Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey

Lisa Harper
  • 3.0 (2)
  • RELATIONSHIPS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Helping to change the conversations we have with our loved ones about aging and life decisions. Each episode contains information to help you and your family work through the "not ready yet" conversation of aging.

  1. JAN 27

    Interview with Nicole Johnson, Estate Attorney

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey, Lisa Harper engages with estate planning attorney Nicole Johnson to discuss the critical aspects of estate planning, including the importance of powers of attorney, wills, and trusts. They explore the emotional dynamics of family discussions around these topics, the implications of cognitive decline, and the necessity of having essential documents in place to ensure that individuals' wishes are honored. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive planning and open communication within families to navigate the complexities of aging and legacy management. Takeaways Estate planning is about honoring people's wishes and legacies.Powers of attorney are crucial for managing affairs while alive.Having essential documents in place prevents others from controlling your assets.Probate serves as an oversight to ensure proper handling of estates.Trusts provide privacy and can help avoid probate.Planning ahead can save families from emotional and financial strain.Legal capacity is essential for making decisions about estate planning.Open conversations about estate planning can ease family tensions.Understanding the tax implications of estate planning is vital.Proactive planning is better than waiting for a crisis.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Estate Planning and Its Importance 02:32 Understanding Powers of Attorney 04:54 The Role of Wills and Probate 06:56 Exploring Trusts and Their Benefits 09:41 The Importance of Pre-Planning 11:28 Navigating Family Dynamics in Decision Making 13:57 Addressing Cognitive Decline and Planning Ahead 16:08 The Role of HIPAA in Estate Planning 18:00 Cost Considerations for Estate Planning 18:35 Understanding Estate Planning Essentials 21:04 Navigating Property and Financial Decisions 25:07 Legal Capacity and Dementia 26:58 The Importance of Proactive Planning 29:17 Myths and Misconceptions in Estate Planning Keywords estate planning, powers of attorney, wills, trusts, healthcare decisions, cognitive decline, family dynamics, legal capacity, estate attorney, planning for aging Resources Garrity & Gossage, LLP © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    33 min

  2. JAN 13

    Interview with Kathy Vines, Certified Professional Organizer® and Author of Clever Girl's Guide to Living with Less

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, Lisa Harper engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kathy Vines, a Certified Professional Organizer®, the owner of Clever Girl Organizing®, and author of “Clever Girl's Guide to Living with Less: Break Free from Your Stuff, Even When Your Head and Heart Get in the Way.” They discuss the emotional complexities of letting go of belongings. They explore the psychological barriers that prevent individuals from decluttering, the significance of memorabilia, and the importance of purposeful possession. Kathy shares insights on how to navigate conversations with parents about inherited items, the necessity of having exit strategies for decluttering, and creative ways to make the process enjoyable. The discussion emphasizes the need for kindness towards oneself during the decluttering journey and the value of sharing stories behind cherished items. Takeaways Letting go can feel emotional, especially during life transitions.Understanding our attachments to belongings is crucial for decluttering.Memorabilia often holds emotional weight that can be overwhelming.Photos should be evaluated for their current significance, not just nostalgia.Purposeful possession means understanding why we keep certain items.Future fear can prevent us from letting go of items we no longer need.Conversations with parents about inherited items should focus on their emotional value.Having an exit strategy is essential for effective decluttering.Making decluttering fun can help ease the emotional burden.Sharing stories behind items can enhance their value and connection. Resources Order Kathy's book, Clever Girl's Guide to Living with Less: Break Free from Your Stuff, Even When Your Head and Heart Get in the Way https://www.clevergirlorganizing.com/living-with-less-book/ https://www.quicksandpod.com  @quicksandpod on FB and IG and YT https://www.clevergirlorganizing.com  @kathyvinessays on IG  © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    45 min

  3. 12/30/2025

    Interview with Toni Moses, Service-Disabled Veteran and Veteran Advocate

    In this episode of the Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, host Lisa Harper speaks with Veteran Advocate, Toni Moses about the complexities of navigating VA benefits for veterans and their families. Toni shares her personal journey as a Service-Disabled Veteran and emphasizes the importance of understanding available resources, including the role of Veteran Service Officers. The conversation covers essential documentation needed for claims, recent legislative changes affecting veterans, and the significance of support for caregivers. Toni provides valuable insights and case studies to illustrate the impact of advocacy on veterans' lives. Takeaways Toni Moses is a Service-Disabled Veteran and advocate for veterans.Navigating the VA benefits system can be complex and overwhelming.Veteran Service Officers are crucial for assisting with claims.Documentation like the DD214 is essential for filing claims.Recent legislation has expanded benefits for veterans and their families.The VA has expedited processes for elderly or terminally ill veterans.Caregivers can access benefits for in-home care assistance.Many veterans may not know they are eligible for service-connected benefits.Disabled American Veterans provide comprehensive support for veterans.It's important for families to stay informed about changes in veteran benefits.Resources Disabled American Veterans - Office Locator https://www.dav.org/find-your-local-office/ © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    33 min

  4. 12/16/2025

    Interview with David MacMahan Founder and President of FairSplit.com - Divide Things, Not Families®

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey, Lisa Harper speaks with David MacMahan, founder of FairSplit.com, about the emotional complexities of dividing personal belongings during estate settlements. David shares his personal experiences that led him to create FairSplit, a platform designed to help families navigate the often difficult process of estate division with transparency and fairness. The conversation covers the importance of estate planning, the emotional attachments to belongings, and how AI technology can streamline the inventory process. David explains the FairSplit system, which allows families to list items, express their preferences, and ultimately divide belongings in a way that minimizes conflict. The episode emphasizes the need for open conversations about aging and estate planning, providing listeners with valuable insights and resources to prepare for these challenging discussions. Takeaways David MacMahan founded FairSplit to help families divide belongings peacefully.Personal experiences with loss inspired David to create a better system for estate division.Transparency in estate planning can prevent conflicts among heirs.AI technology significantly reduces the time needed to inventory belongings.Emotional attachments to items can complicate the division process.Families often underestimate the overwhelm of estate division without a system.FairSplit allows for a structured and fair way to divide personal property.The emotional value of items often outweighs their monetary value.Open conversations about aging and estate planning are crucial for families.Utilizing technology can ease the burden of estate management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to FairSplit and David MacMahan 01:43 The Emotional Dynamics of Estate Division 04:50 Personal Stories Behind the Passion 06:16 The Importance of Estate Planning 08:45 Utilizing AI for Home Inventory 10:22 Legal Considerations in Estate Division 11:29 The Value of Sentimental Items 14:24 Understanding True Value in Estates 19:19 How FairSplit Works 23:56 Navigating Family Divisions and Fairness 25:17 The Role of AI in Estate Management 26:51 Overcoming the Overwhelm of Moving 27:34 Engaging Family in the Process 29:19 Utilizing Technology for Inventory Management 30:48 Setting Expectations and Responsibilities 32:56 Avoiding Conflicts in Estate Division 33:51 Resources for Executors and Families 38:10 Promoting Transparency and Fairness 42:44 Proactive Planning for Family Assets Resources PROMO Code NRYTRYAI for the Starter Inventory ($79.99 value) found here: https://www.fairsplit.com/plans/home-inventory/ Resources Page for Sample Letter of Instruction and 5 Tips to avoid conflict in estates:  https://www.fairsplit.com/helpful-tips-and-videos/ YouTube Channel for Dividing Things with David and other tips:  https://www.youtube.com/@DivvyMaster Printable flyers on this page:  https://www.fairsplit.com/resources/printables/ Keywords FairSplit, estate planning, emotional attachments, AI inventory, family conflict, personal belongings, estate division, downsizing, family resources, transparency © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    46 min

  5. 12/02/2025

    Interview with C. Vicki Gold, PT, MA, Author of Aging Safely, Wisely, and Well: A Movement and Mindset Guide for Older Adults

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey, Lisa Harper engages in a profound conversation with C. Vicki Gold, PT, MA, a semi-retired physical therapist, about the aging journey. At 81 years young, Vicki truly is a lifelong student of transformation.  She has woven together science, movement, and personal growth in such a unique way. Vicki shares her insights on the importance of learning the ABCs of aging, which encompass alignment, breathing, and centering. She emphasizes the significance of self-talk, intentional living, and the role of feet in maintaining balance. Vicki also discusses her personal experiences with aging and offers practical advice for adult children on how to communicate effectively with their aging loved ones. The conversation is rich with strategies for enhancing quality of life as we age, encouraging listeners to embrace the journey with curiosity and resilience. Takeaways Aging is a journey that can be embraced with curiosity.The ABCs of aging include alignment, breathing, and centering.Self-talk significantly impacts our mindset and actions.Feet play a crucial role in maintaining balance as we age.Intentional living is essential for a fulfilling life.Communication with aging loved ones should be open and respectful.Small, consistent actions can lead to significant changes.Aging can bring a sense of freedom and opportunity.It's important to challenge negative beliefs about aging.Practicing mindfulness and awareness can enhance quality of life.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aging Conversations 01:43 The ABCs of Aging Safely 05:21 Mind-Body Connection in Aging 07:27 The Importance of Self-Talk 11:45 Challenging Aging Myths 16:27 The Power of Intention and Visualization 21:27 Understanding the Alexander Technique 25:09 The Central Cylinder and Postural Alignment 28:40 The Importance of Conscious Breathing 31:45 Breathing Techniques for Better Health 33:54 Embracing Aging and Personal Freedom 37:06 Effective Communication with Aging Parents 39:18 Encouraging Active Lifestyles in Loved Ones 41:10 The Book and Its Benefits Resources Link to Book: https://thera-fitness.com/the-book/ Email Vicki: vicki@thera-fitness.com Social Media Links: o Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheraFitness o LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cvickigoldptma/ o Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c.vicki.gold/ © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    46 min

  6. 11/18/2025

    Interview with Scott Fischer, Founder of Options for Senior Living

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, host Lisa Harper speaks with Scott Fischer, a leader in senior care, about the complexities of aging and the importance of having open conversations about senior living options. Scott shares his personal journey into the field, the nuances of placement in senior living, and the critical need for families to engage in discussions about aging before crises arise. The conversation emphasizes acceptance, preparation, and the emotional challenges families face as they navigate the aging process together. Takeaways Scott Fischer has over 30 years of experience in healthcare and senior care.Placement professionals help families find suitable senior living options.Senior living encompasses various types of care, including independent and assisted living.CCRCs require a significant upfront fee for future healthcare needs.Families should start conversations about aging before a crisis occurs.Acceptance of aging is crucial for families to navigate the process.The importance of understanding the financial implications of senior living options.Families often face emotional challenges when discussing aging and care.It's essential to have a plan for aging to avoid urgent crises.Scott emphasizes the need for compassion and ethics in senior care.Resources Options for Senior Living National Placement and Referral Alliance (NPRA)  Contact Scott © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    29 min

  7. 11/04/2025

    Interview with Melanie Henry, Founder and CEO of the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey podcast, host Lisa Harper speaks with Melanie Henry, Founder and CEO of the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center (DCAC), and co-author of two books. They discuss the critical need for compassionate and objective assessments of older drivers, especially those experiencing cognitive decline. Melanie shares her personal journey into this field, the technology used for driver assessments, and practical tips for families to navigate the sensitive conversations around driving and aging. The episode emphasizes the importance of family involvement, recognizing cognitive and physical changes, and planning for transportation needs to ensure safety and dignity for aging loved ones. Takeaways Melanie Henry founded the Driver Cognitive Assessment Center (DCAC) to address the gap in driver evaluations for older adults.Many families avoid discussing driving safety due to emotional challenges.Technology can play a role in assessing cognitive abilities related to driving.Family involvement is essential in recognizing changes in driving skills.Regular vision and hearing exams are vital for safe driving.Ride-alongs can provide valuable insights into an older adult's driving abilities.It's important to approach driving conversations with compassion and understanding.Isolation after losing driving privileges can significantly impact mental health.Planning for transportation needs can ease the transition away from driving.Age alone does not determine driving safety; cognitive and physical health are key factors.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aging Conversations 01:37 Melanie's Journey into Driver Evaluation 03:32 Understanding Driver Assessment Technology 06:48 Navigating Difficult Conversations about Driving 15:21 Strategies for Family Conversations on Driving Safety 18:47 Understanding Cognitive Impairment and Driving 23:04 The Role of Vision and Cognition in Safe Driving 25:25 Assessing Physical Abilities for Driving 26:32 Planning for Transportation Needs 29:20 Fostering Independence and Community Engagement Resources Connect with Melanie Henry | melanie@dcacbayarea.com Warning Signs Checklist NAIPC 3rd book - Aging in Place Conversations - The Caregiver's Edition: Stories, Strategies, and Support for Aging in Your Community Driver Cognitive Assessment Center #NotReadyYetWithLisa #SeniorHomeCoach #PodcastNotReadyYet #AgingJourney  #AgingParents #FamilyCaregivers  #CompassionateCare #AgingPopulation  #FamilyMatters #Aging #DrivingSafety #ElderCare #CaregiverSupport #AgingInPlace #CognitiveAssessment #FamilyConversations #TransportationPlanning #AgingandDriving © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    35 min

  8. 10/21/2025

    Interview with Tara Ballman, Executive Director of National Aging in Place Council

    In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey, host Lisa Harper speaks with Tara Ballman, Executive Director of the National Aging in Place Council. They discuss the importance of proactive planning for aging, the five pillars of aging in place, and the role of technology in supporting older adults. Tara shares her personal journey into the aging space, emphasizing the need for open conversations about aging and the resources available to families. The conversation also touches on transportation, home safety, and financial planning, providing listeners with valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the aging process.  Takeaways Aging is a privilege that should be embraced.Proactive planning is essential for aging well.Transportation options are crucial for maintaining independence.Social engagement is a key pillar of aging in place.Technology can significantly enhance the aging experience.Home safety assessments can prevent falls and injuries.Conversations about aging should be ongoing and inclusive.Financial planning is vital for a secure future.Resources are available to assist families in the aging process.The National Aging in Place Council offers valuable support and information.Resources https://ageinplace.org/ Books Aging in Place Conversations - The Caregiver's Edition: Stories, Strategies, and Support for Aging in Your Community Aging in Place Conversations: What Industry Experts Have to Say Difficult Aging in Place Conversations: What Industry Experts Have to Say https://www.linkedin.com/in/taraballman/ taraballman@gmail.com  #NotReadyYetPodcast #AgingInPlace #FamilyCaregiving #ProactivePlanning #AgingWell #NAIPC #ElderCare #AgingJourney  #NotReadyYetWithLisa #SeniorHomeCoach #AgingParents #FamilyCaregivers #AgingPopulation  #FamilyMatters  #Aging #Caregiving #FamilyPlanning #AgingPlan #LisaHarper  #TaraBallman © 2025-2026 Lisa M. Harper. All rights reserved. “Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey” is a trademark of Lisa M. Harper.

    38 min
See All (26)

Ratings & Reviews

3
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Helping to change the conversations we have with our loved ones about aging and life decisions. Each episode contains information to help you and your family work through the "not ready yet" conversation of aging.

Information

You Might Also Like