Retirement isn’t just about slowing down. It’s about stepping into a chapter that feels alive with meaning and joy.

In this episode, I speak with Joy Levin, President of Gen X Exec Encore and Certified Professional Retirement Coach, about how Gen X women can reimagine retirement as an encore to life. Together, we explore how to shift from career identity to personal fulfillment, build meaningful relationships, and create a future that truly lights you up.

Joy discusses:

• The challenges Gen X professionals face when leaving long careers and redefining purpose
• Her “Mix Tapes to Meaning” framework, built around the five Rs: rewind, remix, reset, reconnect, and revive
• The role of consulting, volunteering, and passion projects in crafting an encore life
• How small actions and social connections can transform fulfillment in retirement
• Practical ways couples can align different visions of their retirement years
• And more!

Resources:

• Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap

Connect with Eric Blake:

• www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com
• Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter
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• Blake Wealth Management
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Connect with Joy Levin:

• LinkedIn: Joy Levin
• Website: Gen X Exec Encore
• Email: jlevin@genxencorelife.com

About our Guest:

Joy Levin is the Founder and President of Gen X Exec Encore. In working with Gen X high-achieving professionals, she recognizes that for many, this next phase isn’t about traditional retirement—it’s about creating an encore that blends passion, purpose, and new opportunities.

As a market research consultant and entrepreneur for nearly three decades, Joy has guided executives and business owners across industries in making strategic, well-informed decisions. Like many Gen Xers, she wants a future in which she can remain productive, explore meaningful pursuits, and build new connections. With an honest, warm, friendly and highly professional approach, she guides accomplished professionals to discover their next purpose-driven chapter, empowering them to create an encore life with confidence and clarity.