Beyond the Exit: Redefining Purpose After Selling Your Business with John Rood

What happens after the dream comes true? In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty speaks with John Rood—entrepreneur, coach, and author of Beyond the Exit—about the emotional and identity shifts that follow selling a business. John shares his personal post-exit experience and insights from interviewing over 70 entrepreneurs who have navigated the same uncharted territory. From the shock of sudden stillness to rediscovering joy and meaning, this conversation reveals the unspoken side of success. Whether you're preparing for your own exit or reflecting on what's next, this is a must-listen for founders and visionaries alike.

About the Guest:John Rood is the author of Beyond the Exit: What Successful Entrepreneurs Do with the Rest of Their Lives. After building and selling his education business to private equity, John became fascinated by what happens after the "big win." He now helps entrepreneurs redefine purpose, identity, and fulfillment beyond business success. He lives in the Chicago area with his wife and sons.

Key Takeaways:

• Selling a business often leads to an unexpected emotional void—loss of identity, purpose, and routine.

• Many entrepreneurs underestimate the psychological transition post-exit, feeling unmoored or invisible after years of high momentum.

• True meaning after the exit doesn’t always mean building another business—it can look like stillness, healing, or exploring forgotten passions.

• Structuring your life across health, relationships, personal growth, and fulfillment can prevent post-exit burnout.

• Your best work might still be ahead—just in a different form.

Connect with John Rood:

• Book:Beyond the Exit

• LinkedIn:John Rood

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