Real Retirement

Hosted by Yasmin Nguyen & Kathleen Mundy

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Jun 2025

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About the show

Welcome to "Real Retirement," a groundbreaking podcast where your hosts, Yasmin Nguyen and Kathleen Mundy, delve into the multifaceted world of retirement beyond the numbers. This isn't your typical retirement discussion; it's a vibrant journey into what retirement truly means in today's world. Each episode of "Real Retirement" brings you compelling conversations with guests who bring a wealth of expertise and authentic retirement life experiences. Our goal? To inspire and educate our listeners to approach retirement with intentionality and a broader perspective. But "Real Retirement" is more than just a podcast. It's a community for those navigating the uncharted waters of retirement, whether you're just starting to plan or are already on this deeply personal journey. We explore a wide array of topics, including: <ul><li>Physical and Mental Well-Being: Understand the importance of health in enjoying a fulfilling retirement.</li><li>Family Dynamics: Navigate the changing relationships and roles that come with this new phase of life.</li><li>Retirement Transitions: Learn how to smoothly transition into retirement life.</li><li>Purpose & Identity: Find meaning and redefine your sense of self post-retirement.</li><li>Social Connections: Discover ways to maintain and build new social ties.</li><li>Legacy & Impact: Contemplate the mark you want to leave on the world.</li></ul> What sets "Real Retirement" apart? It's our commitment to authenticity. We bring you real stories from real retirees, discussing real challenges, surprises, joys, heartaches, and the myriad emotions that come with retirement. From addressing family dynamics to confronting identity shifts, we tackle the issues that truly matter to retirees. Join Yasmin and Kathleen as they journey through the honest and often unspoken aspects of retirement. "Real Retirement" isn't just about ending a career; it's about beginning a new, exciting chapter of life with all its complexities and joys. Tune in and be part of a conversation that redefines retirement in the most real way possible.

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25 recent

June 9, 2025Episode 1257 min

Episode 22: How to Design a Life of Freedom and Live it Authentically with George Kinder

What if every moment of your life was truly yours? In this powerful episode of The Real Retirement Show, we sit down with the legendary George Kinder — father of the life planning movement, mindfulness teacher, and global force for authentic living.With heart, humility, and poetic clarity, George shares how to design a life rooted in freedom, purpose, and presence — and why your dream of living fully can’t wait until retirement.From the serenity of his New England cabin to the bustling streets of London, George reveals his journey of awakening, the power behind his EVOKE® process, and why the future of retirement — and humanity — depends on trustworthiness and values-aligned action.We explore:How to uncover your true purpose and make it realThe three domains of freedom — and why they matter now more than everWhy fiduciary duty belongs not just in finance, but in every institutionHow mindfulness and deep listening shape our ability to lead, connect, and transformWhether you're reimagining your next chapter or simply seeking deeper meaning, this conversation will awaken something in you.Listen in — and begin the journey to your most meaningful life.00:00 Introduction to the Three Domains of Freedom01:35 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show01:45 Meet George Kinder: Pioneer of Life Planning02:56 George Kinder's Journey and Philosophy06:23 The Power of Trustworthiness and Freedom08:51 Maintaining Passion and Purpose10:05 The Serenity Cabin and Nature's Influence13:37 The Three Dimensions of Freedom Workshops20:57 Global Impact and Cultural Embrace23:35 Reflections on Age and Passion25:01 The Evolution of Fiduciary in Business26:14 Building Trust in Client Relationships27:06 The Financial Therapy Movement28:33 The Importance of Trustworthiness28:42 Kitchen Table Conversations on Fiduciary30:32 Life Planning for Everyone31:47 The Role of Trust in Financial Advice36:46 Humanity and Global Communication42:10 The Impact of AI on Humanity44:25 The Future of Fiduciary Standards46:57 The Three Domains of Freedom49:35 Closing Thoughts and Future MeetingsAbout George KinderGeorge Kinder is a globally renowned thought leader, author, and mindfulness teacher, widely recognized as the father of the Life Planning movement. He is the founder of the Kinder Institute of Life Planning and creator of the EVOKE® process, which helps individuals align their financial lives with their deepest values and dreams. With over 50 years of mindfulness practice and decades of experience as a financial advisor, George has trained thousands of professionals across 30+ countries to lead with purpose, empathy, and trust. Through his books, teachings, and art, he continues to inspire people around the world to live with greater freedom, authenticity, and meaning.Website: https://www.georgekinder.com/https://www.kinderinstitute.com/Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

May 12, 2025Episode 1144 min

Episode 21: How to Activate Hope and Strengths for a Fulfilling Retirement with Polly Chandler

