Whether it's a "baby face" or an "old mug," or any other stereotype, there's a lot more that results from that impression than just shrugging and moving on from it.

People are treated differently based on their facial structure - we all are in one way or another - and there's a good chance that that impacts how you conduct yourself and go through life.

My friend Dr. Leslie Zebrowitz is here to talk to us about the study of 'first impressions.' Do you have an advantage having a baby face?

Are older adults treated differently?

Is there a difference in first impressions between personality and looks?

It's popularized in the media: the bad guys always look different from the good guys. Or conversely, you notice if a 'bad guy' looks surprisingly like a 'good guy,' or vice-versa.

Now facial and age recognition does serve an instinctive, species-protective purpose: knowing what's a threat and what's not. A baby is less likely to attack you than a big, tough warrior-looking dude.

But what about how criminal defendants are perceived in court, even by a judge? What impact does that make when they might appear innocent when guilty, or appearing guilty when in fact innocent?

Plus there are other influences on how we create first impressions, from physical attributes to behavior, like how people walk, their gait, their eye focus and more.

It's a fascinating conversation that really gets you thinking, and more aware of how you perceive those around you.

And hopefully it will help you recognize those signs in yourself of instant assumptions and judgement, and have better interactions with people, better relationships and better appreciation for the human experience.

Ironically(!), our guest's video wasn't working, so if you're on YouTube, you'll see this as an audio-only episode. But perhaps that in turn will help you focus on visualization and your own experience in judging a book by its cover - hey, we all do it!

Learn more about Dr. Leslie's research, and find her book here:

https://a.co/d/0dGijhRm

⁠https://www.brandeis.edu/psychology/zebrowitz/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Dawn has a remarkable way of taking those overwhelming, intimidating tasks, the ones we hear all the time that we "should" do, and making them fun, accessible and just simple and straightforward.

Because, as she points out, if something isn't fun, you're not going to stick with it for very long. You have to turn looking after your health into something you enjoy doing, and look forward to doing. And her tips today will really help you do just that.

For instance, did you know that sleep doesn't just mean "sleep," it's also an acronym?! Tricks like this will really help you remember what to do.

We cover things like:

• What time you should stop drinking water before going to bed.
• Why it's so important to go for a walk after a meal, even just a few minutes.
• Why protein becomes imperative for proper aging. Find out how much you need, depending on your age.
• Tips for some of the best sources of good protein.
• Fiber + water = great poops.
• And what's great for fiber? Beans!
• Go to sleep at the same time, train your body and your brain to get used to consistency.
• Muscles are your longevity organ, and the secret to a long, healthy life.

There's this and so much more. If ever you need motivation to get active, get healthy, and get intentional: this is the episode for you.

And share it with anyone who could need this pick-me-up as well!

Find Dawn and all her wonderful resources here:

⁠https://www.dawnjacksonblatner.com

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Today, our focus is on giving you the tools to build your "digital fortress" - the wall around your various accounts that only you, or the most trusted people in your life, can access.

This means things like two-factor authentication, biometric identities, avoiding debit cards and checks, being careful with services like Venmo and Zelle, and knowing how to use a credit freeze.

Ultimately, we need to turn our perspective around and use the internet to our advantage when it comes to security. Programs and systems exist, and three minutes of inconvenience (to confirm security codes and checks) is much better than three years of trying to get your life back in order because of a scam or theft.

Take some notes from today's episode, visit the AARP's excellent website on fraud prevention (aarp.org/fraud), and start laying the bricks for your own digital fortress!

Resources:

AARP Fraud Watch Network - https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/

FTC Consumer Sentinel - https://www.ftc.gov/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network

identitytheft.gov - https://www.identitytheft.gov/

IC3.gov (FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center) - https://www.ic3.gov/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Yikes. Sounds pretty real, doesn't it?

Ken starts off this episode with a story of how his phone rang recently, he picked it up, and that's what he heard. His response?

Hang up immediately. Don't even entertain the notion that it might be real.

If your loved one, the police, or anyone posing as an authority figure is trying to get your attention, it's just that: posing.

Nora Duncan is with us for part one of our two-part conversation on helping seniors identify and protect themselves from scams, something that is just so ubiquitous these days. Online, digital and AI scams target and affect everyone, but seniors can be particularly easy targets, as we learn about today.

Nora is the State Director of the AARP in Connecticut, and as such, stories like Ken's come across her desk all the time. The AARP plays a very active role in fraud prevention, working with the genuine authorities to understand and track what's happening, and working with legislatures to develop laws that help counteract what the bad guys are doing.

But as we all know, the best person to look out for us is ourself. So pay close attention in this and the next episode, where we clarify what to look for, and how to be prepared.

It's scary, but knowledge is power, and remember: if you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

In part one, learn about:

• how to recognize an attempt at a scam, it's easier than you think
• how often you should change passwords
• how your Facebook page is likely a sieve of personal information
• how to deal with 'false imposters' - the people posing as authority figures
• how to emotionally react to red flags: don't panic
• why emotional manipulation makes it so easy for scammers to trick people

And lots more.

Our thanks to Nora for her time and expertise in keeping us informed and ready!

Important resources to save:

AARP Fraud Watch Network - https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/

FTC Consumer Sentinel - https://www.ftc.gov/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network

identitytheft.gov - https://www.identitytheft.gov/

IC3.gov (FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center) - https://www.ic3.gov/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

And we talked with Dr. Gary Lee and pastor Larry Wildemuth of the CODA alliance, who promote Advanced Care Planning via the Go Wish cards: special cue cards that prompt thought-provoking and important questions about how you want to approach the end-of-life. That was in Season 2, Episode 11.

Now, we have them all here together for a special group conversation! Dr. Gary and pastor Larry are joined by Dawn Kolderman, Senior Clinical Director at Avow, and Deborah Simon, palliative care chaplain at Avow. Avow are on the front lines of using the Go Wish cards with their patients, and Dawn and Deb have seen first-hand the extraordinary impacts of having these important discussions with families.

We talk about the significance of palliative care, the holistic approach to patient needs and real-life applications of the Go Wish cards in fostering open dialogue between patients and their families, often in the face of cultural barriers. We look at the significance of dignity and comfort in care, the importance of having early discussions about end-of-life wishes, and the necessity of empowering patients and families to navigate healthcare decisions.

Open communication is so important to make sure that us and our families are prepared, and we have plans in place that meet our wishes. These conversations are a gift to our families, and the Go Wish cards play a huge role in making that happen.

Thank you for joining us on this episode, and here's your Call to Action: start having these discussions with your loved ones, and make sure those you care about are having them too. And order a pack (or four) of Go Wish cards to help you out!

Order your Go Wish cards through the CODA website here:

https://codaalliance.org/go-wish/

You can reach Avow Hospice through the following contact info:

Avow Hospice, 1095 Whippoorwill Ln, Naples, FL

https://avowcares.org/⁠

+1 239-261-4400

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Amanda Cohen made an appearance on the podcast back over the holidays, and now we have the full conversation for you, all in one place. Amanda has been a stand-up comic for 20 years, not in a row. Her first performance was at her high school cabaret at 17, and she's placed in the top 16 of the World Series of Comedy twice.

Amanda talks about her journey in stand-up comedy, the challenges she's faced as a female comic, what it's really like to interact with the audience, and the fusion of burlesque and comedy in her career.

We discover the writing process, some of the unique and sticky situations she's found herself in, and the importance of understanding audience dynamics. No two audiences are the same, which logically means that a joke that doesn't work one night could knock 'em out the next.

