Older Women & Friends: Stories of Aging Well

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  Good Grief w/ Jane Leder 25.07.2026 16Min.

  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.
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  Living Without Limits: Evelyn Kelly Shares Her Life of Purpose, Travel & Curiosity at Age 91 23.07.2026 33Min.

  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.
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  From Widowhood to Reinvention Diane Heiler on Grief, Healing & Finding Joy Again 09.07.2026 40Min.

   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
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  Crafting Your Best Later Life with Erika Andersen 25.06.2026 41Min.

  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.
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  From Fashion Maven to Pro-Aging Advocate w/ the "Queen of Jeans" Diane Gilman 11.06.2026 33Min.

  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
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  Mother-Daughter Relationships After 50: Healing, Purpose & Aging Well | Debra Mandel, Ph.D. 28.05.2026 38Min.

  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
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  Financial Independence for Women Over 50: Retirement, Divorce Recovery & Aging Well | Regina McCann Hess 14.05.2026 36Min.

  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
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  Body Liberation After 60: Letting Go of Diet Culture & Rewriting Your Body Story with Deb Benfield 30.04.2026 39Min.

  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/
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  Gray Divorce & Second Chances: Why Older Women Are Redefining Love, Marriage, and Purpose After 50 w/ Dr. Becky Whetstone 16.04.2026 38Min.

  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
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  60 Is Not The New 50; 70 is Not The New 60: Redefining Aging Well with Dr. Tracey Gendron 02.04.2026 27Min.

  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
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  The Cure to Loneliness May Be In Your Closet: Aging Well Through Style, Confidence, & Connection with Mollie Kaye 19.03.2026 42Min.

  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
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  Aging Freely: Rethinking Growing Older As Something to Embrace, Not To Resist w/ Kat Miller 05.03.2026 34Min.

  "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/
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  Solo Agers: Older Americans Living Alone w/ Sara Zeff Geber 19.02.2026 34Min.

  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
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  Grandma Luge: Olympic Athlete Anne Abernathy on Aging, Resilience, and Defying Limits 05.02.2026 32Min.

  #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/
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  Who Is That Woman Behind The Mic? w/ Jane Leder 22.01.2026 26Min.

  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
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  Keep The Memories & Not The Stuff: Rightsizing w/ Jeannine Bryant 08.01.2026 35Min.

  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
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  The Midlife Gals Gone Gray, w/ sisters Kelly and Sally Jackson 18.12.2025 31Min.

  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
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  Improv Wisdom: Don't Prepare, Just Show Up with Patricia Ryan Madson 04.12.2025 29Min.

  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/
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  Think Cannabis Is Only for Getting High? Think Again. Health Benefits for Women & Men as We Age w/ Kelly Judge Goldberg 20.11.2025 31Min.

  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) j.leder@comcast.netSally Duplantiersally@myzinglife.com
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  "Likeable Badass: How Women Get The Success They Deserve" with the author, Alison Fragale, PhD 06.11.2025 37Min.

  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.