At 52 and closer to 53, Gio is chasing the rim again — literally. 🏀 In this episode of the Mindful Muscle Podcast, Gio and Jodi open up about real-life struggles, smart goals, and what it means to keep showing up for your health, no matter your age or circumstances.

Jodi shares the powerful story of her husband’s recovery after a horrific drunk driving accident, the emotional and financial toll it took on their family, and the one lesson she wants everyone to act on today: check your insurance coverage. From emergency funds to living below your means, this conversation goes deep into stewardship, resilience, and preparation.

From there, Gio talks about moving three times in eight months, the stress of adjusting to country life on four acres, and how that impacted his routines, mental health, and fitness. Then the two dive into:

• 🧠 How to turn any fitness dream into a SMART goal

• 🏀 Gio’s new challenge: regaining his vertical jump to grab the rim by age 53

• 💪 Why strength, VO₂ max, and low body fat matter more as we age

• 🧡 Jodi’s work at the YMCA and with Special Olympics Unified Fitness

• 🎁 A book giveaway for loyal listeners (“Rebuilding Milo” & “Built From Broken”)

• 🏋️‍♂️ Sneak peek: Gio’s upcoming home gym build (750–900 sq ft project)

• 👦 Future episode: helping Jodi’s 14-year-old son navigate fitness and nutrition questions in a healthy way

⏱ Episode Highlights

00:00 – Welcome + 145 lb combined weight loss

01:00 – Jodi’s husband’s accident & underinsured driver reality

05:00 – Gio’s 3 moves in 8 months & life stress on four acres

09:00 – Playing basketball at 5:30 AM with guys half his age

11:00 – Can a 52-year-old regain his vertical jump?

13:00 – Breaking down Gio’s SMART goal to grab the rim

18:00 – VO₂ max, body fat, and longevity

23:00 – Why goals matter even if you’re already disciplined

24:00 – Podcast update, book giveaway, and gym build teaser

👇 Join the Conversation

What’s your current SMART goal — fitness or otherwise?

Drop it in the comments using S-M-A-R-T (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) and we might feature it in a future episode.

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Until next time, remember: if you don’t take care of yourself… who will?