Optimal Aging

Jay Croft

Are you a gym owner, personal trainer, or wellness professional looking to grow your business by attracting more clients over 50? Welcome to The Optimal Aging Podcast — your go-to resource for marketing, messaging, and member retention strategies tailored to the powerful 50+ demographic. Hosted by Jay Croft, founder of Prime Fit Content and longtime fitness writer, this podcast delivers real-world tips, expert interviews, and smart content strategies to help you: Stand out in a crowded fitness marketConnect with older clients who value qualityBuild trust through storytelling and clarityKeep members engaged and coming back Whether you're launching a new studio or want to grow a thriving community of active agers, you'll find practical, proven advice here — every week. 💡 Topics include: • Fitness marketing for adults 50+• Email, video, and blog content that actually works• Branding, storytelling, and building trust• Retention strategies for gyms and training studios• Trends in wellness, longevity, and brain health Subscribe now and learn how to build a better fitness business — by helping people age well and live better. Visit: https://primefitcontent.com

  1. Training, Marketing, and Aging Well: Lessons from Veteran Coach Andrew Coates

    1 DAY AGO

    Training, Marketing, and Aging Well: Lessons from Veteran Coach Andrew Coates

    In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft sits down with veteran strength coach and fitness industry educator Andrew Coates for a wide-ranging conversation about aging, strength training, and building a sustainable fitness business. Andrew shares practical insights on training adults over 50, why community and human connection matter more than ever, and how gym owners can grow without burning out or chasing online fame. From bone health and fall prevention to marketing through relationships and word-of-mouth, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom for coaches, trainers, and anyone who wants to age well and stay strong. Whether you’re a fitness professional serving older adults or someone navigating midlife yourself, this is an honest, thoughtful conversation you won’t want to miss. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Social media connections vs real relationships 02:00 – Why reaching out still matters 03:00 – Outsourcing, energy management, and aging 05:00 – Productivity guilt and reclaiming downtime 07:00 – Training adults 50+ and market opportunity 09:00 – Word-of-mouth growth and client experience 11:00 – Community, culture, and human connection 13:00 – Strength training, bone health, and aging 15:00 – Speed, power, balance, and fall prevention 18:00 – Sponsor: Prime Fit Content 19:00 – Marketing without burnout 21:00 – Lessons from RP Strength and media 23:00 – Why local gyms shouldn’t chase online fame 25:00 – Becoming “Five-Mile Famous” 27:00 – Using a local podcast to grow a gym 29:00 – Why people crave real connection again 31:00 – Aging, mindset, and identity 34:00 – Longevity lessons from active older adults 36:00 – What won’t change in fitness and business 38:00 – Where to find Andrew Coates 👤 Guest Information Andrew Coates Andrew Coates is a veteran strength coach, writer, speaker, and host of the Lift Free and Diet Hard Podcast. With decades of experience training clients of all ages, Andrew is known for his practical, evidence-based approach to strength, longevity, and coaching older adults. Connect with Andrew: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewcoatesfitness Podcast: Lift Free and Diet Hard🎧 Sponsor Prime Fit Content Prime Fit Content helps fitness professionals attract, educate, and retain clients over 50 through simple, effective content marketing. 🔗 Learn more: https://primefitcontent.com 🎤 Host Jay Croft Jay Croft is the host of The Optimal Aging Podcast and founder of Prime Fit Content. His mission is to help fitness professionals better serve adults over 50 while promoting strength, independence, and healthy aging. 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 👍 Calls to Action Subscribe to The Optimal Aging PodcastShare this episode with a coach or gym owner who works with adults 50+Visit https://primefitcontent.com to learn more

    40 min
  2. Rethinking Fitness for 50+: Non-Linear Thinking, Systems & Stability with Chris Liddle

    18 DEC

    Rethinking Fitness for 50+: Non-Linear Thinking, Systems & Stability with Chris Liddle

