Boomer Banter, Caregiving, Purpose, Connection

Aging can feel like a wild ride, right? There’s so much chatter about how to do it ‘well’—drink water, exercise, or give up all the fun stuff like chocolate and wine. But let’s be real, all the 'shoulds' can get overwhelming.

In this episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green invites Yvonne Marchese to chat about something way more fun: play and self-acceptance. They both agree that as we age, we need to toss aside the heavy ‘shoulds’ and embrace the lighter side of life. Yvonne, a vibrant spirit herself, believes that rediscovering our playful selves is not just a joy but a necessity for healthy aging. She shares her journey of moving from feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations to finding joy in simple pleasures. With laughter and a few heartfelt moments, they remind us all that aging doesn’t mean we stop playing. It’s about finding what brings us joy and embracing it, whether it’s roller skating or just enjoying a good, dark chocolate bar. This episode is a breath of fresh air, filled with relatable stories and practical tips on how to keep that spark alive as we age. Let’s play!

Takeaways:

• Aging can feel overwhelming with all the advice we hear about living well, but it's important to take a break and have fun.
• Self-acceptance and playfulness are crucial in navigating the challenges of aging, so let’s embrace them!
• Yvonne Marchese shares that being playful is beneficial as we age, and it can help rediscover our spark.
• We should question ageist beliefs and stories we've told ourselves about getting older to allow for personal growth and reinvention.

Links referenced in this episode:

Find the Late Bloomer Living website here.

Explore all that the Ageless Traveler has to offer.

Check out the 'What's Keeping You Stuck' quiz.

Find the National Institute of Play here.

Greenwood Capital

Learn more about Greenwood Capital or find resources at www.GreenwoodCapital.com. Boomer Banter is sponsored in part by Greenwood Capital Associates, LLC. Greenwood Capital Associates, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm with offices in Greenville and Greenwood, SC. As a fiduciary firm,

Greenwood Capital is obligated to disclose any potential conflicts of interest with this arrangement. The host of “Boomer Banter”, Wendy Green, is a client of Greenwood Capital, and her show “Boomer Banter” has been compensated for her testimonial through Greenwood Capital’s sponsorship. Greenwood Capital is a Legacy sponsor at the stated rate of $2,600 for the 2025 calendar year.

In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green sits down with Merilyn Simonds as she shares her heartwarming and enlightening friendship with the incredible Beth, who just happens to be 105 years old!

heir weekly walks over the past five years have blossomed into a treasure trove of stories, laughter, and life lessons that Merilyn lovingly chronicles in her book, "Walking With Beth: Conversations with my 100-year-old Friend." This isn't just a book about aging; it's a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the beautiful journey of living fully at any age. We explore how Beth, with her zest for life, continues to inspire Merilyn and everyone around her, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing passions and staying engaged with the world.

Merilyn recounts how their friendship blossomed during the pandemic, a time when connection felt more important than ever. Their conversations sparked deep reflections on life's challenges and joys, and we get to hear how Beth's perspective on life has shifted the way Merilyn views her own aging process. With humor and warmth, they discuss everything from the joy of art to the little things that keep us grounded in the present. Beth's approach to life—embracing creativity, staying active, and cultivating relationships—offers listeners a refreshing perspective on growing older.

As they meander through memories and lessons learned, Merilyn emphasizes the importance of keeping a forward-looking mindset, something Beth embodies. They touch on topics like how to find purpose in retirement, the significance of passion, and the necessity of surrounding oneself with positivity. This episode is for anyone looking to inject a little joy and inspiration into their lives.

Takeaways:

• Aging with intention means staying curious and engaged with life.
• Friendship can blossom at any age, as shown by Marilyn and Beth's inspiring walks.
• Living fully into your hundreds is about finding passion and nurturing it every day.
• It's essential to keep an eye on your health while also focusing on what brings you joy.
• We don't need to let age define us; instead, we can redefine how we view growing older.
• The stories and experiences we share with others can help us cope with life’s challenges.

Links referenced in this episode:

• merilynsimonds.com
• amazon.ca (the book is not available in the US, yet.)
• Take the What's Keeping You Stuck quiz

So, here’s a thought: how do we navigate our relationship with all the stuff we’ve got lying around?

