Beyond Retirement

Jacquie Doucette
  • 4.8 (24)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

What really happens after retirement? If you’re approaching retirement—or already there—and wondering what now?, you’re not alone. The world is full of financial advice for retirement, but there’s far less about how to actually live a fulfilling life once the 9-to-5 ends. Beyond Retirement is the podcast that explores what comes after the career chapter. Whether your retirement was planned or unexpected, joyful or jarring, you’ll find real stories, honest conversations, and practical inspiration here. Join host Jacquie Doucette as she shares her own journey and speaks with people who’ve reimagined life after work—some fully retired, some shifting gears, and all discovering new meaning in this next stage. From finding purpose to building community, embracing play, and navigating change, we’ll explore how to create a life that truly fits. Because retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. Let’s figure out what comes next, together.

  1. 2D AGO

    Beyond the Finish Line: Memoirs, Reflection, and New Meaning in Retirement

    In this solo episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie draws inspiration from her conversation with Henry Quinlan—a publisher, memoirist, and passionate advocate for purposeful living in retirement. The episode explores how telling your story, reflecting on life’s turning points, and embracing new “second acts” can help you find meaning, connection, and fulfillment after the traditional working years. What you’ll hear in this episode Why retirement isn’t just about stopping work, but about moving toward something meaningfulThe power of memoir and storytelling for self-discovery and legacyHow reflecting on your life’s “plot twists” can reveal hidden strengths and new opportunitiesThe value of curiosity, creativity, and staying engaged at any agePractical ways to start writing your story—even if you don’t consider yourself a writerHenry Quinlan’s approach to living with optimism, humor, and purpose in later life Key takeaways Retirement is a new beginning. It’s a chance to design a life that excites you, not just a time to wind down.Everyone has a story worth telling. Memoir writing can clarify your values, celebrate your journey, and leave a legacy for loved ones.Reflection brings meaning. Looking back at challenges and turning points can help you see how far you’ve come—and what you still want to do.Curiosity keeps you young. Stay open to new interests, skills, and connections, no matter your age or background.You don’t have to be a professional writer. Start with small stories, favorite memories, or lessons learned—what matters is capturing your unique perspective. READY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY? Have a chat with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discovery New to Beyond Retirement? Start Here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/ Check out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com/

    12 min
  2. Everyone Says Retirement Will Make You Happy- They're Wrong – with Henry Quinlan

    APR 26

    Everyone Says Retirement Will Make You Happy- They're Wrong – with Henry Quinlan

    What really happens after the retirement celebration ends? In this episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie Doucette talks with Henry Quinlan—founder of Omni Publishing Company and a senior achiever at the MIT Age Lab—about what happens after the “retirement glow” wears off. They discuss why many retirees (especially men) struggle with identity and connection, how memoir writing can be both therapeutic and legacy-building, and a simple way to uncover what gives your next chapter meaning. What we cover How Henry’s retirement became a new mission — 300+ talks to seniors (and why it started)Why men often struggle more — fewer social habits, more identity tied to work and statusThe “what will other people think?” trap — and how it keeps people stuckLetting go of titles — shifting from “who I was” to “what I want now”Memoirs as therapy + legacy — why your grandchildren know less about your life than you thinkMemoir writing tips that matter — write the hard parts, revise, and avoid settling old scoresThe power of anecdotes — the small stories that reveal character and make writing come aliveThe biggest myth about retirement happiness — retirement doesn’t automatically equal happinessA practical first step — remember moments you lost track of time because you were fully immersed Key Topics Covered The emotional transition into retirementWhy men often struggle more than women after leaving workMemoir writing as a therapeutic and legacy-building toolThe myth that retirement guarantees happinessGiving, contribution, and relationships as sources of fulfillmentArtificial intelligence and its impact on seniors and society Henry Quinlan is the founder and CEO of Omni Publishing Company and a lifelong publishing professional who found renewed purpose after retirement. He now focuses on helping seniors tell their stories, publish memoirs, and rethink happiness and fulfillment in later life. A Senior Achiever at the MIT AgeLab, Henry also speaks widely on retirement, relationships, and artificial intelligence for seniors. Connect with Henry: https://www.goldenyearslibrary.com/ One small takeaway: Purpose doesn’t arrive automatically when work ends. Start by identifying what truly absorbs you—those moments when time disappears—and use that as your clue for what to build next. If you enjoyed this episode, follow/subscribe and leave a quick review—it helps more people find Beyond Retirement. Beyond Retirement themes discussed: Purpose & Meaning in RetirementIdentity After WorkPersonal Growth & Lifelong LearningMindset & Self-TalkResilience & Emotional StrengthCommunity & ConnectionCreating a Fulfilling RoutineCourage, Confidence & Taking ActionLife Transitions & Reinvention READY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY? Start here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/ Book a FREE call with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discovery Check out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com

