Career transition: Iain Lee retired from radio to focus on counselling

Iain Lee, a former I’m a Celebrity star who has been on-air for 30 years, has officially retired from radio.

He made his decision public with a post he shared on Twitter, stating that he had submitted a retirement notice to Jack FM. 

In addition to being a broadcaster, Iain Lee is also a stand-up comedian, writer, and TV host, and he has been the voice of the morning show – Rude Awakening – during his 7-months term at Jack FM.

For Iain, podcasts, daily best bits, and the contribution of a producer were factors that have helped him succeed in the past; discharging his duties haven’t been the same without these factors, and he has grown tired of the job. 

He has created a new and secure pathway outside broadcasting, regardless of his popularity and success in the industry. His choice seems more secure since his job as a broadcaster depends on some variables, like the audience and his programme’s reach, etc., which may not encourage a long-term pension plan.

Saving for pensions may be complicated for contractors or self-employed people because of the instability in their job or income. But the 49-year-old is transitioning into a full-time job, allowing him to benefit from perks such as a workplace pension.

However, his choice of transitioning into a new career may only be suitable for some self-employed people, while saving for a pension may be better and more convenient for some people. Such people can create safe and secure retirement plans with private pension providers.

Though not all pensions are created equal, several investment choices will suit different professions. There are beginner-friendly pension providers with several options and personal pension providers for large pension pots. 

Other professionals can also consider personal pension providers for self-employed people, personal pension providers for small pension pots, pension providers for ease of use, etc., to make their future adjustments to retirement life easier.

In his words, his resignation will mark a new beginning for him as he plans to focus on his career as a counsellor. 

Iain has always prepared for retirement as he started studying to become a counsellor in 2020, three years after his appearance in the popular series I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

He didn’t disclose how much time he has left in broadcasting but said it would be much, maybe nothing more, after his popular tweet that publicised his retirement plans.

He stated that there are some exceptions to his retirement, as Patreon and voiceover work will not stop, and he will also continue his odd gig on 4 Extra. He said he still is open to offers but will not chase them. 

Iain is a father of two from his marriage with his ex-wife Helena Wikiinson, a broadcaster at BBC. He got separated from his wife in 2018, a few months after his time in Australia filming the series – I’m a Celebrity.


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