We think we’re listening—when really, we’re just waiting for our turn to speak.
In retirement, the pace slows. The noise fades. But so often, the quality of our conversations doesn’t get any deeper. Why? Because we bring the same habits—over-explaining, assuming, correcting—that once served us in the boardroom into the spaces where intimacy is supposed to grow.
In this episode, Dr. Richard Himmer explores what it truly means to listen beyond assumptions—and why this overlooked skill may be the missing link between loneliness and connection in retirement.
Through the story of a young athlete misjudged mid-flight, you’ll witness how even a well-intentioned comment can collapse a moment of magic. And more importantly, you’ll begin to see the subtle ways we dismiss, overshadow, or edit the stories of those we love—without even realizing it.
This isn’t just about being polite or communicative. This is about healing. About legacy. About turning everyday conversations into acts of reverence.
You’ll explore:
Why most of us are addicted to autobiographical listening—and how it keeps us emotionally isolated
How assumptions hijack curiosity and shut down truth
What makes a conversation safe, sacred, and worth remembering
The surprising power of saying less and validating more
Why, especially in retirement, being present is more important than being right
When we stop performing and start witnessing—without critique, without agenda—we create space for something extraordinary: intimacy, joy, and genuine human understanding.
Listen in and discover how the most powerful gift you can offer in retirement isn’t your advice—it’s your attention.
And remember: Don’t try harder. Try different.
🎓 Want to explore deeper?
As a loyal podcast listener, access Dr. Himmer’s on-demand course How NOT to Retire for FREE at HowNotToRetire.com.
Questions about the course? Email us anytime at plan@madronafinancial.com!
Share this post