The Not Old - Better Show

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today we have an extraordinary episode for you. We’ll be speaking with Smithsonian Associate Dr. April Nowell, a distinguished Paleolithic archaeologist and professor of anthropology, whose groundbreaking work is giving a voice to a forgotten and overlooked population from the Ice Age—children.

In prehistoric societies, children made up nearly half of the population, but until recently, their roles in the ancient world have been largely invisible. When we think of our Ice Age ancestors, we tend to imagine adults—hunting, gathering, crafting tools, and creating art. But what about the infants, toddlers, and adolescents living alongside them? Dr. Nowell’s research challenges us to reframe how we understand the past.

Link for details about Dr. Nowell’s presentation titled: Growing Up in the Ice Age.

Dr. Nowell will take us on a journey back in time, as we learn how Ice Age children played, learned, and adapted to a challenging environment, leaving marks—literally and figuratively—that have lasted tens of thousands of years. Their contributions weren’t just crucial to their survival, but to the survival and flourishing of humanity itself. In a time when their small bones and quiet voices have long since disappeared, Dr. Nowell’s research brings these children back into focus, helping us understand how their lives shaped the culture, survival, and innovation of our species.

It’s an honor to have Dr. Nowell here today, and I’m excited to dive into her fascinating work and the compelling stories she’s uncovered about childhood in the Ice Age. So, without further ado, let’s begin our conversation with Dr. April Nowell. Welcome to the show."

My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. April Nowell.  Smithsonian Associate Dr. April Nowell will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates and you’ll find details in our show notes today about her upcoming presentation, titled, Growing Up in the Ice Age.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do for the show.  My thanks to executive editor Sam Heninger and my thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today’s conversation is both powerful and eye-opening. We’re exploring an untold chapter of the Civil Rights Movement, one that’s been overshadowed for decades by other, more well-known events. On June 9, 1964, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, hundreds of Black men, women, and children gathered at First African Baptist Church to march for equality. What happened next became known as Bloody Tuesday—a day of brutal police violence, where law enforcement, backed by deputized white citizens and Klansmen, attacked innocent protesters with tear gas, fire hoses, and nightsticks. Yet for years, this horrific event remained buried in history.

Our guest today is Smithsonian Associate, historian John M. Giggie, has devoted more than a decade to uncovering this pivotal moment. His new book, Bloody Tuesday: The Untold Story of the Struggle for Civil Rights in Tuscaloosa.  You’ll find details in our show notestoday about his upcoming presentation, titled, Bloody Tuesday: The Untold Story of the Struggle for Civil Rights in Tuscaloosa.

We have Dr. Giggie today and he’ll share with us briefly about his upcoming presentation, including work he’s done on the deep scars left by this tragedy, and the incredible resilience of those who survived it. Dr. John Giggie’s will also touches on the ongoing fight for racial justice, reminding us that these stories are not just history—they are still shaping the present.

Smithsonian Associate Dr. John Giggie is an Associate Professor of History at the University of Alabama 

Today’s interview will challenge what you think you know about the Civil Rights Movement, and shine a light on the continued importance of reckoning with our nation’s past. Please join me in welcoming John Giggie to the show.

My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. John Giggie. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do for the show.  My thanks to executive editor Sam Heninger and my thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to the Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Edition. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today, we're diving into the minds of history’s greatest economists with our special guest, Smithsonian Associate, Dr. Robbie Mochrie.

Dr. Mochrie is not just an esteemed economist with over 30 years of teaching experience, but also an insightful author whose latest book, How to Think Like an Economist, explores the timeless wisdom of economic giants like Aristotle, Adam Smith, John Maynard Keynes, and Esther Duflo. In a world where the economy affects every aspect of our lives—from the way governments navigated the pandemic to the pressing need to tackle climate change—Dr. Mochrie shows us that understanding economics is indispensable.

But we have Dr. Mochrie today,  and we’ll explore how these thinkers shaped the world and how their ideas continue to influence policies that can make or break our future. We’ll also discuss Dr. Mochrie's favorite economist and delve into the revolutionary ideas that could help us address some of the most significant challenges of our time.

It’s a conversation that will challenge what you think you know about economics, offering new perspectives on how we can all contribute to a better, more sustainable world. So, stay tuned as we uncover the power of economic thought with Dr. Robbie Mochrie, right here on the Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.

