Loving Later Life

Helen Dennis is a nationally recognized leader on issues of aging and the new retirement. She has received numerous awards for her university teaching at USC's Davis School of Gerontology and for her contributions to the field of aging, the community and literary arts. As one of the nation's leading experts on preparing for the non-economic aspects of retirement, she has worked with over 25,000 employees at corporations and universities to do just that. As a syndicated columnist on “Successful Aging” for the Southern California News Group, Helen has published over 1,000 columns reaching 1.2 million readers weekly. Additionally, Helen has served as an expert witness for large class action age discrimination cases. She is co-founder of Renewment and co-author of the Los Angeles Times bestseller, "Project Renewment®: The First Retirement Model for Career Women" (Scribner) and has been recognized by PBS Next Avenue as one of the 50 influencers in aging. I promise that you will be inspired on so many levels! Do yourself a favor and listen to the very end! Website: www.HelenMdennis.com  

It's the end of May, can you believe it? How many of you have said that to someone recently?! I can't tell you how many times I've heard, “How is it Memorial Day weekend already? Summer? What?!” “Life goes faster the older you get,” I also hear all the time. Or, “Life is like a roll of toilet paper…the closer you get to the end, the faster it goes!” In this episode I share some theories from experts as to why it feels like time goes by so fast, and how to slow it down…including a theory of my own. If you'd like to feel that time wasn't going by quite so quickly, you need to listen to this episode! See you there….

Mar Rosati completely changed her life in her late 40's. She is capital I- Inspiring! Only she can tell her story, which is a must listen, so just press play! Mar is now the co-founder and executive director of the nonprofit organization Proyecto Florecer in Medellin, Colombia, which focuses on vocational and personal growth education in poor neighborhoods. Formerly a software sales executive in California, she reset her life eight years ago to align it with her values and purpose. Today she facilitates various personal development and emotional resilience programs in English and Spanish. She has recently launched The Academy of Emotional Mastery, which is designed to help participants recognize and reset behavior and decision patterns that don't align with their goals and values. She has also spent the past years learning how to scuba, whitewater kayak and ride a motorcycle.

Welcome to a unique episode of Loving Later Life! While I was thinking about what to do for this episode, I wanted to do something with humor for some levity, which I attempt to do! But first, I decided to share a comment with you that I received from a listener, which ironically caused second thoughts about striving for a more humorous episode. It will all make sense once you listen! So, I guess it's also an episode about vulnerability...sharing the comment and hoping you'll enjoy my humor!… See you there!    

Dr. Harpriya Singh is a gastroenterologist practicing at Stanford Healthcare-Trivalley in Pleasanton.   My original intention was to have Dr. Singh share with us about how we can best take care of our physical health. While we talk about that, what transpired is a masterclass in how to experience our life with the most joy and fulfillment no matter what is happening around us.  If you share this with everyone you care about, it will change their life. Full stop. Not hyperbole.  Listen and learn to truly love your life!

Welcome ladies and gentlemen to the 100th episode of Loving Later Life! This is a first because for this, the 100th episode, I was not prepared at all. It was when talking to a friend who had recently been discovering some of my old writings online that the light bulb sizzled on. As I was describing how I was feeling about this episode, they said to me, “F-you!” And I looked at them and said, “What now?” And they said, “You know, like you wrote in your article!” I really wasn't sure what they were referring to until I did an investigative search into my archives, and there it was. There was what was meant to be my message for myself and for you, for this 100th episode of Loving Later Life. As always, I hope you will listen and share with anyone who needs to hear it. I also want to take this moment to thank you for continuing to invite me into your car, your ears, and your bathroom as you're getting ready for the day. I am truly honored.

  The other night I thought I heard something on T.V. and what I heard wasn't at all what they had said. It showed me what my brain was tuning into and what it was looking for and I had to share it with you. I believe that if we share our experiences with one another, it helps us to stay connected and feel less alone. That's all I'll say here, except for please listen and share!

Welcome back to Loving Later life, episode 98! I want to start by saying thank you to those of you who receive my emails every other week and responded to my question wondering if you are receiving them consistently. Annd, I am truly touched by your comments affirming that the podcast and the emails are resonating and that they are providing value to you.  We know that it's best not to rely on external validation, and it sure is yummy icing on the cake to hear it! So, thank you and if you would please consider going to where you get your podcasts and leave a review.   OK! Our special guest today joins us from the other side of the world. Her name is Sheridan Ruth and she is a Performance Coach and Nervous System Specialist. From being stripped of every strand of hair on her body to losing her ex to suicide 3 weeks after breaking up, Sheridan was forced to use trauma-healing to sustainably build her business.  While there are a lot of 'trauma-informed' and 'body-based practitioner' coaches in the industry, none of them do it by merging body-based tools, the nervous system AND business strategy.   Sheridan helps entrepreneurs combine the nervous system with business strategy to increase profit and decrease anxiety - even when traditional methods haven't worked.  And I can say that you don't have to be an entrepreneur to benefit greatly from her wisdom and experience in how to regulate your nervous system so that you can find relief from anxiety and fear, and live a fulfilling life. Join us!

