The Aging Unscripted Podcast From CLC

About The Aging Unscripted Podcast From CLC

Welcome to Aging Unscripted, a podcast rewriting outdated narratives about growing older. Join our dynamic conversations as we explore the authentic, empowering, and often surprising journey of aging in today’s world. Each episode features candid discussions with trailblazers, experts, and everyday heroes who are challenging age-related stereotypes. From the individual aging journey to new perspectives in the aging services field, we dive deep into conversations that will challenge your assumptions. This podcast is brought to you by Christian Living Communities and is carefully crafted to appeal to anyone curious about embracing the aging journey. Subscribe now to join our growing community of aging disruptors.

Publisher

Christian Living Communities

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Apr 2025

Latest episode

22 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 9 Held in the Vanishing: Loving Someone Through Dementia

   Held in the Vanishing: Loving Someone Through Dementia What happens when someone you love is still here, but your relationship with them is changing? Author Ti Mougne joins Aging Unscripted to share her deeply personal experience caring for both parents as they live with two different forms of dementia. Drawing from her memoir, Held in the Vanishing, Ti talks with hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan about anticipatory grief, caregiver guilt, difficult decisions, and the challenge of caring for others without losing yourself along the way. It’s an honest and moving conversation about love, loss and, learning to see the person beyond the diagnosis—and to find connection even as relationships change. Listen to Held in the Vanishing: Loving Someone Through Dementia on Aging Unscripted. Resources: Ti Mougne Website: https://www.timougne.com/ Resource for Individuals and Caregivers - Dementia Together: https://dementiatogether.org/ National Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/

2. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 8 Beyond Bubble Baths: Real Self-Care at Every Age

   Self-care at 25 isn’t necessarily self-care at 85. So, what does it really mean to take care of ourselves as we age? In this episode of Aging Unscripted, hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan are joined by Licensed Professional Counselor Danica Denton of Grace Counseling to explore how self-care evolves throughout our lives. From setting boundaries and asking for help to nurturing relationships, finding purpose and navigating major life transitions, they look beyond the bubble baths to the practices that truly support emotional well-being. Whether you’re 25, 55 or 85, discover practical ways to rethink self-care and make it meaningful for the season of life you’re in. Resources: Grace Counseling: https://gracecounseling.net/

3. 

   14 Jul 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 7 Reimagining Aging: Stories, LEGOs & New Possibilities

   What if storytelling and play could change the way we experience aging? In this episode of Aging Unscripted, hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan welcome father-son innovators Jack York and JP York to explore how stories, creativity, and connection help people live with greater purpose and belonging. Jack shares lessons from collecting stories from older adults across the country, while JP explains how LEGOs are creating meaningful moments with people living with dementia. Together, they discuss how being truly known can improve well-being, strengthen relationships, and challenge the stereotypes surrounding aging. Join us for a conversation that will leave you thinking differently about what’s possible as we grow older. Resource Links: Tale Gate website: https://talegate4joy.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPv18I4BfZg 2054 Institute website: https://www.2054institute.org/ 2054 Lego Program at Immanuel: https://immanuel.com/blog/lego-therapy-memory-care-immanuel 2054 Lego Program at AG Rhodes: https://youtu.be/xROlNOt0EGU?feature=shared Loretta Aveney’s Website – JP credits her as the “real” pioneer: https://lorettaveney.com/

4. 

   16 Jun 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 6 Aging With Intention - Finding Purpose

   On this episode of Aging Unscripted, we explore a powerful question: What if retirement isn’t the end of your purpose, but the beginning of your most meaningful chapter yet? Host Jill Vitale-Aussem and co-host Pam Sullivan sit down with Kristi Doan, a Community Builder with The Eden Alternative to challenge outdated ideas about aging, retirement, and community life. Together, they unpack the difference between simply staying busy and living with true purpose. From resident-directed living and meaningful engagement to creating cultures of contribution, citizenship, and connection, this conversation explores how older adults can continue to grow, lead, and thrive in every season of life. Sounds great! But how does this approach impact senior living – the results may surprise you. If you’ve ever wondered how we can move beyond “aging safely” toward aging fully, this episode is for you. Resource Links: The Eden Alternative Website - https://edenalt.org/ The Eden Alternatives 2024 Whitepaper - https://www.edenalt.org/roi/ Time Magazine Article, People Age Better If They Have a Purpose in Life - https://time.com/4903166/purpose-in-life-aging/ CLC Blog by Jill Vitale-Aussem, Reimagining Senior Living: Citizenship Model Life Plan Communities - https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/reimagining-senior-living-citizenship-model-life-plan-communities/

5. 

