Sensationally Silver: A State of Mind

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

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.

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.

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

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
 

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.
 

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.

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.

Meg Davis, a literary agent, and host Robin discuss how to find and choose an agent today, the differences between traditional and self-publishing, and what makes a book sell — honesty, audience fit, and persistence.They offer practical tips for older writers, explain rights and marketing, and remind listeners that it’s never too late to write and be published.

In this episode, Chris Goldblatt of the Fish Reef Project explains how man-made "Sea Cave" structures transform barren seafloors into thriving kelp, coral, and fish ecosystems, and why large-scale reef building matters for global food and biodiversity.
Chris shares his personal journey from a near-death boating accident to founding the project, the permitting and global work involved, and how retirees and supporters can contribute to a lasting 500-year legacy of ocean restoration.
For more information: If you would like to donate to Fish Reef Project, check out www.fishreef.org or contact chris@fishreef.org.
If you are a reader, www.CFgoldblatt.com has the Luke Dodge Deep Sea Adventure series, as well as other books.