Episodios

  • Mental Strength, Self-Healing and the Power of Imagination: A Conversation with Dr. Christine Silverstein

    Mental Strength, Self-Healing and the Power of Imagination: A Conversation with Dr. Christine Silverstein
    Sep 23 2025
    In this inspiring Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joe Casciani welcomes Dr. Christine Silverstein, a registered nurse, hypnotherapist, peak performance coach, and noted historian. We discuss her unique blend of clinical experience, mind-body tools, and personal resilience. She is the author of Wrestling Through Adversity: Empowering Children, Teens, & Young Adults to Win in Life. As seen through a historical lens born during the turmoil of 2022, her book is a guide and personal memoir that contains case stories of actual clients. And it offers practical and accessible mental health tools she calls Mindful Toughness® skill sets. Dr. Christine shares her journey from working with elite performers to helping older adults, especially as it relates to successful aging. She shares her thoughts on how aging can be reframed as a new chapter rather than decline. She introduces her “Breathing Easy” technique. This combines physical cues and affirmations to manage stress. Our guest also opens up about her personal transformation following health challenges and vision loss. Listeners will hear how Dr. Christine's work bridges left- and right-brain techniques. It also empowers individuals to reclaim their inner calm and focus in times of stress. Her stories -- from a life-saving moment in the Outer Banks to a heart-shaped scar that became a symbol of healing -- illustrate how imagination and intention can reshape our future. And stay tuned for our guest's comments on trauma recovery and healing. Whether you're a caregiver, a parent, an older adult, a coach or simply navigating life’s challenges, this conversation offers portable tools and deep insights for building resilience at any age. Learn more about Dr. Christine at:www.idealperformance.net Mini Bio Dr. Christine M. Silverstein is a peak performance coach, behavioral health RN, and clinical hypnosis expert at The Summit Center for Ideal Performance. She has assisted clients of all ages for 27 years to reach their best performances in health, athletics, academics, business, and performing arts. She specializes in working with children, teens, and young adults. Her approaches use Mindful Toughness® skillsets, such as self-hypnosis, mental rehearsal, positive self-talk, and feedback loop analysis. As a researcher, historian, and best-selling author, she has presented her works on Hypno-Coaching and history in the US and globally to promote wellness and mental health. She is the author of her book: Wrestling Through Adversity: Empowering Children, Teens, & Young Adults to Win in Life. Explore Better, Longer & Happier A 12-module card deck series to spark conversations, activities, and insights on aging well -- designed for senior living communities and professionals. Learn more →
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    48 m
  • Bringing Compassion to the Table: Senior Meal Delivery with Heart to Home Meals

    Bringing Compassion to the Table: Senior Meal Delivery with Heart to Home Meals
    Sep 9 2025
    How Senior Meal Delivery Supports Aging in Place | Richard Peroe of Heart to Home Meals | Living to 100 Club Podcast How Senior Meal Delivery Supports Aging in Place In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Joe Casciani sits down with Richard Peroe, a leader at Heart to Home Meals, a company dedicated to delivering nutritious, home-style meals to older adults. Together, they explore how this service is transforming the aging experience by offering more than just food -- it provides dignity, convenience, and social connection. Richard shares insights about Heart to Home’s community-driven franchise model, the company’s mission of compassionate service, and the importance of personal relationships between delivery drivers and seniors. We also dive into the growing market for senior services, the benefits for franchise owners, and the company’s thoughtful approach to supporting aging in place. This episode offers valuable perspectives for families, senior care professionals, and entrepreneurs interested in making a meaningful impact in the lives of older adults (explore more in our Living to 100 Community.) What You'll Learn in This Episode The Heart to Home Meals story and its community-centered mission How senior meal delivery supports aging in place The critical social role of delivery drivers in seniors’ lives Franchise opportunities and what makes a successful operator Strategic expansion across North America Richard’s vision for growth, innovation, and compassionate service About Richard Peroe Richard Peroe is a seasoned franchise development and operations leader with over 30 years of experience driving growth, profitability, and strategic partnerships across national brands. Since February 2025, he has served as the Senior Director of Franchise Development at Heart to Home Meals. Here he focuses on expanding the brand's reach and supporting franchise success. He is responsible for the brand’s initial launch into the U.S. market. Previously, Richard held multiple executive roles at Jackson Hewitt Tax Service. These included Vice President of Franchise Sales and Vice President of Field Operations, where he spearheaded initiatives that delivered triple-digit sales growth, developed innovative franchisee support models, and secured key partnerships with Walmart, H-E-B, and Family Dollar. His deep expertise in market development, franchisee relations, and operational excellence positions him as a trusted partner for entrepreneurs looking to grow with Heart to Home Meals. For Our Listeners Heart to Home Meals Website: https://www.hearttohomemeals.com/ Heart to Home Meals Franchise: https://hearttohomemealsfranchiseusa.com/ 🌟 Explore our Better, Longer & Happier Card Decks -> https://livingto100.solutions 👉 Want to continue the conversation? Join us in the Living to 100 Community. This is a space for discussing innovations like Heart to Home Meals and sharing new ideas for successful aging.
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    37 m
  • Navigating Senior Living: Life Plan Communities and Informed Choices with Stuart Almer of Gurwin Healthcare

