The Not Old - Better Show

Welcome to the Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. I’m Paul Vogelzang.   The Academy Awards are Hollywood’s grandest night—the moment when months of speculation, surprise wins, and snubs all culminate in one golden evening. And this year, the road to Oscar glory has been anything but predictable.   Was Anora’s big night at the Critics Choice, DGA, and PGA the ultimate confirmation that it’s the Best Picture frontrunner, or is there still room for a shocking upset? Will Sean Baker walk away with Best Director, or could someone else—maybe The Brutalist’s Brady Corbet or Emilia Pérez’s Jacques Audiard—steal the moment? And what about Wicked, which just had a stunning, completely unexpected win for Jon M. Chu at the Critics Choice Awards? Could the musical blockbuster actually shake up the race?   From underdog stories to behind-the-scenes drama, tonight, we’re unpacking all the Oscar buzz with film critic Smithsonian Associate Noah Gittell. Noah Gittell will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up…please check out our show notes today for more details. He’s been following every twist and turn of this year’s awards season, sorting through the narratives, the rumors, and the history that tell us where the Oscars might be headed. Plus, he’s got the trivia and insights that will make sure you’re the most informed person at your Oscars party.   It’s a night of predictions, controversy, and maybe even a little Hollywood gossip. So, sit back and enjoy—this is going to be a fun one. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and this is The Not Old – Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. My thanks to  Smithsonian Associate Noah Gittell. Noah Gittell will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up…please check out our show notes today for more details. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to help us here on the show. My thanks to Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for their help producing and directing me, and my thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast. Be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better,  Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show. Today’s show is sponsored by Acorns. Acorns makes it easy for everyone to start saving and investing I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss. Have you ever felt the pull of a dream you’ve carried for years, perhaps even decades? A quiet calling, whispering to you in the rare stillness of life. It might be the book you’ve longed to write, the song you’ve yet to sing, or the project that feels like it’s waiting just for you. But somewhere along the way, guilt crept in—guilt that told you to set it aside, that other responsibilities mattered more. Our guest today, Tamara Protasso Adams, is here to tell you something radical: that guilt? It’s not yours to carry. Tamara is a champion of intuition, imagination, and reclaiming the dreams we’ve been told to silence. Her message is as empowering as it is transformative: those secret dreams are not indulgent—they are the key to your fulfillment. Tamara will share how societal systems, like the patriarchy, quietly push us to abandon our personal passions, convincing us that service to others or productivity must always come first. But she’ll also reveal how imagination and intuition can help us break free, reigniting our sense of purpose. Whether you’ve told yourself it’s too late, or you’ve struggled to give yourself permission to start, this conversation will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to take that first step toward a dream that refuses to let you go. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare to rediscover your own creative power. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and this is The Not Old Better Show Thanks to Acorns for sponsoring today’s show: The Not Old Better Show. Acorns. ..I’Acorns makes it easy for everyone to start saving and investing. Thank you to Sam Heninger and Miranda for their help in making the show better. Thanks to all of you in our Not Old Better Show audience. Be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better.  The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Thanks, everyone, and we’ll see you next time.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today, we’re diving into the world of high-stakes espionage, relentless action, and a prison break unlike any other.   Our guest is the master of the modern thriller, the #1 New York Times bestselling author Mark Greaney. If you love gritty, edge-of-your-seat storytelling, you already know him—the man behind the Gray Man series, a franchise so intense it leaped from the page to the big screen with Ryan Gosling in the lead role. And now, he's back with Midnight Black, just now out, available February 18, 2025, available at Apple Books, a book that might just be his most harrowing yet.   Imagine a Russian gulag buried deep in the frozen wastelands, a place so brutal that even hardened criminals whisper about its horrors. This is where we find Zoya Zakharova, once a master spy, now a prisoner. And there’s only one man insane enough to take on the Russian police state to free her—Courtland Gentry, the Gray Man himself. But this isn’t just another mission. It’s personal. And the odds? Nearly impossible.   Returning guest, author Mark Greaney is no armchair novelist. He’s fired the weapons, trained with special ops, and even flown in fighter jets—all in pursuit of authenticity. His books aren’t just fiction, they feel real because he’s lived the research.   Today, we’ll talk about the terrifying reality behind the Mordovian prison camps, the real-life inspiration for  Midnight Black, just now out, available February 18, 2025, available at Apple Books, and why the most dangerous missions aren’t always fought with guns. We’ll also get a glimpse into the mind of a writer who has dedicated himself to making thrillers as immersive and true-to-life as possible. So, strap in, because this one’s going to be a ride. Please welcome back to The Not Old Better Show, Mark Greaney. My thanks to Mark Greaney, author of the new best selling book,  Midnight Black, just now out, available February 18, 2025, available at Apple Books.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show. My thanks to Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for their help, and my thnks 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. Thanks everybody and we’ll see you next week.

