Chapter X with Michael Kay: Recent Episodes
Michael F Kay
Navigating your next chapter after traditional work requires a new kind of bravery—especially for men. Michael and his guests speak straight to how to overcome the conditioning of our hard-charging career years and explore what will bring us fulfillment.
Retirement isn't just the end of a career. For many executives, it's the first time they've had to redefine who they are without the title they've spent decades earning.
So why do so many accomplished leaders struggle with this transition? And what can they do now to prepare for what's next?
My guest today is Dr. Kelly Ottman, executive coach, researcher, and founder of Leadership Portals. After interviewing executives before and after retirement, she uncovered surprising patterns about identity, relationships, and the skills people need to thrive in the next chapter.
In this episode, we covered:
- Why the word "retirement" makes executives flinch
- The surprising skills many leaders find out they're missing after leaving work
- Why "I'll just join a few boards" isn't as simple as it sounds
- Losing your prestige vs. losing your credibility (and why they're not the same thing)
- What Kelly encourages people to create instead of a bucket list
- What organizations overlook when preparing leaders for retirement
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Resources
Email: KellyOttman@LeadershipPortals.com
Website: LeadershipPortals.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kellyottman
Creativity isn't reserved for artists. It's something we use every day to solve problems, adapt to change, and discover new possibilities.
That becomes especially important in Chapter X. Retirement reimagines how we spend our time, where we find fulfillment, and what comes next.
Today I'm speaking with James Walters, photographer, podcaster, and author. He shares why curiosity is at the heart of creativity, why success and fulfillment aren't always the same thing, and how a shift in perspective can open the door to new possibilities.
We cover:
- Why James sees creativity as problem-solving in disguise
- Why imposter syndrome doesn't retire when you do
- What it means to rebel against inherited definitions of success
- Two brothers who waited until their 70s to hike the Appalachian Trail together
- 3 phases of retirement James has seen in the people he interviews
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Resources
A Joyful Rebellion
We tend to avoid anything we won't be instantly good at. Richard Sparks has spent forty years proving that instinct is wrong.
Richard is a writer who has spent 40 years bouncing between comedy sketches, TV scripts, opera translations, and now fantasy novels. He wrote for a young Rowan Atkinson before anyone knew his name, then somehow ended up translating operas with no background in the form.
In this episode, Richard shares why he never expects a first draft to work and how that same patience helped him build a fantasy series after decades of writing scripts.
We cover:
- The strange side job that taught Richard he could actually get paid to write
- What happened the first time he watched an actor perform a sketch he wrote
- The one thing Richard tells every young writer about a bad first draft
- Why he walked away from decades of scriptwriting for something he'd never done before
- A story structure mistake he says ruined the ending of a hit TV series
- The line from Mel Brooks that reframed how Richard thinks about comedy vs. tragedy
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Resources
Get free chapters at: https://richardsparks.com
We spend decades working toward the exit. But what happens once we actually get there?
Today I'm speaking with Jack Calhoun, who sold his wealth management firm in his fifties expecting to finally relax and write. Instead he found himself restless, then stuck running a company he didn't even like after a bootstrapped venture went sideways.
In this episode, Jack shares what that wrong turn taught him and how it led him to create Encore Career Lab, a program built to help high achievers figure out what comes next.
We cover:
- The moment selling his firm turned from a lottery win into "what have I done?"
- Why the freedom of retirement gave way to isolation
- What his coach's "autopsy" exercise taught him about walking away
- Why ego is the real enemy of reinvention
- Jack's case for treating your next chapter like a series of sprints (instead of one big bet)
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Resources
Website: encorecareerlab.com
Email: jack@encorecareerlab.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-calhoun-encore
What can we learn from someone who spent weeks living in retirement communities and interviewing dozens of retirees?
That's exactly what today's guest set out to discover. Dr. Andi Simon is a corporate anthropologist whose curiosity about retirement led her to study how people navigate life after work.
Although every story was different, she found that many retirees shared the same struggles and the same opportunities as they entered this next chapter.
We discuss:
- 4 questions almost everyone wrestles with after leaving their career behind
- What surprised Andi after interviewing dozens of retirees
- Why "Saturday every day" isn't always as fulfilling as it sounds
- How friendships often change more than we expect after retirement
- What an anthropologist sees that the rest of us often miss about retirement
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Resources:
Website: andisimon.com
Book: Rethink Retirement
Jake Fishbein joined his first men's group for research.
He was helping write a novel about men's groups and thought he should probably see one from the inside.
What he didn't expect was that the experience would change the course of his own life.
In this episode, we discuss why retirement can trigger an unexpected identity crisis, the challenge of separating who we are from what we do, and what it means to stay engaged with life long after a career ends.
We cover:
- Why retirement can trigger an unexpected identity crisis
- The challenge of separating who you are from what you do
- What it means to transition from achievement to eldership
- Why staying "in the arena" matters at every stage of life
- The fear of becoming irrelevant as we grow older
- Lessons from a woman who began her most meaningful work in her seventies
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Keep Exploring If you enjoyed this conversation, check out Jake's novel, The Men's Group: A Novel of Messy Friendships.
Amazon Print Amazon Kindle Barnes & Noble Print Barnes & Noble Nook
Loneliness isn't something we usually associate with successful people. When the career ends, where do purpose, connection, and belonging come from next?
My guest today is Carl Nassar. He's an engineer, teacher, businessman, and eventually, psychotherapist. After achieving everything his parents had hoped for, Carl realized the one thing he was still searching for was a sense of belonging.
So he walked away from a tenured professorship, started over, and spent the next twenty-five years helping people find their way back to each other.
In this episode, we covered:
- Why Carl walked away from a tenured professorship to start over
- The childhood lesson that fueled his drive to achieve
- What thousands of therapy sessions taught him about loneliness
- Why consumer culture promises belonging but rarely delivers it
- How becoming a "lingerer" can lead to deeper relationships
- Practical ways to build community in the next chapter of life
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Resources
Website: https://carlnassar.com
Larry Hagner was nine months old when his father left. For years, he searched for answers about the man he barely knew and the impact that absence had on his life.
Today, Larry is the founder of The Dad Edge podcast, where he has spent more than a decade helping men become better husbands, fathers, and leaders.
In this episode, Larry shares his story, from growing up without a father to raising four sons of his own. We discuss fatherhood, generational patterns, personal responsibility, and what it takes to be the father you didn't have.
In this episode, we covered:
- How Larry's experiences growing up influenced the father he became
- Why repairing mistakes quickly is a critical parenting skill
- The messages our parents pass down (and how to decide which ones to keep)
- How to start breaking unhealthy generational patterns
- What Larry has learned from raising four sons
- Why good intentions are not enough and what to do instead
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Resources
Podcast: The Dad Edge Podcast Website: The Dad Edge
What if the goal isn't just to live longer, but to remain capable of doing the things you love for as long as possible?
After decades as a physician, surgeon, and medical innovator, Dr. Arnon Krongrad believes we've been asking the wrong question. Rather than chasing longevity, he's focused on something he calls "functional supremacy."
Today, Arnon challenges conventional thinking about health and aging. You'll hear why he believes physical, cognitive, and emotional function may matter far more than simply adding years to our lives.
We discuss:
- How to prepare for a life you still want to be living decades from now
- Why the best health goal may have nothing to do with a number on a chart
- The challenge of staying physically, mentally, and emotionally sharp as we age
- What becomes possible when you stop measuring success by lifespan alone
- How to build a future worth staying healthy for
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Resources Ezz: https://worldofezz.com
Learn more about Ezzpedition 2026: https://www.worldofezz.com/ezzpedition2026/
What if the things you loved most as a kid still hold clues about the life you actually want now?
I still remember Yankees games crackling through a transistor radio tucked under my pillow long past bedtime. For Ben Orlando, it was realizing those moments were never really about baseball at all.
I'm talking with psychotherapist, writer, and Midnight Library of Baseball host Ben Orlando about masculinity, nostalgia, and what happens when men lose the thread back to themselves.
We explore why the hobbies we dismiss as "not serious" often point to something much deeper, and why reconnecting with joy and authenticity matters even more as we get older.
You'll hear about:
- Why certain childhood memories stay with us for life
- How men lose themselves in careers and responsibilities
- The importance of reconnecting with joy and nostalgia
- Why hobbies and passions matter more than we think
- The emotional power of shared memories
- What older men regret most at the end of life
- Why it's never too late to reconnect with yourself
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Resources
- Podcast: Midnight Library of Baseball
- Website: midnightlibraryofbaseball.com
- Instagram: @midnightlibraryofbaseball
- Therapy: benorlando.com
Many fathers spent their lives learning how to provide for their families. But emotional connection often became much harder to pass down.
My guest today is Marc Azoulay, therapist and founder of Men's Therapy Online. Marc works with men navigating relationships, identity, purpose, and emotional health across different stages of life.
In this episode, Marc shares his own journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. We look at the emotional disconnect many men experience with themselves, their children, and each other.
You'll hear about:
- Why Marc believes many men were never taught emotional connection
- The frightening turning point that forced him to reevaluate his life
- How different generations of men struggle with identity, work, and purpose
- The reason why emotional openness between men still feels uncomfortable
- How curiosity can help parents strengthen relationships with adult children
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Resources:
Mens Therapy Online
What happens when life forces you into a chapter you never planned for?
After decades building a successful career in technology, writing books, and growing a business, Jeffrey Ton suddenly found himself stepping away from work to become a full-time caregiver for his wife following a devastating diagnosis.
In this episode, Jeff shares how revisiting memories of traveling the Lewis and Clark Trail with his wife helped him process grief, rediscover meaning, and reconnect with the person she has always been beyond her illness.
Their journey became the foundation for his newest book, Uncharted Moments: Love, Legacy, and the Lewis & Clark Trail.
In this episode, we covered:
- Why becoming a caregiver forced Jeff to let go of a business and identity he loved
- What anticipatory grief taught him about navigating uncertainty and change
- The remarkable story behind retracing the Lewis and Clark Trail together
- How slowing down changed the way Jeff and his wife experienced life
- The powerful lesson Jeff learned about pausing during chaos
- How one simple phrase became a philosophy for navigating difficult seasons of life
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Resources
Website: www.JeffreySTon.com Amazon: Uncharted Moments: Love, Legacy, and the Lewis & Clark Trail by Jeffrey Ton Support independent bookstores on Bookshop.org
A lot of people say they want to stay active or do work that still matters to them after they retire.
But then they rest, travel, or wait for the right opportunity to show up. Over time, that can turn into long stretches without structure or direction in life.
I'm really glad to welcome Lynn Friesth back to the show. He left corporate life in 2015 and has spent the last ten years helping others turn their experience into coaching, consulting, or project-based work in the next chapter.
We talk about:
- Why many people drift in retirement instead of designing what's next
- The idea of a "portfolio life" and moving beyond your job title
- Lynn's G.L.E.A.N. process for uncovering the value in your experience
- Why starting with identity matters more than starting with action
- The mindset shift from needing certainty to being willing to experiment
- How curiosity becomes an advantage as you move into something new
- Where AI fits in (and why experience still matters)
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Resources Podcast: "Creating Your Encore Life" - https://www.lynnfriesth.com/podcast Website: https://www.lynnfriesth.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnfriesth
Rusty Gardner realized he wasn't listening to his son during their phone calls. So he stopped what he was doing and went for a walk.
That new habit changed their conversations. Then it changed his mornings, and eventually it turned into something he couldn't ignore.
Rusty spends a lot of time reflecting on identity and the different "passages" we move through as we get older. Today, we explore what happens when you start paying attention to what actually feels different.
We discuss:
- How Rusty built a completely new career without a clear plan
- The moment he realized he wasn't fully present with his son
- How walking became a daily practice for connection and clarity
- What he's learned about identity through life's different decades
- His experience facing aging, mortality, and a major life "passage"
- Why following your energy can reveal what actually matters
Resources:
Just Walking: https://justwalking.com TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@justwalking.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwalkingwithrusty
Email:
rusty@justwalking.com
Stepping away from a career that has defined you for decades is rarely a clean break.
For founders and professionals alike, retirement isn't just leaving the work behind. It means untangling identity, habits, and a sense of responsibility that doesn't simply turn off.
My guest today is Dave Yeske, co-founder of Yeske Buie. After more than 35 years in financial planning, he and his wife made the intentional decision to step away from the firm they built together.
As Dave shares, even a well-planned transition doesn't remove the emotional weight of letting go. We explore what it means to build something you can eventually leave—and what unfolds after you do.
In this episode, we covered:
- What makes it so difficult for founders to step away
- The gap between knowing everything will be fine (and actually feeling it)
- Why retirement can bring unexpected emotions
- How identity is often tied to professional roles more than we realize
- Why meaningful moments in this stage of life don't have to be big to matter
- How joy can become a useful filter for deciding how to spend your time
Resources:
Retirement Plan (an Oscar nominated short film from The New Yorker)
We don't spend much time thinking about how we listen.
But if you've ever felt misunderstood or struggled to connect with someone, you've probably felt its impact.
Today, I'm joined by David Joseph, MD, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst with more than fifty years of experience listening to people at a very deep level. He's devoted his career to something most of us struggle with: actually understanding what someone is trying to say.
And for many men, especially in retirement or approaching it, this becomes more important than ever. When the structure of work falls away and relationships shift, we're left with more space to connect, or feel disconnected.
We covered:
- Why listening is more than just hearing words
- What we miss when we focus only on what's being said
- Why most of us aren't as good at listening as we think
- How learning to listen to yourself changes everything
- What gets in the way of deeper conversations
- Why relationships can feel harder after leaving work
- What it means to really understand another person
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Resources:
Listening for a Life: The Artful Science of Psychotherapy
We like to think we're making choices about how we live. But most of the time, we're just repeating patterns we've been running for years.
In this episode, I'm joined by Marcy Axelrod, who shares why those patterns are so hard to break and what it actually takes to start showing up differently in this next chapter.
Marcy's work explores how we show up in the world. Today, she introduces a 3-part framework for understanding how we operate—and why most of us are only partially present in our lives.
In this episode, we covered:
-Why most people are operating on patterns they don't even realize
-How decades of routine shape the way we see ourselves
-The difference between "just showing up" and being fully present
-Why stress and fear keep us stuck in old ways of thinking
-The idea that we're always playing multiple roles (not just one identity)
-A simple exercise to rethink who you are beyond your career
Resources
Website: www.ChooseToShowUp.com Instagram: @MarcyAxelrodArt Instagram: @MarcyAxelrod
For a lot of men, their social life is their job. So what happens when that job goes away?
In this conversation, Anthony Silard shares what he's learned studying loneliness and relationships—and why so many reach this stage of life without the connections they actually need.
He introduces the "four PRs" framework and how those roles shape identity for decades. The problem is, they leave very little room for friendships outside of work and family.
Once that structure disappears, many men find themselves starting from scratch.
You'll hear about:
-The moment a retired executive tried to go back to the office… and couldn't get in
-Why work relationships often don't carry over after retirement
-The "four PRs" that shape identity (and what they leave out)
-Why men often rely on their partner as their entire social network
-A striking stat on what happens to men vs. women after losing a spouse
-Why some of the loneliest people are surrounded by others
-What leaders do that builds real connection (and why it has nothing to do with confidence)
Resources
Download Anthony's free books: theartoflivingfree.org/freehappinessandfriendshipbooks
Available on Amazon: Love and Suffering: Break the Emotional Chains that Prevent You from Experiencing Love
Most people go looking for purpose when they feel lost. J.D. Pincus believes that's not where we should start.
JD is a social psychologist, researcher, and author of The Emotionally Agile Brain. He's spent decades studying what humans actually need and mapped it into a framework that helps explain why people can feel adrift, even after achieving everything they set out to do.
Today, he joins us to talk about those needs and why getting unstuck might start with feeling a little worse before you feel better.
You'll hear about:
-Why people can feel stuck even when life looks fine
-How loss of social connection impacts stability and direction
-Why this transition can be especially challenging for men
-JD's framework of 12 core emotional needs
-Why feeling stuck often comes from unmet needs
-Why purpose doesn't always come first
Resources:
Book: The Emotionally Agile Brain
LinkedIn: J. David Pincus
Website: AgileBrain
We're often told that declining health is just part of getting older. But what if that's not actually true?
In this episode, I'm speaking with Dr. Darren Clair, a physician with over 40 years of experience who has spent the last 25 years helping people take a more proactive approach to their health.
After seeing the limits of a system focused on diagnosing and prescribing, Darren chose a different path. His work centers on lifestyle, education, and helping people stay healthy in the first place.
We'll hear how his perspective evolved over time, what he's learned along the way, and why it's never too late to improve your health.
• Why Darren moved away from traditional medicine
• How the current system focuses on treating symptoms
• The role lifestyle plays in long-term health outcomes
• Why many people don't take action until later in life
• The difference between prevention and a proactive approach
• Why better health often feels like gaining something (not giving something up)
Resources:
Dr. Clair's Book: Creating a Life of Vibrance
Facebook: facebook.com/VibranceHealth
Instagram: instagram.com/vibrancehealth
Most of us spend the first half of life building. The second half, if we're paying attention, is when we start asking whether we built the right things.
Rand Selig is back on the show and a lot has changed since his first appearance two years ago. What started as a few early conversations has since grown into 100+ interviews and the continued success of his book Thriving, which he recently narrated as an audiobook.
Rand spent much of his career running his own investment banking firm. Now he's turned his attention to the questions that tend to matter most in life's later chapters: relationships, legacy, and what it looks like to truly live well.
You'll hear about:
• How a simple habit made him a better listener (and changed everything)
• The self-reflection practice he uses to actually measure his own growth
• What finally pushed him to start writing Thriving
• Why your purpose doesn't have to be big to be meaningful
• The real difference between success and thriving
• Why curiosity is one of the best predictors of a good later life
Resources
Website: www.randselig.com
LinkedIn: Connect with Rand
Larry Kesslin spent much of his life chasing success. After leaving corporate America at 29, he built a successful career as an entrepreneur advising business owners across the country.
By most standards, he had freedom, financial stability, and the life he once thought he wanted. Yet something was still missing. In this episode, Larry shares the moments that changed how he sees success.
A volunteer trip in Aspen and a later time in rural Uganda made him question the life he had built. Over time, he realized that chasing success was different from living with purpose.
In this episode:
- How financial insecurity in childhood shaped his drive to succeed
- The moment at GE that led him to leave corporate life
- What he learned about happiness while traveling in Africa
- The difference between success and significance
- How our belief systems are formed and why they can be unlearned
- Why aging gives us the chance to question identity
Resources:
Larry on LinkedIn 5-Dots Joy Molecule
At 25, Guru Yogishivan was surrounded by luxury in the Middle East. He had trained as a martial artist and become a boxing champion. By most standards, he had success.
But as he spent time around people who had money and influence, he noticed that no one seemed free from fear. Whether it was fear of loss, fear of death, or fear of not having enough.
So he began asking the people around him if they were truly happy. That question sent him on a very different path. In this episode, we explore his journey from athlete to monk... and what his search for truth might mean for men entering their next chapter of life.
We discuss:
- What happens when success no longer feels like enough
- Why your identity is constantly changing
- Whether losing your career is actually losing yourself
- What 24 minutes a day of inward focus might change
- A disciplined daily practice for reconnecting with yourself
Resources:
Book an Ask Yogi Session
YouTube: Indimasi Healing Village
Facebook: Indimas Healing Village
Instagram: Indimasi Healing Village
Whatsapp: +91 62386 00274
Howard Rosenberg had done what many of us were taught to do. He got an education, built a career, and provided for his family. From the outside, it checked every box.
But in his early fifties, a diagnosis of advanced heart disease and emergency quintuple bypass surgery forced him to slow down and take a hard look at the life he had built.
That wake-up call led Howard to begin asking deeper questions about identity, purpose, creativity… and what really sustains us in the second half of life.
We talked about:
- How a health wake-up call led to a complete identity shift
- Why the way we finish the sentence "I am…" matters
- The difference between external success and internal fulfillment
- How creativity extends far beyond art
- What it really means to consciously create your next chapter
Resources Howard Rosenberg's Life Coaching
Howard on LinkedIn
Creative Humanity Alliance
Not everyone feels finished when their career ends, especially people who are wired to build.
This week, I'm joined by Randy Gage, an entrepreneur, author, and speaker who retired at 40 and realized he wasn't done creating. Stepping away from work didn't bring the sense of completion he expected, so he returned to building businesses, writing, and teaching. Not because he had to, but because he wasn't done.
That instinct to question what comes next started much earlier. At 15, Randy was sitting in a jail cell, facing the consequences of a life that had gone off track. That moment forced him to rethink his direction, and he's been asking those same questions about what comes next ever since.
We talked about:
- How a stint in jail at 15 forced Randy to rethink his life
- Why early beliefs shape how we think about money, relationships, and health
- What Randy learned after retiring at 40 (and why he went back to work)
- The difference between a finite game and a life built around purpose
- How Randy defines prosperity beyond money
- What it means to age with intention and resilience
Resources:
https://www.randygage.com
Breakthrough U
Randy on X
Randy on LinkedIn
For many men, leaving behind a career also means leaving behind a sense of identity. And much of our response to that change is shaped long before retirement ever enters the picture.
My guest today is Brian DesRoches, PhD. He's a psychotherapist, coach, and author whose work focuses on how the brain responds to change. With more than 30 years of experience, Brian helps people understand why self-doubt and disorientation often show up during major transitions.
We look at how long-standing emotional patterns can surface after work ends. Brian offers a way to see these reactions not as personal failures, but as learned responses that can finally be brought into the open.
In this episode, we covered:
Why identity loss can feel more unsettling than we expect
How early emotional learning shapes our response to change
What anxiety is often trying to protect us from
Why so many men struggle without the structure of a professional role
The emotional barriers to forming new connections
How awareness can create room for something new
Resources
www.briandesroches.com
Living a Trigger-free Life
What does it really take to age well—and why do so many people struggle with this transition after work?
Today's guest is Ken Stern, author of Healthy to 100 and a researcher focused on aging, longevity, and social connection. Ken has spent years studying why some people remain healthy and engaged later in life, while others face isolation and decline.
Ken explains why Americans struggle with aging and retirement more than people in other countries… and what we get wrong about life after work.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why aging in America often leads to isolation after work
- What other cultures get right about belonging later in life
- The surprising benefits of continuing some form of work
- Why staying busy isn't the same as living well
- What longevity research overlooks about human connection
Resources: Healthy to 100 by Ken Stern
The Longevity Project
After decades of work, Don Akchin found himself with too much time and very little structure.
That moment marked the beginning of a new kind of work for Don: paying attention to what happens when careers end and the familiar routines of life fall away.
Don Akchin is a writer and researcher who retired at 66 and began reflecting on his own experience alongside conversations with others navigating life after work.
Over time, those observations became the foundation for his book The AfterWork, which explores how people find meaning, connection, and direction beyond their careers.
We cover:
- Why the loss of structure can be one of retirement's biggest surprises
- How identity shifts once work is no longer central
- What Don learned from listening to others' retirement stories
- Why resilience matters more than having a perfect plan
- How Don rebuilt structure after leaving work
Resources:
Visit Don's website
Follow Don on LinkedIn
The AfterWork on Amazon
Read The EndGame on Substack
Some people move through life by following a plan. Others move forward by paying attention to what holds their interest.
Today's guest, David Litt, spent more than three decades in the U.S. Foreign Service, working and living around the world. Along the way, he built a life shaped by language, learning, and a deep interest in how people and cultures function.
After retiring from government service, David didn't step away from engagement. Instead, he found new ways to teach, mentor, and share what he's learned, proving that purpose doesn't end when a career does.
In this episode, we covered:
- What first drew David toward languages and life abroad
- How curiosity shaped his path into the Foreign Service
- The realities of representing the U.S. in unfamiliar places
- One early experience that changed how he viewed diplomacy
- Why teaching became a natural next chapter after retirement
- David's advice for staying intellectually engaged later in life
Doug Fleener woke up on an airplane with no idea how he got there. That was the moment his life began to change.
Today, Doug shares the story of hitting bottom and rebuilding his life one decision at a time. He reflects on addiction, recovery, and the importance of learning how to pause before reacting.
Today, Doug is an author and speaker whose work centers on a simple but powerful question: What if? We talk about how that question creates space for perspective and action, especially during major life transitions.
We discuss:
- The moment Doug realized his life needed to change
- Why hitting bottom didn't immediately lead to transformation
- How asking one simple question interrupts old patterns
- The role of identity and routine during life after career
- Why action matters more than insight alone
--
Resources:
Get a free book excerpt at StartWithWhatIf.com
Visit DougFleener.com
As we move into the later chapters of life, many of us begin to think differently about health. Not just how long we'll live, but how well we'll live. What if the symptoms we accept as "normal aging" are actually signals pointing to something deeper?
In this episode, I'm joined by Reed Davis, a double board-certified holistic health practitioner and founder of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition. Reed helps people understand what's really happening inside their bodies by looking beyond standard lab work and surface-level symptoms.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why standard blood work often misses early warning signs
- The difference between treating symptoms and addressing root causes
- How stress, diet, and lifestyle quietly shape long-term health
- What aging well really requires beyond diet and exercise
- Why having purpose may be one of the most overlooked health factors
-- Resources Learn more and access Reed's free workshop at: fdntraining.com/kay
Visit Reed's website
Follow Reed on Instagram
Watch on Youtube
Follow on LinkedIn
Why is it often easier to know what we don't want than to ask for what we do?
In this episode, I'm joined by Paul Quinn, author of The Big Ask: Unlock the Possibilities in Your Work Life and Dreams with Courageous Requests. Paul began his career as an actor before moving into corporate training and writing, where he became fascinated by the moments that spark real change.
Today, we explore how identity, fear, and unspoken rules shape the choices we make. Paul also shares stories that show how a single, well-timed question can open doors we didn't know were there.
You'll hear about:
- How asking the right questions can help you reconnect with what you actually want
- Why redefining identity after work can feel so disorienting
- The trap of focusing on what we don't want (instead of naming what we do)
- How fear and perfectionism can limit what you're willing to try
- A simple question that can shift how we imagine what comes next
--
Resources:
Visit Paul's Website
The Big Ask: Unlock the Possibilities in Your Work Life and Dreams with Courageous Requests
Follow Paul on Facebook
Many men feel caught between the identity they built at work and the person they hope to become. Today's guest helps us explore that space.
Doug O'Brien has spent his career studying how our stories shape the way we live and the way we move through change. Before entering this work, Doug lived an entirely different life as a classical pianist, a Carnegie Hall performer, and a punk rock musician in New York City.
Over time, he shifted into teaching and storytelling in a way that opened a new path for him. In this conversation, Doug shares how the stories we hold can keep us stuck and how new ones can help us move into the next chapter.
We talk about:
- How Doug transitioned from a life in music to helping people change
- The moment that shifted how he viewed what is possible
- Why career identity becomes so difficult for many men to release
- The simple question that reveals who we are beneath our titles
- How storytelling helps reshape belief and create room for what comes next
-- Resources:
https://www.essentialcoachingskills.com
https://dougobrienhypnosis.com
Modern medicine can treat almost anything. Yet it often misses the root of what makes us sick.
Dr. Ravi Kumar is a neurosurgeon who trained at the Mayo Clinic and spent years in operating rooms before realizing he needed to step away. He sold everything and moved his family to India, where he worked in mission hospitals under the most basic conditions.
Those experiences changed the way he views medicine, aging, and what it really means to heal. In this episode, Dr. Kumar shares what he's learned about the lifestyle choices that support our long-term health.
- How Ravi's experience in India reshaped his understanding of care and gratitude
- Why stress can affect our health long before we notice
- What we should know about our metabolic health
- How nutrition plays a major role in longevity and energy
- Why movement matters more than prescriptions
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Resources:
Dr. Kumar Discovery The Dr. Kumar Discovery Podcast
Social Media:
Connect on Facebook
Connect on Instagram
Connect on TikTok
Dr. Kumar on YouTube
Connect on LinkedIn
What happens when life forces us to confront the unexplainable?
Today's guest, Dr. Gregg Korbon, is a retired anesthesiologist whose life took an extraordinary turn after the loss of his nine-year-old son, Brian.
A lifelong man of science, Gregg was suddenly faced with experiences that defied logic and ultimately changed the course of his life. In this deeply moving conversation, Gregg shares how tragedy cracked his heart open to a world beyond reason.
Together, we explore what it means to find meaning after unimaginable loss—and how love, grief, and trust can guide us through life's transitions.
In this episode, we discuss:
- How a rational physician came to believe in experiences beyond science
- Brian's final days and the messages he left behind
- How grief opened Gregg's heart to unconditional love
- The ways dreams and symbols can help us heal and reconnect
- Why vulnerability can be a path to transformation
- What Gregg has learned about purpose, faith and trust in retirement
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Resources
http://www.beyondreason.info
Beyond Reason on Amazon
For nearly 30 years, Peter Haskell's voice was a familiar one across New York. As a reporter for WCBS Newsradio 880, he covered some of the region's most defining moments.
When a rare vocal disorder forced Peter to step away from the microphone, it brought an unexpected crossroads. What followed was a shift toward gratitude, purpose, and a renewed belief in the power of stories and kindness.
Today, Peter continues his lifelong calling to tell meaningful stories through his work with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and as an adjunct professor of journalism at Fordham University.
In this episode, we covered:
- How Peter built a lifelong career in broadcast journalism
- What covering 9/11 taught him about humanity and resilience
- The experience of living with spasmodic dysphonia
- How he found direction and meaning beyond his career in radio
- The lessons he's carried into teaching and storytelling today
- Why kindness is the foundation of his personal philosophy
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Resources:
You can learn more at dysphonia.org.
At 68 years old, Rand Timmerman looked in the mirror and thought his life was over. A decorated Vietnam War veteran and successful attorney, he had been undone by alcoholism and the toll of PTSD. Yet what seemed like the end became the beginning of a new path.
Now more than a decade sober, Rand shares how recovery gave him the strength to take on an extraordinary challenge with his brother: hiking the Appalachian Trail in their seventies. Along the way, they faced storms, solitude, and moments of reckoning that reshaped how Rand understands resilience, purpose, and second chances.
