Episodi

  • 2026 Health & Nutrition Trends: What Matters Most — with U.S. News & World Report’s Gretel Schueller EP 184

    2026 Health & Nutrition Trends: What Matters Most — with U.S. News & World Report’s Gretel Schueller EP 184
    Jan 20 2026
    “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: ⁠⁠⁠agebetterpodcast@gmail.com   ⁠⁠⁠ - Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    25 min
  • A Solo Canoe Trip at 65—How Far Would You Push Yourself with Sheila Nollert EP 183

    A Solo Canoe Trip at 65—How Far Would You Push Yourself with Sheila Nollert EP 183
    Jan 13 2026
    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: ⁠⁠agebetterpodcast@gmail.com   ⁠⁠ - Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    33 min
  • How to Be a Friend in an Unfriendly World with Barnet Bain EP 182

    How to Be a Friend in an Unfriendly World with Barnet Bain EP 182
    Jan 6 2026
    “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: ⁠agebetterpodcast@gmail.com   ⁠ - Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    44 min
  • The Road to 70: Essential Exercises for Strength, Mobility, and Longevity — with Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein EP 181

    The Road to 70: Essential Exercises for Strength, Mobility, and Longevity — with Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein EP 181
    Dec 23 2025
    Key Links: Find out more about Dr. Wittstein’s book “The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan” HERE Improve your mobility and agility with the Blaze Pods HERE Summary In this kickoff episode of AGE BETTER: The Road to 70, I sit down with orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein to map out the strength, mobility, and wellness strategies I need to put into practice at 69 to prepare for the decade ahead. We talk about the essential role of strength training—even low and moderate intensity—on bone density, metabolism, mobility, and long-term independence. Dr. Wittstein explains why cardiovascular activity remains a cornerstone of longevity, how balance and agility work protect us from falls, and the ways physical therapy can help us train smarter, especially if we're dealing with arthritis, past injuries, or knee pain. We also get into the benefits of creatine supplementation, the importance of dietary protein for maintaining muscle mass, why walking remains one of the most underrated tools for reducing fall risk, and how impact exercises can specifically strengthen hip bone density. If you're preparing for your next decade—or helping someone you love stay strong—this episode is a clear, doable roadmap to aging with strength, confidence, and mobility. Takeaways Minimize barriers to entry for strength training—simplicity builds consistency. Low and moderate intensity strength work is still powerful and protective. Physical therapy can provide expert guidance, especially when dealing with pain or injury. Cardiovascular activity is essential for long-term health and longevity. Strength training improves metabolic health and supports strong bones. Balance and agility work help prevent falls and maintain independence. Creatine supplementation can support gains in muscle mass. Regular walking reduces fall risk and supports overall wellness. Impact exercises are beneficial for hip bone density. Adequate dietary protein is crucial for maintaining muscle as we age. Connect With  Barbara:   Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!   - Email: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com   - Connect on Instagram ⁠HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    1 ora e 12 min
  • The Journey to 70 Starts With This Incredible Interval Walking Method EP 180

    The Journey to 70 Starts With This Incredible Interval Walking Method EP 180
    Dec 16 2025
    In this special solo episode, Barbara launches The Journey to 70, a yearlong series leading up to her 70th birthday. Just as she did at 50, she’s reassessing what truly matters for staying strong, mobile, and joyful in the decade ahead. Barbara previews the first expert in the series — Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein, orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Duke University — who will guide her through the essentials of bone and joint health. Today, Barbara shares one powerful change she’s already made: Japanese Interval Walking. After a knee injury sidelined her from running, this simple, science-backed method helped her rebuild strength, energy, and confidence. She explains why it works and how you can start using it right away. Takeaways: • The Journey to 70 mini-series begins • Why interval walking is ideal for women over 50 • A joint-friendly way to boost fitness, strength, and energy • The simple fast–slow walking protocol you can try today Connect: Instagram: @barbarahannahgrufferman Substack: https://substack.com/@agebettercheatsheet? Email your questions or comments: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com  Watch full episodes on the Age Better YouTube channel  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    12 min
  • Start Where You Are: How to Build Strength and Resilience in Midlife — with Jenny Rappole EP 179

