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The Not Old - Better Show

Interviews

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 –...

Location:

Washington, DC

Genres:

Interviews

Description:

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®

Language:

English

Contact:

2026837753


Episodes
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😴 What's Really Ruining Your Sleep? The Mattress Myths, Cooling Claims & Bedding Fixes That Actually Matter 🛏️🔬✨

4/24/2026
😴 What's Really Ruining Your Sleep? The Mattress Myths, Cooling Claims & Bedding Fixes That Actually Matter 🛏️🔬✨ The Not Old Better Show, Good Housekeeping Good Better Best Interview Series 😴 Poor sleep affects far more than your nights. It can shape focus, mood, recovery, and how you show up the next day. 🌙 In recognition of National Sleep Awareness Month, Good Housekeeping's Good Better Best features Grace Wu and Amanda Constantine from the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab. Their work combines lab analysis, hands-on product testing, and feedback from real consumers across the country. In this episode, they look closely at what actually helps people sleep better — from mattresses and bedding to cooling claims, smart beds, and long-term comfort. What makes this conversation stand out is its focus on evidence. It cuts through bold marketing and centers on support, temperature control, durability, and the everyday sleep problems people are trying to solve. For product teams, retailers, and consumers alike, the takeaway is clear: better sleep starts with better information. Listen to the episode here: Apple Podcasts, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-not-old-better-show/id1085682174 #SleepAwarenessMonth #SleepHealth #ConsumerInsights #GoodHousekeeping #GoodBetterBest

Duration:00:32:12

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Before Independence… There Was Doubt 🇺🇸😳 What Really Happened in 1776?

4/18/2026
Before Independence… There Was Doubt 🇺🇸😳 What Really Happened in 1776? The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series 1776 wasn't inevitable 🇺🇸⚡ At the start of that year, most Americans weren't calling for independence. They were asking for fairness… representation… a better version of the system they already knew. And yet, in just twelve months, something extraordinary happened. People changed their minds. Not overnight. Not easily. But through a steady collision of ideas 📜, lived experience, and undeniable reality. Pamphlets like Common Sense didn't just inform—they reframed the debate. What once felt acceptable suddenly felt impossible. What once felt radical became necessary. That shift is worth paying attention to—especially now. Because 1776 reminds us that transformation doesn't begin with certainty. It begins with conversation 🗣️… with disagreement… with the courage to rethink long-held assumptions. It asks a hard question: what does it take for individuals—and entire societies—to move from comfort to conviction? For those of us thinking about leadership, legacy, and the future we're shaping, that question still matters. The founding generation didn't have the luxury of clarity. They had risk. They had doubt. And they moved forward anyway ⚔️ 🎧 I explore this in a recent conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Smithsonian Associate Edward J. Larson and his new book Declaring Independence: Why 1776 Matters. It's not just a look back—it's a lens on how change actually happens. for more information: https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/declaring-independence?utm_source=SEM&utm_medium=OA&utm_content=Google_Performance_Max&utm_campaign=CAP26Q3&promo=287683&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20779232108&gbraid=0AAAAABMPhB8MEw5x0LfoAadEhgoG-4n2S&gclid=CjwKCAjwhe3OBhABEiwA6392zKW4UgJasqWdGNG4wfs7yEn62FM7cBRPfosr8609Ty54WrMGnXeIhxoCUf8QAvD_BwE

Duration:00:38:17

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ROAR: Michael Clinton on Why It's Time to Stop Acting Old—and Start Living Loud Again

4/17/2026
ROAR: Michael Clinton on Why It's Time to Stop Acting Old—and Start Living Loud Again The Truth About Aging No One Tells You—and What to Do About It Now Today's episode is brought to you by Wayfair, Every Style Every Home. We don't talk enough about what happens after success. In my latest conversation with Michael Clinton—former President of Hearst Magazines and author of ROAR Into the Second Half of Your Life—we explored a question many professionals quietly face: What now? For decades, the narrative has been clear—work hard, achieve, and then eventually step aside. But what if that model no longer fits the reality of longer, more active lives? Michael offers a different perspective: don't retire—refire. What stood out most is how often limitation isn't physical—it's psychological. Many people begin to scale back not because they have to, but because they believe they should. The real shift is internal. Moving from external validation to internal alignment. From what looks impressive… to what actually feels meaningful. If you're in the second half of your career—or thinking about what comes next—this conversation may challenge more than your plans. It may challenge your assumptions. 🎧Listen on KLOI Community Radio! #Leadership #CareerGrowth #Aging #FutureOfWork #Purpose #LifelongLearning You can learn more about Michael and his work at roarforward.com, and as always, you can explore this episode and our full library at notold-better.com. Today's episode is brought to you by Wayfair, Every Style Every Home.

