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A podcast that showcases the lives of over 50s

Hosted by the ABC’s James Valentine, ‘Life’s Booming’ is a podcast series by Australian Seniors, for Australian seniors. Now on our 5th series, we explore the many facets of senior life: relationships, travelling, the good times, and the challenges. With his quick-witted interview style, James unravels his guests’ inner worlds, their dreams, fears, and desires. Step into the domains of our over 50s adventurers and download an episode today. The podcast is available for download here, or on your favourite podcast player.

17 Oct 2024

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be...

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Podcast

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be addressed later. But life is unpredictable, and having a current will is vital to protecting your loved ones and reflecting your wishes when the time comes. In this special episode, which commemorates Australian Seniors inaugural Update Your Will Day, we speak to TV personality and keynote speaker Barry Du Bois about his very personal story, and hear from Safewill CEO and founder Adam Lubofsky about the importance of securing your legacy.

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be addressed later. But life is unpredictable, and having a current will is vital to protecting your loved ones and reflecting your wishes when the time comes. In this special episode, which commemorates Australian Seniors inaugural Update Your Will Day, we speak to TV personality and keynote speaker Barry Du Bois about his very personal story, and hear from Safewill CEO and founder Adam Lubofsky about the importance of securing your legacy.

S5E1 - Middle age spread

Jacqui Hodder

From slight weight gain to hormonal issues and diabetes, we discuss the onset of middle age spread. It's a real issue that affects many (if not most) Australians as they age. We speak to the experts about what to do about it. 

S5E2 - Wear and tear

John Wood bio image in leafy surrounds with beaming smile

Changes to our joints, bones and muscles are often attributed simply to ageing ‘wear and tear’, but is that true? From creaky joints to hip and knee replacements, physiotherapist Rod Grof takes us through the top musculoskeletal risks as we age, while Logie-winning actor John Wood shares his own health story, and how it impacts his life.

S5E3 - Menopause: The other side

Image of Jean Kittson

The stigma around menopause is slowly peeling away, but many of us still suffer in silence. In this episode, we take a lighter look at the often unglamorous side-effects of menopause – from hot flushes and brain fog to facial hairs and mood swings – hearing from Aussie comedian Jean Kittson, who is living her best life on the other side, and getting the medical rundown from celebrity GP and passionate women’s health advocate Dr Ginni Mansberg.

S5E4 - Frequently asked questions

Experts Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa

Tackling questions you might be too embarrassed to ask your doctor, this episode reminds us of the importance of having regular check-ups. Our experts include GP Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa.

S5E5 - Getting to the guts of it

Bio image of Sarah Di Lorenzo

This episode spotlights gut health, and all the normal, and more unusual, health issues connected to our digestive systems. We speak to clinical nutritionist and author Sarah Di Lorenzo, plus Melbourne celebrity chef and Made by Tobie founder Tobie Puttock.

Embed code here -

S5E6 - Zeroing in on mental health

Image of Mary Coustas

Another aspect of our health that is often less spoken about is mental health. Older people are more likely to experience contributing factors to depression and anxiety, such as physical illness or personal loss, but how many seek help? In this episode, comedian Mary Coustas (aka Effie) shares her very personal story, and we get insight from clinical psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating on how to better care for your mental health.

S4E1 - Finding joy again

Image of Rosie Batty in green jumper in a garden.

More than eight years ago Rosie Batty suffered an unimaginable loss, following the horrific murder of her son Luke at the hands of his father. In the midst of her grief Rosie was catapulted into the spotlight, as she channeled her tragedy into a power for reform around family violence.

S4E2 - The art of forgiveness

Image of Bridget Sakr with framed portrait of her daughter.

In the face of her worst nightmare, Bridget Sakr continues to draw on her faith to turn aside anger and instead focus on love and forgiveness to help deal with the trauma.

S4E3 - Emerging from the dark

Image of Todd Russell on a rocky outcrop overlooking beach.

When Todd Russell and Brant Webb were rescued after two weeks trapped in a Beaconsfield mine in 2006, it was seen as one of Australia’s greatest survival stories. But for Todd, that was only the start of his battle for survival.

S4E4 - Open heart, open arms

Image of Rosemary Kariuki in white short with white, decorative jewellery.

When Rosemary Kariuki fled her home in Kenya, she arrived in Australia without support and struggled to understand her new culture. But the charismatic Local Hero soon found a way to connect with her community.

S4E5 - The devil and the detail

Image of David Ayliffe sitting at his desk in his home studio.

How does anyone get drawn into a cult and how, when the extreme beliefs that have ruled their lives prove baseless, do they recover? Tune in as David Ayliffe shares the lessons from his own experience.

S4E6 - Living in the moment

Image of Tim Baker meditating cross legged on a beach with eyes closed.

After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, award-winning surf writer, husband and father-of-two Tim Baker turned his attention to making peace with his mortality and living in the 'now'.

S3E1 - Captured by communists

Gill Shaddick aboard her boat with shipmates

Gill Shaddick was in her early 20s and living in Hong Kong; on her way to compete in a sailing regatta, her yacht was hit by a storm, and she and her teammates were captured by Chinese communists, becoming the subjects of a huge sea and air rescue operation.

S3E2 - Dinner with Travolta

The Australian Girls' Choir in front of Uluru.

When you left school, did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up? A spur of the minute decision for Jenny Muldoon, then aged 19, started her on a journey that would lead to some pretty extraordinary life experiences, including dinner with John Travolta. So what was it that she decided to do?

S3E3 - Meeting Elizabeth Taylor

LLoyd Goodman and his friends in old black and white photo.

