Courageous Retirement: Answer God's Call to MORE!

Vona Johnson
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Whether you're already retired, on the brink of retirement, or simply curious about the future, join us on this journey in Courageous Retirement: Answer God's Call to MORE! Through insightful conversations, stories of courage and resilience, and practical wisdom rooted in biblical truth, Courageous Retirement will empower you to see this best season of life not as an end but as a beginning—a chance to boldly make a difference in a world that shuns God's truth. Join us and discover how to find fulfillment beyond the workplace and embrace a new chapter of purpose and impact.   Our host, Christian Retirement Coach Vona Johnson, is not just an author, speaker, and leader in her community. She is also a fellow retiree, sharing her personal journey and the wisdom she's gained along the way. Together with her guests, they illuminate how life becomes richer when you engage your faith, live out your true purpose, and leave a legacy of faith. Courageous Retirement will inspire you to Live Your More!You can find Courageous Retirement on YouTube, too! https://www.youtube.com/@vonajohnson/podcasts

  1. 4D AGO

    41. Navigating Grief During the Holidays | Gentle Help When Loss Feels Heavy

    Navigating grief during the holidays can feel especially heavy when the world expects joy, celebration, and togetherness. In this compassionate episode of Courageous Retirement, host Vona Johnson welcomes clinical psychologist and grief educator Dr. Richelle to offer gentle help and practical support for anyone experiencing loss during the holiday season. Together, they explore how grief is more than the loss of a loved one—it can also stem from changes in health, relationships, identity, purpose, or life transitions common in midlife and retirement. Dr. Richelle explains how unprocessed grief can affect emotional well-being, energy, and relationships, and why acknowledging grief is a vital step toward healing. This conversation offers practical ways to cope with grief during the holidays, including: managing holiday loneliness, setting healthy boundaries, simplifying expectations, and creating meaningful rituals that honor both loss and hope. Dr. Richelle emphasizes the importance of giving yourself permission—to feel, to rest, and to approach the holidays honestly and gently. Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal journey through loss, Dr. Richelle provides reassurance and wisdom for those seeking peace during grief. If you are carrying sorrow into this season, this episode offers understanding, encouragement, and a reminder that you are not alone—and that healing is possible, even during the holidays. ✨ You don’t have to do the holidays the way you always have. You get to do them your way. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Holiday Loneliness and Grief 00:19 Introducing Dr. Richelle, Clinical Psychologist & Grief Educator 01:19 What Grief Really Is (More Than Loss) 01:38 Emotional Impact of Grief 05:39 Short-Term Energy Relieving Behaviors (STERBs) 08:42 Dr. Richelle’s Personal and Professional Journey 19:57 The “Backpack” of Accumulated Loss 23:10 Navigating Grief During the Holidays 24:25 Coping Strategies for the Holiday Season 27:25 Creating Meaningful Rituals 30:34 Giving Yourself Permission to Grieve 34:40 Resources for Grief Recovery 38:55 Grounding Exercise for Holiday Stress 42:22 Final Thoughts and Season Conclusion Resources: Learn more about Dr. Richelle’s Grief Recovery Method®, take the What’s Blocking You? Quiz, and explore her books Journey Through Grief and Loss and Abundant Soul  HERE. Notable Quotes: “It’s okay to say not this year. It’s okay to say not yet.” — Dr. Richelle “Give yourself permission to cancel. Give yourself permission to simplify this year. Permission is so powerful because we are judgmental of ourselves.” — Dr. Richelle “You don’t have to do the holidays—you get to do them honestly.” — Dr. Richelle Scripture for Reflection: “The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul… They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    43 min

  2. DEC 4

    40. The ONLY Thing That Really Matters

    What does your life say about your faith? That is a question that can stop us in our tracks. In this touching Christmas episode of Courageous Retirement, Vona Johnson invites you to slow down and reflect on the one thing that truly matters. Inspired by her annual Christmas card and a tender memory of her dad during the advanced stages of dementia, Vona shares how a simple phrase he repeated about her stepmom revealed a deep truth about faith, love, and legacy. Drawing from 2 Peter 1:10, Vona explores how faith is more than belief—it is a lived expression of knowing Jesus, growing spiritually, and allowing our actions to reflect the One we follow.  Through personal stories of loss, forgiveness, and God’s gentle leading, she encourages listeners to step into a deeper, more intentional walk with Christ this Christmas season. Whether you’re entering this holiday season with loved ones who don’t share your faith or simply feeling the weight of this stage of life, remember this: we are uniquely equipped to help others feel loved because we know what it means to love Jesus.  As you gather with family and friends, let your presence reflect His. Being with Jesus is the only thing that truly matters—so shine a little of His light, share a little of His love, and let every conversation be touched by His grace. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction: Reflecting on Faith 01:21 — A Personal Story of Loss and Faith 02:42 — The Imperfection of Humanity and the Need for Forgiveness 04:39 — The Importance of Faith and Spiritual Growth 08:10 — Practical Steps to Deepen Your Faith 09:49 — Final Thoughts and Christmas Reflections Quotes from the show:  "Don't be fooled by the glossy finishes you see of the people dressed up in walking through the doors every Sunday, sitting in the pews looking perfect each week. Every person sitting there has something going on in their life."  "Faith is a precious gift...too many of us get this beautiful gift and we place it up on a shelf and we admire how beautiful it is, but we never take it off the shelf and we never open it up and allow it to truly change our lives." Scripture: 2 Peter 1:1-10 John 1:1 Get the newsletter email NEWSLETTER to vona@vonajohnson.com.   I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    13 min

