Avsnitt
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“Is this a problem to be solved — or a truth to be accepted?” – Dr. Sue Varma
LINKS:
Dr. Sue Varma’s website: https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/
Practical Optimism: https://www.doctorsuevarma.com/practical-optimism/
Follow Dr. Sue Varma on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorsuevarma/
Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack: https://barbarahannahgrufferman.substack.com/
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarahannahgrufferman/
In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined by Dr. Sue Varma, a board-certified psychiatrist, Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, and author of Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being.
This is not a conversation about pretending everything is fine.
It’s not about forced positivity, ignoring the hard things, or telling yourself to “just look on the bright side.”
Instead, Dr. Sue explains how practical optimism helps us face reality with more clarity, more courage, and more action.
We talk about why optimism is not simply something you’re born with — it is something you can practice. Dr. Sue shares how to interrupt worst-case-scenario thinking, how to stop spiraling, and how to begin asking better questions when fear takes over.
We also talk about something so many women in midlife and beyond are thinking about: purpose. What happens when your roles shift, your children need you less, your work life changes, your relationships evolve, or you find yourself wondering, “What now?” Dr. Sue offers a refreshing way to think about purpose that does not require a grand mission. Sometimes it starts with the small things we choose to place on our calendar.
You’ll also hear her simple approach to processing difficult emotions instead of pushing them aside: name it, claim it, tame it, and reframe it. And we talk about the powerful connection between emotional health and physical well-being — because, as Dr. Sue says, the body often tells the truth before we do.
We also get into loneliness, connection, community, and the surprising difference between being lonely and learning how to enjoy your own company. Dr. Sue explains why we need both a people practice and an aloneness practice — and why small, everyday moments of connection may matter more than we think.
This episode is filled with practical tools you can use right away, including the four M’s of mental health: movement, mastery, mindfulness, and meaningful engagement.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, uncertain, or ready to approach this next chapter with more strength, hope, and self-trust, this conversation is for you.
Please follow or subscribe to AGE BETTER wherever you listen. And if this episode helped you, please leave a review — it truly helps more women find the show.
You can also follow me on Instagram at @barbarahannahgrufferman, and subscribe to Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack for more practical, science-backed tools to help you live stronger, longer, and better. -
“What’s good for the heart is good for the head.”
Key Links & Resources
Watch the How Not to Die documentary: https://nutritionfacts.org/video/how-not-to-die-documentary/
Get How Not to Die by Dr. Michael Greger: https://amzn.to/49Ffmni
Visit NutritionFacts.org: https://nutritionfacts.org/
Dr. Greger’s Daily Dozen: https://nutritionfacts.org/daily-dozen/
Lower LDL Cholesterol Naturally with Food: https://nutritionfacts.org/book/portfolio/
Subscribe to Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack: https://barbarahannahgrufferman.substack.com/
How Not to Die Too Soon: Dr. Michael Greger on Food, Cholesterol & Aging Better
In this episode of Age Better, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Greger, one of the most recognized voices in lifestyle medicine and evidence-based nutrition, and the New York Times bestselling author of How Not to Die, How Not to Diet, and How Not to Age.
We’re talking about the new How Not to Die documentary, created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his landmark book, and what its message means now — especially for women in their 60s and beyond who want to protect their heart, brain, bones, muscles, energy, and independence.
Dr. Greger shares why food is not just about weight or willpower, but one of the most powerful tools we have to influence how we age. We talk about the connection between artery health and brain health, why cholesterol matters so much, what to do if a whole-food, plant-based diet does not lower LDL enough, and his take on one of the most debated foods in the kitchen: olive oil.
We also get into protein, muscle, bone health, B12, vitamin D, omega-3s, creatine, and why this way of eating does not have to be all-or-nothing.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why the message of How Not to Die may be even more urgent 10 years later
How Dr. Greger’s grandmother helped shape his mission as a physician
Why heart health and brain health are deeply connected
What women should understand about cholesterol, LDL, and the Portfolio Diet
Which foods may help support healthier cholesterol levels
Dr. Greger’s current thinking on olive oil
How women can get enough protein on a whole-food, plant-based diet
What nutrients deserve special attention, especially B12, vitamin D, and omega-3s
Why resistance training still matters for muscle and strength
How creatine may fit into the conversation around aging and muscle
Why it’s never too late to start eating better
The three foods Dr. Greger most wants people to add: berries, dark leafy greens/cruciferous vegetables, and legumes
The three things he suggests cutting back on first: trans fats, processed meats, and sugar-sweetened beverages
As always, talk with your own healthcare provider before making major changes to your diet, medications, or supplements — especially if you have heart disease, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, or other medical concerns.
And I’d love to hear from you. If you have an idea for a future episode or a guest you’d like me to interview, send me a note at [email protected].