In this episode, we covered:
How Rand faced down alcoholism after decades of success in his career
The hidden weight of PTSD and how it shaped his story
What it was like to hike more than 1,400 miles of the Appalachian Trail in his seventies
The role of grit, faith, and humor in getting through difficult seasons
How recovery and service to others gave Rand a renewed sense of purpose
Resources:
Visit: Rand Timmerman’s website
Email Rand: rand.timmerman@gmail.com
What happens when life as you know it is suddenly pulled out from under you?
For Ray Martin, the unraveling of his marriage, the death of his father, and the collapse of his career all came within months of each other. Left with nothing familiar to hold onto, Ray made a choice to let go of clinging to the life he had built.
What began as a six-month sabbatical turned into a 14-year journey across Asia. Along the way, Ray discovered mindfulness and a new definition of success that wasn’t tied to titles, possessions, or status. His experiences became the foundation of his book Life Without a Tie.
In this conversation, Ray shares the lessons he learned from starting over and the six rules of happiness that guide him today.
We’ll cover:
How Ray turned personal loss into a catalyst for growth
The most common regret people share at the end of life
What he discovered during a silent 10-day meditation retreat
The framework Ray calls his six rules of happiness
How to approach life transitions with greater clarity and purpose
Resources:Life Without a TieLife Without a Tie on AmazonConnect with Ray on LinkedIn
Life after work doesn’t come with a roadmap. But my guest today shows what can happen when you stay curious and keep saying “yes.”
David Danon has worn many hats: sailor, hair stylist, yoga teacher, Hollywood crew member, and musician. Now, in his seventies, he continues to surf, foil, and coach others on healthy aging. His journey is proof that reinvention can happen at any age.
In this episode, David shares:
How sailing and surfing shaped his outlook on life
Why curiosity has opened unexpected doors throughout his journey
The lessons yoga and meditation taught him about resilience and peace
Why vigilance and resolve are essential for healthy aging
The importance of creating purpose beyond career identity
Resources:
Visit David’s website
Self-Realization Fellowship
Some people step into retirement without a clear plan, while others see it as an open canvas. My guest today, Thom Barrett, retired at 55 after a successful career at PriceWaterhouseCoopers and chose to fill his canvas with adventure, creativity, and service.
From kayaking off the coast of Antarctica to building furniture in his workshop, Thom has lived a life of bold exploration. Even as he faces stage four cancer, he continues to write, travel, and approach each day with intention.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why Thom chose to retire early and pursue adventure
How travel and time in nature became both refuge and teacher
The lessons he’s learned about acceptance, vulnerability, and mindfulness
Why he began writing books and travel reflections during his illness
How he continues to live with purpose and presence despite new limitations
Resources:
The Edge of Now by Thom Barrett
Living While Dying, Chasing My Northern Lights, and more of Thom’s books
Visit Thom’s website
Most of my conversations on Chapter X explore purpose, meaning, and navigating life after a career. Today’s episode takes us in another direction. My guest is Dr. Elliot Justin, founder of FirmTech and an expert in men’s sexual health.
Today, we talk about why sexual health is often left out of the conversation in the doctor’s office. We also look at how technology and data can enhance the way men monitor and improve their performance.
Plus, Dr. Justin takes us on his journey from a career in emergency medicine to developing a smart “erection ring” that tracks vital signs most of us don’t think to measure.
We discussed:
How a horse-riding accident set Dr. Justin on a new path
The surprising link between nocturnal erections and heart health
Why most men who say “I don’t need that” are missing the point
How data can help tailor treatments and improve sexual performance
Why Dr. Justin says “put a ring on it” applies to more than relationships
What would it take to trust something you can’t explain?
Aaron French didn’t plan to become a spiritual mentor. He began as a biologist, then built a successful corporate career. On the surface, everything seemed great. But underneath, he felt pulled in a different direction.
In this episode, we talk about how that shift unfolded and what it’s like to follow moments that don’t always make sense, but still feel meaningful.
You don’t need to believe in anything mystical to listen. You just need to be curious about what else might be possible, especially in this next phase of life.
We discussed:
Why a scientist started listening to something beyond the rational
How nudges show up (and what happens when you ignore them)
The difference between thinking and knowing
Practices that help you tune in, even if you’re not “spiritual”
Why gratitude opens more than it resolves
Connect with Aaron:
Website: naturalheartalchemy.com Instagram: @naturalheartalchemy
I’ve always been drawn to people who’ve done the hard work of figuring themselves out. Dr. Glenn Berger is one of those people.
At 17, he was working in one of the top recording studios alongside Bob Dylan and Frank Sinatra. By 37, he was writing jingles for toys, using drugs every day, and wondering how his life had gotten so far off track.
In this episode, Glenn shares how he felt lost in life and what helped him feel like himself again. It’s one of the most personal and thoughtful conversations I’ve had in a long time.
He tells the story of a trip to Ellis Island and a message from his grandfather that changed everything. We also talk about why so many people feel stuck, how shame holds us back, and what it means to live in a way that aligns with your values.
We talk about:
Glen’s early years in the music industry (and what it really taught him)
The burnout that brought him to a breaking point
Why so many high-achievers feel lost
The six traits of stuckness (and the six attributes of the heart)
What it looks like to grow, evolve, and stay true to yourself at any age
Glen’s HeartFinders project and how it helps people reconnect with their purpose
Connect with Glenn:
Visit go.heartfinders.co for a free lesson or free consultation
When John Geraghty was 29, he looked at his life and realized the path he was on wasn’t leading anywhere he wanted to go. Struggling with alcohol, he decided to change everything. That choice set him on a journey of growth and helping others find what lights them up.
In this conversation, John shares what he’s learned about why the traditional idea of retirement often leaves people feeling lost, and how discovering your strengths and staying curious can bring meaning to every stage of life.
We talk about how small steps, honest self-reflection, and contribution to others can create a life you’re excited to live.
We discussed:
Why leisure doesn’t lead to lasting fulfillment
How to discover your “zone of genius” to build a life that lights you up
The importance of identity beliefs in shaping what’s possible
Why the idea of flow matters for purpose and happiness
Why your most rewarding years may still lie ahead
Connect with John:
Visit John's website
Follow John on LinkedIn
The Prism of Perspective Podcast
Alex Potts helped thousands of people plan for retirement until it was his turn. And like so many of us, he found himself asking what now?
This episode is a special one. Alex isn’t just a respected leader and former CEO. He’s also a longtime friend. We’ve known each other since the ’90s, and I’ve had the privilege of watching him grow into an authentic, grounded, and service-minded leader.
Our conversation explores what it means to live with intention. We talk about resilience, identity, letting go, and how to step into your next chapter with curiosity and purpose.
We discussed:
The money lessons Alex learned when there wasn’t enough
How caregiving redefined what legacy means to him
What the first day after stepping down actually felt like
Why our purpose changes—and how Alex learned to follow it
What a simple “just thinking of you” text can really mean
The movie line that’s guided him for 25 years
Agi Keramidas made a major life shift when he left behind a stable but unfulfilling life in Greece to follow a calling he couldn’t quite explain.
Today, he shares how a midlife awakening (his words) sparked a journey of personal growth. Eventually it would lead Agi to launch his podcast, Personal Development Mastery, and write his book, 88 Actionable Insights for Life.
He talks about listening to that quiet voice that says something needs to change. Even when it means starting over in a new country with no safety net.
We explore the role of self-awareness, the discomfort that often comes with growth, and how small, deliberate actions can open the door to a more meaningful life.
You’ll hear about:
- Leaving a life that looked “fine” but didn’t feel right
- How Agi moved to a new country with two suitcases and no real plan
- Why podcasting opened a door to something more meaningful
- Building a morning routine that shapes the rest of the day
- The gap between insight and action (and how to close it)
- A two-minute exercise for naming your purpose
Resources
Personal Development Mastery
Follow Agi on LinkedIn
When Rich Alderton left his high-powered corporate role on a Friday, signing off millions and fielding nonstop calls, he expected Monday to bring more of the same. Instead, the phone was silent. That stark contrast was the wake-up call: people had been in love with his title, not with him.
What followed was a journey into reinvention. Rich stepped away from corporate leadership to help others become more adaptable in a rapidly changing world. Along the way, he discovered just how unprepared most of us are for life’s biggest transitions.
Today, Rich joins me to talk about how to shift your mindset in the face of uncertainty, reframe fear as opportunity, and rediscover purpose in Chapter X.
We discussed:
Why we resist change (and how to stop fighting it)
The mental tool that makes uncertainty more manageable
What personal purpose looks like in life after work
How to move from fearing change to finding freedom in it
Redefining success when there’s no one left to grade you
Resources
High Performance Change
Follow Rich on LinkedIn
David Marlow is known as the Ikigai Guy. I didn’t know that when I first came across his writing. What I did know was that something in his work resonated deeply with me.
Today, we talk about what happens when your career comes to a close, and you're left facing the question: who am I now? David shares how he discovered the concept of ikigai, what it means to him, and how it shaped the way he moved through the end of his own career.
He offers a thoughtful process for reconnecting with purpose, and for paying attention to the parts of your life that make you feel most alive. We talk about identity, daily rituals, the power of reflection, and how a few small steps can open the door to something meaningful.
We also explore:
What ikigai means (and what it doesn’t)
How to quiet the noise enough to hear what’s true for you
Why a beginner’s mindset is key to moving forward
What it looks like to create your own “ikiverse”
How old memories and stories can point you back to what matters most
Resources:
Follow David on LinkedIn
Subscribe to the Ikiquest Newsletter
David’s website
Where to find The Ikigai Way:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Wiley Books
Richard Eisenberg is back. And this time, we’re diving into what his unretirement looks like now.
If you don’t know Richard’s story, he’s an “unretired” journalist who writes a column for MarketWatch and freelances for Next Avenue, Fortune, AARP, and Fodor’s. Richard calls this chapter “unretirement” — living it with purpose and intention.
Before all that, he was an editor at Next Avenue and Money magazine, and held senior roles at Yahoo! and Good Housekeeping. He’s also the author of two personal finance books and a proud Northwestern grad.
In our conversation, Richard shares his latest stories on medical debt, telehealth access, and the renewed value of travel advisors. He also opens up about caring for his mom during her dementia journey and what it taught him about starting financial conversations early.
Listen in to hear what Richard’s been up to since the last time we spoke.
We discussed:
What “unretirement” really looks like in practice
The importance of having early financial conversations with aging parents
Why telehealth access matters—and what could happen if it’s rolled back
A fresh look at travel advisors and how they’re evolving
Richard’s book recommendations and resources for deeper learning
The challenge of caregiving for aging parents with dementia
Resources
The View From Unretirement
Next Avenue
Fortune | Richard Eisenberg
Fodor’s Travel
Friends Talk Money
The Friday Afternoon Club by Griffin Dunne
The Purpose Code by Jordan Grumet
Retirement Intelligence by Robert Laura
What happens when the career you built your life around stops feeling like it fits? Today, I’m talking to Jordan Grummet about what it really looks like to wrestle with purpose—especially during big life transitions like retirement.
Jordan opens up about losing his father at a young age, pursuing medicine to honor his legacy, and eventually realizing that career wasn’t fulfilling him. We covered the struggle between societal expectations and our own authentic path, and how to find meaning after a life-altering shift.
Jordan, an author and host of the Earn & Invest podcast, brings a perspective shaped by both his work in hospice care and his own experience of stepping away from a path that no longer felt right.
It’s a conversation about what happens when we let go of old identities and start figuring out what comes next.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why purpose feels like such a monumental challenge in retirement
Jordan’s story of legacy, loss, and what medicine couldn’t give him
The slow burn of professional misalignment and how he woke up to it
How powerful external voices influence our life choices
The Purpose Code path forward into a more meaningful second act
Resources
jordangrumet.com
The Purpose Code
Only 5% of homes in the U.S. are moderately accessible. Stairways, sunken living rooms, poorly designed bathrooms, and trip hazards are just the start.
Greg Cantore’s journey has spanned bicycle mechanics to defense work and leading nonprofit programs. But his mother-in-law’s experience living in a house that wasn’t designed for her needs opened his eyes to the bigger issue.
After modifying her home, and later adjusting to her needs in assisted living, Greg realized there was a larger need for accessible, supportive home solutions. Today, he runs Little Deeds, a company dedicated to making homes safer and more accessible for aging individuals.
Your home should support you as you age. Find out how Greg is helping make that a reality for so many.
We discussed:
How universal design makes homes safer and more accessible as we age
Greg’s career journey—and how it led him to create Little Deeds
The challenges people face with aging in place
Simple ways to make your home safer and more accessible
Why it’s important to plan ahead with home modifications
Resources
Little Deeds
You don’t have to spend hours in the gym to stay strong and mobile as you age. My guest, Mark Firehammer, created myFeelness to help men remain functional without grueling workouts or fitness gimmicks.
At 43, Mark’s body started pushing back. There were aches, stiffness, and limits he couldn’t ignore. He knew something had to change but wasn’t willing to spend hours in the gym.
That led him to rethink movement entirely. Mark found a way to stay strong, mobile, and pain-free through small, mindful movements. Now, he’s helping other men do the same with a system that keeps you moving without intense workouts.
If you care about moving well, feeling good, and staying strong as you get older, you’ll want to hear this one.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Simple daily moves to check how well your body is working
- Why your nervous system is the key to better movement
- How paying attention to your body can improve your health
- The problem with mainstream fitness advice and what actually works
- What it really means to be "Out of Function" (and how to fix it)
- A small mindset shift that could help you avoid serious health problems
Resources:
myFeelness
Living Well Without Fitness on YouTube
Mark Firehammer on Instagram
Mark Firehammer on LinkedIn
If you had to make an important healthcare decision today, would you know what to do?
My guest, Dr. Corinne Auman, is an expert in aging. She helps people and families figure out senior healthcare, retirement planning, and life’s unexpected changes. She’s a psychologist, CEO of Choice Care Navigators, and author of Keenagers.
Most of us don’t think about aging until we have to, like when a parent falls or we realize our own home might not work for us as we get older. Suddenly, we’re faced with tough choices about Medicare, long-term care, and what it means to age well.
Today, Dr. Auman shares why planning ahead is so important, how to talk to loved ones about it, and what steps you can take now to have more options later. I think you’ll find this episode both eye-opening and helpful.
We discussed:
Start planning your future home in your 50s
What we often get wrong about retirement communities
How to bring your loved ones into the conversation
The 3 main phases of retirement
Who we can turn to for guidance on our next steps
Resources:
Keenagers by Dr. Corinne Auman
www.CorinneAuman.com
Today, we’re taking a different approach. Instead of focusing on men’s transitions, we’re diving into the journey women face in their next chapter.
My guest, T. Kari Mitchell (TK), is a transformational speaker, author, and integrative wellness coach who has dedicated her second half to helping women reclaim their health, confidence, purpose, and power after retirement so they can truly flourish in their golden years.
After 32 years as a teacher, she boldly transitioned into holistic coaching and motivational speaking at 62. Now, through her programs, TK helps boomers overcome challenges and rediscover their potential. We explore the transitions women face, including shifting identities, hormonal changes, and societal expectations.
Guys, this is the episode to share with the women in your life because growth is better when we do it together. TK’s energy is contagious, and I think you’ll walk away with a new perspective on how we can all grow into the next stage of life.
We covered:
The mindset shifts that help women step into their next chapter with confidence
How past experiences can open the door to new passions and opportunities
The societal challenges that women face as they age (and how to push back)
Practical ways men can better support the women in their lives
How women can start reclaiming their purpose today
Resources
https://www.lifestyle120.com
With freedom comes the risk of losing direction. When we’re younger, the world feels full of possibilities. But as we get older, our focus narrows—one job, one partner, one path. Over time, our routines can make it harder to see new opportunities.
In this episode, Paul Wilson explains how mental blocks can keep us stuck and shares how to break free and explore what’s still out there. After a bicycle accident and a broken arm in 2017, Paul found a new career path.
Now, Paul is a life coach, business coach, and hypnotherapist who helps people overcome feeling stuck through his practice, A Happy Head. He developed the Shift Process, a method that uses small mindset shifts to create big transformations.
Paul shares how to remove the mental “blinkers” that limit personal growth, especially as we navigate life transitions like retirement.
How a broken arm led to a new career
When Paul realized he had found a superpower
3 ways to discover new hobbies or interests
What hypnosis can do for you (and what it can’t)
The difference one phone call can make for retirees
Connect with Paul:
A Happy Head Business Coaching with Paul
Willie Handler was born to Holocaust survivors. Though his home was loving, the trauma his parents endured left deep scars that shaped his life in ways he only came to understand much later.
During the pandemic, Willie began exploring his family’s history and the intergenerational trauma he carried. What started as a way to honor his parents became a transformative journey. It unearthed buried memories, led to tough therapy sessions, and inspired his powerful new book, Out From the Shadows.
Along the way, Willie interviewed nearly 100 others with similar stories. He brings their voices together in a book that sheds light on the resilience of generations shaped by unimaginable pain.
My conversation with Willie left me in awe of his courage. His story is one of reinvention and hope—and I can’t wait for you to hear it.
We discussed:
Why growing up with distant parents left Willie in survival mode
How a HR consultant convinced Willie to retire
When he realized it was time to unearth his survivor experience
The challenges Willie faced in getting the memoir published
His advice for aspiring authors in their Chapter X
Resources:
williehandler.com
Willie on Substack
Willie on Instagram
Out From the Shadows
Deep Into the Weeds
The Road Ahead
Loved Mars, Hated the Food
For Larry O’Nan, leaving work behind wasn’t about slowing down. It was a chance to step into a new chapter of intentional living and service.
With decades of experience guiding faith-based organizations, Larry raised millions for global initiatives and inspired others to lead with purpose. But his journey didn’t stop there.
Redefining what it means to live fully, Larry has embraced failure as a tool for growth, mastered the art of saying no to what doesn’t align with his strengths, and found meaning in every phase of life, even after retirement.
His story is a testament to the possibilities that unfold when we approach each day with intention and courage.
Resources
Follow Larry on Facebook
Connect with Larry on LinkedIn
Intentional Living and Giving
Email Larry at larry@larryonan.com
At 70, Edward Doherty ran a virtual Boston Marathon. At 72, he published his first book. If anyone knows the secret to defying odds, it’s him. Ed is a man who radiates optimism—his story not only touched my heart but also reignited my spirit, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.
In this episode, Ed takes us through his journey from the restaurant industry to consulting, after a pandemic-induced furlough. He shares the hurdles he faced and how he turned persistence into his greatest strength.
Ed heads up Ambrose Landen Consulting, helping organizations with strategic planning, leadership development, and employee engagement. At 72, he published his first book, Observations at the Speed of Life.
Get ready for an inspiring conversation on resilience, personal growth, and the legacy we all have the power to create.
We discussed:
- How Ed pivoted after being furloughed during the pandemic
- Why failure is only valuable if you learn something from it
- How Ed’s wife inspired him to become a runner in his 60s
- Running the Boston Marathon virtually around Fenway Park at age 70
- How publishing a book made Ed reflect on his legacy
- The power of optimism in recognizing potential in others
Resources:
Ambrose Landen Consultant
Observations at the Speed of Life
We’ve all heard the ‘find your why’ advice, but what if it’s not about that at all? Today, my guest is Blair Dunkley, and I’ll keep it simple: this conversation is going to be mind-filling, mind-expanding, and honestly, mind-blowing.
Blair’s here to break down how we can improve our lives by shifting our behaviors with research-backed methods that are both impactful and surprisingly simple. So, get ready to pay attention and maybe even take some notes.
In this episode, he breaks down the difference between mindset and life skills—and why mindset alone just doesn’t cut it. His mind models offer a fresh way of thinking that can help you through life’s transitions, big or small.
We discussed:
The difference between mindset vs. life skills
Why studies question the effectiveness of mindset
Blair’s challenge to the “find your why” framework
Why we often blur the line between remembering and reliving
Using mind models to manage stress and solve problems
Resources
The Three E’s
Phobia Freedom Formula
The Blair Dunkley Experience
Ultimate Mind Hacking Book (16 Growth Mind Models)
As a writer, I’ve often heard my peers talk about the “evils” of AI over the past couple of years. But truthfully, I don’t know much about it myself, which is why I’m so excited to talk to today’s guest, Justin Simpson.
Justin brings a lifetime of business experience, and now, in his “Chapter X,” he’s exploring the world of AI with new imagination and curiosity. You might be wondering, “What does AI have to do with my stage in life?”
Justin’s goal is to show how AI can be useful for everyone, especially those facing career changes or life transitions. He believes AI isn’t something to shy away from, but something to enjoy and use.
In fact, Justin believes AI offers incredible benefits for everyone, particularly for non-tech folks. Let’s dive in and explore how AI can bring new possibilities into our daily lives.
We discussed:
Why Justin believes AI benefits everyone (not just tech companies)
How to start using AI tools like ChatGPT
3 incredible ways that AI serves small business owners
Using AI as a brainstorming buddy for career transitions
The potential for AI to address loneliness
Resources
Here.Now.AI.
Imagine a man who truly wants to connect with his partner. He carefully picks his words, hoping to create that closeness. But somehow, it all falls flat. Frustration builds in his partner, yet he can’t quite put his finger on what’s going wrong. Why does this keep happening?
Many men never learned how to connect emotionally in a way that feels genuine to them. Today, we’re diving into this struggle and exploring how men can break free from this cycle.
I’m excited to welcome Owen Marcus, the co-founder of MELD. It's a community focused on helping men reconnect with their emotions and bodies. With over thirty years in men’s emotional wellness, Owen has created programs that blend emotional understanding with peer support to help men, and now women thrive.
What Owen does is incredibly important for living authentically. In this episode, we’ll dive into a major challenge men face today: being disconnected from their emotions.
We discuss:
What inspired Owen to start working with men 30 years ago
Why society tells men to disassociate from emotions
One simple way to talk to men about their feelings
The impact community and relationships has on men
Owen’s method for reconnecting with your body
Breaking the pattern of emotional distance across generations
Resources
MELD training & community
Couples retreat in Costa Rica for Valentine’s Day 2025
Imagine the possibilities when men come together in a supportive atmosphere. In the Chapter X community, I’ve seen firsthand how this freedom allows us to be our true selves—and that’s where real growth happens.
Today, I’m excited to introduce you to Bodhi Aldridge, a man whose life story is a testament to the power of self-discovery and purpose.
Bodhi has traveled the world as a father, grandfather, lawyer, coach, and facilitator. He lives near the beaches of Byron Bay with his wife of 40 years and is a proud father of four and grandfather to ten.
As we step into our roles as elders, Bodhi believes we have a responsibility to create space for others—especially for women and younger generations, including our granddaughters. In this episode, he shares profound wisdom that just might inspire you to embrace your journey and engage with what truly matters in life.
We discussed:
Three traits Bodhi thinks are important for men
What masculine and feminine energy represent
The key advantage you have as a man
How to become more present in 5 minutes
The 3 steps of searching for purpose
How to tackle the belief of 'not being good enough'
Resources:
Enter Bodhi's free course giveaway
Listen to the True Freedom podcast
The Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware
Today, I’m excited to catch up with my high school friend, Kenny Hersch. His story is truly one of a kind, and I think you’ll find this conversation with him an absolute joy.
Kenny’s symptoms began with minor neurological issues, but it took two years to get a clear diagnosis. Early on, doctors worried it might be ALS, which was a scary idea. It was eventually identified as Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS)—a non-fatal condition affecting speech and mobility. Thanks to technology, Kenny can join us today.
In high school, Kenny was a force of nature, and he remains just as remarkable. He’s embraced the mantra “accommodation without surrender” with resilience and positivity that truly inspires.
In this episode, we discussed:
Kenny’s life-altering diagnosis of PLS at 45
What it was like coming to terms with his new way of life
Tools that helped Kenny transition through his health journey
How a newspaper profile transformed him into a local celebrity
The impact he hopes to make through his legacy
Links
Kenny's feature in The Providence Journal
David Rynick was a big deal in college—serving on the university senate, co-captaining the wrestling team, and enjoying much attention. But despite all his achievements, he wasn’t happy.
This realization set him on a path to explore what mattered to him beyond just achieving more and pleasing others. Today, David is a Zen teacher with credentials in two lineages and a seasoned life and leadership coach.
His latest book, Wandering Close to Home: A Year of Zen Reflections, Consolations, and Reveries, came from 18 months of daily writing during the pandemic. This remarkable collection of essays and reflections is designed to inspire you to live more fully.
In this episode, we chat about David’s journey from college success to finding true fulfillment. You’ll find it’s a conversation filled with inspiration and joy.
We discuss:
Why early success led David to question happiness and purpose
How he explored dance and pottery as self-expression
Why it took him a decade to appreciate daily meditation
David’s advice for men who are struggling to adjust to retirement
The most common misconception about meditation
Connect with David Read Wandering Close to Home
Visit DavidRynick.com
Boundless Way Zen Temple
Listen to David's Zen talks
When is the right time to start asking yourself life's big questions? My guest, Austin Dowling, who shifted from a corporate attorney to a psychotherapist, is here to discuss the vital role of self-reflection in finding fulfillment in retirement.
Originally from Ireland, Austin is a practicing psychotherapist and executive coach based in New York. He helps professional adults at a crossroads in their personal or professional lives, many of whom struggle with anxiety or a lack of motivation and are striving to reach their full potential.
Austin has navigated some incredible transitions in his own life, and his insights strike at the heart of the challenges many men face in retirement. And here's a little secret: this won't be the last time you hear from us.
In today’s episode, you’ll hear about:
Austin’s path from corporate law to helping people with their mental health
Understanding the roots of our inner critic—and how to manage it effectively
The reasons why men often face an identity crisis post-retirement
Why you must shed certain habits after transitioning out of your career
How to build a better community through these small steps
When it’s the right time start asking yourself the big questions
Connect with Austin Austin Dowling Psychotherapy
Austin on LinkedIn
Austin on Facebook
In a world full of noise, it's easy to forget that real happiness can start with reconnecting with who we truly are inside. Today, that’s exactly what we’re exploring with Amrit Singh, a life coach who helps men discover what they truly want and what makes them happy.
In this episode, we tackle the tough challenges men face with vulnerability and how embracing your true self can transform your relationships. Amrit shares some truly powerful tips on how vulnerability can lead to more joy and fulfillment in both personal and romantic lives.
So stick around as we uncover Amrit's personal journey, his tried-and-true techniques, and how he's helping successful men reignite their passion and strengthen their marriages. It's a conversation that shows just how incredible self-reflection and building intentional relationships can be.
We discussed:
What triggered Amrit's realization in his twenties that he needed to change course
How we can reconnect with our true selves beneath all the layers we've built up
The most common challenges in making relationships meaningful after retirement
What advice Amrit would offer to men who are questioning their relationships
Why is exploring our relationships both daunting and rewarding?
The source of true fulfillment (beyond external achievements)
Connect with Amrit Coaching with Amrit
Marriage Reconnection Roadmap
Follow Amrit on Instagram
Follow Amrit on Facebook
Follow Amrit on TikTok
When we find something that drives us forward, life takes on new meaning and fulfillment. But true fulfillment isn’t just about traditional success—it’s about discovering joy and purpose in our everyday experiences, especially as we navigate the second half of life.
Today, we explore this enriching path with a guest whose resilience and purpose have guided his own journey. Alain Dumonceaux joins us, a man whose own life trials have shaped his passion for helping men align their lives with their deepest values.
As the Purposeful Action (Men)tor for the Awakened Man movement, Alain has dedicated himself to showing others how to live authentically. From triumphs at the Culinary Olympics to facing near ruin twice, his journey has driven him to empower others.
Now, Alain’s mission is clear: to guide men in rediscovering their life’s purpose through his purposeful action plan, "The Return of The King.” This plan serves as a transformative blueprint for embarking on their Hero’s Quest.
In this episode, we discussed:
Why we thrive on having something to anticipate in life
What we often get wrong about defining our purpose
The three mentors who can transform a man’s life
Why men need safe spaces for open dialogue
What we must remember when confronting our pain
One tip to keep in mind whenever imposter syndrome strikes
Alain shares his tips for perfecting cooking techniques
Connect with Alain (Free Course) Crafting Your Mission
The Awakened Man
Band of Brothers
Hero’s Quest
The Revolutionary Man Podcast
Follow Alain on Instagram
Follow Alain on Facebook
Ever had a friend recommend a book that completely captivated you? That's exactly what happened to me. My friend Bob suggested this book written by a college acquaintance of his, and I decided to grab a copy. Little did I know, it would be one of those extraordinary reads.
As I flipped through the pages, I found myself nodding along, really connecting with the importance of the author's words. Feeling inspired, I knew I had to track down David Chernikoff’s email and invite him to join me for a conversation.
David is a meditation teacher, spiritual counselor, and writer who taught psychology and meditation at Naropa University for many years. He currently teaches retreats throughout the United States and is one of the guiding teachers of the Insight Meditation Community of Colorado.
And his latest book, Life, Part Two: Seven Keys to Awakening with Purpose and Joy as You Age, is truly eye-opening. It's a roadmap to finding fulfillment and happiness, regardless of where you find yourself on life's journey.
How a life-changing event at age 13 molded David's adult years
The pressure to succeed and how it affects our self worth
Redefining your self-worth beyond achievements in middle age
The concept of living on two levels: the relative and the absolute
7 keys to awakening with purpose and joy as you age
Why David decided to write a book as he approached 70
Connect with David Life, Part Two: Seven Keys to Awakening with Purpose and Joy as You Age
www.davidchernikoff.com
David's Upcoming Event Schedule
In 2015, Brian Feutz began feeling the tug towards retirement. He went headfirst into a journey of discovery, diving into the ins and outs of retirement planning, wondering what the future held, and whether he was financially ready for it all.
He's not just navigated through the transition to retirement, but he's crafted a life filled with meaning and purpose, and I have no doubt you'll find his story truly inspirational.
Brian is a top writer, speaker, columnist, and published author with a unique style that brings a lively perspective to the art of retirement. Whether you’re retired or considering retirement, you don’t want to miss his thought-provoking ideas that challenge the imagination.
When he's not sharing his wisdom, you can often find Brian enjoying the natural beauty of the San Juan Islands alongside his wife, whether it's on a boat, trail, bicycle, or kayak.
