December 12, 2025

Life Transitions: A Testimonial of Choice, Ep #077

23 minutes

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On the show this week, we’re exploring the real-life transitions and perspectives around retirement and life after work. In this episode, we’re joined by a diverse panel, Vicki Goodman, Darci Fersch, Cookie Talmage, Howard Lenoble, Joy Lunt, and Con Haffmans, who open up about their own journeys, challenges, and share their words of wisdom surrounding retirement.

You’ll hear a spectrum of views: some embrace the idea of retirement, while others challenge its very concept, redefining it as a time for pursuing passions, creativity, or simply maintaining purpose. Whether it’s rediscovering music, running small businesses, volunteering, or savoring newfound freedom from alarm clocks, our guests share what brings meaning to their lives beyond careers. The conversation reflects on the emotional and practical sides of transition, highlighting the importance of financial planning, a supportive advisor, and, most importantly, a personal sense of fulfillment.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

[00:00] Embracing retirement your way.
[03:59] Favorite things about retirement.
[07:17] What our guests loved the most about their working life.
[09:15] The motive to continue to work as you get older.
[11:56] Struggles in downshifting routine and redefining achievement.
[13:56] Advice for planning and thriving in retirement.

When Endings Become New Beginnings

As Mr Rogers said, “Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” For many, retirement is seen as an “ending,” but for the guests on this episode, it’s just another beginning—one filled with self-discovery, purpose, and, most importantly, possibilities far beyond simply not working.

Challenging the Traditional Narrative of Retirement

The discussion opens with candid admissions: Vicki Goodman always expected retirement, but didn’t plan to do it so early; Darci Fersch isn’t a fan of the concept or even the word “retirement”; and Cookie Talmage asks, “Why do I need to retire?” These initial reactions highlight a universal truth: the transition away from a traditional career is deeply personal and often full of mixed emotions.

Instead of following a prescribed blueprint, the guests reveal the diverse ways in which they approach this transition. Howard Lenoble anticipated retirement as a goal, but also questioned whether it was truly attainable or even desirable. Con Haffmans, still not fully retired, laughs about working harder now than ever before, caring for horses, but finds his joy in this hard work rather than escaping from it.

Purpose Over Passivity

Several guests stress that retirement isn’t about abandoning productivity. Vicki Goodman delights in the absence of an alarm clock and the freedom of mornings spent with coffee and Wordle, while Howard Lenoble revisits old passions like playing in bands, enriching his life, and even generating new income streams. Both emphasize a shift from obligation-driven schedules to self-defined, passion-fueled days.

Darci Fersch reflects that control over your own time—the ability to choose where and how to spend it—is the most cherished part of post-career life. Even though she left her job at the top of her game, her move was driven by a desire to be more present with her family and more engaged in her personal interests.

The Rewards of Staying Engaged

Retirement, the guests agree, is more fulfilling when you pursue what you love. For Con Haffmans, that means life around horses, not financial investments. Even though his cowboy chapter was the worst financial choice, it was the happiest period of his life. Joy Lunt and Cookie Talmage see their ongoing work as a source of purpose, joy, and meaningful relationships; they aren’t ready to put away the satisfaction they get from helping others or mentoring younger colleagues.

Rather than becoming “professional spectators,” as Con Haffmans warns, staying engaged—whether through hobbies, side businesses, volunteerism, or creative pursuits—enriches retirement far more than endless leisure.

Not Just Financial Planning

While financial readiness is crucial, most guests mention the need for a life plan. Cookie Talmage advises considering where and how you want to live, while Howard Lenoble recommends thinking about passions you want to pursue. Vicki Goodman discusses why those without outside interests may struggle most with the transition and the sudden abundance of unstructured time.

Con Haffmans cautions against drifting into inactivity and just sitting down and watching other people live life, he firmly advocates for staying curious, involved, and committed to personal growth, regardless of age.

The collective wisdom is simple but powerful: There’s no single path through retirement. Whether driven by passion, the desire for flexibility, or a yearning to give back, the most rewarding retirements are those lived intentionally and authentically. As Darci Fersch puts it, “Pick your own path and live the life that you want. Don’t wait.” Retirement isn’t just the end of work—it’s the beginning of living on your terms.

Guests are not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial or Capital Investment Advisers.

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