   19 May 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 5 Human First, Tech Second

   Technology is changing the aging experience faster than ever before; but is it truly empowering older adults or creating new barriers along the way? In this episode of Aging Unscripted, Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan sit down with Matt Reiners, Chief Growth Officer at Parasol Alliance and host of the “Connecting the Dots” Senior Living Success podcast, for an honest conversation about aging, technology, and what it means to stay connected in a rapidly evolving digital world. From smartphones and social media to artificial intelligence, smart home technology, and wearable health tools, older adults are embracing technology at record rates. But adoption is only part of the story. How do we move from simply “using” technology to leveraging it for greater independence, confidence, well-being, and quality of life? Whether you’re an older adult, family member, senior living professional, or simply curious about the future of aging, this episode offers thoughtful insights and practical perspectives on navigating technology with confidence and purpose. Resource Links: AARP Technology Study Article - https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/technology/internet-media-devices/2026-technology-trends-older-adults/

6. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 4 You're Not The Boss Of Me

   What happens when best intentions cross the line into being too controlling? In this episode of Aging Unscripted, we explore the powerful, and sometimes uncomfortable, truth behind the phrase: “You’re Not the Boss of Me.” As we age, autonomy isn’t just a preference; it’s deeply tied to identity, dignity, and overall well-being. Yet families, caregivers, and even professionals often step in with the best intentions when supporting an older adult and unintentionally take over. Our guests for this enlightening discussion are Clinical Dietician, Clint Rasti and long-time nurse and clinical leader Angela Allen, two people dedicated to well-being, but their perspectives may surprise you when it comes to retaining autonomy for older adults. Tune in for the lively and insightful chat. Resource Links: CLC’s Citizenship Model of Community Living - https://christianlivingcommunities.org/communities-and-services/signature-programs-and-partnerships/citizenship-model/

7. 

   16 Mar 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 3 Eating For Life

   Healthy aging isn’t about perfect nutrition—it’s about nourishment, joy, and balance. Eating For Life: Health & Happiness As We Age In this episode of Aging Unscripted, Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan sit down with clinical dietitian Clint Rasti to explore a more sustainable approach to nutrition. From changing nutritional needs to navigating diet culture and misinformation, Clint shares how food can support not just health—but happiness and autonomy—as we age. It’s National Nutrition Month, tune in to separate fact from fiction and “real life” tips for better nutrition on your aging journey. Resource Links: Nourishing Body and Mind: How Nutrition Improves Resident Wellbeing in Senior Living https://www.ccl-hg.com/perspectives/nourishing-body-mind-how-nutrition-improves-resident-well-being-senior-living/

8. 

   10 Feb 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 2 Staying One Step Ahead of Scams

   Staying One Step Ahead of Scams is an episode of Aging Unscripted focused on protecting older adults from the growing threat of fraud. From online, phone, and mail fraud to retail crime, crypto, gold scams, and even financial exploitation by trusted family members, this conversation shares practical warning signs, prevention tips, and clear steps to take if you or a loved one may be a victim—helping listeners stay informed and one step ahead. Listen in as host Jill Vitale-Aussem and co-host Pam Sullivan as they talk with Jamie Sorrells from Colorado’s 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office to discuss why older adults are targeted and the most common scams affecting them today. Resources: Link to PDF Presentation – District Attorney, 18th Judicial District’s Senior Safety Saturday Fraud Presentation - https://christianlivingcommunities.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/18th-Judicial-Dist-Presentation-Consumer-Fraud-and-Exploitation-Protection.pdf District Attorney 18th Judicial District Consumer Fraud Page - https://arapahoeco.gov/your_county/county_departments/coda18/community/consumer_fraud_protection/index.php Colorado Attorney General Consumer Protection - https://coag.gov/office-sections/consumer-protection/

9. 

