Senior Moments

Get ready for this treat!

Your host Carol Chiarito sits down with the inspiring Jean Rodick, affectionately known as Mama Jean, who spent 42 incredible years working with the National Park Service.

At 90 years young, Mama Jean shows no signs of slowing down as she shares captivating stories from her time stationed at national parks across the U.S. , telling the stories like only she can tell!

Join us for a lively conversation that’s full of fun and wisdom as we celebrate her adventurous spirit and zest for life, proving that age is just a number.

You won't want to miss this delightful journey through her remarkable career!  You will laugh and you might even cry, but I guarantee you will want to meet this wonderfully amazing lady.

Be sure to like, follow, and share Senior Moments to keep up with more amazing stories. If you'd like to support the podcast, consider donating to Love a Senior Company to  help continue to bring you inspiring content that celebrates aging with joy and purpose! Be sure to mark your donation to be used for the podcast!  

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Thanks for listening! 

Food, Fun, and Programs Galore!

The Senior Resource Development Agency (SRDA) in Pueblo, CO, has been serving the senior community for over 53 years. Since 1971, this iconic agency has grown, expanded, and remained dedicated to its mission of providing essential programs for all area seniors.

In this episode, Senior Moments sits down with Carma Loontjer from SRDA to explore the vital role this senior center plays in fostering connection and joy in the city of Pueblo, Colorado.

Carma shares the 12 essential services and programs SRDA offers, from social events and fitness classes to critical support services. Hear heartwarming stories of how SRDA has created a welcoming space where seniors can connect, stay active, be safe, and live life to the fullest.

Congratulations to the SRDA for enhancing the lives of seniors in Pueblo County for over five decades.

To learn more about the SRDA in Pueblo CO, or to become a volunteer visit www.srda.org or call 719-545-8900.

 If you're in the Pueblo area, stop by 230 North Union Avenue, Pueblo, CO 81003.

If you love hearing about all things Senior…be sure to like, follow and share our episodes!  If you would like to learn more about Senior Centers, or to become a part of our Love A Senior Center Project plan, visit our website and share your story with us!  

Thanks for listening! 

A Visit to the LaJunta Senior Center, LaJunta, Colorado.

In this Senior Moments episode, we’re celebrating where aging meets awesome with a special interview featuring Dawn Block, the driving force behind the La Junta Senior Center in Colorado. Dawn shares the incredible programs and activities that keep local seniors active, engaged, and thriving every week. From social events to educational opportunities, the La Junta Senior Center is a shining example of the positive aspects of aging.

This rural community clearly supports its senior population, and the smiles on their faces in this community center prove it! 

Listen and learn about what happens at this community center. Learn about the funding, the programs and more!

Do you have a community center in your town? If you’re over 50, be sure to visit the one near you! Remember, "if you rest, you rust"—stay active, stay connected, and keep thriving!

Contact Dawn for more information or comments and questions at [email protected], or call 719-384-5486. 

If you would like us to interview the senior center in your community or if you’d like more information about starting or rebuilding a center in your area, let us know! 

Visit loveasenior.org/projects connect with us.  

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“Rightsizing Keep the best, let go of the rest” Podcast 

Senior Moments welcomes Rightsizing expert Jeannine Bryant the owner and CEO of Changing Spaces SRS, a senior move management company in Lincoln, NE. She has helped provide rightsizing and relocation services to seniors since 2010. During that time, she has been actively involved in the downsizing and moving processes of thousands of older adults. Learn more about their services (and shop their online auctions!) at www.ChangingSpacesSRS.com.  

In 2019, Jeannine created a sister brand to Changing Spaces SRS called Easy Rightsizing. This platform allows Jeannine to educate anyone and everyone about the rightsizing process, no matter their location. At her website www.EasyRightsizing.com she provides blog articles, video tutorials, links to podcasts she has been featured on, downloadable resources, and links to purchase the two books she has written on the downsizing process. 

Ready to Rightsize? A step-by-step guide to your rightsizing journey: For older adults and their loved ones was Jeannine’s first book, published in 2019. It is the essential guidebook to anyone undergoing a transition and moving to a smaller space. Jeannine prides herself on offering the kinds of practical tips and inspiration to get people motivated to start sorting through their belongings and undergoing their own rightsizing journey. 

In 2021, she published her second took titled Keep the Memories, Not the Stuff to serve as a helpful guide for anyone who has trouble letting go of keepsakes (that’s most of us!). This practical how-to book will help readers gain a new perspective on life, love, memories, and our stuff. The book offers thoughtful insights into the grieving process, as well as practical tips and hands-on advice for letting go without the guilt. 

