How not to become a grumpy old bugger
A funny, honest chat about spotting - and stopping - the slide into grumpiness.
Today we’re going to have some fun. In this episode of Prime Time, I’m joined by Geoff Hutchison, retired ABC broadcaster, former 7.30 reporter, and author of How Not to Become a Grumpy Old Bugger - a very funny newly released and seriously valuable self help book for older men. We dive into why some men get grumpier as they get older, how that grumpiness affects their relationships, and what they can do to turn it around.
We dive into why some blokes slide into grumpiness as they age, how it chips away at relationships, and how to turn it around. We talk health, self-awareness, friendships, listening better, letting go of regret, embracing change, and even giving the future a go (yes, that includes new tech). It’s funny, it’s warm, and it’s full of practical takeaways — whether you’re worried about your partner, your dad, or yourself.
And it’s a perfect show for anyone who’s a grumpy old bugger in the making, married to one, or keen to avoid becoming one altogether.
LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:
Highlights of the conversation:
Why some blokes slide into grumpiness — and how it hurts families and friendships
Geoff’s “why”: his dad’s story, talkback callers, and the cost of constant outrage
What a “grumpy old bugger” really is: attitude, behaviour, mindset (you’re allowed to be grumpy — just don’t live there)
The pothole metaphor and the “museum of dick-headedness” — how daily grievances become a hobby
Humour as a reset: reading your complaint list out loud (to bouzouki music)
Dropping the “you can’t say anything these days” line — it’s just licence to be unkind
Curiosity over culture wars: learn a bit, or stop choosing to be endlessly outraged
Relatable rile-ups: caravans, roundabouts, reality TV and why laughing at ourselves helps
Health first: tell your GP the truth, make small changes, stop inflating “bad news”
Look in the mirror: self-respect, presentation, and gentle self-acceptance
Plan the next 25 years on purpose — don’t let the phase happen to you
Accountable friendships: mates who check in, call you out, and stick around
Listening audit: hear before you fix; make space for others; send the supportive text
What makes life worth living now: let go of being right; keep only the prejudices that stand up to fresh air
Give the future a try: engage with new tech (you don’t need all the answers)
How to start if this is you: small bites — listening, regret work, kinder defaults, doing the work
You can take a look at Geoff Hutchison’s book, How not to become a Grumpy Old Bugger in all good bookstores, online, or on Audible.
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From Bec’s Desk
Hey Primetimers! Have you got your copy of Prime Time: 27 Lessons for the New Midlife yet? Each week in this section I’m going to share a small titbit to give you some lessons from the book so you can see where it might fit in your life. But first, this week I want to give you a deeper look at what the 27 lessons are.
You can order your copy online here. Or find it in almost every bookseller in Australia (unless they are out of stock - and if that’s the case ask them to order it for you). Or listen to it via Spotify Plus or Audible too.
Great episode! I’ve asked my kids to buy me the book for Father’s Day.