

The Not Old - Better Show
Paul Vogelzang
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®
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®
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 21, 2025 • 29min
Embracing the Quiet Strength of Flourishing Introverts with Joanna Rawbone
Welcome back to The Not Old Better Show! Today’s episode is for anyone who has ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or misunderstood simply because they weren’t the loudest voice in the room. If that sounds familiar, you’re in for something truly special. Our guest is Joanna Rawbone, the inspiring founder of Flourishing Introverts, who is on a mission to empower introverts—especially midlife and older adults—to own their strengths, step into their power, and embrace their quiet brilliance. Joanna doesn’t just talk the talk; she’s a living example of what it means to thrive as an introvert in a world that often favors extroverts. At 65, Joanna is proof that it’s never too late to follow your passions. From her work helping individuals rediscover their value to challenging organizations stuck in an extrovert bias, Joanna’s insights are truly life-changing. She has even graced the TEDx stage—yes, as an introvert—to amplify her message of inclusion and empowerment. In this episode, we’ll dive into Joanna’s entrepreneurial journey and the challenges she’s faced as a woman in midlife. We’ll explore her vision to impact one million introverts worldwide and hear practical advice for anyone looking to embrace their quieter side and thrive in their careers, relationships, and personal lives. Joanna shares invaluable insights into how introverts can reclaim their confidence, manage their energy, and step into their power, proving that quiet strength is just as powerful as the loudest voice in the room. Whether you’re an introvert yourself or you love someone who is, this conversation is a celebration of the value that introverts bring to the world. Joanna is here to show us that aging and introversion are not limitations but opportunities to thrive, pursue passions, and make a meaningful difference. My thanks to Joanna Rawbone for her generous time and excellent work with Flourishing Introverts. Please visit our website to learn more about Joanna’s resources, her TEDx talk, and the incredible work she’s doing to challenge extrovert bias and empower introverts everywhere. My thanks as well to the Smithsonian for their continued support of our show and to HenHouse Consulting for helping make this episode a success. And, of course, my heartfelt thanks to you, our wonderful audience, for tuning in to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Be well, be safe, and remember—Let’s Talk About Better™. Thanks, everybody. We’ll see you next time.

Jan 13, 2025 • 30min
The Journey of Josephine: The Doll that Mended a Broken Heart
Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast, I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang. 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. Head to: acorns.com/nob We have an extraordinary guest and an equally remarkable story that will inspire, move, and deeply touch your heart this holiday season. Bambi Lynn, author of The Journey of Josephine: The Doll that Mended a Broken Heart, joins us to share a narrative that’s as unique as it is universal—a story about resilience, healing, and the incredible power of love and faith. Picture this: a little girl unwrapping a handmade doll on Christmas morning, a simple yet thoughtful gift from her mother. But for Bambi, that doll—Josephine—became so much more than just a toy. Josephine became a silent companion, a keeper of secrets, and an unwavering source of comfort through some of life’s darkest moments. Abuse, trauma, teenage pregnancy, and loss—Josephine was there through it all, standing in when people failed, offering strength when none could be found. Bambi’s story is one of survival and triumph. It’s a testament to the unorthodox ways we find hope and the surprising places where we discover strength. Today, she’ll take us on her journey, sharing how this doll—and the faith she held onto like a lifeline—helped her navigate through unimaginable pain to become the resilient, inspiring woman she is today. Prepare yourself for an emotional and eye-opening conversation that highlights the power of small things—a doll, a moment of faith, and the decision to persevere—to create monumental change in our lives. Stay with us as we dive into this unforgettable story with Bambi Lynn. And now, it’s my pleasure to introduce Bambi Lynn. My thanks to Acorns for sponsoring today’s episode. Please check out our show notes today for more details 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. Head to acorns.com/nob My thanks to Bambi Lynn, author of The Journey of Josephine: The Doll that Mended a Broken Heart My thanks to all our audience on radio and podcast, HenHouse Consulting for their work to drive the show to new heights, here’s to 2025! Let’s talk about Better. The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Thanks everybody. We’ll see you next time.