    45 min

  3. APR 19

    Living Intentionally: Choosing Curiosity, Rhythm, and Meaning

    In this solo episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie reflects on insights from her conversation with Dr. Denise Taylor and explores a quieter, more sustainable approach to intentional living in retirement. Instead of asking, “What should I do now?”, Jacquie invites listeners to consider, “How do I want to live now?” The episode focuses on creating rhythm (not busyness), choosing curiosity over striving, and finding meaning that isn’t tied to productivity. What you’ll hear in this episode Why intentional living isn’t always about doing moreThe shift from “What should I do?” to “How do I want to live?”How many retirees leave the job—but keep the pace, pressure, and identity of workRhythm vs. routine: listening to your energy instead of living by urgencyWhy stillness can feel uncomfortable (and why it’s often exactly what we need)Curiosity as a key driver of well-being as we ageHow “Back in my day…” thinking quietly closes doors—and how to keep them openThe identity question that can surface after retirement: “If I’m not that anymore… who am I?”Why meaning doesn’t require output, metrics, or a new labelThe difference between working longer because it’s joyful vs. working longer as avoidance Key takeaways Intention starts with rhythm, not goals. Your days don’t need to be packed to be purposeful.Rhythm is energy-aware living. Notice when you feel alert, when you need rest, and when you’re simply done.Curiosity keeps the future open. You don’t have to be good at something to explore it.Meaning isn’t the same as productivity. Presence, listening, and care can be deeply meaningful.Not every season calls for acceleration. Some seasons call for integration, simplification, and rest. READY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY? Have a chat with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discovery New to Beyond Retirement? Start Here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/ Check out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com/

    11 min
  4. Living Intentionally After Retirement: From Striving to Thriving – Denise Taylor

    APR 12

    Living Intentionally After Retirement: From Striving to Thriving – Denise Taylor

    What if retirement wasn’t about filling your time — but about choosing how you want to live? In this episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie Doucette talks with Denise Taylor about rethinking life after full-time work. You’ll learn how to shift from striving to thriving, why curiosity is essential for aging well, and how to create a more intentional rhythm in your life. Denise shares how her own “rediscovery” season led her to step back from intensive one-to-one coaching and lean into writing, research, and thought leadership—work that helps not only individuals, but also the professionals who support them. Together, Jacquie and Denise unpack how retirement has changed over the decades (from “finally rest” to “reinvent again”), and why so many high-achievers struggle with identity when the job title disappears. The conversation also moves into a more mindful, grounded view of aging: shifting from constant doing to intentional being. Denise describes the restorative power of nature—especially time spent in her woodland retreat—and offers an alternative narrative to the “work forever” message that dominates many retirement discussions. The episode closes with practical, encouraging ideas listeners can use right now: stay curious, take ownership, savor the small joys, and try the thing you’ve been putting off. What We Cover: The evolution of retirement — From rest and recovery to reinvention and choiceIdentity beyond work — Who you are when your title disappearsBeing vs doing — Why constant productivity may be holding you backCuriosity and aging — How staying curious supports wellbeingIntentional living — Choosing rhythm, meaning, and presence over pressure About the Guest: Denise Taylor is a chartered psychologist and later-life specialist who has spent decades helping people navigate retirement and midlife transitions. After years of coaching others, she is now focusing on writing and exploring what she calls “conscious aging”—a more thoughtful, intentional approach to later life grounded in both research and lived experience. Connect with Denise: Website: https://denisetaylor.co.uk/ Substack: https://ageingreimagined.substack.com/ Beyond Retirement themes discussed: Purpose & Meaning in RetirementIdentity After WorkPersonal Growth & Lifelong LearningMindset & Self-TalkResilience & Emotional StrengthCommunity & ConnectionHealth, Fitness & Aging WellCreating a Fulfilling RoutineCourage, Confidence & Taking ActionLife Transitions & Reinvention Topics: living intentionally after retirement, identity after work, purpose after retirement, aging well, curiosity and aging, retirement mindset, life after full-time work READY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY? Start here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/ Book a FREE call with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discovery Check out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com

