What if the “best years of your life” turned out to be the loneliest, most confusing, and overwhelming?
Most people dream of retirement as the “happiest chapter” of life: more time, more freedom, finally the reward after decades of work. But here’s the shocking truth: for many women, retirement is when depression, loss of identity, and lack of purpose begin.
In this episode of the TRUE Wellness Podcast, Dr. Dee sits down with Maria Lucassen, CEO of Maria Lucassen Coaching and author of The Retirement Collective. With 45+ years of corporate experience and her own joyful transition story, Maria now helps women navigate the emotional, mental, and practical side of retirement—so they can not just retire, but truly reinvent themselves.
Maria reveals why retirement isn’t just about finances, but about rediscovering purpose, staying bold and curious, and creating a life that feels vibrant and intentional.
This conversation will change the way you (or the women you love) think about retirement forever.
Highlights You’ll Discover
- The Retirement Myth – Why many women feel lost and depressed after the “honeymoon phase” of retirement ends.
- The Identity Gap – How to shift from “I was a manager/mom” to “Who am I now?” with confidence.
- The ALIVE Framework – Active, Loving, Inspired, Vibrant, Energized—Maria’s formula for thriving post-career.
- The Courage to Reinvent – Why retirement is the perfect time to explore passions, try new things, and create community.
- Simple Daily Practices – How to start each day with clarity, energy, and joy in your next chapter.
Connect with Maria Lucassen:
https://www.instagram.com/maria_lucassen/
https://www.facebook.com/marialucassenonline
Download your FREE TRUE Wellness Checklist here: https://go.drdee.com/checklist
Are you ready to talk about your health? Schedule a FREE discovery call with Dr. Dee and our team: https://go.southbaywellness.com/schedule-call
Thanks for listening to T.R.U.E. Wellness with Dr. Dee, where we’re redefining health and empowering change. Hosted by Dr. Dee, creator of the T.R.U.E. Wellness Framework, this podcast brings you expert insights, inspiring stories, and actionable strategies to help you thrive.
Subscribe, share, and join the conversation! Visit www.drdee.com to learn more, and follow us on social media for more wellness inspiration.
Instagram: dr.dee.phd
Facebook: dr.dee.z.phd
YouTube: @dr.deephd
LinkedIn: drdeezanzarovphd
TikTok: @dr.dee.phd
Website: www.drdee.com
Want to watch the full interview? Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.deephd
🎙️ Your journey to true wellness starts now!
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