Who Am I Now? Or Weirdly, Strangely Delights You Discover in (Un)retirement
Carl Landau | February 29, 2024
It's been a few years now since I ended my full-time career and (un)retired. I have had more time for myself and everything else in general with not so many stressful demands on my time. I've noticed my perspective about some things has changed. Am I a weirdo or do you notice it in (un)retirement too?
In my full-time career, I felt like my schedule was always at warp speed, even bringing my laptop on vacation. (Ok, I still do that.) But I'm actually enjoying becoming sort of "Zen-like" about very ordinary things that I either hated to do or rushed through to do.
I'm a different guy now! Here's what I mean:
Trash/Recycle Guy: Once a week, we need to put out the trash can at the curb and every-other-week the recycling. I find that now I'm somehow in some sort of a contest with my next- door neighbor, Norman, who can get the cans out faster than anyone on the street. (Full exposure, I'm sure my neighbor has no idea about this supposed contest.) And when I take a walk around the neighborhood now, I'm even picking up the knocked over empty trash cans that are laying in the street. I'm this guy now?
Laundry/Football Guy: I hate doing laundry. Yet somehow I'm now looking forward to doing laundry and folding clothes while I watch football/basketball/baseball. (Did you know there is actually only 18 minutes of live action during a typical NFL game?) My wife appreciates this new laundry guy very much.
Stretch/Meditate Guy: I am an A-personality type guy that never allowed down time for anything. Now I find myself every morning spending at least 15-20 minutes of mindful stretching on a yoga mat and meditating to some music. My 17-year old cat, Felix, joins in on the yoga-mat-fun and "stretches" with me. He thinks this is his new daily routine too. (Imagine him waving his tale in my face, jumping over me and generally bothering me to the beat of the tunes.) So even the cat likes this guy.
Breakfast Tea Guy: I drank glasses of Diet Coke every morning for 45 years. A month ago, I decided to stop. I feel so much better now! I really can't believe the difference. Since I don't care for coffee, I am now a cup or two, tea-drinker with honey and a little-spoon to go with it. Yep, that's me now. I start the day relaxed and calm, vs. hyped up on diet coke. Everyone likes this guy.
Feelings Guy: I don't end any phone call or visit with my daughters without saying "I love you so much." I'm telling my college friend and roommate from 45 years ago that I love him. What in the hell is happening to me? But I think I like this empathetic, Kumbaya guy.
I sure hope this continues. I wonder what changes will happen next. What about you?
Drew Evans Interview: Creates his own (Un)Retirement -- The Pickleball Librarian
Diana Landau | December 13, 2022
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Carl interviews Andrew Evans, JD, MLS, MAT this week. Drew is a man of many talents and the secret's out--librarians are tons of fun! After getting a law degree, Drew was Head of Reference and Adjunct Professor for the Washburn University of Kansas Law Library for 16 years. He also happens to be a black belt in the martial arts and taught self-defense and martial arts at Washburn's Kinesiology department. Among his many other accolades, Drew served as Parliamentarian for the Kansas Library Association and has been the recipient of the prestigious Kansas Library Association Presidential Award.
But Drew didn't stop there. After pivoting from law librarianship, he started his own Martial Arts studio, plus he's a legal research/editor/ law book reviewer and wait for it...............The Pickleball Librarian, a popular video influencer of all things Pickleball. His videos and blog posts reach players all over the world. He says he started saving for retirement as a young person and now that has allowed him to pursue all his passions.
Drew's father was in the military and this family has lived all over the world. Drew lived in Malaysia, Hawaii, Arizona, New Jersey and Colorado--all before college in Kansas. (Fun Fact: At least 50% of our podcast guests either are from military families or who had fathers who moved the family often for work.) Drew credits that experience with always being able to welcome the newcomer in the room.
He says being a martial arts expert helps his pickleball game. (The inherent eye-hand coordination and keen ability to anticipate opponents' moves in martial arts are a definite advantage on the courts.) Always a teacher and wanting to help others, Drew continues to teach martial arts and now also teaches pickleball. He's also still very busy as the Pickleball Librarian. "I'm a little resistant, but I'm exploring new developments in tech and social media. You have to try new things!"
