Retirement can feel like a big, scary step for police officers. After years of helping others and being part of a close team, leaving behind the badge may feel overwhelming. But life after law enforcement can also be filled with new adventures, purpose, and even fun! The podcast When The Call Hits Home, especially the episode with retired police lieutenant Mark Mueller, shares great advice and real-life stories to help anyone facing a police officer retirement transition.

The Challenge of Change

Leaving a police career isn’t just about walking away from a job — it’s about a huge shift in daily life and identity. Mark Mueller, who served as a lieutenant in Hoffman Estates, says, “Do I miss working? Of course. I miss the guys…I miss the clowns, not the circus.” Many officers feel the same way: they miss the team and the friendships, but not always the stress.

After retiring, Mark worked with homeland security for a while, but eventually felt the urge to try something totally new — opening a barbecue restaurant. At first, this was a big leap, full of risk and learning. “I’ve been cooking for friends and family. I got a huge setup in my backyard for a while…Now’s the time to jump in and take a little bit of a risk,” Mark explains.

Finding a New Routine

One big piece of advice from Mark is to “stay active doing something.” Police work is structured; there’s always a schedule, roll call, and deadlines. Suddenly, retirement can feel empty, which isn’t healthy for the body or mind. Mark suggests that officers figure out what makes them happy—whether that’s starting a business, working part-time, or simply picking up a hobby. “It’s very easy to fall into being in law enforcement so long where you’re used to structure…When you get out of that…it’s not healthy physically and mentally. So you definitely need something.”

Discovering Your Passion

You don’t have to stay in the police field forever. In fact, Mark says, “My advice is, don’t do anything in that field. It was a great job…but don’t assume you have to go be a security guard or do something similar.” He’s living proof! Even though he had never run a restaurant before, his love for cooking and desire to be his own boss gave him the push he needed.

And guess what? His business, I Smell Bacon, became a place where his skills as a police leader actually helped. Managing people, reading situations, and helping others—all of these traits transferred from his police days to his barbecue joint. “A lot of being a police officer is about dealing with people, reading them, and helping them,” he says, “and that’s exactly what running a restaurant is like.”

Get Advice and Make a Plan

Police officer retirement transition is easier if you prepare early. Mark encourages everyone to talk to their local benefits office, figure out finances, and ask the hard questions way before the last day on the job. “Go to your retirement planning class. Get your questions answered and preplan,” Mark adds. He suggests including your family in the planning and thinking about how the whole family will adjust to the new chapter.

Embrace the Next Chapter

Mark’s final message: don’t let fear hold you back. Take your vacation days, spend time with your family, and don’t be afraid to try things you’ve never done before. Whether it’s opening a restaurant, going fishing, coaching football, or traveling, your police officer retirement transition can be a time of rediscovery.

Remember, retirement from law enforcement isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a new adventure. Find your purpose, chase your passion, and enjoy every moment of the journey ahead.