Growing Old at the Speed of Dark

Allen Woffard

Welcome to the slow-motion demolition derby we call aging. Growing Old at the Speed of Dark serves up gallows humor, aging comedy, midlife survival tips, and brutally honest takes on the aches, quirks, and absurdities of getting older. If the reaper’s coming, we might as well make him work for it.

Episodes

  1. 08/11/2025

    E4: Beating Burnout and Brain Fog with L-Theanine, Coffee Hacks, and Honest Aging Advice

    Welcome back to "Growing old at the Speed of Dark," where host Allen Woffard takes us on a candid journey through the ups, downs, and sometimes hilarious realities of aging. In this episode, Allen gets personal about the show’s origins and the long-awaited launch of his new books—crafted with a little help from technology and a lot of firsthand wisdom. Today’s spotlight is on L-Theanine, the calming amino acid that may just be your brain’s best friend when anxiety, racing thoughts, and caffeine jitters strike. Allen dives into what L-Theanine is, how it works in the body, and why it’s become such a beloved supplement for those who crave focus without the frazzle. Blending honest stories, practical advice, and a fair bit of irreverent humor, he tackles not only supplements, but also the bigger picture—how we can age smarter, take better care of ourselves, and keep conversations about health open and real. So settle in, get ready for a laugh, and maybe learn a thing or two to add to your own growing-old toolkit. This is an episode for anyone whose to-do list is longer than their patience—and who just wants a few more good days in the years ahead. 00:00 "Growing Old: Podcast and Book Journey" 03:34 "Calm Your Mind with L-Theanine" 08:19 Taurine: Energy Drinks vs. Supplements 10:03 Environmental Factors and Women's Health 16:28 Prescription Safety with AI Apps 18:15 Health Conversations from 'T**s to Toes' 21:10 Cinnamon, Health, and Nurse Importance 23:45 "Farewell Blessing"

    25 min
  2. E3: Recalculating… Memory Not Found

    03/15/2025

    E3: Recalculating… Memory Not Found

    Hey listeners, welcome to Growing Old at the Speedof Dark, where today we're diving deep into the quirks of memory and personal decision-making. Remember those childhood jingles stuck in your head? Your brain only holds so much, and we often keep the trivial and forget the critical. Join me as I explore how influences from the past, like old military friends and their stance on vaccines, shape our choices today. Let’s laugh at memory lapses, challenge our minds with games, and talk supplements for a brainboost. Hit subscribe if you're ready to grow old atthe Speed of Dark with some humor and insight. See you there! Timeline: 00:00 Military Friends Reflect onVaccinations 06:10 "Hippocampus and Amygdala's MemoryRoles" 07:30 Memory: Skills, Habits, andForgetfulness 11:35 Games and Nutrition for Sharp Minds 14:40 Brain Boosting Supplements Guide 18:47 "Embrace Mistakes, UseTechnology" 19:59 "Embracing Aging and MemoryLapses" Keywords: Veterans, chat group, vaccinations, flu shot, DesertShield, personal experience, brain fog, memory, hippocampus, hippocampus role, emotionalmemories, motor skills, procedural memory, basal ganglia, cerebellum, dietarysupplements, Ginkgo biloba, omega threes, insulin resistance, type threediabetes, Alzheimer's, memory issues, turmeric, statins, lifestyle, humor, technicaltools, positive mindset, Monday blues, laughter, technology, and memory

    26 min
  3. E2: Aging Alone, But Not Lonely

    03/06/2025

    E2: Aging Alone, But Not Lonely

    Welcome to the second episode of "Diary of a Bald Man," where your host, Allen Woffard, delves into the intricacies of aging alone without succumbing to loneliness. In today's episode titled "Aging Alone, but Not Lonely," we explore the powerful idea that growing older doesn't mean fading away. Instead, it's an opportunity to step out of the shadows with wisdom and boldness. Drawing inspiration from Maya Angelou's words, Allen dives into the heart of the matter—loneliness—while reminding us that staying connected is more attainable than ever. Whether it's through joining local clubs, embracing digital companionship, volunteering, or even utilizing technology for connection, Allen offers invaluable insights and tips for combating solitude. Tune in to discover practical ways to enrich your social life and embrace the joy of connection as you age. It's time to redefine what it means to grow old and ensure you never walk the journey alone. Time Stamp: 00:00 Fighting Loneliness in Aging 05:08 Renewing PTA Engagement Post-Pandemic 07:31 Bridging Generational Tech Communication Gap 12:52 Reviving Traditional Skills Online 13:53 Tech's Surprising Healthcare Advances 18:59 Break Loneliness: Make the First Move 21:35 "Laugh, Connect, and Stay Sharp" Keywords: Podcast, Allen Woffard, growing older, aging, loneliness, connection, technology, AI, digital pets, social media, volunteering, communication, assisted living, senior centers, mental health, family connections, social interaction, money-saving tips, reusable coffee cups, virtual meetups, artificial intelligence, smart speakers, telehealth, friendship, community engagement, digital companionship, virtual chatbots, digital communication, empathy, online groups, support systems.

    25 min
  4. E1: Beginning The Journey of Aging

    03/02/2025

    E1: Beginning The Journey of Aging

    Allen Woffard, brings forth a unique spin-off, "Growing Old at theSpeed of Dark.", from his original show, “Diary of a Bald Man.” In this episode, Allen explains the motivation behind this new venture, inspired by heartfelt discussions with fellow seasoned gentlemen at the University of Tennessee Vascular Surgical Hospital. Together, they explore a range of topics, from the misleading narratives surrounding age-based health advisories to the vital importance of lifestyle choices over mere numbers. Allen takes us on a reflective journey, comparing the analog life planning of the past with today’s digital age and emphasizing the importance of intentional living. From health tips grounded in personal experience to the wisdom drawn from years of navigating life’s twists, this episode promises to share invaluable insights to guide us all towards a more intentional, healthier, and informed way of living. Join us in this first of many introspective conversations aimed at slowing down life's pace and savoring each moment thoughtfully.

    26 min
  • 4 Episodes

About

Welcome to the slow-motion demolition derby we call aging. Growing Old at the Speed of Dark serves up gallows humor, aging comedy, midlife survival tips, and brutally honest takes on the aches, quirks, and absurdities of getting older. If the reaper’s coming, we might as well make him work for it.

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