Aging Athletically

Episode 35: Gel Explosions, Return to the Boot and How to Help Save Hains Point

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 22 Oct 2026 17:44:44 GMT

In this quick solo episode, Hilary reflects on her recent guests, shares personal updates about her recovery from a foot injury, and discusses the importance of community spaces for athletes in Washington, D.C. You'll also hear a bit about what not to do with gel remnants and what 2 year-olds think about the boot. For info on how to save Hains Point, see: https://saveeastpo.com/ or https://waba.org/action-page/hains-point-for-people/

Episode 34: Hilary Granat, PT, DPT, MS; Owner of Core Total Wellness & Core Physical Therapy in DC

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 15 Oct 2026 23:36:07 GMT

In this episode, Hilary Granat discusses the importance of adapting fitness and health strategies for women in midlife and beyond, focusing on strength training, mobility, and overall wellness. The conversation emphasizes the need for women to understand their changing bodies and the necessity of a holistic approach to fitness as they age. The conversation delves into the importance of recovery, nutrition, and strength training for women, particularly as they age. It emphasizes the need for proactive health measures, such as bone density scans, and the significance of consistency in fitness routines. Find out more about Hilary and in-person and virtual practices at https://www.corephysicaltherapydc.com and https://www.coretotalwellness.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aging Athletically Podcast
02:24 Understanding Women's Health in Midlife
04:04 Shifting from Cardio to Strength Training
07:01 The Importance of Strength Training
08:17 Getting Started with Strength Training
11:51 Progressive Overload Explained
12:34 Equipment Choices for Strength Training
14:30 Key Muscle Groups and Movement Patterns
15:53 The Significance of Grip Strength
17:09 Incorporating High-Intensity Efforts
19:24 Understanding Impact Training
21:11 Balancing Cardio and Strength Training
22:22 The Role of Balance in Aging
24:38 Addressing Aging and Its Challenges
25:06 Managing Musculoskeletal Changes in Menopause
27:16 Nutrition and Its Impact on Aging
28:32 The Importance of Recovery
32:20 Understanding Bone Health
36:05 Consistency Over Perfection
37:39 Common Injuries in Aging Women
39:17 The Role of Weighted Vests
41:08 Personal Fitness Routines
45:13 Nutrition for Optimal Performance
49:35 Inspiration from Athletic Longevity
50:15 Habits for Aging Athletically

Episode 33: Sharlene Brunjes, Canadian Record Setting Powerlifter and Competitive Dragon Boat Racer

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 08 Oct 2026 10:08:27 GMT

In this episode of the Aging Athletically Podcast, host Hilary Cairns interviews Sharlene Brunjes, a 73-year-old Canadian masters athlete who excels in both powerlifting and dragon boat racing. They discuss Charlene's journey in athletics, the importance of strength training for older adults, and how her experiences in both sports have shaped her life and resilience. The conversation explores Sharlene's journey in competitive sports, particularly powerlifting and dragon boat racing, highlighting her late start in sports, her competitive spirit, and the importance of community in both sports. It also delves into her training regimen, nutrition, and the mental health benefits she derives from staying active.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Charlene Brunjes
02:28 Powerlifting Achievements and Experiences
10:21 The Importance of Resistance Training
16:22 Functional Fitness and Real-Life Applications
18:25 Exploring Dragon Boat Racing
24:07 Training and Community in Dragon Boating
28:31 Journey to Competitiveness
30:10 Comparing Sports: Powerlifting vs. Dragon Boating
33:14 Defining Success in Sports
34:20 Future Aspirations in Sports
36:47 Nutrition Strategies for Performance
42:32 Mental Health and Competition
49:39 Active Living for Longevity

Episode 32: Damon Blakemore, Masters Track and Field American Record Holder and USATF Hall of Famer

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 01 Oct 2026 17:16:41 GMT

In this episode of the Aging Athletically Podcast, host Hilary Cairns interviews accomplished masters athlete Damon Blakemore, who shares insights from his extensive track and field career. The conversation covers his experiences at the World Masters Championships, his evolution as an athlete, and the importance of recovery and mindset in maintaining high performance as he ages. In this conversation, Damon Blakemore discusses his journey through injury recovery, the importance of community in athletics, and his aspirations in the Masters Track and Field scene. He emphasizes the significance of patience, nutrition, and a positive mindset in maintaining athletic performance and longevity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Damon Blakemore
02:33 Experiences at World Masters Championships
05:54 Early Athletic Background
07:46 Transition to Masters Track
10:15 Training Evolution and Focus
15:09 Current Training Regimen
20:14 Training for the Thousand Meters
23:25 Aging and Performance Improvements
26:42 Motivation and Competitive Drive
30:41 The Challenge of Recovery
34:10 The Drive to Compete
36:02 Recognition in Masters Track
39:19 Promoting Masters Track and Field
42:48 Future Aspirations in Athletics
45:13 Nutrition and Competition Routines
46:58 Mindset and Motivation
48:36 Admiration for Other Athletes
54:36 Habits for Athletic Longevity

Episode 31: David Stewart, Founder of AGEIST, Super Age, and the Super Age Games

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 11:55:21 GMT

David Stewart, founder of AGEIST and Super Age, discusses the upcoming Super Age Games, to be held in NYC on November 7th. The games focus on eight trainable markers connected to health span, including endurance, strength, balance, cognitive performance, and social connection. David shares his personal athletic journey, including overcoming knee injuries and a knee replacement, and emphasizes the importance of risk-taking and social connection in healthy aging.

Learn more about David's work and the Super Age Games at: https://games.superage.com/ and https://superage.com/ (subscribe to The Mindset there) and https://www.ageist.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Super Age Games
01:59 The Vision Behind Super Age Games
05:03 David's Athletic Journey and Overcoming Injuries
13:00 The Eight Markers of Super Age Games
21:05 Logistics and Vision for Super Age Games
27:19 The Super Age Games: A Unique Athlete Experience
28:07 Physical Challenges and Personal Aspirations
30:25 Assessing Success and the Super Age Score
32:47 Athletic Longevity and Well-Being
43:58 Habits for Aging Athletically

Episode 30: Indoor Rowing World Record Holder Nancy Peck Cook

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:27:52 GMT

Nancy Peck Cook, a lifelong endurance athlete, shares her journey from marathons to indoor rowing and the impact of athletic reinvention on her life. She discusses her training, competition, and the motivation behind her rowing streak, highlighting the importance of variety and adaptability in athletic pursuits. Now a world record holder in indoor rowing, she talks about how the rowing community inspires her along with her versatility as a multi-sport athlete. With unbounding energy, she emphasizes the importance of balance, discipline, and adaptability in maintaining her athletic lifestyle. Learn more about Nancy at https://nancypeckcook.com/

Chapters

00:00 Athletic Reinvention and Early Athletic Life
04:58 Transition to Endurance Sports
09:08 The Impact of Cancer on Training and Competition
19:06 Indoor Rowing and World Records
33:15 Training, Competition, and Rowing Streak
37:22 Aging and Athletic Competitiveness
38:04 Physical Changes and Athletic Performance
39:26 Challenges of Aging and Athletic Pursuits
42:17 Approach to Competition and Training
01:05:10 Habits for Aging Athletically

Episode 29: My Foot is Busted!

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 11:18:33 GMT

Hilary shares a quick (or sort of quick) update on her foot and all that goes along with moving in the world much more slowly. Also included are a few reflections on the most recent guests and a preview of what's to come.

