In this episode of "AGE BETTER," I took a deep dive with Dr. Rhonda Garelick, a renowned writer and cultural critic who contributes the "Face Forward" column for The New York Times's Style section. Dr. Garelick is the D.E. Hughes Jr. Distinguished Chair for English and Professor of Journalism at Southern Methodist University and will soon begin a new role as the Founding Director of the Interdisciplinary Public Humanities Institute at Hofstra University. 

Dr. Garelick has authored three acclaimed books, including “Mademoiselle: Coco Chanel and the Pulse of History,” and is currently working on a new book titled “Why Fashion Matters,” exploring the intricate connections between fashion and politics. Her writings have appeared in New York Magazine, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, Vanity Fair, and more. A Yale University alumna and a Guggenheim fellow, Dr. Garelick brings a wealth of insight to our discussion today about the remarkable Dr. Ruth Westheimer. 

We delve into Dr. Garelick's recent New York Times article on Dr. Ruth, the iconic sex therapist who recently passed away at 96. Dr. Ruth was renowned for her open, frank discussions about sexuality, which broadened the window for talking about sex and sexuality. With her accent and high-pitched voice, she was both startling and disarming, helping to normalize conversations about sex. In her conversation with Dr. Garelick, who had the opportunity to meet Dr. Ruth 30 years ago, they discuss the significant impact Dr. Ruth had on breaking societal norms and challenging taboos around sex. 

Dr. Ruth's ability to disarm and make people laugh with her incongruous persona played a crucial role in making conversations about sex more comfortable. She emphasized the importance of sexual pleasure and communication throughout all stages of life. Her legacy is a powerful reminder to embrace joy and openness in every moment of our lives. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

- Dr. Ruth challenged societal norms and taboos around sex by openly discussing and normalizing the topic. 

- Her ability to disarm and make people laugh with her incongruous persona helped to break down barriers and make conversations about sex more comfortable. 

- Dr. Ruth emphasized the importance of sexual pleasure and communication throughout all stages of life. 

- Her legacy serves as a reminder to use every moment of our lives and to embrace joy and openness. 

KEY LINKS: 

Learn More About Dr. Rhonda Garelick: 

New York Times article “The Irony of Dr. Ruth” 

New York Times column “Face Forward”  

Audio clip of interview with Dr. Garelick about Dr. Ruth 

Books by Dr. Garelick  

Follow Dr. Garelick: 

Instagram 

X (formerly Twitter) 

Listen and Subscribe       

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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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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"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 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 Barbara: 

Barbara’s Website 

Instagram: @barbarahannahgrufferman 

Facebook: @BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor (Love Your Age) 

Twitter: @BGrufferman 

Connect with Dr. Vonda Wright:  

Dr. Wright’s Website  

Instagram: @drvondawright 

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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 In this solo episode of "AGE BETTER with Barbara Hannah Grufferman," I dive deep into the transformative power of reassessing and tweaking various aspects of our lives to age better. Aging isn't just about getting older—it's about continuous growth, adaptation, and thriving in every stage of life.  

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

- Regular reassessment and tweaking are crucial for aging better. 

- A growth mindset and openness to change are essential. 

- Adjusting goals as priorities and values shift is key for personal growth. 

- Strong relationships are vital for mental and emotional health. 

- Journaling and mindfulness can aid in reassessment and making necessary tweaks. 

- Celebrating progress and embracing the journey with compassion is key. 

Join me in this empowering episode to learn how you can take charge of your life, adapt to changes, and continue to grow and thrive at any age.  

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]     

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This is a replay of one of the most downloaded episodes of AGE BETTER which takes a deep dive into INSULIN RESISTANCE: what it is, common symptoms, how to prevent it, and more importantly, how to reverse it.  

Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, a Reproductive Endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health and an expert on women’s health and menopause joined me to shed light on this often-misunderstood condition, and its impact on postmenopausal women. 

Key Takeaways: 

- Understand the basics of Insulin Resistance - what it is and why it matters. 

- Discover the subtle signs and potential health consequences. 

- Learn about the connection between Insulin Resistance and postmenopause. 

- Gain insights into diagnostic methods, including blood tests and physical examinations. 

