Women Over 70

David Horton approached us to do an interview with him, and we did not know how to respond. We listened and, after hearing his story, it became clear that this was a story we wanted to share with you. David's wife, DeeDee Horton, died of brain cancer. She was an accomplished athlete, middle school teacher, and college basketball coach. In the final six years of her life, she poured herself into writing Layer Upon Layer, a novel exploring the challenges faced by ambitious women. Before she died, DeeDee asked David to finish the editing and share her book with the world. Through David, we learn about DeeDee and her life of empowerment, courage, and contribution. As this testimonial by Rita Frey says of the book: “Layer upon Layer is poignant, full of passion and chock full of amazing lessons for women and an overall feeling of hope.” We also learn from David what it means to lose your loved one. (Thank you, David, for your courage in telling DeeDee's story.)"What if the people most important to you, fail to see and celebrate you?"Connect with David:Email: David@LayerUponLayer.comBook: Layer Upon Layer by Deedee Horton

Maria Cristina Torres, born in Mexico, studied medicine there and has three decades of experience in pharmaceutical-oriented medicine. She continues to work with people in the United States, finding solutions for chronic conditions and assisting individuals in reclaiming their health through alternative methods. The individuals she treats respond well to Chinese medicine, including acupuncture and herbs. Hypnosis is also effective for lifestyle conditions. Maria is thoughtful and progressive. You can expect to spend 1½ hours with her during your first meeting."These are transformation times when we choose to become the best version of humanity, all with the use of science, herbs and food."CONNECT WITH MARIA:Email: ctorres@integral-clinic.com Websites: IAmVitality.club (coaching)                    integral-clinic.net (in person)Calendly - Book a phone call with Dr. TorresLinked In: Profile

Donna Younger, EdD, age 72, has dedicated her professional life to mentoring and teaching diverse people in various higher learning settings. These experiences expanded her world view and fed her “rabid curiosity about what binds us together—the sparks that connect us.” Donna's intentional spiritual journey began at age 50 when she set out to resolve a critical religious question: “What's the big deal with Jesus?” While staying connected with a church and working with a spiritual director, Donna's question evolved to “What binds religious systems together?” She sees spirituality as the canopy and religion as a dimension of spirituality that can be a useful tool for those who choose it. Donna is now immersed in guided instruction for Spiritual Direction, a role congruent with her faith that “everyone has a spiritual side, whether they attend to it or not.” Her goal is to help people experience the gifts of spiritual awareness. "As a spiritual director, I want to be a companion to people as they open up to their spiritual nature." Connect with Donna Email: dsyounger70@gmail.com  

Josephine (Jo) Alexander (1909-1993) was Nancy Manahan's dearest friend and Natalya Lukin's beloved grandmother. The world knew Jo as a prize-winning journalist and photographer, social justice advocate, and author of America Through the Eye of My Needle (1981), a critical analysis of business conglomerates. But no one knew details about the fourteen years Jo spent as an impoverished Arizona homesteader and rancher during the Depression—-that is, until after Jo's death, Natalya found Jo's “messy” unpublished memoir among boxes of unpublished essays. Natalya and Nancy (also Jo's literary executor)formed a bi-coastal collaboration to edit and publish Jo's memoir: At Sea on the Range: From Berkeley Radical to Arizona Homesteader 1934-1948. Nancy “fell in love with the story of this extraordinary woman who was courageous, adaptable, self-confident, and capable of surmounting impossible barriers.” Natalya values her grandmother as a timeless role model for courageous, capable, and enterprising women. At Sea on the Range won Best Memoir in the 2025 Great Southwest Book Festival."We felt compelled to share the story of how a city girl with studies in literature and anthropology fell in love with an impoverished rancher in Arizona, adapted to grueling circumstances, and grew to appreciate the desert and its people."Connect with Nancy and Natalya  Email: atseaontherange@gmail.comBook:  At Sea on the Range: From Berkeley Radical to Arizona Homesteader 1934-1948. (2024) by Josephine Alexander, Natalya Lukin, & Nancy Manahan. Thanks to our Sponsors for this episode:Compass Navigation Group, Steve.Nasralla@compass.comSkintensive, creams for mature skins, https://www.skintensive.com/

During 15 years in menopausal transition, Carol Remz, age 80, experienced increased vaginal dryness and decreased libido. She and her younger husband mourned their waning sex life. Upon researching relief from radiation treatment for breast cancer, Carol's discovered sea buckthorn for skin protection and its added benefit of improving the integrity and function of women's vaginal epithelium.She also found that medical cannabis stimulated her libido. After eight years of research and revival of her sexual pleasure, Carol wrote a book to empower “postmenopausal women who want to continue having sexual pleasure's well-being benefits.” Written with help from medical health writer and intimacy coach, Molly Carter, Best Sex Ever After Menopause “unlocks empowering knowledge and skills and how to actualize them with love.”Sexual pleasure can be arousing, sensual, erotic, orgasmic, blissful, transcendent—-What do YOU want? - Carol Remz, PhDConnect with Carol:Website https://drcarolremz.comBook Best Sex Ever After Menopause: Transforming Your Sexual Pleasure Through Mindset with Healing and Aphrodisiac Plants (2025) Acknowledgements:Sponsor: Compass Navigation Group. Steve.Nasralla@compass.comPodcast Collaborator: Jennifer Fink. http://www.fadingmemoriespodcast.com

Michelle Kalisz started studying piano at the age of 4. Today she owns a piano studio and delights in teaching older adults. She extensively studied chemistry and psychology, all the while playing music which added depth to her understanding of how we learn and benefit cognitively from studying piano. She believes that brain plasticity needs an update. Science shows we can learn new skills well into our 90s because the process of learning leads to growth in brand new neurons. “Chords are like chemical compounds - they have predictable behavior.” Additionally, the current wisdom of the importance of muscle mass aids in providing the dexterity needed to use our hands to play piano.We hope you enjoy learning from Michelle."Chemistry, Psychology & Music - Older Adults Benefit from Playing the Piano"CONNECT WITH MICHELLE:Email: michelle@michellekmusic.ioLinked In: www.linkedin.com/in/michellekaliszMichelle's Newsletter: https://www.michellekmusic.io/newsletter