In this episode, we’ll explore:
How Brian crafted a encore career through his extensive research on retirement
The one simple sentence Brian uses to define retirement
What led Brian and his wife to choose the San Juan Islands as their retirement spot
Why Brian decided to “practice” retirement on his own—and the steps he took
The reason why roughly 40% of people who retire go back to work temporarily
One ongoing project that is making Brian’s retirement purposeful
The way Brian applied perseverance to this hobby to discover a sense of purpose
Resources Read Brian’s Work
https://lifeafterwork.zone
https://brianfeutz.com/
https://brianfeutz.medium.com/
Connect with Brian
https://twitter.com/BrianFeutz1
https://www.facebook.com/brian.feutz.16/
Email at Brian@BrianFeutz.com
What if stress isn't the enemy we thought it was? Our guest today suggests that certain aspects of stress can actually be powerful motivators. But here's the catch: there's a sweet spot, and most of us tend to overshoot it.
Today I'm speaking with Dr. Stephen Sideroff. This is a conversation you will want to listen to multiple times, or at least have a notepad with you so you can jot down some notes. In fact, you're going to want to listen to this multiple times because it's packed with incredible information and things that I think are essentials in our lives.
Dr. Sideroff is an internationally recognized expert in psychology and resilience. Not only has he published groundbreaking research, but he has served as an associate professor at UCLA's Geffen School of Medicine. Now, he's sharing his expertise in his new book, "The 9 Pillars of Resilience," offering insights into mastering stress, aging gracefully, and enhancing vitality.
In this episode, we discussed:
Why stress is the master hallmark of aging
The power of confronting unfinished emotional business in Chapter X
How we can get past the discomfort of exploring our buried feelings
Discovering the starting point for challenging our inner critic
Dr. Stephen Sideroff breaks down the nine pillars of resilience
How our presence can impact each other unconsciously
Connect with Dr. Stephen Sideroff The 9 Pillars of Resilience Book
Purpose: The Ultimate in “Use It or Lose It” on Psychology Today
How does one reach the pivotal moment that propels them into the next chapter of their life? For our guest today, that moment unfolded in a Starbucks, where Jeff Eamers stumbled upon a newspaper ad seeking volunteers for suicide prevention. Having battled his own demons for years, Jeff saw this not just as an opportunity, but as a calling.
In his past life, Jeff wore many hats—writer, director, producer, counselor—all while battling the tumultuous challenges of bipolar disorder. Now, he's found peace and purpose as a practicing psychotherapist and the voice behind the upcoming Three Moments in Time podcast. He lives in the California desert with his two dogs and 11 chickens.
Jeff's journey is one marked by resilience, vulnerability, and the unwavering determination to confront the darkest aspects of the human experience. But a word of caution: Jeff's story is unfiltered and may touch on themes of mental illness that could trigger some listeners.
We discussed:
The first hospitalization at 21 marked the onset of a series of mental health challenges for Jeff
How a major film opportunity brought Jeff from the advertising world to Los Angeles
Jeff reflects on the experience of navigating manic highs and depressive lows
Why he transitioned from Hollywood to suicide prevention counseling
How the sudden loss of his best friend served as a wake-up call
Why Jeff decided to pursue a new academic journey at 55
Jeff shares his understanding of the single most crucial factor in healing
Connect with Jeff Mental health in the high desert: A Yucca Valley man, animal rescue and the open landscape via Desert Sun
www.eamertherapy.com
What could be more crucial as we enter Chapter X than knowing our purpose? Today, I’m happy to have Ian Chamandy on board. He’s developed a groundbreaking program aimed at helping people define their purpose.
Ian is no stranger to purpose-driven work. As a founding partner of Blueprint Business Architecture, he's helped hundreds of companies define their unique essence in seven words or less. But Ian's mission goes beyond corporate boardrooms. He firmly believes that every single one of us has a unique purpose waiting to be discovered.
In this episode, Ian walks us through his method for defining purpose, showing us how it can transform not only our decision-making but also our personal fulfillment. Through stories and practical advice, he shines a light on the power of aligning our purpose with our values, talents, and aspirations.
We discussed:
The impact of a simple reminder Ian taped to the wall above his typewriter
How we can apply a key business principle to develop our own purpose
The magic of defining what makes you uniquely remarkable (in seven words or less)
Why discovering your purpose can help you make better decisions
Three things that defining your purpose will do as you transition into Chapter X
Connect with Ian Visit Purpose(U) at purposeu.co
Ian Chamandy on LinkedIn
Today, we're catching up with Richard Eisenberg, who embarked on his "unretirement" journey in 2022 after stepping away from his role as Managing Editor for Next Avenue.
Over the past two years, Richard has gracefully navigated this new chapter, balancing writing, mentoring, volunteering, and personal exploration alongside his wife. As he continues to carve out his path, he generously shares his insights and experiences with us once again.
I’m thrilled to reconnect with Richard and dive into his experiences, observations, and ongoing discoveries in Chapter X. From his insights to the latest reads and learnings, it’s a privilege to explore the valuable lessons he's discovered along the way.
In this episode, we discussed:
How unretirement looks today for Richard two years in
What has been the biggest obstacle after leaving his full-time job
How Richard and his wife are leaning into what’s important to them
The current topics on aging that Richard is exploring with Next Avenue
Exploring the ranges of legacies and impact you can leave behind
Links to Resources Read “Work, Retire, Repeat” by Teresa Ghilarducci
Read “Unretired” by Mark Walton
Listen to the Friends Talk Money podcast
Next Avenue
Read Richard's stories on Medicare for Fortune.com
In 2019, Justin Roethlingshoefer looked like the picture of health from the outside. He was a world championship triathlete and CrossFitter with a successful career in the NHL. But then he started experiencing debilitating headaches combined with stomach issues and insomnia—health challenges he had never faced before.
Doctors told Justin he was in perfect health, but he knew it was a lie. He continued to push for more tests, eventually receiving a colonoscopy and endoscopy that found four precancerous polyps and a precancerous ulcer the size of a quarter in his stomach.
The revelation of his impending health crisis was a wake-up call for Justin to take control of his well-being. Now, as the co-founder of OWN IT Coaching, he aims to redeem global health by educating, empowering, and equipping individuals to take ownership of their well-being. Their mission is to reduce the leading cause of death in the United States—chronic illness, currently at 71%—to below 50% by 2030.
In this episode, we discussed:
Finding his purpose to redeem the health of the world at age 11
Why Justin believes we can use data to take ownership of our health
5 different markers of health that research found can prolong our live
How we can access data to determine our health decisions
The ways we can educate ourselves about lifestyle changes and health
Connect with Justin Read “The Power of Ownership” by Justin Roethingshoefer
Find out more about testing with Own It Coaching
Own It Coaching
It’s never too late to adopt an active lifestyle, even in retirement. Today’s guest, Leon Sirulnick, has been retired for 17 years now. His life has been filled with extraordinary adventures—and I can say he’s truly done it on his terms.
Today's guest is very special to me. Back in 2002, I met Leon for the first time in my office. He walked into our meeting, threw a stack of papers onto my desk, and firmly announced he was ready to retire.
That one meeting was a turning point in my financial life planning career. In this episode, you’ll meet the man who I consider to be the father of the Chapter X project, and today, we're replaying this episode to highlight the impact he had on shaping our approach to retirement. Tune in to hear the complete story.
When Leon knew it was time to retirement from his career in television
The unexpected reason why his first few weeks of retirement were the toughest
How he responds to people when they ask what he does during the days
How Leon (and his wife Rhonda) stay socially connected with others
Leon’s secret to being able to enjoy an active life in retirement
Why one important meeting with him changed Michael’s entire life
Links The Paper Clips Project
When Jerry Werner retired, he found himself in an unexpected slump. Getting hit by the retirement blues was a surprising experience for someone as goal-oriented and optimistic as the former Navy SEAL. Thankfully, a nudge from his son reignited his enthusiasm to finish a book project he'd started to write.
The driving force behind Jerry's book was his desire to leave a lasting and meaningful legacy for his grandchildren. From his exciting Navy career to his transition into business leadership, Jerry's path has been rich with diverse experiences.
Today, he reflects on the adventurous journey that has brought him to this point. I came into this conversation with high hopes, and I can honestly say that Jerry exceeded every expectation. As we dive into his story, he candidly shares the highs and lows of his journey.
What's truly inspiring is how Jerry's resilience shines through as he shares what it takes to craft a fulfilling post-career life.
In this episode, we discussed:
How a childhood dream to visit Mars ignited a lifelong journey that shaped Jerry’s life
What lessons he learned from being tortured in a prisoner-of-war camp
The biggest life lesson Jerry wishes to impart to his grandchildren
Why the intensity of reliving difficult memories put Jerry off from writing his book
Jerry’s best advice for crafting a meaningful post-career life
Connect with Jerry Follow on LinkedIn
In a world where fresh starts are often idealized but rarely explored, my guest today takes us behind the scenes of his own transformative journey.
I'm truly excited to welcome Howard Epstein, a lifelong resident of Omaha, Nebraska, who recently retired as the Executive Director of The Jewish Federation of Omaha Foundation. Now, he's embracing a new role as an adjunct professor at Creighton University School of Law, teaching a class in nonprofit organizations.
With a background that spans family businesses, a 17-year stint in private law practice, and extensive involvement in Omaha's charitable and philanthropic community, Howard has a wealth of experiences to share.
In this episode, we dive into Howard’s fascinating journey—one that navigates through several career shifts. From his days in accounting to managing a fruit and vegetable business, exploring biology, and practicing law, it's a story of adaptation and growth.
We discussed:
How a casual client comment prompted Howard to begin a new career at age 61
Why Howard decided to leave his nonprofit career behind in the last year
What the first morning felt like after waking up to a new life chapter
The biggest lesson Howard's learned in this past year of retirement
What discussions he had with his wife in the decision leading up to retirement
The number one piece of advice he would give to folks considering to retire
Finding your mission in life is no easy feat, but Ken Mifflin cracked the code. Join us today as we unravel the steps of his remarkable journey toward discovering purpose. While not labeling himself as "retired," Ken has skillfully redefined his life around activities aligned with his deepest values.
As a seasoned management consultant and aspiring author with a background at Procter & Gamble, McKinsey & Company, and Andersen Consulting/Accenture, Ken provides unique insights into navigating the transition from a career to a purpose-driven post-professional life.
From his voluntary contributions to his family life in Greenwich, CT, Ken's story offers valuable perspectives on purposeful living in the next chapter. Get ready for an insightful exploration of intentional living, career transitions, and the art of crafting a meaningful retirement journey.
We discussed:
Why your past career is preparing you for what you do in retirement
The creative endeavor Ken is working on now (and how it's different from his career)
Why we feel pressure once we’ve discerned our mission in life
How Ken juggles responsibilities while nurturing his passion project
Why you have to intentionally look for a path in this next chapter
Life is more than chasing a bigger paycheck or a career fixated on it. Our guest today, Rand Selig, suggests that as we step into the next phase after work, it's an opportunity for self-discovery. What's interesting is that the same skills that fueled our career success can now shape this new chapter.
Rand Selig is a seasoned entrepreneur, coach, and roll-up-your-sleeves conservationist with an MBA from Stanford. His expertise in managing global projects adds a unique flavor to our conversation. Based in Mill Valley, California, he shares life's adventures with his wife of 42 years. Recently, Rand authored Thriving! How to Create a Healthier, Happier, and More Prosperous Life.
During our talk, Rand reflects on his own career transition and imparts valuable lessons on facing challenges with bravery, persistence, and grit. His philosophy centers around the idea that we can design our own lives. I'm delighted to bring you this thought-provoking and significant conversation—and you might even want to jot some notes down.
We discussed:
How day one felt after Rand left his business behind—and his Chapter X started
What stands out as the life lesson that left the biggest mark on Rand
Taking a closer look at the four essential aspects of aging well
Why writing your legacy is something to do now (and how it can shape your life)
How focusing on the things you can control changes your outlook
The difference between success and thriving
Connect with Rand www.randselig.com
Thriving! How to Create a Healthier, Happier, and More Prosperous Life
What lies beneath the surface of your thoughts? Today, we're going deep into the stories we carry within ourselves with my guest, Kevin Burk. The stories we tell ourselves, often without realizing it, shape our reality and beliefs about ourselves and our situations.
Kevin B. Burk is the Headmaster of The Real Astrology Academy and the creator of the Human Game, a philosophy based on the idea that the Universe is made up of stories. He coaches the Human Game Experience, an astrology-based reality role playing game that can give you creative control over the Story of Your Life.
According to Kevin, understanding how these stories work is the key to understanding life. It's a journey into beliefs, stories, and the powerful shift that comes with gaining a deeper understanding. Get ready to explore how this insight can fill our lives with greater joy and happiness.
In this episode, we discussed:
- Why we must get creative control over the story of our life’s journey
- How the stories we tell ourselves unknowingly shape our reality
- The three levels of story: plot, character, and theme (and the only one that matters)
- Why we’re unaware of the stories we tell ourselves about our experiences
- What can happen when you make tiny adjustments to your stories
Connect with Kevin https://playthehumangame.com/
https://TheRealAstrology.com/coddiwomple
Nan Ives and Lisa Stornaielo were long-time colleagues at Fidelity Investments. Their careers took an unexpected turn when the unexpected offer of an early retirement landed in their laps—and it sparked a whole new perspective on what retirement truly means.
In their research, they noticed a gap in the retirement planning discussion. While finances often take the focus, the life planning piece was missing. Big questions about purpose, balance, and making the most of the coming decades were left unanswered.
Nan and Lisa connected with 50 people soon-to-be or already retired individuals and absorbed wisdom from their experiences. From there, they leveraged their expertise in transition planning and life coaching to develop a transformative 4-step process that empowers individuals to design their ultimate retirement life.
With their passion for helping others and their profound understanding of the retirement experience, Nan and Lisa are on a mission to inspire and guide people toward a rewarding and fulfilling retirement.
We discussed:
- Three common retirement spectrums people typically find themselves
- How they created a formula drawn from the experiences of fulfilled retirees
- The key things they observed that distinguished a fulfilled life after work
- A four-step blueprint Nan and Lisa developed for planning your own future
- Why you have to work at retirement to make it something that has meaning
- How to shift from a fixed mindset to one that embraces open thoughts
Connect with Nan and Lisa The Future of You
To start off the new year, I decided to try something new. Each month, our Chapter X community gathers on Zoom to discuss a specific topic. And today, you're in for a treat—this podcast episode features a recording from our final Chapter X meeting of the year.
During this gathering, we reflected on 2023 and our aspirations for 2024: What lessons did it bring? What changes are we seeking or what growth are we aiming for? What insights emerged from both successes and challenges?
I believe that sharing these reflections could offer guidance to those navigating their own journeys—after all, that's what Chapter X is all about. I hope you find this conversation intriguing, engaging, and perhaps it might even inspire you to join our monthly gatherings.
In this meeting, we explored topics such as:
Why managing expectations becomes key in navigating the new experiences and challenges of this stage of life
How remaining present and savoring every moment is a necessary challenge for your personal well-being
Stoic philosophy and the idea of choosing how we respond to situations
The impact of your family upbringing on shaping your outlook on the world
Why letting go of worrying about external factors and honing in on what we can control in life is a powerful mindset
The emotional hurdles of taking on new endeavors and shielding our self-worth from the judgments of others
Join Us Inside the Chapter X Community https://michaelfkay.com/connect/community/
Welcome to a special rerun episode that holds a special place in my heart. Today, we're revisiting a profound conversation that delves into life's transitions and the invaluable lessons they offer.
Looking back at our lives often reveals the defining moments that shaped our paths. But how do we take those lessons and apply them to our next chapter? That’s the theme of today’s conversation.
It’s truly an honor to reintroduce our guest, Meir Statman. He is a professor of finance at Santa Clara University and has authored two of my favorite finance books. Born in a refugee camp in Germany during 1947, Meir has an incredible life story that he takes us through on the show.
In this episode, Meir shares his insights on maintaining an open mind, the importance of self-discovery, and how life’s stages ultimately prepare us for the transitions ahead.
We discussed:
- Why Meir chooses to look at his life through the lens of serendipity
- How we can use the concept of serendipity as we look to the future
- How to address the common post-career fear of financial uncertainty
- The surprising theory of getting satisfaction from saving money vs. spending it
- The reason why Meir hasn’t retired from teaching in his seventies
- Why Meir focused on teaching his daughters the value of kindness as they grew
Links The Mental Mistakes We Make With Retirement Spending by Meir Statman
Mark Weber spent his career helping the wealthy transfer their wealth efficiently. He attended hundreds of meetings with attorneys and their clients, navigating the ins and outs of estate planning. But something was missing—hardly anyone talked about their values or the legacy they wanted to leave.
It dawned on Mark that advisors had a chance to go beyond just taxes and talk about the impact people could make and the legacy they could create. He saw this as a way to change minds among Omaha's professional advisors and make the community not just financially richer, but also more generous.
Today, he’s seamlessly transitioned from a successful career in financial services to author, speaker and teacher. In this episode, he unfolds the heartwarming and meaningful journey that led him into this new chapter of his life.
- The inspirational idea that prompted Mark’s journey into his Chapter X
- Why now is the time to start identifying what values we want to pass on
- The difference between your family legacy vs. community legacy
- What might have occurred if Mark hadn't prioritized intentional retirement planning
- Why Mark senses that this particular group faces the greatest struggles in retirement
- The list of significant career milestones he created to pass down to his children
Connect with Mark Visit A Spectrum of Legacies website
Find A Spectrum of Legacies on Amazon
In 2019, Greg Vigdor decided to take a break after working in healthcare for four decades. His plan was to relax for a few months before returning to work. However, the outbreak of a global pandemic threw a curveball into his plans.
During this unexpected pause, Greg dove into a brand-new project. He started writing his very first novel, weaving his expertise from healthcare into fascinating detective stories. The idea was to entertain readers while enlightening them on health policy, the flaws in the American healthcare system, and suggesting ways readers can improve their own health.
In this episode, explore how Greg transitioned his career passion into storytelling. He shares how he embraced this new endeavor head-on, blending his expertise with the art of page-turning stories.
We discussed:
How Greg launched his career as a author writing medical detective stories
The surprising part of retirement that left a major loss in his life
What Greg discovered about himself through the process of writing two novels (these lessons are so important)
How today’s healthcare system evolved into fighting a losing battle
The common dead ends that people face while trying to get healthcare
Connect with Greg Greg on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/gregvigdor Washington Health Foundation: www.washhealthfoundation.org/book-the-theory-of-irv Artisan Book Review of The Covid Murders: https://artisanbookreviews.com/2023/09/03/the-covid-murders-by-greg-vigdor
Growing up before 1970 meant a diet heavy on margarine and potato chips—we just lacked awareness of nutrition. Today, we're armed with much more knowledge. Yet, navigating through varied advice can be bewildering, especially if you were raised with different beliefs.
At the core of our pursuit for health and well-being lies the desire to become the best version of ourselves. So, how can we show up as our best selves every day? According to our guest today, you have to take care of your hormones if you want to live a long life.
Today, I’m joined by the remarkable Dr. Christine Boev, an ICU nurse, health coach, and an expert in fitness and longevity. You cannot help but be inspired by her commitment in helping people live their best lives.
Her goal is youthful longevity with the aim of maintaining optimal mobility during chronologic aging. In this episode, she shares valuable advice on starting small to achieve sustainable health changes through discipline and habits. I know you’ll enjoy this conversation with such a dynamic professional.
We discussed:
This final ingredient is the key to longevity (hint: it’s not just about fitness or nutrition)
What are the variables that we can control vs. the things that we cannot control?
What checking your testosterone levels can reveal about your health
Two common misconceptions about exercise that can prevent us from starting
Why getting your mind right to start your day is really critical
Christine’s simple recommendations on nutrition and alcohol
Connect with Christine Follow @drchristineboev on Instagram
Imagine retirement not as the end of a journey but as the beginning of an entirely new chapter—one where time becomes your most precious currency.
Today, we're peeling back the layers of conventional retirement wisdom to explore how the art of time optimization can transform these post-career years into an unparalleled phase of enrichment and purpose.
As a Certified Professional Retirement coach, David uses his 35+ years of organizational and time management skills to help business professionals craft post-career lifestyle strategies of fulfillment, purpose, and meaning. David is also author of the book, The Time-Optimized Life: Moving Everyday Preparation, Execution, and Control from Finite to Infinite.
Join us as we navigate the intersection of productivity, purpose, and a fulfilling post-career life. In this episode, we discussed:
- How David applied the same productivity principles that made him successful in his career to his post-career life
- Why leaving your career doesn’t mean quitting work altogether
- The importance of planning how you’ll balance individual vs. couple goals
- How to use time management principles to stay connected with your friendships
- David’s adaptable goal planning system for the different phases of retirement
Connect with David Enter promo code “Michael” to get your free Retirement Time Analysis report
https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/rta/
Preorder The Time-Optimized Life book
https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/the-time-optimized-life-book/
Steven Kushner had originally planned to retire at 70. However, at 65, he began feeling fatigued, noticing the strain of evening meetings and realizing his body was signaling a need to slow down.
By June 2018, he retired and received the honorary title of Rabbi Emeritus of Temple Ner Tamid. Eager to venture into uncharted territory, he sought something entirely new.
Throughout his rabbinic career, Steven's creativity had largely been expressed through writing and speaking. Yet, in 2017, anticipating retirement, he tapped into his visual side. He started sharing his photos on Facebook, receiving encouraging feedback from friends and congregation members.
That’s when he wanted to finally—after a lifetime of taking pictures—begin a process of learning how to make pictures. Although he does not formally identify as a photographer, when asked Steven is very comfortable saying that he does serious photography. In this episode, Rabbi Steven shares an extraordinary journey marked by unexpected transitions and explorations.
We discussed:
- Steven’s childhood dream to be the shortstop for the Detroit Tigers
- How he cultivated a reputation as a film aficionado within the synagogue
- Why Steven decided to retire five years earlier than his initial plan
- The unexpected emotional challenge of retiring (and a quest for unexplored endeavors)
- How he dove into photography with the guidance of a friend
- The journey of learning and refining his craft that proved immensely gratifying
Connect with Steven https://stevenkushnerphotography.com/portfolio
Headshot Photo Credit: Nick Levitin Photography
We often mistake experience for wisdom. But today, our guest challenges this notion. Wisdom isn't just about ourselves; it's about the legacy we craft. How do we become good ancestors and leave the world better than the one we entered?
Join me in a conversation with Nikos Patedakis, a philosopher dedicated to unleashing wisdom and compassion. Brace yourself—the ideas exchanged in our conversation were nothing short of mind-expanding.
Nikos, armed with multiple philosophy degrees, including a PhD, wields wisdom, love, and beauty to transform lives. Through his role as a consulting philosopher and educator, he reshapes individuals, cultures, and our world. In this episode, we explore wisdom traditions and the need to deepen one's understanding of oneself and the mind.
We discussed:
What it means to have a wisdom-based approach to life
How to weave a lifetime of your experiences into wisdom
Considering your legacy and how you would love to be remembered
Why mindfulness makes life much more interesting as you age
The concept of ‘training for death’ (and why you shouldn’t put it off)
Why leaving work behind isn’t really about filling a void in your life
Connect with Nikos Free resources on compassion training: https://dangerouswisdom.org/meditations
Nikos’ book recommendations on the subject of living well and dying well:
The Art of Living: Peace and Freedom in the Here and Now by Thich Nhat Hanh
Dying with Confidence: A Tibetan Buddhist Guide to Preparing for Death by Anyen Rinpoche
The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us about Living Fully by Frank Ostaseski
How We Live Is How We Die by Pema Chodron
The documentary Tukdam
Interview with Doug Tallamy about creating the world's biggest national park in your own backyard
Today we're delving into the world of dating. If you're married and thinking about skipping this one, I’d suggest you pause and consider sharing it with the single men in your life, whether they're single due to widowhood, divorce, or other circumstances.
Our guest today is Brad Johnson, the mastermind behind Zero Nonsense Dating. He caught my attention with his unique approach to tackling the challenges faced by men in the dating world. This podcast conversation was unlike any other I've had, and it was both enlightening and entertaining.
Brad founded Zero Nonsense Dating to equip men with practical strategies that yield real results. The dating advice landscape is flooded with content that either focuses on fleeting encounters or doesn't fit every situation. Authentic and practical guidance is hard to find, and often, it's only gained through personal trial and error.
And that's precisely why Brad is here today. He's on a mission to help other men become their best without becoming someone different.
In this episode, we discussed:
The biggest challenges of dating as an introvert vs. extrovert
Three common problems with navigating the noise on dating apps
Why older men have advantages in dating that younger men don’t have
Reentering the dating scene after decades of being partnered
Three worthwhile dating platforms for older men
How to find common ground with someone on a first date
Connect with Brad Zero Nonsense Dating Website
Get Chapter 1 of Your Dating Life Solved for Free
Episode 159: Finding Yourself with Rabbi Andy Warmflash Title: Finding Yourself with Rabbi Andy Warmflash
As Rabbi Andy Warmflash's professional life came to an end, his world was flipped on its head. He had an abundance of time, but profound questions about his identity loomed. With a lifelong career as a rabbi, his job had defined him.
However, Rabbi Andy was clear about a few things: he wanted to share the wealth of wisdom accumulated during his 40-year career, seek meaningful pursuits, savor life's joys, and, once the pandemic allowed, embark on new adventures and cherish time with his children and grandchildren. A recent move, made together with his wife to be near their kids, had shifted their roles from parenting to the pleasures of grandparenting.
What did this journey teach him? It was a trial by fire, forcing reinvention after a lifelong career. Even with his strengths and experience, he was creating a fresh chapter in his life story. Join us as we explore Rabbi Andy's transformative path and his insights into shaping a fulfilling next chapter.
In this episode, we discussed:
- How Rabbi Andy grappled with unexpected guilt after retiring during the pandemic
- Discovering a profound sense of unburdening after leaving work behind
- Why Rabbi Andy went to therapy to figure out his identity in retirement
- The “hit and miss” search for meaningful volunteer opportunities
- What lessons Rabbi Andy learned about himself after exiting the workforce
- The impact of embracing discussions with diverse viewpoints
Connect with Rabbi Andy Listen to the Common Grounds podcast
In a world filled with endless choices, it's all too easy to fall into the analysis trap, especially while redefining the next chapter of our lives. The conventional retirement playbook has been tossed out, ushering in a new era.
Today, we're joined by Campbell Gerrish, a successful entrepreneur, coach, and co-founder of Third Half Advisors (THA), an organization that’s helping reshape retirement in America. THA, a nationally acclaimed resource for post-career professionals striving to thrive in what Campbell terms the 'Third Half' of their lives, has already empowered over 800 individuals through its programs.
While the idea of leaving the workforce often marks a fresh start for women, it can feel like the closing chapter, particularly for men. In this episode, Campbell reveals why it's time to flip the script. However, let's be clear: this transformation isn't without challenges. He candidly shares his journey navigating the shift from a thriving career to retirement, the hurdles he encountered, and even a recent battle with depression.
We discussed:
- How to make informed choices based on your strengths
- What it means to design a “portfolio life” in the next chapter
- The real obstacle that holds us back from executing our plans
- How long it took for Campbell to find comfort post-retirement
- How a travel mishap plunged him into a deep depression
- The power of celebrating the freedom of choice in this stage of life
Connect with Campbell www.thirdhalfadvisors.com
www.wingedkeel.com
In Yiddish, there's an expression, "bashert," meaning that some things are destined to happen. Last September, I had the privilege of attending my first writers' conference, and amid a wealth of wisdom and inspiration, fate led me to a serendipitous meeting with today's guest.
David T. Cohen, a retired attorney turned aspiring novelist, brings a wealth of experience to the table. He spent three decades as a litigator at the U.S. Department of Justice and is now crafting epic fantasy novels. In this episode, he guides us through his retirement decision—a story driven by the desire for quality time with loved ones and the pursuit of lifelong dreams.
David openly addresses the challenges of shedding a career-centric identity, fervently advocating for creative, physical, community-focused, and social engagement as the keys to a fulfilling retirement. Despite missing his legal career, he finds a sense of purpose in writing and emphasizes the enduring importance of making a difference in retirement.
We discussed:
How the tragic loss of a colleague sparked David’s early retirement journey
One universally worthwhile question to ask yourself periodically (at any age)
How to take a sip of retirement before fully embracing the entire experience
Why losing the daily contact with your colleagues leaves an unexpected void
Navigating the transformation from a career-defined identity to a new sense of self
Connect with David David can be reached at merusian@aol.com.
Today, we're getting to the root of a problem that plagues 80% of the population at some point in their lives: back pain. Dr. Lysander Jim, a spine health specialist, is here to shed light on this frequently misunderstood problem.
Dr. Jim's journey into the world of medicine was sparked by a simple biology textbook, leading him into the world of chronic pain management amid the fiery debate over opioid prescriptions. But frustration grew as he watched patients return month after month with little progress.
Until a game-changer emerged. Dr. Jim discovered the groundbreaking McGill Method, designed by Canadian biomechanist Stuart McGill. It bridged the gap between scientific knowledge and clinical practices, offering new hope to those grappling with debilitating back pain.
Today, Dr. Jim is the go-to expert for nonoperative back pain solutions, occupational injury rehabilitation, athletic performance enhancement, and, when necessary, surgical interventions. His latest triumph is the book Specific Spine, which unravels the mysteries of the human spine and its ties to low back pain.
In this episode, we discussed:
How Dr. Jim learned about a better approach to treating back pain
Your starting point to proactive health and well-being
Two important strategies for future back pain prevention
The counterintuitive reason why flexiblity isn’t the biggest preventor of injuries
Why the number one thing we can do to extend our longevity is avoid falls
Learning how to move without excessive spine bending.
Connect with Dr. Jim www.masterymedical.com
Specific Spine on Amazon
Spine Clinicians for the McGill Method:
backfitpro.com
Today's episode is a special one, born from an unexpected encounter that unfolded in the lobby of the Hotel Matilde in Budapest this summer. As our two-week journey began, I had the privilege of crossing paths with an individual who would soon become not just a fellow traveler but a friend.
Throughout those days in Budapest and the subsequent weeks of our journey, we shared experiences that left lasting impressions. We reveled in the rich sights, sounds, flavors, and the occasional cocktail, all while exploring the wonders of this beautiful city with Mario Bofill and his wife, as well as other fellow travelers.
Mario Bofill, an adventurer and an accomplished professional, was born in Matanzas, Cuba, and embarked on a remarkable journey that took him from Cuba to the United States. His career spanned various roles, including leadership in Lean Six Sigma, corporate auditing, and efficiency management in renowned companies. Now retired, he enjoys the dream life in Florida with his family and furry companion, Symi.
