Picture-perfect Palm Beachers Kim Murstein and Grandma Gail have made our island paradise the backdrop to their success as podcast hosts and social media stars. Locals get excited whenever the beloved multigenerational duo is spotted around Worth Avenue or at The Royal—and we do, too!
As Spotlight celebrates families in this issue, we couldn’t be happier to get the full backstory from the ladies we can’t stop listening to!
It’s been three years since you launched your podcast, “Excuse My Grandma.” When did you both realize you had a hit?
Kim Murstein: I realized it was a hit when we started receiving messages from listeners across different age groups, telling us how much they related to our conversations and enjoyed the humor and insights. Every day,
we see our follower count and community grow, and brands reach out to us to promote their products.
Grandma Gail: When everyone started stopping me on the street to take a selfie, I knew people liked us!
For those who don’t know, what’s the backstory on starting your podcast?
Kim: During the pandemic, I was living in New York City and working remotely for Cheddar News as a business and news producer and entertainment reporter. I decided I wanted a change of pace and moved
in with my grandparents in Palm Beach.
I was going on a ton of dates, and my grandma got overly involved in all of them, of course, but was also shocked about all the modern ways of dating, such as dating apps and sliding into the DMs. My grandma and I always had these hilarious and insightful conversations, and one day we thought, Why not share these with the world?
After starting our podcast, we shortly created our TikTok and Instagram accounts, which quickly grew. What started as a fun project became a go-to source for people to bridge the generational gap.
Gail, what was your life like pre-podcast?
Gail: I was playing bridge, having lunch with my friends, and going to Broadway to see the latest shows.
What does “Excuse my Grandma” focus on?
Gail: The show is all about combining humor, life advice, and generational perspectives. We tackle everything from dating to fashion to daily life challenges, providing both modern and traditional viewpoints.
Kim, why do you choose to spend your winters in PB with your grandmother?
Kim: It’s not only a beautiful escape but also gives me quality time with Grandma. Our best conversations and video ideas often come from our day-to-day living together.
Tell us about the dynamic of your relationship.
Kim: We’re incredibly close; she’s not just my grandma but also one of my best friends. We complement each other well. I bring in the modern perspective, while she adds timeless wisdom and wit.
Gail: We make a great team. She’s the yin to my yang!
Have you considered giving up your apartment in New York City and moving to Palm Beach full-time, Kim?
Kim: I’ve thought about it, especially during the New York winters! But my life is still very much rooted in NYC. Plus, the contrast between the two places brings a nice balance to my life.
What does a typical day look like for you both?
Kim: I wake up and Grandma has already been up for a few hours. I go into the kitchen to make breakfast and there’s always fresh-squeezed orange juice that Grandma Gail made for me! After that, Grandma nags me to get out of bed. (I’m not a morning person!) I usually take a walk or exercise.
That’s followed by some brainstorming for the podcast or video content. I spend a good chunk of the day recording with Grandma or editing, with breaks for our favorite activities, including beach time, shopping, and golf. And we always end the day with family dinner. Obviously followed by some reality TV before bed.
Gail: My typical day is getting up, squeezing orange juice for Kimberly, going about my business until she gets her act together around noon. And then we work, work, work! But I must stop by 4 p.m. to rest and watch TV. And then my phone goes to sleep because it gets worn out!
Who have been some of your favorite podcast guests ever?
Kim: Nick Viall from The Bachelor, the comedian Jared Fried, and of course, editor-in-chief of Spotlight, Sydney Sadick!
Dream podcast guests?
Kim: Alex Cooper of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast.
Gail: Oprah Winfrey, Bette Midler, and Barbra Streisand!
Kim, what’s your relationship status?
Kim: Currently single and navigating the dating world, which is a frequent topic on our podcast!
What’s the dating scene like in Palm Beach?
Kim: It’s a romantic place to date, in my opinion, with swaying palm trees and beautiful sunsets. There are
opportunities for activity dates, like golf or a day at the beach. Best places to meet someone are post-dinner at Cucina, HMF, Le Bar, and trivia night at Swifty’s.
What qualities are you looking for in someone?
Kim: Someone who adds to my life, doesn’t just coast! I value someone who can make great conversation, is driven, and has a sense of humor.
Gail, what kind of dating advice do you give Kim?
Gail: Date someone who has similar values and you enjoy being with.
And what are your thoughts on dating apps?
Gail: I prefer when someone is fixed up by a family member or friend, but I know many young people use dating apps, and if it works for them, great! It’s just another way to meet singles.
How do you both describe your personal styles?
Kim: Classic! Grandma Gail has taught me to dress for what looks best on my body, which is often simple and timeless. We love black and white, we love neutrals, and we love a good white button-down! You’ll never
catch Grandma without one under a sweater, and of course a pair of ballet flats and a great handbag.
You guys have gotten to a place where you get recognized all over the streets of PB and beyond. Gail, did you ever expect this type of fame?
Gail: No, this was completely foreign to anything I could have imagined! The recognition from fans in New York, a college campus in New Orleans, here in Palm Beach, and as far away as Paris has been astounding to
me.
I appreciate everyone who watches us and look forward to growing our community even more. I’m so amazed that people identify with our content.
Gail, what does your husband think of all this?
Gail: He’s very proud of me and Kim! He tells everyone about us and is our biggest fan.
Are we ever going to meet him?
Kim: All our followers are dying to meet Poppy! We promised everyone when we reach 1 million followers they’ll get a full introduction.
Kim, what about your mom?
Kim: My mom is [actually] there with us most of the time that we’re filming…behind the camera! The three of us do everything together. Everyone’s bound to meet her at some point, too.
How similar are you and Kim, Gail?
Gail: We’re similar in everything except our approach to dating!
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about each of you?
Kim: I love all things 1950s. I’m always listening to my record player and watching old movies.
Gail: As great of a homemaker I’ve been, I can’t cook! I’m working on honing my cooking skills by remaking some recipes from my past. Kim and I have been re-creating a lot of ’50s dishes from Jell-O parfaits to string bean casserole!
What are your plans for the future?
Kim: Our aim is to continue making content that resonates with both younger and older generations. We’re continuing to explore collaborations with brands that appeal to women of all ages.
We can’t wait to expand our audience and hopefully meet our community in person soon. We hope to connect with women of all ages, whether that be through a book, TV, or coming out with our own product!
Anything else we should know?
Gail: No, you know our entire life story now! Enjoy! [Laughs] And please join us by following our account @excusemygrandma on Instagram and TikTok.
The “Excuse My Grandma” podcast is available on Apple and Spotify.
KIM AND GRANDMA GAIL’S TOP 5 DATING TIPS
Kim:
1. Do your best to be spontaneous on a date; it’s supposed to be fun!
2. Stop talking about your ex. Not a good look!
3. Don’t waste your time if you don’t feel a connection.
4. Don’t text too much before meeting someone for the first time.
5. We’re all still a work in progress, so don’t be afraid to ask someone close to you for advice!
Gail:
1. Always look your best on a date.
2. Never drink more than one drink.
3. Don’t go to bed with a guy until you know it’s serious.
4. Give someone more than one chance; it takes a while to get to know someone.
5. Don’t text too much!
