STAY POSITIVE. STAY POLISHED. STAY YOU.

What if aging weren’t a negative. What if it was a positive that brings gifts of clarity, purpose and self-awareness. In this episode we’re tackling aging head on. Baby boomers and Gen Xers are moving into their NEXT CHPTR. We’re a generation who’ve broken through glass ceilings. We’re leaders who’ve built our legacy – now it’s time to shape our futures. You’ve earned more than respect – you’ve earned choice. Now it’s your time to rethink what aging really means.

In Episode 2 of Season 3, Pat and Penelope talk about the reality of aging, eschewing ageist beliefs.

Aging Is Our Superpower: Why It’s Time to Flip the Script

Type “aging” into YouTube and you’ll be flooded with videos on reversing it, slowing it down, or chasing immortality. What you won’t see much of? Conversations about the benefits of aging. That’s where we at NEXT CHPTR CHATS™ come in.

In this episode, co-hosts Pat Browne and Penelope Matheson unpack what aging well really means – and why it’s time to reclaim the narrative from decades of “anti-aging” marketing. As two women with deep roots in the beauty and skincare industry, they’ve seen firsthand how the term “anti-aging,” popularized in the late ‘80s and ‘90s, painted growing older as something to fight rather than embrace. Our mission is different: to make aging pro-aging – a privilege, a joy, and yes, a superpower.

The First Generation to Live This Long and This Well

Baby boomers are redefining what later life looks like. Unlike previous generations, over 60% of boomer women have been part of the workforce, bringing education, career accomplishments, and financial independence into their next chapters. Many will live 30 years or more beyond the traditional retirement age of 65 – years that deserve to be meaningful, connected, and fulfilling.

For Pat and Penelope, that starts with three pillars: health, purpose, and community.

Health: Owning What You Can Control

Physical wellbeing doesn’t have to mean a perfect gym schedule or marathon goals. Small, consistent actions – whether it’s a daily walk, short strength sessions, or mindful eating make a difference over time. The message is clear: it’s never too late to start, and self-advocacy in healthcare is critical. Know your body, notice changes, and push for answers.

Purpose: Fuel for the Next Chapter

Research has shown over and over again, 'pupose' is a key element of successful aging. Purpose is what gets you out of bed in the morning with passion. Your purpose can be bold – launching a business, going back to school – or it can be simple, you can volunteer with an organization that aligns with your ideals or it could be helping others. It can be gardening or it could be learning a new skill. The common thread: do something that gets you out of bed excited.

Community: The Connection Multiplier

Human connection is a powerful longevity booster. Whether it’s building new friendships, engaging with neighbors, or simply sharing a compliment with a stranger, these small interactions have ripple effects. A strong sense of belonging can be as vital as any health habit.

The Takeaway

Aging isn’t about “holding on” to youth – it’s about stepping into the richest, most authentic version of yourself. Let’s leave “anti-aging” behind and celebrate the wisdom, confidence, and resilience that only come with time.

Listen to the full conversation on NEXT CHPTR CHATS™ and join the pro-aging movement.