How does faith and spiritual practice transition in later decades of life? In this episode, we welcome Mark Ross, a REALIFE Process® Certified Coach as he explores life with God as he approaches his 70s. He shares his story of coming to faith as a teenager through Young Life, experiencing renewed growth in his late 20s through Bible-centered church teaching, and discovering his gift of encouragement expressed through teaching. He reflects on thriving in chaos by bringing order and seeing discomfort as an invitation to growth. Mark describes his major pivot at 59 from a 30-year career in public park development into coaching and art, learning to trust God in the “land in between,” and expanding spiritual practices beyond compartmentalized quiet times. He also recounts years of caregiving for aging parents and an unexpected season of supporting his wife after an ankle break, emphasizing community, discernment, gratitude, and growing deeper into what matters most as he approaches his 70s.
CLICK HERE for your free resource on life stage questions.
Connect with Mark at www.nextthinggroup.com.
00:00 Welcome and Series Intro
01:06 Meet Mark Ross
01:58 Career Pivot to Coaching
05:03 Faith in 20s and 30s
08:18 Gift of Encouragement
11:13 Thriving in Chaos
14:53 Retirement as Spiritual Journey
16:59 New Spiritual Practices
22:03 Caregiving and Community
29:51 Aging with Open Hands
31:15 Closing Reflections
32:30 Resources and Farewell
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About Teresa McCloy:
Teresa McCloy is the founder and creator of the REALIFE Process®, a framework designed to empower individuals and groups with the tools, training, and community needed for personal and professional growth. Through the REALIFE Process®, Teresa is on a mission to help others grow in self-awareness, establish sustainable rhythms, and enhance their influence and impact by integrating faith and work into their everyday lives.
She lives with her husband of over four decades on their 5th generation family farm in central Illinois and enjoys great coffee, growing beautiful flower gardens, and traveling as much as possible. Connect with Teresa on Facebook or Instagram.
About Lindsay Sterchi:
Lindsay Sterchi is the Spiritual Formation Director at the REALIFE Process®. She also writes about habits and rhythms for the Mind, Body, and Soul for a holistic approach to spiritual growth and formation at lindsaysterchi.substack.com.
She lives with her husband Tyler and elementary-aged twin daughters. She has an M.A. in Transformational Leadership from Bethel Seminary, and her background is in church ministry.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, you’re most likely to find her reading a good book. Connect with Lindsay on Facebook or Instagram.
