On this episode of The Retirement Readiness Podcast, Tim Regan welcomes back his daughter, Maddy Reagan, as they discuss the creative process behind Tim’s upcoming book, “Shatter Your Fishbowl: Live Your Two Comma Life^®.” This candid conversation not only offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the book came to be, but also explores larger themes of personal growth, legacy, and living with purpose.

For Tim, the dream of writing a book didn’t begin overnight. As he shares with Maddy, it was a 25-year process rooted in family conversations. Initially, he imagined co-authoring with his father, focusing on lessons learned around their family table. Yet, the final product would evolve far beyond its original outline. The book expanded from eight chapters to more than 20, and weaves in both practical guidance and cherished family stories.

Embracing the Fishbowl Metaphor

The book’s unusual title and central metaphor – Shattering Your Fishbowl – emerged from Tim’s observation that, like goldfish, people are often limited by the invisible boundaries created by family, upbringing, and self-perception. Just as a goldfish’s growth is stunted by the size and condition of its bowl, we can unconsciously accept limitations that prevent us from reaching our full potential.

Tim and Maddy discuss how everyone starts out in a fishbowl shaped by circumstances over which they may have little initial control: “Did we grow up with a lot of money or with no money? Did we have the opportunity to go off to college? What self-perceived ideas are holding us back?” The core message is one of hope. That no matter your starting point, there’s an “ocean of possibility” waiting on the other side of the fishbowl’s glass.

Writing a Book: Lessons Learned

Tim’s approach to writing “Shatter Your Fishbowl” drew from a mix of self-education, mentorship, and collaboration. He read several books on writing and sought advice from friends who had successfully published, including John St. Pierre (“The $100 Million Journey”). He also experimented with various writing methodologies, such as story arcs with key thematic “stops,” voice dictation, and intensive editing with the help of professional services.

Maddy played a supporting role – proofreading, editing, and offering feedback. Together, they found that the writing process mirrored the very journey the book describes: iterative, sometimes daunting, and ultimately rewarding. “If anybody’s thinking about writing a book, it can seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be,” Tim encourages. “There’s a lot of resources out there, and a lot of different ways you can go about it.”

Living Your Two Comma Life^®

Central to both the book and the podcast episode is the concept of the “Two Comma Life^®.” As Tim explains, this isn’t just about reaching millionaire status; it’s about actively crafting a life of freedom, abundance, and meaning – on your own terms. For some, a million dollars seems unattainable; for others, it’s just a starting point. The important part is redefining what a wealthy, fulfilled life looks like for you, and then taking intentional steps to create it.

Maddy reflects that witnessing her father write the book was itself an act of living the Two Comma Life^®. Taking a bold, creative step into uncharted territory, not just for personal gain but to inspire others.

Faith, Family, and Legacy

“Shatter Your Fishbowl” isn’t just a business or self-help book; it’s also a deeply personal memoir. Tim readily acknowledges how his faith journey and family history shape every page. And how, with time, he’s become more open about weaving spiritual lessons into his work. “God created you… for good works that he has prepared in advance for you to do,” he quotes, emphasizing that a life fully lived is one that balances humility with boldness.

This podcast conversation is rich with family anecdotes, stories of loss, laughter, and resilience. These moments, and the book itself, serve as an enduring legacy, both for the Regan family and the wider PrairieView community.

Break Your Bowl, Live Your Story

If you’ve ever felt confined by your own “fishbowl” and wondered what more might be possible, Tim’s story is proof that the journey to growth is ongoing, imperfect, but absolutely worth pursuing. Whether you’re writing a book, planning your retirement, or looking for your next adventure, don’t be afraid to ask for help, take chances, and trust that your story matters.

To learn more, check out more episodes of the Retirement Readiness Podcast or visit www.pv-wp.com. And remember: your Two Comma Life^® is within reach.