    Navigating Senior Living: Life Plan Communities and Informed Choices with Stuart Almer of Gurwin Healthcare
    Sep 1 2025
    In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, I welcome Stuart B. Almer, FACHE, President and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System on Long Island. We discuss the evolving landscape of senior living options. Stuart shares insights into life plan communities (also known as continuing care retirement communities or CCRCs). During our talk, Stuart highlights the unique features of Gurwin’s Fountaingate Gardens, financial models, and the benefits of maintenance-free, wellness-focused living. The conversation also explores common challenges faced by families making the transition to assisted living. Stuart provides essential tips for consumers navigating these complex decisions. Tune in for valuable advice on planning ahead, redefining retirement, and finding the right fit for aging well. Key Topics Overview of Gurwin Healthcare System and its growth from a nursing home to a life plan community The continuum of care at Fountaingate Gardens and the resident experience Financial predictability and unique life plan models for senior living Challenges in transitioning to assisted living and strategies to support families The importance of active aging, socialization, and purposeful living Consumer education and practical tips for choosing the right senior living option Future trends in senior care on Long Island Mini Bio Stuart B. Almer, FACHE, is the President and CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System, which has been serving Long Island seniors for over 35 years. Under his leadership, Gurwin has expanded into one of the few true life plan communities in the region, offering a wide range of care options, vibrant social programming, and a unique financial structure that supports lifetime care. For Our Listeners Website for Fountaingate Gardens: https://www.fountaingateli.org/ Website for Gurwin Healthcare System: www.Gurwin.org
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    35 m
  • Design for Your Mind: Self Reinvention and Aging Well with Annie Guest

    Design for Your Mind: Self Reinvention and Aging Well with Annie Guest
    Aug 19 2025
    In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Joe Casciani is joined by Annie Guest, counselor, writer, and author of Design for Your Mind. Together, they explore how aging can become a journey of self-reinvention, resilience, and creative renewal. Annie shares personal stories from her transition to graduate school in her 50s. She also discusses her equine-assisted counseling work, and the courageous steps she took to shift careers and challenge internal doubts. The conversation highlights the importance of stepping outside comfort zones and confronting cultural stereotypes about aging. Together, these lead us toward finding growth in life's uncertain moments. Joe and Annie reflect on the intersections of risk-taking, mindfulness, and self-confidence, and they offer powerful strategies for overcoming fear, reframing setbacks, and embracing the evolving self. Key Topics: Challenging ageist cultural narratives Crystallized intelligence and success later in life Self-reinvention and moving through fear Resilience, loss, and renewal in the aging journey Annie’s writing process and how it helped her find her voice Equine-assisted counseling and its role in personal growth The paradox of mindfulness and risk-taking Mini Bio Annie Guest is a counselor, equine-assisted therapist, and author of Design for Your Mind, a book that blends personal narrative and mental health strategies to help readers pursue self-awareness, growth, and positive change. Her work invites us to challenge societal assumptions about aging and to embrace life’s next chapters with courage and curiosity. For Our Listeners Annie's Website: AnnieGuestDesignforYourMind.com
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    37 m
  • The Link Between Dementia and Oral Health: A Conversation with Dr. Whitney Deitz of Aspen Dental

