Older Women & Friends: Stories of Aging Well

Jane Leder
  • 4.6 (27)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Join Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women and host of "Older Women & Friends: Stories of Aging Well, a podcast dedicated to celebrating the stories, wisdom, and experiences of older women navigating life and purpose. Award-winning author Jane Leder and guests take a deep dive into the joys and challenges of being an older woman. "Older Women & Friends" is a podcast that sets the record straight, dispels the myths, explores the many contributions older women make, and the wisdom they have earned and are anxious to share. Older women know a thing or two about living with a keen sense of wonder and an abiding appreciation for the gift of longevity. So, it's time to change the perception that the gig is almost up when, in truth, the second wave of the journey has just begun.

  1. The Cure to Loneliness May Be In Your Closet: Aging Well Through Style, Confidence, & Connection with Mollie Kaye

    MAR 19

    The Cure to Loneliness May Be In Your Closet: Aging Well Through Style, Confidence, & Connection with Mollie Kaye

    In this thought-provoking and uplifting episode of “Older Women and Friends,” host Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women, sits down with singer, writer, and vintage fashion enthusiast Mollie Kaye for a powerful conversation about loneliness, visibility, personal expression, and the surprising ways older women can create meaningful connections in everyday life. As many women move through midlife and beyond, they often face new challenges, including social isolation, changing identities, retirement transitions, and a sense of becoming invisible in a culture that tends to prioritize youth. In this episode, Mollie shares her deeply personal story of confronting loneliness after turning 50 and discovering an unexpected path toward connection and community. Her journey began with a simple yet creative experiment: every Tuesday, she dressed in elegant, vintage-inspired 1950s clothing while running everyday errands. What started as a fun personal challenge quickly evolved into something much bigger. Strangers began stopping her to talk, compliment her outfits, share their own memories, and start spontaneous conversations. These small moments of interaction revealed something profound — self-expression can become a powerful bridge to human connection. 🎧 In This Episode You’ll Discover:Why loneliness and social isolation are increasingly common for older adultsHow personal style and self-expression can create unexpected human connectionsThe psychological benefits of being visible and authentic at any ageHow creativity and individuality support confidence and emotional well-beingWhy older women often feel overlooked—and how to reclaim visibility and voicePractical ways to build community, friendships, and meaningful interactions in everyday lifeHow embracing uniqueness can help people age with purpose, joy, and confidenceWhether you are an older woman navigating life after midlife, someone supporting aging parents, or simply interested in the evolving conversation around aging well, social connection, and personal empowerment, this episode offers inspiration, practical insights, and a fresh perspective on how we can stay connected and engaged at every stage. https://www.instagram.com/reels/C9imhzayMAQ/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mollie-kaye-expression-bridge-connection-9oise/ https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=mollie+kaye

    42 min
  2. Aging Freely: Rethinking Growing Older As Something to Embrace, Not To Resist w/ Kat Miller

    MAR 5

    Aging Freely: Rethinking Growing Older As Something to Embrace, Not To Resist w/ Kat Miller

    "Without IMPERNANCE There Is No Expansion" - Kat Miller Welcome to Older Women and Friends, where host Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women, meets fascinating women who are redefining what it means to grow older with wisdom, independence, and purpose. In this powerful episode, Jane talks with psychotherapist Kat Miller, who challenges everything that we think we know about aging. While many believe aging means decline and loss, Kat offers a radical and refreshing perspective: aging can be a path to cognitive expansion, emotional depth, freedom, and joy. Together, Kat and Jane explore how ageism shapes our cultural beliefs — and how older women themselves often internalize harmful stereotypes about aging. Kat explains why breaking free from ageism is the first step toward “aging freely,” and how natural declines in speed, energy, and independence can actually create growth in wisdom, adaptability, clarity, and meaningful connection. This episode dives into: The hidden benefits of cognitive slowing and expanded thinkingWhy impermanence can bring peace instead of fearHow aging reshapes independence and deepens relationshipsWhy talking about impermanence can help us relax and improve the quality of our lives. Jane and Kat also discuss purpose after retirement, redefining self-care in later years, and how older women can embrace their changing energy, shifting priorities, and evolving roles with confidence. If you’ve ever wondered: Is aging really all loss?How do I prepare emotionally for later life?What does aging well actually mean?How can I live with more freedom and less fear? This conversation invites you to rethink aging — not as something to resist, but as something to inhabit fully. Because aging isn’t the end of becoming — it’s a new chapter of becoming wiser, freer, and more fully yourself. Author Field Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women www.agefreely.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibVcoFUfItI https://mariashriver.com/collection/games/