I've been feeling a bit meh to be honest. Lack of energy, mentally and physically off and feeling like I wasn't going to have anything worthwhile to share with you. Yes, part of that is my inner critic popping off in judgement, annnd, I was at a bit of a loss. Then I had two different conversations with two very close friends, and I thought, ya know, I need to share what came up for me in these conversations because perhaps I'm not alone. This episode, like many of my solo shows, is me sharing my thoughts, challenges, revelations, in hopes that it may help, since as I've said before, that which is personal is so often universal. I hope to see you there.  

Hey everyone! Whether you are a regular here at Loving Later Life or a newbie, listen closely to this episode because you may discover an alternative housing idea for you or someone you know. If you live alone, have you ever thought “Gee, it would be nice to have someone else around because I'm feeling a bit isolated.” Or you've experienced not feeling well, wishing there were someone to be there to give you a hand with things? Or after paying your bills, found yourself thinking it would be nice if you didn't have to pay the entire amount? Well listen up because my guest Annamarie Pluhar has a possible solution for you. Annamarie advocates for adults, especially older singles, to have a “home-mate,” someone with whom they can share a home with one or more people for the benefits of cost, company, cooperation, and comfort. She is the founder of the nonprofit, Sharing Housing, Inc. and the author of Sharing Housing, A Guidebook for Finding and Keeping Good Housemates. She has 30 years of experience in corporate and non-profit consulting, group facilitation, training development, and delivery. She is a graduate of Vassar College and The Episcopal Divinity School and she lives in Dummerston, Vermont. Please join us, and please share this episode if you think of someone who could benefit from hearing it!

It is a big birthday for me this month and I wrote this as a gift to myself, to my kids and to my grandkids. It encompasses all that is me, was me, and I do believe not just me.    You may want to listen to it more than once and then share it with someone, and I think you'll see why after you hear it.  All I can say is that I have never written anything like this before. There is really no way to describe it, so just press play and hear for yourself!    

I have to tell you that this has to be one of the most vulnerable interviews I have had with a guest. Do not miss one minute of this episode. Elizabeth Laura Nelson is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor. I discovered Elizabeth after reading her Modern Love Story in the New York Times (the link is below), which was their most popular article on social media the weekend it was published! Back to that in a minute. Elizabeth co-founded Jenny, a digital magazine focused on Gen X and elder Millennial women and served as the managing editor of Woman's World and the deputy health editor for Best Life. Known for her candid essays and approachable style, Elizabeth has contributed to websites including xoJane, SheSaid, Elite Daily, YourTango, and more. Her work often explores relationships, wellness, pop culture, and modern family life, connecting deeply with readers through her personal stories and insights on subjects like single motherhood, dating, and midlife. After I read Elizabeth's Modern Love story in the New York Times, I immediately played detective to find her so I could ask her to be my guest on Loving Later Life. I keep telling you all, it never hurts to ask! Beginning with a blooper that I decided to leave in, this episode blossoms like a flower being watered in real time. And by the time we get to the end you will have witnessed the full bloom of an incredibly moving story of self-discovery and love. I am so grateful to Elizabeth for sharing her genuine heart with us. I know for certain that anyone who listens to the entire episode will walk away with something they will not ever forget. There are so many golden nuggets unearthed along the path of our conversation. You must hear every single minute. Please join us…

Welcome to the last 2024 episode of Loving Later Life. This episode is dropping on December 23rd just 2 days before the holiday and a little over a week away from the year 2025. And because it is a bonkers time for all, I'm keeping this shorter than usual. I learned a new term recently: liminal space. Apparently, the word liminal is from the Latin word limen, which means threshold. It is defined as “a transitional state between where someone is and where they are going—not knowing the future whether physically, emotionally, or metaphorically.” The space between what has already been, and what is to come. At this time of year, as we balance on the precipice of family and friends gathering or sitting alone at home with the unknown of a new year around the bend, I am suggesting that we focus on the opportunities that are hiding underneath whatever challenges we encounter. I hope you'll join me for more on this, and my special toast to you.  

  Christina Woods is an internationally recognized Clinical Hypnotherapist, Rapid Transformational Therapist®, Empowerment Coach, and Reiki Master who leads women to realize their worth, shed old programs, and align with their authentic selves. Combining her three decades in corporate leadership, Christina has turned her personal triumph over adversity into a beacon of hope for hundreds of women worldwide.As the CEO and Founder of Wise Woods Hypnotherapy, Inc., Christina leads with the heart and has channeled her formidable experience in overcoming complex challenges into fostering the potential within others. Her combined expertise in hypnotherapy, coaching, and energy healing inspired her to create her signature approach, the Wise Woods Method, which guides clients all over the world on a truly profound journey of self-discovery and change. Christina helps women shatter self-sabotaging patterns and overcome burnout. She empowers them to find the strength and wisdom within, establish healthy boundaries, and create lives filled with purpose and fulfillment. Alongside her deep mindset and healing work, Christina works with thenon-profit organization, Lotus Rising International, whose mission is to provide holistic wellness recovery programs for survivors of human trafficking.