I couldn't help but be captivated by his profound insights. So, when I approached him with the idea of joining us on this podcast, he graciously agreed. Today, I'm thrilled to bring you a conversation with a dear friend, Mario Bofill.
We discussed:
Mario’s incredible childhood journey from Cuba to Spain to Long Island
His traveling career in the PC business that spanned 800,000 miles
Why Mario believes he should have retired earlier in his career
The serenity in post-retirement life through quality time with his spouse and hobbies
How to embrace leaving work behind with a roadmap (and eliminate fear)
The value of celebrating successes—and finding wisdom in life's challenges
Kent Weishaus spent 25 years in the world of television production — a realm of celebrities, directing, writing, producing, and navigating the interactions with network executives and large crews. Yet, he realized that much of his TV work was fueling the sensory overload that plagues us today.
Driven by a hunger for purpose, Kent embarked on a career transition into the "helping profession." Today, he's a licensed clinical social worker in California, with a diverse career that has seen him serve in mental hospitals, community clinics, and even as an educator in the classroom.
Kent is here to shed light on the art of stepping back, reaching higher ground, and gaining insight into our own biological and mental processes amidst the relentless demands of our 21st-century lives. His latest book, "Stop Breaking Down: The Secret to Avoiding Overwhelm and Crack-Up," serves as a guiding compass through this demanding landscape.
In this episode, we discussed:
‘
How Ken made his daring leap from TV production to social work
How distorted thinking hijacks our thinking (and why we must confront it)
The power-packed question we should all ask ourselves
Why we seek out simple stories that are identifiable to make us feel better
How we can gain a fresh perspective to look at our reality differently
The importance of listening to our bodies signs of distress
Connect with Ken http://www.kentw.net
In a world that often encourages us to wear masks, authenticity simply means living by your core values. It's about boldly being yourself, shedding the years spent behind social facades, and embracing the courage to be truly genuine.
Today, we're revisiting a favorite past episode as we dive into part two of our conversation with Parker Palmer. Parker, a renowned writer, speaker, and founder of the Center for Courage & Renewal, takes us on a journey of self-discovery.
In this encore presentation, Parker reminds us that embracing our humanity doesn't require perfection—it simply asks for the courage to embrace our imperfections as integral parts of who we are. I hope this conversation will inspire you to live in alignment with your values and show up in the world as your authentic self.
We discussed:
What most of us do when we listen to another person's problem
The art of asking sincere questions vs. offering concealed advice
What it really means to show up authentically in one's own truth
The importance of breaking the silence around depression and mental health
Parker shares a favorite poem that serves as a guide for moving forward
Links Parker J. Palmer on FacebookCenter for Courage & Renewal
Today, we're revisiting a truly extraordinary conversation—one that left a profound mark on me. I’m replaying this special two-part episode to delve once more into the wisdom shared by a guest who epitomizes living with meaning and purpose.
Having Parker Palmer guest on my show was a dream come true, an opportunity I never imagined would come to fruition. Words like activist, author, and speaker only begin to scratch the surface of who Parker is. He is, without a doubt, a unique and inspiring individual.
His tenth book, On the Brink of Everything: Grace, Gravity, and Getting Old, is a thought-provoking reflection on the gift of aging and what gives us purpose in life. In part one of our interview, Parker explores the enlightening concept of embracing our life experiences by looking at them from different angles.
Whether you're hearing this for the first time or revisiting it with us, there's always something new to discover in Parker's words.
We discussed:
How we redeem hard times in life by finding the meaning and purpose in it
Why making ourselves useful matters more than ever in our later years
The reason why Parker embraced short-form writing in the last 20 years
What attending Berkeley in the 60s taught him about social change
How a sabbatical year living in a Quaker community changed Parker’s life
Links Parker J. Palmer on Facebook
Center for Courage & Renewal
Mark Barnes and James Sturtevant, retired educators turned authors, have embarked on a mission to help people redefine aging. Their latest book, Hacking Life After 50: 10 Ways to Beat Father Time and Live a Long, Healthy, Joy-Filled Life, is a treasure trove of wisdom that promises to shift your perspective and ignite a momentum mindset.
Mark is a longtime educator, entrepreneur. He is on a quest to live past 100 and bring anyone interested along for the ride. James, a 34-year veteran classroom teacher and accomplished author, gained national recognition for his expertise in building rapport in schools and engaging even the most reluctant learners.
So, if you're ready to unlock the secrets of joyful aging, stick around. Mark Barnes, James Sturtevant, and Hacking Life After 50 just might change your perspective on what it means to make life simpler—and more joyful.
In this episode, we discussed:
The power of embracing a momentum mindset in the after 50s phase of life
How we can transition into our next iteration of who we're supposed to become
5 practical strategies and "hacks" for living your best life after 50
How to use fitness trackers to support (and maintain) new healthy habits
The benefits of resistance training for reclaiming your younger self
Connect with James and Mark Hacking Life After 50: 10 Ways to Beat Father Time and Live a Long, Healthy, Joy-Filled Life
after50slife.com
After 50s Life on Facebook
Retirement takes on a new dimension when experienced as a couple. Yet, it's an aspect that is often overlooked. Today’s guests Caryl and Jay Casbon set out to shift this narrative. Their mission: to spotlight the journey of couples navigating this distinct life stage.
Equipped with a motorhome, curiosity, and a desire for real understanding, the Casbons hit the road, covering 15,000 miles across North America. Three days at a time, they immersed themselves with different couples, unveiling the nuances of aging and retiring together.
Their journey culminated in Side by Side: the Sacred Art of Couples Aging with Wisdom and Love. This book stands as a guide for those growing older together, and for those about to embark on that shared path, with enduring love and insight lighting the way.
In this episode, we discussed:
How our individualistic culture fades couplehood after “I do”
Why it’s great for couples to have different stories about shared experiences
The shift from isolation to interdependence for men
How to harness the opportunity for deepened love and mutual decision-making
Caryl and Jay’s secrets to crafting privacy within the realm of retirement
Connect with Caryl and Jay www.sidebysideaging.com
Jay Casbon on Substack
Caryl Casbon on Substack
Last month, I stopped by a Barnes & Noble store and found myself face-to-face with a book: “The Wisdom of Morrie.” You might recall Mitch Albom’s heartwarming novel, “Tuesdays With Morrie.” Well, this time, the newly released book was authored by Morrie himself and edited by his son Rob Schwartz. I’m thrilled to introduce you to Rob today.
A writer, producer, and entrepreneur, Rob Schwartz's journey has taken him from the pages of prestigious publications like Time, Newsweek, and Variety to the creative landscapes of script editing and film production. Today, he serves as a partner in the innovative virtual concert platform, Moshpit, and is a producer of the upcoming mental health benefit festival, Onetopia.
In this episode, we’ll delve into life’s profound questions, as Rob shares his journey of uncovering his father’s manuscript. We explore how its contents not only led him to confront his own grief, but also provided deeper insights into his father’s perspective on embracing joy, seeking laughter, and infusing creativity into every facet of life.
We discussed:
The larger questions of life that magnify with age
How Rob discovered his father’s original manuscript and its depth
Why editing his father’s manuscript had Rob coming to terms with his grief
Morrie’s philosophy of pursuing joy and what makes you laugh
Why age becomes irrelevant when engaging in meaningful pursuits
What techniques can we employ to make life more creative, joyous and vibrant
Connect with Rob A Social Psychologist's Lessons for Living on Psychology Today
The Wisdom of Morrie
Rob Schwartz on LinkedIn
Rob Schwartz on Instagram
ONETOPIA Benefit Music Festival
You might recognize today’s guest from his work as a bestselling author, philosopher, and consultant, but there's so much more to his story.
James embodies the idea that resilience is at the heart of a meaningful life. Through his coaching and leadership programs, he has touched the lives of over a million individuals from around the world. He's authored several books, including the bestselling "Harmonic Wealth," and he's made appearances on shows like Oprah, Larry King, and the Today Show.
Yet, it was in 2009 that James faced an immense challenge that reshaped his path. After a tragic accident, he lost everything he had built and found himself in a position he never could have anticipated—homeless and burdened with an overwhelming $20 million debt.
What sets James apart is his unwavering determination to rebuild, even from the darkest moments. In this episode, James candidly shares his personal journey and the strategies that guided him in rebuilding his life from scratch.
We discussed:
- Discover why the keys to understanding your behavior aren't found outside of you
- Explore how the first 14 years of your life can shape your journey profoundly
- A tragic incident during a retreat that resulted in the loss of three clients’ lives and subsequent legal troubles
- What defines your true wealth—and why it has nothing to do with money
- The greatest resistance we’ll ever confront (and how we can navigate it)
Connect with James Website: www.jamesray.com
Get a Free Copy of Harmonic Wealth
Twitter - https://twitter.com/JamesARay
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/officialjamesarthurray
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamesarthurandbearray
Curious about the emotions shaping your financial decisions? Join us as we dive deep into the hidden psychology of financial life planning.
Manisha Thakor brings more than 25 years of financial expertise and a deep commitment to empowering through financial education. A graduate of Wellesley College and Harvard Business School, Manisha honed her skills while working with prestigious money management firms. Yet, her mission today is equipping families with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve financial well-being.
Manisha is also the author of MoneyZen, a new guide that helps readers shed self-sabotaging financial behaviors and paves the way for a transformative journey. In this episode, we explore the emotions driving financial well-being, the impact of beliefs on our financial choices, and methods to overcome the fear of scarcity, fostering a positive relationship with money and abundance.
We discussed:
- The real reason why financial matters often take a backseat
- What happens if you don’t address the hidden emotions of financial life planning
- Four influential factors that shape our unique money mindsets
- What financial health is—and why it’s different than what society tells us
- How the joy of giving can help eclipse the fear of not having enough
Connect with Manisha www.moneyzen.com
Order your copy of MoneyZen
Leaving work behind marks the beginning of a journey where we release control and surrender to life's unfolding path. Today, we explore that profound moment when the yearning for a deeper purpose becomes undeniable.
Bryan Yates' personal odyssey mirrors the struggles many face: alcoholism, workaholism, business failures, and an unhealthy attachment to achievement. After uncovering his true self-worth and acceptance, Bryan courageously reinvented himself, shifting his focus from a pursuit of success to personal growth. Today, he offers a transformative program that enhances mental performance and leadership skills.
Tune in to hear Bryan's inspiring story and purpose, which will undoubtedly touch and inspire you. This episode promises to be a profound journey into the depths of purpose, authenticity, and strength found in embracing the course of life's twists and turns.
- How Bryan's fitness business sparked discussions with executives on midlife challenges
- Unveiling the motivations that drive us to look deeper into ourselves
- The deeper sense of belonging that men seek through their achievements
- Learning how to sit with discomfort and understand what it is telling you
- Why we don’t actually have to learn how to overcome fear
- Why mentorship is more important than ever as we move through Chapter X
Connect with Bryan https://locomotivcoaching.com
Bryan Yates on LinkedIn
At just 35 years old, Colin Kingsmill had already ticked off every box on his life's checklist. He had it all: education, a great lifestyle, the perfect location, and a successful career. Yet, as he stood amidst his accomplishments, an unexpected feeling washed over him: emptiness. It made him question the true meaning of it all.
Today, Colin is a passionate life coach, driven to help people get past the limitations that have become ingrained in their beliefs. He focuses on empowering those trapped by fear and confined in their own echo chambers to embrace their authentic selves and unleash their full potential.
In this episode, Colin explores how we can break free from all the noise, ego, and destructive messages that hold us back or leave us stuck in place. I hope you’ll walk away from our conversation feeling inspired, challenged, and motivated as we learn from his wealth of wisdom and experience.
We discussed:
- How being open to opportunities vs. fixating on a destination changed Colin’s world
- The power of moments in time where we need to reevaluate everything
- How to start listening to what our bodies are telling us
- Recognizing the indicators of not living with your integrity
- Identifying the narratives that serve you and the ones that deplete your energy
- What it means to be embodied (and why it matters)
Connect with Colin www.colinkingsmill.com
Colin on Instagram
Colin on LinkedIn
Imagine a life where each step, every lesson, and every ounce of wisdom transforms you into a fulfilled, empowered individual. Now, envision yourself not just as a recipient of life's experiences, but as a role model and a beacon of inspiration for your children and grandchildren.
Today, we have a guest whose insights and resources can help you on this transformative path. Meet Blair Abee, an author, poet, educator, YouTuber, and ordinary mystic. His dedication to empowering individuals through meditation, mindfulness, and manifestation has touched the lives of thousands. With 5 best-selling books to his name, Blair offers practical techniques for personal development and an unparalleled understanding of the human mind and spirit.
In this episode, we dive into Blair's extraordinary journey—a journey sparked by a pivotal moment that forever altered the course of his life. Discover how blowing the whistle abruptly ended his successful 20-year consulting career, propelling him into a world of self-discovery and profound transformation.
- How whistleblowing altered the course of Blair’s 20-year consulting career
- Unleashing a practice that turned his misery to empowerment
- Why the last 25% of one's life is often dedicated to spiritual pursuits
- The simplest way to do meditation at any time (and anywhere)
- How meditation works to create positive outcomes—even for skeptics
Connect with Blair Free Download: The Mindfulness Book
www.HiCMeditation.com
Blair Abee on YouTube
Have you ever experienced that nagging feeling that something in your life is amiss, leaving you feeling unsettled or even miserable? Well, you’re not alone. According to Lion Goodman, it could be attributed to what he calls "transparent beliefs" that we unknowingly operate through.
As a professional coach, author, teacher, and psyche healer, Lion has honed his expertise in clearing beliefs that hold us back. Through his transformative Clear Beliefs Coach Training, he empowers coaches, therapists, and healers to break free from the limitations imposed by these transparent beliefs.
In this episode, Lion digs into the process of clearing old beliefs and ushering in new ones that are not only more productive but also workable, propelling us forward toward our goals rather than holding us back.
We discussed:
- Lion’s harrowing story of being shot four times in the head by a hitchhiker
- Why getting shot reignited his passion for understanding the human psyche
- What really stops people from moving forward in life
- The importance of learning from other men who have made similar transitions
- How to unmask your hidden beliefs that unknowingly shape your life
- Learning how to question your core beliefs that may be holding you back
Connect with Lion LionGoodman.com
ClearBeliefs.com
TribeofMen.com
Don't let a lifetime of learning, knowledge, and experience fade away. Whether you’re driven to shape your legacy or ignite hope in others, writing a book is a fantastic means of leaving your mark on the world.
Today’s guest, Nancy Erickson, is an author coach and owner of The Book Professor® and Stonebrook Publishing. Her expertise lies in empowering business professionals to become authors of high-impact nonfiction books that establish them as experts, enhance their credibility, and expand their businesses.
In this episode, Nancy proves that writing a book is a real possibility, even if you've never seen yourself as a writer. Let your imagination soar as we explore the world of penning your own book.
We discussed:
- The process Nancy uses to help people who aren't writers become authors
- Two compelling reasons that men choose to write books after leaving work behind
- How to figure out what content needs to go into your book
- Five ways that authors can repurpose their book to spread their message further
- How a book about what you’ve overcome can support the next generation
- The average time it typically takes to write a book
Connect with Nancy Schedule a free consultation here
TheBookProfessor.com
There's an entire world of hidden opportunities waiting for us, but it’s up to us to take the first step and initiate that chain reaction. Today, I have the honor of introducing a true Renaissance man who fearlessly embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery and purpose.
Ken Stearns is a writer, lyricist, photographer, and podcast creator. With his adventurous spirit and unyielding passion, Ken traded in his suit for a van, a microphone, and a burning desire to explore the world. His traveling podcast, aptly named "The Jar," has become a catalyst for profound conversations and extraordinary experiences.
In this episode, Ken reminds us that intentionality and building momentum are the keys to unlocking our true potential, challenging us to redefine what's possible and embrace a life of purpose.
We discussed:
- Why Ken used to scoff at the idea of finding your purpose in life
- How taking a series of intentional steps showed Ken his path
- How one small step can snowball into something incredible
- Creating one jar that unlocked amazing conversations with total strangers
- Embracing the opportunity to serve humanity at 60, 70, and beyond
Connect with Ken www.thejar.live
What if being a man is about embracing growth, authenticity, and the courage to shine your brightest light? Get ready for an uplifting conversation as we uncover the transformative power of bringing the best of you into the world.
In this episode, we dive into the wisdom of Carl Berryman, a personal trainer and seasoned podcaster who has harnessed a lifetime of insights, despite his young age. His mission is to help men get stronger in every area of life—from the boardroom to the bedroom and beyond.
Join us as we uncover Carl's message on the importance of continuous self-evaluation and seeking feedback from others. You’ll discover how these practices can help us ensure our actions align with the vision of who we truly want to become.
We discussed:
- How you define your masculinity in relation to the world
- How to bridge the gap between your identity and where you want to be
- The power of regular feedback in embracing personal growth
- How to get more comfortable with inviting vulnerability into your life
- The four principles of Carl’s framework for thriving in your relationships
- The first step to better physical health (hint: it’s not working out)
Connect with Carl Podcast: Inspired by Impact
Instagram: @ignitetheimpact
If you've ever wondered what lies on the other side of mental health battles, join us as we explore the transformative story of a man who has navigated the storm and come out stronger, wiser, and ready to share his wisdom.
Alan Cox’s path has been riddled with adversities, and he has traversed a personal storm to find a renewed sense of purpose and meaning. Today, he graciously shares his story and imparts invaluable wisdom that will undoubtedly resonate with many of our listeners.
Alan is a seasoned entrepreneur turned mental health advocate who has triumphed over personal adversity to create EverYellow, an innovative mental fitness app. Drawing on his own transformative journey and three decades of professional experience, Alan offers invaluable insights into the depths of mental health, resilience, and the unwavering human spirit.
We discussed:
- Alan’s personal struggle through his first 40 years of life
- The turning point—and a path to healing—after a mental breakdown
- How our brains physically change when we’re exposed to depression
- The disinction between mental wellbeing vs. mental fitness
- What research found about therapy and mental wellbeing apps
- Choosing growth over remaining in the status quo
Connect with Alan If you've ever wondered what lies on the other side of mental health battles, join us as we explore the transformative story of a man who has navigated the storm and come out stronger, wiser, and ready to share his wisdom.
Alan Cox’s path has been riddled with adversities, and he has traversed a personal storm to find a renewed sense of purpose and meaning. Today, he graciously shares his story and imparts invaluable wisdom that will undoubtedly resonate with many of our listeners.
Alan is a seasoned entrepreneur turned mental health advocate who has triumphed over personal adversity to create EverYellow, an innovative mental fitness app. Drawing on his own transformative journey and three decades of professional experience, Alan offers invaluable insights into the depths of mental health, resilience, and the unwavering human spirit.
We discussed:
- Alan’s personal struggle through his first 40 years of life
- The turning point—and a path to healing—after a mental breakdown
- How our brains physically change when we’re exposed to depression
- The disinction between mental wellbeing vs. mental fitness
- What research found about therapy and mental wellbeing apps
- Choosing growth over remaining in the status quo
Connect with Alan EverYellow Mental Fitness App: www.everyellow.com
Alan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alancoxnz
In a world where conformity often reigns, creativity is the rebellion that fuels progress and transformation. Our guest today delves into the depths of imagination and creative thinking, unearthing the potential that lies within each of us.
Rich Kirkpatrick writes, consults, and speaks about the intersection of creativity, faith and leadership. In 2022 he authored MINDBLOWN: Unlock Your Creative Genius by Bridging Science and Magic. He is also a musician, songwriter and recording artist with the group A Beautiful Liturgy. Rich is based in the East San Francisco Bay Area, CA.
If you've ever wondered how to tap into your creative side, regardless of whether you consider yourself creative, you're in for a treat. I hope Rich's insight will leave you inspired and eager to explore the endless possibilities of your own imagination.
We discussed:
- How to become more creative (when you’re not naturally creative)
- The surprising reason why failing is more important than you think
- Why we must learn to practice embracing the awkward moments
- The difference between innovation vs. creativity
- Why your creativity dies without clear boundaries or structure
- Finding the capacity to become more than we were the day before
Connect with Rich https://rkblog.com
Get a free book sample of Rich's book
Rich on Facebook
You gain wisdom with age, but sometimes it comes hand in hand with a nagging sense of regret. It's like looking back and realizing all the 'should haves' and 'could haves.'
I'm thrilled to welcome back a returning guest on the show today, Dr. Barry Farber, a highly respected professor of psychology at Columbia University. With a wealth of knowledge and a successful private practice, Dr. Barry Farber has authored numerous books and research papers in psychology.
In today’s episode, we’ll hear his thoughts on the powerful theme of regret—the unavoidable force that shapes our decisions. Dr. Barry Farber offers valuable insights on navigating through regret and discovering pathways to personal growth and progress.
We discussed:
- Why regret is inevitable—but it can guide us to make better choices
- How to work through your regret and find ways to move forward
- How to make peace with your regret by creating a new narrative
- The most common type of regret people often have in life
- Why the actions you haven't taken are more subject to imagined outcomes
- How to find the courage to talk to someone about your regrets
Good news: You don't have to become a meditation master to experience the benefits of mindfulness. In fact, you don't need any special skills or equipment at all.
Today we dive into the realm of mindfulness and meaningful living with our guest, Serge Prengel. Serge is a therapist, life coach, and author who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversation.
Serge Prengel has dedicated his career to exploring creative approaches to mindfulness, both within the therapeutic realm and in everyday existence. Drawing from his journey, which saw him transition from an advertising agency owner to a therapist, Serge shares his unique insights and perspectives on various aspects of meaningful living.
In this episode, we discussed:
- How to think about transferable skills as you leave work behind
- Sergei’s own journey from advertising agency owner to a therapist
- Why deep listening benefits both parties in a conversation
- The power of noticing what’s happening in the moment
- How taking a deliberate “active pause” is a gateway to mindfulness
- How to become better at noticing your surroundings (and why it matters)
Connect with Sergei http://activepause.com
The Proactive Twelve Steps: A Mindful Program For Lasting Change
Bedtime Stories For Your Inner Child
Are you ready to make a change but don't know how to start? In this episode, Philip Pape breaks down the barriers and shares practical advice to begin your transformation towards weight loss, improved fitness, increased strength, and a longer, healthier life.
Philip Pape is a Certified Nutrition Coach, Body Composition Expert, and host of the Wits & Weights podcast. Through his personal transformation to become the strongest, leanest, and healthiest version of himself, Philip learned the effectiveness of using evidence-based nutrition and strength training to optimize body composition.
Philip’s approach emphasizes sustainability and self-mastery of both body and mind to upgrade and optimize your health even with a demanding lifestyle. He helps high-achieving people use their wits to build their best bodies, reclaim their time, and become their most capable, confident selves in the gym and life so they can show up and make an impact.
Whether you're already living an active lifestyle or someone who has yet to embark on a fitness journey, this episode is filled with valuable insights and practical tips.
We discussed:
- The core attribute of fitness that makes everything else easier
- How Philip went through his first transformation ever at age 41
- Why you can start training at any age—even when you’re 70
- The #1 most important nutrient for altering your body composition
- Where to start with strength training (so you can prevent injuries)
Connect with Philip Subscribe to the Wits & Weights Podcast
We have all felt weighed down by the burden of expectations. But today's episode will challenge that notion and show you how expectations can be transformed into a powerful tool for living your best life. Joining us is a remarkable guest who has dedicated his life to the practice of expectation therapy, Art Costello. Art's journey has been both diverse and inspiring, from serving as a Marine in Vietnam to pursuing a career in baseball and eventually becoming a prolific blogger. Through his unique blend of personal experiences, counseling work, and entrepreneurial success, Art offers sage advice and insights to his readers.
In this conversation, we will delve into the core principles of expectation therapy, learning how to harness the energy of our expectations and discovering the profound impact it can have on our lives. Get ready to shift your perspective and embrace the power of expectations.
We discussed:
- Letting fear be the propellant for you to be the best version of yourself
- Why some people are typically more negative vs. positive
- The two most important questions to ask yourself when feeling fear
- How to find a pathway forward when you don’t know what’s ahead
- How you can use expectation therapy to heal from life events and transitions
Connect with Art TheArtofExpectation.com
Art Costello on Facebook
Art Costello on LinkedIn
Max Friedman has spent his career uncovering and writing about the lives of others, but with his newly released book, he turns the focus onto his own family's past. Painful Joy tells the story of Max's parents, Sam and Frieda, who were Holocaust survivors that met and married after their liberation from the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp.
His parents' experiences during the Holocaust shaped their family life—and Max spent much of his life avoiding their traumatic past. It was only five years ago when Max decided to delve deeper into his family’s history. Upon doing so, he discovered the little his parents had told him provided only fragmented glimpses into their complex past.
Painful Joy delves into the true story of Max's parents and the lasting impact of trauma on their family. Join us as Max shares his journey of writing this book, uncovering his family's past, and the transformative power of storytelling.
We discussed:
- What led Max to uncover the history of his parents’ past as Holocaust survivors (and why he avoided it at first)
- The profound impact of trauma and what it means to be a survivor
- How Max found peace in his exploration of his parents’ past and how it changed him
- The magic of a published book and a newfound understanding of his family
- The transformative power of a completed journey for book readers
Connect with Max Painful Joy on Amazon
http://www.maxfriedman.net
Max Friedman on LinkedIn
Painful Joy on Amsterdam Publishers
Do you ever wonder if there's more to life than what you're currently experiencing? Perhaps your true life purpose has been hiding in plain sight. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Bill Heinrich, a transformational coach and spiritual teacher who has dedicated almost three decades to helping people find inner peace and purpose.
Bill's own journey of transformation began when he realized that material success didn't bring him lasting fulfillment. Since then, he's developed a powerful blueprint for success that has helped countless individuals live a life of passion, purpose, and prosperity. During our conversation, Bill shares the idea that the world is a mirror, reflecting back what we put out. After listening, I’m sure that you will peer even more deeply into the world to gain a greater understanding of who you are.
We discussed:
- The turning point that led Bill to look at the source of his misery
- How one influential book helped Bill create a blueprint for himself
- What you can create when you understand who you are energetically
- What is really happening when you’re judging someone else
- The key to living your life purpose
- How we can attract everything to us that we need to accomplish
Connect with Bill Seven Levels of Truth: A Direct Path to Your Life Purpose: On Amazon
Clarity Has No Story: Free Ebook Download
www.truelifepurposenow.com
Bill Heinrich on Facebook
Bill Heinrich on LinkedIn
The way we treat our bodies can make or break us. Join us today as we explore some common misconceptions about how we treat our bodies and what's truly important for a healthy lifestyle.
As someone who’s been a yoga practitioner for almost 40 years, I truly appreciate the gifts of movement, calm and rejuvenation that I get from my practice. Today I’m thrilled to speak with Yogi Aaron, who is known for challenging traditional perspectives on yoga, particularly when it comes to stretching and flexibility.
He's the creator of the revolutionary approach to yoga called Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™ (AYAMA), which aims to help people live a pain-free life by realizing yoga's true intentions.
His latest work, Stop Stretching! A New Yogic Approach To Master Your Body + Live Pain-Free, is a book for anyone who wants to restore balance to their body through yoga. Along with his wife, he's the co-owner of Blue Osa Yoga Retreat & Spa in Costa Rica, where he leads Yoga Teacher Training Immersions year-round.
- The difference between society vs. spiritual traditions on happiness
- One powerful question to ask ourselves as we navigate change
- The quickest route to finding your purpose (this will probably surprise you)
- How to teach our minds to avoid constantly going outward to seek fulfillment
- The popular yoga pose that Aaron advises everyone to avoid
- Aaron’s advice on living in purpose and gratitude
Connect with Yogi Aaron www.YogiAaron.com
Stop Stretching Book on Amazon
Stop Stretch Podcast
7-Day Pain-Free Series
Join + Learn - Stop Stretching Facebook Group
Do you ever wonder what kind of legacy you'll leave behind for your loved ones? Sure, your will might divvy up your tangible assets, but what about your values, stories, and wisdom?
I’m thrilled to have Susan Turnbull with us. Susan is the founder of Personal Legacy Advisors, a company dedicated to helping people create ethical wills to pass on their values, stories, and wisdom to future generations.
Susan is a former journalist turned expert in the field of ethical wills, and she is the author of The Wealth of Your Life: A Step-by-Step Guide for Creating Your Ethical Will. Her presentations, tools, and services are known for their personal and practical focus on estate, financial, and philanthropic planning.
In this conversation, we will delve into the concept of ethical wills, their history, and the misconceptions that surround them. We will also explore how creating an ethical will can be a meaningful way to pass on one's accumulated wisdom and experience with intentionality.
We discussed:
- Your voice matters—why an ethical will isn’t about posessions or assets
- Why an ethical will is meaningful for your loved ones
- How an ethical will can help you reflect on your life and values
- 4 important things people need to say (or hear) during someone’s final days
- How to start writing an ethical will when it feels daunting or overwhelming
- Common fears people have about writing an ethical will
Connect with Susan www.PersonalLegacyAdvisors.com
Sign up for two free resources on ethical wills
In a world filled with information overload and conflicting advice, it can be hard to know what to believe when it comes to nutrition. With that in mind, I invited my nutritionist, Jessica Berliner, to join me for this conversation.
Jessica Berliner is a clinical nutritionist with a Masters in Integrative Nutrition. Her approach to nutrition is to find a sustainable and individualized plan for each person she works with—because there is no such thing as a perfect diet. She not only addresses the foods that people put in their bodies but also their exercise, stress management, supplement routine and whatever other factors are helping to guide someone’s health journey.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why we should be cautious of social media advice on nutrition
- There isn’t a perfect diet for everyone (and what that means for you)
- Why having fun with our food is the key to sustainable change
- Learn what basics a nutritionist needs to know to guide you toward better health
- How to work within our budgets when it comes to choosing high-quality foods
- Why the food pyramid may not be the best guide for healthy eating
Links Mentioned Seafood Watch
EWG’s Clean Fifteen™ and Dirty Dozen™ lists
The Peter Attia Drive Podcast
The Huberman Lab Podcast
FoundMyFitness Podcast
Connect with Jessica www.jessicaberliner.com
www.wellinmontclair.com
www.lifesciencehealthandwellness.com
Are we letting outdated perceptions hold us back from fully embracing our Chapter X? Many of us have grown up with the belief that a decline in health is inevitable as we age, based on what we saw in our parents and grandparents. But is that really the case?