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen welcome Polly Chandler, a leadership development and transition coach. They explore Polly's journey from academia to coaching, highlighting how she helps individuals navigate major life transitions by leveraging their strengths. Polly shares her innovative approaches, including the use of the StrengthsFinder tool and her concept of a 'Hope Journal,' to inspire people to discover their true calling and find joy and purpose. The conversation delves into topics such as addressing career transitions, finding hope, combating fears, and realizing one's potential using a strengths-based approach.00:00 Overcoming Roadblocks and Finding Purpose01:27 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show02:10 Introducing Polly Chandler: A Journey of Reinvention04:25 Polly's Transition from Academia to Coaching09:02 The Hope Journal: Finding Hope and Purpose14:08 Strengths-Based Approach to Life Transitions22:31 Exploring Strengths and Individualization23:04 Coaching Through Transitions23:39 Energy and Alignment24:20 Understanding and Utilizing Strengths26:53 Navigating Roadblocks and Comparisons31:43 The Role of Community and Mentorship32:35 Optimism, Hope, and Action Plans39:04 Finding Your Tribe and Passion42:27 Final Thoughts and AnchorsAbout Polly ChandlerPolly Chandler is a Leadership Development and Transition Coach for Polly Chandler Coaching. This career path evolved from an intentional decision to focus on what energizes her most: coaching, mentoring and training facilitation. Her previous career was in higher education where she served as the Chair of the Department of Management and Director of the MBA in Sustainability at Antioch University New England.Polly now coaches individuals and trains teams in many sectors. She is particularly interested in helping people to navigate personal and professional transitions. Her speciality areas are strengths based leadership development, post career reinvention, and serving people and the planet. Website: http://pollychandlercoaching.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pchandler1Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

May 4, 2025Episode 1030 min

Episode 20: How to Navigate Beyond 'Shoulds' in Your Retirement with Marilyn Hintsa

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen delve into the evolving concept of retirement with guest Marilyn Hintsa. Marilyn shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting her pivot from a corporate career to becoming a retirement coach. She discusses the pressures and expectations surrounding retirement, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and rejecting societal 'shoulds.' Marilyn also introduces her initiative, Next Chapter Dialogues, which offers group sessions encouraging retirees to explore life after work. Through meaningful conversations and community support, Marilyn helps clients find joy and purpose in their post-career lives. The episode underscores the value of direct conversation, shared experiences, and stepping out of one’s comfort zone.00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Retirement00:51 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show01:35 Meet Marilyn Hintsa: A New Path in Retirement02:43 Marilyn's Journey into Coaching05:17 Challenges and Insights in Retirement Coaching06:24 The Importance of Group Dynamics07:15 Mindset Shifts and Overcoming Fear14:05 Purpose in Retirement21:48 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability28:34 Final Thoughts and FarewellAbout Marilyn HintsaMarilyn has been on her own retirement journey since late 2019 when she was unexpected “early retired” from a corporate career. Not ready to go out to pasture, she became certified as a leadership coach, decided to use her new skills to help her contemporaries lead themselves into their post-career lives, and set up her practice, ULeadU Post Career Pathing, in 2021. Since then, her practice has evolved and recently launched Next Chapter Dialogues, a weekly, Zoom-based, guided discussion group that people join on a monthly subscription basis. Next Chapter Dialogues is a powerful opportunity for people anywhere on a retirement journey to travel together in community and, with Marilyn’s guidance, explore topics related to life after work, aging and longevity.Website: https://www.uleadu.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hintsa/Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

April 21, 2025Episode 940 min

Episode 19: How to Overcome Retirement Shock and Build a Vibrant Next Chapter with Mike Drak

In this inspiring episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen sit down with Mike Drak—retired financial services professional turned author, public speaker, and Ironman-in-training at 70—to explore the non-financial dimensions of retirement. Mike shares his powerful journey from retirement shock to personal reinvention, revealing how he overcame fears, embraced purpose, and adopted the principles of a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Together, they discuss the importance of physical vitality, meaningful relationships, and a growth mindset—and why financial advisors must expand their role beyond numbers to guide clients through life’s next chapter. Tune in to hear how Mike is breaking stereotypes and redefining what it means to truly thrive in retirement.00:00 Discovering Your Purpose and Overcoming Fears02:00 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show02:43 Meet Mike Drak: Author and Retirement Expert03:33 Mike's Ironman Challenge at 7005:24 Redefining Retirement: The Retirement Rebel08:12 The Concept of Watching Your Life Movie09:59 Experiencing Retirement Shock14:57 The Nine Principles for a Fulfilling Retirement16:41 Longevity and Retirement: Bridging the Gap18:12 Practical Steps to Extend Your Health Span19:58 Inspiration from Clive: A Model for Active Aging20:39 The Importance of Fun and Connection in Fitness21:49 Balancing Purpose and Consistency in Life23:08 Financial Mindset in Retirement24:47 Navigating Finances with a Partner26:38 The Role of Advisors in Holistic Retirement Planning31:48 Personal Growth and Overcoming Fears36:47 Resources for a Fulfilling Retirement38:25 Final Thoughts and EncouragementAbout Mike DrakMike is an author, public speaker and recognized authority on the non-financial aspects of retirement. After having spent 38-years in the financial services industry, Mike retired and personally faced what he called “retirement shock”. During this time, Mike found himself on a journey of self-discovery and authored three best-selling books on retirement; Victory Lap Retirement, Retirement Heaven or Hell: Which Will You Choose? and Longevity Lifestyle By Design. Mike is a Senior Contributor at Booming Encore and dedicates his time to helping other retirees design a fulfilling, meaningful retirement lifestyle for themselves.ResourcesGet both these books for free at https://boomingencore.com/Retirement Heaven or Hell: Which Will You Choose?Longevity Lifestyle by DesignLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-drak-6b401095/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retirement_rebel/Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

April 15, 2025Episode 833 min

Episode 18: How to Change Your Perspective for a Fulfilled Retirement with Joanne Waldman

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen welcome Joanne Waldman, a pioneer in retirement coaching with over 30 years of experience. Joanne shares powerful stories and strategies for helping clients transition into retirement, focusing on emotional and personal growth beyond financial planning. From reframing fear to visualization techniques, Joanne provides practical methods to navigate the complexities of retirement. The episode dives deep into her unique approach, her pivotal life moments, and the significant impact of curiosity, love, and open-ended questions in coaching. Joanne also offers insights into the common challenges faced by retirees and emphasizes the importance of planning and communication. Listeners gain valuable tips for making a fulfilling and joyful retirement transition.00:00 Client's Journey from Fear to Footwork01:01 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show01:44 Introducing Joanne Waldman: A Trailblazer in Retirement Coaching03:26 Joanne's Personal and Professional Journey06:38 Unique Approaches to Retirement Coaching09:10 Challenges and Niches in Retirement Coaching11:54 Signature Exercises and Frameworks18:11 Powerful Client Transformations21:49 Qualities of a Great Coach26:49 Top Tips for Retirement Planning30:27 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationAbout Joanne WaldmanWith more than 30 progressive years in the career transition field, Joanne is a trailblazer in the retirement coaching world. For 18 years she served as the Director of Training with Retirement Options and has an extensive background as a webinar leader with the International Coach Academy, and Coaching Cognition. She is the owner of New Perspective Coaching where she works with clients to plan their second or third reinvention into retirement. A Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation, a Board-Certified Coach through the Center for Credentialing and Education, and through the National Career Development Association in 2009, she was selected as their Career Practitioner of the Year. In 2021, Joanne was honored with the Retirement Catalyst Award from the Retirement Coaches Association. Joanne received a retirement coaching certification through Retirement Options. She is also a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri, a nationally certified counselor and a nationally certified gerontological counselor. Joanne is a co-author of "Out of the Box Retirement-Creative Ideas, Role Models and Possibilities" and has been quoted as a retirement expert in Kiplinger’s, Forbes, Wall Street Journal/Market Watch and Where to Retire magazine.ResourcesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-waldman-0002281/Website: https://www.newperspectivecoaching.com/Email: joanne@newperspectivecoaching.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/joanne.waldmanReal Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

April 9, 2025Episode 735 min

Episode 17: How to Navigate Solo Aging with Dr. Sara Zeff Geber

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen talk with Dr. Sara Zeff Geber, a leading expert on solo aging. Sara shares her journey highlighting the unique challenges faced by solo agers - individuals aging without family support. The discussion explores critical aspects such as choosing living arrangements, including the pros and cons of aging in place versus senior living communities. Sara emphasizes the importance of planning for financial, legal, and social needs, and introduces the concept of home sharing as a viable option for social interaction and care. She also stresses the need for professionals, such as financial advisors and legal experts, to assist solo agers in creating robust support systems. Sara concludes with inspiring stories of solo agers who have proactively planned their futures and offers resources for further learning. 00:00 Introduction: The Biggest Hurdle for Solo Agers01:22 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show02:05 Meet Sara Zeff Geber: Expert on Solo Aging03:10 Sara's Personal Journey into Solo Aging05:29 Defining Solo Aging09:06 Challenges and Misconceptions of Solo Aging15:00 Planning for the Future: Financial, Legal, and Social Aspects18:41 Community and Support Systems for Solo Agers27:51 Inspiration and Success Stories32:03 Final Thoughts and Resources About Sara Zeff Geber, PhD Sara is the nation’s foremost expert on Solo Aging. She is an author, professional speaker, and certified retirement coach. In 2018, Sara was named an “Influencer in Aging” by PBS’ Next Avenue and is a regular contributor to Forbes.com in the areas of aging and retirement. She has also been featured and quoted in The Journal of Active Aging, Certified Senior Advisor Journal, Next Avenue, Senior Living Foresight, McKnights Living, Senior Housing Business, and many others.Sara’s book, Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers: A Retirement and Aging Roadmap for Single and Child-free Adults, was published in 2018, and was selected that year as a ‘best book on aging well’ by the WSJ. Resources Website: https://sarazeffgeber.com/ Books: https://sarazeffgeber.com/books/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarazeffgeber/ Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

March 30, 2025Episode 652 min

Episode 16: A Financial Advisor’s Guide to Wealth, Lifestyle & Lasting Memories with Dan Haylett

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, our special guest is Dan Haylett, a UK-based financial partner at TFP Financial Planning. Dan specializes in retirement planning that goes beyond spreadsheets, focusing on the human side of this major life transition. Dan shares his personal journey from a high-pressure career to a fulfilling role where he helps individuals over 50 navigate emotional and behavioral aspects of retirement. We discuss the evolving landscape of retirement, including challenges like redefining purpose, identity, relationships, and spending money. Dan's innovative methods, including sketches and the Humans vs. Retirement podcast, provide valuable insights into breaking outdated norms and designing a fulfilling retired life. The episode offers valuable insights for both retirees and financial planners looking to incorporate more holistic, human-focused strategies in their work.00:00 Introduction to a Different Kind of Financial Advisor01:02 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show02:07 Meet Dan Haylett: Financial Planner and Podcast Host03:47 Dan's Personal Journey and Career Shift06:32 Holistic Approach to Financial Planning12:43 Challenges in Retirement Spending16:29 Reframing Money as Memories and Experiences23:09 Dan's Confidence and Continuous Learning26:44 Builder's House Analogy27:30 Discovering Carl Richards28:11 The Power of Sketching28:40 Healthspan vs Lifespan29:25 Go-Go, Slow-Go, No-Go Years31:17 Impact on Business and Clients33:33 Referrals and Client Engagement35:42 State of the Financial Industry39:45 Embracing Uncertainty in Financial Planning42:59 Advising with Purpose and Identity43:45 Advice for Advisors44:58 Future Projects and Innovations46:56 Humans vs Retirement Podcast50:15 Final Thoughts and FarewellAbout Dan HaylettOur guest is someone who is passionate about challenging the outdated narratives around retirement and helping people truly thrive in their second half.Dan Haylett, a financial planner and the Head of Growth at TFP Financial Planning in the UK. Dan specializes in financial planning, retirement planning, and life planning for individuals over 50. Beyond numbers and spreadsheets, he’s deeply invested in the human side of retirement, guiding people through the emotional and behavioral aspects of this major life transition. Dan is also the host of the podcast The Humans vs. Retirement, where he explores the psychological shifts, challenges, and opportunities that come with stepping into retirement. With a background in the asset-management industry and a mission to help 1 million people redefine their retirement experience, Dan brings a wealth of insight, experience, and inspiration to the conversation.ResourcesThe Skill of Spending Money in Retirement https://artisanal-composer-7982.kit.com/f1ce297731 Give Your Money Away With A Warm Heart, Not A Cold Hand!https://www.humansvsretirement.com/post/give-your-money-away-with-a-warm-heart-not-a-cold-handHealthspan & Lifespan https://youtu.be/HeoSDEs5e0Y?si=DHbYAewtkSdmmSHE The 3 Phases of The Second Half of Our Lives https://humansvsretirement.myshopify.com/products/the-3-phases-of-the-second-half-of-our-livesPodcast | Humans vs Retirementhttps://www.humansvsretirement.com/podcastDan Haylett | LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-haylett-retirement-coach/YouTube | Humans vs Retirementhttps://www.humansvsretirement.com/youtubeReal Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