As we head into Thanksgiving, many of us are perhaps feeling more frightened than thankful. I have been trying to process all of my emotions since Nov. 5th as I know many of you have.  While political discussions in the past have not been my jam, what we are experiencing is the worst reality show for which we are all cast members, like it or not. It has gotten very personal, so I'm talking about it. And since that which is personal, is often universal…at least for half of this Universe we are living in, I hope you will walk this path with me. Please, join me. I'll see you there…

We are so fortunate to have Sky Bergman as our special guest on Loving Later Life. She is Professor Emeritus of Photography and Video at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Her artwork is in prestigious museum collections, and her commercial work has appeared in renowned magazines like the Smithsonian.   In her third act after a 30-year teaching career, Sky felt pulled by her dreams and passions in the direction of being behind the lens of a different kind, motivated and inspired by the love of her Grandma who was turning 100.  She wanted to find other people like her Grandmother who could be her role models for aging. Sky spent 4 years interviewing 40 ppl with a collective life experience of 3000 years and created the film Lives Well Lived currently on PBS, Amazon, and iTunes to name a few. Her goal was to discover their secret, and she found that they had 3 things in common, which she shares with us, and more! You will feel incredibly positive about aging after watching her film. It has been so popular that she then wrote the book "Lives Well Lived — GENERATIONS. " The first half is about her experiences making the film and the lessons she learned. The second half is about the amazing people around the globe who are doing work connecting generations. Sky's passion is creating films and projects that inspire intergenerational connections, emphasizing the power of shared stories. And after listening to our conversation, you will feel the power of her story and very different about aging.

Welcome back to Loving Later Life and if you are a returning Loving Later Lifer I so appreciate you. If you are new, thank you, welcome and this is a hell of a first episode to hear! And I'm hoping it won't be your last. I'm going out on a limb with this one while reminding myself of phrases like, ‘not everyone will like what you have to say, and that's ok,' or Hamilton's, "If you stand for nothing, what will you fall for" or as Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter,” and yes, lastly the saying: "If you see something, say something." I have been silent, and I'm at the point now where I feel if I don't say something, it will make me complicit in history repeating itself, and as MLK said, in watching our lives (as we know it) begin to end. I decided that I can't let the fear of losing listeners or of upsetting anyone prevent me from sharing a perspective that I've been thinking about, and then heard it stated much more eloquently by a historian. So, I ask that you please hang in for thirteen minutes until the end, no matter if you agree or not.

Welcome back to another episode of Loving Later Life! This episode is another first! My conversation is with a couple. In their 80's! And, they're not just any couple! They are nationally recognized relationship therapists Dr. Gloria Horsley and Dr. Frank Powers. Gloria and Frank are currently serving as spokespersons for the dating app Silver Singles (they actually met online with this app). They were recently featured on NBC Tampa Bay's Bloom TV, Yahoo! Life, Men's Health, The Most Dramatic Podcast Ever with Chris Harrison, and Whine Down with Jana Kramer, among others. Dr. Gloria Horsley is a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical nurse specialist. She is the president and co-founder of the Open to Hope Foundation and co-hosts the award-winning “Open to Hope” TV series and podcast. Dr. Frank Powers, Ph.D., has been a licensed psychologist with a private practice in Scottsdale Arizona for the last 30 years. He served as the chairman of the Psychiatric Security Review Board for the State of Arizona and is a past psychology professor at Scottsdale Community College. Gloria and Frank have written a book together called,  OPEN TO LOVE: THE SECRETS OF SENIOR DATING. Writing a book together was the last thing they thought they'd be doing at this stage of their lives, but the magic that came with finding each other later in life compelled them to share their story.  And they wanted to do their part in making things a little bit easier and more fun when tackling the world of dating. You will not be able to listen to this without smiling the entire time. We had so much fun, and we also had fun navigating some internet issues including my power going out in the middle of our conversation!  Come join us in the fun!  

This is a first for Loving Later Life because I have two incredible ladies joining me! We are talking about a topic that is all too common for many people: emotional and binge eating.  Ellen Shuman has worked in the eating disorders field for 30 years as a researcher, director of a Binge Eating Disorder Treatment Center, and as a past President of the Binge Eating Disorder Association. Her favorite role of all however, has been as a “Binge Eating Coach.” Ellen teaches emotional regulation tools to people who struggle with emotional and binge eating. She is the founder of A Weigh Out (w-e-i-g-h) Life Coaching; Freedom from Emotional Eating, Food & Weight Obsession. Ellen provides individual telephone coaching services to people worldwide.  When it comes to helping people binge eating and compulsively overeating, she brings a unique depth of understanding, empathy, proven and cutting-edge tools to her clients having lived the struggle personally. She shows others once and for all, how to find their hope again. Ellen was also a guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 1992, on the show where Oprah spoke openly about her own struggles with emotional eating, for the first time ever. Prior to her work in the Wellness Field, Ellen was a journalist. Her documentaries and news series on Binge Eating Disorder won Emmys and a Clarion Award.  Also joining us is a client of Ellen's, Kathy Blackburn. Kathy shares vulnerably and beautifully her personal experience in overcoming her challenges with emotional eating.  After listening to this episode, you will have a greater understanding of this all-too-common issue, and if you deal with this, you will also feel understood and hopeful, because there is a way out. We hope you'll listen and share to help others…

  Welcome back to what could be called Season 3 of Loving Later Life!  I already have some awe-inspiring women guests lined up who will amaze and enlighten you, so be sure to follow Loving Later Life so you don't miss anything. This first episode is very special to me because I share with you a real time decision I've made as a result of a challenging time. My decision is also one based on sobering facts from indisputable resources. It is something that I need, and based on the data, it is something we need as a group.  I hope you'll join me by listening to this episode, and on this journey moving forward.

