The Not Old - Better Show

Train Smart, Rest Smarter: The New Rules of Recovery for Healthy Aging Live Long Better, The Not Old Better Fitness Interview Series, featuring Dr. Sabrena Jo Too many older adults think rest means giving up. It doesn't. It means you're in this for the long haul. In this episode of LIVE. LONG. BETTER, I talk with Dr. Sabrena Jo of the American Council on Exercise about why recovery is not a pause from progress—it's part of it. We cover how rest fuels resilience, how to avoid burnout, and why smarter training—not harder—leads to better aging. This is for anyone who wants to stay active, strong, and sharp well into their 60s, 70s, and beyond.

Smarter Homes, Safer Seasons: Practical Home Advice from Dan DiClerico Good Housekeeping's Good Better Best interview series from The Not Old Better Show Welcome to another episode of Good Housekeeping's Good Better Best, on radio and podcast, where we bring you trusted voices and real-world advice to help you live smarter, safer, healthier and better at home — no matter your age or stage of life. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today's episode is brought to you by Longevity Mitopure Gummies: The First-Ever Longevity Gummies, powered by Mitopure. A delicious, easy way to put more energy into your day! And today we're digging into the nuts and bolts of home life with someone who's spent over two decades helping homeowners get the most out of their spaces — Dan DiClerico, Director of the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Dan's tested thousands of tools, gadgets, and appliances — and written just as many reviews — all to help families like yours figure out what's worth your money and what's just collecting dust. He's a former roofer, a lifelong remodeler, and a full-time dad, keeping up a century-old Brooklyn brownstone that's seen it all. Today, Dan's giving us practical advice for getting your home fall- and winter-ready — including whether solar generators are a smart move, what makes a good air purifier actually good, and why rain barrels and gas generators might deserve a second look. This episode is for the doers, the fixers, the proud owners who want their homes to work for them — especially if you're part of our 50+ community looking to age safely, wisely, and comfortably in place. So stay with us — you'll hear what to do now, what to plan for later, and maybe even a few tools Dan thinks every homeowner over 50 should have in the garage. Let's get into it with Dan DiClerico, right here on Good Better Best. That's going to wrap up our conversation with Dan DiClerico, and I hope you took away as much as I did—like why a solar generator might be more practical than you think, or how something as simple as sealing your windows could save you a bundle this winter. Dan's advice is full of common sense, tested knowledge, and just enough gadget talk to keep it fun—and useful—for every homeowner, especially those of us looking to stay safe and comfortable in the years ahead. If you'd like to hear more from Dan or check out his latest reviews and recommendations, head over to GoodHousekeeping.com, and of course, you can find this episode and all our previous conversations at notold-better.com. Until next time—stay curious, stay well, and remember: it's not about being not old—it's about being better, as well as fully alive. REMEMBER: today's episode is brought to you by Longevity Mitopure Gummies: The First-Ever Longevity Gummies, powered by Mitopure. A delicious, easy way to put more energy into your day! And, don't forget—we're also on social media: follow us on Twitter at @notoldbetter and Instagram at notoldbetter for updates, extras, and more behind-the-scenes content. This has been a production of N.O.B.S. Studios. I'm your host, Paul Vogelzang—thanks for spending time with us today, and I hope you'll join me again next time on the Good Housekeeping's Good Better Best Interview Series on radio and podcast.

Movement That Matters: Motivation, Joy, and Wellness at Every Age with Dr. Sabrena Jo LIVE. LONG. BETTER! The Not Old Better ACE Interview Series Welcome to LIVE. LONG. BETTER: Live Longer, Age Better, OUR brand-new fitness feature from The Not Old Better Show and the American Council on Exercise. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and I'm honored to be with you today. You're hearing that familiar intro music, and I hope it brings you right into the space we've created for insight, optimism, and action. Today, we're talking about how to stay physically active—and mentally strong—as we age, and we've got just the guest to guide us. Joining me is Dr. Sabrena Jo, Senior Director of Science and Education at the American Council on Exercise. Dr. Jo has spent years studying the psychology of movement, with a deep focus on older adults. She'll walk us through the three psychological needs that keep us motivated: autonomy, confidence, and connection. And just as importantly, she'll share how exercise helps combat loneliness, and why being part of a supportive group can make all the difference. But that's not all—Dr. Jo will also explore something that goes far beyond any single workout: the 6 Pillars of Wellness, and how they work together to help us live longer, and age better. From emotional health to social support, these pillars form a whole-body, whole-life approach to lasting well-being. It's empowering, science-backed, and full of practical ideas. Let's dive in.

