I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Keith Cuddeback, who at 76 found joy in a van and a camera.
A 76-year-old photographer whose has completely changed my perspective on retirement.
Keith’s story isn’t just inspiring—it’s a masterclass in embracing life’s third act with purpose and passion.
After spending 15 years behind the microphone at legendary stations like KYA and K101, Keith transitioned to real estate to support his growing family.
But it was his lifelong love affair with photography that would ultimately shape his retirement years.
A Van Named Joy
In 2019, faced with a stage 4 cancer diagnosis and a need for frequent trips to UCSF for treatment, Keith made a bold decision.
Instead of settling into a quiet retirement of golf and country club living, he purchased a van (lovingly named Joy) and hit the road.
His timing couldn’t have been better—just months before the pandemic sent van prices soaring.
What strikes me most about Keith’s journey is how his artistic vision has evolved through his travels.
From the stark beauty of Death Valley to the mysterious swamps of East Texas, his work captures America’s natural wonders with remarkable sensitivity.
He’s even adapted his workflow, trading a 27-inch iMac for an iPad and finding new ways to perfect his craft on the road.
Keith’s approach to photography mirrors his philosophy on life.
Avoiding imitation and instead wandering down unexplored trails to see what he might discover.
At 76, he continues to push boundaries, taking Joy down dirt roads where vans arguably shouldn’t go.
What I find most remarkable is that Keith isn’t just surviving in retirement—he’s thriving.
He is constantly learning, and creating stunning work that rivals photographers of any age.
And best of all, I’m happy to share that Keith is cancer-free.
Want to see Keith’s story come to life?
Click below to watch our full conversation and see how one man turned retirement into an adventure of artistic discovery.
His journey might just inspire you to reimagine what your own retirement could look like.
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