"Sometimes you have to push your body and mind to see just how far you can go." – Mary Newell 

Key Links & Resources 

Learn more about the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation’s Be Bone Strong Teams: https://www.bonehealthandosteoporosis.org 

Follow the Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify 

Watch full episodes and bonus clips on YouTube HERE 

Summary 

In this inspiring episode of AGE BETTER, I sit down once again with my friend and fellow runner, Mary Newell, a clinical psychologist and endurance athlete who started running at 55 and, at 75, is still racing strong. Mary and I reflect on the unforgettable experience of running the New York City Marathon together, the power of community through charity runs, and how music, memories, and mindset can carry you through even the toughest miles. 

Mary shares her journey of discovering running later in life, the thrill and challenge of endurance races like the Great Wall Marathon, and why strength training is essential as we age. Together we explore resilience, motivation, and the confidence that comes from pushing past limits — proving that running can be a lifelong pursuit. 

If  you’re enjoying Age Better,  I’d  be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.   

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!     

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“We’re living longer, but the real question is—are we living healthier?” – Gretel Schueller 

Key Links & Resources 

Episode Summary 

In this episode of AGE BETTER, Barbara Hannah Grufferman sits down with Gretel Schueller, Managing Editor of Health at U.S. News & World Report, to unpack the findings from the brand-new Healthy Aging Survey 2025. 

What really matters most if you want to age better? From the top habits experts swear by, to the biggest mistakes that speed up aging, to the exciting role of technology in our health future—you’ll hear insights that are both practical and surprising. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode 

Prefer to Watch?  

You can also watch the full episode on my YouTube channel under the AGE BETTER playlist: Barbara Hannah Grufferman YouTube Channel   

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“It’s never too late to start working on your bone density — and even maintaining is a win. Small changes add up.” — Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein 

Key links & resources 

About this episode 

Duke University orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine doc Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein cuts through the noise on what really keeps bones and joints strong after 50. We get real about the bone-loss timeline, why calcium + vitamin D aren’t enough, and how food, gut health, strength, impact, balance, and agility all work together. She explains “lifting heavy” in plain English (and when to scale it), how to use impact safely with knee arthritis, and why holding steady on DEXA can still be a win—thanks to bone quality and TBS. We also touch prunes, food-based supplements, and targeted vibration devices like OsteoBoost—what looks promising and what to watch. Fast, practical, no fluff—so you can protect your bones, your joints, and your independence. 

What you’ll learn by listening 

Have a follow-up question for Dr. Wittstein? Send it to [email protected] and I’ll aim to include it in a future episode or newsletter. 

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.      

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!    

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“Too many women skip mammograms because of pain. But now, there’s another option.” — Dr. Margaret Nachtigall 

Key Links & Resources 

About This Episode 

In this episode of AGE BETTER, Barbara is joined by frequent guest Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, reproductive endocrinologist at NYU and Medical Director of Pink Medical. Together, they discuss why mammograms are essential for early detection, why pain has been a barrier for too many women, and how new technology like VeraScan is changing the future of breast cancer screening. They also dive into how hormonal changes affect breast density, the role of genetic testing, and what women of all ages can do to stay proactive about breast health. 

Why You Should Listen 

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.      

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!    

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“Loneliness is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day—and social connection may be the real key to living to 100.” — Ken Stern 

Key Links & Resources 

In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined by Ken Stern—former CEO of NPR, founder of the Longevity Project with Stanford, and author of the brand-new book Healthy to 100: How Strong Social Ties Lead to Long Lives. His groundbreaking research reveals that the real secret to longevity isn’t diet, exercise, or genetics—it’s our social connections. 

We explore what the U.S. can learn from the world’s longest-lived societies, why intergenerational communities thrive, and how purpose and engagement can add years to your life. Ken also shares why loneliness has become a public health crisis, and what we can do to build stronger social ties for a healthier, happier future. 

Why listen? 

This conversation will inspire you to think differently about aging—and about the relationships that matter most. 

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.      

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!    

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“Everyone’s talking about ways to ‘stimulate your vagus nerve.’ But what actually works—and what’s just hype?” — Dr. Kevin Tracey 

Key Resources & Links  

In this second part of my conversation with Dr. Kevin J. Tracey, neurosurgeon, researcher, and one of the most cited medical experts in the world, we’re separating fact from fiction when it comes to the vagus nerve. 

