EP 220 - The Part of Retirement No One Plans For | Identity, Purpose, and the Emotional Side of Retirement (with Patti McMurdie)

Most families prepare financially for retirement—but very few prepare for what it actually feels like.There’s a version of retirement most people imagine for years: more freedom, less stress, and finally having time to enjoy life on their own terms.But what often goes unspoken is what happens after that initial phase wears off.In this episode of the Simplify Senior Transitions Podcast, Dale Corpus sits down with Patti McMurdie, founder of Spring Tide Coaching, to explore the part of retirement many people don’t plan for—the emotional and identity transition that comes after leaving a long-term career. 🎙️Patti brings over two decades of experience as a director at leading global technology companies, where she built a career centered around leadership, decision-making, and high-level execution.Through her own transition, she recognized how challenging it can be to move into a phase of life where identity is no longer tied to a professional role.Today, through Spring Tide Coaching, she helps high-achieving professionals navigate that shift with a structured, action-oriented approach.Her work is built on the belief that retirement is not just a financial milestone—but a design problem that requires clarity, intention, and a willingness to redefine what a meaningful next chapter looks like.Together, they break down:• Why retirement is often framed as a financial milestone—but not a human transition• The “honeymoon phase” of retirement and what happens when it fades• How loss of identity and routine can impact emotional well-being• The difference between staying busy and living with purpose• Why many retirees feel stuck—and how to move forward with intention• How tools like a “life map” can help create clarity and direction for the next chapterThis conversation is especially relevant for those approaching retirement, already in retirement, or part of the Sandwich Generation supporting aging parents through this transition.Because retirement decisions don’t exist in isolation.They connect to housing, care, lifestyle, and how everything is funded—especially when a home is involved.Understanding the emotional side of retirement can help families make more intentional, informed decisions before they’re forced to react.Connect with Patti McMurdieWebsite:https://www.springtidecoaching.comEmail:[email protected] you’re navigating a senior transition right now and trying to figure out the next step for a parent, here are some resources designed to help.⸻Resources for FamiliesIf you’re navigating senior living decisions, downsizing, or trying to determine the next step for an aging parent, visit:→ www.simplifyseniortransitions.com/familiesThis page provides guidance and resources specifically designed for families navigating senior transitions.⸻Resources for Senior Care ProfessionalsAnd if you’re a senior care professional who wants stronger positioning, clearer referral ecosystems, and more scalable systems for serving families in today’s evolving senior care landscape, visit:→ www.simplifyseniortransitions.com/professionals📄 Show notes: https://simplifyseniortransitions.com/designing-the-next-chapter-for-aging-parents#exprealty #exprealtyproud #soldbydale #dre01305153 #SeniorTransitionSpecialist #SimplifySeniorTransitions #RetirementPlanning Support the show