Sage Advice Vibrant Living, the Podcast

How to Thrive as You Age: A Conversation with Actress Tina Lifford

In this episode, we sit down with Tina Lifford, the celebrated actress known for her role as Aunt Vi on 'Queen Sugar.' Beyond her acting accolades, Tina is a mentor and author who champions the concept of 'Inner Fitness'.  Tina shares her journey of overcoming fear, embracing self-compassion, and redefining purpose throughout life's transitions.  Tina also unpacks her Inner Fitness Project, a wellness initiative aimed at helping people manage their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The episode delves into practical steps for living fully alive, the power of self-kindness, and the importance of continuous growth and intentional living.  Tina's new book, 'The Inner Fitness Revolution: A Roadmap to Your Freedom and Joy', was just released on March 11, 2025. Here are some highlights from this episode: 01:56 Tina's Philosophy on Aging 03:08 The Journey of Self-Discovery 04:32 Overcoming paralyzing fear 08:34 The Inner Fitness Project 10:29 Living Fully Alive 14:35 Redefining Yourself 19:05 Conclusion and Call to Action Pre-order/order Tina’s book here: https://www.theinnerfitnessproject.com/book [https://www.theinnerfitnessproject.com/book] Visit Sage Collective to learn more about the in-person and virtual programs they offer for older adults: https://sagecollective.org TELMJBxhWlLRENodS7Dw

Scams EXPOSED! How to Protect Older Adults from Financial Fraud

In this episode of Sage Advice Vibrant Living, we delve into the pervasive threat of financial scams targeting older adults.  Donna Gaines President of Sage Collective leads us into the conversation with a frightening scenario too many older adults have experienced.  With the help of correspondent Monique Caradine Kitchens and financial crimes expert Trevor Bundrige, the episode explores how scams—from romance and grandparent scams to phishing and tech support fraud—exploit the vulnerabilities of the elderly.  Real-life stories illustrate the emotional and financial devastation these scams can cause, and crucial tips and strategies are provided to help protect older adults and their loved ones from falling victim.  Here are a few highlights from this episode: 00:03 A Startling Phone Call 00:26 Introduction to Financial Scams 01:07 Common Scamming Techniques 02:50 The Romance Scam 07:50 The Grandparent and Computer Scams 08:50 Real-Life Scam Stories 12:56 Phishing Scams and Personal Experiences 14:16 Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones 18:15 Final Thoughts and Resources For more information on how to protect yourself from financial fraud, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, an official agency of the United States Government [https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/resources-for-older-adults/protecting-against-fraud/] To learn more about the programs Sage Collective offers for older adults, visit https://sagecollective.org [https://sagecollective.org]

Faking Normal: How older adults are silently facing financial insecurity, with Elizabeth White

There's a growing population of older adults silently trying to figure out how to finance their later years. Where will they live? How will they eat, pay bills and survive? Especially if there's no nest egg waiting for them when they retire. In this episode, Elizabeth White shares her personal journey of financial insecurity in her 50s and how she addressed the challenges of job loss and economic instability.  She describes her journey from despair to empowerment, the power of community, and the importance of resilience.  Her book, '55, Underemployed, and Faking Normal,' serves as a guide for older adults facing similar issues, urging a national conversation on financial insecurity among aging populations and introducing innovative concepts like co-living spaces.  Here are a few highlights from the conversation: 00:27 The Hidden Reality of Financial Insecurity 00:49 Elizabeth White's Story: From Despair to Community 04:27 The National Crisis: Aging and Financial Insecurity 07:31 Redefining Aging: Breaking Stereotypes and Finding Strength 08:27 A New Beginning: Elizabeth's Journey to Empowerment 13:29 The Power of Community: Resilient Circles and Shared Living 18:56 Call to Action: Shaping a New Way of Life You can get a copy of Elizabeth’s book, 55, Underemployed and Faking Normal here: On Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1501196839?tag=simonsayscom] On Barnes & Noble [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/55-underemployed-and-faking-normal-elizabeth-white/1128916402;jsessionid=8F481DC9F487B24C7E26CA7D89A0811F.prodny_store02-atgap01?ean=9781501196836] Elizabeth is working on a co-living space for older adults. Here’s the link: https://www.nuuagecoliving.com/ [https://www.nuuagecoliving.com/] Learn about the work we do for older adults at Sage Collective: https://sagecollective.org/residences/ [https://sagecollective.org/residences/]

