Retire Repurposed

In this fun and experimental episode, Ben Taatjes does something different - a reaction video! After viewing President Trump discussing someone he knew whose retirement didn't go well, Ben shares his professional perspective on the commentary. Then Jerrid Sebesta reads through social media comments from the video - some pro-retirement, some against - and captures Ben's real-time reactions to vario...

In this insightful episode, Ben Taatjes addresses the common struggle of retirees caught between meaningful work they've left behind and a seemingly meaningless retirement ahead. Discover why so many retirees can't find their stride and how a lack of confidence in identity and direction keeps them stuck. Ben provides practical strategies for rediscovering who you are, relying on faith during uncer...

Sparked by Jerrid's conversation with a retired woman in a hotel lobby who lamented that 'every day looks like Saturday,' Ben Taatjes explores the hidden dangers of idleness and losing touch with purpose in retirement. While endless leisure might sound appealing, the reality can be surprisingly unfulfilling. Discover the four major components that retirees should incorporate into their daily lives...

In this reflective episode, Ben Taatjes shares how a recent client phone call forced him to examine his own contentment. FOMO - the fear of missing out - is a real challenge, especially for retirees who may compare their circumstances to others. Drawing wisdom from Acts 20, Ben addresses the dangerous trap of envying others' riches and provides the biblical antidote to discontentment. Discover pra...

In this eye-opening episode, Ben Taatjes challenges conventional wisdom about wealth transfer and charitable giving after attending a conference with like-minded financial professionals. Discover how the financial industry may be doing a disservice to both retirees and their intended beneficiaries by focusing on posthumous giving rather than strategic generosity during life. Drawing from his belie...

In this powerful episode, Ben Taatjes reflects on the unexpected results of removing his name from his financial firm. Rather than losing identity, he became more aligned with his purpose and calling - and his clients are receiving more value than ever. Discover how taking bold action to step fully into who you are creates a ripple effect of positive transformation. Learn why retirees who embrace...

Drawing from a powerful sermon about a pilot forced to rely entirely on ground control to land his plane, Ben Taatjes explores the critical importance of having a reliable compass in life. Just as the pilot needed external guidance when he couldn't see clearly, we all need something to guide us when we inevitably drift off-course in our lives and retirement. Discover how our greatest advantage com...

In this unfiltered episode, Ben Taatjes and Jerrid Sebesta engage in a raw, honest conversation about recent American tragedies and what our country desperately needs. Through Jerrid's deeply personal story about his mother's death, they explore how Americans - particularly retirees with wisdom and perspective - should respond to our nation's current challenges. This sobering conversation reveals...

In this deeply personal episode, Ben Taatjes explores the profound topic of miracles and how to cultivate 'fertile soil' for God's supernatural work in our lives. Inspired by a conversation with friend and global minister Ryan Skoog, Ben shares practical insights on connecting with God in powerful ways that open us to experiencing the unexplainable. Through the raw and moving story of a miracle in...

In this first installment of our giving and generosity series, Ben Taatjes explores how individual acts of generosity can become the gateway to a more expansive life and retirement. Discover the 'technology of giving' - understanding both the heart and mindset behind meaningful generosity. Learn why giving might be your next-level ticket in retirement, transforming not just the lives of others but...

Building on our discussion of growth in retirement, Ben Taatjes shares insights from a recent California experience about the transformative power of being open to new connections. Discover how divine appointments can unfold when you embrace opportunities to add value through relationships with others. Learn why staying open to unexpected connections can bring unexpected magic and purpose to your...

In this pivotal episode, Ben Taatjes addresses the fundamental crossroads every retiree faces - choosing between mere existence and purposeful growth. Discover the stark difference between filling time and pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone. Learn how the fear and discomfort that accompany growth can be transformed into belief and faith, leading to life's ultimate purpose. This conversati...

In this personal and profound episode, Ben Taatjes shares insights gained from a recent health scare that confirmed key ingredients for living a content life in retirement. Discover how gratitude profoundly impacts mental and spiritual health, and learn why eliminating pride is essential for experiencing the fullness and peace retirees seek. Drawing from another powerful C.S. Lewis quote, Ben reve...

Building on last week's discussion, Ben Taatjes dives deeper into one of the foundational concepts from his book 'Repurposed' - true contentment in retirement. Discover the delicate balance between avoiding the constant pursuit of more while also rejecting a life of lack and limitation. Learn practical strategies for achieving genuine contentment that neither settles for mediocrity nor chases endl...

In this foundational episode, Ben Taatjes explores two massively important concepts for a fulfilling retirement - contentment and peace. Discover what these qualities truly mean, who possesses them, and whether they're simply two sides of the same coin. Learn why both contentment and peace are essential pillars for a Repurposed retirement and how they work together to create a life of genuine sati...

In this candid episode, Ben Taatjes addresses one of the most frustrating challenges in retirement coaching: convincing retirees to pursue growth instead of settling for mediocrity. Discover the common barriers that keep retirees from thriving and learn practical strategies to reignite your desire for life and purpose. This conversation challenges the cultural narrative that retirement means windi...

In this essential episode, Ben Taatjes explores how your retirement financial plan should reflect your deeper purpose and calling. Moving beyond investment logistics and portfolio specifics, discover three key elements your financial plan needs to truly connect your money with your mission. Learn how to ensure your retirement resources align with your values and enable the meaningful impact you're...

In a world of constant news cycles and overwhelming information, Ben Taatjes addresses how retirees can cultivate genuine peace amidst external chaos. From political upheaval to global crises, the barrage of negative news can create persistent unrest and anxiety. Discover three practical strategies for experiencing more peace in your retirement years: taking inventory of the information you consum...

Inspired by a powerful encounter with a motivational speaker who lost a leg in the Iraq War yet chose to find meaning in his experience, Ben Taatjes explores the transformative power of choice in retirement. Drawing from insights gained during a recent advisor trip to Banff, Canada, Ben identifies three major barriers that prevent baby boomers from experiencing the fullness available to them in re...

Continuing his exploration of Tim Keller's 'Every Good Endeavor,' Ben Taatjes distinguishes between mere achievement and meaningful work, revealing how this understanding transforms retirement purpose. Discover how work becomes an expression of calling and service rather than just accomplishment. Ben shares personal insights about his recent business name change and how this decision reflects a de...

In this special throwback to Episode #8, we revisit Ben Taatjes' passionate discussion about the positive aspects of work - a topic close to his heart. Discover the often-overlooked benefits of work and why you were created to be productive. Learn how true flourishing and fulfillment come through meaningful labor, not leisure. Ben provides thought-provoking questions about your working career that...

Drawing from Arthur Brooks' research on happiness, Ben Taatjes explores the four essential components of a fulfilling life: faith, family, friends, and work. Through candid reflections from an 18-hour car ride with his daughter returning from her first year of college, Ben illustrates how the absence or weakness of any of these elements can significantly impact our well-being. Discover how this ha...

Drawing from Arthur Brooks' research on happiness, Ben Taatjes explores the four essential components of a fulfilling life: faith, family, friends, and work. Through candid reflections from an 18-hour car ride with his daughter returning from her first year of college, Ben illustrates how the absence or weakness of any of these elements can significantly impact our well-being. Discover how this ha...

In this personal episode, Ben Taatjes shares the journey behind a significant transition in his financial practice - a complete rebrand and name change that reflects deeper alignment with his mission of stewardship. Discover the powerful decision to remove his own name from his business and why this choice speaks to a fundamental principle every retiree needs to understand about identity, purpose,...

In this episode, Ben Taatjes examines why so many retirees fall into the trap of living someone else's retirement - filling their days with activities they don't truly enjoy simply because it's what others do. Drawing wisdom from Proverbs 23:7, 'For as a man thinks, so he is,' Ben reveals how your deepest beliefs about yourself shape your retirement reality. Learn why authentic self-knowledge is t...