Hello, everyone, and welcome to The Not Old Better Show. Acorns.  Acorns makes it easy for everyone to start saving and investing..I’m Paul Vogelzang, and if you’ve been searching for inspiration to live fully in the here and now, today’s episode is exactly what you need. Our guest is Dallas Collis, author of The Gift, a powerful and profoundly moving book about breaking free from the stories we tell ourselves and embracing the incredible freedom of living in the present. Dallas has walked a long and challenging path—facing trauma, addiction, loss, and even staring down his own mortality. But rather than letting those moments define him, he found clarity, resilience, and a profound understanding of life’s true gift: the present moment.   In our conversation, Dallas will share how he went from being trapped by his own story to experiencing the liberating power of the “blue sky” that’s always been there, just beyond the clouds of our worries and past pain. You’ll hear his insights on putting down the heavy baggage we all carry and how living intentionally can transform every aspect of our lives, no matter your age or circumstances.   We’ll also talk about the practical steps he recommends—like collapsing life into manageable, joyful moments—and how we can all take those steps, starting today. Trust me, you’ll leave this episode feeling lighter, inspired, and ready to take on your 16 hours with a new mindset.   So, let’s get started! Please join me in welcoming Dallas Collis to The Not Old Better Show. My thanks to Acorns for sponsoring today’s episode. Acorns.  Acorns makes it easy for everyone to start saving and investing—my thanks to Dallas Collis for his generous time today. Check out The Gift and more information about Dallas Collis in our show notes today. Thanks always for Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger, my team of edit and admin…thanks for keeping me honest here! My thanks to you my 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.  Thanks, everyone, and I’ll see you next week!  

Hello, and welcome to The Not Old Better Show! Today’s episode is brought to you by Acorns. Acorns makes it easy to start automatically saving and investing so your money has a chance to grow for you, your kids, and your retirement. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and as always, I want to thank you for joining us today, where it’s never too late to learn, live, and grow, too.   Today, we’re starting something special—celebrating winners and honorees of the prestigious Golden Door Awards. These awards recognize extraordinary individuals who are using their voices, creativity, and vision to make a positive impact on our world. And who better to kick off this series than today’s guest, Angela Smith! Angela Smith is not just a writer; she’s a powerhouse of inspiration and a champion of emotional resilience.   From children to adults, her books are lighting a path for people to embrace self-love, tap into their inner strength, and unlock their highest potential. Angela is a first-place   gold medalist in the non-fiction category for her latest work, Stepping into Love: A Journey to Self-Healing,a transformative book packed with warmth, wisdom, and practical exercises to guide readers back to themselves. But Angela’s impact doesn’t stop there. She’s the author of I Love Myself, a children’s book that has unexpectedly found a huge following among adults, proving that the journey to self-esteem starts at any age. With her heartfelt stories and actionable advice, Angela is helping people of all ages— from 3 to 80—navigate life with purpose, courage, and joy. In today’s episode, Angela will share her fascinating journey, the lessons she’s learned, and how her books are sparking meaningful change around the globe. She’ll also open up about what it means to truly live with integrity, align with your heart’s truth, and embrace a life full of love and gratitude.   So, sit back, grab your favorite cup of tea, and get ready to be inspired. This is going to be a conversation you won’t want to miss.   Let’s dive right in and welcome the remarkable Angela Smith to The Not Old Better Show! My thanks to Acorns for sponsoring today’s episode. Remember, Acorns makes it easy to start automatically saving and investing so your money has a chance to grow for you, your kids, and your retirement. Check out our show notes today for more information about Acorns.My thanks to Angela M. Smith for her generous time today. My thanks to HenHouse Consulting for their excellent work on the program, and 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, Art of Living interview series on radio and podcast. Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next time.

