In Good Company Podcast: Age Better

Invest in Your Future Health with Dr. Cody Hooten, DPT

In this episode of In Good Company, we sit down with Dr. Cody Hooten, a physical therapist with Haven Home Health & Hospice, to talk about what truly determines whether someone stays active and independent as they age.
Dr. Hooten has worked with patients across both outpatient clinics and home health settings, giving him a unique perspective on the habits, lifestyle choices, and daily routines that separate people who remain strong into their 80s from those who begin to decline much earlier.
During this conversation, we explore the science behind aging, mobility, and recovery, along with practical advice families can use right away to help protect the health and independence of aging loved ones.
In this episode, we discuss:
• Why physical activity is one of the most powerful predictors of long-term independence• What often happens after retirement that accelerates physical decline• The connection between falls, illness, and loss of mobility in older adults• Why recovery is often faster for people who stay active before an injury or illness• The role sleep, hydration, and nutrition play in healing and strength• Simple steps people can take today to improve balance, mobility, and overall health• How families can support aging parents who are beginning to slow down• The importance of social connection and avoiding isolation as we age
Dr. Hooten also shares real-world stories from patients he has helped regain strength and mobility, along with practical strategies anyone can use to begin improving their health today.
If you are helping aging parents, approaching retirement, or simply want to stay active and independent for as long as possible, this episode offers valuable insight from a clinician who works with these challenges every day.
About Haven Home Health & Hospice
Haven Home Health & Hospice provides compassionate, patient-centered care that allows individuals to receive skilled medical services in the comfort of their own homes. Their team focuses on helping patients maintain independence, recover safely, and improve quality of life.
To learn more about Haven Home Health & Hospice or to speak with someone about services available in your area:
Haven Home Health & Hospice📞 Phone: (417) 581-1234🌐 Website: https://havenhome.us
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who may benefit from the conversation.
#AgingWell #HealthyAging #StayActive #SeniorHealth #FallPrevention #PhysicalTherapy #MobilityMatters #HomeHealthCare #AgingParents #HealthyLifestyle #Longevity #SeniorWellness #HealthcarePodcast #InGoodCompanyPodcast #HavenHomeHealth #IndependentLiving #WellnessForSeniors #HealthyHabits #ActiveLifestyle

Protecting Yourself from Medicare Fraud and Identity Theft

Medicare fraud is one of the fastest growing scams targeting older adults, and many people do not realize it is happening until it is too late. In this episode of In Good Company, we break down how Medicare fraud and identity theft actually happen, the warning signs to watch for, and the simple steps you can take to protect your personal information while exploring Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans. Most brokers and Medicare professionals genuinely want to help people make the best coverage decisions for their health and financial future. But like any industry, there are bad actors who use misleading tactics, high pressure sales strategies, or fake offers to gain access to your personal information. In this conversation we cover: • The role of licensed Medicare brokers and what they are legally allowed to do • Major red flags when someone offers to help you enroll in a plan • Why no one should ask for your banking information before giving you a quote • Suspicious “free gift” or incentive offers that violate Medicare rules • How scammers try to steal Medicare numbers and commit identity theft • Why reviewing your Medicare statements can help catch fraud early • The safest ways to research Medicare plans online Your Medicare number should be protected like a credit card number. Once someone has it, they may be able to bill Medicare for services you never received or even enroll you in plans without your knowledge. The good news is that knowing the rules and understanding the warning signs can dramatically reduce your risk. If you are helping aging parents, approaching Medicare eligibility, or simply want to better understand how to protect yourself, this is a conversation worth listening to. If this episode helps you, please share it with someone who may need to hear it. If you suspect Medicare fraud or identity theft, report it immediately: Medicare Fraud Hotline 📞 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) Senior Medicare Patrol 📞 1-877-808-2468 You can also report concerns directly to your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan provider. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to help more people navigate Medicare with confidence. #medicare #medicarefraud #medicarescams #identitytheft #medicareadvantage #medicareeducation #seniorhealth #healthcarecoverage #retirementplanning #seniorprotection #medicarehelp #medicarebenefits #agingparents #seniorcare #informedretirement

Advice from Your Elders on Health & Wellness: Senior Fair 2026

In this special episode, we visited the Senior Fair in Branson, Missouri, where community members gathered for a day focused on healthier living. The event offered free resources including vision and hearing exams, blood pressure and sugar testing, wellness information, and even some great food. Everything was designed to help seniors stay active, informed, and connected to helpful services in the community. https://www.facebook.com/4ozarkseniors While at the fair, we asked attendees one simple question: What is your best health advice? The answers were thoughtful, inspiring, and sometimes surprising. You will hear wisdom from people who have lived through decades of experience. Join us for a conversation filled with real stories, heartfelt advice, and timeless reminders about what it means to live well. #SeniorHealth #HealthyAging #BransonMO #Wellness #CommunityVoices #HealthAdvice #ActiveLiving #SeniorResources #HealthyLifestyle #ozarkscommunity

Reverse Mortgages: Lifeline or Landmine?

Reverse Mortgages: Smart Retirement Strategy or Financial Time Bomb? Reverse mortgages are often marketed as a simple way to “unlock your home equity” and stay in the house you love — with no monthly mortgage payments. But what’s the real story? In this episode of In Good Company, Spencer Ernst breaks down the truth about reverse mortgages — without the hype, without the fear tactics, and without the late-night commercial spin. We cover: What a reverse mortgage actually is (and how it works) The difference between HECM, proprietary, and single-purpose loans How much you can really borrow Interest rates and the power of compounding The real costs and fees Foreclosure risk and tax/insurance obligations What happens when someone moves into long-term care How reverse mortgages impact heirs and estate planning When they make sense — and when they don’t The honest answer? Reverse mortgages aren’t automatically good or bad. They’re tools. And like any financial tool, they can either protect your independence — or quietly erode your equity — depending on how they’re used. If you’re over 62, helping aging parents, or thinking about retirement income strategies, this is a conversation worth having before signing anything. Because this isn’t just about a house. It’s about independence, legacy, and dignity in retirement. If this episode helps you, share it with someone who may be facing this decision. #ReverseMortgage #RetirementPlanning #HomeEquity #FinancialEducation #AgingInPlace #EstatePlanning #PersonalFinance #SeniorLiving #LongTermCare #InGoodCompany

Healing, Hope and Hustle: Voices from the KY3 Women's Show

In this special episode, we’re bringing you inspiring voices and powerful stories from the KY3 Women’s Show, held at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield, Missouri on March 7, 2026. This annual event brings together hundreds of local businesses, nonprofits, healthcare professionals, and community leaders for a full day dedicated to connection, education, and empowerment. From health and wellness experts to community advocates and entrepreneurs, the Women’s Show highlights the incredible work being done across the Ozarks. Attendees enjoyed shopping with local vendors, live demonstrations, fashion shows, and seminars focused on women’s health, beauty, and personal growth, all in one place. In this episode, we sit down with several of the amazing people behind the booths to hear their stories, their missions, and how they’re making a difference in the community. Whether it's supporting breast cancer patients, helping families through difficult times, improving mental health, or promoting holistic wellness, these conversations highlight the passion and purpose driving the people behind the services. This episode is all about community, resilience, and the power of people helping people. #KY3WomensShow #SpringfieldMO #OzarksCommunity #WomenSupportingWomen #417Land #OzarkEmpireFairgrounds #CommunityVoices #WomenInBusiness #HealthAndWellness #EmpowerWomen #417Podcast #MissouriEvents #LocalVoices #HealingHopeHustle #InGoodCompany #Podcast #Haven #HavenHomeHealth&Hospice

The Hidden Cost of Prior Authorization

Healthcare decisions should be made by patients and physicians. But today, millions of treatments are delayed because of a process most patients never see: prior authorization. In this episode of In Good Company, we explore the growing impact of prior authorization denials and why the system may be harming patients. The data tells a powerful story. More than 80% of prior authorization appeals are successful, yet only a small fraction of denials are ever appealed. That raises an important question. If the majority of appeals succeed, why are so few filed? We break down the numbers behind Medicare Advantage denials, the administrative burden facing physicians, and the real-world consequences patients experience when care is delayed. Physicians report that prior authorization delays necessary treatment in the vast majority of cases, sometimes leading to hospitalization, life-threatening events, or permanent harm. This conversation goes beyond statistics. It explores the human side of healthcare policy, including how administrative barriers affect doctors, patients, caregivers, and families across the country. Because behind every delay is a person waiting for care. And the question we must ask is simple: Is the system working for patients? #Healthcare #HealthcarePolicy #HealthcareReform #PriorAuthorization #MedicareAdvantage #PatientCare #PatientAdvocacy #HealthPolicy #HealthCareSystem #Doctors #Physicians #Nurses #MedicalCommunity #HealthcareLeadership #HospitalCare #HealthcareAccess #MedicalCare #HealthEquity #Caregivers #Caregiving #PatientSafety #HealthcareAdministration #HealthInsurance #HealthcareIndustry #HomeHealth #HospiceCare #PublicHealth #HealthcarePodcast #InGoodCompanyPodcast #HealthcareDiscussion #MedicalNews #HealthcareInnovation