At 52, Drew has already had a few careers. He says he might someday want to have a sales career in pickleball at the national level, but he's having too much fun at the moment. "Enjoy (un)retirement and embrace it!"
Drew's (Un)retirement Tips:
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"It's good to develop a routine and it's easy to get caught up in playing pickleball (or other pursuits) all the time. But make sure to always schedule a physical rest day each week."
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"Don't get "stuck" when you try new things. If it isn't fun, go on to something else."
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"You have to find mentors at every stage of life. We still have those opportunities now--be humble and willing to learn."
Diana Landau is the Content Wrangler for Pickleball Media. After 15 years in corporate marketing, in 2012 she pivoted to write and wrangle content for Niche Media's weekly blog. She now manages the “I Used to Be Somebody” blog.
Renel Brooks-Moon Interview: Former Radio Personality Breaks Barriers as Baseball Announcer
Diana Landau | February 01, 2022
This week Carl interviews the remarkable Renel Brooks-Moon. If you haven't heard of her, you probably know her famous voice. Renel has been a big-time radio personality in the San Francisco/Bay Area for over two decades, one of the major markets in the country. For her second act, she is now the public address announcer for the San Francisco Giants. She has earned a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame as the first woman in history to be the public address announcer for a World Series game and championship game in ANY professional sport. (Note: Carl has a super-fan gush going on in this interview.)
Renel was born and raised in the Bay Area and loved to entertain, even as a young child. She comes from a family of trailblazers—her father was the first black high school principal in San Francisco and her mother was also an educator. She gets her deep sense of community service from her parents, who were long-time community activists. She went to Mills College and after graduation started an entry-level job for a Bay Area radio station, eventually doing every single job there. “I fell in love from Day One,” she tells us. She was finally offered a nightspot on air in 1985, not expecting it to ever become a career. But everything clicked. “Once I turn on that microphone, it’s where I belong!”
Renel went on to have a very successful career in radio, meeting Luther Vandross, Mariah Carey, Tina Turner and even singing once with Lionel Richie. Renel was in her element. When she got the call from the San Francisco Giants, she blazed a trail again. She feels a responsibility to be a role model for girls and women in both radio and major league sports. “When I was a little girl, there was no representation for that.” She inspires little girls everywhere to go after their dreams. Renel notes, “For some reason, I ended up in two very male-dominated professions, but I love the work.”
She’s had many highlights in her second act, whether it’s making history, interviewing baseball legends or giving her voice and influence to community service. Now, after 22 seasons with the Giants, Carl asks her what her third act might be. “Who knows? I've always wanted to have my own talk show!” We won't be surprised when that happens.
Renel’s (Un)Retirement Tips:
• Network: “Networking is very important, no matter what your career is or where you are in it. Every job I've had is because of a relationship.”
• Serve your community: "The most rewarding part of any job I've had is to use my voice for community service.”
• Try it now: "If you've had something you've always wanted to do since childhood, and you are still thinking about it, there’s no reason not to try it now.”
• Keep moving: “Stay on top of it. Take care of yourself, listen to your body. Mental health is just as important as physical health.” 
Diana Landau is the Content Wrangler for Pickleball Media. After 15 years in corporate marketing, in 2012 she pivoted to write and wrangle content for Niche Media's weekly blog. She now manages the “I Used to Be Somebody” weekly blog.
2022 – Ready or Not, Here We Come!
Diana Landau | January 04, 2022
Even the challenges of the past two years have not stopped our podcast guests from moving forward. We checked in with some of our guests on the show to see what's new in their lives since the interview or if they have any words of wisdom to share with our audience.
Click and listen to the original interview...
Well, I just can't retire. After selling my previous company, I launched The Tilt in April 2021, a newsletter for content creators who want to be content entrepreneurs. Now, just a few weeks ago, we announced CEX - Creator Economy Expo, an event for content creators held May 2-4, 2022 at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix. Once an entrepreneur, always an entrepreneur.
I’ve been named President & CEO of the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), North America’s largest community of technology solution providers serving the retail, restaurant, grocery, and cannabis markets. I will continue to share insights on the RSPA Blog, host the award-winning RSPA Trusted Advisor podcast, and evangelize the lessons from my book The Walk-On Method To Career & Business Success. https://www.gorspa.org/rspa-announces-ceo-transition/
I sent my latest legal thriller off to the editor, entitled “Automatic Stay.” In the new book, 3J and Pascale are back with six Kansas City jazz clubs that have somehow managed to survive the COVID-19 pandemic.
