Boomer Banter, Real Talk about Aging Well
Boomer Banter is your guide to aging well with health, vitality, and meaningful relationships. Host Wendy Green brings warmth, vulnerability, and curiosity to real conversations about staying active and connected through life's second act. Wendy talks with experts, everyday people, and thought leaders who share practical insights and personal stories about navigating health challenges, deepening relationships, caregiving, reinvention, and what it truly means to age well as a Boomer. This show is for you if you have questions about how to find purpose in retirement, finding new friends after 60, healthspan vs lifespan, navigating family dynamics, resilience and successful aging, staying active and engaged as you age, and caring for aging parents or your spouse.
Episodes
Too Old-Too Female-Too Late: Busting Fitness Myths after 60
Exploring the intersection of ageism and fitness, this episode of Boomer Banter features a candid discussion between Wendy and Laura Dow about the challenges and triumphs of staying active as we age. Wendy opens up about her struggles to maintain a consistent fitness routine amidst life changes, like her mother moving in with her. Laura, who entered the fitness world later in life, shares her jour
When Life Asks you to Recalibrate
After six years of weekly episodes, host Wendy Green shares an honest, vulnerable update about stepping back from the podcast's regular rhythm. In this solo episode, Wendy talks about what it's really like to become a primary caregiver for her mother—not just the practical challenges, but the emotional recalibration, the identity shift, and the hard choices about where to focus limited time and en
Loving a Partner with Alzheimer's
Facing the reality of a loved one with dementia can feel like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands. In this episode of Boomer Banter, we dive into a heartfelt conversation with Sue Lick, who shares her journey caring for her husband Fred as he battled Alzheimer's disease. From the early signs of forgetfulness to the emotional weight of caregiving, Sue opens up about the challenges, the laugh
Purpose and Connection: You Can't Have One Without the Other
Life took a bit of a turn when my 96-year-old mom moved in with me. Just a month ago, she was stuck in her apartment, feeling isolated and unsure of herself. Now, she’s back in action, setting the table for dinner every night! It’s not just a chore; it’s a revival of her spirit and our connection. We dig into the importance of having something to do and someone to do it with in this episode. You s
Think You’re Prepared for Aging? Think Again | 7 Steps You Need to Know
You think you’re prepared for aging… until you’re not.In this episode of Boomer Banter, I talk with registered nurse and life care expert Jennifer Crowley about what really happens when aging becomes real—when you’re making decisions for a parent, managing your own future, or trying to do both at the same time.Jennifer shares her practical and compassionate 7-step framework for aging well, helping
Never Retire from Purpose
Ready to flip the script on aging?In this episode, Wendy Green chats with Randall Kenneth Jones, a vibrant storyteller and the mastermind behind MindZoo. He’s all about showing us that the years after 50 can be some of our best.With a mix of humor and heart, they explore the concept of the 'retirement business' – a refreshing perspective that challenges the traditional views of retirement as a slo
What Role are You Playing that Doesn't Fit Anymore?
Aging can be a wild ride, right? So, let’s chat about that sweet, sweet freedom that comes when you finally hang up the cape of all those roles you’ve been playing for years—parent, employee, caretaker, you name it.Wendy Green, our fabulous host, dives into this juicy topic, reflecting on a recent gathering with her Banter Circle. Picture a cozy group of pals, sharing the ups and downs of aging, a
Stress Less, Live More: The Heart-Health Connection
Aging well isn’t just about avoiding the doctor; it’s about embracing the full spectrum of health.In this enlightening episode, Dr. Alan Rozanski shares his transformative journey in understanding health beyond the physical. We delve into the concept that our mental and emotional states are just as crucial—if not more so—than our lab results. Dr. Rozanski introduces the six domains of health and h
Holding Your Beliefs Without Losing Each Other
Political differences are straining friendships, families, and communities. Many people feel caught between wanting to speak their truth and wanting to preserve important relationships.In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green talks with Dr. Philip Wilder, educator and facilitator of Nonviolent Communication, about how we can disagree respectfully without losing connection. Together they explo
The Art of Difficult Conversations: 6 Ways to Stay Connected When You Disagree
In this episode of Boomer Banter, we tackle something many of us are exhausted by but can't ignore ... difficult conversations. Not the surface-level small talk, but the real, uncomfortable ones with family members who see the world completely differently, with old friends across the political divide, and especially with ourselves.Host Wendy Green shares a powerful story from the 1980s about findi
Boomer Banter: Let's Talk Legacy and Life Lessons!
