One of the biggest trends we’ve seen in the working world recently is the rise of the Boomerang Boomer—retirees returning to the workforce. 

There are many factors driving this trend, and while financial necessity might seem like the obvious reason, it’s not the only motivator.

Human beings are relationship-forming animals. We’re actually driven by purpose, community, and learning, not just money. 

We need to feel useful in ways that go beyond financial contribution.

The challenge is that many of the other places where humans used to find these things—connection, identity, meaning—are disappearing. 

So work becomes the place where we try to meet those needs.

For Boomers returning to the workforce, things might feel a bit unfamiliar. AI and remote work have reshaped what “going to work” looks like. 

But here’s the good news: those are just tools. At its core, work is still about relationships, and that part hasn’t changed.

So, is the modern workplace really designed for how human beings work best? What do we actually need to thrive at work?

In this episode, we’re joined by internationally recognized thought leaders in behavioral science and business management, Dr. Bob Murray and Dr. Alicia Fortinberry. We talk about the psychology of work, and why money isn’t actually the main motivator.

Guest Bio

Dr. Bob Murray and Dr. Alicia Fortinberry are internationally recognized thought leaders in behavioral science and business management. Over 30 years ago, their groundbreaking work—rooted in emerging neuroscience and clinical practice—highlighted the central role of relationships in human wellbeing, a now widely accepted idea that was radical at the time. Their research has influenced fields ranging from mental and physical health to organizational culture and strategy, earning them global acclaim and an AAS Science Achievement Award.They developed a practical, science-based method for building strong connections to enhance health, performance, and fulfillment. They’ve lectured at leading institutions including Duke, Tufts, and the University of Melbourne, and taught graduate courses at the University of California at Northridge and Melbourne Law School. Their bestsellers, Creating Optimism and Raising an Optimistic Child, made their approach accessible to a broader audience. Through their firm Fortinberry Murray, they’ve helped Fortune 500 companies and major organizations build relationship-centered cultures and strategies. They served as keynote speakers, executive coaches, and advisors worldwide, and were appointed by President Obama to lead the U.S. National Workstress Initiative. Bob also serves on the board of the Mental Health Institute of Legal Professions and advises the NSW Law Council on lawyer mental health. Visit https://www.fortinberrymurray.com/ for more information. 

About Your Host

Vince Holt is the founder and CEO of Management Recruiters of Mercer Island. With 35+ years industry experience, he is the only MRINetwork team member to win CSAM of the Year, Person of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards. In addition to spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, Vince has raced motorcycles for over 50 years, winning 5 National Championships.

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