Joining us today is Lynn Friesth, a seasoned Entrepreneur and Executive Coach, who has spent 40 years in the corporate world building his expertise. Since 2015, he has focused on helping others create their "Encore" careers, while also coaching emotional intelligence to improve their leadership skills and relationships with others.
In this episode, Lynn shares how we can challenge old beliefs and embrace the possibilities of what our encore years can look like. According to Lynn, it's all about where you can add value. He believes that with the right mindset, an encore career is a chance for us to pursue work that is fulfilling, meaningful, and enjoyable.
We discussed:
- What sparked Lynn’s transition into entrepreneurship during his encore career
- How we can navigate imposter syndrome when starting a second act
- Why it’s never too late to become an entrepreneurial person
- The biggest misconceptions about starting a business after retirement
- His advice for men who are struggling to create an encore business
- The top 7 reasons why Lynn doesn’t want to retire
Connect with Lynn Podcast: “Creating Your Encore Career”
Website: https://www.lynnfriesth.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnfriesth/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lynnfree86/
Lynn on Facebook
Have you ever found yourself struggling to finish what you started? Is it possible to find enjoyment in the process of working towards our goals rather than just the end result?
Today we explore the science behind our tendency to quit and insights into how we can grow by finishing what we start. I’m speaking with the authors of the new book, Swipe: The Science Behind Why We Don't Finish What We Start.
Tim Vandehey is a New York Times bestselling ghostwriter who has written over 65 books for such publishers as HarperCollins and Simon & Schuster. He is also a writer, career coach and an accomplished jazz vocalist.
Meanwhile, Dr. Tracy Maylett is a CEO, organizational psychologist, and internationally recognized bestselling author who advises leaders worldwide on employee engagement and organizational effectiveness.
Join us for this interesting, insightful and thought-provoking conversation that is guaranteed to elicit some nods.
In this episode, we discussed:
- Why technology makes it so easy for us to “switch realities” instantly
- How do we focus on becoming a master of the right things
- Why we need to be more forgiving about things that we leave in our past
- The importance of recognizing when a swipe is coming on
- What being a novice means—and how it relates to your growth
Links Swipe on Amazon
SwipeTheBook.com
Your health is your greatest asset, but navigating the ever-changing healthcare system can be a challenge. It's often difficult to know where to start when there are so many options and considerations.
Joining us today is Jim Jordan, a healthcare and life sciences expert who has his finger on the pulse of changes in the industry. As an author, speaker, and consultant, he works with hospitals, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and more to improve the business of healthcare.
Jim shares his expansive knowledge of healthcare, shedding light on how the dynamics of healthcare are evolving with new technology and different generations of physicians entering the field.
If you’ve ever felt confused about the world of medicine, I hope you will walk away from this episode with a better understanding of how to control your own healthcare journey.
- The common thread between healthcare companies that satisfy their patients
- How social distancing opened up the doors to telemedicine
- Why we tend to stay with physicians who have known us the longest
- Why increasing your health literacy matters for baby boomers
- How to maintain dignity during the late stages of life
- Ways that technology is changing the way we care for ourselves
Connect with Jim https://jfjordan.com
Have you ever felt like you're just going through the motions without really living the life you want? Troy Ismir knows this feeling all too well after spending 17 years in a successful—but unfulfilling—career that left him in a state of "quiet desperation."
In this episode, Troy shares his journey of recognizing the challenges of working in an unfulfilling career and the steps he took to build a path that aligns with his values. As an inner transformation coach, Troy helps men realize their true power by integrating Spirit, mind, and body so they can live a life of unlimited freedom.
By the end of our conversation, I'm confident you'll be inspired and ready to reflect on your life, asking yourself whether you're truly living the life you value most.
We discussed:
- What prompted Troy's transition out of a successful but unfulfilling career
- How he recognized the feeling of being trapped in his career
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The journey to building a career that suits his introvertedness
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How finding a mentor can help you follow through with an intentional life transition
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A practice that that helped Troy get through the lowest point of his life
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Why allowing ourselves to be beginners is what keeps us young
Connect with Troy https://www.troyismir.com/
https://www.instagram.com/troyismir/
https://www.facebook.com/troyspiritualwarrior
Who says you have to slow down after retirement? You can stay healthy and active for years to come, according to today’s expert guest, Dr. Doug Lucas. He is a fellowship-trained precision health specialist, who is on a mission to address the underlying causes of chronic disease and improve both healthspan and lifespan.
Dr. Lucas shares his inspiring journey from being an orthopedic surgeon to a precision health specialist, and how he became frustrated with the failure of the traditional medical model to incorporate principles of nutrition and disease prevention.
He also shares his insights on why Western medicine is lacking in preventative care, and how he is partnering with patients to achieve their health dreams through a customized approach based on genetic data, extensive evaluation, and in-depth lifestyle examination.
We discussed:
- A new career path born from his revelation after a patient’s surgery
- The time dilemma in Western medicine’s preventative approach
- Being an advocate for your own health
- Finding a doctor who aligns with your beliefs about diet and nutrition
- Why optimizing your muscle mass is essential for healthy aging
- The biggest myth about age-related bone loss
Connect with Dr. Lucas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_douglucas/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDougLucas/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwdGGy-YA3p28mYbfh19xqA
OHH Website: https://www.optimalhumanhealth.com/
OBH Website: https://www.optimalbonehealth.com/
Get ready for an episode that may challenge everything you think you know.
In this mind-blowing conversation, I'm joined by Mas Sajady, an expert in advanced frequency technology that unlocks massive human transformation. After three near-death experiences, Mas acquired unique abilities to see the underlying patterns that limit our lives and eliminate blocks and distortions.
Today, we dive into the world of quantum transformation and explore Mas Sajady’s approach to elevating consciousness and creating lasting change. Buckle up, take a deep breath, and allow your mind to open.
We discussed:
- How multiple near-death experiences connected Mas to a higher self
- Why chasing success can result in a sense of identity loss
- What frequencies are and where they are present in our lives
- The reason why we all repeatedly encounter the same problems
- Where massive amounts of change can happen in a short period of time
- How to uncover the underlying value of events vs. the surface level value
Connect with Mas www.ximeditation.com
The problem with a lot of ''diets'' is that nobody can stay on one they don’t enjoy. But eating well doesn’t have to mean a boring diet.
My guests today demonstrate how a healthy lifestyle can be easy and enjoyable. I’m joined by two physicians who are husband and wife: psychiatrist Dr. Sandra Cammarata and Harvard-trained cardiologist, Dr. Giovanni Campanile.
They are the authors behind The Sicilian Secret Diet Plan—a treasure of knowledge and advice to live healthfully through your lifespan. They share how the Sicilian way of eating and living can be easily adapted into anyone’s daily routine.
We discussed:
- How diet can be a medical tool for disease prevention and reversal
- Why organic food is not the only focus for healthy eating
- What components make up a Sicilian Mediterranean-style diet
- Insights from research about the impact of our gut microbiome on behavior
- What studies say about the Mediterranean diet as an antidepressant diet
- The crucial role that sleep plays in maintaining good health
The Sicilian Secret Diet Plan
Have you always dreamed of expressing yourself through art but felt limited by a lack of creativity?
Today we explore the depths of human potential and creativity. I'm joined by Michaell Magrutsche, a creativity and awareness educator who embodies the spirit of self-discovery and limitless potential. He is a multidisciplinary artist, author, speaker, and advocate for helping understand neurodiversity.
Michaell has lived a life of resilience and perseverance, overcoming the challenges the system has placed upon him. Through his journey, he has found the power of creativity as a tool for survival and growth, and he's here to share his story with us today.
In this episode, we discussed:
- How the system failed Michaell throughout his life until age 30
- The defining moment he realized he was an artist
- Why many men find it difficult to unearth creativity in themselves
- Recognizing the influence of societal beliefs and ideas on our perception
- What steps can help you move closer to finding creativity
Connect with Michaell https://michaellm.com
michaellart@yahoo.com
Today we bring you the inspiring journey of Damian White, a 30-something-year-old poet who has triumphed over homelessness twice. From his struggles in San Francisco after graduate school to turning his passion for writing into a published book, Damian's story showcases the resilience of the human spirit.
In this episode, you’ll hear the rich and moving poetry of Damian, captured in his debut book I Made A Place For You. Whether you’re a poetry enthusiast or not, I guarantee his extraordinary work will leave you thinking.
Listen in for my conversation with an exceptional young man whose work is revelatory, insightful, and thought provoking. His message highlights the lessons we can gain from navigating the difficulties of transitioning into a new stage of life.
We discussed:
- His tumultuous bouts of being homeless in San Francisco after graduate school
- Making the leap from writing as a hobby to publishing a book of poetry
- A behind the scenes look into the day-to-day life of a poet
- Giving ourselves the gift of time and appreciation for moments
- Damian’s advice on the power of working hard for yourself
Connect with Damian www.damianwhitewrites.com
Life presents us with a wide array of possibilities. Some things we choose, and others are just beyond our control.
My guest today is Clint Hatton. He is an author, motivational speaker, and personal development and leadership coach who recently published his first book, Big Bold Brave: How to Live Courageously in a Risky World. Clint’s story includes dealing with a most impossible life event that he has transformed into something greater and beyond himself.
In this episode, you’ll hear about his passion to inspire others in the aftermath of great disappointment to give their pain a purpose and breathe new life into relationships, health, business, and finances. I know you'll find our conversation truly meaningful.
Listen in as we discuss:
- How Clint made a courageous decision to leave his double life behind
- His 20-year journey to developing a deeper level of self-awareness
- The tragic day that changed a family forever in the blink of an eye
- What happens when you don't allow yourself to experience emotion
- How a devastating loss inspired Clint to live more intentionally
- What it really means to make courageous decisions
Connect with Clint https://bigboldbrave.us/join
Do you struggle to have difficult conversations with your adult children? These types of conversations are unavoidable, but they don’t require you to sit down for a long, in-depth discussion.
It just means that we can’t ignore the things we need to talk about to maintain and enhance the harmony of the relationships in our lives, according to Amy D’Aprix. Today we’re back with Dr. Amy as she leads the way on essential conversations with adult children.
Dr. Amy provides sound guidance with humor and enthusiasm for navigating Life Transitions to ensure the success of overall life goals and financial plans. In this episode of a special two-part, we tackle how to discuss values, caregiving, and money with your family.
We discussed:
- How we redefine our relationships as we move through life stages
- Light-hearted ways to address essential conversations in the moment
- The problem with assumptions about shared values in your family
- What happens when we avoid difficult conversations with our children
- How to approach conversations about estate planning with family
Connect with Dr. Amy Life Transitions by Dr. Amy: My Company | LinkedIn
Navigating Life’s Changes Together with Dr. Amy (dramy.life)
Whether you’re married or partnered, there will be times when you need to have difficult conversations. But retirement is one of those challenging discussions that many couples don’t address until the ground is coming up fast.
That’s why I invited Amy D’Aprix to join me on today's show. She’s an internationally respected expert on lifestyle issues relating to retirement, aging, caregiving and family dynamics. With a Ph.D. in Social Work, Dr. Amy has provided practical guidance on Life Transitions to individuals, professionals, and organizations for over 30 years.
She has authored the book, From Surviving to Thriving: Transforming Your Caregiving Journey, and co-developed an audio coaching session and companion journal, Building the Bonds of Friendship at Midlife and Beyond.
In this episode, Dr. Amy shares her best advice on what conversations couples should have with each other about retirement planning.
We discussed:
- Why we typically dive into retirement conversations unprepared
- The problem with men concentrating social support into their spouses
- How to approach heavy conversations with joy and fun
- Why bucket lists can contribute to depression and poor mental health
- How to start the conversation about retirement with your spouse
- What time frame Dr. Amy recommends for essential conversations
Connect with Dr. Amy Life Transitions by Dr. Amy: My Company | LinkedIn
Navigating Life’s Changes Together with Dr. Amy (dramy.life)
Is it really more difficult to learn new things as we get older or do we just become stuck in our ways? While it’s easier to stay comfortable, this doesn’t mean we should stop ourselves from growing.
Dr. Orest Komarnyckyj enjoyed a prestigious career as a periodontal regenerative surgeon before moving to a new passion in June 2018. At age 70, Dr. Orest has taken on a new role as an interviewer, podcaster, and government-certified Old Guy who helps mentor men to get what they want.
He’s not afraid to tackle uncomfortable topics and very often brings his audience the unexpected. In today’s episode, you’ll hear from Dr. Orest on reclaiming your masculinity, your future, and your life.
We discussed:
- The turning point when Dr. Orest realized it was time to leave his career
- Why most people struggle to articulate what they want out of life
- Why there’s a price to pay for being financially successful
- How Dr. Orest is optimizing his health to live for 50 more years
- What happens when we get too comfortable with the status quo
Connect with Dr. Orest Podcast: Old Guy Talks To Me
Coaching Program: The Standard. Academy
Free Digital Magazine: The Standard Academy Magazine for High-Performance Men
Dr. Orest on LinkedIn
Dr. Orest on Twitter
Clint Arthur’s initial career plan was to become an investment banker after he graduated from Wharton Business School. Instead, he turned down a job offer from an investment bank in New York City and moved to Hollywood to pursue his dream of becoming a screenwriter.
As he tried to make it in the entertainment industry, Clint made ends meet by working as a taxi driver for six years. Deeply unsatisfied with his direction in life, he dove into the world of personal development to work on himself.
Today he’s an award-winning speaker, serial entrepreneur, and info marketer who has met some of the most influential people in the world. Clint turned his conversations with key figures into the bestselling book Wisdom of The Men, which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.
He’s a powerhouse of experience, energy and wisdom. Tune into this episode to hear our conversation on:
- One way to have a deeper understanding of what your life is all about
- Why Clint decided to stop chasing his dreams on New Year’s Eve 1999
- The most powerful (and cheapest) form of marketing people can do daily
- Why stories aren’t about facts—and what really matters in good storytelling
- An important lesson Clint learned in not taking things personally
Connect with Clint www.Clinttt.com
Wisdom Of The Men: How I Went From Taxi Driver to Working With Global Superstars & 5 US Presidents, Revealing All My Secrets, So You Can Do It Too by Clint Arthur
The Last Year Of Your Life by Clint Arthur
Chapter X isn’t a solo affair for those who are married or partnered. With these transitions, you may be navigating life changes that have been dormant for years, which can unexpectedly strain your relationship.
Dr. Bruce Chalmer is a psychologist in Vermont who has been working with couples for over thirty years. With his wife, educator Judy Alexander, he hosts the "Couples Therapy in Seven Words" podcast.
Through his teaching, consulting, videos, and writing about relationships, his ideas have helped thousands of couples and their therapists. Dr. Chalmer’s latest book It's Not About Communication! Why Everything You Know About Couples Therapy is Wrong helps demystify the couples therapy process—and some of the frequent challenges that couples run into during the transition from work life.
We discussed:
- How retirement leaves us with more choices (and sometimes anxiety)
- Why we're all trying to fulfill two particular sets of needs as a couple
- The most common reasons why couples seek therapy in retirement
- Why communication isn’t the best solution for relationship problems
- How to turn around the death spiral of passion in a marriage
Links Books by Dr. Chalmer
Couples Therapy in Seven Words with Judy Alexander and Bruce Chalmer
The older we get, the more afraid we are to try and learn new things. Why is it harder to break out of our comfort zone in retirement?
When you say goodbye to your career, you leave behind decades of mastery to become a novice at retirement. Everything new is hard at first. It takes a brave person to try something new, knowing they may not be “good” at it.
Bob Benno spent most of his life as a scientist. As a professor at William Paterson University, he was active as a teacher, researcher and program director in Biopsychology. After 35 years, Bob closed the book on that chapter of his life and entered retirement.
Fortunately, he had a lifelong interest in music and was able to open Chapter X in his life with an intensive study of Jazz. In this episode, he shares his honest and unfiltered story with us.
We discussed:
- How playing jazz unexpectedly helped Bob transition careers in science
- The struggles he faced after leaving behind his career in the classroom
- Dealing with the loss of identity in retirement (and discovering a new one)
- Why perspective is healthy for finding fulfillment and happiness
- The importance of balancing structure and free time in retirement
In 2015, Kevin Roth was diagnosed with stage-three melanoma. Although the cancer had been removed, his doctors said there was a 70 percent chance it would return and he would be dead within three years.
Hearing these words prompted Kevin to begin an earnest spiritual search for the true meaning in his life. He packed his bags for San Diego and created a “New Story” for his life—a life that was happy, cancer-free and brought him to a greater understanding of himself.
Kevin is also an internationally known dulcimer player, singer, songwriter, and recording artist. He sang the theme song for the hit PBS television show, Shining Time Station, gaining millions of fans worldwide. Today he guides people from all walks of life in ways they can create a life of fun, health, happiness, and lasting meaning.
His new book Between the Notes (Practical Ways to Find Your Inner Groove and Dance to a Beat That Makes Your Heart Sing) will be released in January 2023. In today’s episode, he talks about becoming aware of behaviors that don’t serve us.
We discussed:
- Why success and earning lots of money isn’t enough for fulfillment
- How a life-changing diagnosis prompted Kevin to embrace a new path
- The relationship between spirituality and finding satisfaction in life
- Why we must be aware of how we’re feeling (and make adjustments)
- The key difference between gratitude and happiness
Connect with Kevin: https://kevinroth.org
If you feel unfulfilled in life, it may be because you're on a path that doesn't allow you to explore your interests or passions. As a society, we put a lot of pressure on following our passions—but what if the trick to finding purpose was really about lowering expectations?
Eric Teplitz is a "life enthusiast" and personal coach. In addition to pursuing his own personal growth, he’s passionate about helping others open themselves up to a more expansive sense of what is possible. As a coach, Eric provides a space where others can overcome resistance to following their passions, curiosities, and dreams so they can live a more fulfilling life.
Eric joins me today to share his journey of twists and turns, the power of brushing up against your limits, and how to approach endeavors with a spirit of exploration.
We discussed:
- What happens when expectations don't match your experiences
- How repeated career disappointments took a cumulative toll on Eric
- One major relationship you’re guaranteed to carry with you for life
- The journey of self-exploration that follows setting an impossible goal
- How to explore your potential by purposely testing your own limits
Connect with Eric Website: http://ericteplitz.com/
"Opening to Greater Possibilities" (online course): https://ericteplitz.thinkific.com/
The Person You Want to Be (podcast): https://thepersonyouwanttobe.buzzsprout.com/
Think about how you feel after listening to the news. Do you feel energized and positive? Or do you feel like you're being hung by your feet from 100 stories up?
There is a huge bias in our society towards creating negativity, according to today’s guest. Paul E. Johnson Jr. joins me to discuss the power of optimism and how to practice it. He is the host of The Optimistic American podcast, whose goal is to create space in the news and media for an optimistic view of America.
Paul has a significant background in business, politics, and government. At 30 years old, he was elected as the youngest mayor of Phoenix, Arizona, and has managed several state campaigns for presidential candidates.
In this episode, Paul shares how we can feel enlivened by things we might not see at first glance. And I know you will love conversation as much as I do.
We discussed:
- How a career in politics led to Paul’s revelation about negative bias
- How we can find our optimistic space in a negative world
- The harmful effects of labeling people with whom we disagree
- 3 factors that are essential to finding motivation and meaning
- The simplest way we can add to our quality of life in retirement
Links The Optimistic American Podcast
Leaving work behind isn’t just about one person. Retirement can have an unexpected impact on our relationships too. That is why today’s episode is truly special.
For the first time, I’m welcoming the spouse of one of our community members to the show. I've enlisted the help of Melissa Bernstein to share her experiences in her husband David's transition to life after work.
Melissa Bernstein is an occupational therapist and a certified chef devoted to eating healthy—and teaching others how to do the same. She has over 35 years of clinical and consulting experience. Together, Melissa & her husband co-authored The Power of 5: A Journal for Health, Longevity and Wellness.
Her ideas and experiences are a guide to successful transitioning into Chapter X. In this episode, we discussed:
- How her husband’s pending retirement impacted Melissa’s career
- What the biggest discussions about his retirement looked like
- Why the adjustment period is about giving ourselves permission
- How a joint schedule helped the couple find common ground
- The key factor for every couple in a successful marriage
Connect with Melissa Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Powerof5Life
Instagram @powerof5testkitchen
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/powerof5life/
Website: https://www.powerof5life.com/melissa-bernstein/
www.Powerof5testkitchen.com
YouTube Channel: Power of 5 Life
What does it take to achieve the extraordinary? It turns out mindset is a vast part of becoming an Olympic champion. Today, we’ll hear from author, Olympic gold medalist, and performance coach Joe Jacobi.
I’m so happy to welcome Joe back to the podcast to share some important lessons from his latest book Slalom: 6 River Classes About How To Confront Obstacles, Advance Amid Uncertainty, & Bring Focus To What Matters Most.
Using the river as a metaphor for life, Joe’s latest work is a must-read packed with inspiring ideas on navigating uncertainty. In this episode, he talks about how we can start developing the momentum and skills for taking on the bigger confrontations of life.
We discussed:
- What we need to really focus on during the pursuit of contentment
- How the standards of American culture challenge our peace of mind
- Why comparing ourselves to others isn’t necessarily a bad thing
- How we can manage our daily energy levels more effectively
- 3 important questions to start asking yourself every day
- Why we typically get our perception of life’s obstacles all wrong
- The first step to doing the things we want to achieve in our lives
Connect with Joe
Slalom by Joe Jacobi
www.JoeJacobi.com
This week on the Chapter X podcast, our friend Richard Eisenberg is back with an update on his own retirement. He also discusses some of the latest top stories and podcasts to check out, including some suggested books to read.
Richard is almost a year into what he calls “unretirement.” In this chapter, he’s stayed busy writing a column for MarketWatch, contributing to digital platform Next Avenue, and co-hosting the Friends Talk Money podcast.
In this episode, we talk about how the definition of retirement has changed from our parents’. I know without a doubt, you’ll come away both inspired and well-informed. Listen in for our conversation on:
- Which part of ‘unretirement’ Richard is enjoying the most
- Three new stories about aging to watch out for
- Why it pays to delay claiming social security benefit (if you can)
- What you should think about before making alternative investments
- The most surprising lesson Richard has learned in this chapter
Episode mentions: Cursed Friends on Comedy Central
Caregiving can turn your retirement plans upside down
Want a happier retirement? Longtime friendships can be a source of joy
Think Nobody Wants Your Parents’ Art? Think Again
Latest episodes on the Friends Talk Money podcast
Like a Rolling Stone by Jann Wenner
Win the Retirement Game by Joe Casey
I’ve been nudging today’s guest to join me on the show over the last two years. Today, I’m so happy to introduce you to a member of the Chapter X community, Dr. Lloyd Kilmer.
Dr. Lloyd Kilmer has devoted his life to education. With over four decades of experience in K-12 and higher education, “intrepreneurship” was a key part of his leadership style. In his encore career, Lloyd has co-created a company that serves the needs of struggling students academically and socially.
In this episode, Lloyd reflects on this time of meaning and exploration—or what he refers to as his “last quarter of the game.” We talked about the personal growth in retirement he’s experiencing through mentoring and a deeper sense of self-awareness.
Listen in to learn about:
- The unforgettable lessons Lloyd learned from his dad’s 30-year retirement
-
How a Boy Scouts winter camping trip helped Lloyd find his calling
-
Stepping outside your comfort zone to enjoy the golden moments
-
The biggest benefits of starting a business after retirement
- How to avoid getting bored in a long (and unfulfilling) retirement
Connect with Lloyd Performance Learning
Is happiness temporary? We think happiness is just on the other side of our goals, like earning a promotion at work or banking a higher salary, but shooting for achievement doesn’t always lead to being happy.
The truth is we control only 40% of the lasting happiness we experience in life. In today’s episode, keynote speaker Anthony Poponi explains how we can focus on taking intentional actions that actively shape our lives to elicit more happiness.
Anthony is a corporate trainer, coach, speaker and author of “Focus on the 40,” specializing in improving team dynamics, communication and productivity in the workplace. His work is based on research in neuroplasticity, positive psychology and leadership to focus on a flourishing life.
We discussed:
- Why developing self-awareness matters for the life you want
- Debunking the most common myths about what happiness is
- How to intentionally squeeze more joy out of every day
-
Navigating the complexity of building relationships
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The difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships
Connect with Anthony Head-to-Toe Transformation Workbook
Anthony Poponi on Linkedin
The human mind has only one need, according to today’s guest. And that’s the perpetual need to express our authentic identity.
John Voris is a philosopher, writer and a human motivation researcher. He graduated from the University of California at Berkeley with a degree in philosophy and has never stopped his quest for answers to the deep questions.
His work explores the very things that make us tick, the roots that make for success or failure in our work, relationships, and personal well-being. It’s my pleasure to introduce you to John Voris with a truly fascinating conversation on becoming your greatest self.
In this episode, he explains the power that drives your personality and how to start living a more authentic life every day.
Here’s a glance at what we discussed:
- The four virtues of human behavior (and why we can’t escape them)
- Types of sychological factors that motivate us and guide our behavior
- The significance of assessing yourself as you transition into retirement
- How to fully align yourself with what you do and who you are
- How archetypes can help us understand why we have conflict with others
Connect with John Discover the Power That Drives Your Personality by John Voris
Learn to Sell What They Are Buying by John Voris
www.johnvoris.com
John Voris on Quora
Chapter X is the perfect opportunity to investigate your passions, but it doesn’t mean you have to reinvent yourself. Rediscovering your old interests may hold the clues to what you should pursue next.
Michael Brailove is an 84-year-old New Jersey native who spent his career in adult education. Today, in widowhood and retirement, Michael focuses on staying as engaged as possible in life through his passion for kayaking, pottery, and gardening.
I first met Michael in the middle of a bustling street fair. In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down for a conversation with the artist and learn how he not only rediscovered his passions, but also allowed them to flourish.
We discussed:
- What life was like in Berkeley during the political unrest of the 1960s
- Transitioning into the field of adult education as a career
- How kayaking became a part of Michael’s transition into retirement
- Reigniting his former creative passion for sculpting and arts
- Why self-awareness is key for identifying your true passions
Connect with Michael
Michael on Instagram
Can eating specific foods help with brain health? The latest research says yes.
A new study found that following the MIND diet—a combination of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet—can help reduce our risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In this episode, we’ll hear from an expert on aging about how to keep our brain healthy.
Today I’m joined by Dr. Quinn Kennedy, Director of Aging Research at neuroFit. She earned a PhD in Psychology and completed postdoctoral training in Cognitive Aging, both at Stanford University. Her latest project is an online webinar series that illustrates why cognitive boosting activities should be incorporated into your retirement plan.
Tune in to learn more about:
- What new research says about the best diet for your brain
- One of the best things you can for your eating habits
- A surprising finding about drinking one daily glass of wine
- Which food nutrients we need to eat more of after turning 60
- How our daily calorie need decreases with age
Connect with Quinn
Stanford Continuing Studies workshop
Maintaining Brain Health is Good for Your Wallet webinar series
Free diet and nutrition resources
neuroFit
We exist in a time where humans are living longer than any other point in history. The average life expectancy has increased by almost ten years in the last century, but living a long life that’s also happy and healthy isn’t so common.
Today’s guest says the real secret to a longer, happier life is movement. Not exercise, but simple physical activity. I’m thrilled to have Ben Reuter, PhD join me to talk about the importance of healthspan—the length of time a person is free from major disease or injuries.
Ben teaches at a regional university near Pittsburgh, PA. He is a podcaster and personal trainer as well as a lifetime mover. He promotes the ethos, "Movement is a lifestyle, not just an activity, because movement is part of what makes life complete."
In this episode, we discuss:
- Lifespan vs. healthspan: why it matters most in your next chapter
- How exercise and movement are different (and why it matters)
- Simple ways you can add micro movement times into your day
- Why reprogramming our “normal” isn’t always enough
- Why you have to be honest with yourself about what’s realistic
Connect with Ben www.fitlabpgh.com
www.moving2live.com
Ben on LinkedIn
The cornerstone of living our lives as fully as possible starts with health and fitness. Without it, our wellbeing is limited. And one of the perks of leaving work behind is getting more time in our day to create an active lifestyle.
Stephen Hercy (aka Dr Fitness USA) was motivated by the idea of growing muscles at a young age. Today he is an International Body Designer, Body Transformation Mentor, Ergonomic Expert, and Postural Alignment Specialist.
As Stephen explains, it’s important to have a program that addresses your body on different levels when you hit the gym. In this episode, he shares why strength training is the most sustainable way to slow down the aging process—and how building more strength can even improve our lives all the way into our 90s.
Tune in as we discuss:
- How training can enhance good posture and balance in the body
- What men should be thinking about when it comes to everyday fitness
- The difference between cardio vs. strength training—and why it matters
- 3 key rules for increasing your strength and finding success in the gym
- The most important factor to consider before choosing a gym
- Which exercises are best for slowing down the aging process
Connect with Stephen DrFitnessUSA.com
Call for a free consultation
Dr Fitness USA on TikTok
Dr Fitness USA on Instagram
Dr Fitness USA on YouTube
LinkedIn newsletter
When you’re thrust into the unexpected responsibility of becoming a primary caregiver, it’s hard to know what to do next. Nothing can prepare us for the role of providing non-professional caregiving support.
Sue Ryan has taken on the role of caregiver nearly a dozen times in her life. Throughout her experience, she’s learned lessons that challenged her beliefs, tested her character and developed her resilience.
As a speaker and coach, Sue helps guide other caregivers on confidently navigating their caregiving journey. In this episode, we covered the challenges facing a family caregiver in addition to key tools that can help you navigate through some of life’s biggest transitions.
Tune in for our conversation on:
- Why knowing who you really are is more important than you might think
- What steps to take when you don't know where to start in caregiving
- What showing vulnerability looks like when you’re a caregiver
- Tips for taking care of yourself and preventing caregiver burnout
- One simple step to stop overthinking and get out of your head
Connect with Sue The Caregiver’s Journey Online Course
Update Your Beliefs So They Support – Not Sabotage – You Guide
https://sueryan.solutions
It’s natural to compare ourselves to others and assume that someone else has it a lot better than we do. But in reality, no matter how successful and happy another person seems on the outside, it often has very little to do with their inner state of mind.
