"The number one thing I want to share with people is that there is never an age or skill level when your body will not respond to the demands you put on it." – Dr. Vonda Wright 

Join us in this transformative replay episode of AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman as we delve into the five best tips for aging better with the renowned longevity expert, Dr. Vonda Wright. Dr. Wright, a double-board certified orthopaedic sports surgeon, author, speaker, and innovator, brings her extensive knowledge and science-based approach aging to help you take charge of your health and well-being starting today.  

Discussion Highlights 

Embrace a Positive Mindset: Dr. Wright shares the importance of viewing aging as an opportunity for growth and improvement. The best is yet to come! 

Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Discover why rest and recovery are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. 

Flexibility and Mobility Exercises: Learn how incorporating these exercises can maintain joint health and prevent mobility issues. 

Aerobic Training: Keep your heart healthy with a mix of base training and sprint intervals. 

Weightlifting: Understand how building muscle through weightlifting can improve bone density and overall strength. 

Balance and Agility: Focus on equilibrium, balance, and foot speed to prevent falls and stay agile. 

High-Quality Protein: Discover the role of nutrition, particularly consuming enough leucine-rich protein, to support muscle and bone health. 

Timed Eating: Explore Dr. Wright's practical approach to nutrition with timed eating, especially for those with active lifestyles. 

Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable tips to help you thrive at any age. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in longevity and women’s health. Listen now and start your journey to aging better today! 

Subscribe, Rate & Review: 

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and spread the message of aging better. 

Connect with Dr. Vonda Wright: 

Dr. Wright’s Website  

Instagram: @drvondawright 

X/Twitter: @drvondawright 

Resources Mentioned: 

Dr. Wright’s Books:  

  - Fitness After 40: How to Stay Strong at Any Age 

  - Guide to Thrive: 4 Steps to Body, Brains & Bliss 

Listen now and take the first step towards aging better! 

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What if thinking about death could be the secret to living your best life? In this unexpectedly uplifting episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined by Jodi Wellman, author of "You Only Die Once" and founder of Four Thousand Mondays, who brings her signature wit and wisdom to the most taboo topic of all – death. 

A former corporate executive turned "death enthusiast," Jodi has garnered over a million views on her TED Talk "How Death Can Bring You Back to Life." She shares how calculating your remaining Mondays (spoiler: it's probably around 4,000) might just be the wake-up call you need to start living more intentionally. 

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN 

- Why temporal scarcity might be the motivation kick you've been looking for 

- How to transform death anxiety into a catalyst for positive change 

- The truth about bucket lists (and why skydiving in Bora Bora might not be the answer) 

- Practical strategies for turning mortality awareness into daily inspiration 

- Why it's never too late to pursue your passions and live fully 

 KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

- How to use "life reviews" to identify patterns and inspire change 

- Simple techniques to overcome fear and step outside your comfort zone 

- Ways to make small daily choices that lead to significant life changes 

- Strategies for living with intention and reducing future regrets 

- Methods for finding meaning and connection at any age 

 LEARN MORE ABOUT JODI WELLMAN: 

Jodi Wellman is the founder of Four Thousand Mondays and author of "You Only Die Once." Her TED Talk on using death awareness to enhance life has inspired millions. Through her work, she helps people transform their relationship with mortality into a powerful tool for living more meaningfully. 

🔗CONNECT WITH JODI: 

- Website: fourthousandmondays.com 

- Book: "You Only Die Once" 

- TED Talk: "How Death Can Bring You Back to Life" 

- Instagram: @fourthousandmondays 

- LinkedIn: Four Thousand Mondays 

#AgeBetter #PersonalDevelopment #IntentionalLiving #Motivation #LifePurpose #Wellness #SelfDevelopment 

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Welcome back to AGE BETTER! This week’s episode is a real treat—I’m joined by Dr. Taz Bhatia and Julie Flakstad, the dynamic co-hosts of The Midlife Truth Project, a limited-run podcast that's turning heads and starting much-needed conversations about midlife. Dr. Taz and Julie bring their own unique expertise and experiences to the table, and together, they’re tackling all the twists, turns, and transformations that come with this stage of life. 

