Alexis Clare
Alexis Clare began creating fun twists on “traditional” bath stuff in 2010, when she had a little too much time on her hands. Why not make a bath melt that looks like a macaron, or top a bath bomb with cocoa butter “icing”? Her inspiration comes from sweet treats and fancy deserts, gems and rocks, and magical creatures. Visit whippedupwonderful.com for more delightful creations that are eco-friendly, natural, and low-waste.
Allia Zobel Nolan
Allia Zobel Nolan is an internationally published author of 150+ children’s and adult books. Her titles range from the Divine to the feline and include such varied titles as Whatever Is Lovely: A 90-Day Devotional Journal, (Harper Christian) Cat Confessions: A Kitty-Come-Clean Tell-All Book, (Harvest House), The Joy of Being Fifty+ (Workman Publishing, illustrated by New Yorker cartoonist, Roz Chast), and more. A former Reader’s Digest Children’s Publishing senior editor, she collaborated with the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop to publish Laugh Out Loud with 40 funny EBWW humorists. The title won a 2019 Humor Indie Award. Her greatest passions are her husband, Desmond, her fur babies, Nolan Nolan and Colleen Fiona Shannon Nolan, and Cherry Garcia Ice Cream.
Allie Scully
Allie Scully is a writer and filmmaker in Brooklyn, New York. She is originally from Arlington, Texas, and so excited to contribute to a Dallas-based magazine!
Alma O. Garcia
Alma O. Garcia is a retired nonprofit bilingual professional and an entrepreneur. She believes in looking back on life with an “I can’t believe I did that!” attitude than to look back and say, “I wish I did that!” She is the mother of two young adults (Cuatro and Julienne) and is enjoying “la pura vida” in sunny Costa Rica.
Andrei Chakine and the Alaska Health Fair Team
Alaska Health Fair is an organization whose goal is to keep Alaskans happy and healthy through health education and affordable blood testing. This poem is meant to be a fun message for all people. Next time you are on an Alaska cruise, check them out at www.alaskahealthfair.org.
Anna Toker
Dr. Anna Toker is a full-service colorectal surgeon in Mansfield and Arlington, Texas, focusing on robotic approaches to colorectal surgery. Dr. Toker is also the independent owner of Skandii MedSpa in Mansfield, offering dietary and nutritional advice for weight loss as well as aesthetic treatment for overall health and beauty. To learn more about Dr. Toker, visit: Drtoker.com or skandiimedspa.com
Ann Ranson
Ann Ranson is a conscious leader and future-focused master facilitator providing guidance for powerful breakthroughs that help you shape your most fulfilled life. Take the free Civility Quotient Assessment, measuring where you shine and where you need work, here: www.annranson.com.
Audette Rackley
A member of the Center for BrainHealth team since its inception in 1999, Audette Rackley is Assistant Director of Strength-Based Programs. Her current focus is providing a research-based intervention for individuals with early stage Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She co-authored I Can Still Laugh, a book outlining a BrainHealth-developed strength-based approach to working with patients with dementia. Audette teaches a graduate level class on dementia, directs a dementia practicum, and has spoken at State and National Conferences on the importance of discourse processing in the early detection of progressive brain disease.
Audrey Vero
Audrey Vero is a registered dietitian nutritionist with a Master of Science degree in Clinical Nutrition, which she received from Rutgers University in 2021. Her passion for nutrition stems from a lifelong love for food and fitness. She currently works as a nutrition advisor at PreviMedica, specializing in gut health and functional nutrition lab testing. Outside of work, Audrey enjoys lifting weights, swimming, baking healthified treats, and enjoying the Florida sunshine.
Ava Matin
Ava Matin, a life coach living abroad, profoundly understands human psychology. Leveraging her academic background in psychology, she aims to impact people's lives positively. With extensive experience in Arizona probate, her passion for assisting others extends beyond her professional pursuits. In her spare time, she crafts compelling writings on lifestyle, health, and empowerment, focusing on championing women's progress.
Barbara Glass
A Yankee by birth, a Midwesterner and Southerner by heritage, Barbara Glass lived in Texas for 20 years and embraced all things Southwest. She celebrates aging by experiencing it firsthand, and helping the next generations along the way, including her own children and grandchildren. “I try to bring an understanding of the aging perspective within the context of community and nonprofit initiatives”. Part of this engagement is writing about aging in celebratory and thoughtful ways. “I’m living the dream by telling our stories.”
Bernadine Racoma
Betty Crowe
Betty Crowe is a certified Reiki Master, both practitioner and teacher. Helping each client to better understand their body, mind, and soul with reiki is what she loves to do. Empowering you to move energy is her specialty. For more information about reiki sessions, classes, and attunements visit https://theenergymaven.wixsite.com/reiki or contact her at info@theenergymaven.com.
Beverly J. Graves
Beverly Graves is a retired high school teacher who now writes curriculum and articles for the Ohio State Bar Foundation. She also presents that curriculum to students throughout Ohio.
Bianca Baluyut
Bianca Baluyut, a dedicated wife and mother of four, balances the demands of family life with a thriving career. Over the past decade, she has played a vital role at Dallas Art Therapy. Additionally, Bianca is the driving force behind her own women's fitness business, where she passionately empowers others to lead healthy and active lifestyles.
Bobbi Schwartz
Bobbi Schwartz is founder & CEO of The Bobbi Schwartz Group, a Dallas-based personal styling company and Be Iconic Style (beiconicstyle.com), a lifestyle resource for women focused on personal transformation through style. With two decades in the industry, she has worked for some of the world’s top retailers and design houses. Schwartz became a personal stylist in 2003 and has written two books in her Style Essential series — “Build Your Ultimate Wardrobe” and “Chic Casual Dressing: The Budget Guide” — both available through Amazon.
Bonnie Cook
Bonnie Cook has more than 20 years of experience working in the field of mental health and has an extensive background in nonprofit management, strategic partnership development, and community development. Cook is a mental health advocate and is on the board of Mental Health America. Her life's mission is to erase the stigma surrounding mental illness. She is making her mental health a priority in 2024.
Broc Sears
Broc Sears is an assistant professor of professional practice at TCU’s Bob Schieffer College of Communication and also works with the Texas Center for Community Journalism. He has more than three decades of experience in the news, advertising and marketing industries and earned recognition from the Society for News Design, Council for the Advancement and Support of Education, APME of Texas and the Dallas Press Club. He and his wife enjoy the best days of their lives here in Dallas with their family.
Caroline Albert
Caroline Albert is a senior at the Fashion Institute of Technology majoring in Advertising/Marketing Communications. Since moving to NYC, she has worked in many fashion industry areas, including volunteering at multiple Fashion Week shows. Albert interned at Cynthia Rowley Headquarters, where she helped produce/run their Spring/Summer 2020 show and also worked in public relations. Albert’s love of fashion has been a driving factor in her life.
