How to Age Up

Sarah Ray, a professor at Cal Poly Humboldt and author of 'A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety,' dives into the complexities of aging in the face of climate change. She discusses how climate anxiety affects younger generations and offers strategies to combat feelings of despair. The conversation also highlights the importance of community support and collective action in fostering resilience. Ray and the hosts explore how embracing hope can empower individuals to tackle environmental challenges together.

In this discussion, Dr. Kiran Rabheru, a distinguished geriatric psychiatrist from the University of Ottawa, confronts the World Health Organization's controversial classification of old age as a disease. He passionately argues against ageism and emphasizes the importance of respecting and understanding the aging population. With over 40 years of experience, Rabheru shares insights on the societal perceptions of aging and the necessity for research focused on improving quality of life for older adults. His thoughts inspire a re-evaluation of how we view growing old.

Eunice Nichols, Co-CEO of CoGenerate, has dedicated over twenty years to fostering intergenerational partnerships. In this conversation, she discusses the growing demographic shift toward an older society and the need for connections between generations. Eunice highlights the challenges and advantages of bridging age gaps, sharing personal anecdotes about fostering community ties. She also explores how collaboration can tackle contemporary issues like economic instability and climate change, and emphasizes the importance of shifting cultural perspectives on aging.

Food trends are constantly changing, so can people commit to a long-term nutrition practice? Kera Nyemb-Diop says yes. She is a nutrition scientist focused on breaking down the “rules” of what people think they should eat and focusing instead on being responsive to how our needs change over the course of a life. Co-hosts Yasmin Tayag and Natalie Brennan reconsider their own food habits and which practices are worth hanging on to for the long haul. How do you think about aging? Please leave us a voicemail (at 202-266-7701) with your name, your age, and your answers to the following questions: What aspects of aging are you nervous about? What are you looking forward to as you age? Who do you hope to be like when you are older? Is there someone in your life who has made you excited about getting older? Leaving a voicemail means that you are consenting to the possibility of The Atlantic using your audio in a future episode of How To. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Karen Adams, an OBGYN and director of the Stanford Program in Menopause and Healthy Aging, offers a refreshing perspective on aging, particularly for women. She illuminates the empowering aspects of menopause, challenges societal beauty standards, and advocates for a focus on health and well-being. Dr. Adams emphasizes that aging can bring newfound freedom and clarity. With insights on hormone therapy and personal growth, she encourages women to embrace their journeys, rethinking aging as a valuable chapter in life.

Timothy Caulfield, a professor and research director at the Health Law Institute at the University of Alberta, tackles the quest for longevity in today's wellness culture. He discusses the rise of biohacking and its misleading health claims, urging a more critical approach to health information. Caulfield emphasizes adopting balanced lifestyles over extreme diets and the importance of community support in navigating health uncertainties. He also highlights the anxiety surrounding health control and the role of education in promoting critical thinking.

This season delves into our evolving views on aging and the cultural obsession with defying it. Co-hosts discuss the importance of community and intergenerational bonds in reshaping how we experience aging. They explore the beauty of accepting mortality and challenge listeners to embrace aging positively. The conversation also invites reflections on personal fears and aspirations related to growing older, encouraging a mindset shift that sees aging as a journey worth celebrating.

Ty Tashiro, a social scientist and author of "Awkward," dives into the intriguing world of small talk and social anxiety. He discusses practical strategies for overcoming barriers to conversation, especially in everyday settings like hair salons. Personal anecdotes reveal the balance between light banter and meaningful exchanges. The importance of genuine curiosity in initiating dialogue shines through as Tashiro emphasizes how small talk can pave the way for deeper connections, despite its inherent awkwardness.

Lori Gottlieb, a psychotherapist and author of the best-selling book "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone," joins host Arthur Brooks to unravel the complexities of joy. They discuss how to identify personal sources of happiness, emphasizing the importance of emotional management and self-reflection. The conversation examines the multifaceted nature of happiness, the connection between suffering and gratitude, and the vital role of daily connections. Listeners are encouraged to embrace both joy and sorrow for a more fulfilling life.

Oliver Burkeman, a journalist and author specializing in productivity, shares profound insights into the cultural obsession with time and efficiency. He discusses the negative impact of technology on our perception of time and the importance of embracing stillness instead of constant activity. Burkeman explains the significance of patience, particularly in parenting, and how mindfulness can help navigate the pressures of a fast-paced lifestyle. He encourages listeners to reclaim joy and meaningful relationships, challenging the guilt associated with downtime.