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In this heartfelt episode, I pay tribute to Vietnam veterans, inspired by my longtime friend Buddy, whose experiences say so much about an entire generation still carrying the wounds from their service, and from their homecoming.
I reflect on how Vietnam veterans were truly received when they returned, diving into the hard truths behind the history books, the struggles they faced adjusting to civilian life, and the lasting effects of Agent Orange.
Through personal stories and honest gratitude, I hope to recognize the sacrifices, resilience, and ongoing healing of all who served.
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
Find out how the “Beyond Break Even” approach differs from simply choosing the age to claim Social Security benefits based on break-even calculations.
After years of resisting the idea of inviting financial planners onto the show, I’m making an exception for this important conversation.
My guests, Russ Gaiser and Mike Hoeflich—co-authors of the bestselling book Beyond Break Even—are not your typical financial advisors. They specialize in Social Security claiming strategies and are passionate about helping people make informed decisions for a more secure and fulfilling retirement.
In this episode, we uncover the five essential pillars of Social Security optimization and debunk some enduring myths along the way.
Whether you’re years away from retirement or already planning your transition, you’ll learn why Social Security is much more than just a break-even calculation—and how intentional choices today can bring you peace of mind, increased wealth, and true freedom in your golden years.
Here are 3 key takeaways everyone approaching retirement should know about Social Security:
Moments
00:00 Rethinking retirement income strategies
05:09 Educator-turned-financial advisor journey
09:03 Meeting and teaming up with Russ
11:35 Social Security planning essentials
14:54 Building a cohesive vision
17:26 Understanding Social Security taxes
23:43 Understanding Social Security income limits
25:24 Understanding Social Security Limits
30:41 Importance of financial coordination
33:28 Understanding retirement benefit ages
37:14 Understanding spousal and survivor benefits
40:51 Concerns about retirement savings
44:29 Contact Russ and Mike
FAQ's
What are the five pillars of Social Security optimization discussed in this episode?
The five pillars of Social Security optimization discussed are timing, taxation, coordination, longevity, and legacy. These pillars guide individuals in making informed decisions about when and how to claim Social Security for maximum benefit.
How does working past age 70 affect your Social Security benefits?
Working past age 70 does not increase your Social Security benefits, as benefits stop growing at that point, and you cannot accrue additional delayed retirement credits. RUSS GAISER advises that you should always file for benefits by age 70, regardless of your employment status, to avoid missing out on payments.
Why do RUSS GAISER and MIKE HOEFLICH believe Social Security is secure for the future?
RUSS GAISER and MIKE HOEFLICH believe Social Security is secure because 80% of benefits are funded directly through the FICA payroll tax and Congress has consistently acted to prevent shortfalls. They explain that even if the trust fund runs dry, most benefits would still be payable, and legislative options are available to maintain funding.
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
I’m speaking to you directly from my heart.
This week marks the fifth anniversary of my baby brother’s passing, and it’s been a difficult time for my family. As I reflect on my own experience with grief, I want to share what I’ve learned—about the many ways people move through loss and how important it is to be kind to yourself and to others during this journey.
I’ll talk about the well-known stages of grief and why it’s absolutely okay to grieve in your own way, on your own terms. I’ll share stories from my neighborhood and my family, from neighbors who find comfort living alone after loss to others who choose to remarry quickly. I believe there’s no right or wrong way to grieve, and we all deserve the space to do it in the manner that feels right for us.
If you’re grieving, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand more about the process, I hope this episode encourages you to be gentle, to stop judging, and to start listening with empathy. May it bring you comfort, perspective, and the reminder that kindness is key.
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
I sit down with author Cammie McGovern, whose latest book, The Last Letters of Sally and Walter, is set to hit shelves soon (April 2026). Cammie brings her wealth of experience as a novelist and teacher to the conversation, sharing the inspiration behind her new work—a heartwarming story about love, friendship, and new beginnings in the later years of life.