- Tips and strategies on lifestyle changes, medications, and treatments to manage or reverse Insulin Resistance. 

- Hear about the emerging research linking insulin resistance with dementia and other health conditions. 

Why Listen? 

- Equip yourself with knowledge to better understand and manage Insulin Resistance. 

- Grasp the complex relationship between aging, particularly postmenopause, and this condition. 

- Empower yourself with practical guidance from a leading expert in women’s health. 

- For anyone eager to enhance their health journey, this episode promises crucial insights and actionable takeaways. 

Key Links: 

Previous Episode Focusing on Metformin:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grufftalk-how-to-age-better-with-barbara-hannah-grufferman/id1623436268?i=1000605135528 

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your friends. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don't forget to subscribe to or follow "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" for more episodes on living your best life at any age! 

Connect with Me on Social Media!

Website: https://www.barbarahannahgrufferman.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarahannahgrufferman/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-hannah-grufferman/ 

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Welcome to another episode of "Age Better."  

Today, we're doing something a bit different and replaying an episode from the fabulous podcast "A Certain Age," hosted by the wonderful Katie Fogarty. In this special episode, I had the pleasure of being Katie's guest, where we took a deep dive into my personal journey of taking up marathon running at the age of 50. We discussed the whys and the hows, and also the transformative power of running. Now, as I train for my 18th marathon, this conversation feels more relevant than ever.  

Whether you're an experienced runner or someone considering taking up a new challenge, this episode is filled with insights and encouragement to help you embrace new adventures at any age. So, lace up your shoes, get comfortable, and join us for this incredible conversation on "A Certain Age with Katie Fogarty." Let's dive in! 

TOPICS COVERED 

1. Starting Late: My motivation and inspiration for beginning marathon running at 50. 

2. Training and Preparation: How I prepared for my first marathon and the strategies I use to stay fit and injury-free. 

3. Overcoming Challenges: The physical and mental obstacles I faced and how I overcame them. 

4. Staying Motivated: Tips and techniques to keep going, even when the going gets tough. 

5. Health Benefits: The positive impacts of running on my overall health and well-being. 

6. Goal Setting: How to set achievable goals and the importance of celebrating milestones. 

7. Community and Support: The role of community, family, and friends in supporting my marathon journey. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

1. It's Never Too Late to Start: Age is just a number when it comes to pursuing new challenges and passions. 

2. Consistency is Key: Regular training and preparation are crucial for success in marathon running. 

3. Mind Over Matter: Mental strength and resilience are just as important as physical fitness. 

4. Health First: Listening to your body and prioritizing health can help prevent injuries and ensure long-term success. 

5. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your big goals into smaller, manageable steps. 

6. Find Your Support System: Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages and motivates you. 

FOLLOW ‘A CERTAIN AGE’ PODCAST: 

A Certain Age Podcast with Katie Fogarty

CALL TO ACTION 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your friends. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don't forget to subscribe to "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman" for more episodes on living your best life at any age! 

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"Building resilience is about doing hard things every day." -Mark Black

Welcome to another episode of AGE BETTER. Today, I'm honored to sit down with Mark Black, a heart and double-lung transplant recipient turned four-time marathon runner. Mark's incredible journey of resilience began with a congenital heart defect and led to a life-saving transplant. Less than three years later, he ran a marathon—and then did it three more times! 

In our conversation, Mark shares the importance of acknowledging and accepting challenges, adapting to new circumstances, and aspiring to a clear vision. He emphasizes the power of taking action and regularly assessing one's progress. Mark encourages us to do something challenging every day to build resilience and highlights the role of gratitude and social support in maintaining resilience. 

Why You Should Listen: 

- Discover how Mark's journey can inspire you to face and overcome your own challenges. 

- Learn practical strategies to develop and maintain resilience in your life. 

- Gain insights into the power of gratitude and social support in building a resilient mindset. 

- Understand why resilience is key to aging better and living a fulfilling life. 

Key Takeaways: 

We can do hard things: Embrace challenges and recognize your own strength and capabilities. 

Find gratitude in life's challenges: Learn to appreciate the lessons and growth that come from difficult experiences. 

Seek social support: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you through tough times. 

