NEXT STEPS RETIREMENT COACHING, LLC
The Story Behind My Coaching
Navigating Your Retirement Journey Together
Having worked as a Director of Client Services in the financial arena for nearly eight years, I often heard about the dollars and cents and the "financial" side of ensuring clients had enough money to retire when they were ready to retire. As I neared my own retirement, there were more questions than answers, but not about the finances. This uncertainty about my future "role" as a retiree prompted my interest in Retirement Coaching and brought about my curiosity and pursuit of certification as a Certified Professional Retirement Coach.
I founded Next Steps Retirement Coaching, LLC with a simple yet profound belief: the transition from work life to retirement is not just a change of scenery, but a psychological shift that requires expert guidance. My mission is to help pre-retirees and retirees navigate this transition with empathy and structure, ensuring that the next chapter of your life is filled with purpose, connection, and peace of mind.
About me
“When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.” – Roy E. Disney
Throughout my life, every pivotal decision has been deeply rooted in my core values: family,
faith, integrity, continuous learning, making a difference, and helping others. These principles have
guided my path, shaping the person I am today.
At 30 years old I earned my college degree, graduating Magna Cum Laude with
a Bachelor of Science in Education – Business Education. My teaching career began at a
post-secondary business school in Rhode Island, where I discovered a passion for mentorship.
Helping displaced workers through education, job retraining and placement was more than a job—it became
a mission.
After my son was born in 1997, I continued my commitment to education by teaching part-time
in the evenings. The arrival of my daughter in 2000 led me back home to O’Fallon, Illinois,
where my primary focus shifted to raising my children. Even as a stay-at-home mom, I remained
dedicated to instilling the value of hard work, taking on multiple part-time jobs in leasing, customer service, and substitute
teaching to help support my family.
In 2018, I transitioned into a new role as Director of Client Services for a financial advisor
where I gained valuable insight into financial planning and retirement. While thorough planning
covered the financial aspects of retirement, I recognized an overlooked need—helping
individuals navigate the next chapter of their lives beyond the numbers.
In January 2025, I made the decision to create my own way forward, and in
March 2025, I became a Certified Professional Retirement Coach.
As a CPRC, I am ready to guide
others in exploring and discovering their purpose and fulfillment in retirement.
My journey has been enriched by the love and support of my family. Throughout every chapter,
my values have remained at my center, leading me to a life of purpose and impact.
The Transition to Retirement
We understand that retirement is more than just a change in schedule—it's a profound psychological shift. Our expertise lies in helping you navigate the transition from a career-driven identity to a life centered on purpose, connection, and intentional living.