

Living to 100 Club
Joseph M. Casciani, PhD
The Living to 100 Club is an exciting take on getting older. The Living to 100 Club members turn aging on its head knowing and understanding age is only a number. The Living to 100 Club is for everyone of all ages who wants to maintain a positive outlook about our futures. The Living to 100 Club offers fresh and inspiring perspectives on aging successfully, no matter how much help we may need adapting to growing older. Whether we’re still running marathons or confined to a wheelchair, we can always keep a positive frame of mind, look forward to events in our future, and plan on living to 100. The Living to 100 Club brings together topics on successful aging, overcoming obstacles, staying positive in the face of adversity, healthy lifestyles, starting new chapters and doing what you can’t. The Living to 100 Club guests share their professional stories, give advice on wellness, and offer explanations about living life to its fullest.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 27, 2024 • 48min
Nutrient-dense Living: Affordable, Healthy Meals for Seniors with Kimberley Gillan
In this Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joe Casciani welcomes Kimberley Gillan, author of How Low Can You Go: Nutritious Meals for $30 per Week. Kimberley shares her expertise in balancing nutrition, cost, and flavor on a tight budget. From nutrient-dense meal strategies to healthy meals for navigating chronic illness, Kimberley emphasizes the power of resourcefulness and mental resilience in overcoming food insecurity. Discover practical tips for healthy meals and affordable eating and how these insights contribute to successful aging.
Mini Bio
KIMBERLEY GILLAN has a background in economics, policy and strategy planning, and uses her practical knowledge to find new answers to old questions, such as “What is the lowest price you would have to pay for food without compromising on nutrition?” or “What are the key ingredients in a laundry detergent?” In answering these questions, Kimberley uses fundamental economic principles to come up with revolutionary answers on what your minimum spend should be, in order to live your best life.
She lives in Far North Queensland, Australia.
For Our Listeners
Kimberley's website: Kimberley Gillan
Kimberley's book: How Low Can You Go: Nutritious Meals from $30 per Week

Nov 27, 2024 • 42min
Preserving Legacies: Capturing Life Stories through Video with Jim Cosco
In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Joe Casciani speaks with Jim Cosco, owner of Tipping Point Labs, about his inspiring work in capturing legacies through video and his company, Legacy Videos. Jim shares his passion for preserving personal stories through video production, motivated by his own experience of missing the opportunity to capture his father’s life story before he passed away. Together, Joe and Jim explore the power of video to document memories and how these personal narratives can provide lasting comfort and connection for loved ones.
Jim discusses his unique approach to creating documentary-style interviews, offering a range of options, from short "interviews of a lifetime" to comprehensive multi-hour legacy recordings. They also delve into the potential future of AI technology in memorializing individuals, touching on the emotional complexities of virtual interactions with deceased loved ones. Finally, Jim shares his long-term business goals and how he envisions the next phase for his company, Tipping Point Labs.
Join us as we explore the art of storytelling, the importance of preserving legacies, and the evolving role of technology in keeping memories alive.
Mini Bio
With almost three decades of experience in the media industry, Jim is the founder and executive producer of Tippingpoint Labs, a video strategy and production company that specializes in telling brand stories. Corporate clients have included Five Star Senior Living, Philips Lifeline, Harvard University, Keurig, and John Hancock.
Over the years, he has also filmed content for MTV, Fox News, Nightline, and The Today Show as well as worked with notables like Leeza Gibbons, Geraldo Rivera, Tim Russert, Aerosmith, and celebrity chef Curtis Stone. Jim is also the founder of Legacy Video Stories, a company he was inspired to create after his father passed away so he could help families preserve their stories for future generations.
For Our Listeners
Jim's Website: Legacy Video Stories

