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!     

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful episode of AGE BETTER, I sit down with Joyce Shulman co-founder of 99 Walks, to tackle one of the most urgent public health crises facing America today: the loneliness epidemic. Recently declared an epidemic by the U.S. Surgeon General, loneliness affects millions of people, particularly those in midlife. Joyce, who is transitioning from leading 99 Walks to focus on building programs aimed at helping women in midlife transitions, brings valuable insights into how we can address this growing issue. 

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: 

- The True Impact of Loneliness: Joyce and I explore how loneliness isn't just an emotional issue, but one with significant mental and physical health consequences—comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. 

- Midlife & Loneliness: Why this phase of life can be especially isolating, and how we can reverse this trend by nurturing social connections. 

- Practical Steps to Combat Loneliness: Whether it's through building casual friendships, walking together, or becoming more active in your community, Joyce shares actionable ways to reconnect. 

- The Role of Technology: While social media can offer meaningful connections, it can also amplify feelings of isolation. We explore how to use technology to foster, rather than hinder, real connection. 

- Why Friendship Requires Effort: Learn why maintaining relationships requires intentionality and action, especially as we age. 

- Community & Connection: Discover how getting involved in your local community can play a crucial role in combating feelings of loneliness. 

- The Pandemic’s Role: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social isolation and what we can do to heal from its lingering effects. 

Whether you’re feeling isolated yourself or looking for ways to help a loved one, this episode offers insights and tools to take the first steps toward building a stronger, more connected life. 

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE  

Be sure to subscribe to AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman for more conversations that help you take charge of your health and well-being as you age.  

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EPISODE SUMMARY: 

In this episode of AGE BETTER, I dive deep into the transformative practice of doing a ‘Life Review’ with journalist Emily Laber-Warren. Emily, who heads the Health & Science Reporting Program at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY, brings her extensive experience writing about aging, health, and psychology for publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post to this insightful conversation. She explains how a life review—a process of reflecting on one’s past—can help individuals, especially women in midlife, find clarity, purpose, and even heal from grief or regret. 

Emily sheds light on how a life review, once considered a therapy for those at the end of life, is now recognized as a valuable tool for anyone looking to better understand their past and shape their future. Whether done alone, in a group, or with a guide, a life review offers a powerful opportunity for self-discovery. 

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN 

- What a life review is and why it’s important at any stage of life. 

- How a life review can help women in midlife navigate transitions and uncover new purpose. 

- Methods for conducting a life review, including guided autobiography and journaling. 

- How self-reflection can transform grief, reveal hidden strengths, and reshape your future. 

- Practical tips to start your own life review journey with resources from Emily Laber-Warren. 

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES REFERENCED BY EMILY LABER-WARREN DURING THE EPISODE: 

- Jodi Wellman’s "Your Life Review Before You Go and Die": A free downloadable PDF with 100+ reflective questions grouped by life phases, ideal for a DIY life review. Find it here. And follow Jodi Wellman on Instagram here.  

- "Writing Your Legacy" by Cheryl Svensson and Richard Campbell: A guide to conducting your own guided autobiography, whether solo or in a group. 

- The Birren Center for Autobiographical Studies: Find certified guided autobiography instructors to join a group or start your own. Get more info here. 

- Jane Fonda’s "Prime Time": Learn how Jane Fonda used her life review to uncover personal truths and reflect on her legacy. There’s even a special chapter in this book about steps to take to do your own ‘Life Review’. Order here.  

- Emily Laber-Warren: Ready Emily’s New York Times article here (there might be a paywall) and learn more about Emily’s other work here. 

READY TO START YOUR OWN ‘LIFE REVIEW’? 

If you’ve ever felt the need to reflect on your past, this episode will inspire you to take that first step. Whether you're navigating midlife transitions or seeking clarity for the future, a life review can help you better understand yourself and chart a more purposeful path forward. Tune in to hear Emily’s expert insights and actionable tips! 

FOLLOW AGE BETTER PODCAST AND CONSIDER LEAVING A REVIEW!   

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Patients who were on hormone therapy had a lower biologic age compared to the women who were not on hormone therapy." – Dr. Margaret Nachtigall 

In this episode of AGE BETTER, we dive into a new and exciting study that suggests hormone therapy (HT) may help women not only feel better but also stay biologically younger. We’re talking about a study that analyzed data from over 117,000 women and found that those on hormone therapy had a lower biologic age compared to those who weren’t. The most significant benefits were seen in women who used hormone therapy for four to eight years, but as always, there’s more to the story.  

Our guest, Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, a menopause expert and reproductive endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health and Medical Director of Menopause Cheat Sheet, is here to break it all down for us. Together, we explore how hormone therapy can influence biological aging, the risks and benefits of HT, and why timing and duration are key. Whether you’re considering hormone therapy or already on it, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions about your health. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

Hormone therapy can help women look and feel biologically younger: Women using hormone therapy showed a lower biological age compared to those who never used it, especially when used for 4-8 years. 