If you’ve seen cold plunges, breathwork hacks, or gadgets claiming to “activate” your vagus nerve, you’ll want to hear this. Dr. Tracey explains what’s real, what’s promising, and what you can skip. We also dive into why inflammation is at the root of so many chronic conditions—and how new therapies might one day change the way we treat disease without relying on drugs. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

And don’t forget—we’re giving away copies of Dr. Tracey’s groundbreaking book, The Great Nerve. Winners will be chosen from listeners who share Parts 1 or 2 (or both!). Just share the link to the episode on Instagram, tag me @barbarahannahgrufferman, and you’re entered! Easy peasy! 

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.      

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!    

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“Someday, devices that stimulate the vagus nerve may replace many of the drugs people take for chronic disease.”— Dr. Kevin Tracey 

Key Resources & Links 

Why Listen to This Episode? 

In this first of a two-part series, I sit down with Dr. Kevin J. Tracey, neurosurgeon, CEO of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, and founder of the field of bioelectronic medicine. He’s also one of the most widely cited medical experts in the world. Together, we explore the science behind the vagus nerve, a vast communication highway between your brain and body that is proving to be a powerful regulator of inflammation. 

Just weeks ago, the FDA approved the first implantable vagus nerve device for rheumatoid arthritis, a breakthrough that could pave the way for treating other conditions without drugs. Dr. Tracey explains what this milestone means, how the device works, and why it could someday replace some of the medications people rely on for chronic disease management. 

What You’ll Learn in Part 1 

ENTER TO WIN A COPY OF ‘THE GREAT NERVE’! How to enter: listen to the episode, share the link on Instagram and tag me

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.     

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!   

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In this solo episode of Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman, I break down seven brand-new studies that could change the way you think about your health in your 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. 

From the surprising truth about sitting time, to the power of strength training, to how the Mediterranean diet protects both brain and body—this episode is your shortcut to the latest science on aging well. 

Why listen? Because research only matters when you know what it means for you. Each study ends with a clear takeaway you can put into practice today 

What You’ll Learn 

Referenced AGE BETTER Episodes 

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.     

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!   

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"Calcium from food is the ideal source." — Dr. Jennifer Han 

Learn more about SEEN Nutrition: https://www.seennutrition.com 

If you’ve been with me for a while, you know bone health is one of my biggest passions. I’ve worked with the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation for over 10 years, and I’m always on the lookout for innovations that can truly make a difference. 

That’s why I’m so excited to share this conversation with Dr. Jennifer Han. She’s a dual residency–trained, board-certified clinical pharmacist, functional medicine practitioner, and co-founder of SEEN Nutrition — the company behind the first calcium chew made entirely from real food. 

Dr. Han’s personal story is remarkable. After a rare bone disease fractured her back just two months after giving birth, she set out to completely rethink calcium supplements — and what she’s created could change the way we all think about supporting our bones. 

In our conversation, we cover: 

 Dr. Han’s message is one I want every listener to hear: bone health is a lifelong commitment, and with the right knowledge and tools, you can protect your strength, mobility, and independence for years to come. 

Take a listen—and don’t forget to follow the show so you never miss an episode.   

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.    

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send me a note at [email protected]. I love hearing from you.  

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RESOURCES & LINKS 

Watch a message from Barbara HERE 

Check out the Osteoboost Official Website HERE 

Visit the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation Website HERE 

EPISODE UPDATE This is a replay of our March episode with Laura Yecies, CEO of Osteoboost. Since our original conversation aired, I have started using the Osteoboost vibration belt—30 minutes daily—as part of my bone health routine. 

In this conversation, Laura and I discuss Osteoboost, an FDA-approved device using NASA-inspired vibration therapy to combat bone loss. Laura explains how the technology works, its impressive clinical results (85% reduction in spinal bone loss), and who benefits most. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

Note: For informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen. 

Take a listen—and don’t forget to follow the show so you never miss an episode.   

If you’re enjoying Age Better, I’d be so grateful if you left a quick review wherever you listen.    

And if there’s a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode, send a note to [email protected] -- I love hearing from you!  

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