Please subscribe or follow Age Better wherever you listen, and don’t forget to check out my newsletter, Age Better Cheat Sheet, on Substack for more smart, science-backed tools to help you stay strong, healthy, and independent for the long haul. -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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“Fulfillment doesn’t just magically increase. It increases because we’ve prioritized it.” — Dr. Kerry Burnight
Key Links
CenterWell Fulfillment Index Report is HERE Dr. Kerry Burnight’s book, JoySpan is HERE
Dr. Kerry Burnight’s website is HERE Info about Dr. Sanjay Shetty, President of CenterWell at Humana is HERE
Overview
What does it really mean to age well?
We talk a lot about blood pressure, cholesterol, bone density, muscle, brain health, and staying independent — and all of that matters. But there’s another piece of aging better that we may not be paying enough attention to: fulfillment.
In this episode of Age Better, I’m joined by two terrific guests: Dr. Kerry Burnight, gerontologist and author of JoySpan, and Dr. Sanjay Shetty, President of CenterWell at Humana, the organization behind the new Fulfillment Index.
The report found that only 54% of adults over 62 say they feel fulfilled, which means nearly half do not. And as Dr. Shetty explains, fulfillment is about much more than physical health. It includes purpose, emotional stability, optimism, gratitude, connection, security, feeling valued, and the real-life conditions people are living with every day.
One of the most fascinating findings is that fulfillment can dip in the early retirement years, when people often expect life to feel easier and freer. But retirement is not just a financial transition. It can also be a shift in identity, structure, purpose, and the feeling that we’re still needed.
Dr. Burnight brings this back to something deeply practical: fulfillment is not something we simply wait for. Like strength, it requires attention and practice. We talk about self-contentment, purpose with a “lowercase p,” why feeling seen matters so much, and how to move from feeling “meh” to feeling more connected, useful, and alive in your own life.
This conversation is especially important for women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond who may be asking: Who am I now? What do I want this next chapter to look like? And what can I do today to create a life that feels not only longer, but fuller?
In this episode, we talk about:
How fulfillment is different from happiness Why so many people can look “fine” on the outside but feel disconnected inside Why fulfillment may dip around retirement How purpose can be small and still deeply meaningful Why physical strength supports more than just your body How self-contentment helps us age with less regret and more compassion Why feeling seen, heard, appreciated, and valued is essential One simple practice to begin building more fulfillment right away
This episode will help you think differently about what it means to age better — and what you can start doing now to build more purpose, connection, strength, and meaning into the years ahead.
Subscribe to AGE BETTER so you never miss an episode! -
“All good scientists are skeptics.” — Dr. Anthony Pearson
Key Links
The Skeptical Cardiologist on Substack is HERE
American Heart Association 2026 Guidelines is HERE
MESA CAC Database is HERE
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Anthony Pearson, the cardiologist behind The Skeptical Cardiologist newsletter on Substack, for a practical conversation about what women over 50 need to know now about heart health. We talk about the new cholesterol guidelines, why personalized risk assessment matters, and why tests like CAC, Lp(a), and ApoB can reveal much more than a standard lipid panel alone.
What You Will Learn:
Why heart disease is still the number one killer of women
The biggest blind spots women over 50 still have about heart risk
What changed in the new cholesterol guidelines
Why earlier detection and more personalized risk assessment matter
Why CAC, Lp(a), and ApoB are getting more attention
What those tests can reveal that a standard lipid panel may miss
Why statins still matter, despite all the noise around them
When non-statin options may make sense
The role of inflammation in cardiovascular disease
The lifestyle habits that still matter most for prevention
A few key takeaways from this conversation
You can feel healthy, exercise regularly, eat well, and still have hidden cardiovascular risk
A standard cholesterol panel does not always tell the full story
CAC, Lp(a), and ApoB can help create a more complete and individualized picture of risk
High Lp(a) is inherited and is important to know about, even before a specific drug is widely available
ApoB is a more precise marker of atherogenic particles and can add valuable information to routine testing
Statins remain an important, well-studied first-line tool for many people
Prevention works best when you start earlier, not after a cardiac event
Cardio exercise, strength training, and maintaining a healthy body composition all matter
Subscribe to AGE BETTER so you never miss an episode! -
“Sex changes as we age, but for every problem, there is a solution.” — Joan Price
Key Links Referenced During the Episode:
Joan Price website: joanprice.com Joan’s book Naked at Our Age: Talking Out Loud About Senior Sex: Book page Joan’s webinars: Online sex classes and webinars Joan’s sex toy reviews: Sex toys archive
Modern Love Podcast Interview: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/18/podcasts/joan-price-widow-sex.html
New York Times Article on Sexspan: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/05/well/family/sex-span-longevity-health.html
In this candid and empowering episode of Age Better, Barbara talks with returning guest Joan Price — one of the leading voices on sexuality and aging — about the idea of sexspan: how to keep sex, pleasure, and intimacy alive and satisfying as we age. Together, they explore why sex does change over time, why that does not mean it has to disappear, and why the key is to reassess, communicate, and tweak your approach as your body and life evolve. Joan Price’s work focuses on “ageless sexuality,” and she offers books, webinars, and practical advice for older adults navigating these changes.
