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Redefining Retirement: From Burnout to Purpose with Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of "How to Live A Fantastic Life," Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, a renowned retirement transition expert, attorney, and co-founder of two consulting firms. After a decade-long career at Milbank, Elizabeth left the legal world, only to find herself grappling with identity loss and uncertainty. This turning point sparked her passion to help others redefine retirement as a fulfilling and intentional new chapter of life. Elizabeth shares lessons from her book Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement, offering practical wisdom on how to rebuild purpose, connection, and joy beyond the traditional career path. Together, she and Dr. Lycka challenge the myth of “pure leisure” and explore how professionals can thoughtfully design their next phase with creativity and clarity.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Why financial planning alone isn’t enough for a successful retirement
• The emotional impact of career loss and identity redefinition
• How high achievers can embrace “graduation,” not “retreat”
• Building community and reviving dormant relationships
• Creating a mosaic life of passion, purpose, and play
• The importance of mindset and pivoting outside your comfort zone
• How to move from reactive living to intentional life design

Guest Bio:

Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons is a magna cum laude graduate of Georgetown Law and co-founder of Lycka Parsons and Nkoraco. With over 20 years of experience advising top-tier legal professionals, she now focuses on helping high achievers navigate the complexities of retirement. Her book Encore offers a structured, heartfelt roadmap to reclaiming fulfillment, direction, and connection in life after work.

Golden Nugget:

“Retirement isn’t the beginning of the end—it’s the start of something extraordinary. You’ve earned the freedom to live intentionally. Now, choose joy.” – Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons

Call to Action:

Explore Elizabeth’s programs and get your copy of Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement at www.highachieverretirement.com. Stay connected with Elizabeth on LinkedIn for ongoing insights.

Want to live a fantastic life? Sign up for Dr. Lycka’s weekly Golden Pearls at www.drallenlycka.com. One lucky subscriber wins a luxury vacation—four nights on a cruise or seven nights at over 3,000 resorts worldwide. Don’t miss your chance to embrace the life you were meant to live.

BIO:

Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, J.D., is a Retirement Transition Expert, lawyer, and co-founder of two consulting firms, Zelinka Parsons and Encoraco. A magna cum laude graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and summa cum laude graduate of James Madison University, Elizabeth has spent over two decades shaping professional development and transition strategies for legal professionals. A former attorney at Milbank, she built a national consulting firm assisting AmLaw 100 firms with talent solutions. Author of "Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement " (Feb. 5, 2025), Elizabeth combines analytical rigor with creative vision to help professionals redefine retirement as a dynamic opportunity for growth and fulfillment.

Social Media:

1. 1.https://www.facebook.com/encoraco/
2. https://x.com/encoraco_zp
3. https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-zelinka-parsons-3b58a52/
4. https://www.instagram.com/encoraco_zp/

Guest: Andrew Earle, Business Broker – Alberta Business Sales

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Episode Title: From Funeral Director to Deal Closer: Reinvention, Resilience & Business Transition

Introduction

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes personal friend and Edmonton-based professional Andrew Earle, who made a major career pivot from a decades-long journey in funeral services to becoming a key player in business brokerage. Andrew’s compassionate leadership and business acumen have positioned him as a trusted advisor for those navigating the emotional journey of selling or buying a business.

A Unique Beginning

Andrew shares how a summer job at a cemetery unexpectedly launched him into a fulfilling funeral service career. His rare blend of business savvy and genuine empathy led him to transform operations in several cities. However, the pandemic tested him deeply. As he supported others, he neglected his own wellbeing—a mistake that eventually led to burnout.

The Power of Pause

After leaving the funeral industry, Andrew took a “temporary retirement,” embracing skiing and healing. This pivotal time enabled him to reset and eventually join Alberta Business Sales, where he now guides others through life-changing transitions.

Business Selling with Heart

Andrew describes the emotional complexity of selling a business—grief, relief, and identity shifts. Buyers and sellers are often in very different headspaces. He discusses how he builds trust, bridges these emotional gaps, and ensures a smooth and meaningful transition for both parties.

Trends in Alberta's Booming Market

As Edmonton grows rapidly, outside investors are taking notice. Andrew shares insights into this thriving market and why entrepreneurs are flocking to Alberta. The opportunities are abundant, but success requires alignment, timing, and understanding.

Fantastic Life Lessons

Andrew opens up about his own path to rediscovering joy, from hiking with family to slowing down to appreciate life’s small moments. He encourages buyers to believe in their skills and take bold steps toward business ownership—and advises sellers to prepare mentally and emotionally for what comes next.