Lloyd Godman began adult life as an apprentice electrician, but a one-way ticket to Hawaii with only a backpack and a surfboard to spend nine months living in a treehouse would change his trajectory forever.

S3E4 - The Monday mantra

Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch

Remember when you got all your information about the world from the Encyclopedia Britannica? For Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch, a couple of paragraphs in that encyclopedia was all the information they had about Australia, before they moved to Sydney from Argentina with their two young children in 1991.

S3E5 - Famine and freedom

Image of Dr Andrew Kwong and his family

Everyone has a story; but if you passed them on the street you’d never guess how incredibly moving it might be. Dr Andrew Kwong is a GP on the Central Coast of New South Wales, but his early life was spent surviving the famine and persecution of Chairman Mao’s Great Leap Forward. It was a long road to escape, but he eventually made it to Australia.

S3E6 - Nun in a million

Sister Henry hold stethoscope up to young child

Christine Henry thought she was ready to get married, settle down and have kids but as she was on the way to shop for an engagement ring, something made her turn to her husband-to-be and ask him to stop and pull over. There was something else she needed to do. *This episode was recorded in December 2021.

S2E1 - The captain

A story of love, deception, and heartbreak as Michelle meets the man of her dreams – an airline pilot. But not all is at it seems, and alarm bells soon start ringing.

S2E2 - High school sweethearts

Melissa and Paul reunited after high school

Former teenage girlfriend and boyfriend Melissa and Paul, who started dating at school in Papua New Guinea, connect on social media and reignite their romance – 42 years after last seeing each other.

S2E3 - Swipe right

Barry and Liz met on dating app Tinder

Online dating is not just for the young. Barry and Liz met on the phone dating app Tinder in their early 60s, and after saying they will never marry again – decide to tie the knot.

S2E4 - The dating diaries

Senior woman with silver ring writes in her diary.

In this episode of Dare to Date you’ll hear five diverse stories and a good dose of excellent advice! From the funny to the downright emotional, The Dating Diaries has all bases covered. 

S2E5 - Finally free to be me

Senior man on beach with outstretched hands looking to ocean.

John was married with four children when he suspected he might be gay, but it wasn’t until he was in his 50s that he finally came out and told his wife and family.

S2E6 - From possums to passion

Older couple from behind sitting on a park bench.

Blossom the possum, a non-dating website, and a whole lot of luck was responsible for bringing John and Noreen, both 64, together. But something is threatening to tear them apart.

S1E1 - Hello freedom

In this first episode of Life’s Booming, you’ll meet Tony and Lisa Southwell. A few years ago, Tony fought off throat cancer and had terrible survivor’s guilt, so he and Lisa hitched up their caravan and took off.

S1E2 - Going solo

Gaylene and her dog Albert in front of her Jayco caravan

Meet the extraordinary Gaylene Seeney. Gaylene is a thalidomide survivor, but her condition hasn’t stopped her from heading off on solo adventures.*

S1E3 - Rolling on the road

rolling on the road

Get to know Judy and Erle Williamson who call themselves The Travelling Willies after they decided to sell up their home in Gunnedah and travel Australia in their makeshift ‘mobile granny flat’. 

S1E4 - The reluctant trainspotter

A photo of Graham and Wendy French, who have spent the past three decades traversing Australia on the hunt for trains.

Join Wendy and Graham French in a heartwarming episode that is full of laughs and surprises, and a reminder that the things we do for love don't always make sense. All aboard for train-inspired tales across the country. 

S1E5 - The adventurers

Bob & Phyllis Bowers, just before their 50th wedding anniversary

Bob and Phyllis Bowers are adventure junkies who have been married for 53 years. Their shared love of exploring keeps them together, enjoying kayaking, camping, hiking and abseiling.


S1E6 - Chasing Elvis

Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis

Swing dancers, rock’n’roll circuitgoers and avid Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis talk to James Valentine about life on the road with Wagz their dog in a refurbished 1986 bus that follows the music. 

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be addressed later. But life is unpredictable, and having a current will is vital to protecting your loved ones and reflecting your wishes when the time comes. In this special episode, which commemorates Australian Seniors inaugural Update Your Will Day, we speak to TV personality and keynote speaker Barry Du Bois about his very personal story, and hear from Safewill CEO and founder Adam Lubofsky about the importance of securing your legacy.

S5E1 - Middle age spread

Jacqui Hodder

From slight weight gain to hormonal issues and diabetes, we discuss the onset of middle age spread. It's a real issue that affects many (if not most) Australians as they age. We speak to the experts about what to do about it. 

S5E2 - Wear and tear

John Wood bio image in leafy surrounds with beaming smile

Changes to our joints, bones and muscles are often attributed simply to ageing ‘wear and tear’, but is that true? From creaky joints to hip and knee replacements, physiotherapist Rod Grof takes us through the top musculoskeletal risks as we age, while Logie-winning actor John Wood shares his own health story, and how it impacts his life.

S5E3 - Menopause: The other side

Image of Jean Kittson

The stigma around menopause is slowly peeling away, but many of us still suffer in silence. In this episode, we take a lighter look at the often unglamorous side-effects of menopause – from hot flushes and brain fog to facial hairs and mood swings – hearing from Aussie comedian Jean Kittson, who is living her best life on the other side, and getting the medical rundown from celebrity GP and passionate women’s health advocate Dr Ginni Mansberg.

S5E4 - Frequently asked questions

Experts Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa

Tackling questions you might be too embarrassed to ask your doctor, this episode reminds us of the importance of having regular check-ups. Our experts include GP Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa.