We learn about some pre-show rituals, and why it's important to understand comedy history and assumptions if you really want to grow and thrive.

And then Amanda shares her experiences with her father's decline due to Lewy body dementia, reflecting on the impact of family, caregiving, and the influence of comedy in her life.

We look at the challenges of balancing personal and professional life while navigating the complexities of aging and memory loss.

Through it all, Amanda's humor shines through as she recounts her father's artistic legacy and their shared love for comedy, providing a poignant look at the intersection of family and creativity.

Check out some of Amanda's comedy sets:

Amanda's Stand-Up Special from the Comedy Cube, courtesy Funny Media Group:

https://youtu.be/LzTqvTQy5sg?si=hSeP4nmGp2kgzdYZ

Amanda's Set at the Copa Santa Barbara:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4WR-ly5RBw

Amanda's Set at Don't Tell Comedy in Pittsburgh:

https://youtu.be/qT0XavdfvuU?si=1Kuxhc5yzsKr4kOL

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

The Purest Bond, co-authored by Stacey Colino and Jen Goldbeck, is a book that's not just a warm and cozy read, but also adds some science-backed research: how dogs are good for our health, mentally and physically, and how even our resistance and gut microbiome improve by sharing a living space.

Stacey Colino has been an author and health & science writer for the past 25 years, who recently turned her attention to the human experience with their pets. As a long time dog owner, with many touching stories and experiences of her own, she could relate to that intrinsic question of, "Why?"

Stacey shares her wonderful story of finding Sadie (in fact, they chose each other!), after the devastating loss of their previous pet, while Ken shares about driving all the way up to Michigan to pick up Charlie the puppy, much to the surprise of his wife, but 8 years later Charlie is well ensconced in the Gluckman household.

We chat about attachment bonds between human and pet, but also the notion of "disenfranchised grief," when people don't realize the effect that losing a dog can have on someone. It gets kind of dismissed and forgotten. Stacey's book helps you channel your grief in ways that can help you heal and process it.

The book is full of beautiful and amazing stories, and we hear some excerpts here today, such as the remarkable story about a man in Florida, who was saved by his dog giving essentially a type of doggy-CPR.

Today's episode is a good companion piece to our double episodes from season one about pet adoption and petsitting, Golden Years & Golden Paws: Seniors and Dog Adoption - Part 1 and Senior Pet Adoption, But Not the Usual Suspects! - Part 2, so make sure to check those out for some great info on how to enjoy pets, without necessarily making a full time commitment.

Our thanks to Stacey for sharing her stories and research!

Find The Purest Bond here:

https://a.co/d/0bVyae8E

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Dr. Tiffany's focus is on safe, effective exercise and activity. The good news: there is in fact an optimal dose of exercise to decrease your risk of experiencing a fall.

It's 30 minutes a day, three times a week.

And it doesn't even have to be all at once!

We often have or hear about the experience of going to see the doctor, being asked if you've had a fall recently, and if that's the case, getting some kind of prescription pills and otherwise the message that there's nothing really you can do.

Studies related to the Otago Method revealed that those studied fell 35% less than folks who did not do the exercises.

In other words, it's worth doing.

No matter what age you are, you can continue to build your muscle. Everyone is empowered to manage their own fall risk. We don't typically fall out of chairs, we fall when we're standing. So we need to practice our balance when standing.

We look at weight training practices, repetitions, home safety, the differences between Tai Chi and the Otago Method, and lots more.

This one is a great follow up on last week's episode, so improve your cognitive function by following along, and getting active!

Learn more about the Otago Method here:

The Otago Program for Fall Prevention Exercises, by GiveFit. Series of 4 YouTube videos with Dr. Tiffany Shubert

More background on the Otago Exercise Program:

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Otago_Exercise_Programme

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Did you know just how impactful a fall can be when you're a senior? It can be the start of a cascade of side effects and impacts that can last the rest of your life.

Not to be dour about it, but in today's episode we want to focus on a simple solution: take falling seriously, be prepared and keep your muscle strength up as much as you possibly can.

To help us in this endeavor, we have Dr. Jo Bergh from the University of California San Francisco here to share some of her research and knowledge, her practical experience as a doctor of physical therapy, and in particular her expertise as a certified geriatric clinical specialist.

We talk about fall prevention strategies, risk factors in your clothes and around the house, how to develop your own targeted strength training, and even talk about doing a bit of Tai Chi.

There are lots of options to maintain your strength and mobility! Many people mistakenly believe that falling is a normal part of aging, but it's not: and you can do something about it!

Check out this recent article by Dr. Jo in the San Francisco Chronicle:
https://health.yahoo.com/wellness/healthy-aging/mobility/articles/bad-balance-isnt-just-normal-130000517.html

00:00 Understanding the Seriousness of Falls in Older Adults
10:01 Identifying Risk Factors for Falls
14:46 The Role of Physical Therapy in Fall Prevention
21:09 Actionable Steps to Prevent Falls
26:04 Overcoming Barriers to Exercise

---
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https://weareoldpodcast.com

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at
weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

No, not the diplomat (I'm sure she's heard that one many times!), but the inspiring, impressive and, most of all, humorous veteran of 43 years of comedy.

We step into her shoes as a comedian and learn the rituals she follows before going on stage, how she adapts her performance based on audience reactions, and the challenges of keeping up with new comedic talent.

Susan talks about her journey into stand-up comedy, reflecting on her four-decade career, the challenges of connecting with audiences, and some great personal anecdotes on the absurdities of life and the unique situations she has encountered as a performer.

She tells us about the unique bond she forms with her audience, particularly women, and the unexpected personal stories that often emerge during her shows. Do you lean into your age, your appearance, your gender and your life experience? Or do you try and sweep that under the rug?

And we touch on the evolution of comedy in the digital age, and the importance of adapting material to resonate with contemporary audiences. Jokes about Ronald Reagan don't quite land the way they used to!

Self-esteem plays a crucial role in performance, and there are few things more raw than stand-up comedy. Which is probably why so many people are fascinated by it - the mindset of going up on stage, all alone, just you and a microphone in the spotlight, to make people laugh.

When you hit the mark, laughter serves as a powerful tool for connection.

You can watch Susan's act on YouTube, in examples like this:

https://youtu.be/cbHJT2SLqgY?si=06qaIaVvEQYpgZbc

And buy or rent her comedy special, Susan Rice: Silver Alert !

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4s7omNdf1zs

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

What a great quote, and here today we have a conversation that demonstrates how accurate it is.

Kelsey Perri of Road Scholar joins me to share her non-profit organization's mission, programs and opportunities, all designed to get you out there, seeing the world.

They call it "experiential travel," and the hook is if you want to do something different than sitting on a beach or lounging by the pool, these are the group tours and immersive activities that help you truly experience the world.

It's like turning the entire world into your classroom. But, as you'll discover, the impacts are very deep and profound.

Road Scholar experiences help combat the epidemic of loneliness, and help increase socialization in older adulthood. Keep your physical, mental and social activity heightened through an educational, active tour.

60% of their travelers are women, 30% are solo travelers, and 85% of their solo travelers are women. And they did an interesting study in 2023 that found that 60% of their solo travelers who are mostly women, are in fact actually married, but traveling without their spouses. Road Scholar gives you the opportunity and encouragement to follow your dreams, and be supported in doing so.

