This week, Jim sits down with brand-new retiree Russell Jenson—whose “quiet summer” on a Minnesota lake turned into something far more unexpected. Just months after handing off his business, Russell suddenly found himself with an empty calendar, a pontoon boat, and a campground full of people who didn’t realize how ready they were for church. What began as one simple question—“Would you come if I kept it under 39 minutes?”—sparked a Sunday-morning gathering that surprised everyone…including Russell. 

You’ll hear: 

• How a former escape-room business owner ended up preaching (even though he introduced himself by insisting he wasn’t a pastor… right before doing everything a pastor does). 

• Why 32 campers rolled up in golf carts—bloody marys in hand—to join Russell’s first lakeside service. 

• The surprising story behind “9:39,” and why that oddly specific number worked. 

• How God used decades of leadership training, Dale Carnegie coaching, and team-building work to shape Russell’s unexpected next assignment. 

• Why having nothing on the calendar felt both terrifying and freeing—and how Russell and his wife are learning to listen for God’s direction one day at a time. 

• The rhythms Russell now keeps—coaching men, leading morning Bible studies, mentoring a young pastor in Pakistan—and why none of it was even on his radar 20 years ago. 

Russell’s story is a fresh, honest window into what can happen when retirement isn’t an escape from responsibility but an invitation from God. If your own next season feels foggy, his journey will encourage you to start with prayer, stay available, and trust that God’s assignments rarely waste your past experiences. 

Tune in for a heartfelt, humorous look at a man discovering what comes after “I’m done working”—and how a Minnesota lake became the classroom where God clarified Russell’s calling. 

Ready to plan and execute your retirement with Kingdom impact? Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (ships to US residents only).  

P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! 

FEATURING: Russell Jenson

ORGANIZATION: Retired business owner, coach, and educator

Retirement isn’t a biblical “off-ramp” from purpose. Scripture calls believers to live on mission as long as they have breath. Instead of drifting into a leisure-first mindset, Jim encourages listeners to view retirement as a God-assigned season of influence, service, and legacy. 

That’s why Jim and Martha want to send you the iRetire4Him book at no cost (just cover shipping). It equips you to approach retirement with clarity, calling, and joy. 

Inside, you'll discover guidance such as: 
• Why retirement should shift from comfort to Kingdom purpose 
• How staying rooted near family and community strengthens generational impact 
• Practical ideas for serving as a “fully funded missionary” in retirement 
• Encouragement for investing in younger families who need wisdom and presence 

Ready to plan and execute your retirement with Kingdom impact? Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (ships to US residents only).  

P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! 

FEATURING: Jim Brangenberg

ORGANIZATION: iRetire4Him

Based on your retirement years, how is God going to judge you when you stand before Him?  

In this episode of iRetire4Him, host Jim Brangenberg talks with Buck Jacobs, founder of C12 Group, the world’s largest network of Christian CEOs and executives building businesses for a greater purpose. Now in his 80s, he’s stepped away from leading C12, but Buck continues mentoring and discipling business leaders around the world, showing that God’s calling doesn’t end with age—it just looks different. 

Together, Jim and Buck discuss: 

• How making money or net worth is not what’s important when it comes to eternity 

• Why pouring into others is much more gratifying than focusing on leisure 

• How surrendering your time and experience to Christ leads to lasting joy and impact 

• The eternal rewards of staying faithful and fruitful in every phase of life 

• What God will say to each one of us when we encounter Him in heaven 

You can check out Buck’s YouVersion Bible study on Romans 8 for further encouragement on living a Spirit-led life of purpose.

FEATURING: Buck Jacobs

ORGANIZATION: C12 Group

In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg take a surprising trip across the pond—to Downton Abbey! While it may sound like a lighthearted detour, the grand finale of the beloved British series offers powerful lessons for every retired believer navigating life’s next transition. 

Retirement isn’t the end of purpose—it’s a new beginning. Drawing inspiration from characters like Mr. Carson, Mrs. Patmore, and Lady Mary, Jim and Martha unpack timeless truths about passing the baton, mentoring the next generation, and embracing change with grace. 

From the butler who wonders if his life’s work still matters, to the cook who lifts her apprentice into leadership, Downton Abbey becomes a mirror of what God calls us to in this season: to keep serving, teaching, and investing in others. Because as Jim reminds us, if you’ve got a pulse, you’ve got a purpose. 

Key Takeaways for Retirees 

• Retirement is not a 30-year vacation—it’s a calling to a new mission field. 

• Your wisdom and experience are needed now more than ever in your community and church. 

• Passing the baton well means mentoring others and celebrating their success. 

• Transition done with grace honors God and strengthens relationships. 

• As Downton Abbey reminds us: we move “forward into the future, not back into the past.” 

For Those Near or In Retirement 

Whether you’ve already stepped away from full-time work or are preparing to, this episode will encourage you to see this next chapter as a divinely appointed opportunity. God still has plans for you—to disciple, to serve, to pour into others—and to live fully in His purpose for your later years. 

____________________________________________________________________ 

Two incredible sponsors that made this show possible: 

• SaferNet VPN, more than just a sponsor – it's how Jim and Martha protect their devices at both work and home. With internet filters and controls along with antivirus, make sure you get SaferNet on your phones and computers! 

• Instead of giving money to businesses that don’t stand on biblical principles (far from it), take your wallet to Patriot Mobile, where you can get the same great cell service at an affordable rate, supporting faith, family, and freedom. Make the switch

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg

ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries