Shows
Aging ain't for SissiesThe Unexpected Health Benefits of Giving Back: How Two Hours a Week Can Transform Your LifeReady to add years to your life while having fun? This episode delivers the surprising science behind volunteering as a health intervention. Forget expensive supplements—research shows that dedicating just two hours weekly to volunteering lowers blood pressure, fights depression, and literally extends your lifespan. This isn't wishful thinking; it's science.Discovering fulfilling volunteer opportunities doesn't mean wearing a hairnet at a soup kitchen (unless that's your thing). We explore dozens of ways to match your unique skills and interests with meaningful service. Love animals? Local shelters need you. Enjoy reading? Kids need literacy volunteers. Tech-savvy? Nonprofits de...2025-07-2518 minAging ain't for SissiesMedicare Made Less Terrifying (No, Really)Facing down Medicare enrollment can feel like trying to solve a puzzle in another language. I've been getting bombarded with Medicare Advantage plan offers as my 65th birthday approaches, and I know I'm not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the options. That's why I invited Medicare expert Nita Wenrick (the Medicare Diva) to cut through the confusion and give us the straight talk about these mysterious Advantage plans.Anita reveals something crucial right from the start: working with a Medicare specialist costs you absolutely nothing. These professionals are paid by the insurance companies, not by you, yet...2025-07-1839 minAging ain't for SissiesDeath Cleaning: Your Final Act of LoveDecluttering isn't just about creating space—it's about leaving the right legacy. Welcome to a candid exploration of Swedish Death Cleaning, the surprisingly uplifting practice of methodically clearing out your possessions before others have to do it while grieving your loss.Fresh from completing cancer treatment and finding my new normal, I dive into this concept that transformed my perspective on possessions. Swedish Death Cleaning (döstädning) isn't morbid—it's an act of profound consideration. Having downsized from a large house to a one-bedroom condo, I've experienced firsthand the liberation that comes with lightening the load.2025-07-1117 minAging ain't for SissiesThe Art of Owning Your Power After 50Have 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...2025-06-2721 minAging ain't for SissiesBrain Fog or Just Life Overload?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...2025-06-2019 minAging ain't for SissiesThe Invisible Woman Fights Back: Breaking Free from AgeismWhat 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 th...2025-06-1315 minAging ain't for SissiesTravel Doesn't Stop When Your Knees Start CreakingReady 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 wi...2025-06-0617 min
Inside Marcy's MindDead Marcy Notebook episode repeat from my old podcast!Ever wondered why "Aging ain't for Sissies"? Join me, Marcy Backhus, as I embark on an exciting journey from a sprawling California home to a cozy Chicago high-rise. As I navigate retirement, sobriety, and city life, I'm on a quest to find a new, happy place, all while embracing my love for crafting and creating Disney-themed treasures. You'll meet my family, including my supportive husband Craig, our grown kids, and our adorable feline companions, Pickles and Patrick. This episode is packed with heartwarming stories and playful critiques of terms like "senior citizen," as we redefine aging with grace, humor...2024-12-0425 minInside Marcy's MindChicago Social Life and Home Hacks: Marcy's Tips and TalesHave you ever wondered what goes on inside someone's mind as they navigate life's ups and downs? Join me, Marcy Backhus, for a rollercoaster of emotions and insights. I share my thoughts on recent political debates, the sheer joy of fall decorations, and the humorous experience of listening to my podcast while driving. Grab a drink and relax as I unpack the challenges of downsizing—finding happiness in keeping and sharing beloved decorations and how maintaining joy is crucial even in the most minor aspects of life.From the transition of my husband Craig building a resort to...2024-11-2930 minInside Marcy's MindPacking the Perfect Go Bag and Other Life LessonsDiscover the blend of life's ups and downs with me, Marcy Backhus, as I share personal anecdotes from my week, tackling everything from public speaking jitters to the search for the perfect pair of shoes. This episode encapsulates a dynamic mix of experiences, from my role leading the stewardship committee at church and collaborating with a younger team on digital updates, to navigating the excitement and nerves of an upcoming wedding in Portland. We'll also explore my newfound sensitivity to chlorine from aqua sculpt workuts, and the gripping allure of the series "Tulsa King." It's a whirlwind week filled...2024-10-0924 minInside Marcy's MindThe Power of Decluttering: Marcy's Tips for a Clearer Mind and SpaceHave you ever wondered how a week in the desert could offer a mix of personal milestones and unexpected adventures? Join me, Marcy Backhus, as I share my unforgettable experience of celebrating my nephew David's big day, playing miniature golf at none other than Tiger Woods' course, and soaking up the arid beauty of Arizona and California. From savoring the comforts of a Palm Desert timeshare with my girlfriend Lynn to the humorous escapades involving Craig's Chicago navigation mishaps, this episode promises to deliver a hearty dose of joy, laughter, and heartfelt reflections. Plus, I'll touch on my frustrations...2024-08-2725 minInside Marcy's MindOlympic Reflections and Food Hacks for a Happier MindEver struggled with the connection between what you eat and how you feel? Join me, Marcy Backhus, on this episode of "Inside Marci's Mind" as I unravel the complex relationship between diet and mental health. I'll open up about my own experiences with anxiety and depression, revealing how certain foods have played a vital role in my journey to better mental well-being. Along the way, we’ll reminisce about the exhilarating Air and Water Show in Chicago and the joy of experiencing city life without the hassle of a car. And not to forget, my humorous rant about those pe...2024-08-1230 minInside Marcy's MindMarcy's Guide to Optimism and Perfect Travel PlansWhat if you could balance the excitement of city life with the serenity of vacation mode? This week, join me, Marcy Backhus, as I navigate the vibrant streets of Chicago, spot Mick Jagger near my home, and throw a memorable barbecue with old friends—all while managing the challenges of my rare genetic disorder, Ehlers-Danlos venous type four. Despite a recent health setback, I’ve found ways to maintain optimism and share my journey of positivity on TikTok and Instagram. Get a glimpse into my week, filled with the unpredictability of Chicago weather and the anticipation of a trip to N...2024-07-0127 minInside Marcy's MindChicago Adventures and Trader Joe’s Surprises: Inside Marcy's Mind on Bike Wipeouts, Skincare Secrets, and Highway TriviaWhat happens when a summer bike ride in Chicago turns into an unexpected adventure? Join me, Marcy Backhus, on this thrilling episode of Inside Marcy’s Mind, where I recount Craig's dramatic wipeout and a stormy ride back home that set the tone for a week full of surprises. From a magical evening at Ravinia with Michael Feinstein’s tribute to Tony Bennett to an intriguing headline about Guaranteed Rate's name change and a protest that closed Buckingham Fountain, this episode is packed with captivating tales and colorful city life observations.But that's not all! I'll share my f...2024-06-2429 minInside Marcy's MindFrom Chronic Pain to Thriving: A Journey of Faith, Family, and Resilience With MarcyWhat happens when chronic pain changes the course of your life? Join me, Marcy Backhus, as I share my transformative journey following a debilitating car accident that left me with unseen injuries. I'll take you through the unexpected challenges and daily disruptions that chronic pain brings, and how a pivotal conversation with my church's head priest, Lisa, led me to a new purpose by leading the stewardship committee. We also delve into the importance of community support and faith during trying times.This episode isn’t all about struggles, though. Craig and I managed to squeeze in so...2024-06-1733 min