Carolyn Bower
Carolyn Bower is an Ohio-based Freelance Writer who finds inspiration in a variety of areas. Her music articles can be seen in fyi50+, BOOMER Magazine, and GO Magazine (New York City), and her sports articles have appeared in The Sports Column. Her many interests include animal welfare issues and education concerns. Read her articles online at clippings.me/carolynbower Her interests includes literature and theatre, reading mysteries, and listening to her extensive music collection from the 1940s through the present.
Caryn Berardi
Caryn Berardi is a Communications Specialist for the North Texas Food Bank.
Casey Cartwright
Casey Cartwright is a passionate copyeditor who is highly motivated to craft compelling SEO content within the digital marketing space. Her expertise spans various industries, including technical, consumer, and lifestyle sectors. She strongly emphasizes attention and readability in writing each article.
Catherine Young
Catherine Young studied with a master astrologer for 12 years, where she was a teacher of esoteric astrology and metaphysics. This knowledge helped harness her gifts and unite her passions of the many divinations she had been using. Young worked as a psychic at Magic Island and worked with a large clientele for tarot readings. She became a member of the Carl Jung Society and studied theology and natural healing. Young's journey led her to become a Reiki Master— plus, she also teaches energy workshops. Young embraces all forms of divine information that she uses to help those who seek her counsel. You can reach her at Catsadora@gmail.com or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/zengirlmagic/.
Chad Etheridge
Chad Etheridge is a Naturalist at River Legacy Nature Center. He is a lifelong resident of the Dallas/Fort Worth area where he grew up with a fascination of all things aquatic. He has spent countless hours in his canoe leading tours, exploring, and learning about “our river,” and is always willing to talk about the Trinity with anyone who will listen! To learn more about River Legacy Nature Center initiatives and programs, visit www.riverlegacy.org.
Christopher Miller
Christopher Miller is an artist and the author of The Spiritual Artist, available on Amazon, and the producer of The Spiritual Artist Podcast. For more information, visit www.spiritualartisttoday.com.
Courtney Craig
Courtney Craig is Canine Companions' public relations and marketing specialist in the South-Central Region. In her role, she represents the brand and manages communications, marketing, and advocacy. She shares the incredible stories of service dog recipients daily in what she describes as a “dream job.” A Texas Tech University graduate, she has been with the nonprofit for nearly eight years. Courtney was born and raised in Texas and resides in Dallas with her Australian Shepherd, Sawyer.
Dr. Cristina Wohlgehagen
Cristina Wohlgehagen, MD is the founder of IHaC, a membership based clinic aimed to strengthen and protect our best brain. Dr. Cris is double board certified in Neurology and Headache Medicine. She works with Kerwin Research Center in neurodegenerative clinical research. She is an experienced speaker and educator in the community, also with a volunteer faculty appointment at UT Southwestern.
Cydney Bobo
Cydney Bobo is a student at Berkner High School in Richardson, Texas. She works on the school newspaper and enjoys creative writing and reading in her free time. She is interested in being a journalism major in college.
Cynthia Arnold
Cynthia Arnold, CEO of One Earth United, promotes Indigenous art as a powerful way to inspire connections among cultures. As a PR pro, she has worked in media relations garnering placements in major publications such as The New York Times and USA Today. She attended Penn State and graduated with honors from Ohio University with a BSJ and PR specialization. For more information visit www.oneearthunited.org.
David Freitag
David Freitag, an industry veteran in financial services and wealth management, brings a deep passion and unparalleled knowledge of Social Security filing strategies and retirement income planning to his current role as a financial planning consultant for the Advanced Concepts Design Group of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). His also holds a Master of Education and Bachelor of Science degrees from the University of Maryland.
David Stupay
David Stupay, Managing Director of Envision Dallas, has spent his entire career building and growing mission-centered organizations. For more than 15 years, he has provided CEO and executive director roles at leading nonprofit organizations nationwide. Stupay joined Envision after serving as the President and CEO of Heartspring in Wichita, Kansas. His mission at Envision Dallas is to help provide employment opportunities, life changing services, and resources for the more than 150,000 people in the North Texas area who are blind or visually impaired. Stupay is married and has three young children.
Debra Goldie Jones
Debra Goldie Jones is a dealer at the North Dallas Antique Mall, a freelance writer and content writer. She has been a dining critic, a shopping critic and now she’s just plain critical about everything!
DeLila Bergan, JD, MA, HEC-C
DeLila Bergan, JD, MA, HEC-C. is a bioethicist, elder mediator, and retired elder law attorney. One of her clients received that 2:00 A.M. phone call and shared its emotional impact; details have been modified to protect the parties’ identities. To contact Ms. Bergan, visit her website
Dana Cobb
Dana Cobb is a story-seller with a 20-year history of success across many industries including hospitality entertainment, not-for-profit, lifestyle, luxury, real estate, public arts and team management. As a visible and reliable member of the community, her work has been honored with multiple national awards and recognitions. She is catty with cursive and has tales for days.
Dotty Woodson
Dotty Woodson has B.S. and M.S. degrees in Horticulture from Tarleton State University and a doctoral degree from Texas A&M and Texas Tech Universities for Agricultural Education, Communication, and Leadership. Woodson taught horticulture, irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and landscape water conservation by design, plant selection, and efficient irrigation efficiency for 35 years.
Doug Bardwell
Doug Bardwell is a writer, photojournalist, and FAA-licensed drone pilot. He has articles and photos published worldwide. His work has been featured on Examiner, CBS Online, CNN, HuffPost, Chicago Parent, North Coast 50 Plus, Medium, No Boundaries for Us, and more. When not traveling with his wife, Maureen, they keep busy following the adventures of their seven children and 19 grandchildren. You can follow his travels and product reviews at DougBardwell.com.
Doug Sturdivant
Doug Sturdivant is a North Carolina native living in Dallas. He has been teaching English and Theatre Arts for 30+ years. Doug is also a theatre reviewer for Where The Drama Is on Facebook. In his spare time, he enjoys herding his four cats!
Drew Demler
After many years in horticulture, Drew Demler joined the State Fair of Texas as the Greenhouse Manager in 2011. He co-founded Big Tex Urban Farms in 2016 and became Director of Horticulture in 2019. He oversees ornamental gardening and manages Big Tex Urban Farms, handling production, harvesting, donations, programming, and community involvement. Demler speaks at community events and field trips. He also assists local gardens through the "Fairs Farming Farms" program.
Dr Diana Kerwin
Diana R. Kerwin, MD, CPI is the Principal Investigator for the Bio-Hermes study and President of Kerwin Medical Center.
E. Katherine Kottaras
E. Katherine Kottaras is the author of two critically acclaimed YA novels. She is an associate professor of English at Pasadena City College and a certified yoga teacher, personal trainer, and health coach. She has a master’s degree in English and kinesiology. She lives with her family in Southern California. Visit her at www.katherinekotteras.com and follow her @KatherineKotteras
E. Katherine Kottaras
E. Katherine Kottaras is the author of two critically acclaimed YA novels. She is an associate professor of English at Pasadena City College and a certified yoga teacher, personal trainer, and health coach. She has a master’s degree in English and kinesiology. She lives with her family in Southern California. Visit her at www.katherinekotteras.com and follow her @KatherineKotteras
Edward Brown
Edward Brown is an award-winning journalist, freelance writer, blogger, and arts critic for Fort Worth Weekly, Visit Fort Worth, and Madeworthy Magazine. In his free time, he enjoys running and volunteering for nonprofits. Edward has a son and a daughter.
