iRetire4Him

FEATURING: Jim Brangenberg  ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries    Our culture often treats retirement as the finish line, but Scripture never describes it that way. Followers of Jesus never retire from their calling to serve, lead, and love their communities.  In this episode, Jim shares why he’s stepping into an unexpected new role: running for mayor of his small Missouri town. After decades of ministry encouraging believers in the workplace, Jim realized that the same calling applies long after traditional careers end.  God had placed him in a community, given him relationships and influence, and opened the door to serve. The question became simple: Would he step forward or stay on the sidelines?  In this episode, you’ll hear:  Why retirement doesn’t mean stepping away from purpose  How God used a move to a small town to open unexpected doors for influence  The biblical idea that everyone around us should benefit from our faith in Jesus  Why Christians withdrawing from civic life has left a leadership gap  How retirees often have the experience, wisdom, and time their communities desperately need  A challenge to consider serving locally, from school boards to city councils to community leadership  Jim reminds listeners that the greatest enemy isn’t another candidate or political party. It’s the spiritual battle for the hearts and well-being of our communities. And that means believers are needed now more than ever.  Instead of simply watching what happens in our cities, counties, and neighborhoods, what if we asked God where He wants us to serve next? Your career may have ended, but your mission hasn’t. Your experience, wisdom, and faith might be exactly what your community needs right now.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Bob Tiede  ORGANIZATION: Leading with Questions    At 77, Bob Tiede isn’t slowing down – he’s doubling down on purpose. In this episode of iRetire4Him, he explains why retirement isn’t about stepping away, but stepping into your most strategic years of influence (just like Moses, Joshua, and Caleb).   Bob admits he once led as a “benevolent dictator:” kind but convinced a leader’s job was to figure it out and tell others what to do. Everything changed when he discovered a better model: lead with questions.  Here’s what that might look like:  In leadership roles, ask: “What do you think we should do?”  Let others talk 80% of the time.  Follow up with: “Tell me more.”  In mentoring, ask deeper questions like: “What three or four events most shaped who you are today?”  Why? Because when people answer their own questions, they own the outcome. And when they feel heard, they trust you.  Bob also shares how this approach bridges generations. Younger leaders don’t want lectures. They want someone genuinely curious about their story. Ask well, listen carefully, and watch how influence grows naturally.  His newest book, Success Unlocked, features 39 of the most impactful blog posts from over 1,300 blog articles on question-based leadership.  Interested in putting your experience to work? Bob invites retirees to coach emerging leaders through Cru, just one hour every other week for two years (training provided). Just reach out to Bob at bob.tiede@cru.org.  Retirement isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking better questions! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Rhonda Stoppe  ORGANIZATION: No Regrets Woman    Rhonda Stoppe joins Jim & Martha Brangenberg on iRetire4Him to talk honestly about marriage, mentoring, and purpose in the retirement years. Drawing from her own story, Rhonda explains why “old ladies know stuff” isn’t about having it all together but about sharing wisdom shaped by both faithfulness and failure.  She addresses the rise of “gray divorce,” the lie that happiness comes after leaving a long-term marriage, and why retirement requires couples to intentionally create new rhythms. Rhonda shares practical insights on staying connected in marriage, setting healthy boundaries in mentoring relationships, and avoiding the trap of becoming roommates in this season of life.  Rhonda also gives a glimpse into life after her husband Steve’s retirement, from ranch life and caring for family to cheering each other on as callings shift but don’t disappear. She encourages retirees to step into mentoring roles, build new and deep community, and stay spiritually engaged rather than checking out.  The conversation highlights Rhonda’s podcast, Old Ladies Know Stuff, along with several of her books, including The Marriage Mentor (co-written with her husband Steve), Moms Raising Sons to Be Men, A Christian Woman’s Guide to Great Sex and Marriage, and her upcoming release Moms of the Bible. Check them out!  Other episode mentions:  Past interview with Rhonda and her husband Steve from iWork4Him: “Marriage Mentoring Saves Marriages”  iRetire4Him Podcast episode featuring Cynthia Ruchti, discussing her book Spouse in the House  Rhonda is speaking at the Legacy Grandparenting Summit in Dallas, March 19–21, and invites you to come, too.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Victor Dawson  ORGANIZATION: Summit Group International     What would change if you saw every day as an opportunity to live on mission?  