Barbara and Joan talk about the myths that still surround sex after 60, why intercourse should not be the only definition of “real sex,” and how communication, curiosity, humor, and flexibility can open the door to deeper pleasure and connection. They also discuss solo sex, sex toys, scheduling intimacy, and the importance of speaking up about pain, discomfort, or changing desire instead of quietly assuming this part of life is over. Joan’s webinar offerings include topics like Great Sex without Penetration and Sex Toys for Seniors, reflecting many of the practical strategies discussed in this episode.
If you’ve ever wondered whether sex can still be joyful, meaningful, and even better as you get older, this episode is for you.
In this episode, we discuss:
What “sexspan” means — and why it matters
The biggest myths about sex and aging
Why it’s so important to expand the definition of sex beyond intercourse
How to “reassess and tweak” your sex life as your body changes
The role of communication, humor, and flexibility in intimacy
How sex toys, lubricant, timing, and positioning can help
Why solo sex is a healthy and valid part of sexual well-being
How to advocate for yourself with a partner — and with your doctor
Subscribe to AGE BETTER so you never miss an episode and please consider leaving a review!
You can watch all episodes and bonus clips on my YouTube channel. -
“Joyspan matters because without it, a long life is a drag.” — Dr. Kerry Burnight
Key Links:
Follow Dr. Kerry Burnight on Instagram HERE
Read JoySpan by Dr. Kerry Burnight HERE
Read Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl HERE
Learn more about Dr. Kerry Burnight HERE
What if aging better is about more than just lifespan and healthspan?
In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by leading gerontologist Dr. Kerry Burnight, author of JoySpan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half, to talk about why joy is such an essential — and often overlooked — part of aging better.
We talk about the difference between joy and happiness, why so many women can be doing all the “right” things for their health and still feel like something is missing, and how to build a more meaningful, connected, resilient life as we get older. Dr. Burnight also shares the four key pillars of JoySpan — Grow, Connect, Adapt, and Give — and explains how each one can help us age with more purpose, more strength, and more joy.
In this episode, we discuss:
What Joyspan means
The difference between joy and happiness
Why joy matters so much as we age
The four pillars of Joyspan: Grow, Connect, Adapt, and Give
How internalized ageism affects the way we age
Why acceptance and resilience are essential
Practical ways to create more joy in everyday life
How to stay engaged, purposeful, and connected in the second half of life
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, follow AGE BETTER, and leave a rating or review. It helps more women find the show. -
“Fitness can coexist with frailty. Function can not.” — Prof. Scott B. Fulton
KEY LINKS
Scott’s book: FUNCTION: Turn Your Blind Spots into Strengths Scott’s website: WHEALTHSPAN Scott’s YouTube channel: WHEALTHSPAN: Functional Healthspan LIFTMOR study: High-Intensity Resistance and Impact Training Improves Bone Mineral Density and Physical Function in Postmenopausal Women With Osteopenia and Osteoporosis Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation: bonehealthandosteoporosis.org
How do you know if you’re really aging well?
In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined by Prof. Scott B. Fulton, author of FUNCTION: Turn Your Blind Spots into Strengths, for an important conversation about why function may matter even more than fitness when it comes to aging better.
Scott explains why how well you move, balance, think, react, and handle everyday life may be one of the clearest indicators of your future healthspan and independence. We talk about the difference between being fit and being functional, the hidden blind spots that can put you at risk, and the simple at-home self-assessments that can help you identify weak links before they become bigger problems.
We also discuss the five domains of function, functional age versus chronological age, falls, cognition, and why improving the areas where you are weakest may be one of the smartest things you can do for your long-term health.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why function and fitness are not the same thing
What the five domains of function are
How to identify your personal blind spots
Why walking speed, balance, mobility, power, and cognition matter so much
The difference between functional age and chronological age
How simple self-assessments can help you age better
This is a practical, eye-opening conversation for anyone who wants to stay mobile, capable, independent, and fully engaged in life for as long as possible.
If this episode helps you, please share it with a friend or family member who needs to hear it.
And as always, I’d love to hear from you—send me your ideas for future episodes at [email protected] and connect with me on social media.
