Have you ever felt your power slipping away as you age, wondering if your relevance is fading along with your youth? You're not alone—but you're also not powerless.

In this raw and revealing episode, we tackle the myth that aging means decline and invisibility. After sharing my personal journey through cancer treatments and an unexpected sidewalk tumble (complete with 14 stitches!), we dive deep into how society tries to strip away our power as we age, and more importantly, how we can reclaim it.

For women, the message seems clear: unless you're maintaining Helen Mirren or J-Lo levels of beauty, prepare to become invisible after 50. Men don't escape either, being relegated to "grumpy old man" status for simply having opinions. But what if aging isn't about fading—but about finally finding your authentic voice?

We explore practical ways to reclaim your power: reconnecting with your body without judgment, speaking up without constant apologizing, making room for what truly lights you up, and recognizing that true power in your later years looks different—and possibly more genuine—than it did in youth. As I share from my own experience, "Power now is walking into a room with a face that says I've lived through a few things and I'm not afraid to tell you what I think."

Ready to stop waiting for permission to be fully yourself? This episode offers both compassion and a challenge: do one thing this week that makes you feel powerful. Because remember—power doesn't retire, it just changes shoes.

Ever walked into a room and completely forgotten why you're there? Or called your grandchild by your dog's name? You're not alone – and you're probably not losing your mind either!

Memory blips and brain fog happen to all of us as we navigate the wild journey of aging, but how do we know what's normal and what might signal something more serious? That's exactly what we're unpacking in this thoughtful, occasionally hilarious exploration of cognitive changes.

Think about this: our parents didn't have smartphones pinging them with notifications every three seconds or dozens of passwords to remember. Today's information overload would make anyone's brain fuzzy! When we forget where we put our keys, that's likely just normal aging. But forgetting what keys are for? That might warrant a conversation with your doctor.

The good news? Your brain is remarkably resilient, and there's plenty you can do to keep those neurons firing on all cylinders. From moving your body (even if that just means strutting through Costco) to getting quality sleep (think of it as a Roomba for your memories), maintaining social connections, and trying new activities – your brain health is largely in your hands.

Remember, cognitive changes are just one paragraph in the epic novel of your life. You're still creative, resourceful, and full of sass. Join me as we navigate this aspect of aging with humor, wisdom, and practical advice that proves once again that aging ain't for sissies – it's for the brave, bold, and absolutely fabulous.

Ready to show your brain some love? Subscribe now and let's face these memory moments together with knowledge and a healthy dose of laughter!

What happens when the world tells us our purpose has an expiration date? After decades of defining ourselves as parents, employees, volunteers, and caretakers, society quietly expects us to fade into obscurity once we reach a certain age. But what if we're not done evolving?

Fighting against the subtle and sometimes blatant effects of ageism requires recognizing its impact on our self-perception. When doctors speak louder, job applications disappear into voids, and our suggestions get dismissed, we begin questioning our value. As I navigate my own cancer journey—currently halfway through radiation treatments with more chemotherapy on the horizon—I've come to realize something profound: purpose doesn't retire, it transforms.

The most liberating truth about this stage of life is that we finally get to choose who needs us rather than having our purpose prescribed by others. Whether that means mentoring younger generations, creating art that's been simmering in your soul for decades, volunteering for causes that spark your passion, or simply enjoying unscheduled time without guilt—you're not retired from being YOU. Your wisdom, experience, and unique perspective remain invaluable in a world that too often prioritizes youth over substance. The question isn't "who am I without my former roles?" but rather "what do I want to be next?" Join me in rejecting invisibility and embracing this next chapter with intention, sass, and authenticity. What will you choose to write in your next chapter?

Ready to dust off your passport and embrace adventure in your golden years? Traveling doesn't have to stop when the knees start creaking or reading menus requires glasses. If anything, our wanderlust grows stronger with age, when we finally have the time, perspective, and freedom from work schedules to truly savor new experiences.

After returning from my hiatus, I'm sharing hard-earned wisdom about navigating the world as a seasoned traveler. From the absolutely non-negotiable tip to use wheelchair services at airports (seriously, use them—that's what they're there for!) to strategic packing that won't leave you struggling with heavy suitcases on cobblestone streets, these practical insights will transform your travel experience. Did you know November might be the perfect month for European adventures? Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and off-season prices make it ideal for those no longer restricted to traveling during school breaks.

The beauty of traveling later in life lies in our shifted perspective. We're no longer racing through attractions to check items off a bucket list. Instead, we're sitting at sidewalk cafes, people-watching, and truly absorbing cultural nuances. We're choosing meaningful souvenirs (like a piece of jewelry from each destination) rather than collecting dust-gathering trinkets. We're embracing slower travel—giving ourselves permission for afternoon breaks, carefully selecting walkable destinations, and recognizing that memories are made in quiet moments as much as grand vistas. Even during my cancer treatment journey, I discovered that with proper preparation, health challenges don't have to ground us permanently.

Whether you're planning an ambitious international adventure or a simple road trip to explore family roots, remember that aging isn't for sissies, but it certainly is for travelers with soul, sass, and a carefully packed carry-on. Subscribe to hear more candid conversations about navigating life's later chapters with grace, humor, and just a hint of glucosamine.

Wave goodbye to the old and embrace the new with me, Marcy Backhus, as we transition from the beloved "Aging Ain't for Sissies" to the fresh and exciting "Inside Marcy's Mind." Reminisce with me about the enchanting vistas of Santorini and the hustle and bustle of Thessaloniki, where I unearthed the true spirit of Greece beyond the beaten path. Let's chat about the bittersweet feeling of returning to the familiar—how the simple pleasure of Greek salads and French fries played an unexpected role in my weight maintenance journey. And don't forget the night I spent in the company of the humorous David Sedaris or the blast from the past at the TWA Hotel; these are stories you'll want to carry with you.

Spring into action with me as we look forward to Chicago's rebirth and discuss the practicalities of life, from bike rides to supplement regimens. I'm ready to share how my electric bike became my chariot of freedom and how supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, alongside zinc, have become my allies in the quest for health and vitality. As we gear up for the Democratic National Convention and Olympic fervor, I invite you to join in the conversation about keeping up with a bustling daily pill routine. Whether you're a supplement savant or looking for pill management pointers, let's navigate these waters together on "Inside Marcy's Mind," where the journey continues and the mind never stops exploring.

Embark on an odyssey through the Greek Islands as I, Marcy Backhus, recount the unforgettable moments from my recent trip with my California church group, tracing the path of St. Paul. Picture the majesty of an eclipse in New York, the transition to the warmth of sun-kissed skin in sandals, and the profound appreciation for the resilience of spirit required to navigate the ancient sites of the Acropolis and Corinth Canal. As an older traveler, I've discovered the delicate dance between vigilance and voyaging, overcoming the strenuous ascents to serene monasteries with a steadfast heart. Join me for the episode where I share not just the sights but also the poignant emotions of conducting a sacred service amidst the waves, alongside lifelong companions.

As one chapter closes, another begins; "Aging Ain't for Sissies" wraps with a celebration of its landmark episodes, and I'm thrilled to unveil my new project, "Inside Marcy's Head." Listen to how a chance decision to forgo a ride from Uber in favor of local insight led to dining against the backdrop of a boundless ocean, a testament to the magic of serendipitous travel. And don't miss our conversation with the ever-engaging Nita Wenrick, as we tackle the intricacies of Medicare and more. It's a journey of exploration, not just through the storied landscapes of history, but through the evolving journey of this very podcast.

Ever had one of those weeks where every little win felt like conquering Everest? That's exactly what I, Marcy Bacckhus, experienced, and I'm here to share it all with you. From the comical annoyance of a phone dying just as you arrive at the airport to pick up someone to the ever-present question of when to switch from weight loss to maintenance mode, it's been a rollercoaster. But it's not all about life's hiccups; join me as I navigate the complexities of finding a new primary care physician and tackle the grown-up task of updating my Social Security details. And for those who know the struggle of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, I've got some personal anecdotes that'll hit close to home.

Now, let's get out and about in Chicago! I'll take you along for my solo adventure to see the river turn a vibrant green and share the excitement of breaking free from routine. As Craig and I dust off our bikes for the season, I'll compare the nifty features of my electric bike to his traditional racing model, along with some essential safety tips like helmet use and bike transportation. We'll also dive into the joys of discovering new restaurants, the adrenaline of dating, and the treasure hunt that is thrifting. So, whether you're single and ready to mingle or looking to spice up your weekends with some new activities, I've got insights and stories that will inspire you to embrace the vibrant life and opportunities waiting outside your doorstep.

Navigating the tranquil aftermath of St. Patrick's Day in Chicago, I, Marcy Backhus, found myself reflecting on the importance of balance—a theme that's distinctly echoed throughout this week's chat. From the heart-pumping thrills of aqua sculpting that's keeping my joints jubilant at 63, to the quiet introspection that comes with an empty nest as my family whisks away to Vail for a ski adventure, I'm here to share how these moments tie into your path to a financially sound and healthy retirement.

Let's grab a proverbial shovel and unearth some financial wisdom together. You'll hear firsthand about the tightrope walk between generosity and safeguarding your nest egg, leaning on my own tales of familial love and the financial implications therein. We'll unpack the treasures hidden in decluttering, not just for peace of mind, but for the sake of your wallet too. And because life's too short to not savor its sweetness, I'll reveal how to sprinkle in those luxurious treats without tipping your retirement plans into disarray.

But it's not all dollars and cents; your well-being is the golden currency that truly enriches life. I'll take you through the critical, and often overlooked, steps in preventive health care. Plus, we'll tackle the boring but essential world of home maintenance and the sneaky drain of autopilot spending. And remember, even the smallest scratch can escalate if ignored—taking care of the little things is sometimes the most significant step you can take towards maintaining a vibrant and fulfilling life. Join me as we chart the course for a future that's as bright as it is secure.