In 2022, Jeannine released her first online downsizing course, which people can take on-demand from the comfort of their own home. The course features a downloadable workbook and over three hours of video content featuring Jeannine as she coaches participants through the process of downsizing and moving. 

Changing Spaces SRS Website – www.ChangingSpacesSRS.com

Changing Spaces SRS Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/ChangingSpacesSRS/

Easy Rightsizing Website – www.EasyRightsizing.com

Easy Rightsizing Facebook page –  

https://www.facebook.com/EasyRightsing/

A Senior Moments podcast featuring Dr. Marlene Bizub.

Marlene Bizub, Psy.D, earned a Doctorate degree in Forensic Psychology from Eisner Institute for Professional Studies and a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Gerontology from Wichita State University. Dr. Marlene has over 30 years’ experience as a therapist, college instructor, family preservation specialist, and has spent over 20 years serving as a forensic evaluator for the courts in family law cases before becoming a speaker, author, and private consultant in the area of divorce, blended families, and family law issues. 

Dr. Marlene has a weekly video podcast, “The High Road”, on Bold Brave TV Network. Author of the book, Contentious Custody: Is It Really in the Best Interest of Your Children,

Dr. Marlene is passionate about her work as a Forensic Psychologist and Certified Divorce Coach, helping people learn to “love their children more than they hate their ex”. Reach Dr. Marlene at www.marlenebizub.com or 719-641-5403.  

Legendary Laps: Bill Yalotz's 65-Year Racing Journey 

In this episode of Senior Moments, we sit down with Pueblo, Colorado native Bill Yalotz, an 83-year-old race car driver whose racing career has spanned an incredible 65 years and counting. Bill shares fascinating stories from how he got started racing, recounting his early days, the challenges and triumphs he faced, and the evolution of the sport over the decades.

We delve into his recent induction into the 2023 Colorado Motorsports Hall of Fame, discussing what this honor means to him and reflecting on the milestones that led to this prestigious recognition.  Racing is in his blood and after 65 years of high speeds around the track,  he has hasn't really slowed down!  I mean why should he, he’s a race car driver.  

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates a lifetime of speed, passion, and dedication. Whether you're a motorsport enthusiast or just love a good story, this episode is sure to rev your engines.

Join us for this special episode and get ready to be inspired by the remarkable journey of Bill Yalotz.

“To finish first, you first must finish”, Bill Yalotz

Read more about his induction to the CO Motorsports Hall of fame here: https://coloradomotorsportshalloffame.com/bill-yalotz/

Visit Bill’s business information at https://www.belmonttire.com/

Thanks for listening! Don't forget to follow us so you don't miss an episode!

Elixir of Life: Harnessing the Power of Essential Oils for Health and Aging Gracefully with Darla Bornhoft 

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Darla Bornhoft, a beacon of wisdom in the realm of holistic wellness, as she shares her profound insights into the transformative power of essential oils for health and aging gracefully. Join us as Darla unravels some of the secrets behind these potent botanical extracts and unveils their myriad benefits for enhancing vitality at every stage of life.

Drawing from her extensive experience and education with many certifications on the subject (including Aroma Freedom Technic, Raindrop Technic, Emotional Release with Essential Oils, Reframing Dementia, and Reflexology101..to name a few), Darla shares some of the ancient traditions to illuminate the remarkable healing-like properties of essential oils. From alleviating common ailments to promoting mental clarity and emotional balance, she reveals how these natural elixirs can serve as invaluable allies in our quest for holistic well-being.

But the conversation doesn't stop there. Darla delves into the art of aging, offering practical guidance on harnessing the regenerative power of essential oils to nurture radiant skin, support cognitive function, and cultivate a sense of inner harmony as we traverse the passage of time.

Whether you're seeking relief from everyday stressors or seeking to embrace the beauty of aging with vitality and grace, this episode is sure to inspire and enlighten. Join us as Darla Bornhoft shares her passion for essential oils and empowers listeners to embark on a journey towards a life infused with health, vitality, and timeless beauty.

Darla is licensed in Cosmetology in Colorado and Nebraska and is currently studying for her certification for Certified Aromatherapist Program NAHA & AIA Approved Aromahead Institute School of Essential Studies. 

If you have a question for Darla, or would like to learn more about this subject, or even order your own Essential Oil kit, contact Darla at [email protected].  Additionally, drop her a line at Darla Bornhoft, PO Box 344, Hyannis, NE 69350.