Elena Miliaresis
Elena Miliaresis is a writer, filmmaker, and journalist, now focusing on transformational travel and wellness. She is a multimedia storyteller who brings her passion for life and Greek-Italian DNA to all her projects. Throughout her career, Miliaresis has written, directed, and produced documentaries, lifestyle, news, digital marketing, and entertainment shows for ABC News, public television, E! Entertainment, the Style Network, the History Channel, and more.
Ellen Sturgeon
Ellen M. Sturgeon has a background in marketing and communications. She has worked as a security professional for the past ten years, volunteers with Canine Companions, and is pursuing a PR certification from Rutgers University.
Emily Carter
Emily Carter is a freelance health writer and patient advocate passionate about empowering others to live well with chronic conditions. Having witnessed her parents navigate vision changes, she understands the challenges and triumphs of this journey. Emily's work provides straightforward, actionable information to help readers maintain their independence and quality of life.
Emily Harper
Emily Harper is a healthcare writer focusing on end-of-life care and support. In her article, she provides guidance on navigating the challenges of terminal illness, offering practical advice and emotional support for patients and their families. Through her compassionate insights, Emily aims to help individuals find strength and resources during this difficult time. Outside of her writing, she enjoys hiking, yoga, and volunteering at hospice care centers.
Emily Landon, M.D.
Dr. Emily Landon specializes in infectious disease, and serves as medical director of antimicrobial stewardship and infection control University of Chicago Medicine.
Emily Roberts
Emily Roberts is a senior care specialist with over a decade of experience in helping families navigate the complexities of elder care. She is passionate about empowering families to make informed decisions about long-term care options through in-home care or assisted living. Emily's articles focus on providing clear, compassionate advice to ensure that seniors receive the care and support they need in a way that respects their independence and dignity.
Felder Rushing
Felder Rushing, author of over 30 gardening books and countless magazine and newspaper articles, hosts NPR's zany "Gestalt Gardener" program. Southern Living selected him as "One of 25 people most likely to change the South."
Frank Abagnale
While Frank Abagnale’s real life story about his time as one of the world’s greatest con men was the subject for the popular Steven Spielberg movie Catch Me If You Can, for the last 44 years, he has been associated with the FBI. He is a lecturer for the bureau, as well as a faculty member at the National Advocacy Center (NAC). Over 14,000 organizations and law enforcement agencies utilize his fraud prevention programs. He is also a distinguished author of numerous articles and books, including The Art of the Steal, The Real U Guide to Identity Theft, Stealing Your Life, and, Scam Me If You Can – Simple Strategies to Outsmart Today’s Rip-off Artists.
To learn more about Frank Abagnale and his work, publications and real world experience visit www.abagnale.com.
Fred Mays
Fred Mays is a former TV news guy. He now lives in Allen, Texas and works as a freelance writer/photographer. He specializes in travel and environmental subjects. Follow his blog at www.northtexasactivelife.com.
fyi50+
fyi50+ features Dallas-Fort Worth like never before, with a focus on delivering informative and newsworthy content from professional journalists and experts in their chosen field. Every story offers new inspiration and information, bringing our readers the freshest content from subject matter experts in arts and entertainment, dining and drinks, grandparenting, health and wellbeing, life and lifestyle, money and retirement, and topics and perspectives.
Gladys Aniaka
Gladys Aniaka is a Nigerian writer who thinks better on paper. For Gladys, writing is the next best thing after scented candles. She is passionate about healthy eating and lifestyle. Her perfect retirement plan is travelling the world blogging about healthy meal recipes.
Dr. Glynis Worthington
Dr. Glynis Worthington, a pickleball scientist, earned her doctoral credentials at age 61. She uses social media to share her findings and learns digital lessons along the way. To learn more about her pickleball practice, follow her on Facebook or LinkedIn at Dr. Glynis Worthington.
Gwyn Goodrow
Gwyn Goodrow is a travel journalist with a heart for exploration. Goodrow illuminates human connections in vibrant stories. Follow her adventures and reflections at
www.gwyngoodrow.com and on Instagram @gwyngoodrow.
Harriet P. Gross
A proud native of Pittsburgh, PA, Harriet P. Gross began her journalism career in 1955 at The Jewish Criterion, a weekly paper in her home city. Moving to the Chicago area in 1957, she became a columnist and feature writer for STAR Publications, a leading twice-weekly newspaper serving the city’s southern sector and its suburbs to the south and west. After years of work as a full-time journalist in suburban Chicago, Harriet came to Dallas in 1980 following her marriage to the late attorney Fred Gross. Here she began freelancing. Among many special projects, she wrote the scripts for Jewish Family Service’s first video and Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas’ 100th anniversary video, and the text for Dallas Section, National Council of Women’s soon-to-be-published history book. Today, Harriet’s “In My Mind’s I” column runs weekly in the Texas Jewish Post. She has won writing awards from the Press Club of Dallas, American Jewish Press Association, National Federation of Press Women, Illinois Woman’s Press Association and Press Women of Texas, and has been listed in five Who’s Who publications. In her community today, Harriet is a book reviewer, discussion leader, and program presenter for clubs, senior living facilities, and Jewish institutions including the JCC’s Senior Program, and after years on its Board, she was named a Life Member of the Dallas Jewish Historical Society. She holds a B.A. in writing and secondary education from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.A. in humanities from the University of Texas at Dallas, plus certification in Jewish education from Spertus College of Judaica, Chicago. Harriet was widowed in 2014. She has two children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandsons.
H.B. Elliott
Heather McKinney
Heather McKinney is an Equal Justice Works fellow and attorney at Legal Aid of North West Texas, where she provides legal representation to victims of elder abuse and exploitation. She also conducts community education and outreach to foster an organized, community-based response to senior abuse and exploitation instances. You can learn more about Heather and her fellowship HERE.
Heidi Frankel
Heidi Frankel is the founder and publisher of fyi50+. She brings an extensive media background that includes publishing, broadcast news, radio, writing, editing, business development and more. She has interviewed former President George W. Bush, comics wunderkind Stan Lee, Gayle King, and Doris Kearns Goodwin among many other notable names.
Hugh Koh
Hugh Koh is a Group Tai Chi Instructor at Life Time Plano and Life Time Addison. He also teaches at the Rosemeade Recreation Center and the Carrollton Senior Center. He previously taught in Long Island, NY, where he regularly practiced with his masters and students. You can view some of the Tai Chi exercises on his website at
www.taichiandme.wordpress.com.
Jack Pointer
Jack Pointer is a freelance writer who helped edit The Dallas Morning News in a previous life. He’s also worked for The Chicago Tribune and a news radio station out East. In his spare time, he plays piano and argues with his dog.
Jaclyn Albin, MD, FAAP, FACP
Dr. Albin treats patients of all ages and trained in combined internal medicine and pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. She joined the Departments of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine at UTSW in the fall of 2014 where she practices primary care in the Combined Internal Medicine/Pediatrics Clinic at UTSW. Dr. Albin serves as the Associate Program Director for the Internal Medicine/Pediatrics (Med/Peds) Residency Program and loves teaching about health promotion across the lifespan. She is passionate about nutrition, lifestyle, and other environmental influences on health, and she teaches her patients and students to prioritize these areas. In 2017, Dr. Albin launched UTSW’s Culinary Medicine program and serves as the director, working to teach nutrition through hands-on cooking classes to medical students, residents, healthcare professionals, and the community. Dr. Albin loves blending her passion for nutrition and wellness with growing a garden, cooking, traveling, and spending time with her husband and children.
Jaimie Johnson, Pampered Chef
Jaimie Johnson, “Chef Jaimie”, shares the art of cooking, baking, and entertaining with friends and families everywhere. She has 18 years in the food industry. Johnson enjoys teaching baking and decorating techniques. She also enjoys teaching about making healthy meals in a hurry, assembling time-saving meal prep in her workshops, and creating the perfect party and bridal shower experiences with her Pampered Chef business. When she is not cooking, Johnson has a full-time marketing career with a well-known travel company and enjoys spending time with her family, including her new puppy, Ace. For more fun recipes, check out her blog at: http://tiny.cc/Chefjaimiekids.
Janelle Burns
Janelle Burns is a single mom to her wonderful son and the founder and principal of Janelle Burns Interiors in Dallas, TX. They enjoy their two black cats, summer trips to Lake Tahoe, and breakfast tacos on Sunday mornings.
Janet Smith, Master Naturalist
Janet Smith is a recovering plantaholic who considers the Master Naturalist, Master Gardener, and Native Landscape Certification training her 12-step program. Janet now has a particular interest in native plants. She restricts her selections to heat and drought tolerant plants that multi-task by attracting pollinators like butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, lizards, and other fascinating insects. She loves sharing her interests as a public speaker and project coordinator for the Bath House Pollinator Garden at White Rock Lake.
Janie Pace
Writer/photographer Janie Pace is a native Texan covering restaurants, wineries, breweries, travel destinations, and cruises. A member of the ITWPA International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance, IFWTWA International Food Wine Travel Writing Association, and USPA United States Press Agency; she’s a retired advertising and sales professional.
http://www.journeymapped.com
Jeanne Savelle
Jeanne Savelle writes about wine for wineries, importers, and distributors. She has several certifications from The Wine Scholar Guild and WSET. She has spent 30 years following the wine business around the world. You can learn more at: https://www.facebook.com/PortStVino, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-savelle/.
Jen Hasson
Jen Hasson is a Yoga Alliance Certified 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) and owner of www.DownDogInTheDesert.com, a yoga and lifestyle blog. You can follow her on instagram @down_dog_in_the_desert.
Jennifer “Neily” Neily, MS, RDN, FAND
Jennifer “Neily” Neily, MS, RDN, FAND. Award-winning Dallas-based registered dietitian nutritionist and Wellcoach® certified health coach, Jennifer Neily has a virtual coaching practice – NeilyonNutrition.com. Through her whole-person comprehensive one-on-one approach she helps women build a healthier relationship with food and gain trust and confidence in themselves to ultimately have more freedom and energy to enjoy life. For more info visit: https://neilyonnutrition.com.
Jenna Lewis
Jenna Lewis is a health, wellness, and fashion writer. She believes that age is only a number and that we should all strive to lead youthful lives. In her free time, she loves to go on long walks with her husband.
Jessica Jarrard
Jessica Jarrard is a licensed clinical social worker, (LCSW) and has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. have a deep respect for my clients' individual experiences, and provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for individuals to develop insight and grow. I know how difficult the first step is, and value your trust in me. I am actively engaged in the recovery community, both personally and professionally. I am also a parent. I believe my experiences have helped to shape me as a therapist, and allow me to appreciate a diverse range of issues, cultures, and individuals. She completed her Master's degree in Clinical Social Work at San Francisco State University. She attended Barnard College, the women's college at Columbia University, and completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Sonoma State University, in California.
The field of psychotherapy offers a variety of services. I have worked in acute settings (psychiatric hospitalization), subacute settings (residential treatment), and intensive outpatient treatment settings, as well as maintaining my private practice. As a clinician in a rapidly changing field, I recognize the importance of maintaining a critical eye to my work, and participate in several professional peer consultation groups that meet regularly. As professional colleagues, we provide clinical feedback and challenge each other to be the best in our fields.
Jessica Waller
Jessica Waller is a freelance writer for several publications, musician, artist, and mother of two.
John Vernon
John Vernon has been a practicing attorney for more than 42 years in
International Mergers & Acquisitions, Franchising, and Trade Law. He is also an Adjunct Law and Human Rights Professor at SMU and Pro Bono Counsel in Human Rights cases in the U.S. and abroad. Vernon is an author and frequent speaker on International Law and Human Rights issues domestically and globally.
Joy Loverde
Joy Loverde is a keynote speaker, consultant, and author of the best-selling books, “The Complete Eldercare Planner, 4th Edition,” and “Who Will Take Care of Me When I’m Old?” She has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, Time, Money, The New York Times, and Psychology Today, among many others. Interviews include the Today show, Good Morning America, and NPR. Critics hail her work as “illuminating, eye-opening, and required reading for everyone over 40.” Visit her website at www.elderindustry.com.
Judy Beaudin
Judy Beaudin is an award-winning competitive cook/baker and the owner of Scrumptious Catering, a boutique catering company in Franklin, Tennessee. Her dessert and pastry work has been featured in national marketing campaigns and on HGTV. Her catering work has appeared in local and national lifestyle and industry magazines. Follow her "foodie" life on Instagram at @scrumptious_judyb and Facebook at Scrumptious Catering & Sweets.
Kalena Foy
Kalena Foy, at The Heritage Table, created this unique drink for fyi50+. When you dine at the restaurant, request it, and they will make it just for you.
Dr. Karen Shaw Becker
Dr. Karen Becker, a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian. Her goal is to partner with pet parents seeking to improve their pet’s overall health and vitality through wise lifestyle choices. Karen Shaw Becker received her degree in veterinary medicine from the Iowa State School of Veterinary Medicine. She completed exotic animal internships in California and at the Berlin Zoo, Germany. She is certified in animal acupuncture, homeopathy and rehabilitation (physical therapy for pets).She founded the first proactive animal hospital in the Chicago area in 1999, opened an exotic animal hospital in 2001, and a rehabilitation and pain management clinic in 2011. Today, she still practices medicine, but also enjoys educating people about natural health for their pets by offering the most up-to-date information on species-appropriate nutrition, lifestyle choices and proactive living. http://www.drbeckersbites.com/who-is-dr-karen-becker/
Karen Leba-Baker
Karen Leba-Baker assists women to re-awaken their natural sensuality and pleasure and believes in our second half of life; we can have it all, including intimacy and sex: we don't swell, we don't tell, and we're grateful as hell! I can help you start a practice to bring your desires out of hiding to make you happier and your relationships more fulfilling. To reach Karen email her at karen@Businessaspleasure.com or visit www.businessaspleasure.com.
Kassandra Reinhardt
Yin and Vinyasa Yoga Instructor, YouTuber, author, and the face behind Yoga with Kassandra, Kassandra Reinhardt, is on a mission to help others feel great with yoga. As one of the first yoga instructors to embrace online teaching, her Yoga with Kassandra YouTube channel has grown to more than 1.9 million subscribers and has over 190 million views. She specializes in her bitesize approach of 10 minute morning classes as well as videos featuring yoga for athletes, morning yoga, Yin Yoga for your nervous system (combating burnout), mental health & emotional healing. Kassandra is the author of "Yin Yoga: Stretch The Mindful Way" (DK Books), has led yoga retreats internationally, and offers online workshops and in-person Yin Yoga training. She is also the creator of the Yoga with Kassandra app, a source for yoga with exclusive video content, journaling features, and more. With over 2 million people in her online community, Kassandra has truly provided accessibility to yoga and she is expanding her expertise further, with the recent release of her second book, "Year of Yoga: Rituals for every day and every season" (Mandala Publishing). “Year of Yoga” includes holistic practices for any level student, coinciding with affirmations that illuminate the beauty and possibility each of the four seasons presents. Kassandra and her channel have been featured in CBC, Bustle, PopSugar, Well+Good and Elle Australia. https://www.yogawithkassandra.com
Dr. Kate Perlstein
Dr Perlstein is the Director and Senior Orthotist at Orthotics Plus. Before starting the specialty clinic, Dr Perlstein worked at several different public and private facilities, gaining experience in foot and ankle, spinal, neuromuscular (particularly polio), vascular, and fracture management. Going above and beyond for her patients is Dr. Perlstein’s philosophy. She has become the trusted point of contact for many medical specialists seeking management for their patients. She provides the best orthotics and care for all patients. Dr. Perlstein loves basketball, the gym, bagels, and looking after her two beautiful girls.
Kathryn MacDonell
Kathryn MacDonell has loved words all her life. She is fascinated by the complexities of human nature and life across generations worldwide. Her work focuses on supporting vulnerable individuals in schools, prisons, shelters, and hospitals. MacDonell believes the arts have the power to heal and unite us.
Katie Mudd
Katie Mudd is a publicist at The Vokol Group. She is a graduate of Southern Methodist University with degrees in Communication Studies and Public Relations and boasts nearly a decade of experience in corporate communication across diverse industries. Recognized for her excellence, she has received awards such as the PRSA Dallas’ Pegasus Awards and was named a Rising Star by Ad2Dallas in 2017. In 2022, she was recognized as a "40 under 40" communication leader by PRSA Dallas.
Katie Pierce
Katie Pierce is a teacher-slash-writer who loves telling stories, whether to adults in front of a computer screen or a bunch of hyperactive 4-year-olds. Writing keeps her sane (most of the time) and allows her to enjoy some quiet time in the evening before she walks into a room of kids (all of whom she loves dearly) the following morning.
Kerri Smith
Laid off at the height of Covid, Kerri Smith detoured from the traditional career path in search of a life fully lived. Whether traveling solo or with friends, Kerri enjoys traveling best when the most is made of every experience. Good, bad, or otherwise, her motto is “…but would it make a good story?” https://www.instagram.com/kerristable/
Kimberly Blaker
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer and owner of Sage Rare & Collectible Books, an online bookshop specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera; and more at sagerarebooks.com.
Kim Horner
Kim Horner is a Dallas-based writer and author of Probably Someday Cancer: Genetic Risk and Preventative Mastectomy (The University of North Texas Press, 2019). Read her blog at kimdhorner.com.
Kim Leeson
Kim Leeson has been a professional photographer for more than 25 years. After studying photography and journalism at East Texas University, she began working for The Dallas Morning News. During an 11-year stint in her dream job as a news photographer, she enjoyed covering breaking news and features. Her work for the newspaper earned her awards from the Texas Headliners Foundation, the Southern Newspaper Publishers Association,Texas Associated Press Managing Editors, and the Association for Women Journalists.
Since leaving the Dallas Morning News in 2004, Kim has been freelancing in the Dallas area, mainly for magazines, public relations firms, educational institutions and nonprofits.
Many also know Kim as an accomplished nature photographer whose passion is finding the extraordinary details of the natural world in urban environments.
Kim's work can be seen at www.kimtakespictures.com
Kim D. Vernon, M.D.
A practicing ob-gyn in Dallas for 39 years, Dr. Vernon is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology by the American Board of Ob-Gyn. She has been awarded Best Doctor in Dallas eight times by D magazine and as Texas Best Doctor repeatedly. Dr. Vernon is passionate about women's rights & health issues and provides exceptional healthcare to women of all ages. She believes in establishing relationships with all her patients based on communication & quality medical care and feels that participation in decision-making and sound medical advice is of the utmost importance.
Kristina Hallett, Ph.D., ABPP | Board-certified Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Kristina Hallett is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist, TEDx Speaker, and Associate Professor of Psychology with over 25 years of experience working with organizations and individuals. She offers a fresh look at our commonly held beliefs about well-being, serving as a catalyst for change by inviting shifts in mindset, perspective and everyday practices. She speaks internationally in several areas –resilience, radical self-care, harnessing the positive power of stress, and living your best life through self-compassion.
Dr. Hallett is the author of two international best-sellers: "Own Best Friend: Eight Steps to a Life of Purpose, Passion, and Ease" and "Be Awesome: Banish Burnout, Create Motivation from the Inside Out", and hosts the popular podcast Be Awesome – Celebrating Mental Health and Wellness. She is active in the Leadership Institute for Women in Psychology, the National Speakers Association, and the American Psychological Association and is frequently featured on national platforms such as NBC, U.S. News and World Report, MindBodyGreen, Reader’s Digest, and the American Psychological Association.
Access her free guide to being stress smart and becoming your own best friend, or share your thoughts at
kristinamhallett@gmail.com.
Originally published: mindbodygreen.com
Larry North
Larry North is a leading expert in health, fitness, nutrition and weight loss, Larry owns and operates cutting edge fitness gyms across the nation, the author of several books, and speaks all over the world encouraging people to live a lifestyle encompassing physical, mental & spiritual health.
www.biotemedical.com
Laura Sutherland
Laura Sutherland is the owner of WAG-n-TRAIN pet services, East Dallas’s premier pet care provider. Laura is insured, and a member of the Professional United Petsitters (PUPs).
Laurie Wallmark
Award-winning author Laurie Wallmark writes picture book biographies of women in STEM and fiction. Her books have earned five-starred trade reviews, been chosen as Junior Library Guild Selections, and received awards such as Outstanding Science Trade Book, Crystal Kite Award, Cook Prize Honor, and Parents’ Choice Gold Medal. Her titles include Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine, Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code, Hedy Lamarr’s Double Life, Numbers in Motion, Code Breaker, Spy Hunter, and Dino Pajama Party. Laurie has an MFA in Writing from VCFA and is a former software engineer and computer science professor. You can find Laurie on the web at www.lauriewallmark.com and @lauriewallmark.
Leslie Barker
Leslie Barker is a native of Dallas and has been writing ever since she can remember. Most of her career was as a staff writer at the Dallas Morning News, covering primarily health and fitness. You can follow Leslie on her blog at: www.aglassoflemonade.blogspot.com.
Liam Walker
Liam Walker is a health and wellness writer specializing in senior care. In this article, he highlights the importance of health screenings for early detection and prevention. Walker's insights aim to educate seniors and their caregivers on the benefits of regular screenings. Outside of writing, he enjoys hiking, reading historical novels, and volunteering at local health fairs.
Lily Thompson
Lily Thompson is a senior care advisor dedicated to helping families make informed decisions about assisted living. Her article discusses the best time to move to assisted living, offering valuable guidance and insights. Through her expertise, Thompson aims to support families in making the transition as smooth and timely as possible. Outside her advisory work, she enjoys hiking, knitting, and volunteering at local senior centers.
Linda Glauben
Linda is originally from Pittsburgh, PA, And moved to Dallas in 1978. She has many years of sales experience. Her passion has always been cooking, especially her grandmother’s and mother’s Italian recipes. In 2018, she realized it was time to move on to her second act and decided to make her dream a reality. Linda started Cucina Noni. She holds in-home Italian cooking classes, teaching how to make homemade pasta and other favorite recipes. Classes are typically 4 to 16 people. Guests choose 3 recipes to prepare. All ingredients are included as well as recipes. Linda is married to Phillip Glauben and has 2 married children, a daughters and son, two granddaughters and a grandson on the way. For more information and to purchase her homemade tomato sauce and pizzelles contact: Noni@CucinaNoni.com
Lisa Keys
Lisa Keys is an award-winning home cook, mother, grandmother, and retired physician assistant. She has been entering and winning cooking contests since 1990, and her recipes have been well-published in national magazines, cookbooks, and online publications. She holds certifications as a Food Champ, Steak Association judge, and pizza judge. Keys is also a food blogger. Three years after the death of her son, a US Navy Corpsman, she embarked on a public grief journey and became a Food Network Chopped Champion on the 2014 Mother's Day episode. Her inspiring food blog, www.GoodGriefCook.com, followed and continues to reflect Keys' philosophy that preparing and sharing food with others is an extension of one's heart and soul.
LJ Rohan, MA, GCG, CAPS
L.J. Rohan is a a Gerontologist, author, blogger, and speaker. She writes and speaks on the latest scientific research related to aging, aging in place, and the study of gerontology. She also holds a Master’s Level Graduate Certification in Gerontology from the University of Southern California’s Davis School of Gerontology. L.J. is also a Certified Aging in Place Specialist,(CAPS.) She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southern Methodist University. In her previous career, L.J. was an award-winning interior designer. She was an instructor at SMU, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Northwood University. L.J. lives in Dallas and New York. To learn more about L.J., visit www.LJRohan.com.
Lynn Jenkins
Lynn Jenkins is the founder and CEO of Sydoni Skincare and Beauty. With decades of dynamic experience in the beauty industry, Lynn has passionately guided countless clients through the art of makeup and custom skincare routines. Prior to launching her innovative beauty brand, Lynn forged powerful collaborations with top dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and aesthetic professionals throughout Texas, playing a pivotal role in advancing clinical skincare and aesthetic medicine within their practices. We invite you to discover her extensive collections at www.sydoniskin.com.
Mallory Knee
Marcus Lansky
Born with a severe spinal condition, Marcus Lansky took the challenge to be able to walk again. With the will and aid of numerous individuals from the medical field and a whole lot of cheerleaders, he was able to take his first steps and take on the world. He then created his site, Abilitator, to reach out to those who are disabled and show them that becoming an entrepreneur is a goal they too can achieve.
Marjolyn van der Hart
Marjolyn van der Hart studied painting at Parsons School of Art and Design in New York City and received a Fine Arts degree from Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. She also holds a BA with an honors degree in Mass Communications from Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. For the past three decades, Marjolyn has worked from her studio in Toronto and traveled through the US, exhibiting and winning awards in top art fairs nationwide. She has won several grants from the Ontario Arts Council and is represented by galleries and corporate collections in North America. You can find Marjolyn on Instagram @memoryartgirl or subscribe to her email list www.marjolyn.com or www.memoryartgirl.com.
Mark S. Meyers
Mark S. Meyers is the co-founder and executive director of the Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, a professional photographer published in national magazines, an award-winning filmmaker, and an author. He has been featured nationally and internationally in print news, television, radio, and podcasts and has appeared in National Geographic. Mark was honored to be a 2019 CNN Top 10 Hero.
Marlene Caraballo
Marlene Caraballo is an intuitive life coach, writer, speaker, and spiritual mentor, who works with women looking for soulful guidance to clear what’s blocking them so they can build confidence, master their mindset, and chase their dreams. She lives in rural Orange County, NY and is mom to three grown sons. She shares mindset tips at www.marlenecaraballo.com and blogs about life after fifty at www.cheers2chapter2.com. Contact her at marlene@marlenecaraballo.com or on Instagram @_marlenecaraballo_.
Maya Angelou
A poet, dancer, singer, activist, and scholar Maya Angelou was also a world-famous author. She was best known for her unique and pioneering autobiographical writing style. Many national and international organizations recognized her for her contributions to literature. In 2011, President Obama awarded Angelou the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country's highest civilian honor. Angelou died on May 28, 2014, but her inspiring words and actions live on.
Melinda Myers
Melinda Myers is a nationally known gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist. She has more than 35 years of horticulture experience, a master’s degree in horticulture and has written over 20 books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” gardening DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments as well as columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazineVisit her website at www.melindamyers.com
Michelle Booth
Michelle Booth has been helping people tell their stories for 20-plus years. In 2021, she founded Make Momentos, a platform designed for adults to narrate children's books to create meaningful digital keepsakes for the children in their lives. Her vision for the company is an extension of her work as a ghostwriter: to connect families through the power of storytelling. https://makemomentos.com
Michelle Metzger
Michelle Metzger covers senior living, healthy living, and innovation topics. She lives in the Dallas area and is a graduate from Southern Methodist University.
Mike McGee
Mike McGee is a Dallas-based reporter. He is the recipient of a Press Club of Dallas Hugh Aynesworth Awards for Excellence in Journalism as well as a three-time winner of the National Association of Black Journalists Salute To Excellence Award. His work has appeared in The New York Post, the Neighborsgo section of The Dallas Morning News, and The Dallas Examiner.
Mila Vincent
Mila Vincent is our official "kid book reviewer." Her favorite things to do are playing on a soccer team her Dad coaches, giving to others on "be kind" days that her mom created, practicing new hairstyles, reviewing children’s plays with her grandmother Johannah Luza, and cuddling during home movie nights with her French bulldog, Penelope.
Mila Vincent with Nancy Churnin
Mila Vincent is our official "kid book reviewer." Her favorite things to do are playing on a soccer team her Dad coaches, giving to others on "be kind" days that her mom created, practicing new hairstyles, reviewing children’s plays with her grandmother Johannah Luza, and cuddling during home movie nights with her French bulldog, Penelope.
Nancy Churnin is an award-winning author with ten children's books and more on the way. Find free teacher guides, resources, and projects for each of her books on www.nancychurnin.com.
Molly Gregor
Molly Gregor is the founder and editor of www.WeddingFile.com and has been writing about weddings for more than 25 years.
Molly Middleton Meyer
Molly Middleton Meyer is a certified dementia practitioner who earned her master's degree in creative writing from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA, in 2014. She is the founder and C.E.O. of Mind's Eye Poetry, a nationally acclaimed art facilitation program for people with dementia-related illnesses. Molly brings her love of art therapy and intergenerational activities to assisted living and memory care communities throughout the United States.
Mridula Nadamuni, M.D.
Mridula Nadamuni, MD is a fourth-year internal medicine and pediatrics resident at UTSW. In between adapting to delivering healthcare online, she rides her bike, watches Netflix and reluctantly does laundry. She is always on the lookout for the next great read!
Nancy Cohen Israel
Nancy Cohen Israel is a Dallas-based arts writer, art historian and educator. Over the past 25 years, her work has touched virtually every aspect of the visual arts, from museum and gallery work to teaching art history. In addition to running her own arts education company, Art à la Carte, Nancy’s writing has appeared locally in Patron magazine, Dallas Arts District Guide, VisitDallas: The Magazine, Arts + Culture, and FD Luxe. Nationally, she has written for artltd. Nancy is also a part of the Education Department at the Meadows Museum.
Nancy Churnin
Nancy Churnin is the author of eight picture book biographies that have won the Sydney Taylor Notable, South Asia Book Award and Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People and been honored on numerous states reading lists. A native New Yorker and former theater critic for The Dallas Morning News, Nancy is a Harvard University alumna, with a master's from Columbia University. She lives in North Texas with her husband, a dog named Dog and a cantankerous cat. Nancy's books are available at our Grand Times Bookstore
and independent bookstores. You can also follow her on Twitter @nchurnin.
Nick Thomas
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama, and has written features, columns, and interviews for numerous newspapers and magazines. See getnickt.org
Nick Thomas
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama, and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines. His “It’s A Wonderful Hike” column describes short trails, hikes, and walks from around the country that seniors might enjoy while traveling. See www.ItsAWonderfulHike.com.
Noel Koenke
Noel Koenke is a Wellset Select Practitioner and Natural Hormone Balancing Specialist. She has a master's degree in Spiritual Care, with over 15 years in Spiritual Coaching and certifications in Reiki and Crystal Bed Healing. NK Spiritual Care offers Crystal Bed Healing Sessions, Oracle Card Readings, and Soul Transformational Coaching Programs. Let me help you align with your true self. For more information on Noel Koenke or to schedule an appointment, visit https://www.noelkoenke.com.
Noreen Kompanik
Noreen Kompanik is a freelance journalist, associate editor, and speaker from San Diego. A retired registered nurse, she now travels the world and writes about her adventures. Her stories have appeared in TravelPulse, Edible San Diego Magazine, Europe Up Close, International Living and more.
Pamela Welch
Pamela Welch is an estate planning and probate attorney with Miller Law Office in Plano, Texas. For more information visit their website or call (214) 292-4225.
Pat Baker
Pat Baker enjoys matching games and colorful puzzles, leads a reasonably healthy life, and writes for Cypress Home Care Agency in the Phoenix area.
Paula Selzer
Paula Selzer is retired from the Environmental Protection Agency, where she worked as a senior policy advisor. She is a New Mexico Master Gardener, bird photographer, and the author of "Adolphe Gouhenant: French Revolutionary, Utopian Leader, and Texas Frontier Photographer.” To learn more about Paula Selzer, her photography, books, and movies, visit https://paulaselzer.com/.
Rev. Dr. Petra Weldes
Rev. Dr. Petra Weldes has been walking a spiritual path for over 40 years and has brought countless students into a richer, spiritually grounded living. She is a dynamic and inspiring speaker and teacher, presenting in spiritual and leadership settings nationally and internationally. Dr. Petra has published numerous articles and co-authored two books with Rev. Dr. Christian Sorensen. Dr. Petra has a passion for youth, service, inclusion, peace, environment, conscious leadership, global transformation, and expanding consciousness. She is currently serving as Co-Spiritual Director at CSLDallas, a Center for Spiritual Living.
www.CSLDallas.org | https://www.facebook.com/petra.weldes | therock@csldallas.org
Dr. Rachel Foster
Dr. Rachel Foster is a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) specialist with a focus on the transformative impact of HRT after the age of 50. With a commitment to women's health, Dr. Foster specializes in providing information on how hormone replacement can positively impact one's life during the menopausal years. When not in her medical practice, she enjoys staying informed about advancements in women's health, attending medical conferences, and volunteering for initiatives promoting women's health and well-being.
Chef Rebecka Evans
Rebecka Evans is a highly acclaimed competitive home cook, food blogger, freelance food writer, and recipe developer. She is a proud mother of five and grandmother to eight. Evans was a fourth-place semifinalist in MasterChef: Generations Season 14. In 2017, she earned the prestigious title of Bacon World Champion at the World Food Championships and won Food Network's Clash of the Grandmas in the Home Sweet Grandma episode (2016). Beyond her culinary expertise, Rebecka is also a trained classical vocalist passionate about opera. Explore her blog, follow her MasterChef journey on her website and social media, and dive into her extensive recipe collection at http://athomewithrebecka.com.
Rebekah Pierce
Rebekah Pierce is a writer in upstate New York, just north of the Adirondack Mountains. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education degree. In addition to writing, she also owns a farm, where she grows various plants and raises chickens, pigs, and sheep. Her writing interests cover everything from farming and gardening to education, health and wellness, and business. She writes regularly for her blog, J&R Pierce Family Farm, and California Mobility.
Robert Frankel
Robert Frankel is a writer, editor, filmmaker, and Air Force veteran. A native Texan born and raised, he has lived around the country and in Germany. Currently, he's based in Los Angeles, California.
Rose Johns
Rose Johns is a fashion enthusiast and avid collector of second hand designer handbags. During her free time, she enjoys shopping at the flea market and restoring leather goods.
Sally Fox
Sally Jean Fox, Ph. D., is a writer, artist, coach, and author of “Meeting the Muse After Midlife,” a memoir about finding hope and meaning after 50 through creative expression. An expert in applying creativity and spirituality to aging, she supports midlife-plus adults to thrive by designing artful and creative lives. Learn more on her website.
Sandra Zelley
Sandra Zelley moved to Dallas to be close to her three grandchildren. Throughout her career in clinical social work, both in private practice and hospital settings, she gained invaluable experience. After becoming a Master Gardener, she discovered the benefits of combining these two fields. Connecting with nature provides a fresh perspective on daily joys and challenges and how they shape our lives.
