Aging Gratefully with Cathy Dawes Scroggs

Putting "one foot in front of the other" are just a few words of advice from this widower of more than 3 years. Mike Shepherd's barbershop music and many leadership roles with the group, as well as travel, time with children and grandchildren, and gardening, have kept him moving and in good spirits as he ages gratefully.

Inaugural guest Robbin Cole, a retired mental health professional, rejoins producer Dave Lewis and Cathy on the first anniversary of this Aging Gratefully Podcast. We reminisce about a dear centenarian friend, C. Clyde Jones, who recently passed away, and explore how grief impacts us all, especially during the holiday season. Join us for a thought-provoking, very open discussion on shifting our focus during down times in our lives.

"Do not just sit in a chair," but "get out there, get engaged, and do something," are thoughts from Steven Graham, who recently retired from an active career in agriculture. Steven shares how he continues to keep busy with a variety of boards and groups, but most importantly with numerous friends and the loving support of his wife.

From his early days in Chicago to 40-plus years at the Manhattan Mercury as Executive Editor for many of those years, Bill Felber obviously enjoys being able to set his own agenda in retirement. Bill has a wonderful perspective on striving not to worry, even though he was in a very high-stress occupation for so many years, and he shares other thoughts during this transitional period of his life.

Enjoy this whimsical and touching episode beginning with a very special chat including Santa and Mrs. Claus, followed by a talk with Lynda and Stephen Bachelor, who share what transitioning to retirement has meant for them. This retired military couple shares what has kept their marriage of 50-plus years going, and they offer solid words of wisdom on how to age gratefully. 

Jim and Sally Lindquist share information about their busy careers in extension service, providing practical and research-based education on agriculture, food safety, health and nutrition, youth development and community development, and even specialized programs for seniors. This delightful couple, who started out in locales far apart in Kansas and Louisiana, found each other later in life, and talk about the importance of appreciating each other and making health a priority in their later years.

Stay positive and keep on keeping on are just some words of advice from Peg Jansen, who has been a teacher, a Mary Kay business entrepreneur, and a health and wellness businesswoman. This wife, mother of 2, and grandmother of 6 talks about how God has a plan for each one of us--which has helped her through many ups and downs in her life.

Don't be afraid to ask for help or to offer help are some thoughts from nonprofit manager, active community volunteer, and "community activist"  Debbie Nuss. Debbie shares her life experiences with the passing of her husband and soul mate, as well as a childhood with a very young mother, in this episode of "Aging Gratefully."

Doing what you want to do now is just one suggestion from Roni Deeds and Sally Garvin of Triple AAA Manhattan, KS., who share 21 travel tips for seniors for a smoother vacation. Roni quotes one of her clients who puts it best: "I want to cover the earth before the earth covers me." Join us in this episode for a variety of travel suggestions and a glimpse at these 2 ladies' own "bucket lists."

This coach, banking/financial expert, former city commissioner, husband, and father shares his philosophy of being positive and doing things that give you great pleasure. Rich Jankovich also tells about his near-death experience and how it changed his outlook on life and relationships with others in many ways. You don't want to miss this episode.

An educator for more than 40 years, with nearly 30 years as a school district superintendent, Denise O'Dea has learned to embrace her age, saying, "You can't stop the years going by." Finding joy in her children, grandchildren, school district, flower garden, and even in being able to walk three miles a day, Denise truly is an inspiration as she wants to be remembered for making a difference in the life of a child or in the communities she's lived.

Find what gives you joy and pursue it. Find new things, and care about other people and their situations. These are thoughts from lifetime musician, teacher, dancer, and actress Linda Uthoff. While music and being on stage are a huge part of her life, Linda also shares how much family and other groups mean to her in these later years.

Being open to the opportunities God has put in front of us is just one belief State Senator Brad Starnes mentions during his discussion on this episode of Aging Gratefully. Brad adds that finding your niche and focusing on what's important has also gotten him through life. Brad shares his memories of years of being a coach, teacher, principal, and school superintendent, and even opens up about his son, who died by suicide, in this moving visit.  

After a fulfilling career, including time as Assistant Dean of K-State's College of Agriculture, Dean of Global Campus, and many years with community colleges, Duane Dunn exudes a sense of peace as he continues his transition of aging gratefully. Duane tells us it "isn't worth it to be angry" and adds he's not as frustrated or stressed as he was at times during his active working life.  

Married for 51 years, Deanna and Brady Burton have a lot to share, with both their careers in education taking them across the state of Kansas. The 2 of them might be retired from education, but continue to be active with part-time jobs. The importance of staying physically and mentally active, as well as spending as much time as possible with family, are just a few suggestions from the Burtons.

Having fun, apparently, is a big part of what goes on at the Manhattan Senior Center of Riley County. Director Liz Nelson and Program Coordinator Dane Schmidt have a lively discussion on this Aging Gratefully Podcast episode, talking about the many activities and services offered, including games, music, talks, exercise sessions, Halloween parties, and wonderful meals. They also share some insights with the many clients they work with who are aging gratefully.

