In this special episode of the Navigating Solo podcast, we are sharing the live recording of our 3rd Annual Solo Aging Visibility Day (SAVvy Day) celebration! Hosted by Ailene Gerhardt, founder of the Navigating Solo Network and creator of SAVvy Day, this event brought together a vibrant, global community of solo agers joining from California to New York, and across the ocean to Austria, Great Britain, and Ecuador.

Special Episode: Real Solo Aging Stories — A Panel Conversation In this special episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt brings together four remarkable solo agers for the inaugural Navigating Solo Table Talk. The panelists shared lived experiences that reveal the challenges, resilience, and creativity involved in aging without "traditional" family support structures. Their stories illuminate both the complexity and the empowerment found in navigating life on one’s own terms. What We Explore in This Conversation How each panelist discovered the concept of “solo aging”From caregiving wake-up calls to reading an article that changed everything, each story reveals a moment when awareness shifted. Building an empowering narrativeNatalie shares how redefining stigmatizing labels helped her reclaim agency. Stephen talks about proudly self-defining as a “solo ager" and building a life that balances planning with joy. Finding or creating supportive communityWhether through affinity groups, grief-to-growth programs, gym friendships, online networks, or local Villages, connection plays a crucial role in solo aging. Taking small but meaningful steps toward planningStephen highlights the value of “small steps” and “time affluence” post-retirement. Ailene reflects on how “small” looks different for everyone—and that even placing a pen on a desk is a step forward. The emotional and logistical challenges of paperworkNatalie recounts the frustration and grief involved in updating beneficiaries when forms assume a spouse and children. Jody describes the difficulty of selecting a fiduciary and navigating a system with limited oversight. The unpredictability of agingJody reminds us that none of us know how we will age—and that even the best plans need flexibility. Balancing the serious work with joy and explorationTravel, creativity, comedy, online discovery—even self-driving cars—are part of how this group approaches life with curiosity and humor. Notable Quotes From the Episode 💬 “I didn’t win the social norm lottery—but I still have life in me.” — Natalie💬 “I’m not in a midlife crisis—I’m in a midlife chrysalis.” — Stephen💬 “People have no idea what they’re going to face until it happens.” — Sandra💬 “It’s impossible to plan for aging perfectly. It’s all a roll of the dice.” — Jody Why This Episode Matters Solo aging is diverse, personal, and deeply human. This candid conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own planning, consider new possibilities for support and connection, and feel less alone in the journey. Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA: Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [email protected] 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.

What if aging independently didn’t mean aging alone? In this episode, host Ailene Gerhardt talks with Barbara Sullivan, Executive Director of the Village to Village Network, about how Villages help older adults, especially solo agers, stay connected, supported, and thriving. Learn how this neighbor-to-neighbor movement is redefining independence, safety, and belonging for the future of aging in community.

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: https://navigatingsolo.com/navsolopodcast Connect on Instagram: @navigatingsolo Ailene has also written an article for Next Avenue about her experience and you can read it here! Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA: Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [email protected] 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.

The discussion dives into the evolving landscape of solo aging, exploring how living longer presents both unique opportunities and challenges.

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 Here Purse 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.com Email: [email protected] Facebook: BlakeWealthManagement LinkedIn: blake-wealth-management Podcast: thesimplyretirementpodcast.com Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA: Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [email protected] 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 a

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: [email protected] Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA: Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [email protected] 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.

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. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with Dr. Jay: Website: childfreewealth.com Email: [email protected] 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: [email protected] The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [email protected] 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.

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: [email protected] Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA: Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: [email protected] The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: [email protected] © 2024, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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.