What we’re about
WHEN PODCASTS BECOME CONVERSATIONS, AND CONVERSATIONS
BECOME ACTION, WE ALL COME ALIVE TOGETHER
This group is for you......
...... If you are between age 40 and 70+ and enjoy engaging in respectful discussions in small groups (10-14 per Meetup so that everyone can actively participate)
We get together ~ once/month in person on our deck in West Orange, NJ (weather permitting - ~April to October), or by Zoom (if either weather or covid-status do not allow for in-person gatherings - ~November to March) to dialogue about a specific pre-announced topic.
We will assign ~2-4 podcasts (~60-90 min of listening time - less if you listen at 1.25x o 1.5x that are relevant to the chosen topic). Please listen to these podcasts and think about them before the meeting. Topics will include psychology, sociology, religion, science, politics, relationships, lifestyles, self-growth...
The discussions are always informal, and non-judgmental, and aim to have each of us learn about ourselves and about each other.
Meetups will probably be on the 2nd or 3rd Thursday night of the month (7:30-9:30 pm) for 2 hours if LIVE or 8:00-9:30, if by Zoom.
The first 30 min of LIVE meetings will be informal get-to-know-you time and light chit-chat with snacks and drinks (and wine) that we provide and the next 90 min will be moderated friendly discussion time.
Each member is asked to list their real name and have a profile photo that is a CURRENT picture that CLEARLY shows their COMPLETE face. This will allow us to recognize each other when meeting and is for the safety of all group members.
This group has a “No Show” Policy. Anyone who is a no-show to 2 meetups will be removed from the group. To prevent this, update your RSVP from "yes" to "no" well in advance if your plans change.
This group has a “Last Minute Cancellation” Policy. Anyone who cancels less than 24 hours in advance of a meetup on more than 4 occasions will be removed from the group. To prevent this, update your RSVP well in advance.
$2/pp collected at each LIVE Meetup to help cover costs of running this Meetup site, providing wine, and snacks. There is no fee if we meet by ZOOM.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- June 12, 2025 TOPIC: THE PARENT TRAP _____________(LIVE- IN PERSON)Needs location
Meetup is LIVE on our deck (weather-permitting), or in our LR (if cold, or rainy) in West Orange, NJ
(street address sent to NEWBIES 3-7 days ahead of the event)We gather at 7:30 for 30 min of refreshments (and wine), and chit chat, and then spend 90 min in an informal, facilitated discussion based on the assigned podcasts
Please listen to the 2 podcasts below before the meetup
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Whether you are a parent, or a grandparent watching your kids parent, or you are/were a teacher watching how parents are raising kids now, or you are/were a therapist managing kids or parents, you probably have some opinions on the best ways to parent, or not to parent.
Welcome to THE PARENT TRAP.- Should parents be friends with their kids?
- How permissive should parents be/ how much structure is good for kids?
- Should parenting be tailored to each child or are there some hard and fast rules that apply to all children?
- Have the changes in parenting from when we were kids, to when we raised kids to how kids are being raised today changes for the better?
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#1. Rethinking
Bring out the good in kids— and parents (39 min)
As a clinical psychologist, Becky Kennedy works with parents to raise good kids. She’s best known as Dr. Becky on Instagram, and has been called the "Millennial parenting whisperer" for good reason. Becky and Adam challenge the widespread belief that it’s a parent’s job to make their children happy, talk candidly about the surprisingly difficult task of setting and maintaining boundaries, and dig into the science and practice of helping kids (and adults) deal with the ups and downs of life
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worklife-with-adam-grant/id1346314086?i=1000597939833#2. Monk Debates
Be it Resolved, the Gentle Parenting EthosRaises Happier Children. (46 min)
If you're a new parent, you've probably heard the term 'gentle parenting'. It's the latest trend that has taken hold among millennials who reject the authoritative principles under which they themselves were raised. This new, softer approach discourages consequences and punishments for bad behaviour in favour of positive reinforcement and a focus on the feelings and emotions which are driving bad behaviour. Proponents of gentle parenting argue that this approach is the most effective way to raise kids: emotionally-focused parenting raises calmer, happier children with increased self-esteem, emotional regulation, more empathy, and stronger parent-child relationships. Furthermore, research shows that kids who are frequently punished don't end up being better behaved. Gentle parenting’s critics argue that this approach relies on emotion as a substitute for authority and does not prepare kids for the real world where actions have consequences. Too much emotional self-awareness in childhood has resulted in high rates of anxiety and depression in young adults who cannot put aside emotions in order to carry out basic daily tasks.
Arguing in favour of the resolution is Sarah Ockwell Smith. Sarah is a well known parenting expert and popular childcare author, who is widely recognized as being the founder of the gentle parenting movement.
Arguing against the resolution is Anna Lussenburg, a professional child care and family intervention specialist.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-munk-debates-podcast/id1486184902?i=1000685177726-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For newbies (and we love new people/ new voices):
the street address will be sent to you ~3-7 days before the event (lots of street parking)
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Only sign up if you plan to show up (or risk being tarred and feathered).- If you can't make it-- please change your RSVP from YES to NO as early as possible so that others can get in
- $2 on-site for refreshments/cover the annual fees for the meetup site.
- July 17, 2025: Finding New Friends — Robots and AI to the RescueWest Orange, West Orange, NJ
Meetup is LIVE on our deck (weather-permitting), or in our LR (if cold, or rainy) in West Orange, NJ
We gather at 7:30 for 30 min of refreshments (and wine), and chit chat, and then spend 90 min in an informal, facilitated discussion based on the assigned podcasts
Please listen to all 4 podcasts below before the meetup (3 of 4 are very short) and if you sre super-motvated, listen to optional podcast #5
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Loneliness is a big problem in our society in both the elderly and the young. Could AI and/or robots fill that loneliness gap?
<1> Is it possible to form a genuine relationship with a chatbot?
<2> Do you feel that an AI could offer emotional benefits, eg, to somebody:
++++ in a nursing home?
++++ with a terminal illness?
++++ introverted/shy?
++++ recovering from a bad breakup or the death of a spouse?
<3> Could an AI relationship help somebody who is socially awkward learn how to be in a human-to-human relationship?
<4> If somebody you knew well told you they had an AI friend, what
would you think? Could you ever imagine having an AI friend?
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[1] TED
Can AI Companions Help Heal Loneliness (13 min)
AI companions could either be the cure to our loneliness epidemic … or humanity's final downfall, says Eugenia Kuyda, creator of Replika — an app that allows you to create AI friends. She explores the potential of this technology to either exacerbate isolation or encourage connection, advocating for an AI whose success is driven not by clicks and screen time but by human happiness and flourishing.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ted-talks-daily/id160904630?i=1000684471372[2] Aspen Ideas to Go
Can Robots Curb Loneliness (12 min)
Robots as caregivers? Meet “Pepper,” a robot that can tell a joke, recognize emotions and help people remember special times in their lives. Rebekah Romberg, of Colorado Public Radio, guides us through this fascinating talk with Professor Arshia Khan of the University of Minnesota Duluth. She spoke at Aspen Ideas: Health.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspen-ideas-to-go/id702896920?i=1000588563156[3] The Assignment with Audie Cornish
AI in the time of Loneliness (32 min)
This week, the Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy addressed the epidemic of loneliness Americans are facing. As a way of combatting the feelings of isolation, Dr. Murthy laid out a six-pillar plan rooted in social connection. What's not mentioned in his plan... artificial intelligence or chatbots. But that hasn't stopped folks from turning to them in times of distress. In this episode, we explore the communities that are leaning on AI and chatbots for comfort and the ripple effects this could have on how we connect with one another.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-assignment-with-audie-cornish/id1653179609?i=1000611710424[4] The Future Age
AI Meets Aging: the problems and pitfalls (18 min)
In this thought-provoking episode, host Zannat Reza explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and aging. Joined by experts Dr. Charlene Chu, assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Nursing, and Stephen Johnston, founder of Fordcastle & Looking Forward, they delve into the practical applications of AI in improving the lives of older adults. Their expert insights highlight how AI can enhance healthcare delivery, from predicting conditions and managing medications to enabling independent living and international implementation and innovation.
However, the discussion doesn't shy away from the pitfalls, exploring how ageism creeps into the digital world, and what can be done to make sure AI is inclusive and as beneficial to older adults as it promises to be. We explore the ethical considerations of AI as well, the concept of digital resignation and consequences of unregulated AI data collection, who owns the data, controls it, and benefits from it. Through this engaging conversation, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of AI and the importance of responsible and inclusive implementation.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ai-meets-aging-the-potential-and-pitfalls/id1680986177?i=1000620911313
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OPTIONAL
[5] NO STUPID QUESTIONS
Can AI companions replace human connections (first 35 min only)
What happens when machines become funnier, kinder, and more empathetic than humans? Do robot therapists save lives?
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-stupid-questions/id1510056899?i=1000666401973
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For newbies (and we love new people/ new voices):
the street address will be sent to you ~3-7 days before the event (lots of street parking)
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Only sign up if you plan to show up (or risk being tarred and feathered in the town square).- If you can't make it-- please change your RSVP from YES to NO as early as possible so that others whi might be waitlisted can still join
- $2 on-site for refreshments/cover the annual fees for the meetup site.
- August 21, 2025: Resolved- Pop Psychology Podcasts Have Value (LIVE - In Person)West Orange, West Orange, NJ
# Meetup is LIVE on our deck (weather-permitting), or in our LR (if cold, or rainy) in West Orange, NJ
# We gather at 7:30 for 30 min of refreshments (and wine), and chit chat, and then spend 90 min in an informal, facilitated discussion based on the assigned podcasts
# Please listen to all 3 (somewhat longer) podcasts listed below before the meetup so that we can discus the topic of:
Resolved- Pop Psychology Podcasts Have Value
{{fast forward through the advertisements -- saves a bunch of time}}
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QUESTIONS TO TGHINK ABOUT AS YOU LISTEN TO THE PODCASTS:
<1> Can a 30-60 min call with a counselor make a lasting difference to the caller?
<2> What motivates callers to contact a podcast counselor instead of choosing an established psychologist or clinical social worker and longer-term therapy?
<3> Do these podcast therapists believe they are doing helpful therapy or just making money ?
<4> Can listeners of these podcasts gain anything from these quick counseling exchanges?
<5> Did you like one of these 3 therapists more than others?
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx[1] The Dr John Delony Show
I Feel Like We Should Fight More in Front of the Kids (46 min)
On today’s episode, we hear about:
· A mom wanting to show her kids healthy conflict in marriage
· A boyfriend seeking advice on how to address an uncomfortable situation
· A young woman wondering how to protect her teen sister without breaking trust
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-john-delony-show/id1527609854?i=1000692251642[2] Dear Therapists
Jeff’s Critical Parents (55 min)
Hey, Fellow Travelers. Jeff's parents have always been critical--making negative comments about everything from his appearance and intelligence to his being "too sensitive"—and as an adult, Jeff has tried not to let these hurtful words get to him. But now that he's a new father, he's worried about the impact that his parents' constant criticism will have on his child. We help him move past his fear of confronting his parents in his new role as a parent himself.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dear-therapists-with-lori-gottlieb-and-guy-winch/id1523340696?i=1000491550410[3] Where Should We Begin
Esther Calling. Ms Entitlement and Mr Sacrifice Out on a Date (55 min)
This is a classic session of Where Should We Begin? An on-again, off-again couple in their fifties, dating in a post-divorce landscape, are struggling with different world views, priorities and sexual interests. Recognizing that their polarized dynamic takes the fun out of spending time together, Esther guides both towards less rigid perspectives.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/where-should-we-begin-with-esther-perel/id1237931798?i=1000700960983
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxFor newbies (and we love new people/ new voices):
the street address will be sent to you ~3-7 days before the event (lots of street parking)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxOnly sign up if you plan to show up (or risk being tarred and feathered in the town square).
- If you can't make it-- please change your RSVP from YES to NO as early as possible so that others who might be waitlisted can still join
- $2 on-site for refreshments/cover the annual fees for the meetup site.
- September 18, 2025: Resolved -- The Work World is Changing (LIVE - In Person)West Orange, West Orange, NJ
## Details
Meetup is LIVE on our deck (weather-permitting), or in our LR (if cold, or rainy) in West Orange, NJ
We gather at 7:30 for 30 min of refreshments (and wine), and chit chat, and then spend 90 min in an informal, facilitated discussion based on the assigned podcasts
Please listen to all 4 podcasts below before the meetup (2 of 4 are very short) and if you sre super-motivated, listen to optional podcast #5
Whether you are still in the workforce or retired with memories of time in the workforce, or your kids are in the workforce....
<1> What are the challenges of boomers working together with millenials and Gen Z? Who is most frustrated by having to work together?
<2> What has changed with respect tp work styles, needs, expectations, approaches to getting jobs done ....?
<3> How can Boomers and Gen Xers adjust to these challenges/changes?
<4> How has the choice of in-office, vs. hybrid, vs remote work changed how people approach work, team interactions, productivity, ease of communication.....?
<5> What advice or learnings would you give to Gen Z and millenials regarding life at work?
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx[1] TED
Work is Broken. Gen Z can Help Fix it. (12 min)
Would you rather stay in your current job until you retire, or change jobs every year? Researcher Amanda Schneider says Gen Z's answer to this question says a lot about the evolving workplace. Sharing data-driven insights on the young workforce, she debunks common misconceptions about Gen Z employees and explains why their preferences are key to unlocking a more flexible, effective workplace for everyone.
https://www.ted.com/talks/amanda_schneider_work_is_broken_gen_z_can_help_fix_it_mar_2025?user_email_address=8fad50219beae12784c05d9e4ccec32a&lctg=62d19ee21c794c328c9653a8[2] HR in Review
How is Gen Z Changing Workplace Norms (17 min)
In today's HR in Review episode, we explore why and how Gen Z is changing the norms in the workplace. We also explore the key things organisations should learn about this new approach to work.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hr-in-review/id1595358789?i=1000663664194[3] Generations at Work
Working with Millennials (34 min)
In this episode of Generations at Work, Susan Davis and Dr. Tim Elmore are joined by Millennial guests Mission Mobile Medical president & CFO Amanda LeFever and bestselling leadership author Ryan Jenkins. In this episode, our hosts and guests delve into the intricacies of working with the Millennial generation, emphasizing the importance of bridging generational gaps in the workplace. They explore the common misconceptions about Millennials, such as their perceived entitlement, and highlight the values they bring, including efficiency, collaboration, and a desire for feedback. Discover how Gen Y balances traditional workplace values and the evolving expectations of a modern workforce. By focusing on genuine interest, clear direction, and a blend of high-tech and high-touch approaches, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering connection across multiple generations. If you're interested in enhancing generational collaboration and leadership, you'll find practical advice for building more inclusive and productive work environments.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2TfnPm0swbOiML936fgBmp[4] Freakonomics Radio
The Unintended. Consequences of working from home (40min:
The last two years have radically changed the way we work — producing winners, losers, and a lot of surprises.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519?i=1000584035729xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
OPTIONAL
Next Generation Workforce- from Frustration to Flourishing
Embracing technology and innovation (27 min)
In this episode, we discuss another one of our identified key values for Gen Z professionals: embracing technology and innovation. This is the value that most emphasises the gap between generations, with the huge changes and evolvement in the way the world operates. When it comes to technology, it is becoming apparent that one size does not fit all. So how do we overcome that in the workplace?
https://open.spotify.com/episode/7HWUPB2B8s8bPhWaZkWletxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
For newbies (and we love new people/ new voices):
the street address will be sent to you ~3-7 days before the event (lots of street parking)
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxOnly sign up if you plan to show up (or risk being tarred and feathered in the town square).
- If you can't make it-- please change your RSVP from YES to NO as early as possible so that others who might be waitlisted can still join
- $2 on-site for refreshments/cover the annual fees for the meetup site.
