• When the Advocate Becomes the Patient: A Personal Reflection with Ailene Gerhardt
    May 21 2025

    In this deeply personal solo episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt, board-certified patient advocate and founder of the Navigating Solo™ Network, shares what it’s been like to shift from supporting others through health challenges to facing a health challenges of her own.

    Ailene reflects on the emotional and physical toll of multiple diagnoses, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatments—all while living independently. She speaks candidly about the loss of routine, the disruption to her work, and the vulnerability of stepping into the role of patient after years of advocating for others.

    Through sharing her story, Ailene explores:

    • The blurred line between professional advocate and patient

    • How illness can challenge identity and sense of control

    • The critical importance of compassionate, person-centered care

    • What it means to be present for yourself when your life feels upended

    • How asking for help and acknowledging limitations can be acts of strength

    This episode is a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a whole person—and that even those who guide others through healthcare systems need support too.

    Resources & Links:

    • Learn more about the Navigating Solo™ Network: https://navigatingsolo.com

    • Listen to past episodes of the podcast: @navigatingsolo

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

    Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

    © 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

    If this episode resonates with you, please consider sharing it with someone who may need to hear it. And don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.

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    14 mins
  • Living Longer, Planning Smarter with Cathleen Toomey
    Apr 2 2025

    In this insightful episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt sits down with Cathleen Toomey, host of the podcast Seniority Authority to discuss all things aging! They dive into the evolving landscape of solo aging, exploring how living longer presents both unique opportunities and challenges. Cathleen shares insights on the importance of social connection and community involvement as we age, highlighting how volunteering and small acts of kindness can build meaningful relationships and improve well-being.

    They also discuss the impact of negative self-talk and the barriers it can create when trying to form new connections, as well as practical ways to overcome these challenges by stepping slightly out of our comfort zones. Additionally, we address common misconceptions about solo aging, especially around living arrangements like continuing care retirement communities, assisted living, and memory care.

    Tune in to gain practical tips for embracing longevity with intention and planning, and learn why social connection remains a vital component of healthy solo aging.

    Books and Websites Mentioned During This Episode:

    • The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness

    • Breaking the Age Code: How Your Beliefs About Aging Determine How Long and Well You Live, Becca Levy

    • Six Steps to Managing Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia: A Guide for Families, Maureen O-Connor

    • Seven Steps to Managing Your Aging Memory, Maureen O-Connor

    Websites:

    • Medicare Plan Options
    • Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade
    • Where You Live Matters
    • National Good Neighbor Day
    • National Healthcare Decisions Day

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    Connect with Cathleen Toomey:

    • Website: seniorityauthority.org
    • Email: info@seniorityauthority.org
    • Facebook: SeniorityAuthority
    • LinkedIn: cathleen-toomey-8889531
    • Podcast: seniorityauthority.org

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

    Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

    © 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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    56 mins
  • The Retirement Puzzle: Crafting Your Solo Aging Vision with Eric Blake
    Feb 7 2025
    In this insightful episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt sits down with Eric Blake, a seasoned financial planner with over 25 years of experience specializing in retirement, tax planning, and investment management for women over 55—including those who are single by choice, divorced, or widowed. Drawing from personal experiences with his single mother and widowed grandmother, Eric shares his passion for empowering women to achieve financial independence in retirement. Together, they explore the unique financial challenges solo agers face, from understanding the life events that shape retirement perspectives to practical strategies like “practicing retirement” before leaving the workforce. Eric breaks down his “retirement puzzle” approach, helping listeners piece together key components like Social Security, tax strategies, and income planning to create a clear vision for the future. Key points addressed in this episode: The “Retirement Puzzle” Approach – How to piece together Social Security, tax strategies, and income planning for a secure retirement.Unique Financial Challenges for Solo Agers – Understanding life events that shape retirement perspectives for those aging alone.Practicing Retirement – The benefits of testing retirement strategies before fully leaving the workforce.Choosing the Right Financial Advisor – Critical questions to ask to ensure your advisor aligns with your solo aging needs.Proactive Tax Planning – Strategies to manage required minimum distributions (RMDs) and minimize tax liabilities.The Importance of Building a Support Network – Creating a “micro board of directors” with professionals like financial planners, healthcare advocates, and elder law attorneys.Navigating Retirement During Life Transitions – Approaching financial planning during widowhood, divorce, or other major life changes.Common Missteps in Retirement Planning – Why many women switch financial advisors after losing a spouse and how to avoid reactive planning. For additional resources, check out: The Simply Retirement Podcast: 10 Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor: Why the Right Questions Can Save Your Retirement Listen HerePurse Strings — Empowering women to take charge of their financial futures. Whether you're navigating retirement solo or supporting someone who is, this episode provides practical tools and thoughtful insights to guide you through the retirement puzzle. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with Eric Blake, CFP: Website: www.BlakeWealthManagement.comEmail: info@blakewealthmanagement.comFacebook: BlakeWealthManagementLinkedIn: blake-wealth-managementPodcast: thesimplyretirementpodcast.com Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA: Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.comThe Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.comThe Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more! © 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: Content here is for illustrative purposes and general information only. It is not legal, tax or individualized financial advice, nor is it a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any specific security. Or engage in any specific trading strategy, results will vary. Past performance is no indication of future results or success. Market conditions change continuously. This commentary reflects the personal opinions, viewpoints, and analyses of Blake Wealth Management. It does not necessarily represent those of RFG Advisory, their clients or their employees. This commentary should not be regarded as a description of advisory services provided by Blake Wealth Management or RFG advisory or performance returns of any client. The views reflected in the commentary are subject to change at any time without notice. Advisory Services offered by investment advisory representatives of RFG Advisory, a registered investment advisor. Blake Wealth Management and RFG Advisory are unaffiliated entities. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where RFG Advisory and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. No advisory services may be rendered by RFG Advisory unless a client agreement is in place.
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    47 mins
  • Living Forward: Crafting a Meaningful Life as a Solo Ager
    Dec 18 2024

