About
Julia Durand
In the ever-shifting landscape of life, Julia Durand is a beacon of guidance, an author of hope, and a speaker of empowerment who leads people to a brighter future.
As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bridgeway36 Inc., she has leveraged her 25 years of expertise in retirement planning to write self-help books that inspire and guide readers in their pursuit of happiness, financial security, and overall well-being.
Julia’s transition into a holistic welfare advocate was a natural progression. She recognized that retirement was not just about finances but also about mental and emotional preparation. Her mission became clear: guide individuals through life’s stages, ensuring they embrace all it offers.
With her knack for simplifying complex concepts and her engaging public speaking abilities, she has become a trusted mentor to many. Julia provides practical solutions to real-life challenges through her compelling books, including “Bridgeway to Business,” “Understanding Loneliness and Isolation,” and more. Each word she pens and every presentation she delivers offers a lifeline for those seeking their path to success in retirement, business, and personal wellness.
Before venturing into entrepreneurship in 2021, Julia served as the Retired Director of Defined Contribution Retirement Plans for renowned institutions like CalPERS, CalSTRS, and the City and County of San Francisco. Managing assets surpassing $2.5 billion, her financial acumen is unparalleled. Her collaboration with industry titans and expertise in managing staff, board meetings, and strategic planning make her a force to be reckoned with.
In 2012, Julia reached the pinnacle of her career when she was elected President of the National Association of Defined Contribution Administrators. This remarkable accomplishment was followed by her appointment as a State of California Governor Appointee, a role she continues to serve with dedication from 2016 to the present.
Hailing from San Mateo, CA, Julia earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from California State University Sacramento and a Master’s in Human Behavior from National University. Her ambition to become a Keynote Speaker on retirement, work-life balance, and post-retirement career opportunities is poised to expand her reach and influence. Beyond her illustrious career, Julia finds solace and inspiration in photography, animals, rock collecting, and gardening.