March 24, 2025Episode 439 min

Episode 15: How Gen Xers are Reinventing Retirement with Shelley McIntyre

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen explore the evolving concept of retirement for Generation X. Special guest Shelly McIntyre shares her insights on how Gen Xers are breaking away from traditional retirement models and creating vibrant, purposeful lives post-career. With extensive experience in coaching, Shelly offers practical advice on dealing with change, embracing new opportunities, and building a strong support network. Tune in to hear real stories, expert tips, and a deeper understanding of what retirement means for today's Gen Xers.00:00 Rethinking Retirement: Gen X's New Approach01:21 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show02:04 Introducing Shelly McIntyre: Reinventing Retirement02:56 Gen Xers' Unique Retirement Challenges06:52 Navigating Corporate Loyalty and Personal Identity13:15 The Role of Grief in Life Transitions16:30 Planning for a Vibrant Future31:37 Finding Your People: Building a Support System36:44 Final Thoughts and Connecting with ShellyAbout Shelley McIntyreShelley coaches post-corporate GenXers who want to design intentional and vibrant third acts. After a long career in technology and corporate strategy, Shelley pivoted to coaching, inspired by seeing smart people get in their own way. Shelley believes it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and reclaim your identity from corporate narratives. Through her coaching, she offers potent insights into change, grief, and identity, equipping clients to navigate life’s transitions with self-compassion. Shelley taps into her love of the arts and making stuff to create unique, transformative coaching experiences.LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-mcintyre/Website: https://shelleymcintyre.com/Elizabeth Kupferman's "Ladder of Trust" series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yE_Vo8HTTI4&list=PLu8p59ShPS96xgDL1XFr6iYUJo_VTr0c7 Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

March 16, 2025Episode 328 min

Episode 14: Why Financial and Lifestyle Planning Are Both Critical for a Successful Business and Retirement with Toni Petrillo

Why Financial and Lifestyle Planning Are Both Critical for a Successful Business and RetirementIn this episode of the Real Retirement Show, Yasmin and Kathleen welcome Toni Petrillo, a seasoned financial industry leader with over 25 years of experience, to discuss the multifaceted world of retirement. Toni emphasizes the importance of addressing both financial and lifestyle plans for a fulfilling retirement, detailing her journey from a financial planning executive to a retirement coach. She shares insights on the emotional challenges retirees face, the importance of building trust with clients, and her unique approach to retirement coaching that combines financial and non-financial aspects. Through real stories and expert advice, this episode aims to help retirees transition confidently into the next chapter of their lives.00:00 Building Trust with Clients01:17 The Real Retirement Show Introduction02:00 Meet Toni Petrillo03:26 Toni's Retirement Journey05:24 Challenges and Solutions in Retirement Coaching11:14 Connecting Financial and Lifestyle Planning24:21 Advice for Future Retirees25:57 Final Thoughts and ResourcesAntoinette Petrillo is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the financial industry, where she excelled in building and leading teams. Recently retired from her role as a financial executive, she identified a significant gap in resources for corporate professionals navigating the transition from a thriving career to a fulfilling retirement.Throughout her career, Antoinette has been passionate about helping others lead with confidence, both in their personal and professional lives. This dedication has driven her to provide valuable support and guidance to individuals facing the unique challenges of transitioning from the corporate world to retirement. Her mission is to empower others by offering insights and strategies that foster confidence during this transformative phase of life.Committed to leveraging her extensive experience, Antoinette now contributes her expertise to those seeking guidance, ensuring they navigate this transition with assurance and purpose. She continues to inspire and support professionals in redefining what retirement can mean for them.LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinette-petrillo-cprc-cfp-27245198/Website: https://retirewithintention.com/Ask A Retirement Coach: https://boomingencore.com/community/people/a3e323c9-7af5-48ec-989b-739ec3173230Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

March 9, 2025Episode 237 min

Episode 13: Retirement Life Beyond Finances with Globe Advisor Reporter Deanne Gage

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen are joined by Deanne Gage, a seasoned personal finance reporter for Globe Advisor. The discussion delves into the multifaceted aspects of retirement beyond finances, focusing on topics like evolving workmate relationships, family dynamics, loneliness, and the importance of having a plan before retiring. Deanne shares her insights from over two decades of reporting on personal finance, discussing the importance of understanding life transitions, the varied visions couples might have for retirement, and how advisors can play a crucial role in helping their clients navigate these challenges.00:00 Navigating Post-Retirement Friendships01:26 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show02:10 Introducing Deanne Gage04:14 Unexpected Early Retirement05:41 Realities of Retirement: Divorce and Aging Parents09:58 The Loneliness Epidemic in Retirement21:57 Advisors' Role Beyond Finances31:08 Personal Stories and Final ThoughtsReal Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube