This is 65

Hosted by Erin Ackenheil

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Jun 2026

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About the show

This is 65 features inspiring stories from accomplished professionals, ages 65 and beyond. Host, Erin Ackenheil, owner of Black Point Insurance, is a health insurance agent that loves to interview amazing people that she meets through her work. These impressive business owners and career-focused individuals have reached a time in their life where they can reflect and share with the world how they found success along the way. Get ready to be inspired and motivated by the fascinating stories of This is 65.

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51 recent

June 1, 2026Episode 5019 min

Reinventing Your Work Life in Your 50s and 60s

Designer Philine Rauh‑Edwards shares how "aging out" of the fashion industry led her to launch Philine of San Francisco, creating vintage‑inspired, sustainable coats that empower women, honor her mother's journey, and prove reinvention is always possible. Learn more about Philine HERE. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Key Takeaways 1. Philine realized she had "aged out" of traditional fashion roles and used that setback as the push to create her own brand. 2. Her mother's immigration story and a gifted "power coat" shaped her belief that clothing can give women the courage to face big life transitions. 3. Philine of San Francisco focuses on vintage‑inspired, dramatic, fitted coats and suits that help women feel seen and powerful at any age. 4. Sustainability shows up through small production runs, pre‑orders, recycled fabrics, and long‑term collaboration with eco‑conscious companies. 5. Her message to anyone aging out of their industry: accept the reality, drop the self‑blame, and redirect your skills into a role that lights you up. Timestamped overview 00:00 Erin introduces Philine, her long history in the garment industry, and the beginnings of her love affair with coats. 02:25 Philine tells her mother's post‑war immigration story and how a gifted "power coat" inspired her philosophy that clothes can create confidence. 04:15 Early days in a fabric store, apprenticing with a tailor, learning alterations as a reliable trade, and heading to New York's garment center. 05:50 What it meant to "age out": layoffs, younger interviewers, and realizing she'd no longer be hired into the senior design roles she once held. 09:05 The importance of mentors, how hers shaped her path, and her desire to mentor design students and bring on interns as her business grows. 09:35 A wider conversation about aging out across industries and Philine's advice on acceptance, letting go of guilt, and finding adjacent roles that reignite passion. 11:26 Philine describes her signature look: vintage‑inspired, bohemian, dramatic, fitted pieces that help women stand out instead of feeling invisible. 12:45 Expanding beyond coats into fitted suits made with recycled materials, plus silk dresses and special linings created with local collaborators. 15:46 Her early push for recycled and organic fabrics in mainstream retail and her ongoing work with organic, comfort‑focused apparel. 16:05 How listeners can experience her work, from online shopping to visiting her studio by appointment. 18:41 What fills her up outside work: hot yoga, Burning Man, art exhibits, and time with her two daughters as fuel for creativity. 19:30 Closing thoughts on supporting small, local designers and investing in statement pieces that make you feel powerful, visible, and fully yourself.

March 3, 2026Episode 4943 min

Medicare, Costs, and Care Management: What Retirees Need to Know

Healthcare journalist and speaker Mark Hagland joins the show to explain how Medicare Advantage fits into the broader U.S. healthcare system. With more than three decades covering health policy, payment models, and hospital operations, Mark breaks down rising healthcare costs, the shift to value‑based care, and why more than half of Medicare beneficiaries are now in Medicare Advantage plans. He discusses the role of federal regulators, the growth of care management and special needs plans, and what consumers should evaluate when choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. The episode closes with practical guidance on research, plan selection, and a message of cautious optimism for patients navigating complex systems. Follow Mark on LinkedIn here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Five key takeaways 1. U.S. healthcare spending is projected to rise from roughly 5.6 trillion dollars a year to about 8.5 trillion by 2033, reaching around 20 percent of GDP. 2. An aging population and a high burden of chronic disease, including many people living with four or more chronic conditions, are major drivers of cost growth. 3. Medicare Advantage now covers about 54 percent of Medicare beneficiaries, including millions enrolled in special needs plans focused on complex conditions. 4. Value‑based care and care management programs aim to keep patients healthier and avert avoidable hospitalizations, especially for those with multiple chronic conditions. 5. Federal agencies are steering policy away from traditional fee‑for‑service Medicare toward models that reward quality, outcomes, and population health management. Timestamped overview 00:00 – Introduction to Mark, his career in healthcare journalism, and why Medicare and Medicare Advantage interest him as both observer and beneficiary. 06:00 – Why healthcare fascinates him: policy complexity, quality measurement, and real‑world impact on patients. 12:00 – National cost trends, aging demographics, and the burden of chronic disease in the U.S. 18:00 – Early disease‑management clinics and how modern care management builds on those ideas at scale. 25:00 – How value‑based care and pay‑for‑performance contracts try to align payment with health outcomes. 31:00 – Medicare Advantage basics, growth from 19 percent to 54 percent of beneficiaries, and the role of special needs plans. 38:00 – Why plans collect data, how risk coding works, and why beneficiaries should not fear appropriate data sharing for care management.

