The Not Old - Better Show

Paul Vogelzang
The Not Old - Better Show

The Not Old – Better Show is a radio show that is broadcast over the Internet using podcast technology discussing the hottest issues and topics that fascinate and inform those 50+ age Americans and are of interest and concern to boomers. Not Old – Better viewers and listeners can “tune in” whenever they want, giving them the freedom to enjoy the show in the gym, in the car, at home or work. A SHOW FOR THOSE 50+, BY THOSE 50+ Talk About Better®

  1. The Demise of Thomas Becket – Power, Betrayal, and 12th Century True Crime

    DEC 10

    The Demise of Thomas Becket – Power, Betrayal, and 12th Century True Crime

    Welcome to today’s Smithsonian Associates Interview Series episode here on The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast.  Where we journey back to the 12th century, a time when power, faith, and politics collided in a deadly struggle that changed the course of history. On December 20, 1170, the hallowed halls of Canterbury Cathedral bore witness to one of the most shocking and notorious murders of the Middle Ages. Archbishop Thomas Becket was brutally slain by four knights of King Henry II—a death that reverberated far beyond the walls of the cathedral and into the heart of medieval Europe. But who was Thomas Becket, and why did his life—and death—provoke such controversy? Once a trusted confidant of King Henry II, Becket was handpicked for the role of Archbishop of Canterbury, a move the king believed would solidify royal control over the church. Instead, Becket became an unwavering defender of ecclesiastical independence, defying the king at every turn. Their friendship turned to enmity, their alliance to discord, and their rivalry set the stage for one of history’s most infamous political disputes. Today, we have the privilege of welcoming Smithsonian Associate Dr. Jennifer Paxton, a distinguished historian, professor, and expert in medieval history, to delve into this riveting tale. Dr. Paxton will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up, so please check our show notes for more details on her presentation titled, ‘The Murder of Thomas Becket.’’ She’ll guide us through the personal and political reasons behind Becket’s downfall, the unintended consequences of his murder—including the rise of his sainthood and the spread of his cult—and how this tragedy sparked a legacy immortalized in literature, art, and drama. From the cultural significance of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales to the political resonance of Jean Anouilh’s 20th-century play, Becket’s story has transcended time and borders, continuing to captivate and inspire. Prepare to explore a tale of loyalty and betrayal, of the sacred versus the secular, and of a man whose violent death transformed him into one of the most celebrated saints of the medieval world. So, sit back and join us as we unravel the fascinating, tragic, and enduring story of Thomas Becket—martyr, saint, and a lightning rod for the ages. My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. Jennifer Paxton.  Dr. Paxton will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up, so please check our show notes for more details on her presentation titled, ‘The Murder of Thomas Becket.’’ My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to our Executive Producer Sam Heninger. My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better.  The Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on The Not Old Better Show available on terrestrial radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next time.  For more information, please check out Smithsonian Associates:  https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/thomas-becket

    22 min

  2. DEC 6

    Finding Joy in Life’s Darkest Moments: A Conversation with Steven Petrow

    Hello and welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Asscociates Interview Series on radio and podcast. Today we celebrate the joys and challenges of life after 50 with inspiring stories, insightful conversations, and plenty of good cheer. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss. We’ve all felt the weight of life’s disappointments—unexpected losses, the heartbreak of saying goodbye to loved ones, or even the relentless stress of a world in turmoil. It’s in those darkest moments that joy can seem impossibly out of reach. But what if joy isn’t something we find only in bright, happy times? What if it’s something we can discover, nurture, and even create in the midst of life’s struggles? Joining us today is someone who has done just that. Author, columnist, Smithsonian Associate Steven Petrow is a celebrated journalist, essayist, and author whose work has graced the pages of The Washington Post and The New York Times. Steven Petrow will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up.  Please check out our show notes for more details and Smithsonian links, but we have Steven Petrow today.  He is known for his poignant reflections on aging, health, and civility. But Steven’s latest book, The Joy You Make: Find the Silver Linings—Even on Your Darkest Days, is perhaps his most personal and uplifting work yet. Steven isn’t just talking theory here—he’s lived this truth. After losing both of his parents in the same year, navigating the heartbreak of divorce, and watching his sister battle a terminal illness, Steven embarked on a deeply personal journey to understand joy. What he discovered was life-changing: that joy isn’t the same as happiness, and that it can be found even in the most unlikely places. In our conversation today, Steven will share moving stories from his own life, wisdom from experts he interviewed, and practical ways we can all cultivate joy—whether it’s through connecting with others, embracing gratitude, or finding humor in the little things. My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Steven Petrow for his generous time today.  Please check out our show notes for more details and Smithsonian links, about Steven Petrow and his new book, The Joy You Make: Find the Silver Linings—Even on Your Darkest Days.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to Sam Heninger for his work here. My thanks to you, our wonderful audience on radio and pdocast.  Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better®.  The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associatesinterview series. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    25 min