    The Link Between Dementia and Oral Health: A Conversation with Dr. Whitney Deitz of Aspen Dental
    Aug 18 2025
    In this enlightening episode of the Living to 100 Club Podcast, Dr. Joseph Casciani welcomes Dr. Whitney Deitz, National Clinical Director of Aspen Dental. Together, they explore the powerful connection between oral health and cognitive decline. Dr. Deitz shares insights into how periodontal disease may increase the risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia. Also discussed are the challenges of maintaining dental hygiene in individuals with reduced dexterity and the critical role of prevention throughout the lifespan. Listeners will learn about: The role of bacteria like P. gingivalis in periodontal disease and its potential link to dementia. The importance of maintaining oral health for dignity, pleasure, and overall well-being in later life. Practical dental care strategies for older adults and their caregivers, including tools like the Oral-B Genius and Callis Curve toothbrushes. How dry mouth, tooth loss, and limited mobility can all contribute to declining oral health and cognitive outcomes. Join us as we uncover why oral health isn’t just about teeth – it’s about quality of life, cognitive health, and healthy longevity. Mini Bio Whitney L. Deitz, DMD, is a practicing dentist and practice owner with Aspen Dental, serving communities in Owensboro, Madisonville, and Bowling Green, Kentucky. She also partners with offices in Hopkinsville and Paducah, Kentucky. A 2015 graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, Dr. Deitz received the Robert Henry Geriatric Dentistry Award for her dedication to geriatric oral care. She then completed a residency with focus on special populations and medically compromised patients. She joined Aspen Dental in 2016 and has since become known for her commitment to comprehensive dental care and a patient-first approach. Her clinical expertise has been recognized at the 2024 Denobi Awards Gala, where she and her lab technician were honored for their contributions to dentistry. Specifically, Dr. Deitz helped set a global record by delivering the youngest-ever set of dentures to a then two-year-old. Her work inspired Aspen Dental to pursue a formal partnership with the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias, now known as The Smile Bridge by The Aspen Group. For Our Listeners Dr. Deitz' website: AspenDental.com
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    32 m
  • The Third Pillar of Longevity: Exploring Dual Dominance with Jim Houliston

    The Third Pillar of Longevity: Exploring Dual Dominance with Jim Houliston
    Aug 13 2025
    Can tapping into the non-dominant side of your body improve brain health, enhance coordination, and even contribute to longevity? In this thought-provoking Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joseph Casciani is joined by Jim Houliston, creator of the Mirror Movement Development (MMD) method and advocate for dual dominance. This is the practice of engaging both sides of the body and brain for lifelong function and flexibility. Together, they explore how mirror reading, cross-lateral movement, and even brushing your teeth with the “wrong” hand can open new neural pathways. And learn how it can energize cognitive function. Jim shares compelling stories of athletes, artists, and historical figures like Benjamin Franklin who practiced ambidexterity, along with practical exercises listeners can try right away. This episode also previews Jim’s upcoming workshop, The 3rd Pillar of Human Longevity: Learning, Dual Dominance 101. It also addresses his ongoing work to promote brain-body resilience in later life. Whether you're curious about neuroplasticity, exploring new tools for aging well, or looking to shake up your daily routines, this episode offers simple, surprising steps to rewire your brain—no gym membership required. 🎨 Plus, Jim discusses his upcoming art exhibition at the Carmel Valley Library and his online rebranding efforts at the soon-to-launch dual-dominance.com. Mini Bio Jim Houliston (pronounced Who-lis-ton) is one of Earth's most ambidextrous people. He is an artist, athlete, educator, author of the world's first symmetric book, and the father of Dual-Dominance, which he considers to be the third pillar of brain and body Longevity (the other two pillars being Nutrition and Exercise).Jim's book, website, and AmbiLife YouTube channel present how many of history's greatest thinkers, creatives, and athletes have developed variations of dual-dominance and, in the process, experienced improved Longevity and Peak Performance. More specifically, MMD (which stands for Mirror Movement Development) increases physical balance, memory recollection, spatial awareness, and general brain and body performance. His book is titled, BIG3MMD: History's Ambidextrous and the Benefits of Mirror Movement Development, and is available on Amazon, Audible, and Kindle. Learn more at Jim's website, AmbiLife.org (which is 'Ambi,' like Ambidextrous). https://ambilife.org/2021/09/17/todays-mmd-practitioners/ For Our Listeners Jim's Website: AmbiLife.org
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    40 m
  • Memory Lane TV: Multi-sensory Programming for Dementia Care