Today’s guest had it all as he approached midlife: his family, marriage, and a thriving law practice. Stratton Horres was at the top of one’s game and successful by outward appearances, yet he felt deeply unfulfilled in life.
That’s when he embarked on a personal quest to discover his true self—and what would bring him happiness. Here’s the remarkable story of what led up to Stratton’s epiphany and the journey of self-discovery that followed.
Tune in to hear our conversation on:
- How a milestone birthday was the perfect catalyst for a change
- The reason why looking back at our past can help guide the future
- What happens when your career becomes your whole identity
- The power of questioning your personal beliefs and values
- Peeling back the “onion” of self-awareness and discovery
- How to cross-examine your life with a series of key questions
Connect with Stratton A funny thing happened on my way to my retirement by Stratton Horres
How to take a self-deposition to 'right' your future by Stratton Horres
www.StrattonHorres.com
We all face trauma, adversity and stressful events in life. It’s how we cope with distressing experiences that can be the difference between living a meaningful life and mentally ‘checking out’ of yours.
Today you’ll hear from a man who adapted to several life-changing situations—and emerged even stronger than before. For years he struggled with chronic health issues, addictions and low self-esteem. Then one day he had had enough and became willing to make a change.
I’m honored to have Michael Harris share his story with us. Not only has he led a fascinating life filled with challenges, but he possesses an undeterred desire to live a full and meaningful life. The #1 bestselling book Falling Down Getting Up: A Story of Overcoming Life to Live is Michael’s story of dogged determination and a passion for life.
Listen in to hear his message on:
- The monumental impact of his near-death experience at 12 years old
- Finding the valuable lessons learned from working in a job you hate
- Building a “rich life” — and why true wealth isn’t really about money
- The first steps to taking massive action by applying the law of GOYA
- How we can use quantum leaps to create the life we truly want
Connect with Michael https://www.michaelbharris.com
We all face trauma, adversity and stressful events in life. It’s how we cope with distressing experiences that can be the difference between living a meaningful life and mentally ‘checking out’ of yours.
Today you’ll hear from a man who adapted to several life-changing situations—and emerged even stronger than before. For years he struggled with chronic health issues, addictions and low self-esteem. Then one day he had had enough and became willing to make a change.
I’m honored to have Michael Harris share his story with us. Not only has he led a fascinating life filled with challenges, but he possesses an undeterred desire to live a full and meaningful life. The #1 bestselling book Falling Down Getting Up: A Story of Overcoming Life to Live is Michael’s story of dogged determination and a passion for life.
Listen in to hear his message on:
- The monumental impact of his near-death experience at 12 years old
- Finding the valuable lessons learned from working in a job you hate
- Building a “rich life” — and why true wealth isn’t really about money
- The first steps to taking massive action by applying the law of GOYA
- How we can use quantum leaps to create the life we truly want
Connect with Michael https://www.michaelbharris.com
Discovering your inner tigers—what your strongest natural talents and abilities are—and then finding out how to engage all your abilities is one of the easiest ways to get a faster return on your efforts.
It might also be a key component of finding fulfillment and thriving in your next chapter.
To demonstrate, I’m joined on the show this week by a man who built a unique tool that helps people identify their unique talents, so they determine the best routes to attain success both personally and professionally.
Steven Rudolph is the founder of Multiple Natures, a resource for finding your sweet spot in your next chapter. In this episode, he reveals why using your natural talents can help you find a greater connection to your life and the world around you.
Tune in to hear us discuss:
- Why Steven gave up his dream of becoming a rock star to start teaching
- Steven’s “Feed Your Tigers” process for getting people to a place of recognition
- The scientific reason why it’s harder to learn things as an adult vs. child
- Rediscovering your natural abilities and talents from your early years
- How you can better align your natural talents (aka your “tigers”)
- The reason why we often attribute specific problems to the wrong reasons
- How being in alignment with your nature can contribute to your health
Connect with Steven www.FeedYourTigers.com
We are often told to pursue our passions in our professional lives. From childhood and onward, we hear the familiar tune of advice like, “Do what you love,” when it comes to our career.
Yet it’s rare to find people who’ve turned their passions into viable work. And I think you’ll find today’s guest truly inspiring. Dave Combs’ songwriting career began with the now popular standard, Rachel’s Song.
Since then, he’s written over 120 songs and recorded 15 albums of soft, soothing, and relaxing instrumental music. From a career in technology to becoming a full-time musician in his own Chapter X, Dave shares his fascinating journey in today’s episode.
Listen in to hear our conversation on:
- Revisiting his childhood passion as a second career choice
- The story of how he entered his final chapter as a full-time musician
- One unique advantage of a long, slow transition into a new career
- How David took one recording and turned it into a sustainable business
- Finding fulfillment and happiness by bringing joy to others with music
- The greatest lesson we can take away from Dave’s success
Connect with Dave https://CombsMusic.com
Ever noticed how different you feel depending on your surroundings? On the surface, it might sound woo woo, but there are decades of scientific research that suggests our bodies respond to cues in our environment.
Studies have found that our mood, health, happiness, and behavior are all impacted by our physical environment. Beyond that, they’ve found that certain elements in our physical space could actually make us more creative.
Architect Donald M. Rattner helps individuals optimize creativity by applying scientific research into the psychology of space. He is the author of the bestselling book, My Creative Space: How to Design Your Home to Stimulate Ideas and Spark Innovation, 48 Science-based Techniques.
Today Donald joins us on the Chapter X show to share how to apply these findings to our own physical spaces—and make ourselves more creative.
We discussed:
- The effect that your environment has on your mental and physical states
- How physical spaces affect our ability to think creatively and innovate
- Why the concept of design is much more accessible than you might realize
-
Science-backed reasons why we should tune into our surroundings
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How most of us are losing a connection to physical nature (and why it matters)
-
The impact of a messy vs. neat environment on how we generate new ideas
Connect with Donald My Creative Space: How to Design Your Home to Stimulate Ideas and Spark Innovation
https://donaldrattner.com
Donald on LinkedIn
Have you ever had a lifelong dream? As you grow older, you might wonder if it’s time to let that old dream go, but the truth is, age doesn’t matter for most goals. If you still feel that spark within yourself, it might be time to dust yourself off and pick your dream back up.
Today you’ll hear from a man who proves it’s never too late to fulfill a lifelong passion. Jon DiSavino has always identified as an actor but put his acting dreams on the back burner to raise his daughter.
When retirement came knocking on the door, that dream was still calling his name. In this episode, Jon shares how we can make our dreams a reality by taking charge—and piloting our lives in a way that brings us the most joy and satisfaction.
Listen in to hear his message on:
- How technology reshaped Jon’s approach to launching his second act
- Why acting can be therapeutic for someone with a shy personality
- The power of failure and getting back up when you fall down
- A significant moment of revelation that was 67 years in the making
- How a creative project opened Jon’s mind up to new possibilities
Connect with Jon: https://www.shortstorytoday.com https://www.jondisavino.com
In today’s world, it’s never too late to start a new career.
Many people are choosing to start the next chapter of life with a second, or an “encore,” career in retirement. But it’s not always about earning money. Increasingly, an encore career is about the pursuit of passion, meaning and purpose.
Today’s guest had a decades-long career on the stage before it was time for a change. Rod Francis is a former classically trained dancer, studying at a national academy in Australia and then onwards to an international career as performer, choreographer and teacher.
Following a second career as an entrepreneur in London, Rod’s interest and training in human optimization and leadership development drove a transition into coaching.
Here’s his story. We discussed:
- The story of launching a business after ending his career as a performer
- Why quitting his business venture of 7+ years was the right thing to do
- How Rod listened to his inner voice before launching a third career in midlife
- One practice that helped him explore the larger questions about life’s purpose
- Balancing internal and external feedback — and why they both matter
- Why passion is really about a sense of meaning and purpose
Connect with Rod www.rodfranciscoaching.com
www.interactualizer.com
www.thestoryofchange.net
www.thegrowyoungproject.com
Have you ever thought about how much your emotions influence your health?
Dealing with life transitions is stressful for everyone, even when they’re positive changes. But when emotions are buried, they often resurface in the form of sadness, worry or physical discomfort, according to today’s guest.
In this episode, I’m joined by veteran holistic physician Dr. Bradley Nelson, one of the world’s foremost experts on natural methods of achieving wellness. He is also the CEO of Discover Healing and author of the bestselling book, "The Emotion Code.” It explains how to identify and release trapped emotions that block us from wellness.
Listen to our conversation to hear:
- The singular experience that taught him a lesson about healing at age 10
- How your emotional baggage can affect your body and overall health
-
Why emotional energies sometimes get wrapped around the heart
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Exploring the power of unconditional love and our purpose in life
- How to start the process of removing your emotional baggage
Links www.discoverhealing.com
www.drbradleynelson.com
Traditional retirement is seen as a new, exciting chapter of life. When going to work everyday is no longer in the picture, you have more time and opportunities to do what you want. What’s not often discussed is how vulnerable it feels to enter this pivotal time of our life. With retirement, there’s also a deep sense of loss. We grieve a loss of structure, relationships, and even one’s identity.
Today’s guest joins us to talk about the stressors that play out as part of the retirement process.
Dr. John M. O’Brien is an executive wellness coach. He provides coaching, consultation and presentations on topics related to leadership, stress management and wellness.
John is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maine at Augusta, teaching courses on topics related to psychology and addictions. In this episode, he shares insights into life transitions and some of the common challenges we face along the way. You’ll learn:
- The biggest difference between working as a psychologist vs. a life coach
- 3 things men should consider when piloting the transition into retirement
- How to recognize the danger signs of struggling to cope with leaving work
- Why learning about ourselves is one of the major purposes in life
- What being present to the moment really means (and why it matters)
- Why spirituality is an important variable in defining the meaning of life
Links Website: www.activatesuccess.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-o-brien-806270bb/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ActivateJohn
Tony Hixon is not your ordinary financial planner.
In March of 2011, Tony’s life changed forever when his mother ended her life after falling into a deep depression during the first six months of her retirement. Today he finds hope from the tragedy by using his mother’s story to help others.
As the cofounder and chief operating officer of Hixon Zuercher Capital Management, he has provided financial advice to his firm’s clients since 2003. After having tragically lost his mom, he approaches financial advice in a different way.
Over the last decade, Tony has chosen to honor her legacy by helping his clients look at retirement from a non-financial standpoint and continue a life of meaning beyond retirement. He recently authored the book Retirement Stepping Stones: Find Meaning, Live with Purpose, and Leave a Legacy.
In this episode, Tony shares his incredibly moving story and how we can find a newfound hope and purpose after transitioning from a career into retirement.
We discussed:
- How Tony honors the legacy of his mom by helping others find their purpose
- Why retirement can trigger an existential crisis in some people
- Two ways he helps clients plan for the emotional side of retirement
- The reason why we all need a “Plan B” that brings us joy
- Taking the stumbling blocks and turning them into stepping stones
- Why conversations with your family is one of the most important steps
- Mental health in retirement
Links Retirement Stepping Stones: Find Meaning, Live with Purpose, and Leave a Legacy
https://tonyhixon.com/book/
In the summer of 2009, Fred Rutman started experiencing a series of events where he would lose consciousness. He was misdiagnosed by his medical team as suffering from multiple heart attacks.
It turned out he wasn’t simply passing out. Fred had a rare condition called a complete heart block, which meant his heart was stopping. He was clinically dead dozens of times. Now he is chronicling the entire ordeal in his upcoming medical trauma memoir, The Summer I Died Twenty Times.
Then in 2018, Fred learned about intermittent fasting and it changed his life. Today he has reversed his Type 2 diabetes and is no longer dealing with health issues such as asthma and sleep apnea. He attributes a large majority of his recovery to the power of intermittent fasting.
Today I’m joined by Fred, as he shares the incredible challenge of fighting to get his life back over the last 12 years. We discussed:
- A series of medical adventures that forced Fred into a post-work transition
- Two of the biggest lessons he learned from his experiences in medical care
- What things we should be thinking about before a health problem occurs
- How dealing with health challenges impacts your ability to bounce back
- What it really felt like emotionally to have 20 near-death experiences
- Why Fred is doing intermittent fasting—and how it changed his life
Links Fast. Feast. Repeat. by Gin Stephens
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
It’s easy to go through life on autopilot. But as we enter this next chapter, it’s important to be more intentional about how we approach the rest of our lives.
Being intentional is about living with purpose by figuring out what matters to you and taking action on it. In retirement, intentional living can help you build a clear structure for your day because your actions are based on your bigger purpose.
In this episode, you’ll meet Dr. David Bernstein, MD, a highly respected physician, board certified in both Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, with 40 years of experience in his field. Today he’s an author and speaker focused on doing what he loves best—educating people about how to live their best life.
Tune in to today’s show to hear:
- How the cover of one National Geographic magazine inspired a career path
- What it means to provide a level of care patients aren’t able to find elsewhere
- Why our healthcare system helped make early retirement easier for David
- GRACE: 5 things David learned from his patients about life, death, and dying
- Two important traits that we often forget about during our working lives
- The 5 ingredients to living a longer, happier, healthier life
Links www.davidbernsteinmd.com
http://powerof5life.com/
Connect with David on social media
linkedin.com/in/davidbernstein2200
https://www.facebook.com/Powerof5Life/
https://twitter.com/Powerof5Life
Publications
The Power of 5 The Ultimate Formula for Longevity & Remaining Youthful
I’ve Got Some Good News and Some Bad News YOU’RE OLD: Tales of a Geriatrician What to expect in your 60”, 70”s 80” and Beyond.
Senior Driving Dilemmas Life saving Strategies
Social connection is something we crave. But building meaningful friendships with other men can be tough, especially when we are no longer in the workplace.
Dr. Mel Schneiderman and Rick Lehrer saw a need for bringing a group of men together for the sole purpose of supporting each other through the transition to their next stage of life—their journey into the unknown of aging.
Some members of the support group are fully retired, while others are still working. Their focus isn’t just on retirement, but also on facing the realities and adversities of getting older. Today I’m joined by the founders of the support group.
Dr. Mel Schneiderman is Senior Vice President and co-founder of New York Foundling’s Vincent Fontana Center for Child Protection, a national child protection center focusing on the primary prevention of child maltreatment.
Rick Lehrer is the founding Partner of the Cambridge Organization. Under his direction, he led the firm to serve over 2,500 clients in developing insurance plans and strategies before retiring at the start of 2019.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why Mel’s switch from working six days to four days was life-changing
- Rick’s personal struggle to satisfy his creative spark in retirement
- The connection between vulnerability and trust in a group setting
- How to keep egos in check and prevent competition among peers
- Rick and Mel’s advice for creating your own social support group
I’m thrilled to welcome Richard Eisenberg back to Chapter X.
In January 2022, Richard left his full-time role as Managing Editor behind to shift into a new life stage that he has coined “unretirement.” Today he joins me to reflect on his experiences over the last three months and share the steps he is taking to ensure a retirement that is both happy and rewarding.
In this episode, we dig into adjusting to retirement in a new world, the financial planning industry, and the recent stories he has penned for the unretired.
Listen in to hear more on:
- How Richard defines his “unretirement” after leaving full-time work behind
- What he’s learned in the first three months of a new stage of life
- Richard’s advice on how to avoid being bored in retirement
- Why we should give up on the idea that one has to master something
- The consequences of comparing yourself to friends and family
Links * Retired and bored or — worse yet — boring? Try this by Richard Eisenberg * Can we close the retirement security gaps in America? by Richard Eisenberg * ‘Where should I live and what am I going to do?’ Retirement advice we’re not getting from financial advisers by Richard Eisenberg * The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel * The Nineties by Chuck Klosterman
“Toughen up. Be a man. Don’t be so sensitive.” As a young boy, these are some of the messages you might have heard. Society tells us that men are supposed to be strong, successful and never show emotion.
It’s time to challenge the stigma that men can’t be sensitive. If you have a tendency to pick up on nuances or think deeply about ideas, it may be because you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP).
Highly sensitive people are believed to make up 20% of our population. It’s a trait that’s equally common among both men and women, yet often misunderstood. My guest today is an author of two important books: Confessions of a Sensitive Man and On Being a Sensitive Man.
On today’s episode, William Allen joins me to shed more light on highly sensitive males and how they play a much-needed role in our society. He shares how we can learn to embrace this gift and live in the world as sensitive men.
We discussed:
- 4 science-based traits that define a highly sensitive personality
- Why highly sensitive people often need more alone time than others
- Redefining masculinity within the scope of being a sensitive man
- The evolutionary reason why highly sensitive people are here
- How William overcame perfectionism to embrace his natural talent
Links www.thesensitiveman.com
www.brainpilots.com
The Highly Sensitive Person quiz
Connect with William on social:
https://www.facebook.com/thesensitiveman
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wrallen/
https://twitter.com/TheSensitiveMa1
www.instagram.com/zallenw
Play isn’t just for children, it’s also an important part of adulthood.
On this week’s show, I’m joined by a man who has built a truly one-of-a-kind community for adults to rediscover their natural inner child’s playfulness, creativity, and need for social connection.
Mike Montague is the speaker, writer and fellow podcaster behind Playful Humans. He defines play as something you do just because you enjoy it. It makes you feel like the best version of yourself—and takes full focus to bring you into that present moment.
The challenge that high achievers often face with hobbies and passion projects is being driven by the need to achieve. Listen in to hear Mike share how we can reorient our thinking to have more fun.
We covered:
- Striking the right balance between a successful life vs. an enjoyable life
- Why we lose our sense of play with age and how we can get it back
- How to find more time and satisfaction by creating a “reverse bucket list”
- The magic of making connections with peers who share your hobbies
- Breaking down the 5 P’s (play, pause, ponder, practice and perform)
- How to reduce the guilt of saying “no” to things you don’t want to do
Links https://playfulhumans.com/
Our modern world emphasizes a need for change. Yet when we have major disruptions in our lives, we seek routine and structure. Why is that?
On this week’s show, I’m joined by a guest who reminds us how important routines are for living a life with deeper meaning. Angel Iscovich is a philosopher who happened to be trained in medicine.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and immigrating to the United States made for a world of opportunity, leading to a journey of thought, medicine, and compassion in the hopes of making for a better world.
Angel recently authored the new book The Art of the Routine, where he explores the concept of routineology and how creating a routine that works for you can improve longevity, performance, and adaptability.
Tune in to hear:
- Why humans perform best with consistency and structure in our lives
- What a “time bubble” is (and why disrupting your time bubble is so painful)
- Why we instinctively seek routine when have too much change at once
- How to cope with the loss of social relationships after retirement
- Angel’s advice on how to defeat distractions and stick to your routines
- The power of synchronizing your biological clock with a daily schedule
Links www.angeliscovich.com
Keith Renninson built up a successful career in the financial services industry for more than two decades until he hit a midlife crisis. After realizing he wasn’t satisfied with where his life and career were headed, Keith decided to travel alone to the Himalayas to find himself again.
As he landed, terrible snow storms began to hit the Everest region. Keith found himself lost in the mountains within the first four hours of his trek. His new award-winning book “Tenacity: You Don’t Have to Get Lost in Nepal to Find Yourself, But it Helps!” is based on the trip.
Today he’s an award-winning author and keynote speaker known as “The Tenacity Expert.” He helps people overcome burnout and stress so they can experience more freedom, fulfillment and fun.
In this episode, he shares more on:
- How several passion projects became the catalyst for Keith’s midlife crisis
- A change in plans resulted in getting lost near Mt. Kanchenjunga (and the story of his rescue)
- What it really takes to bounce back from life’s biggest challenges
- The important role of common sense plays in building tenacity and resilience
- A simple “three-finger-method” Keith learned for calming himself down
- Defining retirement by what makes you feel like you’ll live a long time
Links https://www.keithrenninson.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithrenninson
What do we really know about successful aging? We often focus on what happens to our bodies as we grow older but, in reality, healthy and successful aging is about more than just physical changes.
In today’s episode, Dr. Tracey Gendron dives into the topic of aging as a biological, psychological, social and spiritual process. She serves as Chair for the Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Gerontology and as Director for the Virginia Center on Aging.
With over 25 years of experience as a grant-funded researcher and as a nationally recognized speaker, Tracey is dedicated to raising awareness about ageism. In an era where society is rife with negative messages about aging, her message on ending ageism is more important than ever.
We covered:
- Ageism and generational rhetoric in the time of COVID-19
- The repercussions of negative vs. positive views on our own aging
- Rethinking retirement as a social institution instead of a life stage
- What successful aging really means (and who should define it)
- Debunking the biggest myth about how older adults adopt technology
- One key mindset shift that can help you better navigate aging
Links www.traceygendron.com
Ageism Unmasked: Exploring Age Bias and How to End It
With all of the tragic events going on in the world, we’re seeing some of the impact reflected in the global economy and stock market. Times of unrest often introduce new uncertainty to the market.
If you’re investing, it’s normal to feel nervous about what this means for your portfolio. Today’s guest joins me for a serious discussion on the markets and what you should be thinking about right now as an investor.
In this episode, you’ll meet Apollo Lupescu from Dimensional Fund Advisors. An expert on the markets, Apollo is currently Dimensional’s Vice President and “secretary of explaining stuff.” He share mores on:
- The four major current events that are driving the market in early 2022
- What investors should be doing right now as a result of this uncertainty
- Two distinct ways in which investors define a successful portfolio
- How our emotions and fear influence our investment decisions
- How investors can reduce the noise in their investment process
- What to do with your portfolio when retirement is approaching
- Why Apollo is deeply optimistic about the stock market as a whole
Links https://www.dimensional.com/
“You’re not too old and it’s not too late.”
That’s the philosophy of today’s guest, Harry (Rick) Moody, Ph.D. He went from Vice President for Academic Affairs with AARP to proudly retired, engaging in an encore career where he helps small nonprofits grow.
My jaw dropped as I listened to Rick’s ruminations about the world and his place in it. After this episode, I think you’ll agree that his wisdom, experience, and gifts he brings to the world are remarkable.
Rick is the author of many scholarly articles and books, including co-author of Aging: Concepts and Controversies and The Five Stages of the Soul. In 2011 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society on Aging—and in 2008 he was named by Utne Reader Magazine as one of “50 Visionaries Who Are Changing Your World.”
Today he’s the editor of the “Human Values in Aging” newsletter and his current book, Climate Change in an Aging Society, will be published next year by Routledge.
In this episode, you’ll hear from Rick on:
- His encore career helping small nonprofits with fundraising and marketing
- How we face three big enemies in aging—denial, distraction and despair
- Why the ability to engage and disengage supports our wellbeing
- Dealing with despair (and why it means you’re closer to finding your path)
- One question to begin asking with when you’re looking to find yourself
Links www.hrmoody.com
The Five Stages of the Soul:Charting the Spiritual Passages that Shape Our Lives
Aging: Concepts and Controversies
Email Rick at hrmoody@yahoo.com to access his “Human Values in Aging” newsletter
Life’s opportunities aren’t always planned. And if you’re open to possibilities, the road can be filled with great, unexpected surprises.
In this episode, you’ll hear the story of a man who learned to embrace the unknown at a young age rather than follow a linear lifeplan, and how traveling off the beaten path led him to find a career with purpose.
Today’s guest and I go back nearly 30 years. I first met Jeff Markowitz during my early days in the financial services business; it was always a highlight to speak with him. Jeff is the author of five mysteries, including the award-winning dark comedy, Death and White Diamonds.
He spent more than 40 years creating community-based programs and services for children and adults with autism before retiring in 2018 to devote more time to writing.
Here’s a glance at our conversation:
- Why taking a gap year after school was the most important thing Jeff ever did
- How he successfully transitioned from teaching to becoming a mystery writer
- The life-changing impact of ‘practicing for retirement’ for more than 14 years
- What opportunities have made the most positive change in Jeff’s retirement
- The extraordinary feeling of walking out of the office for the last time
- Retirement timing for couples (when one spouse retires before the other)
Links www.jeffmarkowitz.com
Something we often don’t realize until later in life is that time is our single most valuable resource. When work ends, we finally have control over how we spend our time—and it’s up to us to make the most of it.
Volunteering your time to support a cause you care about is something you will never regret. And one of the defining causes of our time is climate change. Today I have the immense fortune to speak with Bill McKibben, an author, educator, and environmentalist who was one of the first voices on climate change in the 1980s.
He helped found 350.org, the first global grassroots climate campaign, and recently helped found Third Act to build a progressive organizing movement for people over the age of 60. In this episode, we talk about using our voices and actions to shape our generation’s legacy.
We covered:
- How Bill is helping build the first big global grassroots climate campaign
- Why people are rising up to prevent this potential legacy of our generation
- The unique way men with financial backgrounds can help fight against climate change
- How to leave our kids and grandchildren with the best part of our childhoods
- The strength of groups vs. individuals in a social change movement
- Ways to get involved with concrete action (in as many or as few hours per week)
Links 350.org
Third Act
BillMcKibben.com
It’s one thing to define our personal values, but it’s another story to actually live by values and align our actions with what we believe.
The events that have transpired since 2020 have undoubtedly tested our principles, values, and beliefs. And yet it’s not often I get to have a conversation with a friend who has the ability to get to the heart of navigating so many tough issues.
My dear friend, Rabbi Daniel Cohen, joins us today to share his perspective on gratitude, life’s challenges, and more. He has served as the Senior Rabbi at Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel in South Orange, New Jersey since 1999.
In this episode, the theme of our conversation is about what we can do to find strength during a crisis. Together, we discussed:
- Why community becomes our safety net when we navigate difficult times
- How stressful moments are the biggest test of keeping in line with our values
- Learning to see the big picture so we can win our perspective back
- The art of finding joy in the smallest things (and letting go of our assumptions)
- Seeking acceptance in a world that’s become fundamentally different
Links Gear Diary
Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel
In the coming Super Age, there will be more people older than 65 than those under the age of 18. Today’s episode delves into the reasons why this upcoming period poses great potential, but is also fraught with incredible peril if we do nothing to solve for it.
My guest on today’s episode is Bradley Schurman, a demographic futurist who deals with the business of longevity.
In his latest book, The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny, Bradley explores our inconsistent relationship with aging, how ageism impacts us today, and the possibilities for personal and societal prosperity during the Super Age.
Imagine a retirement that looks like a period of evolution, where we change our role in society, rather than stepping to the side. If that vision sounds dynamic and exciting to you, I think you’ll find today’s conversation captivating.
We discussed:
- The unique challenges of retiring from physical jobs vs. knowledge jobs
- Staying aware of how we speak to older adults (and avoiding childlike talk)
- Why having strong sense of life purpose is the greatest drug there is
- How social connectedness is the best solution for extending a healthy lifespan
- One motivation in the workforce that unites all ages, income levels & positions
Links The Super Age
Looking Toward the Future: Three Big Trends for 2022
The New World of Work: Pros and Cons for Older Workers
Bradley Schurman on LinkedIn
The Super Age Twitter
When opportunity knocks, are you ready to open the door? Opportunities rarely fall in our laps—we have to be looking for opportunities before we can seize them. The good news is life's possibilities often show up when we take on new challenges that stretch us out of our default setting.
Today I’m joined by a guest who exemplifies what it means to make the most of change. At the age of 77, David Eisenstadt continues to work, create, and live the life he values most.
He traveled many paths from his early life in Western Canada to his life today, as he and his wife manage a thriving public relations firm. Under The Radar – 30 Notable Canadian Jewish Musicians is his first book, and in this episode, David tells us how the unexpected project began as a simple hobby.
We discussed:
- The role of fate in shaping your career path from its early beginnings
- How a conflict with his employer’s values led David to launch a PR firm
- Two meaningful life lessons his late father taught him about communicating
- Taking advantage of opportunities create richness and depth in our lives
- The unexpected hobby that has taken on an extra dimension to David’s life
Links https://undertheradarbook.com/
Busting out of our comfort zones and opening our eyes up to possibilities takes work. And when it comes to work, we have to see the payoff before we’re willing to actually put in the time and effort.
But there’s never been a better time for reinvention than the second half of our lives. According to today’s guest, Ski Sullivan, the key to succeeding with change is realizing that we don’t need to tackle everything at once—we just have to take small steps and follow where they lead us.
Ski is a dedicated biohacker and the mindfulness practitioner behind This Midlife. After I came across him during a Q&A session, I was so impressed with his enthusiasm that I knew I had to talk with him. In today’s episode, he talks about the idea of shaping your world to get the best possible outcome.
We discussed:
- The big lessons we can learn from younger generations about work
- One major question that can be terrifying for newly retired men to hear
- Why changing your vocabulary can make a difference in retirement
- How the pandemic opened up people’s minds to accept different things
- 5 key areas in life that often lead to personal “mini” epiphanies
Links https://thismidlife.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/skisullivan
Mindfulness is the act of observing and accepting things just as they are, be it our thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, or the world around us. But why be mindful?
The more mindful we are, the more positive emotions we tend to experience. Recently, while I was looking for ways to add a new mindfulness practice into my life, I came across the unique art of Aikido. That’s how I met today’s guest, Greg O’Connor.
At 67 years young, he’s an internationally respected Aikido teacher and author who has devoted his energy into the practice for more than thirty years. In today’s episode, Greg talks about the power of new learning experiences in addition to engaging your mind, body and spirit.
We discussed:
- Why Greg left his former career behind (even though he was doing work he loved)
- What he said to me when I questioned if I could really learn martial arts at age 67
- How the philosophy of Aikido is very different than other martial arts training
- The importance of maintaining and improving our balance as we age
- Why learning a new activity that engages both the mind and the body matters
Links Aikido Centers
Greg O'Connor on YouTube
Everyone has a story, why not share yours?
Sharing our stories helps to bring us together, feel more understood, and realize that we all have common bonds that unite us. That’s one of the ideas behind Chapter X — to create a community where we feel comfortable sharing our experiences in order to explore our past, present and future lives.
My guest today is Ken Mandel, who made his career as a professional storyteller. He’s known as an Emmy-winning, Oscar-nominated documentary filmmaker. Now retired he calls himself a "serial volunteer." He serves on the board of the Ensemble Studio Theater, the West Orange Arts Council, and created the West Orange Classic Film Festival, now in its 16th year.