    In this solo episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, guest host Chris Liddle takes the mic to explore why the traditional, linear ways of thinking don't serve aging clients or the fitness professionals who work with them. Drawing from his experience coaching adults 50+ both online and in-person, Chris dives deep into non-linear thinking, systems design, and holistic strategies that foster client trust, retention, and business sustainability. You'll learn why older clients aren't less motivated—they're simply less tolerant of friction. Chris shares actionable strategies for fitness professionals to better serve this powerful demographic by rethinking how they show up, structure sessions, and design long-term career stability. He also explains why Jay Croft's book Selling Longevity is essential reading for your 2026 business plan. If you serve people over 50 or want to build a resilient fitness business, this episode is packed with insights you can put to work right away. Guest Host: Chris Liddle Instagram: @christianliddle Mentioned Book: Selling Longevity by Jay Croft – https://a.co/d/iumKfjT Episode Topics & Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction by Chris Liddle  01:00 – Why linear thinking fails with aging, fitness, and business  03:00 – What is non-linear thinking? And why it matters after 40  04:00 – Systems thinking: Creating calm, consistent client experiences  05:30 – Case study: The impact of trainer punctuality  06:30 – Nervous system regulation and gym environments  07:30 – Why older clients quietly leave broken systems  08:00 – Another example: Listening to client feedback and adapting programs  09:00 – Holistic thinking: Seeing beyond just the workout  10:00 – Why older clients care about gym cleanliness, systems, and trust  11:00 – Linear vs. lateral income thinking in fitness careers  12:00 – What’s a media kit? How trainers can stabilize income  13:00 – Ethical brand partnerships and user-generated content  14:00 – Enhancing income stability with strategic collaborations  15:00 – Time to reflect: Audit your systems, time, adaptability, and fragility  17:00 – Why Jay Croft’s book Selling Longevity is a must-read 18:00 – The power of clarity, messaging, and Prime Fit Content 20:00 – Using guest experts like dietitians to build trust and results 21:00 – Nutrition’s role in holistic client transformation 22:00 – Divergent thinking and designing calm, reliable systems 23:00 – Final thoughts: Which system, if improved, would make the biggest impact? Resources Mentioned: Selling Longevity by Jay Croft – https://a.co/d/iumKfjT Prime Fit Content – https://primefitcontent.com 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Helping fitness professionals grow businesses by reaching people over 50. 🌐 Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📧 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: @primefitcontent 👍 Enjoying the show?  Rate us on Apple PodcastsShare this episode with a friend#OptimalAging #ChrisLiddle #FitnessOver50

    23 min

  3. 11 DEC

    6 Common Pitfalls Gym Owners Face (and How to Avoid Them)

    As the year winds down and business stress kicks up, it's easy for gym owners and fitness professionals to fall into familiar traps. In this solo episode, Jay Croft of Prime Fit Content breaks down six common pitfalls he sees gym owners make—especially when trying to grow with more clients over 50. From cutting communication when money’s tight to relying too heavily on social media, Jay offers actionable advice rooted in real-world conversations and personal experience. If you’re trying to reach and retain older clients, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you stay the course and grow smarter—not just harder. What You’ll Learn: Why cutting marketing during slow months is a major mistakeHow often you should email your list (and why two emails a week is just right)The role of consistent storytelling—including from outside your gymWhy social media is not your best marketing assetWhat over-promoting discounts can really cost youWhy AI can’t replace authentic, human communicationTimestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Why pitfalls creep in during stressful times 01:45 – Pitfall #1: Cutting communication when money's tight 04:00 – Pitfall #2: Thinking two emails a week is too much 06:30 – Pitfall #3: Avoiding stories from outside your business 08:45 – Pitfall #4: Relying mainly on social media 10:20 – Pitfall #5: Overloading emails with promotions 12:30 – Pitfall #6: Believing AI can replace human connection 15:15 – Recap of all 6 pitfalls 16:00 – Final thoughts and encouragement 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay is the founder of Prime Fit Content, the only content marketing service specifically built to help fitness professionals grow their businesses by serving people over 50. 🌐 Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Email: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay 👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts  📥 Join our newsletter – https://primefitcontent.com 📱 Follow us on Instagram – @primefitcontent Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow fitness pro who serves clients over 50!

    16 min
  4. Fitness as a Gift: Holiday Promotions to Attract New Clients

    4 DEC

    Fitness as a Gift: Holiday Promotions to Attract New Clients

    In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft shares simple yet powerful holiday marketing ideas for gym owners and fitness professionals who serve clients over 50. From creative gift cards to recovery kits, Jay outlines 10 fitness-themed gift ideas that are easy to launch and designed to grow your business during the holiday season. You’ll also hear how cross-promotion with local businesses can amplify your reach, and how to connect with GLP-1 users who’ve lost weight but aren’t yet exercising. Whether you're looking for quick wins or long-term client growth, this episode is full of practical strategies to make fitness a meaningful gift this season — not just a transaction. 🎁 Episode Topics Holiday Fitness Gift Ideas Jay’s top 10 gift ideas like “Give One Get One,” partner sessions, starter packs, and more.Tips for creating low-barrier entry points for newcomers.Cross-Promote with Local Businesses How to collaborate with salons, cafes, bookstores, and wellness providers.Turn single visits into community-building events.Reaching GLP-1 Users Understand the needs of clients on weight loss meds.How to position your services as the “next step” in their health journey.🕒 Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Fitness as a holiday gift  01:00 – Why shared experiences are powerful gifts  02:00 – Jay's 10 fitness gift ideas  06:30 – Partnering with local businesses  08:50 – Reaching GLP-1 users with inclusive messaging  11:50 – Turning guests into long-term clients  13:00 – Jay’s book + how to connect 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps gyms grow with targeted marketing through Prime Fit Content. He’s also the author of Selling Longevity, available on Amazon or his website. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Email: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: @primefitcontent 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay 👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts  📥 Join our newsletter: https://primefitcontent.com 📘 Buy the book Selling Longevity on Amazon or at https://primefitcontent.com 💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us using #OptimalAgingPodcast.

    14 min
  5. Capture Better Photos for Your Gym Events, with Jenni Girtman

    27 NOV

    Capture Better Photos for Your Gym Events, with Jenni Girtman

    In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft is joined by veteran photojournalist Jenni Girtman, who shares practical, low-tech strategies for taking better photos at gym events. If you're running a fitness business and working with clients over 50, you know how powerful visuals can be — but most gyms miss the mark. Jenni breaks down how to prep for events, what to shoot, and how to edit photos so they tell a story and elevate your brand. Even if all you have is a smartphone, her tips can help you create compelling images that attract and retain more clients. From creating a shot list to simple editing tricks, this conversation is packed with actionable tips anyone can use — whether you're shooting a gym anniversary party or a 5K event. 👤 Guest Name: Jenni Girtman Bio: Jenni Girtman is a professional photographer with decades of experience, including photojournalism at major newspapers and corporate event coverage. She runs two Atlanta-based photography businesses — Atlanta Event Photography and Life on Film Photography — specializing in everything from Fortune 500 events to bar and bat mitzvahs. Links: Website: https://atlantaeventphotography.com Life on Film Photography: https://lifeonfilmphotography.com 🎯 Episode Outline Planning Photos That Help Your Business Why visuals matter for fitness marketingWhy most gyms fall short with event photographyPre-Event Strategy: Assign, Plan, Scout Assigning a photographerBuilding a basic shot listUnderstanding your venue and lightHow to Shoot Like a Pro (Without Being One) Three pillars: fill the frame, clean background, strong subjectBeginning-middle-end storytellingTips for better smartphone settingsEditing and Posting for Impact Simple edits you can do on your phoneCropping and filters to enhance usabilityMatching photo format to platform (IG, FB, website)Bonus: Jenni's Live Photo Review Real-time examples of good and bad shotsWhat to fix and how to fix it⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Why photos are crucial for gym marketing  01:15 – Meet Jenni Girtman  04:50 – Common photo fails at gym events  06:45 – How to prep: assign, list, scout  09:45 – Capturing beginning, middle, and end of events  13:20 – 3 keys to better composition  20:10 – Smartphone camera settings for quality  28:00 – Easy editing tips for non-photographers  30:00 – Live photo examples from Jenni’s work  36:45 – Connect with Jenni online 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Helping fitness professionals grow with content that connects to the over-50 market. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Calls to Action: 📘 Book a free strategy call: https://primefitcontent.com/contact 📱 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 💡 Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow fitness pro or tag us on socials using #OptimalAgingPodcast