"Led Zeppelin's Shadow Song: The True Story of Dazed and Confused" The Not Old Better Show, Music Today Interview Series  

Healthy Eating at Home: What Works, What Doesn't, and What Tastes Good: Nutritionist Stef Sassos Good Housekeeping Good Better Best Interview Series, The Not Old Better Show In this episode, Paul sit's down with Stefani Sassos, Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Nutrition and Fitness Lab, to find out what really goes into those beautifully packaged, chef-prepared meals. We cover everything—taste, nutrition, expiration dates, and how to make smart, satisfying food choices that actually work for your lifestyle, especially if you're 60 and up. Stefani is a registered dietitian, personal trainer, and mom who lives in the real world. She knows what it's like to feed a family on a weeknight, and she's tested more than 50 different meal services—not just for health, but for flavor and usability. Her insights will help you sort the fads from the facts, and her practical tips will save you time, money, and frustration. We talk about why trust matters, what really makes a healthy meal satisfying, and how aging adults can use today's tech-savvy food solutions to support longevity, energy, and wellness—without getting overwhelmed. If you've ever stood at your fridge wondering what's still good, or tried to decode the tiny print on a meal label, this episode is for you. Tune in and discover the tools to eat well, age strong, and feel good doing it. Check it out 

Before Spacecraft: When Earth Thought Mars Was Alive The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Martians, Tesla, and madness? David Baron's wild true story is unforgettable.  

Live Long Better: The New Science of Strength, Independence & Aging Well Science-backed fitness. Real-life aging. Expert advice for living long—and living better. The Live Long Better Interview series, from The Not Old Better Show.

From Desk Chair to Breakthrough Care: Your Health, Upgraded The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Interview Series

Dumped, Not Done: Suzy Hopkins on Unbreaking Your Heart After 50 The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series   Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series. Today's episode is brought to you by Acorns. Acorns is a financial wellness app that makes it easy to start saving and investing for your future. Acorns.com/NOB   Getting dumped after decades together can feel like the air goes out of the room. The empty chair at breakfast. The phone you shouldn't check. The question, “Who am I now?” If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. Suzy Hopkins knows the shock. After a 30‑year marriage ended, she and her daughter, New Yorker illustrator Hallie Bateman, created What to Do When You Get Dumped—a warm, witty, beautifully illustrated guide to unbreaking your heart. We talk about the first 24 hours and the weeks that follow: drawing clear lines on calls, texts, and social; eating something warm; asking for help; walking every day; and trying one small new thing that reminds you you're still you. This conversation honors later‑life love and loss. It speaks to anyone starting again at 50, 60, 70+, and to families who want to support with care and respect. Humor sits beside grief here—and both are welcome. “Dumped, Not Done: Suzy Hopkins on Unbreaking Your Heart After 50.” If you need a steady voice and a few practical steps, join us on The Not Old – Better Show with Paul Vogelzang. Today's episode is brought to you by Acorns. Acorns is a financial wellness app that makes it easy to start saving and investing for your future. Acorns.com/NOB

Taming Wild Hearts: The Siberian Fox Experiment, Evolution, and the Power of Curiosity—A Conversation with Lee Alan Dugatkin The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series

Today's story begins in a barrel, and today's show is brought to you by Daily Greens by Factor Form. A woman named Willa Hardesty is burning trash in the backyard, muttering, “this is hell.” She's angry, grieving, and standing on the edge of something big. She's not famous. She's not looking for glory. But her life—hard-earned and fully lived—just might stop you in your tracks.

