Retire With Purpose - The Retirement Podcast 535: Freedom After 50: The "Unforgivable Sin" in the Second Half of Life
Nov 28, 2025
Les McDaniel, a certified retirement coach and contributor to Retire With Purpose, joins Casey Weade to delve into the complexities of relationships after 50. They explore how our attachment to certainty can hinder deeper connections, especially during family gatherings. Fear’s role in reinforcing rigid beliefs is discussed, along with the importance of empathy and curiosity in fostering open dialogues. Les emphasizes viewing values as flexible filters that encourage growth and understanding, advocating for a humble approach to navigating life's uncertainties.
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Certainty Replaces Wonder
- Certainty has become a dominant currency in politics, religion, and family conversations.
- Rediscovering curiosity can counteract division and hardening in midlife.
A Grandchild Prompted Reflection
- Les shared a recent family visit to illustrate intergenerational tension at holidays.
- He used his grandchild's arrival to reflect on staying close despite differing opinions.
Elders Forget Their Own Unknowing
- Elders often forget they once lacked today's perspective and cling to certainty to protect stability.
- Allowing space for younger adults to grow maintains relationships and family health.