I've had many incredible women join me in conversation for many Loving Later Life episodes. As you may remember, with each guest, I ask the same 3 questions at the end of each conversation: 1. What for you have been the most rewarding things about getting older? 2. What are some of the most important lessons you have learned in your life. 3. With all that you have learned, what life advice would you pass along? In this anniversary episode I put together a highlight reel of their answers, taking one question at a time. Listening to this again you will be reminded of the wisdom they shared. There is gold in them there conversations! Take a listen and share it forward!  

Encore encore Rachel Wright! This episode is hugely important to me as Rachel's mom. I am still getting messages as to how it has helped others by giving them an understanding about other lifestyle choices… “I was SO GRATEFUL to be able to step into a conversation (on this topic) with some knowledge provided so candidly and thoroughly by you and Rachel!“ My daughter Rachel MA, LMFT  is a distinguished psychotherapist and is non-monogamous/polyamorous... and she and her partners Yair and Ashley just had a beautiful baby boy.  In this episode, we talk about how to have tough conversations and improve communication in all of your relationships. The 2nd half is about her non-monogamous/polyamorous life, its challenges, misconceptions and much more. Someone recently said to me that they listened to the first part of the episode but stopped listening to the rest about non-monogamy because it's not how this person chooses to live. While this lifestyle isn't for everyone it is so important to learn about it. Why? In our current divisive climate we all know that when there is ignorance, there is judging and othering, which can lead to bullying, violence, loss of rights, freedoms and isolation. We need more understanding, kindness and love in this world and it starts with getting to know each other better. I hope you'll listen to this episode at least once and share it to help open more minds and hearts and hopefully encourage understanding and acceptance for all kinds of love.

What is Ageism? Ableism? What are everyday ageism's? What can we do to liberate ourselves from the challenges of aging? I am so excited for you to hear this conversation that wouldn't have happened if I hadn't said what the f*ck! I've always said, it never hurts to ask, and I am walking that walk these days. I first saw Ashton Applewhite on CBS Sunday Morning and I was pulled to reach out to even though I felt it would be a long shot. Loving Later Lifer's, I am beyond happy to say that she said yes. Ashton is an internationally recognized expert on ageism, and the author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism. A co-founder of the Old School Anti-Ageism Clearinghouse, she speaks widely at venues that have included the TED mainstage, the United Nations and is at the forefront of the emerging movement to raise awareness of ageism and to dismantle it. In 2022 the Decade of Healthy Aging, a UN + WHO collaboration, named Ashton one of the Healthy Aging 50: fifty leaders transforming the world to be a better place to grow older. I know without a doubt that you will find this a compelling conversation. Treat yourself to this 47-minute episode to gain awareness about this ‘ism' that can be used as a catalyst for change. Join us!

What stories are you telling yourself? Have you wanted to take a trip but you “can't” because you have no one to go with you. Do you put makeup on before going to the gym because you'll see people you know and don't want them to see you “that way?” Have you wanted to sing at a karaoke bar, but you “know” that people will think you're awful. Do you not wear a bathing suit because you don't want to be seen in public because you think everyone will notice the dimples in your thighs? Are you unhappy in a relationship but “can't leave because you're too old to start again on your own?” Join me as I share how to notice when we are telling ourselves these stories, and what to do about it so we can unlearn them and live a later life we love!  As vulnerable as it feels, I use one of mine to show you what I'm doing about it in real time. Join me!

Loving Later Lifer's, you are going to be so glad you listened to this! Do you have questions about Hormone Replacement Therapy? Libido? Menopause? The answers are going to surprise you! Dr. Liz Lyster OBGYN debunks beliefs about hormone therapy, menopause, libido and more. Dr. Liz is a Board Certified OB/GYN doctor for over 30 years, Cornell grad with honors, attended medical school at University of California, Irvine, followed by her OB/GYN residency in Los Angeles. She also went on to get a Masters of Public Health degree from UCLA in Community Health Education. LISTEN AND SHARE. THIS WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

Can we be truly happy?  NYT best selling author Gay Hendricks of The Big Leap and The Genius Zone: The Breakthrough Process to End Negative Thinking and Live in True Creativity; says absolutely yes! Loving Later Life Listeners: join me to hear what is holding us back (you'll be surprised) and what we can do about it so that we can live a life we love. If you are serious about enjoying your life, don't miss this episode. And it's definitely worth a re-listen if you heard it the first time!  

This episode originally aired in July of 2022, and is encore worthy! Kathryn is the creator of the enormously successful podcast Nothing Much Happens and the author of the book of the same name. Nothing Much Happens is consistently ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts in the world and has received over 65 million downloads. Kathryn seamlessly blends storytelling with brain training methods that build better sleep habits over time. And imagine …wait till you hear about this… doing all of this not being able to picture a person's face or see things in her mind.  Not be missed take-ways: 1. Stop waiting to feel ready. There's no time to wait to feel ready. 2. If there's something you're passionate about, something you're excited about stop wasting time and go do it. 3. When in doubt, do what you were going to do first, especially if you're a second guesser or an over thinker. 4. People aged 60 + have the most difficulty sleeping. 5. There's an old zen saying: you open the front door and you open the back door you let thoughts move through but you don't sit them down and invite them to tea. 6. Sleep affects everything. It's so foundational to our health. If we're not sleeping everything is endangered. 7. If you're a little older and you feel like you have a dream that you haven't pursued yet, it's not too late! But get started. Start making it happen!

It has been so hard choosing the episodes I want to replay for you. This unique and wonderful conversation is with Dr. Martha Jo Atkins, which originally aired in September of 2022. Martha Jo is an end of life licensed professional counselor. She has a TEDx talk with well over a million views, an author, and has over thirty years of experience helping children and adults negotiate end of life and grief. In addition to providing her beautiful insights and wisdom, Martha Jo shares with some meaningful and moving experiences she has had in helping the dying and their loved ones travel through the end of life process. Martha Jo is a wealth of knowledge and compassion providing us with an invaluable comforting understanding of the process of dying. Take a listen.

Welcome to the first Encore episode of LLL. You are about to hear the first episode ever of LLL that was recorded almost exactly 2 years ago in 2022. (With a current intro and new info)  In this episode, I share how LLL came to be born. It's a true tale of following the breadcrumbs that included the implosion of an abusive relationship, followed by finding myself in a scary seat at Disneyland for a life-changing ride, which led to traveling thousands of miles to begin a new life adventure only to be interrupted by the pandemic.  This is a story of how listening to your inner knowing can lead you to incredible personal growth, creativity, and discovering resilience that you didn't know you had. Annnnnnd how it's possible to do, no matter how old you are!

This episode is me, emotional at times, speaking my mind, dropping a few tears, sharing milestones, announcements and concluding with a few more thoughts that I think I needed to hear so I just said them in my outdoor voice.  And who knows, maybe you need to hear them too. Join me?

This week's episode was inspired by a conversation with a dear friend as we were planning something special to do together, and it led me to  some questions…  Is it the longing for what we desire that gives us satisfaction, or in getting it? Do we lose the art of longing as we get older? If so, do we miss it? What do you do when your partner is no longer interested in longing to do things, and you are?   Should we hope that we don't actually get what we desire so that we don't lose that sense of longing?  I'm longing to share my thoughts with on all of this and I hope you'll join me and share with others if you think it would resonate.   

How many of us lose a part of ourselves over time, either not realizing it, being in denial, or making the choice to allow it to happen because it was seemingly easier to go with the flow, or to appease a spouse or a parent or someone in our lives. I went to see the Broadway touring show of Funny Girl recently, and so many feelings came to the surface, including the feeling of my younger self rumbling beneath. She was feeling a bit overlooked, and I also saw a part of myself in Fanny Brice; perhaps a part of me that has been ignored at times over the years. It was an emotional day. Why are so many of us willing to give up our passions, our preferences, our dreams?? And why are we so afraid to ask for what we need and want?  In this episode I share a very personal story in hopes that if you can relate, perhaps it will help you take some kind of action on your path to finding peace in your heart, your mind and soul so that you can live life the way you wish to live it. No matter your age.

Hello Loving Later Life Listeners! For those of you just joining for the first time, you are welcomed with open arms, and I hope you decide to visit on the regular, which is every other Monday! Before I read you the bio of my most, most, most special guest, I have to tell you that this is the fastest hour you may ever experience. It is good till the last drop so you must hear every last word. And I'm not saying that because my more than special guest is my daughter! In our conversation we talk about her 3-step creation to having challenging conversations and we role play one about wanting more sex in a relationship. You will learn about her non-monogamous/polyamorous life; what its like, and its challenges. We discuss shame, jealousy, societal ‘shoulds,' affairs, and a tonnnn more juicy and important topics! Now for her bio: Rachel Wright, MA, LMFT (she/her) is a distinguished psychotherapist and renowned speaker with expertise in modern relationships, mental health, and sex. With a Master's Degree in clinical psychology, Rachel has worked with thousands of clients worldwide, has a podcast, The Wright Conversations - about Sex, Relationships, & Mental Health with over 100K downloads. She has been featured in numerous media outlets, including The New York Times, PIX 11 (NYC), Women's Health (online and print), Cosmopolitan (online and print), and NBC News Radio, among others. And as she says in her bio, when she's not working, you can probably find her in her pajamas, eating gluten-free food and belting out show tunes. This episode will truly get you thinking.  Press play now. Do it for yourself and all those you care about.  

Ideas for these episodes come from a variety of sources and at different times of the day and night. This one came flowing out of me from my personal experience, from a movie I love, and some hard facts. And I share all of it. The moments in our lives when we meet, connect and share with someone create meaningful relationships that are not only etched in our hearts and minds, they also have a profound effect on our quality of life. Based on research, the connection we feel for certain people and the relationships we have are crucial to our physical and psychological well-being. After you listen, I believe you will be motivated to make time to create more meaningful relationships and spend more time (IRL) with those whom you feel safe, seen and supported. I hope you'll join me.    

Today my guest is Allie Hill. Allie has been featured on national television, she is a Certified Life Coach and speaker, and used her 15+ years' experience as a journalist to author the book, The Girlfriend's Guide to Empty Nesting.   At first when Allie first reached out to me, I thought that maybe the subject of navigating the changes in life when becoming an empty nester may not be applicable to you all. And I'm here to tell you that I was wrong!  I recently had a month filled with lots of people from my life coming to celebrate my mom and her artistic partner's accomplishment of having their musical produced. There was so much love, support, and so many delicious hugs and conversations. And then it ended, and my ‘nest' felt empty.  We all deal with so many changes in life. The emotions we feel and the skills needed to go through such changes are all very similar.   So without further ado, let's get into it!  

The past month has been one of a lot of feelings and experiences from one end of the spectrum to the other, some anticipated some not. From the saddest moments to the most exciting. From feeling disconnected, irrelevant and sad to the point of my face breaking out (which nevvver happens) to feeling embraced by the most loving hugs; both literally and metaphorically. It seems like it's the big moments in life that attract most of our attention and anticipation. They are the times that embed themselves as memories in our mental film library. There's no question that our huge accomplishments are huge and important. AND, so are the moments in between that fill our hearts and life experience. This got me thinking more about moments in between (the good ones of course)…an exercise I highly recommend doing. Remembering past good in between moments also reminds you that you had them, even when perhaps there were other not such good things happening at the same time. And that can be true again. Many of us are afraid that in later life there are to be fewer of these moments. And I say, if you believe that to be true, it will be. What do you choose to believe? I hope you'll join me to also hear which moments in between of mine came to mind.

Today I have a very special guest, Terrah Bennett Smith who I heard on another podcast and knew immediately I had to try to have her on Loving Later Life. She is so dynamic, and wise and captivating…and I can't wait for you to hear our conversation. We bonded immediately and had so much fun. Her desires and her drive overrode her circumstances and her fears, and after listening you will be energized and motivated!   Terrah, a Native New Yorker, has enjoyed a rich and multifaceted career in the entertainment industry, as an award-winning director and actress, as well as a producer, writer, and executive. A few of her behind-thecamera credits include: her directorial debut with the feature film FLIP THE SCRIPT, and has gone on to direct the feature film, THE NEXT GIRL, the pilot SLEEPING WITH STRANGERS, and is currently producing a new series, CANDY RAIN, and the feature film; BROKEN. She is also Executive Producer/Co-Writer and Star of, THE WRIGHT TURN, an 8-episode TV series. In front of the camera, a few of her TV Recurring/ Guest Star credits include STUCK WITH YOU, DEAR WHITE PEOPLE, BOSCH, GAMES PEOPLE PLAY, 9-1-1 and more. Terrah has also performed on Broadway and was a Billboard top 40's recording artist on RCA records. Terrah served as Executive Director for the C&C TEEN HOLLYWOOD FILM FESTIVAL, worked with HOLLYWOOD BLACK FILM FESTIVAL in their media department, and is currently CCO for INYANI CORP, a global media production company and CEO/Founder of Reclaim Haven a wellness platform for women. Join us!

Hello and welcome back to the 68th episode of Loving Later Life, and I have to say that you are in for such a very special treat. You're about to hear a story proving the fact that it is never, ever too late to see your dreams come true. This is a story of two incredible women in their 80's…one of whom is my mother. It is a story of friendship, of courage, tenacity, resilience, love, and passion. It is a story that comes full circle spotlighting relationships, perseverance, and timing. I am so excited to say that due to a change in their schedule while my mom was in town for a presentation they were doing about Sarah at Dominican University, I was able to grab them for 30 minutes for an impromptu recording at a small park sitting at a picnic table. You all met my mom Elaine Lang Ockner in episode 35 of LLL and if you haven't listened to it yet, you must check it out after you listen to this episode. She is is a pianist/composer, and Musical Director. She has composed the music for many musical stage productions and created original music for Bravo's TV documentaries on the lives of Sarah Brightman, Jackie Chan and Nathan Lane. She was also pianist and Musical Director for Princess Cruises, Royal Viking, and Sitmar Cruise Lines. My mom met June Richards in 1979. June is a professional actress, theatre director and emeritus professor. June created theatre programs for Dominican University, Contra Costa College, and served as Chair of Visual and Performing Arts at San Diego City College, and has directed more than 100 productions. Since they met, they've been dear friends and artistic partners. Over the years their collaboration created many theatrical projects and wacky adventures behind the scenes. As single mothers they persisted even as they experienced heartache and sadness with relationships and loss of loved ones; choosing not to be taken down but instead to focus on their creative passion. One constant thread in the quilt of their creations was a musical they wrote in the 1980's of the story of Sarah Bernhardt, the renowned French actress who also defied the odds and never gave up. Fast forward 40+ years later to right now, their musical “The Divine Sarah” has been selected out of over 40 submissions of new works by the Ross Valley Players in Marin County, California to be produced this month, March 2024. Ironically, 100 years after Sarah's death, Paris recently had a Sarah Bernhardt exhibition. Vogue magazine had a spread, and Barbra Streisand is a super fan, talking about Sarah in her new book. (And if you're listening Ms. Barbra, there is a ticket waiting for you at the theatre!) Loving Later Life listeners, if you want to be moved and inspired, you must listen to these women tell their story. Annnd, be sure to listen all the way through because I got special permission to share with you a one-minute sneak preview of one of the songs played by my mom, the composer, Elaine Lang Ockner. So now, picture if you will, I'm sitting at a picnic table with these two beautiful and talented women in the warm sun, birds chirping, (the occasional car driving by), and my phone resting on the table to record their incredible story….

