I'm Retiring at Age 53... What Now?

[@EarlyRiser71]

Thanks to all who have commented. I read them all. Such a great community! ❤🕓

[@themichaelfindling]

I’m 66 and retiring tomorrow. The next day , my new job is getting up in the morning and begin training for my hike on the AT . That’s the plan . I’ve camped my whole life , I’ve done some long weekends on the AT and it’s got a hold of me . I’m being drawn to the AT and can’t explain it . Let’s go !

[@texanoutdoors6409]

Long time hearing from you. I, too, retired at 53 . That was in April 2016 after 32 years of service to the state of Texas. I found you in early 2017 when my love of the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee introduced me to you and your hike of the trail. I have one bit of advice. Seek the Lord in your quite meditation in the early morning time and ask him to lead your life and He will show you your life path, and you will be at peace with it. Tell Mrs . ER and Hollywood hello from a long time follower of your adventures. TEX

[@craig.m.spielberg]

Congratulations ER -- and welcome to the Early Retirees club (ER now stands for more than just Early Riser!). I hope you're enjoying your new life and wish you all the best on this exciting journey. Having been on this path for nearly five years, I know how uncertain it can sometimes feel. Not that I know all that much except my own experience, but I'm happy to share that experience to help answer any questions you may have -- if you ever need that don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you the best!

[@EarlyRiser71]

Appreciate it, brother. 🤘Great to hear from you! I will be in touch!

[@donrobinson5540]

I’ve been with you since the channel began. I too love the peace that hiking brings. I retired nearly 3 years ago at age 72 after a 47 year career as a physician. I can relate to the stresses of the daily grind. Retirement has brought me to a better, quieter place, although I would be lying if I said I don’t miss medicine. My friend, look at the body of work you have achieved and the legacy you have created. That has comforted me in my retirement. You will enjoy not having to attack the daily grind. Sure, you will miss parts of it, but take this opportunity to find out what your next adventure will be. It will come to you naturally. Take time to enjoy your family and friends. Rekindle the spark that attracted you to your wife. Take some trips with her. Follow your inner passions as they develop. I have a son who was a career Marine and having worked with veterans at the VA, I know many feel lost without their military identity. But it’s there, waiting on you to discover it. Best wishes and don’t be a stranger on this channel. You have many friends on here who see a lot to be valued in you.

[@EarlyRiser71]

Great advice. ❤

[@jeffhall7576]

Thank you for your service. I followed you in 2017. I retired from public safety in 2019 after more than 36 years. 10 days later I was in Georgia hiking the trail. Now I enjoy every little aspect of my life and family. One thing that has helped me was friends. I connect with friends at least weekly. My friends are a mixture of public safety and military special forces. We are working through retirement one day at a time. God bless and congratulations Redline

[@cariboudave]

Subscribed on your first AT trip. You inspired me to start my little channel. My 1971 B day is late October. You truly have done enough serving this county, and you deserve to move on to a new mission. I spent 20 years volunteering with the National Ski Patrol, and had to move on. Started work camping as a manager on Ohio, and at a place in Florida in the winter. Went through an absolute professional disaster last winter after accepting a full time spot at the place in Florida, moved 1,200 miles there, and back here in less than 90 days while dragging my 80 yo Mom along for the nightmare. Now I'm back at my home campground, they're taking good care of me. But I was on the brink of a breakdown there in FL, and it still haunts me sometimes when certain situations arise here. 20 years of ski resort trauma care, plus other real paying jobs and never any related stress or response to it........, and that crap in Fl brought me to my knees.. I'm just looking for stillness, too, and that inner quietness. My off season side hustle ( on basically a teacher salary here now and get year round income) is driving and Amish farrier to different barns, which I'm finding very interesting. Plus I started Brazilian Jiu-jitsu about 2 years ago, that is something that gets you comradery, focus, fitness,.and a kind of meditation. Please put some meditation videos out if you can. Merry Christmas!!! "be curious, not judgmental " -Whitman

[@CraigMains]

I’m happy for ya…enjoy the quietness of dropping that heavy baggage! Enjoy being still…👊

[@thediscerninghiker5857]

ER, I retired in my mid 50s. I found that shifting my life in a near 180 deg. turn opened up the joy in life. The first 4 to 5 years I was a bit "selfish " I focused on building the hostel and running it. This was majorly out of my normal MO. I had months at a time to myself. It improved my relationships and my general attitude. Find something that you have workable skill in and do a deep dive to improve it. Learn new skills ie ....building something , or auto work , whatever. just go do something tha is very challanging. I would bet you can do very well in anything you set your heart and soul to. May you find what you hope to find. Have Fun and Hike Safe.

[@KrizAkoni]

Wow, this hits hard for me. I just retired at 56 (government/civ aircraft test engineer) after 34 years in my organization - I know where you’re coming from. It’s a big change stepping away from this community. It’s really hard to let go. What you’ve done has meaning…it mattered, a lot. It’s time for others to shine, let go. We now have time to reflect on our contributions, and be content, and be still. Enjoy your time, you’ve earned it. For me, I’ve just started the long AT walk… See you out there. .. 🥰

[@darrengarlough5121]

I’m just a few years older than you, and have been contemplating retirement myself. Everytime I think about it I tend to realize the best times in life are when you are working and making the daily routine go around, so I think I will just stay working as long as I can.

[@kathygalofski6154]

Your calming voice is incredible. However what you say is more incredible! You introduced me to AT Vlogs. Yours is still the best! You will find your way in this new life. Please share it with us whatever it is. I can see you volunteering with young people outdoors. I didn’t retire until 68 because I loved my job. I waited too long. I can no longer hike due to physical limitations. Go while you can! Enjoy and create.

[@KrisRasmusson]

So good to hear from you ER. We've never met, but you are like a friend. I'm 77, retired, and have now hiked 2/3 of AT You were an inspiration for my hike. I began my meditation practice over 50 years ago. Stilling the mind is an admirable goal. I so appreciate your sharing your life's journey. I hope we meet some day PurpleStreak

[@natedogproductions9568]

Loved watching you on your AT journey. As a combat vet, thanks for your service brother. I appreciate your words of wisdom about leaving your ego at the door and not letting the little person on your shoulder dictate your decisions. Thank you Early Riser! Hope you continue to post videos.

[@tlosgolf]

Congratulations and thank you for your service to our great country. Thank you also for living a life that is helping others in so many ways on so many levels. Peace and Sparkling Trails Sir.

[@dakotaescher1]

I retired (full retirement with stocks) at 47, took a year off and went into teaching. It was the greatest decision I ever made. I have all summer to backpack, holidays, and I love being in the classroom and coaching.

[@tammieflemal7871]

Congratulations. I was 62. What do you do…. Enjoy the heck out of it!!! I consider it my second childhood and got a puppy.

[@gboltonatrail1099]

Congratulations on Retirement ER and Thank you for your Service both Military and Civilian! I started watching your Thru Hike prep videos not sure if I was going to retire that year. In March (you were a 1/4 Way Thru, I set the Retirement Date for July 1st and immediately set my Thru Hike Start Date for 2018. I used the Hike as a way to transition and help me navigate what was to come next and getting to who I was at my core without the Mask of a job to define me. I really thought that Preparing and the Thru Hiking would end when I Kissed the Sign. Little did I Know that the trail would never leave me and that the Journey continued during a period of post trail depression, acceptance and daily memories of lessons learned for me to implement and to share with others on an almost daily occurrence. I truly longed for peace and stillness that I experienced but never found how to control during those 5 1/2 months out their embracing the suck and letting the trail provide. I was fortunate enough to hike the last 200 Miles, share time with 2023 Thru Hikers and Summit Mama K for a 5th Anniversary Present. It was even better the 2nd Time because I appreciated and found peace in the everyday simple blessings and basked in the stillness of which you speak. The biggest blessing is that my trail name and who I am on trail have become one with my Soul and the Human I am in “Retired Life”. I pray that you will be able to create what you desire as you transition into Retirement. Almost daily, I pass the Small Wooden Katahdin Sign Holding my Summit Photo and hear my inner Soul sing, “It is well with my Soul”. I pray that you and your followers find this same freeing Stillness and Peace. PS, Since you read daily, may I suggest “From Aimless to Amazing - The Rewire Retirement Method” by Cyn Meyer. Great book for anyone retiring. It will cause positive growth whether you agree, disagree, follow or pick and choose what to take from the book. Believe me when I say your next 30+ years are going to be even more impactful and fulfilling as your Daily Thru Hike Journey Continues! Keep the Faith! Keep Hik N^ gbolt (AT 2018).