Dr. Scott Munsterman
Dr. Scott Munsterman is an International College of Chiropractors Fellow (FICC), a professional speaker, and an educator. He co-founded Best Practices Academy and ClinicArmor LLC and served two terms as the Mayor of Brookings, South Dakota, and three terms as a South Dakota legislator. Munsterman is the CEO/President and Clinical Advisor of BioMagnetic Sciences, LLC. He is also the proud father of five beautiful daughters and six grandchildren.
Chrissy and Sean Cortez-Mathis
Chrissy and Sean Cortez-Mathis are public speakers for the North Texas Master Naturalists. They love sharing their front garden with the public, inspiring others to create a natural habitat in their yards. They also enjoy exploring the fantastic Backland Prairies. For more information about transitioning your yard into an urban oasis, visit their website at www.Cortez-Mathis.com.
Sharon Kurtz
Sharon Kurtz is a freelance writer and photographer. Her passion is travel, telling stories, and tussling with her four-legged friends. As a baby boomer who loves adventure, she welcomes opportunities to share stories of people, places, food, and flavors around the corner or around the world. A regular contributor to fyi50+ Magazine, she's published 200 articles in various digital and print publications. Austin, Texas, is home with her husband and three spoiled dogs when not searching out new adventures. You can follow her travels on Instagram and Facebook.
Shelley Bueche
Shelley Bueche is a dog writer in Austin, Texas. She is the former columnist for two national dog magazines and lives, breathes and researches ‘all things dog,’ She and her family share their home with a senior dog. Feel free to contact her at: SHBueche@aol.com to say “hello” or to suggest future “Pet Corner” topics.
Sheri Atwood
Sheri Atwood is the Founder and CEO of SupportPay, the go-to platform for modern families and caregivers to share, manage, and track expenses, payments, schedules, and communications.
Stephanie Fitzpatrick
Stephanie Fitzpatrick is an experienced school administrator who runs a home-based baking company on Long Island, designs digital curricular materials for children's authors, works as an educational consultant, and writes children's stories and recipes in her spare time.
Sue Mintz
Sue Mintz, Founder of Retirementhood™, is a coach, speaker, writer, and facilitator. She educates and guides soon-to-be or current retirees on becoming the best version of themselves in retirement by planning a lifestyle that is purposeful, healthy, fun, and one that fulfills long-awaited goals. She has been certified through Retirement Options, a division of Career Partners Intl, LLC., and is an Authorized "Now What®" Coach/Facilitator. She is not a financial adviser. For more information about Sue and the services she offers, visit https://www.retirementhood.com/ or contact her at suemintz@retirementhood.com.
Susan Kandell Wilkofsky
Susan Kandell Wilkofsky is a native of the Bronx and has lived in Dallas for over 40 years. In 2001, she co-founded the film series 3 Stars Cinema and is the program artistic director. Kandell Wilkofsky is an award-winning photographer, receiving the Matrix Award from Women in Communications and winning the American Mensa PhotoCup competition three times. She is a proud member of the North Texas Film Critics Association, where she served as secretary for over ten years, even though her penmanship is terrible.
Susie Marshall
Susie Marshall is the founder and Executive Director of Dallas-based nonprofit GROW North Texas, which cultivates healthy food communities by strengthening local food production and improving access to fresh and nutritious food. She has 20 years of experience working with food systems, producers, and assistance programs distributing surplus fruits and vegetables. Marshall has served on the Texas Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association board since 2010 and serves on the NRCS State Technical Advisory Committee and is the Urban Agriculture co-chair for the Dallas Coalition for Hunger Solutions.
Tammy O’Neil
Tammy O’Neil is an Associate Certified ADHD Coach, Certified Parent Trainer, Certified Student Success Coach and a Professional Organizer that specializes in ADHD, chronic disorganization, and hoarding. O'Neil fosters a cooperative coaching partnership with her clients and collaborates with them to reach their goals. If you want more information about how to get and stay organized, contact her for a FREE 20-minute phone consult at 304.834.5678 or tammy@theorganizercoach.com or www.theorganizercoach.com. Tune in to "LIVE with the Organizer Coach," virtual presentation every second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 6:30–7 pm. Visit www.theorganizercoach.com for more information.
Teepa Snow
Teepa Snow is one of the world’s leading advocates and educators for anyone living with dementia or other forms of brain change. She is an occupational therapist with over 40 years of experience and an author, researcher, caregiver, and advocate. She founded Positive Approach to Care in 2007.
Teresa Otto
Teresa Otto is a freelance writer, photographer, and retired pediatric anesthesiologist. She recently moved to The Woodlands, Texas from Montana. When she’s not traveling the world, she serves as a waitress and housekeeper for two rescued cats and a dog. Follow her travels on Instagram and her website.
Theresa Kushner
Theresa Kushner is a self-styled data-vangelist, passionate about AI and the data it uses. With her experience in leading data organizations in companies such as IBM, Cisco Systems, VMware, and Dell/EMC, she helps companies and individuals prepare for the AI generation. She is a speaker and writer who has co-authored two books on data and its use in business: “Managing Your Business Data" (with Maria Villar) and “B2B Data-Driven Marketing" (with Ruth Stevens).
Tiffany Lord
Tiffany Lord, E-RYT is a corporate yoga coach and founder of Love + Asana, a virtual wellness studio offering sessions and workshops for employee wellness. She specializes in movement and mindfulness for stress management and improved mobility. Tiffany’s fun, approachable style makes classes feel like you’re hanging out with friends while also improving your mental and physical health. Learn more at loveandasana.com.
Tina Tran
As the State Director of AARP Texas, Tina Tran leads a transformative social impact agenda serving 2.5 million members. Her team advocates for policy changes and engagement opportunities at all levels to enhance the lives of the 50+ and their families, promoting healthy, financially resilient, and purposeful lives.
Vanitha Swaminathan and E. Katherine Kottaras
Vanitha Swaminathan was born and raised in India, where she learned mindfulness practices from her parents. She visits India twice yearly to assist her mother with her yoga practices. She has a master’s degree in education from the University of Sheffield, UK, and has taught on two different continents for over forty years. She recently retired from Pasadena City College and now resides in California with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
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E. Katherine Kottaras is the author of two critically acclaimed YA novels. She is an associate professor of English at Pasadena City College and a certified yoga teacher, personal trainer, and health coach. She has a master’s degree in English and kinesiology. She lives with her family in Southern California. Visit her at www.katherinekotteras.com and follow her @KatherineKotteras
Yeun Byun, Owner of Soaps of 7 Flowers
Yeun Byun is the creator of Soaps of 7 Flowers, a Santa Cruz-based artisanal soap company dedicated to enhancing the way we clean and care for our bodies using only the essentials you find in nature. Each of her products reflects her intention for simplicity, a love for art and design, and a deep-rooted fascination with the therapeutic properties of herbs and flowers. When she is not in the soap-making studio, Yeun is sharing her passion for therapy with nature, selling her soaps at Farmer’s Markets, and growing fields full of flowers. Check out her beautiful soaps at www.soapsof7.com.