Aging ain't for Sissies

Send us Fan Mail

Embark on an odyssey through the Greek Islands as I, Marcy Backhus, recount the unforgettable moments from my recent trip with my California church group, tracing the path of St. Paul. Picture the majesty of an eclipse in New York, the transition to the warmth of sun-kissed skin in sandals, and the profound appreciation for the resilience of spirit required to navigate the ancient sites of the Acropolis and Corinth Canal. As an older traveler, I've discovered the delicate dance between vigilance and voyaging, overcoming the strenuous ascents to serene monasteries with a steadfast heart. Join me for the episode where I share not just the sights but also the poignant emotions of conducting a sacred service amidst the waves, alongside lifelong companions.

As one chapter closes, another begins; "Aging Ain't for Sissies" wraps with a celebration of its landmark episodes, and I'm thrilled to unveil my new project, "Inside Marcy's Head." Listen to how a chance decision to forgo a ride from Uber in favor of local insight led to dining against the backdrop of a boundless ocean, a testament to the magic of serendipitous travel. And don't miss our conversation with the ever-engaging Nita Wenrick, as we tackle the intricacies of Medicare and more. It's a journey of exploration, not just through the storied landscapes of history, but through the evolving journey of this very podcast.

Send us Fan Mail

Ever had one of those weeks where every little win felt like conquering Everest? That's exactly what I, Marcy Bacckhus, experienced, and I'm here to share it all with you. From the comical annoyance of a phone dying just as you arrive at the airport to pick up someone to the ever-present question of when to switch from weight loss to maintenance mode, it's been a rollercoaster. But it's not all about life's hiccups; join me as I navigate the complexities of finding a new primary care physician and tackle the grown-up task of updating my Social Security details. And for those who know the struggle of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, I've got some personal anecdotes that'll hit close to home.

Now, let's get out and about in Chicago! I'll take you along for my solo adventure to see the river turn a vibrant green and share the excitement of breaking free from routine. As Craig and I dust off our bikes for the season, I'll compare the nifty features of my electric bike to his traditional racing model, along with some essential safety tips like helmet use and bike transportation. We'll also dive into the joys of discovering new restaurants, the adrenaline of dating, and the treasure hunt that is thrifting. So, whether you're single and ready to mingle or looking to spice up your weekends with some new activities, I've got insights and stories that will inspire you to embrace the vibrant life and opportunities waiting outside your doorstep.

Send us Fan Mail

Navigating the tranquil aftermath of St. Patrick's Day in Chicago, I, Marcy Backhus, found myself reflecting on the importance of balance—a theme that's distinctly echoed throughout this week's chat. From the heart-pumping thrills of aqua sculpting that's keeping my joints jubilant at 63, to the quiet introspection that comes with an empty nest as my family whisks away to Vail for a ski adventure, I'm here to share how these moments tie into your path to a financially sound and healthy retirement.

Let's grab a proverbial shovel and unearth some financial wisdom together. You'll hear firsthand about the tightrope walk between generosity and safeguarding your nest egg, leaning on my own tales of familial love and the financial implications therein. We'll unpack the treasures hidden in decluttering, not just for peace of mind, but for the sake of your wallet too. And because life's too short to not savor its sweetness, I'll reveal how to sprinkle in those luxurious treats without tipping your retirement plans into disarray. 

But it's not all dollars and cents; your well-being is the golden currency that truly enriches life. I'll take you through the critical, and often overlooked, steps in preventive health care. Plus, we'll tackle the boring but essential world of home maintenance and the sneaky drain of autopilot spending. And remember, even the smallest scratch can escalate if ignored—taking care of the little things is sometimes the most significant step you can take towards maintaining a vibrant and fulfilling life. Join me as we chart the course for a future that's as bright as it is secure.