Watch all episodes on YouTube! -
“Ageism is like racism — disgraceful and widespread.” — Myrna Blyth
KEY LINKS
Myrna Blyth’s Substack, Editor’s Journal: https://myrnablyth.substack.com
If you have an idea for a future episode of AGE BETTER, email me at [email protected]
In this special Road to 70 episode of AGE BETTER, I talk with iconic editor, media trailblazer, and lifelong observer of women’s lives Myrna Blyth about what it really means to grow older with purpose, curiosity, honesty, and style.
Myrna has spent decades shaping how women saw themselves through major media brands, and now, in her 80s, she’s writing in a more personal voice through her Substack, Editor’s Journal. In this conversation, she shares what she’s learned about aging, ageism, reinvention, and why continuing to grow matters at every stage of life.
Together, we talk about the myths and stereotypes that still surround older women, how media has influenced the way women think about aging, and why so many women need a more truthful and empowering vision of what later life can look like. Myrna also opens up about what inspired her to launch her Substack now, what she hopes to say there, and why staying engaged, observant, and open to change is one of the most important ways to age better.
If you’ve ever wondered how to stay relevant, keep evolving, and move into the next chapter with confidence, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why Myrna believes ageism remains one of the most accepted forms of bias
How media has helped shape cultural attitudes about aging, especially for women
What inspired her to launch Editor’s Journal at this stage of life
Why growth, adaptation, and curiosity matter more than ever as we get older
How to think differently about self-perception and the aging process
What women in midlife and beyond should understand about embracing the years ahead
This episode is part of The Road to 70, my special series exploring what it means to step into the next decade stronger, wiser, and more fully yourself.
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, follow AGE BETTER, and leave a rating or review. It helps more women find the show. -
Key Links:
Heike Yates website
Book: Pursue Your Spark
Heike Yates on Instagram
If you’ve been telling yourself, “I’m fine… but I don’t feel fully like me,” this episode will land.
My guest is Heike Yates—triathlete, Pilates instructor for women 50+, and a longtime fitness coach who understands what so many women experience in midlife and beyond: your body changes, your energy changes, your roles shift… and suddenly the old rules don’t fit anymore.
In our conversation, Heike and I talk about how to adapt instead of starting over—and how to build the kind of strength that actually matters for your real life: getting up off the floor, carrying groceries, traveling with confidence, protecting your bones, and feeling steady in your body again. We also dig into energy and recovery, why nutrition matters more than ever, and how finding joy in movement can be the missing piece that makes everything feel sustainable.
You’ll leave feeling calmer, clearer, and more capable—because it’s not too late, and it doesn’t have to be extreme.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why midlife can be a powerful time to embrace change—physically, emotionally, and even spiritually
What “functional strength” really means (and why it’s the goal after 60)
How to listen to your body and adjust your workouts without guilt
Simple ways to protect your energy—through movement, nutrition, recovery, and self-care
Why community support can be a game-changer for motivation and accountability
How small, consistent changes can create big results over time
Why you’re never too old to go after what lights you up—yes, even now
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe and leave a review—it helps more women find AGE BETTER.
And make sure you’re subscribed to my newsletter, AGE BETTER CHEAT SHEET on Substack, where I share the research, tools, and takeaways to help you stay strong, healthy, and independent for the long haul.
Have an idea for a topic you’d love me to cover? Email me at [email protected] or reach out on social media. -
“Connection is the most underrated health behavior.” — Tara Parker-Pope
Key Resources
Tara’s Substack newsletter: One Day Better
Subscribe to my Substack: Age Better Cheat Sheet
Send me topic ideas/questions: [email protected]
Midlife Pivots: Tara Parker-Pope on Taking Risks and Building One Day Better
If you’ve been thinking about a pivot—especially in midlife—this episode will give you both inspiration and practical ideas you can use right away.
My guest is Tara Parker-Pope, an award-winning journalist and author whose work focuses on health, behavior, and the science of human thriving. Tara spent much of her career at leading news organizations, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Post, where she helped build pioneering consumer health coverage. Today, she’s writing directly to readers through her Substack newsletter, One Day Better—and we talk about what it’s really like to step into independence, build community, and create structure in a world with a lot less built-in structure.
But this conversation is about more than career moves. Tara also shares what it takes to be brave in midlife—especially when you’re stepping into something new—and why it matters to surround yourself with people who genuinely support you. She tells a story about a close friend who gave her the best advice at exactly the right time, advice that helped her make this huge pivot: “Never look back—always forward.” It’s simple, powerful, and it might be exactly what you need to hear right now.
We also talk about why small health decisions matter more than we think, why joy and connection are essential to aging well, and why Tara believes women deserve better health information—especially in midlife and beyond.
In this episode, we talk about
What a midlife pivot really looks like—emotionally and practically
How Tara built One Day Better and what she’s learned from readers
Why bravery matters—and how supportive relationships can make reinvention possible
A piece of advice Tara’s friend gave her that changed everything: “Never look back—always forward.”