[@jonallenoutside]

Thanks for sharing the news on the start of your next chapter. I’m still hoping to run into you on trail sometime. Your AT thru-hike inspired my son and I to get into long-distance backpacking and we’ve never looked back. If you ever hike the Ice Age Trail you have a trail angel in the area.

[@OneEyeHikes]

I severed due to a buyout late 2021. I was 61. So, I hiked the CT summer of 2022. A year later and now almost 2 years in, I’m working as a contractor to the DOE out west. One never knows, but I’m confident you will find your place. You have so much to offer. Thanks for your service to our Country ER!

[@greenfeetoutdoors2779]

ER, making me smile, Brother! Brave! Sharing! Love to have a sip and share some thoughts with you! Leaving it all is tough, but worth it. Leaving saved my life. Take care my friend!

[@perrythorvig6446]

I was a step by step fan of yours in 2017 on the AT. Followed ever since. Escape the "matrix" man. Congrats on the retirement.

[@amynapier3551]

Thanks for your service to our country. Thanks for all the wisdom and advice that you've given with backpacking and your books. Hope you enjoy retirement with family and friends. Hope you have many, happy trails ahead. This community is here for you wherever your heart leads you.

[@funwiththefacklers8346]

I followed your AT hike and we hiked the AT in 2019. We need a different word for a change in life than retirement. Just because money shows up in the bank for some task you perform does not mean life stops. Time to ask the question what brings me enjoyment and do that , make the country a better place to live. Thank you for your service.

[@backpackingcapebreton]

I’ve been following you from the beginning, ER. Been a pleasure following along so far, looking forward to what adventures find you in the coming years. Life is very short, the future more uncertain than ever … we all must follow what ever makes us happy now more than ever. The time is now, friend.

[@mattbullock1673]

Happy your back Sir. Been watching for years. Like this vid, I know what your talikng about. I retired from my small plumbing business and moved to the mountains, about 1/2 mile from the PCT.I have for the first time in my life was able to shut down all the noise and be peaceful.

[@EarlyRiser71]

That sounds awesome!!!

[@amerphoto1]

I recently came across your channel, but have heard of you many times from creators who have hiked the Appalachian Trail the past few years as they had referred to you about advice they had picked up from you personally or through your channel. I did not know your background, but I want to thank you for your years of military service and continuing it through your civilian life...very admirable! This will be interesting for me to follow you and see how you approach retirement and how you evolve through it. Reason being, I retired at age 64 and I am 70 now and my mind has never been still. I am not a thru hiker, but a section hiker. It is a passion and the closest thing I find to stillness of the mind. Hopefully, I can follow your channel and learn from you and find the stillness my mind needs.

[@EarlyRiser71]

Awesome you have joined the community. The secret to stillness of mind is learning to become the watcher of your mind. Not sure if you like reading, but Eckhart Tolle's book "The Power of Now" will explain it all. Also, get my book "Pushing North' if you haven't read it. It will build on what the mind is doing to us on our hikes. Thanks for the great comment!!

[@amerphoto1]

@@EarlyRiser71 Thank you for your reply. I certainly will read the book you recommend, "The Power of Now," and your book, "Pushing North" for your advice and adventures. You mentioned your book in your vlog, and I considered reading it. My problem is even tough I retired from my test engineering job, I was still involved as an Auxiliary Police Sergeant, and a Fire Police Captain in our volunteer/paid professional fire department. I have since retired from the police force but still a Captain, all an immense amount of responsibility which keeps my mind constantly racing on related issues of response, training, SOG's, improving and spending the departments money on gear our guys need to do their job safely. Hiking is my savior!

[@loueckert4970]

Don't retire without a good outline of a plan at least in your head. It will change and probably improve. I retired in 2015 and love it. You should look forward to owning your time.

[@KathyColorado1]

Hi ER, I only found you as I was preparing for my own CT hike. I watched both of your CT hikes and enjoyed them both. I did wish to understand how your second go went for you. As I watched this video , I feel like I might understand more what was happening for you. I felt a lot watching this video. I felt for you. I feel your shift. I keep trying to meditate but my mind wanders ! I will keep at it though because I think it is a learned skill. As I try the CT again this summer, I hope to run into you. Safe and calm journeys are what I hope for you with growth that makes you happy. See you on trail , Hearts .

[@craiglambert9515]

A friend once told me, "I think retirement is a pretty cool job, and you are darn good at it." He was right. You will love it.

