290. Quick Thinks: How to Have Better Conversations About Aging
From Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques by Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart
May 21, 2026 · 20 min
About this episode
Kerry Burnight discusses how to approach aging with joy and empathy, emphasizing the importance of meaningful conversations across generations.
How can we approach aging with more joy, empathy, and meaningful connection? We often talk about lifespan, or how long we live, but Kerry Burnight believes the more important question is how fully we live along the way. Burnight is a gerontologist, former professor of geriatric medicine, and author of Joyspan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life's Second Half . Drawing from decades of experience working with older adults, she discusses why adopting a “growth aging mindset” can change the way we think about getting older, and why autonomy matters just as much as safety in conversations with aging loved ones. As she puts it, “it’s not just the big moments, it’s the little moments, too.” In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast Talk Smart , Burnight and host Matt Abrahams explore the role of listening, storytelling, and empathy in effective communication across generations. Through memorable examples and actionable advice, Burnight offers a compassionate framework for talking about — and thinking about — aging differently. Episode Reference Links: Dr. Kerry Burnight Kerry’s Book: Joyspan Ep.176 From Stereotypes to Synergy: Communicating Across Generations Connect: Premium…
People in this episode
Host: Matt Abrahams
Guest: Kerry Burnight
Topics covered
- aging
- communication
- empathy
- listening
- storytelling
- growth mindset
Keywords
- aging
- communication
- empathy
- growth mindset
- listening
- storytelling
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Joyspan: The Art and Science of Thriving in Life's Second Half
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