This is 65

What does it mean to listen to your intuition, even when everything around you tells you to ignore it? Lorna Smith grew up moving from place to place as the daughter of a Navy man, learning to keep the peace and hide who she truly was. She spent years making herself smaller to fit expectations at home and in marriage, until a moment came when she trusted her own knowing and changed her life. In this episode, you’ll hear: The challenges of breaking free from old patterns and starting over Practical steps to reconnect with your true self every day Why age 65 can be the start, not the finish Key Takeaways 1. Lorna’s journey highlights the importance of listening to your intuition, even when it runs counter to social programming or external expectations. She describes moments in her life where she ignored her inner knowing and the personal cost of doing so, ultimately discovering that embracing intuition is the gateway to authentic living. 2. The conversation explores how childhood experiences and rigid family structures can deeply influence adult choices, self-worth, and relationships. Lorna reflects on her upbringing in a strict, male-dominated household and how those early lessons shaped her adult relationships and self-perception, underscoring the value of consciously unlearning limiting narratives. 3. Age is reframed as an opportunity for reinvention rather than a limitation. Lorna and Erin discuss how 65 is “just the beginning,” emphasizing that it’s never too late to change direction, pursue new passions, or start over in order to live more authentically. 4. Lorna candidly shares feelings of regret and sadness about the years lost to situations that didn’t serve her, but points out the power of sitting with those emotions rather than avoiding them. By allowing herself to feel sadness and work through regret, she discovered greater resilience and self-acceptance, which helped her move forward. 5. Spirituality and intentional daily routines are central to Lorna’s ongoing growth and fulfillment. She describes a morning routine centered around meditation, journaling, and inspirational reading, which she credits with helping her stay grounded, connected to herself, and intentional about how she shows up in the world. Learn more about Lorna’s work here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

How do you make sense of Medicare when you’ve spent your life solving technical problems? Bob Stern, a principal metrologist emeritus with a long career at Hewlett Packard and Keysight Technologies, had some clear decisions to make as he approached retirement. In this episode: Hear what it’s really like to transition from a lifetime on Kaiser to navigating Medicare on your own Learn how travel and lifestyle priorities can shape your healthcare choices Find out what Bob wishes every retiree would track as they approach Medicare Key Takeaways 1. Bob highlights the importance of adaptability throughout his career, moving between divisions at HP (later Agilent and Keysight) and transitioning into retirement through programs that allowed phased, flexible work. 2. Making informed Medicare decisions can be daunting, even for highly intelligent professionals. Bob’s experience shows that having an expert guide you through the process, such as attending seminars or consulting with knowledgeable agents, is invaluable for clarity and ultimately choosing the best coverage for your lifestyle and health needs. 3. Bob and his wife chose a Medigap plan for flexibility and nationwide coverage, versus being restricted to certain networks like Kaiser. The conceptual takeaway is that Medigap offers broader access and fewer copays, which becomes especially important for those who travel, want provider choice, or seek peace of mind about coverage across locations. 4. Prescription drug coverage is not a "set it and forget it" aspect of Medicare. Bob’s story underlines the necessity of reviewing drug plans annually to adapt to changing medications and pricing. Proactive annual reviews can lead to significant savings and ensure that your coverage matches your current medical needs. 5. Retirement brings new financial considerations, especially related to healthcare costs and how income affects Medicare premiums. Bob emphasizes the value of tracking income, understanding how it impacts healthcare premiums, and planning withdrawals and charitable donations accordingly. Smart planning can help avoid unexpected costs and optimize your retirement finances. Connect with Bob on LinkedIn here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

What does it look like when two people not only build businesses together, but also share decades of laughter and partnership? Lois Smith never expected to own a winery or become a property manager, but life had other plans. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why Lois and her husband jumped headfirst into new ventures, even when they didn’t have all the answers How they’ve balanced business, family, and a 45-year marriage Lois’s approach to aging, staying connected, and living with humor Key Takeaways 1. Lois’s journey from working in banking and insurance to property management and then owning a winery exemplifies a willingness to take risks and try new things, even without prior experience. This adaptability and openness to new ventures have been central to her personal and professional growth. 2. Her 45-year marriage to Preston is highlighted as a source of joy and stability. Lois attributes their success to laughter, shared values, similar tastes, working through hard times together, and genuinely enjoying each other’s company. The underlying message is that strong relationships are built on both fun and resilience. 3. Lois and Preston balance busy professional lives with active involvement in their community, extended family, and hobbies. Their secret lies in shared interests, mutual support, and finding common ground, even when working closely together. Community involvement and helping others are presented as key components of a fulfilling life. 4. Lois embraces aging with high energy, humor, and a refusal to become intolerant or set in her ways. She emphasizes the importance of staying open to new experiences, remaining accepting of others, and using humor to navigate life’s changes. Her positive outlook on getting older is both practical and inspirational. 5. Lois’s advice to her younger self, and to listeners, is to listen carefully to others, seek interesting people, and learn from every encounter. She stresses that doing kind deeds, even without recognition, enriches life. Her mother’s wisdom ("Do something nice and kind today, but don’t share it with anyone") reinforces the value of quiet generosity and genuine connection. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

What happens when you follow your instincts and let your passions lead your career? Some people take a risk, move across the country, and start something from scratch. Bree Brown did that. She created a pet boarding business in the Bay Area, using skills from earlier ventures and a lifelong love for animals. She’s also someone who advocates for animal rights and practices a form of Buddhist awareness. In this episode you’ll hear: How Bree started and grew Claws and Paws, serving Bay Area pet owners for over twenty years The organizations she supports to protect animals and how you can get involved Ways to bring calm and compassion into your everyday life, for yourself and those around you Key Takeaways 1. Bree’s journey shows the power of combining passion with business savvy. She transformed her love for animals into a successful, personalized pet boarding and house sitting service, “Claws and Paws.” Her story highlights that entrepreneurship is often about finding a niche that aligns with your values and skills, then bringing personalized, heartfelt service to your clients. 2. Bree’s support for organizations like the Animal Legal Defense Fund and Species Unite underscores the importance of advocating for those without a voice. She illustrates how individuals can contribute—through donations, raising awareness, or spreading news about positive change (like phasing out animal testing)—and that every level of advocacy plays a role in improving animal welfare. 3. Through her Buddhist awareness practice, Bree shares that mindfulness and self-compassion are critical for living a more peaceful, intentional life. Making conscious choices and questioning self-talk can reduce stress, foster kindness, and transform reactions to life’s challenges. 4. Bree’s experiences—whether with clients, animals, or advocacy communities—underscore the transformative effect of genuine connection. She stresses that forming bonds, being open to others’ stories, and creating trust are fundamental, not just for business success, but for meaningful, enjoyable living. 5. Bree embodies the idea that personal growth is a continuous journey. Her advice to “be kind to yourself” and appreciate your own worth serves as a reminder that self-care, openness to new ideas, and being less self-critical enables richer experiences at any age or stage in life. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

What does it take to rebuild a life after years of challenges? Morgan Meadows is someone who took control of her future after overcoming human trafficking, starting her own business, and raising four children on her own. She’s a writer, educator, and survivor who now works to educate others on resilience and the signs of trafficking. Morgan shares insights about: The power of kindness from strangers How resilience grows with support and learning Ways you can recognize and respond to trafficking in your community Key Takeaways 1. Morgan’s journey details her experiences with childhood trauma, abuse, and trafficking within the context of family and cult environments. Her escape, healing process, and focus on resilience highlight the significance of courage, self-education, and the vital role of supportive strangers in recovery. 2. Throughout her story, Morgan emphasizes how the kindness of strangers played a transformative role in her escape and recovery. 3. Morgan’s commitment to lifelong learning, starting college in her 30s and pursuing advanced research on trauma and resilience, underpins her belief in the power of education to drive personal transformation and social change. 4. Morgan’s public education work, including founding A Lucid Tree Consulting, underscores the need for broader community awareness about trafficking, its warning signs, and the diverse ways it can manifest, often “closer to home” than most assume. 5. Morgan’s story is a testament to the human capacity for resilience—not just surviving, but thriving—after immense trauma and adversity, including her near-fatal accident and ongoing recovery. Follow Morgan’s blog here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

What do you do when someone you love is facing tough healthcare decisions? Maybe it’s about where to have a critical surgery or how to understand a long list of medications and supplements. Ema Drouillard started DecideMed to help people and their families get clear answers during complicated times. She helps navigate complex medical choices. She empowers patients with questions to ask their doctors. She gives practical support at every phase of care. Learn more about DecideMed here. Key Takeaways 1. Ema Drouillard fills a crucial gap in healthcare by helping patients and their families navigate complex medical decisions. She provides research, context, and emotional support, empowering clients to make informed, confident choices during times of medical uncertainty. 2. Having access to in-depth, reliable information can dramatically improve health outcomes and peace of mind. Ema’s expertise lies in going beyond surface-level answers, considering everything from surgical options to the practicality of recovery at home, so clients feel fully prepared for what lies ahead. 3. A comprehensive review of medications and supplements—not just the basics—can help identify harmful interactions or overlooked side effects, leading to better conversations with doctors and potentially preventing serious issues. Ema’s approach ensures clients don’t just “look good on paper” but also feel well in their daily lives. 4. Ema emphasizes the necessity for patients and their families to ask questions, clarify doubts, and not be intimidated by medical professionals. Feeling empowered in interactions leads to better healthcare experiences and helps prevent misunderstandings or gaps in care. 5. The personal touch—being there before, during, and after medical events, and offering tailored support—makes a significant difference. Ema helps clients prepare for procedures, anticipate needs, and feel less alone, with logistical preparations and emotional reassurance, which mainstream healthcare often overlooks. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

Navigating health care decisions is something we all face, but when you turn 65, it becomes a whole new world. William Luhr worked in hospice care for decades, helped people through difficult times, and then found himself having to choose his own Medicare plan. In this episode, I talk to William about: The realities of finding the right Medicare coverage. How his experiences as a social worker shaped his approach to health care. Tips for getting the most out of Medicare Advantage plans. Key Takeaways 1. William Luhr's journey from psychotherapy to medical social work, and ultimately to hospice care, illustrates the profound influence that adaptability, compassion, and service can have on both professional fulfillment and the lives of others. His work during the AIDS crisis and with hospice patients underscored the value of empathy and the privilege of supporting others through difficult times. 2. Understanding and choosing Medicare plans is more complicated than it may initially appear, even for professionals with a background in healthcare. The system's layers of bureaucracy, multiple providers, and contrasting plan benefits require proactive self-advocacy, research, and often the help of a knowledgeable broker to ensure the best fit and access to care. 3. Successfully navigating health care as a Medicare beneficiary depends heavily on self-advocacy. William emphasizes asking questions, doing independent research, monitoring referrals and authorizations, and not hesitating to seek help from agents or brokers. Ensuring good outcomes often requires persistent follow-up and not simply trusting that all parts of the system are well-coordinated. 4. Medicare Advantage plans often provide additional benefits beyond basic health coverage, such as dental, vision, hearing, over-the-counter items, and gym memberships. Actively seeking out and utilizing these benefits can significantly enhance quality of life and reduce out-of-pocket expenses—provided beneficiaries are willing to navigate the processes required to claim them. 5. Retirement can be an active, purpose-driven phase of life. William’s experience highlights the importance of prioritizing preventative healthcare, setting personal goals, staying physically and socially active, and balancing health-related concerns with broader life enjoyment. His rule to limit discussions about health problems among friends is a reminder to focus on the positive aspects and opportunities in retirement. Connect with William on Facebook here, and follow his dog Spanky on Instagram here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

What motivates individuals to advocate for others after enduring personal challenges? In this episode, Harry Breaux, a long-term survivor of AIDS, shares his journey from a diagnosis in the early 1980s to advocacy in San Francisco. After contracting HIV in 1980 and surviving a critical illness in 1996, Harry focused on education and support for people affected by HIV. His work extends to documenting these experiences in projects like Last Men Standing and 5B, highlighting both his story and broader struggles with HIV. Erin and Harry discuss historical and modern-day challenges in HIV treatment and societal attitudes. The conversation brings attention to disparities in healthcare access and ongoing stigma. Learning from past experiences, Harry emphasizes the importance of compassion, care, and action in dealing with health and societal issues. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

Does leadership coaching really transform lives and careers? You bet it does. Heidi Funk is a “Passionate Wisdom Leader”, who after losing her stepfather to a heart attack, was struck with illness.  She came out the other side a changed woman, who felt a connection to the universe that exists to this day. Introducing new creative and powerful leadership modalities has been her strength and passion with leaders and teams in Fortune 500 Corporations for the past 30 years. Join us as we dive deep into her journey supporting leaders on their quests to impact the world in our next episode of This Is 65.   Explore Heidi’s website here. Connect with Heidi on LinkedIn here. Check out Heidi’s YouTube here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

Why choose an encore career in writing after a lengthy nursing career? Erin hosts Laurie Barkin, an accomplished nurse and author of The Comfort Garden, which is available on Amazon. Having worked at San Francisco General's trauma unit for over 20 years, Laurie talks about her experiences and the contributing factors to her transition from nursing to writing. Economic concerns and a desire for self-sufficiency guided her initial career choice. A challenging workload led to burnout and symptoms of vicarious trauma, prompting her shift to writing. Erin highlights how Laurie's storytelling draws from real-world situations experienced during her nursing years. Targeted at all who interact closely with human emotions and challenges, the book serves as an insider glimpse for healthcare professionals and others in frontline roles.  Order The Comfort Garden here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

What drives Carsten Spencer's journey as a spiritual leader and holistic mentor? Carsten Spencer combines his business talents through Love Life Yoga and his spiritual leadership at Unity of Richmond East Bay. He shares insights from his journey, shaped by personal challenges and his pursuit of healing. In discussing his path, Carsten reflects on childhood influences and physical injuries that directed him towards spiritual healing. Nature and yoga played pivotal roles in his self-discovery process.  Carsten highlights his work with clients, focusing on relationships and communication. Carsten's engagements, including his upcoming play, display his dynamic and evolving endeavors. His experiences with health, healing, and spiritual exploration mold his current work, where he guides others in finding peace and purpose. Learn more about Carsten's work here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

How does a relentless passion for helping others shape a multi-faceted career? Ken Souza's journey from a 44-year financial aid career to pursuing various artistic and entrepreneurial endeavors exemplifies a life driven by enthusiasm and service. Retiring as a student lending professional, Souza remains involved by consulting with universities and engaging in hobbies like candle making and film editing. His zest for life inspires others to pursue passions with humor and dedication. Reach Ken here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#30: Does leadership coaching really transform lives and careers? You bet it does. Heidi Funk is a “Passionate Wisdom Leader”, who after losing her stepfather to a heart attack, was struck with illness.  She came out the other side a changed woman, who felt a connection to the universe that exists to this day. Introducing new creative and powerful leadership modalities has been her strength and passion with leaders and teams in Fortune 500 Corporations for the past 30 years. Join us as we dive deep into her journey supporting leaders on their quests to impact the world in our next episode of This Is 65.     Explore Heidi’s website here. Connect with Heidi on LinkedIn here. Check out Heidi’s YouTube here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here.   Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.  

#29: Doug Zesiger is a teacher, storyteller, musician and parent with a passion for helping children navigate the social-emotional world with humor and understanding through his project  "Stinky Tales".   A father of four and grandfather to two, he’s taught for the past 30 years at Marin Country Day School, where Dillard and his puppet pals have become treasured characters on campus and beyond. Teaching kids social and emotional skills is so important and in this episode, Telly award-winning Doug and Anne will inspire you to boldly approach challenges and express yourself in this ever-changing life.   Explore Stinky Tales website here. Connect with them on Facebook here. Follow them on Instagram here. Check out their YouTube here.   Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#28: This physio-philosophy will harmonize your life energy! Adrea Brier is an integrated cancer consultant and a patient advocate that strives beyond healthcare in this episode packed with a powerful motivational message for business owners. Her international effort gives people hope and strength to conquer cancer and live the life they dreamed of with the practice of Jin Shin Jyutsu.   Connect with Adrea on LinkedIn here. Explore Adrea’s website here.   Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#27: Want to stay healthy in mind, body and spirit? Dancing is a deep source of joy within all of us. It can be a motivating tool to rejuvenate the lives of older adults. Guest Cecelia Beam is the inspiring lead teacher for San Francisco Ballet School’s Dance Class for People with Parkinson’s for over 15 years. Listen and discover how movement can be medicine, too.   Connect with Cecelia on Facebook here. Explore the SF Ballet’s School website here.   Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#26: Retired inner-city CNA, Allen Long shares his inspirational story about how he leveraged his vast medical experience and passion into a creative career as a fictional writer, volunteer, and more. This is an eye-opening episode that proves you have much more to share with the world.    Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#25: If your dream job is to write your own book, this is the episode for you. Wildly-published poetry writer and writing coach Ralph Dranow shares therapeutic steps to make your retirement radically rewarding. Get inspired by his story and envision your next level up today.   Explore Ralph’s website here.   Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#24: Is it time for your encore adventure? Attorney and diversified published writer Teo Spengler is a passionate, inspiring creative. Her growthjourney is a prime example of how you can keep your life enriched with excitement. Check out Teo’s worldly good message starts in Alaska, takes her to California, Berkeley Law School, and around Europe!    Send Teo an email at: teospengler@gmail.com   Follow Teo on LinkedIn HERE.    Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

#23: The incredible integrative cancer consultant and patient advocate Adrea Brier is ready to uplift you! She has extensive experience in integrating the benefits of conventional medicine, complementary medicine and all forms of healing that strengthen the body’s ability to conquer cancer. If you’re over 65 and finding the oncology world challenging, listen in and find the comfort and resources you’ve been searching for.   Want to learn more about healing and building strong relationships? Check out Episode 13, Going Off the Beaten Path Learning to Self-Heal here.   Explore Adrea’s website here. Connect with Adrea on LinkedIn here.   Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.