Set in a vibrant retirement community, Cammie's novel centers on Sally, a 73-year-old Scrabble prodigy, and Walter, her club leader and soon-to-be companion on and off the Scrabble board. The story beautifully explores the power of connection, the importance of lifelong learning, and the joys of forming rich relationships in your golden years.
We also talk about the realities of aging, the meaningful friendships that blossom later in life, and the importance of seeing older adults authentically represented in books and on screen. So whether you're an older adult, an adult child, or simply interested in stories that celebrate life at every age, this episode is for you.
3 Key Takeaways:
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
If you’ve ever dreamed of spending time truly living in Florence, Paris, Portugal, or somewhere off the beaten path, this episode will inspire you to explore the world—and your own joy—at any stage of life.
Welcome to another episode of Aging In Full Bloom. I’m Lisa Stockdale, your host, and today I’m bringing you a conversation that reimagines what travel can look like for older adults.
I’m joined by Andrew Motiwalla, founder and CEO of The Good Life Abroad—a company that takes travel beyond sightseeing tours and solo adventures in unfamiliar cities.
In this episode, I talk with Andrew about his unique, immersive programs that bring together people aged 55 and over for month-long stays in beautiful European cities.
We discuss how these experiences are designed to help you build community, learn new things, and add real joy to your life—what Andrew calls expanding your “joy span.”
We also get into the practicalities you need to consider, like health care abroad and mobility, all while focusing on intentional, meaningful travel that goes way beyond checking places off your bucket list.
Here are 3 key takeaways for those considering the next chapter of exploration:
FAQ's
What is community-driven travel for older adults, as explained in this episode?
Community-driven travel for older adults means joining a cohort to live abroad for at least a month, fostering real connections and shared experiences, rather than just touring or traveling alone. Andrew Motiwalla describes it as living independently with the support of a local community manager and new friends, amplifying joy through relationships 06:01.
How does The Good Life Abroad program support travelers during a month-long stay in Europe?
The Good Life Abroad program arranges fully-equipped apartments, organizes activities three times a week, and provides local support through a community manager who helps each traveler set personal goals and solve problems, including healthcare needs 12:07. Before arrival, participants meet virtually, and on-site, they receive guidance, community events, and 24/7 access to support in case of questions or emergencies.
How does immersive, community-based travel increase joy for people over 55?
Immersive, community-based travel increases joy for people over 55 because it combines learning, adapting, overcoming challenges, and building relationships, all of which have been shown to boost happiness in later life 07:25. As Andrew Motiwalla explains, sharing new experiences with a supportive group amplifies joy and creates longer-lasting fulfillment, or "joy span."
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
If you’ve felt your sense of smell is slipping as you age, know someone struggling with dementia or Parkinson’s, or just want to boost your brain health with a simple daily practice, this episode is for you.
Welcome to Aging In Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale! In this episode, I sit down with my special guest, Jonathan Askholm, to explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of olfactory training—the art and science of strengthening your sense of smell.
Together, we dive into how our nose isn’t just about pleasant aromas or powerful memories; it’s deeply connected to brain health, cognition, mood, and our overall well-being.
Jonathan Askholm shares his personal journey—from corporate wellness into a passionate advocate for olfactory training—sparked by his own family’s experience and compelling scientific studies.
Through our conversation, I discovered some surprising truths, like how the olfactory system is the only sense capable of regenerating neurons throughout life, and why smell training is now being recommended to improve memory, mood, and even help those recovering from illnesses like COVID-19.
If you’ve felt your sense of smell is slipping as you age, know someone struggling with dementia or Parkinson’s, or just want to boost your brain health with a simple daily practice, this episode is for you.
Let's learn why smell just might be our most underrated sense—and how it could become your secret weapon for healthy aging.
Read more about it!