My hope for 2022 - peace, love, and health. A guy can dream, eh?
In writing my book, I had an opportunity to hear stories from retirees exploring their next stage and it was a privilege to hear their candid tales. However, it felt like something was missing. Wouldn't this group like to meet in person and share their yarns? So we had a party and people came from near and far and were able to actually meet each other. Half of the stories from the book were represented and a good time was had by all.
The pandemic continues to challenge the music industry with canceled concerts and festivals (we do both) – requiring creative pivots to bring artists & fans together. Our popular house concert series (Chicago) is in big demand and I’m posting daily about music news on social media (@valslist Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Twitter). Our music community is vibrant and we'd love to have you! Whether you're a superfan or casual listener, we'll keep you in the know. sign up for our mailing list!
My update on the business front has been challenging. COVID and the global supply channel issues have been a double whammy for American Rhino. While Rhinos don't hibernate, the business has certainly been slumbering. That’s not necessarily a bad thing as it enables us to kinda hit the reset button. We will be scaling back our product line substantially in 2022 and just concentrating on our sneakers which are our most popular item. We should be able to get a good supply of shoes and we will introduce new styles and colors in early 2022. Keep an eye for updates on kicks!! Happy new year to your loyal listeners from the Big Rhino.
My (UN)solicited (UN)retirement advice –– UNplug! Life is precious. Live more of it firsthand rather than through a device. Travel and chat and hug as much as possible (or as Covid allows). Free your mind from the political and social media noise living rent-free in your head. Live in the world you can actually affect — relationships, nature, your physical and emotional state. Sing, laugh, dance, and misbehave just a little. No regrets!
Since the March episode, I have continued my (un)retirement schedule of balancing career coaching and travel. We did a 7200-mile road trip to New Mexico and Colorado to see the lunar eclipse, as well as a week in Costa Rica. On the coaching front, I’m hosting 12 Days of Coaching a free event that runs through Jan 6, 2022.
After two years of Covid lockdowns, including paused filmmaking, canceled trips, and loss of the many face-to-face interactions I am accustomed to, I am very hopeful that the new year will bring us closer to a less restrictive life. I am looking forward to resuming plans for a second film and getting out to see so many friends and family that have been put on hold. Finally, a goal is a trip to a faraway land.
In 2022, I am most looking forward to approaching my mission with fresh eyes. To consider anew how I can best help writers and creators, and double down on ensuring they find success in sharing what they create.
"Bad news travels at the speed of light and good news travels like molasses" - Tracy Morgan.
My invention - the KILI Medical Drain Carrier - initiated the process for a US patent six years ago. December 12, 2021, the US Patent and Trademark Office notified us that we were awarded Patent #D938580. Within 48 hours an associate informed us of a knockoff product selling online - by a business partner!
The last year has been very interesting as I do a twice a month podcast for an NBA and Kings fansite, The Kings Herald. Since I no longer work for the Kings, it is a lot easier to discuss the negatives of the team (a lot!) Also, I plan to spend a lot more time in Tahoe, as my wife of 54 years loves it there. Finally, I just try to make up for lost time with family, as there was too much travel over the years but I have plenty of time now. Me and my man cave recliner will continue our love affair. All the best and stay safe!
I’m working on my third round of self-taught French since I’m going to Bordeaux next year to visit some of the top chateaux. Vive l’vin!
In 2022, I look forward to more engaging podcast conversations on Crazy Money and performing comedy all over the country. For those in or near Los Angeles, I will be headlining The Venice West in Venice on February 3 with very special guest Wendy Liebman. Tickets are available here.
Bibi and I recently updated our long-standing Bucket List. Our sections include Religion, Family, Volunteer, Consulting/Work, Travel/Leisure, Sports/Health, Education, and Miscellaneous. A favorite “repeat” is readying to embark on our 4th year of making maple syrup from trees on our property. Reasonably easy, so fun, and rewarding: but clearly some of the most expensive liquid known to mankind. A “newbie” on the list, from just this week, is earning my level 1 IPTPA (pickleball) teaching certification. In essence, we have the framework and embrace continuous improvement to evolve, refresh and improve. I’m constantly learning from others and especially from my mistakes!
