February 11, 2026

Beyond the Brink Starting a Law Career at Age 70

At age 70 Susan Rife ,a retired journalist and book reviewer, began law school. Worried about her creaky memory and busy already caring for her aging and ailing mother, Susan nonetheless is tackling torts, and contracts and crafting legal briefs. Skier Lindsey Vonn who made Olympic news recently attempting an alpine run at age 41 — like Susan — is one of an increasing number of Americans looking to use what environmental Bill McKibbon sees as their third act retirement out changing the world. Journalist Rosemary Armao talks with Susan in this week’s chapter of Beyond the Brink and Fighting Back.

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