You can find out more about about Dr. Mochrie, including his upcoming Smithsonian Associatespresentation titled, How To Think Like an Economistin our show notes today.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to Executive Producer Sam Heningerfor his audio direction and my thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and let’s Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today we have a truly inspiring episode that promises to leave you feeling hopeful and empowered. Our guest is the remarkable Dr. Susan Solomon, a pioneering atmospheric chemist whose groundbreaking work in the 1980s was crucial in solving the ozone layer crisis. Dr. Susan Solomon will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up so please check out our show notes today for more details!

In her new book, “Solvable: How We Healed the Earth, and How We Can Do It Again,” Smithsonian Associate Dr. Solomon draws from her extensive experience to argue that, while we face daunting environmental challenges, they are not insurmountable. Today with us, Dr. Solomon will share stories of environmental victories from diverse heroes, ranging from scientists to everyday citizens, demonstrating that collective action can lead to monumental change.

Smithsonian Associate Dr. Susan Solomon will share insights from her expedition to Antarctica, where her discoveries led to the Montreal Protocol—a landmark agreement that successfully curbed ozone-depleting substances. She will also discuss the parallels between past environmental successes and the ongoing fight against climate change, highlighting the power of public awareness, political will, and innovative technology.

Throughout our conversation, we'll explore how individuals, especially those in the 50+ age group, can play a pivotal role in advocating for and supporting environmental causes. Dr. Solomon’s message is clear: healing our planet is a collective effort, and every action counts.

So, sit back and get ready to be inspired by one of the leading voices in environmental science. This episode is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and determination, and it’s a call to action for all of us to join the fight for a healthier, more sustainable world.

Let’s welcome Dr. Susan Solomon to The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.

My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Susan Solomon for her generous time.  You can find out more about about Dr. Solomon, including her upcoming Smithsonian Associates presentation titled: Solvable How We Healed the Earth, and How We Can Do It Again in our show notes today.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to Executive Producer Sam Heninger for his audio direction and my thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and let’s Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show. Today’s episode is brought to you byNewspapers.com.   I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is one that will deeply move you, inspire you, and remind you of the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Our guest today is Janet Singer Applefield, a Holocaust survivor who has spent decades sharing her harrowing, yet hopeful story with people all over the world. As a young girl in Nowy Targ, Poland, Janet, then known as Gustawa Singer, lived a blissful life surrounded by family and love. But that idyllic childhood was shattered in 1939 when Hitler’s army invaded Poland, setting off a chain of events that would forever change her life.

Separated from her parents at just seven years old, Janet faced unimaginable loss and fear. Yet, in the midst of the darkest chapter in human history, she encountered the incredible bravery of strangers who risked everything to save her life. These experiences, once locked away in the recesses of her memory, have become the foundation of her powerful memoir, "Becoming Janet: Finding Myself in the Holocaust."

Today, at 88 years old, Janet not only reflects on her past but also uses her story to educate future generations. Her tireless efforts have reached thousands of students, and she has even played a pivotal role in advocating for genocide education laws. Her message is clear: we must never forget, and we must always stand against hatred and bigotry in all its forms.

In this episode, Janet will share her journey of survival, resilience, and rediscovery. She will take us through the traumatic years of the Holocaust, the poignant moments of reunion with her father, and the long path to healing that led her to where she is today—a woman dedicated to spreading hope, courage, and the power of compassion.

So, join us as we listen to Janet’s extraordinary story. It’s a story of tragedy, yes, but also one of profound triumph—a reminder that even in the face of the greatest evil, the light of humanity can never be fully extinguished.

Thanks for joining us today on The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast.  Today’s episode is brought to you byNewspapers.com Please support our sponsors as they support our show.  My thanks always to Executive Producer Sam Heninger for all his work on the show and my thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better on radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody, and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast, I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang. Today, we’re turning back the clock to the summer of 1965, a time when music wasn’t just entertainment—it was a revolution. A single song hit the airwaves on July 24th of that year and changed everything. That song, of course, is Bob Dylan’s ‘Like a Rolling Stone.’ Whether you remember hearing it for the first time or are discovering it today, there’s no denying its power and influence.

