In this episode of the Landmark Difference Makers Podcast, we sit down with Julianne Taylor—registered nutritionist, competitive powerlifter, PhD candidate, and former Landmark program leader—whose work is challenging some of the most deeply held assumptions about aging.
At 65, Julianne is not slowing down. In fact, she’s getting stronger—physically, mentally, and intellectually—and inviting others to reconsider what’s truly possible as we grow older.
Living Longer vs. Living Better
Julianne introduces a critical distinction that frames the entire conversation: the difference between lifespan and healthspan. While modern medicine has dramatically extended how long we live, it hasn’t necessarily improved how well we live in later years. Healthspan, Julianne explains, is about maintaining strength, mobility, cognitive function, and independence for as long as possible.
“We’re better at keeping people alive—but not always better at keeping them well.”
Her work is dedicated to closing that gap.
Strength as a Cornerstone of Aging Well
One of the most striking insights Julianne shares is the underestimated role of muscle and strength in longevity. Muscle, she explains, isn’t just about appearance—it’s a metabolically active organ that supports blood sugar regulation, bone density, balance, and overall resilience.
Julianne began powerlifting in her late 50s and went on to compete—and win—at the IPF World Powerlifting Championships in her 60s. Her message is clear: strength can be built at any age, but it requires intention, discipline, and consistency.
“Motivation is overrated. What actually makes a difference is discipline and consistency.”
Nutrition, Movement, and the Whole System
As a registered nutritionist and researcher, Julianne emphasizes a return to fundamentals: whole foods, adequate protein, and low “human interference” in what we eat. She explains how nutrition, strength training, sunlight, and recovery work together to support bone health, metabolic health, and cognitive function—especially as we age.
There’s no single silver bullet. Healthspan is holistic.
Mindset, Community, and Purpose
Beyond the physical, Julianne highlights two often-overlooked factors in aging well: mental challenge and social connection. Continuing to learn, staying engaged with others, and having a reason to keep going all contribute to resilience over time.
Her pursuit of a PhD—focused on testing dietary protocols that may reduce autoimmune disease symptoms—is driven by a simple commitment: to leave something useful behind.
“If nobody else is going to do this study, I should take it on. It would be a contribution.”
Landmark and the Power of Persistence
Julianne credits her time leading Landmark programs with shaping how she relates to difficulty. Challenges aren’t signals to stop—they’re indicators that something hasn’t been learned yet. Whether lifting heavy weights or revising academic papers, she practices resetting, recommitting, and continuing forward.
A Life That Builds on Itself
When asked how she hopes to be remembered, Julianne’s answer is modest and profound: that she left behind work others could build on—research, insight, and proof that aging doesn’t have to mean decline.
✨ Listen to the full episode to hear Julianne’s practical, grounded, and inspiring approach to living stronger and healthier for longer.
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