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Our Story

What began as Chris Shipley sharing heartfelt stories about his dad evolved into Old Man Strength—the OG podcast that launched 3 Beards Media. Co-hosted by Chris Shipley and longtime friend Aaron Wall, this award-nominated show brings raw, real, and often hilarious conversations to the mic, diving into the lives of everyday people in Iowa and across the country.

From parenting and personal growth to careers, community, and the chaos in between, Old Man Strength is about remembering the way it used to be—and figuring out how to make it work now. Chris and Aaron bring honesty, heart, and humor, never shying away from cussing a little, laughing a lot, and tackling adversity head-on.

This isn’t just a podcast. It’s a movement rooted in resilience, relationships, and real talk.

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2024 Finalist "Best Interview Podcast"

The Latest Episodes

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Aaron Wall

Aaron Wall is an Iowa State graduate with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science, but don’t let that fool you—his talents go far beyond the gym. A published poet with a sharp pen and an even sharper wit, Aaron was once encouraged by the Dean of Iowa State’s Liberal Arts College to pursue a future in creative writing. Instead, he took his talents to the world of podcasting, where he blends humor, heart, and a healthy dose of sarcasm alongside co-host Chris Shipley.

With fewer than 200 followers on Twitter and zero presence on Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok, Aaron proudly wears the badge of digital dinosaur. According to his wife, he’s also a certified curmudgeon—grumbling about “kids these days” and their newfangled ways, but always ready to lend perspective, wisdom, and a well-timed punchline.

Aaron brings the balance to Old Man Strength—part storyteller, part philosopher, part grumpy old man—and all heart.

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Chris Shipley

Chris Shipley is the founder and creative force behind 3 Beards Media, a Central Iowa-based podcast network built on honest conversations, unfiltered opinions, and a deep commitment to community. Based in Norwalk, Iowa, Chris blends over 25 years of experience in IT and marketing with a passion for storytelling, humor, and connection.

A proud father of four and lifelong Iowan, Chris is the co-host of several original shows, including Old Man Strength, Like Father Like Daughter, and produces Billy & Willie's Workshop. Through these platforms, he tackles topics ranging from mental health and fatherhood to sports and social commentary—with a voice that’s both relatable and refreshingly candid.

Chris is also a vocal advocate for men’s mental health, using his personal experiences and platforms to spark real, vulnerable dialogue around anxiety, grief, and self-worth. Whether through fundraising events, local community involvement, or raw podcast episodes, Chris leads with heart, humor, and humility.

When he’s not behind the mic or building the 3 Beards Media brand, Chris serves as a marketing professional in the multifamily housing industry, bringing strategic insight and creative energy to every project he touches.

At the center of it all is his belief in the power of authenticity—and that telling the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, is the first step to making meaningful change.

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