[@TravelingOutsideTheBaatz]

Great to hear from you ER. Your 2017 A.T videos were a big part of Missy and my 2019 A.T. thru hike training. We got a chance to meet you in Damascus at Trail Days and really enjoyed our conversation. We wish you the best of the next portion of your life.

[@ISuckatHiking]

I'm so glad to see you back. We suffer from the same mentality. It takes a lot for my mind to be still, and I find it out in the wilderness. I'm doing monthly trips for 4 days since I got off trail to continue to have peace.

[@ncdean62]

Wow. A very inspirational and inspiring talk! I've been silently following your story since your AT thru hike. It is one of strong commitment and personal growth. Your have all the tools necessary to make your future just as amazing as your past. A Triple Crown would be a good starting point once you get your family life secured. Looking forward to the next chapter in your story...

[@angie0417]

Thank you for this video. Very well said. I’m a hiker. I’ve followed you for a while and your book has helped me tremendously. I retired at 55 almost 2 years ago. Still working on it all myself. It’s a process! I look forward to your future videos.

[@justinlawrence9576]

Been training with your content, books especially well-read over and over, since 2021. Thanks for being on my team 2025 is finally my year! "Right ON"

[@EarlyRiser71]

@@justinlawrence9576 let's gooooo!!! Good luck!! 🤘🕓

[@Mdbogard]

I’ve always enjoyed your content, ER. Thank you for your service, and sacrifices. Time to enjoy stillness.

[@donphillips8384]

Nice… my comment will stay the same…Keep on keeping on…. Thank you and all veterans past and present for keeping us free! Merry Christmas friend.

[@keithrogers5832]

Congratulations on your retirement, Thank you for your service to this great country of ours. You may find out that you work hardest at retirement. We all love your spirit, and I'm certain that we will follow you down that dirt road again. You don't have to be ER. You were the King of that mountain once. You, Daisy, and Hawk inspired many of us to go and do it. Thanks again ER.

[@Strokesurvivor50]

Dang, im only 5 years older than you. Good luck in what you do. Appreciate what you taught me about recovery after backpacking. You will do great. Hike with your family. Love to meet you on the pinhoti one day.

[@probationtermination]

Great introspective video. Upon my retirement I quickly found out that my enemy was time. Mostly idle time. Filling that time was the hardest part for me. On the AT, with all that time inside your own head I realized that each of us are given a finite amount of time of which we don't know the sum. So fill your time with the things that make you happy. It's tough sometimes making that happen. Prioritizing the most important is also a challenge. Good luck in your retirement, it's an awesome gift that many of us never reach. Hope to see you on a trail someday. PT

[@robertmray]

Hey ER! Great to see ya back. I'm 75 and retired AF for 20+ years. I can't believe you got through this without mentioning "The Matrix". Whenever I get sucked in I often think of your advice to get above it. You'll figure it out...Merry Christmas from Tennessee. ...also look forward to more books!✌

[@lizzerdo1]

I too was a Controller on “The Hill” @ the “24” from 85 - 91…. I had my awakening in 2013 and left the old world behind. It’s not easy to deprogram all the indoctrination of the old reality based lies and 1/2 truths. My heart goes out to you my brother. Awakening is the hardest thing to do.

[@TrailSessions]

ER, long time follower, I know this change has to be full of mixed emotions. Your impact alone on the trail community stretches farther than you will ever know . Thank you for giving your thoughts, wisdom, and guidance throughout the years. Excited to see what happens next for you. Happy Retirement brother.

[@enjoyingthescenery5589]

Congratulations! Well done on your career in the military and as a civil servant! Wish you all the best in your next adventure!

[@keloreilly7017]

I love the idea of doing a well thought out RITUAL to say “farewell” to your long and meaningful work life. Thank you for all of your service. Be well and take good care of YOUrself and your beautiful Soul.

[@madmartigan8774]

First I'd like to thank you for your service. Unfortunately I haven't watched your videos in a really long while. I followed you through the entire AT. And I don’t remember you as having an ego. I'm really glad you decided to make a video. Walking away from a career that has been ingrained into your identify can be more difficult than the job itself. You just need to find a new purpose and grind away at that. Even being a good family man takes dedication and effort. Whatever you decide to do. I'll be watching. And in honor of the AT "I'm Styling, profiling, limousine riding, jet flying, kiss-stealing, wheeling and dealing son of a gun! GIVE ME SOME! WOOOOOO!!!"

