Sensationally Silver: A State of Mind

Episode 64: Julia Loggins on Children Grandchildren & Gender Issues

Robin and Julia share personal stories and practical guidance for parents and grandparents navigating gender identity within their families. They discuss name changes, pronouns, common emotional reactions, and how to create a safe, affirming space for trans and non‑binary children and grandchildren.
This conversation offers compassionate tips, reminders that acceptance saves lives, and points listeners to organizations and resources for further support.
FUN FACT: Robin's grandchild, Wesley, composed and performs our jingle for Sensationally Silver.
To find more info and support, visit:
https://www.realmamabears.org/
and
https://glaad.org/

Episode 63: Reverend Holly - New Roles for Today's Churches

Episcopal priest Holly Cardone and host Robin discuss the long-term decline in church attendance, root causes (social change, the rise of the "nones," exclusivity, and scandals), and how congregations are adapting.They share concrete ideas—selling underused property, funding ministries with preschools or social enterprises, hosting inclusive events like drum circles and community dinners—and highlight the importance of intergenerational service and community connections.The episode offers practical inspiration for churches and individuals to rethink worship spaces and focus on meaningful, mission-driven outreach.

Episode 62: Exploring End-of-Life Options

In this episode, volunteers Steph Campbell and Susan Johnston from Compassion & Choices explain medical aid in dying, California’s End of Life Option Act, eligibility criteria and safeguards, and the other end-of-life choices available. They share personal stories about hospice, family impact, and how legal protections and planning can ease both patient suffering and loved ones’ burdens.
Listeners will learn practical resources, why the law matters, how to find supportive care, and how to document wishes (DNR, POLST, videos) to ensure choices are respected.
RESOURCES and additional info:
Compassion and Choice National Website:  
https://compassionandchoices.org/
 
Compassion and Choice California Website: 
 https://compassionandchoices.org/in-your-state/california/
 
End of Life Choices California: https://endoflifechoicesca.org/  
 
An additional resource, a book by Barbara Coombs Lee titled FINISH STRONG

Episode 61: Gail Robbin - Reclaiming Joy After Trauma

Host Robin interviews Gail Robbin about the unexpected gifts of aging, her journey through complex developmental trauma, and how therapy (EMDR and IFS) helped her reconnect with feelings and joy.
Gail shares personal stories, practical hope for people of any age considering trauma work, and how she celebrates turning 70 with gratitude, self-love, and renewed curiosity about life.
To find out more about Gail, visit https://ecrchs.net
RESOURCE: THE BODY KEEPS THE SCORE by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.

Episode 60: Brides and Butterflies- Volunteering Lights You Up

Host and 80-year-old guest Barbara Potter share warm, personal stories about volunteering in Santa Barbara — from courthouse tours and mural rooms to butterflies, the zoo, and leading a Relay for Life team. Barbara describes how volunteering kept her connected, energized, and deeply fulfilled.The episode encourages listeners to find places that match their passions, use their experience to give back, and discover the joy and purpose that volunteering can bring at any age.

Episode 59: Rev. Holly Cardone - A Surprising Priest

On this episode of Sensationally Silver, host Robin interviews the Reverend Holly Cardone, an unconventional Episcopal priest whose life has been shaped by recovery, trauma, and deep spiritual searching. Holly, who turns 62, shares her struggles with institution, patriarchy, and the ordination process, and how embracing her imperfect, wounded self became the foundation of her ministry.
Holly discusses losing a congregation, finding new ways to serve as a case manager for formerly unhoused people, and the power of vulnerability, storytelling, and community in healing. The conversation highlights themes of self-acceptance, accountability, and the ongoing journey of transformation as we age.
To find out more about Reverand Holly Cardone, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-cardone-b1041771/
and
@hollycardone IG and Facebook Substack: https://substack.com/@hollycardone

Episode 58: Alan Watt on How to Write YOUR Story

Alan Watt discusses his method for helping writers—especially older adults—turn fear into creative energy, marry wild imagination with story structure, and complete a first draft using focused exercises like the 90-day novel.
The episode offers practical tips, inspiring student success stories, and encouragement to give yourself permission to write, play, and discover new meaning through storytelling.
To find out more about Alan, his books and his courses, visit https://alanwatt.com
and
https://www.instagram.com/alanwatt.storylab/?hl=en
 

Episode 57: Julia Loggins on How Pets Heal Us

In this episode of Sensationally Silver, host Robin and guest Julia Loggins explore how animals—dogs, cats, horses, and more—bring healing, companionship, and purpose to our lives as we age. Julia shares personal stories of rescue pets who supported her through illness and explains the science and emotional benefits of animal companionship for seniors.
The conversation covers the shelter crisis, especially for older animals, tips for adopting the right pet for your life, and the deep, unconditional bond that can ease loneliness, reduce stress, and give both humans and animals a loving home.
 

Episode 56: Don Anderson of Missing Pieces - NPE Life

Host Robin speaks with Don Anderson, creator of the podcast "Missing Pieces - NPE Life," about NPEs (Not Parent Expected), DNA surprises, and the search for biological roots.
Don shares his personal journey of discovering new sisters, the emotional impact of family secrets, uplifting reunion stories, and practical advice. Don's message to us is to leave the door open to unexpected connections.
 
Check out Don's Podcast MISSING PIECES - NPE LIFE on your favorite listening platform.

Episode 55: Lane Garrett on Living South of the Border

Host interviews her son Lane Garrett about his experience living full-time in Mexico, covering why he moved, how long he’s lived there, and the daily life of an expat. Lane discusses the importance of Spanish, the warmth of local communities, surfing and nature, and the realities of weather and wildlife.
The episode also explores practical matters for retirees: affordable housing and healthcare, medical and dental savings, safety considerations, and tips for integrating respectfully into Mexican culture. Lane’s main message to listeners of age is not to be afraid to explore Mexico and to choose the lifestyle that fits you.