Redefining retirement is at the heart of this engaging interview, as Betsy Wurzel talks with author Don Akchin about how his book The AfterWork: Finding Fulfilling Alternatives to Retirement encourages people to approach the next phase of life with curiosity and purpose. Don shares how his personal experiences—and the stories of others—motivated him to explore meaningful ways to stay active, creative, and fulfilled after leaving full-time work.
Don prefers to call this stage of life AfterWork rather than retirement. With people living longer thanks to advances in healthcare, he believes everyone should plan ahead to make those extra years meaningful. Don admitted he initially felt guilty being home while his wife was still working, but he soon learned to readjust and find value in fresh pursuits.
He offered listeners several thoughtful suggestions: pursue hobbies that bring joy and perhaps turn one into a business; volunteer to make a difference in your community; mentor or tutor others; and take courses—online or in person—to keep learning. Most importantly, he reminded everyone that mistakes aren’t failures but opportunities to grow.
Betsy shared her perspective as someone who has interviewed many guests who launched successful second careers, often as authors, after retirement. Together, she and Don discussed overcoming ageism, building resilience, and embracing change as an essential part of healthy aging.
Don also introduced the Japanese concept of ikigai—the joy of living with purpose every day. Betsy reflected on her personal journey after losing her spouse and how Chatting with Betsy gave her a renewed sense of direction and gratitude. Both encouraged listeners to stay socially connected, take on new adventures, and treat every year as an opportunity to live with passion and fulfillment.
Tune in as Betsy Wurzel talks with Don Akchin about turning retirement into a time of growth and fulfillment. 🎵 Click here to listen...
About the Author:
Don Akchin is a former journalist and marketing professional whose winding career led him to discover his own life purpose in The AfterWork. He also publishes The EndGame, a digital newsletter about aging with joy and intention.
📘 Visit the website: DonAkchin.com to learn more, subscribe to The EndGame, And purchase The AfterWork on Amazon in Kindle
👉 Redefining retirement means embracing new possibilities with courage and creativity.
📌 Share your thoughts below—what does your “AfterWork” look like?
💡 At Passionate World Talk Radio, we believe real conversations matter. If this episode spoke to you, please help us continue providing critical discussions and diverse voices.
📌 Support our station here: Donate and Thank you
Contact Information
❤ Don’t Keep Us a Secret – Please share this blog
📌 Support our station here -Thank you: Donate
Connect with Betsy Wurzel
🔗 Host Page: Betsy Wurzel
📢 Subscribe & Listen:
-
-
- 🎵 Amazon Music: Chatting with Betsy
- 🎙️ Spreaker: Chatting with Betsy
- 🙌Passionate World Talk Radio – Your Voice, Your Platform
-
🌟 Become a Host & Share Your Voice!
🌐 Website | 📖 About Us | 📢 Contact Us
▶️ | ✉️ Subscribe to Our Blog
Thank You for Being Part of Our Community!
Passionate World Talk Radio, a woman-led station, is committed to educating, enlightening, and entertaining audiences worldwide.
As a global resource hub, we provide diverse content to keep you informed and inspired.
🌟 Stay engaged, stay empowered, and let’s make an impact together!
✨ Wishing you a brilliant day!
— Lillian Cauldwell & Jeanne White
📡 Passionate World Talk Radio operates under Global Media Network LLC
