Boomer Banter, Real Talk about Aging Well

Hey there! A couple of months back, I wrote a little something on my Substack called 'The Truth I Don't Want to Admit About Time with my Mother,' and it did not feel good!

I had my morning routine finely tuned, after 15 years of living by myself. After my mom moved in, I had to hit pause on my podcasting and switch gears to writing—it was a big life change!

But, I missed connecting with y’all. I realized that podcasting Boomer Banter, gave me a sense of purpose and meaning, and I don...

We all have a dream we keep tucked away — the one that feels too big, too late, or too terrifying to pursue. Shelley Dunstone had one of those dreams. After years of practicing law in Australia, she decided she wanted to sing Brazilian music. Not just perform it — she wanted to sing in Portuguese, with Brazilian musicians, in Brazil. And eventually, she did.

In this conversation, Shelley talks about what it means to honor a dream even when you're afraid of it, the friends who nudged her forward, and what it felt like to finally step on stag...

Exploring the intersection of ageism and fitness, this episode of Boomer Banter features a candid discussion between Wendy and Laura Dow about the challenges and triumphs of staying active as we age.

Wendy opens up about her struggles to maintain a consistent fitness routine amidst life changes, like her mother moving in with her. Laura, who entered the fitness world later in life, shares her journey of becoming a fitness advocate for older adults, specifically women.

They delve into societal perceptions of older adults and how these beliefs can often hinder personal motivation to stay...

After six years of weekly episodes, host Wendy Green shares an honest, vulnerable update about stepping back from the podcast's regular rhythm. In this solo episode, Wendy talks about what it's really like to become a primary caregiver for her mother—not just the practical challenges, but the emotional recalibration, the identity shift, and the hard choices about where to focus limited time and energy.

This isn't a goodbye. It's a recalibration.

"We're all in transition. You're aging. I'm aging. Some of us are caregiving. Some of us are grieving. Some of us are just tr...

Facing the reality of a loved one with dementia can feel like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands. In this episode of Boomer Banter, we dive into a heartfelt conversation with Sue Lick, who shares her journey caring for her husband Fred as he battled Alzheimer's disease.

From the early signs of forgetfulness to the emotional weight of caregiving, Sue opens up about the challenges, the laughter, and the tears that accompany this often-overwhelming experience. She candidly discusses the financial strains of care, the identity shifts that come with being a caregiver, and the messy...

Life took a bit of a turn when my 96-year-old mom moved in with me. Just a month ago, she was stuck in her apartment, feeling isolated and unsure of herself. Now, she’s back in action, setting the table for dinner every night! It’s not just a chore; it’s a revival of her spirit and our connection.

We dig into the importance of having something to do and someone to do it with in this episode. You see, as we age, it’s easy to feel like we’re not needed anymore. It’s like the wor...

You think you’re prepared for aging… until you’re not.

In this episode of Boomer Banter, I talk with registered nurse and life care expert Jennifer Crowley about what really happens when aging becomes real—when you’re making decisions for a parent, managing your own future, or trying to do both at the same time.

Jennifer shares her practical and compassionate 7-step framework for aging well, helping families navigate caregiving, housing, finances, and the emotional weight that comes with it.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or worried abou...

Ready to flip the script on aging?

In this episode, Wendy Green chats with Randall Kenneth Jones, a vibrant storyteller and the mastermind behind MindZoo. He’s all about showing us that the years after 50 can be some of our best.

With a mix of humor and heart, they explore the concept of the 'retirement business' – a refreshing perspective that challenges the traditional views of retirement as a slow-down phase. Instead, Randy argues for a life of continued purpose, creativity, and engagement, even as we age. He shares personal anecdotes about his own journey, including the...

Aging can be a wild ride, right? So, let’s chat about that sweet, sweet freedom that comes when you finally hang up the cape of all those roles you’ve been playing for years—parent, employee, caretaker, you name it.

Wendy Green, our fabulous host, dives into this juicy topic, reflecting on a recent gathering with her Banter Circle. Picture a cozy group of pals, sharing the ups and downs of aging, and realizing that this phase of life is less about climbing ladders and more about shedding the weight of expectations. It’s like a butterfl...

Aging well isn’t just about avoiding the doctor; it’s about embracing the full spectrum of health.

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Alan Rozanski shares his transformative journey in understanding health beyond the physical. We delve into the concept that our mental and emotional states are just as crucial—if not more so—than our lab results.

Dr. Rozanski introduces the six domains of health and how they intertwine to create a holistic picture of well-being. From the power of optimism to the dangers of loneliness, we discuss how your mental state can influence your phy...

