90 Years of Wisdom: A Chat with My Grandpa on His 90th Birthday
This episode of Talk Your Abs Off is one of the most special conversations I’ve ever recorded.
I’m sitting down with my grandpa as he celebrates his 90th birthday to talk about life, longevity, and what it really takes to stay active, strong, and independent as we age. At nearly 90 years old, he still lives on his own, maintains a large home on 10 acres, chops wood, gardens, lifts weights, walks regularly, and continues to move through life with intention.
In this conversation, we reflect on his upbringing on a farm in South Dakota, his time serving in the U.S. Army, and the early adulthood experiences that shaped his lifelong relationship with movement. We talk about how decades of physical work, including time spent as a mechanic, helped build a strong foundation, and how staying active never stopped being a priority as life changed.
We also discuss what aging well truly looks like — not extreme workouts or chasing fitness trends, but consistency, maintaining muscle, fueling the body with enough protein, and continuing to move in ways that feel realistic and sustainable. My grandpa shares why walking is such an important place to start, why strength training matters at every age, and how even light weights done regularly can make a meaningful difference.
This episode touches on navigating setbacks without giving up, including managing aches and injuries while continuing to stay active. We also talk about the role of mindset, routine, and community, and why it’s never too late to start moving — whether you’re in your 30s thinking ahead or later in life wondering if beginning is still worth it.
This conversation is deeply personal for me. My grandparents have been my biggest cheerleaders throughout my life, and now I’m grateful to support my grandpa in this season. His approach to movement, food, and consistency has influenced how I coach and how I think about longevity, and I hope his story inspires you to prioritize strength, independence, and quality of life for years to come.
Happy 90th birthday, Grandpa!
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The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or nutrition program. The opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast or its sponsors. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience any health issues or have any concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.
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