, while providing practical advice for older women seeking a purposeful, secure, and fulfilling life in later years.https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarazeffgeber/https://sarazeffgeber.com/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGvgGw7la5w

#aging #older women #wisdom #resilience #self-care #determination #purpose #courageIf you watch the Winter Olympics, you have seen and heard about luge, a sport where athletes race down an icy track on a small sled, lying on their backs with their feet pointing forward, reaching speeds over 90 mph. At age 34, today’s guest, Anne Abernathy, set the record as the oldest female to compete in luge at the Winter Olympic Games. But that wasn’t the ending of her career.She made the US Virgin Islands’ luge team six more times. At age 63, Anne was the oldest woman to compete in the sport at the Olympics.And just for the heck of it, she honed her archery skills. As you might have guessed, Anne’s journey was not trouble-free, far from it. She was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma just before her first Winter Olympic Games; she’s had twenty knee operations, too many broken bones to count, and her home was demolished in a hurricane. So, the question remains: What drives a star athlete to continue competing against all odds, and what has Anne learned about herself and the process of getting older?TakeawaysAnne Abernathy set the record as the oldest female luge competitor.She faced numerous challenges, including cancer and serious injuries.Her background in music helped her cope with the pressures of competition.Anne discovered luge during a trip to Lake Placid, New York.She trained for three years before competing in her first Olympics.Despite being told she couldn't train due to cancer, she persevered and competed in six Olympics.Anne's serious brain injury led to a unique recovery process.She transitioned to archery after retiring from luge and continues to compete.Aging has provided Anne with a wealth of experience and knowledge.She believes that getting older is liberating, not limiting.https://anneabernathy.com/https://www.facebook.com/anne.abernathy1/https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-abernathy-709213/

I've been asked a zillion times to do an episode about me and to answer many of the same questions I ask guests. Listeners (now viewers, too) are curious about who I am, how I started a podcast, the books I've written, the experience of losing a brother to suicide, and life as an 80-year-old. It's taken me three years to get to this solo episode, not because I underestimated the value, but because of all the stellar guests I've been privileged to interview. It is so exciting to share the stories of older women who are out there living what some call the Third Act with enthusiasm, joie de vivre, and wisdom.I'd love you to send me a comment on janeleder.net. What questions remain about me and my journey? It's been quite a ride!TakeawaysJane started podcasting at 77, driven by curiosity.She learned the technical aspects of podcasting through trial and error.Aging can be vibrant and fulfilling, contrary to stereotypes.Humor plays a crucial role in coping with aging.Making mistakes is a natural part of learning at any age.Writing helped Jane process her grief over her brother's death.Sibling relationships can be complex and challenging.Jane's books explore deep emotional themes and personal connections.Teaching shaped Jane's perspective on storytelling and learning.Engaging with others through podcasts has been a joy for Jane. TitlesA Journey into Podcasting at 77Vitality and Humor in AgingSound bites"I want to be a podcaster.""It's okay to make mistakes.""Humor is key to aging."Chapters00:00 The Birth of a Podcaster05:12 Embracing Aging and Vitality10:52 Reflections on Life and Learning15:33 The Journey of Writing and Healing22:36 A Life of Teaching and Storytellingjaneleder.nethttps://youtube.com@olderwomenandfriends

When I think about moving from a home that my husband and I have shared for 32 years, I break out in a cold sweat. There's the kitchen with its overabundance of antique bowls and gadgets, my great-grandmother's china, my office with decades worth of my books, research materials, and file folders. And then there's my husband's studio with . . . Well, don't get me started. So this is where Jeannine Bryant can help save the day. She's a senior move manager who owns her own company and knows all about helping seniors or their sons and daughters. Well, let's face it, we're talking daughters. She helps find that place between too much and too little, and how we can keep the memories and not the stuff. TakeawaysMoving can be an emotional experience, especially after many years in one home.Women often take on the responsibility of organizing family belongings.Right-sizing is a more positive approach than downsizing.It's never too late to start decluttering and organizing.Discussing death and planning ahead can ease the burden on loved ones.Family experiences can motivate proactive planning for one's own belongings.Start decluttering with easy items to build momentum.Keepsakes should be displayed or used to bring joy.Gifting items to loved ones can create meaningful memories.Resources like senior move managers can provide valuable assistance. Chapters00:00 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Moving02:57 The Role of Women in Family Organization05:45 Understanding Right-Sizing vs. Downsizing08:43 The Importance of Early Planning11:38 Confronting the Topic of Death14:41 The Value of Proactive Planning17:36 Practical Steps to Declutter20:40 Making Decisions on Keepsakes23:42 Gifting and Sharing Memories26:43 Planning for a Move29:47 Connecting with Seniors32:53 Resources for Moving and Declutteringhttps://easyrightsizing.comhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UChNA775OFJQif29NHbfuovwhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanninebryant/https://www.amazon.com/s?k=jeannine+bryant&crid=13KK34II4WFGS&sprefix=Jeannine+Bry%2Caps%2C91&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_12_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker

Kelly Jackson, 73, and Sally, 75, are sisters who have lived together without husbands or children for almost 20 years. They reconnected as live-in caregivers for their mother, and during the four years they cared for her, they turned to blogging and short videos to keep their spirits up. They used the handle, "Midlife Gal's Gone Gray," and their mission was to ensure that women in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond never stop laughing. After a decade living in Honolulu, the sisters are back on the mainland, intending to become senior social media influencers.With over 300,000 viewers on their platforms and thousands of likes, shares, and subscribers, I'm betting on their success.Chapters00:25 Introduction and First Impressions00:48 Sisters Reunited: A Journey Begins10:25 Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics17:16 Caring for Mom: A New Chapter23:06 Finding Laughter in Life's Challenges28:40 Political Humor and Social Media Aspirations30:26 Words of Wisdom for Older Women"We're two sisters, old as dirt and bold as brass. Reality at its most bizarre."TakeawaysThe sisters had a non-traditional upbringing with a mother who was not very maternal.They decided to care for their mother when they realized she needed help.Laughter and humor are essential for coping with life's challenges.Moving to Hawaii was a significant turning point in their lives.They found creative outlets to express themselves and cope with caregiving.The importance of sibling relationships and shared experiences is highlighted.Aging can be navigated with humor and creativity.They reflect on their childhood memories and how they shaped their lives.The sisters emphasize the importance of finding joy in everyday life.Wisdom gained from experiences can be shared with others, especially older women.https://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeGalsGoneGrayINF/shorts  https://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeGalsGoneGrayINF/shortshttps://www.tiktok.com/@themidlifegalsgonegrayhttps://www.instagram.com/sallyjackson5848/?hl=enI'm now up on YouTube.You can watch this episode at  https://youtu.be/72wGKcF6m4U

In this conversation, Patricia Madson, a drama professor emeritus and author, shares her journey from a curious and adventurous child to a seasoned educator in improvisation.She discusses the importance of embracing mistakes, the transformative power of improvisation in personal and professional life, and the significance of findingpurpose and gratitude in everyday experiences. Patricia also introduces Eastern philosophies that emphasize self-reflection and proactive living, encouraging listeners to appreciatethe interconnectedness of their lives and the people who have influenced them.You can go to her website:https://improvwisdom.com/bio.htmlOrder "Improv Wisdom" on that site or go to Amazon and all other online book storesMy friend and fellow podcaster, Wendy Green, is the host of "Boomer Banter."heyboomer.biz/https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-green-heyboomerpodcast/https://heyboomer.biz/podcast/

