Episodes

  • The Road to 70: Vaginal Dryness After 60—Fix UTIs & Painful Sex with Dr. Margaret Nachtigall EP 191

    The Road to 70: Vaginal Dryness After 60—Fix UTIs & Painful Sex with Dr. Margaret Nachtigall EP 191
    Mar 24 2026
    In this episode of my Road to 70 mini-series, I’m talking about a topic that so many women deal with—but far too many of us suffer through in silence: vaginal health after 60. My guest is my go-to expert on menopause and vaginal health, Dr. Margaret Nachtigall, and this conversation is exactly the kind of straight talk I wish every woman got earlier. We get into what changes are common after menopause, what symptoms should never be ignored, what to ask your doctor, and what treatments can actually help—whether you’re dealing with vaginal dryness, irritation, urinary symptoms, or painful sex. If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe this is just part of getting older,” this episode is for you. Dr. Nachtigall makes it clear: you do not have to just live with it. In this episode, we cover: What’s normal (and what’s not) when it comes to vaginal health after menopause The most common symptoms in your 60s, including dryness, burning, irritation, and urinary changes Why women should not be embarrassed to bring up symptoms with their doctor The importance of regular exams and testing, including pelvic exams and HPV screening when appropriate Hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options, including local estrogen How vaginal health and urinary symptoms/UTIs are often connected When pelvic floor therapy can help How lifestyle choices (including exercise and smoking) affect vaginal and sexual health How to protect intimacy and maintain a healthy sex life after menopause Why it’s never too late to start treatment and feel better Dr. Nachtigall also shares practical, reassuring advice on speaking up, getting answers, and making sure your concerns are taken seriously—because this is a quality-of-life issue, and it matters. If this episode helps you, please share it with a friend. So many women need this information. And if you haven’t already, subscribe to my newsletter, Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack, where I share smart, science-backed tips to help you age better, stronger, and with more confidence. Be sure to follow AGE BETTER wherever you listen, leave a rating/review if you haven’t already, and come say hi on Instagram. I always love hearing from you—and if there’s a topic you want me to cover in a future episode, send me a note at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com.
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    53 mins
  • What Is Yoga Nidra? New Research on the Lie-Down Guided Meditation for Insomnia & Anxiety with Dr. Erica Sharpe EP 190

    What Is Yoga Nidra? New Research on the Lie-Down Guided Meditation for Insomnia & Anxiety with Dr. Erica Sharpe EP 190
    Mar 17 2026
    Key links & resources Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack Playlist of Yoga Nidra Meditations: Includes seated and lying down options, 10- and 30-minute versions, plus one to do before sleep that was used in Dr. Sharpe’s sleep lab trial. Yoga Nidra Book with Scripts (Amazon) Erica Sharpe’s research (link): https://researchwebsite.com/yoganidra Dive Deeper with Research from Dr. Erica Sharpe:  Qualitative Study     Sleep Lab Protocol     Sleep Lab Results     Remote Yoga Nidra Abstract Episode summary If you’re new to Yoga Nidra, this is the episode to start with. I’m joined by Dr. Erica Sharpe, a researcher and practitioner who studies how this guided, lie-down meditation can support sleep, stress relief, and mental health—especially during times when the world feels heavy and our nervous systems are running on high alert. We break down what Yoga Nidra is (and what it isn’t), the science behind why it may help with insomnia and anxiety, and exactly what happens during a session—step by step—so you can try it tonight. What you’ll learn What Yoga Nidra is—and how it differs from mindfulness meditation and a standard body scan Why the “between awake and asleep” state may be uniquely restorative The typical sequence of a Yoga Nidra session (and why traditional scripts matter) What research suggests about Yoga Nidra and falling asleep faster and reducing anxiety How Yoga Nidra may complement care for insomnia and stress-related patterns (including the conversation around PTSD and addiction support) Simple, beginner-friendly tips for making Yoga Nidra a realistic habit Stay connected For more science-backed tools to help you Age Better, subscribe to my Age Better Cheat Sheet newsletter on Substack. And I’d love your ideas for future episodes—email me at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com, leave a comment, or send me a DM on social media.
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    39 mins
  • A Tribute to Jeff Galloway: The Run/Walk/Run Method That Changed My Life EP 189