Political differences are straining friendships, families, and communities. Many people feel caught between wanting to speak their truth and wanting to preserve important relationships.

In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green talks with Dr. Philip Wilder, educator and facilitator of Nonviolent Communication, about how we can disagree respectfully without losing connection.

Together they explore:

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In this episode of Boomer Banter, we tackle something many of us are exhausted by but can't ignore ... difficult conversations. Not the surface-level small talk, but the real, uncomfortable ones with family members who see the world completely differently, with old friends across the political divide, and especially with ourselves.

Host Wendy Green shares a powerful story from the 1980s about finding common humanity with a coworker on opposite sides of the abortion debate, and offers practical strategies for navigating high-stakes conversations when the relationship matters deeply.

You'll learn:

Today, we're diving into a topic that's super important but often overlooked: capturing the stories of our loved ones. You know, it's not just about the money or the stuff we leave behind; it's about the voices, the values, and the experiences that shape us. Our guest, Elena Iacono, is all about helping families preserve these precious memories through guided conversations that turn into beautiful keepsakes. She’s on a mission to remind us that we need to start asking those meaningful questions now before it's too late. So grab a comfy seat and a snack, because we're about to...

Feeling a bit stuck or wondering if there's more to life than just work? Then this episode is just the ticket! I had a heart-to-heart with the fabulous Diana Dupont, a woman who traded in her museum curator hat for a life filled with horses, dogs, and so much more. Together, we explore the moment when something inside stirs, urging you to step out of your comfort zone. Diana's journey is all about facing fears, embracing new passions, and discovering that it's totally okay to redefine yourself at any age. She talks about her beloved horse, Blackie, and how...

Ever wondered why sleep seems to elude us as we age? Well, grab your coffee, or maybe some herbal tea, because this week’s episode of Boomer Banter is all about sleep style and how it impacts our later years.

I had a fabulous chat with Sally Duplantier, a super smart gerontologist who’s here to sprinkle some wisdom on our sleep struggles. We explored the fascinating world of sleep chronotypes – we’re talking Lions, Bears, Wolves, and Dolphins! Each one has its unique quirks and styles that can help us understand our sleep patterns better.

Sally...

Feeling useful and finding friendships is critically important as we age, and today we're diving right into that! We’re chatting about how maintaining a sense of meaning and connecting with others can seriously boost our health and happiness. I’m excited to share two interactive training programs that I’ve been working on, designed to help folks discover what they have to offer and how to build those meaningful connections. We’re not just sitting around listening; we’re getting hands-on and having fun digging into these topics together. So, if you’re looking to feel more connected and useful i...

When a family faces the challenges of autism, every member can feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. In this heartfelt episode, Wendy Green and Theresa Lyons, Ph.D. discuss the crucial role grandparents play in supporting their grandchildren diagnosed with autism.

With a focus on communication and understanding, Theresa shares her journey as both a scientist and a parent, highlighting the emotional and practical hurdles families encounter. The episode emphasizes that grandparents should come from a place of curiosity rather than certainty—it's about asking the right questions, like how they can provide help wi...

Wendy Green’s chat with Meg Groff on Boomer Banter is a must-listen for anyone who thinks that their time for making a difference has passed. Meg's journey from a 37-year-old law student to an impactful attorney is nothing short of inspiring.

As she shares her experiences of helping people escape domestic violence situations, she sheds light on the gaps in our legal system—especially regarding child safety in custody arrangements. The episode also touches on the myths surrounding domestic violence, such as the idea that it's a private matter or that only certain demographics experience it.

Aging can feel like a wild ride, right? One minute you’re bopping along, feeling youthful and vibrant, and the next you’re staring at a reflection that’s more ‘who is that?’ than ‘hey, look at me!’

In this episode of Boomer Banter, we dive deep into why that happens and how our brains evolve as we age, gaining wisdom and emotional stability. Our host, Wendy Green, shares some sage words from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. about keeping hope alive through the disappointments that life throws at us.

She gets real about the stories we tel...

Let’s get real – marriage isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes it can feel more like a roommate situation, especially after years of living together. In this episode, we welcome the wonderful Dr. Liz Jenkins, who brings some serious wisdom on how to navigate those tricky waters. We chat about how common it is for couples to lose that initial connection, and Dr. Liz gives us the scoop on her book, “The Marriage Reset”. She outlines her five-step process to help couples reconnect, including ways to re-establish trust and open up those lines of communication. If you’re ready to dit...

What if retirement isn't about winding down—it's about waking up?

At 81, business mentor Patricia Noel Drain is living proof that your best work might still be ahead of you.

This conversation is for anyone who knows they are not finished yet, but feels unclear about how to begin again.

Key Highlights:

In this episode of Boomer Banter, we tackle the often confusing world of nutrition with Dr. Randall Hansen, who reveals how our perceptions of food have been shaped by outdated science and marketing gimmicks.

The discussion centers around the concept of healthspan – the idea that we should prioritize living well over simply living long. Dr. Hansen illustrates how the food landscape has changed, particularly since the 1950s, leading us to make poor dietary choices that impact our health.

With a focus on real, whole foods and a lifestyle that incorporates movement and connection, listeners are en...

In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green dives deep into the often elusive and much-needed state of sleep. Teaming up with the insightful Marie Sennett, they explore the common sleep issues that plague so many of you. With humor and relatability, Wendy sets the stage by asking how many listeners actually get a good night's sleep, revealing that many hands remain down. Marie shares her own nighttime struggles from her days as a civil rights attorney, illustrating just how stressful and chaotic life can be, and the toll it takes on our ability to rest.

As...

In this episode, Wendy Green and Dr. Tom Gilliam turn the spotlight on our brains and how to keep them fit as we age. Wendy starts the episode with some banter about the holiday season and how many of us are feeling a bit more 'fluffy' after the Thanksgiving feast. But fear not!

Dr. Gilliam, who, by the way, retired at 81, lays down the science behind why exercise isn't just good for our bodies, but it’s also crucial for our brain health. He dives into the nitty-gritty of how our brains age and how physical activity ca...

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode, listeners sent in deeply personal questions — and Wendy responds with honest, compassionate insight. From navigating friendships in your 70s, to handling retirement conversations at family gatherings, to ageism in the workplace, to fears about caregiving and widowhood, this episode goes straight into the real challenges we face as we age.

Wendy also answers personal questions about her own fears, where she sees herself in a few years, and the best (and hardest) parts of her day. You’ll hear stories from her life, wisdom from widowed friends, and practical steps you can...

Aging can sometimes feel like a never-ending game of dodgeball, where you’re dodging responsibilities, expectations, and the occasional existential crisis. But fear not! In Boomer Banter this week, we dive into the refreshing narrative of Christina Daves, who turned a broken foot into a new career path.

Yep, you heard that right. After retiring from a successful retail business, Christina found herself sidelined with a foot injury, leading her to invent fashionable boot accessories for medical boots; because who said healing couldn’t be stylish?

This episode is chock-full of inspiration, reminding us that some...

Boomer Banter is back with another encouraging episode where we unpack the idea of ‘purpose’ in our lives.

Wendy Green, dives deep into why so many of us feel like we’re wandering around aimlessly, trying to find that elusive ‘why’ for getting up in the morning. She flips the script on purpose, suggesting that it’s not about hunting it down like a treasure map; instead, it’s about sitting back and letting it come to us.

Wendy shares her own life experiences—like the time she stood up for her son at school and how that led...

Aging can feel like a wild ride, right? There’s so much chatter about how to do it ‘well’—drink water, exercise, or give up all the fun stuff like chocolate and wine. But let’s be real, all the 'shoulds' can get overwhelming.

In this episode of Boomer Banter, host Wendy Green invites Yvonne Marchese to chat about something way more fun: play and self-acceptance. They both agree that as we age, we need to toss aside the heavy ‘shoulds’ and embrace the lighter side of life. Yvonne, a vibrant spirit herself, believes that rediscovering our playful selves...

In this episode of Boomer Banter, Wendy Green sits down with Merilyn Simonds as she shares her heartwarming and enlightening friendship with the incredible Beth, who just happens to be 105 years old!

heir weekly walks over the past five years have blossomed into a treasure trove of stories, laughter, and life lessons that Merilyn lovingly chronicles in her book, "Walking With Beth: Conversations with my 100-year-old Friend." This isn't just a book about aging; it's a celebration of friendship, creativity, and the beautiful journey of living fully at any age. We explore how Beth, with her zest...

So, here’s a thought: how do we navigate our relationship with all the stuff we’ve got lying around?

Today I will share my thoughts about just that! The episode is packed with nostalgia as I reflect on cherished items that tell stories. I mean, who doesn’t have a favorite childhood book or a stuffed animal they can't forget?

But as we get older, we find ourselves surrounded by more objects than we need. It can feel overwhelming, right? It’s like having a mini museum of our lives. We even ponder what our kids...

