In this solo episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft shares a powerful chapter from his new book Selling Longevity: How Over-50 Fitness Can Transform Lives and Your Business. If you’re a fitness professional wondering how to better serve and attract people over 50—this is your playbook.

You'll learn:

• Why the over-50 market is your biggest growth opportunity
• What older clients actually want in a gym experience
• How to design programs, space, and language to connect with this demographic
• Real-life examples like Richard’s gym loyalty and Betty’s incredible resilience at 83

Jay also reads “Designing the Over-50 Customer Experience,” a key chapter, and shares a bonus story that proves: older clients aren’t just inspiring—they’re good business.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Why longevity is the biggest fitness opportunity
 01:10 – Who the book Selling Longevity is for
02:20 – Two types of gym owners over 50
03:30 – Why this market is good business
04:00 – Reading Chapter 8: Designing the Over-50 Customer Experience
05:00 – First impressions: respect, language, and imagery
06:30 – Designing welcoming spaces and programming
08:00 – Importance of small group personal training
09:30 – Retention tips and long-term loyalty
11:00 – Bonus Story: A failed customer experience in Nashville
12:20 – Message to fitness pros: How to engage people over 50
13:00 – Bonus Story: Betty and Rob's inspiring journey
14:00 – Final thoughts and call to action

Resources Mentioned:

• Selling Longevity on Amazon: https://a.co/d/2N0fEkw
• Prime Fit Content: https://primefitcontent.com

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Jay is the founder of Prime Fit Content, helping fitness businesses grow by connecting authentically with people over 50.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com

👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts
 📬 Join the email list – https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow on Instagram – @primefitcontent
📥 Contact – jay@primefitcontent.com

💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag @primefitcontent using #OptimalAging.

In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft speaks with Dr. Cindy Dallow—a registered dietitian, endurance athlete, and now certified personal trainer—about her unexpected journey into strength training in her 60s. Despite her impressive background in nutrition and Ironman triathlons, Cindy had never lifted weights… until she realized she couldn’t put her suitcase in the overhead bin or do a single push-up.

Cindy shares how strength training changed her perspective—and her practice. She now coaches other women through menopause with a focus on building strength to prevent osteoporosis, manage menopause symptoms, and maintain independence as we age.

This conversation is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways for health and fitness professionals working with older adults, particularly women navigating menopause.

👤 Guest: Dr. Cindy Dallow
Bio: Cindy Dallow, PhD, RD, is a registered dietitian, personal trainer, and endurance athlete who runs Midlife Food and Fitness, helping women over 50 navigate menopause with strength, confidence, and science-backed nutrition.
Links:

• Website: https://midlifefoodandfitness.com
• Strong Enough Program: https://midlifefoodandfitness.com/strong-enough

Episode Highlights & Timestamps

💪 Why Strength Training Matters After 50

00:00 – Cindy’s realization that aerobic fitness wasn’t enough
 03:20 – How strength training changed her body and practice
 09:45 – Her mother’s decline and the fear of frailty

🌿 Nutrition & Menopause

11:00 – How Cindy coaches women on heart and bone health
 13:00 – Role of plant-based diets, sleep, and stress management
 17:00 – Soy, phytoestrogens, and reducing menopause symptoms

🚫 Debunking Myths

20:00 – You don’t need to “eat clean” or perfectly
 25:00 – Gym intimidation is real—and beatable
 35:00 – No, lifting won’t make you bulky

🧠 Motivation & Mindset

29:00 – Why “strong enough” is a personal standard
 32:00 – Lifting heavy vs. progressive resistance
 38:00 – How to start simply and build confidence

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Jay helps fitness professionals over 50 grow their businesses with better marketing, messaging, and content.

📬 Join the newsletter: https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent

If you loved this episode, share it with a friend or tag us using #OptimalAging

In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft sits down with online coaching expert Chris Liddle to explore how fitness professionals can launch and grow an online business, particularly focused on serving adults over 50. Chris offers practical advice on getting started, choosing the right tools, and creating meaningful client relationships in a virtual environment.

Chris shares how he transitioned from in-person training to a thriving online coaching model, including how his own parents in their 70s inspired him to refine his tech onboarding and communication style. The conversation covers why the older demographic is not only viable but ideal for online training—offering reliability, consistency, and a genuine desire to improve.

This episode is packed with insights for any coach looking to grow sustainably and meaningfully. Jay and Chris dive into topics like using WhatsApp and YouTube for low-cost delivery, building trust with tech-hesitant clients, and using thoughtful onboarding to reduce friction. Chris also breaks down scalable coaching models, shares tips for pricing and retention, and discusses the mindset needed to succeed in today’s remote fitness landscape.

If you’re a trainer who’s been curious about online coaching, or if you’ve struggled with finding the right market to serve, this conversation will shift your perspective and equip you with strategies to take action immediately.

💼 Guest: Chris Liddle

Bio:
Chris Liddle is a Canada-based online coach and educator who coaches the general population but also helps other trainers launch and grow their online coaching businesses through some of the work he does with BSimpson Fitness. He’s passionate about serving the older adult population and is known for simplifying tech, delivering customized programming, and building deep, supportive client relationships.

Links:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/christianliddle 
• Podcast: https://podcast.invigoratetraining.com

📌 Episode Highlights

Why Online Coaching Still Matters Post-Pandemic

• Demand for virtual fitness hasn’t faded. Chris explains how coaches can meet this need effectively, especially with older clients.

Simplified Tech for Seniors

• Tools like WhatsApp, spreadsheets, and YouTube can go a long way. Chris explains how to keep your systems low-cost and accessible.

Identifying the Right Niche

• Why elite athletes aren’t the best target market—and why older adults are often your best long-term clients.

Getting Started with No Budget

• You don’t need fancy apps. Chris shares how to begin with free tools and build a profitable model step by step.

Should You Become an Online Trainer?

• Chris breaks down the traits of successful online coaches and how to know if this career path is right for you.

📅 Timestamps

00:00 Why online fitness is still growing
01:15 Meet Chris Liddle
04:00 How Chris got started in online training
06:00 Coaching clients over 50 online
08:00 Tech onboarding tips for older adults
12:00 Helping trainers identify their ideal niche
16:00 Simple tools to start coaching online
20:00 WhatsApp, YouTube & spreadsheets: low-cost tools
24:00 Group coaching and scalability
26:00 Is online training right for you?
30:00 Final thoughts & connect with Chris

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by engaging clients over 50 with expert marketing strategies and storytelling.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com

✨ Calls to Action

📥 Download our free guide for fit pros – https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow on Instagram – https://instagram.com/primefitcontent

🔍 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on social using #PrimeFitContent

In this uplifting episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft reconnects with longtime friend and positivity expert Jay Clark, principal of JC Charity Services and a John Gordon-certified trainer. Jay shares how a positive mindset is not just feel-good fluff — it’s a practical, powerful tool for overcoming adversity, improving your health, and growing your business.

You’ll hear:

• How positivity fuels resilience and deeper client connections
• The difference between “kumbaya” optimism and action-based faith
• Why core values and knowing your “why” help prevent burnout
• Real-world ways small business owners can implement positive leadership
• How storytelling creates magic in leadership and marketing

Jay also hosts the podcast Making Our World Better, where he highlights unsung heroes in the nonprofit sector. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with actionable insights for fitness and wellness professionals over 50.

Guest Name:
Jay Clark

Bio:
Jay Clark is a John Gordon-certified Power of Positive Leadership trainer and the founder of JC Charity Services. He draws from a rich background in professional sports and nonprofit leadership to help individuals and organizations develop positive, resilient mindsets through workshops, coaching, and storytelling.

Links:

• Website: https://jccharityservices.com/
• Podcast: Making Our World Better

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by serving people over 50 with clarity, purpose, and effective storytelling.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com
📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
📥 Join the newsletter: https://primefitcontent.com

Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on social media using #OptimalAgingPodcast.

Feeling overwhelmed by supplement choices after 50? You're not alone. On today's episode, Nikki Raymond, holistic nutritionist and IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, joins Jay Croft to cut through the noise. Nikki shares her journey from personal trainer to functional nutrition expert, emphasizing the critical role personalized bloodwork and supplements play in healthy aging.

In this empowering conversation, you'll learn:

• Why supplements are essential (and how to pick the right ones)
• How understanding your personal bloodwork can dramatically improve health outcomes
• Practical tips for integrating better nutrition into busy lifestyles

Whether you're optimizing your fitness or helping clients thrive as they age, Nikki provides clear, actionable insights for aging optimally.

Guest Bio: Nikki Raymond is the owner of Xperience Health, a holistic health clinic in Atlanta specializing in functional nutrition, hormone optimization, and body composition analysis. She uses personalized testing to create tailored nutrition and supplement plans, empowering individuals to take control of their health at any age.

🔗 Connect with Nikki:

• Website: https://www.nikkifitfitness.com/
• Website: https://www.xperience.health/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkifit_fitness

🔗 Connect with Jay Croft:

• Email: jay@primefitcontent.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay

👍 Enjoyed this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts and share it with a friend!

📥 Resources Mentioned:

• Comprehensive Blood Panels
• DEXA Scans
• GLP-1 and Peptide Therapies

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com

In this powerful episode from the Functional Aging Summit, Jay Croft—founder of Prime Fit Content—reveals how fitness professionals can use client storytelling to attract, engage, and retain more clients over 50.

You’ll learn how to frame your clients as the heroes of their own fitness journeys (not you), why that subtle shift builds trust and credibility, and how to avoid the most common marketing mistakes that push people away.

Whether you’re a gym owner, studio operator, or coach working with midlife and older adults, this episode is packed with actionable advice on messaging, member profiles, retention, and building community.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• The “hero’s journey” and how it applies to your clients
• Why most fitness marketing misses the mark with older adults
• How to tell stories that inspire action (without selling)
• Real-world examples of member profiles that work
• The retention benefits of client-centered content

Purchase recordings for the 2025 Virtual Functional Aging Summit:
https://www.fbasucceed.com/faisummit

📥 Download your free guide:
How to Attract Clients Over 50 with Better Storytelling

📘 Book a strategy call:
https://primefitcontent.com/contact

🧠 Connect with Jay:
Instagram – @primefitcontent
LinkedIn – Jay Croft

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Real-life superhero story
01:30 – The hero’s journey explained
03:15 – Why older clients are overlooked
05:45 – Common marketing mistakes
09:20 – Client-focused storytelling
15:00 – Member profiles that resonate
25:00 – Success metrics for fitness pros
30:00 – Building community & retention
37:00 – Live Q&A on marketing strategies

In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft sits down with Alex McBrairty, a fitness coach whose personal transformation—losing nearly 100 pounds as a teen—launched a lifelong journey into behavior change, motivation, and the psychology of fitness.

Alex shares how his struggle with self-esteem and identity led him to pursue a degree in psychology, which now underpins his coaching philosophy. You'll learn how he uses personality testing to meet clients where they are, especially those over 50 who may feel intimidated by change or doubt their ability to improve.

Whether you're a fitness or wellness professional or someone navigating your own health journey later in life, this episode is filled with actionable insights. Alex explains how to help clients rewrite their internal stories, embrace behavior change at any age, and take manageable steps toward better health—without falling into the all-or-nothing trap.

👤 Guest: Alex McBrairty

Bio: Alex McBrairty is a personal trainer and psychology enthusiast who specializes in helping clients achieve lasting health transformations by combining mindset work with fitness strategy. His own journey of losing 100 pounds as a teenager deeply informs his coaching approach.