Haven't made a trip to your local cannabis dispensary? Haven't talked to your physician about a medical marijuana card? Don't have a clue how cannabis may help with all kinds of health issues, from insomnia to anxiety, from certain serious diseases to focus/concentration? Or, what the hell? Maybe for relaxation and fun. How did cannabis get a bad rep in so many circles? What role has racism played? Greed? And why the heck is alcohol seen as somehow okay when cannabis is not?My guest today is Kelly Goldberg, a cannabis educator and advocate, about the health benefits of cannabis, particularly for women as they age. Kelly shares her personal journey into cannabis advocacy, the historical context of cannabis legality, and the various medical benefits of cannabis. The discussion also covers how to navigate cannabis use, dosage, and the importance of understanding THC and CBD. Kelly emphasizes the need for education and advocacy in the cannabis space, especially for older women seeking alternative health solutions. It's important to find an RN, MD, or a "budtender" who is knowledgeable and can answer questions and suggest or prescribe.I assume that many of us have smoked "pot" in college and beyond. Or, at least took a "hit" or two at a raucous party. One woman I spoke to said all she knew how to do was "roll" a "joint," but had no idea about the best way to consume cannabis today.Stick around. You'll learn a lot!https://scps.depaul.edu/faculty-and-staff/faculty-a-z/Pages/kelly-goldberg.aspx https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyjudgegoldberg/https://www.facebook.com/kelly.j.goldberg.3/For Questions About Cannabis (or any of the other topics we've covered) [email protected] [email protected]

This episode, "Likeable Badass" with author/PhD Alison Fagale, covers so many bases that I've chosen more of a summary or an outline. As I wrote on another site, Alison is a Dynamo who knows her stuff inside and out because she's lived it, taught it, and written about it.What is it? It is a woman who studies people, the science of people. It is a toolbox that women (and men) can use to hone their communication skills and succeed at what's most important to them.What does that mean?Well, here you go with some examples:The Two Dimensions of StatusThe Art of Self-PromotionThe Power of ComplimentsAuthenticity in Reputation ManagementIt's always great to get feedback from listeners. You can go to my website at janeleder.net, subscribe to my site for podcast episodes, my blog 80 & Me, information about upcoming guests, and more.Here is Alison's website:https://alisonfragale.com/about/And here is the link to Wellness Wednesday, hosted by Sally Duplantier. This is a free monthly webinar series that brings practical, evidence-based strategies for healthy aging to hundreds of people each week. Each program is also recorded, so no one misses out on the inspiration and tools to live well. Learn more at www.myzinglife.com. 

At 60, Denise Taylor began again: downsized, got a divorce, embraced single living, and set off on a journey that included a vision quest, game ranger training, and time living with a Maasai tribe. At 64, she completed her doctorate exploring how people find meaning after full-time work. That research became the seed for ThriveSpan, one of nine books, a model, a philosophy, and a way of living more consciously in later life."I could see the future," Denise said. "If I were going to make any changes, I'd better make them now."Single living was difficult. She realized that she had no friends. Denise and her ex-husband had done everything together. There'd been no room, time, or convenience of friends. But she put in the time and energy and developed enough social contact to make her happy.But the beauty of being single allowed Denise to make her own decisions. She no longer had to placate her ex. "There was such freedom," she said. "Every decision is mine."You'll want to listen to Denise talk about her experiences as a vision quester (Is there such a thing?), her time spent with a Masai tribe, and the owner of four acres of woodland. "Nature has influenced me in so many ways; it certainly influences my writing and the connection I feel to Mother Nature."https://denisetaylor.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/retirement-relevance-question-who-we-without-doing-dr-denise-taylor-9vn1e/https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisetaylor/?originalSubdomain=uk

"We don't want to be younger versions of ourselves: We've worked too hard to get where we are today.""Aging is a process of living." Guest Tracey Gendron, professor, author, and activist, reminds listeners that we don't want to be younger versions of ourselves: We've worked too hard to get where we are today. However, the way we learn about aging is filled with misconceptions. We've never learned the truth; instead, we think of aging as a process of physical decline and don't look at the "growth part." Yes, Tracey says, loss and decline are real. There's no getting around that. But so is change and growth. Research shows that as we age, we tend to focus on things that make us feel better, and we are much more able to "prune" the relationships and things that are not working for us. It's part of the wisdom we gain. We understand that we've wasted a lot of time on people who don't give us joy. "The world gets smaller but richer because it is filled with people and things we love.""Older Women & Friends" is richer with Tracey as this episode's guest.Her book, Ageism Unmasked, has garnered oodles of praise like this:“This book is a must-read for anyone who is aging — and that is every one of us! "Jill Vitale-Aussem, author of Disrupting the Status Quo of Senior Livinghttps://www.traceygendron.com/homeAgeism Unmasked: Exploring Age Bias and How to End It-  https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/700435/ageism-unmasked-by-tracey-gendron/9781586423223/OR wherever you buy books

It's a new trend, well, maybe not that new. Couples in committed relationships are choosing to live apart. Interesting, eh? The couple might be married, maybe not. Perhaps they are divorced; maybe a partner/spouse has passed away. Whatever the circumstances, these couples agree that they don't have to share the same space to have a happy, healthy relationship. Vicki Larson, today's guest, has written LATitude: How You Can Make A Live Apart Together Relationship Work. "It seems as if women 50-plus are the movers and shakers," she says. "Many women (and men) are uninterested in replicating past marriages or long-term commitments."While the statistics don't tell the whole story, it is estimated that ten percent of American couples and those in other countries are living together apart. "It's becoming much more common than we thought," says Vicki.Vicki tells the story of her own parents, who lived apart for ten years. "It didn't faze me," she says. Her mother left New York City and moved to Florida. She had had enough. (They eventually lived together again.)Vicki points out that there are no rules when it comes to LAT relationships. Couples fashion whatever works for them. For some, the idea is terrifying. For others, it is a grand creative adventure.What are some of the benefits of living apart together, according to those who've embraced the arrangement? It gives some breathing space, a "room of one's own." For others, it brings a sexual novelty to the relationship. Still others subscribe to the sentiment that "absence makes the heart grow fonder."There are, of course, downsides. The romantic partner may not be accepted by the other partner's children. The negative response from some ("Why even get married or commit when you're not living together?") can cause tension between friends and acquaintances. And there are feelings of jealousy/a lack of trust between some couples.Again, Vicki stresses that living apart together is not for everyone and is not better than traditional relationships, just different. Deciding to live separately requires a lot of discussion, decision-making, and change. But for some, the setup is exactly how they want to live, what for many is a second or third shot at a long-term romantic relationship that works.https://www.vicki-larson.com/ https://www.facebook.com/vlarson/https://www.vicki-larson.com/bookshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vickilarson/How to contact Wendy Battles, host of Reinvntion Rebelshttps://reinventionrebels.com/about/https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyabattles/

Maria Leonard Olsen is a civil litigation lawyer, a journalist, and an author. When she turned 50, she got divorced, got sober, and became an empty nester. For the first time in her life, she was living alone. And for the first time after 15 years as a full-time mom, she had to find a law firm that would hire her. Many women would have folded under the pressure, the loneliness, the Herculean task of putting a life back together. Not Maria. On the suggestion of a friend, Maria decided to try 50 new things in her 50th year. And some of those things were big, real big. Teaser: She bought a motorcycle with a sidecar for her dog. (All these years later, [Maria is 64], she rides on the back of her partner's motorcycle and experiences the freedom that helped her heal.)Her two-month stay as a volunteer in the poorest section of Nepal made her realize that it's not the number of things you have, but the friends, family, and shared experiences that make us happy. She began to understand that the life of gratitude is so much more precious than trying to be something she was not. A self-described "people pleaser," Maria set out to work on pleasing and loving herself. Today, one of Maria's greatest joys is helping others. Her experiences with alcoholism, sexual abuse, physical abuse, and racism have given her first-hand knowledge of the suffering and the joys of healing.Maria is a woman you'll want to get to know.https://www.marialeonardolsen.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nR3cM9aRjeshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B4PPYJW/?bestFormat=true&k=50%20after%2050%20book&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k0_1_8_de&crid=1LZ6M942D3A5U&sprefix=50%20after 

Join me in this enlightening episode as I sit down with Gina Vild, author of The Two Most Important Days: How to Find Your Purpose and Live a Happier and Healthier Life. I don't know about you, but I've been in a constant state of fight or flight. It feels as if the United States and the rest of the world are upside down and that there is very little we can do to find joy and awe. Enter Gina Vild and the wisdom she brings to the table, essential wisdom if we are to survive and thrive. Gina shares her journey from political activist to communication director, from associate dean at Harvard Medical School, to author. She talks about how poetry, personal purpose, and setting emotional boundaries can transform your life and find joy and awe in everyday moments. It is these moments and moments that we relive from our past that can change our brain waves and levels of "feel good" chemicals like serotonin. Tune in to learn how to navigate life's challenges with grace and strength. Habits that help us stay sane in tumultuous times.https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-vild-908a648/https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/gina-vildhttps://www.instagram.com/ginavild/https://www.facebook.com/gina.vild/https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B075FFS7NM?ccs_id=71032ad2-f47c-48f8-8518-35e72e6f4d84POETRYWilliam Stafford, "Yes"https://reflections.yale.edu/article/reformation-writing-next-chapter/poem-yesWilliam Stafford, "Thread"https://www.slowmuse.com/2019/06/16/the-thread/Ilana Landsberg-Lewishttps://www.wizwork.net/sign-uphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanalandsberglewis/https://ilanalandsberglewis.com/elementor-1000/

Join me as I delve into the world of classical music with Roit Feldenkreis, a trailblazing conductor and consultant. Discover Roit's journey from a small village in Israel to conducting orchestras worldwide, and how she integrates her musical expertise into corporate leadership. This episode explores the challenges and triumphs of being a female conductor in a male-dominated field, and the innovative ways Roit is bridging the gap between music and business.https://roitfeldenkreis.com/bio/https://roitfeldenkreis.com/press/Recommended Podcast, "Wisdom At Work"www.wisdomatworkpodcast.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanalandsberglewis/

Three of the past guests on "Older Women & Friends" talk about what they've been up to since we last spoke. All three of their stories represent the exciting escapades of older women who continue to smash stereotypes to simitherenes.Melissa Davey: At age 65, she left the corporate world to follow a dream of becoming a filmmaker. And, boy, her story is one of determination, creativity, and success. Melissa and I first talked back at the end of 2022. She was one of my first guests on "Older Women & Friends." I was impressed then and even more three years later. Melissa's first documentary film, "Beyond Sixty," profiled some extraordinary older women. It is her second film, "Climbing Into Life," that has put her on the map. Dierdre Wolowniick, the oldest woman to climb El Capitan in Yosemite, is the subject of this documentary. You may know about her son, who is the subject of "Free Solo." He is the first person who climbed "Cap" without any protective equipment. No ropes. Nothing.In this episode, Melissa chronicles the amazing life of Dierdre, who tries to get closer to her son and to understand his obsession with climbing.https://melissadavey.com/https://melissadavey.com/climbing-into-life/https://melissadavey.com/beyond-60/Jeanette Leardi - During these stressful times in our country's history, Jeanette is focused on the 2025 mid-term elections. "To me," she says, "that is ground zero. If we get it right, things can turn around." Switching gears, Jeanette cites the happy rise in the emphasis on intergenerational communication. "It is the most important way to defeat ageism." She offers how we can meet younger folks and the kinds of experiences we can share. I also asked Jeanette about her experience with the publication of her book, Aging Sideways: Changing Our Perspectives on Getting Older.https://www.jeanetteleardi.com/https://www.jeanetteleardi.com/aging-sideways-bookhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanette-leardi-3978b126/Lucinda Skykes - Lucinda sets the record for the most frequent guest on "Older Women & Friends." She is a retired physician who has focused her attention and expertise on sleep and women 50+. It is natural to sleep as much as we age, she says. The objective is to use your time to your advantage, either in the middle of the night or early morning. Lucinda details steps any woman (and man) can take to do exactly that. If you've listened to an episode with Lucinda, you know that she is knowledgeable about so many topics, including wisdom and how we can take advantage of all that we've experienced and live happy, fulfilling lives.https://lucindasykesmd.com/https://lucindasykesmd.com/my-story/

Dian Griesel, Ph.D., a renowned perception analyst and hypnotherapist, has dedicated her career to understanding how our conscious and unconscious beliefs shape our perceptions and influence every decision we make, both personally and professionally.The middle of five siblings, Dian grew up doing her best to balance the "uppers" and the "lowers." She tried to be non-disruptive, not to cause any dissention among the ranks. She was the unofficial "peace maker" in the family. Andit was her experience growing up that groomed Dian to be the "quiet, confident advisor" or, as she describes it, "the fly on the wall."Some of the Key Points of Discussion in this energetic, eye-opening episode:Objective vs. Subjective Age: While we can't change our chronological age, our mental attitude and actions can significantly influence how young we feel. Dian's personal experiences and professional insights reveal how maintaining an active lifestyle and positive mindset can make a difference.Biological Age: Utilizing tools like the Tanita Body Fat scale, Dian monitors her biological age, which often reflects a much younger state due to her healthy habits. She shares practical advice on hydration, nutrition, and physical activity.Fountain of Youth Myths: From historical quests to modern-day fads, Dian offers a grounded perspective on the true keys to longevity and vitality—movement, nutritious eating, and genuine social connections.Embracing Mortality: Dian discusses her philosophy on aging and death, emphasizing the importance of living fully and purposefully each day, despite life's inevitable challenges.She is known to millions as @SilverDisobedience.https://diangriesel.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/diangriesel/https://www.agingwithpurposeandpassion.com/

The Woman Behind The MotherPoet, novelist, essayist, and editor Jill Bialosky had wanted to write about her mother for some time, but she was busy with other projects, and the timing was not right. But then her mother passed away from Alzheimer's during COVID, and Jill, unable to attend the burial in another city, watched the abbreviated burial on FaceTime. "It was," she said, "very difficult to process her death."As many authors do, she turned to writing to process her grief. Her essay about the FaceTime Funeral appeared in the New York Times; The floodgates opened wide. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/15/opinion/coronavirus-burial-facetime.htmlJill's mother was born in 1933 into a world in which women were expected to marry, have children, and live happily ever after. Tragically, her husband died when she was twenty-five, and she was left to care for three daughters, all under the age of three. "She was so unequipped," Jill said. "The advice of family and friends was to find a new husband to take care of us. That's what she did." Unfortunately, that marriage didn't last.When Jill began to write about her mother in earnest, she decided to start with her mother's death and to move from there, tracing her mother's life back to her childhood. In this episode of "Older Women & Friends," she explains why she decided to move from the end to the beginning. She also takes a hard look at what living in an institution is like and her evolving view of people with Alzheimer's. "They no longer control the narrative of their lives, but are still expressing and participating."This is a touching, insightful episode that should not be missed.https://www.jillbialosky.com/Another recommended podcast for mid-life women."Aging with Purpose and Passion" with Beverly Glazer https://www.agingwithpurposeandpassion.com/

"I tell women all the time that embracing one's authentic self in life takes time. It is like peeling multiple layers of an onion," said Clare. "You want to be the same person, no matter where you are."Clare Beckton grew up "very poor." Her family lived in a three-room shack with no running water. What she understood early on was how power was wielded by her father, her brothers, and the men in the small farming community where she lived and how women got the short shaft. "I was a feminist at an early age," Clare said. "I knew that I wanted to make a difference."There were no strong, self-assured female role models in Clare's life. But she decided to go to law school, and with no money, she set out to win all the school awards and land a scholarship, which she did. Upon graduation, she was encouraged to go to graduate school in law and nabbed a teaching fellowship. Later on, she then spent twenty-three years in the Canadian Justice Department."I call this stage of life rewirement, not retirement," Clare said. "I focus only on my passion for making a difference with women entrepreneurs and older women in the workplace.""I tell women all the time that embracing one's authentic self in life--knowing who we are as a person-- takes time, like peeling multiple layers of an onion," said Clare. "You want to be the same person, no matter where you are."How do you connect with your authentic self? Clare offers many suggestions:Reconnect with your values. Consider what's driving your life. If you're out of alignment with the values of the work you're doing, ask why you're doing what you're doing, and make any necessary changes.Seek feedback. Listen to what someone has to say. Even if the feedback is not what you'd hoped, learn from it.Reflection - Ask yourself what part you played in a situation that went wrong, and learn from your mistakes or misjudgmentsAcknowledge your successes. Celebrate.Network. Build connections. Understand how the system devalues your talents and skills, and collaborate with other women about strategies, experiences, and solutions.Show Up, Speak Up. Never lose your voice.Get up in the morning with a PURPOSE, a reason to look forward to the day."We live in a society that doesn't value the wisdom of older people, particularly women," said Clare. "Refuse to be invisible. Don't be sidelined.The title of Clare's book says it all: Own It: Your Success, Your Future, Your Life.https://www.amazon.com/Own-Your-Success-Future-Life/dp/1460252314 or wherever books are soldhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/clarebeckton/https://womensbusinessnetwork.ca/introducing-clare-beckton-honorary-bya-chair/Check out Clare's blogs on Huffington PostAnother great podcast to check out:Aging With Purpose & Passion w/ host, Beverly Glazerhttps://www.agingwithpurposeandpassion.com/Email [email protected] https://reinventimpossible.com/podcastWebsite: https://www.agingwithpurposeandpassion.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/beverleyglazer/https://www.facebook.com/beverley.glazerGrouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/womenover50rockhttps://www.instagram.com/beverleyglazer_reinvention/

"Anorexia of aging" may affect up to 18% of individuals 65+, more women than men.Contrary to popular opinion, eating disorders (EDs) are not just a serious health condition for adolescents. Nope, older women, often during menopause, can develop an ED. If you struggled with an ED as a teen or earlier, your chances of sliding back increase.Today's guest, Michele Mason (60), is a 44-year survivor of anorexia nervosa. She was sixteen when, at 5'11" and weighing 150 pounds, she shrank to 100 pounds. After a three-month hospital stay, she managed to keep her anorexia in check and, over the years, stuffed the experience away to the point where she'd convinced herself that none of this had ever happened.Following the Pandemic and the explosion of social media, Michele began writing a memoir titled Annihilating Anorexia. She felt compelled to share her experience and all that she'd learned along the way. "I came kicking and screaming," she said. "I was certain people would think less of me."To her surprise, she received support, kindness, and understanding. And she also discovered that older women and anorexia were much more common than she'd imagined. "When I was pitching the book, women came up to me with stories of a daughter or friend or another family member who was struggling with an eating disorder. I was amazed."In this episode, Michele and I talk about the red flags of eating disorders, the symptoms, the pressures in today's world to be thin, and the fortitude it takes to conquer the disease. Research is showing that eating disorders may be brain-based and that there are people who have a genetic predisposition. We also talk about the shame women (and men) feel and the education desperately needed to help curb a problem that is growing, one that is affecting more and more older women. https://www.amazon.com/Annihilating-Anorexia-Memoir-Michele-Mason/dp/[email protected]

Melinda Blau is 81, but many of her dear friends are much older. These women populate her new book, The Wisdom Whisperers, and provide younger women (at 80, I must be a spring chicken!) with a playbook to draw from and relate to our own lives. When Melinda wrote her sixteenth book, she wanted to title it, "I want what she has!" She was deeply moved and impressed by the older women, most of whom were in their 90s and 100s. I asked Melinda what characteristics the wisdom whisperers had in common:* Interest in others - a very robust social life* A Purpose - a reason to wake up every day and live it to the fullest* Gratitude for their good fortune that they have had long, fruitful lives and for the people in their lives, past and present* Humor - Laughing with others& Yes, independence. The women were the CEOs of their own livesMelinda calls these women "old ladies." She got some flak from family and friends. But she was undeterred. "Old," she says, "is just an adjective. It describes me and others in the age group. These old ladies give me hope about aging, and that's such a good thing to have."The beginning of your life is about making memories. The end of life is about remembering. Zelda from The Wisdom Whisperers.https://melindablau.com/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/1640657134?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_E3WDVZDAFZEWP0FKKD7N_2&bestFormat=true OR your local library.

Maybe you've seen the Showtime special, "Funny Women of A Certain Age" or "More Funny Women of A Certain Age," or -- you guessed it--even "More Women of A Certain Age." Today's guest, comedian Carole Montgomery, is the mover and shaker behind the shows and continues to tour with a stellar cast. Women show up in carloads, busloads, campers, and hoot and holler at the uninhibited, outrageous comedy about aging. No subject is off limits. In this episode of "Older Women & Friends," Carole talks about the importance of having girlfriends--the value of friendship as we ageThe negative stereotypes about older women & how comedy can open the door to show how ludicrous most of these misconceptions areThe female comedians like Lily Tomlin, Joan Rivers, and Phyllis Diller, who set the stage for the next generation Humor and the importance of laughter that takes us away from physical and mental painHer love of being in the spotlight, she was always funnyChanges in the industry that now sports a plethora of female comedians.& So Much More!Check out the schedule below. There may be a show coming to a city near [email protected]://www.funnywomenofacertainage.com/https://www.funnywomenofacertainage.com/podcasthttps://www.funnywomenofacertainage.com/tour

Wendy Alexander grew up under apartheid in South Africa. Until she was seven, she felt like most other kids. That changed the day the police insisted that she and her family get off a whites-only beach. "I was no longer a child," Wendy said. "Once you know racism and segregation, you know it."Wendy's dream was to leave South Africa; while the dream was deferred, she and her family immigrated to Australia when Wendy was twenty. But it wasn't easy to acclimate to the newfound freedoms. It took over two years before Wendy felt relaxed, safe.This should have had a happy ending. Sadly, it did not. A relationship with an Australian went bad, very bad. The man walked away, leaving Wendy with a mortgage and bills she couldn't afford, a baby soon to be born, and the scars of domestic violence. Wendy was devastated.This episode traces Wendy's journey from deep emotional and financial depression to a successful succession of high-paying, high-pressure jobs that kept her financially secure until she left it all behind to expand her own business, the Happy Career Club.What Wendy learned from her own experiences with corporations is shared with her clients, the vast majority of whom have gone on to professional and personal success. She has great advice for planning to "move on," getting to know prospective employers, writing a good resume, and all kinds of other dos and don'ts. Her winning strategies complement the happiness that she values and the lessons learned.https://happycareerhub.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyaalexander/?originalSubdomain=aufacebook.com/happycareerhubcoachinghttps://www.amazon.com/Internal-Uprising-Reclaiming-Through-Menopause/dp/B0BSD3LRJX

"So the light went off in my five-year-old head, and I said there must be something in stories that we need. Stories are like air or water. So, I decided right then and there that I wanted to be a storyteller, a writer." _______ Shelley Fraser MickleWhile her route was circuitous, as most journeys are, Shelley became an award-winning author and the storyteller incarnate for six years on NPR's "Morning Edition." The story she didn't tell often, though, was how, at age six, she was diagnosed with polio and taken to a hospital for infectious children, where she spent three months in isolation. Even more horrifying was that two of the children in her ward died right alongside her. There was an iron lung next to Shelley, poised to make her even more of a prisoner, but she bravely survived and rendered the iron lung unnecessary.After such a horrifying trauma, how do you come around to humor? Well, Shelley explained, her mother was straight out of "I Love Lucy," a real hoot. She suffered from depression, and laughter was an elixir. Shelley came home with at least one funny story daily to entertain her mother. Shelley had dreamed of becoming a cowgirl just like Dale Evans. (I hope that reference rings a bell.) She loved animals and, with her husband, bought a farm stocked full of all kinds of beloved creatures. And then along came Buddy, a neighbor's dog much more interested in spending time with Shelley than her owner.Buddy became Shelley's beloved companion for ten years and saw so many things about her that she didn't see in herself. Theirs was a love affair."I'm 81 years old in this long life. I've had a lot of weird boyfriends, but I've never had the obsessive adoration that Buddy was offering me."That special connection between a human and a dog is the overarching theme of Shelley's latest book, Itching To Love: The Story of a Dog.Listen to NPR's "Morning Edition" emeritus and award-winning author as she tells her story of physical challenge, a career as a humorist, a dream realized to be a cowgirl, and the touching relationship with her dog, Buddy. https://www.shelleymickle.com/https://www.amazon.com/Itching-Love-Story-Shelley-Mickle/dp/1637633394 or wherever books are soldhttps://www.shelleymickle.com/bookshttps://www.shelleymickle.com/book-clubs

“No Way Out of This: Living with a Partner with Alzheimer’s.” Sue Lick’s husband was fourteen years older, but that didn’t seem to matter. Yes, she loved the Beatles; he listened to crooners. But they sang together, played music together, and shared a love of reading, travel, and so much more.“I thought he’d live forever,” Sue said.It was her husband Fred who first mentioned that his memory was slipping. Sue shrugged it off and blamed the trauma of his mother dying and the chore of cleaning out her house.  But things spiraled down from there.Sue, a journalist and semi-professional musician, journaled daily during Fred’s illness. It was the some thousand-odd pages that served as the basis for her memoir, No Way Out of This: Living with a Partner with Alzheimer's. She shares the heartache, the guilt, the loneliness but also the good times, the laughs, the happiness.In this episode of “Older Women & Friends,” Sue and I take a deep dive into this horrendous disease, the challenges, and the tools to use for the caregiver to carry on. Unlike other memoirs about Alzheimer’s, Sue is not a self-sacrificing wife who gives up her life to care for her husband. She understands the necessity of maintaining her connection with friends and the importance of time away to, in her case, write and play music.

“You inherit your genetic blueprint from your parents. But you construct the person that you become. Just because you have a birthday every year, your body need not age yearly.”                            _________ Dr. Gillian Lockitch, medical specialist, professor, and international speakerIn her new book, Growing Older, Living Younger: The Science of Aging Gracefully and Retiring (Comfortably), Gillian cites New research that reveals that what you think, how you move, what you eat, how you interact with others, stimulate your mind or challenge yourself, can modulate the expression of your genes.In this episode, listeners follow Gillian’s journey from a happy woman who “had it all” to a depressed, isolated, overweight widow who, with time, research, and desire, took control of her life and changed her physical and mental health.Gillian suggests a road map to help us as we ageMake the choice to age healthilyCreate a roadmap and set goalsMaintain a positive mindset, be mindful, and exercise your brainEvaluate your genetic risk factors and whether you can change themEnsure your living environment promotes healthy sleep, activity and nutritionPrevent falls and fracturesMaintain a healthy body weight and avoid the metabolic syndromeEnsure you have good antioxidant protectionKeep your bones strong, your joints mobile, and your muscles flexibleLove your familyNurture your friendshipsChallenge yourselfGillian explains the differences between genetics and epigenetics. It’s a heady distinction, but she is a pro at breaking this down and suggesting ways to live longer and better.Growing Older Living Younger podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/growing-older-living-younger-about-longevity-wellness/id1562021011Get to know Dr. Gillian Lockitch linktr.ee/askdrgillGift: the url is  https://bit.ly/3DfjdtM The resource is called The 7 Keys to Growing Older Living Younger.The book at www.gillianlockitch.com

