In this episode of the Revolutionize Your Retirement Interview with Expert Series, host Dori Mintzer welcomes back author Bruce Feiler to discuss his new book, A Time to Gather, and why rituals matter more than ever. Together, they explore how rituals help people navigate transition, reduce loneliness, and create connection in a fragmented world.

Bruce shares the personal experience that sparked the book, including his family’s transition from an empty nest to a full nest and back again, and how that led him to study group rituals around the world. He explains the difference between individual life transitions and collective “group quakes,” and why modern people are increasingly creating bespoke rituals for divorce, illness, grief, retirement, and other major life changes.

This rich conversation also explores examples from Bruce’s research, including divorce parties, grieving circles, rituals for loss, and customized ceremonies that help people face shame, fear, and uncertainty with support from others. Bruce outlines five core elements of an effective ritual: boundaries, stakes, compromise, empathy, and hope.

Connect With Bruce here:

Website: https://www.brucefeiler.com/

Substack: https://brucefeiler.substack.com/?utm_campaign=profile_chips

LinkedIn: / brucefeiler

Instagram: / brucefeiler

Youtube: / @brucefeilervideos

A Time To Gather: How Ritual Created the World and How It Can Save US, is available from Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, and from independent booksellers. Prior to the book’s release date of May 19th, you can order a signed copy from Greenlight Bookstore in Brooklyn, NY. Go to https://brucefeiler.substack.com/about to find the link.

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