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. How Row House Found Its Over-40 Marketing Niche, with Noel Miller

    HACE 3 DÍAS

    How Row House Found Its Over-40 Marketing Niche, with Noel Miller

    What happens when a national fitness brand realizes its best members are over 40? For Row House, it sparked a powerful new direction—and a brand refresh rooted in vitality, community, and smart training. In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft chats with Noel Miller, Row House's Manager of Training and a 30-year fitness pro. Noel shares how the indoor rowing franchise took a close look at its data, saw who was showing up, and leaned all the way into a smart, low-impact, high-intensity training model that's ideal for midlife adults. This is more than a business case study—it's a roadmap for fitness professionals who want to grow by speaking directly to people over 40 in ways that are authentic, inclusive, and deeply motivating. 👤 Guest: Noel Miller Bio: Noel Miller is a longtime group fitness instructor and coach who now serves as the Manager of Training at Row House, a growing boutique fitness brand with more than 40 studios across the U.S. His passion for community, music-driven workouts, and lifelong vitality fuels his mission to make fitness accessible—and exciting—for people at every stage of life. Links: Row House: https://www.therowhouse.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/noelmilleratl/🧭 Episode Highlights 00:00 – Vitality at any age Noel and Jay discuss redefining fitness as you age, and what it really means to feel “vital.” 02:00 – Meet Noel A 30-year industry veteran, Noel shares his journey from aerobics classes in college to national leadership at Row House. 05:00 – From pandemic pivot to passion How a job search in 2021 led Noel to Row House and eventually into a leadership role. 06:30 – The breakthrough research Row House hired an agency to evaluate its brand, audience, and growth strategy — and found their core customer was over 40. 08:00 – Rowing as a longevity tool Why rowing is ideal for people with joint issues, recovering from injuries, or wanting sustainable fitness. 10:00 – The full-body workout myth Jay shares his surprise at how demanding rowing really is, and Noel explains why it works 85% of your muscles. 13:00 – Creating a campaign How Row House launched a marketing refresh rooted in real testimonials, vitality, and inclusivity. 17:00 – HILIT: High-Intensity, Low-Impact Training Why this training style is gaining ground and is ideal for midlife adults. 21:00 – From vanity to vitality Jay and Noel reflect on shifting motivations for exercise, from looks to lifestyle. 25:00 – Social proof matters Why Row House’s marketing now features real clients over 40 — and what other businesses can learn from it. 30:00 – The path forward How Row House plans to keep growing with authenticity and purpose. 📚 Resources Mentioned Row House: https://www.therowhouse.com🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by serving the over-50 market with clarity, confidence, and proven messaging. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Follow Jay: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjayLoved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on social using #OptimalAgingPodcast.

    33 min
  2. What I’m Learning About Consistency—Even When I Fall Short

    9 OCT

    What I’m Learning About Consistency—Even When I Fall Short

    In this solo episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft opens up about the powerful, often misunderstood topic of consistency—and why it matters more than intensity in fitness, business, and life. Jay shares how showing up steadily over time—through writing, podcasting, and growing his business—has led to meaningful progress. But he also gets candid about where he’s falling short, particularly in emailing his prospects. If you're a gym owner or coach feeling stuck or impatient, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: Slow growth is not no growth. You’ll learn: Why consistency beats intensity in fitness and marketingHow Prime Fit Content is growing through steady effortWhere even seasoned pros struggle with follow-throughTactics for getting back on track with grace and strategyWhy self-compassion might be the key to long-term successThis is a must-listen for anyone building a business to serve people over 50—and anyone who’s ever felt like they’re not doing “enough.” 🕒 Timestamps 0:00 – Why consistency matters more than intensity  1:00 – The fitness lesson every coach knows  3:00 – Jay’s wins in 2025: book, podcast, YouTube  4:30 – Growth through daily habits, not viral hits  5:00 – Where Jay’s falling behind: his own email list  7:00 – Lessons from Pat Rigsby’s accountability system  8:30 – Compassion for yourself and your clients  10:00 – Progress isn’t always visible—track it smartly  11:00 – Final thoughts on consistency and mindset  12:00 – Takeaways: show up, imperfectly but persistently 👤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by marketing to the over-50 crowd through his company, Prime Fit Content. He brings honesty, experience, and practical strategies to every conversation. 🌐 Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay 📢 Calls to Action 👍 Rate & review on Apple Podcasts 📱 Follow on Instagram: @primefitcontent 📥 Got consistency tips? Email Jay!