☀️ Your sunscreen might say SPF 50—but what does that really mean? Chemist and Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann has answers. From UVA myths to white cast truths, she breaks it all down—science, no fluff

The Indispensables: How the Marblehead Regiment Saved Washington's Army The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series

We're talking grill season like you've never heard it before with Good Housekeeping's Kate Merker Good Better Best, The Not Old Better Show, Good Housekeeping Interview Series

Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series "They were my heroes. And then they became my friends.” In this moving new episode of The Not Old Better Show, we're honored to welcome musician, producer, and doo-wop preservationist Smithsonian Associate Kenny Vance—a voice behind Jay and the Americans and the filmmaker behind Heart & Soul: A Love Story. Kenny shares a deeply personal account of his lifelong connection to the music of the 1950s and '60s—harmonies sung on street corners, friendships formed in rehearsal halls, and the artists who paved the way for today's pop and R&B but were left behind by the industry. This episode isn't just about music; it's about legacy, resilience, and honoring voices that shaped a generation. Kenny also opens up about losing his home during Hurricane Sandy and how salvaged tapes and footage helped him begin again—with purpose. For professionals in music, film, storytelling, or anyone who believes in the power of cultural memory, this is a masterclass in what it means to preserve not just a sound, but a spirit.

Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series "They were my heroes. And then they became my friends." In this moving new episode of The Not Old Better Show, we're honored to welcome musician, producer, and doo-wop preservationist Smithsonian Associate Kenny Vance—a voice behind Jay and the Americans and the filmmaker behind Heart & Soul: A Love Story. Kenny shares a deeply personal account of his lifelong connection to the music of the 1950s and '60s—harmonies sung on street corners, friendships formed in rehearsal halls, and the artists who paved the way for today's pop and R&B but were left behind by the industry. This episode isn't just about music; it's about legacy, resilience, and honoring voices that shaped a generation. Kenny also opens up about losing his home during Hurricane Sandy and how salvaged tapes and footage helped him begin again—with purpose. For professionals in music, film, storytelling, or anyone who believes in the power of cultural memory, this is a masterclass in what it means to preserve not just a sound, but a spirit.

Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series "They were my heroes. And then they became my friends." In this moving new episode of The Not Old Better Show, we're honored to welcome musician, producer, and doo-wop preservationist Smithsonian Associate Kenny Vance—a voice behind Jay and the Americans and the filmmaker behind Heart & Soul: A Love Story. Kenny shares a deeply personal account of his lifelong connection to the music of the 1950s and '60s—harmonies sung on street corners, friendships formed in rehearsal halls, and the artists who paved the way for today's pop and R&B but were left behind by the industry. This episode isn't just about music; it's about legacy, resilience, and honoring voices that shaped a generation. Kenny also opens up about losing his home during Hurricane Sandy and how salvaged tapes and footage helped him begin again—with purpose. For professionals in music, film, storytelling, or anyone who believes in the power of cultural memory, this is a masterclass in what it means to preserve not just a sound, but a spirit.

Being a YouTuber: One Creator's Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers The Not Old Better Show, Interview Series Today on The Not Old – Better Show, Art of Living series, we're joined by someone who didn't just teach English to the world—she streamed it, posted it, subtitled it, and somehow made grammar go viral. Jennifer Lebedev—known to millions as JenniferESL—has spent over 15 years turning dry textbook rules into relatable, real-life lessons on YouTube. But this isn't a story about going viral overnight. This is the real story: about showing up, hitting “record” even when no one's watching, and finding purpose through persistence. Jennifer didn't set out to be a YouTuber. In fact, she started making videos when YouTube still felt like a quirky side project, not a career path. And yet, somewhere between irregular verbs and idioms, she connected with millions—young learners, adult professionals, retirees brushing up before a long-awaited trip abroad. Maybe even you. In this episode, Jennifer opens up about the early flops, the unexpected fan mail, the long road to 1 million subscribers, and why age has nothing to do with creativity online. She shares what she's learned—and unlearned—about teaching, patience, and what it means to be truly seen by a digital audience. Plus, that familiar music you hear under me? That's Just for a While — Magnus Ringblom Quarten—timeless, inventive, and quietly rebellious. Just like our guest. So stay tuned—this one's for the creators, the late bloomers, and anyone wondering, “Could I really do that, too?”