Wendy Green, the delightful host of Boomer Banter, dives deep into the heart of familial connection in this episode with Tammy Cohen, a passionate author, entrepreneur and mother. Tammy shares her journey of writing text messages to her three sons during the pandemic, which began as a means to communicate amidst uncertainty. But these weren’t just ordinary texts; they evolved into a heartfelt collection that conveyed love, wisdom, and support. Through their chat, Wendy and Tammy explore the essence of these messages, reflecting on how they serve as a bridge between generations. A big theme here is that li...

We’re celebrating our 250th episode with a focus on travel and connection today!

Our guest, Talek Nantes, is all about blending adventure with purpose, showing us how traveling can be an opportunity to build relationships and give back. She’s got this fantastic initiative called Bras for Babes, where she brings essentials to women in Cuba. We chat about how you can still travel and make an impact, no matter your age. So if you’ve ever thought about hitting the road with a purpose, grab a comfy seat and get ready to be inspired!

Take...

Are you worried about whether your retirement money will last? You’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of calculating a withdrawal rate from your retirement account. We’ll unpack the famous 4% rule and see if it’s still the best way to plan for our golden years, or if we need to rethink our strategies.

Joining us is the insightful Bill Bengen, who’s got some fresh ideas on how to stretch that nest egg while keeping your peace of mind intact.

This conversation is all about empowerment. Bill explain...

Picture this: it’s a regular Monday morning, and I’m mentally prepping to talk about resilience when I get a curveball—a call from my mom’s care facility. She wasn’t feeling well and needed to go to the hospital. Just like that, my day took a dramatic turn!

That’s life, right? We all experience storms, both the literal and the metaphorical, and today, I want to chat about how we can navigate those rough waters. We’ve faced countless challenges, and if you’re listening, you’ve already survived a ton. So, let’s explore how we can...

This episode of Boomer Banter is a wake-up call for seniors and their families as it tackles the pressing issue of financial scams targeting Boomers and Beyond. Wendy Green, the ever-enthusiastic host, engages in a lively conversation with Steve Benton, an authority on elder financial safety. Together, they shine a light on the staggering statistics surrounding scams, revealing how seniors lost nearly $4.9 billion in 2024 alone—an increase from the previous year.

They dissect various scams, including catfishing and the harrowing ‘pig butchering’ scheme, where victims are lured into investing money in fake opportunities. Steve's expertise shines as he sha...

This episode takes a stroll down memory lane with Sally Dunbar, a gal who went from worrying about her health to strapping on her walking shoes to raise big bucks for breast cancer research. Sally’s journey is a testament to the power of saying 'yes' to new challenges, even when they scare you. It’s about finding strength in community and realizing you’re capable of way more than you think. So whether you're pondering your next move or just looking for a little inspiration, this conversation is packed with nuggets of wisdom that'll get you saying 'yes' to lif...

Let’s get real about creativity and aging! This podcast episode is a goldmine of insights on how to keep your brain sharp and your heart happy as the years roll on.

We brought in Jenny Leigh Hodgins, a Creative Empowerment Coach who’s here to show us how diving into creative activities can boost our brainpower and lift our spirits.

Creativity isn’t about perfection; it's about expression and fun!

We get into the nitty-gritty about how to navigate burnout and creative blocks, because let’s be real, we all hit those walls so...

Traveling can be a real eye-opener, especially when it means stepping out of our comfort zones. This week, we dive into the adventure of exploring Costa Rica, where flexibility and curiosity were the names of the game. From unexpected bathroom protocols—yep, no toilet paper in the toilet—to the common breakfast fare of rice and beans, our journey was filled with quirks that kept us on our toes. We learned that being adaptable isn’t just about having a flexible itinerary; it’s about embracing the local culture and finding joy in the unfamiliar. And trust me, rainy hikes in...

Today, we’re diving deep into the wild world of caregiving with our guest, Nicole Smith. She found herself juggling not just one, but three family members needing serious help—talk about a juggling act!

Nicole wasn’t planning to become an elder care expert, but life threw her a curveball when her mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and her dad and step-mother faced their own challenges. She ended up writing a book called "Diagnosis: Dementia - Your Guide to Elder Care Planning and Crisis Management," and trust me, it’s packed with wisdom you won’t want to mi...

In this episode of Boomer Banter, we meet Bill Sepe, a spirited 73-year-old whose zest for life inspires everyone around him.

Bill's story is a heartfelt one, showcasing his transition from a full-time caregiver to starting 3-Wheel Therapy in Ohio, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free three-wheel bike rides to those who can no longer ride on their own. These rides are not just about mobility; they are about connection, joy, and rekindling the spirit of adventure.

Bill shares his personal journey, detailing how he found purpose after retirement and how his love for...