They're known for some signature programs, including Grandparent Adventures, Signature Cities, and the "Choose Your Pace" program that emphasizes slow travel.

And then there are the famous cruises, some of which go for over 100 days: simply unpack your bags, stay in the same room, and go forth for adventure and learning! Or, you can stay in an apartment for six weeks in Europe!

To help as many people as possible participate, they offer scholarships, or the Unique Caregiver Grant, which provides respite for full-time family caregivers, or the Pair Scholarship for retired educators, including education admin staff, even janitors. What a wonderful idea!

Imagine:

• Going into an Italian family's home and learn how to make gnocchi with them.
• Going lobster fishing with a local fisherperson and learn a trade that dates back centuries.
• Not just driving past a building, but learning its story - what happened in those buildings, what's the history?

You have to be at least 40 to enroll in the program, and the average age is 72. Road Scholar has programs in over 100 countries and almost 50 states; go as far abroad as you wish.

How intense is it? Well, they have a very clear activity level scale on their website that you can read to figure out what the right activity level is for you.

We've got the links below to help you find your perfect trip, but today's conversation will surely give you a boost to start planning!

Learn more about Road Scholar through their website here:

Road Scholar Official Website - https://www.roadscholar.org

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

It shouldn't take much convincing to say that you should do as much as you can to look after your hearing.

But it may seem a little intimidating, overwhelming or even embarrassing to talk to someone about it.

My good friend Dr. Susan Waltzman is here today to break down the stigma and misinformation, and point us in the right direction to getting the help we need.

We talk about hearing aids, both over-the-counter ones that are a few hundred dollars, and the much more substantial Cochlear implants, which can be an absolute life-changer.

And here's the amazing thing: Cochlear in particular can be almost completely covered by Medicaid!

So get your hearing tested, that's the first step. Visit an Otolaryngologist or an Audiologist to get the ball rolling.

Addressing hearing loss can prevent social isolation and cognitive decline. So if you're struggling with hearing loss, take charge and rescue your hearing! There is help, and lots of it.

As per the subject, this one is audio-only: we want you to really concentrate on what's being said!

Find Dr. Suzie and some very useful resources here:

• ⁠Susan Waltzman, NYU Langone Health
  https://med.nyu.edu/faculty/susan-b-waltzman
• A Faster, Clearer Way to Program Cochlear Implants:
  https://nyulangone.org/news/faster-clearer-way-program-cochlear-implants
• Cochlear Implant most effective way to correct hearing impairments
  https://www.informa.com/media/press-releases-news/latest-news/cochlear-implant-most-effective-way-to-correct-hearing-impairment-in-arab-populations/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Maybe you're thinking, "I'd like to get rid of that thing."

Maybe you've even been telling yourself that for oh, a few decades now.

The good news: the technology is available now to zap that tattoo away, so that there's scarcely any trace of it. It takes a while to do, and it's not cheap, but it is doable.

So if it's important to you to get it done: there is a way.

Lisa Giamarino is here to discuss laser tattoo removal, something she does on an increasingly regular basis at her clinic, Naples Laser & Skin Aesthetics.

We chat about the types of people who come into her clinic, reasons they have for removing tattoos, and the difference between laser removal and the other ways.

You don't want to try the other ways.

It is quite interesting though to learn how these lasers actually work on your skin. It may sound like James Bond but don't worry, they expect you to talk. So you can tell others how it works!

But in all seriousness, finding a qualified, certified professional to do this service is paramount. It has to be safe, clean and hygienic, and a clinic like Lisa's covers all the bases.

Did you know?

• 32% of U.S. citizens have tattoos.
• 13% of baby boomers have tattoos.
• Tattoo removal is increasingly popular among seniors.
• Laser technology is the most effective method for tattoo removal.
• Tattoo artists cannot legally remove tattoos.
• The age and type of ink affect removal success.
• Pain levels vary, but removal is often more painful than getting a tattoo.
• Costs for removal depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo.

Find Lisa and her resources here:

• ⁠Naples Laser & Skin Aesthetics:
  https://www.napleslaserandskinaesthetics.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/napleslaserandskinaesthetics/
• https://www.facebook.com/napleslaserandskinaesthetics

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

But today we're taking the concept a bit further and introducing the approach of having an "active bucket list."

Our guest is an expert on the topic, having written a book 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life, which is all about taking control and initiative over your life, interests and priorities. After all, no one else will do it for you, especially in the way that you want.

Maria Leonard Olsen talks about the psychology behind bucket lists, from spiritual endeavors to physical activities, to the richer experiences you can have even in your day to day life, in your own neighborhood, by taking the time to walk, stop or just pause for a bit.

"Practice the Pause!," as she says.

Maria also talks about her dramatic decision in her 50's of selling most of her belongings to move to Nepal and volunteer at a school. She lived with a family that had no running water or electricity, and shares how this incredible experience fostered a new sense of perspective and gratitude for the things we are so fortunate to have, and can take for granted.

So, today learn about making that initial bucket list, how to approach it and where to start.

• Keep notes as you go through your day/week/month of things that are interesting, things you want to try. It doesn't all have to be extravagant, adventurous or expensive!
• Be conscious of lifestyle changes, and changes to relationships.
• Learn about what Maria calls "energy vampires."
• Consider also the "anti-bucket list," which helps you identify what to avoid.
• And another great idea: get an accountability partner, and encourage each other to push ideas and action forward. Maria shares some great ways of going about finding the right person.

You can tell this episode is full of lots of great quotes and easy-to-remember slogans. Like, "Don't forget to 'Drop the rocks'"!

Check your local library for the book, and if it's not there, put in a request: this really works!

Remember, gratitude enhances our appreciation for life. You are responsible for your own happiness, and creating a bucket list can be a fun and empowering process that gives more meaning and contentment to life after 50.

Find Maria and all her inspiring resources here:

• ⁠Maria's website: marialeonardolsen.com
• Buy the book, 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life
• Listen to Maria's podcast, Becoming Your Best Version
• Maria's TEDx Talk: Turning Life's Challenges Into a Force for Good
• Join the 50 after 50 Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/FiftyAfter50

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

And what seems on the surface like an important but fairly innocuous question quickly takes on a lot more depth and impact, when we stop and consider just how much driving can be integral to our identity, our confidence, our lifestyle and most of all, our freedom.

But it's something that we simply can't expect to do forever, which means there will come a point when you have to hang 'em up. Do we therefore make that decision on our own initiative, or wait until someone makes it for us?

To be fair, you can make valid arguments for both cases. But for today at least we're going to discuss the various considerations and impacts of not being able to drive anymore, and to do so, why not have some fun and look a little further afield: beyond Florida, beyond the United States, beyond North America and even the Western Hemisphere: let's go to Australia!

They may drive on the left and use kilometres, but they still have the exact same concerns about the safety of drivers as we do! Peter Flanders is a retired police officer in Queensland who witnessed first-hand the importance of knowing when to stop driving, and Kayla Stefanidis is a researcher who backs everything up with the data to help us out.

Yes, it's a serious subject, but we approach it with a clear head and even a few laughs: as ever with the goal of getting you prepared for important decisions such as this.

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

But what about the comfort of knowing that you purposely chose to keep the stuff you still have.

What a wonderful concept, propagated by my guest this week, Jaime Verazin of Reflecting Spaces, who does this stuff for a living.

Jamie and her team help people, seniors in particular, to sort through their things as they head towards downsizing, ostensibly to simply be able to go from say, a 5-bedroom house to a small condo, but really it's about the much deeper process of letting go.