  3. NOV 20

    39. Finish Well: Navigating Work and Purpose After Retirement

    Are you approaching retirement but still feel called to more? In this episode of Courageous Retirement, Vona Johnson sits down with Beverly Smith, a Faith-Driven Executive Résumé Writer and Job Search Strategist, to break down the myths surrounding retirement and explore what it looks like to finish well before or after retirement. Together, we talk about: ✨ Why retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning ✨ How to overcome age bias with confidence and clarity ✨ Ways to align work, calling, and God-given purpose in this season ✨ Practical tools for transitioning into meaningful work or service ✨ The importance of volunteering, documenting your impact, and staying engaged ✨ Real stories of believers living passionately in their “best season” of life. Whether you’re considering part-time work, exploring a new career direction, or simply seeking God’s peace and purpose, this conversation will encourage you to trust the path He’s placing before you. Quotes from the show: "I will not sit here and tell you that there are not people that do have an age bias. There are. Those are not the places that you're gonna be working...that's a door God's closed for you. But  I think so many people have bought into that lie that they're afraid and they're just like, 'I have to stay stuck until then, and I have to work until 62, 65, 70, whatever that magic number is in this role, and I can't do it any other way.' And I'm just here to tell you that you can (find other work)." Beverly "I lived my, my whole adult life, you know, checking off all the boxes, but I never really understood what it meant to just surrender and trust Him (God) with everything, including my work." Vona Scripture: "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19 NLT Email Beverly: beverly@cssar.com Connect on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverlydsmith/ Download Beverly's Free Guide: 3 Steps to Reinvent Your Career at Any Age.  Download Vona's Free Finish Well QuickStart guide. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: Embracing a New Chapter 00:52 Meet Beverly Smith: Transitioning with Purpose 02:10 Overcoming Age Bias and Finding Fulfillment 04:47 Aligning Your Work with God's Call 08:54 Practical Steps for Career Transition 15:24 The Importance of Volunteering and Documentation 22:02 Redefining Retirement: Finding Joy and Purpose 30:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    37 min

  4. NOV 6

    38. Trust the Path: Praying Loved Ones Back to Truth

    Have you ever watched someone you love drift off the path you thought God had for them? It’s painful—but it doesn’t mean their story is over. In this episode of Courageous Retirement, Vona Johnson shares insight from Scripture and personal experience about what it means to trust God’s plan when life doesn’t look the way you expected. Discover how to walk in peace, even when others take detours, and how God can use every path—straight or winding—for His glory. ✨ In this episode: Why detours and delays don’t mean God’s plan has failed How to release control and rest in His timing The hope found in Isaiah 15:20—"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, you will hear a voice behind you saying, ‘This is the way: walk in it'.” If you’ve ever asked, “Did I miss God’s direction?” or worried that someone you love has, this episode will remind you that His light still leads the way. 🔗 Listen now and be encouraged to Trust the Path. 00:00 Introduction: A Heartfelt Concern 00:34 Facing Life's Detours 01:04 A Personal Anecdote: Navigating Challenges 02:41 The Struggle of Faith and Love 04:05 Encouragement and Hope 04:38 Trusting in God's Guidance 06:25 Conclusion: Keep Praying and Loving #CourageousRetirement #FaithJourney #TrustGod #ChristianLiving #FinishWell #LiveYourMore #FaithJourney #LongingForMore #LiveYourMore #ItsNeverToo I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    7 min