The most benefits are seen in women who use hormone therapy for 4 to 8 years: A longer duration of hormone therapy within this window seems to be associated with the best outcomes in reducing biological age and improving overall health. 

Risks like blood clots and breast cancer must be considered: 

As with all medical treatments, HT isn’t risk-free. Dr. Nachtigall explains how risks like blood clotting and breast cancer need to be weighed carefully and personalized for each individual. 

The timing and duration of hormone therapy should be individualized: 

Hormone therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and Dr. Nachtigall emphasizes the importance of starting HT at the right time and determining the best duration for each woman. 

WHY YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE: 

KEY LINKS & RESOURCES: 

- Learn more about hormone therapy and menopause: [Menopause Cheat Sheet] 

- Read the study discussed in this episode: [JAMA Network Open]

- Connect with Dr. Margaret Nachtigall: [NYU Langone Health]

FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE 

Be sure to subscribe to AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman for more conversations that help you take charge of your health and well-being as you age. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman! 

In this episode, I sit down with Patricia Greenberg, the author of the newly released book “It’s Okay to Be Old: Thoughtful Acceptance of Your Age.” Together, we explore what it really means to age and how the concept of being "old" has evolved over time. Patricia and I dive into the idea that aging is a natural part of the life cycle—something to be embraced, not feared. We talk about the importance of letting go of what others think and becoming truly comfortable with where we are in life. 

Patricia challenges the notion that getting older means slowing down, suggesting instead that it’s about being more thoughtful and intentional in everything we do. We discuss the crucial role of self-care in the aging process, covering topics like nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. Patricia shares her insights on making small, sustainable changes that can have a big impact on our overall well-being, from mindful eating to incorporating movement into our daily routines. 

We wrap up the conversation by discussing Patricia’s book, “It’s Okay to Be Old,” which encourages a positive and accepting attitude toward aging. It’s a conversation full of practical advice, thoughtful reflections, and a lot of inspiration for anyone looking to embrace their age and live fully. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

- The definition of "old" has changed over time, and it’s just another part of the life cycle. 

- Embracing your age is essential—don’t let it define you, and stop worrying about what others think. 

- Aging isn’t about slowing down; it’s about being more intentional and mindful in our actions. 

- Nutrition and fitness are key to aging well, and making thoughtful choices in these areas is crucial. 

- Small, daily actions—like better food choices and incorporating movement—can greatly impact your overall well-being. 

- Mindful eating, such as chewing slowly and savoring your meals, can improve digestion and bring a sense of calm. 

- Accepting your age thoughtfully allows you to find happiness in the present moment. 

- Simple pleasures, like walking in nature or spending time with friends, can add peacefulness and joy to your life. 

KEY LINKS: 

Learn more about Patricia Greenberg - Author, Wellness Advocate, and Host of the YouTube show “Age Well.” Patricia has completed 20 marathons, 115 half marathons, and is passionate about staying strong and living well. Her new book, “It’s Okay to Be Old,” offers a fresh perspective on aging that’s both empowering and enlightening.  

Visit Patricia’s website here.  

FOLLOW AGE BETTER PODCAST AND CONSIDER LEAVING A REVIEW!  

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman, I dive into a groundbreaking conversation about heart health with one of the world’s leading experts on cholesterol and heart disease prevention, Dr. Ann Marie Navar. Dr. Navar is an Associate Professor of Medicine and preventive cardiologist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, with a research focus on preventing heart disease through cholesterol management. She also serves on the Executive Committee of the American Society of Preventive Cardiology. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

Join us for this essential discussion to learn how to take proactive steps in managing your heart health with the latest insights from cutting-edge research. 

KEY LINKS: 

Don't forget to subscribe to AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman for more expert advice on how to age better! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Tomorrow I'm going to quit my job and I'm going to make a movie," said filmmaker Melissa Davey. And so she did. Here’s her story . . . 

In this inspiring replay of a recent episode of AGE BETTER, I sat down with Melissa Davey, a woman who boldly transitioned from a successful corporate career to becoming a documentary filmmaker focusing on midlife women.  

Melissa shares her unique story, from her early days in advocacy, where she listened to and represented countless individuals, to a serendipitous encounter with filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan that changed the course of her life. This chance meeting inspired Melissa to leave her corporate job and dive headfirst into the world of filmmaking. 

Her first documentary, "Beyond 60," shines a light on extraordinary women over the age of 60, proving that remarkable achievements have no age limit. But, since the episode aired in June, Melissa has been on an amazing journey with her latest documentary, “Climbing into Life”. Just recently, she premiered the film at the Sacramento International Film Festival, where it won the Outstanding Documentary Award! The response to the film has been phenomenal, with audiences raving about the film’s powerful message: that it’s never too late to embrace new challenges and truly live life to the fullest . . . no matter what your age.  

