Roundtable Talk

Aging has long been framed as a slow narrowing of possibilities, but that perspective is beginning to shift. In this episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Derek sits down with Colin Milner, founder and CEO of the International Council on Active Aging, whose work has helped redefine aging as a dynamic, engaged and opportunity-filled stage of life. In their conversation, Derek and Colin explore why changing perceptions around aging takes time, the growing importance of closing the gap between lifespan and health span and how simple behaviors like staying active and curious can have outsized impact.

Dementia is often defined by what people lose, but a more helpful question is what abilities remain. In this episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Derek sits down with Teepa Snow, occupational therapist, educator and founder of Positive Approach to Care, one of the most influential voices in dementia care. Their conversation explores why fear still shapes public perceptions of dementia, how communication must adapt as brain changes occur and why Snow prefers the term “care partner” over caregiver. She also discusses caregiver burnout and the importance of building stronger community support around people living with dementia.

The senior living industry is at an inflection point, shaped by rising demand, shifting expectations and rapid change across care, workforce and media. In this episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Derek welcomes Kimberly Bonvissuto, content editor at McKnight’s Senior Living. Kimberly sits at the center of the senior living conversation, helping operators make sense of what matters now and what’s coming next. During the discussion, Kimberly unpacks the arrival of the “silver wave,” the growing gap between senior living supply and demand and assisted living’s evolution into a more healthcare-driven model.

Longevity isn’t the prize if the years aren’t lived with joy, purpose and real connection. In this episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Derek talks with Dr. Kerry Burnight, a nationally recognized gerontologist, author of the New York Times bestselling JoySpan, and a longtime leader in aging research, policy and elder abuse prevention. They unpack why joy is deeper than situational happiness, how many strengths actually improve with age, and why most of the aging experience is shaped more by choices than genes.

Inventing isn’t just for the young—or the tech-savvy. Brian Fried, accomplished inventor, author, and founder and CEO of Inventor Smart, proves that creativity and innovation can thrive at any age. With more than 15 patents and nearly 20 years of experience coaching inventors, Brian has built a career helping people turn everyday ideas into real-world success stories. In this episode of Roundtable Talk, Brian shares what inspires older adults to pursue invention later in life and the satisfaction that comes from seeing their ideas come to life. He discusses the biggest myths about inventing, the power of simple problem-solving, and how digital tools like AI and 3D printing are revolutionizing the process.