  5. OCT 23

    37. From Autopilot to Alignment: Living with God’s Purpose in Every Season

    When was the last time you checked your spiritual compass? It might be time to wake up your faith and walk in God’s direction again. Have you ever realized you’ve been going through the motions—doing all the right things but missing the deeper purpose behind them? In this heartfelt episode, Vona shares a personal story that reminds us how easy it is to drift from God’s will without even noticing. She explores how to live intentionally, discern truth in a confusing world, and walk boldly in faith—no matter what season you’re in. You’ll also hear practical ways to recognize false teachings, avoid spiritual complacency, and anchor your heart in gratitude through Vona’s 30-Day Thanksgiving Challenge. It’s a gentle but powerful invitation to wake up your faith and live each day with eternal purpose. 00:00 Living on Autopilot: A Wake-Up Call 00:46 A Humbling Experience at Walmart 02:00 Struggling with Purpose and Passion 03:20 Navigating Social Media and Faith 06:39 The Importance of Discernment 10:20 Understanding Hypocrisy 17:19 A Challenge for Thankfulness 19:32 Conclusion and Invitation to Club More Quotes from the Show:  "Do I  still love people who sin? Of course I do. We all sin and we all need to embrace people wherever they are and love them where they are unconditionally. But that doesn't mean that we celebrate their sins with them. We walk with them and we encourage them to turn to Christ. To help them with their problems. We don't have to fix anybody." Vona Johnson  "We are often distracted by earthly needs and overlook the fact that false teachings are all around us.  God invites us to spend time in his Word, learning his promises by heart, so that we will recognize false teachings." Vona Johnson "Don't think for a minute that if Solomon, the wisest man on earth, can't avoid falling for false prophets, that you'll be immune to them. Many people endeavor to lead us down the path that God did not intend for us." Vona Johnson Verses Referenced:  Matthew 16:5-12 where Jesus said to the disciples to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Luke 12: 1-2+ where Jesus talks about hipocricy.  "Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people's faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord. They're serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words, they deceive innocent people." Romans 16:17-18 NLT "Rejoice always, pray continually. Give thanks In all circumstances for this is God's will for you in Christ. That give thanks in all circumstances."   1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NLT Join ClubMore!  https://www.clubmore.live I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    21 min

  6. OCT 9

    36. Beyond the Money: Finding Purpose and Adventure in Retirement | A Courageous Retirement Panel Discussion

    Retirement isn’t just about making your money last — it’s about making your life count. In this special Courageous Retirement episode, host Vona Johnson teams up with guest host Michael Fritzius to co-lead a dynamic panel featuring three experts in purpose, financial planning, and travel. Together, Dan Simon, Mike Perez, and Amanda Hietter discuss how retirement can become your most meaningful, adventurous, and faith-filled season yet. Throughout the conversation you will discover how to: ~Overcome fear and uncertainty about what’s next ~ Balance financial security with legacy and generosity ~ Embrace travel as a pathway to growth and connection ~ Find (or rediscover) your God-given calling in this new chapter If you’re ready to dream big, live intentionally, and finish well, this conversation will inspire you to answer God’s call to MORE—and step confidently into your Best Season with confidence and purpose. Whether you’re approaching retirement or already in it, this conversation will help you rethink what’s possible. Explore faith-based retirement planning, finding purpose beyond work, and living out God’s call to MORE in your best season yet. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Retirement Fears and Purpose 00:24 Panel Discussion: Exploring Retirement Beyond Finances 01:30 Meet the Panelists: Amanda, Mike, and Dan 03:51 Addressing Fear and Uncertainty in Retirement 06:45 Building Community and Thriving in Retirement 14:00 Dreaming Big and Planning for Retirement 18:37 Creating a Legacy Through Travel and Experiences 26:11 Integrating Spiritual Calling in Retirement 31:57 Seeking Clarity in Financial Decisions 32:37 The Importance of Intentionality and Structure 34:39 Guarding Against Aimlessness in Retirement 38:39 Transformative Power of Travel in Retirement 40:05 Creative Travel Ideas for a Purposeful Retirement 41:26 Financial Planning for Stress-Free Travel 42:57 Discovering Your God-Given Calling 46:36 Influencing and Serving Without a Title 47:58 Five Pillars of a Faith-Driven Retirement 50:46 Defining a Financial Finish Line 52:44 Shifting Retirement Outlook with Biblical Principles 55:32 Legacy and Daily Decisions 56:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Quotes: " And it's very important for me that everything is buttoned up at the end. And I've lived a life that I will be remembered for the things that I wanna be remembered for." Mike Perez " The underlying question is this: when is enough enough?" Mike Perez " You continue to influence and serve by continuing to serve the people and be of value to the people that God puts in front of you." Dan Simon " A lot of people forget about the fact where you can have that fun, (with) what we call personal travel, but then incorporate in some kind of ministry or missions while you're there to give back to the community. And that is a way really to honor God through your retirement." Amanda Heitter " It's never too early to start finis I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    58 min

  7. SEP 25

    35. The Turning Point: Choosing Truth Over Culture

    Is This YOUR Turning Point? Are you truly living out your purpose and showing love to others, as Jesus commanded in Luke 10:27?  In this episode, we take a closer look at the Great Commission’s call to make disciples (Matthew 28:19) in a world filled with diverse and often conflicting beliefs. Our culture’s “you do you” mentality can easily pull us away from God’s truth and the foundation of our Christian faith. Too often, we slip into going through the motions—tolerating false doctrines, compromising with immorality, and losing sight of God’s call. By looking at Jesus’ example—loving deeply yet calling people to repentance—we can learn how to remain strong and prepared for life’s challenges. Through consistent prayer, grounding ourselves in Scripture, and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can live out the purpose God designed for us—even when it feels like we’ve headed off the path. Chapters 00:00 The Great Paradox of Life 08:40 Challenges of Diverse Beliefs 09:19 Straying from Faith 10:07 Jesus’ Example of Love 10:32 Staying Connected to Jesus 10:43 Scripture as Our Roadmap 🙏 If this message encourages you, please like, share, and subscribe. And if you know someone who may be at their own turning point, send this episode their way. Together, let’s keep choosing God’s path and answering His call to MORE. Quote:  "If you haven't spent time in the Bible lately, I hope that this will be your turning point because to me, the Bible and prayer is truly the turning point that changes everything for us. It changed everything for me when I started committing to and spending time in the Word." Vona Johnson Scripture referenced: You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.  Luke 10:27 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 NLT (Note this verse was given the incorrect location in the recording; I said Matthew 28:11 in error. Please accept my apologies for any confusion.) I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    15 min

  8. SEP 11

    34. God’s Grace in Dementia: A Caregiver’s Perspective

    Living with or caring for someone with dementia is one of life’s hardest journeys—but also one filled with moments of unexpected grace. In this episode of 'Courageous Retirement,' host Vona Johnson sits down with chaplain Ben Boland to share stories of faith, love, and loss after both recently walking with their fathers through dementia. Together, they discuss: ✅ Recognizing early signs of dementia ✅ Finding peace and strength as a caregiver ✅ Why Christians view suffering, life, and death differently than the world ✅ The comfort of knowing our value is in God, not our abilities Whether you are caregiving, grieving, or walking alongside someone with dementia, this heartfelt conversation offers encouragement and hope. 00:00 Introduction to Dementia  00:18 Meet the Guest: Ben Boland  00:48 Courageous Retirement Podcast  01:04 Personal Stories and Experiences  02:03 Challenges Faced by Dementia Patients  05:31 Recognizing Early Signs of Dementia  11:38 The Importance of Family Support  15:28 Self-Care for Caregivers  18:08 Ben Boland's Journey  19:25 Bible College Beginnings  20:07 Passion for Elderly Care  20:26 Finding Resources and Connections  21:09 The Christian Perspective on Euthanasia  25:58 Faith and Dementia  29:26 Personal Reflections on Faith  30:30 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections  34:45 A Personal Loss and Reflection  35:51 The Purpose of Prayer  38:29 Final Thoughts on Dementia and Faith 📌 Subscribe for more episodes of Courageous Retirement and discover how to finish well and live your MORE with God at the center. #DementiaCare #FaithInDementia #courageousretirement  Quotes from the show:   "We are created by God, and  wherever we are alive, we are called to be valued there." Ben Boland  "Becoming a Christian is not simply a cognitive  exercise. It's a work of God, and spirit speaks to spirit, and God saves people  living with dementia and... Praise the Lord!" Ben Boland " People living with dementia  are loved by God  and we are called to love them too."  Ben Boland  Scripture:  Always be joyful. Never stop praying.  Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NLT Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rev-ben-boland-b4572a108 Order Ben's book titled 'Priceless People: Loving Older People and People Living with Dementia'  https://amzn.to/3JUZW4p I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message! Thank you for stopping by today! Remember to Engage Your Faith and Live Your More as you reap the benefits of Courageous Retirement! To watch the video, check out my YouTube Channel! Learn more about the show, author Vona Johnson, and more at vonajohnson.com! Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona. Join ClubMore!

    40 min
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Whether you're already retired, on the brink of retirement, or simply curious about the future, join us on this journey in Courageous Retirement: Answer God's Call to MORE! Through insightful conversations, stories of courage and resilience, and practical wisdom rooted in biblical truth, Courageous Retirement will empower you to see this best season of life not as an end but as a beginning—a chance to boldly make a difference in a world that shuns God's truth. Join us and discover how to find fulfillment beyond the workplace and embrace a new chapter of purpose and impact.   Our host, Christian Retirement Coach Vona Johnson, is not just an author, speaker, and leader in her community. She is also a fellow retiree, sharing her personal journey and the wisdom she's gained along the way. Together with her guests, they illuminate how life becomes richer when you engage your faith, live out your true purpose, and leave a legacy of faith. Courageous Retirement will inspire you to Live Your More!You can find Courageous Retirement on YouTube, too! https://www.youtube.com/@vonajohnson/podcasts

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