Boomer Banter, Real Talk about Aging Well

Wendy Green

Boomer Banter is your guide to aging well with health, vitality, and meaningful relationships. Host Wendy Green brings warmth, vulnerability, and curiosity to real conversations about staying active and connected through life's second act. Wendy talks with experts, everyday people, and thought leaders who share practical insights and personal stories about navigating health challenges, deepening relationships, caregiving, reinvention, and what it truly means to age well as a Boomer. This show is for you if you have questions about: How to find purpose in retirement Finding new friends after 60 Healthspan vs Lifespan Navigating family dynamics Resilience and successful aging Staying active and engaged as you age Caring for aging parents or your spouse This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

  1. The Art of Difficult Conversations: 6 Ways to Stay Connected When You Disagree

    21H AGO

    The Art of Difficult Conversations: 6 Ways to Stay Connected When You Disagree

    In this episode of Boomer Banter, we tackle something many of us are exhausted by but can't ignore ... difficult conversations. Not the surface-level small talk, but the real, uncomfortable ones with family members who see the world completely differently, with old friends across the political divide, and especially with ourselves. Host Wendy Green shares a powerful story from the 1980s about finding common humanity with a coworker on opposite sides of the abortion debate, and offers practical strategies for navigating high-stakes conversations when the relationship matters deeply. You'll learn: How to set the right intention before a difficult conversation beginsWhy paraphrasing is one of the most underrated conversation toolsWhen silence might actually be the more loving choiceHow to have honest conversations with yourself about what you can actually do to make a difference This isn't about changing minds—it's about choosing connection over avoidance, curiosity over contempt, and showing up with an open heart even when it's hard. What difficult conversation are you ready to have? Support Boomer Banter: buymeacoffee.com/heyboomer0413 Connect with Wendy: LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram or at wendy@heyboomer.biz Resources to help with Difficult Conversations: Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton & Sheila Heen Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan & Al Switzler Braver Angels - organization bringing together people across political divides Mentioned in this episode: greenwoodcapital.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    19 min
  2. The Truth About Sleep After 60: Are you a Lion, Wolf, Bear or Dolphin?

    FEB 17

    The Truth About Sleep After 60: Are you a Lion, Wolf, Bear or Dolphin?

    Ever wondered why sleep seems to elude us as we age? Well, grab your coffee, or maybe some herbal tea, because this week’s episode of Boomer Banter is all about sleep style and how it impacts our later years. I had a fabulous chat with Sally Duplantier, a super smart gerontologist who’s here to sprinkle some wisdom on our sleep struggles. We explored the fascinating world of sleep chronotypes – we’re talking Lions, Bears, Wolves, and Dolphins! Each one has its unique quirks and styles that can help us understand our sleep patterns better. Sally broke down the science behind sleep and aging, explaining how our bodies change and adapt. She effortlessly debunked common myths about aging and sleep, reminding us that it's completely normal to experience shifts in our sleep patterns as we grow older. We also talked about the importance of good sleep hygiene, like establishing a calming bedtime routine, and why it’s crucial for our mental and physical health. We delved into the importance of understanding our individual sleep needs and how to create an optimal sleep environment. Sally’s tips were practical, relatable, and sprinkled with a bit of humor that made the whole topic feel less daunting. So, if you’ve been tossing and turning at night or just want to learn how to better embrace sleep as a part of aging well, this episode is packed with all the insights you need to hit the hay with a smile! Links referenced in this episode: Join the Boomer Banter Circle communityTake the quiz to find out your sleep animalWomen Over 50 Entrepreneurs: Make More, Work Less, Do what you LoveWellness Wednesday Mentioned in this episode: greenwoodcapital.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    47 min
  3. Grandparenting Autism: How to Support without Overstepping

    FEB 3

    Grandparenting Autism: How to Support without Overstepping

    When a family faces the challenges of autism, every member can feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. In this heartfelt episode, Wendy Green and Theresa Lyons, Ph.D. discuss the crucial role grandparents play in supporting their grandchildren diagnosed with autism. With a focus on communication and understanding, Theresa shares her journey as both a scientist and a parent, highlighting the emotional and practical hurdles families encounter. The episode emphasizes that grandparents should come from a place of curiosity rather than certainty—it's about asking the right questions, like how they can provide help without overstepping boundaries. Theresa explains the importance of recognizing the spectrum of autism, detailing how different children exhibit diverse behaviors and needs. By offering insights into how grandparents can observe changes and share concerns effectively, the conversation provides tools for building stronger family connections. Wendy and Theresa’s warm banter, filled with relatable anecdotes and practical advice, turns a daunting subject into a manageable conversation. They encourage listeners to embrace love and support as the guiding principles in navigating the complexities of autism within families. Takeaways: Grandparents should approach conversations about autism with curiosity and compassion to foster better understanding.Understanding the spectrum of autism helps in knowing the diverse needs of grandchildren diagnosed with it.It's crucial for grandparents to learn about autism to effectively support their stressed adult children. Links referenced in this episode: Email Theresa at: lyons@awetism.netTheresa Lyon's website awetism.netAn additional resource: https://navigatingawetism.com/ Mentioned in this episode: greenwoodcapital.com This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    52 min
  4. From Retirement to Revolution: Why this 82-year-old won't stop fighting

    JAN 27

    From Retirement to Revolution: Why this 82-year-old won't stop fighting

    Wendy Green’s chat with Meg Groff on Boomer Banter is a must-listen for anyone who thinks that their time for making a difference has passed. Meg's journey from a 37-year-old law student to an impactful attorney is nothing short of inspiring. As she shares her experiences of helping people escape domestic violence situations, she sheds light on the gaps in our legal system—especially regarding child safety in custody arrangements. The episode also touches on the myths surrounding domestic violence, such as the idea that it's a private matter or that only certain demographics experience it. Through laughter and serious discourse, Meg’s passion shines through, making it clear that she’s not just a lawyer; she’s a warrior for justice. Her advocacy for Kayden's Law highlights the necessity of systemic changes to protect children from dangerous custody scenarios. This episode serves as a rallying cry for activism at any age, encouraging all of us to keep fighting for what’s right, no matter when we start. Meg’s story proves that it’s never too late to make an impact—and that every voice matters in the fight for justice. Takeaways: Meg Groff is an advocate for justice, and at 82-years-old she is still championing laws to protect children in custody disputes.Her journey from being a struggling student to saving lives is truly inspiring and motivating.Domestic violence is a serious societal issue that needs more awareness and understanding, not dismissive attitudes.It is Never Too Late to make a difference. You can find ways to get involved. Links referenced in this episode: meggroff.comNational Family Violence Law CenterNational Safe Parents OrganizationKayden's Law, officially known as the Keeping Children Safe from Family Violence ActWellness Wednesday with Sally Duplantier This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    44 min
  5. Self-Image and Aging: Time to Flip the Script!

    JAN 20

    Self-Image and Aging: Time to Flip the Script!

    Aging can feel like a wild ride, right? One minute you’re bopping along, feeling youthful and vibrant, and the next you’re staring at a reflection that’s more ‘who is that?’ than ‘hey, look at me!’ In this episode of Boomer Banter, we dive deep into why that happens and how our brains evolve as we age, gaining wisdom and emotional stability. Our host, Wendy Green, shares some sage words from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. about keeping hope alive through the disappointments that life throws at us. She gets real about the stories we tell ourselves as we age and how those narratives can shape our self-image. We explore the positivity effect, which is all about how our brains get better at focusing on what matters and letting go of the trivial as we grow older. Imagine trading in that pesky anxiety for a newfound sense of calm and perspective; sounds pretty sweet, right? Wendy encourages us to reframe our self-talk and focus on how we feel rather than how we look. So, the next time you catch a glimpse in the mirror, remember: it's not just about the wrinkles; it’s about the wisdom behind them! Takeaways: Aging can bring about changes in our self-image, but it doesn't have to be negative as we gain perspective and wisdom from our experiences.Our brains evolve as we age, enhancing our emotional regulation and patience, allowing for a more thoughtful response to life's challenges.The stories we tell ourselves about aging often come from societal influences, but we can choose to redefine our self-image positively.As we grow older, it's crucial to focus on how we live and what we value in ourselves, rather than just how we look. Links referenced in this episode: Learn all about Wendy's coaching at heyboomer.bizSchedule a complimentary Discovery Call with Wendy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

    21 min

Trailer

5
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

Boomer Banter is your guide to aging well with health, vitality, and meaningful relationships. Host Wendy Green brings warmth, vulnerability, and curiosity to real conversations about staying active and connected through life's second act. Wendy talks with experts, everyday people, and thought leaders who share practical insights and personal stories about navigating health challenges, deepening relationships, caregiving, reinvention, and what it truly means to age well as a Boomer. This show is for you if you have questions about: How to find purpose in retirement Finding new friends after 60 Healthspan vs Lifespan Navigating family dynamics Resilience and successful aging Staying active and engaged as you age Caring for aging parents or your spouse This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

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