    In this special episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, recorded during the Navigating Solo Fall Online Gathering, we hear from a dynamic panel of solo agers sharing their personal experiences, reflections on the past year, and thoughts on planning for the future. Their candid conversations offer insight into the joys, challenges, and opportunities of aging solo and navigating this life stage with intentionality.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Reflections on Loss and New Beginnings
    • Building Meaningful Connections
    • Embracing Gratitude and Social Connection
    • Practical Tips for Navigating Solo Aging

    Key Takeaways:

    • Navigating grief and loss takes time and energy, and it's okay to allow yourself space to rest and regroup.
    • Maintaining strong social connections, whether through family, friends, or community groups, is crucial for solo agers.
    • The end of the year provides a natural time to reflect on what you want to continue doing, what new activities you want to explore, and how to shape your future with intentionality.
    • Embrace gratitude and stay proactive in reaching out to others, as relationships are key to building a fulfilling solo aging experience.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------

    Connect with our Guests: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

    Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

    © 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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    47 mins
  • The Soloist’s Guide to Life and Money with Dr. Jay Zigmont
    Dec 4 2024

    In this episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, Ailene Gerhardt is joined by Dr. Jay Zigmont, PhD, CFP®, and founder of Childfree Wealth, the first life and financial planning firm dedicated to serving child-free and permanently childless individuals. Dr. Jay shares his groundbreaking approach to financial planning that centers on the unique needs and priorities of the child-free community, challenging traditional planning assumptions that prioritize marriage, children, and intergenerational wealth transfer.

    Dr. Jay discusses how systemic biases in financial planning often fail solo agers and child-free individuals, leading to advice that doesn’t align with their values or goals. He highlights the importance of starting with a life plan—what you want your legacy and impact to be—and aligning finances to support those aspirations.

    Listeners will gain insights into:

    • How financial planning for the child-free community differs from traditional models.
    • The societal stigmas and systemic biases child-free individuals face and how they affect financial planning.
    • The importance of redefining legacy, shifting away from genetic inheritance, and prioritizing personal and community impact.
    • Key questions to ask when choosing a financial planner, including how their approach adapts to child-free lifestyles.
    • How simplifying finances can lead to more joyful and meaningful lives.

    Dr. Jay also introduces his forthcoming book, The Childfree Guide to Life and Money, which offers practical strategies and insights for child-free individuals to build fulfilling lives on their terms.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Traditional financial advice often assumes marriage, children, and wealth transfer, making it ill-suited for child-free and solo individuals.
    • Starting with a life plan allows individuals to define their purpose, values, and impact, shaping financial decisions accordingly.
    • Child-free individuals have unique opportunities to reallocate wealth and resources during their lifetime to causes and experiences that matter most to them.
    • Simplifying finances can free individuals to pursue fulfilling careers and lifestyles, emphasizing joy and meaningful contributions.

    About Dr. Jay Zigmont: Dr. Jay Zigmont holds a PhD in Adult Learning from the University of Connecticut and an MBA. He is a Certified Financial Planner™ and founder of Childfree Wealth, a life and financial planning firm serving child-free individuals. Dr. Jay is also the author of the forthcoming book, The Childfree Guide to Life and Money, available December 2024. His expertise has been featured in Fortune, Forbes, MarketWatch, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and more.

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    Connect with Dr. Jay:

    • Website: childfreewealth.com
    • Email: support@childfreewealth.com
    • Facebook: ChildfreeWealth
    • LinkedIn: childfree-wealth
    • Book: The Childfree Guide to Life and Money: Make Your Finances Simple So Your Life Without Kids Can Be Amazing

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

    Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

    © 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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    51 mins
  • Retirement Reimagined: Finding Your New Routine on Your Own Terms with Norman Reiss
    Nov 20 2024

    In this 37-minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt speaks with Norman Reiss, who recently retired after a career in technology, project management, and most recently, supporting older adults in living engaging and productive lives.