Why community and connection are powerful (and underrated) health behaviors
The impact of the pandemic on health journalism—and on our personal choices
How to create structure and momentum when you’re working independently
Why small “one day better” decisions can add up to meaningful change
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Health and Wellness Journalism 02:55 The Journey into Health Reporting 06:04 Empowering Readers Through Health Information 09:01 The Impact of the Pandemic on Journalism 15:00 Transitioning to New Opportunities 18:03 The Power of Health Information 20:56 Creating a Community Through Writing 22:37 The Vision Behind One Day Better 28:00 Navigating Reader Engagement and Feedback 30:00 The Role of Women in Health Information 31:55 Menopause: A Critical Health Topic 33:57 Reinvention and Personal Growth 38:58 The Importance of Community and Support 41:00 Choosing Topics: A Writer's Process 46:43 The Evolution of One Day Better 49:12 Navigating the Challenges of Independence 52:34 Creating Structure in an Unstructured World 54:35 Redefining Success and Finding Joy 01:00:48 Mentorship and Supporting Others 01:03:12 Taking Small Steps Towards Change
About Tara Parker-Pope
Tara Parker-Pope is an award-winning journalist and author whose work focuses on health, behavior, and the science of human thriving. She holds a Master of Public Health from the Yale School of Public Health and is the creator of the free Substack health newsletter, One Day Better. She spent much of her career at leading news organizations, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, where she founded and led pioneering consumer health coverage. She was part of the newsroom team awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for pandemic reporting and won a News and Documentary Emmy for Life, Interrupted, a video series about living with cancer, co-created with author Suleika Jaouad. Her reporting has shaped public policy, including a story that prompted federal rules guaranteeing hospital visitation rights for same-sex couples. She is the author of three books, including For Better: How the Surprising Science of Happy Couples Can Help Your Marriage Succeed.
Stay connected
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe/follow AGE BETTER so you never miss a conversation. And don’t forget to subscribe to my Substack newsletter, Age Better Cheat Sheet, for smart, practical, science-backed tools to help you age better.
Have an idea for a future topic—or a guest you’d love me to interview? Email me at [email protected]. -
In this episode of my Road to 70 mini-series, I’m talking about a topic that so many women deal with—but far too many of us suffer through in silence: vaginal health after 60.
My guest is my go-to expert on menopause and vaginal health, Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, and this conversation is exactly the kind of straight talk I wish every woman got earlier. We get into what changes are common after menopause, what symptoms should never be ignored, what to ask your doctor, and what treatments can actually help—whether you’re dealing with vaginal dryness, irritation, urinary symptoms, or painful sex.
If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe this is just part of getting older,” this episode is for you. Dr. Nachtigall makes it clear: you do not have to just live with it.
In this episode, we cover:
What’s normal (and what’s not) when it comes to vaginal health after menopause
The most common symptoms in your 60s, including dryness, burning, irritation, and urinary changes
Why women should not be embarrassed to bring up symptoms with their doctor
The importance of regular exams and testing, including pelvic exams and HPV screening when appropriate
Hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options, including local estrogen
How vaginal health and urinary symptoms/UTIs are often connected
When pelvic floor therapy can help
How lifestyle choices (including exercise and smoking) affect vaginal and sexual health
How to protect intimacy and maintain a healthy sex life after menopause
Why it’s never too late to start treatment and feel better
Dr. Nachtigall also shares practical, reassuring advice on speaking up, getting answers, and making sure your concerns are taken seriously—because this is a quality-of-life issue, and it matters.
If this episode helps you, please share it with a friend. So many women need this information.
And if you haven’t already, subscribe to my newsletter, Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack, where I share smart, science-backed tips to help you age better, stronger, and with more confidence.
Be sure to follow AGE BETTER wherever you listen, leave a rating/review if you haven’t already, and come say hi on Instagram. I always love hearing from you—and if there’s a topic you want me to cover in a future episode, send me a note at [email protected]. -
Key links & resources
Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack
Playlist of Yoga Nidra Meditations: Includes seated and lying down options, 10- and 30-minute versions, plus one to do before sleep that was used in Dr. Sharpe’s sleep lab trial.
Yoga Nidra Book with Scripts (Amazon)
Erica Sharpe’s research (link): https://researchwebsite.com/yoganidra
Dive Deeper with Research from Dr. Erica Sharpe:
Qualitative Study
Sleep Lab Protocol
Sleep Lab Results
Remote Yoga Nidra Abstract
Episode summary
If you’re new to Yoga Nidra, this is the episode to start with. I’m joined by Dr. Erica Sharpe, a researcher and practitioner who studies how this guided, lie-down meditation can support sleep, stress relief, and mental health—especially during times when the world feels heavy and our nervous systems are running on high alert.