Simple Ways Your Family Can Avoid Probate with Lisa M. Sims, Probate Attorney

In this eye-opening episode of In Good Company, we unpack a truth that most people don’t realize until it’s too late: having a will is just the beginning of protecting your family’s future. 💡 Today’s guest is an expert in estate planning who reveals the critical steps most people overlook — and why relying on a will alone can leave your loved ones vulnerable, even if you think your affairs are in order. From trusts and powers of attorney to health care directives and probate pitfalls, this episode gives you the insight you wish you knew earlier. ⏳ 👉 Whether you’re planning for your legacy, securing your assets, or simply making sure your family is taken care of, this conversation will shift the way you think about estate planning. 🔹 Guest: Attorney Lisa M. Sims, Esq. — Estate Planning & Family Protection Expert 🔹 Law Firm: The Law Office of Lisa M. Sims, LLC — Providing personalized legal guidance you can count on. Visit https://www.sims-law.com/ to learn more. 💬 In This Episode You’ll Learn: • Why a basic will isn’t enough to truly protect your family’s future 🛡️ • The second step most people don’t know exists • How trusts, powers of attorney, and other documents play into a complete plan • Real-world examples and what mistakes to avoid 📌 Stay Connected 👍 Like this video if it helped you 🛎️ Subscribe for more episodes of In Good Company 💬 Comment below with your questions about estate planning — we might feature them on a future episode! #EstatePlanning #WillsAndTrusts #ProtectYourFamily #LegacyPlanning #TrustPlanning #PowerOfAttorney #HealthcareDirective #AvoidProbate #FinancialPlanning #FamilyProtection #DidYouKnow #ThingsYouShouldKnow #MoneyTips #WealthBuilding #GenerationalWealth #FuturePlanning #LifePlanning #Adulting101 #ForYou #FYP #InGoodCompanyPodcast #PodcastClips #BusinessPodcast #WomenInLaw #EstatePlanningAttorney

Generation X and the Caregiver Squeeze

Gen X grew up raising themselves. They were the latchkey kids. The independent ones. The generation that learned resilience early — figuring out homework, friendships, and disappointments without someone stepping in to fix it. Now they’re raising children in a completely different world. And caring for aging parents at the same time. In this episode, we unpack the unique psychological and emotional pressure facing Gen X — the generation quietly holding two worlds together. From navigating the realities of recession-era careers to parenting in the age of social media, Gen X isn’t just part of the sandwich generation… they may be experiencing the tightest squeeze of all. We explore: Why Gen X parents strive for warmth and resilience How growing up independent shaped their parenting philosophy The emotional weight of caring for aging parents The tension of translating between Boomers and Gen Z And why this generation carries more than most people realize This isn’t just about logistics — time, money, schedules. It’s about identity. Obligation. Breaking cycles without rejecting where you came from. If you’re Gen X and feeling stretched thin, this conversation will remind you: there’s a reason. You’re holding two generations at once. You are not alone. #GenX #SandwichGeneration #CaregiverSqueeze #ParentingToday #ModernParenting #AgingParents #FamilyDynamics #EmotionalResilience #AuthoritativeParenting #Midlife #InGoodCompany

Before It's Too Late: Honest Hospice Answers

What do people really misunderstand about hospice? What are families actually afraid of when they say, “We’re not ready”? And what would professionals want you to hear before a crisis hits? In this special episode of In Good Company, we spoke with more than a dozen attendees at the End-of-Life Care Summit in Springfield, Missouri, asking them to respond as if they were talking to a family member, not a clinician. The result is honest, compassionate, deeply human insight from the people who walk alongside patients and families every day. From misconceptions about “giving up” to powerful stories of comfort, clarity, and peace, this episode brings together real voices answering the questions many families are afraid to ask. If you or someone you love will one day face these decisions, this conversation is for you. Because understanding hospice before you need it changes everything. #InGoodCompanyPodcast #HospiceCare #EndOfLifeCare #HospiceEducation #Caregiving #FamilyCaregivers #SeriousIllness #AdvanceCarePlanning #PalliativeCare #HealthcareConversations #DeathPositive #HealthcareLeadership #HospiceFoundationForOutreach #BeforeItsTooLate

Your Brain Isn't Declining: The 50+ Learning Advantage

Is your brain really declining after 50… or has it simply changed its operating system? In this episode of In Good Company, Spencer Ernst challenges one of the most persistent myths about aging: that learning gets harder because your brain is “slowing down.” The truth is far more encouraging. Your brain isn’t shutting down. It’s remodeling. Drawing from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and research like the Scaffolding Theory of Aging and Cognition and the NeuroRacer study, Spencer explains why adults over 50 may actually have a powerful learning advantage — if they use the right strategy. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between fluid intelligence and crystallized intelligence — and why it matters after 50 How your brain compensates for slower processing speed Why managing energy beats cramming The hidden power of relational learning and synthesis How to overcome proactive interference (doing it “the old way”) The Pillar & Playground Method for cognitive growth How exercise, sleep, and environment dramatically affect learning A simple 30-day experiment to upgrade your brain If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I had started 20 years ago,” this episode is for you. It’s not too late. You just need a new strategy. You are never done growing. #Over50Learning #BrainHealth #LifelongLearning #HealthyAging #CognitiveScience #Neuroscience #PersonalGrowth #SecondAct #GrowthMindset #ActiveAging #BrainTraining #InGoodCompany #SpencerErnst #ReinventYourself #LearningAfter50