[@judybonnaure2595]

Way to go! What a resume! Thank-you. 🥰 Good to hear from the “deep ER” I remember from the AT. God bless. 😊

[@ccarter2919]

Congratulations Freedom at last! You’ve no doubt earned your retirement. You will be busier and happier than you imagined. The transition is a process for sure. The reduction in stress will be so freeing! I sold my business and retired at 49. I am so grateful to be able to focus on my family and doing what brings me and others peace and happiness.

[@PisgahGravelProject]

Local western NC resident who's father retired a year ago. I'd guard against complacency. I doubt that'll be a problem for you, but that's all I come up with. Don't slow down. As a lifelong backpacker, trout fisherman and overall just a guy who spends a bunch of time in the mountains I do have one activity to share with you that you might really like. Over the years, I've spent a bunch of time exploring the region on an adventure motorcycle. I can camp off it, and it allows me to explore areas more efficiently than in a vehicle. I bring up this sport because I've met a handful of operators and dozens of enlisted guys over the years who also ride either dual sport or adventure bikes. Thank you for your service, and good luck to you in the future.

[@LizKidder]

Hey ER!!! Congrats!🫶🏼

[@cottontalesfromthetrail5474]

In 2017 I retired and came home from the Middle East. Started my SOBO AT Thru Hike in 2018 and met the parents of Capt Joel Gentz (Maybe an operator you selected) who was KIA 09 June 2010 in Afghan attempting to rescue a British Marine. I closed the door to my old life and took an opportunity to create a new life, new friends, new ideas, new ways to serve others, sing new songs and have a new hope through Jesus Christ. After my hike I bought a farm here in Alabama and that is where I found my stillness. I work harder in retirement than I ever did at my job, but Cottonwood Farms saved my mental well being! God Bless America and all that keep her free! Love ya brother and I will be pulling for your Dawgs!

[@y4640]

Congratulations, you are very fortunate to be able to retire so young. I had to work until I was 67 1/2. It's been just over a year and I am enjoying every day.

[@edshelnutt1347]

Glad I caught up with you today with this video, ER. I followed you on all your sojourns on the various locations, watched how you met challanges and compared your approach to what I had been using in my life. I got both your books at the time they were published and got a great deal out of them. Now this. I served in the Army for 23 years, most in SF, and got out after Desert Storm. Since then, I've chosen a completely different path from the one I chose back then. Retired last year as an RN, loved that career as much as the older one. Along the way, I found meditation, stoicism and found that I really loved the transition from one person to the one I became now. Found I don't miss either of them now, but found the same angst that you're going through now. Watched my kids grow up, sent my son off to war and back, saw my daughters get married and start families. The next leg of your jouney is just getting started. I wish you well with these new travels, rediscovering your connections with family and friends. I wish you peace.

[@dherself]

Thank you for your thoughts about peace and quiet. I thought that you might enjoy the videos of Sanna Vaara, who lives in a remote area of northern Finland. She is creating a life filled with peace, beauty and a great enjoyment of the outdoors. One video from her that deals with quieting the mind is from 4 months ago and is titled “A Quiet Day Alone in the Countryside of Finland”.

[@kasiedollar4727]

I look forward to see what you do next on this amazing adventure! Best of luck to you!

[@gregfioravanti775]

I needed that. Thanks ER. Best of luck on whatever comes next. Hope to see you on the AT some day!

[@ajschiessl2162]

Eagles Hell Freezes Over version of “Learn to be Still” and this introspective of yours hits close to home Thanks for your content and thanks for your books. True assets for those of us looking to be better and do better

[@BearTrekAdventures]

Hey brother it's great hear your update - congrats on retirement! Nice peaceful sounding video and it's nice to hear your thoughts on the mental stillness. I think the mental peace I feel on trail is what I miss when I'm off trail...still work to do. I hope you continue updates as you move onto the next stage of your life.

[@katiebohn2940]

I watched you in 2017 and enjoyed your adventure so much. I have 5 months to go , and I understand the need to be still. It is time to feed my soul instead of my bank account.

[@TimHorne]

One of the reasons I love watching your videos is that you have always brought stillness to me. Anytime you post a video I’m ready for some stillness and I jump to watch it. Trey, my friend, you’re not retiring, you’re really starting life!! I noticed a change from the day you started your AT thru hike, almost every day I could tell a difference in you and that was part of what drew there every new video! In this video you’ve already set some goals 1. Be still 2. Be a better family man. That’s where you start. If you need anything we will be here for you! Just ask! You’ve been in the back of my mind for a while but I will think and pray for you more often now! Take care!