February 24, 2026Episode 4829 min

When Growth Hormone Goes Wrong: Understanding Acromegaly

Monica Cufino shares her experience living with acromegaly, a rare condition caused by a growth‑hormone‑secreting pituitary tumor. She describes the early warning signs, the long road many patients face to diagnosis, and why early detection can prevent serious complications, including vision loss and organ damage. The discussion covers hallmark symptoms, diagnostic testing, treatment options, and the practical realities of managing a rare disease. Monica highlights advocacy tips, resources for patients and clinicians, and how friends and family can support someone with acromegaly. Follow Monica on LinkedIn, Facebook, and join her Facebook group. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Five key takeaways 1. Acromegaly is rare and often under‑recognized, with only an estimated three new cases per million people per year in the United States. 2. The condition is usually driven by a pituitary tumor that causes excess growth hormone, leading to changes in hands, feet, facial bones, soft tissue, and internal organs. 3. Diagnosis often takes close to a decade, which increases the risk of joint damage, spinal problems, and serious complications such as vision loss. 4. Standard treatment includes high‑volume pituitary surgery, medical therapy, and in some cases radiation, followed by long‑term monitoring of hormone levels. 5. Support communities and specialized centers play a key role in education, access, and financial assistance for patients. Timestamped overview 00:00 – Introduction to Monica, her background, and how a rare disease intersected with an active, social life. 05:00 – What acromegaly is, how rare it is, and the distinction between childhood gigantism and adult acromegaly. 11:00 – Internal effects: organ and soft‑tissue growth, joint strain, and why many women present around menopause. 17:00 – Early signs in Monica's case, including snoring, calf enlargement, and shoe and ring size changes. 23:00 – The pivotal ENT visit, CT scan, and discovery of a pituitary adenoma. 29:00 – Risks of delayed diagnosis, including rapid tumor growth, potential blindness, and severe back and joint pain. 35:00 – Treatment pathways: high‑volume transsphenoidal surgery, IGF‑1 testing, medical therapy, and radiation. 43:00 – Daily management: injections, medication side effects, travel logistics, and impact on quality of life. 50:00 – Emotional and social effects, body‑image changes, and mental health strain. 56:00 – Why early hormone testing and a referral to an endocrinologist can shorten the path to diagnosis. 1:02:00 – How acromegaly‑focused and pituitary‑focused organizations support patients, providers, and research.

