A typical career, for many, involves some kind of progression, or at least the expectation of it, until we stop and retire. But is there a better model?

Evan Davis and guests discuss whether more of us should think about easing into retirement by taking more junior roles, going part time, or switching profession altogether, instead of stepping off a career cliff edge when we reach pension age. Could this expand the number of job opportunities for older workers, whilst also helping younger workers push through the ranks?

Stepping back isn’t an option open to all, though, and there could be big implications for pensions, so how should older workers begin to calculate if, or when, it might be possible?

Matthew Rideout, founder of Knead & Desire Bakehouse;

Thanks also to the listeners who sent in voice notes, and to everyone else who emailed [email protected]

PRODUCTION TEAM:

Producers: Simon Tulett

The Bottom Line is produced in partnership with The Open University.

(Picture: An older man laughing and looking at a laptop with a young woman in a workshop. Credit: Alys Tomlinson/Getty Images)