We dive into the inspiration behind The Midlife Truth Project and why they felt it was so crucial to create a podcast that speaks directly to women navigating the midlife landscape. From menopause to friendship, and from self-care to the often hush-hush topic of intimacy, Dr. Taz and Julie are dedicated to pulling back the curtain on all the "unspoken" challenges and joys of midlife. 

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: 

Midlife is Nuanced and Powerful: Dr. Taz and Julie share how midlife is often misunderstood, but with the right perspective, it can be a time for true growth and empowerment. 

The Power of Community: You’re not alone in this journey! Building and joining supportive communities can make all the difference. 

Embracing Health and Wellness: Dr. Taz, an expert in holistic medicine, stresses the importance of personalized approaches to health in midlife—so you can feel your best, inside and out. 

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: Julie opens up about why it’s essential to prioritize yourself during this time, even when life is pulling you in all directions. 

Friendship and Connection: Navigating friendships in midlife can be tricky, but they share tips on making those connections meaningful and lasting. 

Let’s Talk About Intimacy: No more silence! We get into why conversations around sex and intimacy are vital as we age. 

Dr. Taz and Julie share insights that you won’t want to miss, encouraging us all to celebrate and embrace the midlife journey with openness, truth, and a sense of adventure. After all, midlife isn’t something to “get through”—it’s a time to thrive. 

Find out more about *The Midlife Truth Project* and these inspiring women in the show notes below! 

CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT ‘THE MIDLIFE TRUTH PROJECT’: 

Dr. Taz Bhatia: Website - Instagram – X/Twitter - LinkedIn - YouTube 

Julie Flakstad: Website – Instagram – LinkedIn – Facebook 

The Midlife Truth Project: Website – Listen to the Podcast 

FOLLOW  

‘AGE BETTER WITH BARBARA HANNAH GRUFFERMAN’  

AND LEAVE A COMMENT!  

THANK YOU! 

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 In this episode of Age Better, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman is joined by Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, a reproductive endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health, to discuss the critical link between metabolic syndrome and dementia, particularly in midlife women. They delve into what metabolic syndrome is, why it’s so common, and the latest research that underscores a significant increase in the risk of developing dementia for those with this condition. The episode highlights the crucial role of lifestyle changes, such as adopting healthy eating habits, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, to lower risks and support brain health as we age. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

- Metabolic syndrome comprises a combination of factors, including insulin resistance. 

- Post-menopausal women are more prone to metabolic syndrome due to decreased estrogen levels. 

- Having metabolic syndrome elevates the risk of developing dementia. 

- Recent research shows a 7% increase in dementia risk for individuals with metabolic syndrome. 

- Lifestyle elements like smoking, inactivity, and poor sleep contribute to metabolic syndrome. 

- Healthy eating and consistent exercise are key preventative measures. 

- There is no safe level of alcohol consumption for optimal health. 

- Even brief periods of exercise can have a substantial positive impact. 

- Maintaining healthy habits is essential to avoiding metabolic syndrome. 

- A healthy lifestyle not only reduces disease risk but also enhances overall happiness and well-being. 

LINKS TO LEARN MORE: 

Read more about the connection between metabolic syndrome and dementia here.   

Listen to the episode of AGE BETTER discussing how HIIT can lower risks for metabolic syndrome here.   

LEARN MORE ABOUT AGE BETTER PODCAST:  

Age Better podcast delves into a diverse range of topics, including finance, work, health, fitness, style, makeup, hair, nutrition, travel, relationships, sex, menopause and more. Each week, I'll bring you the latest insights, expert opinions, and actionable advice.  

LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE! 

To join this adventure, remember to subscribe or follow the "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Yep, you can watch it or just listen! 

