Loneliness has been called more dangerous than smoking 15 cigarettes daily—a stark warning from the former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. Social isolation is a hidden health crisis affecting millions, especially older adults.

In this episode of Turning Points, Frantzces talks with Roxy Rocker, a Disability rights advocate, founder of Embracing Disability, who reveals how chronic illness and disability can intensify loneliness and offers practical strategies for overcoming barriers to social connection. Frantzces is also joined by Dr. James Lubben, Professor Emeritus at Boston College and UCLA, to learn more about groundbreaking findings from his decades-long research on social isolation among older adults. They discuss evidence-based interventions for combating elderly loneliness, and policy solutions for strengthening social support systems.

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Can a meaningful friendship bridge a 51-year age gap and help combat social isolation? Meet Peter and Pooja; two unlikely companions whose intergenerational bond proves that friendships can flourish when we break down barriers and embrace human connection.

In this episode of Turning Points, explore how Peter and Pooja’s weekly conversations through Boston's FriendshipWorks program evolved from a simple volunteer match into a life-changing friendship filled with book launches, grocery runs, and life advice that flows both ways.

We also speak with Kyle Robidoux, Executive Director of FriendshipWorks. He shares insights on addressing social isolation and loneliness and how community-based friendship programs are strengthening social connections.

Peter and Pooja's transformative friendship shows that when we approach relationships without preconceived notions, we can unlock the healing power of human connection. Their story offers hope and practical wisdom for anyone struggling with loneliness or seeking to build deeper, more meaningful relationships.

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Guests: Peter MacIntyre, Dr. Pooja K. Agarwal, Kyle Robidoux

Host: Frantzces Lys

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For years, Annalisa thought the anxiety, sleepless nights, and brain fog were just stress from COVID. But when she could barely function at work and felt like a stranger in her own body, she discovered the real culprit: perimenopause and menopause. We explore the profound mental health effects of this natural transition that affects nearly every woman, yet remains largely misunderstood.

Annalisa shares her five-year journey from feeling like she was "going crazy" to finding effective treatment through hormone therapy. Dr. Tara Iyer, medical director of the Menopause and Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women's Hospital, explains the science behind why hormonal changes can trigger depression, anxiety, and cognitive issues - and what women can do about it.

If you or someone you love is navigating perimenopause or menopause, this episode offers both validation and hope. From the importance of self-advocacy to finding the right healthcare provider, we discuss practical steps for getting support during one of life's most challenging transitions.

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Caring for aging parents or loved ones — especially those with dementia — can take a deep emotional toll. In this episode, we’ll speak with a therapist or mental health professional about the mental and emotional effects of caregiving, including burnout, guilt, grief, and stress. Then we’ll hear from a caregiver who shares their honest experience: the exhaustion, the emotional complexity, and the deep sense of connection that can come from spending this time with a loved one. It’s a look at both the challenges and the moments of meaning that come with showing up day after day.

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How do we redefine who we are as we grow older? This episode explores how aging — including retirement, physical changes, and shifts in cognition — can shape our sense of self. We’ll look at the emotional and psychological impact of big life transitions, like stepping away from a job after 40+ years, and how ageism can influence the way we see ourselves and others.

But it’s not all loss — it’s also about growth. We’ll talk to a professional who can shed light on the range of identity changes that come with aging, both challenging and empowering. Then, we’ll hear from someone who’s lived through a major turning point, sharing how aging became a gateway to self-discovery, new purpose, and even joy.

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 This season on Turning Points, we're diving deep into the mental health journeys that come with growing older. These are stories of resilience, reinvention, and the turning points that reveal who we really are. Join host Frantzces Lys for intimate conversations about loneliness, isolation, friendship, and the commitment to putting mental and emotional well-being first - no matter what stage of life you're in.

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Host Frantzces Lys explores the profound impact of end-of-life doulas with two deeply personal stories involving the death of a family member.

First, David Duffin, a high school teacher, reflects on his experience working with a doula during his sister’s final days and how this support helped his family navigate the emotional complexities of end-of-life care. 

