The Stories of Aging: Those We Inherit, Those We Create | Lunch & Learn (Hybrid)

As we move through midlife and beyond, the cultural stories we’ve inherited about aging can quietly shape our expectations of ourselves. Messages such as “slowing down is inevitable” or “you’re past your prime” often live beneath the surface, limiting imagination and possibility. This workshop introduces the concept of memetics - how cultural ideas spread like genetic code -and invites participants to uncover the “aging memes” that have shaped their lives. Through guided reflection, small-group discussion, and creative exercises, participants will learn to recognize these inherited narratives, challenge ageist scripts, and reframe their own stories into life-affirming possibilities. Together, we’ll practice designing new “memes” that honor elderhood as a season of wisdom, creativity, and connection.

Kelly Penrod works at the intersection of communication and creativity. Creativity is a master problem-solving skill. It helps us see there are multiple solutions – not just one or two. Good communication skills allow us to connect with others and most importantly with ourselves. Kelly is a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), a member of the Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP), National Association of Addiction Professionals (NAACD), American Counseling Association (ACA), The Association for Creativity in Counseling (ACC), and an Academic Associate of the Viktor Frankl Institute. She has presented professionally at international and state conferences. She is co-host on the Blueprints for Belonging podcast.

This program is being offered both IN-PERSON and ONLINE. Please select how you will attend when registering. Recordings will be distributed to registered participants only, and will not be available for individual purchase.

All times are CT. Please contact onlinelearning@junghouston.org with any questions.

Please register early. Programs with four or fewer participants are subject to cancellation, 48 hours prior to their start.