The Not Old - Better Show
The Not Old – Better Show is a radio show that is broadcast over the Internet using podcast technology discussing the hottest issues and topics that fascinate and inform those 50+ age Americans and are of interest and concern to boomers. Not Old – Better viewers and listeners can “tune in” whenever they want, giving them the freedom to enjoy the show in the gym, in the car, at home or work.A SHOW FOR THOSE 50+, BY THOSE 50+ Talk About Better®
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Dumped, Not Done: Suzy Hopkins on Unbreaking Your Heart After 50
08/12/2025
Dumped, Not Done: Suzy Hopkins on Unbreaking Your Heart After 50
Dumped, Not Done: Suzy Hopkins on Unbreaking Your Heart After 50 The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series. Today’s episode is brought to you by Acorns. Acorns is a financial wellness app that makes it easy to start saving and investing for your future. Getting dumped after decades together can feel like the air goes out of the room. The empty chair at breakfast. The phone you shouldn’t check. The question, “Who am I now?” If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. Suzy Hopkins knows the shock. After a 30‑year marriage ended, she and her daughter, New Yorker illustrator Hallie Bateman, created What to Do When You Get Dumped—a warm, witty, beautifully illustrated guide to unbreaking your heart. We talk about the first 24 hours and the weeks that follow: drawing clear lines on calls, texts, and social; eating something warm; asking for help; walking every day; and trying one small new thing that reminds you you’re still you. This conversation honors later‑life love and loss. It speaks to anyone starting again at 50, 60, 70+, and to families who want to support with care and respect. Humor sits beside grief here—and both are welcome. “Dumped, Not Done: Suzy Hopkins on Unbreaking Your Heart After 50.” If you need a steady voice and a few practical steps, join us on The Not Old – Better Show with Paul Vogelzang. Today’s episode is brought to you by Acorns. Acorns is a financial wellness app that makes it easy to start saving and investing for your future.
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Taming Wild Hearts: The Siberian Fox Experiment, Evolution, and the Power of Curiosity—A Conversation with Lee Alan Dugatkin
08/01/2025
Taming Wild Hearts: The Siberian Fox Experiment, Evolution, and the Power of Curiosity—A Conversation with Lee Alan Dugatkin
Taming Wild Hearts: The Siberian Fox Experiment, Evolution, and the Power of Curiosity—A Conversation with Lee Alan Dugatkin The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series 🦊✨ What if you could witness evolution—real, visible change—unfolding not over millennia, but within a single lifetime? On the latest episode of the Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, I had the privilege to sit down with evolutionary biologist, author, who brings to life one of the most daring experiments in modern science. , coming up. Please check out link for more details! 📚 Lee’s acclaimed book, chronicles the incredible journey of two visionary scientists, Dmitri Belyaev and Ludmila Trut, who set out in the icy wilderness of Siberia to answer an age-old question: how did wild animals become our trusted companions? Against a backdrop of scientific controversy and political peril, they not only tamed foxes—they rewrote what we know about genetics, behavior, and our relationship with animals. 🌏 This story isn’t just about foxes or genetics. It’s about the courage to pursue discovery, the tenacity to overcome obstacles, and the lifelong adventure of following your curiosity. Lee’s insights are a powerful reminder that learning and growth have no age limit. Whether you’re an early-career scientist or someone considering a new passion in your fifties, sixties, or beyond, the spirit of this experiment speaks to all of us. 💡 In our conversation, Lee shares how selection for tameness led to foxes with wagging tails, floppy ears, and even laughter-like vocalizations. He opens up about working with Ludmila Trut—now in her late eighties and still leading this experiment—and about how history, resilience, and wonder can intertwine to create something extraordinary. 🎧 I invite you to listen to this fascinating episode, whether you’re a fellow scientist, an animal lover, or simply someone who believes it’s never too late to change the world with a question. The experiment continues, and so does the adventure. 🔗 Tune in now at notold-better.com. Let curiosity lead the way! More details here:
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60 Years of Wonder: Frederica Adelman on the Legacy and Future of Smithsonian Associates
07/28/2025
60 Years of Wonder: Frederica Adelman on the Legacy and Future of Smithsonian Associates
🎉 Celebrating 60 Years of Smithsonian Associates: A Conversation Worth Sharing Since 1965, Smithsonian Associates has offered more than just lectures or museum tours—it has sparked imagination, created lifelong connections, and helped generations see the world with new eyes. This year marks its 60th anniversary—a milestone that honors the past and looks boldly toward the future. To celebrate, The Not Old Better Show – Smithsonian Associates Interview Series sat down with Director Frederica “Fredie” Adelman to talk about what makes this organization so extraordinary. Fredie shares rich, behind-the-scenes stories—from Justice Ginsburg and Justice Scalia debating on stage (“they laughed, they dueled, and the audience loved it,” as NPR’s Nina Totenberg recalled) to the evolution of museum sleepovers, arts programs, and the groundbreaking move to virtual learning. But this episode goes beyond nostalgia. We asked bold, reflective questions: 🔹 What does it mean to lead an organization shaped by six decades of curiosity? 🔹 How has Smithsonian Associates balanced innovation with tradition? 🔹 And what will the next 60 years look like for lifelong learning? Fredie answers with wisdom, humor, and purpose—and offers a preview of the 60th Anniversary Celebration Weekend, including the public events at the Ripley Center this October. For anyone passionate about museums, education, leadership, or meaningful cultural experiences, this conversation is for you. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and see why learning—at any age—is still the best kind of adventure: [Insert Link] #SmithsonianAssociates #NotOldBetterShow #LifelongLearning #Leadership #MuseumEducation #PublicEngagement #60YearsOfWonder