    39 min
  6. 7 Holiday Fitness Messaging Strategies That Actually Work for Clients Over 50

    20 NOV

    7 Holiday Fitness Messaging Strategies That Actually Work for Clients Over 50

    This holiday season, ditch the tired “burn off the pie” message. In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft shares seven high-impact messaging strategies for gym owners, trainers, and health coaches who serve the 50+ population. You’ll learn how to communicate with compassion—not guilt—while keeping your clients engaged and consistent through the holidays. From practical travel workout tips to mindful eating reminders and ways to foster deeper community, this episode is a complete framework for turning holiday chaos into authentic connection and retention. What You'll Learn: How to replace fear-based fitness messaging with hope and encouragementWhy older adults ignore shame-based calls to actionReal-world tactics to keep clients active during travelHow to highlight community and member wins to build your brandTimestamps: 00:00 – The holiday fitness guilt trip: why it doesn’t work01:00 – People over 50 want support, not shame02:00 – Reflection, connection & gratitude as holiday fitness themes03:00 – Strategy 1: Reframe messaging with positive reinforcement04:00 – Using gratitude and consistency as motivators05:00 – Strategy 2: Promote meaningful self-care (not spa fluff)06:00 – Strategy 3: Smart travel fitness tips for staying active08:00 – Gear to pack + travel-friendly routines09:00 – Strategy 4: Mindful eating without restriction10:00 – Nutrition swaps, healthy recipes & realistic advice11:00 – Strategy 5: Stay visible with social + event content12:00 – Showcase member fun to boost retention and reach13:00 – Strategy 6: Holiday gift ideas + pre-sales that convert14:00 – Promote habits, not resolutions15:00 – Strategy 7: Build connection to build your business16:00 – Final thoughts + where to get more support🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness professionals grow their business by communicating effectively with the 50+ demographic. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 📘 Book: Selling Longevity on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Selling-Longevity-Over-50-Transform-Business/dp/B0FHF6W8FL 📱 Instagram: @primefitcontent 🔗 LinkedIn: Jay Croft 🎧 Related Resources: Prime Fit Content for Fit Pros → https://primefitcontent.com Travel Workouts PDF – Email Jay to request: jay@primefitcontent.com 👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts 📬 Join the community newsletter → https://primefitcontent.com Love this episode? Share it with your team or tag us on social with #OptimalAgingPodcast.

    16 min
  7. GLP-1s Aren’t Cheating: Why Fitness Needs a Mindset Shift | Dave Appel, KORB Health Group

    13 NOV

    GLP-1s Aren’t Cheating: Why Fitness Needs a Mindset Shift | Dave Appel, KORB Health Group