gowns. In our latest Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview series episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with acclaimed historian and author Nancy Goldstone about her riveting new book, The Rebel Empresses. It's a dual biography that traces the intertwined lives of two women who refused to be footnotes in the grand story of European empire. Elisabeth (known as Sisi) and Eugénie were married into power, but they never conformed to it. They pushed boundaries—from challenging court politics to redefining women's roles in public life. One became the fashion icon of her age; the other quietly reformed prisons, promoted women's education, and preserved a nation's cultural identity. Yet both women lived through unimaginable personal sorrow. Nancy's storytelling reveals their complexity—not as tragic figures, but as bold, often misunderstood agents of change. For listeners 50+, their stories remind us it's never too late to be influential, purposeful… even radical.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living series. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today's episode is for anyone who's ever thought, “Maybe you can joke your way through life after all.” Because our guest today—Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, bestselling author, and unofficial king of common sense absurdity—Dave Barry—has done just that. Yes, that Dave Barry. The man who warned us about exploding toilets, tangled with telemarketers until they stopped answering their own phones, and wrote the kind of newspaper columns that made you snort coffee out your nose on a Sunday morning. He's been called “the funniest man in America” by the New York Times, and in his latest book, Class Clown, he finally turns that razor-sharp wit on himself. Today's conversation is a fun one, although, and you can hear this…I was nervous. At one point during a roundabout question from me, Dave asks: “ iwas wondering wehre you were going with that?” I left it in the edit for your enjoyment. I've talked to 100's of big time guests from all walks of life, like Smithsonian, Prevention Magazine, Good Housekeeping and have never been tongue tied or nervous…not today. That's on me as, Dave is a wonderful guest, and he shares what it was like growing up in a world before Wi-Fi, when entertainment meant throwing rocks and preparing for nuclear war by hiding under desks. He talks about his path from a rock band in the '60s to the pages of The Miami Herald, where he turned exploding Pop-Tarts and Rollerblade Barbie into Pulitzer-worthy satire. And yes—he really was almost crushed by a bale of airborne cocaine. Florida, folks. But more than just laughs, Dave opens up about his late parents, his unique upbringing, and the emotional truth behind humor that doesn't always mean happiness. It's a rich, honest, and uproarious reminder that growing older doesn't mean growing dull—and that maybe, just maybe, the class clown gets the last word. Stay with us—because the very funny, very thoughtful Dave Barry is here. And this is The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living series, with me, award-winning host Paul Vogelzang.

Prevention Magazine Healthy Liviing Interview Series, The Not Old Better Show The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Healthy Living Series

The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell The Not Old Better Show, Inside Science Interview Series

Death In The Red Dirt Uncover the Truth Before the Outback Buries It The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series    

The Toughest Choice: Caring for Aging Parents, Family Conflicts & Life-Changing Decisions The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show—I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today we're talking about something that will touch every single one of us at some point in life. Whether it's making decisions for aging parents, navigating sibling dynamics, choosing the right senior living option, or even planning for our own future, these are conversations that matter. And let's be honest—these are conversations that most of us avoid until we're forced to have them. But today, we're making it easier. Our guest is Deb C. Miller, a longtime friend, real estate expert, and now author of Doing the Right Thing: Simple Solutions, Essential Tips, & Helpful Resources for Assisting Aging Loved Ones. Deb has spent decades helping families through some of life's most challenging transitions—from downsizing and selling homes to dealing with grief and the tough realities of dementia. And she's been through it all personally, too—so she's not just giving advice; she's lived it. In this episode, we're diving into: ✅ The one thing everyone over 50 should do right now to prepare for the future ✅ How to handle sibling conflicts when caring for aging parents ✅ The 40+ questions you must ask when choosing an assisted living facility ✅ Why selling a home “as is” might be the best move—and when it's not ✅ And how to move forward after loss—on your own terms This is real talk, real advice, and a conversation filled with humor, heart, and practical wisdom. So whether you're an adult child managing care for a parent, a solo ager making plans for yourself, or just someone who wants to be prepared instead of panicked, you're in the right place. Stay with us—this is going to be an insightful and empowering conversation. And now, let's welcome Deb C. Miller to The Not Old Better Show.