  3. DEC 2

    A Modern Epic: Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude with Smithsonian Associate Dr. Joseph Luzzi

    Welcome, everyone, to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today, we’re stepping into the mesmerizing, kaleidoscopic world of Gabriel García Márquez’s literary masterpiece, One Hundred Years of Solitude with our guest, author, academic, presenter and Smithsonian Associate Dr. Joseph Luzzi.  Dr. Luzzi will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up.  We’ll be disussing winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, One Hundred Years of Solitude. This isn’t just a novel—it’s a phenomenon. With its spellbinding blend of magic and reality, this epic tale of the Buendía family and their fabled fictional town of Macondo has touched millions of readers around the globe. It’s a story about family, love, history, and the haunting legacy of colonialism, told through the extraordinary lens of García Márquez’s imagination. Guiding us through this literary treasure is none other than Smithsonian Associate Dr. Joseph Luzzi, an acclaimed professor of literature at Bard College, a Yale PhD, and an expert on world literature. Dr. Luzzi will help us uncover the secrets behind the novel’s universal appeal, its innovative use of magical realism, and the way it redefines the idea of an epic for the modern age. Whether you’re discovering One Hundred Years of Solitudefor the first time or revisiting it with fresh eyes, today’s discussion promises to inspire, enlighten, and perhaps even rekindle your love for one of the greatest novels of the 20th century. My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. Joseph Luzzi.  Dr. Luzzi will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up.  Please check out our web site for more details. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to executive producer Sam Heninger.  My thanks to you our wonderful Smithsonian Associates audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe, and let’s talk about better.  The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody.  We’ll see you next week.  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    24 min

  4. NOV 29

    “Nerding Out on Nutrition: How Good Food Makes Good Health Possible” with Laura Iu

    Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Healthy Living series. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and it’s great to have you with us today! If you’ve ever felt like food is your enemy—whether it’s battling guilt over your choices, struggling to stick with a diet, or feeling overwhelmed by conflicting health advice—you’re not alone. Today’s guest, Laura Iu, is here to offer a fresh perspective on how food can be a source of joy, nourishment, and healing. Laura Iu is a registered dietitian, certified intuitive eating counselor, yoga teacher, and a passionate advocate for changing the way we think about nutrition. With a focus on breaking free from the diet mentality, Laura empowers her clients to reconnect with their bodies, embrace all foods guilt-free, and prioritize health at every size. She’s also an expert on the fascinating gut-brain connection and how what we eat can affect not just our physical health, but our mood, memory, and overall mental well-being.   Additionally, Laura Iu is a. Prevention Medical Review Board Member and spends her days helping clients understand all that and more. Here, she shares some wisdom about sustainable healthy eating as a powerful tool. In today’s conversation, Laura shares her journey from premed student to nutrition expert, the science of intuitive eating, and practical ways to embrace sustainable, healthy habits—no calorie counting or juice cleanses required!  Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, looking to improve your relationship with food, or simply curious about the power of nutrition to transform your health, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and get ready for an insightful discussion on how good food truly makes good health possible. And now, let’s welcome our guest, Laura Iu, to The Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Interview Series. My thanks to Laura Iu, Prevention Magazine and Executive Producer Sam Heninger. My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better.  The Not Old Better Show Prevention Magazine Healthy Living Series on radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next time. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    24 min

