Advertise on podcast: Who I Met Today

On Who I Met Today, I talk with Dr. Michelle Andreoli, an ophthalmologist at Northwestern Medicine and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. Andreoli discusses an issue many of us deal with—dry eyes. Dr. Andreoli defines dry eye, its causes, and the distinction between chronic dry eye disease and temporary dryness. She recommends treatments, including some of the newer ones available. We chat about the diet and lifestyle links, fireplaces, medicines, and staring at our screens. And, we learn that not all artificial tears are the same. Discover more information at the American Academy of Ophthalmology education resource page. Here's a specific link discussing dry eye. Other episodes you may enjoy:Cindy Burnett talks books and mah jongg A bestselling author discusses her books and where to go in Southern California Remember Pan Am Airlines? Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Is Botox for you? An author who writes some of my favorite books A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer's Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstore, my local bookstore, or on Amazon.

On this episode of Who I Met Today, author Nicola Harrison shares the story behind The Island Club, set on Balboa Island, plus her favorite things to see and do in Balboa Island and Laguna Beach. Topics we reference:Pageant of the Masters Hotel Laguna Banana Stands Surf and Sand Hotel Larsen at Hotel Laguna Las Brisas Grunion runs Nicola Harrison books:The Island Club Hotel Laguna The Show Girl Montauk Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar How to pack in a carry-on bag A few good things Have you had your colors done? The former Rockette who inspired a bestselling novel Hearing aids aren't a bad thing! Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

On today's episode, book reviewer and podcast host Cindy Burnett discusses American mah jongg and all the ways it can sharpen our midlife brains, build community, and spark joy. Mah jongg is all the rage right now! We discuss how American mah jongg is played, the history behind the game, and different ways you might learn to play. Cindy offers suggestions for practicing and some books that might help, too. We also explore places to purchase tiles and other mah jongg supplies, how to find mah jongg players in your area of the country, and so much more. Of course, Cindy also has great book suggestions. Sites/Apps for Practice:mahjong4friends Real Mah Jongg ilovemahj Mah Jongg Time Books:The Visual Companion Guide for American Mah Jongg The Great Mahjong Book Mahjong: House Rules From Across the Asian Diaspora Tiles That Unite Other information:Siamese Mah Jongg mah jongg mavens - travel set Beginning Mah Jongg set - Hobby Lobby Hip Hop Mah Jongg - tiles let's mahj on - tiles missmahjong.com - London tiles Kori Green Jewelry - Mah Jongg bracelets The Bambird Scramble - MJ leader board in your city nationalmahjonggleague.org - order a large print card Cindy's Book RecommendationThe Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Having your colors done! A great book for the new year A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer's Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

In this episode, I chat with Amy Marsalis, who, along with a dozen girlfriends over 50, packed her bags (no checked luggage!) and headed to Italy for an active women's hiking and culinary trip with the Backroads Travel Company. I look forward to you hearing how this girls' hiking trip in Tuscany came about...and what it was like to actually do it. We discuss the costs of the trip to Italy, what she wouldn't do again, truffle hunting, and wonderful zucchini. She reminisces about the luxurious hotels, the great guides, and the off-the-beaten-path experiences their group shared. And she answers the question some might ask—How do I know if I can handle this? Topics We Reference:Backroads Travel Group The Backroads Tuscany Women's Active Hiking and Culinary Trip Amy's hiking sneakers - Columbia Omni Grip Radda—a charming Chianti village in the province of Siena La Posta Hotel Other episodes you may enjoy:A Rockette who inspired a bestselling novel Where to go in Palm Springs How to travel with only a carry-on The scoop on hearing aids A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you ever had your colors done? A great novel to kick off the new year Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

Introducing A Few Good Things, a tiny, two or three-minute addition to the Who I Met Today podcast. In A Few Good Things, Pam will share a couple of recent discoveries she's made, whether they're books, food, health, travel, or hobby-related. And, of course, she'd love to know what good things listeners have come across, also. You can email her at [email protected]. A few good things: Radish Eats Christina Clancy, The Snowbirds, and Palm Springs This Book Made Me Think of You by Libby Page Other episodes you may enjoy: Hearing aids 101 with Dr. Lindsey Jorgensen How to tackle traveling with only a carry-on Is Botox for you? A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you had your colors done? The former Rockette who inspired a bestselling novel A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

