iRetire4Him

FEATURING: Ken & Patti Sandel ORGANIZATION: Apartment Life What does it look like to turn an apartment complex into a mission field? Meet Ken and Patti Sandel, a couple in their 70s and 80s who are living on purpose inside a Tennessee apartment community where they host gatherings, build trust, and show up daily for neighbors who need a listening ear or steady presence. Instead of choosing typical comfort in retirement, Ken and Patti followed a different calling – one that placed them in a community many would overlook. Through simple, consistent presence, they’re creating connection, offering care, and demonstrating what it means to truly love your neighbor right where you live. What you’ll hear in the episode: Why Ken and Patti chose mission over leisure in retirement How Apartment Life creates opportunities to build community and share faith What it practically looks like to love and serve neighbors in an apartment setting The challenges of building trust in a hurting and skeptical community Simple, relational ways to make a lasting impact (from events to everyday presence) The unexpected moments where ministry becomes deeply personal Why living among people changes everything Ken and Patti’s story is a reminder that purpose isn’t tied to a season of life. It’s rooted in obedience. Whether in an apartment complex, neighborhood, or workplace, there’s an invitation to live with intention and bring Jesus into everyday spaces and moments. If you’re wondering what your next season could look like, consider exploring Apartment Life and how you might step into a mission field right where people are already living. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Roy Goble ORGANIZATION: Junkyard Wisdom Seven years after first appearing on iWork4Him, author, business leader, and “junkyard philosopher” Roy Goble joins Jim and Martha Brangenberg on iRetire4Him to talk about life in what many people would call the retirement years. But Roy says he never got the memo about slowing down. Now closer to 70 than 60, he’s still running Goble Properties, writing Junkyard Wisdom devotionals, and finding joy in serving others through his work and generosity. Drawing from lessons learned growing up in his father’s junkyard, Roy shares how faith, purpose, and generosity continue to shape the way he approaches this season of life – and why retirement doesn’t mean stepping away from meaningful impact. What You’ll Hear in This Episode The deeper joy he finds in serving people through his work today Why Roy’s motivation has shifted from ambition to impact The role generosity plays in Roy’s family foundation and legacy planning How writing Junkyard Wisdom devotionals opens doors for ministry What Roy hopes the “final quarter” of life will be known for If you’d like to receive Roy’s daily encouragement, you can sign up for his “Junkyard Wisdom” devotional emails, where he shares short reflections on faith, leadership, generosity, and everyday life. For Roy, retirement isn’t about stepping away from purpose. It’s about continuing to live out your calling – faithfully, generously, and with love – right up to the very end.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim Brangenberg ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries Our culture often treats retirement as the finish line, but Scripture never describes it that way. Followers of Jesus never retire from their calling to serve, lead, and love their communities. In this episode, Jim shares why he’s stepping into an unexpected new role: running for mayor of his small Missouri town. After decades of ministry encouraging believers in the workplace, Jim realized that the same calling applies long after traditional careers end. God had placed him in a community, given him relationships and influence, and opened the door to serve. The question became simple: Would he step forward or stay on the sidelines? In this episode, you’ll hear: Why retirement doesn’t mean stepping away from purpose How God used a move to a small town to open unexpected doors for influence The biblical idea that everyone around us should benefit from our faith in Jesus Why Christians withdrawing from civic life has left a leadership gap How retirees often have the experience, wisdom, and time their communities desperately need A challenge to consider serving locally, from school boards to city councils to community leadership Jim reminds listeners that the greatest enemy isn’t another candidate or political party. It’s the spiritual battle for the hearts and well-being of our communities. And that means believers are needed now more than ever. Instead of simply watching what happens in our cities, counties, and neighborhoods, what if we asked God where He wants us to serve next? Your career may have ended, but your mission hasn’t. Your experience, wisdom, and faith might be exactly what your community needs right now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Bob Tiede ORGANIZATION: Leading with Questions At 77, Bob Tiede isn’t slowing down – he’s doubling down on purpose. In this episode of iRetire4Him, he explains why retirement isn’t about stepping away, but stepping into your most strategic years of influence (just like Moses, Joshua, and Caleb). Bob admits he once led as a “benevolent dictator:” kind but convinced a leader’s job was to figure it out and tell others what to do. Everything changed when he discovered a better model: lead with questions. Here’s what that might look like: In leadership roles, ask: “What do you think we should do?” Let others talk 80% of the time. Follow up with: “Tell me more.” In mentoring, ask deeper questions like: “What three or four events most shaped who you are today?” Why? Because when people answer their own questions, they own the outcome. And when they feel heard, they trust you. Bob also shares how this approach bridges generations. Younger leaders don’t want lectures. They want someone genuinely curious about their story. Ask well, listen carefully, and watch how influence grows naturally. His newest book, Success Unlocked, features 39 of the most impactful blog posts from over 1,300 blog articles on question-based leadership. Interested in putting your experience to work? Bob invites retirees to coach emerging leaders through Cru, just one hour every other week for two years (training provided). Just reach out to Bob at bob.tiede@cru.org. Retirement isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about asking better questions! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Rhonda Stoppe ORGANIZATION: No Regrets Woman Rhonda Stoppe joins Jim & Martha Brangenberg on iRetire4Him to talk honestly about marriage, mentoring, and purpose in the retirement years. Drawing from her own story, Rhonda explains why “old ladies know stuff” isn’t about having it all together but about sharing wisdom shaped by both faithfulness and failure. She addresses the rise of “gray divorce,” the lie that happiness comes after leaving a long-term marriage, and why retirement requires couples to intentionally create new rhythms. Rhonda shares practical insights on staying connected in marriage, setting healthy boundaries in mentoring relationships, and avoiding the trap of becoming roommates in this season of life. Rhonda also gives a glimpse into life after her husband Steve’s retirement, from ranch life and caring for family to cheering each other on as callings shift but don’t disappear. She encourages retirees to step into mentoring roles, build new and deep community, and stay spiritually engaged rather than checking out. The conversation highlights Rhonda’s podcast, Old Ladies Know Stuff, along with several of her books, including The Marriage Mentor (co-written with her husband Steve), Moms Raising Sons to Be Men, A Christian Woman’s Guide to Great Sex and Marriage, and her upcoming release Moms of the Bible. Check them out! Other episode mentions: Past interview with Rhonda and her husband Steve from iWork4Him: “Marriage Mentoring Saves Marriages” iRetire4Him Podcast episode featuring Cynthia Ruchti, discussing her book Spouse in the House Rhonda is speaking at the Legacy Grandparenting Summit in Dallas, March 19–21, and invites you to come, too. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Victor Dawson ORGANIZATION: Summit Group International What would change if you saw every day as an opportunity to live on mission? In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg sit down with Victor Dawson, author of As You Go, to reframe how believers view retirement through the lens of the Great Commission. Victor challenges the cultural idea of “being done” and invites listeners into a purposeful, faith-filled way of living that continues well beyond a paycheck. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Why Jesus’ words in Matthew 28:19 are better understood as “as you go,” not “go somewhere” How retirement creates new freedom to live out faith in daily, ordinary moments Victor’s lifelong purpose statement and how it guides his daily decisions The role prayer plays in noticing divine opportunities Why sharing your faith doesn’t carry the pressure to “save” anyone How mentoring and discipleship often become mutual, life-giving relationships A powerful mentoring story that shows how God’s Word truly does not return void Simple ways to spark meaningful faith conversations anywhere life takes you Victor Dawson brings the “as you go” message to life through a long-term mentoring relationship with Brett, a younger man navigating faith, career pressure, and personal crisis. What began as intentional discipleship over coffee became a relationship marked by deep trust, spiritual growth, and mutual encouragement. Throughout their time together, Victor consistently reminded Brett of three foundational truths: God loves you more than you can imagine God has a plan and purpose for your life Trusting God means He will take care of you Years later, during Victor’s own difficult moment, Brett was prompted by God to reach out and repeat those same words back to him – powerfully illustrating how discipleship often flows both ways and how faithfulness bears fruit over time. “As you go” doesn’t require a platform or program, but prayerful attentiveness and a willingness to engage. Sometimes it starts with a simple, courageous question: “Are you the reason I’m here today?” In ordinary moments God opens doors for conversations that can impact eternity. Resources Mentioned As You Go by Victor Dawson – a practical guide to sparking conversations that impact eternity Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) – a global ministry focused on evangelism and discipleship iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – your field guide for living your retirement years with more significance than you ever imagined See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Dr. Bill Wagner ORGANIZATION: Institute for Global Strategic Studies at Olivet University At nearly 90 years old, Dr. Bill Wagner isn’t slowing down – and he’s not apologizing for it. In this episode of iRetire4Him, Jim Brangenberg talks with Bill Wagner – pastor, international missiologist, and founder of the Global Strategy Forum. They discuss why the modern idea of retirement may be one of the Church’s biggest lies. Bill shares how, as a young man in his early 20s, he began asking a question most believers never consider: “What will God do with me when I’m old?” That question shaped a lifetime of preparation and now fuels Bill’s ministry. You’ll hear Bill: Share how dyslexia, engineering, seminary, and missions uniquely prepared him for impact later in life Describe the senior-led, old-fashioned revivals he’s launched, putting retirees back in leadership, evangelism, and service Unpack what he learned studying movements that think strategically at a societal (macro) level – and why the Church often doesn’t Reveal the four-part framework he personally uses to evaluate his life every two months, modeled after Jesus’ growth in Luke 2 Bill also challenges us with a hard truth: older believers are one of the fastest-lost groups in the Church – not because they lack faith, but because no one expects anything of them anymore. This conversation isn’t about staying busy. It’s about staying faithful. And believing that God may do His most strategic work through you after retirement, not before. Resources Mentioned: iRetire4Him book: a field guide for Christian retirees who want to live their “4th quarter” with purpose SaferNet: a VPN, antivirus, and web filters/controls to keep your family and business safe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries What if this next season of life – whatever your age or stage – was shaped by