The SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast welcomes bestselling author and retirement happiness expert Tom Marks for an enlightening conversation about embracing individualism in retirement. Drawing on personal stories, thought-provoking quotes, and decades of professional experience, Tom Marks shares how retirees can shed societal expectations and rediscover their unique identities after a lifetime defined by career, family roles, and possessions.

Listeners will hear anecdotes ranging from Tom Marks's family history with Orville Redenbacher to playful discussions about fashion and music preferences, all underscored by a heartfelt message: retirement is a time to step to your own rhythm. Darleen Mahoney and Tom Marks delve into topics such as ageism, media stereotypes, the impact of social media, and the bittersweet realities of modern technology, including the rise of AI. Through relatable examples—including memories of a spirited grandmother and the joys of comfortable clothing—they remind seniors that it's never too late to live life unapologetically, pursue passions, and find genuine happiness.

Whether you're newly retired, contemplating future transitions, or simply seeking encouragement to remain true to yourself, this episode offers wisdom, humor, and actionable takeaways for living out loud.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by Best-selling Retirement Author,Tom Marks & TerraBella Senior Living

Links to connect with Tom Marks: Coming of Age in Retirement & The Peaceful Retiree

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees

Is inflammation at the root of your daily aches or chronic health hurdles? In this episode, host Darleen Mahoney sits down with Dr. Sabrina Russ, a geriatric pharmacist and wellness coach, for a down-to-earth chat about what inflammation actually is and why it matters as we age.

Forget the medical jargon—we’re breaking down how simple shifts in diet, hydration, and stress management can make a massive difference. 

Through personal stories and expert advice, you'll learn that managing your health doesn't have to be overwhelming. Tune in for some high-quality encouragement and a reminder that small, sustainable steps can lead to a much more comfortable life. 

Connect with Dr. Russ and learn more about personalized health coaching and telehealth services at keepwellnesssimple.com, with links provided in the episode description.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by Best-Selling Author on Retirement, Tom Marks & TerraBella Senior Living.
 

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees

In this episode of the SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast, host Darleen Mahoney is joined by Master Deputy Jeffrey Merry, Sun City Center Community Resource Deputy with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and AARP’s 2024 Fraud Fighter of the Year. Together, they take a deep dive into the world of scams targeting seniors—a pressing, ever-evolving issue with staggering financial and emotional impacts.

Master Deputy Merry explains the sophisticated and organized criminal networks behind today’s scams, shedding light on why seniors are rich targets and how bad actors use emotional manipulation to defraud them. 

With warmth and candor, Darleen Mahoney and Master Deputy Merry discuss practical prevention strategies. This episode also highlights trusted resources like AARP’s Fraud Watchdog Network, the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), and the Federal Trade Commission, linking listeners directly to help and support.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by Best-Selling Author on Retirement, Tom Marks & TerraBella Senior Living.

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Gerda Maissel, a board-certified physician and private patient advocate, for an in-depth conversation about urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older adults and why UTI's are dangerous for elderly. Drawing on her clinical expertise and advocacy background, Dr. Maissel explains why seniors are at higher risk for UTIs and what sets their experiences apart from those of younger people. She unpacks the physiological changes that come with aging, such as decreased immune function, the effects of medication, and prostate enlargement in men. She reveals how these factors increase susceptibility to infection.

Listeners gain practical insight into recognizing UTI symptoms, which often manifest differently in older adults, sometimes appearing as confusion or agitation rather than the classic burning or urgency. Dr. Maissel shares evidence-based prevention strategies, including the roles of hydration, cranberry products, estrogen cream for women, and regular evaluation of medications that might promote urinary retention. The episode also sheds light on how UTIs can complicate chronic conditions like dementia, why prompt testing and treatment are crucial, and when hospitalization may become necessary.

Tune in for actionable tips, myth-busting facts, and reassurance that UTIs are not just an unavoidable part of aging, but a treatable condition. 

Check out: https://www.mymdadvisor.com

 SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by:  TerraBella Senior Living & Tom Marks, Best Selling Author on Retirement

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees.

Join host Darleen Mahoney as she welcomes bestselling author and ThePeacefulRetiree.com editor-in-chief Tom Marks for an honest and engaging conversation about finding fulfillment in retirement. Drawing from his acclaimed book, Coming of Age in Retirement, Tom Marks shares the challenges he faced after leaving a high-powered career in advertising—including losing his identity and tackling the “hamster wheel” of endless activity. Together, they explore the importance of managing expectations, letting go of perfection, and discovering happiness in everyday moments. From the healing power of gratitude and daily rituals to forming genuine connections and embracing small joys, Tom Marks and Darleen Mahoney provide practical advice and personal anecdotes to help listeners navigate both retirement and life’s transitions. Whether you’re retired, approaching retirement, or supporting loved ones, this episode offers inspiration for living with purpose, kindness, and meaning.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by TerraBella Senior Living & Tom Marks, Best Selling Author on Retirement
 

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees.

In this illuminating episode, host Darleen Mahoney welcomes Rita Shula, Senior Director of Caregiving at the AARP Public Policy Institute, for an in-depth discussion about the dramatic rise in family caregivers across America—a trend revealed by AARP’s latest research. Together, they unpack the staggering statistic that one in four adults now provides some form of caregiving, exploring the forces driving this increase: a rapidly aging population, evolving care needs, and the shortage of affordable professional support.

Rita Shula shares insights from the study, revealing that caregiving isn’t limited to retired or older adults—most caregivers are actually employed, with a growing number balancing careers, child-rearing, and demanding care roles. Through personal stories and data, the episode dives into the emotional, physical, and financial toll caregiving takes, from invisible stressors and “sandwich generation” pressures to the impacts of loneliness and strained health.