February 17, 2026Episode 4754 min

Super Boost Your Immune System: Colds, Flu, and Even Cancer

Cancer survivor and integrative health consultant Adrea Brier returns to explain how to strengthen the immune system against colds, flu, and even cancer. She shares her personal story, the role of "underlying chaos" in the body, and practical steps listeners can use to support immunity at any age. The conversation highlights sleep, stress, oral care, movement, detoxification, and food quality, with clear distinctions between medical advice and experiential guidance. Listeners will hear how integrative approaches can work alongside conventional care, why stress management matters, and what simple daily habits can reduce the "little fires" that wear down immune function over time. Follow Adrea here, and follow her on YouTube. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Five key takeaways 1. Cancer often reflects "underlying chaos" in the body, including environmental and lifestyle factors, not only genetics. 2. An integrative approach can complement conventional medicine by mitigating side effects and targeting root causes. 3. Consistent, high‑quality sleep is one of the most powerful free tools for immune support and brain health. 4. Oral health, including flossing, water irrigation, and material choice in dental work, has systemic effects on overall health. 5. Clean food, hydration, regular movement, and basic detox practices help reduce chronic "little fires" so the immune system can respond to major threats. Timestamped overview 00:00 – Host introduction and Adrea's cancer survivor story and background in integrative health. 05:00 – How advocacy for her parents in the medical system shaped her approach to care. 11:00 – "Cancer as a symptom": chaos in the body, epigenetics, and environmental drivers of disease. 18:00 – Integrative coaching, working with oncologists, and examples of reducing chemo side effects. 25:00 – The role of stress, self‑talk, and insurance security as hidden drivers of health. 31:00 – Sleep as immune support: circadian rhythm, technology limits, EMF load, and evening routines. 40:00 – Tools for better sleep, including melatonin, GABA‑based products, Biomat, and temperature control. 48:00 – Oral care, root canals, biological dentistry, and infection risk through dental meridians. 56:00 – Movement, adrenal health, and right‑sized exercise for immune support. 1:03:00 – Detoxification, liver support, constipation, iodine, hydration, and food quality. 1:12:00 – Practical daily steps to "put out small fires" and strengthen resilience over time.

December 2, 2025Episode 4651 min

Healing and Enlightenment: How Reverend Annie Bachelder Overcame MS with Spiritual Practice

Show Notes Reverend Annie Bachelder's story unfolds from early influences in the Bay Area to a profound calling as a master Akashic channel. Her journey, shaped by personal healing and transformative teachings, now empowers clients to access their soul's wisdom. By merging experience, compassion, and spiritual insight, she helps people embrace their true selves. Learn more about Reverend Annie Bachelder here, and watch her YouTube channel here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Key Takeaways 1. Spiritual Awakening & Enlightenment Main Takeaway: Reverend Annie Bachelder shares her personal journey toward spiritual enlightenment, describing the importance of connecting with one's soul and trusting in spiritual guidance. The central idea is that everyone can access a deeper, more fulfilling path through openness and self-exploration. 2. Akashic Records and Channeling Main Takeaway: A major focus is on the Akashic Records—described as a soul-level plane where every thought, word, and deed is recorded—and the method of "channeling" to access direct soul wisdom. The takeaway is that learning to open and interpret one's Akashic Records allows individuals to receive guidance, heal, and better understand their life's purpose. 3. Self-Healing and Health Transformation Main Takeaway: Reverend Annie Bachelder discusses her experience of healing from Multiple Sclerosis, attributing her recovery to dietary changes, spiritual practices, and alternative healing. The main concept is that holistic self-help—combining body, mind, and spiritual practices—can facilitate personal health transformations, even with chronic conditions. 4. Practical Applications of Spiritual Tools Main Takeaway: The discussion includes ways these spiritual practices and Akashic readings can be applied to tangible issues, such as real estate (reading the "energy" of homes), relationships, or career decisions. The message is that spiritual tools aren't just abstract; they can offer practical, actionable support in everyday life. 5. Importance of Self-Love and Acceptance Main Takeaway: As a closing lesson, Reverend Annie Bachelder emphasizes approaching oneself with love, kindness, forgiveness, and acceptance. The overarching concept is that healing, growth, and fulfillment become possible when individuals release past burdens and choose compassion for themselves.

November 18, 2025Episode 4530 min

ENCORE: Unlocking the Power of Organization: Expert Tips from Heather Swain

Do you want to get organized but struggle with making decisions on what to keep, toss or donate? You're in luck! In this episode I am joined by professional downsizer and organizer Heather Swain, and she shares her wealth of experience on where to start and what to do whether it's time to de-clutter, downsize, or help an elderly loved one transition to a more focused lifestyle. For more information or to set up a consultation with Heather, click HERE. Follow Heather on LinkedIn HERE. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here.