Nov 24, 2024 • 22min
Living to 100 Club and the “Better, Longer & Happier” Card Decks
Of course, we would all like to live to 100 – but there are many challenges along the way. Living to 100 is a great destination, but what's more important is staying positive, no matter what gets in the way. How we cope with these obstacles is the key not only to survival, but most importantly – the ‘Quality of Life’. Join Dr. Jim Polakof as he interviews Dr. Joe Casciani, founder of the Living to 100 Club.
Dr. Casciani has built an inspiring community and resource hub dedicated to helping individuals over 55 navigate the aging journey with resilience, joy, and vitality. With people living longer than ever, Dr. Casciani encourages us to rethink traditional, limiting beliefs about aging and embrace a vibrant, empowered approach to our later years.
Listeners also learn more about Dr. Casciani's Better, Longer & Happier card deck series, designed to inspire meaningful activities and discussions for older adults. These 12 modules offer engaging lessons, practical exercises, and uplifting stories that promote resilience, joy, and a positive mindset on the aging journey. Visit his new online store at www.livingto100.solutions.
Mini Bio
Dr. Joe Casciani is a psychologist and founder of the Living to 100 Club, dedicated to promoting resilience and a positive mindset for aging well. With decades of experience in working with older adults, he inspires listeners to embrace aging with vitality, joy, and purpose. Through his podcast and educational resources, Dr. Casciani shares insights on navigating life’s later chapters with confidence and optimism."
For Our Listeners
Dr. Joe's website: Living to 100 Club
Online store: Living to 100 Solutions

Nov 8, 2024 • 45min
Wisdom in a World of Rapid Change: Insights from Ben Lytle
In this episode, Dr. Joe Casciani sits down with Ben Lytle, author of the Pursuit of Wisdom book series and former CEO of Anthem Healthcare. We discuss the profound societal changes shaping our modern world. With the democratization of information and rapid industrial revolutions, Ben shares practical wisdom for adapting to these shifts. Importantly, we explore how to leverage the abundance of knowledge at our fingertips. The conversation dives into the concepts of psychological muscle memory, recognizing untapped potential in ourselves and others, and understanding predatory behavior in society. Further, this podcast touches on the success of inclusive countries and the challenges faced by countries with "extractive" models. Our guest then shares how innovation and collaboration are key to navigating our evolving future.
Mini Bio
Ben Lytle is a visionary leader, author, and former CEO of Anthem Healthcare. There, he helped transform the company into one of the largest health insurance providers in the U.S. With decades of experience in the healthcare and business sectors, Ben is now focused on guiding others in their pursuit of wisdom and potential. His Pursuit of Wisdom book series includes Potentialist I and Potentialist II. These books provide practical advice for thriving in the fast-changing world. Ben is passionate about the democratization of information and innovation, helping individuals and organizations unlock their potential in an increasingly connected and rapidly evolving society. Through his writing, mentorship, and leadership, Ben aims to inspire a new generation of leaders and thinkers.
For Our Listeners
Our Guest's Website: PotentialistFuture.com

Nov 8, 2024 • 42min
Living Healthy Longer: Jim Polakof’s Secrets to Longevity and Survival
In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Casciani welcomes Dr. Jim Polakof, a renowned author and wellness expert. We to discuss his inspiring journey from the film industry to holistic medicine. Dr. Jim shares insights from his latest book, Live Healthy Longer, offering practical advice on health, longevity, and the secrets to living to 100. He also reveals the personal survival lessons he learned almost too late. And we hear how these lessons have shaped his mission to help others live healthier, more fulfilling lives. We also discuss his understanding about the importance of exercise and relationships in our senior years. Tune in to this uplifting and informative conversation.
Mini Bio
Dr. Jim Polakof is a former director and producer in the film industry who transitioned into holistic medicine. Here, he has worked with hundreds of medical practices across the U.S. and internationally to promote wellness. As an author and speaker, Jim focuses on nutrition, health, and longevity. His latest book, Live Healthy Longer with Dr. Jim, offers valuable insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle well into the later years of life. Jim now hosts his own health-oriented podcast and continues to inspire individuals to embrace healthier habits for a longer, more fulfilling life.
For Our Listeners
Our Guest's Website: JamesPolakof.com

Oct 30, 2024 • 43min
How to Empower Midlife Health: A Conversation with Heike Yates
In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Joe Casciani welcomes Heike Yates, founder of Pursue Your Spark and a leading expert in fitness and wellness for women in midlife. The focus is on how to empower health for women in midlife. Heike shares her philosophy on embracing a healthy lifestyle through strength training, Pilates, and intermittent fasting. With over 30 years of experience, our guest's approach is all about empowering women to take control of their health, regardless of age.
The conversation delves into Heike's personal training methods. These focus on individual needs and small group classes that inspire and motivate. She discusses her Pursue Your Spark program, designed to help women build strength, boost confidence, and live vibrant, active lives. In other words, how to empower health. Heike also emphasizes the importance of promoting health and well-being for caregivers, highlighting how small, consistent efforts can lead to significant improvements in both physical and mental health.
Mini Bio
Heike Yates is a dynamic fitness expert and the founder of Pursue Your Spark. This is a transformative program designed to empower women in midlife to take control of their health and well-being. With over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, Heike specializes in strength training, Pilates, and intermittent fasting. She offers personalized training that meets the unique needs of each individual. Her passion for helping women build strength, boost confidence, and embrace a vibrant lifestyle is evident in her one-on-one sessions, small group classes, and online coaching programs. Heike’s holistic approach inspires women to achieve their health goals and live life with energy and purpose.
For Our Listeners
Heike's website: Heike Yates

Oct 14, 2024 • 34min
Enhancing Senior Connectivity through New Technologies with ONSCREEN
In this Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joe Casciani sits down with Costin and Michael to discuss ONSCREEN. This is an innovative solution designed to improve communication and connection within the senior community. The conversation delves into new technologies, including an AI companion and a medication check and reminder system. These are aimed at enhancing mental wellbeing and reducing loneliness among older adults. They also touch on the company's collaboration with the New York State Office for the Aging on a pilot project. Whether you're interested in AI for seniors, or simply curious about how ONSCREEN can improve quality of life, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of aging in place. This episode promises to be an enlightening discussion on the intersection of technology and wellness in the senior population.
Mini Bio
Costin is a passionate tech entrepreneur. He has over 20 years of experience in bringing innovative and disruptive products to market. Our guest has a strong background in engineering, product, growth, and startups. Significantly, Costin has built web and mobile applications for various industries, such as video conferencing, unified communications, and senior care.As the CEO of ONSCREEN, Inc., he is leading the development and launch of a TV-based video communication platform. This helps older adults reduce isolation and loneliness by connecting them with their family and friends. Costin is also an active angel investor and product management advisor, supporting the local Orange County and LA tech ecosystem and mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs. He is driven by his passion for bold ideas, smart people, and social impact.
Key Takeaways
Introduction of AI Companion and Medication Reminder System: Learn how these technologies are designed to support seniors, especially those with early-stage dementia.
Impact on Loneliness and Mental Wellbeing: Discover the benefits reported by users, including a significant reduction in loneliness and increased happiness.
Company Growth and Future Plans: Explore the company’s ongoing collaboration with the New York State Office for the Aging.
The Role of Technology in Aging: Understand the potential for these tools to replace some home care services and provide companionship for seniors.
ONSCREEN's website: OnscreenInc.com

Oct 3, 2024 • 30min
A Life of Resilience and Justice: A Conversation with Norman Shabel
In this Living to 100 Club podcast episode, we sit down with Norman Shabel. Norman is an accomplished attorney and author, to delve into his fascinating life story and career. Norman, who is 87 years old, shares his journey from Brownsville, Brooklyn, to Florida, touching on his roles as a prosecutor in New York, an attorney in New Jersey, and a passionate writer. The conversation explores themes of resilience, justice, and the importance of living a fulfilling life.
Topics Discussed
Norman’s Life Journey: From Brooklyn to Florida, with notable stops in New York and New Jersey.
Career Highlights: Prosecutor, attorney, and author with a focus on fighting injustice.
Writing Career: Themes of pursuing a good life and navigating societal institutions.
Influences and Values: The impact of Norman’s mother on his moral compass and commitment to justice.
Successful Aging: Norman’s positive attitude, physical exercise, and resilience.
Challenges and Self-Confidence: Overcoming personal struggles and maintaining self-confidence.
Living a Fulfilling Life: Embracing positivity and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Mini Bio
Brooklyn-born, successful New Jersey class-action attorney turned author Norman Shabel has been driven to write ever since he can remember. By the time he was in his twenties he had written several novels. But these ended up stuffed in drawers as he launched his legal career, married and had a family. To date Norman has written 7 plays and 8 novels. Some are written in long-hand, hunched over his desk while waiting for a jury verdict to come in. They all deal with either crime, relatable family dynamics or both.
“Courts are inherently dramatic places, and I guess I saw that connection between law and theater before I even realized it,” Norman has said. His earnest belief is that lawyers need to be good storytellers to engage juries in the “plot” of a case. “You need to hold the interest of a jury if you’re going to win them over, much like the arc of a play or the plot of a novel. If you don’t capture them in the first 20 minutes you may as well go home - and I never like to lose a case or an audience. ”
To date, three of Norman’s plays have been produced off Broadway in NYC, Philadelphia and multiple theaters in South Florida, where he now resides for part of the year. The productions have received wonderful reviews. And there are plans underway for the remainder of the plays to be produced within the next two years. Manuscripts of the plays are available by request.
About His Writings
Norman’s novels are mostly “terrific, fast-paced reads about justice, the dark side of law enforcement, and the judiciary” according to Judge Andrew P. Napolitano. He writes, as only an experienced trial lawyer can. The works are about the ups and downs of the legal system, maintaining the drama of the story without sacrificing the realities of the of the structure. All of his books can be purchased on Amazon and other digital booksellers.
According to Norman, “I’m doing two things that both give my life meaning, I’m a very fortunate man.”
For Our Listeners
Norman's website: NormanShabel.net

