Prime Life

Retirement income planning continues to evolve as people live longer and traditional withdrawal strategies may face new challenges. In this episode, host Mary Crean sits down with Sheryl O'Connor, CEO of Income Conductor, to discuss how technology, retirement income strategies, and annuity planning may help advisors navigate an increasingly complex retirement landscape. Listen for perspectives on the trends and considerations shaping retirement income planning today. Links from show notes: Income Conductor LinkedIn Sheryl O'Connor LinkedIn Source: J.D. Power, 2025 U.S. Individual Annuity Study, "Customer Satisfaction with Individual Annuities Strained by New-Client Experience and Digital Limitations," Oct. 2025.  

Healthcare can feel increasingly complex, making it difficult to understand what is driving the changes. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean sits down with physician and author Jordan Grumet to examine the forces shaping today's healthcare system. From the doctor-patient relationship to the role of insurers, pharmaceutical companies, and private equity, Jordan offers his perspective on the challenges, opportunities, and practical ways individuals can help advocate for meaningful change. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Healthcare Heist

How do you stay relevant in a rapidly changing world while building a life that supports longevity? In this episode, Mary Crean talks with Frank Sentner, a 50-year insurance technology veteran, about the evolution of the industry, the growing importance of data privacy, and the habits that have shaped his life. From lifelong learning and travel to meditation and community involvement, Frank shares practical insights on living with purpose and staying engaged at every stage. Links from show notes: LinkedIn  

What if retirement planning isn't about reaching a finish line, but preparing for what comes next? In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean is joined by Women of Nassau leaders Brittney McKenzie and Virginia Harvey to discuss how career changes, personal milestones, and evolving priorities can shape financial decisions over time. Their conversation explores the value of planning with purpose, investing in yourself, and building confidence for every stage of life's journey. Links from show notes: Virginia Harvey LinkedIn Brittney McKenzie-LinkedIn    

What if retirement isn't about slowing down, but about redesigning what's next? In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean speaks with business advisor, author and adjunct professor at Harvard, Ted Fleming about using design thinking, curiosity, and value-focused networking to explore new opportunities beyond a traditional career. Their conversation covers ageism, relationships, and practical ways to create a retirement that can reflect your interests, values, and goals. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Website    

Staying active as you age can be challenging without the right support, guidance, and community. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean talks with Fernanda and Dave Jacobs, owners of Fleet Feet, about how they built a community centered on movement and healthy aging. They discuss proper shoe fitting, adapting training over time, and creating inclusive programs that help people of all ages stay active, connected, and confident. Links from show notes: Website Facebook Instagram YouTube LinkedIn  

Retirement can leave women feeling unseen, disconnected, or unsure how to rebuild community and purpose after leaving long-held roles. In this episode, host Mary Crean speaks with Karen Wagner and Erica Baird, founders of Lustre, an advocacy platform for retired career women. They explore how community, shared experiences, and embracing new opportunities can help women navigate retirement with confidence, strengthen their networks, and redefine leadership and purpose in their next chapter. Links from show notes: LinkedIn-Karen Wagner LinkedIn-Erica Baird LinkedIn-Lustre Instagram Facebook Website-Lustre

What if a lifelike robotic puppy could bring comfort to someone living with Alzheimer's disease? In this episode, Mary Crean talks with Tom Stevens, CEO and co-founder of Tombot, about the personal experience that inspired him to create Jennie, a robotic companion designed to support seniors and individuals with cognitive disabilities. Tom shares the challenge he witnessed firsthand while caring for his mother, the surprising science behind emotional connections to robotic pets, and why these companions may play a growing role in the future of dementia care and caregiving. Listen in to discover how innovation, empathy, and technology can come together to support healthy aging, help reduce loneliness and anxiety, and help caregivers provide meaningful connection. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Facebook Instagram YouTube    

What can turn a fitness class into a lasting habit? Host Mary Crean sits down with Tory Brogan, co-owner of Hartford Sweat, to explore how hot yoga, community, and connection create an environment where people want to keep showing up. From hot yoga to building a welcoming culture, Tory shares insights on movement, mindset, and the habits that can help people stay active and engaged as they age. Links from show notes: Website LinkedIn Facebook Hartford Sweat  

Why does time feel like it's speeding up and how can you live more intentionally? In this episode of The Prime Life Podcast, host Mary Crean speaks with Dr. Bridget Cooper, author, speaker and leadership coach who talks about how our perception of time evolves with age and the impact it has on decision making, purpose, and life transitions. Together, they explore how small mindset shifts and intentional actions can help align your daily life with what matters most, turning busy into meaningful. Links from show notes: Website Amazon Youtube Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Facebook TEDx Talk

As the life insurance industry continues to address challenges around accessibility, engagement, and the protection gap, generative AI and digital innovation may help create more efficient and personalized customer experiences. This episode explores how technology could reduce friction in underwriting and distribution while supporting advisors and insurers in delivering more accessible protection solutions. Host Mary Crean speaks with Farron Blanc about the evolving role of AI in insurance, the importance of customer trust and education, and how the industry may continue adapting to changing consumer expectations, longevity trends, and retirement planning needs. Links from show notes: LinkedIn News Letter

Staying motivated, building confidence, and maintaining long-term wellness can become more challenging during periods of growth and change. In this episode of The Prime Life Podcast, host Mary Crean speaks with Jen Anderson about how fitness, mindset, and embracing challenges may help support resilience, entrepreneurship, and healthy aging. The conversation explores confidence through action, the value of doing hard things, and the connection between physical and mental resilience in both life and business.  

Aging is changing and so is the technology that supports it. Host Mary Crean speaks with Adam Wilensky, Business Development Manager at Eugeria, about how innovation, human-centered design, and new approaches to senior care are helping people stay independent and connected longer. From tackling social isolation to supporting cognitive challenges, this conversation explores what's next in aging tech and why it matters. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Eugeria    

Following Medicarians 2026, this special PrimeLife Podcast compilation brings together conversations with leaders across distribution, service, and AI. Explore how the industry is evolving that can better serve today's Medicare-eligible population—from smarter distribution strategies to AI-powered service models and personalized retirement experiences. These insights go beyond the buzz, highlighting what's changing and what it can mean for the future of retirement. Links from show notes: Stacey Dixon LinkedIn Michael Engert LinkedIn Mike Tringale LinkedIn Deborah Polydys LinkedIn Tom Stevens LinkedIn Joshua Kushnereit LinkedIn Armin Cate LinkedIn Cynthia Ruhana LinkedIn Mike Lowry LinkedIn Bruce Hayden LinkedIn Allen Pauley Olivia Richardson LinkedIn Jon Summers LinkedIn        

Feeling stuck despite career success—or unsure how to create financial independence on your own terms? This episode explores how to rethink success and take practical steps toward what can be a more meaningful path. Melissa Reilly, founder of Stlth Consulting, shares her transition from corporate healthcare to entrepreneurship, along with insights on navigating change, approaching financial decisions, and building a life aligned with what can matter most. Links from show notes: LinkedIn  

As people live longer, planning for retirement increasingly involves navigating healthcare costs, long‑term care considerations, and complex financial decisions over time. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Chris Heye, CEO of Whealthcare Solutions and Research Fellow at LIMRA's Retirement Income Institute shares educational insights on longevity planning and how structured decision‑support tools can help guide clearer, more informed retirement conversations.    Links from show notes:   LinkedIn   LinkedIn Newsletter   Website    

Why can time feel like it's slipping by faster every year, and how can we live better within it? U.S. Olympic silver medalist, time‑perception international speaker, and best‑selling author John Coyle explains why time seems to accelerate as we age, and what most people can get wrong about managing it. He shares that time isn't measured by the clock, but by the moments we truly remember. In this episode, you'll explore: Why life can feel faster with age How to invest your "time capital" Why novelty, risk, and emotion can create more meaningful experiences personally and professionally For anyone interested in living longer, better, and with more purpose, this episode can offer practical ways that can  make everyday moments more memorable. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Website Design For Strengths: Applying Design Thinking to Individual and Team Strength The Art of Really Living Instagram

Retirement can bring changes to routines and social connections. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean talks with Andrew Motiwalla, founder of The Good Life Abroad, about how intentional, immersive travel may offer structure, connection, and new experiences during this stage of life. They discuss considerations around living abroad, including health, safety, and community, and how shared interests may help support meaningful connections. Links from show notes: LinkedIn LinkedIn-The Good Life Abroad Website

Feeling unsure about your finances or overwhelmed by money decisions? In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean sits down with Patrina Dixon, founder of It's My Money, to explore how financial education can help you take control and build confidence. They discuss common financial mistakes, practical strategies for budgeting, debt management, and developing a stronger money mindset. Tune in for clear, realistic steps that can improve your financial wellness and help you feel more confident managing your finances. Links from show notes: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Itsmymoneyacademy

Life transitions such as caregiving, career pauses, divorce, or widowhood can affect women's retirement planning decisions. Co-hosts Mary Crean and Laura Dinan Haber of Nassau Financial Group discuss how the financial industry can better address these realities. They are joined by Tina Beckwith, Chief Marketing Officer of LIMRA and LOMA, and Neeraja Rasmussen, Founder and CEO of Spyglaz, to explore gaps in financial planning and how AI and innovation can provide more personalized guidance to support women's financial futures. In honor of Women's History Month, this episode highlights strategies and insights that can help women plan for retirement with confidence. Links from show notes: Tina Beckwith-LinkedIn LIMRA LOMA Neeraja Rasumssen's Email Spyglaz Website  

Money can be one of the most difficult topics for families to discuss with aging parents. Avoiding it can increase the risk of financial fraud. How can families have more open conversations and recognize warning signs early? Elizabeth Clubb, founder of MyFlock, shares practical strategies to start financial conversations, identify potential fraud risks, and use technology to support financial oversight. This episode explores ways to build awareness, strengthen financial caregiving, and support informed decisions across generations. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Website  

Early responsibilities can feel unclear, and being underestimated can make progress challenging and it can also be a super power. In this episode of The Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean talks with Suzanne McAvoy Hopgood, President and CEO of The Hopgood Group, LLC and author of Get Your Own Coffee, about how she learned to adapt, build confidence, and give back to others less fortunate. Her insights offer practical ways to move forward with purpose in work and life.   Links from show notes:   LinkedIn   Get Your Own Coffee   Email    

Heart health is critical for women, but warning signs can be missed. Mary Crean and Josef Katz speak with Adria Giordano of the American Heart Association about recognizing warning signs, tracking key health numbers, and taking practical steps to support heart health. This episode is educational and not meant as medical advice.   Links from show notes:   Website   Heart CONN-Facebook   Instagram   LinkedIn-Adria Giordano   Go Red for Women    

Caregiving is part of life for more families, but coordinating support, time, and resources can be challenging. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean talks with Neil K. Shah, CEO and co-founder of CareYaya, about his shift from finance to caregiving and what it revealed about gaps in today's care system. They discuss common challenges caregivers face and explore how community-based care models can help families organize support and navigate caregiving more effectively. Links from show notes: Neal K. Shah LinkedIn Substack X Instagram TikTok Careyaya: Website LinkedIn Substack X Instagram TikTok          

When unexpected disruptions throw our routines off course, you may feel overwhelmed or stuck. In this episode, host Mary Crean talks with leadership advisor Allison Holzer, Master Certified Coach, Founder and CEO of Aha2Impact, author and TEDX speaker about how brief moments of disruption, what she calls "microbursts", can actually help improve clarity, creativity, and meaningful forward momentum. This episode offers practical and uplifting strategies that can help you navigate sudden change with resilience and confidence.   Links from show notes: LinkedIn   Website

Longevity risk can make it difficult to determine how long retirement income may need to last, creating uncertainty for individuals trying to build a stable plan for later life.   In this episode of Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean talks with Bruno Caron, co‑founder and managing partner of CMRisk Consulting LP, who shares approaches for helping to address longevity risk. He discusses using an income‑focused view of a portfolio, evaluating tools such as annuities, and reducing debt to support a more steady retirement strategy.   Links from show notes: LinkedIn   Website   Lifetime Income to Retire with Strength    

Solo agers can face isolation and difficulty finding support networks. In this Prime Life episode, hosts Mary Crean and Laura Dinan Haber talk with Jill Kovalich of SoloagersConnect.com about practical ways to build connection, find resources, and create community. Through her story and her work, Jill offers approachable solutions that help solo agers feel supported, informed, and connected as they navigate life independently.   Website LinkedIn Jill Kovalich-LinkedIn Facebook Instagram   Tune in where you get your podcasts and at www.primelifepodcast.com 

Navigating Medicaid and long-term care planning can be complex, and information found online or through informal sources is not always complete. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Josef Katz and Mary Crean speak with elder law attorney Dan Tully about how thoughtful planning and qualified legal guidance can help families better understand Medicaid, recognize common misunderstandings, and make more informed decisions about protecting assets and preparing for future care needs. Links from show notes: Website LinkedIn

Leadership can be developed as a skill shaped through experience, reflection, and learning. On this episode of Prime Life Podcast, host Mary Crean speaks with Dr. Howard Fero, Author and Professor of Management and Leadership at Albertus Magnus College. The conversation explores leadership beyond formal roles, the relationship between leadership and management, and the power of storytelling. Dr. Fero introduces his 5 G's framework, sharing practical strategies that can help build a lasting legacy.   Links from show notes:   LinkedIn   Leadership Website   Leadership Albertus Magnus   Instagram  

