Meet Desert Voices Podcast — Arizona’s Stories, Your Community

Introducing the AARP Arizona Desert Voices Podcast:
Stories, insights, and real conversations for Arizona’s 50+ community

AARP Arizona is excited to introduce the Desert Voices Podcast, a new monthly series created to inform, empower, and connect adults 50+ throughout the state. Hosted by Dana Kennedy, AARP Arizona State Director, the podcast brings together community experts, members, and volunteers for authentic conversations about the issues that matter most. From financial security and health to caregiving, fraud prevention, and positive aging, each episode offers practical guidance rooted in AARP’s mission to help Arizonans thrive at every age.

Episodes run 20–30 minutes and blend expert interviews, timely topics, and real‑life experiences. Whether listeners want actionable tips or deeper insight into statewide priorities, Desert Voices provides an accessible way to stay informed and engaged.

A Year of Meaningful Monthly Topics

Desert Voices follows a 12‑month editorial plan designed to keep content relevant and community‑centered.

January – Financial Resolutions & Black History Month
The year begins with conversations tied to Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month, featuring historians and financial experts discussing budgeting, debt reduction, and long‑term planning strategies suited for older adults.

February – Health Matters: Mind, Body, and Soul
This episode highlights everyday steps to support healthy aging, from nutrition and exercise to preventive screenings, brain health, and mindfulness. Listeners will also learn about AARP wellness tools such as Staying Sharp.

March – Fraud Prevention
With scams targeting older adults on the rise, this conversation breaks down new tactics and offers proven ways to stay safe—both online and in person.

April – Tax & Retirement Planning
Experts share filing guidance, Social Security updates, and strategies to help maximize retirement income.

May – Caregiving Awareness
Family caregivers are essential to Arizona communities. This episode explores available support systems, mental health resources, and ways to strengthen caregiving networks.

June – Digital Literacy & Safety
Technology can empower when used confidently. This discussion focuses on cybersecurity, digital privacy, and identifying emerging online scams.

July – Social Connection & Volunteering
To address social isolation, July’s episode highlights meaningful volunteer opportunities and ways to stay connected through local engagement.

August – Social Security Spotlight
A deep dive into benefits, advocacy, and policy changes that affect older Arizonans.

September – Brain Health & Lifelong Learning
Experts explore cognitive well‑being, memory maintenance, and opportunities for continued education across Arizona.

October – Home & Community Safety
From fall prevention to emergency readiness, this episode looks at ways to create safe and supportive living environments.

November – Medicare & Healthcare Choices
Timed for open enrollment, this conversation breaks down coverage options, prescription savings, and strategies for choosing the right plan.

December – Year‑End Financial Checkup
To close out the year, financial professionals share tips for reviewing investments, making charitable contributions, and planning ahead.

Why Desert Voices Matters

Arizona’s 50+ community is large, diverse, and deeply engaged. Research shows that older adults prioritize issues such as health, financial resilience, caregiving, retirement security, and independent living—areas that Desert Voices elevates throughout the year. By pairing expert insights with stories from members and volunteers, the podcast delivers meaningful guidance grounded in real experiences.

Join the Conversation

The Desert Voices Podcast is more than a monthly show—it’s a platform for connection, learning, and empowerment.

🎧 Listen monthly on the AARP Arizona webpage, AARP Arizona YouTube Podcast, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

📹 Watch recorded sessions

🙌 Share episodes with friends, family, and community groups to help spread valuable information statewide.

Together, we can amplify the voices, experiences, and perspectives that make Arizona a vibrant place to age.