Taking life day by day and doing the best we can are suggestions from Lori Bishop, who has 40-plus years in nonprofit management, primarily as Executive Director of the Flint Hills Volunteer Center and Director of the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP of Riley County. Lori not only shares her own personal story, including the death of one of her sons by suicide, but also talks about the incredible services and volunteer opportunities with the groups she continues to direct. 

Continuing to stay community-minded is important, according to retired Riley County Fire Chief and Emergency Director Pat Collins. Pat shares how he is spending his days later in life, as he still does volunteer fire/rescue work and serves with his local township. Pat stresses the importance of financial considerations, though, as many of us find unexpected expenses with taxes, insurance, and medical issues as we reach this stage of our lives.

Meadowlark Hills' Michelle Haub and Katie Sigman rejoin "Aging Gratefully" to talk about the Memory Program, that offers free services for those throughout the community who are dealing with memory issues. Through their day to day work with clients and care-givers, these two women offer encouragement through the many ways they help those with dementia, Alzheimers, and other memory issues as they learn to deal with the disease and to make the most of each moment.

Dave and Sonya Baker are living full lives, with Dave in the Kansas Baseball Hall of Fame after years of playing and coaching, and Sonya still serving as Curriculum Integrity Manager at Kansas State University after nearly 50 years in higher education. "You're only as old as you feel" and "God puts you where he wants you to be" are just some thoughts from this amazing and inspiring couple who are best friends after all their years together.

For 40-plus years, Julie Govert Walter has worked with older Kansans in her role as Executive Director of the North Central Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging. She reminds us all to be grateful and to remember that even if we're older and gray, we still have something to say. Julie also shares important information about services offered and regarding the upcoming Sunflower Fair geared for older Kansans on September 16th in Salina.

"Look around you" and "try ways to get engaged" are thoughts from retired K-State Dean of Libraries Lori Goetsch as she transitions to her new stage of life. Lori shares highlights of her career, but also tells us how work with the local animal shelter, singing, and serving as president of the local Fairy Godmothers that serves women in need has helped fill her days. 

"Do what you enjoy" and "Find Something to keep you busy" are suggestions from Donna Keyser, a retired registered dietician who worked with several school systems and now teaches yoga four days a week. Donna shares stories about her earlier life as the oldest of four girls on a ranch with her race horse trainer dad and a bit later as a single mom. She has some diet and exercise thoughts, but mostly encourages moderation.

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After 52 years of marriage and active career lives, Carol and Michael Warden have a lot to share about Aging Gratefully. "Give and Take," and remembering to say "I love you: are just some suggestions from this couple, despite Michael's Parkinson's diagnosis attributed to Agent Orange in Vietnam. 

Keep going, listen, and learn to tolerate the unknown are thoughts coming from Dee McKee, who really has not retired, with her continuing commitment as a county commissioner. Dee also mentions saying a prayer and "letting go" at times for God to handle things.Dee shares her early days in a big family on a Spearville, Ks. farm. to her work with special education and current role in county government. 

As he begins his fifth year of retirement from many years of service at Kansas State University, former Associate Provost Brian Niehoff talks about being open and giving back to the community you're in. From his early years of being a middle child in a big family that enjoyed music, Brian continues to enjoy life with his wife Usha, his role as a new grandfather, travel, and working on community projects.

"Get healthy" and be willing to listen and engage with others are just some suggestions from Sydney Carlin, a State Representative for 20 plus years, a widow, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and active community member. Sydney shares her experiences during the many chapters of her life with some tears and laughter--from the early 4-h days in Chanute, Ks. to her current busy lifestyle as a legislator. 

From a youngster in the Catholic schools to the jungles of Vietnam, followed by a 50-plus year in broadcasting at the highest level of owning and managing, Rich Wartell has a lot to share. Keeping as healthy as possible and keeping in touch with family is a priority for Rich, as he continues to age gratefully. 

Taking care of yourself, watching your attitude, and having faith things will turn out well are just some suggestions from Connie Mason Michaelis and Pat Michaelis. This powerful couple from Topeka lend their special insight after many years of advocating for healthy aging, Connie is a writer and speaker on the subject, and Pat has worked on affordable housing for seniors and families for many years.

This episode features three sisters, including yours truly, who reflect on the different ways we've each dealt with retirement. Karen Cray Seaberg continues to serve on the family-founded MGP's board and is active with the Amelia Earhart Festival and Hangar Museum in our hometown, Atchison, Kansas. Middle sister Susie retired in her 50s after owning a dance studio in North Dakota for many years. And yes, the baby sister Cathy, you already know a lot about if you listen to this podcast, but you'll learn some new insights into her past. 

Kindness and respect are what long-time K-State Dean and Vice Provost Beth Unger hopes to be remembered for. From her earlier years as a pioneering woman in the tech industry, Beth also shares how mental health affected both her husband and son. She candidly shares insights on navigating such issues and living life to the fullest.

Described as an icon and the face of Kansas State University, Pat Bosco has left a five decade career and traded in all the fancy titles for Grandpa. While he still loves all things purple for his alma mater and employer of many years, Pat is thankful for his health and life partner, his wife Susan,  in his later years.

