153: “You Got 39 Minutes?”

FEATURING: Russell Jenson

ORGANIZATION: Retired business owner, coach, and educator

iRetire4Him Audio Podcast - https://www.iwork4him.com/iretire4him-podcast/2025/11/iretire4him-show-153

iRetire4Him Salem Media Broadcast - https://omny.fm/shows/iretire4him/153-you-got-39-minutes

This week, Jim sits down with brand-new retiree Russell Jenson—whose “quiet summer” on a Minnesota lake turned into something far more unexpected. Just months after handing off his business, Russell suddenly found himself with an empty calendar, a pontoon boat, and a campground full of people who didn’t realize how ready they were for church. What began as one simple question—“Would you come if I kept it under 39 minutes?”—sparked a Sunday-morning gathering that surprised everyone…including Russell.

You’ll hear:

How a former escape-room business owner ended up preaching (even though he introduced himself by insisting he wasn’t a pastor… right before doing everything a pastor does).

Why 32 campers rolled up in golf carts—bloody marys in hand—to join Russell’s first lakeside service.

The surprising story behind “9:39,” and why that oddly specific number worked.

How God used decades of leadership training, Dale Carnegie coaching, and team-building work to shape Russell’s unexpected next assignment.

Why having nothing on the calendar felt both terrifying and freeing—and how Russell and his wife are learning to listen for God’s direction one day at a time.

The rhythms Russell now keeps—coaching men, leading morning Bible studies, mentoring a young pastor in Pakistan—and why none of it was even on his radar 20 years ago.

Russell’s story is a fresh, honest window into what can happen when retirement isn’t an escape from responsibility but an invitation from God. If your own next season feels foggy, his journey will encourage you to start with prayer, stay available, and trust that God’s assignments rarely waste your past experiences.

Tune in for a heartfelt, humorous look at a man discovering what comes after “I’m done working”—and how a Minnesota lake became the classroom where God clarified Russell’s calling.

Ready to plan and execute your retirement with Kingdom impact? Email [email protected] to request your free copy of iRetire4Him: Unlock God’s Purpose for Your Retirement – just pay shipping (ships to US residents only).

P.S. – Read the first chapter for free! ( https://www.iwork4him.com/iretire4him-book )