[@gypsygirlhikes]

Congratulations on your retirement, and thank you for your service! Love your "stillness." You're a breath of fresh air in the rat race ER. You've helped more people than you probably realize. Happy holidays

[@swilliams2575]

This resonates hard. I'm 60 with 1 year to go working for a paycheck. They I start paying myself. Best wishes to you and Mrs ER in retirement.

[@BoulderHikes]

Good stuff ER. I feel that life has its phases and entering the retirement phase can be exciting and scary. There's a lifetime of anticipation. The beginning of retirement has that pre trail jitters feeling. Excited to see what paths you take.

[@need2beoutside31]

So good to hear from you again ER! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year! More importantly- I want you to know that your way of communicating your thoughts have been so eye opening to me. I obsessed listening to your thoughts on the AT, as so often the matrix balcony episodes were so thought provoking in my own life and have really helped me pursue finding that stillness. I retired from law enforcement three years ago, at 51, and again your thoughts have been really provoking in many ways. I’m sure it’s hard to maintain this channel regularly and fully pursue “the calm and ego free environment”, so to speak, but please know you have a special way of helping others calm their egos and find the stillness. So Thank You for it and when and if you throw us another bone - I’ll be here for it. CONGRATS on your retirement decision and Thank You for your many years of service to our Great Country!!

[@MeetMeOutside]

Well said brother, thank you for your service, and wisdom.Peace

[@sparrow6766]

Congratulations 🎉!!! Someone told me you wrote a book and I would like to order a copy. I learned alot watching your '17 thru hike. Right now working on recovery from CPTSD. I should be ready to hike the AT in '26.

[@SS-yi5cs]

Your best video. Period......Yes, your conversation went deeper. Look forward to hearing from you again.

[@stirlingslingerland4547]

Great to see you again. Awesome video. Enjoy your retirement. In many ways I'm very similar to you. I also get up far too early and must have a coffee. I'm also 53. Also retired young, 5 years ago. Also tend to do trails again, like you I did the Colorado trail again this year (last year also did it). Time for you to start a new chapter in your life. Thank you for your great journeys (trails) I've followed.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Really enjoyed this, thanks. You have a lot of interesting things to say. Please keep the videos coming!

[@tjjansma547]

Congrats good sir! Stay safe! Hike hard! Love life! And remember to make all good decisions in real time 👌 (I think I'm quoting you🤔) good to see you, Thnx for the tag along on your journey 🙏🌅♥️✌️

[@outdoors_life7544]

Just earlier I was wondering what happened to you… And bam a video from you! So glad you are back, so missed your video content. I could use some more motivational content from you. Been a long year for me. I need to get back on track

[@SheGoneAgain]

Congratulations on your pending retirement. It is definitely a transition, and You will achieve this next chapter of you. You have all you need to make this happen. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Looking forward to future vids.

[@george-fn6oc]

I'm sure you will be happy in your retirement--I am joyous every day now that my time is my own. You know I will be watching for your videos. I've been with you since the AT.

[@KathleenLockhart-ry7sd]

I retired four years ago at 58. meditation is/was a total game changer. Keep it up. You’ll see your path as it shows itself to you.

[@The_Rowdy_One]

CONGRATS. Enjoyed working along side you. Blue skies and fair winds brotha!!!

[@phronsiekeys]

It's great to see you again after a long while. Glad you got some Maine hiking in! I'm happy for you and your family, and the new journey will bring its own challenges and insights. One foot in front of another!

[@PoliteChihuahua]

You hike the American Discovery Trail. BTW, you still have the best AT Thru Hike vlog. Congrats on retirement, you put in the time, now you get to enjoy what you have left. Your physical parts might be banged up and hurt, but your mind and soul is still growing and strong. Every time I am hiking the back country and start to feel body pain, you are in my ear saying "embrace the suck".

[@sheliasipes8321]

Wow ER ! Great video. I just want to say I've followed you since the very beginning. I've enjoyed each video. Congratulations on your retirement and I hope you can find that stillness you are looking for. Thank you for your years of service ! Blessings to you , Mrs. ER and your son. I will continue to follow whenever you decide to push record. Life is good, enjoy while you can.