Live Long, Live Strong! How to unlock longevity with Dr. Ian Smith and Raw Food Pioneer Karyn Calabrese

Even though we may have done so in our 20s, eating hamburgers on the regular might not be the best idea once we reach a certain age! In this episode we explore the secrets to longevity. How can a plant-based diet and "Blue Zone" eating habits become the norm among African American older adults? How can we extend our life span? With insights from best-selling author and celebrity physician Dr. Ian Smith and raw food pioneer Karyn Calabrese, this convo covers the benefits of plant-based diets, the importance of detoxing, and practical tips for incorporating healthier habits into daily life.  Dr. Ian emphasizes the need for resistance training, proper sleep, and reduction of red meat, while Karyn shares her personal journey and the holistic practices that have kept her vibrant at nearly 80 years old.  Here are some highlights from this conversation: 01:22 Karyn Calabrese's Journey from sickly to healthy 03:46 The Benefits of Plant-Based Living 06:10 Dr. Ian Smith on Aging and Nutrition 11:30 Practical Tips for a Plant-Based Lifestyle 16:34 Karyn's Continued Mission and Resources 17:39 Conclusion and Call to Action Find out what Karyn’s up to here: Karyn on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/karyncalabrese/?hl=en] https://www.shopkaryns.com/ [https://www.shopkaryns.com/] Connect with Dr. Ian here: Dr. Ian on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/doctoriansmith/?hl=en] and Order Dr. Ian's new book: Eat Your Age! [https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Your-Age-Ian-Smith/dp/0063383551/ref=asc_df_0063383551?mcid=c3ce88190942391688db9beaa3d21bf7&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693617169345&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6287424444101322462&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9010953&hvtargid=pla-2375398846984&psc=1] Sage Collective offers numerous programs (virtual and in-person) geared specifically to older adults. Visit https://sagecollective.org

The Hidden Heroes: Ugochi, Joel and Dawnita Pull Back the Curtain on their Caregiving Journey

Who will help care for you as you get older? In this episode we explore the transformative role of being a caregiver through the stories of three individuals: Ugochi, Joel, and Dawnita.  Despite unique challenges, these caregivers demonstrate unwavering commitment and support in caring for their parents. Let's take a peek into their daily routines, emotional journeys, and and find out how they avoid burnout while balancing other life responsibilities.  From Ugochi's hands-on care for her Nigerian immigrant parents to Joel's tender moments with his mother living with dementia, and Dawnita's establishment of support networks for black daughter caregivers, this episode highlights the resilience and resourcefulness required in caregiving.  Listen and gain real insights into the unseen lives of caregivers and find hope and inspiration in their stories. Here are a few highlights from this episode: 00:45 Meet the Caregivers: Ugochi's Story 07:23 Joel's Journey: A Son's Dedication 11:08 Dawnita's Experience: Balancing Life, Career and Care 13:16 Strategies for Avoiding Caregiver Burnout 15:00 The Importance of a Support System - Sage Collective's New Program 20:10 Coping with Family Dynamics 22:16 Resources and Final Thoughts RESOURCES: * Dawnita’s organization: https://heycaregiver.com/binti-circle/ [https://heycaregiver.com/binti-circle/] * Ugochi recommends: https://www.helpathome.com/ * Check with your city’s Department of Aging for additional resources. Also, Sage Collective recently launched a comprehensive Caregiver Support Group. Learn more here: https://sagecollective.org/sage-advice/caregiver-support/