The episode also turns to solutions, as Rita Shula explains AARP’s advocacy for practical policy changes such as tax credits, improved healthcare navigation, flexible savings accounts, and workplace support. Listeners will discover free resources, expert guides, and vibrant online support groups.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by TerraBella Senior Living & Tom Marks, Best Selling Author on Retirement

AARP 2025 Report Link

AARP Caregiving Resources

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax 

In this episode, we tackle the age-old debate of fresh versus frozen produce with two expert guests who bring real-world insights to your kitchen. Lisa Johnson, corporate dietitian for Homestyle Direct, and Maddie Ehrlich, Boise account manager for Simplot, join host Darleen Mahoney to bust myths and share practical wisdom about maximizing nutrition while minimizing waste and cost.

You'll discover surprising truths about when frozen vegetables actually outperform fresh ones nutritionally, how Americans waste an average of 37 minutes daily on food prep, and why that $20 bag of cherries might be costing you more than you think. Lisa and Maddie walk through what freezes well (broccoli, peppers, kale) versus what doesn't (lettuce, cucumbers), smart strategies for organic purchases, and cooking methods that preserve both nutrients and texture. They also share creative smoothie recipes using frozen produce and offer a practical framework for deciding when to choose fresh or frozen based on your lifestyle and budget.

Tune in to discover actionable tips that could save you hours of prep time, reduce your grocery bills, and help you actually eat the produce you buy instead of tossing it in the trash. Whether you're managing a tight budget, dealing with mobility challenges, or simply trying to eat healthier without the hassle, this episode offers invaluable guidance for making smarter choices in the produce aisle.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by TerraBella Senior Living & Tom Marks, Best Selling Author on Retirement

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*SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees

In this episode, we sit down with Chandler Burckbuchler, Senior Division Manager and Marketing Manager for Terra Bella Senior Living, to discuss the critical warning signs families should watch for when visiting aging loved ones during the holidays. Chandler explains why the weeks following Thanksgiving and Christmas are traditionally the busiest times for senior living inquiries, as extended family time reveals changes that might go unnoticed during brief visits. She shares practical guidance on identifying concerns ranging from cognitive decline and medication management to nutrition, hygiene, and driving safety.

We also explore the emotional aspects of aging, including loneliness and depression in seniors, and hear touching stories about the importance of listening to our elders' experiences. Chandler emphasizes that caregivers need care too, and offers actionable advice on conducting home safety checks—from testing smoke alarms to removing fall risks. She stresses the value of having conversations about care preferences before emergencies arise and encourages families to visit senior living communities during the holidays to understand their options.

Tune in to discover invaluable insights that can help you support your aging loved ones while navigating these sensitive conversations with compassion and preparation. Whether you're noticing subtle changes or planning ahead, this episode offers the practical tools and emotional support families need during the holiday season and beyond.

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by TerraBella Senior Living and Tom Marks, Best Selling Author on Retirement

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*SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees

In this episode, we explore the emotional complexities of navigating grief during the holiday season with Amber Stanley, a licensed social worker and author of Everyday Life and Loss Grief Workbook. Amber brings her expertise from years of hospice work and bereavement counseling to help listeners understand why holidays can be particularly challenging when dealing with loss, explaining how the constant reminders and nostalgia create a mix of emotions that affect us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Our host, Darleen Mahoney, shares personal stories of losing the large, multigenerational holiday gatherings she cherished as a child, while Amber offers practical strategies for managing expectations, simplifying traditions, and creating meaningful rituals that honor deceased loved ones. We also discuss the importance of avoiding unhealthy isolation, supporting grieving family members, and involving children in age-appropriate memory-making activities. Through touching anecdotes—including a humorous story about an ugly purple bathrobe—we discover that it's often the imperfect moments that create the most meaningful memories.

Tune in to discover compassionate guidance on maintaining healthy behaviors during this stressful season, creating new traditions while honoring the past, and remembering that it's okay to let good enough be good enough. Whether you're experiencing your first holiday season after a loss or supporting someone who is grieving, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice for finding moments of connection and peace during the holidays. Don't miss it!

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SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by Tom Marks, Best Selling Author on Retirement & TerraBella Senior Living

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*SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of anxiety with expert Bonnie Brindle, author of 'Cracking the Crazy Makers'. Bonnie shares her insights on the rising prevalence of anxiety in society, particularly among seniors and caregivers. We explore the various causes of anxiety, from hereditary factors to environmental influences, and discuss how it manifests in our daily lives.

Our conversation takes a practical turn as we examine effective strategies for managing anxiety. Bonnie emphasizes the crucial role of movement and hydration, even for those with limited mobility. We also delve into the power of therapy, meditation, and building supportive communities. Whether you're grappling with anxiety yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable advice and actionable tips.

Tune in to discover Bonnie's five daily practices for anxiety management and learn about her transformative journey from experiencing panic disorder to becoming an anxiety expert. Don't miss this insightful discussion that could change the way you approach anxiety in your life or the lives of those you care for.

Experience The Anxiety Avenger Alliance: Tire Swing Community

SeniorLivingGuide.com Podcast sponsored by Terrabella Senior Living and Tom Marks, Best Selling Author

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*SeniorLivingGuide.com Webinars and Podcast represents the opinions and expertise of our guests. The content here is for informational and educational purposes. It does not necessarily represent the views, recommendations, opinions or advice of Fairfax Publishing/SeniorLivingGuide.com or its employees