In this episode, Ken joins me for a conversation about his life, career, and the art of storytelling. We discussed:
- How an industrial engineer discovered his calling as a filmmaker
- The emotional side of editing (and why it matters in good storytelling)
- How the extraordinary stories Ken told impacted him as a human
- The reason why he slipped easily into an unplanned retirement
- A powerful relationship habit that he developed during the pandemic
Links https://www.youtube.com/user/moghulini
https://www.youtube.com/user/HickelMovie
Choosing where we live our next chapter is one of the freedoms of retirement. But there are more aspects to explore beyond climate and location. Deciding on a home in the second half of life is not only a financial decision, but also an emotional one.
Today I’m joined by Ryan Frederick, the Founder and CEO of SmartLiving 360, a platform to help people make informed lifestyle decisions to help increase longevity and optimize healthy aging.
His focus is on the intersection of place and healthy aging, which Ryan dives into in his new book, Right Place, Right Time: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Home for the Second Half of Life. It’s rich with ideas on how to think about where to live in retirement.
We discussed:
- Why baby boomers are trailblazers for aging, work and retirement
- 6 essential questions we should ask ourselves when we reach our fifties
- How to determine if the place you live in will be successful in the long-term
- Why regional and physical dwelling perspectives are equally important
- Thoughtful home design for aging in place (without compromising aesthetics)
- How to test your big life decisions before they become reality
- The difference between chronic and episodic health challenges
Links SmartLiving 360 Right Place, Right Time
Jeff Garson began his career as an attorney. After 20 years of running a thriving practice that put him ahead of the game, he experienced a serious business reverse that sent him into a depression.
But his struggle with depression was a turning point. It pushed Jeff to think through what was important to him and how he really wanted to live. For him, that meant migrating away from practicing law to create an extraordinary life of meaning and purpose.
Now he’s on a mission to create a better world by striving for decency. He’s the author of Radical Decency: A Values-Based Approach to a Better Life and World. In this episode, Jeff walks us through how to rethink the way we interact with ourselves, our families, friends and colleagues.
We discussed:
- Why the worst time in Jeff’s life turned out to be the thing that saved it
- His “aha!” moment about the connection between personal and societal growth
- The four values that permeate our society—and why they cause dissatisfaction
- How to bring a mindset to a conversation that begins with saying less
- The deeper impact of our core values on intimate relationships
Links www.jeffgarson.com
This week on the Chapter X podcast, Richard Eisenberg joins us for another bonus episode with more timely resources and the latest insights from Next Avenue. However, today is a special interview as it marks Richard’s entry into his own Chapter X.
Not only will we discuss highlights from upcoming stories at Next Avenue, but Richard will also reveal what’s coming next on his journey as he begins his transition away from working as a full-time Managing Editor into retirement.
In this episode, we go over some important stories as we turn into the new year and look forward to what the future holds.
We discuss:
- The arrival of a milestone birthday and Richard’s road to retirement
- Why living longer will change the way our society approaches finances
- 5 ways to help and support charities without spending money
- The excitement of moving forward and stepping into the unknown
- What makes turning the page to the next chapter a gift
Links Next Avenue
5 Ways to Donate to Charity That Won't Cost You a Cent
Why You Might Want to Join the Buy Nothing Movement
Friends Talk Money
Bern Terry had worked successfully for more than 40 years when he was suddenly laid off early into the pandemic. By a twist of fate, he reconnected with Anna Hall only days after losing his job.
When Anna revealed that she was busy working on a new project, he was intrigued. She was in the process of building The Purpose Equation, a tool for helping people fall in love with themselves again.
Anna guided Bern through the program and the pair soon forged a business partnership. In this episode, Anna and Bern share an inspiring message on spreading joy, helping others find meaning, and how to discover the sense of purpose that’s already inside of us.
- Why getting in touch with our sense of purpose gives us perspective
- How to discover your internal purpose (and extend it to other areas of your life)
- What Anna has learned from older adults about living meaningfully
- Why purpose really begins with squeezing more joy out of every day
- How Anna and Bern help people rethink and retell our own life stories
Links The Purpose Equation
Every person has a story that matters. We all have different backgrounds, perspectives, and life lessons. We’ve all lived through experiences that could benefit the lives of others too, if we share them.
One of the goals of Chapter X is to foster human connection. In this episode, we’re joined by master storyteller and provider of connection, John Noltner. He’s the award-winning photographer behind A Peace of My Mind, a multimedia arts project that uses stories and photography to bridge divides and build community.
Today we’ll hear from John about the lessons he’s learned over twelve years of gathering stories of human courage, grace, and resilience.
We discussed:
- How John pursued his values with a unique passion project about social issues
- The social power of our emotional states (and why emotions are contagious)
- What one man taught him about expanding our circle of compassion
- Finding ways to have productive conversations around contentious subjects
- Learning how to roll with uncertainty, transitions and risk as we grow older
Links A Peace of My Mind
Portraits of Peace: Searching for Hope in a Divided America
How to support A Peace of My Mind
With a longer life expectancy than humans have ever experienced before, retirement today is about much more than money. But a challenge we face during this transition is living in a culture that worships youth and disparages the elder.
That is part of the reason why there has been little guidance for those of us preparing for the next chapter of life. In today’s episode, Connie Zweig, Ph.D., explains why this stage of life is unprecedented in human history—and how we can shift our mindset to reimagine how we want to live.
Connie is a retired therapist and author. Her new book, The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul, extends shadow-work into late life and teaches aging as a spiritual practice. She joins me to examine the unconscious into midlife and beyond.
We discussed:
- Why typical coping methods for a midlife crisis don’t apply to retirement
- How the unconscious impacts the way we experience big life transitions
- The importance of ritualizing your retirement as a right of passage
- Why baby boomers are experiencing a new and unknown stage of life
- The effects of internalized ageism that we carry with us through our lifespan
- How to avoid bringing external and internal noise into our relationships.
Links https://conniezweig.com/
https://medium.com/@conniezweig
We already know fitness is good for us. What many of us don’t know is that a specific type of workout can actually slow down the aging process. In fact, you might be surprised to learn what is still physically possible as we age.
Today I’m speaking with Eric Levitan. Prior to leaving Corporate America, he spent 25 years working in the software industry. Now he’s the founder and CEO of Vivo, the leading online fitness program designed specifically for people over 55.
After learning about the impact of age-related muscle loss, Eric realized that growing older doesn’t have to mean declining health or function. There’s something we can do about it. In this episode, he shares what we can do to regain strength and function at any age.
We discussed:
- Why selling his company wasn't everything Eric thought it would be
- How he embarked on a journey of soul searching to get unstuck
- The impact of watching his parents’ quality of life change with aging
- One critical component of maintaining your independence as you age
- Partnering with scientists to help create a different mentality about fitness
- The relationship between mind and body when it comes to growing older
Links www.teamvivo.com
Transitions are a reality check. There’s never a better time to step back and examine what we really want out of life than during a period of massive change. But you don’t have to wait for a crisis to take stock of your life.
Recently, I came across A Field Guide to a Happy Life: 53 Brief Lessons for Living. It’s an inspiring guide that looks at how we think and what it takes to live our best lives. On today’s episode, I’m joined by the writer of the book. Massimo Pigliucci is an author, blogger, podcaster, as well as the K.D. Irani Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York.
His academic work is in evolutionary biology, philosophy of science, the nature of pseudoscience, and practical philosophy. In this episode, he shares why happiness is a process, not an endpoint.
We discussed:
- The journey of Massimo’s midlife career jump from scientist to philosopher
- Debunking common myths and misconceptions about stoicism
- Why everyone has a philosophy of life (even if they don’t know it yet)
- The concept of training yourself to accept the reality of loss
- How to train your brain to stop focusing on what you can’t control
Links Philosophy as a Way of Life
A Field Guide to a Happy Life: 53 Brief Lessons for Living
Think Like a Stoic
A Handbook for New Stoics: How to Thrive in a World Out of Your Control
How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life
No matter how much you’ve achieved in the past, entering uncharted territory frightens us all. Coping with change is no simple feat. But what if you could start embracing change by leaning on those around you?
That’s what we explore in today’s episode. Darrell Williams embarked on a path that wasn’t paved with gold or privilege. He forged ahead with an unshakeable outlook of hope, determination, hard work—and the unconditional support of mentors who came before him.
Today he’s a keynote speaker and master certified life coach. In this episode, Darrell shares his message of getting through change by turning our passions into a new purpose.
- The impact of growing up in a neighborhood plagued by violence
- Why life-changing mentorship starts with transparency and humility
- How Darrell turned a potentially miserable job into a fun experience
- Taking the risk to surround yourself with leaders who are smarter than you
- The power of collaboration and building an environment of collective success
- Seeing the opportunity of your next chapter to become better than the last
Links Alliance Seminars Coaching
Today’s guest decided to reinvent himself in the workforce at age 50. After serving as the Chief Financial Officer for a large hedge fund for 25 years, Josh Nadell officially retired in 2019.
According to Josh, transitioning into his second act started with identifying the most rewarding moments from his previous career. Today he’s a certified leadership coach and the founder of SAGE Leadership Coaching and Development.
While he’s a little shy of the Chapter X age group, Josh is an excellent role model for growth and developing self-awareness. In this episode, he shares more about the unexpected challenges of transitioning away from traditional employment in the midst of a pandemic.
We discussed:
- The key human skills Joshua picked up from working at Goldman Sachs
- Why the journey of learning how to manage people was surprisingly rewarding
- What the beginning stages of rethinking his career at age 50 looked like
- The struggles of moving on from a career that is your identity and routine
- Pushing the boundaries of your own success (and adopting a new mindset)
Links http://www.sagelcd.com/
Something that often stops people in their tracks is that feeling that it’s “too late.” Fear tells us that it’s too late to start over; too late to change. As you transition away from work, you might find yourself wondering how to start fresh again.
If that’s the case, I think you’re going to be blown away by today’s guest. It’s an honor to have Gregory David Roberts join us on Chapter X. He’s authored three incredible books (and a new album) that have touched me deeply over the years, including the bestseller Shantaram.
He is a former drug addict and convicted bank robber who escaped from prison in 1980, spending the next ten years on the run. Once caught, he began serving out a six-year prison sentence, and facing the consequence of his actions became a defining moment. His story is one of growth—trying to separate from one's mistakes to evolve into something bigger, better and more meaningful.
We discussed:
- How a year imprisoned in solitary confinement led to a journey in self-discovery
- The unconventional teacher who was the catalyst to jumpstart GDR’s spiritual path
- Why the destruction of social contracts has created a collective sense of identity loss
- The significance of finding ways to continue to give after employment ends
- Two key steps to discovering fulfillment and purpose in Chapter X
- Why spending time in nature boosts our energy (and reconnects us spiritually)
- What it means to have an “innocent mind” — and why it matters for inner peace
Links www.gregorydavidroberts.com
We never know how much time we have left on this earth. Why not do everything we can to make the most of it? That’s how today’s guest approaches each day.
Norman Sherman worked his way up through the corporate world of advertising to achieve great success. Today he’s semi-retired, not only running his own consulting firm, but also mentoring at SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer business mentors to small businesses.
He is a shining example of generativity, with a willingness to freely share his hard-won wisdom with others in business and life. If you’re feeling hesitant to retire because you’re worried about how to keep your brain engaged, this episode is for you.
In this interview, we discussed:
- Why a difference in perspective helped him climb the ladder of success
- How Norm’s son helped him rethink the idea of work-life balance
- The unexpected joy of reconnecting with old friends in retirement
- What makes a SCORE mentoring relationship successful
- How learning from younger generations helps him stay curious
- Why travel changed his mind about the strengths of different cultures
Links Norman Sherman on LinkedIn
Throughout our careers, we find meaning and external affirmation in the work we do. We’re contained in a reliable groove for the majority of our adult lives, that is until we hit retirement. Today’s guest explains why you might find yourself knocked off your center when that groove falls away.
Jeremy Sherman Ph.D. is a cradle-to-grave researcher – from the chemical origins of life to our grave situation and in between. Not only has he authored over 1,000 articles for Psychology Today, but he has also published two books exploring eight meaty questions about what makes us tick.
As a psycho-protologist, one of the biggest questions Jeremy poses is how we can stop and prevent buttheads without becoming one in the process. Today he shares how he goes back to the origins of life to explain a-holery — and how his unconventional early transition into Chapter X led him to study human behavior.
We discussed:
- Jeremy’s real-life story of reaching financial security at 16 years old
- How he developed an internal sense of self through self-employment
- A midlife crisis that led Jeremy to discover evolutionary theory
- How to spot assholes—and stop them—without becoming one
- Engaging your curiosity and sense of self in Chapter X
- Jeremy’s advice of designing the constraints in your life
Links JeremySherman.com
For some men, retirement feels like erasing part of their identity. It causes us to face the big question: who am I, if I am not my job?
Today’s guest shares why retirement isn’t about a loss of self, but a chance to break free from the “autopilot mode” of our midlife and enrich another part of ourselves. As an applied developmental psychologist, Deborah Heiser, Ph.D. has dedicated her life studying human growth and development.
Not only does she examine the ways we interact with each other, but she also looks at how we adapt to the different seasons of life — from birth until the end. In this episode, Deborah shares with us the power of seeing retirement as an opportunity.
We covered:
- Why building a social life outside of marriage is essential for older men
- The commonly overlooked stage of life that motivates us to give back
- How to practice giving yourself more credit (and why it matters)
- The reason why retirement makes some people feel a loss of power
- Reframing the idea that leaving work means erasing a part of yourself
- 3 surprising things we have to look forward to about growing older
Links The Mentor Project
Lee Simonson spent the first 30 years of his career in the radio business and the next 17 as a management consultant. When he realized it was almost time to move on from his career, Lee turned to his wife to figure out their next steps together.
In these conversations, the duo kept circling back to the idea of staying engaged, both mentally and physically, in the next chapter of their lives. That’s when Lee discovered the path of SCORE mentorship.
Today Lee is a full-time volunteer. In today’s episode, he shares his journey of finding meaning in retirement as a certified business mentor. Listen as he explains the types of volunteer opportunities you can find through SCORE — and what he’s discovered along the way.
- How the influence of digital technology changed Lee’s retirement plans
- The major issues to tackle in retirement conversations with your spouse
- What SCORE small business mentorship looks like (and who it’s right for)
- How Lee translates difficult career experiences into teaching moments
- The biggest challenge that comes with mentoring small business owners
- Why openness to new experiences can change your life
Links SCORE
In the past, our success was defined by ambition, taking action, and being high achievers. Shifting from a “work” mindset into retirement isn’t easy. But what if the key to individual growth starts with slowing down and figuring out what matters most?
Joe Jacobi accomplished the rare and spectacular feat of winning an Olympic gold medal, yet he’s achieved even greater heights in the way he helps people live their values. In this episode, he explains the process of acknowledging the obstacles on our journey as a guiding companion.
We’ll hear thought-provoking lessons from Joe on seeking discomfort, being present, and creating the room to thrive at any stage of life.
Today, we discussed:
- The surprising reward we gain from feeling uncomfortable
- Why participating in a non-Olympics sport benefited Joe’s performance
- The “slower, simple, and less” concept that helps us reflect on life
- Experiencing life transitions and reframing your identity
- Why Joe chooses to help people through his lived experiences
- His #1 piece of advice for transitioning to new stages of our lives
Links Joe Jacobi | Performance Coaching
This week on the Chapter X podcast, Richard Eisenberg catches us up on the latest resources and stories from Next Avenue. He will be sharing highlights from recent pieces, in addition to recommending some great book titles for your reading pile.
Next Avenue is the nation’s first and only public media website that serves people in their 50s and 60s to help navigate the second half of their lives. From stories on health to tackling finances and your purpose, you’ll find stories that explore issues big and small.
In this episode, we take a glimpse into current money matters, timely conversations, and new considerations to make for the next stage.
- The financial experience of Americans 65+ during COVID-19
- 4 key estate planning mistakes entrepreneurs should avoid
- Things to consider when deciding where to live in retirement
- Why you should hold back the urge to over plan your finances
Links Older Americans Are Getting Slammed Financially During COVID-19 Times
What the Bob Ross Estate Fight Can Teach Business Owners
The Villages Is a Success Story, But Many of Us Want Something Different in a Place to Live as We Get Older
Right Place, Right Time by Ryan Frederick
Health Your Self by Janice Horowitz
What does it truly mean to be your authentic self? It starts with showing up in the world in a way that reflects our values.
In my career as a Financial Life Planner, the conversations I have with clients are not about stock market returns or how many toys you accumulate over the years. They’re about being able to rest your head on the pillow at night, armed with the confidence that you’re living your values.
As today’s guest explains, honoring our human wholeness doesn’t mean perfection but it means embracing the brokenness in ourselves as part of who we are. Essentially, it’s being unafraid to be fully seen for who we really are, including all of our flaws, dents, and the dings that experience has brought us.
Parker J. Palmer is a writer, speaker, activist, and founder and Senior Partner Emeritus of the Center for Courage & Renewal. I hope you’ll join us for part two of his interview on Chapter X.
We discussed:
- Recognizing what most of us do when we listen to another person’s problem
- The difference between asking honest questions vs. advice in disguise
- Taking the risk of showing up in the world as who you really are
- How we can humanize conversation in the world we are living in
- Why Parker feels that reading poetry is absolutely critical to his life
Links Parker J. Palmer on Facebook
Center for Courage & Renewal
One of the greater challenges we face with aging is new limitations. While these limitations might test us, staying engaged in our daily lives is what will continue to give us both meaning and purpose.
Today I’m joined by a guest who is part poet, part storyteller. Parker Palmer is a bestselling author, speaker, and activist who has graciously agreed to share his insight with us today. After writing his first nine books, Parker transitioned from the long distance run of penning books to creating short-form essays online.
His tenth book, On the Brink of Everything: Grace, Gravity, and Getting Old, was born from that collection of essays. It’s a thought-provoking reflection on the gift of aging and what gives us purpose in life. In part one of our interview, Parker explores the inspiring concept of embracing our life experiences by looking at them from different angles.
We discussed:
- How we redeem hard times in life by finding the meaning and purpose in it
- Why making ourselves useful matters more than ever in our later years
- The reason why Parker embraced short-form writing in the last 20 years
- What attending Berkeley in the 60s taught him about social change
- How a sabbatical year living in a Quaker community changed Parker’s life
Links Parker J. Palmer on Facebook
Center for Courage & Renewal
In 2018, the business Margit Novack had been running for more than two decades was acquired. Suddenly, she found herself without a title or regular work for the first time in her life. While Margit initially resisted the idea of pausing to find her purpose, she soon realized that a journey of self-discovery was the next step.
Today she is an author, entrepreneur and thought leader in aging. After 25 years as a pioneer in Senior Move Management, Margit’s new passion is sharing a positive, re-visioned view of aging and the abundant possibilities of later life. Her new book, Squint: Re-visioning the Second Half of Life, is filled with extraordinary stories about navigating through change.
In this episode, she shares her wisdom on family relationships, changing priorities, and the importance of creating a Plan B in our lives.
We discussed:
The personal growth challenges that followed a successful business acquisition
How the artistic concept of “squinting” influenced her period of self-reflection
Why releasing the load of baggage we carry around is essential in Chapter X
Facing the decline of aging family members (and why we struggle to accept it)
The impact of mindset and opportunity as we move through aging
On mindfulness and reminding ourselves to practice gratitude
Links margitnovack.com
How do you discover your purpose? It’s a big (and important) question that we all must tackle to embrace our next chapter. According to today’s guest, finding purpose starts with getting out of your own head.
After battling with identity struggles in his personal life and career, Clifton Pettyjohn discovered that taking a chance to follow your heart is the path to living your best life.
Today he’s a transformation specialist, entrepreneur, and author who teaches creators how to transform their lives through embracing their best selves. In this episode, Clifton will walk us through his journey of transitioning from stagnation to living each day with purpose.
We discussed:
- Why Clifton struggled to embrace his true identity growing up
- The unintentional impact of role models on our individual identity
- How to use self awareness to sustain us through the fear of change
- The conversation we need to have with ourselves about values
- Why vulnerability is the path to experiencing real transformation
Links CliftonPettyjohn.com
Text #bestself to 302-208-9440
How would you define your core values?
As children, your values are usually passed down from your parents or teachers. But as adults, it’s important to reconsider what we believe—and why—if we are to move closer to living a life with meaning.
In this episode, we dive deep into creativity and purpose with Bruce Meisterman. After building a life around what lights him up, Bruce continues to broaden his horizons in the next chapter.
Not only is he the author and photographer of the book ARN? NARN., but he’s authoring the yet-to-be published fiction book A Coward’s Guide to Living.
Bruce is a powerful example that you can figure out where you want to go next by exploring your values.
We discussed:
- The value of creativity and artistic expression in Bruce’s youth
- How he coped with major life events through positive expectancy
- The creative process of writing a book from concept to finished work
- Why Bruce doesn’t feel his life has drastically changed in his 70’s
- Finding peace in turning an ending of a chapter into a new beginning
- His advice on rolling with the punches in life and living fearlessly
Links https://bmeisterman.com/
One of the toughest parts of retiring is actually taking the leap. Over the years, I’ve met many who have been focused on saving, investing, and planning for years. While they’re financially secure, they can’t bring themselves to leave work behind yet.
For some, it’s not about the money but the joy they get from working. Today I’m joined by a member of our Chapter X community who waited to retire until he was almost 74. A native of Oklahoma, Rick Shelby’s story travels from active duty in the Marine Corps to a political career on Capitol Hill and eventually retirement in the Washington, D.C. area.
In this episode, Rick walks us through his story, revealing why he feared pulling the plug prematurely on work and how he would do it differently looking back.
We discussed:
- The #1 lesson Rick learned from active duty in the Marine Corps
- How he naturally transitioned into a political career after serving
- The biggest way that politics have changed over the last 40 years
- What Rick’s first job was as a teenager in a rural farming community
- Why he regretted waiting to pull the trigger on retiring sooner
- How he walked through his transition to retirement through part-time work
What do the stories we tell ourselves say about us? In many cases, the personal narrative we tell ourselves about our abilities might not be true, but identifying those stories are a starting point to understanding and self-awareness.
That is why it’s a privilege to be joined today by a gifted storyteller, coach, and author. She recently published The Learned-it-in-Queens Communications Playbook, which features straightforward, humorous advice to help you communicate better.
As a coach, Julienne Ryan’s work is rooted in both stories and empowering people to be real with themselves and others. In today’s episode, she reveals why retirement is not an end to a story — but a shifting of gears into what’s next.
- Why powerful storytelling changes how we look at ourselves and others
- How to successfully drive connection through creating stories
- The significance of listening to your inner voice for fulfillment
- 3 topics to tackle with your spouse when retirement is approaching
- Julienne’s recommendations for surviving an abrupt retirement
- Having the courage to be yourself and try something new
Links Julienne performance of “My Neighbor’s Holistic Living”
The Learned-it-in-Queens Communications Playbook: Winning Against Digital Distraction by Julienne Ryan
While early retirement might seem like a dream for many during their career, for some, it’s not a choice. After being faced with an unexpected retirement, today’s guest exemplifies inner strength and resolve as he navigates the transition to life after work.
A full two years separated from full-time employment, Steve Weinstein fills his days with part-time work, volunteering in his local community, and long distance bicycle riding. Along the journey, he’s discovered new ways to find fulfillment outside of work.
In this episode, he opens up about both the challenges and joys he encountered in the early days of his surprise retirement.
We discussed:
- The reality of navigating an unexpected and early retirement
- How he discovered a sense of freedom in the first 7 days of retirement
- Satisfying the need for social outreach vs. staying inside at home
- The surprising volunteer opportunity that led to new friendships
- How to manage your Type-A personality after work ends
- The turning point in Steve’s life that shifted his beliefs about relaxation
Every month I host Zoom get together for Chapter X, where we share some stories and gain insight from one another. As today’s guest has become a regular participant, I’ve had the privilege of learning more about his unconventional path.
Peter Emhke has navigated changes that prove there are many opportunities out there waiting for us to discover. While he acknowledges the life he’s lived isn’t for everyone, I’m confident that you’ll agree his experiences have led to many life lessons from which we can all benefit.
In this episode, Peter discusses how he accepts change and shares more on what guides him in life—and the decisions he makes.
We covered:
- How Peter’s upbringing developed his willingness to embrace change
- Exploring the magic that comes with new beginnings and endings
- Why he decided to reinvent himself as a consultant
- What challenges Peter experienced during the first three years of retirement
- Breaking from the mentality of needing to be busy all the time
Every experience, good or bad, teaches us another lesson in life. With age comes the wisdom we’ve developed from exploring—and refining—our perspective over the years, according to today’s guest.
In this episode, I’m joined by functional medicine pioneer and sleep expert, Dr. Frank Lipman. His latest book, Better Sleep, Better You, is a roadmap for those who struggle with sleep quality. Not only does he explore the importance of sleep, but Frank also reveals how to find ways of improving your sleep to live a better life.
We’ll hear his philosophy on living, the impact of medications, and his predictions for where medicine is heading in the future.
We covered:
- How Frank navigated shifts in his medicine career based on his values
- The reasons why he views his “old age” with a positive attitude
- How the ordinary things we do daily have an extraordinary healing effect
- One catalyst that shifted Frank’s views on sleep as a pillar of health
- Little changes that can make a huge difference on your sleep quality
- Increasing your lifespan vs. staying healthy and vital for longer
Links Frank Lipman MD
Better Sleep, Better You: Your No-Stress Guide for Getting the Sleep You Need and the Life You Want by Dr. Frank Lipman
It takes a great deal of courage to start something new. We crave routines because they give us comfort, but making a commitment to try new things just might empower you to go after what’s important to you.
Today you’ll hear from Harvey Lewis as he shares his inspiring journey of struggles and success. As he makes a creative journey through Chapter X, Harvey’s story of the transition from actor to producer is one that’s been fueled by passion and a drive to make the world a better place.
In this episode, Harvey discusses the impact of making tough choices, serving others, and striving to live a meaningful life for you.
We covered:
- What growing up on a ranch taught Harvey about self-discipline and work
- How he was discovered as an actor after moving to LA in the 70’s
- Making it through the opportunities and challenges of transitioning careers
- The important ideas he’s considered about retirement planning
- Harvey’s philosophy on the key takeaway we can learn from retirement
From childcare provider to loving companion, being a grandparent means taking on many meaningful roles. If you’re a grandparent, the roles you play can make a huge difference in your grandchildren’s lives.
Today I’m joined by veteran journalist Paula Span, who writes the New Old Age and Generation Grandparent columns for the New York Times. Her latest work, The Bubbe Diaries, explores modern-day grandparenting through the latest research on child development — and her own experience of helping raise her young granddaughter.
After years of being a parent, the transition to grandparenthood can bring challenges and joy as you adjust to new expectations. That’s why I’m thrilled Paula is here to discuss the ever-changing and special role of grandparents within a family.
In this episode, we covered:
- The value of being a grandparent for finding new meaning and purpose
- How to realistically manage your expectations as a grandparent
- Why Paula views grandparenting as a way to help her daughter out
- What relationship men need to take action on before grandparenting
- The ways we can become allies to our children in this new role
- Physical health benefits (and challenges) of raising grandchildren
This week on the Chapter X podcast, Richard Eisenberg brings us timely resources and the latest insights from Next Avenue. He will be sharing new stories that he’s particularly excited about, including some additional free resources you can keep in mind.
I’m excited to welcome Richard back to the podcast. He’s the Managing Editor of Next Avenue, the nation’s first and only public media website that is dedicated to helping people in their 50s and 60s navigate their lives.
In this episode, we cover some of the challenges facing us today as restrictions ease and we begin to emerge from the pandemic.
- Where to find free online courses to help with your aging process
- Helping people adjust to the new normal of life after the pandemic
- The biggest ways that retirement planning has changed over the last year
- Two upcoming movies on caregiving — and pursuing the arts after 50
In 2016, John P. Weiss was more than 26 years into his law enforcement career. With just four years to go before maxing out his retirement pension, John realized he was growing more anxious to start his next adventure.
At that pivotal moment, he decided to take an early retirement and pursue his creative calling instead. With a story that’s both enlightening and entertaining, John joins us today to share the incredible life lessons he’s learned along the way.
Today we’ll hear from him about the power of simplicity, revisiting your childhood passion, and helping bring light into the world.
In this episode, we discussed:
- How the entertainment industry has shaped our view of law enforcement
- Why it might actually be easier to make a major career change later in life
- The good and bad of being comfortable—and recognizing when it’s a trap
- What things you should consider if you’re looking to relocate
- How to enrich your life by simplifying and embracing less
- Giving yourself permission to follow your heart and evolve
Even when it’s planned for, closing one chapter of our lives and opening a new one is an uncomfortable experience. As we face new challenges through this journey of Chapter X, we step out of our comfort zone and into the unknown which is an exciting, but daunting, part of transitions.
Today’s guest embodies what it means to build resilience through times of change. After growing up into a career in music, Phil Veneziano shifted midlife to become a Chinese medicine practitioner.
In this episode, we’ll hear Phil’s message as he demonstrates how the stories of transitions are powerful teachers. He opens up about finding a path that taught him resilience, planning, and the joy of helping others.
In this episode, we covered:
- Phil’s journey from working in the music industry to Chinese medicine
- The story behind pulling off an unforgettable marriage proposal
- How Phil piloted through a series of major life transitions without difficulty
- What physical limitations men should become aware of as we age
- Practical steps for keeping ourselves as healthy and vibrant as possible
- The struggle for Type A personalities to create a balanced approach
Links Seven Point Wellness
It’s no secret that eating a healthy diet is good for us and can help prevent certain diseases. But how does the food we put in our bodies impact our overall well being?
With that question in mind, I have invited Ron Mirante to join me on the podcast today. He’s the founder of Bone-In Foods, a weekly food delivery service that focuses on building awareness about wellness and our relationship with food.
In 2013, Ron launched the marketplace alongside his wife, after facing his own battle with a rare autoimmune disease called Still's Disease. He shares the fascinating story behind his mission with us in today’s episode.
We covered:
- What Ron noticed about Americans’ relationship with food while traveling
- The reason why groceries should be our number one expense
- How the definition of organic food became a marketing niche
- What gut microbiome health means (and the role it plays in our bodies)
- The pivotal moment in Ron’s life that changed his view on nutrition
- Busting the common myth around “one diet fits all”
With the majority of our working years being defined by our jobs, that doesn’t leave much time for relaxing, family or pursuing new hobbies. But the sky’s the limit when we’re no longer bound by the obligation to make money.
