Why Staying Curious Is the Secret to a Fulfilling Retirement

Aug 27, 2025

Some people step into retirement without a clear plan, while others see it as an open canvas. My guest today, Thom Barrett, retired at 55 after a successful career at PriceWaterhouseCoopers and chose to fill his canvas with adventure, creativity, and service.

From kayaking off the coast of Antarctica to building furniture in his workshop, Thom has lived a life of bold exploration. Even as he faces stage four cancer, he continues to write, travel, and approach each day with intention.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why Thom chose to retire early and pursue adventure
• How travel and time in nature became both refuge and teacher
• The lessons he’s learned about acceptance, vulnerability, and mindfulness
• Why he began writing books and travel reflections during his illness
• How he continues to live with purpose and presence despite new limitations
  
  

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Resources:

 

 The Edge of Now by Thom Barrett

Living While Dying, Chasing My Northern Lights, and more of Thom’s books

Visit Thom’s website