Boomer Banter, Caregiving, Purpose, Connection

Episode #156

In this episode of "Hey, Boomer!", host Wendy Green is joined by special guest Kimberly Best, RN and founder of Best Conflict Solutions LLC, to discuss the important topic of embracing mortality and opening up conversations about life's final chapter.

Together, they delve into the significance of having important documents in order, making decisions regarding end-of-life care, planning for one's legacy, resolving conflicts ahead of time, and so much more.

Wendy pulls from her personal experience, to share compassionate questions and insights in her conversation with Kimberly.

Kimberly draws from her extensive experience as a nurse and mediator to shed light on the importance of these conversations and the impact they have on families and loved ones.

Join Wendy and Kimberly as they explore ways to normalize and improve the perception of end-of-life, making it less negative and confusing.

1. The importance of having important documents in order.

2. Decisions to consider and things to think about when it comes to end-of-life care.

3. Planning for one's legacy and memorial ceremony.

4. Emphasizing the importance of relationships over material possessions.

5. The significance of discussing difficult conversations with family or friends regarding end-of-life care and resolving conflicts ahead of time.

- Connect with Kimberly Best on social media:

- Website: https://www.bestconflictsolutions.com/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlybestmediator/

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestconflictsolutions

Email Kimberly at [email protected]

- Become a member of Boomer Banter2 kicking off on October 17th at noon EST. Sign up at https://buymeacoffee.com/heyboomer0413.

- Support our sponsor, Road Scholar whenever you consider travel. Check out all the adventures at https://roadscholar.org/heyboomer

- Support the work of the Alzheimer's Association by making a donation to the Hey, Boomer team. Donations will be open through December. Help support families living with Alzheimer's and contribute towards potentially eradicating the disease.

Email wendy at [email protected]

Introduction:

In this episode of Hey, Boomer!, host Wendy Green dives into the sensitive topic of family estrangement and explores the hidden wounds that can tear families apart. With the help of esteemed guest Dr. Joshua Coleman, author of "Rules of Estrangement," they discuss the rise of estrangement, changes in family dynamics, and the possibility of healing broken relationships. This episode offers support and guidance for those experiencing estrangement or those seeking to understand and empathize with loved ones going through this difficult situation.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Joshua Coleman is a renowned psychologist and leading expert on family estrangement. He is the author of several books, including "Rules of Estrangement: Why Adult Children Cut Ties & How to Heal the Conflict," which has resonated with many estranged parents seeking guidance and understanding. Dr. Coleman's research and therapeutic work address the deep emotional impact of estrangement on families and offer insights into navigating the path toward reconciliation.

Key Takeaways:

1. Estrangement is a silent hurt: Estrangement within families often goes unspoken, causing pain and isolation for those experiencing it. This episode shines a light on this issue and provides a safe space to discuss and heal from family estrangement.

2. The importance of empathy and understanding: Dr. Coleman emphasizes the significance of empathy and understanding when working to repair estranged relationships. Taking responsibility for past mistakes and truly listening to the concerns and feelings of the estranged family member plays a crucial role in the healing process.

3. The evolving dynamics of family: The societal and cultural shifts in recent generations have led to new expectations within parent-child relationships. Understanding the changes in dynamics and the desire for personal fulfillment and mental health is essential in bridging the gap between generations.

4. The challenge for estranged parents: Estranged parents may struggle with feelings of defensiveness and questioning their parenting abilities when accused of emotional abuse or neglect. Dr. Coleman provides insights on how to approach these accusations with empathy and initiate meaningful conversations.

5. Respect boundaries and let the line go cold, if needed: Respecting boundaries and giving space to the estranged family member is crucial in the healing process. The episode discusses the concept of "letting the line go cold" as a strategy to prompt reflection and respect while navigating attempts at reconciliation.

Join Wendy Green and Dr. Joshua Coleman as they explore the complexities of family estrangement and provide valuable insights and support for those seeking healing in their own strained relationships.

Subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram

Contact Dr. Coleman: www.drjoshuacoleman.com

Email me with questions or comments at [email protected]

Join the Hey, Boomer private Facebook group.

