What if aging wasn’t about slowing down—but about leveling up?
In this powerful conversation, Marc Freedman, founder of Encore.org (now CoGenerate), unpacks the surprising history of retirement, why communities like Sun City reshaped how we see aging, and how we can flip the script on what it means to grow older. From encore careers to intergenerational mentorship, Marc shows why midlife is no dead end—it’s a launchpad for purpose, impact, and connection.
If you’ve ever wondered how to thrive after 50, find meaning in your “second act,” or simply stay relevant in a rapidly changing world, this episode will change how you see the road ahead.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:39 Marc Freedman as Chip’s “modern elder”
02:46 How aging became feared, not revered
04:26 Why older people are no longer revered
07:30 Rise of retirement communities
13:14 Why people question retirement as a goal
15:56 Marc’s personal view on retirement
18:36 The origins & evolution of CoGenerate
24:10 Why intergenerational connection matters
27:46 What CoGenerate does to help
31:52 Big policy ideas for the future
37:31 Tips for those nearing retirement
44:15 Upcoming workshop with Chip
48:47 Wisdom bumper sticker
50:51 How does Marc measure success
54:00 Wrapping up
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