In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg sit down with Victor Dawson, author of As You Go, to reframe how believers view retirement through the lens of the Great Commission. Victor challenges the cultural idea of “being done” and invites listeners into a purposeful, faith-filled way of living that continues well beyond a paycheck.  What You’ll Hear in This Episode  Why Jesus’ words in Matthew 28:19 are better understood as “as you go,” not “go somewhere”  How retirement creates new freedom to live out faith in daily, ordinary moments  Victor’s lifelong purpose statement and how it guides his daily decisions  The role prayer plays in noticing divine opportunities  Why sharing your faith doesn’t carry the pressure to “save” anyone  How mentoring and discipleship often become mutual, life-giving relationships  A powerful mentoring story that shows how God’s Word truly does not return void  Simple ways to spark meaningful faith conversations anywhere life takes you  Victor Dawson brings the “as you go” message to life through a long-term mentoring relationship with Brett, a younger man navigating faith, career pressure, and personal crisis. What began as intentional discipleship over coffee became a relationship marked by deep trust, spiritual growth, and mutual encouragement.  Throughout their time together, Victor consistently reminded Brett of three foundational truths:   God loves you more than you can imagine  God has a plan and purpose for your life  Trusting God means He will take care of you   Years later, during Victor’s own difficult moment, Brett was prompted by God to reach out and repeat those same words back to him – powerfully illustrating how discipleship often flows both ways and how faithfulness bears fruit over time.  “As you go” doesn’t require a platform or program, but prayerful attentiveness and a willingness to engage. Sometimes it starts with a simple, courageous question: “Are you the reason I’m here today?” In ordinary moments God opens doors for conversations that can impact eternity.  Resources Mentioned  As You Go by Victor Dawson – a practical guide to sparking conversations that impact eternity  Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) – a global ministry focused on evangelism and discipleship  iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – your field guide for living your retirement years with more significance than you ever imagined  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Dr. Bill Wagner  ORGANIZATION: Institute for Global Strategic Studies at Olivet University    At nearly 90 years old, Dr. Bill Wagner isn’t slowing down – and he’s not apologizing for it.  In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim Brangenberg talks with Bill Wagner – pastor, international missiologist, and founder of the Global Strategy Forum. They discuss why the modern idea of retirement may be one of the Church’s biggest lies.  Bill shares how, as a young man in his early 20s, he began asking a question most believers never consider: “What will God do with me when I’m old?” That question shaped a lifetime of preparation and now fuels Bill’s ministry.  You’ll hear Bill:  Share how dyslexia, engineering, seminary, and missions uniquely prepared him for impact later in life  Describe the senior-led, old-fashioned revivals he’s launched, putting retirees back in leadership, evangelism, and service  Unpack what he learned studying movements that think strategically at a societal (macro) level – and why the Church often doesn’t  Reveal the four-part framework he personally uses to evaluate his life every two months, modeled after Jesus’ growth in Luke 2  Bill also challenges us with a hard truth: older believers are one of the fastest-lost groups in the Church – not because they lack faith, but because no one expects anything of them anymore.  This conversation isn’t about staying busy. It’s about staying faithful. And believing that God may do His most strategic work through you after retirement, not before.  Resources Mentioned:  iRetire4Him book: a field guide for Christian retirees who want to live their “4th quarter” with purpose  SaferNet: a VPN, antivirus, and web filters/controls to keep your family and business safe  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg  ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries  What if this next season of life – whatever your age or stage – was shaped by something as simple as opening your door?  In this light-hearted and practical New Year’s special, Jim and Martha Brangenberg share why welcoming people into your home can be one of the most meaningful ways to build relationships, encourage real conversation, and live with purpose. Whether you’re still working, newly retired, or somewhere in between, this episode offers encouragement and easy ideas for turning ordinary gatherings into moments that matter.  