"Just because you're retired doesn't mean you don't have a purpose" and "Find what you enjoy" are just some words of advice from Karen and Gordon Hibbard. The two recently retired from Dale Carnegie ownership--after Karen's many years with the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Gordon's busy years with Dale Carnegie, 4-H and Kansas Farm Bureau. 

Purple heart awardee and Vietnam veteran Doug Teener and his wife Linda Teener, who recently retired from 40 plus years with Kansas State University and UFM Community Learning Center, share their transition from early historic folk music performances in the early days of their marriage to later years with passions for legos and quilting. In the midst of some medical difficulties for Doug stemming from exposure to Agent Orange, finding ways to have fun is just one suggestion from this couple of 52 years.

Johnny and Susie Cyrene are a truly inspiring couple, saying they're more in love than ever after a more than 60 year marriage. This hard working couple talk about the importance of being truthful, talking it out, and figuring things out together as they continue their romance these later years of their lives.

"Sit down and listen" are just some words of advice from Father Don Zimmerman, who was ordained to the priesthood more than 50 years ago. Father Don, who rode a Harley-Davidson motorcycle for many years, has a lot to share about his own retirement and from working with "golden year" parishioners through the years.

Brenda and Rob Edleston in their later '60's are raising a 9 year old child on a ranch with 37 Cashmere goats, 3 horses, 22 chickens, and 6 dogs. Hear their story of past careers in the military and education, with suggestions of "learning to appreciate yourself" and "giving yourself some grace", as well as "living a life" in another Aging Gratefully podcast

From his early years in a band that made the Kansas Music Hall of Fame and studying nuclear physics, Doug Chapman better known as "Chappie," keeps up with his musical passion on a smaller solo scale in his golden years. While he misses many of his radio contacts from another job he worked along the way, he wakes up every morning and tells himself to have a great day. 

After a busy career as a building official and Assistant Chief for the Manhattan Fire Department, Brad Claussen now has more time to spend with grandchildren and to compete in trap shooting. He tells us how running his own home inspection business with his daughter, religious faith, and family keeps him active in his retirement years.

Taking it easy after retirement are words of advice from this busy couple, Dean Emeritus of K-State's Global campus Sue Maes and her retired psychologist husband Dennis Hemmendinger. However both have continued to stay active in community groups, travelled around the world, and enjoy their role as grandparents.We can learn a lot from this couple of 50 plus years (51 to be exact).

Finding more time to spend with the younger generation is one way retired Healthcare Executive Randy Peterson is dealing with his golden years. 

We'll also hear from Randy about how to be better advocates for ourselves in medical settings during this time of our life.

"I am not always productive, but I am rarely bored." Frank Arthur shares how he keeps himself busy after a very active career as an entomology researcher, which took him around the world.

Retired business manager, Vietnam veteran, and former Manhattan Mayor Bob Strawn is enjoying his retirement years--learn about his experience coming home from Vietnam and other ups and downs of his life through the years.

Keep fighting and enjoy each day are just some of the words of wisdom from Michelle Haub and Katie Sigman, who run the Parkinson's Program at Meadowlark. Their passion for their work and clients is inspiring in this discussion about a unique portion of the Aging Gratefully population.  

From a busy 4 decades in city government to travelling the world and enjoying time with his wife on a full-time basis, Ron Fehr has made a smooth transition to the retirement lifestyle. While still in the “honeymoon” phase of retirement, the former City Manager shares suggestions on living each day, with a healthy diet, exercise including walks with the family dog, good sleep habits, and hobbies such as trip planning.

Ron reflects on both accomplishments and difficult times in his life but offers coping suggestions such as his faith in God and good family support.

This retired early childhood educator has a unique perspective on Aging Gratefully, while dealing with her older father who is in a different stage of his life. Renee Fehr tells us of having to be an advocate for her father as he struggles to learn healthier eating and exercise habits, while dealing with dementia and Parkinson’s disease issues.

Renee openly shares the emotional ups and downs of dealing with her father while going through her own retirement journey. Her religious faith, healthy lifestyle, and travel time with family keep her going. Her advice about keeping cl...

"Just do it" are words of advice coming from Barb DeSanto, who finds herself again teaching at Kansas State University in her 70's, while also working with the Flint Hills Agency on Aging and other local volunteer groups. She tells us how a good circle of friends and her faith have gotten her through her many years of caregiving for her late husband and other transitions in her life.

Imagine being newlyweds in your late '80's and early '90's. Ed and Linda Weis Olson unexpectedly found love a second time late in life and share their love story as they both continue to age gratefully. Linda continues to work as an active real estate broker-owner and both have a good circle of friends and family.

This special retiree began a radio career at the age of 16 and continues to share his skill set as a narrator on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad. Steve Smethers retired from many years of broadcasting and educating, with his last position as Director of the A.Q. Miller Schol of Media and Communication at Kansas State University.

Steve shares with us how his continuing involvement with friends, former students and other community interests keep him going—even his cats through the years have played a role in his positive attitude. 

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