Duration:00:35:06

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🔥 Brad Taylor: Shadow Strike, Pike Logan, and the Price of Stopping Chaos 🌍🎯

4/14/2026
🔥 Some episodes stay with you. This one grabs hold. Brad Taylor joins Paul Vogelzang on The Not Old Better Show for a conversation about Shadow Strike (available for pre order on Apple Books!), Pike Logan, old enemies, global stakes, and the hidden cost of keeping others safe. Taylor's fiction reads like a diplomatic cable with a lit fuse—headline-hot, tense, and deeply human. For listeners who know that duty leaves marks, and that reinvention can arrive later in life, this episode hits home. Thriller fans, readers, writers, and anyone who loves a bold second act will find something here. #BradTaylor #ShadowStrike #PikeLogan #ThrillerBooks #SecondActs #AgingWell Listen now: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-not-old-better-show/id1085682174 Shadow Strike (available for pre-order on Apple Books!), Pike Logan, old enemies, global stakes, and the hidden cost of keeping others safe! Check it out!

Duration:00:31:44

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🇺🇸 AMERICA AT 250: The Story We Tell… vs. The Truth We Live 🚗🔥

4/8/2026
🇺🇸 AMERICA AT 250: The Story We Tell… vs. The Truth We Live 🚗🔥 The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, commemorating 250 Years of Independence in 2026 Welcome to The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series—on radio and podcast. For ten years now, The Not Old Better Show has celebrated health, wellness, culture, and the stories that remind us we're not old—we're better. Now, as America commemorates 250 years of independence in 2026, this special series offers a dynamic exploration of America's past, present, and future. Explore the people, ideas, conflicts, and aspirations that have shaped America–and how the past informs the challenges and possibilities ahead. At 250, America is still young enough to dream, and seasoned enough to know that freedom asks something of every generation. Through our Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, we invite you to hear that story with fresh perspective, honest reflection, and renewed purpose. This is The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, commemorating 250 Years of Independence in 2026. Anniversaries matter. Meaning matters more. History is never just behind us. Sometimes it sits right beside us, asking who we are, what we value, and what we owe the future. Stay with us as Paul Vogelzang continues this Smithsonian Associates conversation on the people, ideas, and moments that still call us to be better. Thanks for joining us this week on The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, commemorating 250 Years of Independence in 2026—on radio and podcast. To hear more about today's stories, catch our new Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, and enjoy our extensive back catalog of previous shows, please visit notold-better.com. Follow us on X at Not Old Better, and on Instagram at Not Old Better. This is a production of N.O.B.S. studios. I'm Paul Vogelzang. Thanks for spending this time with us. Join me again next time as we continue sharing stories that remind us we're getting better, not just older. Because 250 years later, Better is still a conversation worth having. Let's talk about Better. This is The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, commemorating 250 Years of Independence in 2026

Duration:00:30:17

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This Is Your Life, Carolyn Forté: Good Housekeeping's Queen of Clean Opens the Big Red Book