Links:

• Substack Newsletter: https://ateamfit.substack.com

🧠 Topics Covered

Rewriting Your Health Story

• How Alex transformed from an overweight teen to a fitness coach
• The role of self-perception in sustaining behavior change

The Psychology of Motivation

• Why external motivators can be powerful starting points
• Understanding the deeper "why" behind lasting change

Using the Big Five Personality Traits

• How to tailor coaching using the OCEAN model
• Adapting communication styles for different personality types

Coaching Over-50 Clients

• Why older adults often have more urgency—and more doubts
• Strategies for simplifying nutrition and encouraging progress

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Helping fitness professionals connect with people over 50 who want to stay healthy and engaged.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com
📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com

📢 Calls to Action:

👍 Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts
 📬 Subscribe to the email list – https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow on Instagram – @primefitcontent

🫶 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on socials using #OptimalAgingPodcast.

The Functional Aging Summit, held online June 13–14, is an incredible opportunity to learn from industry leaders about how to train people over 50 and grow your business with this large, lucrative, and underserved population. Go here to learn more: https://functionalagingsummit.com

In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft talks with Dr. Dan Ritchie, co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute, who previews the upcoming event and shares compelling reasons why fitness professionals should be targeting the active aging market.

Dan and Jay explore how this growing demographic presents not just a meaningful mission but also a strategic business opportunity—with higher client retention, deeper impact, and long-term sustainability. You'll also hear about the advantages of a virtual summit, how you can still access all the sessions even if you miss it live, and the type of career-changing content you can expect.

It’s a no-brainer. Start learning here.
https://functionalagingsummit.com

Guest: Dr. Dan Ritchie

Dr. Dan Ritchie is the co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute and a recognized leader in fitness for older adults. He holds a doctorate in Health and Physical Education and has helped countless fitness professionals elevate their careers by better serving clients over 50.

🔗 Register for the Functional Aging Summit: https://functionalagingsummit.com
📬 Contact Jay: jay@primefitcontent.com
🌐 More from Jay: https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow Jay:
Instagram: @primefitcontent
LinkedIn: Jay Croft

In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft sits down with Rick Streb—fitness industry veteran, marketing strategist, and bestselling author—to explore how publishing a book can supercharge your fitness business. Whether you're a gym owner, trainer, or health coach, Rick explains why having your own book is more than just a vanity project—it’s a strategic marketing asset.

You’ll learn how Rick helps fitness pros turn their everyday knowledge and client stories into published books that build authority, attract ideal clients, and fuel long-term growth. From using AI tools like ChatGPT to creating targeted funnels and lead magnets, Rick shares his complete process—and why it's never been easier to get started.

👤 Guest: Rick Streb

Bio:
Rick Streb is the founder of FitnessMarketing.com and a 30-year fitness veteran who has helped nearly 200 professionals publish books to grow their businesses. A bestselling author himself, Rick combines fitness experience with marketing savvy to help others become recognized experts in their communities.

Links:

• Website: https://www.fitnessmarketing.com
• Email: rick@fitnessmarketing.com
• Phone: (573) 302-8400

🔍 Episode Topics

Why Fitness Pros Should Write Books

• Learn how a book helps you stand out, build authority, and generate leads.

How Rick Helps Clients Overcome Writing Fears

• From brain dumps to ChatGPT workflows, Rick simplifies the process.

Using AI Tools (the Right Way)

• Why most fail with AI—and how Rick’s custom GPT changes the game.

Funnel Strategy and Lead Generation

• How to turn your book into a powerful lead magnet and client conversion tool.

Jay’s Book Journey: Selling Longevity

• Jay shares his experience working with Rick on his upcoming book.

📘 Resources Mentioned

• Fitness Marketing Services: https://www.fitnessmarketing.com
• Prime Fit Content: https://primefitcontent.com

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Jay helps gyms and studios grow with content that engages people over 50. Learn more at Prime Fit Content.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com

👍 Rate the show on Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-optimal-aging-podcast/id1532395738
 📬 Join our email list – https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
📥 Contact us – jay@primefitcontent.com

Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or tag us on socials using #OptimalAgingPodcast.

