SUMMARY:

BabyBoomer.org, (https:babyboomer.org) the website which bills itself as the “ultimate Baby Boomer-focused news, guide and community,” now offers online courses on topics of interest to Baby Boomers. Current topics include Caregiving, Cooking, Self-Help, and Technology. Plans for future trainings include Alternative Health, Long-Term Care, and Pickleball.

GALENA, ILLINOIS:  BabyBoomer.org, the leading online platform dedicated to the empowerment and enrichment of baby boomers, is excited to announce a new service: online training courses. The aim is to provide valuable knowledge and skills to the baby boomer generation. These online training courses offer a convenient and accessible way for individuals to enhance their personal and professional growth. As the baby boomer population continues to age gracefully and seek new avenues for personal development, BabyBoomer.org recognizes the importance of lifelong learning. With the advent of technology, online training has become increasingly important and the site developers want to be at the forefront of this movement, offering a wide range of courses tailored to the specific needs and interests of the baby boomer generation.

Topics for the current 24 courses include Technology, Dementia Care, Caregiving, Cooking, Leaving a Legacy, Self-Help. Future course topics will include Alternative Health, Investment Management, Long-Term Care, Grandparenting, Personal Development — and even Pickleball.

“We have an ever-growing roster of experts who will be developing and presenting the courses,” according to site co-founder Marc Joseph,  site spokesperson.

The current roster of course developers, their areas of expertise and general course topics includes:

  • Phyllis Ayman, known as the Ambassador for Aging Life Management, offers six courses on Dementia and Leaving a Legacy. Among them, two courses on “Essential Dementia Care,” and another on using music to communicate with persons with dementia, as well as a basic course called “Caregivers Guide to Caregiving,” which offers knowledge every caregiver needs
  • Adrian Berg, author of the podcasts Generation Bold and The Fountain of Truth About Aging; provides a course on Successful Aging called “Speak Out Communication: The 5-Minute Recipe for Impactful Speech”
  • Loretta Breuning, author, professor and founder of The Inner Mammal Institute offers you a two-month course with 25 video lessons and a fun title, “Train Your Inner Mammal to Feel Good Now,” which includes natural ways to stimulate the brain’s own chemicals which make us feel good.
  • Ed Brazee, co-owner of BoomerTECH Adventures, brings over a dozen “how-to” courses on using technology — and one on cooking. Everything from how to use your smart phone to taking great nature photos with your smart phone, plus iPhone Basics, Mac Basics, Zoom Basics — and cooking for one.
  • Debra Jones, known as the “Healer’s Healer,” and producer and host of the “Own the Grey” podcast, offers her Boomer audience “The Awakened Human,” a course focused on Healthy Aging for body, mind and spirit

For more information on BabyBoomer.org’s online training and to sign up for courses, please visit https://www.babyboomer.org/courses 

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By Anne L. Holmes, NABBW’s Boomer in Chief

Terese (Wallen) Tormoen, Founder/CEO Ms BigShotIn preparation for writing my introduction to this post, I did a bit of online research on Terese Wallen.

As she’s an active businesswoman, I began with reviewing her profile at LinkedIn. There, I saw that she initially describes herself as “an advocate for women at any age who are ready to change the trajectory of their lives. As a Life Coach, I help women get unstuck in any area of their lives. I have studied success and have developed courses that address mental roadblocks, mastermind-type support and a proven planning process that give women the roadmap to create whatever they want.”

Additionally, she suggests that for more information, anyone reviewing her LinkedIn profile ought to, “Check out our courses, coaching or membership at www.msbigshot.com.”

But the thing that I found most interesting on Terese’s LinkedIn profile, is an article she posted there earlier this year, which I’m sharing below:

What is Your Version 2.0?

“What if you could become a new version, more authentic version of yourself. One that is lighter, freer, risk taking, and carefree?
The beauty of us humans is we get to create whatever we want in our lives. Our minds are the only things holding us back.

“This past weekend, we spent time with our friends in Sonoma, CA. One of our friends, Judi, announced at dinner that she was now Judi 2.0. She said it more tongue and cheek but I knew there was something more to it.

“After dinner I asked her what Judi 2.0 looked like. She responded, “I’m going to be less reactive and more responsive to situations. When I respond to a situation too strongly, I’m going to notice, give myself some grace, and know next time I get to try it again.” Judi has a strong personality, but always well-meaning. She decided to have a more carefree demeaner and go easier on herself.

“After the conversation, I started thinking about how many of us could benefit from trying on our own version of 2.0. Maybe, one that has more fun. Maybe, one that pursues her dream with ease and excitement instead of heaviness and hard-work. Or, better yet, one who looks at life as a fun game that allows us to create and let go of judgement and a #work#energy #help ssumptions about ourselves and others. Now, that would be interesting… and entirely possible.

“As we step into another month of 2022, are you open to experiment with a new version of you? What will be your 2.0?

“Try on something new this year, experiment, have fun, approach life with a sense of wonder. You will be amazed the positive energy, circumstances, surprises that will show up when you step into a new space and allow the universe to step in and help.”

So now that you know a bit more about how Therese thinks, I’m sure you’ll be quite interested in her answers to our standard NABBW blog questions. So without further ado, “take it away, Terese!”

What is your favorite childhood memory that is reminiscent of growing up in the 50s, 60s or 70s?

My fondest memory as a child was playing in our life-size playhouse my grandfather built for us in our backyard. He was a carpenter by trade and built this playhouse to look like our parent’s home. It was quite special. My sisters, neighbor friends and I would play for hours in it. We would pretend to “play house” constantly.

My most vivid memory was one time playing school. This memory came back to me during a workshop I offer in my business (She Created a Life She Loved) whose purpose is to help women reclaim their interests, desires, and passions. The funny thing is I never became a teacher, but I am a trainer and coach.

What qualities do you have that speak of our generation of women?

One of the qualities is that I’m a great listener. Maybe it’s a quality of the times, I’m not sure. This skill has been a tremendous asset in my life, work, relationships and especially my relationship with myself. It’s also the reason I chose a career where I get to actively listen to others and coach them.

I’ve also learned that my “love language” is words of affirmation. I love inspiring others to go for their dreams, to use their unique experience, talents and skills to do work they love and create a life they love.

What inspires you?

What inspires me is learning more and more about how powerful our minds and bodies are in manifesting what we want. I’ve learned how to let go of limiting beliefs, change my perspective, and more importantly become a creator of my life. That realization, combined with the techniques I’ve learned, has been a real game-changer.

These days, what brings you the most pleasure in life?

The things that bring me the most pleasure are the little things in life. Spending time with our young adult children and watching them navigate and find their way on their journey of life.

Do you have any interesting hobbies?

There are a couple hobbies I’ve been wanting to start. Tango lessons with my husband and Agility training with our dog, Cashew. I know both will bring a ton of joy and laughter.

Do you have a favorite book or movie? If so, tell us why it’s your favorite.

I have many favorite books, but the most recent favorite is “Into the Magic Shop” by Dr. James Doty. It’s his story of overcoming a tough home life of alcoholism and poverty to become a famous Neuro-Surgeon.

It’s an amazing story. He credits all his unbelievable success to a woman who took the time to teach him how to control his thoughts, connect to his heart, and visualize his desired outcome.

I found it so impactful, my husband and I bought a copy for each of our children last Thanksgiving.

Do you travel and if so, who are your favorite travel partners and where do you like to go?

My husband and I love to travel. Our big trip last year was to Paris to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We also like to travel within the states and many times, plan a quick weekend with our long-time friends (my husband’s friends from 1st grade and their wives). In fact, we just got back from wine country, Sonoma, with them.

What do you stress about?

My biggest stressor — but also my biggest driver — is me asking myself whether I am living up to my fullest potential. I’m always learning new ways to look at life, and to not follow society’s norms on what someone my age “should” be doing.

Is it important for you to retain your youthful looks, and if so, to what degree are you willing to go?

I believe it’s important to retain my youthful looks, so that I feel good about myself. I think the best way to do it is to love my life. When I am happy, fulfilled, inspired, I look different because I feel different. I also am a huge believer in being proactive about my health. I eat well, meet with a Naturopath to maintain my health through vitamins and minerals, do Pilates and walk everyday.  

Do you plan to retire?

I don’t think I will ever call myself retired. As I mentioned above, I love to think I am always creating in my life.

Are you doing anything to GO Green?

I am really passionate about doing more and more to be green. I do small things such as when I take our dogs for a walk, I bring an extra bag and pick up any garbage along the street. I also am adamant about bringing used batteries and electronics to Best Buy for recycling. The plastic bottles are a huge problem and I hope we have a replacement for that soon. I really love to see the young generation taking this matter seriously.

Do you still have unfulfilled dreams, and are you doing anything to accomplish them?

My dream is to continue to help women through my business. My business, Ms. BigShot, helps women go for their big shot in life. I offer workshops, coaching and courses to help women discover what they really want and then give them the tools, support and roadmap to make it happen.

I know when a woman is happy and fulfilled, she can inspire so much goodness in her family and the world.

How do you make a difference in the lives of others, your community, your world?

I make a difference in the lives of others by running a business I love. I like showing my children there are many ways to make money and following your passion is important.

We are not taught as kids and in school how to be creators of our lives. Ms. BigShot helps women discover what they want, then gives them the tools, path, support and the mindset to accomplish it. It doesn’t matter what age you are!

If you were to have a personal mission statement, what would it be? Feel free to be as serious or fun as you choose.

My mission is to inspire and empower others to create lives they absolutely love.

A huge NABBW welcome to new member Lorraine Miano, an Integrative Certified Health Coach who is especially passionate about working with women in all phases of menopause, with the clear goal of helping us overcome any weight, metabolism and aging concerns, so we can have more energy, less stress, and feel comfortable in our own skin.  (Who doesn’t like the sound of that!)

I recently watched an awesome video clip from last December’s (2020) Perimenopause Summit, during which Lorraine was interviewed about her efforts to help us Western women understand that menopause can – and should – be viewed as the time we women come into our own, finally becoming the influential and powerful beings we were meant to be.

Lorraine also in explains that in non-Western cultures, especially Japanese — but also Greek, Native American, Indian, Chinese, Korean and African — societies, elder women are held in high esteem – and venerated for their wisdom. Be sure to watch the clip, you’ll find it very uplifting.

Below, I share Lorraine’s answers to our favorite questions. You’ll enjoy reading her responses. But I also want to encourage you to become familiar with her website, The Magic of Menopause, not only for the content Lorraine offers there, but because of the awesome first page introduction, in which she outlines her mission. Here’s what she shares:

I am especially passionate about working with women in all phases of menopause who have weight, metabolism and aging concerns, so that they can have more energy, less stress and feel comfortable in their own skin.
It’s time to change how we think and act about the change of life.
It’s time for the “2nd Talk.”
With over 37.5 million women going through menopause, and the fact that women will spend 50% of their lives as post-menopausal, steps can be taken at any age to keep menopause symptoms from affecting your life in a negative way.
There are so many myths and misconceptions about menopause, and I’d love to help you navigate this sea of confusion!
It’s time to say “adieu” to the “taboo”!
Through group coaching sessions, holistic nutrition, lifestyle choices and other resources (including my quarterly REFRESH programs), I can help you Get your Happy Back and Live the Life you Crave!
If you are a woman going through “The Change”, …I’ll have you saying:
“Damn right I am changing! I am becoming the woman I’ve always wanted to be!”
“Menopause can be magical. It can be your freedom years. This–more than any other time in your life–is yours to embrace and celebrate…”
So now that you know a bit more about why Lorraine wants us to realize that the final third of our lives, the period that includes menopause, should be recognized for it’s magical potential, I encourage you to learn more about the woman behind the mission…here’s Lorraine!!

Tell us about your family; married, divorced, children, grands, boomerangs or parents living with you, etc.

Hello fellow Boomers! My husband Richard and I are just about to celebrate our 41st Anniversary. We have three awesome children who are all married and employed… thankfully! Between them, they have given us six adorable grandchildren (so far). The oldest just started high school, and the youngest just turned 6 months old. They definitely light up our lives! I am also fortunate to have both of my parents who live close by. To be able to spend time with family is the reason I strive to live the healthiest life possible!

