Podcast Title: The Bobby Bones Show
Episode: MORGAN: A Sailor, an Author, and a Love Story: Stories From the Other Side of 80
Release Date: July 6, 2025
Host: Morgan Human
Description: In this heartfelt episode, Morgan Human connects with the vibrant residents of Abe's Garden, delving into their rich life stories. Featuring Dave, an 84-year-old published author and former journalist, and Carol, an 85-year-old devoted mother and resilient widow, the episode explores themes of love, perseverance, and the joys and challenges of aging gracefully.

1. Introduction to Abe's Garden and Its Residents

Morgan Human opens the episode by warmly introducing the audience to Abe's Garden, a community home for seniors where residents share their life stories and experiences. She emphasizes the beauty and wisdom that come with age, setting the stage for the insightful conversations to follow.

2. Interview with Dave: The Author's Journey

Age and Background:
Dave, nearly 84 years old, is introduced as a published author residing at Abe's Garden. He shares his journey into writing, highlighting his long-held passion for storytelling and journalism.

Writing "Sweet Adversity":
Dave discusses his book, Sweet Adversity: A Southern Writer Finds Stories and Good in Everything, explaining the motivations behind it.

Dave [03:05]: "I've worked for 34 years and was so busy with raising children and caring for my parents that I never got my book done. At Abe's Garden, I finally found the time and support to publish it on my 83rd birthday."

Early Career and Education:
Dave reflects on his early days writing for his high school newspaper and his honors in journalism. He details his academic path, including his degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and his teaching experience in creative writing.

Personal Life and Marriage:
Dave candidly shares his experience of a long-term marriage that lasted 39 years, marked by his husband's undiagnosed bipolar disorder. He recounts the challenges of maintaining the marriage while raising two children and ultimately his decision to divorce after his husband began an affair.

Dave [07:10]: "I knew in the first week of living with him that we shouldn't be married, but back then, divorce was rare. It wasn't until he had a girlfriend that I knew it was time to end it."

Life After Divorce:
Post-divorce, Dave finds happiness focusing on his writing, traveling, and building strong friendships. He discusses the importance of self-reliance and personal growth.

Dave [09:21]: "I've never been happier in my adult life. I manage my own money, choose my own clothes, and enjoy a fulfilling life through writing and friendships."

Advice on Aging and Pursuing Passions:
Dave offers inspirational advice to older adults, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and stay active.

Dave [17:05]: "Older people can still do what they've always wanted. Whether it's traveling or knitting, it's possible to achieve it."

Reflections on Physical Changes:
He acknowledges the physical changes that come with aging but maintains a positive outlook on growing older.

Dave [18:11]: "Hair gets thinner, skin thins, and you gain weight in unexpected places, but it's all worth it to grow older and be happy."

Conclusion of Dave's Segment:
Dave shares his positive experience at Abe's Garden, emphasizing the sense of community and safety it provides.

Dave [18:55]: "This is a happy place. I felt safe and content the moment I walked in."

3. Interview with Carol: A Life of Love and Resilience

Age and Background:
Carol, 85 years old, shares her life story as a dedicated mother of five and a devoted wife. She relocated to Florida in 1978 due to her husband's heart problems and spent four decades there.

Marriage and Family Life:
Carol recounts meeting her husband, Larry, in college when he accidentally knocked her down on the stairs. Their relationship blossomed quickly, leading to marriage within a year.

Carol [46:00]: "He knocked me down, and I still said, I'll take him."

Coping with Larry's Health Issues:
Carol discusses the challenges of her husband's multiple heart surgeries and the emotional toll it took on their family.

Carol [50:50]: "We had to prepare physically, mentally, and financially for when he might leave this earth."

Life After Larry's Passing:
Following Larry's death, Carol speaks about the void left in her life and how she coped by staying active and maintaining connections with family and friends.

Carol [54:21]: "I never thought I'd spend my golden years by myself, but I had to prepare for that possibility."

Favorite Memories:
Carol reminisces about favorite moments with Larry, including fishing trips and supporting each other through health crises.

Carol [53:57]: "He was very gentle, soft-spoken, and honest. Those qualities made him the perfect husband."

Advice for Future Generations:
Carol emphasizes the importance of preparing for the future, maintaining strong relationships, and cherishing family bonds.

Carol [57:49]: "Think about when you get old and be prepared physically, mentally, and financially."

4. Reflections and Shared Wisdom

Dave's Insights:
Dave reflects on the importance of staying active and embracing life's opportunities at any age.

Dave [40:32]: "Enjoy it for as long as you have it. Use it or lose it."

Carol's Lessons:
Carol highlights the significance of community support and the unpredictable nature of life, urging others to cherish their relationships and prepare for the future.

Carol [57:46]: "People need to think more about when they get old and be prepared."

5. Final Thoughts and Community Highlights

Morgan wraps up the episode by celebrating the stories shared by Dave and Carol, emphasizing the strength and wisdom that come from their experiences. She encourages listeners to appreciate the stories of those around them and to foster connections within their own communities.

Notable Quotes:

• Dave [03:13]: "I've always written, but I've never been able to get my book done. So when I came to Abe's Garden, I started on my book."

• Dave [07:10]: "I knew in the first week of living with him that we shouldn't be married, but back then, divorce was rare. It wasn't until he had a girlfriend that I knew it was time to end it."

• Dave [09:21]: "I've never been happier in my adult life. I manage my own money, choose my own clothes, and enjoy a fulfilling life through writing and friendships."

• Dave [17:05]: "Older people can still do what they've always wanted. Whether it's traveling or knitting, it's possible to achieve it."

• Dave [18:11]: "Hair gets thinner, skin thins, and you gain weight in unexpected places, but it's all worth it to grow older and be happy."

• Dave [40:32]: "Enjoy it for as long as you have it. Use it or lose it."

• Carol [46:00]: "He knocked me down, and I still said, I'll take him."

• Carol [53:57]: "He was very gentle, soft-spoken, and honest. Those qualities made him the perfect husband."

• Carol [57:46]: "People need to think more about when they get old and be prepared physically, mentally, and financially."

Conclusion

"MORGAN: A Sailor, an Author, and a Love Story: Stories From the Other Side of 80" is a poignant episode that celebrates the lives of Dave and Carol, showcasing their resilience, love, and the profound wisdom they've garnered over the years. Through their stories, listeners gain valuable insights into navigating life's challenges, the importance of community, and the enduring spirit that keeps the heart young.

Listen to The Bobby Bones Show on your preferred podcast platform to experience these inspiring stories firsthand.