    37 min

  5. APR 5

    Connection & Purpose in Retirement

    In this solo episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie reflects on a conversation that lingered long after the microphones were off: Scott Walker's retirement-fueled decision to reunite his college band, The Resisters, with help from Lutefish technology. The episode explores how rekindling old passions can restore connection, identity, and joy, and why retirement is less about stopping and more about returning to the parts of ourselves that were always there. What you'll hear in this episode Why Scott's line "You can't make new old friends" hits so deeply in retirementHow distance doesn't have to mean disconnection, and how technology can bridge the gapThe idea of a secret identity: the passions we set aside during the busy middle chapter of lifeA simple reflection prompt: What did you get lost in before adulthood took over?Why structure matters (and why motivation often follows action)How shared purpose builds real connection and why loneliness isn't solved by staying busyPractical takeaways to help you reconnect with people and passions in your own retirement Key takeaways Old friendships are a unique kind of wealth. People who knew you before titles and responsibilities can help you reconnect with who you are.Technology is a tool, not a threat. Used intentionally, it can support real human connections across distance.Your early passions are clues. The things you loved before life got busy often point toward what will feel meaningful now.Structure creates momentum. Weekly rituals and commitments make it easier to begin even when you feel rusty.Connection is the reward. The activity may be the excuse, but the deeper outcome is belonging. READY TO RAMP UP YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY? Start here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/ Book a FREE call with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discovery Check out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com

    9 min
  6. Who Are You Without Your Job? Reconnecting Through Music After Retirement – Scott Walker & Lootfish

    MAR 29

    Who Are You Without Your Job? Reconnecting Through Music After Retirement – Scott Walker & Lootfish

    What if your retirement party skipped the awkward speeches and rubbery chicken… and turned into a real rock show? In this episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie Doucette talks with Scott Walker, a newly retired executive-turned-musician, and the team behind Lootfish about reconnecting with passion and friendships after retirement. You’ll learn how to rediscover old interests, rebuild meaningful connections, and create a fulfilling post-career life. Scott shares how he reunited his college band after decades apart and used Lutefish to rehearse weekly across multiple states—leading to a retirement-party performance at Smith’s Olde Bar (Atlanta) that was equal parts meaningful, terrifying, and unforgettable. But the bigger story isn’t just the tech—it’s what came back to life for Scott: friendship, identity, creativity, and a return to the parts of himself that got packed away during the “35-year detour” of career and family. If you’ve ever wondered, “Who am I without my job?” this conversation offers a grounded, practical way to start answering it. What We Cover: Rediscovering identity after retirement — Returning to passions that were set aside during career yearsThe power of music and shared experiences — How creative outlets strengthen connection and fulfillmentTechnology enabling connection — How Lootfish allows musicians to collaborate remotely in real timeRebuilding long-term friendships — Staying connected through consistent shared activityCreating a meaningful retirement event — Turning a retirement party into a milestone experience Key takeaways Retirement isn’t the end of your identity—it can be the return to it.Connection gets easier when you’re doing something together (not just “catching up”).A deadline can be a gift: it creates momentum, practice, and follow-through.Your “secret identity” is often hiding in what you loved as a kid.Technology can support what matters most: relationships, joy, and meaning. About the Guests: Scott Walker is a recently retired executive who returned to his early passion for music after stepping away from a 35-year career. By reconnecting with his former bandmates and performing again, he has redefined what retirement can look like. Alongside him, Patrick Finn and Whitney Winkles are part of Lootfish, a company focused on helping musicians collaborate remotely through low-latency technology, enabling real-time online music. Links: The Resistors - https://theresistors.comTheir story: https://lutefish.com/blogs/the-hook/finding-the-groove-again-38-years-later-with-a-little-help-from-a-lutefish-stream Lutefish: https://lutefish.com/Evan Walker - https://open.spotify.com/artist/1s9kO42Yz9yhP7RGDI08d9 NAMM – National Association of Music Merchants – https://namm.org Smith’s Olde Bar Atlanta – https://sobatl.com If this episode sparked something for you, take five minutes today and ask yourself: What did I love so much between ages 10–20 that I lost track of time? Then choose one small step to bring it back—one song, one sketch, one page, one conversation. And if you know someone approaching retirement who’s worried about “what comes next,” share this episode with them—it might be the permission they didn’t know they needed. Beyond Retirement Themes Discussed: Purpose & Meaning in RetirementIdentity After WorkPersonal Growth & Lifelong LearningResilience & Emotional StrengthCommunity & ConnectionCreating a Fulfilling RoutineCourage, Confidence & Taking ActionLife Transitions & Reinvention Topics: retirement identity, life after retirement, reconnecting with old friends, hobbies after retirement, music and aging, creative outlets in retirement, building community, remote collaboration, staying connected after retirement, meaningful retirement activities

    29 min

  7. MAR 22

    Move, Reno, Repurpose - How to Decide

    In this solo reflection episode, Jacquie unpacks the biggest insights from her conversation with Kim Costa (author of Live in Your Wheelhouse) and translates them into practical questions listeners can use to evaluate whether their current home still fits the life they want in retirement. The throughline: your home isn’t just a building—it’s a support system for your health, relationships, routines, and sense of peace. Why this matters (the “retire TO” connection) Retirement isn’t only a financial transition—it’s a lifestyle transition. Jacquie invites listeners to think proactively about what they’re retiring to: a daily rhythm, a community, and an environment that supports who they are now (not who they were 20 years ago). What we covered Why a “forever home” can stop fitting as your life evolvesThe idea of evaluating your home based on how it supports your lifestyle—not just your stuffKim Costa’s Wheelhouse Method: looking at life in eight dimensions to spot what’s out of syncOptions beyond moving: renovating, downsizing, repurposing rooms, and experimenting with new routinesThe often-forgotten role of spirituality/grounding and nature in retirement happinessTiming: avoiding the stress of waiting too long (or moving too quickly)Living authentically in your “third life” and letting go of stereotypes about what retirement should look like Key takeaways Your home should support your life stage. What worked at 25 may not work at 55 or 65.A home decision is also a life decision. It impacts your mobility, energy, relationships, and joy.Not every solution requires a move. Small changes can create big alignment.Don’t ignore the “soft” needs. Peace, sunlight, nature, and spiritual grounding matter.Plan before it becomes urgent. The best moves are made from choice, not pressure. WANT TO KICKSTART YOUR RETIREMENT JOURNEY? Start here: https://beyondretirement.ca/start-here/ Book a FREE call with Jacquie: https://calendly.com/jacquiedoucette/discovery Check out the Beyond Retirement Library: https://placeforbooks.com

    13 min
  8. Retirement Lifestyle: Are You Living in Your Wheel House? - with Kim Costa

    MAR 15

    Retirement Lifestyle: Are You Living in Your Wheel House? - with Kim Costa

    Kim Costa, a top 5% Realtor with Atlanta Fine Homes & Sotheby’s International Realty and creator of the Wheel House Method, shares how to use a Wheel-of-Life approach to decide whether to stay, go, or renovate in retirement. You’ll hear why “home” is more than square footage, how life changes create a “void” your current space may no longer fill, and how to make choices that support enjoyment and personal growth in your next chapter. What we cover Why retirement is a “third life,” not an endingThe Wheelhouse Method: using eight life areas to clarify what’s working and what isn’tHow life changes (empty nest, health shifts, career ending, family moving) can make a once-perfect home stop fittingDownsizing options: lock-and-leave living, reducing maintenance, and freeing up equityPractical ways to stay put: “shut down” unused floors, adjust thermostats, and reduce cleaning/expensesRepurposing rooms for who you are now (hobbies, writing, yoga, podcasting)The most neglected area on the wheel: spirituality (connection to nature, grounding, sunlight)Avoiding “should” decisions (e.g., moving somewhere because it’s what people do)Try-it-first strategies: house-sitting, seasonal stays, and inviting family to test a destination homeBiggest regret drivers: moving too fast, not thinking it through, and market pressure Key takeaways Your home should match your current life stage. What worked at 25 may not work at 60.Fix the pain point—but don’t create a new problem. Consider health care access, finances, and connection before you leap.Enjoyment is allowed. Retirement is a season to reclaim what you loved—and design your space to support it.Small changes count. You can often improve fit by repurposing rooms and reducing unused space. Connect with Kim: Website: lifestylefoundations.comSocials: KimECosta Her new book, Live in Your Wheel House, available now for preorder; ships March 24th! https://amazon.com/dp/B0GKTB5Z7C

    35 min
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4.8
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

What really happens after retirement? If you’re approaching retirement—or already there—and wondering what now?, you’re not alone. The world is full of financial advice for retirement, but there’s far less about how to actually live a fulfilling life once the 9-to-5 ends. Beyond Retirement is the podcast that explores what comes after the career chapter. Whether your retirement was planned or unexpected, joyful or jarring, you’ll find real stories, honest conversations, and practical inspiration here. Join host Jacquie Doucette as she shares her own journey and speaks with people who’ve reimagined life after work—some fully retired, some shifting gears, and all discovering new meaning in this next stage. From finding purpose to building community, embracing play, and navigating change, we’ll explore how to create a life that truly fits. Because retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning. Let’s figure out what comes next, together.

Information

  • Creator
    Jacquie Doucette
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    292
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2019-2026 - Beyond Retirement - Jacquie Doucette
  • Show Website
    Beyond Retirement

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