Oct 3, 2024 • 34min
Resilience, Recovery, and Moving Forward: A Conversation with Lee Woodruff
In this special episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, we sit down with Lee Woodruff, acclaimed author, speaker, and co-founder of the Bob Woodruff Foundation. Lee's life was forever changed 19 years ago when her husband, ABC News journalist Bob Woodruff, was severely injured while covering the Iraq War. Her best-selling book, In an Instant, captured the raw emotions of grief, shock, and resilience in the aftermath of that life-altering event.
While Lee has shared this story many times, in today’s conversation, we delve deeper into the lessons learned on resilience and how to move forward after a traumatic experience. Lee shares insights on navigating the complexities of recovery, both emotional and physical, and how she and her family have found ways to not just survive but thrive.
We also explore Lee's ongoing work with the Bob Woodruff Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping injured veterans and their families. Notably, the Bob Woodruff Foundation has raised over $100 million for veteran causes. Additionally, Lee discusses her consulting business, where she uses her personal and professional experiences to help others craft and share their own powerful stories.
Mini Bio
A popular speaker and the author of three best-selling books, journalist Lee Woodruff’s distinctive voice comes from the heart. Whether she’s sharing wisdom about the healthcare journey and recovery, or speaking candidly about life and family, she draws on her experiences to connect with the audience. Her trademark humor and down-to- earth manner has made her a popular keynote speaker nationwide. She is also a monthly contributor to AARP’s caregiving column. Lee also runs a consulting business that helps clients become more effective interview subjects and dynamic communicators during speeches and presentations.
For Our Listeners
Lee's website: LeeWoodruff.com
Bob Woodruff Foundation website: BobWoorduffFoundation.org

Sep 30, 2024 • 34min
Fostering Connection: Combating Social Isolation with Happy Talks
In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Joe Casciani sits down with Christian Ross. Christian is the Chief Happiness Officer at Happy Talks. We explore innovative ways for combating social isolation and loneliness among older adults. We discuss the critical role of social engagement, the unique training of Happy Talks’ “buddies,” and the importance of family involvement in the process. The conversation delves into the mindset required for successful aging. This includes the emotional challenges of downsizing, and the significance of building on individual strengths to help seniors age in place.
Join us as we uncover the strategies that make a difference in the lives of older adults. Learn about upcoming projects aimed at enhancing the aging experience. This show provides listeners with insights into the innovative ways professionals are working together to enhance the lives of older adults. And it offers practical takeaways for families, caregivers, and those interested in the aging process.
Mini Bio
Christian Ross is the Founder and Chief Happiness Officer at Happy Talks. With over 15 years of experience working with hundreds of families in real estate, Christian noticed a growing need for families to better support the older adults in their lives. Driven by a passion for enhancing connections, she created Happy Talks. This is a social phone call membership service for combating social isolation in older adults. It provides joyful, meaningful conversations while offering families and care providers peace of mind through transparent post-call reporting. Happy Talks is honored to deliver happiness and strengthen bonds across generations!
For Our Listeners
Christian's website: HappyTalks.com