Clothing, books, furniture and sentimental items are the main focus, since those are the things we both have the most of and in turn are most attached to. The process involves guiding people to consider each item, separate them into categories and physical spaces that are different from where you're used to seeing them, and then making a conscious choice about what you want to do with it.

It's an important legacy project to do, and even a gift to your kids and extended family, who are otherwise left wondering what these things are, and if there's some sentimental value there that they might not know about.

And, with Jaime and her team it's a joyful process too! Downsizing can be a fun and freeing experience if approached with positivity and excitement. How many times has Jaime been working with someone and heard, "Oh, that's where that thing ended up!" or, "Wow, I haven't seen that in years!" Or in turn, "I remember how I got this thing, and why it's important to keep it for my family."

If you're in the greater New York area, you can work with Jaime herself, or if you live further afield you can still reach out to her and see if you can tap into her network of contacts. Either way, a downsizing expert is a great and worthwhile investment.

For more information and resources, visit:

www.reflectingspaces.com/

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

About just how convenient and comfortable is cruising!

You arrive on board, everything is ready for you. You unpack your bags, set up shop in your cabin, and make yourself at home.

You can go out and have adventures, excursions, shore trips, all kinds of on board activities, go out for dinner, go see a show and come back to your own bed each night.

No need to figure out transport, taxis, trains, checking in to yet another hotel every other day, where to eat, how much things cost, exchange rates for different currencies, and on and on.

Forgot something in your cabin? Worst case, you'll be back "home" in a few hours, instead of wondering how to get that thing shipped to you from the hotel you stayed at last night that is now hundreds of miles away.

I could go on, but it kind of sells itself. And here to explain how to go about choosing and booking a cruise is my friend Karen Berger, an expert with decades of experience in doing this very thing. She's travelled to every continent, over 40 countries, virtually every cruise line and that's the kind of expertise you can't get with ChatGPT, no matter what it tells you!

Karen thus represents the perhaps hidden or forgotten side of travel agents: the peace of mind.

If you're in a jam, facing a plethora of options, not sure where to go or how things work, your travel agent has your back, and what's crazy is the cost usually turns out about the same! With their access to various discounts or extra included services, that alone makes them worth it, but the safety and support really seals the deal.

For more information and resources, visit:

• Karen Berger of Preferred Travel, Naples FL

Send Karen an email with your questions!

Karen.Berger@preferrednaples.com

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Our first season will comprise about 12 episodes, starting in March of 2025, and released bright and early every Wednesday morning.

Join Ken over the coming weeks as he covers such topics as:

• Yoga
• Meditation
• Pickleball coach
• Pickleball pain relief
• Getting discounted prices on business class flying
• Technology for seniors, with the cyberseniors.org charity
• Smart phones versus dumb(?) phones
• Hospice care
• Cremation or burial options, what it entails, planning ahead
• Eye care for seniors
• Nutrition for seniors
• Life insurance when you're in your 80's, vs setting aside money in the stock market (better option)

and more!

Will we get through it all in the next 12 weeks? Maybe! If not, stay tuned for season two later this year as well!

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You need to listen to this episode!

Baker Senior Center is particularly unique and impressive thanks to their brand-new facility, and their three pillars of programming:

• Social connection & engagement,
• Health, wellness and prevention resources, and
• Access to services and supports, to enable someone to age in place.

"Aging in place" is the euphemism for being able to stay in your home as you age, with a seniors center like Baker giving you the community, activities and resources to keep you social and active.

Relying almost entirely on philanthropy and donations, it's a reflection of the importance of a facility like this to the well-being of the community as a whole.

Baker helps seniors in all kinds of areas, including understanding benefits, caregiver support, legal aid and more, all under one roof.

Then of course there's the programming, with the objective of mental stimulation & encouraging lifelong learning. They offer courses and presentations on everything from reptiles in Florida to healthy living with a Mediterranean diet, writing courses and even a drum circle.

There's also the HUGS program. For getting better hugs? Maybe, but in their case it refers to, "Happy Ukulele Group of Strummers."

Yes, Baker is a pretty special place and we're lucky to have them in Naples. But seniors centers like this exist all across the country, perhaps the one in your community is a bit smaller scale but the love and support is still there.

So do a quick search or ask around to see what you can find, and make the most of this important, dare we say crucial, resource.

For more information and resources, visit:

https://www.bakerseniorcenternaples.org/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Registered Dietician and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner is here to share some quick tips for staying hydrated and healthy while you're playing, particularly so that you're not just gulping down a sugary drink or a processed snack. There are lots of healthy and easy options out there, including a couple fun recipes for protein cookie bites and a quinoa omelet that she's given us access to!

This is the last regular episode for Season One of We Are Old, Get Over It! The podcast for seniors in the prime of life. It's been lots of fun putting together our conversations over the past three months. We've learned lots, as I'm sure you have too, and that gets us even more excited to come back this fall for Season Two.

Some of the upcoming conversations next season include talking about cruises, trusts & wills, hearing, downsizing, tattoos, "dumb phones" (as opposed to smart phones), The Beatles, and (gasp) sex for seniors. That and lots more to keep us going.

AND: we're putting our episodes on YouTube! Revisit our interviews in all of their raw glory, unedited, straight off the recording. See what Ken looks like, and his guests! Subscribe to the channel here: Ken Gluckman, We Are Old, Get Over It Podcast on YouTube.

We'll be posting video versions of Season 1 episodes throughout the summer on a weekly basis. Make sure to subscribe to the channel once you get there, to get the latest alerts.

Have a wonderful summer!

Resourceful links from this episode:

Contest: ebfamilysweeps.com/contest

Crispy Quinoa Omelet Recipe: www.egglandsbest.com/recipes/crispy-quinoa-omelet

Protein Cookie Bites Recipe:

www.egglandsbest.com/recipes/protein-cookie-bites

We Are Old, Get Over It Podcast on YouTube.⁠

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

We previously talked about getting help for tech-related challenges, in Episode 4, "Silver Screens: When Seniors and Smartphones Collide."

Today, we follow up on that subject with something crucially important: keeping yourself and your data safe. Safe from online trolls, phishing scams, false actors, fraudulent claims: you know, the bad guys.

And they're so sneaky these days that they often pretend to be the good guys, helping you out. Technology is getting better and better at replicating real voices and helping to set up plausible scenarios. It sounds scary and overwhelming, but there are ways to protect yourself without fully withdrawing from the online world.

Oliviah Street is a certified cybersecurity consultant here to give us some fundamental tips in keeping safe online. We cover creating strong passwords, the usefulness of password managers, the significance of two-factor authentication, and common cyber threats targeting seniors.

Oliviah provides practical advice on verifying suspicious contacts, setting up device security, and the dangers of sharing personal information on social media. And some smart, non-digital methods to verify someone's identity, for example: consider having a safe word or an insider question amongst your immediate family members which only they would know the answer to.

There are resources available to seek help when needed, and not just the young people in your life! Libraries and municipal or state-level services exist to help inform and protect citizens.

You have a lifetime of wisdom and experience. Use it to make smart judgements and recognize that if something sounds too good to be true, or too far-fetched to be taken at face value, then the most rational response is probably the correct one.

---

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The first step to getting this service is simply being ready for it. You have to meet certain criteria, and understand the type of care and mindset that hospice means.

Annalise, with 12 years of experience, discusses the importance and procedures of hospice care, dispelling misconceptions, and highlighting the support it offers both patients and their families. Her and Ken explore how hospice care is accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay, and the interdisciplinary team's role in providing holistic care, including bereavement support.

Annalise also explains the difference between hospice and palliative care, emphasizing the importance of early engagement and planning. Unique services like music, massage therapy and the use of therapy animals help improve patient comfort and reduce anxiety.

We encourage listeners to proactively inquire about hospice and palliative care options when faced with severe health diagnoses, and take Annalise's advice: don't wait until the last minute.

If there is any one takeaway from this episode: if you find yourself or a loved one in the position of considering hospice care but aren't sure if you're ready, just call!

As Annalise says, at least we get to know you, your personality and your situation, so that we will be ready for you if and when the time comes.

You can reach Avow Hospice through the following links:

Avow Hospice,

1095 Whippoorwill Ln, Naples, FL

https://avowcares.org/

+1 239-261-4404

---

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My guest today is here to share his knowledge and experience as a tour operator on behalf of Grand European Travel, a Portland, OR-based tour company with clients from across the United States and beyond.

As per the name, Grand European specializes in European travel, guided tour-style: they look after the planning, the logistics, the confusions and the headaches.

Their objective is to give you a travel experience that focuses on the amazing sights, cultural immersion, and history and information, so that you don't have to worry about how to get from A to B, or what to do if your flight is delayed or your luggage is lost. They have a whole team of people to sort out those things for you.

Jake addresses some of the stereotypes about group travel, particularly the notion that you're just whisked from one place to another, herded like cattle and caught up in crowds and gift shops.

That kind of travel experience is certainly not what they're interested in, whether that means smaller groups, off-season travel, or simply more stops, more time and more flexibility.

Tune into this fun conversation to learn more and maybe reconsider this mode of travel: for seniors in particular, it could be just what you're looking for!

For more information and resources, visit:

getours.com

Grand European Travel on YouTube

on Instagram

on Facebook

or give them a call, toll-free: 1- 800-552- 5545

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Pat is a professionally-certified pickleball instructor and coach who, with about seven years of experience, could be considered a veteran, given that it's a sport that's only really become widely familiar and popular since about 2015. Although, pickleball does in fact date back to 1965, when it was invented on Bainbridge Island, WA.

In our episode today, Pat teaches us the basics of pickleball, its social aspects, and explains the sport's rising popularity, particularly in the United States, but also increasingly worldwide.

Pat shares insights into the game's origins, rules, court terminology, and how beginners - especially seniors - can start playing.

He also discusses the professional side of pickleball, including the US Open, potential earnings, and the investment and technical development that is pouring in.

In fact, we are releasing this episode the exact same week as the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships are taking place at the NPC in Naples, April 26 to May 3, 2025. You can follow along with the matches live on their website, or catch the highlights on YouTube afterwards.

Pickleball continues to be a fast-rising sport, but the real takeaway from our conversation today is its social aspect. For people looking for a new activity, a sport that is not too intense but still a good workout, that gets you out of the house and into a warm, welcoming community, consider looking into your local pickleball scene. You've probably heard about it already!

USOP National Pickleball Center, Naples, FL

2025 US Open of Pickleball, April 26 - May 3, live streaming

The Pickleball Channel on YouTube, US Open highlights

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Not even two months ago, Ken had no idea that these drinks even existed. Yet when a friend suggested he check them out, suddenly it emerged that there are entire sections of common wine and liquor stores devoted to cannabis-infused mixed drinks, almost like an overnight industry had sprung up.

And you may just be thinking the same thing: "Where did these drinks come from?"

So Amanda is here to give us some background on what's involved, how they're made, the different types and, most of all, what kinds of effects you should watch out for.

Fundamentally, cannabis-infused drinks are growing in popularity as an alcohol alternative, for both recreational and wellness purposes. Amanda tells us about the difference between CBD and THC varieties, as well as the science behind the infusion processes, and their effects compared to traditional alcohol.

The conversation also touches on the evolving market, legislative variations across states, and safety concerns such as driving under influence and mixing with alcohol.

The key takeaway: start slowly, don't drink too fast, and pay attention to how your body responds. Everyone will have their own distinct reaction. Start with low doses, and seek medical advice if necessary. Always be considerate of safety and awareness, and be with people you trust and who will look out for you when first trying it out.

Our episode today aims to demystify cannabis beverages and encourage informed and responsible consumption. If you are looking for that alternative to alcohol, energy drinks or sugary drinks, do your research and see what you think!

Learn more, visit Ale Advised, Amanda Bruns, founder

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Host Ken Gluckman continues to grow into the role of podcast host, an adventure he started earlier this year in 2025.

With lots more interviews coming down the pipeline, and an extra emphasis on video, plus new Instagram and TikToks accounts: there's lots to look forward to over the coming weeks.

---

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We highlight the importance of balance to avoid falls, of being aware of the space around you, common fears about inflexibility, and the use of props in iyengar yoga to accommodate various physical conditions.

Suzie emphasizes to us how yoga is a lifelong practice that enhances both physical and mental well-being. Seniors need to build muscle strength, flexibility, and stability to improve their quality of life.

And you need to make it a routine! Yoga can be a calming exercise, a communal exercise and a great way to revitalize your energy and stamina.

Visit postures.com for further information about Suzie's Zoom classes and yoga practices tailored for older adults.

---

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It's one of those topics where things seem obvious and just common sense, but how often do we really stop to think and make sure that we're as prepared as possible in the event of a fire?

Chief Alan gives us lots of details on topics like:

• smoke alarms: not just having them, but checking the batteries regularly, and keeping them clean of dust;
• kitchen and cooking safety, and having a small kitchen fire extinguisher easily accessible;
• home fire escape plans;
• the benefits of home fire sprinklers;
• the hazards of space heaters;
• electrical safety;
• risks associated with lithium batteries;

and so much more.

We need to be a little more cognizant and prepared as we get older that things like reaction time, hearing, speed of movement and more are not quite what they used to be, and plan accordingly.

Be preventative, be prepared, and stay safe! Thank you to Chief Alan for joining us today with this valuable insight, stemming from 48 years of experience in the fire service.

For more information and resources, visit:

Electrical Safety Foundation International (www.esfi.org)

Senior Living (www.seniorliving.org)

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You may be sharing some of the common concerns that the humane society hears all the time, including, "What happens if I can't take care of my pet?", and, "What happens after I'm gone?" The Humane Society of Naples has built-in programming that provides support and options to help, including a mobile clinic and even a pet pantry for food. You won't be left on your own.

Fundamentally, every pet can be brought back to the society if it comes to that, but of course their goal is to find you the best match for both comfort and practicality. This is why you should consider becoming a foster home for a pet, on a temporary basis, even as short as a few hours.

Pets need a change from the environment of the shelter, and the fostering program is a great way to get a feel for what it would be like having a new friend around the house.

If you're thinking about adopting a cat, Stephanie really plants the seed for considering an older cat. Kittens are a terror, as the scratches on Stephanie's arms attest!

Ok yes, they are very cute. But an older cat has grown into its personality, and likely wants nothing more than to just relax, sit on your lap and otherwise look after itself. Sounds about right.

Over these two episodes, we hope you have a good sense now for how the Humane Society works and all kinds of options that they give you.

Look up the society in your home town, support their amazing work and if you're looking for a friend, look no further.

Learn more about the Patty Baker Naples Humane Society here: ⁠pbhsnaples.org

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We step into her shoes as a comedian and learn the rituals she follows before going on stage, how she adapts her performance based on audience reactions, and the challenges of keeping up with new comedic talent.