Become a member of the 2nd Boomer Banter

On this episode of "Hey, Boomer!" host Wendy Green explores the rewards and challenges of grandparent-grandchild travel. Joined by guest Barbara Klocko, they share personal stories, discuss changing parenting styles, and highlight the importance of intergenerational connections. Discover the joys of exploring the world with your grandchildren and the valuable lessons that come from these adventures.

Episode Overview:

Wendy and special guest Barbara Klocko discuss their experiences of traveling with their grandsons on a Road Scholar Windjammer Cruise, the value of intergenerational relationships, and the impact of changing parenting styles on respect and manners. They also touch on the role of being a mentor or best friend in life.

Key Insights:

1. Grandparent-grandchild travel creates lasting memories and strengthens the bond between generations.

2. Grandparent-grandchild travel gives you the opportunity to learn about each other in a fun, safe environment.

3. Intergenerational connections bring vitality and a sense of youth, fostering mutual growth and understanding.

Funny Story:

Wendy shares a humorous incident during her trip to Mammoth Cave when she accidentally took a flash photo, scaring her granddaughter, Gracyn. The unexpected flash in the dark cave was definitely not part of the planned adventure!

Sponsor Information:

This episode of "Hey, Boomer!" is brought to you by Road Scholar, the non-profit leader in educational travel for Boomers and Beyond. Explore the world, expand your knowledge, and connect with like-minded individuals. Visit roadscholar.org/heyboomer to learn more.

Social Links:

- Join the Hey Boomer Private Facebook group for discussions and a safe space for like-minded individuals at facebook.com/groups/heyboomer.

- Follow Wendy Green on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn

- Reach out via email at [email protected]

Episode Overview:

On this episode of "Hey, Boomer!", host Wendy Green explores the generational gift of an uncluttered home. Joined by guest Nicki Davidson Jones, an experienced organizer and declutterer, they dive into the importance of downsizing and organizing our living spaces, specifically as we age. Together, they discuss the emotional and practical aspects of decluttering, share insights from influential books on the topic, and explore the impact of an uncluttered home on our well-being and future generations.

With stories, tips, and insights, this episode explores the transformative power of downsizing and reimagining our living spaces.

Key Lessons:

1. The emotional and practical benefits of decluttering our living spaces.

2. Exploring the Swedish art of death cleaning and its impact on preparing for the later years.

3. The importance of respecting different perspectives and approaches when downsizing as a couple.

4. Navigating grief and loss through the process of decluttering.

5. Finding freedom and calmness through embracing a more organized and uncluttered home.

Call to Actions:

- Learn more about downsizing and decluttering by visiting https://bit.ly/3EAH6cO

- Connect with Nicki Davidson Jones and discover her expert advice on organizing at [email protected]

- Join the Hey Boomer community on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/heyboomer.

- Explore Road Scholars' adventure and float programs on smaller vessels at roadscholar.org/heyboomer.

Join Wendy Green and her guest, Nicki Davidson Jones, as they unpack the significance of an uncluttered home and the impact it has on our well-being and future generations. Get inspired to declutter, organize, and create a living space that brings freedom and joy in this transformative episode of "Hey, Boomer!"

This episode of Hey, Boomer is a chance for me to share what I have been up to over the past several weeks and some of the things I have been thinking about.

🗣️I talked about some of my takeaways from the Podcast Movement Convention.

🗣️I share with you the results from the Listener Survey I put out a few weeks ago.

🗣️Brief discussion about the beauty of Aspen and train travel.

🗣️My thoughts about gun violence, which suddenly came too close to home.

🗣️And finally an idea of what is coming up for September.

Takeaways from Podcast Movement:

💥 REFERRALS reign supreme in spreading the word about podcasts. If you love Hey Boomer, please share it with your friends, family, and colleagues. Let's invite them to join us on this incredible journey. Together, we can make a difference and create an even more vibrant community

💥 Memberships are becoming a big part of podcasting. The Boomer Banter is our foray into memberships. The next Boomer Banter meeting is just around the corner. Mark your calendars for the 3rd Tuesday of September. We'll be diving into the topic of role models. You don't want to miss it, trust me! You can join at https://buymeacoffee.com/heyboomer0413

💥 YouTube has emerged as the leading platform for podcast listening, surpassing Apple and Spotify! 📺🎧 We've been streaming our podcast there for a while, but now we're determined to take it to the next level and make our content shine even more. Stay tuned!

