What happens when you retire at 47—and you're not even sure what's next?

In this episode, Dan Simon shares how stepping away early wasn’t about escaping work, but about faithfully following God’s redirection. Discover the faith it takes to retire early—and the purpose that unfolds when you trust God with your next season.

Dan walks us through his journey from climbing the ranks in education to launching a charter school, and eventually stepping into Christian education and consulting.

Through challenges and unexpected turns, Dan discovered that God's plan was far greater than he could have imagined—he simply had to trust and hang on for the ride.

We never really know what will happen when we take a leap of faith… but that's half the fun!

Tune in to hear how Dan navigated his courageous journey, and don't miss his top advice for those contemplating retirement.

Connect with Dan at:
www.DanSimonSolutions.com
Dan@DanSimonSolutions.com
Ph: (919) 760-1400

Quotes:
"We're gonna end up where God is calling us and wherever it is that he's preparing us for. The question is how do you want to get there?" Dan Simon

"Grace with accountability. Like, yes, I'm still gonna love you through this. Yes, but you did something you aren't supposed to do. And there's a consequence for that. So, who am I not to forgive you?" Dan Simon

Scripture:
Read the story of Joseph's life in Genesis starting at Chapter 37.Read the story of Jonah and Nineveh in the Book of Jonah.

00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Retirement
00:46 Meet Dan Simon: A Journey of Faith and Courage
02:00 From Principal to Superintendent: Career Highlights
03:19 The Unexpected Call: Opening a Charter School
05:31 A New Path: Joining a Christian School
09:49 Lessons from Joseph: Embracing God's Plan
14:14 Personal Reflections: Trusting God's Timing
18:10 Filtering Life's Distractions
19:19 The Importance of Prayer and Scripture
19:51 Hearing God's Voice
20:51 Loving Our Neighbors
25:03 Grace with Accountability
25:59 Taking the Leap of Faith
31:44 Finding Your Nineveh
33:38 Concluding 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 @ clubmore.live

We've all had problems we feel helpless to fix. Whether it's an illness, a job situation, an unscrupulous landlord, or an unjust system, there are times when we can't remedy the situation.

In this heartfelt finale of season one of 'Courageous Retirement,' host Vona Johnson shares how she is facing problems she cannot fix and offers encouragement for those feeling overwhelmed. Her story is a testament to the power of faith and trust in God's plan.

Through touching stories, including an inspiring encounter involving her grandson, Vona emphasizes the importance of listening to God's quiet nudges and trusting His plan.

She reflects on scripture passages that provide comfort and urges listeners to rely on prayer and faith rather than trying to fix everything themselves.

This episode reminds us to embrace our faith, live our purpose, and trust God, especially during challenging times when we feel helpless.

Join us for valuable insights and spiritual encouragement that are relevant to everyone who struggles with situations we cannot control.

00:00 Introduction: Facing Unfixable Problems
00:39 The Challenge of Watching Others Struggle
01:51 A Personal Story: The Angel in the Red Jeep
02:57 God's Subtle Nudges
04:43 The Power of Prayer and Scripture
06:18 Trusting God's Plan
08:02 Conclusion and Season Wrap-Up

Scripture References:
 "And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers[a] in harmony with God’s own will." Romans 8:26-27 NLT

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. " Psalm 34:18 NLT

"Give all your worries and cares to God for he cares for you."  1 Peter 5:7 NLT

Quotes from Vona:
"And that's why we, as believers, need to be bold sometimes. Not pushy, but bold enough to follow that nudge that God is giving us to act in love, even when we're not sure if our action will be well received."

"It's okay to trust God when it doesn't feel like there's anything else that we can do. In fact, sometimes it takes more courage to stand back and let God reveal his plan in his timing than it does for us to rush in and try and fix it."

This concludes Season 1 of Courageous Retirement. I hope you have enjoyed it. I will be taking a short hiatus and will return mid-July. I encourage you to go back and listen to earlier epsisodes you may have missed or hop over and listen to episodes of Longing for More!
https://episodes.fm/1393780527?view=apps&sort=popularity

I'll see you back here soon. Enjoy your summer!

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 @ clubmore.live

Are you an introvert nearing retirement and looking forward to the end of the need to attend networking events? Think again!

In this episode of 'Courageous Retirement,' host Vona Johnson challenges you to rethink networking as a critical tool for maintaining connections in retirement. Sharing her recent experiences and offering actionable advice, Vona explores how continuing to network can lead to a life filled with purpose, joy, and community during the Best Season.

Learn how to use your faith and the Holy Spirit to guide you in making new, meaningful friendships. Don't miss out on these insightful tips and spiritual encouragement to enhance your retirement journey.

