What if your next chapter could be more meaningful, abundant, and vibrant than anything you’ve experienced so far? Today’s conversation reframes retirement as an expansive 3rd act—a season to design with intention, purpose, and deep connection.
I’m joined by Milan Schwarzkopf, a master strategist in life design, project management, and purposeful living.
After decades leading complex global projects, Milan turned his expertise inward and transformed his own retirement into a chapter full of health, adventure, and meaningful relationships. Now he helps others do the same.
In this episode you’ll learn
Why most retirees only prepare financially—and why that’s not enough
Milan’s 4 Pillars for a fulfilling 3rd act: Finance, Health, Relationships, Purpose
The hidden danger of isolation (and how to build a multigenerational, real-life + virtual social web)
How neuroplasticity supports learning and reinvention at any age
A one-step action you can take this week to start living your best 3rd act
The 4 Pillars (Milan’s framework)
Financial – Ideally begin 15–20 years out, investing with a professional.
Health – We know what to do; the work is consistent implementation.
Relationships – Real happiness in retirement usually comes from people, not portfolios. Learn to nurture close, distant, in-person, and virtual ties (and welcome diverse viewpoints).
Purpose – Your work identity will change; your reason for getting up in the morning shouldn’t disappear. Many find purpose in helping others.
“If you retire at 65, you may have 25–30 years ahead. That can be the best part of your life—if you prepare and manage it well.” — Milan
Practical ways to build your social circle (even if you’re introverted)
Join clubs built around shared activities: book clubs, hiking groups, bowling leagues, classes
Mix generations: younger and older friends expand your perspective
Go virtual + IRL: Zoom chats, online communities, and in-person meetups
Give yourself permission to test groups—if it’s not a fit, try another
Mindset shifts we loved
TV + couch ≠ plan. Engagement is longevity.
Different ≠ wrong. Seek people who think differently and practice non-defensive dialogue.
You can reinvent at any age. Neuroplasticity is on your side—if you want it.
One simple action for this week
List one step for each pillar and commit to it for 7 days:
Finance: book a call with a fiduciary or audit your accounts
Health: daily walk + strength work 3x
Relationships: schedule two reach-outs and one new group
Purpose: journal 15 minutes on “Who do I feel called to help now?”
About Milan + how to work with him
Milan is the author of Living Your Best 3rd Act: How to Be Healthy, Wealthy, and Happy in Your Retirement (an Amazon #1 bestseller), creator of a pre-recorded 3rd-Act course, and a 1:1 coach.
Grab his two free introductory chapters, take the retirement preparation quiz, and explore his course at 3rdActResources.com.
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