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Art of Living series: Helen Sheehy, Just Willa
07/22/2025
Art of Living series: Helen Sheehy, Just Willa
Today’s story begins in a barrel, and today’s show is brought to you by . A woman named Willa Hardesty is burning trash in the backyard, muttering, “this is hell.” She’s angry, grieving, and standing on the edge of something big. She’s not famous. She’s not looking for glory. But her life—hard-earned and fully lived—just might stop you in your tracks. 🔹 Who tells the stories of women who “weren’t famous”—but should have been? That question haunted author and biographer Helen Sheehy—until she turned it into her stunning debut novel, Just Willa. 📚 Just Willa follows the unforgettable Willa Hardesty, a Kansas farm girl who becomes a single mother, tenant farmer’s wife, and bootlegging cowboy’s partner. Her life brushes up against nearly every major event of the 20th century—from the Dust Bowl and Great Depression to the polio epidemic and rural electrification. 🎙️ On the latest episode of The Not Old Better Show, I sat down with Helen to talk about Willa—who’s based on her own mother—and the 20-year journey to bring this extraordinary “ordinary” woman to life. Sheehy’s years of biographical writing blend beautifully with her gift for dialogue, scene, and emotional depth. 🕯️ This is more than historical fiction—it’s an excavation of memory, family, and the deep ties between mothers and daughters. For our audience, especially those reflecting on their own legacy or wondering how to tell their family's stories, this episode hits home. 💬 We talk loss, resilience, farming, bootlegging—and the courage it takes to write what you don’t know, but feel in your soul. 📡 Listen now at: #Storytelling #AuthorInterview #HistoricalFiction #PodcastRecommendation #WomensHistory #ArtOfLiving #NotOldBetter Today’s show is brought to you by .
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Sun Protection That Works: Sabina Wizemann on the Science of Smarter Skincare
07/21/2025
Sun Protection That Works: Sabina Wizemann on the Science of Smarter Skincare
☀️ Your sunscreen might say SPF 50—but what does that really mean? Chemist and Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann has answers. From UVA myths to white cast truths, she breaks it all down—science, no fluff 🌞Is your sunscreen actually doing what it promises? Many of us apply it daily—some of us still forget—but few of us truly understand what’s in that bottle. Especially those of us 50 and older, who’ve spent decades under the sun. That’s where Sabina Wizemann comes in. Sabina is the Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab Director at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She’s a trained chemist with over 16 years in the personal care and pharmaceutical industries, and she’s tested hundreds of sunscreens to determine which ones really work—for all skin types, tones, and ages. In this week’s episode of The Not Old Better Show: Good, Better, Best: Good Housekeeping Interview Series, Sabina gives us the clear, science-backed truth behind the SPF labels. Chemical vs. mineral? White cast worries? UVA vs. UVB? Sabina breaks it all down in a way that’s engaging, entertaining, and easy to understand—even if you haven’t touched a chemistry book since high school. She also shares how her lab evaluates sunscreens—not just for performance but for how they feel, absorb, and wear on real skin. That’s the kind of research that makes a difference when you’re choosing a product you’ll wear every day. And yes, she gives her top picks. 🎧 Whether you’re outdoors daily, or just looking to make smarter skin health choices—especially as we age—this is one conversation you’ll want to hear: https://apple.co/3FAbebT #SkincareScience #SunscreenFacts #HealthyAging #BeautyLab #SunSafety #NotOldBetter #GoodHousekeeping #50PlusLiving
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The Great Museum of the Sea: Why Shipwrecks Capture the Imagination
07/20/2025
The Great Museum of the Sea: Why Shipwrecks Capture the Imagination
🌊 What do shipwrecks really reveal about us? In this special episode of The Not Old – Better Show, produced in collaboration with , we’re celebrating 60 years of learning and discovery by going deep—literally—with maritime archaeologist Dr. James P. Delgado. From the wreck of the Titanic to the sunken slave ship Clotilda, Delgado shares powerful stories from decades of underwater exploration. These aren't just relics—they're reflections of our history, identity, and humanity. Join us in honoring the Smithsonian Associates’ 60th Anniversary with a conversation that reminds us how far we’ve come—and how much the past still lives beneath the surface. 🎧 Listen to the full episode now on 📘 Discover The Great Museum of the Sea #SmithsonianAssociates #60YearsOfLearning #NotOldBetter #ShipwreckHistory #UnderwaterArchaeology #LifelongLearning
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The Indispensables: How the Marblehead Regiment Saved Washington’s Army
07/14/2025
The Indispensables: How the Marblehead Regiment Saved Washington’s Army