Too Many Options? The Real History of Freedom and Choice with Sophia Rosenfeld The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series QUOTE:    "Our choices shape our identity—but not everyone gets the same menu." – Sophia Rosenfeld ⚖️ Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today, we're asking a question that touches every part of our lives—one that feels especially relevant to those of us 50 and older, navigating life's later chapters with purpose, curiosity, and maybe... a little decision fatigue. What if the very thing we've been told defines our freedom—our ability to choose—is actually overwhelming us? Our guest today, renowned historian Smithsonian Associate Sophia Rosenfeld, asks that very question in her brilliant new book available at Apple Books, The Age of Choice: A History of Freedom in Modern Life. Smithsonian Assocaite Sophia Rosenfeld will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up. Please check out our show notes for more details on her presentation titled: A History of Freedom in Modern Life: The Age of Choice. But we have Sophia Rosenfeld today who'll tell us that from grocery aisles to voting booths, from personal belief to political identity, Rosenfeld takes us on a riveting tour of how we came to equate picking from a menu with liberty itself—and what that belief has cost us. This is no abstract academic exercise. For those of us who've lived through decades of cultural shifts—from the rise of consumer culture to the women's movement to the explosion of digital options—this story feels personal. Why does having more choices so often lead to more anxiety, not more joy? What happens when freedom starts to feel like pressure? Smithsonian Associate Sophia Rosenfeld, chair of the history department at the University of Pennsylvania, brings rich detail, warmth, and sharp insight to this conversation. We'll talk about dance cards and department stores, ballots and beliefs, and how something as simple as choosing your lunch became a reflection of who you are. So, whether you're rethinking your next big decision—or just what kind of toothpaste to buy—this is a conversation you won't want to miss. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and this is The Not Old Better Show. Let's get into it. In a time when everyday life feels saturated with decisions—what to buy, how to vote, who to trust—The Age of Choice reminds us that more options don't always mean more freedom. Sophia Rosenfeld's powerful insight reframes modern liberty, challenging us to rethink how choice shapes our lives, values, and collective future. That's it for today's conversation—fascinating, right? My thanks to  Smithsonian Assocaite Sophia Rosenfeld who will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up. Please check out our show notes for more details on her presentation titled: A History of Freedom in Modern Life: The Age of Choice. Smithsonian Associate Sophia Rosenfeld has taken us from 18th-century shopping stalls to modern-day ballots and browsers, showing us that freedom isn't just about choosing... it's about understanding why we choose, how we choose, and who shapes the options we're given. For those of us over 50, this episode hits home. We've lived through eras where choice expanded dramatically—and now, we're often the ones making the biggest decisions of our lives: retirement, caregiving, health, even where to call home. Rosenfeld's insight is a powerful reminder that freedom isn't about endless options—it's about meaningful ones. You can listen to this episode and so many more at NotOld-Better.com, where our entire archive is available for streaming anytime. Follow us on social media—we're on Twitter at @notoldbetter and Instagram at notoldbetter—and let us know how you define freedom in a world full of choices. This is a production of N.O.B.S. Studios, and I'm your host, Paul Vogelzang. Thanks for spending time with us today, and please—join me again next time.

99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Nearly 40% of Americans say they're NOT getting ahead, even though they're doing everything right. That's not a work ethic problem. That's a system problem.  ADAM CHANDLER Hard work ≠ Success anymore. New episode: The grind is failing us.

