Chapter X with Michael Kay

Episode 20 – Johnny Roland (Part One)

Johnny Roland Headshot

February 17, 2021

There’s no perfect time to hit pause on your career, reset, and find new motivations. But sometimes it’s not a choice. When Johnny Roland had a time out forced upon him by the corporate world, he used his sabbatical to figure out an entirely new path.

Today he will share his journey with us—and it’s one that cannot help but touch your heart. He’s led a rich, varied life. After moving through several successful careers, Johnny is now in that time of life where he gets to choose what’s next. 

In this episode, he reveals why the doors in life will always open if you pay attention.

We discussed:

  • The difficult lesson Johnny learned about the corporate world after losing his job
  • Why his turning point in the process of growing up started at age 42
  • How the Oakland Hills firestorm taught Johnny about what’s important in life
  • The ways we distract ourselves when we feel uncomfortable—and one key practice that can help counteract discomfort
  • How Johnny started “practicing retirement” during his financial planning career
  • The true difference between being successful and being happy