In this week's episode of Who I Met Today, author Christina Clancy discusses her latest novel, The Snowbirds and all the things to see and do in Palm Springs. The Snowbirds, set in Palm Springs, explores relationships, reinvention, and what happens when we step outside our routines. We talk about her book, and then Christina shares her insider Palm Springs picks! Topics we reference:The Colony Palms Hotel Modernism Week Integratron Sunnylands Center and Gardens Elizabeth Lennie artwork Two Bunch Palms The Sound Bath Melvyn's Walking tour of mid-century architecture and stars' homes Casa Cody Villa Royale Palm Canyon Drive Trina Turk store Bar Cecil Pal Bar Christina Clancy books:The Snowbirds Shoulder Season The Second Home Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar How to pack in a carry-on bag A few good things Have you had your colors done? The former Rockette who inspired a bestselling novel Hearing aids aren't a bad thing! Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

Introducing A Few Good Things, a tiny, two or three-minute addition to the Who I Met Today podcast. In A Few Good Things, Pam will share a couple of recent discoveries she's made, whether they're books, food, health, travel, or hobby-related. And, of course, she'd love to know what good things listeners have come across, also. You can email her at [email protected]. A few good things: The Reluctant Traveler on Apple TV Yuka App—Food and Cosmetics Scanner Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting by Lisa Genova Other episodes you may enjoy: Hearing aids 101 with Dr. Lindsey Jorgensen How to tackle traveling with only a carry-on Is Botox for you? A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you had your colors done? A former Rockette and the inspiration for a bestselling novel A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

In this episode of Who I Met Today, former Rockette Sandy Lachenauer reflects on life at Radio City Music Hall and the journey that led to inspiring The Spectacular. Sandy and I discuss her time as a Rockette, the iconic wooden soldier dance number, and the friendships she made during that time. She shares how a simple email inspired a spectacular historical fiction novel. This perky 86-year-old was a delight to chat with, and I hope you enjoy our conversation. Books mentioned:The Spectacular by Fiona Davis The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis Five books Sandy has read and enjoyed lately:Finding Dorothy by Elizabeth Letts The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman And Now There's Zelda by Carolyn Clarke The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner The Housemaid by Freida McFadden Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Having your colors done! A great book for the new year A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer's Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

Introducing A Few Good Things, a tiny, two or three-minute addition to the Who I Met Today podcast. In A Few Good Things, Pam will share a couple of recent discoveries she's made, whether they're books, food, health, travel, or hobby-related. And, of course, she'd love to know what good things listeners have come across, also. You can email her at [email protected]. A few good things: Being kind to others is good for US The Correspondent by Virginia Evans A Chocolate Flourless Torte Other episodes you may enjoy: Hearing aids 101 with Dr. Lindsey Jorgensen How to tackle traveling with only a carry-on Is Botox for you? A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you had your colors done? A great book to kick off the new year A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

In this episode of Who I Met Today, I talk with Dr. Lindsey Jorgensen, an audiologist and professor, about hearing loss, modern hearing aids, and how better hearing can improve confidence, connection, and brain health at any age. We discuss why so many people delay hearing tests, the early signs of hearing loss that people often miss, and what actually happens during a hearing evaluation. Dr. Jorgensen explains how today’s hearing aids have evolved—becoming smaller, more comfortable, rechargeable, and Bluetooth-enabled—while offering practical guidance on cost, accessibility, and over-the-counter options. I also share my personal experience with hearing loss and my decision to finally try hearing aids. This episode is for anyone who has ever turned up the TV, said “pardon?” one too many times, or wondered whether it’s time to get their hearing checked. Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar How to pack in a carry-on A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you ever had your colors done? A great novel to kick off the new year A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer's Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

Introducing A Few Good Things, a tiny, two or three-minute addition to the Who I Met Today podcast. In A Few Good Things, Pam will share a couple of recent discoveries she's made, whether they're books, food, health, travel, or hobby-related. And, of course, she'd love to know what good things listeners have come across, also. You can email her at [email protected]. A few good things: Nine Women, One Dress by Jane Rosen The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave Skillet Shepherd’s Pie Bingo - 26 in 2026 Other episodes you may enjoy: How to tackle traveling with only a carry-on Is Botox for you? A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you had your colors done? A great book to kick off the new year A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