    A Tribute to Jeff Galloway: The Run/Walk/Run Method That Changed My Life EP 189
    Mar 10 2026
    KEY LINKS • Jeff Galloway’s website (Run/Walk/Run + training resources) • Book: “Marathon: You Can Do It!” byJeff Galloway ABOUT THIS REPLAY (TRIBUTE) I’m replaying this episode from July 2022—back when this show was called GRUFFtalk—because Jeff Galloway recently passed away. And I wanted to honor him the best way I know how: by letting you hear his voice, his encouragement, and the simple method that helped millions of people get moving. Jeff had a gift for making running feel possible, not intimidating. He used to say, “If you can walk, you can run.” That message didn’t just inspire me—it changed my life. Jeff’s Run/Walk/Run approach helped me train for my very first marathon… and since then I’ve run 17, with #18 on the horizon. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE • Exactly how the Run/Walk/Run method works (and why it’s so effective for beginners) • How walk breaks can help you go farther, feel better, and lower injury risk • Smart recovery basics—why rest is part of the plan, not a failure • Simple strategies to stay motivated (even if your “goal” is just getting out the door) • Jeff’s practical tips if running feels tough on your knees—including options for runners with arthritis CONNECT • Have a question or topic idea for the show? Email me: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com • Subscribe to my Age Better Cheat Sheet newsletter on Substack for action-oriented ideas to help you stay strong, healthy, and independent.
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    37 mins
  • The Invincible Brain: How to Protect Memory and Lower Alzheimer’s Risk with Dr. Majid Fotuhi EP 188

    The Invincible Brain: How to Protect Memory and Lower Alzheimer’s Risk with Dr. Majid Fotuhi EP 188
    Mar 3 2026
    Key Links Dr. Majid Fotuhi’s Website (NeuroGrow Brain Fitness Program) is HERE Dr. Fotuhi’s book, The Invincible Brain (Amazon) is HERE Dr. Fotuhi’s TED Talk is HERE Documentary referenced in this episode — Monster in the Mind (IMDb) is HERE In this episode of AGE BETTER, I’m joined by world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Majid Fotuhi for a powerful, hopeful, and deeply practical conversation about brain health, memory, and what we can do right now to protect cognitive function as we age. This episode is part of my Road to 70 series, where each month I talk with a trusted expert about one key area of healthy aging to help me—and all of us—get ready for the next decade. Dr. Fotuhi’s new book, The Invincible Brain, is based on his highly regarded brain health program, and this conversation is packed with the kind of clear, science-backed information so many of us need—especially if Alzheimer’s or dementia runs in the family. We talk about what’s actually driving cognitive decline (and why it’s often not just one thing), what the latest biomarker testing can and cannot tell us, and why lifestyle changes are far more powerful than most people realize. One of my favorite takeaways from Dr. Fotuhi is this: “Our brain is more invincible than we think. Decline can be slowed and even reversed.” If you’ve ever worried about brain fog, memory slips, menopause-related cognitive changes, or the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, this is an episode you’ll want to hear all the way through. What you’ll learn in this episode Why Dr. Fotuhi says the brain is far more resilient and adaptable than most people think The biggest myths about aging, memory loss, and Alzheimer’s risk How menopause can affect memory and cognition—and what women should understand Why Alzheimer’s is often a “soup of abnormalities,” not one simple disease process The difference between genetics and epigenetics (and why family history is not destiny) What the newest blood biomarker tests can reveal—and their limitations What a proper, proactive brain-health workup should include Dr. Fotuhi’s five pillars of brain health: exercise, sleep, nutrition, stress management, and brain training Practical first steps you can take now to protect your brain and lower your risk over time This is one of the most important AGE BETTER conversations I’ve had on the show, and I’m so glad to share it with you. If this episode helps you, please share it with a friend or family member who needs to hear it. And as always, I’d love to hear from you—send me your ideas for future episodes at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com and connect with me on social media.
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    59 mins
  • The Road to 70: Easy Everyday Eye Makeup After 60 with Laura Geller EP 187

