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

Send us Fan MailYou can be fully prepared for retirement… and still feel completely unprepared.So why do so many women find themselves feeling uncertain, disconnected, or even a little lost once they finally get there?In this powerful episode of the Ageless Glamour Girls™ Podcast, host Marqueeta Curtis-Haynes sits down with Cheryl Fimbel, author of the new book, The Hidden Side of Retirement: What Nobody Tells You About Identity, Purpose, and Life After Your Career Ends, to explore what really happens after the career ends - especially for women over 50.After a 45-year career in healthcare leadership, Cheryl entered retirement financially prepared… but emotionally unprepared for the shift that followed. In this conversation, she shares what so many women experience but rarely talk about - the loss of structure, identity questions, and unexpected emotional challenges that can arise in the early months of retirement.Together, we dive into the often-overlooked transition period, including the critical first 90 days, why rushing to “reinvent yourself” can backfire, and how to begin rebuilding purpose, routine, and connection in a meaningful way.And yes - we also talk about the beautiful side of retirement: more time with family, freedom of schedule, travel, and the opportunity to create a life that truly feels aligned.If you’re approaching retirement, currently navigating it, or simply thinking about what’s next, this episode offers both truth and encouragement for the journey ahead.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:The emotional side of retirement no one prepares you for  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 identity, structure, and social connection  How to create a fulfilling and meaningful life in this next chapter _________________________ABOUT OUR GUESTCheryl Fimbel is the author of The Hidden Side of Retirement: What Nobody Tells You About Identity, Purpose, and Life After Your Career Ends, where she explores the emotional and psychological transition that often follows a long career. Drawing on 45 years of experience in healthcare leadership and organizational change, she brings a unique, structured approach to navigating retirement with clarity and confidence.Website: https://www.crownyearsmedia.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chfimbel/https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/250148128-the-hidden-side-of-retirement_________________________Ageless Glamour Girls™ Boutique The Ageless Glamour Girls™ Boutique is opening very soon. If the link isn’t live yet, check back shortly! Thanks!Support the showSupport Ageless Glamour Girls™:www.agelessglamourgirls.com        www.linkedin.com/in/marqueetacurtishaynes       https://www.youtube.com/@agelessglamourgirls      https://agelessglamourgirlsboutique.com/Instagram @agelessglamourgirlsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/agelessglamourgirlsPrivate (AGG) FB Group: The Ageless Café: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theagelesscafeTikTok: @agelessglamourgirlshttps://www.shopltk.com/explore/AgelessGlamourGirls Podcast Producers: Ageless Glamour Girls™ and Purple Tulip Media, LLC