Today, we're diving into a topic that's super important but often overlooked: capturing the stories of our loved ones. You know, it's not just about the money or the stuff we leave behind; it's about the voices, the values, and the experiences that shape us. Our guest, Elena Iacono, is all about helping families preserve these precious memories through guided conversations that turn into beautiful
From Achievement to Fulfillment: Meeting the Self Beneath the Resume
Feeling a bit stuck or wondering if there's more to life than just work? Then this episode is just the ticket! I had a heart-to-heart with the fabulous Diana Dupont, a woman who traded in her museum curator hat for a life filled with horses, dogs, and so much more. Together, we explore the moment when something inside stirs, urging you to step out of your comfort zone. Diana's journey is all about
The Truth About Sleep After 60: Are you a Lion, Wolf, Bear or Dolphin?
Ever wondered why sleep seems to elude us as we age? Well, grab your coffee, or maybe some herbal tea, because this week’s episode of Boomer Banter is all about sleep style and how it impacts our later years.I had a fabulous chat with Sally Duplantier, a super smart gerontologist who’s here to sprinkle some wisdom on our sleep struggles. We explored the fascinating world of sleep chronotypes – we’
Feeling Useful, Finding Friendships: Boomers & Beyond
Feeling useful and finding friendships is critically important as we age, and today we're diving right into that! We’re chatting about how maintaining a sense of meaning and connecting with others can seriously boost our health and happiness. I’m excited to share two interactive training programs that I’ve been working on, designed to help folks discover what they have to offer and how to build th
Grandparenting Autism: How to Support without Overstepping
When a family faces the challenges of autism, every member can feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. In this heartfelt episode, Wendy Green and Theresa Lyons, Ph.D. discuss the crucial role grandparents play in supporting their grandchildren diagnosed with autism.With a focus on communication and understanding, Theresa shares her journey as both a scientist and a parent, highlighting th
From Retirement to Revolution: Why this 82-year-old won't stop fighting
Wendy Green’s chat with Meg Groff on Boomer Banter is a must-listen for anyone who thinks that their time for making a difference has passed. Meg's journey from a 37-year-old law student to an impactful attorney is nothing short of inspiring. As she shares her experiences of helping people escape domestic violence situations, she sheds light on the gaps in our legal system—especially regarding chi
Self-Image and Aging: Time to Flip the Script!
Aging can feel like a wild ride, right? One minute you’re bopping along, feeling youthful and vibrant, and the next you’re staring at a reflection that’s more ‘who is that?’ than ‘hey, look at me!’ In this episode of Boomer Banter, we dive deep into why that happens and how our brains evolve as we age, gaining wisdom and emotional stability. Our host, Wendy Green, shares some sage words from Dr. M
Still Worth the Effort? Navigating Love, Marriage and Connection Later in Life
Let’s get real – marriage isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes it can feel more like a roommate situation, especially after years of living together. In this episode, we welcome the wonderful Dr. Liz Jenkins, who brings some serious wisdom on how to navigate those tricky waters. We chat about how common it is for couples to lose that initial connection, and Dr. Liz gives us the scoop on her
Too Experienced to Retire: Turning What you Know into What's nNext
What if retirement isn't about winding down—it's about waking up?At 81, business mentor Patricia Noel Drain is living proof that your best work might still be ahead of you.This conversation is for anyone who knows they are not finished yet, but feels unclear about how to begin again.Key Highlights:Why traditional retirement does not work for everyoneHow your experience can guide your next chapter
The Healing Revolution: Nutrition for Longevity
In this episode of Boomer Banter, we tackle the often confusing world of nutrition with Dr. Randall Hansen, who reveals how our perceptions of food have been shaped by outdated science and marketing gimmicks. The discussion centers around the concept of healthspan – the idea that we should prioritize living well over simply living long. Dr. Hansen illustrates how the food landscape has changed, pa
Are you Sleeping Enough? The Risks of Poor Sleep as we Age.