Ann Lousin, 82, the first woman in the United States to be appointed staff parliamentarian for the Illinois House of Representatives, as well as the first woman parliamentarian for any American legislature, continues her fierce journey to remove women's cloak of invisibility. Since 1970, Ann has been recognized for her work with the IL Constitution and ongoing activism. She has taught commercial law at the John Marshall Law School, now UIC Law School, for 50 years, and holds classes on the IL Constitution. Ann believes dearly in helping pass into law the legal provision for the medical right to die. Her powerful statements attest to her commitment to all these causes and inspire us to act.I like group decision-making when people can openly express different views and accept that the final decision can be one's 2nd choice. - Ann Lousin Connect with Ann:Email: ALousin@uic.eduCauses Ann cares about:1970 IL ConstitutionKitihawa DuSableMedical Aid in DyingIf you enjoy Women Over 70-Aging Reimagined, we recommend Jennifer Fink, host of Fading Memories, a podcast for caregivers of loved ones with dementia. It provides insights and guidance on communicating effectively, managing stress, and coping with grief and loss. Home - Fading Memories Podcast

[spp-player]Gail Straus is mostly retired, meaning that in addition to volunteer work, she remains open to the occasional client project. In 2021, Gail joined the Communications Team at AARP Illinois as a volunteer. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Guest House Chicago, donates time and expertise to the Moran Center for Social Justice in Evanston, is on the Ambassadors Advisory Committee to Steppenwolf Theater Company, and volunteers for the Taproot Foundation.We asked, “How did you become involved with AARP-IL?” Gail was clear of her intent to use her expertise and skills in an organization which would recognize her value as a volunteer. AARP IL's Director of Communication was delighted to tap into her experience. As an active volunteer member of the communications team, she brings insight into connecting marketing and outreach strategies to the most effective communications vehicles. More importantly, she serves as the voice of the older adult for the communications team. Gail also writes a monthly column on older adults for AARP-IL and says, “Don't call me elderly!” A big reason Gail is volunteering for AARP is their advocacy for older adults in the country. As Gail described, AARP advocates for programs such as social security, provides information and sponsors events on topics that are important to keeping older adults viable and vital and provides an extensive array of both virtual and in-person recreational, informational and entertainment resources such as fraud protection, yoga, cooking classes, ethnic celebrations and arts programming. You can easily get involved by checking out your state chapter at AARP.orgCONNECT WITH GAIL:Email: Gailkstraus@gmail.comLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gail-straus-57ba311/

Ginny Maccoll, 73, has an unusual hobby. She competes in Ninja Warrior competitions. Last year, the Guinness World Book of Records named her the oldest female to compete. Though physically quite active from the time she was born, and a proficient dancer, it wasn't until her daughter became a Ninja competitor that Ginny started believing that she might be able to do that, too. She also competes nationally at the Sr. Olympics swim team. Ginny started dancing in 3rd grade and moved from Tennessee to New York City to embark on a professional career in dance culminating in performing in the hit Broadway Show, Pippin, in 1974.  This led her to roles on TV commercials, having her own radio show and appearing in a film with Diane Keaton. Ginny's view of aging is to keep trying to do more. Keep challenging your body and your brain." You get one obstacle after another and you can't let it surprise you. We have to keep moving so our moving parts don't rust."Connect with Ginny:Instagram: @ginnymaccollFacebook: ginnymaccoll

Jane Fleishman, Phd, a Certified Sexuality Educator, works with people living in senior communities on taboo topics such as intimacy, desire, sexual health, abuse and consent. An accomplished educator, writer, program developer, and researcher, Jane received a PhD in Human Sexuality from the Widener University Center for Human Sexuality Studies at the age of 62. She specializes in all aspects of sexuality for older adults and older adults in same-sex relationships. She is the author of The Stonewall Generation: LGBTQ Elders on Sex, Activism, and Aging, a Nautilus Award winner and Kirkus Review starred selection. Jane's TEDx Talk, “Is It OK for Grandma to Have Sex?” has received over 100,000 views. "Sex is going on in senior living communities or there is erosion of all the great gains we've made in the last 50 years."Connect with Jane:Email:  Jane@Jane Fleishman.comPodcast:  Our Better Half, focuses on sex and sexuality in the 2nd half of life Book: The Stonewall Generation: LGBTQ Elders on Sex, Activism, and Aging

Mimi Donaldson, 77, is known for her rousing keynote speeches, compelling workshops, and in-house training programs.   She has shared the keynote platform with Colin Powell, Katie Couric and Maya Angelou.She is now a speaker coach for TED Talkers, keynote speakers and businessOwners. Since 2018, she has coached 24 speakers to the TEDx stage. I don't want people to be boring!Mimi holds a Bachelor's Degree in Speech and Dramatic Arts from the University of Iowa, and a Masters Degree in Education from Columbia University. For 10 years, she was a staff Human Resources Specialist with Walt Disney Company, Northrop Aircraft, and Rockwell International.Mimi has been a visiting professor at Harvard University's Center for Public Leadershipat the Kennedy School of Government. Her latest book is designed to improve the quality of how you present yourself: Pitch Perfect: Speak to Grow Your Business in Seven Simple Steps.CONNECT WITH MIMI:EMAIL:  mimi@mimidonaldson.comWEBSITE: www.mimidonaldson.comBook: Pitch Perfect: Speak to Grow Your Business in Seven Simple StepsPhone: 310-577-0229

Alice Rose, age 78, lived in Europe for 10 ½ years where she worked with childhood centers for military families. Alice's love of travel and culture led her to Turkey twenty-five times, as well as other fascinating destinations. Upon returning to New Jersey, Alice pursued her love of museum art and photography. Now residing in the Chicago area, Alice has blended her passion for books and photography into a self-publishing business. She and her business partner, Bethany, guide authors in making their own decisions about the book's content and how it will be presented. Their books include memoirs, photography, children's stories—essentially whatever the author wants to share. Alice's own learning journey never stops. She is at work on three of her own books and recently has become 99% vegan. Alice relishes learning about a plant-based diet and its benefits and will gladly recommend her coach. "The threads of my abundant life are books and paper, art and color, travel, history, and learning."​Connect with Aliceroselake100@comcast.netwww.babookdesign.com

The third oldest of 17 children, Mildred J. Mills, 73, was raised on a farm in Alabama. At a young age, she began to imagine that she would be going places, even though she had no idea how or where she might go. In high school one of her teachers recognized her talent in mathematics and suggested she think about a technical college for data processing. Her Daddy surprised her by helping make that a reality. Life was full of surprises from that moment forward. “Sometimes in life we know it's time to let go, and that, my friends, is a cotton patch moment.” - Mildred J. MillsWhat followed was a highly successful career in IT Management, two college degrees - a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in creative writing/nonfiction, and a very fulfilling life, not without its challenges, some major. It was when she left her job, at 60, that she began to think about writing a book. Daddy's House tells the story of A Daughter's Memoir of Setbacks, Triumphs & Rising Above Her Roots.Mildred lives in Atlanta GA.Connect with Mildred:Email: mmillsm@gmail.comWebsite: MildredJMills.comBook: Daddy's House: A Daughter's Memoir of Setbacks, Triumphs & Rising Above Her RootsPodcast: My Cotton Patch MomentThank you to our sponsor for this episode,  Women's Connection.Our Podcast Collaborators' monthly recommendation is Jennifer Fink's Fading Memories