    13 min
  3. Friendship, Reinvention & Resilience: What a College Reunion Taught Me About Aging Well

    2 OCT

    Friendship, Reinvention & Resilience: What a College Reunion Taught Me About Aging Well

    Reconnecting with old college friends after 40 years might sound nostalgic, but in this solo episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft uncovers deeper insights about aging well — insights that can reshape how you approach your business and connect with clients over 50. Jay reflects on a recent reunion at Colorado State University and the three big takeaways that emerged: the power of lifelong friendships, the need for reinvention after disruption, and facing mortality with joy and purpose. This is a heartfelt, thoughtful episode full of lessons on how connection, resilience, and perspective can enrich the aging experience — and how fitness professionals can use those insights to better serve their clients. 🔍 Episode Highlights: 💬 Lifelong Friendship & Health How social connection supports longevity and wellnessWhy gyms and fitness businesses must create community🔄 Reinvention After Disruption Newspaper careers upended — and what that teaches about adapting with ageHow older clients may be navigating life reinventions when they come to you⏳ Mortality Without Morbidity Honest reflections on aging and loss — without becoming morbidWhy purpose, laughter, and joy matter in your message⏰ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & personal message  01:00 – The reunion at Colorado State University  03:20 – Lifelong friendships and healthy aging  05:10 – The role of community in fitness for older adults  06:40 – Reinvention after career disruption  08:30 – Reinvention and resilience in fitness as we age  10:00 – Mortality and mindset: acknowledging without fear  11:30 – Final 3 takeaways for fitness professionals  12:10 – Wrap-up: gratitude, purpose, and reflection 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay is the founder of Prime Fit Content and host of The Optimal Aging Podcast, helping fitness pros market effectively to the over-50 population. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://www.primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact Jay: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay 👍 Love the show? Rate us on Apple Podcasts and share this episode with a friend who’d appreciate it.

    12 min
  4. How to Help Prevent Alzheimer’s: Mayo Clinic’s Latest Research with Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford

    25 SEP

    How to Help Prevent Alzheimer’s: Mayo Clinic’s Latest Research with Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford

    In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft speaks with Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford, a Mayo Clinic neurologist and co-author of the new edition of the Mayo Clinic Guide to Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias. They discuss how Alzheimer’s disease begins 20 years before symptoms appear, what can be done to prevent or delay it, and what health and fitness professionals working with people over 50 need to know now. Dr. Radford shares powerful new insights on early detection tools, lifestyle factors like exercise and hearing loss, and how fitness protocols can support cognitive health. You'll also hear how dual-tasking workouts, VO2 max, and neuroplasticity play a role in long-term brain health. If you serve older adults in health, fitness, or wellness, this is a must-listen. 👤 Guest: Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford Bio: Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford is a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic and co-author of Mayo Clinic on Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias. His research focuses on early detection, prevention, and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Resources & Links: Mayo Clinic Guide to Alzheimer’s: https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/product/mayo-clinic-on-alzheimers-and-other-dementias/ Mayo Clinic Brain Health Tips: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/brain-health-tips/art-20555198 Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Resources: https://www.mayo.edu/research/centers-programs/alzheimers-disease-research-center/research-activities/mayo-clinic-study-aging/patients-families/resources 🧠 Topics Covered What Is Alzheimer’s Really? Difference between Alzheimer’s and general dementiaAmyloid and tau proteins in the brainWhy Prevention Starts Now Alzheimer’s can start 20 years before symptoms40–45% of dementia may be preventableLifestyle Factors That Matter Exercise, diet, sleep, stress, and social connectionHearing loss as a major (and treatable) risk factorHow Exercise Affects the Brain Growing the hippocampus with aerobic exerciseVO2 max and brain resilience studiesThe Role of Neuroplasticity How the brain adapts and rewires itselfDual-tasking in fitness for cognitive engagementNew Tools and Treatments Blood tests with 90% accuracyTwo new FDA-approved drugs slow progressionEarly detection through the Ahead & Trailblazer studies📱 Follow Jay Croft Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay 🌐 Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 👍 Like this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review on Apple Podcasts!

    34 min
  5. Resistance Snacks with Dr. Alan Rozanski: The Cardiologist’s Secret to Aging Well

    18 SEP

    Resistance Snacks with Dr. Alan Rozanski: The Cardiologist’s Secret to Aging Well

    In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft talks with Dr. Alan Rozanski, a New York City cardiologist with five decades of experience in cardiac rehab and prevention. Dr. Rozanski introduces the concept of "resistance snacks"—short, simple bursts of resistance training that anyone can incorporate into their day. Whether you're a fitness professional or a healthcare provider, this conversation breaks down how micro-movements can build strength, prevent decline, and serve as an accessible gateway for deconditioned adults over 50. Dr. Rozanski explains why resistance training is often overlooked in traditional medical advice—and what needs to change. He also shares how even soup cans and wall pushups can be powerful tools for building resilience later in life. 🧑‍⚕️ Guest: Dr. Alan Rozanski Bio: Dr. Alan Rozanski is a renowned cardiologist based in New York City, with over 50 years in preventive cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation. He is a national leader in lifestyle medicine and passionate advocate for incorporating strength training into everyday health routines for older adults. Links: Website: https://alanrozanski.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-rozanski-md 📌 Episode Highlights The Resistance Snack Revolution What resistance snacks are and why they matterExamples of snackable exercises anyone can doMuscle Loss, Longevity & Prevention Sarcopenia’s silent effect on older adultsHow doctors can better guide patients toward strengthBreaking the “Too Old” Mindset How to reframe aging and vitalityWhy even minimal movement yields maximum results🎧 Resources & Links Prime Fit Content: https://primefitcontent.com Contact Jay: jay@primefitcontent.com 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness and health professionals reach more people over 50 with better marketing, storytelling, and engagement. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 👍 Rate us on Apple Podcasts  📱 Follow @primefitcontent on Instagram  📬 Join our email list: https://primefitcontent.com 📢 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us using #OptimalAging

    37 min
  6. Can You Prevent Dementia? Angela Lunde from Mayo Clinic Explains the New Science

    11 SEP

    Can You Prevent Dementia? Angela Lunde from Mayo Clinic Explains the New Science

    Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias now affect more than 55 million people worldwide — and that number is growing fast. But is cognitive decline inevitable? Not anymore. In this episode, Jay Croft speaks with Angela Lunde, a 24-year Mayo Clinic veteran and co-author of the newly revised Mayo Clinic on Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias. Angela shares powerful insights on how lifestyle choices, early detection, and caregiver support are reshaping the landscape of brain health. You’ll learn: How lifestyle factors like exercise and social connection impact brain functionThe latest in dementia risk reduction, including the POINTER study’s findingsWhat new treatments are showing promise — and what still isn’t possibleThe emotional reality for caregivers, and how they can build resilienceHow fitness and wellness pros can guide clients over 50 toward better brain healthThis conversation is both deeply informative and inspiring for anyone concerned about aging, dementia, and long-term wellbeing. 👤 Guest: Angela Lunde Bio: Angela Lunde is a dementia care expert and advocate at Mayo Clinic’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. She has worked for over two decades to support individuals and families impacted by cognitive decline and is the co-author of Mayo Clinic’s definitive book on the topic. Links: 🔗 Mayo Clinic Book: https://a.co/d/0QBlUNh 🧠 Episode Outline: What’s New in Dementia Research Angela explains how imaging and biomarkers are reshaping early diagnosisNew anti-amyloid treatments and their potential (and limits)Risk Reduction Through Lifestyle Review of the 2024 Lancet Commission findingsPOINTER study confirms that 4 habits — exercise, diet, social connection, and checkups — make a differenceWhat This Means for Wellness Pros Jay and Angela explore how health/fitness pros can play a crucial role in prevention and supportThe Caregiver Experience Why caregivers are “invisible second patients”Angela’s 4-part “recipe for resilience” every caregiver should know🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay is a content marketing strategist helping fitness and wellness professionals engage the over-50 market. 🌐 https://primefitcontent.com 📣 CTAs: 📬 Join our email list – https://primefitcontent.com 📱 Follow on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 📥 Contact – jay@primefitcontent.com

