The Debbie Nigro Show

Debbie Nigro

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. 3D AGO

    Who is "The Most Interesting WOMAN in the World"? (Surprise! She's Over 50 and Still in the Game!)

    Some people do their best thinking on a walk. Me? I do my best thinking in the shower.   So I was thinking in the shower about how "The Most Interesting Man in the World" is back — yes, that guy, Jonathan Goldsmith, returning as the Dos Equis spokesperson after a ten-year hiatus, now with a funny "amnesia" twist and a whole lot of nostalgia. And while I do appreciate a sexy, wise older gentleman with an open collar and a "stay thirsty, my friends" vibe, my shower thoughts flowed to this thought: "Okay… but where is the campaign for "The Most Interesting WOMAN in the World?" Who the heck is SHE?  Because if we're being honest, she's probably not lounging around with a beer plotting her next adventure. She may be plotting but she's got a 'sh*tload of things to finish first before cracking open a beer or pouring a glass of wine or doing whatever relaxes her. So WHO IS SHE? By Jove I thought to myself, "The Most Interesting WOMAN in the World" is… WE!   WE meaning  – all the women over 50 (and there are plenty I tell ya!) with wisdom, passion and purpose —out there in the world 'still in the game', who've been there, done that, – and are still swinging against all odds most days. I was thinking, SHE likely has wrinkles, uses reading glasses, has a very busy brain, likely has a demanding job or business or demanding caretaking obligation. And most likely has a huge heart that still puts everyone else first. Hmmm. Sounds a lot like me. Sound like you? Or someone you know?  Oh - and she buys a boatload of stuff. Like Me. "The Most Interesting Woman in the World". Hmmm.  She's the woman who: might not have a giant social media following… but has massive word-of-mouth power buys everything for everybody (herself, the household, the kids, the grandkids, the nieces, the nephews… and probably the neighbor) is old-school but open to new things (especially if they promise better health, more energy, fewer annoyances or promise to make her look younger.) "The Most Interesting WOMAN in the World" Takes Risks!  Yes, she does! So who am I not to? Especially since I'm the one always pushing others to: "Risk It! or Regret It! I decided to RISK turning on my phone camera to record an opening segment of my radio show on 'video' as well as audio, so you could SEE what you usually don't when I do my live radio show. Yup, you can see how I talk with my hands and see the products I brought in from my house for 'show and tell' on the air that day. It was not a comfortable decision. I've been avoiding video. I do not love my looks these days, but I did it. And now I'm cool because I created a live radio show, that's partially on video, that's also a podcast, and has been turned into short media clips for other social media channels to drive back to the full video opening of my radio show on You Tube, that may encourage people to go and listen to the rest of the audio of my podcast - and maybe tune in live to the radio show. Full disclosure: All this effort did not burn a calorie. The live radio show is easy. I've been doing live radio so long I could do it in my sleep. It's all the other new pieces of the media pie - the audio /podcast /video/blog /social media puzzle, that takes quite an effort. I'll tell ya this much. AI filters are much cheaper than Botox, and figuring all this out was mentally exhausting. HOWEVER! "WE… "The Most Interesting Women In the World"  cannot stay interesting… if we do not embrace new knowledge and take new risks! Ok so …For fun I brought some products from my house to the radio studio that "The Most Interesting WOMAN in the World" might own for 'show and tell'.   Centrum Women 50+ MultiGummy (because we're doing our best to not fall apart like cheap patio furniture) Saline nasal spray (a product we somehow didn't grow up with but now feels like a household essential. Who knew. Right?) Lume deodorant 72-hour protection! (Once I got past the initial awkward TV commercial with the Founder focusing on where else this stuff can make me smell nice - I decided to just get on board for the 72 hours under my arms so I'd have one less thing to worry about - just in case I forgot.) A gadgety little YCZ Electric Massage Pro eye tool my daughter politely gave me as a gift to try and HELP me. (warm, glowy, red light-ish… fine fine we're trying new things!) Costco Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil (because it's a BIG bottle of quality olive oil that tastes great straight from my peeps back in Italy at a great price. If I'm going to "do better," I want food that tastes like it loves me back) Morning Kick by Chuck Norris (I took his quiz, got labeled a "rapid ager," and immediately decided I need Chuck to back me freakin up. I'm testing it and kinda love it) Also, because of the nonstop flow of information these days I always come across a lot of 'who knew' stuff I find out that I want to share. Like that dry roasted peanuts build your telomeres. Yup. Short telomeres equal short life. So, I stole my Dave's peanuts for show and tell. He now brags he's younger because he eats them, and now I have to eat them just to have my telomeres catch up. (I tell ya being interesting is a nonstop sport.) And because "The Most Interesting Woman in the World" is also likely starting to blow some body parts… I showed off a flyer featuring that great gal Evelyn the physical therapist from ProClinix who's been workin' on me helping to get me get back in the game! (which starts with me getting on and off the table). And because "The Most Interesting Woman in the World" also wants to have as much fun as possible before she's dead… I also discussed just how many companies are pitching me to come have fun with them. Like the  Royal Caribbean cruise line that begs me by email almost daily to sail away with them again, and again, and again. YES, YES,  "The Most Interesting Woman in the World" – The collective 'WE' – want to have more FUN!   We're open. Where are we going?  We're IN! Just can't be the same day we're already booked. Like on a day we have a Dr. or dentist appointment or are taking someone else to a Dr. or a dentist appt. Can't be on a day when a plumber is coming to the house or on a day when we have an appointment, meeting, a zoom, going to a kids sports event or when we're babysitting. Oh, or when we've got a hair appt. And it can't be anything that starts too late at night or requires us to drive far in bad weather.   Other than we're free. LOL   Here's what I touched on the rest of the show The "anti-marketing" protein bar that's winning the protein wars is simply DAVID and why some brands win without screaming. Apparently, a protein bar called David is crushing it, partly because it's doing the opposite of what every loud, neon, influencer-filled protein brand is doing. Simple subway ads. Tons of white space. A sleek package. No drama. And the numbers? Wild. The brand's buzz has been building like a cult favorite, with big fundraising and serious sales projections. I first tasted them at a National Women's Pickleball Foundation event and immediately understood the strategy: get it in people's mouths first — then they'll come looking for it later. (That's marketing.) Then I found our there's a New personality label: "Otrovert"  "Wait… is that me?" Otrovert (from "otro," meaning "other") is basically someone who can look extroverted and function socially just fine…but actually recharges best alone or in quieter settings. Observant, sensitive to group dynamics, craving real connection… and sometimes leaving a room feeling oddly separate. The takeaway? Pressure's off. You're allowed to be social AND need silence. You're allowed to shine AND need downtime. Be who you are. (I support this message.) Divorce rings are a thing (and yes, I have thoughts) And then—because my brain is a pinball machine—we hit a British Vogue trend: divorce ring parties. Women re-setting stones from old engagement rings into new jewelry to mark a fresh chapter. It's community, champagne, and a little "we're going to be okay." Whenever I speak of divorce, I always like to point out that divorce is painful. A broken dream. No matter who's fault it is. Even when it's necessary, it has a long emotional tail. So, if you're in that chapter: I hope you find your next "happily ever after," whatever that looks like. Also: Walking sharks. That's it. That's the sentence. ScienceDaily had me staring into the void with this headline: walking sharks that apparently break rules of reproduction without a measurable increase in energy use. Do I need this information? No. Did I share it anyway? Absolutely. Because that's what I do. Discover stuff and share it. Ozempic marketing, sweatpants history, and the courage to turn on the camera I also touched on: Novo Nordisk leaning into a "Get a Mac"-style ad throwback to clarify Ozempic's FDA-approved uses (marketing is getting very nostalgic lately) International Sweatpants Day, and the fact that sweatpants evolved from athletic wear to "I live here now" fashion (and yes, I did also mention the origins) And threading through all of it was my own little "new era" moment: I turned on a camera in the studio—even though I'm not exactly thrilled about it—because staying relevant means shifting with the times. It means blending wisdom with new tools, learning new stuff, and continuing to show up. Because "The Most Interesting Woman in the World" isn't one person. She's all of us. Especially those of us learning how not to let getting older get in the way of being us.   The Daily Toast (because I always end the show with a little sparkle) I closed with a quote I loved from Dr. Steve Maraboli: "There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologet

    43 min
  2. FEB 13

    When Travel, Humor & Human Connection Collide

    When Travel, Humor & Human Connection Collide: A Joyful Conversation with Melissa Rodway Some of the best stories on The Debbie Nigro Show start with a "premonition." You know… that little voice that says to someone, "I should reach out to Debbie." And when that voice belongs to someone with great energy, curiosity, and a whole lotta heart? I listen. That's exactly how I connected with Melissa Rodway—Toronto-based travel storyteller, longtime host of Fly Travel Radio, part-time adventurer, occasional stand-up comic, and author of the five-star Amazon hit The People You Meet. And let me tell you… this conversation was pure joy. From Airport Observations to Life Adventures Melissa's book was born from heartfelt emails she sent home while traveling through Southeast Asia and China—emails so good, friends begged for more. Sixteen years later, she finally turned them into a book. (Proof that timing is everything, people!) Right out of the gate, she hooks you with humor—like watching President Obama on TV in an airport while wondering why the woman next to her didn't care… "Maybe she already has dental." 😂 That's Melissa. Observant. Funny. Relatable. Travel, Romance & Letting Your Guard Down We talked about how travel changes you—how being on the road makes you more open, more authentic, and more willing to connect. That's how she met "the guy." Yes, that guy. A fellow cyclist. Same passions. Same energy. A long-distance love story born on a trip. And as Melissa so beautifully put it: sometimes travel romances stay where they began… and sometimes you bring them home and say, "Oh boy… now I have to fit this human into my life." (Relatable?) The Magic of Noticing the Little Things One of my favorite parts of her book? The tiny moments. Like discovering a self-sanitizing toilet seat cover in a public bathroom for the first time—and wishing her grandmother could've seen it. If you've ever heard a grandma yell, "Put paper on the seat!" from another stall, you felt that one. Melissa gets it: the little things are what connect us. Leeches, Luxury & Life Lessons We also dove into her wild jungle hike in Laos—three days, brutal heat, not enough water, and… leeches. Everywhere. On the flip side? Traveling with a luxury trip designer boyfriend meant fancy hotels, endless pools, and the pressure to "do it all" in 24 hours. Her takeaway? The best stories don't always come from luxury. They come from real life. Amen to that. Strangers Who Don't Stay Strangers At the heart of Melissa's book is this beautiful idea: the people you meet while traveling often leave lasting marks on your life. Like the fearless, wildly eccentric 70-year-old woman who wandered through Asia like she owned the place. Brilliant one moment. Totally unpredictable the next. A reminder that courage has no age limit. Some connections last. Some don't. But all of them matter. Why This Conversation Mattered What I loved most about Melissa is her honesty. She's not a "perfect Instagram traveler." She's real. Curious. Thoughtful. Sometimes uncomfortable. Always growing. Her stories remind us that: You don't have to be fearless to be adventurous You don't have to be perfect to be inspiring And you never know which stranger will change you That's life. That's travel. That's storytelling.  Final Thought If you love travel stories, human connection, honest conversations, and a good laugh (and you know I do!), The People You Meet is for you. And if you missed our chat, don't worry—here's the podcast of our conversation so you can come along for the ride. Because in a world that moves fast, stories like this remind us why slowing down, paying attention, and connecting still matters. Onward! Debbie

    15 min
  3. 12/15/2025

    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
  4. 12/09/2025

    "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
  5. 11/17/2025

    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
  6. 11/12/2025

    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
  7. 11/12/2025

    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
  8. 10/29/2025

    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

Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
4 Ratings

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!