    Start Where You Are: How to Build Strength and Resilience in Midlife — with Jenny Rappole EP 179
    Dec 9 2025
    What happens when your childhood is defined by surgeries, pain, and a degenerative bone disease—and you grow up to become a powerful advocate for women’s health, strength, and potential? You get Jenny Rappole. In this inspiring conversation, Jenny shares how she transformed early challenges into a lifelong passion for movement, wellness, and helping women in midlife reconnect with their bodies. Now a fitness and wellness coach—and a newly appointed member of the Board of the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation—Jenny empowers women to start exactly where they are, one small step at a time. We talk about the importance of mobility, why strength training must be built on a solid foundation, and how midlife can be a time of reinvention and real personal growth. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, this episode offers a clear, doable roadmap to move forward. Listen in and learn why it’s never too late to build strength, confidence, and momentum. Takeaways Start where you are—keep it simple and doable to build real momentum. Midlife is a reinvention: embrace it as a magical, powerful stage of life. One kept promise builds confidence; choose one action and let it be enough. Mobility is essential; movement is strength work. Nutrition and exercise work together to enhance overall health. Repetition in midlife is a superpower for maintaining strength and well-being. Regularly reassess and adjust your wellness routine as your life shifts. Build a foundation of essential habits to set yourself up for success. Approach strength training with care—start with mobility, form, and basics. It’s never too late to start making meaningful change. Links & Resources Connect with Jenny Rappole: Website Instagram Learn more about the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation Connect With Barbara:  Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!  - Email: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    49 min
  • Your Brain Can Still Change: 5 Pillars for Brain Health After 60 with Dr. Mike Studer EP 178

    Your Brain Can Still Change: 5 Pillars for Brain Health After 60 with Dr. Mike Studer EP 178
    Dec 2 2025
    In this episode of AGE BETTER, I sit down with Dr. Mike Studer—one of the world’s leading neuroplasticity experts and author of The Brain That Chooses Itself—to talk about something every woman in midlife needs to hear: your brain is far more adaptable than you’ve ever been told. We dig into what it really means to “choose” your health, why personal values amplify every wellness practice, and how the science of dopamine and reward pathways shapes the decisions we make every single day. Mike breaks down the overwhelming flood of health information we’re all navigating and shares how to cut through the noise by grounding your choices in what matters most to you. This is a conversation about clarity, empowerment, and understanding the brain science behind everyday decisions—so you can age better, starting now. Takeaways We are inundated with health and wellness information—and it’s not always helpful. Understanding choice is foundational to effective healthcare. Personal beliefs and values amplify the impact of health practices. Dopamine plays a powerful role in decision-making and motivation. The brain’s reward pathways guide our habits more than we realize. Clear values help cut through information overload. Scientific principles can strengthen your health decisions. Effective healthcare begins with aligning choices to your priorities. Health regulations and recommendations can be overwhelming—so knowing your values matters. Prioritizing choice and values leads to more meaningful, sustainable wellness. Links & Resources Dr. Mike Studer’s Book – The Brain That Chooses Itself Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack – Subscribe for weekly science-backed tips Email your questions or comments: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com Watch full episodes on the Age Better YouTube channel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    33 min
  • Vaginal Dryness Is Treatable: What Every Woman Needs to Know Now with Dr. Margaret Nachtigall EP 177

    Vaginal Dryness Is Treatable: What Every Woman Needs to Know Now with Dr. Margaret Nachtigall EP 177
    Nov 25 2025
    Vaginal dryness is one of the most common—and least discussed—health issues women face as they age. But here’s the good news: it’s completely treatable, and with the FDA’s recent decision to remove the black box warning on vaginal estrogen, it’s finally time for women to get the clear, accurate information they deserve. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, reproductive endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health, and one of the leading experts in women’s midlife health, to break down exactly what’s happening in the body, why symptoms often get misdiagnosed as infections, and how women can feel comfortable and empowered choosing the right treatment. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms now or simply want to understand your options, this is a must-listen conversation about taking over charge of your vaginal health—without stigma, confusion, or fear. What We Cover Why some women experience vaginal dryness—and why some don’t The role estrogen plays in vaginal health and why symptoms worsen time How vaginal dryness symptoms can mimic infections Why ruling out infection is essential before starting treatment What the FDA’s removal of the black box warning on vaginal estrogen means for women The full menu of treatment options: moisturizers, lubricants, and hormonal therapies Why more years without estrogen increases the likelihood of dryness How to talk to your clinician and advocate for your own vaginal health Why education and proactive care are key to healthier aging Connect With  Barbara:  Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!  - Email: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com  - Connect on Instagram HERE  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    26 min