    The Road to 70: Easy Everyday Eye Makeup After 60 with Laura Geller EP 187
    Feb 17 2026
    Key Links & Resources Watch the full tutorial on YouTube (step-by-step demo): Barbara Hannah Grufferman → AGE BETTER playlist Laura Geller Beauty: laurageller.com Products mentioned: Balance-n-Brighten Color-Correcting Foundation Spackle Primer with SPF 30 Wonder Balm Cheek Tint Kajal Waterproof Eyeliner Kajal Longwear Mascara Jelly Balm Hydrating Lip Color Connect with Laura Geller on Instagram Episode Summary If you’ve been doing your eye makeup the same way for years—and lately it just isn’t giving what it used to—this episode is your reset. Laura Geller (founder of Laura Geller Beauty and QVC icon for 25+ years) shares her simple, confidence-boosting approach to everyday eye makeup that is easy peasy. We focus on easy techniques that lift, brighten, and polish your look without piling on more products—and you’ll hear exactly how to tweak your routine so you feel like you, only a little bit better. What You’ll Learn Laura’s “three Es” approach that simplifies your routine: eyeliner, eyelash, eyebrow How to subtly lift the eyes and face using strategic liner and shadow placement The easiest way to create a polished look with minimal products (and what’s actually worth using) Layering tricks that make makeup look more natural and longer-lasting How to choose eyeliner shades (black vs. brown vs. navy) and why waterproof formulas can be your best friend Mascara and brow tips that instantly make your face look more defined and awake Why skincare habits—especially SPF—make makeup look better (and wear better) Connect With Me Come say hi on Instagram and tell me what you thought of this episode and if you have any ideas for future episodes of AGE BETTER. Or . . . reach by sending an email to agebetterpodcast@gmail.com And if you want to watch this episode, don’t forget to check out the full step-by-step tutorial on my YouTube channel: Barbara Hannah Grufferman → AGE BETTER  playlist. And while you are over there . . . subscribe! Subscribe to AGE BETTER CHEAT SHEET on Substack!
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Must-Have Heart Health Tests for Postmenopausal Women EP 186

    Must-Have Heart Health Tests for Postmenopausal Women EP 186
    Feb 10 2026
    PRINT THIS AND TAKE IT WITH YOU TO YOUR NEXT ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM:  ESSENTIAL BLOOD WORK SCREENING TESTS CHEAT SHEET  February is AMERICAN HEART MONTH, so we’re replaying this solo episode where I dive into the essential blood tests and health screenings every postmenopausal woman should ask about during your annual physical. Drawing on expert insights from past episodes, I talk through why it’s crucial to go beyond routine tests and discuss additional screenings that can help detect potential health risks early. WHAT I COVER IN THIS EPISODE: - The importance of the lipid panel for understanding heart health.  - How the Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) test provides a more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment.  - Why high levels of C-reactive Protein (CrP) can indicate dangerous inflammation levels.  - The critical role of Vitamin D for bone and immune health, especially in midlife women.  - How regular blood glucose testing can help catch diabetes early.  - The significance of blood pressure monitoring for heart disease prevention.  - Why women should prioritize bone density tests to prevent osteoporosis.  - The importance of monitoring  waist circumference as an indicator of health risks.  - The need for regular cancer screenings, including Pap smears, mammograms, and colonoscopies, for early detection.  - Regular cancer screenings are essential for early detection.  KEY LINKS TO LEARN MORE: Learn more about the ApoB test HERE Learn more about the LP(a) test HERE   Learn more about inflammation HERE  Learn more about heart health and atrial fibrillation HERE  Learn more about blood glucose and insulin resistance HERE  CONNECT WITH ME: Instagram: @BarbaraHannahGrufferman    X/Twitter: @BGrufferman  Facebook: @BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor  Please Rate & Review the Show!    If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a review or sharing it with someone who would benefit from these essential health tips. 
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    14 mins
  • The Road to 70: Skin Care Non-Negotiables in Your 60s — with Dr. Doris Day EP 185

