Ljudevit Grgurić Grga: “This is my formula for a healthy and happy life!”

“Radio has always been a special kind of magic for me – my first love and a medium that creates a unique emotional connection with the audience through its broadcast,” the well-known radio and television host Ljudevit Grgurić Grga reveals at the start of our conversation. Even in his seventies, he shows no signs of slowing down, bursting with energy and constantly thinking about new projects. This eternal young man shares some interesting life stories of his guests once a week on his show “Tako dobro!” on Radio Nacional, specifically on Mondays from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. These stories are often enriched, in the context of the conversation, by the direct involvement of surprise guests – such as colleagues, friends or family members – as well as by the selection of six or seven favourite songs that reveal not only their musical taste but also the sensitivity of their personality.

“It’s a beautiful realisation that listeners reach out to me with comments saying the show has brightened their day, educated them, motivated them to make changes, awakened memories or simply brought a smile to their face,” he says. We were curious about the secret behind Grga’s vitality and what it is that brings a smile to his face.

Grga, what is the best thing that the media has brought to your life? How much has the media enriched you as a person?

The media has allowed me to meet an incredible number of interesting, globally famous, educated and diverse people, as well as to listen to and watch their stories, their knowledge, and feel their emotions as they express their views on life. That is an invaluable treasure!

Thanks to working in the media, I have gained complete openness toward diversity and the ability to better understand the actions of every individual. The media have given me the opportunity, through my work, to touch the lives of others and to offer my listeners positive messages that can inspire or comfort them. Personally, this experience has shaped me into a more tolerant and empathetic person, because working in the media reminds me day after day how important it is to listen to others and respect different opinions. I consider that the greatest gift of my profession.

Although you have been retired since 2018, you say it’s hard for you to truly rest and that your ears are still “hungry for good content.” How do you maintain that level of energy and passion for your work? Have you ever considered the possibility of being a “typical retiree”?

The truth is, it’s hard for me to truly rest even in retirement because curiosity and a love for good content never fade away. Music, human stories, conversations – these are the things that still drive me. I maintain my energy by constantly searching for something new, keeping up with what’s happening in the social scene… Simply put, I’m still active, as much as I can be.

Of course, it does sometimes occur to me that maybe it’s time to be a “typical retiree”, to relax without any obligations. But very quickly, I realise that this simply isn’t for someone like me who has always loved to explore, create and share. That gives me life energy and a sense of purpose, and as long as it fulfils me, I have no intention of stopping.

You often say that there are certain professions for which retirement doesn’t really exist. Would you like to share a personal message for people your age who think it’s “too late” for new challenges?

I always say that there is no expiration date for creativity, curiosity and the desire for new knowledge. If you feel that what you love can bring you fulfilment, then it’s never too late to dedicate yourself to it – regardless of your age. It is precisely these passions that keep us vital and give life meaning.

My advice would be: don’t be afraid to take initiative, learn something new or get involved in projects that you feel will bring you joy. It doesn’t matter whether you do it professionally or purely out of love – the important thing is to stay active and curious. Age shouldn’t be a barrier but rather an encouragement to channel your rich experience into something that further inspires and fulfils you.

You have a wonderful family. How important was their support for your career?

In the media industry, where working hours are typically irregular and the pace can be demanding and unpredictable, having understanding and support from your family is extremely important. My family, especially my wife, has always been my great support, the person who gave me strength and motivated me to keep going, even during difficult and demanding times.

Without her faith in me and my family’s love, I wouldn’t be able to keep working with such passion and dedication even now. That’s why I am immensely grateful to them. Family is the foundation and meaning of life, and when you have that, everything becomes much easier.

What would you say about yourself? Are you a happy and fulfilled person? What do you consider to be the greatest success you have achieved?

It’s a beautiful realisation that I am a happy and fulfilled person. I have had the privilege of doing what I love, meeting extraordinary people and sharing positive and motivational stories and emotions with my loyal audience. On top of that, I have the love of family and friends who surround me and make my life richer.

I consider my greatest success to be that throughout my career, I have managed to remain true to myself: honest, authentic and consistent with the life values instilled in me since childhood. If I have managed to touch even one person with optimism, by encouraging them to rethink their beliefs, with the warmth of emotions and quality content, then I believe my mission in this world is fulfilled.

Neither working on the radio nor maintaining such an “active retirement” would be possible if you didn’t take care of yourself. We are curious to know what you do to maintain your vitality and sharp mind?

At this age, I make an extra effort to take care of myself and my health in various ways: I walk regularly, do light exercise, prefer a Mediterranean diet that is almost vegetarian, and I definitely make sure to stay mentally active. Every day I read something, listen to good music and keep up with current events, and what brings me the most joy is working with young people at Radio Nacional, where exchanging ideas and opinions is an excellent workout for the brain.

I also make an effort to cultivate a positive attitude, especially in these challenging times. I believe that humility, gratitude, laughter and a cheerful spirit are crucial for a long life of vitality!

Vitality and health are also manifested through dental care – how important is oral health to you in your work and in life in general?

Taking care of oral health is extremely important to me, both personally and professionally. As someone who takes care of their health, I am well aware of how crucially important healthy teeth are. A healthy smile reflects personal hygiene and self-care, which is also mirrored in self-confidence – something that is extremely important both in work and everyday interactions.

Taking care of oral health is extremely important to me, both personally and professionally. As someone who takes care of their health, I am well aware of how crucially important healthy teeth are. A healthy smile reflects personal hygiene and self-care, which is also mirrored in self-confidence – something that is extremely important both in work and everyday interactions.

The Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA clinic has taken care of your oral health. Why did you choose them?

I decided on Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA because of the proven expertise of Dr. Zdenko Trampuš and his unique DENTAL SPA dental approach, as well as the extremely professional, yet pleasant and friendly atmosphere of his team. It is an environment in which I feel safe and relaxed, because I know that I am being cared for by top professionals in this extremely complex industry.

I especially appreciate how they approach each patient with full concentration, attentively listening to their complaints in order to identify the best path toward an effective solution. Of course, the most modern technology and top-notch equipment instil additional confidence and assurance that the health of my teeth and smile are in the best hands.

Along with regular dental treatments and check-ups, you’ve had the chance to try their DENTAL SPA treatments as well. Which ones would you highlight?

To my great delight, I have not yet needed to undergo any of the more complex dental procedures at the Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA clinic. Among the DENTAL SPA treatments, I would highlight professional teeth cleaning and polishing, and, somewhat unusually, an exceptionally pleasant tooth filling procedure for a tooth that had begun to decay.

A unique combination of top-notch dental care and a pleasant, almost wellness-like atmosphere will, I am sure, leave an impression unlike any previous experience in the dentist’s chair.

A unique combination of top-notch dental care and a pleasant, almost wellness-like atmosphere will, I am sure, leave an impression unlike any previous experience in the dentist’s chair.

It was a great and unforgettable experience to host Dr. Bruce Lipton, who is known for his revolutionary approach to understanding that our genes are not the only “records” determining our health, but that it is also significantly influenced by the environment we live in, and especially by our mind. In Zagreb, the practical methods of this insight were covered in a programme where Dr. Lipton spent two full days, on 21 and 22 September 2019, educating and encouraging workshop participants on how to use their own minds to take control of their lives and become masters of their destinies instead of victims of their programming!

I will never forget the episode you’re referring to, when after the seminar ended, upon returning to the Esplanade Hotel, Dr. Lipton complained to me that he had a toothache caused by a loosening dental crown. Although it was Sunday evening, I decided to call Dr. Trampuš! To make a long story short, Dr. Trampuš advised us to head to his Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA clinic immediately, where he and his wife Ivana were waiting to welcome us. When Dr. Lipton entered the clinic, he was impressed by the warm welcome from the couple and by the technology and equipment he saw! In less than an hour, Dr. Zdenko Trampuš and Ivana Trampuš brought a smile back to Dr. Lipton’s face.

The highlight of it all was when Dr. Lipton asked for the bill and Dr. Trampuš told him that payment was out of the question – that he was glad to help and would be happy if they could have a photo together as a keepsake of the entire event. On top of everything, Dr. Trampuš drove Dr. Lipton and his wife back to the hotel. It was a truly unforgettable experience! Dr. Lipton and his wife Margaret couldn’t believe what they had experienced, and upon returning to America, Dr. Lipton personally thanked Dr. Trampuš and the Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA on his Instagram and Facebook profiles.

Let’s get back to you. How much have Dr. Trampuš’s consultations and the individualised approach to patients at the Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA helped you in making decisions about dental procedures?

Consultations with Dr. Trampuš make every step of deciding on dental procedures easier. His individualised approach, patience and willingness to thoroughly explain all the options, possibilities and consequences of procedures inspire great trust and confidence in every patient that Dr. Trampuš will ensure everything he proposes and performs is the best for your teeth.

Many people, especially in their later years, put off visiting the dentist. From your own experience, what message would you share with them about why it’s important not to wait?

From my own experience, I can say that postponing a visit to the dentist can only make things worse and lead to bigger problems. Regular check-ups and timely interventions are generally key to maintaining health and quality of life.

It is important to understand that oral health is also closely linked to overall health and that neglecting dental health can have far-reaching consequences. I am happy that here in Croatia we have a dental facility like the Ortoimplant DENTAL SPA clinic, which is the best proof of the advancement in dental medicine and, equally importantly, how much less stressful and more pleasant these treatments are today compared to before.

The message is clear: don’t wait for problems to become serious – take care of yourself in time. Your health and your smile deserve it!

To wrap up, what specific advice do you have for our readers and your listeners, especially those in their 60s and 70s? How can they get involved and stay as active and healthy as possible for as long as possible?

My first piece of advice is to never stop being curious and open to new knowledge. Engaging in activities that make you happy, be it hobbies, volunteering or socialising, helps keep the spirit vital and in good shape. It’s also important to move regularly, practice light exercise or engage in any other activity suited to our abilities. Of course, don’t forget about proper nutrition and enough sleep, because both the body and mind need quality “fuel” and rest.

Another key thing is nurturing social connections. In later years, socialising with others helps maintain mental vitality, which aids in overcoming feelings of loneliness.

The cherry on top: be patient and kind to yourself, and engage in activities that combine physical, mental and emotional well-being. Believe me, that’s the winning formula for a long and healthy life!