33 Responses, 1 Launch:

What You Told Me, and Where We’re Going

Before I officially step into retirement this October, I asked a question. One word. That’s all I wanted—to complete a three-word description that’s been rolling around in my soon-to-be post-retirement head.

“If you had to pick a single word to describe this next phase of my life, what would it be?”

I wasn’t sure how many folks would respond. Life’s busy. Emails get buried. Texts get forgotten. And this wasn’t for science or strategy—it was a gut-level, soul-level kind of ask.

But 33 of you answered, from all over the country and all walks of life. Quickly. Thoughtfully. Powerfully.

Thank you.

And your words? They lit the fire under something I’ve been building quietly behind the scenes for post-retirement life:

👉 FedToFreedom.org

The Words You Gave Me

Here’s a snapshot of what poured in:

Renewed (7): The top vote-getter. Over and over, people told me this was about shedding stress, rediscovering purpose, and starting fresh.

Relentless (4): That one made me pause. It’s not a word most people associate with retirement. But maybe that’s the point—I’m not done.

Refocused (4): A shift in energy, not an end to it.

Reloaded (3): Some said Matrix. Some said ammo. Either way—it’s a comeback mindset.

Reimagined, Reinvented, and Ready (3 each): Different flavors of the same idea. This isn’t an ending. It’s a reframe.

Others stood out too:

• Resilient

• Reinvigorated

• Remarkable

• Rewarded

  
  

And one comment to the "why did you pick this one, question" really hit home:

Unpacking the Timing

Here’s something I found fascinating: the words that came in early felt different than those that came in later. It was a noticeable change in tone and direction, and it got me wondering about it, reflecting on it.

• The early folks? Fast thinkers. Instinct-driven. Confident. No hesitation.

• The later crowd? More contemplative. Thoughtful. Deeply reflective.

  
  

Neither is better—but it reminded me:

Some of you are first on the battlefield. Others are the wise ones who arrive after the dust settles. That blend? That’s the power of community.

So Why Did I Do This?

Because I wanted to listen first.

Too many people retire, lose touch, and vanish—or reinvent themselves so fast they forget the people who helped shape them.

I didn’t want that. I wanted to launch this new chapter with the voices of those I’ve worked with, bled with, loved and laughed with, and built things alongside. People who matter to me.

What’s Fed to Freedom?

It’s a platform. A conversation. A little toolbox—and a little campfire.

It’s for:

• Federal retirees

• Career shifters

• Veterans figuring out what’s next

• Side-hustlers, dream-chasers, and folks quietly sketching the next phase on a napkin

  
  

FedToFreedom.org is where I’m building resources, offering coaching, writing blogs, and listening to stories from people walking their own “what’s next” path.

It’s also a place where you can connect—with me, and with each other.

You Helped Me Create This

Your words didn’t just describe this chapter. They named it. They shaped it.

And if you’re still reading—know this: I want your continued help to guide me, so I can better serve you.

Tell me what matters to you. What topics you'd like unpacked. What tools or insights you need for your own reinvention, redirection, or retirement.

Or just what’s working, what’s not, and what you’re enjoying.

Thank You

I don’t take your time lightly.

Whether you responded to my one-word poll or are just now discovering this post—thank you.

You helped light the fuse.

Let’s see what we can build next.

In gratitude — Glen

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