    The Road to 70: Skin Care Non-Negotiables in Your 60s — with Dr. Doris Day EP 185
    Jan 27 2026
    KEY LINKS Learn more about Dr. Doris Day HERE Learn more about AGE BETTER CHEAT SHEET newsletter HERE Line in the Sand SPF Activewear info HERE Watskin SPF Activewear info HERE As part of my year-long Road to 70 mini-series, I’m inviting one top expert each month to help guide me—and all of us—as we prepare to enter our next decade feeling informed, confident, and strong. In this episode, we focus on skin—not just how it looks, but how healthy it truly is. I’m joined by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Doris Day, a trusted voice many of you already know from her previous appearances on Age Better. I asked her to get very clear and very practical: What are the absolute skin-care non-negotiables in your 60s? And what’s actually worth considering—and what’s not—when it comes to non-surgical options as we head toward 70? I also shared my own skin concerns, including crow’s feet, slight jowl drooping, and redness on my face, including a lingering red spot from a past biopsy. Plus, we brought listener questions directly into the conversation. This is a no-hype, science-backed discussion designed to help you make smart decisions for healthier, better-looking skin—now and in the years ahead. WHAT WE COVER The absolute non-negotiables for healthy skin in your 60s Sunscreen: what really matters and how to use it correctly Retinoids: when to start, how to use them safely, and who should avoid them Red light therapy masks—do they actually work? How to properly layer skincare products Redness and post-biopsy scarring: what can help Crow’s feet, skin laxity, and early jowling—realistic expectations Botox, lasers, and energy-based devices: who they’re for and who should skip them How to avoid overdoing treatments and compromising skin health KEY TAKEAWAYS Consistency beats complexity when it comes to skin care Healthy skin and better-looking skin go hand in hand Not every trending treatment is right—or necessary—at this stage of life Strategic, informed choices matter more than doing “everything” STAY CONNECTED For a clear, actionable breakdown of conversations like this, subscribe to my newsletter, Age Better Cheat Sheet on Substack HERE. And if there’s a topic you want me to cover on Age Better, email me at agebetterpodcast@gmail.com or reach out on social media. Your questions help shape this show. Connect With  Barbara:    Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!    Email: ⁠⁠agebetterpodcast@gmail.com   ⁠⁠ Instagram ⁠: https://www.instagram.com/barbarahannahgrufferman/
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    41 mins
  • 2026 Health & Nutrition Trends: What Matters Most — with U.S. News & World Report’s Gretel Schueller EP 184

    2026 Health & Nutrition Trends: What Matters Most — with U.S. News & World Report’s Gretel Schueller EP 184
    Jan 20 2026
    “Fiber is a health superhero.” — Gretel Schueller Read the full U.S. News & World Report study: Top Health and Nutrition Trends for 2026 HERE Each January, the wellness world waits for the U.S. News & World Report rankings—and this year, the USN&WR Health team went a step further. Instead of focusing only on “best diets,” they surveyed a panel of medical experts to identify the health and nutrition trends that will shape 2026. In this episode of AGE BETTER, Barbara Hannah Grufferman sits down with Gretel Schueller, Health Editor at U.S. News & World Report, to break down what rose to the top, what surprised the experts, and how to think about new health advice without chasing every headline. They cover the expanded role of GLP-1 medications, how AI-powered wearable technology is changing personalized health management, why “food as medicine” is gaining traction, and why the Mediterranean diet continues to stand the test of time. They also talk about what actually helps people stick with health goals—especially in midlife—when simplicity and sustainability matter more than perfection. If you’re trying to make smart, realistic health choices in 2026, this conversation will help you focus on what truly matters. Key Topics Covered The top health and nutrition trends shaping 2026 GLP-1 medications and their expanding role beyond weight loss AI and wearable technology for personalized health insights Why “food as medicine” is having a moment The critical role of fiber in long-term health Why the Mediterranean diet remains the gold standard How to set health goals you can actually stick with Listen now to learn how to approach 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a lot less noise. Connect With  Barbara:   Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you!   - Email: ⁠⁠⁠agebetterpodcast@gmail.com   ⁠⁠⁠ - Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE 
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    25 mins