   20 Jan 2026

   Aging Unscripted Season 2 Ep 1 Population Pivot: Colorado’s Changing Future

   Colorado is in the middle of a demographic shift unlike anything we’ve seen before. Birth rates are falling, migration has slowed, and the fastest-growing age group is adults 75–84—with more people living into their 90s and beyond. In this episode of Aging Unscripted, hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan are joined by former Colorado State Demographer Elizabeth Garner to explore what this population pivot means for our state’s future. We’ll explore: Why Colorado’s growth is slowing What an aging population means for communities, housing, and healthcare The workforce challenges ahead—and how the state can prepare Watch now and be prepared for Colorado’s population pivot. Guest:  Elizabeth Garner, Demographer Resources: Colorado State Demography Office - https://demography.dola.colorado.gov/ United States Census Bureau - https://www.census.gov/

10. 

    30 Dec 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 10 The Fight For Funding

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, “The Fight for Funding: Seniors, Medicaid, and the Road Ahead,” we break down the complex world of Medicaid funding — what it means for older adults, senior living organizations, and all of us who care about the future of aging services. Hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan sit down with Doug Farmer, President & CEO of the Colorado Healthcare Association to make sense of a challenging funding landscape in clear, everyday terms and share what each of us can do to advocate for change before the next legislative session. Join us for an empowering discussion about understanding the issues, taking action, and protecting the dignity and care of older adults. The Empathy Project: Seniors in Crisis – Video explaining the real impact of Medicaid Cuts, please copy and share with friends, family, lawmakers – https://youtu.be/qK6uugKAk_g?si=taRG3fC7q7UrwrfN Find & Contact Your Lawmaker - https://leg.colorado.gov/find-my-legislator Medicaid Counseling from the Colorado Gerontological Society - https://www.senioranswers.org/counseling/medicaid-counseling/ Colorado Healthcare Association – https://www.cohca.org/ When Care Is on the Line: The Human Impact of Medicaid Cuts in Colorado - https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/the-human-impact-of-medicaid-cuts-in-colorado/

11. 

    17 Nov 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 9 Seasons of Grief

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, “Seasons of Grief: Finding Meaning in Life’s Transitions,” we explore how grief weaves through every stage of life — not only after loss, but during moments of change and growth. With the holidays approaching, hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan sit down with Chaplain Robert Smith and Jenn Flaum from the HeartLight Foundation to discuss how to honor old traditions, create new ones, and find meaning amid both grief and gratitude. Join us for an honest, compassionate conversation about how aging invites us to hold joy and sorrow side by side. Heartlight Center: www.heartlightcenter.org Grief Support During the Holidays: https://heartlightcenter.org/grief-support-during-the-holidays/ Creating a Better Experience when Dementia is Involved: https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/creating-a-better-holiday-experience-when-dementia-is-involved/ The Immense Value of Holidays and Traditions to Your Well-being: https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/the-immense-value-of-holidays-and-traditions-to-your-well-being/

12. 

    14 Oct 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 8 Right-Sizing Life

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, we talk with Cierra Olmstead of A Move Handled with Care about the emotional and practical realities of downsizing later in life. From knowing when it’s time to move to navigating the hardest conversations, this episode offers heartfelt insight and practical tips for turning a major life transition into a meaningful new beginning. Guest: Cierra Olmstead, Co-Owner of A Move Handled with Care Links and Resources: https://amovehandledwithcare.com/ https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/having-the-conversation/

13. 

    15 Sept 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 7 Choosing Joy

    Could the later chapters of life be the most joyful of all? In this uplifting episode of Aging Unscripted, we chat with “Joy Seeker” and author Lisa Dimino White about how a positive mindset, everyday kindness, and small moments of delight can shape a more vibrant aging experience and according to studies, increase your lifespan by as much as seven and half years! Discover how to create your own “bursts of joy” and embrace happiness at any age. Guest: Lisa Dimino White – The Joy Seeker Links & Resources: https://thejoyseeker.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bursting-with-happiness-the-podcast/id1539351607 https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08F8Q6BSD/about?ingress=0&visitId=d35c85fe-1e7e-4ca5-91d9-ce386be0608c&ref_=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share&ccs_id=20dae3d9-7a64-4075-b0d3-fad86b5d7154

14. 