The Indispensables: How the Marblehead Regiment Saved Washington’s Army The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series 🎧 They didn’t just serve Washington—they saved the Revolution. Listen now: 👉 🪖 They weren't just soldiers. They were fishermen, craftsmen, abolitionists, and immigrants. 🫱🏽🫲🏼 Black, white, Native American, and Hispanic—united not by uniform, but by purpose. 🎙️ On the latest episode of I sat down with acclaimed military historian and author Patrick K. O’Donnell to uncover the nearly lost story of The Indispensables—a Marblehead, Massachusetts regiment that quite literally carried the Revolution on their backs... and in their boats. Patrick O’Donnell will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up and the title of his presentation is The Indispensables: How the Marblehead Regiment Saved Washington’s Army. , but we have Smithsonian Associate Patrick O’Donnell today! 🌊 From rowing Washington across the ice-filled Delaware on Christmas night... ⚓ To creating the foundations of the U.S. Navy... 🧪 To leading one of America’s first public health responses to a deadly virus outbreak... …these soldier-mariners defined what it means to serve a country still being imagined. 📚 Patrick’s storytelling is immersive, human, and deeply researched—bringing back voices that history left behind. Including the “canceled” Revolutionary War-era doctor who was shunned, then went on to save the entire Continental Army. 🇺🇸 This isn’t just a story of battle—it’s a story of character, community, and what happens when ordinary people do extraordinary things. If you believe in the power of history to teach us something about the present… this one’s worth your time. 🔗 Listen now: https://apple.co/3FAbebT 💬 And if you’re moved by the conversation—drop a comment or share with someone who’d love this. NotOldBetter #SmithsonianAssociates #AmericanHistory #Leadership #Veterans #MilitaryHistory #RevolutionaryWar #PatrickODonnell #LifelongLearning #AgingBoldly #DiversityInHistory For more details, please check out Smithsonian Associates:
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Vikings Were Here: Love Notes, Lost Games, and the Hidden Lives Beneath the Helmets
07/08/2025
Vikings Were Here: Love Notes, Lost Games, and the Hidden Lives Beneath the Helmets
🔍 When most of us think “Viking,” we picture raiders, longboats, and epic battles. But what if the true story was quieter—yet even more powerful? Historian and BBC broadcaster Dr. Eleanor Barraclough joins us for an unforgettable Smithsonian Associates episode of The Not Old Better Show to talk about her new book, Embers of the Hands: Hidden Histories of the Viking Age. Dr. Barraclough will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up and the title of her presentation is Hidden Histories of the Viking Age. Check out our website for more details at In our conversation, we go far beyond helmets and heroics. Dr. Barraclough shares how artifacts like carved antler combs, rune-covered graffiti, and tiny gaming pieces reveal the daily lives of Viking women, children, farmers, artisans, and travelers. It’s not just about who fought and conquered—but who cooked, cursed, loved, and played. She also talks about why we need to rethink our historical framework—not as fixed timelines and famous names, but as rivers of human experience, emotion, and connection. If you're over 50—or simply curious about the past—this conversation offers a reminder that history is less about textbooks and more about touchstones. 🎧 Listen here: https://apple.co/3FAbebT #NotOldBetter #SmithsonianAssociates #VikingAge #HistoricalResearch #PublicHistory #EmbersOfTheHands #HumanHistory #LifelongLearning
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Separate Paths: Why Canada Rejected America’s Revolution
06/30/2025
Separate Paths: Why Canada Rejected America’s Revolution
📚 What if Canada had become part of the United States? In 1774, the Continental Congress sent heartfelt letters to Quebec—inviting Canadians to join the American Revolution. When the letters didn’t work, they tried something else: invasion. joins The Not Old Better Show in partnership with Smithsonian Associates to explain this little-known history. Smithsonian Associate Ralph Nurnberger will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates on August 21, 2025, and the title of his presentation is From diplomatic missions with Benjamin Franklin to failed military campaigns in the Canadian snow, Ralph reveals how America’s northern dreams unraveled. But this isn’t just a story about war—it’s about identity. While Americans were building a nation based on liberty and representation, Canadians were choosing something different: cultural preservation, religious freedom, and a path loyal to Britain. The rejection wasn’t personal—it was defining. And it helped shape the two countries we know today. 🎧 Listen to the full episode: 🎙️ With Paul Vogelzang and guest Smithsonian Associate Ralph Nurnberger #Leadership #History #CanadaUSRelations #SmithsonianAssociates #NotOldBetter #LifelongLearning Smithsonian Associate Ralph Nurnberger will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates on August 21, 2025, and the title of his presentation is
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Birth of a City: From New Amsterdam to New York
06/28/2025
Birth of a City: From New Amsterdam to New York
🚢 History wasn’t just written—it was negotiated. And in 1664, the fate of a small but thriving colony on Manhattan Island changed forever. I recently spoke with historian and author Russell Shorto, whose new book, Taking Manhattan: The Extraordinary Events That Created New York and Shaped America, pulls back the curtain on the overlooked moment when New Amsterdam became New York—not through bloody battle, but through bold negotiation. This story isn’t just about the Dutch and English. It’s about Indigenous displacement, the early seeds of American capitalism, and the founding contradictions that still echo today—from religious tolerance to racial injustice. What happens when a multicultural, multiethnic, profit-driven colony suddenly comes under new ownership? Russell’s research, drawing from newly translated Dutch documents, challenges the narrative most of us were taught. And for those of us 50 and over—who lived through civil rights movements, global realignments, and reckonings of our own—it’s a timely reminder that the past is never settled. 🎙️ Listen to our full conversation on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Series. If you think you know how Manhattan became the “capital of the world,” think again. 👉 Hear the episode at: Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3FAbebT #HistoryMatters #NotOldBetter #RussellShorto #TakingManhattan #SmithsonianAssociates
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Grill Smarter, Cook Wilder: Inside BBQ’s Hottest Trends with Nicole Papantoniou!
06/26/2025
Grill Smarter, Cook Wilder: Inside BBQ’s Hottest Trends with Nicole Papantoniou!
