The Not Old - Better Show

Welcome back to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast, your trusted source for enriching content tailored to the vibrant lives of aging adults over the age of 60 and their families. I'm Paul Vogelzang and today we embark on a captivating journey through the annals of history, a journey that unravels the enigmatic connection between literature, espionage, and the battle for hearts and minds during the tumultuous Cold War era. Picture this: The world divided by ideology, where the mightiest nations on Earth, the United States, the Soviet Union, and Britain, engaged in a shadowy war of words. In this riveting episode, we delve deep into the clandestine world of spies, secret agents, and literary warriors, where every word written held the power to shape destinies and change the course of history. Smithsonian Associate and author Duncan White is our esteemed guest today, a cultural historian and literary scholar who has uncovered the secrets of those who fought with their pens and keyboards, not on battlefields, but in the pages of novels, essays, and poems. He is the author of "Cold Warriors: Writers Who Waged the Literary Cold War' and is our guest today. Smithsonian Associate and author Duncan White will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up and the title of his presentation is Fighting the Cold War with Words. Please check out our web site for more details about Duncan White's new book and his Smithsonian Associates presentation. Today with Duncan White, we will journey back in time together. Duncan White will answer our questions about spies from the Spanish Civil War era to the fall of the Berlin Wall, as we explore the lives and works of literary giants such as George Orwell, Mary McCarthy, Graham Greene, and Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. Their words were not just stories; they were weapons that could win hearts, provoke governments, and even risk their very lives. But this episode isn't just about espionage and intrigue; it's about the personal sacrifices, the betrayals, the love stories shattered by political fissures, and the artists who found themselves caught in the crossfire. So, dear listeners, fasten your seatbelts as we step into a world where words were the sharpest weapons, and where the battle for hearts and minds unfolded not on the battlefield, but in the pages of books and magazines. Stay tuned as we dive deep into " Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Age The Not Old Better Show, Inside Science Interview Series Welcome to the Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast. I'm your host, Paul Vogelzang and today, we're embarking on a journey back in time to a pivotal moment in history, a moment that continues to shape our world today. Imagine a world teetering on the brink of monumental change, where the boundaries of science and ethics blur amidst the turmoil of war. This was the world of the 1940s, and at the center of this storm was a figure whose name echoes through history – J. Robert Oppenheimer, immortalized in the Academy Award nominated film of the same name. In today's special episode, we dive deep into the life and legacy of the man often called the "father of the atomic bomb." With the Smithsonian Associate Allen Pietrobon, a returning guest and audience favorite, we'll peel back the layers of Oppenheimer's story, exploring not just the scientific genius but the man behind the myth. We'll delve into his personal struggles, his triumphs, and the weight of the world-changing weapon he helped create. Smithsonian Associate, Prof Allen Pietrobon, will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up and the title of his presentation is J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Age, so please check our website for details of his full presentation at Smithsonian Associates, but we have Allen Pietrobon today to give us a glimpse of his upcoming Smithsonian Associates presentation. Our guest, renowned historian and biographer Smithsonian Associate Allen Pietrobon, joins us to bring this complex figure to life. Together, we'll journey through the hallowed halls of Los Alamos, answering questions with Smithsonian Associate Allen Pietrobon about where secrets of the atomic age were born. We'll confront the moral dilemmas that haunted those who worked on the Manhattan Project, and we'll explore how this era of innovation and fear left an indelible mark on human history. Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Unlocking the Potential of Psychedelic Medicine: Transforming Mental Health in Seniors with LSD & Ketamine, with Meryl Davids Landau The Not Old Better Show, Inside Science Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast, Im Paul Vogelzang, and today, we embark on a captivating journey into the realm of psychedelic medicine. In the next half-hour, we will be exploring the compelling world of Meryl Davids Landau's award-winning work on this subject. Today's episode is brought to you by WildHealth and Shipstation. Our focus lies on its burgeoning role in mental health. Specifically, we explore its profound impact on the lives of our senior community. The subject at hand is both revolutionary and deeply human. It merges cutting-edge science with ancient wisdom. At the core of our discussion is the use of substances like LSD, psilocybin, and ketamine. These are not just chemicals. They are keys unlocking new doors in brain science. They offer hope. Especially for those grappling with anxiety, depression, and the existential challenges of aging. Our guide through this uncharted territory is none other than Meryl Davids Landau. Meryl is a visionary writer. She brings clarity to complex topics. Her insights shed light on how psychedelics are transforming therapy. Together, we will uncover the science behind these treatments. We delve into the experiences of those who have journeyed through psychedelic therapy. And we address the critical question: Who will navigate this new frontier of medicine? Join us. Expand your understanding of how the older generation can find solace and healing. This episode promises enlightenment, compassion, and a glimpse into the future of wellness. My thanks to our sponsors today WildHealth and Shipstation. Please support our sponsors as they in turn support the show. My thanks to Meryl David's Landau, especially grateful for her work in the realm of psychedelic medicine. Please check out the links for more information about Meryl David's Laundau and her excellent reporting on the subject of psychadelic medicine. My thanks to you our wonderful audience radio and podast. Please be well, be safe, remember, Let's Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show. thanks everybody, and we'll see you next week. Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