Can walking your neighborhood really help grow your fitness or physical therapy business? For Shayna Gross, the answer is a resounding yes.

In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft of Prime Fit Content talks with Shayna, a veteran physical therapist and the owner of Physiovation in Atlanta. After moving to a larger location in the eclectic Little Five Points neighborhood, Shayna expanded her offerings to include small group personal training — and got to work building real relationships.

You’ll hear how she:

• Met her neighbors and local business owners one by one
• Formed smart partnerships and sponsored a wellness festival
• Attracted clients from a large local employer
• Combines strength training and physical therapy to focus on prevention and lifelong wellness

Shayna’s story is a masterclass in grassroots marketing and community connection. If you’re a fitness or wellness professional looking for authentic ways to grow, this episode is for you.

This episode is a must-listen for fitness, health and wellness professionals looking to expand their business and connect with their community in meaningful ways.

Learn more about Shayna: Physiovation, Shayna Gross on Facebook
Subscribe to the show and learn more at: Optimal Aging on Apple

Prime Fit Content helps you reach more people over 50 to grow your fitness, health and wellbeing business.

Is Alzheimer’s disease just something we have to wait and worry about as we age? Amy Lang doesn’t think so.

In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, Jay Croft talks with Amy Lang, a brain health coach and former gym owner whose personal experience with Alzheimer’s — both her mother and grandmother were diagnosed — set her on a mission to educate others.

Amy shares how lifestyle factors like exercise, nutrition, stress, sleep, and social connection can dramatically reduce the risk of cognitive decline. If you're a fitness or wellness professional serving clients over 50, you’ll hear why this is a conversation you need to be having — and how you can help lead the way.

This is a hopeful, empowering episode packed with real-life insight and practical takeaways.

 Connect with Amy Lang:

• Website: https://www.moxie-club.com/protect
• Instagram: @habitwhisperer
• Facebook: Amy Lang Coaching

🔗 Learn more at https://primefitcontent.com
📬 Contact: jay@primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow Jay:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay

Thanks for listening!

Want to inspire your 50+ clients to stay active, connected, and confident? In this episode, I talk with Road Scholar’s PR Director, Kelsey Knoedler Perri, about how fitness and travel work hand-in-hand to promote healthy aging.
We explore survey data from Road Scholar’s “Age Adventurously” campaign and how fitness pros can use these insights to motivate clients, boost retention, and create content that resonates.

🎯 Great for: gym owners, trainers, wellness professionals

Topics include:

• How travel encourages fitness in older adults
• The social power of group adventures
• Using storytelling and Facebook communities to connect
• Why adventure doesn’t have to mean extreme

💥 Special highlight: Learn more about Age Adventurously Day on June 8th — a movement redefining what it means to age boldly.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.ageadventurously.org
🌐 Road Scholar: https://www.roadscholar.org

Connect with Jay Croft here:
• Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/
• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for listening!

Let’s bust some outdated assumptions. In this solo episode, I share exactly how to market your gym or studio to today’s 50+ clients — who are active, discerning, and ready to invest in their health.

You’ll learn communication strategies that build trust and help your content actually land with this high-value audience.

📌 Actionable for: gym owners, studio managers, and fitpros over 40

What you’ll learn:

• What NOT to say to this demographic
• How to create relatable blog, email, and social content
• Why this market has strong BS detectors — and how to earn their trust
• Whether TikTok or email marketing makes more sense for your business

Connect with Jay Croft here:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for listening!

Meet three gym owners who are thriving by combining smart content with meaningful connection. In this episode, I talk with Micah Morgan, Jake Trione, and Lisa Grace Wright — all of whom have built powerful brands and loyal communities by speaking directly to the needs of active agers.