Chapters

00:00 Injury and Recovery
03:21 Challenges of Physical Recovery
07:15 Adapting to New Physical Limitations
12:16 Engaging with the Community
15:28 Podcast Updates and Challenges
19:04 Interactions with Chat Bot
23:11 Exploring Fitness Tests

Episode 28: Triathlon Coach and 30+ Time Ironman Finisher Lloyd Henry

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 20:51:51 GMT

Lloyd Henry, a longtime triathlete, shares his journey from a late start in running and swimming to becoming the first African American to complete an Ironman on six continents. He discusses the evolution of the sport, his training approach, and the importance of recovery and strength training as he continues to compete at a high level. Lloyd shares his his favorite race, how he plans his race schedule, how he stays motivated after competing for decades and what races he sees himself doing in 50 years! To see his basket weaving work, go to: https://www.crucianbaysidecreations.com/ or to reach Lloyd for coaching, see https://www.onpointfitness.com/

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins
02:50 Triathlon Beginnings
08:03 Racing Around the World
13:00 Diversity in Triathlon
18:06 Training and Recovery
34:38 Race Planning and Target Goals
35:22 Feeling of Accomplishment in Ironman Races
36:48 Shift from Data to Perceived Effort
41:24 Basket Weaving as a Hobby
58:17 Importance of Fruits and Vegetables in Diet

Episode 27: British Team Slalom Skateboarder Darren Miles

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:44:35 GMT

Darren Miles, a 60-year-old skateboarder who is representing Great Britain this year at the World Skate Games, shares his journey from early skateboarding as a hobby to competitive slalom skateboarding starting in his late 50s. Weaving around cones at upwards to 40 miles per hour (!), Darren shares insights into his training, competition experience, and the supportive community in skateboarding. Darren talks about adapting to changes, maintaining a competitive mindset, and encouraging others to give the sport a go. He also discusses the importance of learning and growth, athletic longevity, and the impact of mindset and perspective on aging athletically.

In addition to being a great skateboarder, Darren is an accomplished musician; his band The Waterboarders can be found here: www.thewaterboarders.net

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Darren's Skateboarding Journey
01:05 Early Skateboarding Years
03:06 Challenges and Revival of Skateboarding
06:14 Athletic Life and Transition to Slalom Skateboarding
16:04 Training and Preparation for Competitions
27:50 Competition Experience and Community in Skateboarding
33:07 Training and Fitness Regimen
34:14 Fitness and Aging
35:08 Adapting to Changes
36:43 Competitive Mindset
40:49 Encouraging Others
50:10 Learning and Growth
56:11 Athletic Longevity
58:30 Mindset and Perspective

Episode 26: Therapist and Performance Coach Neal Palles

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 20:23:22 GMT

This episode features therapist and coach, Neal Palles. Based in Colorado, Neal shares his athletic background and discusses the combination of mental health work and endurance sports. The conversation delves into the psychological challenges for older athletes, realistic goal-setting, and addressing fear and risk-taking in athletic pursuits. Neal shares insights into managing fear, values, the importance of community and connection in athletic training, and the role of recovery and nutrition as we age.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship
03:17 Guest Introduction and Athletic Background
08:48 Combining Mental Health Work and Endurance Sports
10:48 Psychological Challenges for Older Athletes
20:11 Goal Setting for Older Athletes
28:36 Addressing Fear and Risk-Taking
40:53 The Role of Recovery and Nutrition

Episode 25: Author, Raw Food Educator, and Marathon Runner Axay Shah

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 20:00:42 GMT

In this episode Axay Shay, author of "In Nature We Trust," shares his journey embracing a new lifestyle through marathon running and a raw food diet. We explore the impact of marathon running on his health, motivation, and endurance, as well as the loss of a running partner. The conversation covers his transition to a raw plant-based diet, the impact of raw food on health, the role of diet in health and energy, the human body as a machine, the vision for a healthier society, advice for starting a fitness journey, marathon nutrition and training, personal hobbies and inspirations, and the power of discipline and self-belief.

Takeaways

Reinvention at age 50
Starting a new life through running
Embracing a raw, plant-based diet
The impact of marathon running on health and lifestyle
The motivation behind marathon running Consistency in training and diet
The importance of discipline and self-belief

Chapters

00:00 The Beginning of a New Journey
03:02 The First Steps into Running
04:45 The Marathon Challenge
07:55 Training and Preparation
13:02 The Loss of a Running Buddy
15:01 Motivation and Endurance
20:03 Other Athletic Pursuits
24:25 Transition to a Raw Plant-Based Diet
25:44 The Impact of Raw Food on Health
27:44 The Journey to a Plant-Based Diet
28:22 The Role of Diet in Health and Energy
29:36 The Human Body as a Machine
36:10 The Vision for a Healthier Society
37:29 Advice for Starting a Fitness Journey
41:39 Marathon Nutrition and Training
48:54 Personal Hobbies and Inspirations
52:13 The Power of Discipline

Episode 24: Solo Go #2--Does anyone know Reggie Miller?!

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 17:02:19 GMT

Hilary provides updates on the podcast, shares feedback from listeners, and discusses her approach to guest selection and outreach. She also talks about social media engagement, audience feedback, training and recovery strategies, and her personal injury and recovery journey. And... she's in search of someone who knows someone who knows someone who can help her get Reggie Miller on the show! We'd all love to hear about Reggie's transition from NBA superstar to high-level bike racer still going strong in his 60s.

Chapters

00:00 Podcast Updates and Feedback
04:54 Guest Selection and Outreach
10:05 Social Media Engagement and Audience Feedback
14:17 Training and Recovery Strategies
21:21 Injury and Recovery Journey

Episode 23: Cycling Champion, 98-year-old Carl Grove

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:48:58 GMT

Carl Grove shares his amazing journey starting in Elkhart, Indiana, which included a paper route by bike that earned him 18 cents per week. His dad bought Carl his first bike for $1.25! Carl recounts his experiences in the Navy and the U.S. Navy Band, as well as his transition to a world-class biker late in life. Carl's journey is remarkable: he became a record-setting cyclist at the age of 90 and he is still going strong at age 98. What an inspiration!

Chapters

00:00 Early Life in Elkhart, Indiana
10:27 Discovering Biking and Music
27:17 Joining the Navy and the U.S. Navy Band
30:42 Bike Racing and Training Camp
39:51 The Journey Begins
40:22 Coaching and Racing
41:26 Meeting Bruce Gordon
43:19 Racing and Records
47:43 Training Routine
51:27 Motivation and Goals
52:40 Upcoming Challenges
52:47 Ninety-Eighth Birthday Ride
53:48 Staying Active and Setting Goals

Episode 22: Ironman World Champion and Olympic Silver Medalist Michellie Jones

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:12:14 GMT

Michellie Jones, a legendary triathlete, shares her remarkable journey in the sport, from her early days to her continued success as a competitive athlete in her 50s. She discusses the evolution of triathlon, the impact of technology, and the importance of data in training and racing. Her insights on longevity, resilience, and the joy of competition provide valuable lessons for athletes of all ages. She shares insights on the challenges of menopause, the importance of recovery and nutrition in training, the evolution of professional sports, and the impact of age on athletic performance. She also discusses her favorite pre, during, and post-competition food and drink, mantras for motivation, and her admiration for athletes who have achieved longevity in their careers. She continues to compete as an age group athlete and share her expertise through her coaching company, Giddy Up.

Episode 21: Professional Golf Teacher and Player Wayne DeFrancesco

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 13:03:38 GMT

Wayne DeFrancesco, a highly respected golf instructor and award-winning player, shares his journey of perseverance, adaptation, and passion for golf despite battling injuries and setbacks. His experience offers insights into the physical demands of golf, the evolution of the sport, and the emotional strength required to excel. Wayne's dedication to the game and his coaching philosophy reflect his resilience and commitment to improvement. The conversation with Wayne covers his approach to golf, mental challenges in the game, aging as an athlete, and his personal habits and experiences. Wayne shares insights on the mental aspect of golf, the importance of concentration, and the impact of aging on golfers. He also discusses his teaching style, love for music, and his dedication to physical fitness. Wayne's commitment to consistency and self-motivation shines through in his approach to the game and life as an athlete.