You’ll hear:  Why home gatherings create space for deeper, more authentic conversations  Simple ways to host without pressure, perfection, or overplanning  How shared meals and relaxed conversation often open doors for lasting relationships and ministry opportunities  Why taking the initiative now can shape connections throughout the year ahead  This episode isn’t about hosting flawlessly. It’s about being present, intentional, and open. A simple invitation may be exactly what God uses to encourage someone this year. Listen in, then ask yourself: Who could I invite into my space in the months ahead?    Additional Resources Mentioned in This Episode  2026 iWork4Him Events Learn more about upcoming in-person gatherings and where Jim and Martha will be in 2026: iWork4Him.com/events (Maryland, North Carolina, Orlando, & Cincinnati)  Support the Mission (PWI Swipe Program) Help more workplace believers and retirees live with daily purpose by partnering with iWork4Him using PWI Swipe. Find all details and start swiping today!  Book Offer + Signature Punch Recipe During the month of January, listeners can receive one of the iWork4Him books for the cost of shipping only – a great way to start the year or share with friends. If you’re inspired to host, you can also request Martha’s favorite mocha punch recipe (and a few other simple party-friendly ideas). For both the book offer and the recipe, email martha@iwork4him.com or call the “listener line” at 866-713-9675. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Michael Turner  ORGANIZATION: Retired businessman, Lake Pastor  Michael Turner thought retirement might be slower and simpler. Instead, one year after stepping away from his company – and after a five-year intentional wind-down – he found himself living in an RV at a Georgia campground, fixing trailers, launching boats, mentoring veterans, and eventually preaching weekly to a pop-up campground church. What unfolded was not a retirement plan, but a clear picture of how God repurposes decades of experience for unexpected ministry.  In This Conversation  Michael describes his five-year transition out of leadership, remaining chairman while gradually releasing day-to-day responsibility and why that helped retirement feel less abrupt.  A move to Georgia for his daughter’s college recruitment led to an unusual living arrangement: 16 months full-time in an RV at a large campground with both long-term and transient residents.  Michael’s daily prayer: “Lord, use me however You want today” has opened constant opportunities for hands-on service: repairs, transportation, conversations, and practical care.  A request to fill in once for a small campground Sunday service slowly became a weekly preaching role.  Michael reflects on how decades as an executive prepared him for ministry – clear communication, preparation under pressure, anticipating questions, and engaging people from every background.  Realizing the depth of questions being asked, he enrolled at age 65 in a master’s program focused on Christian Apologetics to better serve those he teaches.  The campground church removes barriers many feel toward traditional church spaces, welcoming people exactly as they are – camp clothes, hard stories, skepticism and all.  Retirement rhythms that matter: staying connected to friends, caring for health, developing hobbies, and avoiding aimlessness by setting 3 daily priorities.  Next Steps  Get the iRetire4Him Book iRetire4Him: Unlocking God’s Purpose for Your Retirement is available for the cost of shipping (to US residents). Email Jim at jim@iwork4him.com to request your copy and begin reframing this season through a Kingdom lens!  Impact Other Retirees Through the PWI Swipe Tool You can support the ministry by rounding up the change from everyday purchases through the PWI (Project World Impact) Swipe tool. Your spare change helps fund the work of iWork4Him and iRetire4Him. Learn more and sign up at iwork4him.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg  ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries  Christmas is meant to be full of meaning – not just memories. In this special Christmas episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg share a simple, practical challenge for retirees: use the Christmas season as an opportunity to love the neighbors God has already placed around you.  For many retired neighbors, Christmas can be quiet, lonely, or even difficult – especially with physical limitations, tighter budgets, or family living far away. But those challenges also open the door for beautiful ministry opportunities right where you live.  In this episode, Jim and Martha remind us that loving your neighbors doesn’t require big events or elaborate plans. Often, the most meaningful moments come through small, intentional acts:  Sharing a plate of cookies  Inviting neighbors over for dessert or coffee  Hosting a casual gathering in your home or garage  Delivering leftovers after Christmas  Simply learning your neighbors’ names and saying, “We’re here if you need anything”  They also share fun, low-pressure ideas like neighborhood gift games (“you’ve been socked!”), community parades, cookie exchanges, and simple games that build shared memories and open doors for deeper relationships.  Most importantly, this conversation points us back to the true reason for the season – Jesus. Christmas creates a natural, gentle way to share faith, stories, and hope with the people God has placed in our everyday lives.  