becoming bOLDER
becoming bOLDER is a meaningful conversation meant to share lived journeys. At WCBR, we believe older adults or elders have talents and wisdom to share. We also believe that we are all more than our past – acknowledging present interests, the future, and possible selves is important because aging brings new opportunities and capacities for growth, contribution, and self-expression. This podcast illustrates that older adults are accomplished and are involved in and a vital part of their community. The path to elderhood will look and feel different for everyone. It may be living life with intention, gerotranscendence, acting as a guide for those who come behind, handing down knowledge, and/or nurturing well-being among communities. Our guests demonstrate that there is no right or wrong way to age. We invite you to listen in. Together, we are becoming bOLDER.
Episodes
Wednesday Dec 06, 2023
Wednesday Dec 06, 2023
In this episode, Nancy shares her proclivity to question, "why." She talks about her passion for education and being open to learning new things - from painting, to botany of wildflowers, and understanding politics of the middle east. Nancy also talks about ageism, being an older woman, and the future.
Wednesday Nov 22, 2023
Wednesday Nov 22, 2023
In this episode, Jim Craig, a centenarian (102), shares his thoughts on family, friends, relationships, meaning, loss, and regrets. Jim also talks about how he takes care of himself - including a bit about his exercise routine. Don't miss this one.
Wednesday Nov 08, 2023
Wednesday Nov 08, 2023
In this episode, we talk with Charlie Stewart a supporter of many worthy causes. He talks about giving back and volunteerism, advocating for those living with dementia, combatting ageism, and the importance of having fun. We hope you enjoy listening!
Wednesday Oct 25, 2023
Wednesday Oct 25, 2023
In this episode thrice "retired" associate Sammy Barnes shares a favorite verse, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" from the Book of John and its meaning to him along with other quotes that have served as guideposts at certain points in life. He also talks about living purposefully, regrets, and relationships.
Wednesday Oct 11, 2023
Wednesday Oct 11, 2023
In this episode of becoming bOLDER, we sit down with Barbara Fontaine. While she is the definition of "hostess with the mostest" (as she is particularly hospitable), there is much more to learn about this engaging guest. Boil some water for tea and tune in!
Wednesday Sep 27, 2023
Wednesday Sep 27, 2023
There is a saying, "God, Family, and Country" meant to express devotion to what many consider the three most important pillars of traditional society. This podcast with Duncan Campbell illustrates how these have been woven through his life over the last eight decades.
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
This week we talked to Bob Pate, Professor Emeritus from UVA, who talked about what retirement means or doesn't mean to him. He reflects on his interests, family, faith, those who influenced him, and how we can make a difference in our community today and into the future.
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
This week we talked to Joan Kammire, a long time Charlottesville resident who served as a social worker and supervisor in the City of Charlottesville Department of Social Services. She talks about the best decision she ever made (hint: it's related to love). She also shares her dedication to lifelong learning and taking on leadership positions.
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
Wednesday Sep 13, 2023
This week we talked to Dudley Rochester, a nonagenarian who served as a Pulmonologist at universities and hospitals. He talks about the his interests and trying new things, facing fear, and the importance of discussing about end-of-life health care issues. He also shares what he is looking forward to.
Monday Sep 11, 2023
Monday Sep 11, 2023
This week we talked to Bunny Sheppard, an experienced executive coach, who talked about her passions and the times when she had to change her name in the workplace. She reflects on her career, working with other women, learning new forms of art, how some things have made arcs in her life, and talks about how we can make a difference in our community today and into the future.
Ageism is the stereotyping and discrimination against individuals or groups on the basis of their age. Ageism can take many forms, including prejudicial attitudes, discriminatory practices, or institutional policies and practices that perpetuate stereotypical beliefs about people who are older.
There are behaviors we can demonstrate to act against ageism. Here are a few:
1. Recognize it. How do we treat people differently based on their age?
2. Speak up. If you hear something ageist, consider pointing it out in a productive manner. Rather than make someone defensive or embarrassed, you can politely share with them how what they said/did was ageist and a recommendation of how to do it differently next time.
3. Treat people of all ages with the respect you want. Or even better ask people what they want instead of assuming they want what you want.
4. Be inclusive. Promote intergenerational experiences so that learning and understanding can go in both directions. This helps build relationships and solves ageism against older and younger people.
5. Give yourself a break. We all act in ageist ways or make ageist comments - sometimes meant as a joke, like giving an "over the hill" birthday card to someone. Once you know, next time, a different choice can be made.