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

The Soloist’s Guide to Life and Money with Dr. Jay Zigmont

Wednesday Dec 04, 2024

Wednesday Dec 04, 2024

In this episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, Ailene Gerhardt is joined by Dr. Jay Zigmont, PhD, CFP®, and founder of Childfree Wealth, the first life and financial planning firm dedicated to serving child-free and permanently childless individuals. Dr. Jay shares his groundbreaking approach to financial planning that centers on the unique needs and priorities of the child-free community, challenging traditional planning assumptions that prioritize marriage, children, and intergenerational wealth transfer.

Dr. Jay discusses how systemic biases in financial planning often fail solo agers and child-free individuals, leading to advice that doesn’t align with their values or goals. He highlights the importance of starting with a life plan—what you want your legacy and impact to be—and aligning finances to support those aspirations.

Listeners will gain insights into:

  • How financial planning for the child-free community differs from traditional models.
  • The societal stigmas and systemic biases child-free individuals face and how they affect financial planning.
  • The importance of redefining legacy, shifting away from genetic inheritance, and prioritizing personal and community impact.
  • Key questions to ask when choosing a financial planner, including how their approach adapts to child-free lifestyles.
  • How simplifying finances can lead to more joyful and meaningful lives.

Dr. Jay also introduces his forthcoming book, The Childfree Guide to Life and Money, which offers practical strategies and insights for child-free individuals to build fulfilling lives on their terms.

Key Takeaways:

  • Traditional financial advice often assumes marriage, children, and wealth transfer, making it ill-suited for child-free and solo individuals.
  • Starting with a life plan allows individuals to define their purpose, values, and impact, shaping financial decisions accordingly.
  • Child-free individuals have unique opportunities to reallocate wealth and resources during their lifetime to causes and experiences that matter most to them.
  • Simplifying finances can free individuals to pursue fulfilling careers and lifestyles, emphasizing joy and meaningful contributions.

About Dr. Jay Zigmont:
Dr. Jay Zigmont holds a PhD in Adult Learning from the University of Connecticut and an MBA. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and founder of Childfree Wealth, a life and financial planning firm serving child-free individuals. Dr. Jay is also the author of the forthcoming book, The Childfree Guide to Life and Money, available December 2024. His expertise has been featured in Fortune, Forbes, MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and more.

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Connect with Dr. Jay:

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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Retirement Reimagined: Finding Your New Routine on Your Own Terms with Norman Reiss

Wednesday Nov 20, 2024

Wednesday Nov 20, 2024

In this 37-minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt speaks with Norman Reiss, who recently retired after a career in technology, project management, and most recently, supporting older adults in living engaging and productive lives.

Norman shares his experiences leading a variety of online social and educational sessions, including a monthly group for Selfhelp, a weekly "Good Morning" session for older adults on GetSetUp, and newly launched discussions on "Secrets of a Happy Retirement" for Front Porch and Uniper.

Together, Ailene and Norman explore the importance of fostering meaningful connections during retirement, both virtually and in person. Norman discusses how these interactions provide emotional support, combat loneliness, and create a sense of belonging, even across digital platforms. He also shares insights on the value of intergenerational engagement and how stepping outside of one's comfort zone can lead to richer experiences in retirement.

Key topics include:

  • The role of online communities in creating authentic connections.
  • Tips for blending personal interests with opportunities to meet others.
  • Strategies for navigating the transition into retirement and finding a unique path.
  • The benefits of incorporating social activities into daily routines.

This episode is a must-listen for solo agers, recent retirees, and anyone looking to embrace a more connected and fulfilling lifestyle.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Connect with Guest Norman Reiss: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

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

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Men, Connection, and the Art of Solo Aging: A Candid Conversation with Dr. Jackson Rainer

Wednesday Nov 06, 2024

Wednesday Nov 06, 2024

In this engaging 47 minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt welcomes Dr. Jackson Rainer, a board-certified clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience in psychotherapy and a background as an emeritus professor and former Dean in the university system of Georgia. Dr. Rainer shares his personal and professional insights into the complexities of solo aging. This episode delves into the emotional and practical complexities that men face when navigating solo aging, from the initial transition to building meaningful connections.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • The Journey to Solo Aging: The emotional process of moving from being part of a couple to embracing solo life, and the unique ways men experience and cope with this transition.
  • Challenges in Building Connections: Why many men struggle to actively seek companionship and how traditional gender norms may influence their hesitancy to reach out and initiate relationships.
  • Vulnerability and Loneliness: The importance of understanding and accepting vulnerability, and the distinction between being alone versus feeling lonely. We discuss strategies men can use to open up and create meaningful networks of support.
  • Taking Risks and Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Our guest candidly reflects on the fears and uncertainties that come with solo aging. He shares personal insights about how taking risks, like traveling alone for the first time in years, can lead to growth and self-discovery.
  • Practical Tips for Connection: Encouraging men to be proactive in forming connections—like picking up the phone and making plans—rather than waiting for others to reach out. We also touch on how to practice self-reassurance and build inner confidence, especially during moments of isolation.

This episode is a rich and reflective discussion on the ways men can navigate solo aging with courage and curiosity. We hope it inspires listeners, men and women alike, to think about how they can better support themselves and each other.

Tune in and join the conversation on navigating vulnerability, making connections, and finding a sense of belonging as a solo ager.

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!

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Connect with Dr. Jackson Rainer, Ph.D., ABPP:

  • Website: https://www.drjacksonrainer.com/

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

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

 

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Navigating Life's Unexpected Falls: The Power of Advocacy and Support with Elizabeth A. Edwards

Wednesday Oct 16, 2024

Wednesday Oct 16, 2024

In this 43-minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt speaks with Elizabeth A. Edwards, who shares her personal experience of navigating life after a traumatic fall, highlighting the importance of community support and the challenges she faced living alone.
 
From navigating the healthcare system to rallying her "root sisters" and patient advocates, Elizabeth opens up about how her experiences have reinforced the significance of having a strong support network, legal documents like advance directives, and access to community resources. 
 
Her story illustrates the vital role of adaptability, self-advocacy, and support systems as we age.
 
Resources Mentioned During Our Conversation:
 
Professional Associations:
Advance Care Planning Resources:

National Resources Mentioned:

  • Senior Planet by AARP: A technology education program offering classes for seniors.
  • GetSetUp: an online platform that celebrates every older adult, offering opportunities for physical, mental, and social growth and enabling participation in communities
Resources Located in Idaho:
  • The Idaho Statesman Article About Population, January 15, 2024
  • Learn Idaho (Lifelong Education and Aging Resource Network): An organization that offers free educational resources and senior technology classes in the Boise area.
  • HAPPEN (Healthcare Associates Providing Positive Education and Networking): A professional network offering educational sessions and healthcare resources in Boise.
  • Idaho Careline 211: A phone line providing resources and support for non-emergency services in Idaho.
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Connect with Elizabeth A. Edwards:

 

Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

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

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