Repurposed

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.

In the final installment of our 'Time, Talent, and Treasure' series, Ben Taatjes moves beyond traditional retirement planning to examine your relationship with money. While having a sound financial strategy is essential, understanding how to steward your resources in alignment with your purpose is equally important. Through 10 thought-provoking questions, Ben helps you explore money's proper role in your life and retirement. Discover how to transform your perspective on wealth from simply funding leisure to fueling impact and leaving a meaningful legacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Continuing our 'Time, Talent, and Treasure' series, Ben Taatjes addresses how retirees often undervalue their accumulated skills and abilities. Learn how to identify and redeploy your talents in retirement through powerful reflection questions like 'What was your best day at work?' Discover practical approaches to using your expertise in new and fulfilling ways, and understand how identifying who you want to impact can give direction to your talents. This episode provides a roadmap for moving beyond career constraints to express your abilities in ways that create meaningful impact in retirement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this first installment of our 'Time, Talent, and Treasure' series, Ben Taatjes explores the critical foundation of retirement fulfillment: how you steward your time. Discover 10 powerful questions that will help you evaluate and maximize this precious resource in retirement. Learn practical strategies for moving beyond simply filling hours to investing time in ways that align with your purpose. This episode provides essential guidance for transforming time management from a retirement challenge into an opportunity for meaningful impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building on our previous episode, Ben Taatjes provides a real-world demonstration of how a Repurposed Statement transforms from words to action. Using his own purpose statement and financial practice as an example, Ben illustrates the practical process of implementing purpose in retirement. Discover the powerful connection between clearly defining your purpose and experiencing genuine fulfillment in your retirement years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this transformative episode, Ben Taatjes reveals how to create a personalized Repurposed Statement that serves as your guiding framework for retirement. Learn the four essential components of this powerful document and discover how childhood experiences often hold the key to understanding your true purpose. Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, this step-by-step approach will help you develop a clear vision that aligns with God's design for your life and brings new meaning to your retirement years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drawing inspiration from Blue Zones research, Ben Taatjes explores how retirement is evolving beyond the traditional model of career, leisure, and decline. Discover why the conventional approach to retirement often leads to a mediocre existence that falls short of God's design for your life. Learn practical insights for reimagining your retirement years as a time of purpose, growth, and meaningful impact. This episode challenges outdated retirement thinking and offers a fresh perspective on creating a retirement that resonates with your deepest calling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode, Ben Taatjes challenges society's ageist messages that diminish retirees' sense of value and purpose. Learn why maintaining and growing your desire is crucial for a fulfilling retirement, and how to combat the subtle messages that can dampen your aspirations. Discover practical strategies for nurturing ambition and expanding your vision during retirement, regardless of what society says about aging. This conversation will inspire you to not just maintain but increase your desire for impact and purpose in your retirement years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this concluding episode of our decision-making series, Ben Taatjes completes the 10-step framework for making the retirement decision. Learn how to explore alternative options, test decisions before executing them, and properly analyze risk factors. Discover practical strategies for moving from analysis to action while maintaining confidence in your retirement choice. This episode provides the final pieces of the puzzle for making one of life's most significant transitions with clarity and purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this first of two episodes, Ben Taatjes introduces a powerful 10-step framework for making the retirement decision. Learn how to identify whether your retirement hesitation stems from job concerns, financial uncertainty, or deeper issues. This episode breaks down the first half of this strategic approach, giving you practical tools to evaluate one of life's most significant transitions with clarity and confidence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this thought-provoking episode, Ben Taatjes examines how pride can subtly reshape our retirement into a self-centered journey rather than a purpose-filled adventure. Learn why true fulfillment in retirement comes not from making it all about ourselves, but through serving others and aligning with our Creator's design. Discover how to recognize pride's influence in your retirement planning and how to shift toward a more meaningful, outward-focused approach that reflects God's purpose for your life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building on our previous episode, Ben Taatjes dives deeper into the contrasts between being retired and being Repurposed, with special focus on creating a life of true significance. Discover how shifting your retirement mindset from leisure to legacy can transform your golden years into some of your most meaningful. Learn practical ways to move beyond traditional retirement thinking and embrace a purpose-driven approach that makes your life count for something bigger than yourself.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this eye-opening first installment, Ben Taatjes challenges conventional retirement wisdom by exploring the crucial distinction between being 'retired' and being 'Repurposed.' Discover why society's traditional view of retirement may be holding you back, and learn the fundamental concepts that can transform your retirement from an ending into a new beginning. This episode lays the groundwork for understanding how to approach retirement with purpose and intentionality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this first episode of 2025, Ben Taatjes draws inspiration from two powerful C.S. Lewis quotes to challenge our thinking about retirement and purpose. Discover why it's never too late to dream big dreams and how focusing on eternal perspectives can transform your earthly experience. Ben explores how your retirement vision directly impacts your joy, peace, and fulfillment, offering fresh perspectives on creating space for God to work in powerful ways through your retirement years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this year-end episode, Ben Taatjes breaks down the fundamental philosophy of 'time, talent, and treasure' and its crucial role in retirement planning. Learn practical strategies to leverage these three key assets for a more expansive and purposeful 2025. Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, discover how doubling down on these essential elements can transform your retirement from a season of rest into one of unprecedented impact and fulfillment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartfelt episode, Ben Taatjes and Jerrid step away from our throwback series to reflect on 2024's journey of both triumphs and trials. Together, they explore how life's challenges, while difficult in the moment, often become catalysts for our greatest personal growth. Through candid conversation, they discuss how these moments of adversity can strengthen our faith and understanding of God's purpose in our lives. Whether you're in a season of celebration or facing obstacles, this episode offers perspective on embracing both the highs and lows as opportunities for growth and deeper connection with God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful conclusion to our two-part series exploring wealth in retirement, Ben Taatjes dives deeper into practical strategies for breaking free from the "wealth preservation trap." Building on last week's discussion of why retirees often struggle to spend their hard-earned savings, this episode reveals how to transform your relationship with money to create meaningful impact during your lifetime. Discover how strategic giving, intentional family experiences, and Kingdom-focused investments can help you build a legacy that's richer than any inheritance you could leave behind.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this throwback episode from our archives, Ben Taatjes explores the vital first two layers of your social ecosystem: community and friendships. As we celebrate the upcoming revised edition of 'Repurposed,' this timeless discussion reveals how retirement impacts your social connections and provides strategies to maintain meaningful relationships during this transition. Learn practical steps to preserve and strengthen your social bonds, ensuring retirement doesn't mean losing your sense of belonging.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this archival episode from 2020, recorded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben Taatjes shares four practical strategies for maintaining a vibrant social life in retirement. As we celebrate the upcoming release of Repurposed Version 2, this episode demonstrates how retirement principles adapt to challenging circumstances. Learn timeless wisdom about social connection that remains relevant whether facing a global pandemic or the everyday challenges of retirement transition.

Join us for a special throwback episode as we revisit Episode 2 of Retire Repurposed, where Ben Taatjes introduces the powerful concept of 'The Showroom Effect.' As Ben prepares to release a revised version of his 2017 book 'Repurposed: The Untold Story of Retirement in America,' we're diving into the archives to explore this foundational principle that remains just as relevant today. Discover why putting retirement on a pedestal can impact your transition and learn timeless insights that have helped shape countless retirement journeys over the past seven years.

In this powerful conclusion to our mini-series, Ben Taatjes distills seven years of retirement insights since publishing "Repurposed: The Untold Story of Retirement in America." From redefining work's role in retirement to mastering the psychology of spending, Ben weaves together the most transformative lessons that have shaped thousands of retirees' journeys. Plus, he drops an exciting announcement – a revised edition of "Repurposed" is in the works! Whether you're planning for retirement or already there, these battle-tested insights will revolutionize how you think about your next chapter. 

In this powerful conclusion to our two-part series exploring wealth in retirement, Ben Taatjes dives deeper into practical strategies for breaking free from the "wealth preservation trap." Building on last week's discussion of why retirees often struggle to spend their hard-earned savings, this episode reveals how to transform your relationship with money to create meaningful impact during your lifetime. Discover how strategic giving, intentional family experiences, and Kingdom-focused investments can help you build a legacy that's richer than any inheritance you could leave behind.

We examine a common phenomenon among retirees who've spent decades meticulously building their nest eggs. Rather than shifting to a mindset of strategic "decumulation" in retirement, many find themselves holding onto their wealth, often to a fault or until it's too late to truly enjoy it. Taking insights from Bill Perkins' book "Die With Zero," Ben challenges this conventional thinking and presents a compelling case for why leaving substantial wealth behind might not be the legacy you should strive for.

In this episode of Retire Repurposed, we delve deeper into the lessons learned since Ben published his book "Repurposed" in 2017. We explore the critical issue of identity in retirement and how retirees grapple with finding purpose after leaving careers that once defined them. Drawing insights from C.S. Lewis's "Mere Christianity," Ben discusses three common responses people have when searching for fulfillment in this new chapter of life. In this episode, we unpack the complexities of reinventing oneself in retirement and discover strategies for a purposeful post-career life.

In this episode of Retire Repurposed, we continue our miniseries exploring insights gained since Ben Taatjes wrote "Repurposed" in 2017. We delve into the concept of identity in retirement, discussing how retirees can avoid a "role-less role" and find fulfillment beyond societal expectations. Drawing on the idea of liminality, we examine how Christian retirees can focus on becoming more Christ-like rather than adhering to worldly retirement ideals. Ben shares inspiring examples from his recent trip to the Black Hills, where he witnessed clients living out this purposeful approach to retirement.

In this latest episode of Retire Repurposed, we continue our mini-series exploring newfound lessons since the publication of Ben's book, "Repurposed," in 2017. Today, we dive into the crucial concept of "walking into your greatness" during retirement, emphasizing how this phase of life offers a prime opportunity for self-actualization and the full expression of one's God-given gifts. In this podcast, we discuss how retirement can be a time of profound personal growth, self-discovery, and allowing your inner light to shine brightly, fulfilling the unique plan for your life.

The retirement conversation is primarily about financial planning and wealth accumulation. Oftentimes, our focus on money can overshadow what truly matters to our loved ones. Through a client story, BenTaatjes reveals the unexpected reaction of someone inheriting a large sum from a deceased parent. This episode reminds listeners that while financial security is important, the most valuable legacy we can leave is often our time and presence.

In his 2017 book, "Repurposed: The Untold Story of Retirement in America," Ben Taatjes explores various aspects of retirement, with one of his favorite chapters delving into the nuanced distinction between wealth and income. Since the book's publication, Taatjes has become increasingly attuned to the challenges retirees often encounter when transitioning from a savings-oriented mindset to one focused on spending. In this episode, Ben shares valuable insights on how to recalibrate your perspective regarding retirement savings and net worth, offering guidance on navigating this crucial paradigm shift for a more fulfilling retirement experience.

Since publishing his book "Repurposed: The Untold Story of Retirement in America" in 2017, Ben Taatjes has persistently expanded his message about redefining the narrative surrounding one's post-career years. A recurring theme in Ben's work is his growing recognition of the profound impact and positive aspects of employment on individuals, both before and after retirement. In this episode, Ben Taatjes breaks down four reasons why work remains an integral component of a person's life, regardless of their retirement status.

What defines a fulfilling retirement? Is it travel, financial stability, or leisure activities? While each of these elements has its place, retirees who focus solely on these facets often find themselves unfulfilled. In this podcast, Ben Taatjes uncovers the deeper, often overlooked aspects that truly contribute to a meaningful retirement

Through marketing and media, society gives you its version of success in retirement. However, in our experience, retirees that shift their paradigm on “success” transition better into and have more fulfilling retirements. In this podcast, Ben Taatjes will give you four specific areas you need to re-evaluate your view of success in retirement.

For numerous individuals, retirement serves as a challenging transition. Often portrayed as life's peak, this perception can leave retirees grappling with a sense of unease. Tune in to this podcast as Ben Taatjes sheds light on the normalization of post-retirement uncertainties. He encourages retirees to acknowledge and accept their emotions, emphasizing the importance of validating their experiences by discarding the notion of 'I shouldn't feel this way

Today, we explore the vital role of routines, especially during significant life changes like retirement. Creating and maintaining a routine not only provides structure but also fosters a sense of continuity and fulfillment. In this podcast, Ben Taatjes will discuss practical strategies and insights to help you navigate this new chapter with confidence and purpose.

Life is just a series of transitions. So, when it comes to dealing with the inevitable transitions of life, having realistic expectations is the key.  In this podcast, Ben Taatjes will talk about resetting your expectations for your relationships in retirement and he will also explain the reason you should never set your expectations too high.

Life is just a series of transitions. Oftentimes, people underestimate the effect these transitions have on their lives, especially when it comes to retirement. In this podcast, Ben Taatjes uses a personal story about his daughter to shed light a give insight for retirees making major life transitions.