Lost and Found: Caroline Topperman on Family, Identity, and the Search for Home The Not Old Better Show, Family History, Genealogy Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Today's show is brought to you by Acorns. The Not Old Better Show. Acorns. ..I'Acorns makes it easy for everyone to start saving and investing What does it mean to belong? Is home a place, a language, a history—or something else entirely? Caroline Topperman thought she knew. She grew up speaking Polish, knowing her family's deep roots in the country, and believing that moving there with her husband would feel like coming home. But instead of familiarity, she found disconnection. Instead of certainty, she found questions. The result of that search is her stunning new book, Your Roots Cast a Shadow: One Family's Search Across History for Belonging. Caroline's story is not just about her journey—it's about the generations before her who crossed borders and survived wars, about ancestors who built roads in Afghanistan, fought political battles in Poland, and escaped the horrors of World War II. It's about what gets passed down through family stories, and what gets lost in translation. She uncovered letters, documents, and even an entire book her grandfather wrote—one referenced in The Holocaust Museum and Stanford's Hoover Institution. But she also found the gaps, the missing voices, the untold truths. And through it all, she wrestled with a question so many of us face: Do we ever truly find a home, or do we create it? This is an unforgettable conversation about identity, history, and the invisible ties that connect us to our past. If you've ever wondered how much of your family's story shapes who you are today, this episode is for you. Let's welcome to The Not Old – Better Show, writer, entrepreneur, and world traveler, Caroline Topperman. And now, your host, the award-winning Paul Vogelzang. My thanks to Acorns for sponsoring today's episode. Acorns.  Acorns makes it easy for everyone to start saving and investing—my thanks to Caroline Topperman and her time and patience and willingness to answer our questions.  My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe, and Let's Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Thanks, everybody, and we'll see you next week.

Move Over, Sir! How Women Took the Throttle on America's Railroads The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, right here on radio and podcast. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today's episode is part of our special 60th Anniversary celebration with Smithsonian Associates—marking six decades of education, inspiration, and powerful storytelling. And this one, friends, is both powerful and long overdue.   You're about to hear a remarkable conversation with Smithsonian Associate Patricia LaBounty, curator of the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, about an exhibit that challenges history's blind spots and spotlights the women who helped build—and quite literally run—the railroads of America.  Patricia LaBounty will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates, and the title of her presentation is Move Over Sir: Women Working on the Railroad.  More details are available via links in out show notes today.    The exhibit is titled “Move Over, Sir!”, and the title isn't just clever. It's a line drawn in iron, a statement about persistence in the face of exclusion. When we think of the railroad, we often picture smoke-belching locomotives, dusty rail yards, and stoic men in overalls. What we don't picture—at least not often enough—are the women at the telegraph, in the ticket booth, on the repair lines, and yes, in the engineer's seat. From the Civil War, when more than 100,000 women filled vital rail roles as men went to battle… to the 1930s when Union Pacific created women-only cars staffed by trained nurse-stewardesses… to trailblazers like Bonnie Leake, the first female engineer at UP, and Edwina Justus, the first Black woman in that role—this is history that's gritty, inspiring, and still unfolding.   Smithsonian Associate Patricia LaBounty joins us to share these stories and more: women who were told to step aside, sit down, or stay home—and who refused. These are the voices that helped carry this country forward, and it's our honor to put them front and center today.   So, settle in. You'll never hear the words “all aboard” quite the same way again. Here now, with the music of Glen Miller echoing in the background—a nod to the rail era that changed this country—our conversation with Patricia LaBounty, curator of “Move Over, Sir!” at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum.   And this is The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. I'm Paul Vogelzang. Let's begin.   That's our show for today. Again, a very special thanks to Patricia LaBounty, curator of the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, and to all those women—past and present—who've shown what strength, skill, and leadership look like on and off the tracks.   Patricia LaBounty will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates, and the title of her presentation is Move Over Sir: Women Working on the Railroad.  More details are available via links in our show notes today.    To hear more inspiring conversations like this one and explore our full archive of interviews, visit us online at notold-better.com. While you're there, you can listen to past Smithsonian Associates episodes and catch up on our 60th Anniversary series. Follow us on social media:

