What do you do when you’re ready to retire—but God clearly says “not yet”? 

Julé Colvin, founder of Pathways to Growth, joins Jim and Martha to share her story of obedience, purpose, and preparation in her “retirement” years. After building a company that supports nonprofits through grant writing and leadership development, Julé sensed it was time to step back—until God asked her to stay and steward the legacy a little longer. 

In this heartfelt conversation, Julé opens up about coming to faith through a coworker’s example, how she sees her business as a Kingdom ministry, and the spiritual and strategic work of raising up leaders to carry the mission forward. 

Whether you're approaching retirement, rethinking what it means, or wondering how to multiply your impact in your later years, this episode will meet you right where you are. 

In This Episode You’ll Hear: 

• How Julé came to know Jesus because of someone who “Worked4Him” 

• What it looked like to take a year studying Scripture to rebuild the company as a Kingdom business 

• Why she believes retirement is more about redirection than release 

• The importance of discipling your team before transitioning out 

• Why she and her husband moved into a 55+ community as a missional decision 

• How she’s preparing for what’s next—and leaving room for a second (or third) retirement 

• Why “writing the vision” matters in the second half of life 

Scriptures Highlighted: 

• Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (think about this in terms of trust during your retirement years) 

• Psalm 92:12–15 – "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, ‘The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.’" 

Books Mentioned to Add to Your Reading List: 

• Business Secrets from the Bible by Rabbi Daniel Lapin 

• From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks 

• iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement by Jim and Martha Brangenberg 

FEATURING: Julé Colvin 

ORGANIZATION: Pathways to Growth  

What happens when both spouses retire—and suddenly share the same space, time, and rhythm every day? 

In this fun and down-to-earth episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha welcome Rodney and Donna Smith to talk candidly about their first few months navigating retirement together. The Smiths explore how they’ve adjusted to being home at the same time, what it looks like to merge their different daily habits, and how they're slowly easing into volunteering and serving others. They also highlight the importance of communication, separate time, and letting go of rigid expectations. 

Whether you’re already retired or thinking about what’s next, this episode offers encouragement, humor, and practical wisdom for couples who want to walk through this season with grace—and a little bit of fun! 

In this episode: 

• How men and women often experience retirement differently 

• The unexpected adjustments of sharing the same space full-time 

• Starting (and restarting) retirement goals like volunteering and fitness 

• The power of routines, rest, and giving each other room 

• Why flexibility and friendship matter more than a perfect plan 

FEATURING: Rodney & Donna Smith 

MINISTRY: Caregiver, Church and Community Volunteers

Retirement can be a radical shift—especially for those of us who’ve spent decades with a full calendar, steady routine, and career identity. In this episode of iRetire4Him, we sit down with Rodney Smith, a recently retired wildland firefighter and forester with over 33 years of service. Rodney reflects on the early days of his retirement, the transition from government work to community involvement, and what it’s really like joining his already-retired wife at home. 

Rodney shares candidly about: 

• The calling that shaped his career and continues to guide his retirement 

• What it was like cutting down the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree in 2022 

• His new role in serving family, church, and community 

• The surprise challenges of adapting to his wife’s well-established routine 

• Why he’s approaching retirement as a time for deeper purpose, not just rest 

Whether you’re preparing to retire or already navigating your own post-career season, this episode offers both humor and hope. Rodney’s story reminds us that retirement isn’t an end—it’s a shift into meaningful new beginnings. 

Be sure to tune in next week to hear Rodney and Donna’s joint interview! 

Connect with iRetire4Him: 

• Newsletter: www.iwork4him.com/iretire4him/join 

• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@iRetire4Him 

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/iRetire4Him 

FEATURING: Rodney Smith

MINISTRY: Caregiver, Church and Community Volunteer 

In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg connect with Donna Smith of Asheboro, North Carolina, for a candid and encouraging conversation about what retirement looks like from a woman’s point of view. Donna shares how her faith journey was rekindled through her relationship with her husband Rodney, how caregiving has shaped her early retirement years, and what she’s learning as she navigates this new chapter of life. 

Whether you're approaching retirement or already in it, Donna’s story offers relatable insight, practical encouragement, and a gentle reminder that retirement is not an end—it’s a beginning. 

What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 

• How Donna’s retirement began sooner than expected and why the timing turned out to be divine 

• The powerful influence of faith, family, and community in shaping her retirement years 

• What she discovered while organizing a women’s small group using the iRetire4Him study 

• Her favorite reminders: “If you have a pulse, you have a purpose” and “If you’re not dead, you’re not done” 

• A lighthearted look at how retirement routines change when both spouses are home 

Resources Mentioned: 

• iRetire4Him book that Donna used for a small group study: iwork4him.com/bookstore 

• Ministry resource for caregivers: Season of Caring – aseasonofcaring.com 

• Book recommendation: Spouse in the House by former iWork4Him and iRetire4Him guest Cynthia Ruchti 

A Word of Encouragement: 

Retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about shifting focus. Whether you’re helping aging parents, encouraging a neighbor, or simply sitting on the porch with your spouse, give purpose to every moment. 

Connect With Us: 

• Interested in bringing Jim and Martha to speak to your church or community retiree group? Email Jim@iwork4him.com for details. 

• Subscribe to the iRetire4Him YouTube Channel 

• Follow iRetire4Him on Facebook  

• Sign up to start getting the iRetire4Him Newsletter 

FEATURING: Donna Smith

MINISTRY: Caregiver, Church and Community Volunteer

What if retirement wasn’t about slowing down, but stepping into something more purposeful? 

In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg sit down with Mike Henry, the founder of Follower of One. Now in his 60s, Mike shares how God stirred his heart not to retire from something, but to lean into a new mission: helping everyday Christians live their faith right where they are—whether that’s at work, at home, or even in line at the coffee shop. 

If you’ve ever wondered, “Now what?”—this conversation is full of encouragement and practical next steps. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Why retirement is a chance to choose how you serve, not just stop working. 

• What the Follower of One community is all about, and how it equips believers to live out their faith. 

• How “Marketplace Mission Trips” work, and why you don’t need a suitcase or passport to take one – or even a marketplace! 

• Why your life experience matters more than ever—and how to share it with others who need it. 

• How simple daily choices, like being present and available, can become powerful acts of ministry. 

How You Can Get Involved: 

1. Join a Marketplace Mission Trip 
   Experience a weeklong “trip” that teaches you how to see your daily life as your mission field. No travel required—just a willingness to be intentional where you already are. 

1. Join the Online Community 
   Meet others who are choosing to live their faith with purpose—retirees, working professionals, students, and everyone in between.  

1. Lead a Small Group at Your Church 
   Use Follower of One’s six-week discussion guide to start a faith-at-work group. It's simple to lead and a great way to pour into other generations. 

1. Support the Ministry Financially 
   Follower of One is donor-supported. Your contributions help equip more believers to live on mission every day. 

1. Bring the Mission Trip Experience to Your Church 
   Help your church expand its impact by offering a Marketplace Mission Trip alongside traditional mission opportunities. Follower of One makes it easy to implement and customize your church’s needs. 

Why It’s Worth Your Time: 

Retirement doesn’t mean your influence stops. In fact, it may just be the beginning of your most impactful season yet. You’ve got wisdom, experience, and time—three powerful tools for Kingdom work. Whether you’re 55 or 85, Follower of One offers a simple, practical way to keep making a difference. 

Connect with iRetire4Him: 

• Newsletter: www.iwork4him.com/iretire4him/join 

• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@iRetire4Him 

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/iRetire4Him 

FEATURING: Mike Henry, Sr. 

MINISTRY: Follower of One

Joan Farley shares her remarkable journey of saying “yes” to God throughout her life—including in retirement. From her childhood as a missionary kid to global ministry with her husband Charles, Joan’s story is marked by trust, resilience, and purpose. 

Now at 70, Joan is a published author of the Christian fiction novel Letters to Cassie, written to encourage and mentor young women. She also shares about caregiving for her 99-year-old mother, missionary trips with her husband, and even discovering and developing new skills later in life. 

Highlights: 

• A life of global service and flexibility in following God’s lead 

• The power of mentoring and writing fiction with spiritual depth 

• Facing health challenges in retirement with faith and purpose 

• Why investing in people is the only legacy that lasts 

Takeaway: 
Retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new season for impact. Whether through mentoring, writing, caregiving, or creative pursuits, God still has more for you. 

Get the Book: 
Letters to Cassie is available on Amazon—perfect for a granddaughter, a young woman in your church, or a teen who needs encouragement! 

Connect with iRetire4Him: 

• Newsletter: www.iwork4him.com/iretire4him/join 

• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@iRetire4Him 

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/iRetire4Him 

FEATURING: Joan Farley

MINISTRY: Letters to Cassie

This episode, host Jim Brangenberg takes us to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to meet Paul Nichols, who discovered that retirement isn't about having a rigid plan but about being obedient to God's daily calling. After 30 years with the United Auto Workers, Paul has spent the last 20+ years in retirement serving as a chaplain to workers and retirees—conducting funerals, weddings, hospital visits, and providing spiritual guidance. His story shows what happens when you stay available to serve where God has already planted you. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR YOU 

• Your retirement years can be even more purposeful and fulfilling than your working years when you remain available to serve others. 

• Meeting people "right where they're at" without judgment creates opportunities for genuine ministry and meaningful connections. 

• Staying physically and mentally active through community involvement, recreation, and service is vital for a vibrant retirement. 