- Share your thoughts and reviews on Apple and Spotify to help us reach more listeners and make an impact.

Social Links:

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heyboomerpodcast

- Instagram: Hey, Boomer! Podcast (@heyboomerpodcast) • Instagram photos and videos

- LinkedIn: Wendy Green | LinkedIn

Rob Schwartz, the son of Morrie Schwartz, of "Tuesdays With Morrie" fame, has edited and released an extraordinary manuscript his dad wrote called "The Wisdom of Morrie."

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the inspirational pages of this book.

We explore the power of addressing ageism as a psychological issue, just like we combat racism and sexism. "The Wisdom of Morrie" offers a unique blend of psychological analysis and practical tips for living a vibrant life.

We learn about the incredible empathy Morrie possessed and his vision for a unified world without strife.

 We talk about how important it is to support and connect with our aging parents, especially when they are dealing with illness. Communication, finding common ground, and cherishing every moment become essential.

Please let me know what you think about this episode by leaving a rating or review wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Subscribe on Apple Podcast,  Spotify or wherever you listen.

Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram

Email me with questions or comments at [email protected]

Participate in the Listener Survey and be eligible for a $50 Amazon gift card

You can contact Rob Schwartz at [email protected] or visit wisdomofmorrie.com

Dr. Krystal Culler is a passionate advocate for brain health, particularly in the field of gerontology. Growing up with the love and support of her grandparents and older adults, she developed a deep connection with them and spent most of her time with them. It was during her time in grad school when her grandmother started experiencing dementia and her mother went through cognitive changes without receiving a proper diagnosis for years. Additionally, Dr. Culler herself had a shocking Grand Mall seizure, which made her question how she could support people in similar situations.

Recognizing the lack of support for brain-related issues, especially among females, she decided to pursue a doctorate in behavioral health to understand the interconnection of various factors. This journey led her to a career in the broader brain health space, allowing her to combine her interests and continually learn about the brain.

In this episode we talked about:

1. Definition of brain health

2. Deceptive marketing of brain supplements

3. Importance of mental stimulation

4. Effects of alcohol on sleep and brain function

5. Importance of nutrition for brain health

6. Cognitive side effects of medications

7. Brain aerobics and brain training programs

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Thanks so much for listening.

Please subscribe, comment and review where ever you get your podcasts.

Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram

You can email me with questions or comments at [email protected]

You can reach Dr. Krystal Culler at the Virtual Brain Health Center

Other Resources mentioned in this episode:

Brainhq

Lumosity

Brain Yoga

Women's Brain Health Initiative

In this episode of "Hey, Boomer!" host Wendy Green interviews Melissa Davey, a guest who embodies the belief that one is never too old to set new goals or dream new dreams. Melissa, a former executive at a managed care company, shares her journey of reinvention at the age of 65.

Melissa had always been confident in her work, but as she grew older and experienced various life events, she gained even more confidence. At the age of 65, she started feeling that there was more she wanted to do. She took an inventory of her life, she made a list of goals, including writing a book and making a movie.

Melissa's decision to pursue filmmaking was solidified when she won an opportunity to spend a day on set with acclaimed filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan. Inspired by this experience, she embarked on a two-and-a-half-year journey to create her film, "Beyond 60." The film showcases the stories of various remarkable women, condensing over 80 hours of interviews into a compelling documentary.

Throughout the episode, both Melissa and Wendy emphasize the importance of resilience and embracing failure as a part of personal growth and development. They encourage listeners to look within themselves, recognize the confidence they have gained from their life experiences, and pursue their passions at any age.

Overall, this episode highlights the transformative power of reinvention and serves as an inspiration for listeners to pursue their dreams and embrace their own second acts.

1. Confidence that comes with age gives you permission to follow a dream.
2. Recognize the importance of resilience in personal growth and development.
3. Overcome your fears and be open to new opportunities.
4. Surround yourself with people that believe in you and support you.

