Over the last few short years, it seems like not just gambling apps and ads have popped up everywhere, but that every thing can suddenly now be bet on. Even the weather, election outcomes, news events:

Sounds like a problem, doesn't it?

Our guest today, journalist Dustin Gouker, points out that gambling and betting have been around since time immemorial. People have and will continue to find ways to bet on anything. Dustin has spent years studying and writing about the issue, covering the rise of daily fantasy sports, legalized sports betting, and prediction markets.

But, it's the access that has become far easier, and is thus making gambling more prevalent.

It's a fine line between something that's done for fun and entertainment versus becoming a genuine problem and addiction. We go and spend $20 at the movies, or $50 to go to a sports event, purely to be entertained and enjoy ourself. So why is it any different watching that game at home, and spending $50 placing bets on various outcomes? You might even win some money! That's not going to happen when you pull out your wallet at Yankee Stadium!

Ok, but clearly that $50 can turn into something far, far more.

So today we're talking about the impact of sports betting and gambling opportunities these days, how to recognize warning signs, and in particular how seniors need to be aware of warning signs and gray areas that can hook you in, without you realizing it.

Resources from today's episode:

1-800-MY-RESET by the National Council on Problem Gambling.

There's also 1-800-GAMBLER, run by state organizations that deal with problem gambling.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-gouker-876857b5/

https://closingline.substack.com/

https://nexteventhorizon.substack.com/

Chapters:

00:00 - Gambling as one of humanity’s oldest behaviors
00:57 - Fossil shells, a dinner bet, and the origin of the episode idea
08:11 - How many Americans use sports betting apps
11:29 - Why almost everyone loses in the long run
16:40 - Setting a unit and sticking to a gambling budget
20:40 - How betting apps are set up and funded
22:43 - Regulated operators versus offshore gambling sites
24:15 - State-by-state rules and why Florida is a special case
27:13 - What prediction markets are and how they work
33:39 - Is prediction trading investing or gambling?
35:13 - The biggest trap of having a casino in your pocket
41:10 - The future of gambling, gamification, and financialization
44:10 - What to do if you or a family member has a gambling problem

Visit weareoldpodcast.com to learn more about Ken and the show!

Midway through Season 1, we discussed the sensitive topic of cremation versus burial, with guests Joshua and Lacey Shook from the National Cremation Society. 

They told us about importance of prearranging final arrangements, the benefits of travel protection, and the significant cost differences between burial and cremation. 

And then we touched on the emotional aspects of planning for death, the growing trend of cremation, and innovative memorial options available to families. 

It's an important discussion that we should all have, and so we emphasized the need for open conversations about end-of-life choices, and the importance of making informed decisions to ease the burden on loved ones.

Highlights include:

• Prearranging final arrangements can alleviate stress for families.
• Travel protection plans can cover costs if a person passes away overseas.
• The cost of burial can be significantly higher than cremation.
• Cremation is becoming increasingly popular, with 78% of families in Florida choosing it.
• Planning ahead can help ensure that your wishes are honored and reduce emotional costs for loved ones.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Ex9z310UPWK6NgQEI1HWQ?si=hBubzEYETAqADCwAyA7pog

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/exit-strategy-cremation-and-burial-decisions/id1796463762?i=1000702849509

https://youtu.be/okfhLFer9sQ

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Okay, we talked about the joys of pickleball, but there's also the precautions. Like any sport, you've got to be prepared and careful, to avoid unexpected strain and injuries.

So Dr. Greg Rubin, known as the 'pickleball doctor', joined me in Season 1 to talk about pain management and sports medicine, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by seniors in sports. 

He shared insights on common injuries, effective pain management strategies, and the importance of preparing for activities like pickleball. We looked at the need for a balanced approach to physical activity, especially for older adults, and the significance of understanding one's body and limitations.

Highlights include:

• Seniors often face acute on chronic injuries due to pre-existing conditions.
• Pain management involves addressing both the source of pain and compensatory issues.
• Warm-up and stretching are crucial before engaging in sports activities.
• Common injuries in pickleball include rotator cuff impingement and tennis elbow.
• Acclimatization to new sports is important for injury prevention.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3F972wQ3kMPcivDXlzrG1e?si=tUHh12leQoWjMWT_qbycJg

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pickleball-doctor-is-in-a-seniors-guide-to/id1796463762?i=1000706655245

https://youtu.be/AmA686DM4UU

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Ahh pickleball. The rapidly growing sport. This was one of the first topics we covered on the podcast, back in Season 1, and for good reason: it's just so popular.