Retirement can feel overwhelming, but it can also be a chance for growth and joy. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, host Mary Crean talks with Dr. Harry Agress, Jr., a former radiologist and author of Next Year's Best Years—about his journey to a purposeful retirement. He shares practical tips to help overcome fear, avoid common mistakes, and embrace new experiences. Learn how communication, courage, and curiosity can help you create meaning and fulfillment in life's next chapter.   #LifeAfterWork #PurposefulLiving #NextYearsBestYears   Links from show notes:   Website   LinkedIn              

On the Prime Life Podcast, host Mary Crean sits down with Nick Shelton, founder of The Reset Button and The Connection Code Speaking Tour. Nick shares his six‑phase reset framework that can help rebuild direction and connection, including how to evaluate personal patterns, reconnect with community, and define a new mission.   Listeners can walk away with simple, actionable tools to start their own reset today. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Book Reset the Man Website Connected Introvert Website

Feeling uncertain about your next step in business or career? On the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean and Josef Katz talk with business consultant Theresa Cantley about navigating challenges, aligning values with work, and building the right team. Hear a client story showing how coaching can clarify goals and guide purposeful next steps. Links from show notes: Website LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Facebook  

Capturing meaningful stories and memories can be challenging. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean speaks with Miles Spencer, CEO and founder of Reflekta.ai, about how the platform can capture the stories, memories, and life events of loved ones to create an interactive digital companion that reflects their unique spirit and voice. Miles also explains the role of the "Soul Team" in helping to support emotional needs and how this approach can keep important stories available for future generations. Links from show notes: Website LinkedIn X  

Feeling unsure about which skin treatments to consider? Hosts Mary Crean and Josef Katz talk with Dr. Brook Seeley, double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, to help listeners navigate options with clarity. He breaks down surgical vs. non-surgical approaches and highlights how overall wellness plays a role, offering practical guidance for informed skin-health decisions. Links from show notes: Website LinkedIn [email protected] Instagram Facebook Office Connecticut Facial Plastic Surgery 499 Farmington Ave., Suite #210 Farmington, CT 06032 (860) 676-2473   MedSpa The MedSpa at Connecticut Facial Plastic Surgery 249 Main St. Old Wethersfield, CT 06109 (860) 506-0050        

It may not always be easy to express our experiences in a way others truly hear. In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean talks with Ellen Last, a product strategist and aspiring stand-up comedian, about storytelling and the unexpected ways it can influence personal and professional interactions. Their conversation uncovers insights about sharing experiences that may surprise you. Links from show notes: LinkedIn Instagram Learn more and subscribe today: www.primelifepodcast.com     

Struggling to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market? In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean sits down with Maureen Gaige-Edwards, Founder of Ingennicom and an award-winning entrepreneur, to tackle one of today's biggest challenges: the rise of AI and its impact on workers aged 55 and over. Together, they explore practical solutions—embracing AI, overcoming fear, and mastering upskilling and reskilling strategies. Maureen shares actionable steps, real-world success stories, and insights on how a growth mindset can help turn AI from a threat into an opportunity. Tune in to discover how you can help future-proof your career and thrive in the age of AI. Links from shownotes: LinkedIn Website Facebook

Medicare changes can create confusion for both consumers and insurance producers. This episode explores how shifting costs, new legislation, and evolving expectations are reshaping the Medicare landscape. Deft Research's Vice President of Client Services Rob Lourenco joins  Mary Crean, host and digital marketing director at Nassau Financial Group to share insights on what consumers value most, how digital health tools are gaining traction, and what factors drive satisfaction and retention in today's market. Links from show notes: Website Linkedin Learn more at www.primelifepodcast.com   

What can it really mean to live well after 50? In this episode of the PrimeLife Podcast, Mary Crean and Don Sena, founder of Nifty 50+, a website sharing stories of hope, purpose, and reinvention. They explore how connection and meaningful experiences can make the second half of life fulfilling and exciting. Links from show notes: Website Facebook X Linkedin  

Medicare changes during the Annual Election Period can feel overwhelming. This episode explains what to watch for, plan shifts, prescription updates, and advertising pitfalls. Matt Feret,  Medicare author and educator, shares practical tips on comparing Medicare Advantage and Supplement options and how licensed insurance producers can help retirees avoid surprises and make informed decisions. Link for show notes: Website Podcast How to Prepare for Medicare Linkedin YouTube Prepare for Medicare TheMattFeretShow      

Stress can show up in various areas of life, including work, home, and community settings. Jennifer Monness, founder of JLM Wellness, offers her perspective on how mindfulness and wellness practices may help individuals navigate everyday challenges. She shares simple approaches, such as breathing techniques and developing consistent routines, that can support greater awareness, focus, and balance over time. Links from show notes: Website Linkedin        

Access to preventative health care can be limited by cost, complexity, and lack of personalization. This episode explores how ReadyRx can help to address these challenges by offering a streamlined platform for longevity and wellness therapies. Guest Danny Rudniak, co-founder of ReadyRx, shares how consistent health habits, simplified onboarding, and insurance-aware options may help support proactive health management and improve customer outcomes. Learn more and listen now: www.primelifepodcast.com  Links to show notes: Website Linkedin Instagram TikTok    

Chronic inflammation can disrupt overall well-being and accelerate aging. In this episode, Dr. Shivani Gupta shares how Ayurvedic principles and turmeric supplementation helped her address these challenges. She offers practical strategies that are designed to help improve supplement quality, reduce inflammation, and integrate mindful habits to support long-term vitality. Links to show notes: Website Linkedin Instagram Facebook YouTube Pinterest Cook Book Email Learn more at www.primelifepodcast.com 

Feeling stuck in stress, emotional fatigue, or a fog of uncertainty? In this episode of Prime Life Podcast, Mary Crean welcomes back Catherine Chadwick to unpack the science behind energetic well-being—and why it's often the missing link in our health journey. From breath work and vagus nerve activation to the Sunshine Quotient, Catherine shares practical tools to help listeners regulate their nervous system, reconnect with purpose, and navigate life transitions with resilience. Expect laughter, forgiveness, and a fresh lens on healing. Learn more at www.primelifepodcast.com  Links from show notes: The art of self craftsmanship Sunshine Quotient Linkedin You've Got Nurse

Financial exploitation of older adults is an increasing concern, often driven by deceptive tactics that can lead to serious financial harm. In this episode, Mary Crean speaks with Ronald Long to explore why older adults may be more vulnerable, and what steps individuals, families, and financial institutions can take to help reduce risk. From early financial conversations to identifying red flags and knowing how to respond, this discussion offers practical strategies to support financial safety later in life. Links from show notes: Linkedin Subscribe now: www.primelifepodcast.com   

What can happen when achievement stops feeling like success? In this episode, executive coach Keren Eldad joins Mary Crean and Josef Katz to unpack the hidden toll of high performance, and how it can recover clarity, purpose, and joy. Keren shares how mindset fatigue can develops, why midlife can be a pivotal moment for reflection, and what it can take to reset. The conversation offers a fresh lens on fulfillment, service, and living with intention. Links from show notes: Website Podcast TEDx Linkedin Instagram YouTube          

 Fear and uncertainty can hold people back from pursuing their true calling. But what if risk could lead to purpose, and service could shape a lasting legacy? In this episode of the Prime Life Podcast, hosts Mary Crean, Jackie Merl Bamman and Laura Dinan Haber, welcome Mary-Jane Foster, President and CEO of Interval House. Mary-Jane shares how embracing risk, practicing gratitude, and surrounding yourself with the right people can transform fear into fuel for impact.  Links from show notes: Website Linkedin Facebook Instagram YouTube  

Small business owners may struggle to keep up with rapid change, unclear communication, and evolving technology. Founder of GrowX Labs, Scott Stolls, shares how adaptability, self-reflection, and soft skills can help leaders stay resilient, communicate effectively, and thrive in both work and life. Links from show notes: Website Linkedin  

What if midlife isn't a crisis—but a turning point? In this episode of Prime Life Podcast, certified health and life mentor Kerry Burrows joins Mary Crean and Joseph Katz to challenge what may be the stigma around menopause. They explore how mindset, habits, and self-care can turn this life stage into a time of clarity, confidence, and connection. Links from show notes:  Linkedin Facebook Fabulously Balancing Mid Life    

Medicare can be complex, and the choices you make may impact your coverage and costs. In this episode, Mary Crean and Joseph Katz talk with Matt Feret—author, podcaster, and founder of a retirement-focused education platform—about key differences between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans. The conversation explores how marketing can influence decisions and why understanding your options matters when planning for retirement. Links from show notes: Website Podcast How to Prepare for Medicare Linkedin YouTube Prepare for Medicare TheMattFeretShow  

Feeling stuck in your fitness journey? Discover how movement, mindset, and the power of community can reignite your motivation—at any age. In this episode of The Prime Life Podcast, hosts Josef Katz and Mary Crean talk with Jocelyn DeMaio, owner of Empowered, an award-winning fitness studio. Jocelyn shares how group workouts and consistent movement can transform your physical and mental well-being—especially when you're surrounded by support. It's never too late to move, connect, and feel empowered. Links from Show Notes: Linkedin Website Facebook Instagram