[@Relaxnow-v8e]

ER congrats on the retirement and thank you for your service. Have been following since the beginning of the AT Always loved your self help and appreciate this video Keep growing, retirement is just the beginning

[@trailtl5543]

Good to see you ER. Sounds like you'll figure it all out, you're a smart guy. I'm looking at retirement this next year and I appreciate hearing your thoughts on it and where it takes you. Keep us posted buddy!

[@phronsiekeys]

Since you said you've started reading fiction, I want to recommend a book to you (and generally, the author, David Rhodes). It's called "Driftless," and is about a small mostly rural area and the people who live there, where they come from, how they became who they are, and what that means for them. It's beautiful writing that reveals the human heart in an entirely unsentimental way. There's also a great sequel, "Jewelweed."

[@EarlyRiser71]

Sounds awesome. I put it on my list. 👊🤘🕓

[@jwsnma]

Congratulations ER. It wasapleasure to meet you back in 2017. My best to and your family. Enjoy

[@b.k.691]

Congratulations! I'd love to see more videos from you.

[@brianmartin3263]

👍Thank you for sharing. Followed you every day all the way up the AT 2017. Maybe start by taking a victory lap. I took a long needed one after 40 years, 15,000 days in the trenches of retail. Do what makes you happy. Take care friend. B✌️😊

[@anthonysmith7280]

ER, great vid and CONGRATULATIONs on your pending retirement!! You've had a great career and gave a lot to this country, the Air Force and its SpecOps culture. Retirement is a big step for sure, but it's very important from my perspective to know when to say when. I was with the G for over thirty years between Army MP, SF, Border Patrol and Dept of State. I retired when I was 52. Although I had an amazing career, and would not change a thing, (I'm lucky to be alive today) I'm glad I seperated from the G when I did. When I retired, it was the first time since I was 18 years old that my job requirements didn't require me to carry firearms or be "switched on" continually (military, law enforement, security work, domestic, overseas etc). I think it's important to have an idea as to what you want to do in retirement - but be flexible as stuff can and will change. After I retired I hiked the AT in 2021 (after watching ALL your AT vlogs numerous times). When finished I returned to Northern VA and started a small business supporting the hiking community in the areas of Front Royal, Linden, Harpers Ferry and the Shannies. I've had a great time over the last three seasons, but I got the thru-hiking itch again after my wife and I went hiking in Glacier National Park this past summer. I kick off on the PCT at the end of March 2025, should be interesting for sure. I'm not getting any younger and I want to do this kind of stuff while I still can. Concur, hiking is my meditation - it's huge. At the end of the day, find a good fit for you in your future retirement life. Thanks for all you've done during your years of service and thanks for your vlogs. Best regards to you and your family. Be well, stay healthy.......and keep on hammering brother !!

[@Judy-wv4mx]

Thank you for your service!

[@johnsubic3599]

Wow…just wow. Thanks!

[@JettyDeath]

Amazing words, you will always remain a huge influence on my spiritual journey. Godspeed on your journey to stillness. It’s a bummer I could not make it back before you left. The next guy has big shoes to fill. If you want to start your new adventure in a semi-shitty camper van, let me know! Haha

[@135791113ful]

ER, good to see ya again.

[@jgeisler]

I retired when I was 53...over 8 years ago. No regrets and living my best life.

[@frankynodots]

Good to see you back here.

[@christopherfischetti8373]

Thank you for this kind sir !!!!!!!

[@nessa12lynn]

Congratulations!!!

[@keithstewart2639]

Thanks ER. I've watched your videos since 2017 your AT Hike. I also read your book. I need to meditate more ii really helps . I know you probably watched the short video. ......Like is not a journey by Alan Watts. That care

[@robertwnc]

Much success to you on your next season! Try starting in Mathew.....

[@TheWrena440]

Early Riser!

[@grahames9228]

Enjoy retirement. Merry Xmas.

[@wesmatson5921]

nice you made it home-too home THANK YOU FOR THE SERVICE......🤜👆✊✊✊

[@iagainstiification]

53 years old myself. Zero chance of retiring any time soon. Probably 62 if I’m lucky. I’d love to be hanging it up right now as I’m so tired of the corporate BS. I tell my kids to go for a gig with a pension. It’s a sweet deal.

[@TheDoddsworth]

29 years Air Force retired. You'll get past it just fine. In a few months you'll realize that you haven't done anything that made no sense since you left. Planning a LASH on the PCT starting in April. Hit me up if interested.