  5. NOV 21

    Rebel Heart: Ellen R.B. Smith on Finding Strength, Laughter, and Belonging in a Turbulent Youth

    Welcome to The Not Old Better Show’s Art of Living series. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today we’re about to dive into a remarkable story of resilience, humor, and self-discovery. Our guest is Ellen R.B. Smith, author of a deeply personal and captivating new memoir that chronicles her coming-of-age journey amid societal upheaval. From an idyllic childhood that took a sudden turn after her parents’ divorce to being labeled a "troublemaker" by her small town, Ellen’s story is raw, honest, and ultimately inspiring. But beneath the rebellious exterior is a young soul grappling with loneliness, searching for acceptance, and learning how to stand up for herself—often through laughter, tears, and unexpected friendship. This isn’t just a memoir; it’s a celebration of resilience, inclusion, and the unbreakable bonds we forge in life’s most challenging moments. With wit and poignancy, Ellen shows us how life's struggles can become stepping stones, and how even the darkest times hold the potential for growth. Today, Ellen will share why she wrote this memoir—not for revenge, but to offer hope to those struggling in broken homes, feeling like outsiders, or just trying to find their place in the world. Whether it’s the hilarity of youthful escapades or the weight of profound realizations, Ellen’s story serves as a powerful reminder that we’re all a work in progress. And sometimes, the most important lessons are hidden beneath the surface of a good joke. So, get ready for a conversation filled with laughter, insight, and inspiration. I’m thrilled to welcome Ellen R.B. Smith to The Not Old Better Show. My thanks to Ellen Smith for her generous time today.  My thanks to Executive Producer Sam Heninger for all his work in keeping our show as good as it is, and as good as it can be.  My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and let’s talk about better.  The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. We’ll see you next time.   Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    27 min

  6. NOV 18

    AI Revolution or Invasion? Charles Ferguson on the Future We Can’t Ignore

    Welcome to The Not Old – Better Show, Technology Interview Series on radio and podcast, where we explore ideas that matter to those who are 50 and older, encouraging discovery, adventure, and learning.  Today’s episode promises to be one of our most insightful yet, as we delve into a topic shaping our world at lightning speed: artificial intelligence.  Our guest is Charles Ferguson, the co-founder of PromptPerfect, a pioneering company in AI innovation that is making waves with its cutting-edge tools designed to enhance how we interact with AI. Charles has been at the forefront of developing AI solutions that are not only powerful but also accessible, especially for small businesses and individuals who might just be stepping into the AI landscape. In this conversation, we’re going to cover a lot of ground—from what AI actually is and how it can be useful, to whether we should be wary of its rapid rise. Charles will offer insights on how tools like PromptPerfect work, why he believes AI is a vital tool for growth, and how you, our listeners, can embrace AI in your daily lives, whether for personal projects or small business ventures. With AI becoming more prevalent in everything from healthcare to marketing, this episode is for everyone who’s curious, cautious, or just eager to understand where AI is headed and how it can be a force for good—especially for those who might feel left behind in the digital age. So, sit back, enjoy the conversation, and let’s learn together. Join me in welcoming our guest today, co founder of PromptPerfect, Charles Ferguson My thanks to all, Charles Ferguson, Sam Heningerand our wonderful audience on radio and podcast.  Be well, be safe and let’s talk about better.  The Not Old Better Show. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    33 min

  7. NOV 14

    Secrets, Scandal, and Conflict: Robert Harris on Precipice and the Affair that Shook a Nation

    Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, on radio and podcast, I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang. Today, we’re diving into a world on the verge of collapse—where passion, politics, and peril collide in the summer of 1914. The world was inching toward the Great War, and in the heart of Britain, secrets were being exchanged that could have changed everything. Our guest today is the brilliant Robert Harris, whose latest novel, available on Apple Books, Precipice, masterfully intertwines history and fiction to bring this harrowing moment to life. Harris, renowned for his storytelling and meticulous research, takes us inside a clandestine affair between the British Prime Minister, H. H. Asquith, and the young, aristocratic Venetia Stanley. But this is far more than a tale of forbidden love—it's a thriller that exposes the fragility of power, the dangerous intersection of personal and political, and how the secrets of a single woman could threaten an entire nation. In Precipice, Robert Harris paints a vivid portrait of a society on the brink, capturing not just the politics but the people whose choices echo through history. Today, we’ll discuss the extraordinary research behind this novel, the real-life affair that could have toppled a government, and the timeless lessons it offers for our world today.   We’ll also discuss ‘CONCLAVE’film is releasing in theaters in early November.  The adaptation of Harris’ book, starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini. My thanks to Robert Harris, author of the new book, Precipice, available at Apple Books.  Remember, Robert Harris also authored ‘CONCLAVE’film is releasing in theaters in early November.  The adaptation of Harris’ book, starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini.  Check it out. My thanks to our wonderful executive producer Sam Heninger.  My thanks to you our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast, Be well, be safe and Let’s Talk About Better™. The Not Old Better Show.  Thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    25 min

  8. NOV 7

    Churchill’s Citadel: The Secret Meetings at Chartwell that Shaped History - Smithsonian Associate, Katherine Carter

    Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associatesseries on radio and podcast. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode takes us to the heart of one of history’s most critical periods—a time when the future of Europe, and the world, hung in the balance.  But rather than battlefields or the halls of power, our story today begins in the quiet countryside of Kent, England, at a place called Chartwell—the beloved home of Winston Churchill. In the 1930s, Churchill was not the wartime hero we know today. Churchill was a man out of government, politically isolated, and with few allies. Yet, it was at Chartwell, far from the center of British politics, that Churchill launched his most crucial campaign—sounding the alarm against Nazi Germany. It was here, behind closed doors, that he convened with great minds and trusted advisers—figures like Albert Einstein, T. E. Lawrence, and even American diplomat Joseph Kennedy—seeking intelligence, building alliances, and preparing for the storm he knew was coming. But we have Katherine Carter today and we’ll talk about Churchill’s Chartwell.  Katherine Carter knows Chartwell better than anyone. She’s spent over a decade managing the house and its remarkable collections. Katherine joins us to discuss her latest book, available at Apple Books, Churchill’s Citadel: Chartwell and the Gatherings Before the Storm. In this fascinating work, Katherine Carterunveils the little-known meetings that took place there and the critical influence they had on Churchill’s eventual rise to power and the course of history. Get ready to explore the untold stories of Churchill’s quiet yet powerful citadel. And now, let’s welcome Katherine Carter to The Not Old Better Show. Stay tuned! You won’t want to miss this incredible look into a pivotal moment in history. My thanks to Katherine Carter, her generosity today, and her wonderful new book Churchill’s Citadel.  Katherine Carter will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates and the title of her presentation is ‘Churchill At Chartwell,’  please check out our show notes today for details about Catherine Carter at Smithsonian Associates.  My thanks to Smithsonian for their ongoing support of the show and for all they do.  My thanks to Executive Producer Sam Heninger, his work on sound design and making the show the success it is.  My thanks to all of you online and via terrestrial radio.  Be well, be safe an let’s talk about better!  The Not Old Better Show.  Thanks everyone and we’ll see you next time.  Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    26 min
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4.7
out of 5
101 Ratings

About

The Not Old – Better Show is a radio show that is broadcast over the Internet using podcast technology discussing the hottest issues and topics that fascinate and inform those 50+ age Americans and are of interest and concern to boomers. Not Old – Better viewers and listeners can “tune in” whenever they want, giving them the freedom to enjoy the show in the gym, in the car, at home or work. A SHOW FOR THOSE 50+, BY THOSE 50+ Talk About Better®

Information

  • Creator
    Paul Vogelzang
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2024
  • Episodes
    858
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 The Not Old - Better Show
  • Show Website
    The Not Old - Better Show

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