To help us dive into this groundbreaking moment in music history, we have a very special guest:Scott G. Shea. Scott is a leading music historian and author of the best-selling book, ‘All the Leaves Are Brown: How the Mamas Came Together and Broke Apart.’He’s here to share his insights on how ‘Like a Rolling Stone’ shattered conventions, pushed boundaries, and paved the way for the folk-rock movement in America. We’ll explore how this six-minute masterpiece managed to captivate a nation and why its impact still resonates nearly 60 years later.

Scott brings a wealth of knowledge not only as an author but also as a longtime radio producer, currently working onSiriusXM’s ‘Seize the Day’ with Gus Lloyd. His expertise will give us a unique perspective on why ‘Like a Rolling Stone’ was more than just a song—it was a cultural moment. So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a trip down memory lane to the time when Bob Dylan turned the music world on its head.”

My thanks to Scott Shea for all his work and expertise.  You’ll find out more about Scott on our website via the links, but I love to talk to Scott because he’s a preserver and lover of vintage music from the 1940s through the 1990s.  Scott will join us again soon.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  My thanks to Executive Producer, Sam Heninger.  Miranda Heninger our team admin we thank profusely for helping us stay on task! Please be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better™. The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview series on radio and podcast, thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and as always, it’s an absolute pleasure to be with you. Today, we have a very special guest who’s made a remarkable name for himself in the world of sports writing—Smithsonian Associate Joe Posnanski.

Smithsonian Associate Joe Posnanski has a gift for capturing the essence of the sports we love, and today, he’s here to talk about his latest book, Why We Love Football: A History in 100 Moments. If you’re a football fan—or even if you’re not—this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on America’s most beloved sport. Joe Posnanski will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up so please check out our website for more details, and also at Smithsonian Associates site.  

Imagine the thrill of Joe Montana’s epic touchdown pass to Dwight Clark in 1981, the tension as the ball soared through the air, and the eruption of joy as Clark made “The Catch” that would forever be etched into football history. As a long time 49er Faithful fan, I remember it well.  Or think of the pure, improbable magic of Eli Manning’s “Helmet Catch” that led the New York Giants to a stunning victory over the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. These are the moments that make football more than just a game—they’re part of our cultural fabric.

But how do we choose the greatest moments in a sport so rich in history? That’s the challenge Smithsonian Associate Joe Posnanski has taken on.

My thanks to author and Smithsonian Associate Joe Posnanski for his generous time today. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to Sam Heninger, Executive Producer for his help in making today’s show the high quality program it always is.  And of course my thanks to you my wonderful audience here on the Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show.  Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next week.  

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome back to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview series on radio and podcast, the show where we explore fascinating stories, insightful perspectives, and inspiring journeys that remind us all it’s never too late to live a life full of adventure, connection, and meaning. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Picture this: a world where relationships mean the difference between life and death, where the company you keep determines whether you’ll survive the night or find food for the day. 

This isn’t the latest human drama—it’s the hidden reality of the animal kingdom. From bats sharing blood to keep one another alive, to birds teaming up to steal a quick meal, animals have been forging social networks long before the first human logged onto social media.

Our guest today is someone who has spent his life uncovering these incredible stories of connection and survival. Smithsonian Associate Dr. Lee Alan Dugatkin is an evolutionary biologist, historian of science, and the author of the fascinating new book, The Well-Connected Animal: Social Networks and the Wondrous Complexity of Animal Societies.

Smithsonian Associate Dr. Lee Alan Dugatkin will be presenting at Smithsonian Asscociates coming up soon, so check out our show notes today for more details. 

My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Lee Alan Dugatkin. Author of the new book The Well-Connected Animal: Social Networks and the Wondrous Complexity of Animal Societies, Smithsonian Associate Dr. Lee Alan Dugatkin will be presenting at Smithsonian Asscociates coming up soon, so check out our show notes today for more details. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  My thanks to Executive Producer, Sam Heninger.  Please be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better™. The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview series on radio and podcast, thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine, Interview Series: September 2024

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show Prevention Magazine Health and Wellness Interview Serieson radio and podcast. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and this is the September installment of our series is with Marisa Cohen, Deputy Editor at Prevention Magazine and today we have another engaging episode in collaboration with Prevention Magazine: we're tackling some of the most pressing health topics crucial for our audience—adults over 60 who are committed to living their best lives. Let's get right into it: we have another packed show!

