Nothing in life is more valuable than advice from someone more experienced and knowledgeable than yourself.
Unfortunately, not everyone is comfortable having their grandparents in the house. Some people have no one to turn to for a healthy lifestyle.
These pensioners wanted to close this gap in people’s lives. And as a result, they took a fantastic initiative. To know more about it, read on!
The friends, who have known each other all their lives, often meet at their favorite place, a coffee shop in Salt Lake City, Utah. Based on their encounters and sharing of stories, they came to a wise decision; they should tell others about these experiences!
Tony Caputo, 69, one of the group members, noticed something: across the street was a farmers market with hundreds of people!
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He came up with the idea for the club to set up a booth and provide counseling to individuals. The other guys were excited about it. So the following week they put up a stand with a big banner above it saying “It’s probably bad advice, but it’s free” and “Old coots give bad advice”.
When asked, the men were willing to discuss almost anything. However, they had two exceptions: politics and religion.
They sat there hoping someone would come to them and offer some advice.
Word seemed to have spread after several customers arrived and had a positive experience as a long wait formed outside their stall. They went to the so-called ‘Old Coots’ for advice on anything. From work and education matters to romantic relationships to choosing a mobile phone or internet package!
The men fully answer every question and take their roles seriously. “We always listen carefully,” Tony said, “and we don’t give unreasonable advice.”
The group – four or five men – slowly concluded that they were not the best people to answer the ladies’ questions.
To support their female clients and draw more attention to their booth through variety, they mixed in some ladies!
People started traveling from all over to see them because the stand became so popular! As a result, the organization launched a podcast and Facebook page where listeners could post questions about their favorite “old coots.” Who would have thought that the simple old concept of setting up a stand at a farmers market would lead to a popular podcast?
One fan said: “He knows everything, simple as that!”
“They’re the wisest old foxes you’ve ever asked for advice,” replied another.
Due to their popularity, they even appeared on Good Morning America! The men’s honest attitude and helpful advice helped them build their reputation!
The Salt Lake City Retirees Initiative has blossomed into a heartwarming testament to the wisdom and experience older generations have to offer. By setting up their booth, these friends not only filled a gap in the community for accessible life advice but also created a space where intergenerational bonds could flourish. Jokingly referring to themselves as “old coots giving bad advice”, their laid-back approach resonated with people seeking advice on a variety of topics and highlighted an innate desire for mentorship and support.
As word of their insightful conversations spread, the booth evolved into a lively hub of discussion, attracting visitors eager to share their questions and experiences. The addition of women to the group further diversified the perspectives offered and demonstrated the adaptability and inclusiveness of their project. By launching their podcasts and social media presence, they expanded their reach and allowed more individuals to benefit from their wisdom regardless of geographic limitations.
The community’s enthusiastic response underscores a fundamental truth: the wisdom of experience is invaluable and should be freely shared. Through their genuine interactions and thoughtful advice, these retirees not only entertained but also empowered others, reaffirming the importance of connection and the significant role older generations can play in guiding younger ones. Their journey is a reminder that sometimes the simplest ideas can lead to profound results, fostering a sense of community and understanding that transcends age.