Send us Fan Mail

As I sat basking in the glow of Oscar night glamour, I couldn't help but ponder the juxtaposition of Hollywood's dazzling facade against the weightier discussions of life's inevitable outcomes. In this episode, I, Marcy Backhus, invite you on a journey from the red carpet's luster to the intimate, often unspoken conversations about informed care choices. We'll revisit the allure of the Oscars and the pressures on celebrities to dazzle but also delve into the profound responsibility we hold in making our personal wishes known for times when we may not be able to speak them ourselves. From my own relaxed moments with a cherished friend in Palm Springs to the emotional heaviness of end-of-life care planning, this is a tapestry of life's contrasting moments woven with the threads of joy, glamour, and the gravity of our decisions.

Stay tuned for illumination and inspiration, as the Aging ain't for Sissie's podcast is a beacon in exploring the multifaceted aspects of life and aging. Whether you're here for the celebrity fashion debrief or the pivotal advice from Medicare expert Anita Wendrick, there's a place for you at our table. Wrap up your day and join me; let's savor the simple pleasures like a pot roast dinner while embracing the happiness we strive to cultivate year-round. This episode is about celebrating joy, understanding the importance of clear communication, and navigating life's complexities with grace and ease.

Send us Fan Mail

Ever dreamed of jet-setting without breaking the bank? Let me, Marcy Backhus, be your guide as I spill secrets on how to transform your travel dreams into a cost-effective reality. Picture this: You've just scored an unexpected first-class upgrade, thanks to a loyalty program tip I'll share. And imagine the satisfaction of reuniting with distant family members, without the stress of overspending. In our latest chat, I recount personal tales of altered plans and blissful family gatherings, all while teaching you to master the art of stretching each retirement dollar. Learn how to leverage the flexibility of travel dates, join rewarding programs, and strategically utilize discounts to make your adventures not just possible, but also downright enjoyable.

Now, if that's not enough to awaken your wanderlust, wait till you hear about the luxe life that your travel credit card can afford you. My American Express Platinum card isn't just a piece of plastic—it's a golden ticket to a world of exclusive luxuries like airport lounge access, the convenience of TSA PreCheck, and the cutting-edge CLEAR biometric system. These aren't just perks; they're game-changers that revolutionize the way you travel. In this episode, we also touch on choosing the best hotels and smartly managing travel finances. And as a bonus, I dish on my infectious excitement for the changing seasons and reveal the next exciting destination on my travel list. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff into a world where savvy spending meets luxurious travel perks.

Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever been chuckling over something as mundane as toilet paper placement? Oh, the joys of domestic life! It's Marcy here, and this Podcast episode is a rollercoaster ride through the hilarity of household quirks and the profound moments of family bonding. I'm unpacking the complexities of our daily lives, from the lighthearted debate over toilet paper orientation to the cherished memories made while scooting through Old Town Scottsdale with loved ones. These stories stitch the fabric of our lives, blending the everyday laughs with the treasured times that remind us to hold our family close.

But it's not all fun and scooters; we're also talking about something many of us shuffle to the bottom of the to-do list: end-of-life planning. I'll take you through the importance of a good laugh, even when discussing something as serious as our final farewell. Join me as I share poignant insights from my preparations, like the Dead Marcy notebook, which might inspire you to start penning your own. We'll discuss how to gracefully handle the details of funerals and the kindness of leaving clear instructions for those we'll someday leave behind. And guess what? Even this severe topic has a silver lining, as I sprinkle a bit of humor to lighten the mood.

In our last chapter, we zoom in on how lifestyle choices can sneakily fan the flames of inflammation in our bodies. I'm sharing my experiences with sleep aids and how kicking them to the curb did wonders for my sleep. We'll navigate through the signs of inflammation, from the pesky to the persistent, and how everything from our diet to our stress levels plays a role. It's all about giving our bodies the break they deserve. So pour yourself a drink—Diet Coke or otherwise—and let's explore how a few tweaks to our daily habits can pave the way to a healthier, happier you.

Send us Fan Mail

Embark on a journey with me, Marcy Backhus, as I reveal how transforming your space can lead to a tranquil mind. Picture the warmth of the Arizona sun as I weave tales of retirement bliss, from launching a church book club to private art viewings in Chicago. You'll be inspired to tackle your own cluttered corners and overstuffed drawers with my personal tales of decluttering triumphs—from mismatched socks to the poignant farewell to a shelf of well-loved novels. I'm rolling up my sleeves and guiding you through the refreshing process of creating a serene home environment, one cherished item at a time.