Judith Horn was a geriatric physical therapist with decades of experience behind her, plus years as a specialist. The specialty is relatively new, but Judith saw the need to work with older patients whose needs differ greatly from others.What is the value of seeing a geriatric physical therapist? Like any health issue, we choose to see a physician who specializes. Someone with a heart problem sees a cardiologist. Someone who has pulmonary issues sees a pulmonologist. Someone with migraines sees a neurologist. A geriatric PT can spotlight physical aches, pains, and the side effects of various surgeries. (See below for a complete list of conditions a geriatric PT can treat.)Judith's grandmother played a significant role in her decision to become a therapist. She watched as she cared for her mother, Judith's great-grandmother, who'd lost the lower half of both legs and her eyesight due to diabetes. My grandmother made her mother's life as rich and active as it could be. Her 'mantra' was what can I do to circumvent the obstacles and expand her quality of life. As Judith's grandmother aged, Judith was instrumental in her care. And when her grandmother moved to a nursing home, Judith lived close by and visited her almost every day. When she asked her grandmother what she needed, her grandmother replied, "I have everything I need right here," as she patted her heart.Judith never imagined that she'd suffer a serious disease and, in many ways, need the care of others. She first developed a macular hole like a "pothole" in the back of one eye. That scambled her sight; people looked like "monsters." Following surgery, that eye was almost useless. She needed cataract surgery. That helped, and for a year, she had a reprieve. Then, she had an optic nerve stroke in her "good" eye. Part of her field of vision was gone.Today, Judith still juggles what she can and can't do. She has the most trouble with reading, which, for an educator and lifetime learner, is a huge challenge. Sometimes, her eyes get mixed up, which affects her balance and the amount of visual currency she has in a day.Due to her illnesses, Judith had to retire earlier than she'd planned. Yet she says, there are new activities that she'd never pursued like painting and golf. Yep, golf! You can listen to Judith tell her own story on the podcast "Older Women & Friends" at janeleder.net or wherever you listen to podcasts.Geriatric therapists treat a wide variety of clients:Healthy adults who want to continue to safely pursue sports and leisure activities as they age.People who are at risk for injuries from falls.Those with medical conditions that limit their movement or ability to take part in everyday activities.Critically ill or injured older adults in the hospital.Older people recovering from surgery.Frail adults who require short-term skilled nursing or long-term care.Older adults in hospice care who want to remain as independent as possible.Geriatric physical therapists often evaluate and treat people with health conditions, such as:Age-related progressive loss of muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia and frailty).Cancer-related problems.Falls risk.Fractures (broken bones such as a broken hip or femur, spinal compression fractures, and others).Heart and lung disorders (such as heart disease and heart failure).Joint replacements (such as knee, hip, or shoulder replacement) .Conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and balance disorders.Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.Osteopenia and osteoporosis.Overweight and obesity.Diabetes.Sports injuries.Wounds and amputationshttps://www.choosept.com/why-physical-therapy/specialty-areas-physical-therapy/geriatric-physical-therapyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-horn-pt-dpt-ms-gcs-525a6656/https://www.apta.org/for-educators/curriculum-resources/geriatric-physical-therapy0 comments

What kinds of changes do you make after a serious health crisis? For Leonie-Ruth Acland the changes after suffering a stroke and taking a year to recover resulted in a recommitment to the mentoring and coaching of women and to her connection with nature on so many levels. Then at age 67, Leonie-Ruth was diagnosed with ADHD. Until then, she'd always wondered why she didn't fit the mold, why staying focused was so hard, and why when she was younger she suffered from anxiety, particularly as a student. Her parents had high expectations and while she eventually met them, she paid a high price. A friend of her father's who'd been hired as a math tutor concluded that there was "a bit missing."In many ways, the ADHD diagnosis completed the puzzle and was a relief. Like so many other women, the masking, or front, that Leonie-Ruth put forward to pretend to be someone she was not, took a high toll. It was mentally and physically exhausting. Since her diagnosis, Leonie-Ruth realizes that there is NOT something that needs to be fixed and that she is blessed with creativity and intuition as a result of ADHD.Leonie-Ruth and her husband live on two acres of land in rural New South Wales, Australia. When they first moved in, there were no trees and no grass. Over the years, they've nursed the land back to life. They planted fifty fruit trees, raised ducks, grew vegetables and fruit, and created a space where people could flourish. This intense connection with nature has helped her better understand herself and connect to her inner work and the kindness and love she has for others.https://pomegranatecircle.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonie-ruth-acland%F0%9F%8C%B1-746591a/https://www.instagram.com/dontbecagedbyyourage/reel/C8b-yoZu6NJ/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adhd-women-exploring-the-neuroverse/id1739890898

Are you a risk taker? Do you thrive on trying new things, new things that may take you out of your comfort zone?Helen Hirsh Spence knows all about taking calculated risks. She climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, among other peaks, reclaimed her life after a bout of depression, and worked in places like Bolivia, and Honduras. She believes in getting out of her comfort zone to "expand, reach, and learn." Oh, did I mention that she was a Jane Goodall Institute board member? Helen knows Jane well and sees her as a role model for older women. "She's ninety, and travels more than 300 days a year to get her message out."Helen has been a feminist since the early sixties, but as she has aged, she became aware of how she'd internalized many of the stereotypes about older women. "I'd been born into a lifetime of questioning my value as a woman, particularly as an older woman. If I'm feeling this way as an educator, I can't imagine how stereotypes and biases impact other women's lives. I felt like I couldn't or shouldn't do as much." This self-directed ageism led to depression."I'm too old to _______________""That doesn't suit me _________________""I shouldn't wear _______________ because this outfit is only for younger women."Today, she is comfortable taking calculated risks. "Life is short; there is more work to be done." Helen is a self-described "age provocateur" who wants to provoke people to reframe the whole conversation about aging. She created Top Sixty Over Sixty, a niche consultancy that promotes longevity literacy by providing the tools and training to thrive in today’s aging and multigenerational world. https://www.topsixtyoversixty.com/https://www.linkedin.com/events/7259000354451722240/comments/https://www.topsixtyoversixty.com/blog/https://www.topsixtyoversixty.com/newsletter-signup/

What's so damn funny about death? Nothing, most folks would say. But not Gail Rubin, Thanatologist/Death Educator.Let's face it: death is guaranteed 100 percent. It may be the "party that no event planner wants to plan." But don't include Gail among the party poopers.How did Gail become a death educator? That's a long story but suffice it to say that Gail didn't wake up one morning and say, "I want to be the doyenne of death." For her, it started way back when she was a college student majoring in TV and Film. She didn't know it then, but an end-of-the-year movie project would set the table. Gail sees herself as the bridge between the general public and end-of-life businesses like funeral homes, cemeteries, and life insurance companies. She is a national speaker who uses film and humor to help break the resistance a majority of people have to talk about death. Barely a third of Americans have had an end-of-life conversation and are completely unprepared when a loved one dies and, conversely, when loved ones are left responsible for your death.Gail talks about the many important decisions that need to be made by all of us:Medical careLife InsuranceFuneral, if anyBody Distribution: Cremation? Burial (if so, what kind)? WillsPower of AttorneyEstate planningGail encourages us to "Shop before we drop." Get all our goodies in a row before it's too late, and family and friends are left with overwhelming questions about what to do and how to honor your wishes that were never discussed.Have you heard about a green burial and what that involves? Water-based body distribution? Natural organic reduction? Death doula? C'mon on. Get with it! Explore your choices. Make decisions. And then breathe a sigh of relief."Just like talking about sex doesn't make you pregnant," Gail says, "talking about death doesn't make you dead."https://agoodgoodbye.com/about-gail/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfjxvL4DSS8https://www.linkedin.com/in/gailrubinctagoodgoodbye/https://agoodgoodbye.com/shopping/

From the outside, Eleanor Vincent's childhood appeared idyllic. But behind the veneer of a loving, supportive environment was a darker secret: her mother was depressed, Eleanor was abused, and both her parents were same-sex gays and bitterly unhappy. "Our job--my siblings' and mine -- was to protect our parents and not let their secret out." During a year when her father lived in New York to pursue acting, her mother had a female lover. The tension was palpable.One can only imagine how all of the stress, confusion, and anger molded Eleanor and impacted her choices in life, including her choice of men.She met her first husband when she worked as a cocktail waitress to augment her salary from a Montessori teaching job. The marriage lasted just four years. They had one child, a girl. At age thirty-two, Eleanor married again. By her mid-30s, she was a single mom with two children to raise.Eleanor was single for the next thirty-five years until she met and married for a third time at age seventy-one.If only her story ended there in a happy, supportive marriage. But Eleanor had unwittingly fallen in love with a man who had Asperger's, a developmental disability (some disagree with that categorization), or a person with different brain wiring from neurotypical brains. Didn't she see worrisome signs when they were dating? Yes. But she chose to minimize or overlook them because there was so much good in the relationship. (Some warning signs included no eye contact, inability to talk about emotions, and social awkwardness.)"I had no idea what that would look like in a day-to-day relationship with a partner," Eleanor said. "It was upsetting, confusing," she said. "He love-bombed me and fooled me into thinking that being in a relationship with me was something he wanted more than anything."Eleanor tells the rest of the story in her new book, Disconnected: Portrait of a Neurodiverse Marriage. She talks to me in this fascinating episode about what can happen when two people come together but don't realize that their brains are wired differently and that the ensuing struggle may doom the marriage, no matter how either partner tries.There are, however, steps couples can take to try to heal and remain partnered. Eleanor outlines those on her website and in her new book. There is hope, but it's a tough road ahead. For Eleanor, the road ended in divorce.https://www.eleanorvincent.com/author/epvince/https://www.vineleavespress.com/https://shorturl.at/mLNVa& Wherever books are sold

What can grandparents do to foster a strong relationship? How can a grandparent be the GEO, Grand Parent Officer?Are you a grandparent who will spend time with your grandchildren, particularly around the holidays? If not, how will you share and engage with your grandchildren from a distance at any time of year?There are 47 million grandparents in the United States, with an average age of 67. This may be a surprise: 71 percent of grandparents are still working. So, what can these grandparents do to nurture the relationship? How can they engage? How can a grandparent be the GEO, Grand Parent Officer?Kerry Byrne is a researcher, collaborator, and entrepreneur in aging, care, and connection. She is the Founder of The Long Distance Grandparent, a mission-driven business, that helps grandparents build strong bonds with their grandchildren – no matter the distance between them.There is so much to unpack in this episode of "Older Women & Friends." Perhaps most important are the stories grandparents share, stories that show a grandparent facing challenges, floundering, and then succeeding. These stories are important for generations to come. Even if it seems as if a grandchild is not listening, she is. Kerry outlines many things that a grandparent can do to foster and nurture a relationship that is beneficial for everyone. Among these suggestions is the over-arching importance of a grandchild feeling seen, heard, and listened to. There are many ways to accomplish this goal:* Engage in what a grandchild does and your activities as well* If you're still working, share your job. Mail some selfies of you in the workplace. Text or write about some of the challenges. * If you can't be there for holidays like Thanksgiving, come up with a game like the Gratitude Game. (Listen to the episode to find out how the game is played.)* Mention qualities of a grandchild that you admire: a good listener, a good friend, a good fill-in-the-blank.* Relish your high-quality relationships and how your example creates a generation of less ageist generations.Like any relationship, the one between grandparent and grandchild is a lot of work. You juggle not only that connection but the one with your children and your own. But the payoffs are worth the time, energy, and creativity.You can assume your role as Grandparent Encouragement Officer (GEO) and create beautiful connections.https://thelongdistancegrandparent.com/https://www.instagram.com/thelongdistancegrandparent/p/CcQ-ryLLMj9/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-byrne-phd-20953528/?originalSubdomain=ca

"My favorite species is the human species." ----- Lucinda Sykes, retired MDDid you know that new science links prescribed sleeping pills to an increase in your chances of dementia and Alzheimers?Sleeping pills don't put you to sleep; they sedate the brain and prevent it from giving itself a power wash that gets rid of material ultimately connected to disease.This episode's guest is Lucida Sykes, retired MD and current sleep coach. You may have listened to an earlier episode with Lucinda. This is a Command Performance."Millions of older women are being taken from their families," Lucinda says. Her grandmother is a case in point. Every night, Lucinda went to the drugstore to pick up her grandmother's sleeping pills. She died in her 60s from complications now understood to be partially due to sleeping pills.When we can't fall asleep, our mind tends to catastrophize. We think of the worst possibilities and ruminate about them over and over again.So, what are some useful ideas when we can't fall asleep? *Get out of bed*Do something that relaxes you, and engages you (puzzles, needlework, reading, etc.)*Dim the lights - avoid blue lights; instead, surround yourself with amber and pinkish tones*& MoreThe key is to avoid stimulation when you sleep and create an uncluttered space outside of the bedroom that calms and relaxes you. Maybe the room is full of fragrances like lavender or maybe there is a sound system that plays calm music.There is so much more research packed into what is an informative, fast-paced episode of "Older Women & Friends."https://lucindasykesmd.com/https://www.joyfulafter50.com/abouthttps://lucindasykesmd.com/my-story/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucinda-sykes-md-71a25651/?originalSubdomain=ca

Did you know that sometime between 2030 and 2035 it will be the first time in American history that more people will be 65+ than people 18 years and younger?Crazy!Today's guest, gerontologist Jeanette Leardi, is one of this podcast's favorite guests. We first talked in June 2003, and since then she has a new book out, Aging Sideways: Changing Our Perspectives on Getting Older.Jeanette's story is fascinating. She became a gerontologist in her late 50s after taking care of her older parents for ten years. She was blown away at how poorly older people were treated and decided to try to change people's minds about aging. The way we age is not preordained and in many ways, we can be our stewards and enjoy the complex but magical journey as we age.There is a fear that permeates the cultural view of dementia or any of its categories.The facts: Only 10% of people 65 + have dementiaFor those 90+, the rate jumps to 33.3%, but that means that two-thirds of much older Americans will not have to confront dementia.And that's good news!Another topic Jeanette and I discussed is the lack of rituals for older people. Sure, there are birthdays, anniversaries, and other important events, but nothing specifically for older women and men. Rituals help clarify meaning, and they give us a chance to celebrate. Jeanette suggests a multi-generational ritual when we celebrate aging instead of dreading it. Imagine the benefits: younger generations will love celebrating right along and might not have such a negative, jaded view of getting older. And there is the opportunity for older people to welcome newcomers into the fold. I don't know, something akin to ceremonies we've observed: sororities, fraternities, graduations, professional highlights, retirement, and on and on.Did you know that our brains continue to create new brain cells and that the super highways help us see the what-ifs, the middle ground between good/bad, yes/no . . . ? Our brains may work more slowly because of the wealth of experiences over a lifetime. I like to liken our memory to a card catalog. Remember those? It took us time to find the book( s) we were after but with patience we were rewarded.Finally, Jeanette and I discuss creativity in older age and how our creativity differs from that of younger people. She details four characteristics of creative folks and reminds listeners that all of us are creative daily as we choose the words we want to use, and the stories we tell to our friends and family. This is a time to pursue whatever gives us pleasure and stokes our creativity. This a time when we are not so dependent upon what others think about us and how we choose to spend our time. It is freedom to be embraced.