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9891899/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/olfactory-training-during-sleep-could-help-your-memory/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/how-my-brain-works/202410/can-smell-training-improve-memory
3 Key Takeaways:
FAQ's
What is olfactory training, and how can it benefit brain and memory health?
Olfactory training is a practice using concentrated single-scent essential oils like lemon, clove, rose, and eucalyptus, intentionally sniffed twice daily to improve or restore the sense of smell. Scientific studies show this boosts brain and memory health and can enhance cognitive function, mood, and even flavor perception.
How do you actually perform olfactory training at home?
To perform olfactory training at home, smell four different concentrated essential oils (lemon, eucalyptus, rose, clove) twice a day for 20–30 seconds each, ideally using inhaler-style kits for safe, consistent use. Consistency is key: you’ll see noticeable results in the sense of smell and possible cognitive improvements after regular daily practice for several weeks.
Why is olfactory training not more widely recommended despite strong scientific support?
Olfactory training remains under-promoted because the sense of smell is the least understood and understudied sense in neuroscience, despite mounting robust studies confirming its benefits. As Jonathan Askholm explains, there is little public health messaging about it and general skepticism about such a simple, low-cost intervention, even though evidence and experts strongly support its use.
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
Whether you’re excited by new technology or wary of its risks, I invite you to listen in as we talk about the real-world opportunities and challenges AI brings to our lives.
In this episode of "Aging In Full Bloom," I’m tackling the complex and sometimes intimidating world of artificial intelligence—and what it means for older adults. I’m
joined by Henry Quinlan, an author and speaker who’s spent years teaching seniors about technology, and together we break down the basics: what AI really is, how it works, and where it’s headed.
Henry Quinlan shares eye-opening examples, like using AI to write personalized messages, plan trips, or even improve recipes at home. But we also dig into the tough questions—loss of jobs, the lack of government regulation, and how AI might impact our sense of connection and companionship. There’s even talk about the possibility of using AI for emotional support, which, to be honest, raises some mixed feelings in me.
My goal is to help you see both sides, and to remind you that, even in a fast-moving digital world, staying connected and cherishing humanity is more important than ever.
Moments
00:00 "AI: From Curiosity to Fear"
04:30 "Using Jasper for Creative Tasks"
08:09 "AI Transforming Writing and Memory"
12:50 "AI Revolutionizing Education and Medicine"
14:33 AI Companions for Seniors
17:50 "Blurry Lines of AI Logic"
20:33 "Google Health: A New Tool"
26:23 Individual Birthday Dinners with Grandkids
28:58 "Positive Insights for Older Adults"
Here are 3 key takeaways for anyone navigating tech and aging:
FAQ's
What are the main pros and cons of AI for older adults discussed in this episode?
Henry Quinlan highlights several pros for older adults, including using AI for companionship, improved social and family connections, personalized health advice, recipe creation, and travel planning. However, he also discusses cons such as job loss, overly fast technological change, concerns about empathy and emotional dependence on AI, and the lack of government regulation.
How can seniors safely use AI to connect with family and manage daily life?
Henry Quinlan suggests seniors can use AI tools to communicate with grandchildren, personalize recipes, plan trips, and even redecorate homes. He emphasizes experimenting with AI in a careful, curious manner and being mindful of safety by choosing reputable and well-controlled AI platforms.
Why does Henry Quinlan think AI's rapid growth is both exciting and scary for seniors?
Henry Quinlan is impressed by AI's capabilities but worries its rapid advancement outpaces society's ability to manage risks, potentially causing job losses and emotional challenges, especially for seniors. He believes AI development is moving “much too fast,” with insufficient regulation and potential threats to both personal interactions and established industries.
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
I had the pleasure of chatting with Kathleen Sheldon, Director of Outreach and Engagement for BoldAge PACE.
BoldAge PACE is a new, comprehensive senior care program now available to Franklin County, OH residents—and it's truly changing the landscape for aging at home.