The Aerobiome: An Invisible Ecosystem - Smithsonian Associate Carl Zimmer The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Today on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates series, we welcome award-winning science writer and New York Times columnist Carl Zimmer—author of Airborne: The Hidden History of the Life We Breathe, available at Apple Books. With every breath we take—more than 20,000 each day—we draw in not just oxygen, but thousands of invisible organisms: fungi, bacteria, pollen, even algae. This unseen ecosystem, the aerobiome, surrounds us every moment, yet until recently, it was barely studied. Smithsonian Associate Carl Zimmer will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up so please check out our show notes for more details on Carl Zimmer and this presentation titled:  The Aerobiome: An Invisible Ecosystem Smithsonian Associate Carl Zimmer has written 15 books about science, taught at Yale, and contributed to National Geographic, The Atlantic, and Scientific American. His new book blends storytelling, history, and cutting-edge science to reveal how we've misunderstood the air—and how that misunderstanding shaped our response to COVID-19, climate change, and more. If you've ever wondered what's really in the air around you—or how the past might have protected us better—this is a conversation you won't want to miss. That was science author Carl Zimmer, joining us today on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates series, with stories from his new book Airborne: The Hidden History of the Life We Breathe, available at Apple Books.  Smithsonian Associate Carl Zimmer will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up so please check out our show notes for more details on Carl Zimmer and this presentation titled:  The Aerobiome: An Invisible Ecosystem. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show. My thanks to you, our wonderful audience on radio and podcast. Be well, be safe, Let's Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show, Smithsoninan Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.  To listen to more inspiring conversations like this one—from scientists, historians, artists, and beyond—check out our full back catalog at notold-better.com. You can also follow us on social media: we're on Twitter @notoldbetter and on Instagram at notoldbetter. This is a production of N.O.B.S. Studios. I'm Paul Vogelzang—thank you for spending time with us today, and I hope you'll join me again next time.

Welcome back to The Not Old – Better Show! I'm your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today, we're talking about turning clutter into cash, attic junk into treasures, and maybe—just maybe—your next garage sale into a goldmine. Think about it—how many of us have boxes of old collectibles, furniture gathering dust, or a closet filled with clothes we haven't worn in a decade? Downsizing and decluttering can feel overwhelming, but what if I told you that hidden in those stacks of “stuff” could be real money—thousands of dollars just waiting to be uncovered? Well, today's guest knows exactly how to find it. Aaron LaPedis, better known as The Garage Sale Millionaire, made his first deal at age nine, flipping baseball cards and coins. By 21, he was a self-made millionaire—all from garage sales, storage auctions, and resale finds. He's spent the past 40 years uncovering hidden gems, dodging scams, and teaching everyday people how to cash in on forgotten treasures. Aaron's going to reveal the biggest mistakes people make when selling their stuff, the top five things in your home right now that could be worth serious money, and how to master the art of negotiation—whether in person or online. We'll even get into the wild world of storage unit auctions—do they live up to the TV hype? If you've ever thought about downsizing, decluttering, or making extra income in retirement, this episode is for you. So grab a pen, take notes, and get ready to see your garage, attic, and even your junk drawer in a whole new light. Now, let's welcome to the show—The Garage Sale Millionaire himself, Aaron LaPedis!

The Balanced Brain with Smithsonian Associate Dr. Camilla Nord The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show—Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today, as part of our Inside Science interview series, we're diving deep into the most powerful organ you possess: your brain. Think about this for a moment: what if your brain isn't broken, but simply trying to regain balance in a world that constantly throws it off-kilter? What if pleasure, pain, memory, and mood—all the things that make you you—are less about mystery and more about biology? Today, we're joined by the brilliant Smithsonian Associate Dr. Camilla Nord, neuroscientist at the University of Cambridge and author of the groundbreaking new book, available at Apple Books, The Balanced Brain: The Science of Mental Health. Smithsonian Associate Dr. Camilla Nord will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, and the title of her presentation is The Balanced Brain: The Science of Mental Health. Please check out our show notes today for more details about Dr. Nord's upcoming Smithsonian Associates presnentation.  But we havec Dr. Camilla Nord today and in this riveting conversation, we'll explore the science behind what makes us feel good—or not—and how everyday actions like a walk in the park, a chat with a friend, or yes, even a bite of chocolate literally shift the chemistry of our brains. Smithsonian Associate Dr. Camilla Nord challenges old ideas. She dismantles the myth of the “mind-body divide,” shows us how mood and inflammation are intimately connected, and explains why there will never be a single magic pill for mental health—because there doesn't need to be. Instead, she offers something more empowering: a new framework for understanding ourselves. For our audience of vibrant adults over 60, this conversation is more than science—it's a roadmap. A way to better understand what's happening under the surface and to take meaningful action, now, to feel better, think clearer, and live longer—without the stigma. So—what is a balanced brain? And how can you get one, and keep it, at any age? Let's find out. Here's my conversation with Smithsonian Associate Dr. Camilla Nord. My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. Camilla Nord who will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, and the title of her presentation is The Balanced Brain: The Science of Mental Health. Please check out our show notes today for more details about Dr. Nord's upcoming Inside Science Smithsonian Associates presentation.  My thanks always to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support our show. My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe, and Let's Talk About Better.  The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. Thanks, everybody and we'll see you next week.