During a recent Zoom gathering of Chapter X, I listened to one man share his attitude about retirement and knew immediately that I wanted to hear more of his story. I’m thrilled that Joe Groden has agreed to join me today.
Growing up, he never wanted to be anything besides a doctor. After leaving his 42-year long career, Joe discovered that there was more to his life than being an ophthalmologist. In this episode, we’ll learn from his experiences with building a new identity and finding freedom in the next chapter.
We discussed:
- How he phased into retirement by transitioning to part-time hours at work
- What Joe learned about his identity and life in the last three years
- The practical habit that helped him cope with financial worries
- How achievement-oriented men can continue setting goals after work
- A valuable lesson on friendship that Joe learned from living through a pandemic
- The reason why he guards free time jealousy in retirement
Change is unsettling, whether we’re prepared for it or not. It becomes even harder when it’s a major life change. But every disruption represents a new beginning—and the opportunity to transform exploration into growth.
Today’s guest is Bruce Feiler, a New York Times bestselling author whose latest book is about navigating massive life transitions. Life Is in the Transitions is a masterpiece that lays out the challenges of huge disruptions that occur throughout our lifetimes.
After facing a series of difficult life circumstances in his 40s, Bruce was faced with the reality of re-writing his life story. In this episode, he shares what he learned through studying other people’s experiences with change.
We covered:
- How Bruce faced a chaotic pileup of unexpected crises after finding early career success
- Defining a "lifequake" that causes a massive amount of change
- The average number of years that we can expect a massive life transition to last
- How to give up old mindsets surrounding our identify—and support new ones
- The fundamental role of our personal stories in getting through a life transition
- One conversation starter prompt we can use to help people share their life stories
Imagine being confronted with your next chapter without any preparation. Today’s guest was only in his late 50’s when he was handed a severance package by his employer. He had to face the reality of being laid off late in his career, without the benefit of planning the next transition.
Mike Drak turned his experience into a wonderfully relatable book, Retirement Heaven or Hell: 9 Principles for Designing Your Ideal Post-Career Lifestyle. He joins me today to share what he’s learned—and how you can aim your thoughts and actions towards living your best life.
In this episode, we’ll hear from Mike on setting goals, finding your tribe, and why he carries a focus on quality of time.
We covered:
- The exact moment when retirement shock started to hit Mike
- Why he spent close to a year in “retirement hell”...and how he reached the turning point
- Walking through Mike’s 9 principles for designing your ideal post-career lifestyle
- Identifying what independence and independence personally means to you
- The idea of getting out of survival mode (and shifting into adventure mode)
- One simple way Mike makes planning the next year exciting
Links Retirement Heaven or Hell: 9 Principles for Designing Your Ideal Post-Career Lifestyle
Victory Lap Retirement
Everyone wants to put their head on the pillow at night and feel a peace of mind. But if you’re staring at the ceiling all night anxious about your financial life, you’re far from alone. Today’s guest knows money management is one of the top sources of stress for Americans.
I’m so excited to have Richard Eisenberg, the Managing Editor of Next Avenue, here with us today. Richard’s experience and wisdom are overflowing with important information. In fact, you might even want to listen to this episode twice.
In this episode, we’ll hear from him about managing money, the challenges of retirement planning, and the very different problems for today’s retirees.
We covered:
- Richard’s journey from journalism student to Managing Editor of Next Avenue
- The biggest change he looks forward to his future next chapter
- What surprises Richard the most about how people manage their personal finances
- The reality of social problems currently facing the financial services industry
- Concerns about the future of baby boomers (and the future for our children)
There’s a growing trend of men who are financially prepared to retire, but finding themselves reluctant to step out of the working world for good. For some, that’s where exploring a second act career comes in.
My guest today, Greg Burnett, found that an alternative career was his path to fulfill a mission of giving back. After working for IBM for 36 years, Greg Burnett expanded his experience by fulfilling an Encore Fellowship with the Salvation Army. He later graduated from his experience by taking a position with Encore.
In this episode, Greg will share his personal story of community involvement, including how he created a flexible role with Encore Fellowships that combines meaning, continued income, and social purpose.
We covered:
- Why Greg believes his career in public service brought out the best in him
-
How the Encore Fellowship helped him find a path from the corporate world to the nonprofit environment
-
Finding the opportunity to volunteer as part of an organization’s leadership team
- Discovering how to make your life what you want it to be after retirement
- The idea of defining how you wish to be remembered—and your impact on others
Links How to Live Forever: The Enduring Power of Connecting the Generations by Marc Freedman
The Encore Career Handbook: How to Make a Living and a Difference in the Second Half of Life by Marcy Alba
Encore Fellowships
When you were growing up, chances are the messages you received about retirement were looking forward to a life of “playing golf” and “relaxing” in the afternoon. The truth is that none of us actually know what transitioning to the next stage feels like until it starts knocking on our doors.
According to Ida Abbott, shifting into a new mindset becomes even more important when you’ve been successful. After transitioning from a career in law to helping firms improve their retirement processes, Ida quickly realized there was a tremendous need for practical advice outside of financial planning.
That’s when she authored Retirement By Design. It’s a spectacular workbook filled with guidance on how to get where you want to go. In this episode, Ida shares her advice on defining achievement and success in your next chapter.
We discussed:
- The #1 myth about retirement planning (and what you should really prepare for)
- Why high achievers face a long period of adjustment after work is finished
- Ida’s discovery of the unexpected guilt people often feel after retirement
- Practical tips for men who typically shun the idea of confronting their emotions
- The essential first steps you should take when designing your own Chapter X
- Recognizing that it takes effort to keep relationships going after your career
- How to give yourself permission to contemplate retirement—and why it matters
What is biohacking and why should you care? Biohacking is the idea of taking control of your body chemistry via investigation. The goal is to collect more information about your body, what you put into it, and the conditions of your lifestyle.
With these details, you can make better decisions to have the best quality of life possible. As Dr. Henry Balzani explains, we live 95% of our lives unconsciously. Our brain seeks out habits to make our lives easier, but the problem is it picks up bad habits along with good habits.
We’re the ones who have to control those habits—and that’s where biohacking comes in. I think you’ll find today’s guest both fascinating and informative. In this episode, Dr. Henry Balzani reveals more about his path from pharmacist to physician and how he began biohacking.
We covered:
- Henry’s journey from pharmacy school to studying medicine in the Philippines
- Why biohacking isn’t “new” science (it all started with caveman)
- How we can actually change most genetic predispositions with our lifestyles
- The key difference between lengthening your life span vs. your health span
- How to start introducing biohacking into your routine
- Henry’s tips for what we should focus on during the challenges of aging
It’s a blessing to achieve financial security and have the opportunity to work on our lives in areas like health, happiness, and purpose. As my friend Ken Nelson explains, growing older is a privilege—not everyone gets to do it.
Today I’m thrilled to speak with Ken, a meditation and Qigong teacher who has lived a life that’s anything but ordinary. While his journey took him through early tragedies, Ken persevered after discovering a spiritual path. His latest work, Designing & Leading Life-Changing Workshops, has become a model for helping people lead transformational workshop experiences.
While some people might think of meditation as woo-woo or too out there, the practice is deeply rooted in science. Yet even if meditation isn’t right for you, there are other types of mind-body practices to consider. We’ll cover them in this episode, as Ken highlights the practical benefits of adding mindfulness to your daily routine.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The power of the mind-body connection (and how it impacts you)
- How a personal practice can help navigate the challenges we're all facing
- The important reason why repeated exposure helps you grow stronger
- Why science is behind our natural reactions to the stresses of everyday life
- The simplest way to start practicing medication—even if you’re a beginner
- A walkthrough of one simple mindfulness practice you can use every day
We all have hopes and aspirations that get pushed to the back burner because of life’s responsibilities. Can you think of something you’ve always wanted to do, but haven’t yet? Perhaps it’s time to revive your forgotten dreams.
Today I’m thrilled to speak with an author who did just that. At age 7, Richard Haiduck was convinced he’d become a fiction writer. He wrote a story nearly every day for a year until, like any other kid, he became preoccupied with his buddies and playing outside.
But the opportunity to go back to his early childhood interests arose 65 years later. As Richard created a strategy to transition from his work life into his next chapter, one striking outcome was finally authoring a book: Shifting Gears: 50 Baby Boomers Share Their Meaningful Journeys in Retirement.
It’s a stunning collection of moving stories. Yet beyond his book, Richard has filled his own story with meaning and purpose. He joins us today to share what he’s learned along the journey.
- The reason why it took Richard five years to fully leave work behind
- Why being experimental in retirement becomes remarkably important
- What surprised Richard the most about other people’s retirement stories
- The biggest reason why work is the sense of self-worth for men
- How Richard’s cycling hobby helps bring him a sense of clarity
- What he’s learned about the bigger picture of life (and where we fit in)
Our lives are a series of beginning and endings. Yet the process of closing one chapter and opening a new one is never easy. How can we navigate times of change by building more resilience?
According to Thom Allison, the key to redefining the next chapter of your life is acting in alignment with your values. Today, he’ll walk us through the steps to discovering our personal core values.
An accomplished financial life planner, Thom has lived through plenty of major transitions in his life. His latest transition was the loss of his wife. Despite this horrible time in his life, Thom looks to the future and shares his journey with us today.
In this episode, we covered:
- What Thom has learned about his ability to navigate life’s transitions
- The most common mistake people make when it comes to living their values
- Thom’s surprising reaction after creating his own five-year vision statement
- Why he recommends seeking a confidant to help you identify your key values
- The significance of understanding what things you should to say no to
- Thom’s advice on embracing the “use it or lose it” philosophy
Getting older is an inevitable part of our journey whether we accept it or not.
While our culture hasn’t made it seem desirable, how could our lives change if we saw aging as a chance to become who we really are?
In this episode, we’ll explore that philosophy. Today I’m speaking with Stefania Medetti, a woman who has blazed an unconventional path.
She’s a writer, sociologist, and creator behind the online magazine The Age Buster.
How well do you connect with other people? If you don’t feel comfortable with the idea of building strong social connections and community, you’re not alone.
Forging solid, deep ties with others can be an especially tough obstacle for men who’ve spent the better part of their lives competing against each other. Yet we are innately human. We all crave feeling supported, valued, and understood.
According to today’s guest, our need for friendships becomes even more powerful in the next chapter. Today you’ll hear from Tom Ackerman, a man who has devoted his life to helping people.
With his optimistic and thoughtful outlook, Tom has a unique talent of putting other people first and building meaningful connections between others. In this episode, you’ll discover how his 76 trips around the sun have fostered love, light, and caring for those in need.
We covered:
- What working in the insurance industry taught Tom about helping families
- The surprising reason why insurance agents get a bad reputation
- How the “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” changed Tom’s life
- The easiest way to open the door for connection and meaningful conversation
- Why the ability to listen—and open up—to others take courage
- How Tom launched a special discussion group for men to build community
- Tom’s advice for connecting with people (even if it makes you feel uncomfortable)
If you’re still searching for meaning and purpose in the next chapter, as Lewis Richmond explains, it doesn’t have to be such a big challenge. Finding meaning simply starts with self-reflection.
Lewis Richmond is an author, musician, entrepreneur, and Buddhist meditation teacher. Today he has an extraordinary message to share with us. As a writer, Lewis brings his varied life experiences and sharp insights into his work.
His latest book, Every Breath, New Chances: How to Age with Honor and Dignity—A Guide for Men, is a must-read for men today. In this book, Lewis explores the four different kinds of retirement. We’ll dig into them in today’s episode, as well as some important topics we simply don’t talk about enough.
We covered:
- Why men tend to identify their job with meaning and significance in their life
- The biggest reason why Lewis defines meaning as life’s most important value
- On shifting how we view honor and dignity as men (this mindset is the key to aging well)
- The power of disconnecting from the noise in the world to look inward
- How to awaken the ability to tune into your intuition as a man
- Why there’s always something you can do—no matter the circumstances
Links Every Breath, New Chances: How to Age with Honor and Dignity—A Guide for Men
Turning 65 doesn’t just bring you cake and an extra birthday candle to blow out. It also comes with decisions about Medicare. Knowing the basics of Medicare is key for understanding expenses you may face down the road.
I’m so happy to have a returning guest back on the show today. As a volunteer for the last 10 years, Johnny Roland has been helping people navigate the bewildering world of Medicare planning.
In this episode, he uses his vast experience to clear up the confusion around how Medicare works. We’ll hear his advice on when to get the ball rolling, what rules you need to know, and how to keep your health insurance coverage after turning 65.
We covered:
- When you should start thinking about Medicare before retirement
- The truth about how late enrollment penalties are calculated
- Johnny’s advice for carefully planning health insurance with your spouse
- How to make signing up for Medicare go as smoothly as possible
- What timeframe you must enroll in Medicare before leaving work behind
- Why Johnny recommends you discuss Medicare with your doctors
There’s no perfect time to hit pause on your career, reset, and find new motivations. Sometimes it’s not a choice. When Johnny Roland had a time out forced upon him by the corporate world, he used his sabbatical to figure out an entirely new path.
Today he will share his journey with us—and it’s one that cannot help but touch your heart. He’s led a rich, varied life. After moving through several successful careers, Johnny is now in that time of life where he gets to choose what’s next.
In this episode, he reveals why the doors in life will always open if you pay attention.
We discussed:
- The difficult lesson Johnny learned about the corporate world after losing his job
- Why his turning point in the process of growing up started at age 42
- How the Oakland Hills firestorm taught Johnny about what's important in life
- The ways we distract ourselves when we feel uncomfortable—and one key practice that can help counteract discomfort
- How Johnny started “practicing retirement” during his financial planning career
- The true difference between being successful and being happy
Do you want to start giving back but don’t know where to start? According to today’s guest, getting involved begins with finding your volunteering joy.
Doug Ross exemplifies the concept of living with purpose. He’s served in government on the federal, state and local level. Not only is Doug a teacher and a writer, but he leads an inspired life.
I'm thrilled to have him share his story. In this episode, you’ll learn why making a positive difference in the world means starting small.
We covered:
- How John F. Kennedy helped inspire Doug to make a difference in the world
- The first step to getting your foot in the door at a nonprofit organization
- Why the biggest virtue of retirement isn’t the absence of stress
- The time that you spend working on your eulogy vs. your resume
- Doug’s advice on how we can look at failure differently
- How to start defining what you would like to do (and what’s realistic)
Links
Healing American Democracy: Going Local by Michael Hais, Morley Winograd & Doug Ross
There’s a common notion that we engage in activism to keep ourselves busy after our work life ends. But is it really just about occupying our time?
According to Dr. Thelma Reese, older adults are saving the world because we realize we still have a lot of work to do—and now we have the time to help. She’s the author of three books, including “The New Senior Man,” and her latest work, “How Seniors Are Saving the World: Retirement Activism to the Rescue.”
In this episode, we’ll learn from Thelma how to use our hard-won wisdom to make deeper connections, let go of what we can’t control, and contribute more to the world.
We covered:
- Why older adults have a critical eye for what needs to be fixed in the world
- How to accept we all have very little control over our lives
- What helps us give less attention to the natural aches and pains of aging
- The biggest difference between aging vs. ageism
- Why Thelma dislikes the word retirement (and what term we’re replacing it with)
- How we can bridge the gap to communication between generations
Links How Seniors Are Saving the World: Retirement Activism to the Rescue by Dr. Thelma Reese with BJ Kittredge
The New Senior Man: Exploring New Horizons, New Opportunities by Dr. Thelma Reese with Barbara Fleisher
In America, we’re taught that a good life is a happy life. Many of us have spent the core of our adult lives chasing success and happiness, but does accomplishing more really make us happier?
Perhaps there is another path to wellbeing that’s deeper and far more fulfilling. In this episode, author Emily Esfahani Smith reveals why happiness isn’t a destination — and why we should seek meaning instead.
We’ll hear powerful lessons from Emily on what steps we can take to strive toward building a life of joy, meaning, or purpose.
In this episode, we discussed:
- Why the pursuit of happiness represented in our culture is flawed
- Four research-backed pillars for building a meaningful life
- How Emily discovered the undeniable connection between purpose and contribution
- The power of the attitude you bring to daily life (and why it matters more than you may think)
- Emily’s inspiring advice on simple ways to make your life more meaningful
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The question of universal principles for happiness and defining your life’s purpose
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Why it’s normal to go through phases of life where you don’t feel purpose or meaning
Links The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters by Emily Esfahani Smith
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Are you still hungry to learn? Lifelong learners never settle for the status quo or staying inside their comfort zone. They’re constantly evolving to figure out what fulfillment means to them.
Today you’ll hear from a special guest who’s learning how to squeeze as much as possible out of life's opportunities.
Scott Danish is on a mission to explore what’s truly important to him. He’s discovered some amazing things about himself — and his connection to others — along the way.
In this episode, we dig into Scott’s courageous story as he walks on many different paths in search of meaning. He shares why living in student mode has brought him on an incredible journey, including a story that resonates with me so deeply that it put a chill down my spine.
We covered:
- Why a growth mindset about aging meant turning 55 wasn’t difficult for Scott
- How staying in your comfort zone can become a prison of complacency
- The simple idea of giving yourself permission and space to figure out what brings you joy
- What gratitude taught Scott about taking action and building a better life
- How the discovery of not having all of the answers transformed his outlook
- The real reason why we shouldn’t fear the concept of failure
While change is the last thing we want in life, major transitions always have a way of catching up to us. But why do we try so hard to fight change?
It’s not that change is bad. Quite simply, dealing with life transitions like Chapter X is disruptive and challenging because it forces us to let go of the familiar. Your next chapter must have different definitions around it.
Perhaps a coach can help you get there. Today I’m speaking with Laurie Thomas, executive coach. She’s here to shed light on her experience with helping others dig deep within themselves for answers.
In this episode, we covered:
- Who needs a coach — and what can coaches do for them?
- Which attributes are aligned most closely with successful outcomes in transitions
- One key exercise Laurie uses to help make unadventurous people more daring
- Why looking back over your life matters for healthy retirement planning
- The biggest reason why coaching isn't the same practice as therapy
- 3 pieces of advice on what to consider as you approach a life transition
When it comes to your health, the reality is your blood pressure check isn’t enough. But the good news is there are plenty of small actions we can take every day so that we feel better — and never settle for less when it comes to our own wellbeing.
The more you embrace maintaining good health, the better opportunity you create for living a more energetic, joyful, and meaningful life.
My guest today is Dr. Allison Fox. She's a practitioner of integrative and functional medicine in Maplewood, New Jersey. I'm so happy that she's joining me today to discuss a more expansive way of thinking about health.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- What integrative and foundational medicine really is — and why we should care
- The #1 goal of preventive healthcare vs. simply treating symptoms of illness
- Common healthcare dilemmas that men face in their 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s
- What value you can learn from functional medicine (even if you’re skeptical)
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How we can address the concern of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s
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Which form of exercise is incredibly valuable for your bone health
- Dr. Fox’s advice on three simple ways to take care of yourself every day
Links The Institute for Functional Medicine
Allison Fox, MD
How do we replace the idea of achievement with fulfillment? Moving from success to significance is really about having a longer term impact, according to executive coach Joe Casey.
Joe is the founder of Retirement Wisdom, where he applies his experience and care to help guide others towards this transition. As a former HR professional turned coach, he’s a model of resilience and focus.
In this episode, Joe walks us through his process of coaching others as they create their personal retirement story. I think you’ll enjoy hearing from him as he shares the personal Chapter X stories and experiences he’s encountered over the years.
We covered:
- The extraordinary reason why learning is a big part of retirement life
- Remarkable stories we tell ourselves about our identity (and how we test their truth)
- The #1 word that comes up when people begin discussing the idea of retirement
- How to readjust your thinking to believe you’re so much more than your job
- Why Joe encourages people to speak with folks who’ve been retired for 5-10 years
- How to help shorten the gap of going from mastery back into incompetence
Links Retirement Wisdom
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck
Refire! Don't Retire: Make the Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life by Ken Blanchard and Morton Shaevitz
When we plan for the future, we often make plans with our spouse regarding what will happen to our children or parents. What’s easy to neglect is a realistic plan for life together after retirement — and that’s the key to a rewarding path.
Today I’m joined by my friend Modesto Casas, also known as Mo. He’s traveled a most unusual path, and I can't tell you how thrilled I am that he’s here to share his story.
From immigrating from Cuba to the US at age 13 to traveling the world in business, Mo’s journey has been filled with unbelievable adventures. As a result, he’s developed a unique philosophy towards life — and it’s one that I believe we can all learn from.
In this episode, we covered:
- How Mo’s experience as a child refugee changed his view on life
- What it takes to navigate cultural differences in the global business world
- The remarkable way that approaching ideas like a child became a negotiating tool in work — and a personal awakening in Chapter X
- Why keeping a realistic plan matters as we age (and face changes in health and time constraints)
- The importance of planning retirement with your spouse involved in every step
- Why doing the best you can to help the next person is a memorable legacy
It’s funny how quickly life becomes dull and unfulfilling when we don’t have things to look forward to each day. But what if the solution was to stop waiting for good things to happen to us?
In this episode, my guests will share how we can take control and look forward to living every day. Joining me on the show today are Servet Hasan and Mark Alyn.
Individually, they're each navigating their lives with purpose and meaning.
Together they wrote a book entitled Growing Old Sucks: But It Doesn’t Have To. The book is filled with their insights and ideas for transitioning through life’s stages — and they present their ideas with equal doses of humor.
In this episode, we cover:
- What Servet’s personal battle with ovarian cancer taught her about aging
- How we can shift from an achievement mindset to a fulfillment mindset
- The unexpected reason why some people experience a midlife crisis
- How to eliminate the noise in our heads to start moving towards fulfillment
- The significance of creating time to consider what really matters to you
- The trick to help you stop feeling sorry for yourself and get back up
Have you ever lost passion for an interest you once enjoyed?
If you’ve ever felt like it’s too late in life to follow your dreams, my next guest will teach you how the door to opportunity is still wide open.
Today, I'm honored to speak with Chuck Howard, a man who exemplifies hero in every way.
He’s an decorated Vietnam War army helicopter pilot who spent his career in aviation after the army. He has saved countless lives. And in retirement, he continues to make a difference.
Chuck has turned his passion into a lifetime of challenges, interests, and gratification. In this episode, we’ll hear some incredible stories from Chuck on what it means to live a rich life, the pursuit of meaning, and what it takes to reconnect with your passions in the next chapter.
In this episode, we cover:
- How joining a wedding party led Chuck to a career in aviation at age 13
- The unexpected benefits of pursuing multiple passions outside of his career
- Why he felt the transition from an engaged life into the next chapter was easy
- The reason why you’ll never hear Chuck call flying a hobby or sport
- Why the secret to happiness is bringing joy into other people’s lives
- Chuck’s remarkable advice for people who are approaching the next stage of life — or are already in the middle of a transition
The joy of pursuing an unconventional life is the freedom that comes with no limitations. On the path less traveled, there are only new opportunities, beginnings, and experiences.
My guest today, Tom Anderson, is the perfect example of an unconventional life lived to the fullest. With not only one — but two — retirements under his belt, Tom has reinvented himself multiple times throughout his life and career.
He walks us through his incredible journey in this episode. I think you’ll find that he’s an example of not only resilience, but also what it means to be intentional with your thoughts and actions.
In this episode, we covered:
- Why Tom had two retirements — and how the first one led to another
- His exciting journey as Captain of a nuclear-powered submarine in the US Navy
- Why connecting with a group of retired cyclists kept him interested in riding
- How a love of varied outdoor and indoor pursuits keeps Tom active in Chapter X
- The important reason why he focuses on going after short-term goals
- Taking advantage of the opportunity to try something new in retirement
We usually think of “finding” our passion in life, but what if we start creating our passion rather than trying to find it?
With his dedication powering a lifetime of dreams, my guest today has already firmly etched his footprint on history. Not only has he served in the political arena, but Morley Winograd is also an author, visionary, business executive, and teacher.
His life is one of passion and purpose — and I can’t wait for you to hear his story today. In this episode, Morley shares how reinvention has been a constant theme in his life. I think you’ll walk away from this show inspired to do the same.
- Why growing up with parents in business pushed him in a different direction
- His personal adventure in politics surrounded by the controversy of the 70’s
- Morley’s passionate pursuit of making the American democracy work better
- What boomers should know about millennials (and why it’s important)
- A sneak peek into his new project helping multiple generations learn from each other
- Why the time period between lunch and dinner is the challenge in Chapter X
Links Healing American Democracy: Going Local
Taking Control: Politics in the Information Age
Millennial Makeover: MySpace, YouTube, and the Future of American Politics
Millennial Majority: How a New Coalition Is Remaking American Politics
It’s never too late to adopt an active lifestyle, even in retirement. Today’s guest, Leon Sirulnick, has been retired for 17 years now. His life has been filled with extraordinary adventures—and I can say he’s truly done it on his terms.
Today’s guest is very special to me. Back in 2002, I met Leon for the first time in my office. He walked into our meeting, threw a stack of papers onto my desk, and firmly announced he was ready to retire.
That one meeting was a turning point in my financial life planning career. In this episode, you’ll meet the man who I consider to be the father of the Chapter X project. We’ll reveal the complete story next.
Sometimes the transition into the next chapter is completely out of our control. What happens next after you’re blindsided by an unexpected retirement?
Today’s guest shares what it’s like to learn lessons the tough way. At age 57, Carl Schecter suddenly found himself retired—and not by choice.
He doesn’t sugarcoat the experience of being confronted with adversity, yet his story remains one of courage, hope and resilience. In this episode, Carl shares what he’s discovered over the last four years about dealing with the world on the world’s terms.
The pursuit of happiness is ingrained in our culture. We spend our lives searching for fulfillment and meaning, but is making ourselves happy a realistic goal?
According to today’s guest, happiness is a byproduct of living with meaning and purpose. I’m speaking with Harry Scheyer in this episode. Through his former career in financial services, Harry learned that life planning is about discovering who you really are—and making a difference in the world.
After walking through the gates into life after work, his current full-time role is the seeker of meaning and joy. We’ll hear from Harry’s wisdom and insights as he models what it means to live in balance.
In this episode, we covered:
- How financial life planning helped Harry transition into the next chapter
- Why the key to successful life transitions is learning how to let go
- The unique challenges Harry faced while leaving behind a career he loved
- His simple advice on how to let curiosity drive your learning after work
- Five attributes that help define your purpose (and design a well-lived life)
- Recognizing the importance of mental health awareness during changes
Retirement isn’t always a choice. Some people are forced into the decision, while others eagerly wait for the opportunity to leave an unhappy career.
But then there are those who leave work behind on their own terms. Today’s guest is Ron LaRosa, a friend of mine who has triumphantly retired to a life that has meaning and purpose. Ron has successfully navigated changes in his career that took him from professional acting to a casting director for Disney.
After making the decision to leave his career at 57, he’s learned how to manage this transition and find satisfaction in the unexpected. We’ll hear some important messages from Ron about what he has learned along the journey.
In this episode, we covered:
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How Ron took his career from theatre performer to casting director for Disney
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What aspect of work gave him the nudge to resign and start a completely new chapter
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The mindset that’s inspired Ron to reinvent himself through different career transitions
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How the value of simplicity led to a life full of riches (and why a rich life has nothing to do with wealth)
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How he created a routine to give himself a level of structure during the long days
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Ron’s number one piece of advice for people approaching life after their career
How do you determine when it’s the right time to give notice and head into the next chapter of life? When it comes down to it, there’s no right or wrong age to move on from the workforce.
In this episode, I’m speaking with Barry Farber, who is a professor of psychology and education at Columbia Teachers College. Not only does Barry maintain a robust private practice today, but he’s also written a wide array of books and research papers in the field of psychology.
We’ll hear from his wisdom, experience, and insights as we explore the questions to consider while planning for the next major transition.
In this episode, we discuss:
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The remarkable reason why Barry continues full-time work in his seventies
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Why we must consider how life transitions affect our loved ones
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When Barry will feel certain that it’s time to leave his work behind
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How to approach difficult conversations about retirement with your partner
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Why life after work requires a need for changing our patterns
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The four types of therapy that can help people cope with an overwhelming world
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How Barry’s background in psychology has made life transitions easier for him
It’s easy to look back on our lives and recognize the events that brought us to where we are today. How can we apply that same level of thinking to the next chapter in life? That’s the theme we’ll explore in today’s episode.
It’s an honor to have our next guest on the show. Meir Statman, Ph.D is a professor of finance at Santa Clara University and has authored two of my favorite books on finance. Born in a refugee camp in Germany during 1947, Meir has an incredible life story that he takes us through on the show.
We’ll hear his thoughts on keeping an open mind, learning about ourselves, and how life stages will ultimately prepare us for the next transition.
In this episode, we discuss:
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Why Meir chooses to look at his life through the lens of serendipity
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How we can use the concept of serendipity as we look to the future
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How to address the common post-career fear of financial uncertainty
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The surprising theory of getting satisfaction from saving money vs. spending it
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The reason why Meir hasn’t retired from teaching in his seventies
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Why Meir focused on teaching his daughters the value of kindness as they grew
No matter where you are on the journey to shifting away from work, the reality is the next phase of life is unknown. My guest today, Marty Kanengiser, is an inspiration in his willingness to embrace new challenges in this transition.
As childhood friends, Marty and I recently reconnected after all of these decades. After moving away from the corporate grind of a Fortune 500 company, he opens up about the incredible discoveries he’s found about life after work.
We’ll hear about his freedom from khakis, exploration of the stand-up comedy world, and discuss what’s next as he discovers new ways to live fully.
In this kickoff episode, we covered:
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The key questions Marty explored during the first 9 months of retirement
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Why he was excited about facing the next phase of life
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What led him into the world of stand-up comedy during this major shift
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His journey of exploring the possibilities that opened up after work
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What Marty misses about work (and how he’s transformed that loss into a triumph)
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How he continues to find ways to make meaningful contributions
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His advice for reinventing yourself beyond your job title and paycheck
Have questions or comments for Marty? Email him at martykanengiser@gmail.com.
Navigating your next chapter after traditional work requires a new kind of bravery—especially for men. Michael and his guests speak straight to how to overcome the conditioning of our hard-charging career years and explore what will bring us fulfillment.