something as simple as opening your door? In this light-hearted and practical New Year’s special, Jim and Martha Brangenberg share why welcoming people into your home can be one of the most meaningful ways to build relationships, encourage real conversation, and live with purpose. Whether you’re still working, newly retired, or somewhere in between, this episode offers encouragement and easy ideas for turning ordinary gatherings into moments that matter. You’ll hear: Why home gatherings create space for deeper, more authentic conversations Simple ways to host without pressure, perfection, or overplanning How shared meals and relaxed conversation often open doors for lasting relationships and ministry opportunities Why taking the initiative now can shape connections throughout the year ahead This episode isn’t about hosting flawlessly. It’s about being present, intentional, and open. A simple invitation may be exactly what God uses to encourage someone this year. Listen in, then ask yourself: Who could I invite into my space in the months ahead? Additional Resources Mentioned in This Episode 2026 iWork4Him Events Learn more about upcoming in-person gatherings and where Jim and Martha will be in 2026: iWork4Him.com/events (Maryland, North Carolina, Orlando, & Cincinnati) Support the Mission (PWI Swipe Program) Help more workplace believers and retirees live with daily purpose by partnering with iWork4Him using PWI Swipe. Find all details and start swiping today! Book Offer + Signature Punch Recipe During the month of January, listeners can receive one of the iWork4Him books for the cost of shipping only – a great way to start the year or share with friends. If you’re inspired to host, you can also request Martha’s favorite mocha punch recipe (and a few other simple party-friendly ideas). For both the book offer and the recipe, email martha@iwork4him.com or call the “listener line” at 866-713-9675. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Michael Turner ORGANIZATION: Retired businessman, Lake Pastor Michael Turner thought retirement might be slower and simpler. Instead, one year after stepping away from his company – and after a five-year intentional wind-down – he found himself living in an RV at a Georgia campground, fixing trailers, launching boats, mentoring veterans, and eventually preaching weekly to a pop-up campground church. What unfolded was not a retirement plan, but a clear picture of how God repurposes decades of experience for unexpected ministry. In This Conversation Michael describes his five-year transition out of leadership, remaining chairman while gradually releasing day-to-day responsibility and why that helped retirement feel less abrupt. A move to Georgia for his daughter’s college recruitment led to an unusual living arrangement: 16 months full-time in an RV at a large campground with both long-term and transient residents. Michael’s daily prayer: “Lord, use me however You want today” has opened constant opportunities for hands-on service: repairs, transportation, conversations, and practical care. A request to fill in once for a small campground Sunday service slowly became a weekly preaching role. Michael reflects on how decades as an executive prepared him for ministry – clear communication, preparation under pressure, anticipating questions, and engaging people from every background. Realizing the depth of questions being asked, he enrolled at age 65 in a master’s program focused on Christian Apologetics to better serve those he teaches. The campground church removes barriers many feel toward traditional church spaces, welcoming people exactly as they are – camp clothes, hard stories, skepticism and all. Retirement rhythms that matter: staying connected to friends, caring for health, developing hobbies, and avoiding aimlessness by setting 3 daily priorities. Next Steps Get the iRetire4Him Book iRetire4Him: Unlocking God’s Purpose for Your Retirement is available for the cost of shipping (to US residents). Email Jim at jim@iwork4him.com to request your copy and begin reframing this season through a Kingdom lens! Impact Other Retirees Through the PWI Swipe Tool You can support the ministry by rounding up the change from everyday purchases through the PWI (Project World Impact) Swipe tool. Your spare change helps fund the work of iWork4Him and iRetire4Him. Learn more and sign up at iwork4him.com/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FEATURING: Jim & Martha Brangenberg ORGANIZATION: iWork4Him Ministries Christmas is meant to be full of meaning – not just memories. In this special Christmas episode of iRetire4Him, Jim and Martha Brangenberg share a simple, practical challenge for retirees: use the Christmas season as an opportunity to love the neighbors God has already placed around you. For many retired neighbors, Christmas can be quiet, lonely, or even difficult – especially with physical limitations, tighter budgets, or family living far away. But those challenges also open the door for beautiful ministry opportunities right where you live. In this episode, Jim and Martha remind us that loving your neighbors doesn’t require big events or elaborate plans. Often, the most meaningful moments come through small, intentional acts: Sharing a plate of cookies Inviting neighbors over for dessert or coffee Hosting a casual gathering in your home or garage Delivering leftovers after Christmas Simply learning your neighbors’ names and saying, “We’re here if you need anything” They also share fun, low-pressure ideas like neighborhood gift games (“you’ve been socked!”), community parades, cookie exchanges, and simple games that build shared memories and open doors for deeper relationships. Most importantly, this conversation points us back to the true reason for the season – Jesus. Christmas creates a natural, gentle way to share faith, stories, and hope with the people God has placed in our everyday lives. Your Christmas Challenge: Before the year ends, choose one simple way to love a neighbor. One visit. One invitation. One shared moment. Let God do the rest. From the iRetire4Him family to yours, Merry Christmas! And don’t forget that you can give yourself or a friend the gift of purpose in retirement. Email Jim@iWork4Him.com to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (US residents only). P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.