How did your recent doctor's appointment go? Did you get the care you needed? Were all your questions answered? Did you feel as if you were a valued patient whose health mattered?If you're like many patients--often older women--the answer to some of these questions is "No!". Everything was rushed. You were in and out too quickly—the time you spent jotting down questions before your appointment seemed like a waste. What was the point if you left the doctor's office confused, frustrated, and angry?After an episode of "Older Women & Friends" about breast cancer, one about problems associated with the pelvic floor, and other health-related episodes scheduled for the future, I felt it important to have a guest who could help define the steps all of us can take to communicate with doctors and get the care and respect we deserve. We know ourselves and our history better than anyone. It's key that we understand how to share that information and to advocate for ourselves.Dana Sherwin was a top hospital administrator for thirty-five years. But when she was diagnosed with a rare blood disease, she made the difficult decision to leave her profession. Her cancer treatment included chemo and, eventually, a bone marrow transplant. She was in the hospital for five weeks and spent many more in her recovery.Along the way, she paid close attention to the care she received. She began to figure out what made a doctor-patient relationship work well and what did not. She admits that she made mistakes along the way and decided to develop the steps for patients of all stripes and health issues and, for that matter, regularly scheduled appointments, that help get the best medical care. "The Thinking Patients" is the result.There are five important steps that Dana suggests and that she details in this episode:PreparationLanguageQuestionsParticipationCourageDana is a five-year cancer survivor and credits her doctors and her self-advocation. She is grateful for the opportunity to help others become "thinking patients." https://www.linkedin.com/in/desherwin/

What is the pelvic floor? Where is it located in the body? What does it do? What are the potential issues created by a weak pelvic floor?You might be surprised to learn that millions of young and older women experience problems--many of them uncomfortable and embarrassing--with their pelvic floor.Dr. Nabila Noor, a urogynecologist and physician specializing in pelvic floor problems, joins me in this informative episode. Dr. Noor explains how we can take preventative measures like specific exercises to strengthen our pelvic floor and, if those measures are unsuccessful, the simple, fast surgeries that can solve any of the following problems:bladder leakage"Gotta Go, Gotta Go syndromeFrequent Urinary Tract InfectionsBowel problemsSexual dysfunctionPelvic organ prolapse& MoreI don't know about you, but I'd never heard of a urogynecologist, a pelvic floor physical therapist, or the scope of problems caused by a weak pelvic floor. So, I was all ears during this episode.Dr. Noor was born in Bangladesh and came to the U.S. at age 18 to attend Smith College, an all-girls school that encouraged her to focus on women's health. After receiving her degree as an OB-GYN, she spent an additional three years pursuing a urogynecology specialty. It is a relatively new field, about 20 years old, which is probably why many of us had never heard of it.If Dr. Noor has one message above all others it is that pelvic floor problems can be solved and that no woman should have to deal with any of these often embarrassing, often painful conditions for years without any hope of leading a normal life. Dr. Noor gets so much joy when a patient returns to the office for a post-surgical checkup. They could kick themselves for not having gotten help earlier but are so damn happy to resume a full life.Dr. Noor is an enthusiastic spokesperson for all that can be done to remedy pelvic floor problems, and she is anxious to spread the word. She has a large media presence, and you can check her out at any of the following:YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@drnabilanoorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnabilanoor/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557585516981LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nabila-noor-9b5b2930/

Yep, we are all caught up in habitual ways of thinking and acting. We turn on our default programming to autopilot and more often than not talk to our boss, partner, or child the same way we have forever.Ronnie Loaiza is a certified life coach and a certified habit coach. Who knew there was something called a habit coach? Ronnie explains that she helps people create doable habits that get them to their goals instead of temporary or unsustainable hacks, militant discipline, or willpower. "People grow with tiny steps," Ronnie says.My methodology, called Thought Work™ helps clients make BIG changes quickly without wasting time.We streamline achieving your long-term goals realizing them faster than traditional methods.We eliminate what's not working for you, and replace forced motivation (which is temporary) with concrete evidence that you are capable of achieving yourgoals. Simply put, we cut through the noise and focus on what really matters to get what you want.Ronnie was born in the U.S., but she and her mother moved back to where the rest of the family lived. When her parents, her two siblings, and Ronnie returned to the States permanently, Ronnie didn't speak a word of English. Okay, maybe a word or two. She went to kindergarten as a Spanish speaker and quickly picked up English like a sponge. Ronnie is by nature an adventurous woman who loves to travel. After college, she traveled to France for a five-month program. She stayed for five years. After France, she resided in Los Angeles, where she still lives today.After suffering from painful back and hip issues and after trying every kind of modality--shots, massage, physical therapy, spinal decompression, and on and on--she gave up. But when her husband suggested that she see a trainer who came highly recommended, she was not gung-ho but gave it a try. Within a matter of weeks, much of her pain was gone. So when her trainer suggested that she become a trainer as a forty-six-year-old, she laughed. But at some point, she decided to take a chance and `worked her tail off to get her certification through the Certified Life Coach Institute. When she realized that she was spending a lot of her time talking with her clients about their goals and the barriers to achieving them, she explored, studied, practiced, and was eventually certified as a Habit Coach Pro.Ronnie is a spirited woman who talks fast and springs into action with ease. You can listen to her episode on "Older Women & Friends" as of 9/26. While you're at it, check out some of the past episodes.If you like this episode and, hopefully, others, please text someone you think will enjoy the podcast. Word of Mouth is what helps grow "Older Women & Friends."https://ronnielolifecoach.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnielolifecoach/[email protected]

Deborah Charnes has been a solo traveler since she was sixteen. She has been around the world on a quest of sorts to learn as much as she can about the cultures, traditions, and people of other countries. During her travels, she has met mentors and gurus, each of whom taught her something important about achieving health and happiness. Her book, FROM THE BOXING RING TO THE ASHRAM, is a distillation of some of those teachers and the ways they have impacted her life. When she’s not on the road, Deborah blogs about travel and currently writes for the “Ethel” a newsletter for women 55+ sponsored by AARP. She is a certified bilingual yoga therapist and a holistic health coach.https://thenamastecounsel.com/https://thenamastecounsel.com/book-from-the-boxing-ring-to-the-ashram/

Send us a textBased on the most recent data available, 272,454 women were diagnosed with breast cancer.  In 2022, 42,211 women died from the disease..Deb Krier got the call that most women over fifty dread. She’d barely made it home from her annual mammogram when the phone rang, and her doctor told her to return for a second mammogram and biopsies that thankfully came back negative. The initial diagnosis was Stage 0 breast cancer. No big deal. But within short order, the cancer had spread to eight lymph nodes and a new diagnosis of Stage 4. Her journey was one hellish ride. Anything that could go wrong, went wrong. During a seven-week hospital stay, she overheard two doctors discussing how she was going to die. Deb is alive and well, thank you. If there is a story that proves the mind/body connection, it is Deb's. She's a warrior with strength, humor, and unwavering optimism. She gladly shares her story and all the suggestions she has for other women facing down breast cancer, or any other serious disease.  My website is under construction. For now, you can find more about Deb at:https://debkrier.com/