I'm Not Done Yet

Podcast – 34 I’m Not Done Yet ( INDY)Welcome to the Reach Minds: Thoughts for Your Life Journey podcast. In this episode, we will explore be delving into a topic that touches us all: retirement and aging. Specifically, we'll be highlighting what some refer to as the "dangerous decade," that period from the mid to late 50s to the mid to late 60s, a time when ageism can often rear its head, potentially bringing a sudden halt to a vibrant working life.My guest today has a truly inspiring story that directly addresses this challenge. He's here to share his personal journey of realizing that while others might perceive him differently in the workplace due to his age, he was, unequivocally, not done working. This realization led him to found an organization called "I'm Not Done Yet" seven years ago – a name that perfectly encapsulates his profound belief in the enduring importance of purpose and activity in later life.Join us as we hear how he navigated these perceptions, rekindled his professional path, and built a community around the idea that age should never be a barrier to contribution and fulfilment. It's a conversation that I believe will resonate deeply, offering insights and encouragement for anyone contemplating their own journey through the later stages of life and career. Let's welcome Andrew Middleton. About Andrew Middleton Andrew Middleton is the founder of INDY (I’m Not Done Yet), a peer network and movement for people exploring life beyond traditional retirement. After leaving full-time work at 58, Andrew coined the term “soft retirement” to describe a new way of living, one that blends purpose, flexibility, and freedom. Drawing on a diverse background in senior leadership, charity work, and creative consultancy, he now supports others navigating the space between work and retirement. Whether hosting events, running the INDY online community, or one of his other portfolio roles, Andrew champions the idea that this stage of life is not about slowing down, but shifting focus. He writes and speaks about ageism, transition, and how to stay relevant and energised in your 50s, 60s and beyond. Through INDY, Andrew brings together people who still have ideas to share, projects to build, and more to say. Because, as he puts it, "We're not done yet."Andrew shared his personal journey of self-reflection, triggered by unexpected prejudice later in life, which led him to develop concepts to help others navigate similar experiences.In this podcast we pose the following questions on I’m Not Done YetHow did the idea of INDY come about? What was that pivotal moment or series of moments that sparked its creation?Your journey from corporate technology and management roles to leading a charity as CEO, before eventually moving to self-employment? What have you discovered and perhaps learned about yourself during this time? Has anything surprised you about your own capabilities or resilience?what's been the most fascinating thing you've discovered, perhaps about aging, purpose, or the human spirit in later life? What’s been the most fascinating things you have discovered? Tell me about your I’m Not Done Yet logo?What keeps you going?What tips and insights would you give to people who want to explore retirement?What’s the motto you live by? www.imnotdoneyet.co.uk the website with link to the INDY Online CommunityBooks The Bue Zone  - By Dan BuettnerThe 100 year life Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott et al