A new chapter: Kristie Zahn’s journey

Kristie Zahn works as a chaplain at Ascension All Saints Hospital in Racine, Wisconsin. This is her second career after retiring from decades as a human resources executive. “I have some people that I know from my business days that say, ‘Kristie, when are you going to retire?’ And I don’t want to say this is my retirement. This is my next chapter,” Zahn said. Zahn became discouraged by changes in the corporate world. “I was very well respected at an executive level, but the world of human resources was changing. It became less about employee empowerment and organizational culture, vision, mission, and more about the bottom line,” she explained. She took a leap of faith and left the only work she had ever known to pursue her interest in mindfulness, spiritual care, and wellness. Zahn underwent training to get certified as a chaplain. She now loves working in a hospital, connecting with a wide variety of people, including patients, families, doctors, and nurses. During our visit, Zahn stopped to meet with Destiny Brown, who is on bed rest at the hospital.

Kristie’s next chapter in life

Brown, pregnant with her fifth child, said talking with Zahn has helped her get through this difficult time. “I felt comfortable talking to her about stuff I’m going through that I wouldn’t open up to other people about, so she makes it very easy. I’m going to miss her when I leave,” said Brown. The ability to counsel others in their time of need is why Zahn loves her work. She reflects on her own experience of taking a risk and trying something new to help others. “It’s courage. It’s surrender. It’s trust that all will be well, however this is going to turn out,” Zahn said. Retirement is taking on new meanings and opening new chapters for Americans like Kristie Zahn. According to a financial services company, 64% of Baby Boomers may be in the job market post-retirement. The research found that 41% of working retirees are motivated by personal fulfillment, and 37% by a sense of purpose.