Your Christmas Challenge:  Before the year ends, choose one simple way to love a neighbor. One visit. One invitation. One shared moment. Let God do the rest.  From the iRetire4Him family to yours, Merry Christmas!    And don’t forget that you can give yourself or a friend the gift of purpose in retirement. Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (US residents only).   P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Russell Jenson  ORGANIZATION: Retired business owner, coach, and educator  This week, Jim sits down with brand-new retiree Russell Jenson—whose “quiet summer” on a Minnesota lake turned into something far more unexpected. Just months after handing off his business, Russell suddenly found himself with an empty calendar, a pontoon boat, and a campground full of people who didn’t realize how ready they were for church. What began as one simple question—“Would you come if I kept it under 39 minutes?”—sparked a Sunday-morning gathering that surprised everyone…including Russell.  You’ll hear:  How a former escape-room business owner ended up preaching (even though he introduced himself by insisting he wasn’t a pastor… right before doing everything a pastor does).  Why 32 campers rolled up in golf carts—bloody marys in hand—to join Russell’s first lakeside service.  The surprising story behind “9:39,” and why that oddly specific number worked.  How God used decades of leadership training, Dale Carnegie coaching, and team-building work to shape Russell’s unexpected next assignment.  Why having nothing on the calendar felt both terrifying and freeing—and how Russell and his wife are learning to listen for God’s direction one day at a time.  The rhythms Russell now keeps—coaching men, leading morning Bible studies, mentoring a young pastor in Pakistan—and why none of it was even on his radar 20 years ago.  Russell’s story is a fresh, honest window into what can happen when retirement isn’t an escape from responsibility but an invitation from God. If your own next season feels foggy, his journey will encourage you to start with prayer, stay available, and trust that God’s assignments rarely waste your past experiences.  Tune in for a heartfelt, humorous look at a man discovering what comes after “I’m done working”—and how a Minnesota lake became the classroom where God clarified Russell’s calling.    Ready to plan and execute your retirement with Kingdom impact? Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (ships to US residents only).   P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim Brangenberg  ORGANIZATION: iRetire4Him  Retirement isn’t a biblical “off-ramp” from purpose. Scripture calls believers to live on mission as long as they have breath. Instead of drifting into a leisure-first mindset, Jim encourages listeners to view retirement as a God-assigned season of influence, service, and legacy.  That’s why Jim and Martha want to send you the iRetire4Him book at no cost (just cover shipping). It equips you to approach retirement with clarity, calling, and joy.  Inside, you'll discover guidance such as: • Why retirement should shift from comfort to Kingdom purpose • How staying rooted near family and community strengthens generational impact • Practical ideas for serving as a “fully funded missionary” in retirement • Encouragement for investing in younger families who need wisdom and presence  Ready to plan and execute your retirement with Kingdom impact? Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (ships to US residents only).   P.S. – Read the first chapter for free!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Buck Jacobs  ORGANIZATION: C12 Group  Based on your retirement years, how is God going to judge you when you stand before Him?   In this episode of iRetire4Him, host Jim Brangenberg talks with Buck Jacobs, founder of C12 Group, the world’s largest network of Christian CEOs and executives building businesses for a greater purpose. Now in his 80s, he’s stepped away from leading C12, but Buck continues mentoring and discipling business leaders around the world, showing that God’s calling doesn’t end with age—it just looks different.  Together, Jim and Buck discuss:  How making money or net worth is not what’s important when it comes to eternity  Why pouring into others is much more gratifying than focusing on leisure  How surrendering your time and experience to Christ leads to lasting joy and impact  The eternal rewards of staying faithful and fruitful in every phase of life  What God will say to each one of us when we encounter Him in heaven  You can check out Buck’s YouVersion Bible study on Romans 8 for further encouragement on living a Spirit-led life of purpose. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg  ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries  In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg take a surprising trip across the pond—to Downton Abbey! While it may sound like a lighthearted detour, the grand finale of the beloved British series offers powerful lessons for every retired believer navigating life’s next transition.  