JoySpan: How to Live Longer, Healthier, and Happier with Gerontologist Dr. Kerry Burnight

8 snips

Dec 11, 2025

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

We spend so much time trying not to age… but the real question isn’t how not to age — it’s how can we age well?

In this heartfelt conversation of the HEAL with Kelly Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Kerry Burnight, leading Gerontologist and author of the bestselling book Joyspan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half, to explore what it truly means to live a long, meaningful, and joy-filled life. We talk about how to expand not just your lifespan or healthspan, but your joyspan— the quality of your days, your relationships, and your inner life.

Dr. Kerry shares inspiring insights on how joy differs from happiness, why internalized ageism keeps us from thriving, and how autonomy, purpose, and connection become essential nutrients as we grow older. We also talk about what really matters at the end of life — and how to start cultivating it right now, no matter your age.

A beautiful reminder that aging isn’t something to fear—it’s a sacred invitation to grow, love, and live more fully.

Key Moments You'll Love ✨:

🌟 [0:00] The Fountain of Youth is Actually Joy

📖 [2:30] How Joy Span Was Born From Elder Abuse Work

🌱 [8:45] The Four Pillars: Grow, Connect, Adapt & Give

🍕 [15:10] The Pizza Delivery Story: Problem Solving at 90

💝 [17:15] Connection & The Five Rings of Friendship

🧠 [24:07] Adapting Through Crisis: The Brain Tumor Story

🎯 [30:05] The Power of Purpose & Giving What You Have

🔄 [39:45] Internalized Ageism & The Silver Tsunami Myth

👨‍👩‍👧 [47:26] Building Your Village & Proactive Connection

🛏️ [53:56] Autonomy vs Safety: The Hospital Bed Lesson

LINKS

Dr. Kerry Burnight’s website: https://drkerryburnight.com/

Dr. Kerry Burnight on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_gerontologist/

Joyspan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life's Second Half book: https://amzn.to/4o5AOqM

Shop my Swell Score Storefront and get 20% off with code HEAL20.

And if you want deeper, year-round savings, join their Wellness VIP Membership.

Use code HWK to get a $25 gift card added automatically, plus enjoy 15–25% savings on purchases throughout the year.