Today I will share my thoughts about just that! The episode is packed with nostalgia as I reflect on cherished items that tell stories. I mean, who doesn’t have a favorite childhood book or a stuffed animal they can't forget?

But as we get older, we find ourselves surrounded by more objects than we need. It can feel overwhelming, right? It’s like having a mini museum of our lives. We even ponder what our kids will want when we’re gone. It’s a delicate dance of holding on and letting go.

Throughout this episode, I emphasize that it’s not about the things but about the connections they represent. Let’s face it, those memories and feelings are what really last.

Join me as I navigate this sentimental landscape and give you some ideas about what’s worth keeping and what’s just taking up space!

Takeaways:

• This episode dives into the important connections we have with our belongings, reflecting our past and memories.
• Aging well involves navigating our relationships with both people and the things we hold dear.
• The episode emphasizes that it’s not the objects that matter, but the memories and feelings attached to them.
• Let's chat with our kids about what they really want from our collections; you might be surprised!
• Letting go of items can be tough, but it can also make space for new memories and connections.

Links referenced in this episode:

• “What’s Keeping You Stuck?” quiz
• Late Bloomer Living Podcast

Wendy Green, the delightful host of Boomer Banter, dives deep into the heart of familial connection in this episode with Tammy Cohen, a passionate author, entrepreneur and mother. Tammy shares her journey of writing text messages to her three sons during the pandemic, which began as a means to communicate amidst uncertainty. But these weren’t just ordinary texts; they evolved into a heartfelt collection that conveyed love, wisdom, and support. Through their chat, Wendy and Tammy explore the essence of these messages, reflecting on how they serve as a bridge between generations. A big theme here is that life is full of gifts, even in tough times, and Tammy’s story illustrates how we can transform challenges into opportunities for personal growth and connection.

Tammy’s book, “Text Messages to My Sons: A Guide to Using Mobile Devices to Connect and Communicate with your Kids,” is not really about parenting; it’s about self-discovery and the importance of nurturing relationships with our loved ones. She emphasizes that these texts were a way for her to share what she learned about gratitude, resilience, and self-worth. The conversation highlights how Tammy’s introspective journey led her to a deeper understanding of herself, and how that in turn allowed her to foster a more profound connection with her sons. It’s a beautiful reminder that our vulnerabilities can become strengths, and that love is a language that transcends generations.

Throughout their lively exchange, Wendy and Tammy sprinkle in humor and relatable anecdotes, making the conversation feel like a cozy chat between friends. They discuss the reality of parenting & grandparenting in the digital age, where reaching out via text is often more effective than traditional methods. The episode is both uplifting and informative, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of connection and communication with their families, while also reminding us that it’s never too late to start sharing love and wisdom.

Takeaways:

• During COVID, Tammy started sending her sons daily text messages filled with love and wisdom.
• The journey of self-discovery can lead to profound connections with loved ones through simple messages.
• Connecting with loved ones is something we all need.
• Aging well means always learning, staying connected with loved ones, and taking care of your health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• What's Keeping you Stuck?
• tammyjcohen.com

We’re celebrating our 250th episode with a focus on travel and connection today!

Our guest, Talek Nantes, is all about blending adventure with purpose, showing us how traveling can be an opportunity to build relationships and give back. She’s got this fantastic initiative called Bras for Babes, where she brings essentials to women in Cuba. We chat about how you can still travel and make an impact, no matter your age. So if you’ve ever thought about hitting the road with a purpose, grab a comfy seat and get ready to be inspired!

Takeaways:

• Traveling is not just about seeing new places, it's also about connecting with people and communities, which enriches our lives and theirs.
• Aging well means having a sense of purpose, staying active, and forming meaningful relationships with others, especially as we grow older.
• Talek's Bras for Babes initiative highlights how simple donations can have a huge impact on people's lives, especially in places like Cuba.
• Travel can help us learn new things about ourselves and the world; we're never too old to explore and grow, no matter our age!
• Building relationships during travel is key; it makes experiences more memorable and fulfilling, creating bonds that last long after the trip ends.
• Finding purpose in travel, like giving back through donations, can transform our journeys into meaningful adventures that we cherish forever.

