The Navigating Solo™ Podcast
 

The Navigating Solo™ Podcast

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Welcome to The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, a dedicated platform where we explore the unique needs and concerns of solo aging with a focus on empowerment, connection, and proactive planning. As a trusted healthcare advocate and national expert in solo aging, I am thrilled to launch this podcast to provide valuable insights, practical advice, and supportive resources for solo agers navigating the complexities and opportunities of aging independently. The Navigating Solo™ Podcast aims to: - Highlight innovative strategies and best practices for creating a fulfilling and secure future as a solo ager. - Equip solo agers with the knowledge and tools to thrive in their later years. - Foster a supportive community where listeners can share experiences and learn from and with one another. - ​​​Offer ​allied professionals interested in learning more about the unique needs and concerns of solo agers in-depth ​understanding​, ​expert ​perspectives​, ​and practical ​advice​ to help meet the needs of their clients and community members. 30 - 45 minute episodes will be released one the first and third Wednesdays of each month! Join Our Mailing List and more: https://navigatingsolo.com/navsolopodcast

We've Been On An Unexpected Break

March 20, 2025

Dear Listeners,

I wanted to share why there haven't been a number of podcast episodes recently. Unfortunately, I had an unexpected medial event in January and my health and recovery have been my focus as I find a new rhythm. 

I am excited there will be new episodes published soon and I hope they will be worth the wait. 

If you have an questions or comments, email us podcast@navigatingsolo.com.

Your Host, Ailene

 

EPISODES

Episodes

When the Advocate Becomes the Patient: A Personal Reflection with Ailene Gerhardt

Wednesday May 21, 2025

Wednesday May 21, 2025

In this deeply personal solo episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt, board-certified patient advocate and founder of the Navigating Solo™ Network, shares what it’s been like to shift from supporting others through health challenges to facing a health challenges of her own.

Ailene reflects on the emotional and physical toll of multiple diagnoses, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatments—all while living independently. She speaks candidly about the loss of routine, the disruption to her work, and the vulnerability of stepping into the role of patient after years of advocating for others.

Through sharing her story, Ailene explores:

  • The blurred line between professional advocate and patient

  • How illness can challenge identity and sense of control

  • The critical importance of compassionate, person-centered care

  • What it means to be present for yourself when your life feels upended

  • How asking for help and acknowledging limitations can be acts of strength

This episode is a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a whole person—and that even those who guide others through healthcare systems need support too.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

© 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

If this episode resonates with you, please consider sharing it with someone who may need to hear it. And don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.

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Living Longer, Planning Smarter with Cathleen Toomey

Wednesday Apr 02, 2025

Wednesday Apr 02, 2025

In this insightful episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt sits down with Cathleen Toomey, host of the podcast Seniority Authority to discuss all things aging! They dive into the evolving landscape of solo aging, exploring how living longer presents both unique opportunities and challenges. Cathleen shares insights on the importance of social connection and community involvement as we age, highlighting how volunteering and small acts of kindness can build meaningful relationships and improve well-being.

They also discuss the impact of negative self-talk and the barriers it can create when trying to form new connections, as well as practical ways to overcome these challenges by stepping slightly out of our comfort zones. Additionally, we address common misconceptions about solo aging, especially around living arrangements like continuing care retirement communities, assisted living, and memory care.

Tune in to gain practical tips for embracing longevity with intention and planning, and learn why social connection remains a vital component of healthy solo aging.

Books and Websites Mentioned During This Episode:

Websites:

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Connect with Cathleen Toomey:

  • Website: seniorityauthority.org
  • Email: info@seniorityauthority.org
  • Facebook: SeniorityAuthority
  • LinkedIn: cathleen-toomey-8889531
  • Podcast: seniorityauthority.org

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

© 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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The Retirement Puzzle: Crafting Your Solo Aging Vision with Eric Blake

Friday Feb 07, 2025

Friday Feb 07, 2025

In this insightful episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt sits down with Eric Blake, a seasoned financial planner with over 25 years of experience specializing in retirement, tax planning, and investment management for women over 55—including those who are single by choice, divorced, or widowed. Drawing from personal experiences with his single mother and widowed grandmother, Eric shares his passion for empowering women to achieve financial independence in retirement.

Together, they explore the unique financial challenges solo agers face, from understanding the life events that shape retirement perspectives to practical strategies like “practicing retirement” before leaving the workforce. Eric breaks down his “retirement puzzle” approach, helping listeners piece together key components like Social Security, tax strategies, and income planning to create a clear vision for the future.

Key points addressed in this episode:

  • The “Retirement Puzzle” Approach – How to piece together Social Security, tax strategies, and income planning for a secure retirement.
  • Unique Financial Challenges for Solo Agers – Understanding life events that shape retirement perspectives for those aging alone.
  • Practicing Retirement – The benefits of testing retirement strategies before fully leaving the workforce.
  • Choosing the Right Financial Advisor – Critical questions to ask to ensure your advisor aligns with your solo aging needs.
  • Proactive Tax Planning – Strategies to manage required minimum distributions (RMDs) and minimize tax liabilities.
  • The Importance of Building a Support Network – Creating a “micro board of directors” with professionals like financial planners, healthcare advocates, and elder law attorneys.
  • Navigating Retirement During Life Transitions – Approaching financial planning during widowhood, divorce, or other major life changes.
  • Common Missteps in Retirement Planning – Why many women switch financial advisors after losing a spouse and how to avoid reactive planning.

For additional resources, check out:

Whether you're navigating retirement solo or supporting someone who is, this episode provides practical tools and thoughtful insights to guide you through the retirement puzzle.

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Connect with Eric Blake, CFP:

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

© 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer: Content here is for illustrative purposes and general information only. It is not legal, tax or individualized financial advice, nor is it a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any specific security. Or engage in any specific trading strategy, results will vary. Past performance is no indication of future results or success. Market conditions change continuously.

This commentary reflects the personal opinions, viewpoints, and analyses of Blake Wealth Management. It does not necessarily represent those of RFG Advisory, their clients or their employees. This commentary should not be regarded as a description of advisory services provided by Blake Wealth Management or RFG advisory or performance returns of any client.

The views reflected in the commentary are subject to change at any time without notice. Advisory Services offered by investment advisory representatives of RFG Advisory, a registered investment advisor. Blake Wealth Management and RFG Advisory are unaffiliated entities. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where RFG Advisory and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. No advisory services may be rendered by RFG Advisory unless a client agreement is in place.

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Living Forward: Crafting a Meaningful Life as a Solo Ager

Wednesday Dec 18, 2024

Wednesday Dec 18, 2024

In this special episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, recorded during the Navigating Solo Fall Online Gathering, we hear from a dynamic panel of solo agers sharing their personal experiences, reflections on the past year, and thoughts on planning for the future. Their candid conversations offer insight into the joys, challenges, and opportunities of aging solo and navigating this life stage with intentionality.

Episode Highlights:

  • Reflections on Loss and New Beginnings
  • Building Meaningful Connections
  • Embracing Gratitude and Social Connection
  • Practical Tips for Navigating Solo Aging

Key Takeaways:

  • Navigating grief and loss takes time and energy, and it's okay to allow yourself space to rest and regroup.
  • Maintaining strong social connections, whether through family, friends, or community groups, is crucial for solo agers.
  • The end of the year provides a natural time to reflect on what you want to continue doing, what new activities you want to explore, and how to shape your future with intentionality.
  • Embrace gratitude and stay proactive in reaching out to others, as relationships are key to building a fulfilling solo aging experience.

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Connect with our Guests: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

© 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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