The (Un)Retirement Dream: Wayne and Sally Schmidt’s Global Nomadic Lifestyle

In 2017, Wayne Schmidt and his wife, Sally, made a decision that would change their lives forever. At 55 years old, when most people are planning for retirement, Wayne and Sally took a leap of faith. They sold their house, cars, and possessions and set out on a journey not just to travel, but to embrace a new lifestyle as digital nomads.

With only two suitcases, no jobs, and no set plans, they embarked on what they now call the (un)retirement dream. What started as a desire to escape the traditional work routine soon turned into a reality that many only dream about, living in 92 countries and creating a business that thrives on freedom, flexibility, and adventure.

The Beginning of a Nomadic Adventure

The idea of becoming digital nomads wasn’t something Wayne and Sally took lightly. After years of feeling stuck in a cycle of work and consumption, they realized that something had to change. The realization that they were living in a world where "stuff" mattered more than experiences struck them hard. Instead of being weighed down by material possessions, they decided to embark on a journey that would prioritize adventure over accumulation.

"I had no idea what would come next, but the moment we sold everything and left Australia, it felt like a weight had been lifted," Wayne reflects. The couple took their savings, sold their home, and got ready to see the world, on their terms.

Their journey started with no specific destination, just a shared vision to travel more, consume less, and make more memories. In the years since, they’ve visited 92 countries and have discovered that the world truly is their oyster.

Turning Challenges Into Triumphs

Becoming digital nomads wasn’t without its challenges. Early on, Wayne and Sally had to adjust to a completely new way of living. Gone were the comforts of a fixed address, a steady paycheck, and the predictability of daily life. Yet, over time, they found a rhythm that worked for them. They began to build their business while traveling, an unconventional business model that allowed them to maintain their adventurous lifestyle.

Today, Wayne and Sally work only 2.5 days a week, offering marketing consulting services to ten accounting firms. This flexible schedule has given them the time to explore the world, all while supporting their clients. Their work may be on a part-time basis, but their passion for travel and experiencing new cultures is anything but.

“We realized that we could still make a good living, but we no longer had to sacrifice adventure for work,” Wayne explains. "We've built something that allows us to travel the world and still earn an income."

What Makes Them Unique Today

What sets Wayne and Sally apart from other digital nomads is their experience. They are not the typical millennial travelers. They are a mature-age couple, proving that it’s never too late to live the life you’ve always dreamed of. Their story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to challenge societal expectations of what "retirement" should look like.

While many people their age may be slowing down, Wayne and Sally are living life to the fullest. Their journey hasn’t just been about travel, it’s been about redefining what it means to live a meaningful, fulfilling life. They continue to pursue new adventures, and their story is a powerful testament to the fact that it’s never too late to change your path.

Their blog, Travel Dine Stay, chronicles their experiences and serves as a source of inspiration for others who are considering a similar lifestyle. They’ve already been featured in Forbes, Travel Dine Stay, and several other prominent outlets, and their story continues to inspire thousands of people to explore the world on their own terms.

The Power of Taking the Leap

Wayne and Sally’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the biggest rewards come from the greatest risks. They took the leap, sold everything, and redefined their lives in ways they never imagined. As they continue their travels, they encourage others to think outside the box and pursue a life of adventure, free from the constraints of conventionality.

Their journey isn’t just about escaping the routine; it’s about embracing the unknown and finding freedom in the process. "If we can do it, anyone can," Wayne says. "It’s about making the decision to take that first step, and then trusting the rest will follow."

Ready to Begin Your Own Adventure?

Wayne and Sally’s adventure is far from over, and their story continues to unfold. If you’re inspired by their journey, it’s time to take the next step and begin your own adventure. Whether you’re interested in becoming a digital nomad, exploring the world, or creating a lifestyle that works for you, their journey proves that it’s never too late to start.

Visit Travel Dine Stay to learn more about Wayne and Sally’s story, their travels, and how they built their successful business while living the (un)retirement dream. Connect with them on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram to follow their latest adventures and see how you, too, can embrace a life of freedom and fulfillment.