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Audiobooks: A Guide to Digital Listening

Trivia: What candy was famously used in a scene to lure E.T. in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial?

Rise and shine, RetireHub community! ☀️ Your Wednesday newsletter is here!

Today we’re sharing fun tips on Audiobooks: A Guide to Digital Listening—from finding great narrators to enjoying your favorite stories hands-free, along with the best deals, fun trivia, and more!

 

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On this day in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to pedestrian traffic in San Francisco, with vehicle crossings beginning the following day

 

Dear Joanne

Your questions, her wisdom — Joanne’s here with thoughtful advice, warm humor, and a listening ear for whatever’s on your mind.

Joanne

Dear Readers,

This week’s column is a letter from me to YOU! As you read this column, it marks the one-year anniversary of “Dear Joanne” being published in RetireHub.Org.

First, I would like to thank the publishers of RetireHub for giving me the opportunity to write for you, answering your questions and sharing my stories.

Secondly, I would like to thank my family. My sons have unknowingly (and probably unwillingly) put their lives out there, open for the public to read about, their good times and their bad times, their funny days and heartbreaking moments, their private days and even more private conversations. I would also like to thank my husband – who never complains that he is sometimes the target of my sarcasm, although I do get an eye roll every so often.

It was one year ago, on Memorial Day, over hot dogs and hamburgers, that I announced to my family that I have been given the honor of writing a weekly column. My sons erupted in congratulatory hugs and kisses. As I filled everyone in with the details, I noticed my daughter-in-law very quiet at the end of the table, looking around. When the joyous celebration calmed down, my daughter-in-law quietly said: “You know this means she is going to write about us, right?” All of my sons in unison said “no she won’t” … Boy, was she right. But I must admit, she is one of my biggest fans. She even has contributed by calling me on some occasions by saying “Guess what YOUR SON did today?”, hence knowingly providing me with material.

And last but certainly not least, I would like to thank all of my readers, fans, email pen pals and my newfound friends, YOU. You have no idea how much each and every one of you have touched my heart in some way. Every email I get brings me joy. I say that with all sincerity and with a tear in my eye.

The number one question asked of me in the hundreds of emails I receive is “When are you going to write a book?” Well, folks… stay tuned. You won’t be disappointed!

I am on vacation this week with my husband, hoping to find warm and dry weather. Two days into vacation, it is colder and wetter than it is at home, but I am hoping for a miracle. If there are any weathermen out there, help me out please!

If you have time this week, think back and let me know which column was your favorite over the last year. Or email me with a topic you would like me to cover. Either way, I would love to hear from you this week. As always, send your thoughts and comments to [email protected].

Once again, I would like to thank EVERYONE for bringing me into your home every Wednesday morning for the last year. I truly feel like we are family, just miles apart and an email away.

With all my love,

Joanne

 

Audiobooks: A Guide to Digital Listening
How to Embrace Stories and Learning, Hands-Free!

There’s something timeless about being read to—and thanks to audiobooks, that joy is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re looking to revisit literary classics, catch up on a juicy memoir, or dive into the latest mystery, audiobooks are a fun, convenient way to stay engaged and entertained—no reading glasses required!

Why Choose Audiobooks?
Audiobooks are perfect companions for multitaskers. You can listen while gardening, walking, doing the dishes, or relaxing in your favorite chair. For many seniors, they offer a welcome break from screens and small print, allowing for longer “reading” sessions without eye strain. Audiobooks also bring stories to life with professional narration—some even feature full casts, music, and sound effects for a cinematic listening experience.

Where to Find Them
There are plenty of ways to get started. Services like Audible, Spotify, Libro.fm, and Scribd offer subscription-based access to vast libraries. Prefer something free? Many public libraries partner with apps like Libby and Hoopla, allowing you to borrow audiobooks right to your phone, tablet, or e-reader. All you need is a library card!

How to Listen
You can listen to audiobooks using a smartphone, tablet, computer, or smart speaker. Most apps let you adjust playback speed, set a sleep timer, or bookmark favorite moments. Bluetooth headphones or a portable speaker can make listening even easier—and help you move around freely as you enjoy your book.

Genres for Every Mood
From cozy mysteries and historical fiction to self-help, spirituality, or celebrity memoirs, there’s an audiobook for every taste. Looking for a laugh? Try a title narrated by the author themselves—comedians and actors often add delightful personality to their performances. Want to learn something new? Nonfiction audiobooks can turn your daily walk into an enlightening seminar.

Tips for New Listeners

  • Start with shorter books or novellas if you're new to audio.

  • Experiment with different narrators—some voices will click more than others.

  • Use bookmarks or notes to remember favorite quotes or passages.

  • Listen while doing simple tasks to stay focused and immersed.

Whether you’re rediscovering old favorites or exploring new genres, audiobooks open the door to a whole world of stories—no bookshelf required. 🎧 Happy listening!

📚 How Do You Enjoy Your Audiobooks Most? 🎧

Yesterday’s Poll Results: What’s your favorite way to stay financially organized?

The results are in—and it looks like many of you prefer to keep things running smoothly by automating your bill payments. A solid number also rely on tried-and-true paper filing systems, while others are still exploring what works best. Whether you're a fan of apps, monthly money check-ins, or just learning as you go, it's clear there's no single right way to stay organized—just what works best for you.

TOP COMMENTS

  • “Being on SS and receiving my payment on different dates, I use Excel and created a budget spreadsheet years ago. It works great for me. It takes about 5 minutes to pay my bills and update the budget. I use it for everything, groceries, insurances. Every category is there, just fill in the blanks.”

  • “Setting a monthly money review date allows my husband and me to insure that we are on track with our budget.”

  • “I use many of these. I have set up my own budget on Numbers. This way I have it on my Mac Book & my phone, so when I make a purchase I can record it right away to make sure I can afford it.”

Secondhand Soul: How Thrifting Became a Mindful Practice

For some, thrifting is just about finding a bargain, but for others, it’s a mindful, almost spiritual experience. Each item carries a story, and giving a vintage purse or a neglected plant a second chance becomes a way to honor the past and nurture new life. It’s a creative adventure that encourages exploring new styles and seeing beauty in unexpected places. More than shopping, thrifting can be a gentle reminder that value often lies beneath the surface—waiting to be rediscovered. Next time you walk past a thrift store, consider stepping in—you might find more than just a great deal.

READ MORE

 

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Slang Phrase of the Day

Phrase: Slay

Meaning: Doing something extremely well.

In a sentence: “Whether you’re rocking your Sunday best or just comfy cozy at home, remember to slay every day with confidence and a smile!”

 

Good News of the Day

Guinea Worm Disease Reaches All-Time Low: Only 10 Human Cases Reported in 2025

Only 10 human cases of Guinea worm were reported worldwide in 2025, the lowest number ever recorded, bringing the ancient disease closer than ever to eradication. Poised to be only the second human disease eradicated after smallpox, the 10 Guinea worm cases mark a 33% decline from the 15 cases reported in 2024. Shared in […]

READ MORE

 

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RetireHub Trivia

Want more trivia? Play our “Nostalgia Trivia Game” on our site! We add fresh questions daily, so there’s always something new to test your knowledge.

Not into trivia? No worries! We’ve got plenty of other fun games to enjoy, like:

What candy was famously used in a scene to lure E.T. in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial?

What animal is the only one that can’t jump?

What is the name of the Beatles’ first studio album?

A QUICK ASK: First off, thank you for reading RetireHub every day. It fills our cup that so many thousands of people get joy from our little publication.

As you know, good content costs money. In order to continue supporting ourselves and to continue delivering the content you enjoy every day, we need to pay our writers. If you can, we ask you to subscribe to our paid account (for $5/month - less than a cup of coffee!) below.

If you choose to purchase a paid subscription, please know you’re supporting not only our publication, but tens of thousands of other 50+ year old Americans that get joy, entertainment, financial tips, and more from RetireHub every single day.

If you don’t join the paid plan (or can’t), no worries at all. We know times are tough. Thank you for being a part of our tiny, joyful part of the Internet.

- Jay

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