📣 Designed for fitness business owners and marketers

Takeaways:

• How to use member stories for high-converting content
• Community-driven marketing strategies that work
• Tips for using video, Reels, and even AI in your workflow
• Why niche marketing to adults 50+ leads to loyal clients and better revenue

🎤 About the Guests:
• Micah Morgan (MM Fitness & Temple Terrace Training, Tampa) – Known for his member-first approach, live content, and emotional storytelling.
• Jake Trione (Tri Fitness Gym, Houston) – A military veteran focused on care, connection, and creating a truly inclusive space.
• Lisa Grace Wright (Your Personal Best Training Studio, Corpus Christi) – A content and video marketing master who’s leveraging AI, Instagram, and YouTube to dominate her niche.


Connect with Jay Croft here:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for listening!

Want to market your fitness business to the 50+ demographic more effectively? In this special episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast I share my top 7 content marketing do’s and don’ts for connecting with people over 50.

💬 Discover why storytelling, email marketing, and consistent messaging are key to attracting and retaining clients over 50. Learn what mistakes to avoid and how to build real engagement without being pushy or spammy.

I also discuss hot trends like brain health, hybrid training, and AI in fitness content creation. If you're a fitness pro or gym owner targeting the older adult community, this episode is your ultimate marketing roadmap.

Topics Covered:
✅ 7 essential content marketing Do’s and Don’ts for fitness over 50
✅ Choosing the right social media platform for the 50+ demographic
✅ Emerging trends: brain health, hybrid training, Ozempic, and AI in content

Connect with Jay Croft here:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for watching!

How do your clients and prospects want to receive communications from you? Do you know? And are you meeting them where they are -- or expecting them to come to you?

On this week's Optimal Aging, I'm sharing a lesson I've learned about my business, and how I communicate with people I want to be in my audience. 

I started recording my podcast on video and posting the episodes on YouTube, after avoiding it for years. It's expanding my audience and helping me reach new people, including prospective customers.

See, I just didn't want to bother with YouTube because I don't like watching podcasts on YouTube -- so why would anyone else? Just like some of you don't like emails or Facebook, or don't know what to make of ChatGPT. And with new communications channels popping all the time, you need to know where your folks are and reach out to them there. It's about their preferences, not yours.

Connect with Jay Croft here:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for listening!

What do you do after founding a global fitness brand like Club Pilates? For Allison Beardsley, the next move is all about longevity, wellness, and the booming demand from adults over 50.

In this episode of The Optimal Aging Podcast, Allison joins Jay Croft to talk about her new venture — The Red Light Method — a boutique red light therapy franchise focused on healthy aging and recovery. She shares why this technology matters, what gym owners should know about it, and how red light therapy could be the next big thing in wellness services for older clients.

Whether you're a fitness entrepreneur, personal trainer, or looking to expand your service offerings, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, client retention, and what’s next in the fitness business for active agers.

⏱ Timestamps:
00:00 Meet Allison Beardsley, Club Pilates founder
03:20 Why she’s now focused on red light therapy
06:45 What red light does — and what the science says
10:30 The business model: The Red Light Method
13:50 Serving the over-50 market with recovery and wellness
17:00 Where she sees the fitness industry going next
20:10 Advice for gym owners looking to innovate

🔗 Learn more about The Red Light Method: [your link here]
🌐 Prime Fit Content: https://primefitcontent.com
📬 Contact Jay: jay@primefitcontent.com

#fitnessfranchise #redlighttherapy #clubpilates #over50fitness #fitpros #longevitybusiness #wellnessmarketing #redlight #fitover50 #wellnessmarketing #wellbeing 

Connect with Allison Beardsley:

•  On LinkedIn

• Red Light Method Website: www.redlightmethod.com

Connect with Jay Croft:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/

• Prime Fit Content

jay@primefitcontent.com

Still on the fence about sending regular emails? In this conversation with Lara Gallert from Alloy Personal Training, we dig into how simple email newsletters drive engagement, boost retention, and make your fitness brand stand out with older adults.

Plus, Lara shares her own studio’s wins and how we turned one email into serious ROI.