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series.     She’s a global phenomenon, a cultural icon, and now… an economic case study. Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour wasn’t just a concert—it was a movement. It shattered records, raked in over $1 billion in revenue, and gave cities across the world a much-needed financial boost. But this story goes deeper than ticket sales and glittering stadiums.   This is about the power of one woman to disrupt entire industries. From her fight against Spotify’s streaming royalties to her battle for ownership of her own music, Taylor Swift has consistently challenged the norms of the music business—and won. And now, her record-breaking tour has helped spark a Department of Justice antitrust lawsuit against Ticketmaster and Live Nation.   But what does it all mean? For the music industry, for local economies, and for the way we view power in the hands of superstars? To answer those questions, we’re joined by Smithsonian Associate Dr. Kara Reynolds, an economist from American University, whose expertise lies in analyzing economic inequality, market power, and the fascinating world of superstars.    Dr. Kara Reynolds will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up for a full presentation titled: Swiftnomics: The Economics of Taylor Swift.  But we have Smithsonian Associate Dr. Kara Reynolds today for a brief tasts of what’s to come.  A self-proclaimed Swiftie, Smithsonian Associate Dr. Kara Reynolds takes us behind the scenes of the Eras Tour’s financial ripple effects and breaks down what Swift’s singular influence tells us about the economics of music, gender discrimination, and the forces shaping the modern entertainment industry.   So, sit back and get ready. Because this is not just about Taylor Swift—it’s about the bigger picture of how art, economics, and justice collide. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and this is the Not Old Better Show."   My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. Kara Reynolds for her generosity and time.  Dr. Kara Reynolds will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up for a full presentation titled: Swiftnomics: The Economics of Taylor Swift.My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.     Smithsonian Associates is celebrating its 60th Anniversary, and 2025 will be filled with great episodes and interviews…check back here often. My thanks to Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for all they do to support the show. 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, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.    https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/swiftonomics

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Edition. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is going to be downright delicious—and maybe just a little bit scandalous. Get ready to explore the fascinating and seductive history of aphrodisiacs with renowned food historian and speaker, Francine Segan. From Cleopatra’s lavish feasts of honey and figs to the Marquis de Sade’s exotic culinary indulgences, the topic of aphrodisiacs has tantalized imaginations for centuries. Are oysters truly the food of love? Why did the ancient Romans bake bread shaped like a phallus? And what on earth made people believe frog saliva could boost virility? Francine Segan will guide us through these questions and more as she traces the allure of aphrodisiacs from ancient Egypt, through the Renaissance, and into our modern kitchens.   But it’s not just about history. Today, you’ll hear the fascinating story behind the romantic associations of champagne glasses, discover why chocolate is the ultimate Valentine’s Day treat, and even learn about the recipes used by legendary lovers like Casanova to fan the flames of passion.   With humor, rich historical anecdotes, and even a touch of bawdy Renaissance fun, Francine brings this provocative topic to life in a way that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening. And if you’ve ever wondered about the foods that can inspire love—or maybe just make for an unforgettable date night—you’re in for a treat.   So, grab your favorite indulgence—be it chocolate, champagne, or truffles—and settle in as we dive into the seductive world of food and passion. Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, where it’s never too late to learn, laugh, and maybe even love.   Let’s get started.   https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/allure-of-aphrodisiacs  

Welcome to The Not Old – Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast., the podcast for those who believe it’s never too late to explore, learn, and live a meaningful life. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and as always, I’m so glad you’re with us today. Today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss. We’re diving into the life of one of history’s most fascinating figures—Benjamin Franklin. But not the Franklin you think you know. When we hear his name, we might picture the Founding Father, the diplomat, or the man on the $100 bill. Yet Franklin was also a brilliant scientist—an innovator and experimenter whose discoveries shaped the modern world in ways many of us overlook. Our guest today is Smithsonian Associate and acclaimed author Dick Munson, here to discuss his new book, Ingenious: A Biography of Benjamin Franklin, Scientist. Munson’s work sheds fresh light on Franklin’s scientific achievements, from his groundbreaking work on electricity—including the famous kite experiment—to his contributions to meteorology, oceanography, and even the invention of everyday tools like the lightning rod and efficient stoves. Franklin’s science wasn’t just a hobby; it was the backbone of his life. His experiments and discoveries earned him fame, respect, and influence, opening doors that helped secure vital French support during the American Revolution. Dick Munson argues that to truly understand Franklin the Founding Father, we must first appreciate Franklin the Scientist—a man whose relentless curiosity and love of learning shaped both his world and ours. Get ready for an eye-opening conversation as we explore Franklin’s lesser-known scientific side, the joys and challenges of his experiments, and the lasting lessons his approach to science can teach us today. So, let’s get started. Please join me in welcoming our guest, Smithsonian Associate Dick Munson, to The Not Old – Better Show. Thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dick Munson! My thanks to Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for all they do to keep the ships here running on time and for keeping me honest.  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.  Thanks, everyone and we’ll see you next time.  

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Series. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today, we’re exploring a story that’s millions—even billions—of years in the making. Imagine standing on American soil in the 19th century, looking out at the grandeur of Yosemite or the vast coal seams of the Appalachian forests, and believing that this land was just a few thousand years old. Now imagine discovering that beneath your feet lay fossils of terrifying dinosaurs like the T. rex, saber-toothed cats, and tropical forests that thrived in a prehistoric world. This revelation didn’t just change science—it changed everything. It transformed how Americans saw their country, their history, and themselves. Suddenly, the so-called “New World” was revealed to be one of the oldest places on Earth, rooted in what historians call deep time.   Today, I’m joined by Smithsonian Associate Caroline Winterer, a renowned historian and the author of How the New World Became Old: The Deep Time Revolution in America. Please check out Smithsonian Associate Caroline Winterer at Smithsonian Associates coming up, with more details in our show notes today.Her fascinating book uncovers how this shift in understanding—from a 6,000-year-old Earth to a 2-billion-year-old planet—sparked a revolution in American identity. It’s a story of awe, wonder, and even controversy, as science collided with religion, culture, and art.   Caroline will take us back to the 19th century to meet the explorers, naturalists, and everyday Americans who unearthed ancient truths and brought this deep past into focus. We’ll also discuss what this revolution means for how we see our country—and our planet—today.   So, stay tuned. This is a story that spans eons but has never been more relevant. Let’s welcome Smithsonian Associate Caroline Winterer to the show.   Thanks to Smithsonian Associate Caroline Winterer, a renowned historian and the author of How the New World Became Old: The Deep Time Revolution in America. .  Please check out Caroline Winterer at Smithsonian Associates, which is coming up. More details will be in our show notes today.  My thanks to Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for all they do to keep the ships here running on time and for keeping me honest.  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.  Thanks, everyone and we’ll see you next time.  

Welcome back to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates series! Today, we’re galloping through time to uncover a story that’s larger than life, spanning continents, centuries, and civilizations—a story of how one magnificent animal changed the world. That’s right—today, we’re talking about horses. Imagine the thundering hooves of a herd sweeping across the Eurasian steppes, the clash of chariots in ancient battles, the whispers of trade deals along the Silk Road, and the resilience of Indigenous cultures in the Americas. At the heart of these pivotal moments in human history is the humble yet extraordinary horse. Our guest, Smithsonian Associate William Taylor, is no stranger to this epic tale. Dr. William Taylor will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates in full, coming up.  Check out our show notes today for more details about his upcoming presentation titled, “Horses Shaped Human History.”  But we have Dr. Willliam Taylor briefly here today to tell us about  being an archaeozoologist, assistant professor, and curator of archaeology at the University of Colorado Boulder. Smithsonian Associate Dr. William Taylor has spent his life piecing together the story of horses and humans—how they’ve partnered to shape history, from the first moments of domestication to the rise of global trade and even social inequality. Dr. Taylor’s groundbreaking new book, Hoof Beats: How Horses Shaped Human History, takes readers on a vivid journey through these remarkable intersections of biology, culture, and conquest. But this isn’t just a history lesson. Smithsonian Associate Dr. William Taylor’s work draws on cutting-edge science—ancient DNA, archaeozoology—and Indigenous perspectives to rewrite what we thought we knew about horses.  Dr. William Taylor will share stories of discoveries on the Mongolian steppes, the spread of mounted riders, and how horses remain vital to cultures around the globe. So, whether you’ve ever ridden a horse or just admired them from afar, today’s episode will open your eyes to their deep connection to us. This isn’t just history—it’s humanity galloping forward, hoofbeats echoing through the ages. I’m Paul Vogelzang, your host. Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss a single second of Smithsonian Associate, Dr. William Taylor here on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast. My thanks to Smithsonian Associate archaeozoologist, assistant professor, and curator of archaeology at the University of Colorado Boulder. Check out our show notes today for more details about his upcoming presentation titled, “Horses Shaped Human History.” My thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all their help in our program, and to Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for all they do.  Happy New Year, be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better.  The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.  See you next time.