Episodes

  • Introducing TIA and why we started a pro-aging podcast | Dana Shultz & Mellisa Reeves

    Introducing TIA and why we started a pro-aging podcast | Dana Shultz & Mellisa Reeves
    Nov 5 2023
    In the inaugural episode of 'This is Aging', we (Dana Shultz and Mellisa Reeves) introduce ourselves and share why we created a pro-aging podcast. We speak about personal experiences and fears about aging, and how dynamic the cultural and social influences can be on our beliefs about aging. We also share snippets of candid conversations with people on the street, as well as our own mothers about how they perceive their aging bodies and how that has influenced us. Every week we’ll have honest discussions about physical changes, longevity, health, midlife, sex, relationships, and career as we seek to embrace aging with curiosity and celebration.

    + New episodes drop each Tuesday
    + This Is Aging is hosted by Dana Shultz and Mellisa Reeves
    + Follow us on social media @thisisaging
    + Full episode info and transcripts at www.thisisaging.com
    + Don’t forget to rate and review This Is Aging in iTunes!
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    40 mins
  • Finding Purpose in the Second Half of Life | Jeff Hamaoui

    Finding Purpose in the Second Half of Life | Jeff Hamaoui
    Nov 7 2023
    In this episode of This is Aging, we are joined by Jeff Hamaoui, co-founder of the Modern Elder Academy. Jeff shares his insights on the changing landscape of aging and the need for a new mental model to navigate the second adulthood that comes with increased life expectancy. He discusses the importance of purpose, transitions, and owning one's wisdom in the midlife season. Jeff also highlights the power of community and the transformative experiences that participants have at the Modern Elder Academy.
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • A 102 Year Old Doctors’ Secrets for a Well Lived Life | Dr. Gladys McGarey

    A 102 Year Old Doctors’ Secrets for a Well Lived Life | Dr. Gladys McGarey
    Nov 7 2023
    Today on This Is Aging, we sit down with Dr. Gladys McGarey, a 102-year-old holistic MD and co-founder of the American Holistic Medical Association. Just this year, Dr. Gladys wrote and released the book: “The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor's Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age”. We discuss her groundbreaking work in transforming the way we think about healthcare and self-care, challenge the negative narrative around aging and learn from Dr. Gladys’ insights about how love is the greatest healer of all, with many stories from her incredible life.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • How to Reclaim Aging and Resist Ageism In Our Culture | Karen Walrond

    How to Reclaim Aging and Resist Ageism In Our Culture | Karen Walrond
    Nov 14 2023
    Today Karen Walrond joins us on This Is Aging for an eye-opening conversation about confronting ageist beliefs and expectations. We explore the evolution of ageism in America, research on happiness in seniors, how to practically resist the anti-aging industry and make choices that feel good to YOU. Karen just recently released a new book, "Radiant Rebellion: Reclaiming Aging, Practicing Joy, and Raising a Little Hell". Our conversation with Karen will inspire you to embrace aging with joy and give you tools for working towards a better world and fighting against ageism.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Navigating Midlife Hormonal Changes: Should You Consider HRT? | Maria Claps + Kristin Johnson

    Navigating Midlife Hormonal Changes: Should You Consider HRT? | Maria Claps + Kristin Johnson
    Nov 21 2023
    In this episode of This is Aging, we are joined by Kristin Johnson and Maria Claps from Wise and Well, both experts in perimenopause and menopausal health. They shared their extensive knowledge and experience working with women in this midlife stage. We dive deep into the topic of perimenopause, discussing the shifts in body composition, the importance of lifestyle factors like fitness, sleep, and stress management, and the role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Kristen and Maria debunk common misconceptions about HRT and hormonal changes, shedding light on the real challenges and opportunities women face during this time. If you're approaching midlife or want to better understand what's happening in your body and choices that might be available to you as you age, this episode is a must-listen.
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Elderhood, Death-Phobic Culture and Finding Meaning in a Troubled World | Stephen Jenkinson

    Elderhood, Death-Phobic Culture and Finding Meaning in a Troubled World | Stephen Jenkinson
    Dec 5 2023
    In this episode, we share the profound work of Stephen Jenkinson, an internationally renowned teacher and author of Die Wise: A Manifesto for Sanity and Soul and Come of Age: The Case for Elderhood in a Time of Trouble. Stephen shares his experiences working with dying people and their families as a former program director in a Canadian hospital, shedding light on the brokenness of our modern Western approach to death and end of life care. He challenges the prevailing death phobia in our society and explores the importance of embracing the reality of dying in order to live more fully. Through his thought-provoking insights, Stephen invites us to reconsider our understanding of aging, what it means to be an elder and the fears we face about our changing modern world.

    Stephen also shares his insights on spirituality and the blurred lines between a spiritual life and a regular life, the challenges faced by both the oldest and youngest generations in a rapidly changing world and the importance of understanding our past and the potential consequences of our actions on future generations. Tune in for a deep and introspective conversation that will leave you questioning your role in shaping the world around you and your impulse for “answers” in light of the realities of our times…
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    1 hr and 56 mins
  • Aging Body Liberation and Radical Self Love | Debra Benfield

    Aging Body Liberation and Radical Self Love | Debra Benfield
    Dec 19 2023
    Join us in this episode of This is Aging as we welcome Debra Benfield of Aging Body Liberation, a seasoned expert in the intersection of body positivity and pro-aging. With over 35 years of experience as a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and yoga teacher, Debra shares her wealth of wisdom around the complexities of aging, disordered eating, and societal pressures. She challenges the anti-aging narrative and offers a transformative perspective on embracing our bodies during the aging process. Full of both deep insight and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to navigate the holiday season with self-compassion and foster a nurturing relationship with their aging body. Tune in to be part of a crucial conversation that reshapes how we perceive and treat our bodies at every stage of life.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Playful and Compassionate Movement At Any Age | David Wilson

    Playful and Compassionate Movement At Any Age | David Wilson
    Jan 2 2024
    In this inspiring episode of This is Aging, we welcome David Wilson, the passionate advocate behind Old School Moves. At 64, David brings a fresh and enlightening perspective on the role of movement in our lives, particularly as we age. Honestly sharing his personal journey from a sedentary lifestyle to becoming a movement advocate, David lets us in on how he discovered the joy and importance of a compassionate, playful approach to physical activity. This episode goes beyond traditional fitness narratives, exploring how our perceptions of movement and ageism can profoundly affect our overall well-being.

    This conversation is particularly relevant as we come into the New Year, a time when so many are affected by the pressure to create “resolutions” and impose restrictions upon ourselves. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to start the year with a more compassionate, curious and playful perspective on aging, health, and movement.
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    1 hr and 21 mins