What is your favorite childhood memory that is reminiscent of growing up in the 50s, 60s or 70s?

In the late 60’s and early 70’s, my girlfriends and I just loved listening to all of the Top 40 music on our transistor radios. Can you say Casey Casem!? We were basically singing and dancing just about every day. A highlight was going to Madison Square Garden to see the Osmond Brothers live! Yes, we were those screaming preteens! Haha!

What qualities do you have that speak of our generation of women?

I’m not really sure how to answer this. All of us are so unique and bio individuals. My qualities include being determined, hardworking, positive, and happy. And I’ve got a crazy laugh. Does that count?

What inspires you?

Continuously educating myself on holistic health and menopause, not only for my business and the women I support, but for my family and personal benefit as well.

These days, what brings you the most pleasure in life?

Without a doubt, spending time with our grandchildren brings me the most pleasure. My husband and I are fortunate to be active and healthy, which makes it easy to travel to see several of our grands who live in another state. We love to take them each on a special individual trip for special bonding time too.

Do you have any interesting hobbies?

Traveling, and researching places to go are probably my favorite hobbies. My Dad instilled this in me from an early age, when he had me plan our family’s camping trip at the age of 12. I also love reading, hiking, dancing, and writing.

Do you have a favorite book or movie? If so, tell us why it’s your favorite.

I adore all of Pat Conroy’s books. My favorite is “Beach Music.” I enjoy family sagas that span decades and historical times.  They intrigue me. As a matter of fact, I’m inspired to read it again now!

Do you travel and if so, who are your favorite travel partners and where do you like to go?

I LOVE traveling! Of course, my hubby is my most favorite travel partner. Quite often we travel with other couples, who we have known since high school. I’ll go anywhere! Recently we went on the St. Lawrence River cruise through Canada, and just booked an Alaska Adventure for next summer. I’m also headed to Tuscany in the Spring with my sister-in-law to stay in a villa with 9 women. Fun will be had! Oh! And in just a few weeks my husband and I are headed to Aruba with our good friends. Did I say I LOVE to travel?

What do you stress about?

I try not to stress! But currently, the health of my parents is at the top of my list. My Mom has had several serious health issues over the past few years. Doctor visits and caregiving take a good bit of time.

Is it important for you to retain your youthful looks, and if so, to what degree are you willing to go?

More than retaining a youthful look, I’m concerned more with healthy skin. This often happens from the inside out (can you tell I’m a health coach?). Good food, movement, stress reduction, and quality organic skincare products are at the top of the list.

Have you re-invented yourself, and if so, how?

At age 55, I decided to go back to school and attended the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and became a certified health coach. I’ve always been interested in holistic health, so when the opportunity presented itself, I say YES!  Once I decided to guide menopausal women, I went back and became certified in Hormone Health. I wrote my first book, “The Magic of Menopause: A Holistic Guide to Get Your Happy Back,” at age 57. I’m currently 63 and a social media influencer, studying to become an Aromatherapist (more help for women) as well as working on my second book.

The Magic of Menopause

Do you plan to retire?

As of right now….No. We’ll see what the future brings. If and when that happens, it will most likely be to see more of our grandbabies and to travel!

Are you doing anything to GO Green?

Recycling has been part of our family’s lives for the past 38 years. As well, we eat organically grown food, support local farmers, and eliminate as many toxins in our lives as possible, from chemicals to plastics and more.

Do you still have unfulfilled dreams, and are you doing anything to accomplish them?

I wouldn’t say I have unfulfilled dreams, as enjoying the process itself is fulfilling.

This includes travel plans, education, creativity.

How do you make a difference in the lives of others, your community, your world?

Our family has sponsored children in the Philippines for the past 22 years through Unbound.  As well, I was a weekly volunteer at Catholic Parish Outreach for nine years, and full time PTSA volunteer while my children were growing up. Currently I donate much of my time guiding women as they navigate the menopause years in a private support group. Many of these women are experiencing debilitating symptoms, and have nowhere to turn.

If you were to have a personal mission statement, what would it be? Feel free to be as serious or fun as you choose.

To be positive, happy, and healthy while living with intention and passion….for a very long time!