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.

As I sat basking in the glow of Oscar night glamour, I couldn't help but ponder the juxtaposition of Hollywood's dazzling facade against the weightier discussions of life's inevitable outcomes. In this episode, I, Marcy Backhus, invite you on a journey from the red carpet's luster to the intimate, often unspoken conversations about informed care choices. We'll revisit the allure of the Oscars and the pressures on celebrities to dazzle but also delve into the profound responsibility we hold in making our personal wishes known for times when we may not be able to speak them ourselves. From my own relaxed moments with a cherished friend in Palm Springs to the emotional heaviness of end-of-life care planning, this is a tapestry of life's contrasting moments woven with the threads of joy, glamour, and the gravity of our decisions.

Stay tuned for illumination and inspiration, as the Aging ain't for Sissie's podcast is a beacon in exploring the multifaceted aspects of life and aging. Whether you're here for the celebrity fashion debrief or the pivotal advice from Medicare expert Anita Wendrick, there's a place for you at our table. Wrap up your day and join me; let's savor the simple pleasures like a pot roast dinner while embracing the happiness we strive to cultivate year-round. This episode is about celebrating joy, understanding the importance of clear communication, and navigating life's complexities with grace and ease.

Ever dreamed of jet-setting without breaking the bank? Let me, Marcy Backhus, be your guide as I spill secrets on how to transform your travel dreams into a cost-effective reality. Picture this: You've just scored an unexpected first-class upgrade, thanks to a loyalty program tip I'll share. And imagine the satisfaction of reuniting with distant family members, without the stress of overspending. In our latest chat, I recount personal tales of altered plans and blissful family gatherings, all while teaching you to master the art of stretching each retirement dollar. Learn how to leverage the flexibility of travel dates, join rewarding programs, and strategically utilize discounts to make your adventures not just possible, but also downright enjoyable.

Now, if that's not enough to awaken your wanderlust, wait till you hear about the luxe life that your travel credit card can afford you. My American Express Platinum card isn't just a piece of plastic—it's a golden ticket to a world of exclusive luxuries like airport lounge access, the convenience of TSA PreCheck, and the cutting-edge CLEAR biometric system. These aren't just perks; they're game-changers that revolutionize the way you travel. In this episode, we also touch on choosing the best hotels and smartly managing travel finances. And as a bonus, I dish on my infectious excitement for the changing seasons and reveal the next exciting destination on my travel list. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff into a world where savvy spending meets luxurious travel perks.

Have you ever been chuckling over something as mundane as toilet paper placement? Oh, the joys of domestic life! It's Marcy here, and this Podcast episode is a rollercoaster ride through the hilarity of household quirks and the profound moments of family bonding. I'm unpacking the complexities of our daily lives, from the lighthearted debate over toilet paper orientation to the cherished memories made while scooting through Old Town Scottsdale with loved ones. These stories stitch the fabric of our lives, blending the everyday laughs with the treasured times that remind us to hold our family close.

But it's not all fun and scooters; we're also talking about something many of us shuffle to the bottom of the to-do list: end-of-life planning. I'll take you through the importance of a good laugh, even when discussing something as serious as our final farewell. Join me as I share poignant insights from my preparations, like the Dead Marcy notebook, which might inspire you to start penning your own. We'll discuss how to gracefully handle the details of funerals and the kindness of leaving clear instructions for those we'll someday leave behind. And guess what? Even this severe topic has a silver lining, as I sprinkle a bit of humor to lighten the mood.

In our last chapter, we zoom in on how lifestyle choices can sneakily fan the flames of inflammation in our bodies. I'm sharing my experiences with sleep aids and how kicking them to the curb did wonders for my sleep. We'll navigate through the signs of inflammation, from the pesky to the persistent, and how everything from our diet to our stress levels plays a role. It's all about giving our bodies the break they deserve. So pour yourself a drink—Diet Coke or otherwise—and let's explore how a few tweaks to our daily habits can pave the way to a healthier, happier you.

Embark on a journey with me, Marcy Backhus, as I reveal how transforming your space can lead to a tranquil mind. Picture the warmth of the Arizona sun as I weave tales of retirement bliss, from launching a church book club to private art viewings in Chicago. You'll be inspired to tackle your own cluttered corners and overstuffed drawers with my personal tales of decluttering triumphs—from mismatched socks to the poignant farewell to a shelf of well-loved novels. I'm rolling up my sleeves and guiding you through the refreshing process of creating a serene home environment, one cherished item at a time.

As the conversation takes a sobering turn, I stress the critical importance of emergency preparedness for my peers, especially for the 27% of us over 60 flying solo. Learn the lifesaving signs of a heart attack and the immediate steps to take that could very well save your life. I'll share the essentials of having a medical info list ready, securing your furry friends for the safety of all, and the significance of staying composed in the face of crisis. Join me for this heart-to-heart as we embrace the coming spring with open arms and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of an organized life and the peace of mind that comes with being prepared for the unexpected.