In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green dives deep into the often elusive and much-needed state of sleep. Teaming up with the insightful Marie Sennett, they explore the common sleep issues that plague so many of you. With humor and relatability, Wendy sets the stage by asking how many listeners actually get a good night's sleep, revealing that many hands remain down. Marie shares her own nig
Preventing Cognitive Decline Through Movement: What Works and Why
In this episode, Wendy Green and Dr. Tom Gilliam turn the spotlight on our brains and how to keep them fit as we age. Wendy starts the episode with some banter about the holiday season and how many of us are feeling a bit more 'fluffy' after the Thanksgiving feast. But fear not! Dr. Gilliam, who, by the way, retired at 81, lays down the science behind why exercise isn't just good for our bodies, b
Got Questions About Growing Older? We’ve Got Answers!
In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode, listeners sent in deeply personal questions — and Wendy responds with honest, compassionate insight. From navigating friendships in your 70s, to handling retirement conversations at family gatherings, to ageism in the workplace, to fears about caregiving and widowhood, this episode goes straight into the real challenges we face as we age.Wendy also answe
Don't Count Yourself Out: How to Build a Dream Business After 50
Aging can sometimes feel like a never-ending game of dodgeball, where you’re dodging responsibilities, expectations, and the occasional existential crisis. But fear not! In Boomer Banter this week, we dive into the refreshing narrative of Christina Daves, who turned a broken foot into a new career path. Yep, you heard that right. After retiring from a successful retail business, Christina found he
When Purpose Finds You: Lessons in Listening and the Paths that Shape Us
Boomer Banter is back with another encouraging episode where we unpack the idea of ‘purpose’ in our lives. Wendy Green, dives deep into why so many of us feel like we’re wandering around aimlessly, trying to find that elusive ‘why’ for getting up in the morning. She flips the script on purpose, suggesting that it’s not about hunting it down like a treasure map; instead, it’s about sitting back and
Playful Aging: Discovering Fun Beyond the Shoulds
Aging can feel like a wild ride, right? There’s so much chatter about how to do it ‘well’—drink water, exercise, or give up all the fun stuff like chocolate and wine. But let’s be real, all the 'shoulds' can get overwhelming.In this episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green invites Yvonne Marchese to chat about something way more fun: play and self-acceptance. They both agree that as we age, we n
The Art of Aging Well: Lessons from her 100+ Year Old Friend
In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green sits down with Merilyn Simonds as she shares her heartwarming and enlightening friendship with the incredible Beth, who just happens to be 105 years old! heir weekly walks over the past five years have blossomed into a treasure trove of stories, laughter, and life lessons that Merilyn lovingly chronicles in her book, "Walking With Beth: Conversations w
How to Let Go and Move On: A Guide to Meaningful Downsizing
So, here’s a thought: how do we navigate our relationship with all the stuff we’ve got lying around? Today I will share my thoughts about just that! The episode is packed with nostalgia as I reflect on cherished items that tell stories. I mean, who doesn’t have a favorite childhood book or a stuffed animal they can't forget? But as we get older, we find ourselves surrounded by more objects than we
Text Messages to My Sons: Finding Connection, Purpose and Healing
Wendy Green, the delightful host of Boomer Banter, dives deep into the heart of familial connection in this episode with Tammy Cohen, a passionate author, entrepreneur and mother. Tammy shares her journey of writing text messages to her three sons during the pandemic, which began as a means to communicate amidst uncertainty. But these weren’t just ordinary texts; they evolved into a heartfelt coll
Finding Purpose in Travel: Bras, Bonds, and Banter!