Final Thoughts & Advice

If Andrew could meet his younger self, he’d say: “Believe in yourself. You have the skills.” His advice for living a fantastic life? Take action. Dream boldly. And don’t let fear stop you from making meaningful changes.

Connect with Andrew

Andrew Earle can be found at Alberta Business Sales or via LinkedIn. He’s always happy to connect over a great cup of coffee and a confidential conversation.

Closing

Dr. Lycka reminds us that living a fantastic life means being proactive. Whether you’re buying or selling, it starts with a single step—reaching out. Visit www.drallenlycka.com to subscribe to his Golden Pearls for more inspiration.

BIO:

Andrew Joined Alberta Business Sales after an extensive career in hospitality and customer experience. He helped a national organization expand and refine their service standards and community reach. With a chartered manager designation, Andrew used his experience to increase revenue generation as well as operational cohesion across several markets.

Andrew understands the complex issues surrounding business today and is adept at having conversations with buyers and sellers to ensure their vision aligns with their goals. 

When not at work you can find Andrew out hiking or skiing with his family. 

Social Media:

http://linkedin.com/in/andrew-earle-3bb1b213

Living a Fantastic Life with Dr. Gabriel Cousens

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes the renowned Dr. Gabriel Cousens—homeopath, orthomolecular psychiatrist, Doctor of Divinity, Ayurvedic and holistic medicine expert, and New York Times-recognized “Fasting Guru.” At 82, Dr. Cousens defies aging with vigor and wisdom.

Ageless Vitality and Discipline

Dr. Cousens shares his fitness routine: 1,600 push-ups every other day, daily yoga, breathing exercises, and dancing. His key to sustained energy and recovery from old sports injuries? An anti-inflammatory, mostly raw vegan diet and meditation. His persistence and belief in limitless potential are crucial to his wellness.

The Power of Meditation and Energy

Meditating 30 minutes daily for years, Dr. Cousens reveals it can physiologically make you 15 years younger. It also enhances brain growth and rewires the mind for clarity and longevity. He identifies as an “energy producer,” shaped by necessity and the desire to feel vibrant and alive.

Spiritual Fasting

Spiritual fasting goes beyond detox—it’s a holistic emotional and mental reset. Practicing yoga, meditation, and group discussions during a fast clears the mind and deepens connection with the divine. Dr. Cousens describes it as becoming a “superconductor of the Divine,” enabling spiritual energy to flow freely.

Diet Personalization and Inflammation

There’s no one-size-fits-all diet. Understanding individual constitution—based on Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine principles—is vital. Avoiding meat, dairy, and high-inflammatory foods supports physical and mental wellness. Juice fasting twice a year, he suggests, reduces inflammation and resets health patterns.

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes

Through supervised programs, Dr. Cousens has helped 61% of participants heal Type 2 diabetes in just three weeks—normal blood sugar, no meds. The key is removing false carbs and sugar and restoring balance to major body systems. However, he warns: such fasting requires expert guidance.

Keys to a Fantastic Life

Dr. Cousens emphasizes: feel good long-term—not through fleeting indulgences but through practices that build joy, clarity, and health. He adds that healthy relationships, nature immersion (like “forest bathing”), and spiritual connection are vital for holistic living.

Connect with Dr. Cousens

Books: Available on Amazon, including Conscious Parenting

Website: www.drcousens.com

Fasting Retreat: www.drcousensfastingretreat.com

Final Thoughts

To live a fantastic life, integrate meditation, nutrition, exercise, nature, and love. Visit www.DrAllenLycka.com to sign up for weekly “Golden Pearls of Wisdom” and enter monthly giveaways. Stay aligned—and fantastic.

BIO:

Gabriel Cousens, M.D.,M.D.(H)( homeopath), orthomolecular psychiatrist, D,D.( Doctor of Divinity), and Diplomat of Ayurveda, Diplomat of Holistic Medicine. Recognized by the N.Y. Times as the "fasting guru.”!

LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Lindsay Barnett

Dennis Dowdell

BIO

With no business experience and a 1.98 college GPA, I built a team of over 250,000 people worldwide, including 300 in the top 1% income bracket. My 45-year journey of ups and downs involved adapting to diverse personalities, economies, and evolving technologies, all shaped by the wisdom of a few key mentors. These life lessons inspired my new book, Maximizing You - Stand on the Shoulders of Giants.