The Day Washington Nearly Fell: Smithsonian Associate, Dr. Robert Watson on the Civil War's Forgotten Gamble The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Washington almost fell in 1864.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, the podcast for those who believe life gets better—and even sweeter—with age. I'm your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today we're diving into the soul-stirring legacy of two musical giants whose voices, harmonies, and vision shaped the very sound of a generation: Curtis Mayfield and Jerry Butler. If you grew up spinning 45s on your record player or gathered around the radio to hear those smooth, soaring harmonies, then you already know that Mayfield and Butler weren't just voices—they were storytellers, activists, and pioneers of a sound that broke barriers. Together, they helped shape the golden age of soul music, and their influence continues to inspire generations. But did you know that before the world knew them as soul legends, they were just two young men from Chicago's Cabrini-Green projects, united by gospel music, ambition, and a dream of something bigger? Today, we'll uncover the fascinating story of how Jerry Butler and Curtis Mayfield met, formed the Impressions, and created hits like the unforgettable “For Your Precious Love.” We'll also explore why Jerry's path ultimately led him to go solo—and how Curtis turned his heartbreak into a revolutionary career that brought soul music into the Civil Rights Movement. Joining us today is returning guest Scott Shea, a writer and expert in music history, whose latest article brings these incredible stories to life. From Curtis Mayfield's genius as a songwriter to Jerry Butler's powerful, underrated baritone, we'll reflect on their journey, their struggles, and their lasting impact on American music and culture. This one's for the music lovers, the memory keepers, and anyone who remembers the days when a song could soothe your soul and spark a revolution. So grab a cup of coffee or tea, sit back, and let's celebrate the legacy of two legends who reminded us all to “Keep on Pushing.” I'm Paul Vogelzang, and this is The Not Old Better Show. Let's get started.

Enough is Enuf: Why Isn't English Easier To Spell? Smithsonian Associate Gabe Henry THE NOT OLD BETTER SHOW, SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES INTERVIEW SERIES

Mike Donlin: A Rough and Rowdy Life From New York Baseball Idol to Stage and Screen The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series Ladies and gentlemen, picture this: A baseball star so good they called him “Turkey Mike,” a man who could hit, run, and put on a show at the plate like nobody else. A fan favorite, a heartthrob, a natural entertainer. But also—a brawler, a drinker, a man with a temper so fierce he got himself suspended almost as often as he hit home runs. And then? He walked away. Right at the peak of his career, with numbers that could have made him a legend, Mike Donlin did the unthinkable—he left baseball. Not for injury. Not for money. But for love. Her name was Mabel Hite, a Vaudeville star with a dazzling smile and a quick wit. Together, they became one of the most famous couples of their time—packing theaters, charming audiences, and proving that baseball and showbiz weren't so different after all. But their story wasn't all curtain calls and encore performances. Tragedy struck, and Donlin, once the brightest star on both the diamond and the stage, found himself at a crossroads once again. Today, we're diving into this forgotten, fascinating, and downright unbelievable story with baseball historian and award-winning author Steven Steinberg. His new book, available at Apple Books, Mike Donlin: A Rough and Rowdy Life from New York Baseball Idol to Stage and Screen, brings this larger-than-life character back into the spotlight. We'll talk about Donlin's triumphs, fights, Hollywood years, and the love that changed everything. Baseball, Vaudeville, scandal, romance, and a man too big for just one stage—this is going to be a great one. So, grab a seat, and let's get into it. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and this is The Not Old – Better Show.