Jan 3, 2025 • 29min
Pain, Pumpernickel & Profound Forgiveness: A Daughter's Story of Her Punishing & Loving Relationship with Her Father
Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast! I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today’s episode is one that will touch your heart, challenge your perceptions, and inspire you to rethink the power of forgiveness. Our guest is the remarkable Dr. Rosanne D’Ausilio—an author, speaker, and transformation advocate. Rosanne’s new book, Pain, Pumpernickel & Profound Forgiveness: A Daughter’s Story of Her Punishing & Loving Relationship with Her Father, is a story unlike any other. It’s raw, redemptive, and breathtakingly human. Dr. Rosanne D’Ausilio takes us on a deeply personal journey through her tumultuous relationship with her father—a man whose strict, authoritarian ways left scars that seemed impossible to heal. But what begins as a tale of pain and fear unfolds into a profound revelation of compassion, understanding, and Divine Intervention. We’ll hear about the moments that transformed her perspective—like Sunday morning bakery visits, where coconut bars and watermelon-sized pumpernickel bread became unlikely symbols of love. And, in the face of lifelong resentment, Rosanne reveals how she discovered the electrifying potential of forgiveness. This is more than a story about a father and daughter—it’s a guide for anyone who has ever carried the weight of a painful past. Rosanne’s insights will teach us how to shift perceptions, embrace compassion, and find peace—even with those we once thought unforgivable. So, sit back, listen closely, and prepare for a conversation that could change the way you see your own life. Let’s dive into the extraordinary world of Dr. Rosanne D’Ausilio. My thanks to Dr. Rosanne D’Ausilio for her time and wonderful story insights into Profound Forgiveness. Please check out our show notes today for more details about Rosanne D’Ausilio and her new book titled “Pain, Pumpernickel, and Profound Forgiveness.” My thanks to all our audience on radio and podcast, Sam Heninger and Miranda Heninger for their work to drive the show to new heights, here’s to 2025! Let’s talk about Better. The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Thanks everybody. We’ll see you next time.

Dec 27, 2024 • 25min
Harnessing Intuitive Communication for the Elderly, Disabled, and Animals with the Cowgirl Shaman
Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, the podcast that celebrates innovaton, curiosity, and the endless potental of life after 50. I’m your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today we’re diving into a fascinating world that blurs the lines between science, intuition, and the human connection. Our guest is the one and only Terri Jay—an intuitive powerhouse whose talents will leave you astounded and inspired. Terri isn’t just an intuitive; she’s a pet intuitive, a horse whisperer, a medical and veterinary intuitive, a medium for both people and pets, and even a map dowser who can locate water and gold. Her work touches the lives of those who can’t speak for themselves—whether it’s someone in a coma, battling severe autism, or even a beloved animal companion. But what makes Terri truly unique is her approach. She’s taken the so-called “woo-woo” of intuition and grounded it firmly in physics. That’s right—physics! According to Terri, everything in the universe vibrates at a frequency, and intuition is simply the ability to tap into those higher vibrations. She believes anyone can develop this ability, and she’s dedicated her life to teaching others how. Today, we’ll explore how Terri’s journey began when a non-verbal child communicated with her for the first me, how she’s used her gift to help both humans and animals, and why she says intuitive communication can transform lives—even yours. So, buckle up for an entertaining, eye-opening conversation that will challenge what you think you know about the limits of communication, energy, and the human spirit. I’m thrilled to have Terri Jay here with us, and I know you’re going to love this episode. Let’s welcome Terri Jay to The Not Old Better Show! My thanks to Terri Jay for her time and wonderful story insights into Intuitive Communication. Please check out our show notes today for more details about Terri Jay and her new book titled “Intuitive Communication: Communicating with Those Who Cannot.” My thanks to all our audience on radio and podcast, Executive Producer Sam Heninger for his work to drive the show to new heights, here’s to 2025! Let’s talk about Better. The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Thanks everybody. We’ll see you next time.

Dec 10, 2024 • 22min
The Story 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
Dec 6, 2024 • 25min
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.
Dec 2, 2024 • 24min
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.
Nov 29, 2024 • 24min
“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.
Nov 21, 2024 • 27min
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.
Nov 18, 2024 • 33min
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.