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This is a replay of one of the most-downloaded episodes of AGE BETTER in 2024.  

Take a deep dive into the heart of midlife cardiovascular wellness with this important episode of "Age Better," where host Barbara Hannah Grufferman talks with Dr. Melissa Tracy, a top-tier cardiologist from the RUSH University Medical Center. Dr. Tracy is also the Medical Director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at RUSH.  

Dr. Tracy gives a masterclass on statins - those powerhouse medications at the forefront of cholesterol management and heart disease prevention. But the question that lies at the core of this discussion is one that resonates with millions: Who really needs to be on statins? By tuning in, you’ll get the knowledge and tools you need to make the decision that is right for you.  

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

KEY LINKS: 

Learn More About Dr. Melissa Tracy: https://doctors.rush.edu/details/1183 

What is Cardiac Rehabilitation? https://www.kevinmd.com/2024/02/a-people-first-approach-to-cardiac-rehabilitation.html 

USNews+WorldReport Article: https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-03-05/statin-meds-cholesterol-what-you-need-to-know 

Alternatives to Statins Referenced During the Episode:  

Ezetimibe: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ezetimibe-oral-route/description/drg-20067172 

Bempedoic Acid: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bempedoic-acid-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20484223?p=1 

PCSK9 inhibitors: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pcsk9-inhibitor#definition 

Whether you’re on a statin already, or giving it serious consideration … this episode will help you make the decision that is right for you. 

Listen and Subscribe  

Remember to subscribe or follow the "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Yep, you can watch it or just listen!  

Share Your Ideas and Questions  

Your questions have spurred many episodes, so please keep them coming! Share your ideas for topics and guest suggestions at [email protected] 

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In this episode of AGE BETTER, we dive into the transformative power of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with Dr. Joan Grossman. Dr. Grossman, a leading expert in women's health and fitness, shares her research on how HIIT can address the unique challenges women, especially post-menopausal women, face with body composition, weight gain, and chronic disease prevention. She explains how just 15 minutes of HIIT can help trim belly fat, improve cardiovascular health, and build resistance training into a busy lifestyle. Plus, we explore the importance of bone health, muscle strength, and the role of intermittent fasting in maintaining a healthy body as we age.  

If you're struggling to fit exercise into your daily routine, this episode is packed with practical tips and encouragement to get started on your fitness journey! 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

- HIIT is a time-efficient, effective method for improving body composition, especially for post-menopausal women. 

- Resistance training is essential for maintaining bone health and preventing chronic diseases. 

- Women store fat differently, particularly after menopause, but HIIT can help target stubborn areas like belly fat. 

- Starting small with just 15 minutes a day can make fitness routines sustainable and manageable for busy women. 

- Incorporating cardio and resistance training together improves overall health outcomes. 

- Consistency is key to long-term success in building healthy habits. 

- Emerging research suggests intermittent fasting may benefit women's health, especially post-menopause. 

- Protein intake becomes increasingly important as women age. 

- Resistance bands are a great, portable tool for adding strength training to your routine. 

KEY LINKS: 

- Learn more about Dr. Joan Grossman HERE 

- Get your own resistance bands HERE 

- Try The 10-Minute Trainer with Tony Horton HERE 

Listen now and get ready to age better! 

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In this solo episode, Barbara dives into the essential blood tests and health screenings every midlife woman should ask about during their annual physical. Drawing on expert insights from past episodes, she explains why it’s crucial to go beyond routine tests and discusses additional screenings that can help detect potential health risks early. From heart health to bone strength, Barbara encourages listeners to have proactive conversations with their doctors to ensure they’re getting the best care as they age. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE ‘AGE BETTER CHEAT SHEET ESSENTIAL LIST OF TESTS’  

TIP: Take this list with you to your next annual physical exam and discuss with your doctor! 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

- The importance of the lipid panel for understanding heart health. 

- How the Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) test provides a more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment. 

- Why high levels of C-reactive Protein (CrP) can indicate dangerous inflammation levels. 

- The critical role of Vitamin D for bone and immune health, especially in midlife women. 

- How regular blood glucose testing can help catch diabetes early. 

- The significance of blood pressure monitoring for heart disease prevention. 

- Why women should prioritize bone density tests to prevent osteoporosis. 

- The importance of monitoring  waist circumference as an indicator of health risks. 

- The need for regular cancer screenings, including Pap smears, mammograms, and colonoscopies, for early detection. 

Key Takeaways:   

- The lipid panel is foundational to understanding heart health. 

- The ApoB test is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk. 

- High levels of C-Reactive Protein indicate chronic inflammation risks. 

- Vitamin D is essential for bone and immune health. 

- Regular blood glucose tests can catch diabetes early. 

- Blood pressure monitoring is vital for heart disease prevention. 

- Bone density tests are critical for midlife women. 

- Waist circumference is a key indicator of health risks. 

- Regular cancer screenings are essential for early detection. 

Related Episodes of AGE BETTER: 

Learn more about the ApoB and LP(a) tests HERE.  

Learn more about inflammation HERE.  

Learn more about heart health and atrial fibrillation HERE. 

Learn more about blood glucose and insulin resistance HERE. 

Connect with Barbara:   

Website: BarbaraHannahGrufferman.com   

Instagram: @BarbaraHannahGrufferman   

X/Twitter: @BGrufferman 

Facebook: @BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor 

Please Rate & Review the Show!   

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a review or sharing it with someone who would benefit from these essential health tips. 

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Welcome to another episode of AGE BETTER! 

If you’ve ever wondered about the impact of hearing loss or have been hesitant to explore hearing aids, this episode is for you. With approximately 30 million Americans potentially benefiting from hearing aids and the majority not using them, it’s clear that traditional solutions aren’t meeting people’s needs. That’s where Apple’s latest innovation comes in—transforming their popular AirPods Pro 2 into over-the-counter hearing aids with just a software update. This breakthrough could be a game-changer for millions. 

In this conversation, Dr. Nicholas Reed from NYU Langone Health’s Optimal Aging Institute explains why this development is so significant. We’ll explore the barriers people face when it comes to addressing hearing loss, such as stigma and cost, and how technology can bridge the gap. You’ll also learn about the broader implications of wearable tech in healthcare and why regular hearing tests are more important than ever, especially as we age. 

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE 

The Impact of Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss: Discover how even slight hearing impairment can significantly affect quality of life, contributing to issues like depression, cognitive decline, and social isolation. 

Overcoming the Stigma: Learn how Apple’s AirPods, with their mainstream appeal and affordable pricing, could help reduce the stigma often associated with traditional hearing aids. 

The Role of Technology in Hearing Health: Understand how advancements in wearable technology are transforming healthcare, making it more accessible and integrated into our daily lives. 

The Importance of Regular Hearing Tests: Find out why Dr. Reed recommends regular hearing tests for everyone, and how Apple’s new feature allows you to check your hearing at home using just an iPhone or iPad. 

Holistic Health and Aging: Hear about the Optimal Aging Institute’s holistic approach to health and how it addresses the unique challenges of aging, including hearing health. 

KEY LINKS FOR MORE INFORMATION 

Learn more about Dr. Nicholas Reed HERE. 

Find out more about NYU Langone Health’s Optimal Aging Institute HERE.  

Learn more about TUNED: Hearing Telehealth HERE.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT AGE BETTER PODCAST     

Age Better podcast delves into a diverse range of topics, including finance, work, health, fitness, style, makeup, hair, nutrition, travel, relationships, sex, menopause and more. Each week, I'll bring you the latest insights, expert opinions, and actionable advice.   

Listen and Subscribe       

To join this adventure, remember to subscribe or follow the "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Yep, you can watch it or just listen!     

