Today, I’m excited to catch up with my high school friend, Kenny Hersch. His story is truly one of a kind, and I think you’ll find this conversation with him an absolute joy.

Kenny’s symptoms began with minor neurological issues, but it took two years to get a clear diagnosis. Early on, doctors worried it might be ALS, which was a scary idea. It was eventually identified as Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS)—a non-fatal condition affecting speech and mobility. Thanks to technology, Kenny can join us today.

In high school, Kenny was a force of nature, and he remains just as remarkable. He’s embraced the mantra “accommodation without surrender” with resilience and positivity that truly inspires.

In this episode, we discussed:

Kenny’s life-altering diagnosis of PLS at 45

What it was like coming to terms with his new way of life

Tools that helped Kenny transition through his health journey

How a newspaper profile transformed him into a local celebrity

The impact he hopes to make through his legacy

Links

Kenny's feature in The Providence Journal

David Rynick was a big deal in college—serving on the university senate, co-captaining the wrestling team, and enjoying much attention. But despite all his achievements, he wasn’t happy.

This realization set him on a path to explore what mattered to him beyond just achieving more and pleasing others. Today, David is a Zen teacher with credentials in two lineages and a seasoned life and leadership coach.

His latest book, Wandering Close to Home: A Year of Zen Reflections, Consolations, and Reveries, came from 18 months of daily writing during the pandemic. This remarkable collection of essays and reflections is designed to inspire you to live more fully.

In this episode, we chat about David’s journey from college success to finding true fulfillment. You’ll find it’s a conversation filled with inspiration and joy.

We discuss:

Why early success led David to question happiness and purpose

How he explored dance and pottery as self-expression

Why it took him a decade to appreciate daily meditation

David’s advice for men who are struggling to adjust to retirement

The most common misconception about meditation

Read Wandering Close to Home

Visit DavidRynick.com

Boundless Way Zen Temple

Listen to David's Zen talks

When is the right time to start asking yourself life's big questions? My guest, Austin Dowling, who shifted from a corporate attorney to a psychotherapist, is here to discuss the vital role of self-reflection in finding fulfillment in retirement.

Originally from Ireland, Austin is a practicing psychotherapist and executive coach based in New York. He helps professional adults at a crossroads in their personal or professional lives, many of whom struggle with anxiety or a lack of motivation and are striving to reach their full potential.

Austin has navigated some incredible transitions in his own life, and his insights strike at the heart of the challenges many men face in retirement. And here's a little secret: this won't be the last time you hear from us.

In today’s episode, you’ll hear about:

Austin’s path from corporate law to helping people with their mental health

Understanding the roots of our inner critic—and how to manage it effectively

The reasons why men often face an identity crisis post-retirement

Why you must shed certain habits after transitioning out of your career

How to build a better community through these small steps

When it’s the right time start asking yourself the big questions

Austin Dowling Psychotherapy

Austin on LinkedIn

Austin on Facebook