Repurposed

In this episode, Ben Taatjes explores the foundational question every retiree must answer before stepping into their next chapter: Who were you created to be? Drawing from C.S. Lewis's insight on the longings of our hearts, Ben reveals why misplaced identity before retirement becomes amplified afterward. Discover the core truths about your identity - that you're made in God's image, created to serve others, and called to give because God is a giver. Learn why the goal of life isn't accumulating the most money possible, but strategically giving it away in alignment with your true identity. Ben challenges the notion that retirement is a finish line and reveals the powerful truth: identity doesn't come from retirement, but identity gives retirement its meaning.

In this episode, Ben Taatjes addresses a key truth many retirees discover too late: retirement doesn't fix identity issues - it reveals them. When the guardrails of work structure, daily contribution, and external validation disappear, we're left face-to-face with ourselves, and often those inner gaps speak louder, not quieter. Drawing from C.S. Lewis's 'Mere Christianity,' Ben explores the deeper longing for something more that intensifies when we're stripped down to our bare selves. Discover why retirement itself cannot resolve this longing and how retirees must reconnect with the foundational truth that they're created in God's image and designed to contribute. This episode offers hope for those feeling lost in retirement by pointing them back to their true identity and purpose.

In this deeply moving special episode, Ben Taatjes welcomes longtime client Sue, who happened to be in the office on recording day, a divine appointment following last week's conversation about listening through pain. Sue, who is courageously battling stage 4 colon cancer, shares her raw and unfiltered journey of discovering greater purpose while facing her greatest trial. Through an honest conversation about daily life with chemotherapy, Sue reveals the mindset, faith, and sense of purpose that keep her moving forward. This powerful testimony demonstrates what it looks like to lean into pain, listen to God's voice in suffering, and find meaning even in the darkest valleys. Sue's story will challenge and inspire anyone facing their own struggles in retirement or beyond.

Expanding on last week's discussion about listening for God's voice, Ben Taatjes slows down to explore something many avoid: pain. For retirees, pain isn't theoretical; it's deeply personal. Discover why pain is often when we give God our fullest attention and how pain accomplishes what comfort never will. Learn how comfort dulls our questions while pain awakens them and why pain functions as a signal—not a sentence or verdict on your life. Rather, it is a call to correction and growth. Ben reveals how God speaks through restlessness, peace, people, and yes, pain itself. This tender episode encourages those who are hurting to resist rushing past their pain and instead lean in and listen carefully to what God may be saying through it.

Building on recent conversations about alignment and surrender, Ben Taatjes explores what comes next: the critical practice of listening. Once you've surrendered, how do you actually hear what God is saying? Discover how to listen effectively in three specific areas of life: during times of peace, during seasons of restlessness, and when receiving feedback from others. Learn practical strategies for discerning God's voice and understanding what's next in your retirement journey. Ben emphasizes why continued action is essential while listening—because movement creates clarity, not paralysis. This episode provides a roadmap for active listening that leads to purposeful decisions and deeper alignment in retirement.

Continuing last week's powerful conversation, Ben Taatjes goes deeper into what surrender actually looks like in retirement. Discover why people get off track and lose their identity by surrendering to the wrong things. Because the truth is, we're all surrendering to something. Learn how misplaced surrender creates idols and pulls you out of alignment, and why surrender isn't the endgame but a catalyst that creates space to do and become more. Ben explores what financial surrender looks like in practice and how it paves the way for a correct, viable retirement plan with genuine clarity. This episode reveals how proper surrender allows you to steward your resources effectively while maintaining purpose and vigor throughout retirement.

In this powerful first episode of 2026, Ben Taatjes explores his defining word from last year, surrender, and its crucial importance for retirees. Discover how surrender isn't about giving up or becoming passive, but about realignment with God's purpose. While realignment asks 'What's off?' surrender answers 'What am I clinging to?' Learn why surrender creates space for intentional living, brings more clarity (not less), deeper peace (not passivity), and better decisions (not fewer). Ben addresses why surrender feels especially difficult for retirees who already feel they've lost control, particularly around their finances, and reveals how releasing your grip actually opens you up for more action and greater impact in retirement.