Here are three key takeaways anyone in senior services, caregiving, or healthcare should know:
🔹 All-Inclusive Care in the Community:
BoldAge PACE offers medical, social, transportation, and in-home support services, helping seniors age safely and comfortably in their own homes. No more worrying about multiple providers or transportation—PACE brings everything under one roof.
🔹 Eligibility Made Clear:
Participants must be age 55+, live in a state-approved service area (like Franklin County), meet a nursing facility level of care, and be able to live safely in the community with support. Medicaid is the primary payer, but Medicare/Medicaid dual eligibility or private pay are also options.
🔹 No Out-of-Pocket Surprises:
PACE covers all authorized healthcare costs—including hospitalizations—with no copays, deductibles, or premiums for eligible members. Enrollments happen every month, so seniors don't have to wait for open enrollment to get started.
Moments
06:37 Nursing Home Level Care Assessment
07:22 Assessing Care Needs for Independence
11:13 Comprehensive Care Through PACE
13:44 "Comprehensive Services and Next Steps"
17:42 Coordinated Care for Participants
20:24 "Unique Aging Service Model"
23:23 Supporting Independent Senior Living
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
I had the opportunity to speak with Melanie Henry, who specializes in driver rehabilitation and cognitive driving assessments for older adults. If you have aging loved ones or work with older adults, this episode is an invaluable listen.
Key Takeaways:
This conversation is never easy, but with the right information and a compassionate approach, we can prioritize safety while honoring independence.
Listen to the episode, share it with those who may need it, and let’s keep our roads—and our loved ones—safe.
Moments
00:00 Driving Instructor and Rehab Professional
03:49 Cognitive Driving Assessment Technology
07:45 Driving Safety with Cognitive Decline
10:28 "Driver Observation and Safety Chat"
16:47 Driving Retirement Transition Struggles
18:19 Dementia, Family Decisions, and Driving
23:57 Dementia, Driving Concerns, Awareness
24:55 Cognitive Impairment & Collision Risks
28:39 "Support with Love and Strategy"
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
What I’ve Learned About Aging from Our Guests and My Own Journey
In my milestone episode, I take a moment to reflect on some of the biggest lessons learned from years of conversations, stories, and experiences in aging and senior care. Whether you’re working in the aging space, an older adult yourself, or caring for someone you love, here are a few key takeaways you might find valuable:
Be Prepared, Beyond the Financials
So many guests have talked about planning ahead—not just financially, but also emotionally and socially. It’s easy to put off these conversations but essential for a smoother journey as we age.
Good People (and Programs) Are Out There
While we often hear about sad stories in senior care, there are still so many passionate people and service organizations making a big difference in the lives of older adults. Why we do what we do really matters!
Stay Connected & Share Your Stories
If there’s one thread throughout every episode, it’s the power of connection and storytelling. Staying connected not only combats loneliness but also keeps our stories—and those of our loved ones—alive.
Thanks to our amazing listeners for engaging, sharing feedback, and being part of the conversation. Here’s to continuing this journey together! If you have topics you’d like to see covered, I’d love to hear from you.
Email me, Lisa Stockdale, anytime at [email protected]
Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale is sponsored by HomeCaire. We believe every patient should get the personalized care they need, in the way they want it. Every caregiver should feel supported, valued, and motivated. We see each person as their own entity, with unique needs, desires, and skills. Our goal is to best support our family as they reach new milestones.
Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Android user? http://www.subscribeonandroid.com
Copyright 2026 Lisa Stockdale
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale
Thanks for listening to Aging in Full Bloom with Lisa Stockdale, sponsored by HomeCaire of Ohio. We added an "i" to care because we care about the individual. That includes the individual caregiver and the individual client. From each caregiver's caseload to every client's care plan, we understand that individual preferences and priorities matter. People matter; we haven't lost sight of that here at HomeCaire of Ohio. If you or someone you know needs personal care at home, call 419-458-3000 to learn.
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