We break down what Yoga Nidra is (and what it isn’t), the science behind why it may help with insomnia and anxiety, and exactly what happens during a session—step by step—so you can try it tonight.
What you’ll learn
What Yoga Nidra is—and how it differs from mindfulness meditation and a standard body scan
Why the “between awake and asleep” state may be uniquely restorative
The typical sequence of a Yoga Nidra session (and why traditional scripts matter)
What research suggests about Yoga Nidra and falling asleep faster and reducing anxiety
How Yoga Nidra may complement care for insomnia and stress-related patterns (including the conversation around PTSD and addiction support)
Simple, beginner-friendly tips for making Yoga Nidra a realistic habit
Stay connected
For more science-backed tools to help you Age Better, subscribe to my Age Better Cheat Sheet newsletter on Substack. And I’d love your ideas for future episodes—email me at [email protected], leave a comment, or send me a DM on social media. -
KEY LINKS
• Jeff Galloway’s website (Run/Walk/Run + training resources)
• Book: “Marathon: You Can Do It!” byJeff Galloway
ABOUT THIS REPLAY (TRIBUTE)
I’m replaying this episode from July 2022—back when this show was called GRUFFtalk—because Jeff Galloway recently passed away. And I wanted to honor him the best way I know how: by letting you hear his voice, his encouragement, and the simple method that helped millions of people get moving.
Jeff had a gift for making running feel possible, not intimidating. He used to say, “If you can walk, you can run.” That message didn’t just inspire me—it changed my life. Jeff’s Run/Walk/Run approach helped me train for my very first marathon… and since then I’ve run 17, with #18 on the horizon.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
• Exactly how the Run/Walk/Run method works (and why it’s so effective for beginners)
• How walk breaks can help you go farther, feel better, and lower injury risk
• Smart recovery basics—why rest is part of the plan, not a failure
• Simple strategies to stay motivated (even if your “goal” is just getting out the door)
• Jeff’s practical tips if running feels tough on your knees—including options for runners with arthritis
CONNECT
• Have a question or topic idea for the show? Email me: [email protected]
• Subscribe to my Age Better Cheat Sheet newsletter on Substack for action-oriented ideas to help you stay strong, healthy, and independent. -
Key Links
Dr. Majid Fotuhi’s Website (NeuroGrow Brain Fitness Program) is HERE
Dr. Fotuhi’s book, The Invincible Brain (Amazon) is HERE
Dr. Fotuhi’s TED Talk is HERE
Documentary referenced in this episode — Monster in the Mind (IMDb) is HERE
In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined by world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Majid Fotuhi for a powerful, hopeful, and deeply practical conversation about brain health, memory, and what we can do right now to protect cognitive function as we age.
This episode is part of my Road to 70 series, where each month I talk with a trusted expert about one key area of healthy aging to help me—and all of us—get ready for the next decade.
Dr. Fotuhi’s new book, The Invincible Brain, is based on his highly regarded brain health program, and this conversation is packed with the kind of clear, science-backed information so many of us need—especially if Alzheimer’s or dementia runs in the family.
We talk about what’s actually driving cognitive decline (and why it’s often not just one thing), what the latest biomarker testing can and cannot tell us, and why lifestyle changes are far more powerful than most people realize.
One of my favorite takeaways from Dr. Fotuhi is this:
“Our brain is more invincible than we think. Decline can be slowed and even reversed.”
If you’ve ever worried about brain fog, memory slips, menopause-related cognitive changes, or the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, this is an episode you’ll want to hear all the way through.
What you’ll learn in this episode
Why Dr. Fotuhi says the brain is far more resilient and adaptable than most people think
The biggest myths about aging, memory loss, and Alzheimer’s risk
How menopause can affect memory and cognition—and what women should understand
Why Alzheimer’s is often a “soup of abnormalities,” not one simple disease process
The difference between genetics and epigenetics (and why family history is not destiny)
What the newest blood biomarker tests can reveal—and their limitations
What a proper, proactive brain-health workup should include
Dr. Fotuhi’s five pillars of brain health: exercise, sleep, nutrition, stress management, and brain training
Practical first steps you can take now to protect your brain and lower your risk over time
This is one of the most important AGE BETTER conversations I’ve had on the show, and I’m so glad to share it with you.
If this episode helps you, please share it with a friend or family member who needs to hear it.