We’re celebrating our 250th episode with a focus on travel and connection today! Our guest, Talek Nantes, is all about blending adventure with purpose, showing us how traveling can be an opportunity to build relationships and give back. She’s got this fantastic initiative called Bras for Babes, where she brings essentials to women in Cuba. We chat about how you can still travel and make an impact
Sustainable Withdrawal Strategies to Make Your Money Last in Retirement
Are you worried about whether your retirement money will last? You’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of calculating a withdrawal rate from your retirement account. We’ll unpack the famous 4% rule and see if it’s still the best way to plan for our golden years, or if we need to rethink our strategies. Joining us is the insightful Bill Bengen, who’s got some fresh
Life Lessons from the Storm: Embracing Resilience as We Age!
Picture this: it’s a regular Monday morning, and I’m mentally prepping to talk about resilience when I get a curveball—a call from my mom’s care facility. She wasn’t feeling well and needed to go to the hospital. Just like that, my day took a dramatic turn! That’s life, right? We all experience storms, both the literal and the metaphorical, and today, I want to chat about how we can navigate those
Scam Alert: Pig-Butchering, Phishing and More
This episode of Boomer Banter is a wake-up call for seniors and their families as it tackles the pressing issue of financial scams targeting Boomers and Beyond. Wendy Green, the ever-enthusiastic host, engages in a lively conversation with Steve Benton, an authority on elder financial safety. Together, they shine a light on the staggering statistics surrounding scams, revealing how seniors lost ne
Hands Up For Hooters: Just say Yes!
This episode takes a stroll down memory lane with Sally Dunbar, a gal who went from worrying about her health to strapping on her walking shoes to raise big bucks for breast cancer research. Sally’s journey is a testament to the power of saying 'yes' to new challenges, even when they scare you. It’s about finding strength in community and realizing you’re capable of way more than you think. So whe
The Creative Cure: How Creativity Supports your Brain, Mood & Joy
Let’s get real about creativity and aging! This podcast episode is a goldmine of insights on how to keep your brain sharp and your heart happy as the years roll on. We brought in Jenny Leigh Hodgins, a Creative Empowerment Coach who’s here to show us how diving into creative activities can boost our brainpower and lift our spirits.Creativity isn’t about perfection; it's about expression and fun! W
Mind, Body, Jungle: Wellness Lessons from Costa Rica
Traveling can be a real eye-opener, especially when it means stepping out of our comfort zones. This week, we dive into the adventure of exploring Costa Rica, where flexibility and curiosity were the names of the game. From unexpected bathroom protocols—yep, no toilet paper in the toilet—to the common breakfast fare of rice and beans, our journey was filled with quirks that kept us on our toes. We
Sandwiched by Love & Loss, Caregiving & Chaos
Today, we’re diving deep into the wild world of caregiving with our guest, Nicole Smith. She found herself juggling not just one, but three family members needing serious help—talk about a juggling act! Nicole wasn’t planning to become an elder care expert, but life threw her a curveball when her mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and her dad and step-mother faced their own challenges. She ended
The Ride that Changed Everything: A Caregivers Journey to Giving Back
In this episode of Boomer Banter, we meet Bill Sepe, a spirited 73-year-old whose zest for life inspires everyone around him. Bill's story is a heartfelt one, showcasing his transition from a full-time caregiver to starting 3-Wheel Therapy in Ohio, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free three-wheel bike rides to those who can no longer ride on their own. These rides are not just abo
Take This Phone and Love It: A Senior's Guide to Tech
Smartphones are a double-edged sword, aren’t they? We can video chat with family, listen to our favorite tunes, or even navigate our way to the nearest coffee shop—all with a few taps. But let's keep it real: Tech can be daunting, especially for older folks who didn't grow up with it. But fear not! This episode is all about turning those tech frowns upside down.Today, I’m chatting with Ann Goldber
Uncovering Your Roots: The Ancestry Travel Boom!
Have you ever thought about walking the same streets your ancestors did? This week, we're diving into the world of ancestry travel and how it's become a big deal for folks wanting to connect with their roots. I’m chatting with Jim Lenahan from AARP, and he's got the scoop on why older adults are flocking to these heritage trips. We’ll share some heartwarming stories of people who’ve met long-lost
Grandmothers as Change Makers: Wisdom, Community & Impact
Let's talk about grandmas! Seriously, in this episode, we’re shaking things up and recognizing that grandmothers are not just sweet faces in family photos but powerhouse change-makers in our communities. I’m thrilled to have Lindsay Farrell on the show, who founded the Grandmother Collective. She’s spent years working with young people, but over time, she noticed something was missing—a crucial el
Finding Your People: The Ethels Approach to Connection and Purpose in Later Life
Imagine sitting in a room filled with laughter and camaraderie, where women of all ages share their stories and support one another. That’s exactly what the Ethel Circles are doing, and this episode of Boomer Banter takes us right into the heart of this vibrant community. Host Wendy Green kicks things off with a personal story about a lonely birthday, leading into a discussion with Lisa Marcelino
Transitions of Friendships - Part 2: Friendships in our Third Act
Friendships don’t stop mattering as we get older — but they do change. And sometimes, building or maintaining those connections feels a little more complicated in this stage of life.In this honest conversation, Jane Leder (host of Older Women and Friends) and I talk honestly about what friendships look like now — when life has taken us down different paths, when old friends have moved away, or whe
The Sacred Journey of Growing Older: Insights from Rabbi Richard Address
This episode invites listeners to confront the realities of aging through a thoughtful lens, facilitated by the insights of Rabbi Richard Address. The dialogue, led by host Wendy Green, highlights the importance of acceptance in the face of life's inevitable changes. They pose a critical question that resonates deeply: 'What do I do with the time I have left, knowing I cannot control the time I ha
Understanding the Transitions in Our Friendships
Friendships are not static; they evolve, fade, and sometimes end. In this first episode of a two-part series, host, Wendy Green, delves into the transitions that impact our friendships throughout various life stages, starting with childhood and extending into young adulthood. She explores the fundamental lessons learned by early friendships regarding trust, belonging, and self-worth, and questions
The Language of Aging: How Words Shape Our Identity
In this solo episode of Boomer Banter, I take a closer look at the language we use when we talk about aging—and how much it truly matters. The words we hear and use every day can shape how we see ourselves and how others see us as we grow older. I revisit a past episode that sparked a lot of thoughtful conversation and pushback—particularly around the labels “senior” and “elderly.” Many in our com
Luxury Travel for Less: Realize Your Travel Dreams After 60
Is age holding you back from seeing the world? It shouldn’t be.In this episode of Boomer Banter, we explore how travel remains not only possible—but deeply rewarding—well into our 60s, 70s, and beyond. I’m joined by Adriane Berg, a seasoned media voice and host of The Ageless Traveler podcast, who has made it her mission to show that meaningful travel doesn’t have to break the bank.Adriane shares
Navigating Financial Anxiety: The Stories That Shape Our Decisions
What if the way you think about money isn’t really your story at all?In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Newcomb, Ph.D., a behavioral economist who helps us unpack the powerful money stories we carry—many of which we didn’t choose. Sarah shares how the beliefs we picked up in childhood—about scarcity, success, and self-worth—can quietly shape our financial decisions for decades.We talk about he
Grandparent Power Moves: Smart Strategies to Secure Your Grandkids' Financial Future
In this episode, I’m opening up a conversation that hits close to home—how we, as grandparents and trusted adults, can help set up our grandkids for a stronger financial future.I’ll admit something right up front: I didn’t open 529 plans for my grandchildren. At the time, I just wasn’t in a position to do it. But looking back, I wish I’d known more—and done more—to give them a solid financial head
Intentional Aging: Finding Joy, Vitality & Purpose After 60
You know how life can throw surprises at you? Host, Wendy Green shares her latest adventure—three doctor appointments in one week! Talk about a reality check, right? As she reflects on her life at 71, she reminisces about the perky days of youth, all while pondering when that carefree spirit shifted. But here’s the kicker: it’s not about lamenting lost youth; it’s about recognizing that change hap