There Goes the Sun: A Total-Solar-Eclipse Countdown The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Inside Science Interview Series Welcome to a special episode of the "Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates Inside Science" series. Today, we're venturing into the heart of celestial drama, a phenomenon that has captivated humanity since time immemorial: the total solar eclipse. On April 8, an extraordinary event will unfold across the United States—a spectacle so profound it transforms day into night and unveils the hidden corona of our Sun, casting an ethereal glow across the sky. This isn't just an astronomical event; it's a moment of communal awe and wonder that transcends age, culture, and time. Joining us to guide through this cosmic journey is Kelly Beatty, a luminary in the field of planetary science and space exploration. Kelly, the senior editor for Sky & Telescope magazine, is not just an observer of the stars but a seasoned voyager who has led eclipse expeditions to the most remote corners of our planet. From the sandy dunes of Libya to the icy reaches of Antarctica, Kelly's experiences have not only captured the imagination of space enthusiasts but have also provided invaluable insights into the nature of our universe. In today's episode, we'll explore the historical and cultural significance of solar eclipses, delve into the celestial mechanics that orchestrate these breathtaking events, and share essential tips for observing the upcoming eclipse safely. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer, an amateur photographer, or someone who simply marvels at the beauty of the cosmos, this conversation promises to enlighten, inspire, and prepare you for the upcoming celestial spectacle. So, get those pin-hole projectors ready and find your spot along the eclipse's path, from Mexico through the United States, as we embark on a journey through the shadows to witness the sublime beauty of the cosmos revealed in totality. This is not just an episode about the science of the skies but a celebration of the moments that remind us of our shared humanity and the mysteries that lie just beyond our reach. Welcome to a story written in the stars, a tale of light, shadow, and the awe-inspiring dance of the cosmos. My thanks to the scientist, space explorer, journalist, and Smithsonian Associate Kelly Beatty. Kelly Beatty will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up, and the title of his Smithsonian Associates presentation is There Goes the Sun: A Total-Solar-Eclipse Countdown: so please check out our show notes today for more details. My thanks to the Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Harriet Tubman's Untold War Saga: The Combahee River Raid - A Riveting Tale of Courage and Liberation The Not Old - Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Welcome to the Not Old - Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. where Black History Month 2024 comes alive through the stories that shaped our world. Today's episode takes us back to a pivotal yet often underrepresented chapter in American history, starring one of its most fearless figures – Harriet Tubman. Known for her indomitable spirit in leading slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad, Tubman's legacy extends far beyond. In this episode, we delve deep into a crucial and audacious phase of her life – her role during the Civil War, particularly in the Combahee River Raid. This event, not just a mere footnote in history, saw Tubman not only guiding slaves to freedom but actively shaping the course of the war. We're joined by Smithsonian Associate, historian and author Edda L. Fields-Black, a descendant of one of the soldiers who fought in this raid, and a consultant for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Edda Fields-Black's insights, drawn from her book "Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War," along with previously unexamined documents, bring a new dimension to our understanding of this event. She will shed light on how Tubman commanded a network of spies and scouts, and her role in liberating over 750 individuals in a single, daring expedition. Edda Fields-Black will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up so please check out the Smithsonian Associates website for more details, but we have Edda Fields Black today, in honor of Black History Month 2024. Let's listen as Edda Fields Black reads a brief passage from her wonderful new book, "Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War," harkening back to a time of enslavement and when slaves returned to slave terriorory, a very exclusive club of Harriet Tubman's brigage. Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Barbara Feldon: Getting Smarter with Agent 99 The Not Old Better Show Welcome to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast, I'm Paul Vogelzang, and this is the place where we blend the grace of age with the zest of youth, diving deep into the stories that shape our times and define our wisdom. Today's show is brought to you by Acorns and Talkspace, and we're dialing up the charm, wit, and a dash of espionage as we step into the world of an icon, a trailblazer, and a true testament to living life in full color. Our guest today is none other than Barbara Feldon, the enchanting Agent 99 from the classic TV series "Get Smart." But don't let the code numbers and secret missions fool you; Barbara's journey is one of depth, transformation, and a relentless pursuit of art, love, and understanding. From lighting up the screen with her effortless grace to penning the pages of her captivating memoir, "Getting Smarter," Barbara's tale is one of constant evolution, a dance between the imagined and the real, the seen and the unseen. In today's episode, we're peeling back the layers of this remarkable woman, exploring the intersections of her life that have led her from the spy-filled corridors of "Get Smart" to the vibrant lanes of the art world and the reflective solitude of a writer's life. We'll delve into the laughter, the challenges, and the moments of serendipity, with Barbara herself guiding us through the narrative threads of her storied career. So, dear listeners, as we embark on this journey with Barbara Feldon, let's remember that every chapter of life, every role we play, and every line we write contributes to our own story of getting smarter, wiser, and, undoubtedly, better with age. Stay tuned, as we uncover the secrets, the stories, and the sage wisdom of a woman who's lived a life as captivating off-screen as it was on. This is The Not Old Better Show, and I'm thrilled to have you with us for this unforgettable conversation. My thanks to our guest today, Barbara Feldon. Barbara Feldon's new memoir Getting Smarter is available evreyhwere. My thanks to our sponsors today, Acorns and Talkspace, please support our sponsors, as they in turn support the show. My thanks to you my wonderful audience on podcast and radio. Be well, be safe and Let's Talk About Better™. The Not Old Better Show. Thanks, everybody and we'll see you next week. Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

MARCH 2024 PREVENTION MAGAZINE: Golden Wisdom: Health & Wellness Insights for the Ageless Spirit Not Old Better Show, Prevention Magazine Interview Series, March Welcome to The Not Old Better Show Prevention Magazine Health and Wellness Interview Series on radio and podcast. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and this is our next installment of our Editor in Chief series is with Sarah Smith, and today we have another engaging episode in collaboration with Prevention Magazine: we're tackling some of the most pressing health topics crucial for our audience—adults over 60 who are committed to living their best lives. Let's get right into it: we have another packed show! First up, we're joined by Sarah Smith, EiC of Prevention Magazine for our issue overview, and we're "Springing Ahead!" With longer daylight hours upon us, Sarah and I will explore rejuvenating activities perfect for older adults. What can you do to make the most of this extra daylight? From outdoor adventures to new hobbies, we'll discuss three activities that I personally enjoy and how they can inspire you to embrace the season's vibrancy. Next, we tackle a crucial health concern: cancer. There's a sea of information out there, but what's myth and what's fact? We'll debunk common misconceptions about cancer causes and risks. Are dietary choices like sugar intake a significant factor? What about artificial sweeteners like aspartame? Our expert insights will guide you through the latest findings. Lastly, our feature story: "How to Age Proof Your Body." This isn't just about looking good; it's about feeling good and staying healthy. We'll share key strategies to keep your brain, joints, skin, and heart young and vibrant, especially for those over 60. Learn how to integrate simple, daily practices into your routine to maintain youthfulness in these critical areas. We'll wrap up with Sarah and be joined by Kathryn Ross-Nash, an esteemed figure in the world of Pilates and a beacon of health and wellness. What truly sets Kathryn Roas-Nash apart is her profound understanding of using Pilates as a powerful tool for pain relief and physical rejuvenation. In her March 2024 Prevention Magazine article and book titled "Stretching Away The Pain," Kathryn will share her insights into how Pilates, particularly her unique Red Thread® method, can be an effective way to manage and alleviate pain, especially for those of us embracing our senior years. C Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Empire in Agony: Unveiling the Antonine Plague's Shadow over Rome The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series I'm Paul Vogelzang, and welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast. We are bringing you yet another captivating episode that combines the richness of history with the relevance of today's world. Today, our Smithsonian Associates journey takes us back to the pinnacle of the Roman Empire, an era marked by unprecedented prosperity and peace under the reign of Marcus Aurelius. But amidst this golden age, a shadow loomed, one that would shake the very foundations of this mighty empire. We're talking about the Antonine Plague, a pandemic so vast in its reach and impact that it's considered the first of its kind in human history. Joining us is Smithsonian Associate Colin Elliott, an esteemed historian and author of the riveting book, "Pox Romana: The Plague That Shook the Roman World." Through his meticulous research and compelling narrative, Elliott unveils the mysteries of this ancient pandemic that struck without warning, its tendrils reaching every corner of Roman society. Smithsonian Associate Colin Elliott, will be presenting at Smithsonian Associates coming up, so please check out our show notes today for details, but we have a brief, tease of a conversation with Smithsonian Associate Colin Elliott, including a clip from Colin Elliott's podcast The Pax Romana Podcast, where Colin Elliott transforms complex academic material into enthralling stories accessible to all. This clip is from episode 18 called 'Nero: The Making of a Bad Emperor'. That, of course is our guest today, Smithsonian Associate Colin Elliott. Our interview today is more than just a story of a bygone plague. It's a tale of resilience, leadership, and the human spirit facing an unimaginable crisis. How did Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his administration confront this calamity? What lessons can we learn from their response? Elliott's insights offer a unique lens through which we can view our own contemporary challenges. This journey into the past is not just about understanding the Antonine Plague but also about appreciating the intricate tapestry of historical research as it applies to our future. So, brace yourselves for an enlightening conversation that bridges the past and present, reve Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Unlocking the Mysteries of the Deep: Discovering the Astonishing World of Cephalopods with Marine Biologist Danna Staaf The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Welcome to another captivating episode of the Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series, on radio and podcast. I'm your host, bringing you yet another intriguing journey into the wonders of our world. Today, we're delving into the depths of the ocean! The ocean that is a realm teeming with mysteries and marvels. Today we have the immense pleasure of hosting Smithsonian Associate Danna Staaf, a renowned marine biologist and a celebrated author. Danna Staaf will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, please check out our website for more information, but we have Danna Staaf today. Danna's passion for the ocean began at the tender age of ten and has since blossomed into a lifelong quest to unravel the secrets of the deep. Her expertise? The enigmatic and extraordinary cephalopods - creatures like octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish, whose very existence challenges our understanding of life under the sea. These beings are not just fascinating; they are a testament to the incredible adaptability and intelligence of marine life. With their boneless bodies, multiple hearts, and the ability to change color and shape, cephalopods are nature's shapeshifters. But it's not just their physical attributes that are astonishing. Their problem-solving skills and curiosity mirror our own cognitive abilities, bridging a gap over 500 million years of evolutionary divergence. In our time with Danna Staaf today, we'll explore all that, including the evolution of these creatures, debunk myths, and uncover the truth behind their nine brains and blue blood. We'll understand their pivotal role in marine ecosystems and even touch upon their influence in the realm of science fiction. So, dear listeners, join us on this extraordinary journey as we dive into the depths of cephalopod evolution and discover what these incredible creatures can teach us about life, intelligence, and the mysteries of the natural world. Stay tuned for an episode that promises to be as enlightening as it is enthralling. My thanks to our guest today, Smithsonian Associate, Danna Staaf. Danna Staaf will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Domestic Darkness: An Insider's Account of the January 6 Insurrection The Not Old Better Show, Author Interview Series I'm Paul Vogelzang, and your listening to The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Today's show is brought to you by OneSkin. Once again, the Not Old Better Show is bringing to you another episode that resonates with our audience and furthers our commitment to understanding and navigating the complexities of our times. Remember, aging is a privilege. It's where your power is, and it's where your strength lies I've been a radio journalist for a decade, celebrating my tenth year this year with you, and I love what I do to bring compelling, interesting, action-oriented stories to you all in the 60+ age range, including your families. I've always tried to remain positive in my storytelling, despite how negative, divisive, and depressing the news can sometimes be. I know from your emails and correspondence with me that you all want to remain positive but still be informed and engaged with today's issues. The Not Old Better Show tackles tough yet positive topics that speak to our community, speaks to the subject of aging, challenge you, help you feel more empathy, and empower you to become better. So, join me as we talk about Better™ here on The Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast. Today, Domestic Darkness: An Insider's Account of the January 6 Insurrection, and it was time to fight or die. That's our guest today, author Julie Farnam, a former member of the US Capital Police who's just read from her new book, Domestic Darkness: An Insider's Account of the January 6 Insurrection. You can hear it in her voice there. Despite the three years since its occurrence, Julie Farnam, from the US Capital Police, still feels the heartbreak, both personally and for the United States. Our nation's democracy faced a harrowing challenge. January 6, 2021, marked a day of turmoil and terror as a white supremacist mob, fervent in their attempts to "Stop the Steal," stormed the U.S. Capitol. This was not just an assault on a building; it was an assault on the very fabric of our democracy—the peaceful transfer of presidential power. In defending the Capitol, five valiant Capitol police officers tragically lost their lives, and nearly 140 others sustained severe, life-altering injuries. We talk today to Julie Farnam about that day: it was terrifying. Not just for the immediate danger it presented, but for the stark revelation of our vulnerabilities. Julie Farnam observed, almost in a dissociated state, as the emblem of our country's democracy came under attack from its own people. The screams, the fear, the chaos—Julie Farnam says it was like watching a nightmare unfold in broad daylight. Even now, three years later, the full impact of what transpired on that chaotic day, even from a couple blacks away, feels elusive, like a dark cloud that she can't quite escape. Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.