Retirement isn’t the end of purpose—it’s a new beginning. Drawing inspiration from characters like Mr. Carson, Mrs. Patmore, and Lady Mary, Jim and Martha unpack timeless truths about passing the baton, mentoring the next generation, and embracing change with grace.  From the butler who wonders if his life’s work still matters, to the cook who lifts her apprentice into leadership, Downton Abbey becomes a mirror of what God calls us to in this season: to keep serving, teaching, and investing in others. Because as Jim reminds us, if you’ve got a pulse, you’ve got a purpose.  Key Takeaways for Retirees  Retirement is not a 30-year vacation—it’s a calling to a new mission field.  Your wisdom and experience are needed now more than ever in your community and church.  Passing the baton well means mentoring others and celebrating their success.  Transition done with grace honors God and strengthens relationships.  As Downton Abbey reminds us: we move “forward into the future, not back into the past.”  For Those Near or In Retirement  Whether you’ve already stepped away from full-time work or are preparing to, this episode will encourage you to see this next chapter as a divinely appointed opportunity. God still has plans for you—to disciple, to serve, to pour into others—and to live fully in His purpose for your later years.  ____________________________________________________________________  Two incredible sponsors that made this show possible:  SaferNet VPN, more than just a sponsor – it's how Jim and Martha protect their devices at both work and home. With internet filters and controls along with antivirus, make sure you get SaferNet on your phones and computers!  Instead of giving money to businesses that don’t stand on biblical principles (far from it), take your wallet to Patriot Mobile, where you can get the same great cell service at an affordable rate, supporting faith, family, and freedom. Make the switch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: John McCarthy  ORGANIZATION: Purpose Promise  Is retirement really the end of your impact—or the perfect time to “refire” your purpose? In this powerful conversation, Jim Brangenberg talks with John McCarthy, founder of Purpose Promise, about how believers over 55 can turn retirement into a season of legacy, wisdom transfer, and renewed calling.  Jim and John discuss how the American dream of retirement has trapped many Christians in a “retirement prison,” when God’s design is for older generations to invest their wisdom and experience into the body of Christ. Instead of losing identity and drifting into boredom, John explains how retirees can reshape their later years around biblical principles of vocation, discipleship, and intentional living.  In this episode, you’ll learn:  Why retirement as it’s been done isn’t the answer  How Scripture shows that God’s people thrive when wisdom is passed down to the next generation  Why John calls it “refirement” instead of retirement—and how it leads to joy and purpose  Practical retreat tools that help retirees remap beliefs, habits, and rhythms around God’s design  How staying rooted in your city and community can transform culture, instead of “moving away” and leaving a wisdom gap  Explore and discover resources at PurposePromise.org. And for a limited time, get a free copy of iRetire4Him with a donation of any amount to iWork4Him Ministries. Give at iWork4Him.com/donate and let us know in the “notes” section of the donation page where to send your book.   ____________________________________________________________________  Make the switch to Patriot Mobile, America’s only Christian conservative cell service provider! You can get great, affordable cell service while supporting causes that promote faith, family, and freedom. Signing up is a breeze: www.PatriotMobile.com/iWork4Him  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Sheila Arrington  ORGANIZATION: Sheila Arrington Ministries  After 37 years of teaching in St. Paul, returning iRetire4Him Podcast guest Sheila Arrington thought retirement meant slowing down. Instead, God led her to Arizona and into a new season of ministry. From founding the Purposely Designed Conference to mentoring women through her ministry, Sheila shows that retirement isn’t an ending—it’s an opportunity to glorify God in fresh ways.  In this episode, Sheila shares how:  Leaving her Minnesota roots opened the door to God’s new assignments  God is using her to empower and equip women  A sabbatical taught her the importance of sitting with God before doing for God  Retirement is not about checking out but stepping into deeper purpose  If you’ve ever wondered what God might have in store for your retirement years, Sheila’s story will inspire you to see this season as a powerful new beginning!  ____________________________________________________________________  Special iRetire4Him book offer:  When you give to iWork4Him Ministries, we’ll send you a copy of the iRetire4Him book! Just make a donation and in the “notes” let us know your mailing address.