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Decluttering 55+ with Michelle Passoff
018 Aging In Place with Wanda Gozdz
The conversation discusses the importance of aging in place and making modifications to homes to accommodate the changing needs of older adults. The guest, Wanda Gozdz, shares her personal experience and provides insights on how to navigate the process. Key topics include the desire to remain in one's home, the importance of community and socialization, the need for modifications in the kitchen and bathroom, and the role of lighting in improving safety. The conversation concludes with resources for finding contractors and connecting with the decluttering community.
Takeaways
- Aging in place allows older adults to remain in their homes and stay connected to their community and social networks.
- Modifications in the kitchen and bathroom, as well as improvements in lighting, are essential for creating a safe and accessible living environment.
- Planning and being proactive in making home modifications can help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life.
- The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) website is a valuable resource for finding certified aging-in-place specialists and contractors.
- Connecting with the decluttering community and sharing experiences can provide support and inspiration on the decluttering journey.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:25 Desire to Remain in Home and Make Changes
03:18 Personal Experience and Importance of Community
07:26 Adapting the Home to Changing Needs
09:20 Proactive Planning and Downsizing
13:02 Choosing a Suitable Living Environment
16:24 Modifying the Home and Where to Start
22:08 Key Considerations for Home Modifications
24:57 Finding Contractors and Connecting with the Community
26:25 Conclusion and Call to Action
Visit with Wanda at https://www.goldenageliving.com/wanda-gozdz-nahb-master-instructor/.
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Website: https://www.decluttering55plus.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plus
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plus
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus
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26. What's Next For You in Retirement with Dr. James R. Gregory
19:07||Season 2, Ep. 26In this episode of Decluttering 55 Plus, host Michelle Passoff speaks with Dr. James R. Gregory about life after retirement. They discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with this transition, including finding new passions, the journey of writing novels, and the importance of creativity in later years. Dr. Gregory shares his personal experiences, insights on retirement planning, and the inspiration behind his writing, encouraging listeners to embrace change and pursue their interests.TakeawaysNext level clutter includes areas of life we often ignore.Retirement can be a time for new beginnings and creativity.Planning for retirement should start years in advance.Finding new passions can be challenging but rewarding.Writing novels is a different process than writing business books.Inspiration for writing can come from personal experiences.Support from loved ones is crucial during transitions.Creativity can flourish in retirement if pursued actively.Life after retirement can be fulfilling with the right mindset.It's important to take initiative and explore new opportunities.Follow Dr. James for more by visiting this link.Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
25. Home Inventory with Diane Hamilton
18:13||Season 2, Ep. 25In this episode of Decluttering 55 Plus, host Michelle Passoff discusses the concept of 'next level clutter' and introduces the Under My Roof app, designed to help individuals organize their home inventory and important documents. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a home inventory for insurance purposes, estate planning, and overall organization. Diane Hamilton, co-founder of the app, explains how it can save time and money by keeping track of home maintenance, warranties, and valuable items. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to take charge of their clutter and utilize the resources available to them.TakeawaysNext level clutter refers to complex areas of life that need organization.The Under My Roof app helps users manage home inventory and important documents.Maintaining a home inventory can save time and money in emergencies.Organizing items by room can simplify the inventory process.Documenting valuable items is crucial for insurance purposes.The app allows users to track maintenance and warranties easily.Creating a home inventory is a step-by-step process that takes time.Using technology can enhance the organization of personal belongings.Planning for estate management is essential as we age.Taking action on decluttering can lead to a more fulfilling life.Follow Diane for more by visiting this link.Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
24. DIY Estate Sales with Michelle Passoff
15:32||Season 2, Ep. 24In this episode, Michelle Passoff discusses running your estate sale. She provides tips on how to prepare for the sale, organize the items, price them, and promote the event. Michelle also shares advice on setting up the sale to maximize security and flow of traffic. She emphasizes the importance of planning and recruiting a team to help with the process. Michelle concludes by suggesting alternatives, such as hiring a professional estate sale company, if running the sale on your own is not feasible.TakeawaysRunning your own estate sale requires planning, organizing, and pricing the items.Recruit a team of friends or family members to help with the preparation and running of the sale.Promote the sale through online platforms and consider using roadside signs.Ensure the flow of traffic through the house is safe and maximize security.Consider alternatives, such as hiring a professional estate sale company, if running the sale on your own is not feasible.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview03:23 Assessing Move-Out Schedule and Selling Strategy06:20 Packing and Labeling Items for Sale09:15 Promoting the Estate Sale10:11 Scheduling the Sale and Recruiting a Team11:09 Using Roadside Signs and Arranging Pickup for Unsold Items12:06 Maximizing Flow of Traffic and Cash Handling13:05 Providing Assistance and Setting Bargaining Rules14:01 Considering Alternatives to Running Your Estate Sale14:31 Conclusion and Call to ActionStay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
23. Appraisals with George Higby
22:40||Season 2, Ep. 23Michelle Passoff introduces Decluttering 55 Plus, a platform for baby boomers to navigate life changes through decluttering. She emphasizes that clutter isn't just physical but also a mental barrier to moving forward. In her discussion, she welcomes George Higby, a certified appraiser known for The Antique Nomad YouTube channel, to provide insights on identifying and selling valuable items.George explains the role of an appraiser, how value varies depending on the context (insurance, estate sales, etc.), and the importance of documentation for collectibles. He highlights that market trends fluctuate—what's valuable today may not be tomorrow. He advises selling high-demand items, like petroliana and art glass, while avoiding outdated categories. For downsizers, he recommends consulting an appraiser before discarding items.Key Takeaways:*Understanding Appraisals: Appraisers determine value based on context (insurance, estate sales, etc.).*Proper documentation is crucial for collectibles.*Market Trends Matter:-Value fluctuates—what’s hot today may not be tomorrow.-High-demand items: petroliana, art glass, and certain collectibles.-Low-demand items: outdated categories with oversupply.*Selling Smart:-Get an appraisal before discarding potentially valuable items.-Appraisal services typically cost ~$125 per hour.Follow George for more by visiting this link.Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
22. Estate Sales with Mike Judkins
18:32||Season 2, Ep. 22In this conversation, Michelle Passoff and Mike Judkins discuss estate sales and how they can help people prepare for a move or downsize. They explain what an estate sale is and how it works, including the role of estate sale companies. They also discuss estate sales.org, a website that allows estate liquidators to advertise their sales and provides a directory of estate sale companies. They talk about the criteria for selecting an estate sale company and the timeline for planning a sale. They also touch on the emotional aspect of letting go of belongings and the financial aspect of earning money from an estate sale.TakeawaysEstate sales are a way to sell the entire contents of a home, often used when downsizing or during major life events.Estate sales.org is a website that allows estate liquidators to advertise their sales and provides a directory of estate sale companies.When selecting an estate sale company, consider their experience, buyer base, and marketing strategies.Plan an estate sale, allowing at least a month for preparation.Letting go of belongings can be emotional, but it's important to detach and focus on the goal of clearing out the house.The financial outcome of an estate sale can vary, but it's worth it for the convenience and the opportunity to declutter.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview02:29 Understanding Estate Sales04:43 Exploring EstateSales.org07:33 Selecting an Estate Sale Company09:31 Planning an Estate Sale11:49 The Emotional Aspect of Estate Sales14:40 Earning Money from an Estate SaleConnect with Mike Judkins at https://estatesales.org/about.Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
21. Senior Travelers and Trekking with LeLe Beutel
16:17||Season 2, Ep. 21Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Lele Beutel, a former financial planner who turned retirement into a global adventure. From trekking the world to building a Facebook community of 40,000 senior travelers, Lili shares how she found purpose and passion after leaving the 9-to-5. Get ready to be inspired to dust off your own bucket list!Follow LeLe for more by visiting this link.Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
20. Getting Smart About Your Smartphone with Anne Goldberg
17:33||Season 2, Ep. 20Meet Anne Goldberg, a 72-year-old mom of two and grandma to three, who transitioned from a 23-year career as an executive recruiter to becoming a tech consultant for baby boomers. In this episode, Anne shares her expert advice on digital decluttering—specifically how to clean up and organize your phone for a clearer, more focused life. Join us as we explore how simplifying your digital space can lead to greater peace of mind and productivity.Follow Anne for more by visiting this link.Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
19. AI for Boomers with Joshua Mesnik
19:59||Season 2, Ep. 19In this episode, Michelle Passoff sits down with Joshua Mesnik, a filmmaker, educator, and owner of WiseOn Tech, about how AI and everyday technology can make life easier and more creative for older adults. Josh explains what AI really is, how long we’ve been using it without realizing it, and simple ways baby boomers can start benefiting from tools like Google Gemini and ChatGPT. Together, they discuss staying curious, learning at your own pace, and using technology to reduce digital clutter and support a more organized, empowered life as we age.Follow Joshua for more by visiting: http://www.wiseontech.com/Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plusDiscover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/
18. Grief without Chaos with Ann Cueva
23:28||Season 2, Ep. 18Ann Cueva, owner of Custom Organizing Incorporated, discusses the importance of organizing vital information and documents in case of emergencies or death. She emphasizes the need to be prepared and responsible for one's life emergency. Ann's book, 'Grief Without Chaos: Organization for Emergencies and Death,' provides a workbook to help individuals organize all the necessary information and directions for their loved ones. The book includes documents such as wills, living trusts, DNRs, financial information, property details, passwords, and important contacts. Anne also offers support groups to motivate and assist individuals in filling out the book. Follow Ann Cueva for more by visiting https://timeisthekey.com/. Stay connected and inspired—follow me on social media!Website: https://decluttering55plus.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decluttering55plusInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/decluttering55plusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decluttering55plus\And also don’t forget to subscribe on my YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@Decluttering55plus Discover practical wisdom to simplify life—check out my book:Decluttering 55+: Wisdoms to Create a Legacy, Not a MessLink: https://www.amazon.com/Decluttering-55-Wisdoms-Michelle-Passoff/dp/B0DY88FQBS/