S5E5 - Getting to the guts of it

Bio image of Sarah Di Lorenzo

This episode spotlights gut health, and all the normal, and more unusual, health issues connected to our digestive systems. We speak to clinical nutritionist and author Sarah Di Lorenzo, plus Melbourne celebrity chef and Made by Tobie founder Tobie Puttock.

Embed code here -

S5E6 - Zeroing in on mental health

Image of Mary Coustas

Another aspect of our health that is often less spoken about is mental health. Older people are more likely to experience contributing factors to depression and anxiety, such as physical illness or personal loss, but how many seek help? In this episode, comedian Mary Coustas (aka Effie) shares her very personal story, and we get insight from clinical psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating on how to better care for your mental health.

S4E1 - Finding joy again

Image of Rosie Batty in green jumper in a garden.

More than eight years ago Rosie Batty suffered an unimaginable loss, following the horrific murder of her son Luke at the hands of his father. In the midst of her grief Rosie was catapulted into the spotlight, as she channeled her tragedy into a power for reform around family violence.

S4E2 - The art of forgiveness

Image of Bridget Sakr with framed portrait of her daughter.

In the face of her worst nightmare, Bridget Sakr continues to draw on her faith to turn aside anger and instead focus on love and forgiveness to help deal with the trauma.

S4E3 - Emerging from the dark

Image of Todd Russell on a rocky outcrop overlooking beach.

When Todd Russell and Brant Webb were rescued after two weeks trapped in a Beaconsfield mine in 2006, it was seen as one of Australia’s greatest survival stories. But for Todd, that was only the start of his battle for survival.

S4E4 - Open heart, open arms

Image of Rosemary Kariuki in white short with white, decorative jewellery.

When Rosemary Kariuki fled her home in Kenya, she arrived in Australia without support and struggled to understand her new culture. But the charismatic Local Hero soon found a way to connect with her community.

S4E5 - The devil and the detail

Image of David Ayliffe sitting at his desk in his home studio.

How does anyone get drawn into a cult and how, when the extreme beliefs that have ruled their lives prove baseless, do they recover? Tune in as David Ayliffe shares the lessons from his own experience.

S4E6 - Living in the moment

Image of Tim Baker meditating cross legged on a beach with eyes closed.

After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, award-winning surf writer, husband and father-of-two Tim Baker turned his attention to making peace with his mortality and living in the 'now'.

S3E1 - Captured by communists

Gill Shaddick aboard her boat with shipmates

Gill Shaddick was in her early 20s and living in Hong Kong; on her way to compete in a sailing regatta, her yacht was hit by a storm, and she and her teammates were captured by Chinese communists, becoming the subjects of a huge sea and air rescue operation.

S3E2 - Dinner with Travolta

The Australian Girls' Choir in front of Uluru.

When you left school, did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up? A spur of the minute decision for Jenny Muldoon, then aged 19, started her on a journey that would lead to some pretty extraordinary life experiences, including dinner with John Travolta. So what was it that she decided to do?

S3E3 - Meeting Elizabeth Taylor

LLoyd Goodman and his friends in old black and white photo.

Lloyd Godman began adult life as an apprentice electrician, but a one-way ticket to Hawaii with only a backpack and a surfboard to spend nine months living in a treehouse would change his trajectory forever.

S3E4 - The Monday mantra

Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch

Remember when you got all your information about the world from the Encyclopedia Britannica? For Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch, a couple of paragraphs in that encyclopedia was all the information they had about Australia, before they moved to Sydney from Argentina with their two young children in 1991.

S3E5 - Famine and freedom

Image of Dr Andrew Kwong and his family

Everyone has a story; but if you passed them on the street you’d never guess how incredibly moving it might be. Dr Andrew Kwong is a GP on the Central Coast of New South Wales, but his early life was spent surviving the famine and persecution of Chairman Mao’s Great Leap Forward. It was a long road to escape, but he eventually made it to Australia.

S3E6 - Nun in a million

Sister Henry hold stethoscope up to young child

Christine Henry thought she was ready to get married, settle down and have kids but as she was on the way to shop for an engagement ring, something made her turn to her husband-to-be and ask him to stop and pull over. There was something else she needed to do. *This episode was recorded in December 2021.

S2E1 - The captain

A story of love, deception, and heartbreak as Michelle meets the man of her dreams – an airline pilot. But not all is at it seems, and alarm bells soon start ringing.

S2E2 - High school sweethearts

Melissa and Paul reunited after high school

Former teenage girlfriend and boyfriend Melissa and Paul, who started dating at school in Papua New Guinea, connect on social media and reignite their romance – 42 years after last seeing each other.

S2E3 - Swipe right

Barry and Liz met on dating app Tinder

Online dating is not just for the young. Barry and Liz met on the phone dating app Tinder in their early 60s, and after saying they will never marry again – decide to tie the knot.

S2E4 - The dating diaries

Senior woman with silver ring writes in her diary.

In this episode of Dare to Date you’ll hear five diverse stories and a good dose of excellent advice! From the funny to the downright emotional, The Dating Diaries has all bases covered. 

S2E5 - Finally free to be me

Senior man on beach with outstretched hands looking to ocean.

John was married with four children when he suspected he might be gay, but it wasn’t until he was in his 50s that he finally came out and told his wife and family.

S2E6 - From possums to passion

Older couple from behind sitting on a park bench.

Blossom the possum, a non-dating website, and a whole lot of luck was responsible for bringing John and Noreen, both 64, together. But something is threatening to tear them apart.

S1E1 - Hello freedom

In this first episode of Life’s Booming, you’ll meet Tony and Lisa Southwell. A few years ago, Tony fought off throat cancer and had terrible survivor’s guilt, so he and Lisa hitched up their caravan and took off.

S1E2 - Going solo

Gaylene and her dog Albert in front of her Jayco caravan

Meet the extraordinary Gaylene Seeney. Gaylene is a thalidomide survivor, but her condition hasn’t stopped her from heading off on solo adventures.*

S1E3 - Rolling on the road

rolling on the road

Get to know Judy and Erle Williamson who call themselves The Travelling Willies after they decided to sell up their home in Gunnedah and travel Australia in their makeshift ‘mobile granny flat’. 

S1E4 - The reluctant trainspotter

A photo of Graham and Wendy French, who have spent the past three decades traversing Australia on the hunt for trains.

Join Wendy and Graham French in a heartwarming episode that is full of laughs and surprises, and a reminder that the things we do for love don't always make sense. All aboard for train-inspired tales across the country. 

S1E5 - The adventurers

Bob & Phyllis Bowers, just before their 50th wedding anniversary

Bob and Phyllis Bowers are adventure junkies who have been married for 53 years. Their shared love of exploring keeps them together, enjoying kayaking, camping, hiking and abseiling.


S1E6 - Chasing Elvis

Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis

Swing dancers, rock’n’roll circuitgoers and avid Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis talk to James Valentine about life on the road with Wagz their dog in a refurbished 1986 bus that follows the music. 

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be addressed later. But life is unpredictable, and having a current will is vital to protecting your loved ones and reflecting your wishes when the time comes. In this special episode, which commemorates Australian Seniors inaugural Update Your Will Day, we speak to TV personality and keynote speaker Barry Du Bois about his very personal story, and hear from Safewill CEO and founder Adam Lubofsky about the importance of securing your legacy.

S5E1 - Middle age spread

Jacqui Hodder

From slight weight gain to hormonal issues and diabetes, we discuss the onset of middle age spread. It's a real issue that affects many (if not most) Australians as they age. We speak to the experts about what to do about it. 

S5E2 - Wear and tear

John Wood bio image in leafy surrounds with beaming smile

Changes to our joints, bones and muscles are often attributed simply to ageing ‘wear and tear’, but is that true? From creaky joints to hip and knee replacements, physiotherapist Rod Grof takes us through the top musculoskeletal risks as we age, while Logie-winning actor John Wood shares his own health story, and how it impacts his life.

S5E3 - Menopause: The other side

Image of Jean Kittson

The stigma around menopause is slowly peeling away, but many of us still suffer in silence. In this episode, we take a lighter look at the often unglamorous side-effects of menopause – from hot flushes and brain fog to facial hairs and mood swings – hearing from Aussie comedian Jean Kittson, who is living her best life on the other side, and getting the medical rundown from celebrity GP and passionate women’s health advocate Dr Ginni Mansberg.

S5E4 - Frequently asked questions

Experts Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa

Tackling questions you might be too embarrassed to ask your doctor, this episode reminds us of the importance of having regular check-ups. Our experts include GP Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa.

S5E5 - Getting to the guts of it

Bio image of Sarah Di Lorenzo

This episode spotlights gut health, and all the normal, and more unusual, health issues connected to our digestive systems. We speak to clinical nutritionist and author Sarah Di Lorenzo, plus Melbourne celebrity chef and Made by Tobie founder Tobie Puttock.

Embed code here -

S5E6 - Zeroing in on mental health

Image of Mary Coustas

Another aspect of our health that is often less spoken about is mental health. Older people are more likely to experience contributing factors to depression and anxiety, such as physical illness or personal loss, but how many seek help? In this episode, comedian Mary Coustas (aka Effie) shares her very personal story, and we get insight from clinical psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating on how to better care for your mental health.

S4E1 - Finding joy again

Image of Rosie Batty in green jumper in a garden.

More than eight years ago Rosie Batty suffered an unimaginable loss, following the horrific murder of her son Luke at the hands of his father. In the midst of her grief Rosie was catapulted into the spotlight, as she channeled her tragedy into a power for reform around family violence.

S4E2 - The art of forgiveness

Image of Bridget Sakr with framed portrait of her daughter.

In the face of her worst nightmare, Bridget Sakr continues to draw on her faith to turn aside anger and instead focus on love and forgiveness to help deal with the trauma.

S4E3 - Emerging from the dark

Image of Todd Russell on a rocky outcrop overlooking beach.

When Todd Russell and Brant Webb were rescued after two weeks trapped in a Beaconsfield mine in 2006, it was seen as one of Australia’s greatest survival stories. But for Todd, that was only the start of his battle for survival.

S4E4 - Open heart, open arms

Image of Rosemary Kariuki in white short with white, decorative jewellery.

When Rosemary Kariuki fled her home in Kenya, she arrived in Australia without support and struggled to understand her new culture. But the charismatic Local Hero soon found a way to connect with her community.

S4E5 - The devil and the detail

Image of David Ayliffe sitting at his desk in his home studio.

How does anyone get drawn into a cult and how, when the extreme beliefs that have ruled their lives prove baseless, do they recover? Tune in as David Ayliffe shares the lessons from his own experience.

S4E6 - Living in the moment

Image of Tim Baker meditating cross legged on a beach with eyes closed.

After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, award-winning surf writer, husband and father-of-two Tim Baker turned his attention to making peace with his mortality and living in the 'now'.

S3E1 - Captured by communists

Gill Shaddick aboard her boat with shipmates

Gill Shaddick was in her early 20s and living in Hong Kong; on her way to compete in a sailing regatta, her yacht was hit by a storm, and she and her teammates were captured by Chinese communists, becoming the subjects of a huge sea and air rescue operation.

S3E2 - Dinner with Travolta

The Australian Girls' Choir in front of Uluru.

When you left school, did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up? A spur of the minute decision for Jenny Muldoon, then aged 19, started her on a journey that would lead to some pretty extraordinary life experiences, including dinner with John Travolta. So what was it that she decided to do?

S3E3 - Meeting Elizabeth Taylor

LLoyd Goodman and his friends in old black and white photo.

Lloyd Godman began adult life as an apprentice electrician, but a one-way ticket to Hawaii with only a backpack and a surfboard to spend nine months living in a treehouse would change his trajectory forever.

S3E4 - The Monday mantra

Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch

Remember when you got all your information about the world from the Encyclopedia Britannica? For Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch, a couple of paragraphs in that encyclopedia was all the information they had about Australia, before they moved to Sydney from Argentina with their two young children in 1991.

S3E5 - Famine and freedom

Image of Dr Andrew Kwong and his family

Everyone has a story; but if you passed them on the street you’d never guess how incredibly moving it might be. Dr Andrew Kwong is a GP on the Central Coast of New South Wales, but his early life was spent surviving the famine and persecution of Chairman Mao’s Great Leap Forward. It was a long road to escape, but he eventually made it to Australia.

S3E6 - Nun in a million

Sister Henry hold stethoscope up to young child

Christine Henry thought she was ready to get married, settle down and have kids but as she was on the way to shop for an engagement ring, something made her turn to her husband-to-be and ask him to stop and pull over. There was something else she needed to do. *This episode was recorded in December 2021.

S2E1 - The captain

A story of love, deception, and heartbreak as Michelle meets the man of her dreams – an airline pilot. But not all is at it seems, and alarm bells soon start ringing.

S2E2 - High school sweethearts

Melissa and Paul reunited after high school

Former teenage girlfriend and boyfriend Melissa and Paul, who started dating at school in Papua New Guinea, connect on social media and reignite their romance – 42 years after last seeing each other.

S2E3 - Swipe right

Barry and Liz met on dating app Tinder

Online dating is not just for the young. Barry and Liz met on the phone dating app Tinder in their early 60s, and after saying they will never marry again – decide to tie the knot.

S2E4 - The dating diaries

Senior woman with silver ring writes in her diary.

In this episode of Dare to Date you’ll hear five diverse stories and a good dose of excellent advice! From the funny to the downright emotional, The Dating Diaries has all bases covered. 

S2E5 - Finally free to be me

Senior man on beach with outstretched hands looking to ocean.

John was married with four children when he suspected he might be gay, but it wasn’t until he was in his 50s that he finally came out and told his wife and family.

S2E6 - From possums to passion

Older couple from behind sitting on a park bench.

Blossom the possum, a non-dating website, and a whole lot of luck was responsible for bringing John and Noreen, both 64, together. But something is threatening to tear them apart.

S1E1 - Hello freedom

In this first episode of Life’s Booming, you’ll meet Tony and Lisa Southwell. A few years ago, Tony fought off throat cancer and had terrible survivor’s guilt, so he and Lisa hitched up their caravan and took off.

S1E2 - Going solo

Gaylene and her dog Albert in front of her Jayco caravan

Meet the extraordinary Gaylene Seeney. Gaylene is a thalidomide survivor, but her condition hasn’t stopped her from heading off on solo adventures.*

S1E3 - Rolling on the road

rolling on the road

Get to know Judy and Erle Williamson who call themselves The Travelling Willies after they decided to sell up their home in Gunnedah and travel Australia in their makeshift ‘mobile granny flat’. 

S1E4 - The reluctant trainspotter

A photo of Graham and Wendy French, who have spent the past three decades traversing Australia on the hunt for trains.

Join Wendy and Graham French in a heartwarming episode that is full of laughs and surprises, and a reminder that the things we do for love don't always make sense. All aboard for train-inspired tales across the country. 

S1E5 - The adventurers

Bob & Phyllis Bowers, just before their 50th wedding anniversary

Bob and Phyllis Bowers are adventure junkies who have been married for 53 years. Their shared love of exploring keeps them together, enjoying kayaking, camping, hiking and abseiling.


S1E6 - Chasing Elvis

Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis

Swing dancers, rock’n’roll circuitgoers and avid Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis talk to James Valentine about life on the road with Wagz their dog in a refurbished 1986 bus that follows the music. 

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be addressed later. But life is unpredictable, and having a current will is vital to protecting your loved ones and reflecting your wishes when the time comes. In this special episode, which commemorates Australian Seniors inaugural Update Your Will Day, we speak to TV personality and keynote speaker Barry Du Bois about his very personal story, and hear from Safewill CEO and founder Adam Lubofsky about the importance of securing your legacy.

S5E1 - Middle age spread

Jacqui Hodder

From slight weight gain to hormonal issues and diabetes, we discuss the onset of middle age spread. It's a real issue that affects many (if not most) Australians as they age. We speak to the experts about what to do about it. 

S5E2 - Wear and tear

John Wood bio image in leafy surrounds with beaming smile

Changes to our joints, bones and muscles are often attributed simply to ageing ‘wear and tear’, but is that true? From creaky joints to hip and knee replacements, physiotherapist Rod Grof takes us through the top musculoskeletal risks as we age, while Logie-winning actor John Wood shares his own health story, and how it impacts his life.

S5E3 - Menopause: The other side

Image of Jean Kittson

The stigma around menopause is slowly peeling away, but many of us still suffer in silence. In this episode, we take a lighter look at the often unglamorous side-effects of menopause – from hot flushes and brain fog to facial hairs and mood swings – hearing from Aussie comedian Jean Kittson, who is living her best life on the other side, and getting the medical rundown from celebrity GP and passionate women’s health advocate Dr Ginni Mansberg.

S5E4 - Frequently asked questions

Experts Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa

Tackling questions you might be too embarrassed to ask your doctor, this episode reminds us of the importance of having regular check-ups. Our experts include GP Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa.

S5E5 - Getting to the guts of it

Bio image of Sarah Di Lorenzo

This episode spotlights gut health, and all the normal, and more unusual, health issues connected to our digestive systems. We speak to clinical nutritionist and author Sarah Di Lorenzo, plus Melbourne celebrity chef and Made by Tobie founder Tobie Puttock.

Embed code here -

S5E6 - Zeroing in on mental health

Image of Mary Coustas

Another aspect of our health that is often less spoken about is mental health. Older people are more likely to experience contributing factors to depression and anxiety, such as physical illness or personal loss, but how many seek help? In this episode, comedian Mary Coustas (aka Effie) shares her very personal story, and we get insight from clinical psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating on how to better care for your mental health.

S4E1 - Finding joy again

Image of Rosie Batty in green jumper in a garden.

More than eight years ago Rosie Batty suffered an unimaginable loss, following the horrific murder of her son Luke at the hands of his father. In the midst of her grief Rosie was catapulted into the spotlight, as she channeled her tragedy into a power for reform around family violence.

S4E2 - The art of forgiveness

Image of Bridget Sakr with framed portrait of her daughter.

In the face of her worst nightmare, Bridget Sakr continues to draw on her faith to turn aside anger and instead focus on love and forgiveness to help deal with the trauma.

S4E3 - Emerging from the dark

Image of Todd Russell on a rocky outcrop overlooking beach.

When Todd Russell and Brant Webb were rescued after two weeks trapped in a Beaconsfield mine in 2006, it was seen as one of Australia’s greatest survival stories. But for Todd, that was only the start of his battle for survival.

S4E4 - Open heart, open arms

Image of Rosemary Kariuki in white short with white, decorative jewellery.

When Rosemary Kariuki fled her home in Kenya, she arrived in Australia without support and struggled to understand her new culture. But the charismatic Local Hero soon found a way to connect with her community.

S4E5 - The devil and the detail

Image of David Ayliffe sitting at his desk in his home studio.

How does anyone get drawn into a cult and how, when the extreme beliefs that have ruled their lives prove baseless, do they recover? Tune in as David Ayliffe shares the lessons from his own experience.

S4E6 - Living in the moment

Image of Tim Baker meditating cross legged on a beach with eyes closed.

After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, award-winning surf writer, husband and father-of-two Tim Baker turned his attention to making peace with his mortality and living in the 'now'.

S3E1 - Captured by communists

Gill Shaddick aboard her boat with shipmates

Gill Shaddick was in her early 20s and living in Hong Kong; on her way to compete in a sailing regatta, her yacht was hit by a storm, and she and her teammates were captured by Chinese communists, becoming the subjects of a huge sea and air rescue operation.

S3E2 - Dinner with Travolta

The Australian Girls' Choir in front of Uluru.

When you left school, did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up? A spur of the minute decision for Jenny Muldoon, then aged 19, started her on a journey that would lead to some pretty extraordinary life experiences, including dinner with John Travolta. So what was it that she decided to do?

S3E3 - Meeting Elizabeth Taylor

LLoyd Goodman and his friends in old black and white photo.

Lloyd Godman began adult life as an apprentice electrician, but a one-way ticket to Hawaii with only a backpack and a surfboard to spend nine months living in a treehouse would change his trajectory forever.

S3E4 - The Monday mantra

Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch

Remember when you got all your information about the world from the Encyclopedia Britannica? For Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch, a couple of paragraphs in that encyclopedia was all the information they had about Australia, before they moved to Sydney from Argentina with their two young children in 1991.

S3E5 - Famine and freedom

Image of Dr Andrew Kwong and his family

Everyone has a story; but if you passed them on the street you’d never guess how incredibly moving it might be. Dr Andrew Kwong is a GP on the Central Coast of New South Wales, but his early life was spent surviving the famine and persecution of Chairman Mao’s Great Leap Forward. It was a long road to escape, but he eventually made it to Australia.

S3E6 - Nun in a million

Sister Henry hold stethoscope up to young child

Christine Henry thought she was ready to get married, settle down and have kids but as she was on the way to shop for an engagement ring, something made her turn to her husband-to-be and ask him to stop and pull over. There was something else she needed to do. *This episode was recorded in December 2021.

S2E1 - The captain

A story of love, deception, and heartbreak as Michelle meets the man of her dreams – an airline pilot. But not all is at it seems, and alarm bells soon start ringing.

S2E2 - High school sweethearts

Melissa and Paul reunited after high school

Former teenage girlfriend and boyfriend Melissa and Paul, who started dating at school in Papua New Guinea, connect on social media and reignite their romance – 42 years after last seeing each other.

S2E3 - Swipe right

Barry and Liz met on dating app Tinder

Online dating is not just for the young. Barry and Liz met on the phone dating app Tinder in their early 60s, and after saying they will never marry again – decide to tie the knot.

S2E4 - The dating diaries

Senior woman with silver ring writes in her diary.

In this episode of Dare to Date you’ll hear five diverse stories and a good dose of excellent advice! From the funny to the downright emotional, The Dating Diaries has all bases covered. 

S2E5 - Finally free to be me

Senior man on beach with outstretched hands looking to ocean.

John was married with four children when he suspected he might be gay, but it wasn’t until he was in his 50s that he finally came out and told his wife and family.

S2E6 - From possums to passion

Older couple from behind sitting on a park bench.

Blossom the possum, a non-dating website, and a whole lot of luck was responsible for bringing John and Noreen, both 64, together. But something is threatening to tear them apart.

S1E1 - Hello freedom

In this first episode of Life’s Booming, you’ll meet Tony and Lisa Southwell. A few years ago, Tony fought off throat cancer and had terrible survivor’s guilt, so he and Lisa hitched up their caravan and took off.

S1E2 - Going solo

Gaylene and her dog Albert in front of her Jayco caravan

Meet the extraordinary Gaylene Seeney. Gaylene is a thalidomide survivor, but her condition hasn’t stopped her from heading off on solo adventures.*

S1E3 - Rolling on the road

rolling on the road

Get to know Judy and Erle Williamson who call themselves The Travelling Willies after they decided to sell up their home in Gunnedah and travel Australia in their makeshift ‘mobile granny flat’. 

S1E4 - The reluctant trainspotter

A photo of Graham and Wendy French, who have spent the past three decades traversing Australia on the hunt for trains.

Join Wendy and Graham French in a heartwarming episode that is full of laughs and surprises, and a reminder that the things we do for love don't always make sense. All aboard for train-inspired tales across the country. 

S1E5 - The adventurers

Bob & Phyllis Bowers, just before their 50th wedding anniversary

Bob and Phyllis Bowers are adventure junkies who have been married for 53 years. Their shared love of exploring keeps them together, enjoying kayaking, camping, hiking and abseiling.


S1E6 - Chasing Elvis

Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis

Swing dancers, rock’n’roll circuitgoers and avid Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis talk to James Valentine about life on the road with Wagz their dog in a refurbished 1986 bus that follows the music. 

S6E1 - Where There's a Will, There's a Relative

Many of us put off creating or updating our wills, often because it feels like it's something that can be addressed later. But life is unpredictable, and having a current will is vital to protecting your loved ones and reflecting your wishes when the time comes. In this special episode, which commemorates Australian Seniors inaugural Update Your Will Day, we speak to TV personality and keynote speaker Barry Du Bois about his very personal story, and hear from Safewill CEO and founder Adam Lubofsky about the importance of securing your legacy.

S5E1 - Middle age spread

Jacqui Hodder

From slight weight gain to hormonal issues and diabetes, we discuss the onset of middle age spread. It's a real issue that affects many (if not most) Australians as they age. We speak to the experts about what to do about it. 

S5E2 - Wear and tear

John Wood bio image in leafy surrounds with beaming smile

Changes to our joints, bones and muscles are often attributed simply to ageing ‘wear and tear’, but is that true? From creaky joints to hip and knee replacements, physiotherapist Rod Grof takes us through the top musculoskeletal risks as we age, while Logie-winning actor John Wood shares his own health story, and how it impacts his life.

S5E3 - Menopause: The other side

Image of Jean Kittson

The stigma around menopause is slowly peeling away, but many of us still suffer in silence. In this episode, we take a lighter look at the often unglamorous side-effects of menopause – from hot flushes and brain fog to facial hairs and mood swings – hearing from Aussie comedian Jean Kittson, who is living her best life on the other side, and getting the medical rundown from celebrity GP and passionate women’s health advocate Dr Ginni Mansberg.

S5E4 - Frequently asked questions

Experts Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa

Tackling questions you might be too embarrassed to ask your doctor, this episode reminds us of the importance of having regular check-ups. Our experts include GP Dr Sam Hay, geriatrician Dr Simon Grof and sports physician Dr Mohammad Jomaa.

S5E5 - Getting to the guts of it

Bio image of Sarah Di Lorenzo

This episode spotlights gut health, and all the normal, and more unusual, health issues connected to our digestive systems. We speak to clinical nutritionist and author Sarah Di Lorenzo, plus Melbourne celebrity chef and Made by Tobie founder Tobie Puttock.

Embed code here -

S5E6 - Zeroing in on mental health

Image of Mary Coustas

Another aspect of our health that is often less spoken about is mental health. Older people are more likely to experience contributing factors to depression and anxiety, such as physical illness or personal loss, but how many seek help? In this episode, comedian Mary Coustas (aka Effie) shares her very personal story, and we get insight from clinical psychologist Dr Charlotte Keating on how to better care for your mental health.

S4E1 - Finding joy again

Image of Rosie Batty in green jumper in a garden.

More than eight years ago Rosie Batty suffered an unimaginable loss, following the horrific murder of her son Luke at the hands of his father. In the midst of her grief Rosie was catapulted into the spotlight, as she channeled her tragedy into a power for reform around family violence.

S4E2 - The art of forgiveness

Image of Bridget Sakr with framed portrait of her daughter.

In the face of her worst nightmare, Bridget Sakr continues to draw on her faith to turn aside anger and instead focus on love and forgiveness to help deal with the trauma.

S4E3 - Emerging from the dark

Image of Todd Russell on a rocky outcrop overlooking beach.

When Todd Russell and Brant Webb were rescued after two weeks trapped in a Beaconsfield mine in 2006, it was seen as one of Australia’s greatest survival stories. But for Todd, that was only the start of his battle for survival.

S4E4 - Open heart, open arms

Image of Rosemary Kariuki in white short with white, decorative jewellery.

When Rosemary Kariuki fled her home in Kenya, she arrived in Australia without support and struggled to understand her new culture. But the charismatic Local Hero soon found a way to connect with her community.

