Stop Aging Yourself!

Every once in a while, I have a conversation that reminds me exactly why I do this work. My recent interview with Yvonne Marchese, founder of Late Bloomer Living, was one of those conversations. We didn't talk about trying to turn back the clock. Instead, we talked about something far more powerful: the stories we tell ourselves about getting older, and how those stories can quietly shape the lives we think are possible.

If you've ever caught yourself saying, "I'm too old to..." this conversation is for you.

In this interview, Yvonne and I explore how internalized ageism influences our health, confidence, and willingness to try new things. We discuss the landmark Yale research showing that people with more positive attitudes about aging live an average of 7.5 years longer. This isn't simply a matter of “Pollyanna thinking” about growing older. Real change comes from taking small, intentional, and sometimes uncomfortable steps that challenge the beliefs we've absorbed over a lifetime.

Whether you're thinking about learning a new skill, traveling solo, or simply wondering what's still possible, I hope this conversation encourages you to question the assumptions that may be holding you back.

Finding Purpose, One Unexpected Step at a Time

A few years ago, I never would have imagined I’d be pursuing a doctorate in global public health, conducting research on healthy aging, or traveling to Kenya as part of my DrPH residency at Indiana University. (That’s right — I’m going back to Africa at the end of May!)

Life has a funny way of opening doors we never planned to walk through.

I’m deeply grateful to the team at Indiana University News for sharing this feature story about my journey, including how I re-ignited my purpose through education, public health, and community-centered work to help people live healthier, more connected lives as they age.

I appreciate the opportunity to share a little of my story and the work that continues to inspire me every day.

Niksen: The December Reset You Need

December is here — a season of celebration, reflection, and let’s be honest… a lot of doing. Shopping, cooking, hosting, wrapping, emailing, card-writing, list-making, cleaning, traveling (sometimes all before noon!). No matter which holidays you celebrate, this time of year can feel like a marathon of motion.

So this week’s Smart Bite is an invitation to slow the spin. I’m sharing a Dutch wellness practice called niksen. Niksen literally means doing nothing. Not multitasking. Not optimizing. Not squeezing in “just one more thing.” Simply... nothing.

A Conversation with Dr. Sandi

I’m so pleased to share my recent appearance on the “Health Coach Talk” podcast, hosted by Dr. Sandi Scheinbaum. She is a highly respected authority and leader in functional medicine coaching. She has also been a guest on Wellness Wednesday!

We dove deep into why social connection is the vital missing element for long-term health and a longer life, and how my work is dedicated to fostering these essential communities.

5 Things Better Than A Cortisol Cocktail

As someone who studies and speaks about the science of stress and its impact on the body, I was a little appalled to read the recent buzz about “Cortisol Cocktails” as a stress reliever. Have you heard of them?

This trendy tonic, typically made with orange juice, salt, and cream of tartar, is being promoted on social media as a miracle cure for “adrenal fatigue” and hormone imbalances.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Brain Health: Insights, Resources, and Real Stories

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a topic that’s especially close to my heart. I began researching Alzheimer’s in 2021 and have since published several papers, including qualitative studies about family caregivers. Their stories deeply moved me, and continue to shape the work I do today.

To support those of you caring for loved ones with dementia, I’m sharing a few trusted resources.