Key Takeaways: 

There is Power in a Good Story: Listening to and sharing stories is a potent way to advocate for and connect with others. 

Openness to Growth: Different perspectives and opinions foster personal growth and empathy. 

Serendipity and Dreams: Sometimes, a chance encounter can ignite the pursuit of your dreams. Don’t be afraid to take detours and explore new paths. 

Being Fearless: It's never too late to chase your aspirations, even in midlife. Manage and overcome your fears. 

Getting Your Support System in Place: Seek guidance and support from those who have navigated similar transitions. 

It’s OK to Fail if You Learn Something: Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and stay open to new experiences. 

Learn More About Melissa Davey: 

Website: 

https://melissadavey.com 

https://www.beyondsixty.com 

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/climbingintolife 

https://www.facebook.com/BeyondSixtyProject 

LinkedIn 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-davey--16484b6 

Instagram: 

https://Instagram.com/beyond60project 

https://instagram.com/climbing_into_life 

https://instagram.com/gettingoldbutwhocares 

Articles: 

https://www.inquirer.com/philly/business/small_business/m-night-shyamalan-asked-this-grandmother-a-question-triggering-her-career-change-at-65-20171206.html 

https://film.org/melissa-davey-and-beyond-sixty/ 

https://verilymag.com/2023/05/beyond-sixty-creating-visibility-for-older-women-and-their-stories-2023 

You Tube Movie Trailers: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KU1BZIefY2s 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6JXH1mdWIM 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Estrogen plays a powerful role in our brains and mental health, and its fluctuations during menopause can bring about significant changes.”  -Dr. Margaret Nachtigall 

This week on "AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman," we’re doing a ‘Menopause Cheat Sheet’ episode with insights from Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, a leading reproductive endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health and the Medical Director of Menopause Cheat Sheet newsletter. 

We dive deep into how menopause impacts your mental health—from mood swings and anxiety to the dreaded "brain fog." Dr. Nachtigall explains how the hormonal shifts during this time can affect your brain and neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are crucial for regulating mood. We also explore the connection between menopause-related depression and the increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia later in life. 

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Dr. Nachtigall shares actionable strategies to manage these symptoms, from hormone therapy to lifestyle changes that can make a real difference. Whether you’re struggling with sleep disturbances, stress, or changes in self-perception, this episode offers practical advice to help you navigate menopause with confidence and protect your mental well-being. 

TAKEAWAYS 

- Learn how fluctuations in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. 

- Discover how managing hormone levels with hormone therapy can alleviate mental health symptoms. 

- Understand the link between menopause-related depression and the increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. 

- Explore how chronic inflammation and cardiovascular changes can impact mental health during menopause. 

- Get practical tips on lifestyle changes and therapies that can help you manage menopause-related mental health challenges and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. 

Tune in to empower yourself with the knowledge and tools you need to take charge of your mental health during menopause and beyond. 

KEY LINKS: 

Watch an earlier episode focusing on inflammation HERE.  

Read more on menopause and depression HERE. 

Read “The Menopause Brain” by Dr. Lisa Mosconi 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.  

Stick with Me!      

Let's embark on this remarkable journey together! We'll explore new concepts, challenge old beliefs, and inspire one another to not just embrace but genuinely LOVE our bodies, minds, and spirits as we get older.    

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!     

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]     

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this ‘Instant Replay’ of an earlier episode of AGE BETTER, New York Times best-selling author Stephen Perrine joins me to discuss his latest book, "The Full-Body Fat Fix." We take a deep dive into the connection between chronic inflammation, gut health, and weight management. Steve shares invaluable insights on protein timing, the pitfalls of superfoods and supplements, and the critical role of diet and exercise in reducing inflammation and promoting overall health.  

Why You Should Tune In:  

If you're interested in understanding how chronic inflammation affects your weight and overall health, this episode is a must-listen. Stephen Perrine, who co-wrote the best-selling “The Whole Body Reset” brings his expertise to the table, offering practical advice and debunking common myths about diet and supplements. You'll learn how to optimize your gut health, reduce inflammation, and achieve sustainable weight loss.  

Key Takeaways:  

Chronic Inflammation: A primary driver of obesity and other health issues, largely influenced by diet.  

Diverse Diet: Essential for a healthy gut microbiome and overall wellness, focusing on a wide variety of plant fibers.  

Protein Timing: Crucial for preventing muscle loss and maintaining muscle mass, especially as we age.  

Superfoods Myth: Debunked in favor of a diverse and varied diet.  

Supplements: Overemphasis on vitamins and supplements is questioned; nutrients should primarily come from whole foods. Excessive use of supplements is often unnecessary and may not be effective.  

Gut Health: Improving gut health through a diverse plant-based diet and moderate exercise can reduce inflammation and combat obesity.  

Learn More:  

Get the “The Full-Body Fat Fix”: https://amzn.to/3yOyXSc  

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!    

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]     

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices