The world seems obsessed with 20-something tech bros “disrupting” everything, but let’s be real: there are real advantages to age, experience and time-honored wisdom.
The real game-changers? Folks in their 70s, launching businesses with grit, wisdom, and a sly grin.
I was fascinated by a story in the Wall Street Journal, where they discussed people aged 70+ who are part of the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S.
The story said that almost 30% of employed adults in their seventies now work for themselves — about 1.3 million founders who decided retirement wasn’t the finale, just a scene change.
That is really good news on many fronts. It is good for the economy with more people joyfully (key term) working and people doing what they really want in business.
And no, these aren’t just hobby projects.
They’re consultancies, online shops, coaching programs, and service firms built from decades of experience.
Hey, this is where those of us who have “been around the block a couple of times” have more experience — and perhaps wisdom — than others.
The proof
The WSJ article discussed some people who are doing this:
- At 71, actor Judson Vaughn teamed up with attorney Judson Graves (77) to teach trial lawyers how to speak more persuasively.
- At 78, Mary Rawles launched Fit for the Rest of Your Life, a thriving fitness business for seniors.
- And Charlotte Bishop, near 80, created a company to coordinate eldercare — a service she wished had existed when she needed it most.
- None waited for permission. All started small. Each built something real.
This is exactly what you and I can do in our 60’s, 70’s and beyond.
That is groovy.
(I can see you smiling at that if you know that term from the 1950s and 1960s)
Why this moment matters
You really did pick a good time to be born! Because today’s tech has flattened the playing field.
You can launch a business from your kitchen table with a laptop, a Zoom link, and a lifetime of insight.
Plus you have the wonders of AI at your fingertips!
These kinds of options weren’t possible years ago.
Older founders bring an edge: perspective, reputation, and the wisdom to skip fads.
Research from Babson College shows late-career entrepreneurs often outperform younger ones because they move slower, think clearer, and plan for staying power.
That can be a strong asset in a hectic, frenzy-driven world.
This is called taking what you’ve got and turning it into a competitive advantage!
They told us when I went to Business School that doing that is a good thing!
So if you’re 70+ (or heading there), this isn’t the time to fade out.
It’s the time to take an assessment of your serious, market-valuable strengths and build on everything you’ve already learned.
5 Evidence-Based Steps for Senior Entrepreneurs
1. Build from your experience
The most successful seniors start inside what they already know. Your past work, skills, and networks are launch fuel. Don’t reinvent — reapply.
2. Keep it light and flexible
Low-overhead, high-control models win: consulting, online teaching, niche services.
Think knowledge, and your personal experiences. Don’t worry about having “enough capital to start.” (How 1960’s thinking is that!!)
3. Learn just enough tech with emphasis on AI
Digital literacy directly affects results. Today you can tap into the LLM’s (Large Language Models) like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Grok, and others for the knowledge you need.
And don’t forget “The University of YouTube!”
4. Test before you leap
Risk aversion can be your advantage in today’s marketplace. You can start with small pilots, like a mini-course or limited service. Prove demand first, then expand.
Today you can ask ChatGPT or Perplexity about what the market wants and get brilliant answers FAST!
5. Find your tribe
Peer support and mentorship double the odds of success. Join local networks, online communities, or mastermind groups for senior founders.
For example, our community of Stark Raving Entrepreneurs is filled with passionate, message-driven content entrepreneurs, many of whom are over 60.
Leverage the daylights out of your network to connect with others who have needs — and the ability to pay for your services.
The Bigger Truth
This isn’t about “keeping busy.” It’s about purpose, relevance, and staying curious.
Medical and mental health professionals tell us that this can give you the reason and tools to stay vibrantly and fully alive.
It’s about thriving because you combine your skills and experience with today’s “learn anything you want” AI.
One founder quoted in the WSJ put it very candidly:
“I didn’t want to stop growing.”
I heartily agree with that!
That’s the heartbeat of late-career entrepreneurship — growth fueled by wisdom, not adrenaline.
If you’ve started something after 60 — or want to — reply and share your story. I’d love to hear from you.
And if you’re still waiting for the perfect time, consider this: it’s never too late to build what only you can see.
A great way to do that (and get a dad-gum good plan for 2026) is to check out our “Content 2 Cash 2026 Retreat.”
http://Content2Cash.com
This is where you get a jumpstart on planning your message, your content, and your business plan for 2026. Now is a great time to get your business going or fine-tuned to make 2026 your best year yet.
Drop me a line at Terry@TerryBrock.com . Tell me what you think about 70+ entrepreneurs or what you’re building. I can’t wait to hear your story.
I look forward to hearing back from you.
To Your Success,
Terry
Terry@TerryBrock.com
P.S. Now is the time to take that experience, wisdom, and your network connections to make your life exactly what you want it to be now. You, and those who love you, will appreciate what you do.
http://Content2Cash.com