Judy Marjorie Collins, age 85, remains a legendary spokesperson for the American folk music scene and for older adults who still have a song to sing. We were delighted to be in conversation with Judy Collins.Folk singer, song writer, pianist, activist, author, and role-model, Judy continues to tour throughout the United States and many other countries. Judy vows, “I will never stop singing.” Throughout the decades, Judy's music has reflected changing political climates and captured glimpses of life at particular moments in time. Her music remains as timely as ever. We look forward to her next album of duets and trios including a song by the late David Crosby.Judy continues to write about deeply personal experiences. Her latest book is Sometimes It's Heaven: Poems of Love, Loss & Redemption. Connect with Judy:Publicist:  rockymountainproductionsinc@gmail.comRead her books. Available on Amazon2025: Sometimes It's Heaven: Poems of Love, Loss & Redemption 2012: Memoir: Sweet Judy Blue Eyes: My Life in Music2007: The Seven T's: Finding Hope and Healing in the Wake of Tragedy 2006: Sanity & Grace: A Journey of Suicide, Survival, and Strength

Gina Orlando, age 72, created and was present at her own Celebration of Life in January 2025. Gina has been living with breast cancer for 11 years, the last three years in stage 4. She calls upon her expertise in holistic healing, voracious curiosity, and profound spiritual beliefs to navigate her journey toward end-of-life and ‘going to the light.' Gina's abundant intentions for her Celebration of Life: lifting things up for healing—for self, family, community, the world; giving people permission to think differently about their own death, to talk about it, and to plan for it; sharing gifts of love for self and others; and heightening awareness about healing and living wellwith an incurable disease. Gina is reaching hundreds of people with her powerful story of celebrating life.I draw on the mind, body, spirit paradigm while navigating my life and cancerjourney. - Gina OrlandoConnect with Gina OrlandoEmail ginaorlando8@gmail.comWebsite Gina Orlando MA, Wellness Coach Chicago, Oak ParkDirect link to Celebration of Life Servicehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay5RdVEay7won the Ascension, Oak Park, YouTube channel.  Wednesday Journal article about Gina and her Celebration of Life servicehttps://www.oakpark.com/2025/02/05/print-edition-february-5-2025/  pgs.1 and 14 andpart of the editorial, pg. 23This episode is sponsored by Women's Connectionhttps://www.womenconnecting.orgThis month's Podcast Collaborator is Becoming Ellie-Fit Strong Women Over 50https://www.becomingelli.com

Women Over 70 - Aging Reimagined

Connie Inukai, 77, was a teacher. She taught technical writing to engineers. When she conceived the idea for an invention she started to create reports alongside her students. Soon she had written an instruction manual and designed brochures for her product. After investing $3000 with a marketing agency and getting nowhere, she retired from teaching and sold her product on her own.Today Tip n' Split has been featured on QVC, The Today Show, The View, NBC News and many other outlets. Walmart now carries her invention. Connie's entrepreneurial spirit is already working on a new idea."Don't be afraid of no. Figure out what to do and turn it into a yes!"CONNECT WITH CONNIE INUKAI:E. connie.inukai@gmail.comBuy Tip n Split at Walmart

Thoughtful and compassionate, Becky Blue is a geriatric and faith community nurse. Her compassion grew at an early age as she spent afternoons with Grandma, coincidentally the name of one of her magical poems. In her book, Turning-The Magic and Mystery of More Days, you will find essays, poetry and questions, some of the poems written almost 50 years ago with so much meaning for today. "As we age, we connect the dots on our whole life experience."Becky's practice is interdisciplinary. Working in churches enabled her to bring in multiple practitioners to serve the churchgoers and to include mind, body and spirit in the conversations. Becky is especially interested in the 5 senses and how one's life can be enriched through hearing, sight, taste, smell and feel. Most important is to maintain an explorer's mindset. As one sense loses full capacity, the other senses create an urge to explore. Staying curious brings up  a sense of bravery.CONNECT WITH BECKY:E. beckyblue@mac.comBook: Turning: The Magic & Mystery of More Days

Jeanette Leardi is a social gerontologist and aging wellness leader who invites us to “cock your head to the side and ask, Am I think about aging in the right way?” Jeanette's blog, Ageful Living, inspired her recent book, Aging Sideways: Changing Our Perspectives on Getting Older. She challenges the message of ‘gendered ageism' that “women are never the right age in our society.” She reframes limiting metaphors such as ‘over the hill' to viewing women as “master climbers and changers.” Jeanette praises the plasticity of the aging brain for being able to take shortcuts and see different perspectives. She proposes a ninth stage to Erikson's eight stages of personality development: “transcendence and unity—seeing ourselves as part of all that is.” Connect with JeanetteEmail: jeanette@jeanetteleardi.comWebsite: https://www.jeanetteleardi.comBook: Aging Sideways: Changing Our Perspectives on Getting Older. (2024)

At age 70, Karen Marienau's life is distinguished by a circuitous professional path, world-wide adventure travels, strenuous physical challenges, taxing home improvement projects, and deeply loving relationships—with people, animals, and nature. How does Karen, who gets bored once she has mastered something, and is known to act on impulse, navigate her world? She leaves the Minnesota farm for Mexico, joins the Navy on a medical scholarship, becomes a doctor earning numerous specializations, lives in 7 states, and traverses 7 continents. Karen returns to her Minnesota roots and retires from the military after 20 years of service. She remodels a new home on the northern shores of Lake Superior, continues to travel, and is learning to live in the present.  I am most focused now on my well-being—emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual. - Karen MarienauConnect with Karenmarienauk@yahoo.com

Barbara Thompson is passionate about working with seniors. She holds a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) certification. When her life turned out differently from what she expected, she learned to rely on friendships to fill a gap. That brought her to the understanding of how important it is to listen to each person involved in the moving process.  Moving is a challenging time for families, no matter their ages.  Barbara says, “Life works best and moves gracefully when plans are formed and decisions are made. Then when the time comes to implement the changes, everyone knows exactly what to expect. No stress, just love and support.Barbara is a support system for everyone involved. When needed she brings in resources to handle all aspects of the move, including for financial and legal matters. She has seen the beauty and the sadness of it. When people can open up and work together it elevates the process to one of beauty.CONNECT WITH BARBARA:Email: Barbara@TheShenfieldGroup.comPhone: 312-952-2052Realty Affiliation: The Schenfeld Group LLC Jameson Sotheby International Realty

Adriane Berg is a lifelong traveler whose mission is to help people “never stop traveling.” Women over the age of 70 are increasingly participating in solo travel, as are individuals embarking on their second or third honeymoon.  At the age of 76, Adriane created the podcast Ageless Traveler, a gift for her travel-focused self. She designs the trips she wants to take and, with a supportive team, invites others to join. Adriane advocates ‘voluntourism'—travel with a purpose that involves seeing and doing. She also encourages intergenerational travel—different ages traveling together to the same place, doing the same things. Adriane is a dedicated representative on aging to the United Nations. Her expertise in broadcasting, finance, and elder law informs her unique approach to travel, particularly suited for older women. Listen to her podcast at agelesstraveler.com, apple and spotify and download her free eBook, Luxury Travel for Less.infoConnect with AdrianePodcast: Home - (agelesstraveler.com)Website: Ageless Tourism – The Mature Traveler Complete these forms to receive free e-books: https://CaregiversTravelGuide.comhttps://LuxuryTravelForLess.info

After 30 years in banking, Emilia DiMenco joined the Women's Business Development Organization (WBDC) - first as a board member and then as CEO. WBDC serves all entrepreneurs and particularly women and underserved communities. Emilia understands and communicates the importance of managing cash and risks, how best to build capacity and, most importantly, to provide quality products and service while competing fairly on price.WBDC works with entrepreneurs from start-up to succession, helping them to gain certification and pursue procurement opportunities, access capital and networks, and continue to learn. Emilia looks ahead to more free time to focus on health and wellness, travel adventure, more time with her son's family, music lessons and digging deeper into world history. “Allowing a younger generation to take over allowed me to use my skills to benefit an underserved population.” - Emilia DiMencoCONNECT WITH EMILIAEmail: edimenco@wbdc.orgWebsite: https://www.wbdc.org/en/WBDC Phone: 312-853-3477Thank you to Wells Fargo for their Support of Women Over 70:Aging Reimagined 

Carol Offen and Betsy Crais know all too well the exhilaration, separately, of being a living donor and a 2-time organ recipient.Carol's adult, college-age son was in need of a kidney. Carol became his donor. Betsy Crais's evaluation for gastric problems in her thirties revealed polycystic kidney disease. When she was in her fifties she became the grateful recipient of a kidney donation from a living donor. Many years later, she required a 2nd kidney and, to everyone's surprise, a liver. Again a living donor stepped up to donate a kidney but because she needed a liver at the same time, she needed a deceased donor. Not receiving them would have committed her to dialysis indefinitely while also risking death from liver failure.These two expressive women knew each other since their daughters childhoods. They came together again after their own kidney experiences when they decided to collaborate on authoring a book that would lay bare the plight of recipients and the path of becoming a living donor."There is a 6-8 yr. wait for a deceased kidney donor and 90,000 people on the waiting list."CONNECT WITH CAROL & BETSY:Carol: carol.kidneydonorhelp@gmail.com; her website: www.kidneydonorhelp.comBetsy: bcrais@med.unc.eduBook: The Insider's Guide to Living Kidney Donation: Everything You Need to Know If You Give (or Get) the Greatest Gift

Barbara Ellison always wanted to have a TV show. Since waking up from her widow's fog after her husband died when she was in her early 60's, she has not stood still. She says, “I had no idea who I was, or what I was meant to do. The labels attached to me - mother, daughter, wife, those I understood but who was Barbara?” The Ultimate Game of Life coaching program gave her a lifeline and she has not stopped since. From traveling via RV to co-hosting a radio show and streaming live on Linked In, Barbara is a motivational speaker who opens her heart and shares her wisdom. Today she is the co-host of a TV show, coaches new retirees and knows exactly who she is. " I love being in my 70's. Age is just a number. "Connect with Barbara:Email: inspeakermode@gmail.comLinkedIn Live: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-ellisonwellnessplayroom2024/Time to Shine Happiness Show: https://www.youtube.com/live/ZdIhuyltJew?si=YMspxN8qrM6lapw4People4People Community: www.people4peoplenow.com/referral/ZBkCwbmRlZJW?utm_source=referral_program

Jane Seskin, a licensed clinical social worker, is a prolific poet who, at age 80,published a collection of 89 poems in the book OLDER WISER SHORTER: TheTruth and Humor of Life After 65. With humor and insight, Jane observeshow she is learning to acknowledge, accommodate, and accept thevulnerabilities and new-found joys of aging. Early in her career as a therapistfor crime victims, Jane witnessed people's resilience to survive. As a therapistand writer, she advocates “talking to each other rather than being alone withour scary thoughts.” For older women, one area of interest might bediscussions on health fantasies and fears. Jane is at work on a new bookabout aging, focused on Taking Inventory: what's past, dealing with thepresent, and planning for the future. She also explores “what brings onecomfort when the sky is falling.”Connect with Jane:Instagram: @oldershorterwiserWebsite:https://www.olderwisershorter.com/

Jan Shaw King, 71, is a strong, resilient woman whose courage led her to create illustrative works that live on in all of our memories. Her first mentor was her grandmother who taught her to see colors and shadows and be brave enough to follow her path. You may remember Ranger Bob and How the Big Bad Wolf Saved Christmas. Children's stories make up a major part of her portfolio. Jan's company, Wyld Blue Entertainment, develops imaginative art for theme parks and major movie studios. "My impressionistic paintings of sea turtles are dedicated to the awareness of these magnificent endangered species." - Jan Shaw King What she is most proud of is beating an extremely rare form of cancer that only 3% survive. Her book, Life Lines, Verses for Reflection and Recovery is a treasured collection of inspirational verses of love and hope drawn from her personal healing journey as a 27-year cancer survivor. More recently, Jan has nurtured her love of sea turtles, all 7 species, and uses her creativity and activism to create public awareness of the plight of these creatures due to climate change.Connect with Jan Shaw King:Email: Jan@WyldBlueEnt.comWyldBlue Entertainment | WyldBlue Digitalwww.WyldBlueEnt.com | www.WyldBlueDigital.comWyldBlueProduction | www.WyldBlueProduction.comWyldBlue Digital PressWBDigitalPress@gmail.comwww.WyldBlueDigitalPress.comjan@SeaTurtleRock.comwww.SeaTurtleRock.comjan@JanShawKing.comwww.JanShawKing.comLIFE LINES: Verses for Reflection and RecoveryLIFE LINES: Metamorphosis of Change: Guidelines for Recovery Workbook