    Norman shares his experiences leading a variety of online social and educational sessions, including a monthly group for Selfhelp, a weekly "Good Morning" session for older adults on GetSetUp, and newly launched discussions on "Secrets of a Happy Retirement" for Front Porch and Uniper.

    Together, Ailene and Norman explore the importance of fostering meaningful connections during retirement, both virtually and in person. Norman discusses how these interactions provide emotional support, combat loneliness, and create a sense of belonging, even across digital platforms. He also shares insights on the value of intergenerational engagement and how stepping outside of one's comfort zone can lead to richer experiences in retirement.

    Key topics include:

    • The role of online communities in creating authentic connections.
    • Tips for blending personal interests with opportunities to meet others.
    • Strategies for navigating the transition into retirement and finding a unique path.
    • The benefits of incorporating social activities into daily routines.

    This episode is a must-listen for solo agers, recent retirees, and anyone looking to embrace a more connected and fulfilling lifestyle.

    Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

    • GetSetUp
    • Selfhelp Community Services
    • Front Porch
    • Uniper

    Connect with Guest Norman Reiss: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    © 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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    37 mins
  • Men, Connection, and the Art of Solo Aging: A Candid Conversation with Dr. Jackson Rainer
    Nov 6 2024

    In this engaging 47 minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt welcomes Dr. Jackson Rainer, a board-certified clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience in psychotherapy and a background as an emeritus professor and former Dean in the university system of Georgia. Dr. Rainer shares his personal and professional insights into the complexities of solo aging. This episode delves into the emotional and practical complexities that men face when navigating solo aging, from the initial transition to building meaningful connections.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • The Journey to Solo Aging: The emotional process of moving from being part of a couple to embracing solo life, and the unique ways men experience and cope with this transition.
    • Challenges in Building Connections: Why many men struggle to actively seek companionship and how traditional gender norms may influence their hesitancy to reach out and initiate relationships.
    • Vulnerability and Loneliness: The importance of understanding and accepting vulnerability, and the distinction between being alone versus feeling lonely. We discuss strategies men can use to open up and create meaningful networks of support.
    • Taking Risks and Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Our guest candidly reflects on the fears and uncertainties that come with solo aging. He shares personal insights about how taking risks, like traveling alone for the first time in years, can lead to growth and self-discovery.
    • Practical Tips for Connection: Encouraging men to be proactive in forming connections—like picking up the phone and making plans—rather than waiting for others to reach out. We also touch on how to practice self-reassurance and build inner confidence, especially during moments of isolation.

    This episode is a rich and reflective discussion on the ways men can navigate solo aging with courage and curiosity. We hope it inspires listeners, men and women alike, to think about how they can better support themselves and each other.

    Tune in and join the conversation on navigating vulnerability, making connections, and finding a sense of belonging as a solo ager.

    View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos

    Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!

    ---------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with Dr. Jackson Rainer, Ph.D., ABPP:

    • Website: https://www.drjacksonrainer.com/

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    © 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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    47 mins
  • Navigating Life's Unexpected Falls: The Power of Advocacy and Support with Elizabeth A. Edwards
    Oct 16 2024
    In this 43-minute episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt speaks with Elizabeth A. Edwards, who shares her personal experience of navigating life after a traumatic fall, highlighting the importance of community support and the challenges she faced living alone. From navigating the healthcare system to rallying her "root sisters" and patient advocates, Elizabeth opens up about how her experiences have reinforced the significance of having a strong support network, legal documents like advance directives, and access to community resources. Her story illustrates the vital role of adaptability, self-advocacy, and support systems as we age. Resources Mentioned During Our Conversation: Professional Associations:
    • American Association of Daily Money Managers (AADMM)
    • Patient Advocate Certification Board who confers the Board Certified Patient Advocate (BCPA) Credential
    • Society of Certified Senior Advisors who confers the Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) Credential
    Advance Care Planning Resources:
    • Honoring Choices: A program that provides advance care planning tools.
    • The Conversation Project: A resource focused on helping individuals discuss their end-of-life wishes with loved ones.
    • Five Wishes: An advance directive resource helping people plan for future healthcare decisions.
    • Next Avenue Article on Shaking Up Advance Care Planning

    National Resources Mentioned:

    • Senior Planet by AARP: A technology education program offering classes for seniors.
    • GetSetUp: an online platform that celebrates every older adult, offering opportunities for physical, mental, and social growth and enabling participation in communities
    Resources Located in Idaho:
    • The Idaho Statesman Article About Population, January 15, 2024
    • Learn Idaho (Lifelong Education and Aging Resource Network): An organization that offers free educational resources and senior technology classes in the Boise area.
    • HAPPEN (Healthcare Associates Providing Positive Education and Networking): A professional network offering educational sessions and healthcare resources in Boise.
    • Idaho Careline 211: A phone line providing resources and support for non-emergency services in Idaho.
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Connect with Elizabeth A. Edwards:
    • Website: www.blackswanmoneymanagement.com
    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethanneedwards

    Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:

    • Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
    • The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
    • The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com

    © 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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    44 mins