Links referenced in this episode:

• travelswithtalek.com - Subscribe to her blog and download 101 Travel Tips ebook
• Check out the Late Bloomer Living podcast.
• Wondering why you are stuck, feeling adrift, unsure about what to do next? Check out the What's Keeping You Stuck quiz, and find out your "Stuck Type."
• Learn more about Greenwood Capital or find resources at www.GreenwoodCapital.com. Boomer Banter is sponsored in part by Greenwood Capital Associates, LLC. Greenwood Capital Associates, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm with offices in Greenville and Greenwood, SC. As a fiduciary firm,

Greenwood Capital is obligated to disclose any potential conflicts of interest with this arrangement. The host of “Boomer Banter”, Wendy Green, is a client of Greenwood Capital, and her show “Boomer Banter” has been compensated for her testimonial through Greenwood Capital’s sponsorship. Greenwood Capital is a Legacy sponsor at the stated rate of $2,600 for the 2025 calendar year.

Are you worried about whether your retirement money will last? You’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of calculating a withdrawal rate from your retirement account. We’ll unpack the famous 4% rule and see if it’s still the best way to plan for our golden years, or if we need to rethink our strategies.

Joining us is the insightful Bill Bengen, who’s got some fresh ideas on how to stretch that nest egg while keeping your peace of mind intact.

This conversation is all about empowerment. Bill explains how he re-evaluated the 4% rule and introduced concepts like SAFEMAX, which helps tailor withdrawal rates to your personal situation. But it doesn’t stop there; we talk about the importance of understanding inflation and market conditions, and how they affect your retirement dollars. Bill's easy-to-follow advice means you don’t need to be a financial expert to make your money work for you.

Takeaways:

• Retirement planning isn't just about the numbers; it's about quality of life too.
• The famous 4% rule is still a popular guideline, but newer strategies may be smarter today.
• Inflation is a sneaky enemy that can erode your retirement savings faster than you think.
• Be flexible with your spending and adjust your withdrawal rates to match market conditions.

Links referenced in this episode:

• For more information about Bill Bengen, tables to use to calculate your retirement withdrawals and his book go to bengenFS.com
• Wisdom at Work: Older Women, ElderWomen and Grandmothers is an inspiring podcast by Ilana Landsburg-Lewis. Access all the episodes here: wisdomatworkpodcast.com
• What to know your "Stuck" Type in retirement? Feeling bored, unfulfilled, like you have not purpose anymore? Check out my quiz, "What's Keeping You Stuck" to learn more and get resources to help you get unstuck.

Picture this: it’s a regular Monday morning, and I’m mentally prepping to talk about resilience when I get a curveball—a call from my mom’s care facility. She wasn’t feeling well and needed to go to the hospital. Just like that, my day took a dramatic turn!

That’s life, right? We all experience storms, both the literal and the metaphorical, and today, I want to chat about how we can navigate those rough waters. We’ve faced countless challenges, and if you’re listening, you’ve already survived a ton. So, let’s explore how we can harness that resilience and come out on the other side, stronger than ever.

Today, I’ll share some practical tools that can help you strengthen your resilience, whether you’re in a storm right now or just want to be ready for the next one.

Takeaways:

• Resilience is about adapting well through life’s storms, both big and small.
• We’ve all been through tough times, and recognizing our strength helps us thrive.
• Aging teaches us valuable lessons about overcoming hardships and finding new perspectives.
• Stay connected with others; it helps us realize we’re not alone in struggles.
• Establishing routines can give us a sense of control when life feels chaotic.
• Practicing gratitude can shift our focus to the good even in tough times.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Join me for a complimentary 30-minute Discovery Call. We can talk about where you are feeling challenged right now, and you will leave with at least one suggestion to help get you back on the right path.
• Email me and let me know your thoughts about this topic: [email protected]
• Check out the WisdomAtWork: Older Women, Elder Women and Grandmothers podcast

This episode of Boomer Banter is a wake-up call for seniors and their families as it tackles the pressing issue of financial scams targeting Boomers and Beyond. Wendy Green, the ever-enthusiastic host, engages in a lively conversation with Steve Benton, an authority on elder financial safety. Together, they shine a light on the staggering statistics surrounding scams, revealing how seniors lost nearly $4.9 billion in 2024 alone—an increase from the previous year.

They dissect various scams, including catfishing and the harrowing ‘pig butchering’ scheme, where victims are lured into investing money in fake opportunities. Steve's expertise shines as he shares practical advice for recognizing signs of scams and protecting oneself, stressing the importance of skepticism in today’s digital world. He suggests having a family password. This episode is not just a discussion; it’s a heartfelt appeal to the community to look out for one another and ensure that aging well includes being financially secure and aware of potential threats.