3/24/2026
This Is Your Life, Carolyn Forté: Good Housekeeping's Queen of Clean Opens the Big Red Book The Not Old Better Show, Good Housekeeping Interview Series: Good Better Best Today's episode is brought to you by Wayfair, Every Style Every Home. And today's episode is special. Today's guest is special. we open a very large, very red book… and it begins with a familiar scene: a kitchen. A sink. A dish towel. And someone—possibly you—asking, "Do I really have to pre-rinse this?" Carolyn Forté has spent more than 40 years at Good Housekeeping, moving from the Textiles Lab to the Home Care & Cleaning Lab—where "clean" isn't a vibe, it's data. She and her team don't just read labels; they challenge them. They make stains on purpose. They time cycles. They inspect fibers. They argue with myths. They test what works, what's hype, and what's going to leave your towels smelling like regret. She's written books, taught millions, partnered with the American Cleaning Institute, and helped turn everyday home care into something practical, even reassuring—especially for those of us who want our homes to stay safe, comfortable, and easier to manage as the years add up. And yes… somewhere in the pages of this big red book is a sentence you never expected to hear: a waterproof computer keyboard… went into a dishwasher. For science. So settle in—because today is a warm, funny, heartfelt look back at the career of the woman who's saved more family arguments than any referee ever could. Remember today's episode is brought to you by Wayfair, Every Style Every Home.

Duration:00:38:06

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When "Denied" Goes Viral: AI Claim Denials, TrumpRx, and America's Healthcare Trust Crisis

3/18/2026
When "Denied" Goes Viral: AI Claim Denials, TrumpRx, and America's Healthcare Trust Crisis The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series Thank you, I'm Paul Vogelzang. Today's episode is brought to you by Caraway. Good Looking. Clean Cooking. Have you ever stood at the pharmacy counter, card in hand, and heard one word: denied? For our listeners over 50, that moment isn't about inconvenience. It's blood pressure meds. It's insulin. It's the medication that keeps you steady, independent, and in your own life. And then comes the "solution": "Try a coupon." "Pay cash." "Use a marketplace." Behind that advice is a system that can feel like a black box—prior authorization, shifting formularies, and now, more and more, algorithms. AI can speed up decisions, but it can also shut a door without giving you a clear, human explanation. Now add the third ingredient: social media. A nonstop feed that can take real pain and turn it into a blame spiral—until people stop asking, "How do we fix this?" and start asking, "Who do we punish?" We've seen how fast outrage can spread, and how dangerous it can become when it's celebrated instead of cooled down. Today on The Not Old Better Show, we're connecting those dots—insurance hurdles, AI-driven denials, and the polarization that's eroding trust. Our guest is Dr. William Soliman, CEO of the Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs and a leading expert on pharma and health insurance. He'll explain TrumpRx—what it is, what it isn't, and why a discount price that doesn't count toward your deductible can backfire for seniors on multiple medications. We'll talk reform. We'll talk responsible tech. And we'll talk empathy—because healthcare can't run on anger. And it's never too late to insist on dignity at the doctor's office. Remember, support our sponsors: today's episode is brought to you by Caraway. Good Looking. Clean Cooking.

Duration:00:41:03

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Your Watch Is Smart. You're Smarter: AI Fitness Without Losing the Human

3/17/2026
Your Watch Is Smart. You're Smarter: AI Fitness Without Losing the Human Live Long Better: The Not Old Better Show, ACE Interview Series With Dr. Sabrena Jo TODAY'S EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY FITBOD AND MARS MEN ⌚🤖 Your watch has years of data. Now AI wants to tell you what it means—and what to do next. ACE CEO Dr. Cedric Bryant said, "AI is now central to fitness." In 2026 AI may become the backbone of programming, scheduling, personalization, and even staffing in gyms. 😮🏋️‍♀️🤖 Exciting? Yes. But here's the myth to drop: AI and wearables won't replace coaches or common sense. 🧠✅ On Live Long Better, Paul and Dr. Sabrena Jo (ACE) break down what to track (resting HR ❤️, sleep 😴, weekly movement minutes 🚶‍♂️) and how to use AI for safer intensity, smarter recovery, and steadier habits—without stress. 🚩📊 REMEMBER TO SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: TODAY'S EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY FITBOD AND MARS MEN

Duration:00:44:59

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🎀👵👧 From Grandma to Granddaughter: "Bows & Ties" and the Power of Sisterhood with Kavya Thakrar 📚✨