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In this heartfelt episode of AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman, I sit down with Julie Edelman, the beloved author and lifestyle expert known to many as “The Accidental Housewife.” Julie has been a trusted source of practical tips and humor for women across the country, but now she’s sharing a deeply personal side of her story with her debut novel, “The Accidental Sisterhood.” 

Following a breast cancer diagnosis, Julie turned to writing as a way to process her experiences and connect with other women facing similar challenges, from illness and heartbreak to toxic relationships. Her novel tells the story of Jules Malone, a woman who, after surviving an abusive relationship and a less-than-thrilling marriage, meets a charming new love interest—only to discover she’s one of four women entangled in his deceit. It’s a tale of resilience, unexpected friendships, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood that forms between women during life’s most challenging times. 

In our conversation, Julie talks about the inspiration behind her book, the healing power of writing, and how her experiences shaped the novel’s themes of love, betrayal, and the strength we find in community. We also discuss the challenges of dating after illness, the importance of self-care and advocacy in health, and why she believes so strongly in the resilience and spirit of women supporting each other. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

- How Julie’s breast cancer diagnosis inspired her to write her first novel and connect with other women going through similar struggles. 

- The importance of sisterhood and how female friendships can be a powerful source of strength and healing. 

- Navigating relationships after illness: Julie shares her personal experiences and the challenges many women face in dating and self-worth. 

- Why self-care and health advocacy are crucial for women, especially when dealing with life-changing health issues. 

- A peek into Julie’s new novel, "The Accidental Sisterhood," and how it blends humor, suspense, and the unbreakable bonds between women. 

LINKS & RESOURCES 

- Learn more about Julie’s work and upcoming projects HERE. 

- Order “The Accidental Sisterhood” HERE. 

- Breast Cancer Awareness Month Resources HERE. 

- Follow Julie on Instagram HERE.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT AGE BETTER PODCAST     

Age Better podcast delves into a diverse range of topics, including finance, work, health, fitness, style, makeup, hair, nutrition, travel, relationships, sex, menopause and more. Each week, I'll bring you the latest insights, expert opinions, and actionable advice.       

Listen and Subscribe       

To join this adventure, remember to subscribe or follow the "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Yep, you can watch it or just listen!     

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In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m sitting down with Denise Pines, an age enthusiast, community health advocate, and media pioneer, to discuss her powerful new documentary, “The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause.” Premiering on PBS on October 17th—just in time for World Menopause Day—the film aims to break down the barriers surrounding menopause and bring this often-silenced topic into the spotlight. 

Denise, who founded WisePause Wellness and the FemAging Project, shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind the film. She reveals the critical need for better education, support, and advocacy for women navigating menopause. We talk about how the lack of information and resources, especially for women of color, has fueled her passion to create a platform where women can access the knowledge and support they need during this life stage. Our conversation also delves into the impact of COVID-19 on menopause awareness, the importance of addressing disparities in healthcare, and the need for improved doctor-patient relationships. 

Denise’s insights are not just informative but truly empowering, encouraging all women to take charge of their menopause experience and advocate for their health. Whether you’re going through menopause, have already been through it, or want to support the women in your life, this episode is packed with information and inspiration to help you navigate this transition with confidence. 

WHY YOU SHOULD LISTEN: 

Denise Pines brings decades of experience as a trusted resource for women pursuing midlife wellness. She’s the founder of WisePause Wellness, a pro-aging health and education platform, and co-founder of the FemAging Project, which supports innovations designed specifically for women over 40. As the co-founder and CEO of Tea Botanics, she also developed Hot Flash Tea to help women manage menopause symptoms naturally. Her latest documentary, “The M Factor,” is a call to action for women everywhere to shed the stigma around menopause and take charge of their health. 

Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation filled with practical advice, personal stories, and groundbreaking insights from a true advocate for women’s health. So, pop in your earbuds, take me with you on a walk, and get ready to AGE BETTER! 

KEY LINKS: 

Get More info about ‘The M Factor’ Documentary Here 

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