What Will Be Your Encore?


This week, our family is celebrating a very special birthday — my son, Eric.

Many of you have heard me share stories about the important women in my life, but today I want to shine a light on someone who continually inspires me.

The first photo is from our trip to Italy just over two years ago — one of my favorite memories together. The second is from his 2024 Ironman competition, where he accomplished one of the most incredible physical and mental feats I’ve ever witnessed.

His middle name, Lowell, comes from my grandfather, and he carries that legacy of strength and character in everything he does.

Happy birthday, Eric — proud doesn’t even begin to describe it.


Creating Your Encore Chapter with Joy Levin

💬 From Episode 79:

“Many women love parts of retirement but still feel something is missing — that deeper sense of purpose and relevance.” - Joy Levin

Retirement isn’t just about slowing down. It’s about stepping into a chapter that feels alive with meaning and joy.

In this episode, I speak with Joy Levin, President of Gen X Exec Encore and Certified Professional Retirement Coach, about how Gen X women can reimagine retirement as an encore to life. Together, we explore how to shift from career identity to personal fulfillment, build meaningful relationships, and create a future that truly lights you up

Joy discusses:

  • The challenges Gen X professionals face when leaving long careers and redefining purpose
  • Her “Mix Tapes to Meaning” framework, built around the five Rs: rewind, remix, reset, reconnect, and revive
  • The role of consulting, volunteering, and passion projects in crafting an encore life
  • How small actions and social connections can transform fulfillment in retirement
  • Practical ways couples can align different visions of their retirement years
  • And more!

You can catch every episode of The Simply Retirement Podcast on the website - or on your favorite podcast app.


Related Links & Resources


The Retirement Toolbox

👉 What Issues Should I Consider If I’m Concerned About Outliving My Assets?​​​

For many, the possibility of outliving your assets is a major concern, especially as you approach or enter retirement. Helping plan for longevity is a critical part of building a financial plan that balances income, risk, and legacy goals.

This checklist helps guide your conversations when you are worried about running out of money in retirement, and covers:

  • Lifestyle assumptions and spending expectations
  • Guaranteed income sources like Social Security, pensions, and annuities
  • Portfolio withdrawal strategies and tax coordination
  • Housing assets and insurance-based solutions

Have more questions about retirement planning? Just hit reply to this email. I read and respond to every message. 😃

Keeping Retirement Simple,

Eric Blake, CFP®

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201 W. Virginia Street, #102, McKinney, Texas 75069

Content here is for illustrative purposes and general information only. It is not legal, tax, or individualized financial advice; nor is it a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any specific security, or engage in any specific trading strategy.

All investing involves risk including loss of principal. Results will vary. Past performance is no indication of future results or success. Market conditions change continuously.

Information here is provided, in part, by third-party sources. These sources are generally deemed to be reliable; however, neither Blake Wealth Management nor RFG Advisory guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. The views expressed here are those of Blake Wealth Management. They do not necessarily represent those of RFG Advisory, their employees, or their clients.

This commentary should not be regarded as a description of advisory services provided by Blake Wealth Management or RFG Advisory, or performance returns of any client. The views reflected in the commentary are subject to change at any time without notice.

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RFG Advisory is an SEC-registered investment adviser. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of RFG by the Commission, nor does it indicate that RFG or any associated investment advisory representative has attained a particular level of skill or ability.

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