November 4, 2025Episode 4425 min

ENCORE: The Importance of SEO & Branding In Your Marketing Strategy

If you have ever had a conversation about digital marketing techniques, you've probably heard the term SEO tossed around. You might know that SEO is important and has something to do with search engines. In the simplest of terms, good SEO maximizes your visibility online. If you're new to the world of marketing it can be overwhelming trying to understand the in's and out's of how it all works. Thankfully there are people like today's guest, Lanny Udell, content writer, who helps clients connect with prospects by telling their unique brand stories in their own voice. Lanny can help understand the benefits of having a proper brand, and teaches people and small businesses alike how to get "seen" on the internet and social media. Learn more about Lanny and her business Copywhiz HERE | Follow Lanny on LinkedIn HERE | Follow Lanny on Facebook HERE | Follow Erin on Instagram HERE | Follow Erin on Facebook HERE | Follow Erin on her website HERE | Follow Erin on LinkedIn HERE

October 21, 2025Episode 4317 min

Transitions of Aging: Navigating Home & Life Changes for Older Adults

This is 65, an online interview show featuring older adult guests that have inspiring messages to share, owner of Blackpoint Insurance, Erin Ackenheil, welcomes Millie Anderson. Millie is the owner of Mom's New Pad, offering all services related to changes in living circumstances that most older adults face. Before creating Mom's New Pad, Millie had 20 years of experience in mortgage lending and real estate and five years as a Marketing Director in two senior living communities. Combined with her experience with her own mother, Millie brings just the right blend of experiences and resources to her work as she guides her clients through the mountain of information and the many options available to older people. Learn more about Millie and Mom's New Pad HERE. Follow Erin on Instagram HERE. Follow Erin on Facebook HERE. Follow Erin on her website HERE. Follow Erin on LinkedIn HERE.

October 7, 2025Episode 4234 min

ENCORE: Building Intimacy Through Communication

In this spicy episode, Karina Solomon, relationship and lifestyle makeover expert gets raw and honest about intimacy. The author of Sexy, Sassy & Starting Over, Karina inspires men and women to be their truest selves and delivers the keys to confidence from the bedroom to the boardroom. Get ready to take some notes because you won't want to miss the valuable insights Karina has to share! Follow Karina on LinkedIn. Follow Karina on Facebook. Visit Karina's website, Success Appeal here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.

September 23, 2025Episode 4128 min

Finding Yourself After 65: Lorna Smith's Journey of Intuition and Reinvention

What does it mean to listen to your intuition, even when everything around you tells you to ignore it? Lorna Smith grew up moving from place to place as the daughter of a Navy man, learning to keep the peace and hide who she truly was. She spent years making herself smaller to fit expectations at home and in marriage, until a moment came when she trusted her own knowing and changed her life. In this episode, you'll hear: The challenges of breaking free from old patterns and starting over Practical steps to reconnect with your true self every day Why age 65 can be the start, not the finish Key Takeaways 1. Lorna's journey highlights the importance of listening to your intuition, even when it runs counter to social programming or external expectations. She describes moments in her life where she ignored her inner knowing and the personal cost of doing so, ultimately discovering that embracing intuition is the gateway to authentic living. 2. The conversation explores how childhood experiences and rigid family structures can deeply influence adult choices, self-worth, and relationships. Lorna reflects on her upbringing in a strict, male-dominated household and how those early lessons shaped her adult relationships and self-perception, underscoring the value of consciously unlearning limiting narratives. 3. Age is reframed as an opportunity for reinvention rather than a limitation. Lorna and Erin discuss how 65 is "just the beginning," emphasizing that it's never too late to change direction, pursue new passions, or start over in order to live more authentically. 4. Lorna candidly shares feelings of regret and sadness about the years lost to situations that didn't serve her, but points out the power of sitting with those emotions rather than avoiding them. By allowing herself to feel sadness and work through regret, she discovered greater resilience and self-acceptance, which helped her move forward. 5. Spirituality and intentional daily routines are central to Lorna's ongoing growth and fulfillment. She describes a morning routine centered around meditation, journaling, and inspirational reading, which she credits with helping her stay grounded, connected to herself, and intentional about how she shows up in the world. Learn more about Lorna's work here. Follow Erin's company, Black Point Insurance, on Instagram here. Follow Erin on Facebook here. Follow Erin on LinkedIn here. Learn more about Erin's company, Black Point Insurance here.