Stay Strong, Age Well: Mobility & Flexibility Over 60
Takeaways: The gradual decline in physical flexibility often goes unnoticed until it becomes significant. Maintaining mobility and flexibility is crucial for preserving independence and quality of life as we age. Simple exercises focusing on strength and flexibility can significantly enhance one's ability to perform daily tasks. Protein intake must be increased as we age to counteract anabolic
Health, Hunger and Hope
Wendy Green's engaging dialogue with Ken Counihan presents an inspiring exploration of health, nutrition, and community service. Ken's journey from the confines of corporate IT to advocating for better food access illustrates the profound impact of personal experiences on life pathways. After facing a critical health challenge, Ken redirected his focus towards the intersection of food, health, and
Boost Your Brain Health and Joy with Music and Nature
The discussion surrounding health often tends to gravitate towards things such as diet and exercise; however, the subtleties of emotional and psychological health are equally important. While primary health protectants like nutrition and physical activity provide the bedrock for physical health, secondary health protectants—those often underestimated—such as music, art, and engaging with nature, o
Finding Purpose in the Storm: Challenging the Army Corps of Engineers
In this powerful episode, Sandy Rosenthal shares her remarkable story of resilience and determination in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. With no background in engineering or law, Sandy took on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers after uncovering a devastating truth: the levee failures that flooded New Orleans weren’t just an act of nature—they were preventable mistakes. Her journey reminds us how vita
The Journalist’s Journey: Purpose, Legacy, and the Stories That Shape Us
What happens when a journalist spends decades documenting the rise, fall, and rebirth of American cities—only to find himself at a turning point in his own career? In this episode of Boomer Banter, I sit down with veteran journalist and author John Gallagher to talk about his memoir, Rust Belt Reporter, and his reflections on journalism, storytelling, and legacy.John spent over 30 years at the Det
Championing Women's Education & Leadership: A Podcasthon Special
This special episode of Boomer Banter is part of Podcasthon's week-long initiative to have podcasters shine a spotlight on non-profits they support.I chose to highlight the impact of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), with an in-depth examination of the organization's commitment to advocating for women's rights and educational equity. My guest, Doris McLallen, is the State Presid
Curiosity and Passion: Keys to Aging Well
In this meaningful conversation, Wendy Green sits down with Becky Blue to talk about aging with curiosity, purpose, and passion. Becky shares her journey of becoming a first-time author at 60, proving that it’s never too late to follow a dream. Her book, Turning: The Magic and Mystery of More Days, isn’t just a story—it’s an invitation to rethink what’s possible in the years ahead.Together, Wendy
Defying Age: Scaling El Capitan and Life's Challenges
What would you do if someone told you that you were too old to chase a dream? For Dierdre Wolownick, the answer was simple: prove them wrong.At 66, she did something that would challenge even the fittest athletes—she climbed El Capitan, one of the most iconic rock faces in the world, in a single day. And she didn’t do it alone—she tackled the climb alongside her son, legendary climber Alex Honnold
Unpacking Memories: How to Preserve Your Legacy
A captivating exploration of memory and legacy unfolds as our host, Wendy Green, reflects on a cherished collection of dolls, gifted to her from her parents travels to foreign countries. Each doll holds a wealth of memories, cultural significance, and personal history. Wendy openly shares the emotional impact of these dolls, admitting that while they evoke nostalgia and dreams of travel for her, t
Navigating Long-Distance Relationships with Grandchildren
Staying connected with our grandchildren isn’t always easy—especially when miles separate us. As grandparents, we want to be involved in their lives, share our wisdom, and build cherished memories. But as they grow up, get busy, and focus on their own worlds, staying in touch can feel like an uphill battle.In this episode of Boomer Banter, we dive into the realities of long-distance grandparenting
Caring for Mom, Caring for Me: Finding Balance as an Alzheimer's Care Partner