🔥👩🍳 Ready to revolutionize your grilling experience? Today on The Not Old Better Show, we're sizzling with Nicole Papantoniou, Director of Good Housekeeping’s Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab! From the timeless debate—charcoal vs. gas—to futuristic smart grills controlled by AI and Bluetooth, we’ve got the juiciest grilling insights just for you. 🌭📲🔥 Nicole shares expert tips on embracing eco-friendly grilling, experimenting with plant-based BBQ, mastering live-fire cooking, and even achieving restaurant-quality pizza right in your backyard oven. 🌱🍕🌿 Grilling has never been hotter—literally and figuratively! Whether you're a seasoned backyard chef or eager to level up your cookouts, Nicole’s innovative, mouthwatering advice will inspire you to heat things up creatively, sustainably, and deliciously. 🍔🌶️ 🎧 Tune in and fire up your imagination—and your grill! #GrillingTrends #CookingInnovation #NotOldBetterShow
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Chains, Chords and Grace: The Redemption of John Lee Hooker, Jr
06/25/2025
Chains, Chords and Grace: The Redemption of John Lee Hooker, Jr
🎸 From prison cell to pulpit. 🎤 From opening for his father to praying with Keith Richards. 🙏 From blues to grace. Rev. John Lee Hooker, Jr. has lived a life most wouldn’t believe—if it weren’t all true. Born into blues royalty as the son of John Lee Hooker, he seemed destined for the stage. But addiction, crime, and incarceration rewrote the script… until faith and purpose gave him a new one. In this episode of The Not Old Better Show, I sat down with Rev. Hooker to talk about: 🔁 Returning to Soledad Prison—first to perform, then to serve time, then again as a prison chaplain. 🎶 Escaping the shadow of the blues and creating a new sound based in redemption, not regret. ❤️ His journey back to family, fatherhood, and legacy. 🕊 What it truly means to start over after 50. This isn’t just a music story. It’s a human story. One of resilience, recovery, and the reality that life doesn’t end at 50—it deepens. 💥 As Rev. Hooker says: “I used to glamorize the blues. Now I testify.” 🎧 Listen to this unforgettable conversation at: https://apple.co/3FAbebT #Redemption #MusicLegacy #Over50 #Transformation #NotOldBetter #LifeAfterAddiction
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Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
06/24/2025
Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
📊 Over 450,000 voices. One powerful message: dignity in aging matters. I recently had the privilege of interviewing Liz Pearce, Senior Living Product Director at U.S. News & World Report, on The Not Old – Better Show. Liz and her team help families across the country navigate one of life’s biggest transitions: choosing the right senior living community. 🏡 U.S. News’ 2025 Best Senior Living Ratings are more than numbers—they reflect real experiences from residents and their loved ones. Their input shapes how communities are recognized for outstanding care, safety, and compassion. ✨ In our conversation, Liz shares what today’s older adults are truly looking for—not just services, but dignity, trust, and a sense of belonging. She also explains how digital tools are evolving to support families at every step of their decision-making process. 💻👨👩👧👦 One of the most powerful takeaways? “We evaluate communities, not companies,” Liz says. “Because it’s the people—not the brand—that shape the experience.” 👏 🎧 Listen to this inspiring episode and explore how data, compassion, and care come together to help us all age well. 🔗 https://apple.co/3FAbebT #USNWR #SeniorLiving #AgingWell #LeadershipInHealthcare #JournalismMatters #CareWithCompassion #NotOldBetter
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Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
06/24/2025
Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
📊 Over 450,000 voices. One powerful message: dignity in aging matters. I recently had the privilege of interviewing Liz Pearce, Senior Living Product Director at U.S. News & World Report, on The Not Old – Better Show. Liz and her team help families across the country navigate one of life’s biggest transitions: choosing the right senior living community. 🏡 U.S. News’ 2025 Best Senior Living Ratings are more than numbers—they reflect real experiences from residents and their loved ones. Their input shapes how communities are recognized for outstanding care, safety, and compassion. ✨ In our conversation, Liz shares what today’s older adults are truly looking for—not just services, but dignity, trust, and a sense of belonging. She also explains how digital tools are evolving to support families at every step of their decision-making process. 💻👨👩👧👦 One of the most powerful takeaways? “We evaluate communities, not companies,” Liz says. “Because it’s the people—not the brand—that shape the experience.” 👏 🎧 Listen to this inspiring episode and explore how data, compassion, and care come together to help us all age well. 🔗 https://apple.co/3FAbebT #USNWR #SeniorLiving #AgingWell #LeadershipInHealthcare #JournalismMatters #CareWithCompassion #NotOldBetter
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Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
06/24/2025
Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
📊 Over 450,000 voices. One powerful message: dignity in aging matters. I recently had the privilege of interviewing Liz Pearce, Senior Living Product Director at U.S. News & World Report, on The Not Old – Better Show. Liz and her team help families across the country navigate one of life’s biggest transitions: choosing the right senior living community. 🏡 U.S. News’ 2025 Best Senior Living Ratings are more than numbers—they reflect real experiences from residents and their loved ones. Their input shapes how communities are recognized for outstanding care, safety, and compassion. ✨ In our conversation, Liz shares what today’s older adults are truly looking for—not just services, but dignity, trust, and a sense of belonging. She also explains how digital tools are evolving to support families at every step of their decision-making process. 💻👨👩👧👦 One of the most powerful takeaways? “We evaluate communities, not companies,” Liz says. “Because it’s the people—not the brand—that shape the experience.” 👏 🎧 Listen to this inspiring episode and explore how data, compassion, and care come together to help us all age well. 🔗 https://apple.co/3FAbebT #USNWR #SeniorLiving #AgingWell #LeadershipInHealthcare #JournalismMatters #CareWithCompassion #NotOldBetter
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Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
06/24/2025
Dignity, Data, and the Decisions That Shape Our Later Years