B. Rosemary Grant, PhD, Research Scholar Emerita at PrincetonUniversity, is world-renowned for 40 years of pioneering fieldwork, with herhusband, Peter, on two uninhabited islands in the Galapagos archipelago.Their studies of Darwin's finches in their natural environment have madeenormous contributions to evolutionary biology and ecology. In her memoir--One Step Sideways, Three Steps Forward--Rosemary chronicles heramazing journey: teaching in the Finnish fashion; marrying and forming aresearch partnership; earning her PhD at age 49; raising two youngdaughters in the Galapagos; teaching and writing; receiving numerousinternational awards; and advocating, world-wide, for advancing youngerwomen's careers in science. Rosemary's research and publications havesignificant applications for broader areas, such as medicine and culturalcooperation.Quote Following your passion does not mean everything has to go in astraight line; sideways steps can lead to huge leaps forward.Connect with RosemaryEmail: rgrant@princeton.eduOne Step Sideways, Three Steps Forward: One Woman's Path to Becoming a Biologist40 Years of Evolution: Darwin's Finches on Daphne Major Island, New Editionby B. Rosemary Grant and Peter R. Grant

Holly Zeinfeld, 79, has moved 22 times and lived in 8 states during her marriage to Steve. They were partners in life and in work until he died a little over a year ago. Holly cared for him in home hospice for 7 years with periodic help from her son. Everywhere Holly goes, she finds meaningful work to do and makes lifelong friends. She calls herself the Director of Intangibles. No fitness center for pregnant women? She buys one and learns Lamaze to teach it and improve women's lives. Employees disgruntled? Create a plan to build a cohesive and happy staff. School in Israel is not working for two of her grandsons? Bring them to Chicago to attend high school and live with her for several years.Even today, living at Plymouth Place in La Grange Park IL, she continues to organize, participate in and build a strong community for herself and her neighbors. No seder? Run one for anyone who might come - 30 people showed up. Thoughts become things. Say the good ones.Resilience, tolerance, a deep caring and willingness to put herself out there for others - that is Holly Zeinfeld. CONNECT TO HOLLY:Email: nanuholly@yahoo.com

Suzanne Rowen, age 72, has been climbing mountains in the Pacific Northwest for the past 30 years. Leading self and others are cross-over skills between mountaineering and working in high stakes crisis communications on Wall Street, Suzanne's earlier life on the East Coast. She finds climbing mountains to be “equally intense and marvelously expansive.” As a dedicated mountaineer, Suzanne peaked all the volcanoes in the Pacific Northwest and led numerous climbing expeditions. Now she prefers climbing solo and finds that “being in nature keeps us sane; you never outgrow it.” Suzanne mentors young women in mountaineering and is turning to fiction writing set in nature and mountains."The mountains meet you where you are; you can express who you are any time in life"Connect with SuzanneEmail: suzannerowen@gmail.com

Wendy Cole, age 76, was 67 when she decided to live out in the world as the femaleshe was born to be. As a young person, Wendy was informed by ‘authorities' that shewas a male with a psychological condition that was untreatable and uncurable; she was “a freak.” Wendy tells her story of living 45 years of repression while hiding her secret from the outside world. On the brink of suicide in 2014, Wendy learned her diagnosis had changed back in 2012. It is now treatable by therapy, hormones, and surgeries. And people are born transgender: “Gender is between the ears, not the legs.” In 2015, Wendy transitioned and began living fully as her authentic self. Currently, she is a transition mentor who guides individuals through significant life changes. She shares her story to “open minds and possibilities…to show others the beauty and possibilities of living authentically…It is never too late!” "I was born female but assigned male based on my physical anatomy; now, I live freely and fully as a woman."  - Wendy ColeConnect with Wendy: She invites you to ask her anything!  Connection website: https://MeetWendyCole.com Email: wendycole212@gmail.com Website: https://wendycolegtm.net Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wcole212/@wcole212 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendycolegtm YouTube Channel:  https:www.youtube.com/@wendycole8326@wendycole8326 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-cole-gtm Private Facebook group, Demystifying the Transgender Journey, Open to anyone curious to learn more about being born transgender and livingwith it from childhood.

Cynthia Bargar, 76 is the author of Sleeping in the Dead Girl's Room (Lily PoetryReview Books), selected as a Massachusetts Book Awards 2023 Honors Poetry Book. Her poems have appeared or are forthcoming  in Sugar House Review, Ocean State Review, Lily Poetry Review, Verse Daily, On the Seawall, The Last Milkweed Anthology, and elsewhere. Cynthia is associate poetry editor at Pangyrus LitMag.  She lives in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Cynthia has had 3 careers. First, teaching video and photography to teens; then, she worked in fundraising for 30 years, with nonprofits focused on grassroots activism and social services. When she became sober 44 years ago, she found her voice and started writing. Cynthia's father was 28 when she was born. It was the same year his 18 year old sister, also named Cynthia Bargar, died of uncertain causes. As a newborn she occupied her aunt's room. Throughout her life, nobody ever talked about it and she never understood exactly what happened to her father's sister.  Many years later, as a practicing poet, Cynthia began to explore the unspoken, her aunt's mysterious death. Her debut collection, Sleeping in the Dead Girl's Room, is the result.  CONNECT WITH CYNTHIAEmail: cynthia.bargar@gmail.comWebsite: www.cynthiabargar.com/Book: Sleeping in the Dead Girl's RoomOrder from Bookshop.org

On the northshore of Chicago, there has existed a magical boutique gift store for 37 years. Its name: The Yellow Bird. Recently the shopping center where it had thrived all those years, was sold to make room for new residential buildings and some commercial. Yellow Bird's lease was over but Carol was not. Yellow Bird's owner, Carol Schaner, 87, was not yet ready, however, to lock the door and walk away. She, her daughter and indispensable manager, Laura, were determined to successfully relocate. And, indeed, they did. The Yellow Bird can now be found in downtown Wilmette.Carol's handling of the situation is an example of her resilience; of a can-do attitude that has held Carol in good stead over her entire life. She is resilient, courageous, creative and connected. The community loves her and proved it by supporting her in her new location.What will I do in the future? I'll continue with everything I am doing now! I am blessed to be here. Joy abounds.This episode tells her story. CONNECT WITH CAROL:Email: yellowbirdstore@sbcglobal.netFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/YellowBirdStore/Yellow Bird Stationery, Invitations & Gifts: 1199 Wilmette Avenue, Wilmette IL 60091, 847-256-1380

Andrea Gilats—writer, educator, artist, yoga instructor—believes that“when one writes a memoir, one has to be oneself.” Andrea's captivating newmemoir, Radical Endurance: Growing Old in an Age of Longevity,reveals her journey of ‘discovery through the pitfalls and possibilities ofaging.' She reflects on dealing with prolonged grief following the early deathof her husband, navigating serious chronic illnesses while living alone, andlearning to recreate her identity and sense of belonging after retirement.Now age 79, Andrea highlights the “singular pleasures of growing up again.”With deeper self-knowing and well-earned wisdom, “this time we can enjoyit… My horizon is no longer longer than I can see—I have arrived!” Andreashares how she is now able to “live a life of peace, joy, and contentment.”Connect with Andrea:Email: agilats@gmail.comBooks by Andrea:Radical Endurance: Growing Old in an Age of Longevity (2024).After Effects: A Memoir of Complicated Grief (2021)Restoring Flexibility: A Gentle Yoga-based Practice in Increase Mobility at Any Age (2015)

For 15 years, Karen Allen (age 73), actor and director of stage and film,and Sarah T. Schwab (age 39), writer, director and producer, have enjoyedcollaborating on theatre and film productions, notably addressing oft-avoideddiscussions about dying and loss. Their award-winning film, A Stage ofTwilight—written and directed by Sarah and starring Karen—is a “grass-roots awareness campaign for end-of-life care and decisions.” It raises thedifficult question: “Whose death is it—who has the right to decide when,where, how, and with whom someone dies?” Karen's directorial debut, theaward-winning A Tree. A Rock. A Cloud., is a short film about the “passingof wisdom from an older man to a young boy.” In 2025, Karen will bedirecting her first feature film, The Batting Cage, with Sarah on theproduction team. This film depicts how two sisters reconnect after the deathof their sibling. In her upcoming third feature film, Crybaby Bridge, Sarahapproaches suicide through the genre of psychological thriller. Please meetKaren Allen and Sarah T. Schwab—friends and collaborators who “reach forthe light” while pursuing what they love."Loss ties us together as human beings; we must learn to respecttime and cherish loved ones."CONNECT with KAREN and SARAH Karen Allen Karen Allen - Biography - IMDb Sarah T. Schwab Sarah T Schwab - Biography - IMDbWATCH A STAGE OF TWILIGHThttps://tubitv.com/movies/100026437/a-stage-of-twilightWATCH A TREE. A ROCK. A CLOUDhttps://tubitv.com/movies/100002111/a-tree-a-rock-a-cloudFor information to support the BATTING CAGE, Via Brian Long, producer.Brianlong.blong@gmail.com

Sharon A. Brangman, MD, Syracuse NY, is a geriatrician who has been a leader in the field of geriatrics for over two decades.  Her focus is directly on the phenomenon of normal cognitive aging, concentrating on prevention. Dr. Brangman serves as Chair of the Department of Geriatrics, Director of the Center for Excellence for Alzheimer's Disease and is a Distinguished Service Professor at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse.  She has held leadership roles at the national level and was elected to the board of the Association of Directors of Geriatric Academic Programs in 2013 and served as President from 2015-2017." My goal is to help people maintain the highest quality of life throughout their lifespan. "Dr. Brangman is a widely published researcher by the National Institute of Aging. In 2024, Dr. Brangman was elected to serve as a Trustee of the McKnight Brain Research Foundation in 2023.This episode is full of information to guide you in proactively caring for your brain health. Connect with Sharon:Website:  https://mcknightbrain.org/brainworks/

From a very young age, Pamela Rand, 81, described herself as a comic, a clown, a funny kid who liked to make people laugh. She continues today to sing, dance, speak in multiple accents and create skits on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTock. Laughing at herself is her prime mode of comedy. In her early 20's, Pamela went to Clown School in Paris where she journeyed within to discover her inner clown. Having lost both her mother and brother, this “school of movement, mind and theater” helped her regain her innocence- her silly side-and she learned that 20 minutes of daily laughter enriches your life and is good for your brain. Today she focuses on physical comedy, formerly known as slapstick.  ”Humor is vital to our sanity and longevity.”Pamela is the “Self-proclaimed president of the mature mothers' society”. Her daughter was born when she was 42, and not wanting her to be an only child, she birthed twins at 51.  She believes in positive addictions - meditation, eating healthy foods, chi gong, weight training, Pilates, and, of course, humor.Pamela Rand is a role model for an aging population and an inspiration for youth.CONNECT WITH PAMELA:Website: PamelaRand.netWebsite: Adventures in Feeling YoungYou Tube: Adventures in Feeling YoungTikTok: Adventures in Feeling YoungInstagram: Adventures in Feeling Young

For 50 years, Marcia Naomi Berger, 79, has experienced a journey from madness to love and meaning. Her first manic episode was at 29, when she was already a well-respected licensed clinical social worker - an experienced psychotherapist well-trained in cognitive-behavioral, family systems, process, and psychodynamic approaches. She draws from many treatment approaches to fit the needs of her clients. Naomi's life changed abruptly when she experienced the first of two difficult hospitalizations. While her early upbringing was difficult and influenced her decision to become a therapist and concentrate on relationships, nothing prepared Naomi for a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. From that moment on she was determined to write a book about this difficult, shame-inducing condition. Everytime she took pen in hand, she found she could only get so far and would put it away. It was only in May of this year that she accomplished her goal and The Bipolar Therapist was published. Prior to that, Naomi published two books on relationships.Naomi lives her life by three convictions:Don't bow down to stigma - you are a multi-faceted person who has a lot to give to this worldWhatever your situation is, don't let other people define you.Live a whole meaningful life. Find happiness every dayCONNECT WITH NAOMI:Email: mnaomiberger@gmail.comBooks: The BiPolar Therapist Marriage Minded: An A to Z Dating Guide for Lasting Love,Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love: 30 Minutes a Week to the Relationship You've Always WantedLinkedIn Profile

Anne Burke, age 80, retired Chief Justice of the Illinois Supreme Court, began her career as a physical education teacher, earned her undergraduate degree as an adult student at the School for New Learning/DePaul University, completed a law degree while raising four children, and created the Special Olympics. Her law practice centered on helping vulnerable children and citizens. Anne served on the Illinois Supreme Court for 16 years, the last three years as chief justice, during the covid pandemic. Upon retirement, Anne returned to DePaul University as a non-degree seeking student taking courses in history, philosophy, ethics, and creative writing. She has received numerous awards and 13 honorary degrees, including from her alma mater."The core of me is children; I am devoted to helping special populations."Connect with AnneEmail: ambjurist@gmail.com

Ruth Schimel, 84, has original ways to make the most of life's possibilities. An author of over 70 published articles and seven books, she was previously a diplomat/foreign service officer at the Department of State. She has also taught at four universities. With her mother, Ruth created the Schimel Lode to promote collaboration and innovation in the DC area.In her 40's, Ruth designed an inside-out approach to career and life management that transcended narrow labeling of her clients. Preferring to honor their complexity using adventure and good judgment, she continues to provide the tools and experiences to help clients access and keep developing their true selves independently. As a child, Ruth and her family were isolated by a flood for four days. She learned first-hand the power of uncontrolled water. That experience makes her involvement with efforts to mitigate climate change reality based. Finding ways to transcend isolation during the pandemic, Ruth and her long-time friend and colleague, Shari, developed a process for using art to generate engaging conversation, deeper relationships and visual intelligence. Their mashups of juxtaposed paintings with poetry became recordings to share online to benefit others' explorations and insights."Becoming courageous is a process accessible to most people to step into the life they want."Her PhD research on courage, international experience, work with a range of clients and continuing curiosity are catalysts for her own growth and her work assisting others. Ruth knows that becoming courageous involves “the willingness to realize your true capacities by going through discomfort, fear, anxiety or suffering and taking wholehearted, responsible action.” It is a process accessible to most people.CONNECT WITH RUTH:Website: https://www.ruthschimel.com/Website: https://artingconversations.com/Website: https://www.theschimellode.net/Books: https://www.ruthschimel.com/books/

Susan Baur, 84, has been a writer, historian and psychologist for 50 years. As a child, nothing grabbed her passion like listening to her father's stories which seemed to describe other worlds that exist inside our own. Pursuing these other worlds ever since, the force of nature keeps pulling at her very being and led her first into an obsession with turtles and then to start removing garbage from ponds in Cape Cod, MA. This is hard work. The water is often cold, visibility poor but nevertheless she dives in and sees . . . garbage - garbage like tires, futons, bicycle wheels and tons of beer cans. Trash. She couldn't do this work alone so invited others to help. Women 64-84 joined in. It led Susan to be named Climate Resilience Hero by the Red Cross. If you align yourself with the force that governs, you know how to age.Susan believes in this work. Although she has written books on the history of science and psychology, and books about turtles for children, it is her sense of wonder and how it changes a person that unites her varied interests. She is happiest exploring Wonderlands and encouraging others to join her.  Although she is widely seen as creating the next generation of conservationists, she is more focused on fostering enchantment wherever it is found. Susan is, herself, the embodiment of wonder.CONNECT WITH SUSAN:Website: OLAUG-MA.COMBooks: The Turtle Sisters series and A Guide to the Best Ponds on Cape Cod AND the Best Ways of Preserving Them may be found on her personal website: theturtlesisters.com  Email: OLAUG.MA@gmail.comAging Reimagined Symposium Celebrating Who We Are as We AgeSat Oct 19, 2024 [8:00] AM – [6:00] PMPlymouth Place, 60526https://www.tickettailor.com/events/womenover70/1255769

Karen Ross, 76, is a champion who keeps reinventing herself. Self-confident, curious and proactive, Karen never stops finding new ways to stay involved, support herself and others, and meet interesting people.She thought she would be a musician and entered college intending to major in music. However, Broadway show music is what interested her and classical music was what the college preferred she study. It didn't take long for Karen to move on and several years and careers later found herself hosting a radio show. When that show ended she moved to South Carolina. "Curiosity leads me to keep engaging in new topics, career choices, and environments."A change in formats sent her back to Chicago where she decided to hire a coach to help her find what was next. The coach noticed that she was always desirous to be of service and, so, suggested she become a coach.Soon after starting her practice, Karen discovered hypnosis, believing it could help her patients find deep relaxation and access to their subconscious minds, while eradicating chronic pain, sleep issues and major loss. She continues to this day working with clients who benefit from hypnosis and personal coaching. Karen pays close attention to her health, doing a daily practice called Aging Backwards. She walks all over the city and listens for her inner ageist to consciously reject the notion that she is old.CONNECT WITH KAREN:Email:   info@KarenRossNow.comWebsite:   https://karenrossnow.com/Meet with her at:  https://karenrossnow.com/schedule/           Watch my 60-second video:https://karenrossnow.com/schedule/           https://womenover70.com/symposium/https://linktr.ee/womenover70

Elderwerks' dynamic CEO and Founder, Jennifer Prell, understands older adults. She believes elders deserve respect and loving care. She gets worked up when talking about how difficult it often is for older people, no matter their income level, to find proper housing as they age. Adult children reach out because a parent is declining. That parent does not always recognize there is a problem and that makes it extremely difficult to help them make the transition to safer housing. Jennifer and her team are trained to ask the questions that will guide them in determining the correct paths to take.  Jennifer started a 2nd business called Safe Moves for Seniors so that she could work with income-restricted older people. Through this business they write grants and raise funds to aid older adults in downsizing and moving with dignity.  Their knowledge seems never-ending in all the ways to find proper housing for their clients as they age. Connect with Jennifer:Email: Jennifer.Prell@Elderwerks.orgWebsite: www.Elderwerks.orgWebsite: www.safemovesforseniors.org

The hardest part of getting older is the realization that some dreams are never going to be realized. Some situations are not going to change. Jackie Greenbaum, however realistic she remains, has lived her life as though dreams are meant to be followed. Discouraged from a career in law at a young age, Jackie pursued teaching, only to find it unsatisfying for the world in which she wanted to live. Soon after leaving the field of education, Jackie immersed herself in becoming a legal secretary, then a paralegal and combined those two to work in business development and human resources. A dynamic, successful rainmaker was her mentor and her career proved both satisfying and rewarding."There are close friends to be had in every setting when meaning and purpose drive your life."After retiring, Jackie and her husband moved to an over 55 community. Using all the skills she practiced while working, Jackie soon became deeply involved on the WOW board and developed strong friendships within the community.Jackie takes advantage of every minute because…….you just never know.Womenover70.comAging Reimagined Symposium Celebrating Who We Are as We AgeSat Oct 19, 2024 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Plymouth Place, 60526https://www.tickettailor.com/events/womenover70/1255769

If we are looking for what we enjoy doing, then, logically, we're going to be good at it. Joyful thoughts spiral upward. We are on this planet to love and be loved, to be truly authentic.Gail Sussman Miller, Inspired Choice.com, believes how we think, and communicate, is a key issue for leaders of organizations. She helps them manage difficult conversations, to listen not only to respond, but to understand. You can be kind and honest. She helps people see how they need to change to achieve their desired outcomes. An expert coach, focusing on communication, Gail has been serving clients since 2001. By integrating her beliefs into her coaching, she invites her clients to see through different lenses. "It's about the spirit and energy you bring to the conversation, rather than specific words."As you listen hear her thoughts on:Wild Fit - a program based on anthropological nutrition and behavioral psychology for optimum health. Gail has integrated this knowledge and food choices as a lifestyle and finds it works for her on both a physical and spiritual level.Archetypes, based on the work of Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette and Carolyn Myss include our protective human ego (Victim, Saboteur, Wounded child, Prostitute - all fear-driven behaviors) and our Spirit, Higher Self, love driven behaviors. (Lover, Sovereign, Warrior, Magician - ways in which we deepen the truth of who we are.A Course in Miracles – helps us shift from a thought system based on fear to one based on loveHeadspace App - powerful meditation and mind training to keep joy present in our livesTears - your body's response to hearing what is true for you. Gail celebrates life through spirituality, gratitude and rituals. 

Wendy Green, founder and host of Hey, Boomer,! knows about personal transformation first-hand and coaches women to “live the meaningful, purposeful life they want to live.” Wendy left the world of corporate training to focus on women's experiences of growing older—as a coach, podcaster, show host, and blogger. Podcast guests, along with members of Boomer Banter, talk about a range of topics such as family dynamics, gray divorce, changing relationships, feeling old, and the vital value of female friendships.  I still feel inside the younger parts of me. - Wendy GreenConnect with WendyEmail: wendy@heyboomer.bizWebsite: https://heyboomer.biz

Sally Jean Fox's 2023 book, Meeting the Muse After Midlife: A Journey to Meaning, Creativity, and Joy, tells her story of finding joy in being creative after 50, as she explored gardening, clowning, improv theatre, storytelling, and singing. Always keen on writing, Sally took up painting at age 69 and exhibited 30 paintings three years later. Although Sally now sees herself as an artist, she emphasizes that creativity is not just about producing art; rather, the “most creative thing we can do is design our lives, every day, to be engaging, expansive, and full of learning. As the head of Engaging Presence, Sally also coaches professionals to design their lives around what matters most to them and to share their stories.Connect with SallyEmail: sally@engagingpresence.comWebsite: Engaging Presence—Shaping Stories That Matterhttps://www.engagingpresence.comBook: Meeting the Muse After Midlifehttps://www.engagingpresence.com/book/

Cheri Boublis is Senior Director for Hospitality Services at Plymouth Place in LaGrange Park, Illinois, a model for active community living. Cheri collaborates with the leadership, residents, vendors, and the larger community to offer wide-ranging services for adults who choose a vibrant lifestyle. Choice is the guiding concept for most everything at Plymouth Place—design of living space, travel, dining, cultural programs, the arts, wellness, and more. Cheri says she is of the age that she could live at Plymouth Place, and she looks forward to doing so when she is ready for that transition.Plymouth Place is the premium sponsor and host site for Women Over 70's first, in-person Symposium on October 19, 2024. Connect with CheriEmail: cboublis@plymouthplace.orgWebsite: Plymouth Place | Senior Living in La Grange Park, IL

Joy has always been a part of Beverly Pimsleur's life. Her extended family in Louisville KY loved to be together, to dance, sing and have fun.She recognized the importance of language from a young  age and started learning French in high school. She met her husband, a French professor, on a blind date in her twenties and changed her plans about living in France in order to marry him, anticipating they would someday live there together — which theydid. She became fluent in 4 different languages and believes in the importance of teaching English as a 2nd language.Paul was the creator of the Pimsleur Language Program. When he died at 48, Beverly, alone with two young children, returned to New York and, with a colleague of her late husband, continued to develop the business. Simon & Schuster eventually purchased the company. Life with her 2nd husband, Peter, was quite different. They moved to Nice for 12 years, where he died of a genetic disease. Beverly turned to tango as a release for her grief and dance became an obsession. With her children married, she traveled the world, dancing until she was 82. Her passions are multi-faceted and include cooking, traveling, writing and publishing. "I'm afraid I'm not going to have enough time for all the things I want to do."

As an educational leader and mentor, Dr. Helen Benjamin tells stories aboutgrowing up in the segregated South, living and working in two worlds—Blackand White, and helping younger Black professionals navigate their CEO rolesin community colleges. In semi-retirement, Helen leads HSV Consulting, Inc,works with “dozens of colleges, boards, and CEOs to advance student-centered organizational and leadership improvement,” and continues writingto preserve African American history. Helen finds that at age 74 she is in“the best place I've ever been in my life—smarter, wiser, thriftier, and morerelaxed.”No one can tell the story of our lived experience better thanwe can.Connect with HelenEmail: hbenjamin91@icloud.comBooks by Helen:● How We Got Over-Growing Up in the Segregated South: A Collection ofNarratives● The Chocolate Truth: An Anthology of Perspectives from CommunityCollege CEOs

Do you want to share housing but find the transition scary? We often live in shared housing when we are single: college, roommates in camp, at conferences, during our early careers. Living with housemates as we age is no different. Annamarie Pluhar, 70, is a well-spoken advocate for shared housing and offers valuable ways of thinking to simplify the process. After receiving her Masters in Divinity, then working in a corporation, facilitating large groups, Annamarie started a non-profit to promote the importance of shared housing. She consults with organizations, housing professionals, the aging network and local officials who are seeking to develop shared housing in their communities. The twin crises of high housing costs and an increase in social isolation combine to render cooperative living arrangements an excellent solution.  "Housemates are not the same as roommates."By providing education, advocacy, and model development she empowers individuals to choose, create and sustain shared housing. She envisions a world in which sharing housing is a commonly accepted living arrangement and individuals feel happy, safe and at peace with home-mates.One idea—a building for seniors with 4 bedroom suites for 3 people. The extra suite might be for guests or caretakers. Everyone shares the kitchen and living space.Last summer (2023) Annamarie lost her partner of 23 years and is currently renovating her home to make it more comfortable for sharing. She lives in southern Vermont.Connect with Annamarie:Book: Sharing Housing: A Guidebook for Finding and Keeping Good HousematesWebsite: sharinghousing.comEmail:  annamarie@sharinghousing.org