The Unexpected Exit at 55 — Finding Freedom, Purpose, and Identity

Nov 1, 2025

Donovan Volk, a 55-year-old semi-retired former corporate leader, transformed an unexpected job exit into a journey of self-discovery and newfound purpose. He discusses how the power of choice shaped his retirement journey and emphasizes the importance of financial preparation. Donovan reflects on the emotional shifts that accompany retirement, tackling fears about identity and spending. He also introduces the four retirement buckets—finances, health, relationships, and purpose—offering guidance for embracing this new chapter of life.

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ADVICE

Save Early To Preserve Future Choice

Start saving early and contribute regularly to let compounding work for you.
Live within your means so future choices remain available.

ANECDOTE

Vacation Return Led To New Path

Donovan returned from vacation and learned his role was eliminated, which forced choices about next steps.
He tested teaching and consulting before committing to an encore career.

ANECDOTE

Building An Encore With Part-Time Impact

Donovan chose purposeful part-time work: teaching, coaching, and consulting for impact.
He limits engagements to a few days a week to preserve freedom.

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In this episode of Retirement Reality, meet Donovan, a 55-year-old retiree who turned an unexpected career exit into an opportunity for freedom, reflection, and new purpose. Donovan shares how one defining word, choice, shaped his journey before, during, and after retirement.

From years of disciplined saving and intentional living to facing an unplanned exit from corporate life, Donovan opens up about how preparation, mindset, and adaptability transformed what could have been a setback into a second act filled with meaning. He and James discuss the emotional and psychological sides of retirement: identity shifts, finding purpose, redefining relationships, and learning to spend after decades of saving.

This conversation dives into the real retirement journey: the freedom it brings, the fears it stirs, and the wisdom that comes from embracing both. Whether you're approaching retirement or simply rethinking your next chapter, Donovan’s story will challenge you to see this season as an opportunity — not an ending.

Key Themes:
The power of choice in financial and life planning
Transitioning from career identity to personal purpose
Managing the emotional and psychological side of retirement
Finding meaning, health, and community in life after work
Overcoming the fear of spending after years of saving

Donovan is not a client of Root Financial Partners, LLC and received no compensation for participating in this video. His statements reflect his own opinions and experience and are not indicative of any specific client’s experience and are not a guarantee of results. No cash or non-cash compensation was provided, and no material conflicts are known.

Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

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