• EMAIL: [email protected]
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/heyboomerpodcast
• Website: heyboomer.biz
• Boomer Banter: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/HeyBoomer0413
• Boomer Believer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/HeyBoomer0413
• Private Facebook page: (5) Hey, Boomer - "What's Next?" | Facebook

Contact Melissa Davey

• Website: https://www.beyondsixty.com
• Instagram: @beyond60project
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeyondSixtyProject
• Email: [email protected]

Today we have a very special guest, Dr. David Bernstein a renowned retired physician and gerontologist.

In this episode, we dive into the secrets of living a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Dr. Bernstein, shares invaluable insights and tips on how to achieve vitality in your golden years. From the importance of having a purpose in life, to the impact of DNA, attitude, and gratitude, we cover it all.

We also discuss the significance of companionship, the dangers of isolation, and how to navigate through life's challenges with grace and resilience.

So, grab your cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to gain some life-changing knowledge on how to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. 

Episode Takeaways:

1. The 5 S's: Sweat, Sweet, Sex, Stress, and Sleep - Dr. Bernstein highlights the importance of these five factors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Find out how to optimize each of these areas for a vibrant and fulfilling life.
2. Attitude is Everything - Discover the power of positive thinking, expressing gratitude, and cultivating kindness. Dr. Bernstein explains how having the right mindset can influence our health, happiness, and overall well-being.
3. Taking Control of Your Health - While genetics do play a role, Dr. Bernstein emphasizes that the majority of our health and longevity is within our control. Learn how to make proactive choices, develop healthy habits, and prevent or manage health conditions.

Email Dr. Bernstein at [email protected]

Visit his website at PowerOf5Life.com

Subscribe on Apple Podcast, Stitcher , Google Podcast. or Spotify

Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram

Email me with questions or comments at [email protected]

Don't forget to download the Vitality Assessment from www.heyboomer.biz

And plan your next travel adventure with roadscholar.org/heyboomer

–

Wendy Green is a Certified Life Coach, working with people going through the

sometimes uncomfortable life transition from full-time work to “what’s next.”

Find out more about Wendy’s 6-week “What’s Next Transition” Coaching workshop 

Mentioned in this episode:

Annie's Kit Clubs

Get 50% off your first order at annieskitclubs.com. Enter promo code BOOMER

EZ Melts vitamins

try.ezmelts.com/heyboomer to get 3 months free of vitamin D3 with your first order.

On this episode of Hey, Boomer!, host Wendy Green explores the theme of transitions and how to make sense of life's changes.

She starts with a story about Ken Olsen, the founder of Digital Equipment Corporation and the Ending of that company and how it impacted her.

Wendy delves into the concept of the Neutral Zone or Messy Middle, a period of reflection and questioning that often arises during transitions. She shares her own experience of being forced into a job ending due to the pandemic and utilizing the Neutral Zone to reflect and ask important questions.

She encourages listeners to take time for self-reflection and explore meaningful answers to questions about how they want to feel going forward, what is important to them, how they can make an impact, and what they are good at.

In a surprising twist, Wendy finds herself in a transitional period as well. After traveling and having time for self-reflection, she is considering how she might transform and broaden her work with Hey, Boomer!

She introduces the powerful life review exercise mentioned in Bruce Feeler's book "Life Is In the Transitions" and encourages listeners to download the life vitality assessment from her website to assess their feelings and validate their experiences.

Throughout the episode, Wendy shares personal anecdotes and lessons from her own life's transitions, emphasizing that change is constant and that each person's transition journey is individual.

Episode Takeaways:

1. Don't be in a hurry. Give yourself permission to take your time through a change.
2. Fear stops us from seeing possibilities.
3. We always have a choice, even if the choice is not to choose.
4. Asking for help is courageous.

Subscribe on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast player

Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram

Email me with questions or comments at [email protected]

Download the Vitality assessment from the Hey, Boomer home page.

Visit Road Scholar to plan your next trip.

–

Wendy Green is a Certified Life Coach, working with people going through the

sometimes uncomfortable life transition from full-time work to “what’s next.”

Find out more about Wendy’s 6-week “What’s Next Transition” Coaching workshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Annie's Kit Clubs

Get 50% off your first order at annieskitclubs.com. Enter promo code BOOMER

EZ Melts vitamins

try.ezmelts.com/heyboomer to get 3 months free of vitamin D3 with your first order.