In this convicting episode, Ben Taatjes addresses the subtle danger of complacency in retirement after noticing clients who seemed unusually tired and lacking energy. Drawing from Old Testament wisdom, Ben reveals how complacency isn't just about low motivation; it's actually a failure to make room for our need for God in our lives. Discover the critical difference between complacency and rest: while complacency drains us, genuine rest rejuvenates us for greater purpose. This episode challenges retirees to examine whether their tiredness signals misalignment and offers biblical insight for reigniting energy and purpose in retirement.

Building on last week's conversation about alignment, Ben Taatjes and Jerrid Sebesta guide listeners toward the next step in their retirement journey: intentional living. This hopeful and encouraging episode normalizes the feelings many retirees experience while moving them forward with practical wisdom. Discover the crucial difference between busyness and intentionality, and learn why activity doesn't automatically mean you're on the right track. Ben explores three major areas for living intentionally in retirement: how you invest your time, where you direct your contribution, and the way you steward your money. This calm, innovative conversation offers a roadmap for purposeful retirement without guilt or pressure.

As 2025 draws to a close, Ben Taatjes and Jerrid Sebesta reflect on a turbulent but transformative year. Jerrid commends Ben's bold decision to remove his name from his financial business, and Ben opens up about the personal alignment journey this represents. Discover the 'cost of alignment' - the reality that some will follow your journey while many won't. Learn why alignment is the essential path to deeper purpose and connection in retirement, even when it brings unexpected challenges and difficulties. This honest conversation reveals how feeling 'off' during transitions can actually be a gift that shapes you into who you're meant to become.

In this liberating episode, Ben Taatjes shares a recent encounter with a retiree friend who returned to work feeling he wasn't doing enough or living with sufficient purpose. Through this story, Ben addresses a critical misunderstanding many retirees face about purpose and action in retirement. Discover the difference between duty-driven striving and purpose that flows from wholeness. Learn why shame has no place in your retirement journey and how to understand the true relationship between being complete in God's work and taking meaningful action. This episode offers freedom for retirees caught between rest and restlessness.

Continuing the Thanksgiving theme, Ben Taatjes explores how gratitude transcends positive mental attitude to become a complete shift in your being. Discover why gratitude isn't just an annual celebration or journal exercise, but a transformative practice that creates contentment and godliness. Jerrid shares insights from his morning gratitude walks, explaining how gratitude functions like a muscle—requiring consistent exercise and practice over time. Learn how developing this gratitude muscle leads to a purposeful retirement rooted not just in relaxation and rest, but in deep fulfillment and divine alignment.

In this transformative episode, Ben Taatjes explores the powerful connection between gratitude and contentment—a fundamental goal at the heart of his mission. Discover how cultivating gratitude radically transforms your perspective on the three essential retirement resources: time, talent, and treasure. Ben provides three specific questions you can ask yourself daily to live with greater gratitude and purpose in your retirement years. This practical conversation reveals why gratitude isn't just a nice sentiment, but a powerful practice that unlocks contentment and fulfillment in retirement.

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 various viewpoints. This entertaining yet insightful episode explores the cultural debate around retirement through the lens of viral social media content and reveals what people really think about these popular opinions.

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 uncertain transitions, and taking actionable steps toward a new reality filled with purpose and confidence in your retirement years.

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 to maintain purpose, structure, and satisfaction. This episode reveals why intentionality is crucial for a meaningful retirement beyond the appeal of perpetual weekends.

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 practical strategies for cultivating genuine satisfaction in any season of life, regardless of what others around you possess or achieve.

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 belief that 'dead people can't give money' and insights from Bill Perkins' book 'Die with Zero,' Ben explains how retirement planning and giving planning should work together to maximize impact while you're still alive to witness and experience the joy of generosity. 

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 their true calling don't just improve their own lives - they make the world around them better through divine alignment with their purpose. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 comes not from self-reliance, but from complete dependence on the truth that guides us through life's most challenging and uncertain moments.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 why truth and hope are more essential than ever for healing our divided country and how each of us can contribute to the restoration America needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 involving his first daughter, Ben reveals how these divine encounters can transform our faith and demonstrates how retirees can position themselves to witness amazing things in their own lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 expanding your own sense of purpose and fulfillment in ways you never imagined.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 retirement journey, creating opportunities for mutual growth and meaningful impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 conversation challenges retirees to make the conscious choice between settling for less and embracing the fullness that growth brings to retirement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 reveals practical steps for cultivating genuine contentment through life's unexpected challenges and blessings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 endless acquisition. This episode reveals how retirees can find satisfaction and peace in the sweet spot between scarcity and excess.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 satisfaction and tranquility in your post-career years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 winding down and offers hope for those ready to break through to a more vibrant, fulfilling retirement experience.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 called to make. This conversation transforms financial planning from mere wealth management into purpose-driven stewardship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 consume, intentionally scheduling positive experiences, and staying connected to what truly matters. This episode provides a roadmap for protecting your mental and emotional well-being while remaining engaged with the world around you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 retirement. Discover how the power of choice and meaning-making can help you overcome these common obstacles and step into the abundant retirement life that awaits you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 deeper alignment with his purpose and calling, demonstrating how stepping into authentic work can enhance both business and retirement fulfillment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 will help you transition into a truly Repurposed retirement. This foundational episode reveals why understanding work's divine purpose is essential for retirement fulfillment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 happiness formula applies to retirement and learn practical ways to strengthen these four pillars in your own life for exponentially greater fulfillment in your post-career years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 happiness formula applies to retirement and learn practical ways to strengthen these four pillars in your own life for exponentially greater fulfillment in your post-career years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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, and legacy. Learn how transitions, even difficult ones, can lead to greater authenticity and impact when they align with who you truly are and what you're called to do.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 the foundation for meaningful retirement choices and discover practical steps for aligning your retirement with who you truly are, not who others expect you to be.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building on last week's discussion of 'less is more,' Ben Taatjes shifts focus to the vital question: what deserves more of your attention in retirement? Discover the five essential areas that truly merit your energy, intention, and focus as you build a purposeful retirement. From relationships to personal growth, these key domains represent the foundation of a Repurposed life. Learn practical strategies for investing yourself in what matters most, creating a retirement that's not just simplified but genuinely fulfilling. This episode provides a clear roadmap for where to direct your time and energy once you've cleared away the non-essential.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inspired by Greg McKeown's 'Essentialism,' Ben Taatjes explores how the principle of 'less is more' can transform your retirement experience. Discover the two sides of retirement simplification: clearing away the distractions and clutter that drain your energy while making intentional space for what truly matters. Learn practical strategies for simplifying your financial plans, physical spaces, and day-to-day activities to create room for deeper connection with God, authentic purpose, and meaningful service to others. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on how retirement can become more fulfilling by doing less of what doesn't matter and more of what does.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this timely episode, Ben Taatjes explores how market turbulence reveals our true relationship with money. Discover why some retirees with modest savings experience freedom while others with multi-million dollar portfolios live in constant fear. Ben breaks down the critical distinction between wealth-focused and income-focused retirement strategies, offering practical insights for developing financial peace regardless of market conditions. Learn the antidote to market attachment and how to cultivate a mindset that allows you to thrive even during economic uncertainty.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this profound episode, Ben Taatjes tackles a cornerstone concept from his book 'Repurposed: The Untold Story of Retirement in America' - the critical distinction between wealth and income. Discover why fixating on account balances rather than sustainable cash flow often leads to what Ben calls 'The Money Disorder,' causing unnecessary stress and diminished quality of life in retirement. Learn practical strategies for making the mental shift from wealth accumulation to income generation, freeing yourself to enjoy retirement rather than merely preserving your nest egg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.