Ashton Applewhite: Confronting Ageism, Rethinking Aging, and Embracing Intergenerational Power | Ep. 40

Why do we fear aging—and who benefits from that fear?

In Episode 40 of TURTZED, Charlie sits down with Ashton Applewhite, author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism, TED Speaker, activist and one of the leading voices in the global movement to dismantle age-related bias.

Together, they unpack the deep-rooted fears, systems, and assumptions that make us dread getting older—and how ageism intersects with racism, ableism, capitalism, and gender inequality. Ashton shares her personal journey from denial to activism, what she’s learned from research, and how we can all become more age-liberated, regardless of how old we are.

This conversation challenges you to rethink the way we talk about age—and why embracing aging is key to a more just, connected, and meaningful life.

Key Takeaways:

• Ageism Is Everywhere – From the way we talk about “anti-aging” to how older people are excluded from conversations, ageism is deeply embedded in our culture—and we rarely question it.
• Aging Is Not the Enemy – Getting older isn’t a failure or a disease. It’s a natural, lifelong process that brings growth, perspective, and power.
• Fear of Aging Is a Social Construct – We’ve been sold a story that aging means decline, loneliness, and irrelevance—but the data and real-life experiences tell a different story.
• Intergenerational Power Is Real – Connecting across age groups strengthens movements, communities, and ideas. Age diversity is an asset, not a liability.
• Discomfort = Growth – Confronting your own internalized ageism may be uncomfortable, but it’s the first step toward liberation—for yourself and others.
• Joy Doesn’t Expire – Life doesn’t end at 40, 60, or 80. It evolves—and there is beauty, romance, sex, purpose, and power at every age.

Ready for more stories on resilience, healing, and identity?

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Ashton Applewhite:

Instagram | Website | This Chair Rocks

TURTZED: beacons.ai/turtzed

Charles Turtz: beacons.ai/turtzc

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Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast represents the views and opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. This content is intended for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific health needs. Read our full disclaimer.

00:00:00 - Defining Ageism and Why It Affects Everyone

00:05:02 - The Truth About Aging and Happiness Curve

00:07:04 - Writing *This Chair Rocks* and Challenging Fear

00:10:25 - Regret, Fear, and Living Without Limits

00:13:17 - Breaking Chrono Normativity and Life Timelines

00:15:21 - Rethinking Retirement and Work at Any Age

00:19:49 - Lessons from Older and Younger Generations

00:24:29 - Stripping Away Labels: Olders, Youngers & Identity

00:27:00 - Therapy, Healing, and the Myth of Generational Divide

00:33:23 - How Do You Want to Be Remembered? Finding Purpose

00:35:32 - Act Like an Ancestor: Legacy and Community

00:41:06 - The Truth About Aging, Sex, and Breaking Stereotypes

00:45:13 - Building Happiness Through Community Across Generations

00:50:00 - Final Lessons on Aging, Resilience & Living Fully

00:52:02 - The Power of Getting Older