Next, Frantzces speaks with Dawn Walsh, a death educator and the inaugural executive director of Lily House, who shares how the loss of her mother inspired her journey into end-of-life care. Together, David and Dawn offer poignant insights into how doulas provide comfort, hope and acceptance during life's most challenging moments.

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Dawn Walsh

• The Lily House

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Host Frantzces Lys explores the stories of adults who discovered their autism or ADHD and their overlap (sometimes called “AuDHD”) later in life. With a compelling lineup of guests, she discusses the challenges and unique perspectives of living with these conditions, shining a light on how they shape everyday experiences. 

Frantzces first speaks with Grace Oribhabor, a high school teacher and advocate, whose late-life diagnosis has inspired her advocacy and personal growth. Grace’s story highlights the importance of embracing one’s unique traits and seeking support.

Next, Frantzces is joined by Dr. Thor Bergerson, founder of ADHD Boston and a leading expert on ADHD and co-occurring disorders. Dr. Bergerson offers insights into diagnostic barriers, misconceptions, and the benefits of a holistic approach to managing ADHD.

Finally, Frantzces converses with Eric, a journalist and mental health advocate who shares his journey with ADHD and autism. Eric’s experiences provide a powerful testament to resilience and self-discovery.

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Eric Garcia

• LinkedIn
• The Art of Autism
• The Oxford Student

Dr. Thor Bergersen

• ADHD Boston

Grace Oribhabor

• CHADD 

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Host Frantzces Lys explores the multifaceted nature of trauma, the barriers to recovery, and the critical role of community support in fostering healing and resilience. We unpack the nuances of PTSD,, particularly in the context of sexual trauma, with experts Dr. Tara Galovski and Sharon Imperato, as well as survivor and advocate Kate Speer.

Kate Speer, a survivor and advocate, shares her personal journey of resilience and the importance of celebrating small victories in the healing process. Her powerful narrative underscores the necessity of believing survivors and the transformative power of self-efficacy.

Dr. Tara Galovski, a seasoned psychologist specializing in trauma, sheds light on the physiological and psychological responses to trauma, emphasizing the chronic nature of untreated PTSD. She explains the nuances between PTSD, offering insights into effective treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Sharon Imperato, representing the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC), highlights the essential services provided by her organization. From a 24-hour hotline to legal advocacy and confidential counseling, BARCC's comprehensive support system aims to dismantle barriers that prevent survivors from seeking help.

Through these rich and informative conversations, Frantzces explores the multifaceted nature of trauma, the barriers to recovery, and the critical role of community support in fostering resilience. 

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Sharon Imperato

• Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) Website
• Instagram: @barccofficial
• Twitter: Boston Area Rape Crisis Center
• Facebook: Boston Area Rape Crisis Center

Dr. Tara Galovski

• National Center for PTSD Website
• Women Veterans Network (WoVeN)

Kate Speer

• Kate Speer’s Website
• LinkedIn Profile

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A cancer diagnosis can be a profound emotional journey, often accompanied by anxiety, depression, and distress. Host Frantzces Lys delves into the mental health challenges that cancer patients face throughout their treatment journey. She is joined by Dr. Beverly A. Zavaleta, a board-certified family physician, and cancer survivor who was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in 2015. Dr. Zavaleta turned her experience into a mission to support others and provide hope, authoring the invaluable guide "Braving Chemo." 

Her unique perspective as both a physician and a patient provides deep insights into the intersection of cancer, trauma and mental health. Dr. Zavaleta shares her personal journey, highlighting the critical role of compassionate care, self-care, the importance of mental health support, and the resilience required to navigate such a daunting diagnosis. She offers practical advice for patients and caregivers alike, ensuring that listeners understand they are not alone in their struggles and healing.

Beverly A. Zavaleta, MD

• Instagram 
• Braving Chemo 
• Website 

Follow the Turning Points podcast on your favorite podcasting app so you never miss an episode. Leave the podcast a rating and review or tell a friend about the show.

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