    In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft talks with Dave Appel, Chief Health and Fitness Officer of KORB Health Group. KORB’s mission is to bridge the gap between medicine, wellness, and fitness, creating a more integrated and accessible approach to health—especially for people over 50. They dive deep into the controversy around GLP-1s like Ozempic and Wegovy. Rather than viewing them as shortcuts or “cheating,” Dave urges fitness professionals to see these tools as gateways for deconditioned people to finally walk into the gym. This is a forward-thinking episode for anyone in fitness who wants to grow their reach and impact. Guest Name: Dave Appel Bio: Dave Appel is Chief Health and Fitness Officer of KORB Health Group, where he leads the integration of GLP-1s, hormone therapy, and telehealth solutions into fitness environments. A former PE teacher and gym owner, Dave has decades of experience building programs that meet people where they are and help them transform their lives. Links: Website: https://korbhealth.comTopics Covered GLP-1s Are Tools, Not Cheating Why the fitness industry needs to stop judging people using medical help to get started.Dave’s Journey into Integrated Health From PE teacher to CrossFit owner to health-tech innovator.KORB’s Mission and Model How KORB is bridging medicine, wellness, and fitness in gyms nationwide.The Business Case for Gym Owners Why GLP-1s can grow your membership and your bottom line.Serving the Over-50 Population Making fitness more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable through tech and telehealth.🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by reaching more people over 50 through Prime Fit Content. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts   📥 Join our email list – https://primefitcontent.com 📢 Share this episode with a fitness pro who needs to hear it!

    43 min
  8. From Alaska to The Golden Bachelor: Diane Firmani on Living Boldly at 71

    6 NOV

    From Alaska to The Golden Bachelor: Diane Firmani on Living Boldly at 71

    In this inspiring episode, Jay Croft talks with Diane Firmani — a 71-year-old triathlete, women’s hockey player, and standout on the latest season of The Golden Bachelor. Diane shares what led her from snowy Wasilla, Alaska, to a national TV spotlight, and how she uses fitness, community, and a bold spirit to redefine aging. You’ll learn why movement matters, how friendships support longevity, and what The Golden Bachelor gets right about older adults. Diane also opens up about her training routines, motivation after loss, and why looking good is still a valid goal. 🏒 Guest: Diane Firmani Bio: Diane Firmani is a 71-year-old athlete and Alaskan native who competes in triathlons, plays women’s hockey, and recently appeared on The Golden Bachelor. She embodies what it means to age boldly and actively. 🔹 Episode Outline Sign Up and Show Up Diane's motto for life and staying active in Alaska’s cold, dark wintersBehind the Scenes of The Golden Bachelor Why she auditioned, how she got picked, and what filming was really likeFitness, Friendship, and Motivation The role of like-minded women in keeping each other accountable and movingCompeting in Hawaii How she trains for triathlons year-round despite harsh weather20 Years of Women’s Hockey Organizing the annual Sea Cup tournament and staying competitive at 70+Representing Alaska on National TV How her appearance resonated with audiences — and what she told the Bachelor himself!📚 Resources Mentioned: Prime Fit Content: https://primefitcontent.com 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness professionals reach the over-50 market with content that connects and converts. Learn more at https://primefitcontent.com 📱 Follow Jay: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay 📥 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts   📬 Join the email list – https://primefitcontent.com Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on socials using #OptimalAging.

    44 min
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About

Are you a gym owner, personal trainer, or wellness professional looking to grow your business by attracting more clients over 50? Welcome to The Optimal Aging Podcast — your go-to resource for marketing, messaging, and member retention strategies tailored to the powerful 50+ demographic. Hosted by Jay Croft, founder of Prime Fit Content and longtime fitness writer, this podcast delivers real-world tips, expert interviews, and smart content strategies to help you: Stand out in a crowded fitness marketConnect with older clients who value qualityBuild trust through storytelling and clarityKeep members engaged and coming back Whether you're launching a new studio or want to grow a thriving community of active agers, you'll find practical, proven advice here — every week. 💡 Topics include: • Fitness marketing for adults 50+• Email, video, and blog content that actually works• Branding, storytelling, and building trust• Retention strategies for gyms and training studios• Trends in wellness, longevity, and brain health Subscribe now and learn how to build a better fitness business — by helping people age well and live better. Visit: https://primefitcontent.com

Information

  • Creator
    Jay Croft
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    187
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Optimal Aging
  • Show Website
    Optimal Aging