00:00 Introduction: Embracing Networking in Retirement
01:02 Personal Experience: Networking at a Christian Conference
01:53 The Importance of Networking in Retirement
03:55 Practical Tips for Networking
04:49 Overcoming Networking Challenges
05:37 Exploring Networking Opportunities
07:06 Authenticity in Building Connections
10:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Scripture:
"Two are better than one. If either of them falls down, one can help the other one up."  Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10

Quotes from Vona:
"Think of networking as building your future support system. It's a system that you're going to need to get through some of the challenges that are coming in life. Don't wait until you need people in your life to start making new friends."

 "As much as I like being alone, I do not want to live my life alone."

Link to join ClubMore: https://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 @ clubmore.live

In this inspiring episode of Courageous Retirement, host Vona Johnson invites you to reflect on the legacy you’re building — not just someday, but right now.

Vona shares her own journey, from writing 'A Different View' to becoming a life and retirement coach, showing how God weaves every part of our story — the successes, the struggles, even the fears — into a meaningful, lasting legacy.

✨ You’ll discover:
✅ How to face each with bold purpose and faith
✅ Why it’s never too late to create a life that matters
✅ The power of encouraging the next generation
✅ Practical ways to align your daily choices with God’s love and truth

Whether you’re stepping into a new season or simply longing to live more intentionally, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped to let God use ALL of your life for His glory.

Watch now and start building your God-honoring legacy today!

💌 Feeling stuck or unsure where to begin? Vona would love to help you take your next step! Reach out to her directly at vona@vonajohnson.com — she’s here to help you get started on the next step.

00:00 Introduction: What Will Your Legacy Be?
00:38 Embracing Retirement with Purpose
00:56 From Health Coach to Life Coach
02:14 Recording A Different View
03:19 Speaking to the Next Generation
04:49 Building Your Legacy Daily
07:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Quotes from the show:
"God uses everything. He wastes nothing in your life, the good things and the bad things, to help you build your legacy."

"As Christians, at or near the age of retirement, we get to use the foundation that God has built for us and help others see their worth, see their value, see their God-given purpose."

"Retirement isn’t the end. It’s the beginning."

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 @ clubmore.live

Whether you plan your retirement for months in advance or are forced into it, the shift to retirement can be stressful and challenging.

In this episode of the Courageous Retirement podcast, host Vona Johnson is joined by guest James Zeigler to discuss the profound and often challenging decision to retire.

They explore retirement's emotional and practical aspects, emphasizing the importance of integrity, faith, and courage. James shares his journey from an illustrious career in Veterans Affairs to a fulfilling retirement, highlighting God's pivotal role in guiding this transition.

They discuss many people's inner struggles, including dealing with the 'bully within' ourselves and how to reframe it positively.

The conversation also touches on resilience, the physical impacts of stress, and the valuable lessons James has documented in his book Chemical Courage.

Listen to gain powerful insights on how to make your retirement a meaningful and purpose-driven season of life.

00:00 Introduction
00:22 Guest Introduction: James Zeigler
02:10 James Zeigler's Career Journey
04:36 The Decision to Retire (OR Not!)
05:55 Integrity and Leadership
08:48 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Retirement
10:30 God's Guidance in Retirement
15:49 Financial Realities and Adjustments
18:39 Personal Struggles and Triumphs
21:46 The Importance of Time and Priorities
23:12 Finding Fulfillment in Retirement
23:39 Understanding the Bully Within
24:49 The Concept of Resilience
28:08 The Impact of Chronic Stress
31:04 The Role of Faith and Values
34:31 Practical Steps to Manage Stress
39:34 Final Thoughts and Resources

Quotes:

" There are two paths to take–integrity is the wisdom of knowing which path to take." James Zeigler

" We need to retire to something and not away from something." Vona Johnson

" The best part of saying yes to retirement and answering God's call to more is that we get to, there's more flexibility in making sure we get the rocks in first." Vona Johnson

" You have to analyze your alignment with your values, your faith, your beliefs. Is it integrity?" James Zeigler

Connect with James:
https://behold1.com
 JamesZeigler@behold1.com
If you're a veteran struggling with thoughts of suicide or something difficult, text James at  (9 0 6) 8 6 9 -1 4 8 0

Download a Bible Based Emotions Chart https://images.app.goo.gl/miCT8zzmrJZF75Ty6

Prefer to watch the video, catch it here: https://youtu.be/XAKYoDNBe3A

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 @ clubmore.live

In this episode of Courageous Retirement, host Vona Johnson discusses the importance of being intentional about the issues we focus on as Christians. Inspired by a quote from a well-known comedian, Vona explores how we can shift our focus from disagreements to responding with love and understanding. She explores love, not in the worldly sense by ignoring sin, but the kind wrapped in truth and forgiveness.

She emphasizes the significance of relying on the Bible for truth and provides practical steps to ensure we walk the path Jesus would have us walk and responding to disagreements the way He would have us respond.

Vona also introduces ClubMore, an unconventional, loosely knit community of people who pledge to seek more of Christ in their lives.

Subscribe to Courageous Retirement on Vona's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast location as she encourages you to have the courage to live a life of purpose and love during this incredible retirement season.

00:00 Introduction and Meme Reflection
00:21 The Importance of Focus for Christians
00:58 Understanding Different Perspectives
04:20 The Role of the Bible in Finding Truth
06:46 Living and Sharing God's Love
13:16 Invitation to Club More
14:12 Practical Steps to Engage Faith
16:47 Conclusion and Upcoming Episode

"What is Truth?" Blog

Scripture referenced:
Luke 22: 39-53 Jesus agonizes in the Garden and is arrested

Join ClubMore at 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 @ clubmore.live

In this conversation, Vona welcomes Brandon West to Courageous Retirement, where they discuss the paths of faith and career and how we can use our work as a ministry.

Touching on themes of legacy, purpose, and the true definition of success and failure, Brandon shares a lesson on taking risks he learned from David Green, the CEO of Hobby Lobby, and a heartfelt discussion about the struggles of positioning his business as a ministry.

Sharing impactful stories and quotes, they explore the concept of success as being faithful rather than outcome-based and the eternal significance of our daily actions. Brandon provides insights on how to live authentically as a Christian in all areas of life, emphasizing the impactful intersection of broken heart, opportunity, and skill.

This episode comforts us by reminding us of God's plans and the crucial role of faith and integrity in our lives. It reassures us that we're not alone in this journey and that our faith can guide us through the uncertainties of retirement.

00:00 Introduction and Divine Encounters
02:24 Resonating with Brandon's Work
04:00 Understanding Legacy and Identity
06:12 Purpose and Passion in Business
08:34 Personal Faith Journeys
12:16 Redefining Success and Failure
26:00 Facing Fear and Embracing Courage
28:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Quotes from the show:
 "We spend half of our lives trying to understand our identity, our gifts, and," she said, "we spend the other half of our life, surrendering it." Brandon, quoting his counselor.

"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why."  Mark Twain quote shared by Brandon

 "Purpose is found at the intersection of a broken heart opportunity and skill." Brandon West

 "In business, we take risks every single day. Why would we not take a risk for something that could have an internal impact?" Brandon quoting David Green

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." - Franklin D. Roosevelt quote referenced by Vona from the book, 'Becoming Madam Secretary' by Stephanie Dray

Scriptures Referenced:
“I am the true Vine, and my Father is the Gardener. He lops off every branch that doesn’t produce. And he prunes those branches that bear fruit for even larger crops. He has already tended you by pruning you back for greater strength and usefulness by means of the commands I gave you. Take care to live in me, and let me live in you. For a branch can’t produce fruit when severed from the vine. Nor can you be fruitful apart from me." John 15: 1-4

"Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life."
Revelation 2:10

Learn more about Brandon at https://brandonmichaelwest.com or www.PHOScreative.com

Purchase Brandon's book: https://amzn.to/3FAEM9A

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 @ clubmore.live

Documenting your experiences can help you process life and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. In this episode of Courageous Retirement, you will learn how to take your personal stories to the next level so you can leave a profound impact by writing them.

Host Vona Johnson welcomes special guest Niels Kwakernaak to explore the significance of sharing personal stories. They discuss how Niels provides practical tips on writing and storytelling, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits and potential for deeper self-understanding through writing. They also demonstrate the value of aligning one's storytelling with personal faith and authenticity.

You will walk away with a professional editor's top tips on writing your stories. This episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to capture your life's journey for future generations, whether you consider yourself a writer or not.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Your Story
00:44 Meet Niels Kwakernaak: A Journey to Storytelling
02:16 The Importance of Writing Your Story
04:32 Techniques for Effective Storytelling
07:19 Personal Reflections and Writing Tips
11:28 Niels' Path to Coaching and Editing
20:08 Unlocking Your Stories: Practical Tips
27:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
30:47 Conclusion: Engage Your Faith and Finish Well

Learn more about Niels at https://yourbeststory.net/

Quotes:
" It wouldn't be the first time somebody was just free writing and figured out like, 'Hey, wait a second. I do have something to say!'" Niels Kwakernaak

" You want to lure the reader in, in such a way that they are immediately in the middle of something so that they want to know what's coming next." Niels Kwakernaak

Niel's tips for unlocking stories:*
1. Go for a walk
2. Free Write
3. Draw a map of the area
*Be sure to listen beginning at the 20-minute mark for details.

Watch the video here.

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 @ clubmore.live