The episode presents an intimate exploration of the caregiver's journey, as Jessica Smith articulately shares her experiences of supporting her mother through the trials of Alzheimer's disease. The discussion intricately weaves through themes of acceptance, the challenge of relinquishing control, and the significance of understanding one's limitations as a caregiver. As the conversation progresses
Aging and Loss: The Isolation of Grief
Episode Description:In this compelling episode, Wendy Green and her guest, Kerri Lewis, engage in a profound examination of grief, exploring its complexities and the myriad ways it can impact individuals. They articulate that grief is an inherent part of the human experience, transcending age and circumstance, and affecting individuals at different stages of their lives. The conversation touches u
What you Don't Know about Medicare may be costing you
Episode Description:Aging well comes with its share of challenges, particularly when it comes to healthcare decision-making. This podcast episode addresses the nagging uncertainties surrounding Medicare, expertly guided by Wendy Green and her guest, Tim Hanbury, a Medicare expert. The discussion begins with Green laying out the common fears and misgivings that many face when bombarded with promoti
Aging Well: Crafting Your Financial and Personal Legacy
Wendy Green opens this thought-provoking episode of Boomer Banter on Martin Luther King Day, intertwining the significance of service with the theme of legacy and financial literacy. As she reflects on the weather extremes affecting the country, she emphasizes the importance of reaching out to loved ones during challenging times. The episode delves into the essence of legacy, not merely in financi
Tax Strategies and Retirement Reflections with a Tax Influencer
The conversation between Wendy Green and Phyllis Jo Kubey delves deep into the often-overlooked complexities of tax management for retirees. Kubey, with her extensive background in tax preparation and planning, illuminates the intricacies of how retirement income is taxed and the common pitfalls retirees face. One surprising revelation is that up to 85% of Social Security benefits can be taxable,
Planning for the Unexpected - Protecting your Nest Egg
Understanding the nuances of financial planning is crucial, particularly in the face of unexpected life events that can derail one's financial stability. This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Melissa Bane, CPA & CFP, who offers valuable insights into preparing for the unforeseen and protecting one’s financial future. Our host, Wendy Green, opens up about her personal expe
Finding Vitality: Rekindle Dreams and Purpose in Later Life
Boomer Banter delves into the journey of rediscovering vitality and purpose in the later stages of life. Our host, Wendy Green, shares a personal narrative that begins with a life-altering layoff just before the tragic events of September 11, 2001, which sets the stage for a transformative career pivot. After several months of searching for employment, she finds work at a Sylvan Learning Center, w
Staying Relevant as we Age
Episode OverviewFeeling relevant and finding purpose is crucial as we navigate the complexities of aging. Beverly Glazer and Wendy Green explore the common experience of feeling invisible as we grow older and how redefining our sense of self can lead to renewed passion and engagement in life. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with activities we once loved and the power of community in fo
Aging, Spirituality and Self-Compassion
The conversation opens with a touching tribute from Wendy Green to her father, who carried a poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson that encapsulates the essence of a life well-lived. This sets a reflective tone for the episode, which features Carol Orsburn, Ph.D., a prominent figure in the conscious aging movement. Carol's insights into aging emphasize that it is not merely a chronological process but a pro
Using Movement and Mindfulness to Overcome Depression in our Later Years
Episode OverviewDepression can often feel like an immovable weight, but Nita Sweeney's journey illustrates how movement—both physical and mental—can serve as a pathway to healing. At 49, Nita found herself struggling with bipolar depression, feeling trapped in her despair until a friend's social media post about running sparked a change. She began with small steps, literally running for just 60 se
A Compassionate Move: The Story Behind "Safe Move for Seniors"
Wendy Green dives deep into the heart of aging and community service with Jill Yesko Diana, whose nonprofit, Safe Moves for Seniors, empowers economically disadvantaged older adults to move safely and with dignity. Jill’s journey is one of personal and professional evolution; starting as a professional organizer, she became acutely aware of the unique challenges faced by seniors in her community.