Social Media Links

LinkedIn URL

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-dowdell

Facebook URL

https://www.facebook.com/dennis.dowdell

YouTube URL

https://www.youtube.com/@dennisdowdell8830

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/maximizingyou

Tom Hagerty

BIO: 

Tom Hagerty is a retired corporate executive and business fixer, with a career spanning over 45 years. He has made numerous public presentations, written articles and op-ed pieces, and been featured in various publications and electronic media. He is Dad, Papa, and the author of The Business of Relationships... in that order.

Social Media Links:

 Tom Hagerty | LinkedIn

 Facebook

Hamza Najam

BIO:

At 37, Hamza is a certified breathwork teacher and alcohol recovery coach with 5 years of sobriety, dedicated to transforming lives through a deeper understanding of our nervous system. Trained in NLP and MBSR, he founded Breathesober Reset—a thriving program and community that redefines healthy living and challenges our conventional views on alcohol dependency.  

Social Media:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hamzanajam.sobrietycoaching/

website: www.breathesober.com

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@breathesober.sobriety

Creating Space for Equity and Connection

Guest: Kristie Lazenberry

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Episode Theme: Equity, empathy, and human connection

A Life Rooted in Equity and Connection

Kristie Lazenberry, Director of Equity Strategy at the St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce, joins Dr. Lycka to explore what it means to create space where all can thrive. From her work in facilitating courageous conversations to her passion for cultural storytelling, Kristie brings compassion and vision to every aspect of her life.

The Power of Curiosity and Smiling

Kristie shares how small gestures—like smiling or asking genuine questions—can have a deep impact on others. Her approach to human interaction is grounded in empathy and curiosity, reminding us that building meaningful relationships starts with being present and caring.

Respecting the Value of Response

In a world of quick messages and busy schedules, Kristie emphasizes the importance of responding—even when the answer is no. She recounts how acknowledging people’s outreach builds trust, self-worth, and belonging.

Equity in Practice

Kristie discusses the Chamber’s Equity Leadership Series and a toolkit called EVA (Equity Value Action Analysis), designed to ensure all voices are considered in decision-making. Her leadership is shaping inclusive policies that support both businesses and communities in the Twin Cities.

Living a Fantastic Life

For Kristie, living fantastically means aligning her energy with her values—uplifting others, bringing joy to interactions, and helping people feel seen and heard. Her advice: take stock of your life, make brave changes if needed, and surround yourself with supportive, like-minded people.

Get in Touch

To connect with Kristie, email her at [email protected] or find her on Facebook under Kristie Lazenberry.

Learn more about Dr. Lycka at www.drallenlycka.com

BIO:

Kristie Lazenberry is the Director of Equity Strategy at the St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce. Kristie is passionate about working towards creating space where all can thrive and continues to be available as an independent contractor in developing content and facilitating courageous conversations.

Kristie resides in Coon Rapids, MN, loves biking and hiking, formerly sang with the band, 94 East, and is a storyteller in the African/African American tradition.

Social Media:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook 

Guest: Deekron Krikorian – “The Nine Shifts to Wholeness”

Character Count: 3000

Introduction

In this powerful episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Deekron Krikorian—executive coach, bestselling author, and former Big Four CPA. Deekron is the author of The Nine Shifts: The Mind-First Method to Transform Your Body and Life, where he helps high-achievers and entrepreneurs reclaim confidence, energy, and fulfillment. From the boardrooms of EY and Pepsi to personal breakthroughs with hundreds of coaching clients, Deekron brings a wealth of insight on performance without burnout

A Winding Road to Purpose

Deekron shares his unconventional path—from immigrant roots in Romania to corporate life as a CPA, and finally into entrepreneurship. Despite success, he found himself stuck, overwhelmed with ideas but paralyzed by indecision. It wasn’t until personal development work revealed the blind spots behind his perfectionism and fear that his transformation began.

The Nine Shifts Framework

His bestselling book, The Nine Shifts, outlines a holistic model divided into three pillars: Mind, Body, and Life. Under "Mind," Deekron discusses emotional mastery, limiting beliefs, and motivation. "Body" includes adapting to aging, hormones, and injuries. The "Life" category addresses time scarcity, social triggers, and external stress. Together, these nine areas help readers stay consistent and balanced.

High Performers & Hidden Struggles

Deekron coaches pilots, doctors, and executives—those who appear successful yet often feel unfulfilled. He explains how high achievers can overextend themselves for validation or out of blurred boundaries, sacrificing health, relationships, or peace. Perfectionism and imposter syndrome often go unseen but undermine internal happiness.

Wholeness: The Real Goal

Both Dr. Lycka and Deekron agree: success without fulfillment is failure. Deekron emphasizes “wholeness”—living in a way that integrates personal joy, health, and connection. Fulfillment, he says, is deeper than fleeting happiness. It’s found in being seen, living with passion, and expressing one’s true self.