3/2/2026
🎀👵👧 From Grandma to Granddaughter: "Bows & Ties" and the Power of Sisterhood with Kavya Thakrar 📚✨ The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series 🎀📚 Who's the woman you still call when life feels wobbly? 👵👧 Today's episode is brought to you by Caraway. Good Looking. Clean Cooking, and this week on The Not Old – Better Show, 16‑year‑old author Kavya Thakrar shares "Bows and Ties," built from 19 interviews celebrating sisterhood, confidence, and family wisdom. Tell us: who's your "tie"? 💛 🎀👵👧 Quick question: who was the woman who steadied you when you were young—and have you thanked her lately? This week on The Not Old – Better Show, we're featuring Kavya Thakrar, who published her book "Bows and Ties" at just 16. 📚 It's a collection of 19 interviews with founders, creators, and doctors, woven with reflections on sisterhood, confidence, and connection. What stayed with me is how naturally this conversation bridges generations. ✨ For grandparents, parents, mentors, and leaders, it's a reminder that the words we say at the kitchen table can echo for decades. For teens, it's proof their voice matters right now. Try this today: 💬 send one message that starts with, "I still remember when you…" and finish it with a specific moment. A mother. A grandmother. A teacher. A friend. Those details build community—at any age. ❤️ Remember, today's episode is brought to you by Caraway. Good Looking. Clean Cooking. If you want an episode you can share with your daughter, granddaughter, sister, or your closest circle, this one hits home. 🎧📺 Watch/listen here: notold-better.com

Duration:00:33:46

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Good Housekeeping, Good Better Best: All About Coffee: The Best Coffee Makers for Your Money & Smart Tips for a Better Brew with Eva Bleyer

2/27/2026
Good Housekeeping, Good Better Best: All About Coffee: The Best Coffee Makers for Your Money & Smart Tips for a Better Brew with Eva Bleyer The Not Old Better Show, Good Better Best Interview Series ☕🚨 Is Your Coffee Maker Ruining Your Morning? We talk endlessly about productivity 📈, performance 🎯, optimization ⚙️, and daily habits. But when was the last time you examined the one ritual millions rely on every single morning? ☕ Coffee. In our latest episode of The Not Old Better Show, I sat down with Eva Bleyer, Reviews Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 🧪, to ask a deceptively simple — and surprisingly revealing — question: 👉 Is your coffee maker helping your brew… or quietly sabotaging it? What followed was not a casual conversation about gadgets. It was a masterclass in precision 🎛️, temperature control 🌡️, grind size ⚡, maintenance 🧼, and smarter purchasing decisions 💡. Small variables. Massive impact. Because here's the truth: details matter. In the test kitchen. In business. In leadership. In life. We also explored how evolving lifestyles — downsizing 🏡, living solo, simplifying routines 🧘‍♂️ — should change the tools we choose. The "best" option is rarely the most expensive 💰. It's the one aligned with who you are now. There's something powerful about refining the ordinary. A better cup of coffee may seem small. But elevating daily rituals can sharpen focus 🧠, reduce waste ♻️, conserve money 💵, and bring greater intention to how we start our day. If you value evidence over hype 📊, insight over marketing noise 📣, and practical wisdom you can apply immediately — this conversation is for you. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://notoldbettershow.info/NewEpisode

Duration:00:29:42

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Chris Parker: Privacy Without Paranoia — Stay One Step Ahead of Scammers

2/24/2026
Chris Parker: Privacy Without Paranoia — Stay One Step Ahead of Scammers The Not Old Better Show, Technology Interview Series If someone says "Don't tell anyone" or "Read me that code," the safest move is to pause. 🚨 This week on The Not Old Better Show, we talk with Chris Parker—founder of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com and host of the Easy Prey podcast—about privacy without paranoia for the 50+ community (and for the families who look out for them). 🔒📱👵🧓 A few takeaways worth sharing at the kitchen table: ✅ Data isn't just "marketing"—it can become access ✅ A simple public / private / secret test for what you share ✅ The 10‑second pause that breaks urgency traps If you help a parent with banking, set up logins for a loved one, or manage accounts for a small group or nonprofit, this episode gives clear language and practical habits—without turning life into a tech project. ❤️ Remember, today's show is brought to you by Wayfair and Mars Men. . Please check out our show notes today for details and great deals from Wayfair and Mars Men. LISTEN: notold-better.com