In January I will begin teaching at UCD in person, after nearly a two-year sentence to a remote island called Zoom. I'll be masked, but whatever......(we've all learned to shrug). This year's 42 MBA students will keep me on my toes. Hopefully, they'll learn to stand tall with their critical thinking about business matters and life itself, which is mostly what I teach. Oh, and they're masked as well. Breathe deep...project my voice...and pray for successful discussions!
Currently, I am applying to a number of Ph.D. programs to improve my chances of becoming a full-time professor in aviation after I retire from my airline. In the meantime, I am still enjoying my Hawaii flying.
My business goal in 2022 is to learn and take steps to identify and attract my ideal client. I’d like to break into the corporate world of events. A few things I've learned over my first year of being in business is not to let the fear of losing or gaining a client by lowering your price. It’s very important to see what businesses in your field are charging, but more important is to know your own self-worth. I saw a great quote, not sure of the author, that says, “Anything or opportunity that is meant for you can never pass you by.” This quote reduces stress and gives me comfort because I know that after I've put the hard work in, I will attract the client that’s perfectly aligned with me and my business philosophy.
Diana Landau is the Content Wrangler for Pickleball Media. After 15 years in corporate marketing, in 2012 she pivoted to write and wrangle content for Niche Media's weekly blog. She now manages the “I Used to Be Somebody” weekly blog.
Bob Franceschelli Interview: Big Time Beer Exec and now Pickleball Fanatic -- "Goes for The Whole Nine Yards"
Diana Landau | October 12, 2021
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Carl talks with Bob Franceschelli, a former top exec for Anheuser Busch, CEO for a new cardiac rehab program, present Board Member of USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), and more. Bob "goes for the whole nine yards" -- he really feels like anything and everything is possible. This is exactly Bob Franceschelli‘s vision for how he’s living his (un)retirement.
Bob grew up in an Italian family outside of Springfield, MA. As a college student, Bob took some marketing classes. “I have always liked being involved in a lot of different things with a lot of different people, having fun along the way. I did a case study on the beer industry and the lights just went on.”
Planning his next steps, he took an internship in college with a beer distributor, offering to work for free in exchange for help getting interviews after graduation. Bob’s rising career at Anheuser Busch (AB) included show product placement, working with the Rolling Stones and George Strait among others. He developed and built alliances with smaller craft brewers. In 2001, he led the test development and product launch of Michelob Ultra. In 2010 and after 28 years with AB, Bob went on to rejuvenate profit at the Pritikin Longevity Center, commuting every week from his home in St. Louis, Mo. to Miami. He then developed and launched their new intensive Cardiac Rehab division.
Always interested in living a healthy lifestyle, Bob, now 62, had to make some decisions. “I had a 6.5 hour back surgery in 2008, due to broken vertebrae and a disc issue … and have two 4” and two 5” screws in my back. Then, in 2015 … I had a total hip replaced. I truly feel blessed to be as mobile as I am to play Pickleball … and part is the lifestyle--- eat right, exercise, healthy mind--- and part was surgical.”
Bob and his wife now play Pickleball several times a week, and he is a 4.5 level player (!) as well as a Board Member for the USAPA. Bob and his wife have created a detailed bucket list that they review and update often—whether it’s taking off to rent an RV and touring the parks in Utah and Colorado for a couple of weeks or daily stuff like learning to make maple syrup from their own backyard trees—and wanting to play much more pickleball, of course.
Bob Franceschelli’s Top Tips:
• “It’s important to have a mindful approach to (un)retirement. You have to really think and plan for what you really want to do.”
• “The key to this (un)retirement thing (for me) is that I love having structure but I also love having some flexibility. Get out there and just try something!”
• This Week's Sponsor is LoveMyHeartStudy.com or call (866) 955-1594
Diana Landau is the Content Wrangler for Pickleball Media. After 15 years in corporate marketing, in 2012 she pivoted to write and wrangle content for Niche Media's weekly blog. She now manages the “I Used to Be Somebody” weekly blog.
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