S4E5 - The devil and the detail

Image of David Ayliffe sitting at his desk in his home studio.

How does anyone get drawn into a cult and how, when the extreme beliefs that have ruled their lives prove baseless, do they recover? Tune in as David Ayliffe shares the lessons from his own experience.

S4E6 - Living in the moment

Image of Tim Baker meditating cross legged on a beach with eyes closed.

After receiving a life-changing cancer diagnosis, award-winning surf writer, husband and father-of-two Tim Baker turned his attention to making peace with his mortality and living in the 'now'.

S3E1 - Captured by communists

Gill Shaddick aboard her boat with shipmates

Gill Shaddick was in her early 20s and living in Hong Kong; on her way to compete in a sailing regatta, her yacht was hit by a storm, and she and her teammates were captured by Chinese communists, becoming the subjects of a huge sea and air rescue operation.

S3E2 - Dinner with Travolta

The Australian Girls' Choir in front of Uluru.

When you left school, did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up? A spur of the minute decision for Jenny Muldoon, then aged 19, started her on a journey that would lead to some pretty extraordinary life experiences, including dinner with John Travolta. So what was it that she decided to do?

S3E3 - Meeting Elizabeth Taylor

LLoyd Goodman and his friends in old black and white photo.

Lloyd Godman began adult life as an apprentice electrician, but a one-way ticket to Hawaii with only a backpack and a surfboard to spend nine months living in a treehouse would change his trajectory forever.

S3E4 - The Monday mantra

Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch

Remember when you got all your information about the world from the Encyclopedia Britannica? For Graciela Szwarcberg and Hector Poch, a couple of paragraphs in that encyclopedia was all the information they had about Australia, before they moved to Sydney from Argentina with their two young children in 1991.

S3E5 - Famine and freedom

Image of Dr Andrew Kwong and his family

Everyone has a story; but if you passed them on the street you’d never guess how incredibly moving it might be. Dr Andrew Kwong is a GP on the Central Coast of New South Wales, but his early life was spent surviving the famine and persecution of Chairman Mao’s Great Leap Forward. It was a long road to escape, but he eventually made it to Australia.

S3E6 - Nun in a million

Sister Henry hold stethoscope up to young child

Christine Henry thought she was ready to get married, settle down and have kids but as she was on the way to shop for an engagement ring, something made her turn to her husband-to-be and ask him to stop and pull over. There was something else she needed to do. *This episode was recorded in December 2021.

S2E1 - The captain

A story of love, deception, and heartbreak as Michelle meets the man of her dreams – an airline pilot. But not all is at it seems, and alarm bells soon start ringing.

S2E2 - High school sweethearts

Melissa and Paul reunited after high school

Former teenage girlfriend and boyfriend Melissa and Paul, who started dating at school in Papua New Guinea, connect on social media and reignite their romance – 42 years after last seeing each other.

S2E3 - Swipe right

Barry and Liz met on dating app Tinder

Online dating is not just for the young. Barry and Liz met on the phone dating app Tinder in their early 60s, and after saying they will never marry again – decide to tie the knot.

S2E4 - The dating diaries

Senior woman with silver ring writes in her diary.

In this episode of Dare to Date you’ll hear five diverse stories and a good dose of excellent advice! From the funny to the downright emotional, The Dating Diaries has all bases covered. 

S2E5 - Finally free to be me

Senior man on beach with outstretched hands looking to ocean.

John was married with four children when he suspected he might be gay, but it wasn’t until he was in his 50s that he finally came out and told his wife and family.

S2E6 - From possums to passion

Older couple from behind sitting on a park bench.

Blossom the possum, a non-dating website, and a whole lot of luck was responsible for bringing John and Noreen, both 64, together. But something is threatening to tear them apart.

S1E1 - Hello freedom

In this first episode of Life’s Booming, you’ll meet Tony and Lisa Southwell. A few years ago, Tony fought off throat cancer and had terrible survivor’s guilt, so he and Lisa hitched up their caravan and took off.

S1E2 - Going solo

Gaylene and her dog Albert in front of her Jayco caravan

Meet the extraordinary Gaylene Seeney. Gaylene is a thalidomide survivor, but her condition hasn’t stopped her from heading off on solo adventures.*

S1E3 - Rolling on the road

rolling on the road

Get to know Judy and Erle Williamson who call themselves The Travelling Willies after they decided to sell up their home in Gunnedah and travel Australia in their makeshift ‘mobile granny flat’. 

S1E4 - The reluctant trainspotter

A photo of Graham and Wendy French, who have spent the past three decades traversing Australia on the hunt for trains.

Join Wendy and Graham French in a heartwarming episode that is full of laughs and surprises, and a reminder that the things we do for love don't always make sense. All aboard for train-inspired tales across the country. 

S1E5 - The adventurers

Bob & Phyllis Bowers, just before their 50th wedding anniversary

Bob and Phyllis Bowers are adventure junkies who have been married for 53 years. Their shared love of exploring keeps them together, enjoying kayaking, camping, hiking and abseiling.


S1E6 - Chasing Elvis

Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis

Swing dancers, rock’n’roll circuitgoers and avid Elvis fans Lyn and Peter Davis talk to James Valentine about life on the road with Wagz their dog in a refurbished 1986 bus that follows the music. 

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The thoughts and opinions discussed within Life’s Booming are not those of Australian Seniors. Life’s Booming covers many topics relevant to a senior audience, and listener discretion is advised. If you have any questions or feedback, please get in touch with us at lifesbooming@seniors.com.au

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