Certified pickleball instructor Patrick Shea joined me to talk about why pickleball is so popular, the social aspects that draw players in, and the accessibility of the game for seniors. Patrick explains the rules, terminology, and scoring of pickleball, as well as the differences between indoor and outdoor play. 

And then we touched on the professional side of pickleball, including tournaments and potential Olympic inclusion, since down here in Naples, FL we are a hub for some serious pickleballing. But we also address community concerns about noise and facility access. 

Patrick encourages everyone to try pickleball, highlighting its welcoming environment and the joy it brings to players of all ages. It was a great way to kick off the podcast.

Highlights include:

• Pickleball is accessible to players of all ages, especially seniors.
• Instruction is crucial for beginners to learn proper techniques.
• The sport has a unique scoring system that can be complex for newcomers.
• Noise complaints about pickleball courts are common in some communities.
• Professional pickleball has become a lucrative career for top players.
• Warm-up exercises are important to prevent injuries while playing. 

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5U9rjkZoWtTx3dSvYHd0Ow?si=xiw0BQzhTmq_s_o2-06vUQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/taking-pickleball-for-a-spin-with-patrick-shea/id1796463762?i=1000705531599

https://youtu.be/20gMWMoOy-0

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Road Scholar is a tour company that has evolved from its origins as Elder Hostel to its current focus on educational travel for older adults. 

Kelsey Perri joins us today to talk about their popular programs, the demographics of travelers, the importance of socialization, and the shift towards experiential and slower-paced travel. 

Kelsey emphasizes the need for community and lifelong learning, as well as the organization's commitment to accessibility and support for caregivers. 

AND we talk about hidden gem destinations and personal stories from travelers, concluding with a call to action for encouraging more men to participate in travel programs. There's a world of adventure out there, and it's made for seniors!

Highlights include:

• Road Scholar was founded in 1975 as Elder Hostel.
• 60% of travelers are women, with a significant portion being solo travelers.
• Social isolation is a major concern for older adults.
• Experiential learning is increasingly desired by older travelers.
• Road Scholar offers scholarships and caregiver grants.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7nmSgZh1sw4D7OwHwfcRqR?si=tj6p7ezjTcuhSy0X7DN3jw

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/transform-retirement-through-learning-and-travel/id1796463762?i=1000753030810

https://youtu.be/mg6AR3dsg1M

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Yes, groceries are more expensive now (ugh), but that's not the only reason why you're bill is so high.

Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner joined us early in Season 3 to tell us what's going on, and what we can do about it.

We looked at practical strategies for saving money on groceries, why it's so important to plan ahead in order to reduce food waste, how to do meal planning, and making informed shopping choices. 

Your grocery list should reflect your personal tastes, the benefits of seasonal produce, and the value of incorporating affordable protein sources like beans. We looked at why using glass containers not just reduces plastic waste, but makes it easier to simply see what's there in your fridge! 

Leverage grocery store apps for savings, and invest in nutrient-rich foods over processed options to promote long-term health and savings.

Highlights include:

• Creative ways to utilize leftovers to minimize waste and maximize savings
• Food waste is a significant contributor to grocery expenses.
• Seasonal produce is often cheaper and more flavorful.
• Keeping produce at eye level helps prevent waste.
• Using grocery store apps can lead to significant savings.
• Making a joyful shopping list encourages healthier choices.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2pjwWJHEvhTmY2YnFSuREl?si=XLqitbRCTPOev4Wf_2kNxQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-is-why-youre-spending-so-much-on-food-with-dawn/id1796463762?i=1000747002826

https://youtu.be/P94uesrTeC4

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Amy Goyer is a national family and caregiving expert from the AARP, and we had a fascinating discussion on the current state of caregiving in America. 

With 63 million family caregivers providing support to older adults, she highlighted the growing need for resources and support systems for caregivers. We looked at the financial strain caregivers face, the emotional and physical health impacts, and the importance of recognizing and supporting caregivers. 

Amy emphasizes the need for caregiver tax credits and community resources, while also sharing personal insights on finding joy and purpose in caregiving despite its challenges.

