Podcast Episode - Thinking about the Next Step
They say time flies when you’re having fun. It seems like one day you are the new kid starting your first job at the local county office, then you wake up the next day and suddenly you are the wise veteran, with enough years of service to think about the next chapter. As retirement becomes a reality, what things should you be considering? What options are available to you, and how do you want the next few years to look?
On this episode, we welcome 4 guests (5 including me) who have all retired in one sense, but have moved on to something new. We hear from Chuck Hayward, who retired as the Child Support Director in Delaware, and who is lending his considerable skill and experience to help some other agencies in his state. Robbie Endris retired from her position as the Director in Louisiana and is now working in the private sector and learning something new every day. Vernon Drew just recently retired after a long career in the State, Federal and Private sectors, and wound up in the midst of a global pandemic which impacted his immediate plans. We also are joined by our “returning champion” and only three-time guest, Irma Neal. Irma has had an active retirement that has included starting new businesses, writing an award-winning book and making time to enjoy her family and friends.
You can find the podcast on:
Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Breaker, and Anchor.
Our panel discusses what they are personally doing and shares some ideas of things to think about as you start considering your own options, such as:
Do I want to start my own business or work for a company?
Will I have time for the leisure activities I’ve been looking forward to?
What about family obligations?
Are the volunteer opportunities or other community organizations that I’d like to get involved with?
What might I miss when I’m not working? What’s the adjustment like?
While not in great detail, the panel does talk about the importance of financial planning and seeking the council of professionals. And there is always value in talking to family and friends who have already made this leap.
This episode is a great place to start. If you aren’t even close to retirement, it’s probably even better to think about this while you can really further your options while time is on your side.