    34 min
  7. Not All People Over 50 Are Alike – With Dan Ritchie

    4 SEP

    Not All People Over 50 Are Alike – With Dan Ritchie

    In this compelling follow-up to last week's conversation, Jay Croft is joined by Dan Ritchie, co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute, to explore the diversity within the over-50 fitness market. While most gyms target deconditioned older adults, Dan and Jay discuss the often-overlooked segment of active, high-performing individuals in this age group who still seek challenge, adventure, and high-level coaching. They share practical strategies for fitness professionals to market to all older adults by showcasing a variety of real client stories — from someone wanting to hike glaciers in Patagonia, to another preparing to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. If you're in the fitness industry and you want to serve the full spectrum of people over 50, this conversation is a must-listen. Guest: Dan Ritchie Bio: Dan Ritchie is the President and co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute and a former longtime gym owner. With decades of experience training older adults, Dan specializes in helping fitness professionals serve the unique needs of clients over 50 — from beginners to elite performers. Main Topics Covered: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Market Why the over-50 demographic is more diverse than many gym owners realizeHow to avoid alienating active older adults by assuming everyone is a beginnerThe Power of Storytelling How real-life client stories like summiting Kilimanjaro or traveling Europe inspire belief and actionTips on using storytelling in marketing to connect with a variety of client typesProgram Design for Every Fitness Level Why you must scale programs for different abilitiesThe importance of making experienced clients feel seen and appropriately challengedMarketing to the Advanced 50+ Client What gym owners can do to attract fit, motivated clients over 50Balancing welcoming beginner messaging with high-performance program offeringsTimestamps: 00:00 – The power of believing what's possible after 70  01:00 – Jay introduces Part 2 with Dan Ritchie  02:00 – Overview of Andrew's fitness question from last episode  04:00 – Stats on low exercise rates over age 65  05:30 – Why we need to speak to all fitness levels  07:00 – Stories that resonate with high-performing older adults  08:30 – Kilimanjaro, Patagonia, and client adventures  10:00 – Fitness goals like golf, tennis, and pickleball  13:00 – Making clients feel seen and supported  16:00 – Jay's story about "Papillon" the grandfather  18:00 – Creating a gym where everyone feels they belong  20:00 – Reversing decline through consistent training  21:00 – Lance's story: feeling better at 75 than at 65 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by better connecting with people over 50 through content marketing that works. 🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com 📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com 📱 Instagram: @primefitcontent 💼 LinkedIn: Jay Croft 👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts  📥 Contact us – jay@primefitcontent.com Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on socials using #OptimalAgingPodcast.

    22 min
  8. How Fit Older Adults Can Stay Engaged in Gyms – Insights from a Fitness Consumer

    28 AGO

    How Fit Older Adults Can Stay Engaged in Gyms – Insights from a Fitness Consumer

    Jay Croft speaks with Andrew, a retired tech and travel executive and long-time gym-goer, who poses a provocative question: How can gyms stay relevant for older adults who are already fit? This episode dives into how fitness professionals can better serve this overlooked but important segment of the over-50 population.  If you're a gym owner, trainer, or wellness pro working with older adults, this episode is a must-listen for understanding how to engage those who are fit and want to stay that way — with empathy, programs, and smart marketing. 🧑‍💼 Guest: Andrew Bio: Andrew is a 69-year-old retired executive who has maintained a lifelong dedication to fitness. As a passionate gym-goer, he offers unique insight into the mindset and needs of fit older adults. Location: Atlanta, GA 🕒 Timestamps: [00:00] Andrew’s mindset: Pushing limits while aging[01:00] Jay introduces Andrew and the core question of the episode[02:00] Who gyms typically market to — and who gets overlooked[03:00] The deconditioned vs. the conditioned population[05:00] The question from Andrew that sparked this episode[06:00] Concerns of active aging adults: injury, limitation, mindset[08:00] How gyms can help by adapting and supporting[10:00] Gym marketing misses for the 50+ fit population[12:00] Suggestions for better programming and language[14:00] The mindset shift: aging and adapting with strength[16:00] Prioritizing full-body health — including doctor visits[18:00] Community and mental health in gyms[20:00] What active older adults look for when gym-shopping[22:00] Building community and acknowledgment in fitness spaces🔗 Resources & Mentions: Functional Aging Institute – https://functionalaginginstitute.com Prime Fit Content – https://primefitcontent.com 🎤 Host: Jay Croft Jay is the founder of Prime Fit Content, helping fitness professionals attract and retain clients over 50 with smart, effective content marketing. 🌐 Podcast 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 the email list – https://primefitcontent.com

    21 min
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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

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