Highlights include:

• Caregivers often experience high levels of emotional stress.
• Support systems and resources are crucial for caregivers' well-being.
• Isolation can severely impact both caregivers and care recipients.
• Many caregivers report a sense of purpose from their role.
• Caregiving can be a source of joy despite its challenges.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6I98RFH3cbt0lxh2APdjSv?si=EznCd3g7RAOlI4uHtPZ7xg

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/support-your-local-caregiver-advice-from-an-aarp/id1796463762?i=1000727183666

https://youtu.be/9zshC10iaGk

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

We love to talk about travel, and Jake Messimer from Grand European Travel dropped by during Season 2 to discuss the growing trend of senior travel, and the benefits of guided tours. 

We explored the logistics of planning a trip, the role of travel directors, and the cultural enrichment that comes from traveling with a group. And we addressed common misconceptions about senior travel, the social benefits of traveling, and how to choose the right tour based on individual needs. 

And then there's timing: we look at the advantages of traveling during the off-season and the importance of addressing health and safety concerns. So much to see!

Highlights include:

• Seniors are increasingly traveling for education and social connection.
• Guided tours provide a stress-free travel experience.
• Travel directors enhance the travel experience with local knowledge.
• Traveling can combat isolation and promote engagement.
• Planning a trip with experts can alleviate concerns about logistics.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wBCqtINwaAXApduiIt2pz?si=x_zC_8IjRCmx6W4zDkLXYg

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tour-the-stress-away-with-a-guided-european/id1796463762?i=1000732960532

https://youtu.be/M9LKUOmmylc

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Dr. Jo Berg joined us this past season to discuss the critical issue of falls among older adults, emphasizing that falls are not a normal part of aging but a serious health risk that can lead to significant injuries and even death. 

As a result, we explored the importance of prevention strategies, the role of physical therapy in helping seniors maintain their independence, and the various risk factors that contribute to falls. 

Older adults: remember that you are empowered through exercise and awareness of your health to foster independence and prevent falls! We look at the mechanisms of strength and balance, the significance of targeted strength training, and the benefits of Tai Chi. Lots to discover in this one!

Highlights include:

• Falls are preventable with the right interventions.
• Fear of falling can restrict activities and increase the risk of future falls.
• Environmental hazards in the home can increase fall risk.
• Regular exercise is essential for maintaining strength and balance in older adults.
• It's never too late to start exercising, regardless of fitness level.

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1AqCYAWR4e99miPROW3ZoD?si=eKEcG2bOROmwq89LIStQxg

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-we-need-to-talk-about-falls-with-dr-jo-bergh/id1796463762?i=1000755963031

https://youtu.be/GY2Dnko8xng

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]

Over the summer, we'll be publishing little excerpts, shorts and fun tidbits from past episodes: watch your podcast feed, and season 4 will be starting in September!

---

"The Purest Bond" is both a wonderful new book that studies the connection between humans and dogs, and a reflection of our experience being pet owners.

Author Stacey Colino joined me earlier in Season 3 to share the journey of writing this book, the people she met and the stories she learned along the way.

The conversation then expanded to a broader look at the health benefits of having dogs, the attachment bonds formed, and the grief experienced when losing a beloved pet. Stacey highlights the joy and healing that dogs bring to our lives, as well as the importance of understanding the responsibilities of dog ownership.

If you're a pet owner, of any pet (but we're kind of partial to dogs), you'll love this conversation with made us both appreciate and reflect on this special bond.

Highlights include:

• The bond between humans and dogs is deeply emotional and beneficial for mental health.
• The writing process for 'The Purest Bond' took nearly three years from conception to publication.
• Dogs can help detect diseases in humans through their exceptional sense of smell.
• Grief from losing a pet is often not acknowledged by society, leading to disenfranchised grief.
• Dogs provide structure to our daily lives and encourage physical activity.
• Volunteering at shelters can be a fulfilling way to connect with dogs without full ownership.

Check out some excerpts from our conversation here today, and click below for the full episode, on Spotify, Apple or YouTube:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4xDOUCTrseZZQ2arxiDyh4?si=6Txi9xEKQZSu-K0SrkPlSw

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-science-behind-loving-our-pets-with-stacey-colino/id1796463762?i=1000758627360

https://youtu.be/zBQ5d9FidP0

And don't forget to visit:

https://weareoldpodcast.com/

and send me your thoughts and suggestions at:

[email protected]