Comedians often compare themselves to emerging talent, but embracing change can lead to unexpected joys. Comedy is such a fascinating endeavor - the mindset of going up on stage, all alone, just you and a microphone in the spotlight, to make people laugh.

When you hit the mark, laughter serves as a powerful tool for connection.

I've got some more fun bonus episodes and clips to keep you company through the holidays, so watch for the next one on Dec. 31st!

Remember you can watch Susan's act on YouTube, in examples like this:

When Life Gets Funnier After 60 | Susan Rice | Stand Up Comedy Special⁠

And visit her YouTube channel for more great clips and videos:

⁠⁠Funny Old Bag, Susan Rice (YouTube channel)⁠⁠

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and remember, ⁠⁠⁠⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠⁠

And that's thanks to the Go Wish cards, which turn end of life discussions into a truly engaging activity.

The cards have all kinds of prompts that you can separate into "priority piles," and start you on the path to clarity and peace of mind.

It's important to have open conversations with your loved ones about end-of-life decisions, particularly anyone you've chosen as a surrogate decision-maker. Get things in writing, and help your family avoid the difficult guesswork that would arise without knowing your intentions.

The greatest gift you can give your family is clarity in your wishes, and Go Wish helps you tackle this with aplomb and confidence.

Go Wish cards can be obtained for a very minimal cost, and indeed they can be found in digital form for free on the CODA website, in multiple languages. But as a non-profit enterprise, it's money that goes to a good cause, so consider ordering a pack or two for those who might be ready for these discussions, or perhaps need a little push!

For more information and resources, visit:

⁠https://www.bakerseniorcenternaples.org/⁠

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Ken is joined by Naples Humane Society CEO Sarah Baeckler to learn about the organization's wide-ranging and thorough programming, surely as good a model as you will ever find for humane societies across the country.

Did you know that you can take a pet out for even just a couple hours, to get them out of the shelter, see how they react and of course to get some dog time for yourself too?

And the society gives expert advice on things like pet insurance, how to include plans for your pet in estate planning, emergency contacts and instructions should you become incapacitated, choosing the right pet for you, and more.

It's like a matchmaking service that results in unconditional love.

Today's episode combines some practical advice with touching stories on how rescue pets have been saved, and saved their new families in turn.

Learn more about the Patty Baker Naples Humane Society here: pbhsnaples.org

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Who cares for the caregivers?

I'm joined by Amy Goyer, National Family and Caregiving expert with the AARP, to discuss the recent 'Caregiving in the United States' study and to share her insights not just from her work, but from her own experience as a caregiver to her parents.

Amy shares with us some truly valuable resources for caregivers, including AARP's caregiving guides, the Lifespan Respite Program, Arch Respite Network and the Elder Care guide from the federal government's Administration for Community Living (ACL).

But more than anything, what Amy offers is support. AARP has a Facebook group with thousands of caregivers, in every situation imaginable, to give each other encouragement, share resources, be a sounding board, and to make sure that everyone knows they are not alone.

Yes, this is coming across as a pretty heavy episode. But, as Amy points out, caregiving is a privilege and a joy, you get precious time with those you love and can give back in a deeply meaningful way.

You just need to make sure you're looking out for your own health too!

For more information and resources, visit:

• aarp.org⁠
• AARP Caregiving in the US 2025 Report
• aarp.org/caregiving
• aarp.org/caregiverresourceguides
• AARP Family Caregivers Facebook group
• ACL Elder Care locator
• ACL Lifespan Respite Program
• ARCH National Respite Network respite locator

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Now that we've got your attention, Dr. Robert Panvini from San Jose, CA, is here to help us learn how to stay healthy and virile, both men and women, regardless of our age.

Dr. Robert is a urologist, and as there is often some confusion as to the difference between a urologist and a gynecologist, or indeed at what points do they overlap, he sets the record straight.

We chat about the actual science behind hormones, the libido, menopause and sex drive, and how these things change as you get older. Dr. Robert recalls a comment he heard many years ago, that, "Oh, sex is only for young people, not when you're old," but that couldn't be further from the truth!

We just need to know how to adapt as our bodies change, and what's fascinating is that Dr. Robert helps us understand why these things happen.

"We Are Old, Get Over It!" is here to help you get the most out of your golden days, and as you saw in Season 1, we do so with a mix of humour, information, maturity and a healthy dose of encouragement.

So make the most of the resources today, and go out and have some fun!

For more information and resources, visit:

• National Institute on Aging
• American Geriatrics Society
• AARP

Books:

• Get It Up: Sex for over Sixty, by Gordon D. Jensen
• Great Sex Starts At 50, by Tracey Cox
• The Elderly Gentleman's Creaky Sex Guide: How to Evade Flaccidity and Desiccation, by Dr. Keith Pepperell
• Sexuality and Aging: Clinical Perspectives, by Jennifer Hillman
• Dementia, Sex and Wellbeing, by Danuta Lipinska
• The Sex Bible For People Over 50, by Laurie Betito

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Do you lean into your age, your appearance and your life experience? Or do you try and sweep that under the rug? Not to mention your gender, and putting that together with everything else.

Self-esteem plays a crucial role in performance, and there are few things more raw than stand-up comedy. Which is probably why so many people are fascinated by it.

Susan shares some great personal anecdotes too on the absurdities of life and the unique situations she has encountered as a performer.

We'll be back with the final of our holidays bonus series with Susan Rice next week!⁠

Remember you can watch Susan's act on YouTube, in examples like this:

We All Become our Parents | Susan Rice | Stand Up Comedy Special

And visit her YouTube channel for more great clips and videos:

⁠Funny Old Bag, Susan Rice (YouTube channel)⁠

---

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and remember, ⁠⁠⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠

Travel agent and business class expert Chris Morson joins me today to teach us how to best book business class tickets, how having flexibility as retired people gives us a tremendous advantage, and why you may not realize just how much greater business class actually is!

More than just a seat upgrade, it's an entire experience, even starting from the front door of your house.

And travel agents like Chris give you piece of mind and security, should anything go wrong. If you find yourself stuck in another country after a cancelled flight, simply call Chris on WhatsApp and he'll already be on the case, sorting it out for you.

There are differences between First Class and Business Class, particularly for transatlantic flights, and Chris expands on that here.

Business Class is absolutely something worth considering as one of those examples where a bit of extra money can go a long way to giving you more comfort, peace of mind and even enjoyment of the flying experience.

You can reach Chris at

airbusinessclass.com,

or give him a call at  813 304 2741.

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Ken is excited to bring you all kinds of fun and juicy info. Just some of the topics coming up include:

• Sex for Seniors
• Dumb Phones vs. Smartphones
• Tattoo Removal for Seniors
• The Advantages of Seniors Centers
• What Do You Need to Do to Keep Your Drivers Licence?
• and all kinds of travel topics: Cruises, European Tours and more.

We've got a full season planned for you, with weekly episodes coming out every Wednesday, bright and early.

And, you can get more clips and man-on-the-street segments over on our Instagram and TikTok accounts.

See you next week!

---

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Have you ever just stopped to ask yourself, "Do I really even need this darn thing anyway?"

My guest today is here to suggest that in fact, No, you do not. And she is not someone of our lineage either: August Lamm is 29, and has just gotten rid of her smartphone and sold her computer. She's young enough to be of an age where all this technology is all she's ever known, and she's saying she's had enough.