Re-envision Widowhood: Embracing Life's Full Color Palette
Molly Peacock, a poet and biographer, shares her poignant journey of love, loss, and resilience following the death of her husband, Mike Grodin. As she navigates the complexities of widowhood, Molly reveals how she transformed her grief into a vibrant exploration of emotions through her poetry collection, "The Widow's Crayon Box." The conversation delves into the contradictions of feeling both ali
Challenging Ageism and our Perception of Aging
Episode Overview:Experience a multifaceted exploration of aging, with Wendy Green leading the conversation alongside her guest Jeanette Leardi, a social gerontologist and author. The episode opens with a critical examination of how society often views older individuals as ‘the other,’ leading to a culture of fear and misunderstanding. Both Wendy and Jeanette stress that this perception is largely
Paws for Thought: Why Dogs are more than just Pets
Episode Summary:In this heartwarming and enlightening episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green and her guest, Stacey Colino delve into the profound bond between humans and dogs, exploring the manifold ways these loyal companions enrich our lives. Dive into the science behind the human-canine connection, the emotional and physical benefits of having a dog, and hear firsthand stories that showcase
Keeping Love Alive: Overcoming Challenges in Long-term Relationships as we age
Episode Description:Wendy Green and Dr. Liz Jenkins delve into the complexities of long-term relationships as we age, addressing the vital question of how to keep love alive amidst the challenges that come with aging. The conversation begins with the acknowledgment that relationships often face numerous hurdles, from financial stress to health issues, which can lead to feelings of disconnect. Dr.
The Realities of Parenting Adult Children: Myths, Expectations, and Truths
Episode DescriptionNavigating the complexities of parenting adult children can be challenging, often filled with unexpected tensions and disappointments. Wendy Green and her guest, Denise Gliwa, delve into the evolving dynamics of parent-child relationships as children transition into adulthood. They discuss the crucial shift from a parenting role to one of support and understanding, emphasizing t
SAFE! Essential Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults
Host, Wendy Green reflects on her harrowing experience during Hurricane Helene, which struck Greenville, South Carolina and Western North Carolina, and the challenges she faced in ensuring her family's safety and preparation. The discussion delves into the importance of emergency preparedness, particularly for older adults who may have unique needs and limitations.This episode serves as a wake-up
The Paradox of Grief: Pain and Beauty in Healing
The journey of healing through grief is not a linear path but a deeply personal and often unpredictable process. Wendy Green, host of Boomer Banter, explores this theme with guest Deborah Edgar, who shares her life story and the wisdom contained in her book "Good Grief." Deborah opens up about her challenging upbringing, the loss of her brother, and the trauma of losing her partner, John, during a
Beyond Age: Personalized Health Screenings for Women
Today we're discussing a critical topic—health screenings for older women. Joining us is Mary White, retired senior epidemiologist and adjunct professor at Emory Rollins School of Public Health. Mary brings over three decades of experience in disease prevention and cancer control.We explore the latest guidelines for colorectal and breast cancer screenings, considerations for women exposed to DES,
Boomer Banter trailer
Let’s be honest. As Boomers we never thought we would getold. We were the forever young generation.And the truth is, many of us are still vigorous, vital, involved individuals.But…the other truth is that arthritis is slowing us down. Knee and hipreplacements are being talked about. We’ve lost friends and family members. Weworry about whether we will out-live our money.At Boomer Banter, we are on a
