The Lie We’ve Been Told About Retirement #156

This bite-size conversation challenges one of the most deeply held assumptions in modern life: that we work hard now so we can finally start living later. Derek Coburn argues that the traditional idea of retirement—grinding for decades and then stopping abruptly at a fixed age—is not only outdated, but often damaging. Many people sacrifice time with family, health, and meaning in pursuit of a future that may never deliver the fulfillment they expect.

Instead, Derek re-frames the conversation around designing a life you wouldn’t want to retire from. By extending how long we stay engaged in meaningful work—often in lighter, more flexible ways—we reduce financial pressure, reclaim time in the present, and preserve the sense of purpose and connection that so many people lose after stepping away from work entirely. The deeper message is clear: happiness isn’t something you chase directly. It’s a by-product of contribution, meaning, and staying engaged with life—on your own terms.

About the Guest

Derek Coburn is a financial advisor, speaker, and the author of Retire Retirement. With more than 25 years of experience advising clients, Derek challenges conventional thinking around money, work, and retirement. His work focuses on helping people design lives centered on meaning, contribution, and flexibility—rather than deferring fulfillment to some distant future. Derek is also known for his work on happiness versus meaning, and the psychological impact of purpose on long-term well-being.

About the Host

Paul Ryan is a CEO, 8-figure business owner, mentor, and podcaster. As host of The Inner Entrepreneur Podcast, he explores the inner game of entrepreneurship—purpose, identity, emotional intelligence, well-being, and conscious success. Through conversations with founders, thinkers, coaches, and spiritual teachers, Paul creates space for deeper reflection on what it really means to live and lead well, beyond metrics and money.

Work With Paul

If you're ready to build a business and life that’s aligned, intentional, and deeply fulfilling, explore The Life Code and The One-Hour CEO — coaching and tools for high-performing entrepreneurs. https://calendly.com/inner-entrepreneur-podcast/discovery-call-with-paul-ryan

Connect with the host: www.pauljryan.net https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-ryan-9a98774/