New Episodes Every Monday!
Agehood.

Agehood.

Dad’s had another fall. The kids are out of control. Your boss’s patience is wearing thin. No matter what you do, you feel like you’re letting someone down. And who is looking out for you?

Welcome to Agehood. The podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely say out loud.

The Australian-first series confronts the realities, complexities and unexpected beauty of ageing, caregiving and the last chapters of life through conversations with Sarah Macdonald, Bernard Salt AM, Geraldine Doogue AO, Nikki Gemmell, Dr Emily Musgrove and other prominent figures, offering both raw honesty and surprising warmth.

This is the show for those caught between caring for ageing parents, raising a family, and managing work—all while trying to live a good life. We see you. So join us to hear some of Australia’s most trusted voices share their stories of Agehood: the tears, the frustration, the goodbyes, but also the laughs and moments of true joy along the way.

Recent Episodes

Feb. 11, 2026

Why Ageing is Not for Sissies: Dr. Stephanie Ward | Club Sandwich

You were dancing in mosh pits five minutes ago; now you’re being squashed by the layers of responsibility. If you're juggling kids, a career, and aging parents who are "rumbling" rather than aging gracefully, this episode is your squishy hug.
Feb. 9, 2026

You’ve got them. We’ve got you. Welcome to Club Sandwich | 0

Caring for ageing parents and quietly thinking “Something’s gotta give”? Welcome. Because you’ve got them - and we’ve got you. The Sandwich Generation is finally getting the conversation we deserve. Club Sandwich is the commu...
Feb. 8, 2026

We've got some news: a brand new podcast for you!

Club Sandwich is the community for those caring for ageing parents while juggling work, kids, relationships, and sanity
Oct. 12, 2025

Dr Ira Byock: On The Four Things That Matter Most

Most of us know we should talk about the end of life - but almost none of us know where to start. In this episode, Melissa Reader is joined by Dr Ira Byock, one of the world’s leading voices in palliative care, to explore how...
Oct. 5, 2025

Fear and Love: What Medicine Can’t Teach with Steve Robson

What does it take to face fear, to lead with love, and to truly care for others at their most vulnerable? In this episode of Agehood, Melissa speaks with Professor Steve Robson - former President of the AMA, doctor, and son -...
Sept. 28, 2025

From Minister to Carer: Victor Dominello’s Most Personal Challenge

When former NSW Minister Victor Dominello helped build Service NSW, he made government simpler for millions. But when his mum was diagnosed with dementia, he discovered just how broken the system still is. In this powerful co...

About the Host

Melissa Reader Profile Photo
Melissa Reader

Melissa cared for her husband
Mauro through sudden,
aggressive cancer-losing him
just 15 months after diagnosis.
Left with three small children, no
planning, no preparation, no will,
and mountains of regret, she
transformed her pain into purpose
by founding Violet.