And as always, I’d love to hear from you—send me your ideas for future episodes at [email protected] and connect with me on social media. -
Key Links & Resources
Watch the full tutorial on YouTube (step-by-step demo): Barbara Hannah Grufferman → AGE BETTER playlist
Laura Geller Beauty: laurageller.com
Products mentioned:
Balance-n-Brighten Color-Correcting Foundation
Spackle Primer with SPF 30
Wonder Balm Cheek Tint
Kajal Waterproof Eyeliner
Kajal Longwear Mascara
Jelly Balm Hydrating Lip Color
Connect with Laura Geller on Instagram
Episode Summary
If you’ve been doing your eye makeup the same way for years—and lately it just isn’t giving what it used to—this episode is your reset. Laura Geller (founder of Laura Geller Beauty and QVC icon for 25+ years) shares her simple, confidence-boosting approach to everyday eye makeup that is easy peasy. We focus on easy techniques that lift, brighten, and polish your look without piling on more products—and you’ll hear exactly how to tweak your routine so you feel like you, only a little bit better.
What You’ll Learn
Laura’s “three Es” approach that simplifies your routine: eyeliner, eyelash, eyebrow
How to subtly lift the eyes and face using strategic liner and shadow placement
The easiest way to create a polished look with minimal products (and what’s actually worth using)
Layering tricks that make makeup look more natural and longer-lasting
How to choose eyeliner shades (black vs. brown vs. navy) and why waterproof formulas can be your best friend
Mascara and brow tips that instantly make your face look more defined and awake
Why skincare habits—especially SPF—make makeup look better (and wear better)
Connect With Me
Come say hi on Instagram and tell me what you thought of this episode and if you have any ideas for future episodes of AGE BETTER.
Or . . . reach by sending an email to [email protected]
And if you want to watch this episode, don’t forget to check out the full step-by-step tutorial on my YouTube channel: Barbara Hannah Grufferman → AGE BETTER playlist. And while you are over there . . . subscribe!
Subscribe to AGE BETTER CHEAT SHEET on Substack! -
PRINT THIS AND TAKE IT WITH YOU TO YOUR NEXT ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM:
ESSENTIAL BLOOD WORK SCREENING TESTS CHEAT SHEET
February is AMERICAN HEART MONTH, so we’re replaying this solo episode where I dive into the essential blood tests and health screenings every postmenopausal woman should ask about during your annual physical. Drawing on expert insights from past episodes, I talk through why it’s crucial to go beyond routine tests and discuss additional screenings that can help detect potential health risks early.
WHAT I COVER IN THIS EPISODE:
- The importance of the lipid panel for understanding heart health.
- How the Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) test provides a more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment.
- Why high levels of C-reactive Protein (CrP) can indicate dangerous inflammation levels.
- The critical role of Vitamin D for bone and immune health, especially in midlife women.
- How regular blood glucose testing can help catch diabetes early.
- The significance of blood pressure monitoring for heart disease prevention.
- Why women should prioritize bone density tests to prevent osteoporosis.
- The importance of monitoring waist circumference as an indicator of health risks.
- The need for regular cancer screenings, including Pap smears, mammograms, and colonoscopies, for early detection.
- Regular cancer screenings are essential for early detection.
KEY LINKS TO LEARN MORE:
Learn more about the ApoB test HERE
Learn more about the LP(a) test HERE
Learn more about inflammation HERE
Learn more about heart health and atrial fibrillation HERE
Learn more about blood glucose and insulin resistance HERE
CONNECT WITH ME:
Instagram: @BarbaraHannahGrufferman
X/Twitter: @BGrufferman
Facebook: @BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor
Please Rate & Review the Show!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a review or sharing it with someone who would benefit from these essential health tips. -
KEY LINKS
Learn more about Dr. Doris Day HERE
Learn more about AGE BETTER CHEAT SHEET newsletter HERE
Line in the Sand SPF Activewear info HERE
Watskin SPF Activewear info HERE
As part of my year-long Road to 70 mini-series, I’m inviting one top expert each month to help guide me—and all of us—as we prepare to enter our next decade feeling informed, confident, and strong.
In this episode, we focus on skin—not just how it looks, but how healthy it truly is.
I’m joined by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Doris Day, a trusted voice many of you already know from her previous appearances on Age Better. I asked her to get very clear and very practical: What are the absolute skin-care non-negotiables in your 60s? And what’s actually worth considering—and what’s not—when it comes to non-surgical options as we head toward 70?
I also shared my own skin concerns, including crow’s feet, slight jowl drooping, and redness on my face, including a lingering red spot from a past biopsy. Plus, we brought listener questions directly into the conversation.
This is a no-hype, science-backed discussion designed to help you make smart decisions for healthier, better-looking skin—now and in the years ahead.
WHAT WE COVER
The absolute non-negotiables for healthy skin in your 60s
Sunscreen: what really matters and how to use it correctly
Retinoids: when to start, how to use them safely, and who should avoid them
Red light therapy masks—do they actually work?