In this episode you will hear how my son's mindset, humor and radical acceptance got him through not one but two potential life threatening events. I actually considered dropping the idea entirely of staying on schedule for this episode simply because I wasn't able to have one prepared as my focus has not been on loving later life…literally. However, I think that on some level I knew I would feel the need to debrief after this experience…even if it meant it wasn't as perfect as I could make it. I think I also knew on some level that there would be some important take-away's that I would want to share with you since we all at some point or another go through difficult times. I deeply believe that sharing our stories and vulnerabilities opens the door for others to do the same. Please join me.

In this episode I share some of my very own, very personal thoughts I wrote on the day of my birthday at the end of January.  Why did I decide to share them? Because I believe that much of what we feel is shared by so many and that we can feel more connected and supported by sharing. And maybe even glean things from each other.  So, I'm going first. I hope you'll listen and share so that more of us in later life can connect and learn and grow together!

I am so excited for you to hear this episode, which is a full circle moment for me. Alison Armstrong is my guest. I took Alison's series of workshops in 2006 for several years, and she changed how I looked at men and at relationships. Little did I know that one day I would have the honor of having her as my guest on my podcast almost 20 years later! Alison is a true expert in human behavior. In 1991 she began to study men to find out how she was bringing out the worst in them. Her success in understanding men led her to studying women's behavior and making vital connections between the two. Bottom line dear Loving Later Life listeners: she will shock and surprise you with what she says about dating, sex, her own experience of losing her incredible husband in 2019, her current relationship, and how both men and women behave in ways that contradict and undermine our own purposes, goals, values, needs and relationships.

 How good are you willing to let life get?  The idea for this episode came in a moment when I felt a weird combination of that feeling of the first day of school after summer vacay and beginning a new year. A new year that has challenges which are carrying over from the previous year….both on a personal and global level.  I turned, as I often do, to music. This time specifically to a song that began going through my head, as one often does, to show me what is going on in my subconscious. As the train of thoughts ran on full speed, I had an epiphany. Please come with me as I share what it is, how it led to this episode and an idea for an alternative to a new year's resolution.

Karen Cheong is an international transformational speaker, writer, champion for self-empowerment and healer who has worked with thousands of people worldwide. She is sharing with us how frequency work can change our lives. After a health crisis in her early 20's catalyzed her spiritual journey, she was driven by curiosity to explore the mystical and energetic systems that govern our experience—of ourselves, of others, and of life itself. Karen felt like something was missing—and that is when what she refers to as “frequency work” discovered her. By intensively releasing unconscious blocks she calls distortion patterns, she transformed not only the way her life looked, but the way her life felt. Momentum really started kicking in, and life became so much richer, so much fuller, and so much more expansive. Today, Karen guides others, helping them to start to experience the true richness of life, embrace their power as the intentional co-creator of their reality, and develop a deep connection to the Divine within. By providing step by step tools to self-realization, and releasing their distortion patterns at frequency level, her clients are able to rewrite their “spiritual blueprint,” truly living in the abundance of the present moment. This will open your mind, do not miss this conversation!

Is there a secret to finding love after 60?  Join me in this final wrap-up of the Golden, well perhaps slightly tarnished Golden Bachelor, plus another kind of rap I created that tells the story of my most recent bachelor adventure. Lastly, a comment or two on a big feature in the Wall Street Journal entitled "The Secret to Finding Love After 60," which led me to discover and create what possibly could be actual secrets. Hint: They're hidden in the downsides. Please join me on this journey as we take another crack at understanding that intangible thing we call love, in later life.

Welcome bk to a very special episode of Loving Later Life, and if you are new, I hope you will continue to join me moving forward by clicking to ‘Follow' LLL wherever you get your podcasts! Today, I have an incredibly special guest joining us! Now, before I tell you all about her, you must do yourself a favor and make it a priority to listen to the entire 50 minutes. If you can't do it all at once, be sure that you make the time to finish the episode! My guest today is Dr. Stephanie McClellan. Dr. McClellan has a 30+ year career as a practicing, board certified OBGYN advocating and caring for the needs of women while integrating the world of research and academia with frontline care delivery. Trained at the University of Southern California, she quickly began creating innovative care models for women as she founded the Doctor's Office for Women in Orange County, CA in 1987.  Dr. McClellan practiced in this setting for 17 years, before starting another private practice bearing her name in 2004.  As a result of the success of the Doctor's Office for Women model, she collaborated with Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach, CA to design and develop a premier women's healthcare program. Her evolving interest in good health and vibrant aging led to co-authoring a book on the science and clinic effects of chronic stress published by Simon & Schuster called “So Stressed: The Ultimate Stress Relief Plan for Women”.  Recently Dr. McClellan served as the Chief Medical Officer of Tia, and the first practicing OB/GYN at Tia's NYC Clinic — an outpatient gynecology, primary care and wellness practice. Following Tia she served as Co-Founder and CMO for another growing tech-driven, women's health start-up, Plenish. Dr. McClellan continues to see patients in her private practice, while serving as a consultant and Medical Advisor for companies across the country.  She is sought-after on both the speaking and consulting circuits for her expertise in women's health, hormone therapy and menopause. And, last but not least, she is my very own gynecologist! You are going to learn so much and also be very surprised by some of what she has to say!

Welcome back to the 60th episode of Loving Later Life! 60! And this was recorded hot off the press after the airing of the most recent Golden Bachelor. But first, before I share the spoiler alerts (if you haven't seen Thursday's episode be warned!) and my observations about our Golden Guy Gerry and the ladies, I have my own not-so-golden updates to share with you! The messages, the date that never actually happened because I am strengthening my boundary lines muscles and not tolerating shit I don't need to tolerate! All of the above inspired me to share a quote from Brene Brown that ties this all together.  I hope you'll come with me!

My special guest in this episode of Loving Later Life is Cathi Colas. Costco magazine did a cover story on 2nd chapters of life. It was about people, as they said, had one thing in common: a mindset open to opportunity. Cathi was one of those people featured. So, because I'm a lifelong proponent of the “it never hurts to ask” club, I looked her up and reached out to her asking if she'd join us on Loving Later Life! I am very happy to report that she said yes. Cathi has done many things in her life but it wasn't until about 8 years ago that she found what lights her up. And then she made it a reality. Cathi is a professional Audiobook Narrator, Coach, and Voice Actress. She currently has over 60 audiobooks on Audible that include everything from Self-Help to Horror. She also has many notable voiceover credits on TV and video games. I hope you'll join our conversation because you will be inspired by her journey to finally finding her passion and purpose in later life. And then we went even deeper about what keeps us from believing, trying, seeking, and doing anything that may give us joy in this chapter of our lives. Don't miss this!

With all that is going on in the world right now I was second guessing whether doing an episode on dating and all the comedic aspects of the process is somehow disrespectful or tone deaf. However, as I thought about it a bit more, I remembered that we can feel sad, we can feel scared, and we can feel joy and still laugh.  So, this episode is what the title says! My first Golden Bachelor review with some of my thoughts and observations. Then, I have an update for you on a few of the experiences I have had thus far in the dating pond, and the frogs in said pond who I absolutely did not kiss! If you could use a fun distraction, I hope you'll join me! And if you know someone who would enjoy this, or any episode, please share!

  Dr. Laura Ricci has a doctorate in Physical Therapy. She specializes in women's health and pelvic floor PT, she's a National Board Certified health and wellness coach specializing in women's health and functional nutrition. She is also a DoTerra (essential oils) wellness advocate with an international team. In her words, Laura is a wounded healer. She had a rare cancer journey, lots of orthopedic surgeries for adult hip dysplasia, she's had chronic Lyme disease, a hysterectomy in her 30's, and various auto immune issues. She went on a journey to heal, and found that when you help others you heal in turn. Laura reclaimed her health and wellness, found weight training, "became a beast," and has become the heroine of her journey. You will learn and be inspired. Please join us and listen in on our conversation. I promise you'll be glad you did.

With the premiere of the Golden Bachelor starting later this month, I thought I'd start my own parallel experiment of dating right here and now (even though the very idea makes me queasy) and report back to you. I will also be commenting on the Golden Dude and all that goes on with is bevy of women. It promises not to be boring, so please come with me! I also want to say Shana Tova, to those who celebrate the Jewish New Year. I'm sending wishes for a year of good health, love, peace of mind, fulfillment, and joy. Lastly, I want to tell you how exciting it is to see so many women joining in community in the new private Facebook Group: Loving Later Life Listening Community! If you are a woman over 50 listening to this and would like to have a safe space to connect with other women, to feel a part of a community to feel seen, heard, understood and connected please join us! Just go to loving later life listener community on Facebook!

Welcome back to Loving Later Life! This is the first episode after the first ever break after 54 episodes. This was not the episode I had already recorded and planned to drop on this the first Monday of September 2023. What happened? I got Covid. This was my first experience with this virus, and it was not fun. However, while I was down for the Covid count, I was inspired by an older movie I was watching and picked up my phone to record what was resonating with me and how it relates to later life. I also share with you some news regarding Loving Later Life moving forward, so I hope you will listen. I thank you for being here, for listening, sharing, for your ratings and reviews. If you haven't yet, please do so?!