Happiness from Within

Dr. Lycka introduces his idea of “unshakable happiness”—joy that exists independent of external events. Deekron aligns with this, warning that the ego often resists the very things that bring the soul joy. True happiness, they agree, requires awareness, intention, and inner alignment.

Living a Fantastic Life

How does Deekron live a fantastic life? By staying connected to what energizes him—fitness, music, dancing—and by helping others live in alignment. He advocates morning routines, continual learning (especially about oneself), and consistent connection to one’s passions as essential tools for fulfillment.

Resources & Contact

Get your copy of The Nine Shifts on Amazon. Connect with Deekron Krikorian on LinkedIn or Facebook—just search “Deekron.” For coaching, visit www.healthyperformer.com. To explore more from Dr. Lycka, visit www.drallenlycka.com and sign up for the Golden Pearls newsletter.

BIO:

Deekron Krikorian, MBA, is an executive coach and bestselling author of The Nine Shifts, helping entrepreneurs and high achievers reclaim their confidence, energy, and consistency. A former Big-4 CPA, consultant, and tech founder, he now empowers clients to achieve peak performance without sacrificing well-being. His work has been featured in The Washington Post and Business Insider, with clients including EY, Accenture, Pepsi, and Procter & Gamble.

Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deekron/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deekron/ 

Book website: https://thenineshifts.com 

Guest Spotlight: Carlamay Sheremata

This episode features Carlamay Sheremata—author, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and former police officer. With over 20 years of frontline experience, Carlamay’s work spans school resource programs, family mediation, and empowering communities through difficult conversations. A cancer survivor and PTSD warrior, she now helps others turn trauma into transformation.

From Oil & Gas to Law Enforcement

Carlamay’s career began in Calgary’s oil and gas sector, where she faced significant gender barriers. Seeking a field where equality mattered, she transitioned into law enforcement. Despite a cancer diagnosis during police recruiting, she persisted, completed treatment, and joined the Calgary Police Service, where she served for 21 years.

Lighting a Path for Youth

One of Carlamay’s most impactful roles was as a school resource officer for 8.5 years. Drawing from her own experiences with bullying and trauma, she created programs to support at-risk youth—especially young girls—within the education system. Her mission: to be the mentor and advocate she never had growing up.

Writing the Hard Truths

In 2024, Carlamay published Youth Truth: Engaging in Conversations That Can Change Lives, a guide for parents, educators, and caregivers. Inspired by emotionally charged school encounters, her book covers difficult topics like suicide, bullying, sex, self-harm, and social media pressures. It’s not a self-help manual—it’s a proactive tool for communication and empathy.

The Social Media Strain

Carlamay discusses the profound effect social media has on youth mental health. Unlike past generations, today’s youth never get a break—cyberbullying and self-esteem issues follow them home. She emphasizes parental involvement, digital boundaries, and the value of deep sleep—elements too often compromised by phone dependency.

From Frontline to Front Stage

Post-retirement, Carlamay now speaks globally and delivers workshops to help individuals and companies navigate personal and professional conflict. She teaches how unresolved home issues can spill into the workplace, and how mastering hard conversations can heal families, transform teams, and reduce toxicity.

Living a Fantastic Life

Carlamay credits her faith, gratitude, and sense of purpose for guiding her through life’s trials. She encourages others to embrace compassion, non-judgment, and self-worth, and to remember that everyone carries unseen burdens. Her advice to her younger self? “You are worthy—don’t take others’ opinions personally.”

Resources & Connections

Listeners can find Carlamay’s book Youth Truth on Amazon or through bookstores via IngramSpark. For workshops, keynotes, or mediation, visit her website: www.carlamaysheremata.com. It’s a meaningful resource for parents, educators, and organizations alike.

Final Words from Dr. Lycka

Dr. Allen Lycka reminds us all to live fantastically, support one another, and seek inspiration weekly by subscribing to his Golden Pearls newsletter at www.drallenlycka.com.

BIO:

Carlamay Sheremata is an author, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and family mediator with over two decades of frontline experience in law enforcement, including work with specialized units including 8.5 years spent as a School Resource Officer, dedicated to at-risk youth. A resilient cancer survivor, single parent, and PTSD warrior, she now empowers educators, families, and community leaders to navigate tough conversations, build trust, and support youth through her book Youth Truth and her mission-driven work.

Social Media:

www.linkedin.com/in/carlamay-sheremata

www.instagram.com/carlamaysheremata/

www.carlamaysheremata.com