Duration:00:38:11

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When "Family" Becomes "Target": Mark Greaney's Gray Man Turns Protector in The Hard Line

2/17/2026
🚨 "Family" = "target." 😮‍💨🛡️ Mark Greaney on THE HARD LINE (Gray Man #15, Feb 17) & why Court Gentry turns protector. 🎧Listen NOW 🕵️‍♂️⚠️ What happens when the mission stops being professional… and becomes personal? On the latest Not Old Better Show, brought to you by Fitbod. Fitbod: WORLD'S BEST FITNESS PROGRAMMING FOR LIFELONG PROGRESS we sit down with New York Times bestselling author Mark Greaney, creator of the Gray Man series, to talk about his newest thriller: THE HARD LINE (Gray Man #15, out Feb 17, 2026). 📚🗓️ This story shifts Court Gentry's focus from hunter to protector 🛡️—because "family" becomes another word for "target." ❤️🎯 For many of us, especially 50+ and 60+, that lands close: the lifelong role of keeping others safe, even when it costs you sleep, comfort, or peace of mind. We also talk craft and credibility 🔍🌍—Mark's location work (including D.C. energy 🚇🇺🇸), the reality behind modern espionage, and how he writes an antagonist with a code ⚔️🧩… someone you may not agree with, but can't ignore. If you like conversations about resilience 💪, loyalty 🤝, and the bonds we build over a lifetime ❤️—this episode is for you. 🎧👉 check it out: https://notold-better.com

Duration:00:36:26

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Troublemaker: Jessica Mitford's Life of Principle, Protest, and Wit

2/9/2026
Troublemaker: Jessica Mitford's Life of Principle, Protest, and Wit The Not Old Better Show, Art Of Living Interview Series I'm Paul Vogelzang and welcome to the show, brought to you generously by Caraway: Good Looking. Clean Cooking. And just for our listeners, you can get an extra 10% off by visiting Carawayhome.com/NOB or using code NOB at checkout. Today's guest brings us a story about someone who was impossible to ignore in life—and refuses to be forgotten in history. What does it look like to live a life built on principles—but never lose your sense of humor? Jessica Mitford—known as "Decca" to her friends—was born into British aristocracy. But she traded ballrooms for protest marches, royal privilege for civil rights work, and eventually became one of the fiercest investigative writers of her generation. She stood up to Congress, challenged corporate greed, and believed deeply that laughter could fuel resistance. In this new episode of The Not Old – Better Show, I speak with acclaimed author and scholar Carla Kaplan about her biography Troublemaker: The Fierce, Unruly Life of Jessica Mitford. The book is based on hundreds of interviews and archival discoveries, and paints a remarkable portrait of a woman who challenged systems—without ever becoming grim. We talk about Decca's legacy, her journalism, her friendships with figures like Maya Angelou, and what it means to be a successful ally. Her story is inspiring, funny, and—as Carla Kaplan says—urgently relevant. Whether you're interested in social justice, biography, or just a good story well told, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen at: Apple Podcasts! https://notoldbettershow.info/NewEpisode

Duration:00:42:28

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SAINTS, SEX, SENTIMENT, AND CHOCOLATE: A SHORT HISTORY OF VALENTINE'S DAY

2/5/2026
SAINTS, SEX, SENTIMENT, AND CHOCOLATE: A SHORT HISTORY OF VALENTINE'S DAY The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series 💌 Valentine's Day wasn't always about roses and chocolates. In fact, it started with a goat. Yes, really. In our latest Smithsonian Associates Interview Series episode on The Not Old Better Show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Smithsonian Associate Dr. Andrew Roth, cultural historian, prolific lecturer, and scholar-in-residence at the Jefferson Educational Society. Smithsonian Associate Dr. Andrew Roth will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates and you can find out more HERE, but we have Dr. Roth today to talk about Saints, Sex, and Chocolate: The Surprisingly Naughty History of Valentine's Day Dr. Roth's talk, titled "Saints, Sex, Sentiment, and Chocolate: A Short History of Valentine's Day", is a tour-de-force through the strange, sensual, and surprisingly political roots of this global celebration of love. From pagan fertility rituals and medieval courtship to the Victorian explosion of mass-produced valentines, this episode asks: What are we really celebrating each February 14th? For older adults, many of whom have witnessed several decades of changing cultural norms, this episode is especially resonant. It's not just about romance—it's about how we express care, connection, and desire across generations. And yes, we cover the juicy stuff, too. So whether you're single, smitten, or somewhere in between, this conversation will make you think twice the next time you unwrap a heart-shaped chocolate. 💘 Happy Valentine's Day! 🎧 Listen here on Apple Podcasts: https://notoldbettershow.info/NewEpisode #NotOldBetterShow #ValentinesDayHistory #SmithsonianAssociates #LifelongLearning #Over50Voices #LoveAndCulture https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/valentines-day

Duration:00:32:18

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Look Twice: What a CIA Spy Wants You to See Before It's Too Late

2/3/2026
Look Twice: What a CIA Spy Wants You to See Before It's Too Late THE NOT OLD BETTER SHOW, ART OF LIVING INTERVIEW SERIES 🕵️‍♂️ Tim Beard spent years in the CIA's Clandestine Service. Now, he's on a mission to help you and your family stay safe—starting with what he calls the Look Twice Mindset. You're listening to The Not Old – Better Show, Art of Living series. I'm Paul Vogelzang and today's episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth. How are you showing extra love this February? Whether it's for someone special or just for yourself, Cozy Earth makes it easy to bring comfort and care into your everyday life. Thanks for joining us today. Whether you're 35 or 75, there are moments in daily life where you're most vulnerable—and most unaware. Tim's new book series, Look Twice, translates high-stakes security habits into simple, powerful routines for ordinary people. 👁️ From ATMs and elevators to road rage and digital scams, Beard teaches listeners how to spot danger before it escalates. It's not about fear—it's about preparation. And it starts with recognizing the blind spots in your daily habits. On this episode of The Not Old – Better Show, Tim shares practical, field-tested insights from his CIA days—and how you can use them to protect yourself and your loved ones. 🎧 If you care for aging parents, live alone, or just want to sharpen your awareness, this episode is well worth your time. Listen here → https://notoldbettershow.info/NewEpisode #LookTwice #SituationalAwareness #SeniorSafety #PersonalSecurity #TimBeard #NotOldBetter #ArtOfLiving 🛡️ "Safety isn't about fear — it's about preparation." – Tim Beard, former CIA officer, Marine, and now author of the Look Twice safety series. Remember today's episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth. How are you showing extra love this February? Whether it's for someone special or just for yourself, Cozy Earth makes it easy to bring comfort and care into your everyday life.

Duration:00:33:53

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🌧️➡️🌤️ Before the Change Came: Sam Cooke, Civil Rights & the Song That Still Waits

1/27/2026
🌧️➡️🌤️ Before the Change Came: Sam Cooke, Civil Rights & the Song That Still Waits The Not Old Better Show, Music Today Interview Series Thank you. I'm Paul Vogelzang and today's episode is brought to you by Hungryroot. Hungryroot…tailored meals for your taste. There are voices that entertain us… and then there are voices that change us. Today, we're talking about one of the most important voices in American music—and arguably, American history: Sam Cooke. Most of us know the hits. "You Send Me." "Wonderful World." "Twistin' the Night Away." And of course, "A Change Is Gonna Come"—a song so powerful it still feels unfinished, because the change it calls for is still unfolding. But here's the thing: if we only talk about the hits, we miss the man. We miss the gospel prodigy shaped in church choirs. The strategist who understood crossover before the industry had a name for it. The entrepreneur who built his own label to protect artists who looked like him. The quiet innovator who helped design the very sound that Motown, Stax, and soul music itself would ride to greatness. Sam Cooke lived fast, worked relentlessly, and died tragically at just 33 years old. His death—controversial, unsettling, and still debated—often overshadows something far more enduring: his intention. Not just to make beautiful music—but to make music that moved culture forward. Today, we're going deeper. Not the obvious songs—but the revealing ones. The deep cuts that tell the story of where Sam came from… where he was going… and why his influence still surrounds us today—whether we realize it or not. Music historian Scott Shea joins us to unpack six songs that don't just sound good—they explain Sam Cooke. This is Music Today. And this is a story worth listening to closely. As we close today, it's worth remembering this: Sam Cooke didn't just sing songs. He built bridges—between gospel and pop, between Black audiences and white radio, between joy and justice. Yes, his death remains unsettled. And yes, the unanswered questions still linger. But the most important truth is this: his life was not defined by how it ended—but by what it set in motion. Every time you hear the ease in his voice… the hope behind his phrasing… the confidence of an artist who knew his worth… You're hearing someone who understood that music could soften hearts and sharpen conscience at the same time. Sam Cooke showed us that progress doesn't always shout. Sometimes, it sings. So if today's conversation sent you back to his catalog—especially the deeper cuts—listen closely. Not just for nostalgia, but for intention. For courage. For the quiet blueprint of soul music as we know it. Because long after the mystery fades, the music remains. And that—ultimately—is the change that came. I'm Paul Vogelzang. Thanks for listening to Music Today, brought to you by Hungryroot! Go to Hungryroot dot com slash NOB and use code NOB. Until next time, keep listening with curiosity—and heart.

Duration:00:36:32

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🚐🌄 Sacred Landscapes: Sam Gennawey's 175,000-Mile Quest for Meaning

1/25/2026
🚐🌄 Sacred Landscapes: Sam Gennawey's 175,000-Mile Quest for Meaning The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series 🌄 What if your second act began at 60… behind the wheel of a van? Meet Smithsonian Associate Sam Gennawey — former urban planner, theme park historian, and now full-time van lifer. Sam made the bold decision to leave his Los Angeles loft, hit the road in a Mercedes Sprinter he calls Darlene, and spend six years exploring America's most sacred places: our national parks. Sam Gennawey will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up. Please check out our show notes for more details about Sam's presentation, but we have Sam today! 🚐 175,000 miles. Nearly 390 parks. Countless stories. But this isn't about travel tips. It's about rediscovery. It's about confronting our history — the awe-inspiring and the uncomfortable — and asking what it means to age with purpose. 🎙️ In this episode of The Not Old Better Show for Smithsonian Associates, Sam shares the most moving moments from the road — the quiet places, the stories we don't tell enough, and how volunteering inside the parks helped him find meaning, community, and clarity. 📚 His new book, Sacred Landscapes, isn't just a travelogue — it's a blueprint for intentional living, especially for those of us asking, What's next? 🎧 Whether you're dreaming of a van, a new start, or simply a deeper understanding of your country, this conversation will inspire you. Sam Gennawey will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up. Please check out our show notes for more details about Sam's presentation, but we have Sam today! Listen here on Apple Podcasts! https://notoldbettershow.info/4456zJi #SmithsonianAssociates #VanLife #NationalParks #ReinventionAfter50 #SecondActs #NotOldBetterShow #PurposeDrivenAging #SacredLandscapes https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/architecture-of-national-parks?utm_source=SI-Trumba-Calendar&utm_medium=SIWeb&utm_campaign=2025FY-Trumba-SA-ev&utm_content=SA-Trumba-event&promo=276223

Duration:00:36:59

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🔥 From Invisible to Invincible: Kimber Hardick on Reclaiming Intimacy, Confidence & Joy After 50 💃💫

1/20/2026
🔥 From Invisible to Invincible: Kimber Hardick on Reclaiming Intimacy, Confidence & Joy After 50 💃💫 THE NOT OLD BETTER SHOW, ART OF LIVING INTERVIEW SERIES💡 What if the second half of life is actually the most honest, sensual, and powerful part? On this week's episode of The Not Old Better Show, award-winning host Paul Vogelzang speaks with Kimber Hardick, author of An Invitation to Shine, about intimacy, self-trust, and reclaiming desire after 50…today's episode is brought to by Fitbod: Your Personalized Strength Plan Kimber brings a candid, empowering perspective to aging—one that challenges cultural myths about invisibility, desirability, and confidence in midlife. Her insights on dating, self-worth, and emotional healing are timely for anyone navigating life after divorce, illness, or major change. From using plant medicine to heal from Lupus to learning to surf in her 60s, Kimber is living proof that reinvention is real—and that it's never too late to feel seen, wanted, and whole. Remember, …today's episode is brought to by Fitbod: Your Personalized Strength Plan 🎧 Listen to the full episode at notold-better.com #ValentinesDay #MidlifeReinvention #WomenOver50 #HealthyAging #NotOldBetter

