Shining a Light on Janet Wirt – Living with Faith, Purpose, and Joy

Family & Career
With a life shaped by resilience, faith, and service, Janet Wirt shares a retirement story full of gratitude and growth. Married, divorced, and reunited over a 35-year span, she describes her journey with her husband Bryan as part of God’s plan. Together, they have two daughters and two grandchildren—her most precious gifts.

Her career was equally extraordinary. After 40 years as a Registered Nurse specializing in Neonatal Intensive Care and nursing leadership, Janet retired with numerous certifications and a Master of Science in Nursing focused on leadership development. Throughout it all, faith has been her foundation, giving her strength and direction.

The Retirement Decision
Although she always planned to retire at 65, life unfolded differently. In May 2023, she stepped into a new leadership role and, at the same time, reunited with Bryan. By February 2025, Janet retired earlier than expected, realizing that her values as a servant leader no longer aligned with the increasingly corporate-driven environment of healthcare.

The Transition
Six months into retirement, she calls the shift “amazing.” Free from the pressures of her former role, she has embraced a routine of self-care, faith, and movement. Her mornings begin with devotion, followed by Pilates or a run. She’s currently training for her fourth half marathon, planned for Maui in 2026. Books, learning, and time for rest have also filled her days—favorites include The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma and A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller.

Living Boldly Now
Retirement has also given Janet the gift of deep connection. Reunited with Bryan, she is cherishing their time together with gratitude and intention. They’ve traveled by road trip, cruise, and flights across the U.S., always returning to Maui as their winter destination. Alongside travel and adventure, she treasures time with her grandsons and the slower pace of family life.

Looking Ahead
Her prayer each day is simple: to serve where God leads her. One vision for the future is creating an innovative mentorship program for nurse leaders, rooted in wellbeing, connection, and practical tools for thriving in leadership.

Lessons Learned
Looking back, Janet wishes she had been more confident about money management and less concerned with pleasing others. Her advice? Be kind. See people. Acknowledge them. Everyone carries a backpack of struggles, and sometimes being present is the greatest gift you can give.

Retiring Boldly
Janet Wirt is retiring boldly by living with faith, purpose, and joy. Whether she’s running, traveling, or nurturing her relationships, she embodies a life filled with meaning, gratitude, and bold new beginnings.