It's not just for the data and privacy concerns that we hear about all the time. Smartphones are antisocial, stunted ways to communicate and of course contain apps that feed off of dopamine and instant gratification.

And the reality is, most people, seniors or otherwise, really don't need anywhere near the processing power that a modern smartphone has. It's hard to believe that the computers that sent spaceships to the moon had a fraction of the capabilities of that device in your pocket.

So if you're wondering whether they're even worth having, or if there are better alternatives, our conversation today will really get you thinking.

For more information and resources, visit:

• CyberSeniors.org
• SeniorLiving.org

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Over the past three months we've featured topics such as Sex for Seniors, Trusts & Wills, 'What to do with all this Stuff,' Driving Cessation, European Travel and so much more.

Lighthearted banter mixed with serious conversation: a good mix for our senior audience.

If you enjoy what you've heard and learned, please share our episodes with your friends, family and community, so we can keep getting this useful and inspiring information out there.

And we'll be back in mid-January with Season Three, including such topics as Living Wills, How to Make a Bucket List, Money-Saving Tips for Grocery Shopping, Maintaining your Hearing, Tattoos and Tattoo Removal and Cannabis Beverage reviews!

I even chat with a world-renowned authority on The Beatles, an author of multiple books on the Fab Four: we can't wait to share that one with you!

Wishing you the best for the holiday season and the new year,

- Ken

---

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and remember, you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Stay tuned to We Are Old, Get Over It!, the podcast for seniors in their funnest phase of life, for a conversation with Susan Rice.

Is it that Susan Rice? Or maybe a funnier one?

In the meantime, here's a little comedy act that might lighten your day. It's "NSFW," but then that doesn't apply to you anyway!

https://youtu.be/cbHJT2SLqgY?si=06qaIaVvEQYpgZbc

---

Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

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and remember, ⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

They discuss the importance of social engagement, mental health, and physical activity for seniors. Dr. Ewert shares insights from his 42-year career, emphasizing the benefits of joining support groups, volunteering, and keeping active.

The conversation covers recognizing signs of depression, the role of mindfulness and meditation, and coping with societal changes. We share with you practical strategies for maintaining social connections, as well as how to adapt to physical limitations as we age.

It's hard being stubborn! Look after yourself and age with ease and grace.

Our episode concludes with some encouraging messages about setting new goals and embracing change.

---

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⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠

and send us your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

We look at the challenges of balancing personal and professional life while navigating the complexities of aging and memory loss.

Through it all, Amanda's humor shines through as she recounts her father's artistic legacy and their shared love for comedy, providing a poignant look at the intersection of family and creativity.

Check out Amanda's Set at Don't Tell Comedy in Pittsburgh:

https://youtu.be/qT0XavdfvuU?si=1Kuxhc5yzsKr4kOL

---

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and remember, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠⁠⁠

That includes while you're listening to this episode! Or any of our fascinating topics.

It sounds kind of easy, but it takes some practice, which is probably in part why we live such busy, hectic lives! We have to intentionally want to slow down and take the time to appreciate our environment and surroundings, and the things we have to be grateful for.

Fortunately, seniors are the ones best-placed to embrace this practice, and indeed it may be crucial to our health and well-being.

Beth Davalos is a licensed therapist and mindfulness expert, who also happens to be Founder and Principal of Sunshine Senior Counseling, based out of Maitland, central Florida but with outreach across the state. Therefore, she is an excellent guest to have on this week's episode, telling us about the importance of mindfulness and how we can apply it to our everyday lives.

She even leads me through a live session, right here on the podcast, which you can do as well!

Mindfulness is one of the best ways to combat stress, anxiety, fatigue, worry and just overall exhaustion. It's not some cure-all that fixes everything, but it sure helps us appreciate what we do have, and how to enjoy our time on this Earth, each and every day.

Do reach out to Beth if you need support, have questions or would just like to find someone to talk to. That's what her and her team are there for!For more information and resources, visit:

• Sunshine Senior Counseling: sunshineseniorcounseling.com
• Office phone: (407) 401-9020
• Sunshine Senior Counseling on Facebook: facebook.com/SunshineSeniorCounseling/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

But yeah, it's hard to ignore this one: make sure you have a will and/or a trust, so that you,

a) Don't leave your family with a mess when you're gone, and

b) Don't let the state make arbitrary decisions about your personal assets.

Nathalie Perry is an estate planning attorney who is licensed in both Illinois and Florida, and thus can give us some good insights on not just the fundamentals of estate planning but on how laws and process can differ from state to state.

Natalie explains the differences between wills and trusts, the consequences of dying without a will, and the intricacies of setting up a trust. We also talk about digital assets, tax considerations, the difference between a "will" and a "living will," the difference between a revocable and an irrevocable trust, and much more.

So think of your family, avoid creating those awkward and difficult scenarios that we hear about, and have the conversations with your loved ones: it goes a long way to maintaining that family harmony!

For more information and resources, visit:

• Natalie Perry, Attorney and CPA https://nataliemperry.com/
• The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel https://www.actec.org/
• The excellent ACTEC Resource Library https://www.actec.org/resource-center/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

The key emphasis here is on preparation: it is always best to prearrange your wishes in order to alleviate emotional and financial burdens on families. We look at such details as cost comparisons, travel protection plans, and various memorial options.

It is important to have this conversation with your loved ones, and yes, it can be hard, but this falls into the category of, "things in life that just have to be dealt with," whether you want to or not. Better to take that initiative and be prepared! You'll get lots of good advice and clarity from this episode.

Contact Joshua and Lacey, who are affiliated with the national company National Cremation, by either phone or website:

1-855-469-9474

www.nationalcremation.com

---

Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Amanda discusses the writing process, some of the unique and sticky situations she's found herself in, and the importance of understanding audience dynamics. No two audiences are the same, which logically means that a joke that doesn't work one night could knock 'em out the next.

We learn about some pre-show rituals, and why it's important to understand comedy history and assumptions if you really want to grow and thrive.

Fascinating stuff! And this is only part 2!

We'll have our final part with Amanda for you right here, next week, before we launch into our next slate of full episodes later in January.

Check out Amanda's Set at the Copa Santa Barbara:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4WR-ly5RBw

---

Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

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and remember, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠⁠

Lee points out the significance of securing life insurance early, the differences between term, universal, and whole life insurance, and the financial benefits each provides. We talk about managing Social Security, and considering long-term care insurance to avoid unexpected medical expenses in later years.

Ken asks about potential life insurance scams targeting seniors, the role of final expense policies, and the benefits of Medicare supplements over Medicare Advantage plans.

Remember to take control of your financial planning to ensure a secure retirement! Although we all know that the earlier, the better, this episode will help you navigate financial literacy at any age and stage of life.

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Skin damage is something to be very aware of, but Dr. Ross Harris from Naples, FL is here to give us some good advice, what to look out for and how to best protect ourselves.

You may be curious about what exactly a dermatologist does, what happens when you go into the clinic and how different types of issues and spots are dealt with. Dr. Ross tells us about the kinds of cases that he sees in his office, and leaves us well-informed and prepared to look after our skin when we're outside.

Much of the skin issues us seniors have these days stem from when we were kids, playing outside, at the beach or the lake, with no thought towards protection or skin cancer. The legacy of that is what we have to deal with now, but it just means a bit of extra vigilance, something we're all probably pretty used to anyway!