📊 Over 450,000 voices. One powerful message: dignity in aging matters. I recently had the privilege of interviewing Liz Pearce, Senior Living Product Director at U.S. News & World Report, on The Not Old – Better Show. Liz and her team help families across the country navigate one of life’s biggest transitions: choosing the right senior living community. 🏡 U.S. News’ 2025 Best Senior Living Ratings are more than numbers—they reflect real experiences from residents and their loved ones. Their input shapes how communities are recognized for outstanding care, safety, and compassion. ✨ In our conversation, Liz shares what today’s older adults are truly looking for—not just services, but dignity, trust, and a sense of belonging. She also explains how digital tools are evolving to support families at every step of their decision-making process. 💻👨👩👧👦 One of the most powerful takeaways? “We evaluate communities, not companies,” Liz says. “Because it’s the people—not the brand—that shape the experience.” 👏 🎧 Listen to this inspiring episode and explore how data, compassion, and care come together to help us all age well. 🔗 https://apple.co/3FAbebT #USNWR #SeniorLiving #AgingWell #LeadershipInHealthcare #JournalismMatters #CareWithCompassion #NotOldBetter
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Riding with History: Jefferson, Madison, and the Journey that Shaped a Nation
06/20/2025
Riding with History: Jefferson, Madison, and the Journey that Shaped a Nation
🐎 When Friendship Shapes Nations: The Untold Journey of Jefferson & Madison 🇺🇸 Ever imagine two founding fathers on horseback, pondering America's future as they ride through rugged landscapes, confronting pest infestations, cultural discoveries, and their own biases? Thomas Jefferson and James Madison did exactly that in their remarkable 1791 journey through Upstate New York and New England. 📚 , author, historian Louis Masur explores this intriguing chapter in his compelling new book, A Journey North: Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship. Their trip wasn't simply about crop pests or maple syrup—it was about unity, vision, and a deepening bond that would echo throughout history. Check out Louis Masur's upcoming presentation at 🌳 This friendship trip had surprising encounters: from meeting a free Black farmer running a prosperous farm with white workers, to engaging Native American communities, to tackling agricultural threats like the dreaded Hessian fly. What did they truly learn about race, equality, and nationhood along the way? 🤔 Jefferson later said this friendship was "a source of constant happiness." But how did personal affection shape political strategy and influence America's path toward unity, amidst deep regional tensions and looming divisions? 🎧 Curious to learn more? Join me in an insightful conversation with . Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3FAbebT Let's reflect on friendship, leadership, and the powerful lessons history offers us today. 🌟 Check out Smithsonian Associates for more details:
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🔥 Forget boring BBQs… it’s time to grill with flavor, joy, and purpose! - Kate Merker
06/19/2025
🔥 Forget boring BBQs… it’s time to grill with flavor, joy, and purpose! - Kate Merker
We’re talking grill season like you’ve never heard it before with Good Housekeeping's Kate Merker Good Better Best, The Not Old Better Show, Good Housekeeping Interview Series 🔥 Summer just got a whole lot more delicious — and more intentional. This week on The Not Old Better Show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kate Merker, Chief Food Director of the Hearst Lifestyle Group and the culinary genius behind Good Housekeeping’s legendary Test Kitchen. We’re talking smart summer grilling — not just sizzling steaks, but heart-healthy, high-flavor meals that celebrate aging, wellness, and the joy of good food. Kate brings nearly 20 years of experience in food media and fine dining — and she brings that knowledge home to our listeners in the most accessible, fun, and inspiring way. In our conversation, she shares her favorite simple grill recipes, her secret weapon ingredients, and why grilling for one can be just as joyful as cooking for a crowd. What struck me most is how Kate reframes grilling from a once-in-a-while indulgence to a vibrant, everyday tool for better living. She talks about cooking as connection — to ourselves, to others, to health — and her insights speak especially to those of us navigating new phases of life. Whether you're retired, an empty nester, or just trying to cook smarter, this episode is for you. 🥗🍢 👨🍳 Plus: We dive into her work at Good Housekeeping, what it takes to develop a recipe readers can trust, and how the GH+ Membership gives exclusive access to all this smart, science-backed content — including product testing opportunities, expert interviews, and member-only recipes. 🎧 If you’re hungry for change — or just a better way to do summer dinner — I invite you to listen in. The grill's hot, the ideas are fresh, and you won’t want to miss what Kate has to say. 👇 Tune in now and taste what’s possible. #NotOldBetter #HealthyAging #GrillSmart #GHKitchen #WellnessOver60 #SmartCooking #Hearst #GoodHousekeepingPlus
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Resilience is Much More Than Grit! Jennifer Watson
06/12/2025
Resilience is Much More Than Grit! Jennifer Watson
💥 “I thought I had to be miserable on the way to happiness.” 💥 Sound familiar? Former All-American 🏃♀️ turned healer and high-performance coach Jennifer Watson opens up about how pushing through pain nearly broke her—and how listening to her body changed everything. Now she’s on a mission to help YOU lead with purpose, ease, and joy—especially in your 50s, 60s, and beyond. 🎧 Tune in to this powerful episode of The Not Old Better Show for tools to reclaim your energy, reset your nervous system 🧠, and live a soul-aligned life 💖. ➡️ #MidlifeWellness #HealthyLeadership #NotOldBetter #ResilienceRedefined #WomenOver50 #PurposeAndPassion
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Menopause, Aging and Food Freedom: Taylor Wolfram, MS, RDN, LDN
06/10/2025
Menopause, Aging and Food Freedom: Taylor Wolfram, MS, RDN, LDN
🚨 Menopause, aging & food freedom! 🚨 Diet culture tells us to shrink, but Taylor Wolfram says it's time to thrive. 🌱💪 Tune in for a fresh take on nutrition & well-being! 🎧👇. Sponsored by Acorns: Head to or download the Acorns app to get started! 🚨 What if health wasn’t about shrinking your body, but about thriving in it? 🚨 For decades, we’ve been told that aging means slowing down, gaining weight, and fighting an uphill battle to stay "healthy." But what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? Taylor Wolfram, RDN, is flipping the script on diet culture and showing us how food can be a source of empowerment—not restriction. 🌱💪 In this powerful conversation, we dive into: 🔥 How plant-based foods support aging & menopause (yes, phytoestrogens can actually help balance hormones!) 🔥 Why weight does not define health—and how to break free from years of toxic diet messaging 🔥 The truth about intuitive eating & food freedom—so you can finally stop obsessing and start living 💡 Fact: Veganism isn’t just another diet. It’s about abundance, satisfaction, and a sustainable way of eating that supports long-term well-being. Ready to rethink everything you’ve been told about food and aging? 🎧 Tune in ASAP! Sponsored by Acorns: Head to or download the Acorns app to get started!