• The workplace relationships, skills, and industry knowledge you've built over decades can become your most effective ministry platform. 

YOUR NEXT STEP 

Consider providing chaplaincy-like support in your former workplace or community. You don't need an official title to be present during others' celebrations or crises. Check if your industry has chaplaincy programs you could join, or simply be available to those who already know and trust you. 

CONNECT WITH US 

Ready for your retirement years to become 30+ years of purpose-driven, fully-funded ministry? Your next chapter awaits! 

• Website: iRetire4Him.com 

• Facebook: @iRetire4Him 

• YouTube: @iRetire4Him 

FEATURING: Paul Nichols

MINISTRY: Retired United Auto Workers Chaplain

In this inspiring episode, Jim sits down with Jeff Wilson—longtime friend, brother-in-law, and faithful servant-leader—to explore how retirement can be a season of joyful purpose and ministry. Jeff reflects on his first year of retirement and how he's rediscovering meaning through family, church involvement, and a soon-to-begin part-time job in transit driving. If you're contemplating retirement or wondering what comes next, Jeff’s story is a testament to the idea that retirement is not the end—it’s a new beginning. 

Key Highlights: 

• Serving Through Simplicity 
  Jeff shares how he's embraced roles like leading a small group at church and preparing to drive a community transit bus—all with a heart to serve. 

• Family and Faith Connections 
  In a fun twist, listeners learn that Jeff is Jim’s brother-in-law—and has known him since age 11! They reflect on the examples set by their parents and the different ways retirees are embracing (or avoiding) purposeful living. 

• A Call to Engage 
  Jeff urges retirees to plug into their local church and community, offering themselves for whatever is needed—whether sweeping floors or leading Bible studies. 

GIVEAWAY ALERT: 

Win a FREE autographed copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement! Here’s how: 

1. Subscribe to the iRetire4Him YouTube channel. 

1. Email your YouTube username to Jim@iWork4Him.com. 

2. Be one of 3 lucky winners! 

Final Word: 

“Seek, and God will provide.” — Jeff Wilson 

Whether you’re nearing retirement or already in it, this episode will encourage you to see this life stage as one full of Kingdom potential. 

FEATURING: Jeff Wilson 

MINISTRY: Former iWork4Him Ministries Board Chairman

In this powerful episode, Jim Brangenberg shares a heartfelt message about the real purpose of retirement. Many retirees have been led to believe that retirement is solely about relaxation and pleasure, but Jim challenges this idea, revealing it’s a lie that sidelines some of the most valuable members of God's kingdom. 

Instead of stepping back, retirees have an incredible opportunity to step forward—mentoring, serving, and influencing the next generation. Whether through volunteering, mentoring younger believers, or simply loving neighbors well, every retiree has a role to play in restoring faith and culture in our communities. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Retirement isn't the end of your calling. If you have a pulse, you have a purpose. 

• Faith in action transforms culture. Engage with those around you, share wisdom, and serve others. 

• You are needed. The next generation is searching for guidance, and your experience and faith can help shape the future. 

• Find your new mission. Whether through politics, community service, mentoring, or local outreach, there is work to be done. 

Get Involved: 

• Visit iRetire4Him.com for more resources and past episodes. 

• Check out the book iRetire4Him for inspiring stories and practical guidance. 

• Have a story about living out your faith in retirement? Email Jim at Jim@iWork4Him.com - he’d love to hear from you! 

FEATURING: Jim Brangenberg

MINISTRY: iRetire4Him

Retirement is often seen as the finish line, but what if it’s actually a new starting point? In this episode, Jim and Martha Brangenberg sit down with Ross Harrop, whose so-called "retirement" has been anything but restful! After 33 years with the Boy Scouts of America and time as an executive pastor, Ross found himself searching for purpose in his next chapter. Instead of slowing down, he leaned into God’s plan and discovered a new calling as a C12 chair, mentoring Christian business leaders. 

Join us as Ross shares how faith, business, and retirement intersect, and how God can use every season of our lives for His glory. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• The role of C12 in transforming Christian business leaders 

• How God has been preparing you for your “retirement” years 

• How to recognize and step into God’s plan for your next chapter 

• The power of mentorship and discipleship in the workplace 

Thinking About Your Next Season? 
Whether you’re approaching retirement or just wondering what’s next, this conversation will inspire you to keep pursuing God’s purpose for your life.

Resources & Links: 

• Learn more about C12 

• Support iRetire4Him and your biblical values by switching to Patriot Mobile: PatriotMobile.com/iWork4Him 

• Protect your business with SaferNet 

Connect with Us: 

• Website: iWork4Him.com/iRetire4Him 

• Follow the iRetire4Him Facebook page 

Enjoyed this episode? 
Subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave us a review to help more people integrate faith and work! 

Let’s redefine retirement – together. 

FEATURING: Ross Harrop 

MINISTRY: C12