Learn more about Mark Black: 

The Resilience Roadmap Book: https://markblack.ca/thebook 

Speaker website: UnbeatableResilience.com 

Coaching: MarkBlack.ca/coaching 

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

Welcome to another empowering episode of "Age Better with Barbara Hannah Grufferman." Today, we're delving deep into a topic that's critical for every woman in midlife: Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), a complex heart rhythm disorder that's alarmingly underdiagnosed in postmenopausal women.   

Joining me is Dr. Nisha Parikh, a leading cardiologist at the forefront of women's heart health. Dr. Parikh brings her extensive expertise from the Katz Institute for Women's Health and Northwell Cardiovascular Institute to our discussion. She's here to unpack the complexities of AFib, explain its subtle yet significant symptoms, and outline why this condition often slips under the radar for many women who might simply attribute their symptoms to menopause or everyday fatigue.  

In this episode, you'll learn about: 

- The Basics of AFib: What it is, how it affects your heart, and why it's particularly concerning for women after menopause. 

- Risk Factors: How psychological and social stressors like sleep deprivation can heighten your risk. 

- Serious Health Implications: The connection between untreated AFib, heart failure, and a heightened risk of stroke in women. 

- Treatment Innovations: From traditional methods like cardioversion and ablation to promising research on drugs like metformin and the role of magnesium. 

- Preventive Strategies: Lifestyle changes that can significantly lower your risk. 

- Technology at the Forefront: How wearable devices like the Apple Watch are revolutionizing AFib monitoring.  

Dr. Parikh not only discusses these critical aspects but also emphasizes the importance of proactive health monitoring and the potential of emerging treatments that are reshaping how we manage AFib.  

Why Listen? 

If you or someone you love is navigating midlife, understanding AFib's implications, symptoms, and treatments is crucial. This episode will equip you with the knowledge to take charge of your heart health, recognize the signs of AFib, and understand the latest in treatment and prevention strategies.  

Key Takeaways: 

- AFib is a major heart health concern for postmenopausal women, often masked by nonspecific symptoms. 

- Untreated AFib can lead to severe complications, including stroke and heart failure. 

- Innovative treatments and preventive measures are essential in managing AFib effectively. 

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"We get this thing in our heads that because we're a certain age, we can't do this, we can't do that, self-imposed ageism, you know, age appropriate, all of these negative images that come to us from the media and so forth. Release yourself from the self-imposed ageism that we all get cloaked with."  

– Michael Clinton, Founder and CEO of ROAR Forward 

In this episode of AGE BETTER WITH BARBARA HANNAH GRUFFERMAN podcast, Barbara sits down with Michael Clinton, a former top executive at Hearst Publishing who made a major midlife pivot to become founder and CEO of ROAR Forward. Michael shares insights from his book, "Roar into the Second Half of Your Life Before It's Too Late," and discusses how his platform helps individuals aged 50+ redefine the second half of life. The conversation covers career pivots, lifelong learning, the huge impact of the aging population on business and society, and the importance of rethinking how you think about aging (people Michael calls “Imagineers”). Michael emphasizes the power of taking small steps, being fearless, and fostering positive relationships while editing out negative influences in your life. 

Key Takeaways: 

- The new longevity presents opportunities for a dynamic second half of life. 

- Career pivots and lifelong learning are essential for embracing the possibilities of aging. 

- The aging population has a significant impact on business, society, and consumer trends. 

- Releasing oneself from self-imposed ageism is crucial for reimagining aging and embracing positivity. 

- Owning one's age, health, and relationships is empowering and adds value to life. 

- Taking small steps, being fearless, and editing out negative influences are key to pursuing new experiences and personal growth. 

Listen to the full episode to learn how you can take charge of your life at any age and embrace the dynamic possibilities of the second half of your life with insights from Michael Clinton. 

Learn More About Michael Clinton: 

- ROAR Forward 

- Michael Clinton’s Book: "Roar into the Second Half of Your Life Before It's Too Late” 

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

Episode Overview: 

In this 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. 

Further Information: 

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.     

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

"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 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. Melissa’s latest project, "Climbing Into Life," continues this theme, exploring the life of 72-year-old Dierdre Wolownick. 

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://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 

 YouTube Movie Trailers: 

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

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

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