The Debbie Nigro Show

Debbie Nigro
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Nobody sees the glass of Cabernet half full like Debbie. She is fresh air with a magnetic flare. Debbie was the winner of the prestigious 'Best Nationally Syndicated Talk Show of The Year' – three years in a row, from American Women in Radio and Television. Risk it or Regret it!

  1. DEC 15

    More Parts Than a Chicken Nugget—and Still Rocking Life

    Some conversations stop you in your tracks—in the very best way. This Wellness Wednesday on The Debbie Nigro Show, I met a man whose story is the definition of still in the game. Meet B.J. Odom—radio veteran, comedian, podcaster, author, and a living, breathing miracle. B.J. has survived two transplants (a heart and a kidney), multiple surgeries, radiation treatments, and a lifetime of medical curveballs that started before he was even two years old. Doctors once told his parents he likely wouldn't live past his teens. He's now 70 years young… and funnier than ever. His memoir, More Parts Than a Chicken Nugget, is exactly what the title promises—honest, heartfelt, humorous, and full of perspective. From growing up as a farm boy in Indiana, to a decades-long career in radio and comedy, to navigating life with transplanted organs and relentless optimism, B.J.'s story is all about resilience, second chances, and the power of attitude. And trust me—this man's attitude could light up a hospital wing. B.J. turns hospital beds into comedy stages, cracks jokes with nurses, and truly believes that positivity plays a role in survival. (I couldn't agree more.) We even bonded over finding laughter during our own cancer journeys—proof that sometimes humor really is medicine. B.J. also hosts a powerful podcast called The Gift of Life, where he gives voice to organ donors, recipients, and donor families—sharing deeply personal stories that remind us how one decision can save lives. No two stories are the same, but every one is meaningful. With the holidays upon us, B.J. shared why his book makes such a great gift: it's a feel-good story for people who may need hope, perspective, or just a reminder that the human spirit is incredibly strong—even when the body's been through a lot. Bottom line? B.J. Odom is living proof that attitude matters, laughter heals, and life—no matter how complicated—can still be rich, joyful, and full of purpose. Listen to the full conversation on the podcast, and if you're looking for an inspiring read (or a meaningful gift), check out More Parts Than a Chicken Nugget. You'll laugh, you might cry, and you'll definitely walk away grateful for every heartbeat. "Keeping the "Live" in Alive!"—always.

    15 min

  2. DEC 9

    "Leave It to Norwegians in Florida to Convince Me Cold Weather Is Good for Me"

    Some of the best radio & podcast conversations start exactly where you don't expect them to…like poolside in Florida—in bathing suits, no makeup, and not a business card in sight. That's how I met Kari Berit—in what I call a "Random Run-In." Kari and her hubby were on two lounge chairs in the sun at a hotel pool in Florida. The only other slice of sun not being blocked by our mutual hotel building was hitting a lounge chair right next to them. This cold, pale New Yorker wanted that only other sunny spot, but I didn't want to be a too-close lounger (kinda the same as a too-close talker), so I asked if they minded. They did not mind. When I realized they were Norwegian (switching back and forth between Norwegian and English was a tip-off), I had to bring up the Norwegian word I've been having fun talking about for a few weeks on the radio and ask them how to pronounce it correctly. Friluftsliv! See, this year I decided that instead of complaining about the NY winter, I'd try to embrace the cold like the Norwegians do. Friluftsliv (pronounced: free-loofts-liv) is a Norwegian philosophy that means "open-air life"—the belief that spending time outdoors in nature, year-round, is essential for physical health, mental well-being, and happiness. Of course, it seemed a little bizarre that I was bragging about my newfound attempt to love cold weather while sitting poolside on an 80-degree day in Florida—but hey, no guilt. The Norwegians were there too. And we got to talking—in English—about why they were in Florida and what they do in Norway. (I was there with my other half, Dave, to visit his son for Thanksgiving. They were there to settle the estate after the sad passing of an elderly parent.) Fast forward to Wellness Wednesday and my ongoing segment called "Keeping The Live In Alive!" … I asked Kari to join me on the show to talk about her fascinating journey—from Minnesota radio gal to homestead living in Norway, where she now helps people create deeply personal bucket-list trips through her company, KB Norway Tours. Whether it's exploring stunning fjords, avoiding tourist traps, or standing on the actual land where your ancestors once lived, Kari creates travel experiences that are meaningful, soulful, and unforgettable. We also dove into friluftsliv. Translation? Get outside. Breathe real air. Live better. (I'm still working on the pronunciation—but I love the philosophy.) But Kari isn't just about dreamy travel. She's also a powerful voice in the world of caregiving. As the author of The Unexpected Caregiver, she shared real-talk wisdom on what so many families face—but rarely prepare for—caring for aging parents. Her message is reassuring, practical, and refreshing: it's okay not to know what you're doing. None of us were trained for this role—and you don't have to feel guilty, alone, or overwhelmed while figuring it out. This conversation had it all: laughter, life lessons, Norwegian fun facts (yes, they really let babies nap outside while parents go into a restaurant), and honest talk about family dynamics, responsibility, and staying sane while caring for the people you love. If you're curious about Norway, navigating caregiving, or just love a good "random run-in" story—you'll love this one.  Listen to the full conversation of this warm podcast about livin the cold life.  Learn more about Kari's travel work at kbnorwaytours.com  Caregiving resources at unexpectedcaregiver.com Sometimes strangers aren't strangers for long—and sometimes a random run-in turns into a conversation worth sharing.

    15 min

  3. NOV 17

    Time to Spread Joy (and Maybe Some Deductible Dollars): Who You Givin' To?

    Year-End Giving Reminder:  The last few weeks of the year are when most charitable giving happens — people feel more generous, tax benefits kick in for those who itemize, and many folks use year-end bonuses or appreciated stock to support causes they believe in. It's the perfect moment to make a meaningful impact, especially with an organization that stretches every donor dollar farther than you ever could on your own.   Why United Way Might Be One of the Smartest Ways to Give Back To Business Monday You know how I like to start a Monday: a little caffeine, a little optimism, and a whole lot of "let's get back to business." And today's business? The business of helping people — and why the United Way may be one of the most effective ways to do that in your own backyard. I sat down with David Rabin, CEO of the Greenwich United Way, and even though we talked about his local chapter, the lessons apply EVERYWHERE — because what he shared is an example how United Ways across the country (and the world!) operate. The Big Picture: United Way is a massive global network with: • 1,200 local United Ways • Serving 1,800 communities • Across 40 countries Each community has its own United Way chapter focused on local needs — and that local focus is what makes the entire model powerful.   Why United Way Might Be a Better Choice Than Donating to One Charity Directly This was the "aha!" moment for me — and it applies no matter where you live. 1. United Way does the homework you don't have time for. They review each nonprofit's tax returns, audited financials, budgets, spending, and program data with a fine-tooth comb. They uncover inefficiencies and issues most donors would never spot. 2. They maximize your impact by giving where the greatest needs actually are. Local needs change constantly — mental health, childcare, housing, literacy, food insecurity — and United Way chapters run formal needs assessments to know exactly where donor dollars matter most. 3. One donation supports the entire ecosystem of help in your community. Instead of supporting one organization, your gift can strengthen dozens of essential local programs — the ones people rely on when life gets hard. 4. They build solutions when none exist. For example, in Greenwich, CT the local United Way partnered with the hospital to create a youth mental-health program where no such resource existed before. That kind of long-term, structural change is happening in communities all over the country.   A Greenwich, CT Example That Applies Anywhere David shared that even in a wealthy town like Greenwich, nearly one-third of residents are living in poverty or are one paycheck away from trouble. Surprising, right? That's the point. Every community — even the ones that look well-off — has people struggling quietly. United Way chapters exist to find those hidden needs and do something about them.   A Final Thought from Your "Dealer in Hope" I love shining a light on the people doing good in the world and this conversation was a beautiful reminder that real impact doesn't happen in headlines — it happens in communities, one need at a time. Wherever you live, your local United Way is probably out there doing the heavy lifting you never see… making sure kids can read, families can access mental-health care, seniors have support, and struggling neighbors get help before they fall through the cracks. So, if you're thinking about year-end giving — and wondering who deserves your "deductible dollars" — United Way might be a pretty great place to start.   To learn more about United Way in your community:  unitedway.org If you want to learn more, donate, volunteer, or get involved in the Greenwich, CT United Way: greenwichunitedway.org 203-869-2221 And to hear the full conversation with David Rabin, CEO Greenwich United Way click play on the podcast and soak up the good energy.

    25 min

  4. NOV 12

    Fun, Fast "Wellness Wednesday" highlights from The Debbie Nigro Show aka 'Keeping the Live in Alive!'

    Once a week I do my best to share information that I come across that might benefit others like me trying harder at "Keeping the Live in Alive!"  I've posted the entire live Wellness Wednesday radio show here but in case youre in a hurry, I've summed up this week's show highlights.  #CrepeConfession: My only use of the word 'crepe' used to be in combination with the word 'paper' as in  'crepe paper' until father time starting beating the tar out of my good looks. I didn't realize what a big problem crepe had become for the world. Now I'm doing my part to try and correct my 'crepe' on a daily basis. I'm into Gold Bond Age Renew "Crepe Corrector" (face + body in one—because who's got time for two?). But now they're confusining the crepe out of me by offering too many options. Attitude stays delusionally young, skin becomes un-crepey? Let you know. Muscle = Medical: November is National Muscle Health Month. Big idea: skeletal muscle isn't just cosmetic—it supports metabolism, immunity, mobility, cognition, and longevity. Try the Muscle 30: 30g protein meal, 30 strength reps, or 3,000 steps. Female-First Fuel: UK brand FreeSoul (mother–son team) goes viral with mango greens—part of a broader shift to women-designed wellness. Brain Gains: Long-running research spotlight—women with the highest cardiovascular fitness (measured via cycling) had dramatically lower dementia risk vs. less-fit peers. Translation: cardio for your cortex. Nature = Anti-Inflammatory: Even 20 minutes outdoors can lower stress hormones; some research links 12% lower inflammation within 72 hours after nature walks. Can't get out? Put nature scenes on your screen for a mini-reset. Pickleball Posse: #1 recreational sport for women 40+—and a powerful loneliness antidote. Shoutout: National Women's Pickleball Foundation (big March event in Delray Beach). Sleep Squad, Assemble: Magnesium may reduce nighttime wake-ups and deepen sleep. DST got you off-rhythm? Be kind to yourself and yes—Debbie issues official permission slips for 20–30 min power naps. Brrr-illiant?: Gyms are adding cold plunge pools & cold rooms. Reported perks: mood, metabolism, inflammation support—but skip it if you have heart/neurologic conditions. Hot-bath lovers may remain Team Sauna. Snackable Strength: Micro-moves all day—2 minutes of squats, push-ups, stair bursts are IN! Bonus vintage tip from My late mother Eileen Nigro: she told me to always hold my stomach in. I seriously did this throughout my life back when she was alive. Basically, I contracted my stomach muscles for a minute or so while standing on line at the supermarket or 'wherever' multiple times a day. I swear had the flattest stomach ever back then. I really need to try to remember to try to do this again. Can't hurt to try to gently brace your core in everyday life. Cozy Bites, Strong Sips: Protein soups (20–30g/serving) are the fastest-growing meal aisle stars. Also caught a viral-worthy eggplant sheet-pan roll-up: mozzarella, ricotta, blistered tomatoes, roasted peppers, chicken sausage—chef's kiss. I tried it. Pretty darn good! Connection is Medicine: Loneliness is now a global health priority—linked to higher risks for heart disease, dementia, and early death. Tiny gestures = huge impact. Recovery > Hustle: Wearables are pivoting to stress & recovery (HRV, cortisol-linked scores). Rest is now a fitness behavior. Art As Medicine : Singing, painting, learning music can slow cognitive decline. Get older, get cooler. End of Show Daily Toast  (Today I quoted Audrey Hepburn): "First hand helps yourself. Second hand helps others." Classic. Deb's Do-This-Week Mini-Checklist (Or Best Effort) One 30g protein meal daily 20 minutes outside (or nature on screen if you must) 5× 60-second strength snacks sprinkled through your day Try an indoor pickleball session with a friend Consider magnesium for sleep (check with your doc) End a shower cooler for 15–30s if you're cold-curious Call or help one person who might be lonely   If you try any of these, let me know how it goes. If you try all of them, I expect an invite to your Nobel Prize ceremony.   Stay well, stay upbeat, and keep "Keeping the 'Live' in Alive!" — Debbie

    43 min

  5. NOV 12

    Fun, fast "Wellness Wednesday" highlights from The Debbie Nigro Show—aka 'Keeping the Live in Alive!'

    Once a week I do my best to share information that I come across that  might benefit others like me trying harder at "Keeping the Live in Alive!"  I've posted the entire live Wellness Wednesday radio show here but in case youre in a hurry, I've summed up this weeks show highlights.  #CrepeConfession: My only use of the word 'crepe' used to be in combination with the word 'paper' as in  'crepe paper' until father time starting beating the tar out of my good looks. I didn't realize what a big problem crepe had become for the world. Now I'm doing my part to try and correct my 'crepe' on a daily basis. I'm into Gold Bond Age Renew "Crepe Corrector" (face + body in one—because who's got time for two?). But now they're confusining the crepe out of me by offering too many options. Attitude stays delusionally young, skin becomes un-crepey? Let you know. Muscle = Medical: November is National Muscle Health Month. Big idea: skeletal muscle isn't just cosmetic—it supports metabolism, immunity, mobility, cognition, and longevity. Try the Muscle 30: 30g protein meal, 30 strength reps, or 3,000 steps. Female-First Fuel: UK brand FreeSoul (mother–son team) goes viral with mango greens—part of a broader shift to women-designed wellness. Brain Gains: Long-running research spotlight—women with the highest cardiovascular fitness (measured via cycling) had dramatically lower dementia risk vs. less-fit peers. Translation: cardio for your cortex. Nature = Anti-Inflammatory: Even 20 minutes outdoors can lower stress hormones; some research links 12% lower inflammation within 72 hours after nature walks. Can't get out? Put nature scenes on your screen for a mini-reset. Pickleball Posse: #1 recreational sport for women 40+—and a powerful loneliness antidote. Shoutout: National Women's Pickleball Foundation (big March event in Delray Beach). Sleep Squad, Assemble: Magnesium may reduce nighttime wake-ups and deepen sleep. DST got you off-rhythm? Be kind to yourself and yes—Debbie issues official permission slips for 20–30 min power naps. Brrr-illiant?: Gyms are adding cold plunge pools & cold rooms. Reported perks: mood, metabolism, inflammation support—but skip it if you have heart/neurologic conditions. Hot-bath lovers may remain Team Sauna. Snackable Strength : Micro-moves all day—2 minutes of squats, push-ups, stair bursts are IN! Bonus vintage tip from My late mother Eileen Nigro: she told me to always hold my stomach in. I seriously did this throughout my life back when she was alive. Basically I contracted my stomach muscles for a minute or so while standing on line at the supermarket or 'wherever' multiple times a day. I swear had the flattest stomach ever back then. I really need to try to remember to try to do this again. Can't hurt to try to gently brace your core in everyday life. Cozy Bites, Strong Sips: Protein soups (20–30g/serving) are the fastest-growing meal aisle stars. Also caught a viral-worthy eggplant sheet-pan roll-up: mozzarella, ricotta, blistered tomatoes, roasted peppers, chicken sausage—chef's kiss. I tried it. Pretty darn good! Connection is Medicine: Loneliness is now a global health priority—linked to higher risks for heart disease, dementia, and early death. Tiny gestures = huge impact. Recovery > Hustle: Wearables are pivoting to stress & recovery (HRV, cortisol-linked scores). Rest is now a fitness behavior. Art As Medicine : Singing, painting, learning music can slow cognitive decline. Get older, get cooler. End of Show Daily Toast  (Today I quoted Audrey Hepburn): "First hand helps yourself. Second hand helps others." Classic. Deb's Do-This-Week Mini-Checklist (Or Best Effort) One 30g protein meal daily 20 minutes outside (or nature on screen if you must) 5× 60-second strength snacks sprinkled through your day Try an indoor pickleball session with a friend Consider magnesium for sleep (check with your doc) End a shower cooler for 15–30s if you're cold-curious Call or help one person who might be lonely   If you try any of these, let me know how it goes. If you try all of them, I expect an invite to your Nobel Prize ceremony.   Stay well, stay upbeat, and keep "Keeping the 'Live' in Alive!" — Debbie

    43 min

  6. OCT 29

    Human Connection Is Medicine. Celebrate "Talk to a Stranger Week" with Pete Bombaci of GenWell

    Every once in a while, the universe taps you on the shoulder and says, "Here ya go … this one's one of yours." That's exactly what happened when I discovered Pete Bombaci, Founder & CEO of GenWell, Canada's Human Connection Movement — and the man behind Talk To A Stranger Week, happening November 24–30 in Canada. As many of you know, I'm the author of How To Talk To Strangers: Advice From a Professional Stranger Talker, so when I found out about Pete's work, I thought, "Yup. This is my kinda guy. He won't be a stranger for long! " LOL  Pete and I are kindred spirits with the same mission.  To educate, empower and catalyze people in about the importance of face-to-face social connections as a proactive step that we can all take for our own health and happiness or the health and happiness of others and society.   The Big Truth: Human Connection Is Not Just Emotional — It's Biological We've all heard "connection matters," but the science behind it is mind-blowing: Face-to-face interaction activates nine times more brain activity than digital communication. 80–90% of communication is nonverbal, so our screens simply can't deliver what our brains and hearts crave. Talking to strangers has been shown to increase happiness nearly 100% of the time — for BOTH people. Regular social connection lowers stress, boosts the immune system, protects heart health, and can even lengthen lifespan.   Read that again. We're wired to connect — literally.   Pete said it beautifully: "Talking to strangers makes us happier, healthier, and more connected. The research proves it." And: "We're all just human beings trying to live a decent life. We're far better off together than separate." Exactly. Exactly. Exactly.   So What Happens During Talk to A Stranger Week? No pressure. No scripts. No "Hi, I'm Debbie from Telemarketing." Just real human warmth in the small everyday moments: Say good morning to the dog walker. Compliment the barista. Shout 'youre doing great!' to a struggling Mom with a wagon full of kids  Call the cousin you always say you're going to get together with. It's about choosing connection over autopilot.   Pete broke it down simply: "It costs nothing. It takes one second. And you may change someone's day — or their life."   The Best Part People who talk to strangers regularly are up to three times happier than those who don't. Three. Times. Happier. If happiness were sold in a bottle, we'd all be lining up! But here it is — FREE — hiding inside hello. And we've been overlooking it.   Listen to  Our Heartfelt, Funny, and Very Real Conversation . We laugh, we learn, we talk Canadian coins and Chatty Cathy dolls (no, seriously), and we lean into what the world needs now — connection. PS So far there's no tariff on importing 'good vibes' :-)   💛 Debbie

    15 min

  7. OCT 24

    Human Connection Is Medicine. Celebrate "Talk to a Stranger Week" with Pete Bombaci of GenWell.

    Every once in a while, the universe taps you on the shoulder and says, "Here ya go … this one's one of yours." That's exactly what happened when I discovered Pete Bombaci, Founder & CEO of GenWell, Canada's Human Connection Movement — and the man behind Talk To A Stranger Week, happening November 24–30 in Canada. As many of you know, I'm the author of How To Talk To Strangers: Advice From a Professional Stranger Talker, so when I found out about Pete's work, I thought, "Yup. This is my kinda guy. He won't be a stranger for long! " LOL  Pete and I are kindred spirits with the same mission.  To educate, empower and catalyze people in about the importance of face-to-face social connections as a proactive step that we can all take for our own health and happiness or the health and happiness of others and society.   The Big Truth: Human Connection Is Not Just Emotional — It's Biological We've all heard "connection matters," but the science behind it is mind-blowing: Face-to-face interaction activates nine times more brain activity than digital communication. 80–90% of communication is nonverbal, so our screens simply can't deliver what our brains and hearts crave. Talking to strangers has been shown to increase happiness nearly 100% of the time — for BOTH people. Regular social connection lowers stress, boosts the immune system, protects heart health, and can even lengthen lifespan.   Read that again. We're wired to connect — literally.   Pete said it beautifully: "Talking to strangers makes us happier, healthier, and more connected. The research proves it." And: "We're all just human beings trying to live a decent life. We're far better off together than separate." Exactly. Exactly. Exactly.   So What Happens During Talk to A Stranger Week? No pressure. No scripts. No "Hi, I'm Debbie from Telemarketing." Just real human warmth in the small everyday moments: Say good morning to the dog walker. Compliment the barista. Shout 'youre doing great!' to a struggling Mom with a wagon full of kids  Call the cousin you always say you're going to get together with. It's about choosing connection over autopilot.   Pete broke it down simply: "It costs nothing. It takes one second. And you may change someone's day — or their life."   The Best Part People who talk to strangers regularly are up to three times happier than those who don't. Three. Times. Happier. If happiness were sold in a bottle, we'd all be lining up! But here it is — FREE — hiding inside hello. And we've been overlooking it.   Listen to  Our Heartfelt, Funny, and Very Real Conversation . We laugh, we learn, we talk Canadian coins and Chatty Cathy dolls (no, seriously), and we lean into what the world needs now — connection.  💛 Debbie

    15 min

  8. OCT 19

    Why a Virtual Assistant Might Be the Best Business Decision You Haven't Made Yet

    Are you overwhelmed, overextended, and still thinking "Eh, I'll just do it myself—it's faster"? Yes? Well the right answer should be NO.  That's entrepreneur delusion talking. I know I am one and I'm not the best dekgator and yes I too try and do far too many things myself. On The Debbie Nigro Show, I linked up with the fabulous Jenna Eichholtz, partner at VA Growth Solutions, who popped in from Pennsylvania to drop some serious wisdom about delegating like a boss—without actually becoming a bossy boss. Here's the big takeaway: You don't need a full team… you just need one really good virtual assistant. Jenna's company connects business owners with vetted, highly skilled VAs from the Philippines — fluent in English, aligned with U.S. time zones, and trained to slide right into your workflow. And get this: Full-time VA support starts at $1,000–$1,200/month (40 hours/week!) Starter options as low as $500/month — that's literally $3–$7 an hour Over 8,310 VAs hired and 3,900 businesses served Client satisfaction score: 9.5 out of 10 Not too shabby. Why Entrepreneurs Are Finally Giving In & Hiring VAs Jenna and I hit on the pain points we ALL know too well: ·              Social media burnout ·              Inconsistent marketing ·              No SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) because everything lives in your head ·              Too many tasks, not enough hours, and zero desire to manage a  giant team Her message was loud and clear: Stop trying to be a one-person empire. Buy back your time. Cool Bonus: Jenna's Also a Pet Industry Pro Before joining VA Growth Solutions, Jenna ran her own branding agency for pet companies — so if you're in the pet biz, she's double dangerous. She knows exactly how to help you grow and who to delegate it to. Final Thought: Freedom is the Reason We Started… So Why Are We Working More and Living Less? If you're a solopreneur, husband-and-wife team, or small-but-mighty business… this may be your sign. Listen to the full podcast episode with Jenna Eichholtz from VA Growth Solutions on The Debbie Nigro Show — and prepare to loosen your grip on doing it all yourself.

    15 min
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About

Nobody sees the glass of Cabernet half full like Debbie. She is fresh air with a magnetic flare. Debbie was the winner of the prestigious 'Best Nationally Syndicated Talk Show of The Year' – three years in a row, from American Women in Radio and Television. Risk it or Regret it!

Information

  • Creator
    Debbie Nigro
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2025
  • Episodes
    404
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2017 Debbie Nigro
  • Show Website
    The Debbie Nigro Show