    34 min
  3. Solo Agers: Older Americans Living Alone w/ Sara Zeff Geber

    FEB 19

    Solo Agers: Older Americans Living Alone w/ Sara Zeff Geber

    Join me and guest Sara Zeph Geber, an expert on solo aging, as we discuss the growing number of adults 50+ choosing to live independently. This episode explores the opportunities and challenges of aging without immediate family support, offering insights into financial planning, healthcare, social connections, and building intentional communities. Sara and I highlight the positives of solo aging, including independence, flexibility, and emotional well-being, while providing practical advice for older women seeking a purposeful, secure, and fulfilling life in later years. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarazeffgeber/ https://sarazeffgeber.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGvgGw7la5w

    34 min
  4. Grandma Luge: Olympic Athlete Anne Abernathy on Aging, Resilience, and Defying Limits

    FEB 5

    Grandma Luge: Olympic Athlete Anne Abernathy on Aging, Resilience, and Defying Limits

    #aging #older women #wisdom #resilience #self-care #determination #purpose #courage If you watch the Winter Olympics, you have seen and heard about luge, a sport where athletes race down an icy track on a small sled, lying on their backs with their feet pointing forward, reaching speeds over 90 mph.   At age 34, today’s guest, Anne Abernathy, set the record as the oldest female to compete in luge at the Winter Olympic Games. But that wasn’t the ending of her career. She made the US Virgin Islands’ luge team six more times. At age 63, Anne was the oldest woman to compete in the sport at the Olympics. And just for the heck of it, she honed her archery skills.   As you might have guessed, Anne’s journey was not trouble-free, far from it. She was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma just before her first Winter Olympic Games; she’s had twenty knee operations, too many broken bones to count, and her home was demolished in a hurricane.   So, the question remains: What drives a star athlete to continue competing against all odds, and what has Anne learned about herself and the process of getting older? Takeaways Anne Abernathy set the record as the oldest female luge competitor. She faced numerous challenges, including cancer and serious injuries. Her background in music helped her cope with the pressures of competition. Anne discovered luge during a trip to Lake Placid, New York. She trained for three years before competing in her first Olympics. Despite being told she couldn't train due to cancer, she persevered and competed in six Olympics. Anne's serious brain injury led to a unique recovery process. She transitioned to archery after retiring from luge and continues to compete. Aging has provided Anne with a wealth of experience and knowledge. She believes that getting older is liberating, not limiting. https://anneabernathy.com/ https://www.facebook.com/anne.abernathy1/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-abernathy-709213/

    32 min
  5. Who Is That Woman Behind The Mic? w/ Jane Leder

    JAN 22

    Who Is That Woman Behind The Mic? w/ Jane Leder

    I've been asked a zillion times to do an episode about me and to answer many of the same questions I ask guests. Listeners (now viewers, too) are curious about who I am, how I started a podcast, the books I've written, the experience of losing a brother to suicide, and life as an 80-year-old. It's taken me three years to get to this solo episode, not because I underestimated the value, but because of all the stellar guests I've been privileged to interview. It is so exciting to share the stories of older women who are out there living what some call the Third Act with enthusiasm, joie de vivre, and wisdom. I'd love you to send me a comment on janeleder.net. What questions remain about me and my journey? It's been quite a ride! Takeaways Jane started podcasting at 77, driven by curiosity. She learned the technical aspects of podcasting through trial and error. Aging can be vibrant and fulfilling, contrary to stereotypes. Humor plays a crucial role in coping with aging. Making mistakes is a natural part of learning at any age. Writing helped Jane process her grief over her brother's death. Sibling relationships can be complex and challenging. Jane's books explore deep emotional themes and personal connections. Teaching shaped Jane's perspective on storytelling and learning. Engaging with others through podcasts has been a joy for Jane.  Titles A Journey into Podcasting at 77 Vitality and Humor in Aging Sound bites "I want to be a podcaster." "It's okay to make mistakes." "Humor is key to aging." Chapters 00:00 The Birth of a Podcaster 05:12 Embracing Aging and Vitality 10:52 Reflections on Life and Learning 15:33 The Journey of Writing and Healing 22:36 A Life of Teaching and Storytelling janeleder.net https://youtube.com@olderwomenandfriends

    27 min
  6. Keep The Memories & Not The Stuff: Rightsizing w/ Jeannine Bryant

    JAN 8

    Keep The Memories & Not The Stuff: Rightsizing w/ Jeannine Bryant

    When I think about moving from a home that my husband and I have shared for 32 years, I break out in a cold sweat. There's the kitchen with its overabundance of antique bowls and gadgets, my great-grandmother's china, my office with decades worth of my books, research materials, and file folders. And then there's my husband's studio with . . . Well, don't get me started. So this is where Jeannine Bryant can help save the day. She's a senior move manager who owns her own company and knows all about helping seniors or their sons and daughters. Well, let's face it, we're talking daughters. She helps find that place between too much and too little, and how we can keep the memories and not the stuff.  Takeaways Moving can be an emotional experience, especially after many years in one home. Women often take on the responsibility of organizing family belongings. Right-sizing is a more positive approach than downsizing. It's never too late to start decluttering and organizing. Discussing death and planning ahead can ease the burden on loved ones. Family experiences can motivate proactive planning for one's own belongings. Start decluttering with easy items to build momentum. Keepsakes should be displayed or used to bring joy. Gifting items to loved ones can create meaningful memories. Resources like senior move managers can provide valuable assistance.  Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Moving 02:57 The Role of Women in Family Organization 05:45 Understanding Right-Sizing vs. Downsizing 08:43 The Importance of Early Planning 11:38 Confronting the Topic of Death 14:41 The Value of Proactive Planning 17:36 Practical Steps to Declutter 20:40 Making Decisions on Keepsakes 23:42 Gifting and Sharing Memories 26:43 Planning for a Move 29:47 Connecting with Seniors 32:53 Resources for Moving and Decluttering https://easyrightsizing.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChNA775OFJQif29NHbfuovw https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanninebryant/ https://www.amazon.com/s?k=jeannine+bryant&crid=13KK34II4WFGS&sprefix=Jeannine+Bry%2Caps%2C91&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_12_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker

    36 min
  7. The Midlife Gals Gone Gray, w/ sisters Kelly and Sally Jackson

    12/18/2025

    The Midlife Gals Gone Gray, w/ sisters Kelly and Sally Jackson

    Kelly Jackson, 73, and Sally, 75, are sisters who have lived together without husbands or children for almost 20 years. They reconnected as live-in caregivers for their mother, and during the four years they cared for her, they turned to blogging and short videos to keep their spirits up. They used the handle, "Midlife Gal's Gone Gray," and their mission was to ensure that women in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond never stop laughing. After a decade living in Honolulu, the sisters are back on the mainland, intending to become senior social media influencers. With over 300,000 viewers on their platforms and thousands of likes, shares, and subscribers, I'm betting on their success. Chapters 00:25 Introduction and First Impressions 00:48 Sisters Reunited: A Journey Begins 10:25 Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics 17:16 Caring for Mom: A New Chapter 23:06 Finding Laughter in Life's Challenges 28:40 Political Humor and Social Media Aspirations 30:26 Words of Wisdom for Older Women "We're two sisters, old as dirt and bold as brass. Reality at its most bizarre." Takeaways The sisters had a non-traditional upbringing with a mother who was not very maternal. They decided to care for their mother when they realized she needed help. Laughter and humor are essential for coping with life's challenges. Moving to Hawaii was a significant turning point in their lives. They found creative outlets to express themselves and cope with caregiving. The importance of sibling relationships and shared experiences is highlighted. Aging can be navigated with humor and creativity. They reflect on their childhood memories and how they shaped their lives. The sisters emphasize the importance of finding joy in everyday life. Wisdom gained from experiences can be shared with others, especially older women. https://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeGalsGoneGrayINF/shorts   https://www.youtube.com/@TheMidlifeGalsGoneGrayINF/shorts https://www.tiktok.com/@themidlifegalsgonegray https://www.instagram.com/sallyjackson5848/?hl=en I'm now up on YouTube. You can watch this episode at  https://youtu.be/72wGKcF6m4U

    32 min
  8. Improv Wisdom: Don't Prepare, Just Show Up with Patricia Ryan Madson

    12/04/2025

    Improv Wisdom: Don't Prepare, Just Show Up with Patricia Ryan Madson

    In this conversation, Patricia Madson, a drama professor emeritus and author, shares her journey from a curious and adventurous child to a seasoned educator in improvisation. She discusses the importance of embracing mistakes, the transformative power of improvisation in personal and professional life, and the significance of finding purpose and gratitude in everyday experiences. Patricia also introduces Eastern philosophies that emphasize self-reflection and proactive living, encouraging listeners to appreciate the interconnectedness of their lives and the people who have influenced them. You can go to her website: https://improvwisdom.com/bio.html Order "Improv Wisdom" on that site or go to Amazon and all other online book stores My friend and fellow podcaster, Wendy Green, is the host of "Boomer Banter." heyboomer.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-green-heyboomerpodcast/ https://heyboomer.biz/podcast/

    30 min
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4.6
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

Join Jane Leder | Aging Well Advocate for Older Women and host of "Older Women & Friends: Stories of Aging Well, a podcast dedicated to celebrating the stories, wisdom, and experiences of older women navigating life and purpose. Award-winning author Jane Leder and guests take a deep dive into the joys and challenges of being an older woman. "Older Women & Friends" is a podcast that sets the record straight, dispels the myths, explores the many contributions older women make, and the wisdom they have earned and are anxious to share. Older women know a thing or two about living with a keen sense of wonder and an abiding appreciation for the gift of longevity. So, it's time to change the perception that the gig is almost up when, in truth, the second wave of the journey has just begun.

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