In this episode, I sit down with Haley Lamey — a seasoned traveler and master of carry-on packing. If you’ve ever stood over an open suitcase wondering how on earth to pack less (especially with all the lotions and potions we love), this conversation is for you. Haley walks us through her smartest strategies for traveling with only a carry-on bag, whether you’re gone for a weekend or a ten-day adventure. We talk about building a simple, mix-and-match capsule wardrobe, streamlining toiletries, and navigating those pesky liquid limits. As Haley says, “Carrying on is completely doable — even for a 10-day trip — if you decide you want to do it.” If you’re craving lighter travel, smoother airport days, and a little more ease in your adventures, you’ll love this episode. Topics we reference in this episode: Find Haley on Instagram at CarryonCouture Packing Cubes Nalgene containers Cadence containers Liquid pouches Hair dryer Flat pocket organizer Other episodes you may enjoy: A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Have you had your colors done? A great book to kick off the new year Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

What a fun next new thing—a color consultation! This would be a perfect adventure to do with a mom, mother-in-law, sister, daughter, or friend. Or a great gift too! In this episode, I chat with House of Colour color analyst, Hannah Garber. Hannah discusses how she determines your undertones, your season, and what colors look good, better, best on you. Knowing your best colors helps determine the perfect makeup and hair color also. She helps you decide if black is truly your friend, or is there another neutral that will make you shine and your eyes pop? And what is a universal color, the shade that looks glorious on just about everyone? We discuss: Overwhelmed Mom: Quiet the Chaos, Mind What Matters, and Enjoy Your Life Again by Jamie Erickson To learn more about House of Colour or to book a consultation with a representative in your area, go to https://www.houseofcolour.com/ To reach Hannah (greater Nashville area) and discuss a consultation: [email protected] Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Trying to determine what's next Anne Byrn's cookbooks A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer's Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

Happy 2026! What a great episode for the new year! In this episode, I chat with Phaedra Patrick, the internationally bestselling author of THE CURIOUS CHARMS OF ARTHUR PEPPER. Phaedra discusses the novel, her writing process, charm bracelets, and how Arthur learns that it’s never too late and he isn’t too old! Phaedra describes her writing shed, her fun new thing, and why she tends to write heartwarming novels about ordinary people who discover the extraordinary in their everyday lives. Phaedra’s stories are about curiosity, reinvention, and the courage to try new things—all themes close to my heart! Topics we reference in this episode:Phaedra's website, where she lists her ABC's of writing and her other novels The Time Hop Coffee Shop, Phaedra's latest novel Other episodes you may enjoy:A backup vocalist for a country music superstar Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Trying to determine what's next Anne Byrn's cookbooks A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer's Pam's book, Do the Next New Thing, is out and available at your local bookstores, Pam's local bookstore, or on Amazon.

I am a big fan of Renee Rosen and her historical fiction novels that revolve around strong, glamorous women—Estée Lauder, Helen Gurley Brown, Alva Vanderbilt, Mrs. Marshall Fields. In this podcast episode, we discuss her latest book, LET’S CALL HER BARBIE. The woman behind the story? Ruth Handler, who co-founded the Mattel Toy Company with her husband, Elliott. Renee and I discuss LET’S CALL HER BARBIE, the Mickey Mouse Club, Mattel Toys, the Sears Toy catalog, and Barbie conventions. We swoon over the Barbie wardrobe, her dress designers and dressmakers. Renee’s other booksFifth Avenue Glamour Girl The Social Graces Park Avenue Summer Windy City Blues What the Lady Wants Dollface White Collar Girl Other topics we mentionYoga with Kassandra Other episodes you may enjoy:Remember Pan Am Airlines?  Bestselling author Fiona Davis A dermatologist recommends inexpensive skincare products Is Botox for you?  An author who writes some of my favorite books A neuropsychologist discusses Alzheimer’s Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstore, my local bookstore, or on Amazon.