Telling the stories of long, healthy and productive lives is what we do here.  We share insights into how people conduct themselves - the habits, hacks, lessons and learning curves that evolve over time.  We hear about relationships, athletic adventures and career achievements - the highs and the lows of a life well-lived.

One day, hopefully in the distant future, it will be obituary-time. A few paragraphs politely mentioning some of our milestones along with funeral arrangements and options for flowers.  But before it comes to that, have you ever thought about telling your own story?  

James R. Hagerty writes obituaries for The Wall Street Journal, but his new book focusses on the living. In Yours Truly: An Obituary Writer's Guide to Telling Your Story, James shares his skills and insight into how to record the pivotal moments of our lives.  He also explains how the process could prove life-enhancing or enlightening and a valuable resource for our loved-ones.

In this interview we cover:

• The value of having a life story preserved.
• The difference between an obituary and telling your own story
• James' story as a career obituary writer and journalist
• But I'm not famous or infamous - do I have a story to tell?
• How open do I need to be about every high and low in my life? 
• When discretion is the better part of valor
• Saving stories - from letter-writing to social media posts
• Is the process therapeutic? 
• How do others benefit from you writing your story?
• The skill of asking questions
• Realizing how little we know about each others' lives
• Enjoying a long life and career and staying engaged

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Health queries can be answered by emailing: [email protected]
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The Live Long and Master Aging (LLAMA) podcast, a HealthSpan Media LLC production, shares ideas but does not offer medical advice. If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.