What can an 81-year-old skier who logged 111 days on the mountain teach us about aging? Scott and Meg revisit their conversation with Gary Way, exploring the value of choosing difficult challenges, embracing adventure, managing risk, and building the strength and resilience to keep doing what you love—at any age.
At 81 years old, Gary Way isn't slowing down. After skiing 111 days last season, he's already setting his sights on 120 for next season. And many of those days involve earning his turns the hard way—climbing the mountain rather than taking the lift.
In this Third Quarter Badass debrief, Scott and Meg reflect on their conversation with Gary and the lessons that extend far beyond the slopes.
From his first intimidating descent at Cannon Mountain as a teenager to decades of backcountry adventures, Gary has consistently embraced challenges rather than avoided them. But his story isn't simply about pushing harder. It's about learning to push smarter.
Scott and Meg explore how our relationship with risk evolves as we age, why deliberately choosing discomfort can lead to a more fulfilling life, and how a wake-up call in Gary's forties transformed his approach to fitness and longevity.
They also discuss the importance of strength, mobility, consistency, and community—and why maintaining the physical ability to pursue adventure requires a lifetime of intentional effort.
Perhaps the most inspiring part of Gary's story isn't what he's accomplished. It's that, at 81, he's still looking ahead, setting new goals, and planning his next adventure.
The takeaway? The boundaries may shift as we age, but the opportunity to challenge ourselves never disappears. Keep moving, keep exploring, and never stop choosing the adventure.
This episode is a follow-up to our full interview with Gary Way. If you haven't heard his remarkable story, be sure to listen to that conversation as well.
