15 Questions for Encore Thinkers: Rich Eisenberg

Just who’s writing, thinking and talking about the encore movement?

Encore.org set out to find out – with this new feature, designed to showcase some of the behind-the-scenes players who don’t often get time in the spotlight.

We’re experimenting and welcome your thoughts: What questions are we missing? Do you want to have a turn responding to the Encore 15Qs? Better still, is there someone you’d nominate as a possible subject? Please send us your suggestions.

Our debut column features Rich Eisenberg, Managing Editor of NextAvenue.org, PBS’ online presence for 50+ readers, and editor of the Money & Security and Work & Purpose channels. Rich lives and works in Westfield, NJ.

 

You’re at a party; an interesting stranger asks about your work. How would you describe what do you do?

I’m an editor at a website for boomers and Gen X’ers.

Why do you do it?

I want to help people 50-plus manage their money and careers.

How does your work compare with what you imagined you’d “be” when you were 7 years old? When you were 17?

At seven, I had no career dreams or plans. At 17, I wanted to be a journalist, which is exactly what I’m doing and have done since college.

What was your first job?

I was a fact-checker at Money magazine.

Who or what inspires you?

My wife and sons, for their creativity, perseverance and talent.

What surprises you?

The open hearts of some and the selfishness of others.

What three words (or phrases) do you imagine your close friends/family might use to describe you?

Kind, hard-working, reliable.

How do you handle frustration, setbacks?

Sulking, followed by pushing forward.

If you had or have a mentor, what was their biggest impact on you?

My mentor, Frank Lalli, was managing editor of Money magazine. He made me think bigger – and spend more time and effort for a bigger payoff for our readers. His encouragement inspired me to create an annual franchise, “The Best Places to Live in America” feature and rankings.

What event has had the biggest impact on your life?

The birth of my two sons.

What’s the best single piece of advice you’ve received?

My mother told me: “Keep things in perspective.”

What’s something that very few people know about you?

I also write book reviews for People magazine.

What technology could you not live without?

Word, so I can write and edit words for my site.

You’re on an island (without wifi) and you can only bring three books, films/shows or works of music: What are they?

Dvorak’s New World Symphony, Sondheim’s “Sunday in the Park with George,” a book of crossword puzzles.

How did you celebrate your most recent birthday?

I had dinner with my wife.

Published: April 27, 2016