Listeners will walk away not only informed but empowered, with useful strategies that can be applied in real life to fend off scammers. Wendy and Steve remind us all to stay vigilant and support one another as we navigate the complexities of aging in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelmingly unsafe. If you care about someone who might be vulnerable to scams, share this episode—it could make a world of difference!

Takeaways:

• Seniors are increasingly vulnerable to scams, for many reasons.
• It's essential to have a family password to confirm identities during unexpected calls or messages.
• Trust your gut! If something feels off or too good to be true, take a step back and think.
• Don't go it alone; sharing experiences and advice with family can prevent falling for scams.
• Pause, Reflect, Get someone else involved.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me.
• Email Steve Benton at The Senior Source
• Call the Senior Source contact line at 469-517-7523
• Check out Greenwood Capital for your Financial Planning needs

Learn more about Greenwood Capital or find resources at www.GreenwoodCapital.com. Boomer Banter is sponsored in part by Greenwood Capital Associates, LLC. Greenwood Capital Associates, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm with offices in Greenville and Greenwood, SC. As a fiduciary firm, Greenwood Capital is obligated to disclose any potential conflicts of interest with this arrangement. The host of “Boomer Banter”, Wendy Green, is a client of Greenwood Capital, and her show “Boomer Banter” has been compensated for her testimonial through Greenwood Capital’s sponsorship. Greenwood Capital is a Legacy sponsor at the stated rate of $2,600 for the 2025 calendar year.

This episode takes a stroll down memory lane with Sally Dunbar, a gal who went from worrying about her health to strapping on her walking shoes to raise big bucks for breast cancer research. Sally’s journey is a testament to the power of saying 'yes' to new challenges, even when they scare you. It’s about finding strength in community and realizing you’re capable of way more than you think. So whether you're pondering your next move or just looking for a little inspiration, this conversation is packed with nuggets of wisdom that'll get you saying 'yes' to life!

Retirement can feel like a wild ride, right? It’s not always the beachside hammock and umbrella drink scenario that everyone dreams about. Many folks are left feeling lost and bored, wondering what to do with all this newfound free time. But guess what? That’s totally normal! It’s just a part of transitioning into a new season of life. Instead of thinking there’s something wrong with you, how about we flip the script? It’s time to explore your next chapter!

Takeaways:

• Sally's story shows us that taking one small step can lead to amazing transformations in our lives.
• Setting big goals is the first step; breaking them down makes them achievable, trust me!
• You are stronger than you think; don't let fear hold you back from saying yes to new adventures!
• Joining a supportive team can change your perspective and help you achieve the incredible, just like Sally!

Links shared:

Schedule a 30-minute complimentary discovery call with me here

Support Sally Dunbar's team, "Hands up for Hooters."

Susan G. Komen 3-day

Let’s get real about creativity and aging! This podcast episode is a goldmine of insights on how to keep your brain sharp and your heart happy as the years roll on.

We brought in Jenny Leigh Hodgins, a Creative Empowerment Coach who’s here to show us how diving into creative activities can boost our brainpower and lift our spirits.

Creativity isn’t about perfection; it's about expression and fun!

We get into the nitty-gritty about how to navigate burnout and creative blocks, because let’s be real, we all hit those walls sometimes!

We explore practical tips on how to incorporate little bits of creativity into your daily routine without it feeling like a chore. Plus, we dive into the importance of self-compassion and taking time for stillness amidst our busy lives.

So, if you're ready to embrace your creative side, tune in and get inspired to play, create, and thrive in this beautiful journey of aging!

Takeaways:

• Creativity enhances mental wellness, so don't shy away from trying something new.
• You don't have to be an artist to be creative; it's about expressing yourself authentically.
• Taking time for stillness and reflection can rejuvenate your spirit and spark creativity.
• Even small bursts of creative practice can lead to significant wellness benefits over time.
• Embrace the idea of an 'artist date' as a way to nourish your creative side and explore new interests.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Find Jenny Leigh Hodgins here and get her free My Creative Empowerment Sampler: yourcreativechord.com/getinspiredhere
• Sign up for your 30 minute free discover call with me here: https://calendly.com/boomer-banter/30minutes
• Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way