The Hidden Side of Retirement: Identity, Purpose, and Life After the Career Ends

Send us Fan Mail You can spend decades preparing financially for retirement... and still find yourself completely unprepared for what comes next. So why do so many women feel a little lost once their careers end? **We're revisiting one of our most thought-provoking conversations in this encore episode of the Ageless Glamour Girls™ Podcast.** Host Marqueeta Curtis-Haynes sits down with Cheryl Fimbel, author of *The Hidden Side of Retirement: What Nobody Tells You About Identity, Purpose, and Life After Your Career Ends*, for an honest conversation about one of life's biggest transitions. Originally released in April 2026, this episode remains just as timely and relevant for anyone approaching retirement - or already navigating this important season of life. After a 45-year career in healthcare leadership, Cheryl entered retirement financially prepared - but emotionally caught off guard. Together, Marqueeta and Cheryl unpack the unexpected challenges that often accompany retirement, from the loss of identity and routine to redefining purpose and rebuilding meaningful connections. Cheryl also shares why the first 90 days matter, how to avoid rushing into reinvention, and practical ways to begin building a meaningful and fulfilling next chapter. Most importantly, she reminds us of something we all need to hear: **"You are not broken. You're in transition."** And yes - we also celebrate the joys of retirement: more freedom, more time with the people you love, new adventures, and the opportunity to create a life that's truly your own. Whether retirement is years away, just around the corner, or already part of your story, this conversation offers practical wisdom, reassurance, and hope for the journey ahead. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN • Why retirement is as much an emotional transition as a financial one • Why so many women experience identity loss after leaving a long career • What really happens during the first 90 days - and why it matters • Why feeling lost doesn't mean you're broken • Practical ways to rebuild purpose, structure, and social connection • How to embrace this next season with confidence and intention \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\** ABOUT OUR GUEST Cheryl Fimbel is the author of *The Hidden Side of Retirement: What Nobody Tells You About Identity, Purpose, and Life After Your Career Ends*. Drawing on 45 years of experience in healthcare leadership and organizational change, she helps people prepare not only for the financial side of retirement, but also for the emotional transition that follows. Website: https://www.crownyearsmedia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chfimbel/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/250148128-the-hidden-side-of-retirement Support the show **Support Ageless Glamour Girls™:** - www.agelessglamourgirls.com - www.linkedin.com/in/marqueetacurtishaynes - https://www.shopltk.com/explore/AgelessGlamourGirls - https://www.youtube.com/@agelessglamourgirls - Instagram @agelessglamourgirls - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agelessglamourgirls - Private (AGG) FB Group: The Ageless Café: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theagelesscafe - TikTok: @agelessglamourgirls - Podcast Producers: Ageless Glamour Girls™ and Purple Tulip Media, LLC