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Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker
06/07/2025
Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker
Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series "They were my heroes. And then they became my friends.” In this moving new episode of The Not Old Better Show, we’re honored to welcome musician, producer, and doo-wop preservationist Smithsonian Associate Kenny Vance—a voice behind Jay and the Americans and the filmmaker behind Heart & Soul: A Love Story. Kenny shares a deeply personal account of his lifelong connection to the music of the 1950s and '60s—harmonies sung on street corners, friendships formed in rehearsal halls, and the artists who paved the way for today’s pop and R&B but were left behind by the industry. This episode isn’t just about music; it’s about legacy, resilience, and honoring voices that shaped a generation. Kenny also opens up about losing his home during Hurricane Sandy and how salvaged tapes and footage helped him begin again—with purpose. For professionals in music, film, storytelling, or anyone who believes in the power of cultural memory, this is a masterclass in what it means to preserve not just a sound, but a spirit. 🎧 Tune in on Apple Podcasts and more of your favorite podcast directories #DooWop #MusicHistory #SmithsonianAssociates #LegacyWork #Podcast #NotOldBetterShow #KennyVance More indormation here:
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Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker
06/07/2025
Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker
Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series "They were my heroes. And then they became my friends.” In this moving new episode of The Not Old Better Show, we’re honored to welcome musician, producer, and doo-wop preservationist Smithsonian Associate Kenny Vance—a voice behind Jay and the Americans and the filmmaker behind Heart & Soul: A Love Story. Kenny shares a deeply personal account of his lifelong connection to the music of the 1950s and '60s—harmonies sung on street corners, friendships formed in rehearsal halls, and the artists who paved the way for today’s pop and R&B but were left behind by the industry. This episode isn’t just about music; it’s about legacy, resilience, and honoring voices that shaped a generation. Kenny also opens up about losing his home during Hurricane Sandy and how salvaged tapes and footage helped him begin again—with purpose. For professionals in music, film, storytelling, or anyone who believes in the power of cultural memory, this is a masterclass in what it means to preserve not just a sound, but a spirit. 🎧 Tune in on Apple Podcasts and more of your favorite podcast directories #DooWop #MusicHistory #SmithsonianAssociates #LegacyWork #Podcast #NotOldBetterShow #KennyVance More indormation here:
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Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker
06/07/2025
Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker
Heart & Soul: Kenny Vance, Singer, Songwriter, Film Maker The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series "They were my heroes. And then they became my friends.” In this moving new episode of The Not Old Better Show, we’re honored to welcome musician, producer, and doo-wop preservationist Smithsonian Associate Kenny Vance—a voice behind Jay and the Americans and the filmmaker behind Heart & Soul: A Love Story. Kenny shares a deeply personal account of his lifelong connection to the music of the 1950s and '60s—harmonies sung on street corners, friendships formed in rehearsal halls, and the artists who paved the way for today’s pop and R&B but were left behind by the industry. This episode isn’t just about music; it’s about legacy, resilience, and honoring voices that shaped a generation. Kenny also opens up about losing his home during Hurricane Sandy and how salvaged tapes and footage helped him begin again—with purpose. For professionals in music, film, storytelling, or anyone who believes in the power of cultural memory, this is a masterclass in what it means to preserve not just a sound, but a spirit. 🎧 Tune in on Apple Podcasts and more of your favorite podcast directories #DooWop #MusicHistory #SmithsonianAssociates #LegacyWork #Podcast #NotOldBetterShow #KennyVance More indormation here:
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“Being a YouTuber: One Creator's Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers”
05/26/2025
“Being a YouTuber: One Creator's Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers”
Being a YouTuber: One Creator's Bumpy Road to 1M Subscribers The Not Old Better Show, Interview Series Today on The Not Old – Better Show, Art of Living series, we’re joined by someone who didn’t just teach English to the world—she streamed it, posted it, subtitled it, and somehow made grammar go viral. Jennifer Lebedev—known to millions as JenniferESL—has spent over 15 years turning dry textbook rules into relatable, real-life lessons on YouTube. But this isn’t a story about going viral overnight. This is the real story: about showing up, hitting “record” even when no one’s watching, and finding purpose through persistence. Jennifer didn’t set out to be a YouTuber. In fact, she started making videos when YouTube still felt like a quirky side project, not a career path. And yet, somewhere between irregular verbs and idioms, she connected with millions—young learners, adult professionals, retirees brushing up before a long-awaited trip abroad. Maybe even you. In this episode, Jennifer opens up about the early flops, the unexpected fan mail, the long road to 1 million subscribers, and why age has nothing to do with creativity online. She shares what she's learned—and unlearned—about teaching, patience, and what it means to be truly seen by a digital audience. Plus, that familiar music you hear under me? That’s Just for a While — Magnus Ringblom Quarten—timeless, inventive, and quietly rebellious. Just like our guest. So stay tuned—this one’s for the creators, the late bloomers, and anyone wondering, “Could I really do that, too?”
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The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France
05/21/2025
The Rebel Empresses: Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France
gowns. In our latest Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview series episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with acclaimed historian and author Nancy Goldstone about her riveting new book, The Rebel Empresses. It’s a dual biography that traces the intertwined lives of two women who refused to be footnotes in the grand story of European empire. Elisabeth (known as Sisi) and Eugénie were married into power, but they never conformed to it. They pushed boundaries—from challenging court politics to redefining women’s roles in public life. One became the fashion icon of her age; the other quietly reformed prisons, promoted women’s education, and preserved a nation’s cultural identity. Yet both women lived through unimaginable personal sorrow. Nancy’s storytelling reveals their complexity—not as tragic figures, but as bold, often misunderstood agents of change. For listeners 50+, their stories remind us it’s never too late to be influential, purposeful… even radical. 📚 Whether you love women’s history, European politics, or simply a good story well told, this episode is worth your time. Nancy Goldstone’s research, wit, and passion shine through every minute. 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts! #WomensHistory #SmithsonianAssociates #Resilience #PodcastInterview #NancyGoldstone #LifelongLearning #NotOldBetter
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Humorist Dave Barry, Class Clown Memoir
05/13/2025
Humorist Dave Barry, Class Clown Memoir
Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living series. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is for anyone who’s ever thought, “Maybe you can joke your way through life after all.” Because our guest today—Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist, bestselling author, and unofficial king of common sense absurdity—Dave Barry—has done just that. Yes, that Dave Barry. The man who warned us about exploding toilets, tangled with telemarketers until they stopped answering their own phones, and wrote the kind of newspaper columns that made you snort coffee out your nose on a Sunday morning. He's been called “the funniest man in America” by the New York Times, and in his latest book, Class Clown, he finally turns that razor-sharp wit on himself. Today’s conversation is a fun one, although, and you can hear this…I was nervous. At one point during a roundabout question from me, Dave asks: “ iwas wondering wehre you were going with that?” I left it in the edit for your enjoyment. I’ve talked to 100’s of big time guests from all walks of life, like Smithsonian, Prevention Magazine, Good Housekeeping and have never been tongue tied or nervous…not today. That’s on me as, Dave is a wonderful guest, and he shares what it was like growing up in a world before Wi-Fi, when entertainment meant throwing rocks and preparing for nuclear war by hiding under desks. He talks about his path from a rock band in the '60s to the pages of The Miami Herald, where he turned exploding Pop-Tarts and Rollerblade Barbie into Pulitzer-worthy satire. And yes—he really was almost crushed by a bale of airborne cocaine. Florida, folks. But more than just laughs, Dave opens up about his late parents, his unique upbringing, and the emotional truth behind humor that doesn't always mean happiness. It's a rich, honest, and uproarious reminder that growing older doesn’t mean growing dull—and that maybe, just maybe, the class clown gets the last word. Stay with us—because the very funny, very thoughtful Dave Barry is here. And this is The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living series, with me, award-winning host Paul Vogelzang.
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Prevention Magazine Healthy Liviing Interview Series, Amy Larocca
05/10/2025
Prevention Magazine Healthy Liviing Interview Series, Amy Larocca
Prevention Magazine Healthy Liviing Interview Series, The Not Old Better Show The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Healthy Living Series 💸 Wellness is now a trillion-dollar industry… but is it making us well or just broke and tired? 🎧👇 👉. 🧘♀️ Biohacking. Gratitude journaling. $400 sleep rings. We’ve been told that these tools make us “well.” But are they helping—or just making us poorer and more stressed? 📚 Journalist and former fashion editor Amy Larocca joins me on the latest episode of The Not Old – Better Show to discuss her provocative new book: How to Be Well, Without Spending All Your Money and Losing Your Mind. 💡 It’s a must-listen for professionals, especially women 50+, who are tired of chasing the next trend and ready for the truth about real health. 🎧 Listen here: https://apple.co/3FAbebT 💬 Let's stop buying into perfection—and start reclaiming wellness on our terms. #WellnessIndustry #WomenOver50 #PersonalHealth #MediaLiteracy #NotOldBetterShow
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The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell
05/05/2025
The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell
The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell The Not Old Better Show, Inside Science Interview Series 🎵 Today’s show, brought to you by Acorns, might just change how you think about your next breath—literally. Sign up now and join the over 14 million all-time customers who have already saved and invested over $25 billion dollars with Acorns. Head to or download the Acorns app to get started. We breathe in and out over 20,000 times a day. And with every breath, our nose takes in invisible information that stirs memories, emotions, cravings, warnings—and connections. But how often do we stop to think about what our nose is telling us? Our guest today is Dr. Jonas Olofsson, a cognitive scientist, professor of psychology at Stockholm University, and one of the world’s leading experts on the sense of smell. His new book, The Forgotten Sense: The New Science of Smell and the Extraordinary Power of the Nose, is a fascinating, deeply human exploration of something we often overlook—until it’s gone. In this conversation, we’re talking about why our sense of smell is so vital to memory, emotional well-being, and intimacy—especially as we age. We’ll also explore a few unexpected findings from his research, including a surprising link between smell aversion and political beliefs, and why our noses are far more powerful—and more personal—than we’ve ever given them credit for. And yes—we end with a few rapid-fire questions for Dr. Olofsson. What scent does he hate but others love? What’s the one smell he’d never want to forget? And which profession does he think has the best-trained nose? His answers might surprise you. So settle in, breathe deep, and get ready for a truly sensory experience. Here’s Paul Vogelzang, your host of the Not Old Better Show. 