How to properly layer skincare products
Redness and post-biopsy scarring: what can help
Crow’s feet, skin laxity, and early jowling—realistic expectations
Botox, lasers, and energy-based devices: who they’re for and who should skip them
How to avoid overdoing treatments and compromising skin health
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Consistency beats complexity when it comes to skin care
Healthy skin and better-looking skin go hand in hand
Not every trending treatment is right—or necessary—at this stage of life
Strategic, informed choices matter more than doing “everything”
STAY CONNECTED
For a clear, actionable breakdown of conversations like this, subscribe to my newsletter, Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack HERE.
And if there’s a topic you want me to cover on Age Better, email me at [email protected] or reach out on social media. Your questions help shape this show.
Connect With Barbara:
Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!
Email: [email protected]
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/barbarahannahgrufferman/ -
“Fiber is a health superhero.” — Gretel Schueller
Read the full U.S. News & World Report study: Top Health and Nutrition Trends for 2026 HERE
Each January, the wellness world waits for the U.S. News & World Report rankings—and this year, the USN&WR Health team went a step further. Instead of focusing only on “best diets,” they surveyed a panel of medical experts to identify the health and nutrition trends that will shape 2026.
In this episode of AGE BETTER, Barbara Hannah Grufferman sits down with Gretel Schueller, Health Editor at U.S. News & World Report, to break down what rose to the top, what surprised the experts, and how to think about new health advice without chasing every headline.
They cover the expanded role of GLP-1 medications, how AI-powered wearable technology is changing personalized health management, why “food as medicine” is gaining traction, and why the Mediterranean diet continues to stand the test of time. They also talk about what actually helps people stick with health goals—especially in midlife—when simplicity and sustainability matter more than perfection.
If you’re trying to make smart, realistic health choices in 2026, this conversation will help you focus on what truly matters.
Key Topics Covered
The top health and nutrition trends shaping 2026
GLP-1 medications and their expanding role beyond weight loss
AI and wearable technology for personalized health insights
Why “food as medicine” is having a moment
The critical role of fiber in long-term health
Why the Mediterranean diet remains the gold standard
How to set health goals you can actually stick with
Listen now to learn how to approach 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a lot less noise.
Connect With Barbara:
Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!
- Email: [email protected]
- Connect on Instagram HERE -
KEY LINKS:
Get info on Sheila Nollert’s book HERE
Connect with Sheila on Instagram HERE
As I get closer to 70, I find myself thinking less about what I should be doing at this age—and more about what I’m still willing to try.
That’s why this conversation mattered so much to me.
In this episode, I sit down with Sheila Nollert, a 68-year-old fitness instructor, Instagram creator known as Grandma Moves, and author of the new book No Expiry. At 65, Sheila did something that stopped me in my tracks: she embarked on a solo canoe trip deep into the wilderness—completely alone, with no cell service and no safety net.
What makes Sheila’s story so compelling isn’t just the adventure itself—it’s the five years of doubt, fear, and second-guessing that came before it. We talk honestly about the psychological barriers that hold so many of us back as we age, the impact of other people’s comments, and the quiet voice inside that asks whether we’re still capable of doing hard things.
This is a conversation about aging, yes—but even more so, it’s about self-trust, preparation, resilience, and refusing to let age define what’s possible. Sheila’s story is proof that strength is something we can keep building—and that pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone may be exactly what helps us find our purpose in this next chapter.
If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something bold but wondered if it was “too late,” this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways from My Conversation with Sheila
You already have the ability within you to make things happen
Trust yourself—you know what you’re capable of
Age is not the issue; ability and preparation are
Be aware of self-ageism and how it quietly limits you
Fitness matters because it gives you options
We finally have the time to pursue long-held desires
Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone
You can get stronger—physically and mentally—at any age
Purpose often reveals itself when you say yes to something challenging
Connect With Barbara:
Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!
- Email: [email protected]
- Connect on Instagram HERE -
“Connection begins the moment we stop performing and start being.” – Barnet Bain
Friendship isn’t getting harder because the world is unfriendly—it’s getting harder because most of us are living inside invisible “bubbles” of beliefs, judgments, and old stories we’ve never questioned.
In this fast-moving, deeply relevant conversation, Barnet Bain—award-winning filmmaker and author of How to Be a Friend in an Unfriendly World—shares the surprising truth about why relationships fade, what breaks trust, and what actually brings people closer.
You’ll learn:
Why friendship is a practice, not a personality trait
How to recognize the “bubble” that shapes your reactions
The tiny pause that instantly improves every relationship
How to stop fixing and start truly connecting
What makes someone feel emotionally safe—and what doesn’t
How small acts of kindness matter more than big gestures
Why the improv rule “Yes, And” can reshape difficult conversations
How technology and speed are quietly undermining intimacy
Why curiosity is the most disarming relationship tool we have
And the single most important habit for deepening friendships at any age
Connect With Barbara:
Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!
- Email: [email protected]
- Connect on Instagram HERE - Visa fler