    Memory Lane TV: Multi-sensory Programming for Dementia Care
    Aug 13 2025
    In this Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joe Casciani welcomes Alban Maino, filmmaker, diplomat, and founder of Memory Lane TV. This is a groundbreaking platform delivering adaptive, multi-sensory television programming designed specifically for individuals living with dementia. Alban shares the personal story that inspired the platform and explains how this extensive series combines evidence-based science with soothing visuals and sounds. He then reflects on the company’s pivot from consumer sales to partnerships with senior care communities. Together, Joe and Alban explore their mutual challenges in reaching senior audiences, generating awareness, and finding meaningful engagement strategies in a crowded and often underfunded landscape. This candid conversation provides valuable insight into the future of dementia care. It also touches on the role of therapeutic media, and the innovative efforts to support cognitive well-being in aging populations. Learn more at www.memory-lane.tv 🧩 Topics Covered The origin story of Memory Lane TV and its mission How multi-sensory content can reduce dementia symptoms Transitioning from B2C to B2B: Lessons from the field The value of storytelling and reminiscence in dementia care Challenges in marketing and sustaining innovative tools Opportunities for partnership and cross-promotion with aging services Mini Bio Alban Maino is a Franco-American media producer passionate about integrative health. In 2022, after several years of product development, he launched the very first streaming platform for people living with dementia. Specifically, the primary focus was Alzheimer's disease. A therapeutic digital intervention design to help people living with memory loss and their care partners through interactive multi-sensory stimulation: www.Memory-Lane.TvPassionate about music and banjo picking, mindfulness and philosophy, cinematography and photography, goat cheese and wine, hiking and walking in noble silence, friendship and poetry...among many other things. His goal in life is to remain optimistic on all levels and make people feel good. For Our Listeners Alban's Website: https://www.memory-lane.tv/
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    37 m
  • War Horses and Wounded Spirits – Healing Veterans through Horse Therapy

    War Horses and Wounded Spirits – Healing Veterans through Horse Therapy
    Jul 29 2025
    In this episode of the Living to 100 Club podcast, Dr. Joe Casciani welcomes Andy Brown. Andy is the co-founder of War Horses for Veterans, a transformative equine experience that has helped hundreds of veterans heal from the invisible wounds of war. Andy shares his personal journey—from his days as a Princeton athlete to recovering from a near-fatal riding accident—and how his life experience shaped the founding of this remarkable organization. We explore the power of animal-assisted therapy in helping veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress conditions (PTS). Andy shares how this program helps paticipants regain confidence, peace, and connection. Andy opens up about resilience, memory loss, and his mission to offer veterans unconditional acceptance through equine bonding. We also learn about the annual War Horse Derby fundraiser, mentorship programs, and the incredible testimonials from veterans who’ve found purpose and healing in the saddle. Join us for a moving and inspirational conversation about service, strength, and second chances. Mini Bio Andy Brown, with his wife Pat, owns a pipeline supply company. Over the years, he has employed numerous veterans of war. Andy has been a trail rider since his childhood. He has always been passionate about horses with an equal passion to empower veterans. Pat and Andy both empathize with our fighters, first responders, as well as with their horses. They see a strong link between the two and provide our veterans and their horses with that connection by opening up their home and farm to our combat veterans. For Our Listeners Andy's Website: War Horses for Veterans
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    42 m