The Next Bit Podcast

Епизоди

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  "She Sold Her Wedding Ring For a Man Who Doesn't Exist" — Inside a Romance Scam Nobody Could Stop 04.08.2026 57мин

  She's 78. Smart, social, independent — and for six months, she's been in an "engagement" with a Hollywood actor she's never spoken to, never seen on a video call, and never met. He needs money for jet fuel. For a management fee. For a visa. She's sold her jewellery to give it to him. She's sold her wedding ring. Anita Gatley's mother was widowed after 56 years of marriage, and somewhere in that grief, she became exactly who a highly organised scam industry was looking for. What started as a comment on a Facebook fan page spiralled into WhatsApp, then Telegram, then encrypted apps built for scammers to control the conversation — 24/7 messages, iTunes gift cards traded for untraceable cash, and a family watching someone they love disappear in real time. In this episode, Anita takes Hannah through what happened when her family tried to get help — and couldn't. Netsafe said it wasn't their jurisdiction. Police said the crime wasn't happening on New Zealand soil. Mental health services confirmed she was delusional, then discharged her anyway. An enduring power of attorney protected the money, but not the relationship, and not their mother. This is a story about grooming, isolation, and a system with no answers — and a warning for every family who thinks it could never happen to someone they love. Content note: this episode includes a discussion of suicidal ideation in the context of a family managing a loved one's care. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to Lifeline Aotearoa on 0800 543 354, or free call or text 1737 to speak with a trained counsellor. The Next Bit Host is: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Guest: Anita Gatley Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNextBitPodcast This podcast was written by Shelley Smith and produced by Arama Murray from Mention Direction.
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  Health Insurance Reality Check: Waitlists, Family Help & Avoiding Nasty Surprises 27.07.2026 52мин

  Health insurance can feel like one of those things you set up years ago and hope you never have to think about again. But once you hit your 60s, the reality can change fast: premiums rise, health risks shift, and the difference between public waitlists and private treatment can suddenly become very real. In this episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen talks with Abby Woollaston, Risk Specialist at Redress Advice Ltd, about the big health insurance questions people need to ask as they age. Abby explains what private health insurance can actually do for you, from faster access to specialists, diagnostics and surgery, to more treatment options and support navigating the system. They also talk about public waitlists, hip and knee replacements, major diagnostics, non-Pharmac drugs, family members helping with costs, and the nasty surprises that can happen when people discover too late what their policy does, and does not, cover. They also unpack practical ways to reduce premiums before cancelling cover altogether, including increasing your excess, removing the bells and whistles, reviewing your policy, and getting proper advice before making a big decision. Health insurance after 60 is not just about money. It is about time, choice, independence, and avoiding the kind of surprises nobody wants when they are already under pressure. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole-person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Host is: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Guest: Abby Woollaston - Risk Specialist at Redress Advice Ltd Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  When Do You Actually Get Your Money Back From a Retirement Village? 20.07.2026 5мин

  One of the biggest questions families have about retirement villages is surprisingly simple: when do you actually get your money back? In this bite-sized episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen and Mark Leishman talk with Jenny Baldwin, Partner at Anthony Harper, about what happens when someone leaves a retirement village, moves into care, or passes away, and the family is waiting for the unit to be resold. Jenny explains where to find information about resale timeframes, why the disclosure statement matters, what families should ask the operator, and why past resale times can give you an indication, but not a guarantee. They also touch on weekly fees after someone moves out, and how many retirement villages now stop those fees when the resident leaves. Because it’s one thing to understand the contract when you move in, it’s another thing to understand what happens when you move out. For more on this topic, listen to the full-length episodes, How to Choose the Best Retirement Village and What Are You Really Buying In A Retirement Village. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole-person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman, Broadcast and TV Personality Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  The Simple Trick to Comparing Retirement Village Contracts 13.07.2026 3мин

  Retirement village contracts can be long, confusing and full of legal language. And when every village uses slightly different terms, it can be hard to work out what you’re actually comparing. In this bite-sized episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen and Mark Leishman talk with Jenny Baldwin, Partner at Anthony Harper, about the simple tool that can make comparing retirement village contracts much easier: the key terms summary. Jenny explains why this short document can help you compare the big things quickly, including the capital sum, weekly fees, whether fees are fixed or can increase, the deferred management fee, deductions at the end of the contract, and what happens if you need to transfer into care. They also talk about useful retirement village comparison tools like Village Guide and ElderNet. Because before you sign anything, you need to understand what you’re buying, what you’ll pay, and what happens later. For more on this topic, listen to the full-length episodes, How to Choose the Best Retirement Village and What Are You Really Buying In A Retirement Village. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole-person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman, Broadcast and TV Personality Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  When Is the Right Time to Move Into a Retirement Village? 06.07.2026 3мин

  When is the “right” time to start looking at a retirement village? For some people, it’s about lifestyle. For others, it’s about feeling safer, being less isolated, or no longer wanting to deal with the house, garden, maintenance and all the bits that come with running a home. In this bite-sized episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen and Mark Leishman talk with Jenny Baldwin, Partner at Anthony Harper, about why people move into retirement villages, what to think about before you start looking, and why timing is so important. They talk about lifestyle, location, safety, security, social connection, affordability, and choosing a village that actually suits how you want to live. Because moving into a retirement village is not just a property decision. It’s a life decision. For more on this topic, listen to the full-length episodes, How to Choose the Best Retirement Village and What Are You Really Buying In A Retirement Village. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole-person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman, Broadcast and TV Personality Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  How to choose the best retirement village 29.06.2026 31мин

  In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, I’m joined by Jenny Baldwin, a seasoned lawyer specializing in retirement villages and aged care. We delve into the key considerations for choosing the right retirement village, emphasizing the importance of understanding contracts and services. From the vibe of the community to the financial implications, we discuss how to compare different options effectively. Jenny shares insights on the current landscape of retirement living in New Zealand, including the growing demand among older adults. Whether you're contemplating a move or just curious, this episode arms you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your next chapter in life. Tune in for essential tips and expert advice on securing a fulfilling retirement living experience.
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  Dementia: What can be slowed, better managed, and even reversed? 22.06.2026 59мин

  For many people, dementia is more frightening than cancer. The fear of forgetting loved ones, the stigma, the sense that you're losing yourself — it's enough to make people avoid a diagnosis altogether. But Brightly's lead geriatrician Dr. Cheryl Johnson says delay is the worst choice you can make, because the earlier you act, the more options you have. In this episode, Hannah McQueen sits down with Dr. Cheryl to unpack what dementia actually is, and why so much of what we assume about it is wrong. They cover the difference between normal brain aging and the kind of forgetfulness worth taking seriously, how to tell mild cognitive impairment from dementia, and why a diagnosis can take three and a half years in New Zealand when it shouldn't. Dr. Cheryl breaks down the umbrella of dementia — Alzheimer's, vascular, Lewy body and the rest — and explains which types respond to medication, how well those drugs work, and the side effects worth watching for. She also shares what has her genuinely excited: new anti-amyloid treatments like lecanemab that could change the game, but only if people are picked up early enough to benefit. Crucially, this isn't a conversation without hope. Hannah and Dr. Cheryl walk through what you can do right now to protect your brain — exercise, diet, sleep, hearing checks, managing blood pressure and cholesterol — and the surprising number of conditions (like B12 deficiency and thyroid problems) that can look like dementia but are reversible. They also talk honestly about the toll on carers, the challenge of patients who lack insight, and why walking alongside families matters as much as the diagnosis itself. The message is simple: knowing early is powerful, even when the news isn't what you hoped to hear. To learn more about Brightly's proactive approach to brain health, dementia diagnosis and treatment, head to agebrightly.co.nz. The Next Bit Podcast Host is: Hannah McQueen – Founder of Brightly Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TheNextBitPodcast
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  The hidden costs of your parents staying in their own home as they age 15.06.2026 46мин

  Most of us assume that staying in our own home as we age is the ideal outcome. After all, home is where we feel comfortable, independent and connected to our memories. But what happens when staying at home becomes harder than we expected? In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, Hannah McQueen is joined by Brightly Head Nurse Madelaine Young to unpack the often-overlooked realities of ageing in place. While many older New Zealanders are determined to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, the practical, financial and emotional costs of doing so are rarely discussed. From occasional help with household tasks through to full-time care, the support needed can increase gradually—or suddenly—and families are often left navigating complex decisions without a clear plan. Hannah and Madelaine explore the hidden pressures placed on unpaid caregivers, the difficult conversations families need to have, and the role adult children often find themselves playing as their parents' needs evolve. They discuss the importance of planning early, understanding the support services available, and recognising when a current living arrangement may no longer be safe or sustainable. Plus, why rural living can create additional challenges, how to balance independence with safety, and the warning signs that more support may be needed. Whether you're supporting ageing parents, thinking about your own future, or simply want to understand what ageing well at home really involves, this episode offers practical insights, compassionate advice and plenty of food for thought. The Next Bit Podcast Host is: Hannah McQueen – Founder of Brightly Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TheNextBitPodcast
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  More than a senior moment – why we shouldn’t normalise memory loss 08.06.2026 34мин

  In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, we delve into the often-overlooked topic of memory loss and its implications as we age. Join me as I speak with Dr. Di North, head GP at Brightly, who sheds light on the misconception that forgetfulness is just a natural part of aging. We explore the gray zone of cognitive decline and the importance of early intervention, discussing how proactive measures can help manage or even reverse mild cognitive impairment before it progresses to dementia. Dr. North emphasizes that memory loss should not be normalized and provides valuable insights on how to navigate conversations around cognitive health with loved ones. Tune in for essential advice on maintaining brain health and the steps we can take to age brightly.
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  You can’t eat your house – now what? 01.06.2026 28мин

  In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast titled "You can’t eat your house – now what?", I dive deep into a pressing issue faced by many retirees: being asset-rich yet cash-poor. As homeowners, many find their wealth tied up in property, leaving them without sufficient cash flow to support their lifestyle. Joined by financial expert Hannah McQueen, we explore five practical strategies to enhance liquidity in retirement. From downsizing and renting to innovative family investments, we discuss how to navigate these choices effectively. This episode aims to empower listeners with insights to maintain their independence and quality of life as they age. Tune in to discover actionable solutions that can make a real difference in your retirement planning.
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  Are you the meat in the generational financial sandwich? 25.05.2026 42мин

  Most of us assume the mortgage will be gone by retirement, the kids will eventually leave home, Mum and Dad will have things sorted and things will get easier. The reality is much messier. Many carry a mortgage for longer, help children for longer, and start to discover that their parents’ retirement plan is non-existent. In this episode of Age Brightly, Hannah McQueen talks to Katie Wesney, National Coaching Lead at enable.me, about the financial squeeze facing the ‘sandwich generation’. Katie explains why the old retirement maths no longer works, what happens when parents are not on track, and why adult children need to understand their own numbers before they start rescuing everyone else. Hannah and Katie talk about how paying board can preserve dignity, the stresses of managing sibling tension and the invisible labour that often falls to one person (spoiler alert: the daughter). Plus, why ‘fair’ and ‘equal’ are not the same thing, why an inheritance is not a financial plan, and why one uncomfortable conversation over a cuppa (or something stronger) could prevent a world of stress later. If you are paying the mortgage, raising kids, worrying about Mum and Dad, and wondering when exactly you were promoted to family shock absorber, this episode is for you. The Next Bit podcast Host is: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly This week’s guest is: Katie Wesney, National Coaching Lead at www.enable.me Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast
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  Why collagen gummies aren’t a health plan 18.05.2026 44мин

  Most of us want to age well, and are happy to take the supplements, wear the sleep ring and sit in the sauna in the pursuit of that. But the things making us feel good, and allow us to pat ourselves on the back for being proactive about our health don’t actually tell us what’s really going on in our bodies. In this episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen confesses her fondness for collagen gummies to Brightly’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Manoj Patel and he gives her a reality check! “You could have the best skin in the world and still have a heart attack”. Hannah asks Dr Patel about biomarkers - the measurable clues that give you a peek ‘under the hood’ of your health – why one blood test rarely tells the whole story and the difference between wellness habits and clinical risk. Plus: can magnesium really increase your falls risk? If you want to take a proactive approach to your health as you age - and focus on the things that really matter - this episode is for you. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole of person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman - New Zealand TV and Radio Broadcaster Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast
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  The Levels of Care Explained 14.05.2026 10мин

  In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, join me, Hannah McQueen, as I sit down with geriatrician Dr. Cheryl Johnson to explore the critical topic of care levels as we age. We delve into essential conversations about staying out of the hospital and the difficult decision of transitioning a spouse into care. Dr. Johnson breaks down the needs assessment process and explains the various levels of care available, from rest homes to private hospitals and specialized dementia units. We unpack the complexities of caregiving, the emotional toll on families, and the importance of making informed decisions for our loved ones. Tune in for valuable insights that can shape the next chapter of your life or the life of someone you care about.
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  From Carer Back To Partner 13.05.2026 26мин

  Join me on this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, titled "From Carer Back To Partner," where we explore the challenging transition from caregiver to spouse. In our previous discussion, we examined the tough decision to move a loved one into care. Now, we delve into the emotional aftermath of that decision. How do you redefine your identity when your role changes from caregiver to partner? I’m joined by Dr. Cheryl Johnson, a lead geriatrician, who shares insights on navigating this complex emotional landscape. Together, we address the feelings of guilt, loss, and how to reclaim your relationship beyond caregiving duties. Learn practical strategies for fostering connection and emotional presence, ensuring that your bond remains strong in this new chapter of life. Tune in to find support and guidance as you navigate this profound transition.
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  When Your Spouse Becomes Your Patient 12.05.2026 11мин

  In this episode of The Next Bit Podcast, I engage with geriatrician Dr. Cheryl Johnson to explore the challenging transition when your spouse becomes your patient. We delve into the delicate dynamics of caregiving and the impact it can have on relationships, highlighting the risks of neglecting one's own health in the process. Dr. Johnson shares valuable insights on recognizing the signs that it may be time for professional care, emphasizing that decisions often arise from crises, such as hospital admissions. Together, we discuss the emotional complexities that caregivers face, including guilt and the pressure of societal expectations. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that addresses the realities of aging and offers guidance on navigating these critical decisions with compassion and clarity.
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  When It’s Time To Put Your Spouse Into Care 11.05.2026 45мин

  No one gets married thinking, “One day I might have to move you into care.” But for many couples, that becomes one of the hardest, most loving decisions they’ll ever face. In this episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen talks with Brightly’s Lead Geriatrician, Dr. Cheryl Johnson, about what really happens when a spouse becomes a full-time carer, and when looking after someone at home is no longer safe or sustainable. They talk about carer burnout, guilt, family pressure, dementia, rest home care, private hospital care, needs assessments, and how to know when it might be time to ask for help. If you’re caring for your partner, supporting ageing parents, or wondering how much longer things can keep going as they are, this episode will resonate. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole-person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Host is: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  Celebrating an Inspiring Kiwi Living Well - Ilona Rodgers 09.05.2026 49мин

  Ilona Rodgers became a household name in New Zealand in the 1980s with her role of Maxine Redfern in the iconic TV show Gloss. Now, at nearly 84, Ilona is still as vibrant as ever. Still active, and living with a sense of purpose that most people spend a lifetime trying to find. In this Mothers Day special, the legendary New Zealand actress sits down with Hannah and Mark to reflect on a life that has spanned continents, stages, and generations. From performing live television in the early days of Doctor Who to becoming a household name in Gloss, and now living on a 24-acre property in North Canterbury. Some of the topics we cover include: + What it was like performing live-to-air television in the 1960s (no edits, no safety net, no second chances) + The reality of aging brightly, and why curiosity is so important. + Falling in love, marriage, and 50 years of partnership + Life on a farm: tree planting, sheep, and slowing down (whether you like it or not) + The emotional truth about death, and why Ilona isn’t afraid of it + And why community and purpose become everything as you get older. This episode is about acting, aging, loss, curiosity, and what it really means to live a good life and to Age Brightly. Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole of person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman - New Zealand TV and Radio Broadcaster Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  How To Stay Travel Fit in Retirement 04.05.2026 41мин

  Retirement is the time when many people finally take that trip of a lifetime. But long-haul travel takes a different toll as you get older. In this episode, Hannah McQueen and Mark Leishman sit down with Dr Andrew Nelson, a GP and travel medicine specialist, to break down what you actually need to think about before you book, and before you board. We cover the practical realities of travelling in your 60s and beyond: + How to prepare properly before you leave (including medications, medical clearance, and vaccines) + What long-haul flights really do to your body, and how to reduce risks like blood clots + Why simple things like hydration, movement, and even alcohol can make a big difference + How to manage jet lag and recover faster at your destination + What to pack to stay safe (including a few surprising items) + And what to do if something goes wrong while you’re overseas If you or someone you know is planning a big overseas trip, send them this episode: it might save them a lot of hassle and ensure their trip is the dream holiday it deserves to be. Live well and be independent for longer. Get your whole of person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz Dr Andrew Nelson works for https://worldwise.co.nz/ The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman - New Zealand TV and Radio Broadcaster Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz
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  Sex After 60: Are You Too Old? 27.04.2026 39мин

  In this engaging episode of The Next Bit Podcast, I, Hannah McQueen, dive into the often-overlooked topic of sex after 60, challenging the misconception that intimacy fades with age. Joined by sex therapist Edit Horvath, we explore how pleasure and connection can thrive well into later life. We discuss the physiological changes that may affect libido, the importance of communication in relationships, and the unique challenges faced by those navigating new romances after loss or separation. With insights into the vibrant social lives of older adults, particularly in retirement communities, this episode is a celebration of sexuality at any age. Tune in to discover how intimacy can continue to flourish, reminding us all that age is just a number when it comes to connection and desire.
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  What Happens If You Have a Dispute in a Retirement Village? 23.04.2026 4мин

  In this bite-sized episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen and Mark Leishman revisit one of the most revealing moments from their conversation with retirement village lawyer Jenny Baldwin; the reality of what happens when disputes arise inside a village. From everyday tensions and personality clashes to bigger issues around maintenance, resale delays, and behavioural concerns linked to ageing and dementia, Jenny explains how the complaints process actually works, who steps in, and what residents can do when things escalate. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the side of retirement village life most people don’t think about until something goes wrong. If you or someone you love is considering village living, this is essential listening. For the full conversation with Jenny Baldwin, go back and listen to: - What Are You Really Buying in a Retirement Village? and - How to Choose the Best Retirement Village Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole of person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman - New Zealand TV and Radio Broadcaster Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584248556816 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz