The 4 Habits That Helped a Centenarian Live to 101 | Lessons From a Life Lived Past 100 — Part 2

What can we learn from someone who actually lived past 100?

In Part 2 of Lessons From a Life Lived Past 100, Brad and Keros continue their conversation with Marjorie Nelson Lowder and her brother Russ Nelson, the children of Russell M. Nelson, who lived to be 101.

This time, we explore the final four principles from the Blue Zones research—and look at how each one appeared in the everyday life of a man their family knew and loved.

The longest-lived people tend to eat a diet centered on whole, plant-based foods—vegetables, fruits, beans, and legumes. We hear stories about Russell M. Nelson's garden, his love of fresh vegetables, and his belief in eating food close to its natural source.

One of the most surprising findings from the Blue Zones research is the connection between belonging to a faith-based community and longevity. We explore the role of faith, community, service, and purpose—and Brad shares a personal experience that completely changed the way he approached church.

Russell M. Nelson was an extraordinarily busy physician, scientist, father, grandfather, and faith leader. Yet his children remember something very simple: when he was home, he was really home.

He told his children they could call him whenever they needed him—and he followed through. We also share a deeply personal story of how he answered a call from Mexico when Brad was experiencing a heart attack.

The people we surround ourselves with matter.

The Blue Zones research suggests that strong social connections contribute to health and longevity—and that our friends can influence our habits and behaviors, for better or worse.

We talk about Russell M. Nelson's lifelong friendships, his remarkable inclusiveness, and his philosophy of continually widening the circle.

After exploring all eight Blue Zones principles across these two episodes, something becomes clear:

There may not be a secret to longevity.

There may simply be a better way to live.

Eat mostly whole foods.
Stay connected to faith and community.
Put the people you love first.
Surround yourself with people who lift you up.
Live with purpose.
Serve others.
Keep moving.
And enjoy the journey.

Russell M. Nelson didn't set out to become a centenarian.

He simply lived a life filled with purpose, faith, family, service, movement, connection, and moderation.

And perhaps that's the lesson Brad and Keros are trying to take with them on their own longevity journey.

Don't just try to live longer. Learn how to live stronger.

• The Blue Zones' Plant Slant
• Why belonging to a faith community may matter for longevity
• How Russell M. Nelson put family first despite an extraordinary schedule
• A personal story from Brad's heart attack
• Why your "tribe" can influence your health
• The importance of lifelong friendships
• How to build an ever-widening circle of people you love
• Eight principles that may help us live longer—and live better

Marjorie Nelson Lowder
Russell M. Nelson's daughter

Russ Nelson
Russell M. Nelson's son

Their firsthand memories provide a unique perspective on the ordinary habits and choices behind an extraordinary life.

Live Longer. Live Stronger.

A father-son podcast exploring an authentic longevity journey.

We're not chasing youth.

We're learning how to prepare for the years we hope to earn.

🌐 LiveLongerLiveStronger.org

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Come take the journey with us.

5. PLANT SLANT

6. BELONG

7. LOVED ONES FIRST

8. RIGHT TRIBEThe Bigger LessonIn This EpisodeFeatured Guests