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 CourageousRetirement.com!

Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona.

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 CourageousRetirement.com!

Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona.

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 CourageousRetirement.com!

Schedule a free 15 minute Your Path to More call with Vona.