As the conversation takes a sobering turn, I stress the critical importance of emergency preparedness for my peers, especially for the 27% of us over 60 flying solo. Learn the lifesaving signs of a heart attack and the immediate steps to take that could very well save your life. I'll share the essentials of having a medical info list ready, securing your furry friends for the safety of all, and the significance of staying composed in the face of crisis. Join me for this heart-to-heart as we embrace the coming spring with open arms and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of an organized life and the peace of mind that comes with being prepared for the unexpected.

Send us Fan Mail

Ever find yourself tossing and turning, unable to find that sweet slumber? You're not alone, and this episode is a cozy blend of personal insights and practical tips on conquering those restless nights, especially during the menopausal marathon. It's a February affair on Aging Aphorsis, where I, Marcy Backhus, weave tales of my serene week drenched in self-love rituals—picture me relishing a 100-minute massage and whipping up homemade ice cream that would make your taste buds swoon. But it's not all sweet indulgence; I dive into the nitty-gritty of creating a sleep sanctuary and why your furry friend might be the unsung hero of your sleep cycle. Through the lens of my own experiences—from ditching eyelash extensions to the elation of aqua sculpt classes—I hope to inspire you to treasure those personal moments that recharge your heart and soul.

As the tax season looms on the horizon, I extend a helping hand, guiding you toward free tax assistance for those feeling the pinch. It's a gentle reminder that you're not alone in the maze of forms and deadlines. Senior centers, city websites, and your local parks and recreation departments are allies in this annual endeavor. This episode is sprinkled with affection and actionable advice—it's like a warm hug for your heart and a lullaby for your brain, all wrapped up with a bow of financial savvy. Tune in for a heartfelt mix of stories, tips, and a community-centric approach to those taxing times.

Send us Fan Mail

As the dough rises and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, I, Marcy, invite you to join me in a conversation as comforting as the bread I'm perfecting. This week, we're getting personal. From the vibrant glow of city lights that grace my home on the 36th floor to the soft paws of my cat Pickles making her presence known during our chat, we're sharing it all. I'll reflect on the beauty of routine, the role of faith and community in my life, and the spark that keeps my husband Craig's passion for his cathedral organ project alive. It's about finding joy in the little things and embracing the calm of an uneventful week.

Let's then shift from pumpkin bread to heartier fare. Together, we'll explore the seasoned journey of aging, not as a time of decline but as an era of wisdom and continued self-worth. I'll tell stories of vibrant souls who've inspired me, people who've woven curiosity and activity into their golden years, outpacing any outdated stereotype. We won't shy away from the digital realm as I arm you with strategies to fortify your online presence against cyber threats. We'll talk about why embracing technology like two-factor authentication can be as secure as locking your front door—because your peace of mind is priceless at any stage of life.

Send us Fan Mail

Join me, Marcy Backhus, on a heartfelt journey through life's inevitable changes as I share the ups and downs of retiring, relocating, and the art of letting go in the great city of Chicago. Emotions run deep as I recount my 63rd spin around the sun, celebrating at Rosebud with a newfound zest compared to the solitude of my previous birthday. I pull back the curtain on the trials of a genetic test for my heart condition and the triumphs of embracing healthy habits. Winter here is a beast of its own, but with every snowflake, I've learned the value of a good pair of boots and the healing power of staying active, despite the freeze.

Our episode unfolds the map of my latest adventures, where the comfort of old friends is miles away and the quest for new connections is a daily endeavor. Navigating the bustling streets of a new city, finding solace in the embrace of a fitness community, and the solace of AA meetings, this chapter of life is all about planting roots in uncharted territory. Chronic pain, a vestige of my past, becomes an unexpected teacher, guiding me towards resilience and a deeper appreciation for the community's embrace. The lens of my new camera captures not just the beauty around me, but also the beauty within this journey of transformation, as I look forward to a sun-soaked escape to Phoenix and the joy of capturing moments through my newfound passion for photography.