Takeaways

Resilience in the face of setbacks
The emotional and physical demands of golf
The impact of aging on athletes
Consistency and self-motivation in sports

Chapters

00:00 The Origin Story of a Golfer
03:00 The Journey to Becoming a Golfer
06:01 Overcoming Setbacks and Injuries
20:04 The Evolution of Golf and Training
32:55 The Drive to Improve and Coach
37:22 The Mental Aspect of Golf
39:52 Aging as an Athlete
46:25 Teaching Style and Personal Habits
55:08 Physical Fitness and Resilience

Episode 20: Board-Certified Sports Dietician and Endurance Athlete Claire Shorenstein

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:36:17 GMT

Board-certified sports dietician Claire Shorenstein shares extensive wisdom on fueling as we age, common misperceptions, aging athletes' ingrained focus on leanness over strength, and what to focus on nutritionally as the years pile up. Claire breaks down some of the mystery around supplements, the importance of movement overall, and changing needs of female athletes in particular. Find Claire on her twice monthly podcast Eat for Endurance for further wisdom!

Episode 19: What My Guests (So Far!) Have Taught Me About Aging Athletically

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:33:41 GMT

Host Hilary Cairns shares insights on the podcast journey so far, plus some updates on her foot injury, race decisions, and her daughter's marathon experience. She discusses adapting to injury, health updates, and lifestyle changes, and reflects on a long-ago childhood dream. Hilary also reflects on common themes from podcast guests including defying expectations, consistency, strength training, community, finding joy, optimism, flexibility, aging as athletes, and improvement with age and self-care.

Takeaways

Consistency and strength training are key themes in aging athletically.
Community, joy, and flexibility play important roles in the athletic journey.

Chapters

00:00 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey
05:08 Race Updates and Decisions
11:20 Health Updates and Lifestyle Changes
17:06 Defying Expectations and Consistency

Episode 18: Elite Masters Triathlete Julie Billingsley

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 14:14:22 GMT

Julie Billingsley, a lifelong endurance athlete, shares her journey from swimming to triathlon, highlighting the early days of the sport and her transition into triathlon. She discusses her endurance and resilience, the 50 State Quest, her training approach, and the definition of success in her races. The conversation covers the role of coaching in triathlon, the importance of community and social connection, recovery and nutrition in endurance sports, longevity and athletic aging, and athlete inspiration and mentality.

Takeaways

Endurance and resilience are key to long-term athletic success.
Consistency in training and a swim-forward approach have been instrumental in Julie's athletic journey. Coaching in triathlon involves individualized training, goal setting, and a focus on fun and varied workouts.
Community and social connection play a significant role in the triathlon experience, providing motivation and support.
Recovery and nutrition are essential for athletic performance and require intentional focus, especially as the body ages.
Longevity in athletics is achievable through consistency, accountability, and a positive mindset.
Athlete inspiration and mentality are crucial for overcoming challenges and maintaining a positive, resilient attitude.

Chapters

00:00 The Early Days of Triathlon
08:46 Endurance and Resilience
17:51 Training and Consistency
29:04 Racing and Success
36:03 Community and Social Connection in Triathlon
46:04 Longevity and Athletic Aging
57:07 Athlete Inspiration and Mentality

Episode 17: Elite Masters Track & Field Athlete Mark Williams

Hilary Cairns — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:45:17 GMT

Mark Williams, a nationally accomplished master's runner, shares his journey of consistency, competition, and motivation. From the start of his unintended running streak to the impact of strength training, Mark's dedication to short distance races and the significance of his running streak are evident. His training routine, favorite event, and coaching experience at Blair Academy provide insights into his athletic journey. Mark shares insights on coaching, training, recovery, nutrition, pre-race mindset, motivation, community, upcoming goals, athlete longevity, and habits for aging athletically.

Takeaways

Consistency and dedication lead to unexpected achievements
Strength training plays a crucial role in maintaining fitness and performance
The role of consistency in aging athletically

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mark Williams
05:10 The Unintended Running Streak
11:27 Strength Training and Its Impact
21:06 Training Routine and Cross-Training
26:20 Sticking with Short Distance Races
35:14 Recovery and Nutrition
41:00 Motivation and Definition of Success
47:40 Experience at World Championships
56:33 Habit for Aging Athletically

Episode 16: Olympic Swimmer Gabby Rose

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:07:40 GMT

Gabby Rose, a two-time Olympian, shares her remarkable journey of retiring from elite swimming, returning to the sport in her mid-40s, and achieving personal bests. Her training, mindset, and motivation reflect a unique approach to athletic longevity and success. The conversation with Gabby covers a wide range of topics, including recovery and wellness, training and injury prevention, motivation and gratitude, and athletic habits and parenthood. Gabby shares insights into her approach to recovery, training, and balancing her athletic career with other priorities, as well as her perspective on aging as an athlete.

Takeaways

Athletic potential doesn't always follow the expected timeline.
Training, recovery, and mindset play a crucial role in athletic performance.
Balancing priorities and setting goals are essential for maintaining motivation and longevity in athletic performance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gabby Rose
06:04 Early Swimming Career
12:45 Remarkable Comeback
19:54 Relationship with Competition
26:24 Recovery and Wellness
33:06 Aging and Athletic Performance
40:18 Pre and Post-Competition Nutrition

Episode 15: Mountain Bike Legend Ned Overend

Hilary Cairns — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:07:23 GMT

Ned Overend, a legendary mountain biker, shares insights on his career, training, and motivation. He discusses his evolution from mountain running to mountain biking, his success in triathlons, and his take on training and competition. Ned reflects on the impact of aging on his performance and the importance of balance and recovery along with his approach to competition, what keeps him racing at such a high level, and his approach to nutrition and recovery.

Chapters

00:00 The Evolution of a Mountain Biker
06:57 The Motivation to Compete
18:44 The Role of Fear and Risk
32:04 Training and Cross-Training
45:31 Insights on Nutrition and Recovery
52:21 Training and Data Usage

Episode 14: Mother Daughter Time!

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 28 May 2026 10:33:12 GMT

Solo host Hilary Cairns sits down with her daughter, Page Lester, to discuss her athletic journey from a young athlete to a competitive long-distance runner today. Page shares her thoughts on competition, what sport means to her, what Division 1 running was like and how running for herself feels today. Page touches on getting older and what's ahead, friendship, goals, training, nutrition and her overall mindset.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update
05:20 Challenges and Pressures in College Running
15:03 Training, Recovery, and Supplementation
23:05 Training for Grandma's Marathon and Race Preparation
48:24 Advice for Young Athletes

Episode 13: Conversation with heart expert, Dr. Ankit Shah

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 21 May 2026 23:05:42 GMT

Our first expert episode features Dr. Ankit Shah, a renowned sports cardiologist who delves into the relationship between exercise and heart health. We explore topics including atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, max heart rate, and the impact of exercise on heart disease. We also touch on training, sleep, and aging, providing insights into maintaining heart health as aging athletes. Enjoy!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aging Athletically Podcast
10:11 Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heart Issues
19:59 Athlete's Heart and Exercise-Induced Cardiac Remodeling
25:58 Supplementation and Hormones for Athletes
31:10 Atrial Fibrillation and Endurance Exercise
36:07 Max Heart Rate and Aging
42:52 Athletic Training and Heart Health
48:05 Sleep and Athletic Aging

Episode 12: Masters Track & Field Athlete Alice Greene

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 15 May 2026 19:58:05 GMT

Hear about Alice Greene's journey into track and field competition in her 50s, her training routine, and her achievements in senior games and national events. Alice shares her experience as a senior athlete, discussing her family's involvement in sports, her motivation, and her approach to training and competition. Alice is living proof that it's never too late to start exercising and competing in sports, regardless of age!

Episode 11: Checking in with the Hosts

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 07 May 2026 20:43:19 GMT

Join Hilary Cairns and Michael Wardian as they catch up on recent adventures, training, and insights from their latest interviews. They share personal stories, training tips, and reflections on staying active and motivated as they age.

Episode 10: Chat with Vegan Powerlifter Tammy Albanese

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:01:52 GMT

Sixty year-old Tammy Albanese shares her journey from dance and cheerleading to bodybuilding and now powerlifting. She discusses the ins and outs of powerlifting, how she has set records, and the impact of injuries on her training. Tammy shares what motivates her, how she transformed herself after potentially career-ending injuries and other health issues resolved through hard training and a vegan diet. She's a grandma, an architectural designer, and an athlete with eyes on competing for decades to come!

Episode 9: Wisdom from the Great Gene Dykes, World Record Holder Marathoner

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:35:57 GMT

Gene was a self-described mediocre runner in college, but he started racing again in his 50s and proceeded to get faster and faster. He improved his marathon times throughout his 60s, eventually running the fastest marathon ever by a 70 year old, a mind-blowing 2:54, which is 6:38 per mile for those of you wondering. In addition to his marathon prowess, Gene has set multiple age group records in ultramarathons and has competed in races up to 200 miles. Gene has proven again and again that high-level performance doesn’t have to end at a certain age.

We learn about how he trains, competes, and redefines expectations about aging and performance. Gene has faced some challenges along the way, including a nagging injury at issue today, and we get to hear what has changed as he’s gotten older, what drives him, and what he’s learned about staying competitive later in life.

Episode 8: Racing and Training Updates from Michael and Hilary

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:07:21 GMT

In this episode Michael and Hilary recap their races at Cherry Blossom--the USA Track & Field 10-Mile Championship--along with some other races and training. They also touch on coaching, books, and what's on their horizons.

Episode 7: Chat with CEO, Ultrarunner and Author Nick Thompson

Hilary Cairns — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:28:56 GMT

Nicholas Thompson is the CEO of The Atlantic, an accomplished ultrarunner, and proof that getting older doesn’t mean backing off big goals. In this episode of Aging Athletically, Nick talks with us about balancing high-level work and high-level training, what still drives him to compete, and how curiosity, discipline, and endurance continue to fuel performance in midlife and beyond. He also shares insights into his new book, The Running Ground, a great read for runners and non-runners alike!

Episode 1: Getting to Know the Hosts (Part 1!)

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 22:42:08 GMT

Welcome to Aging Athletically! In this first episode we introduce ourselves and talk about a little of this and a little of that. Michael is a pro ultrarunner and Hilary is a long-time competitive endurance athlete in triathlon, running and most recently, Hyrox. Thanks for joining us at the beginning!

Episode 2: Getting to Know the Hosts (Part 2!)

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 22:34:54 GMT

In this episode we go more in-depth on who we are and some goals for the year.

Episode 4: Pacers Running Owner Chris Farley

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 22:31:08 GMT

We interviewed our longtime friend and pillar of the DC running community, Chris Farley. We discuss Chris's history in the sport, what running means to him, how he keeps at it, while also learning about the growth of Pacers Running.

Episode 3: Winter Olympian, Curler Rich Rouhonen

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 22:26:16 GMT

In this episode we interview Rich Rouhonen and learn how he defied expectations by competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics at age 54. He shares the physical, mental and strategic approach that has sustained his elite athletic career alongside a demanding role as a trial attorney. From curling strategy to courtroom psychology, Rich reveals how resilience, discipline and adaptability can unlock excellence at any age.

Episode 6: Elite Hyrox Athlete Amy Bevilacqua

Hilary Cairns — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 21:36:59 GMT

Today we interview Hyrox star and coach Amy Bevilacqua. Amy shares the athletic journey she started as a young girl all the way to her current passion at age 52. In addition to being an elite athlete, Amy is a mom of 5! We discuss all things Hyrox, training and taking on new challenges.

Episode 5: Check-In with Hilary and Michael

Hilary Cairns — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:02:56 GMT

After the release of 4 episodes and time for some listener feedback, we check in about how the podcast is going, what's going on in our lives, and what's coming up.