Essentially Not Just Oils

Book by Carol K Truman:  “Feelings Buried Alive Never Die”

Step into the heartwarming world of Family Smiles, where dentistry isn't just a profession but a cherished family legacy. In this enlightening episode, join Dr. James Swanson, a seasoned (and now retired) dentist, alongside his daughter, Dr. Jamie Johnson as they unravel the story behind their esteemed dental practice.

For five decades, Dr. James Swanson has been a trusted pillar of his local community, diligently serving as a dentist and earning the respect and gratitude of generations of patients.

Then, a pivotal moment came when his daughter, Dr. Jamie Johnson, following in her father's footsteps, decided to join him in his noble pursuit. Together, they embarked on a transformative journey, combining Dr. Swanson's wealth of experience with Dr. Jamie's fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to create the beloved dental practice known as Family Smiles. Their partnership not only represents a beautiful fusion of tradition and innovation but also symbolizes the enduring bond between a father and daughter united by a shared commitment to care and compassion.

Through engaging anecdotes and insightful conversations, Dr. Swanson and his daughter delve into the unique dynamics of running a family-owned dental practice. From the challenges they've overcome to the triumphs they've celebrated.

Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of Family Smiles, the move for Dr. Jim into retirement, not to mention dental tips for our aging mouths and teeth!

You can find more information about Family Smiles dentistry at familysmilescompany.com

Thanks for listening!

Forgotten was first featured in our Senior Moments Season 1, Episode 8 in 2020. We are so excited to revisit them again and welcome back the founders Kathi Snow, Sandi King and this time their Mom Peggy McKenney, from Jacksonville, FL

Kathi, Sandi, and Peggy founded Forgotten Angels as a non-profit organization and have grown this idea over the years to what it is today, serving close to 40 nursing homes and over 3000 elders each year.

Peggy, originally from Lexington, KY is the mother of 3, retired and has lived in the Jacksonville since 2004. As co-founder of Forgotten Angels, she is the treasurer and as you will hear, is the liaison between the Angles and the nursing home activity directors. Even though she is in her 80's, you will hear how this lady just keeps things rolling!

Sandi serves as the Vice President and is usually the "voice" of the Angels getting the word out about their activities and making connections.

Kathi is the President of Forgotten Angels. Everything goes through Kathi! She is in charge of all decision making for all Angel activities and is the "spread sheet" organizer for all they do! 

The Forgotten Angels continued their mission as best they could in 2020, surviving the pandemic and now moving forward stronger than ever. With the help of a generous community, amazing volunteers and those wonderful patrons who buy that jelly...this organization just can't be stopped.   You will hear how their homemade jelly sales help fund what they do, their growth plan and need for more volunteers.

For more information, please email them at [email protected] or follow on Facebook at Forgotten Angels (Jax). Also, check the new website Forgottenangels-jax.org donated by The Love A Senior Co team.

If you would like to support their cause , consider a donation of time, gifts, or money by contacting them at the email above, or us at [email protected].

...and a quote from the interview: "Love those old folks. Cause with the little luck in the Lord to see you through one day, you will be old folks too." From the song by Ronnie Milsap, "Old Folks"

Contribute to the work of Senior Moments here. If you'd like to designate funding to go to Forgotten Angels, we will pass the funds along!

Welcome Cliff Tadema founder of ElderCare Ministries. 

You are in for a real treat with this interview.  Cliff shares his story from financial advisor to becoming a pastor, and bringing it all together for his inspiration of Eldercare Ministries.  

Learn about the ElderCare chaplains and be inspired by the stories he shares of the chaplains’ work. His closing words will bring a tear to your eye.  It did for me!  

Cliff was born in Lupwe, Nigeria, the son of missionary parents. He spent 20 years in business, primarily the financial sector. He was a Certified Financial Planner, Investment Advisor and licensed in insurance, real estate and securities. As an entrepreneur he started multiple companies. 

In 1983 Cliff became the pastor for Christ The King Community Church in Anacortes, WA. He subsequently pastored churches of over 1000 people.  For 10 years he acted as the National Director of Pastors for The CTK Network, an evangelical non-denominational network of churches. In that role he trained pastors and ministry leaders. 

Learn in the podcast how Cliff’s wife Caryn was the force that drove him to create ElderCare Ministries. Caryn’s career has involved working with elders since 1984, she also has a degree in Gerontology, (the study of aging), is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist and a Certified Senior Advisor. So a perfect inspiration!

Visit eldercareministries.org to learn more about Cliff's work and the ministry, including information on becoming an ElderCare Chaplain in your area.

 Cliff is the author of The Prayer Adventure, a prayer devotional journal.

As always, thanks for listening. Be sure to follow us here at Senior Moments.

We appreciate your support of what we do. loveasenior.org