For our issue overview, Marisa Cohen, Deputy Editor at Prevention Magazine, is with us first. Marisa and I will talk about the September Prevention Magazine highlights like the subjects of Tapping Into Optimism.  So important for our audience and their families.  We will talk about Whether Your Pet is Lonely, the Invincibility Fallacy: do we think because we do all the healthy precautions, we will never be sick?  Spoiler alert: it’s a fallacy, and we’ll talk about super nutritious, easy snack foods and recipes.  We will be joined today by Stephanie Dolgoff, Acting Editor in Chief, to talk about Stress and Anxiety. This is the September cover story and Stephanie tells us more about the feature including the importance of understanding how to balance, breathe and be more aware to thwart the challenges of stress.  They’re not going away anytime soon, so let’s mitigate and live better.  

But today’s episode promises to be both informative and inspiring, tailored to our seasoned listeners who are passionate about living their best lives. 

I hope you’ve enjoyed our September 2024 Prevention Magazine, Interview Series with Deputy Editor Marisa Cohen.  Today, we spoke with  Marisa Cohenabout the September Prevention Magazine highlights as well as with Stephanie Dolgoff Acting Editor in Chief, to talk about Stress and Anxiety. This is the September cover story and Stephanie tells us more about the feature including the importance of understanding how to balance, breathe and be more aware to thwart the challenges of stress.  They’re not going away anytime soon, so let’s mitigate and live better.   

Thank you, Marisa Cohen, Stephanie Dolgoff for your invaluable insights into the September issue of Prevention Magazine. My thanks to executive producer Sam Heninger. And thank you, our audience, for tuning in. Remember, knowledge is power, and it's never too late to live your best life. The Not Old Better Show Prevention Magazine Health and Wellness Interview Series. Check it out the September 2024 issue, available now on newstands everywhere, and please sign up for the Prevention Magazine Prevention Premium Program. Everything will be in our show notes today…Be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better™…The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Health and Wellness interview series.  Until next time, stay informed and stay healthy; thanks, everybody, and we will see you next month.

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today we have a fascinating episode lined up for you. We’re delighted to have returning guest, Smithsonian Associate David Taylor with us, an acclaimed author and co-producer of the Smithsonian documentary film, “Soul of a People: The WPA Writers’ Project Uncovers Depression America.” David is here to share his insights on his upcoming Smithsonian Associates Walking Tour, titled ‘New Deal Projects Walking Tour,’ on the New Deal, a transformative period in American history that not only aimed to revive the economy but also left an indelible mark on the arts and culture.

Against the backdrop of the Great Depression, President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal was a bold initiative to use government resources to address crucial public services and stimulate economic growth. Yet, Roosevelt himself predicted that in a hundred years, the New Deal would be remembered more for its contributions to the arts than its job relief efforts. Today, we’ll explore that intriguing prediction through David’s expertise and his engaging walking tour of Washington, D.C.

Smithsonian Associate David Taylor will take us on a journey through time, beginning at Judiciary Square, where we’ll see public sculptures and dramatic courthouse bas reliefs by notable artists like John Gregory. Our route includes the Henry F. Daly Building, a prime example of Classical Moderne architecture funded by the Works Progress Administration, and the Federal Trade Commission Building, adorned with monumental Art Deco sculptures created by WPA artists. We’ll also discuss the renovations of the National Mall and Washington Monument, pivotal projects of the New Deal era.

We’ll conclude our exploration at the Department of the Interior, home to over 40 New Deal-era murals and photomurals by the legendary Ansel Adams. Smithsonian Associate David Taylor’s walking touroffers a unique opportunity to discover these still-visible landmarks and learn about their historical and cultural significance.

So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to delve into the rich artistic legacy of the New Deal with our distinguished guest, Smithsonian Associate David Taylor. Join us now for an enlightening conversation on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. 

My thanks to David Taylor and his upcoming Smithsonian Associates Walking Tour, titled ‘New Deal Projects Walking Tour,’ on the New Deal, a transformative period in American history that not only aimed to revive the economy but also left an indelible mark on the arts and culture.  My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on The Not Old Better Show Science Interview Series on radio and podcast.  My thanks to Executive Producer Sam Heninger for all his work on audio and making things run smoothly here on the show.  Please be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better ™.  The Not Old Better Show Science Interview Series on radio and podcast. Thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week.