Duration:00:39:21

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The Quiet Strength of Nonviolence: What Dr. King Taught Us About Healing Conflict—At Home and Beyond

1/18/2026
The Quiet Strength of Nonviolence: What Dr. King Taught Us About Healing Conflict—At Home and Beyond The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series 🎙️ NEW EPISODE: "Nonviolence Isn't Just for Protest Signs — It's for the Living Room, Too." As we remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we often think of speeches, marches, and monumental change. But what if the most radical act of nonviolence today happens around the dinner table—or during a tough conversation with someone you love? Danielle Reiff, a retired U.S. diplomat with over two decades of experience in peacebuilding, joined The Not Old Better Show to share how she applied King's teachings of nonviolent non-cooperation not in a war zone—but in her own family. The results? Deeply personal. And deeply transformative. Now leading Peacebuilders, an initiative to promote unity in diversity in the U.S., Danielle is helping people understand how nonviolence applies to politics, media—and our daily lives. She's also a contributor to Overcoming Information Chaos, a book that offers practical strategies for living as responsible, informed citizens in the face of disinformation. This conversation is especially meaningful for older adults looking to lead with compassion, heal family divisions, and stay active in shaping peaceful, connected communities. 🎧 Listen here: https://notoldbettershow.info/4456zJi #MLKDay #Leadership #ConflictResolution #MediaLiteracy #Peacebuilding #NotOldBetter #CivicEngagement #LifelongLearning

Duration:00:37:08

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🧠 Aging Doesn't Have to Mean Losing Your Mind. Literally.

1/15/2026
🧠 Aging Doesn't Have to Mean Losing Your Mind. Literally. The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series In our latest episode of The Not Old Better Show for the Smithsonian Associates series, I sat down with neurologist and memory expert Dr. Barry Gordon—and let me tell you, this one stays with you. You may remember Dr. Gordon from his previous appearances, where he captivated us with his rare blend of scientific clarity, wit, and heart. He's back today to talk about the facts—and fictions—surrounding Alzheimer's and other dementias. And, Dr. Gordon will be back at Smithsonian Associates for another excellent, thorough presentation coming up. Check out our show notes for more details, but we have a snapshot with Dr. Gordon today. Dr. Gordon, who founded the Memory Clinic at Johns Hopkins, breaks down the fears surrounding Alzheimer's and dementia—and he doesn't sugarcoat it. But he also refuses to accept the tired narrative that memory loss is just a part of growing old. In fact, his message is clear: there's a lot you can do, and the earlier you start, the better. From aerobic exercise (yes, it's that powerful) to managing chronic conditions like hypertension and sleep apnea, Dr. Gordon lays out practical, proven steps to support brain health. He also reveals when you should raise the red flag about memory changes in yourself or a loved one—and what to do if you suspect something deeper than "just aging." He even goes after the status quo in Alzheimer's research—challenging the industry's overemphasis on plaques and tangles, and advocating for a broader, patient-centered approach that includes prevention, lifestyle changes, and early behavioral interventions. If you've ever worried about your memory—or someone else's—this episode is a must-listen. It's not just informative. It's empowering. Smithsonian Associate Dr. Barry Gordon—clear, candid, and compassionate, as always. You may remember Dr. Gordon from his previous appearances, where he captivated us with his rare blend of scientific clarity, wit, and heart. He's back today to talk about the facts—and fictions—surrounding Alzheimer's and other dementias. And, Dr. Gordon will be back at Smithsonian Associates for another excellent, thorough presentation coming up. Check out our show notes for more details. https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/alzheimers-disease-and-dementias 🎙 Full episode here → Apple Podcasts: https://notoldbettershow.info/4456zJi #SmithsonianAssociates #AlzheimersAwareness #Neurology #HealthyAging #NotOldBetter #LeadershipInMedicine #CognitiveHealth #BrainHealthMatters

Duration:00:35:27