Jillian Johnsrud — Retire Often: A New Blueprint for Work and Rest

Jillian Johnsrud never expected to be able to retire early, so she hatched a plan to retire often. Inspired by the idea of sabbatical years, she set out to sprinkle retirements throughout her life. At 40, she has taken more than a dozen mini-retirements. These allowed her to pursue dreams like living abroad, traveling to 27 countries, adopting four kids (plus two biological kids), investing in real estate, and touring the U.S. in a camper. Jillian has taught, coached, and written about mini-retirements for almost a decade. She hosts the "Retire Often" podcast and is a popular speaker and consultant for mini-retirements.

I talk with Jillian about her philosophy of “retiring often” through mini-retirements—planned career breaks that promote purpose, balance, and long-term well-being. Jillian shares her personal journey from scarcity to financial freedom, how burnout affects us more than we realize, and why stepping away can actually accelerate your growth and income. We discuss the emotional and cultural hurdles that keep us chained to nonstop work and how to reframe rest as a strategic advantage. Whether you’re self-employed or climbing the corporate ladder, Jillian’s insights will inspire you to build a more intentional life.

In this episode:

• (00:00) – Intro

• (03:22) – The money moment that changed Jillian’s life

• (04:55) – “I realized money gives you options”

• (06:58) – How a 19-year-old found inspiration in the Old Testament

• (08:24) – What is a mini-retirement (and why you need one)?

• (09:22) – Three smart ways to take a break without blowing up your career

• (11:35) – Why everyone needs a mini-retirement “go bag”

• (14:30) – Why waiting for burnout is the worst strategy

• (16:56) – Breaking the workaholic mindset and rewriting the narrative

• (21:24) – Rest = rocket fuel for your career

• (24:33) – Will I lose momentum if I step away?

• (29:24) – The fear that stops most people—and how to face it

• (32:39) – Mini-retirements aren’t just for the wealthy

• (36:51) – Why it’s harder (but more powerful) for entrepreneurs

• (40:34) – The invisible story holding you back

• (43:25) – The mindset shift that changed everything for Jillian

• (47:40) – How to connect with Jillian and learn more

Get full show notes and links at https://mindful.money. 

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MindfulMoney.