🧠 Best for: gym owners, franchisees, and coaches building community

You’ll learn:

• What kind of emails work best for 50+ clients
• How often to send and what to say
• Real-world results from Alloy’s client communication

Enjoy Lara’s enthusiasm and expertise. And if you need help with your emails, call me!

Topics Covered:
✅ The Power of Newsletters for Client Engagement 
✅ Challenges Faced by Middle-Aged Fitness Clients
✅ Marketing & Communication Strategies for Gym Owners
✅ The Importance of Movement for Longevity

Connect with Larra Gallery:

• Website: https://alloypersonaltraining.com/location/summerfield-nc/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laragallert

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-gallert-7884ab50/

Connect with Jay Croft:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/

• Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for listening!

How do you market your gym and services to a specific audience? How do you get prospects into the gym for a sales talks – and then how do you turn them into members?

Well, Sherman Merricks and I get into it on this episode – who do you want, how do you talk to them, and why you need to sometimes stop talking and get comfortable with pauses in a conversation!

Sherman’s the co-founder of Lasso Framework, a marketing and consulting firm for gyms that he started after running his own gym for 13 years in Florida. With the over-50 market in particular, longevity is a keyword, and the marketing copy and images need to reflect who you want.

Anticipate the questions that can derail a sale, and don’t be afraid to lead the prospect to where he or she needs to be.

I enjoyed this conversation with Sherman, and I know you will, too. 

Topics Covered:
✅ Importance of Targeted Messaging and Imagery
✅ Sales Strategies for Gym Owners
✅ The Power of the Pause in Sales 
✅ Retention vs. Acquisition in Gym Memberships

Connect with Sherman Merricks here:
• Website: https://www.lassoframework.com/
• Email: sherman@lassoframework.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherman.merricks/photos
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shermanmerricks5/

Connect with Jay Croft here:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com.

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com

Thanks for listening!

Trainers often ask me for advice about taking their businesses mobile, how they can bring their fitness equipment and coaching to clients over 50 in the clients’ homes. Well, on this episode, I’m talking to a trainer who has figured it out and sharing all his tips.

Benjamin Villalon has been training people at home for a while with Benefitnessnow in Houston.And just last year, he and his wife, Claudia, and their team of trainers began developing Agestrong Fitness for the over-50 market.  

Benji reports things are going great, and I couldn’t be happier for them – especially since they’re about to welcome their first baby.

I met Claudia last year at the Functional Aging Summit in Los Angeles, and they’ve been Prime Fit Content subscribers ever since. I love the messaging they share on their website, which I can’t claim any credit for. It says, “Empowering active adults 50+ to stay fit, strong and independent. Specialized training for balance, strength, and mobility.”

That’s so smart and, obviously, effective. It takes more than good training and smart marketing to build a mobile training business anywhere, especially in sprawling Houston. I know you’ll enjoy learning how they’ve done it.

Topics Covered:-

✅ Why traditional gym settings don’t always work for the 50+ age group
✅ How in-home personal training provides a customized, accessible fitness experience
✅ The business opportunity in catering to the 50+ fitness market
✅ The biggest challenges and misconceptions about fitness for older adults

Connect with Benjamin Villalon here :

• Email : benji@benefitnessnow.com

• Website : www.benefitnessnow.com

Follow Jay Croft here:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primefitcontent 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croftjay/ 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaycroft 

For more tips reaching the over-50 fitness market, subscribe to The Optimal Aging Podcast or visit www.primefitcontent.com. 

Email: jay@primefitcontent.com 

Thanks for listening!

In this week's episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, I’m joined by veteran fitness trainers Shebah Carfagna and Nate Wilkins, who are finding new ways to help more people live fit, healthy lives. 

Shebah, 67, and Nate, 71, share their fitness journeys, personal health challenges, and news about a couple of new partnerships, including their selection as two of five sponsored AARP athletes nationwide. 

They’ve been in the game a long time and created the Ageless Workout Method to help improve longevity, health span and overall wellbeing. And I love a distinction they make between using the word “movement” over “exercise.” 

You’ll enjoy spending time with this dynamic couple. 

Topics Covered:- 

✅Using Zoom and other new platforms to help people move more 

✅’There is no judgment’ – Why they use the word ‘movement’ instead of ‘exercise’ 

✅How to help clients practice self-care and see aging in a different way 

✅Free training on Zoom through Age Bold; partnering with AARP 

This show is for fitness, health and wellbeing professionals who want to grow their businesses with more people over 50. We share insight on communications, content, and making powerful connections with this large, lucrative demographic. Subscribe for more insightful interviews and expert advice on how to grow your business with people over 50. 

🔗 Check out Panache Fitness: https://panachefitness.com

🔗 Connect with Shebah and Nate on Facebook:

 / shebah.carfagna   

 / nathaniel.o.wilkins   

Follow Jay Croft here: 

• Instagram:  

 / primefitcontent  

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/croft

About a year ago, I had Nick Garrity on the podcast for the first time. Back then, I had just started helping him with his newsletters and other content marketing, and he had 2 Alloy studios up and running here in Atlanta, with a third on the way.

Now, a year later, all three of Nick’s studios are doing great. In fact, on the day we did this second interview you’re about to hear, Nick and his team were celebrating a big milestone: They had reached their membership goal for one of those studios, after a steady, consistent effort of building partnerships, reaching out to the market, and providing excellent results for their members.

How’d they do it? What’s the secret to growing a fitness business that’s aimed at helping people who are older than the typical fitness market?

Well, those are questions we address this week on Optimal Aging, the show that’s for fitness, wellbeing and health professionals trying to grow their businesses with the "quote-unquote" older market.  

Overall, the Alloy Personal Training franchise is growing like crazy, with about 100 locations now open or close to it, and about 300 sold. It’s small group personal training with a focus on people 40, 45 or so and older, and I’ve been fortunate in the last year to work with a growing number of Alloy franchisees.

Whether you’re with Alloy or an independent, you’ll learn a lot from this conversation with Nick. 

The biggest social media channels in the world have been in the news a lot lately. And it has renewed my belief in the power of email for marketing your small business and exercising the greatest control over your communications.

Now, I’m not saying you shouldn’t use Facebook or any of the others — they’re still powerful tools, of course. And I’m not getting into the controversies around any of it.

But I want to refocus your attention on email newsletters to grow your business. I’ll create a new episode about it shortly, but this week I want to revisit an episode from two or three years ago. It covers a lot of the reasons why you shouldn’t rely on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or anyone else to be your primary communications channel with prospects and members. Look for that upcoming episode soon. Now, enjoy this encore edition.

#fitover50 #contentmarketing #emailnewsletters 

Why is there still a stigma around Botox and other simple cosmetic procedures? And what role does skin health play in healthy aging?

These are topics I discuss on this episode with Atlanta dermatologist Dr. Mary Alice Mina. You know, it’s funny. We don’t think anything about working out and looking better… but we raise a skeptical glance at the possibility of Botox, fillers, or peels. What’s the difference between them and, say, dying your hair?

I find Botox to be an entry topic for the more relevant subject of skin health, cancer screenings, and the like. 

I'd been hoping to have a dermatologist on the show for a while. I know you'll enjoy this conversation.

It’s an exciting time for the fitness industry, with broad trends coalescing around topics like longevity, wellness, preventive care and others that are particularly resonant for fitness over 50.

So what does the new year hold for all of this?

Well, I’m lucky today to share a conversation about all of this with one of the people behind the Connected Health & Fitness Summit, which is planned for February in Los Angeles.

The event’s website says its mission is to “redefine healthcare by placing fitness, wellness, and technology at its core. We’re driving the next wave of innovation by bringing together 450+ C-Suite leaders to shape how we move, recover, and live healthier lives.”

It’s interesting stuff, and I know you’ll enjoy this look head.

Resources
Connected Health & Fitness Summit 2025
Cara Fautley on LinkedIn
Discount Code to Summit: PODCAST10 for 10% off individual admission

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