🎵 That was Dr. Jonas Olofsson, author of The Forgotten Sense, sharing his passion for the overlooked world of smell—how it connects us, shapes us, and yes, even reveals our politics. Remember, today’s show was brought to you by Acorns. Sign up now and join the over 14 million all-time customers who have already saved and invested over $25 billion dollars with Acorns. Head to or download the Acorns app to get started. If you’ve ever caught a whiff of a scent that transported you decades into the past—or if you, like so many, experienced smell loss during the pandemic—you know just how much this sense matters. And thanks to Dr. Olofsson’s work, we now have a better understanding of how to care for it, train it, and value it more. You can listen to this episode and all our previous conversations at notold-better.com. And be sure to follow us on social media—we’re @NotOldBetter on Twitter and at notoldbetter on Instagram. This episode was a production of N.O.B.S. Studios. I’m Paul Vogelzang—thanks for listening, and I hope you’ll join me again next time. 🎵
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Death In The Red Dirt Uncover the Truth Before the Outback Buries It
04/29/2025
Death In The Red Dirt Uncover the Truth Before the Outback Buries It
Death In The Red Dirt Uncover the Truth Before the Outback Buries It The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series 🎙️Intro: The Not Old Better Show – Art of Living Series🎙️ Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living series—where we speak with fascinating people who prove that age isn’t a finish line… it’s an invitation. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today, we’re diving into a conversation that blends the edge-of-your-seat excitement of a thriller novel with the quiet awe of standing alone in the Australian outback. Our guest is Alice Cadd, and she’s not your everyday thriller writer. With a 30-year career as a psychiatrist, Alice knows the human mind better than most. But instead of retirement and rocking chairs, she picked up the pen—and what came out is a stunning new psychological thriller titled Death in the Red Dirt. It’s intense, it’s smart, and it pulls you deep into the rugged beauty and hidden tensions of the Australian outback. Her tagline? “Uncover the truth before the Outback buries it.” That’s not just a warning—it’s a promise. But Alice’s story doesn’t end on the page. She’s also a fierce environmentalist, a solo camper, and someone who’s swum with whale sharks, heard humpback whales sing beneath the sea, and watched turtles glide past under the stars. She’s chosen a life full of risk, beauty, and meaning—and she's doing it all in what she calls the third stage of her life. We’ll talk about reinvention, about leaning into change with curiosity instead of fear, and how writing, wildness, and wonder have become Alice’s new compass. So stay with us, because this is not just a story about crime fiction—it’s a story about finding your truth, even when the road gets dusty. And it’s told with grace, grit, and a bit of red dirt on your boots. This is The Not Old Better Show, and I’m your host, award-winning journalist Paul Vogelzang. 🎙️So let’s get into it—because whether you’re thinking about what’s next in your own life, or you just love a good story with sharp twists and deep insight, Alice Cadd has something to offer. From the consulting room to the red dirt roads of the outback, she’s lived it, written it, and she’s here to share it. Alice Cadd, welcome to the show. 🎙️ That was psychiatrist-turned-thriller-writer Alice Cadd—what a fascinating conversation. From the quiet power of reinvention to the thrill of new beginnings, Alice reminds us that this stage of life is every bit as dynamic, daring, and meaningful as the ones before it. Her novel Death in the Red Dirt is available now, and trust me—it’s not just a great read; it’s an experience. Be sure to follow Alice on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok, where she shares glimpses of her writing process and her breathtaking adventures in the Australian wilderness. To hear more inspiring conversations like this one, visit us at notold-better.com, where you can listen to today’s episode and explore our full archive of past interviews. We’re also on social media—follow us on Twitter @NotOldBetter and on Instagram at notoldbetter. The Not Old Better Show is a production of N.O.B.S. Studios. I'm Paul Vogelzang—thanks for spending time with us today. Be well, stay curious, and join me again next time.
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The Toughest Choice: Caring for Aging Parents, Family Conflicts & Life-Changing Decisions
04/26/2025
The Toughest Choice: Caring for Aging Parents, Family Conflicts & Life-Changing Decisions
The Toughest Choice: Caring for Aging Parents, Family Conflicts & Life-Changing Decisions The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show—I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today we’re talking about something that will touch every single one of us at some point in life. Whether it’s making decisions for aging parents, navigating sibling dynamics, choosing the right senior living option, or even planning for our own future, these are conversations that matter. And let’s be honest—these are conversations that most of us avoid until we’re forced to have them. But today, we’re making it easier. Our guest is , a longtime friend, real estate expert, and now author of Doing the Right Thing: Simple Solutions, Essential Tips, & Helpful Resources for Assisting Aging Loved Ones. Deb has spent decades helping families through some of life’s most challenging transitions—from downsizing and selling homes to dealing with grief and the tough realities of dementia. And she’s been through it all personally, too—so she’s not just giving advice; she’s lived it. In this episode, we’re diving into: ✅ The one thing everyone over 50 should do right now to prepare for the future ✅ How to handle sibling conflicts when caring for aging parents ✅ The 40+ questions you must ask when choosing an assisted living facility ✅ Why selling a home “as is” might be the best move—and when it’s not ✅ And how to move forward after loss—on your own terms This is real talk, real advice, and a conversation filled with humor, heart, and practical wisdom. So whether you’re an adult child managing care for a parent, a solo ager making plans for yourself, or just someone who wants to be prepared instead of panicked, you’re in the right place. Stay with us—this is going to be an insightful and empowering conversation. And now, let’s welcome to The Not Old Better Show.
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