Nicole Christina is the host of the Zestful Aging podcast. Her mission is to empower people in midlife and beyond to life zestful lives by thinking about the impact they have on the world. Through insightful and deep interviews with a wide variety of guests, she explores how we can leave a legacy we’re proud of.
With 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, Nicole is able to get to the heart of the aging process with her guests and provide listeners with actionable knowledge to take forward in their everyday lives.
Read more from Nicole Christina below and listen to Zestful Aging here (leave a review, too!).
Name:
Nicole Christina
Podcast Name:
Tell us what your podcast is about in 3 sentences or less!
International interview show about coming into one’s own, in mid life and beyond. Top influencer guests talk about their aging journey and projects they are working on. General theme is betterment of our world. We’re heard in 85 countries.
Current hometown:
Syracuse, NY
Originally From:
Bronxville, NY
What’s a quote or piece of advice that you try to live by?
“This, too, shall pass.”
Your Superpower:
Enthusiasm
One thing on your bucket list:
Visiting the Anne Frank House
What was your first job?
Worked as a research assistant in Stanford U. psych ward
Any unusual hobbies?
Obsessive knitting
Biggest Pet Peeve
Texting while driving
What inspired you to start your podcast?
I had been a psychotherapist for 30 years, and wanted to spread my message of self-acceptance to a wider audience. My clients were also talking a lot about their fears of aging. I thought I could help people by addressing these fears.
Tell us more about your work/life outside of your podcast.
I’m a full time psychotherapist of 30 years, specializing in eating disorders. I still have my solo practice. I’m also writing a book called “Not Just Chatting; How to Become a Master Podcast Interviewer”.
What is your show’s USP?
In depth, nuanced interviews with culture influencers. A variety of fascinating and accomplished guests.
What is one of the greatest challenges you have personally faced with your podcast?
The support–promoting on social, etc. Scheduling can be tough because some of my folks live in Europe and other time zones. I was interviewing a guest from New Zealand and I got the time wrong–twice!
What was one of your favorite episodes you’ve ever done? Why does it stand out?
My interview with Peggy Orenstein. Her book had just made it to the top of the NYT charts, and the night before she was interviewed by Terry Gross on Fresh Air. I was so honored and excited to speak with her.
What is one thing you have accomplished with your podcast thus far that you are most proud of?
A majority of my guests give me very positive feedback, and often say “I’ve never been asked that before.” My questions get to deeper emotions than a typical interview. I’m proud of my ability to get people to open up and be vulnerable.
What is one major milestone that you would like to accomplish through your podcast in the next year?
Receive substantial sponsorship.
What is a trend or development in the podcast industry that you foresee happening in the next few years?
It looks like podcasts will continue to increase. I do think that the cream will rise to the top, and the quality will get better and better over time.
What is one of the best pieces of podcast-related advice you’ve ever received & why?
Have patience. This is a long term project, and a labor of love.
What is one of the worst pieces of podcast-related advice you have ever received & why?
Get expensive equipment. I think substance is the most important, provided you have decent equipment.
What are some of your favorite women-hosted podcasts (besides your own)?
The podcasts by Suzanne Falter and ShePodcasts.
Can you tell us about a time when you took a huge risk/did something you were scared to do, and it totally paid off?
I left my community mental health job to start my own solo practice. It was a huge leap and I had to have confidence that I would be able to attract enough clients. Now I have a waiting list.
Are there any great podcast-related resources you love that you would like to share?
I love the book “Big Podcast” by David Hopper.
Is there a charity or cause you care about that you would like to share?
I do love to rescue dogs. We have a great place called Helping Hounds in Syracuse. I interviewed the foster of one of my dogs who lives in Texas.
How do you feel you’re making a positive impact and generating change through your podcast?
That’s my mission–to contribute to challenging ageist beliefs about what women are capable of after middle age. My hope is contribute to the betterment of society in whatever way I can. That’s why I have a podcast.
Stay connected with Nicole Christina and Zestful Aging:
Website // Twitter // Facebook // LinkedIn