    18 Aug 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 6 Overwhelmed to Informed

    Assisted living, memory care, rehab, oh my! Join us on Aging Unscripted as we untangle the complex world of senior living with expert insights from Certified Senior Advisor Kelly Grace O’Connor. Understand the options and what getting help with the journey means—so you can move from overwhelmed to informed, one conversation at a time. Guest: Kelly Grace O’Connor – Certified Senior Advisor/Advocate/Speaker Links and Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellygraceoconnor/ https://www.csa.us/about-society-of-certified-senior-advisors/meet-our-team/ https://www.pmccpsych.com/kelly-o-connor https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/having-the-conversation/

15. 

    15 Jul 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 5 Aging As A Spiritual Practice

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, guest host Chaplain Services Director Robert Smith and retired Spiritual Director and author Jane Vennard explore aging as a spiritual practice. They discuss how Western culture pushes us to deny aging, but through a spiritual lens, we find freedom, purpose, and celebration in the journey. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on embracing aging with mindfulness, grace, and deeper meaning. Books that Jane Vennard finds useful: Chittister, Joan, The Gift of Years: Growing Old Gracefully, Blue Bridge, 2010. https://joanchittister.org/books-page/gift-years-growing-older-gracefully Iyer, Pico, The Art of Stillness: Adventures in Going Nowhere, Simon & Schuster, 2014. https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Art-of-Stillness/Pico-Iyer/TED-Books/9781476784724 Leland, John, Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons From a Year Among the Oldest Old, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2018. https://www.amazon.com/Happiness-Choice-You-Make-Lessons/dp/0374168180 Singh, Kathleen Dowling, The Grace in Aging: Awaken as you Grow Older, Wisdom Publications, 2014. https://wisdomexperience.org/product/grace-aging/ Vennard, Jane, Fully Awake and Truly Alive: Spiritual Practices to Nurture Your Soul, Skylight Paths, 2013. http://www.skylightpaths.com/page/product/978-1-59473-473-1 Spiritual Care in Senior Living Blog by Robert Smith https://christianlivingcommunities.org/blog/spiritual-care-in-senior-living/

16. 

    17 Jun 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 4 Living With Dementia

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, we challenge traditional views of dementia, shifting from a focus on decline to empowerment and support. Hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan welcome dementia educator Jessica Luh Kim and advocate Mary Beth Wighton, who is living well with dementia. Together, they explore how to foster true belonging and create a more inclusive, supportive world for those on the dementia journey. Tune in for an inspiring conversation! Dignity & Dementia: Carpe Diem by Mary Beth Wighton Dementia Action Alliance Living with Well Dementia Blog CLC

17. 

    20 May 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 3 To Dye Or Not To Dye

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan tackle the question: “To Dye or Not to Dye?” Sharing personal, heartfelt, and humorous stories, they explore the emotional journey of embracing gray hair. From societal pressure to the freedom of authenticity, they discuss ageism, stereotypes, and the liberation of letting go of hair color. Join us as we break free from expectations and celebrate the beauty of aging—gray and gorgeous! Openly Gray Blog Giving Gray Hair the Green Light Column

18. 

    6 May 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 2 Citizenship in Senior Living

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, we explore how a culture of citizenship transforms senior living communities for residents, team members, and families alike. Host Jill Vitale-Aussem welcomes an International Aging Advocate and resident of Clermont Park Senior Living in Denver for an inspiring conversation about purpose, contribution, and shared responsibility. Discover how embracing true citizenship creates a more fulfilling, engaged, and empowered senior living experience for all. Tune in!

19. 

    16 Apr 2025

    Aging Unscripted Ep 1 Place Matters

    In this episode of Aging Unscripted, we explore how where you live shapes health, happiness, and longevity. It’s more than just your house—it’s about connection and quality of life. Hosts Jill Vitale-Aussem and Pam Sullivan welcome Ryan Fredrick, author of Right Place, Right Time, for an eye-opening discussion on the power of place in aging. Whether you’re considering a move or staying put, discover how your surroundings impact your well-being. Resources Ryan Fredrick -  Ryan Frederick - Longevity & Place Expert Here - Here: Home of Place Planning

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.