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Greg McBrayer  ORGANIZATION: American Airlines  Too often, our culture paints the later chapters of life as a time to slow down and focus on personal leisure. But what if this season is when you can live out your Christian legacy most fully—mentoring younger generations, sharing your faith, and showing the world what a vibrant life looks like?  In this episode, Father Greg McBrayer—Anglican priest, aviation chaplain, and 46-year veteran of American Airlines—shares how God is using his decades of experience to make an eternal impact. From leading one of the largest airport chaplaincy programs in the world to investing in the lives of coworkers and ministry leaders, Greg shows how post-career years can be your most fruitful season yet.  You’ll hear how to:  Find greater purpose beyond your career by serving God in the marketplace and your community  Use your experience to mentor younger generations and strengthen the next wave of leaders  Identify opportunities for post-retirement ministry that bring joy, meaning, and impact  Embrace your unique calling and keep serving in faith and work environments, even in highly secular spaces  Build a Christian legacy that inspires others long after the workday ends  Whether you’re still working, recently retired, or in a new season of volunteering and ministry, this conversation will encourage you to see your life as a lifelong calling from God—one that doesn’t end with a job title.  ____________________________________________________________________  Links and resources mentioned in this show:  SaferNet.com - protect yourself from digital delinquency with an amazing app from a Kingdom business  US Christian Chamber of Commerce – a network of marketplace influencers for the Kingdom; grab your mentees and register for the SWC 2026 Business Expo in Orlando, April 22-24 (use code IWORK4HIM)  Get your copy – in print, digital, or audio – of the iRetire4Him book for tons of examples and resources to live out your “retired” years with purpose and impact!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Danita Bye  ORGANIZATION: DanitaBye.com  What if the way we think about retirement is not only unbiblical but actually harmful? In this powerful episode, Jim and Martha Brangenberg sit down with Danita Bye to expose the cultural lie that age 65 marks the end of purpose.  Danita brings a compelling challenge to believers: at a time when AI is accelerating and younger generations are desperate for wisdom, we cannot afford to sideline our spiritual elders. Retirement doesn’t mean retreat—it’s a divine invitation to reengage through prayer, mentorship, vision, and leadership.  What You'll Hear:  Why traditional retirement is dangerous for the Church and society  A personal story that reveals how America views the elderly—and what we’re missing  The link between disengaged elders and a generation hungry for purpose  What AI and cultural confusion mean for our grandchildren’s future  The radical power of intentional, intercessory prayer in this season of life   Danita closes with a bold reminder: the world may call your best years finished, but God never does. Whether you're 65 or 85, your influence still matters, and your calling hasn’t retired. If it feels impossible to make an impact in this season, that might be the best sign you're right where God wants you. Because with Him, nothing is impossible!  Resources Mentioned:  Destined for the Throne by Paul Billheimer  US Christian Chamber of Commerce + SWC 2026 (use code IWORK4HIM for 10% off)  SaferNet VPN, your all-in-one device protection  Connect with Us: Visit iRetire4Him.com,follow us on your favorite podcast platforms, and connect on Facebook. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Julé Colvin  ORGANIZATION: Pathways to Growth   What do you do when you’re ready to retire—but God clearly says “not yet”?  Julé Colvin, founder of Pathways to Growth, joins Jim and Martha to share her story of obedience, purpose, and preparation in her “retirement” years. After building a company that supports nonprofits through grant writing and leadership development, Julé sensed it was time to step back—until God asked her to stay and steward the legacy a little longer.  In this heartfelt conversation, Julé opens up about coming to faith through a coworker’s example, how she sees her business as a Kingdom ministry, and the spiritual and strategic work of raising up leaders to carry the mission forward.  Whether you're approaching retirement, rethinking what it means, or wondering how to multiply your impact in your later years, this episode will meet you right where you are.  In This Episode You’ll Hear:  How Julé came to know Jesus because of someone who “Worked4Him”  What it looked like to take a year studying Scripture to rebuild the company as a Kingdom business  Why she believes retirement is more about redirection than release  The importance of discipling your team before transitioning out  Why she and her husband moved into a 55+ community as a missional decision  How she’s preparing for what’s next—and leaving room for a second (or third) retirement  Why “writing the vision” matters in the second half of life    Scriptures Highlighted:  Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (think about this in terms of trust during your retirement years)  Psalm 92:12–15 – "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, ‘The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.’"  Books Mentioned to Add to Your Reading List:  Business Secrets from the Bible by Rabbi Daniel Lapin  From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks  IRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement by Jim and Martha Brangenberg  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Rodney & Donna Smith   MINISTRY: Caregiver, Church and Community Volunteers  What happens when both spouses retire—and suddenly share the same space, time, and rhythm every day?  In this fun and down-to-earth episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha welcome Rodney and Donna Smith to talk candidly about their first few months navigating retirement together. The Smiths explore how they’ve adjusted to being home at the same time, what it looks like to merge their different daily habits, and how they're slowly easing into volunteering and serving others. They also highlight the importance of communication, separate time, and letting go of rigid expectations.  Whether you’re already retired or thinking about what’s next, this episode offers encouragement, humor, and practical wisdom for couples who want to walk through this season with grace—and a little bit of fun!  In this episode:  How men and women often experience retirement differently  The unexpected adjustments of sharing the same space full-time  Starting (and restarting) retirement goals like volunteering and fitness  The power of routines, rest, and giving each other room  Why flexibility and friendship matter more than a perfect plan  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Rodney Smith   MINISTRY: Caregiver, Church and Community Volunteer  Retirement can be a radical shift—especially for those of us who’ve spent decades with a full calendar, steady routine, and career identity. In this episode of iRetire4Him, we sit down with Rodney Smith, a recently retired wildland firefighter and forester with over 33 years of service. Rodney reflects on the early days of his retirement, the transition from government work to community involvement, and what it’s really like joining his already-retired wife at home.  Rodney shares candidly about:  The calling that shaped his career and continues to guide his retirement  What it was like cutting down the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree in 2022  His new role in serving family, church, and community  The surprise challenges of adapting to his wife’s well-established routine  Why he’s approaching retirement as a time for deeper purpose, not just rest  Whether you’re preparing to retire or already navigating your own post-career season, this episode offers both humor and hope. Rodney’s story reminds us that retirement isn’t an end—it’s a shift into meaningful new beginnings.  Be sure to tune in next week to hear Rodney and Donna’s joint interview!  Connect with iRetire4Him:  Newsletter: www.iwork4him.com/iretire4him/join  YouTube: www.youtube.com/@iRetire4Him  Facebook: www.facebook.com/iRetire4Him  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Donna Smith  MINISTRY: Caregiver, Church and Community Volunteer  In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg connect with Donna Smith of Asheboro, North Carolina, for a candid and encouraging conversation about what retirement looks like from a woman’s point of view. Donna shares how her faith journey was rekindled through her relationship with her husband Rodney, how caregiving has shaped her early retirement years, and what she’s learning as she navigates this new chapter of life.  Whether you're approaching retirement or already in it, Donna’s story offers relatable insight, practical encouragement, and a gentle reminder that retirement is not an end—it’s a beginning.  What You’ll Hear in This Episode:  How Donna’s retirement began sooner than expected and why the timing turned out to be divine  The powerful influence of faith, family, and community in shaping her retirement years  What she discovered while organizing a women’s small group using the iRetire4Him study  Her favorite reminders: “If you have a pulse, you have a purpose” and “If you’re not dead, you’re not done”  A lighthearted look at how retirement routines change when both spouses are home  Resources Mentioned:  iRetire4Him book that Donna used for a small group study: iwork4him.com/bookstore  Ministry resource for caregivers: Season of Caring – aseasonofcaring.com  Book recommendation: Spouse in the House by former iWork4Him and iRetire4Him guest Cynthia Ruchti  A Word of Encouragement:  Retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about shifting focus. Whether you’re helping aging parents, encouraging a neighbor, or simply sitting on the porch with your spouse, give purpose to every moment.  Connect With Us:  Interested in bringing Jim and Martha to speak to your church or community retiree group? Email Jim@iwork4him.com for details.  Subscribe to the iRetire4Him YouTube Channel  Follow iRetire4Him on Facebook   Sign up to start getting the iRetire4Him Newsletter  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.