And we can always keep sharing what we've learned, including from Dr. Ross today, with the younger members of our family so that they know how to look after themselves too.

Learn more about Dr. Ross Harris and his clinic: https://www.harrisdermatology.com/

We'll be back next week with one last episode of Season 1, stay tuned!

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

But you know what can happen next: you're excited, you're out there on the court every day and then, suddenly, whoomp - something pops.

Dr. Greg Rubin is a physician specializing in pain management and sports medicine, and is known here in Naples as, "The Pickleball Doctor." Dr. Rubin did his training at the University of Connecticut and the University of Kentucky, working with athletes and specializing in sports medicine. He's spent the past seven years doing primarily non-operative orthopedics in Naples, for patients of all ages, but he's here today with a particular focus on the listeners of this podcast: our seniors!

Dr. Greg talks about the types of injuries seniors typically face in sports, emphasizing that many are acute or chronic injuries. We discuss pain management strategies, the risks of long-term use of pain medications, and non-pharmaceutical treatments like physical therapy and injections.

We also cover the importance of warm-ups and conditioning to prevent injuries, specifically for the elderly and those newly engaged in sports like pickleball.

We're here to encourage seniors to be active, to participate and embrace having the time and opportunity to try new things. Let's just not forget the practical side though too, of knowing how to safely participate in sports and set realistic expectations about recovery and pain management.

Now, get out there and have fun!

Gregory Rubin, DO - Nonsurgical Orthopedics

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

And it's not what you think (although grocery store prices do certainly have an impact).

We're going to tell you what it is right now, and then you can watch or listen to this episode to learn how to avoid it!

We're wasting too much food.

How much food do we buy, probably because it was on sale or was some spontaneous craving, which then gets forgotten in the bottom of the fridge, set aside because it doesn't match other parts of a meal, and quickly goes bad, since it's most likely produce and other perishables that only last a few short days?

So out it goes in the garbage, or hopefully at least the compost, and then you need to head back to the grocery store. As our guest Dawn Jackson Blatner says, "You're just throwing your money into the trash!"

Dawn identifies this right off the bat. But then we get into the good stuff: what can you do about it? What should you be buying? What's a simple way to avoid waste, save money and be intentional about your grocery planning? (There's a hint in that sentence!)

Let Dawn's energy and enthusiasm spill over onto your plate, and take a new and confident approach to your grocery shopping!

Find Dawn and all her wonderful resources here:

⁠https://www.dawnjacksonblatner.com

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

What started as a high school volunteering idea has since morphed into a worldwide service that matches mentors with individuals, typically seniors, to help them navigate the plethora of technology that we use on a daily basis.

It's a free service that has benefited countless numbers of people, and it's an awesome idea.

Ken and Macaulee delve into the importance of digital literacy, Apple vs Android, how to get set up with Telehealth, and common scams targeting seniors, and how to avoid them.

Macaulee also highlights the mutual benefit for both seniors and youth involved in the program, fostering intergenerational communication. In addition to getting some useful and practical help, people forge connections thanks to this technology, and help combat isolation.

Visit the website CyberSeniors.org for more information, access to resources, and volunteer opportunities. Donations to support the nonprofit are also welcomed.

---

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⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠

and send us your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

What a wonderful idea that brings young and old together for meaningful connection!

Co-founder Arielle Galinsky is with me today to explain her inspiration for the idea, and how it works. The Legacy Project is now a registered charity, and since its founding in 2018 has expanded to 25 colleges across the United States.

It's more than just conversation too, there is a goal for each partnership to create a publication that can be passed down and shared, and The Legacy Project helps participants publish a book together.

Thus far, the conversations are all organized to take place in person, which does make the most sense, but although it has its own limitations, remote conversations are an option going forward, mostly so that more people can tap into this amazing resource.

You can visit www.legacyprojectinc.org to learn more about their activities, donate or get involved with this wonderful endeavour.

* Note: there are a number of other organizations and websites with a similar name, particularly this one: legacyproject.org, based in Toronto, Canada.

In this episode, I chatted with Arielle Galinsky's "The Legacy Project," whose website is legacyprojectinc.org. Easy to get them confused!

But you'll know you're on her group's site if you see a big photo of intergenerational folks and the words, "Everyone has a story that is worth preserving."

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Author Ken Womack, one of the world's foremost experts on The Beatles, joins us to talk about his book, Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans.

Beatles fans will likely know already about Mal, the band's trusted confidant, protector, road manager and more. In a time when the biggest group in the world desperately needed people around them whom they could trust, Mal was that guy.

But up until the biography came out, Mal's actual story was largely unknown. He was the quintessential figure in the background.

Ken Womack set out to address this, but after the project was already underway, it suddenly escalated to a whole other level thanks to the discovery that Mal's son Gary possessed a box full of notes, diaries, photographs, memorabilia, and even a manuscript that Mal was writing about his life, which sadly was never published before his sudden death. Gary sent over the box, and Ken used his expertise to develop this outstanding book.

Join us for the remarkable story of Mal Evans, with incredible stories from his actual biographer, and bring the Beatles back to life - from the Cavern Club to the rooftop of Apple Records. Mal was there for it all.

Find Ken Womack's book here:

https://kennethwomack.com/books/beatlesbooks/mal-evans-the-biography-archives/

---

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and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Our guests dive into the topics that matter the most to us, from navigating the digital world, to embracing new adventures and the challenges that hold us back.

Join me, Ken Gluckman, for 30 to 45 minutes of insightful conversations, honest reflections, and a whole lot ofget over it attitude.

We'll tackle the big questions: "Can we learn TikTok?" "Is that noise outside just birds?" and, "Why are our kids so convinced we're living in this stone age?!"

I'm not ashamed to admit we're getting old.

In fact, let's embrace it.

Join me as we discover the incredible potential that lies within us.

---

Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

weareoldpodcast.com

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at weareoldpodcast@gmail.com.

Amanda Cohen jumps into the guest chair this time around, someone who's been a stand-up comic for 20 years, not in a row. Amanda's first performance was at her high school cabaret at 17, and she's placed in the top 16 of the World Series of Comedy twice.

Amanda talks about her journey in stand-up comedy, the challenges she's faced as a female comic, what it's really like to interact with the audience, and the fusion of burlesque and comedy in her career.

Amanda also shares insights on the importance of timing in comedy, one of those subtle things that in an instant can make or break your set. But the challenge and risk is part of the thrill!

Check out Amanda's Stand-Up Special from the Comedy Cube, courtesy Funny Media Group:

https://youtu.be/LzTqvTQy5sg?si=hSeP4nmGp2kgzdYZ

---

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and remember, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠⁠

Comedian Susan Rice joins me to share her journey into stand-up comedy, reflecting on her 43-year career, the challenges of connecting with audiences, and the humorous yet humbling moments that have shaped her as a performer.

She tells us about the unique bond she forms with her audience, particularly women, and the unexpected personal stories that often emerge during her shows.

Susan also touches on the evolution of comedy in the digital age and the importance of adapting material to resonate with contemporary audiences. Jokes about Ronald Reagan don't quite land the way they used to!

Remember you can watch Susan's act on YouTube, in examples like this:

Funny Old Bag | Susan Rice | Stand Up Comedy (Don't Tell Comedy)

And visit her YouTube channel for more great clips and videos:

Funny Old Bag, Susan Rice (YouTube channel)

---

Reach out to the show by visiting our website,

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠weareoldpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

and remember, ⁠⁠you can watch the unedited video versions of the podcast on YouTube.⁠