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The Humans vs Retirement Podcast (Dan Haylett)

Explore every episode of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The Humans vs Retirement Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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Pub. DateTitleDuration
24 Nov 2023Reflecting On Season 2: What it Means To Be a Retirement Rebel with Me Dan Haylett00:13:04

This is the 27th and final episode of season 2 of the Humans vs Retirement podcast

As I reflect on the past four months I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone of you that continuies to tune in to the show week after week. The growth of the listnership has been mindblowing and the feedback I'm getting shows the impact that these conversations are having and that is truly humbling!

In this solo episdoe I share five personal takeaways from the season's conversations, including the importance of embracing change and growth, social connections and mental well-being, actively shaping retirement life, and embracing transitions for a vibrant retirement.

I also share what I think is the step change that is happening in retirment right now, that is the rise of the retirement rebels...

What is a retirement rebel? Why is there a retirement rebellion happening? and what are the challenges of being one?

I also share what I believe to be the biggest misconception that people embarking on retirement have and what they get wrong the most, you wont want to miss what I have to say!

Here are the links to the free resources that I mention in the episode...

Here is to a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year... see you in 2024! 

19 Aug 2024A License To Spend Money In Retirement with Michael Finke00:57:02

Summary

Today’s conversation is with retirement investing, income planning and life satisfaction expert, Michael Finke 

Michael is a professor of wealth management and Frank M. Engle Distinguished Chair in Economic Security at The American College of Financial Services.  

He received a doctorate in consumer economics from the Ohio State University in 1998 and in finance from the University of Missouri in 2011. He leads the O. Alfred Granum Center for Financial Security at the American College and is a research fellow at the Retirement Income Institute, and a member of the Defined Contribution Institutional Investment Association Academic Advisory Council.  

He is an internationally known researcher in the areas of retirement income planning, retirement spending, life satisfaction, and cognitive aging. He is a frequent speaker at financial planning conferences and was named one of the 25 most influential people in the field of investment advising in 2020 and 2021 by Investment Advisor Magazine. 

In this conversation, Michael and I discuss the importance of mindset and positivity in retirement planning. We explore the correlation between health and financial behaviours among retirees and the role of positivity in driving savings and spending behaviour. We also discuss the benefits of annuities as a way to ensure a guaranteed income in retirement and how the psychological impact of spending from income versus spending from assets is often a licence to spend for many retirees. The conversation emphasizes the need to align money with values and goals to maximize happiness in retirement. 

Takeaways

  • There is a strong connection between health behaviors and money behaviors, as both involve making decisions to defer gratification and invest in a better future.
  • Retirement income planning should involve considering both spending and legacy goals, and giving oneself the agency to choose how much of their savings to spend and how much to pass on to others.
  • It is important to recognize and accept our own mortality when planning for retirement, and to design a plan that allows us to spend the money we've saved for the purpose of enjoying a better lifestyle.
  • Retirement should be viewed as an opportunity to bring forward the ability to give money to loved ones and causes we care about, rather than waiting until the end of life.
  • Spending money in retirement can bring more happiness and satisfaction than simply accumulating wealth, and it is important to prioritize experiences and social interactions that provide joy.
  • Designing a retirement plan should involve envisioning the future and creating a financial structure that supports the desired lifestyle, rather than solely focusing on numbers and spreadsheets. Mindset and positivity play a crucial role in retirement planning.
  • Health and financial behaviors are correlated among retirees, and positivity drives savings behavior.
  • Annuities provide a license to spend and allow retirees to spend more from income than from assets.
  • Aligning money with values and goals can lead to greater happiness in retirement.

Sound Bites

"What is wealth? Wealth is a store of future spending. It is a store of future happiness."

"The goal is lifestyle. That's why you save the money in the first place. Let's design a structure so that you can have the lifestyle that you want to live."

"Recognize that you had a choice and your choice was: Do I want to spend the money that I've saved that I've sacrificed to be able to build or am I going to be happier passing it on to someone else?"

"How we view retirement and how positive we are about our years going forward is going to shape the way we want to spend our money."

"People who think that life is going to be more pleasurable in their 80s are more motivated to ensure that they still have income in their 80s."

"Annuities give you the ability to spend more every year and never feel bad about it."

Chapters

00:00  Introduction and Background
03:23 The Connection Between Retirement, Health, and Wealth
07:58  Balancing Spending and Legacy Goals in Retirement Income Planning
11:25   Recognizing Mortality and Designing a Plan for a Better Lifestyle
15:37  Bringing Forward the Ability to Give in Retirement
24:15  Envisioning the Future and Designing a Retirement Plan
26:45 The Role of Mindset and Positivity in Retirement Planning
28:12 The Correlation Between Health and Financial Behaviors in Retirement
35:10 The Benefits of Annuities as a License to Spend
42:20 Aligning Money with Values and Goals for Greater Happiness in Retirement

Links

16 Jan 2025The Rich Life Mindset with Susan Latremoille00:53:21

Summary

In this episode of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast is get to chat with Susan Latremoille

Susan is a certified Retirement Coach (CPRC) and the author of The RichLife – Managing Wealth and Purpose, It’s Not Just about the Money – The Whole Life Approach to Wealth Management, and co-author – Thriving Throughout Your Retirement Transition. 

Susan spent over 35 years as a wealth advisor assisting clients to financially plan for their retirement. She saw a common thread among her clients. Having enough money to retire was only a piece of the retirement puzzle. It was the non-financial side that had the greatest impact on the predictability of a successful retirement. That’s when Susan decided to launch next chapter lifestyle advisers, a retirement lifestyle consulting business that helps individuals and families create a retirement lifestyle plan  

In our conversation Susan discusses her transition from a financial advisor to focusing on the non-financial aspects of retirement planning through her company, Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors. She shares insights on the importance of understanding your life journeys and the concept of a 'rich life' that encompasses living well, giving back, and leaving a legacy.  

Susan introduces the idea of a happiness portfolio, which includes eight non-financial areas of life that contribute to a fulfilling retirement. Our conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to retirement planning that goes beyond numbers to include personal fulfillment and purpose.  

Susan and I discuss the multifaceted aspects of retirement, emphasizing the importance of leisure, the dynamics of relationships, and the necessity of planning for a fulfilling next chapter in life. We explore the challenges retirees face in managing their time, setting boundaries, and maintaining social connections, while also advocating for a shift in perspective from traditional retirement to a more vibrant and purposeful next chapter. 

Key Takeaways

  • Many retirees are not as happy as they expected.
  • Understanding the life journey is crucial for retirement planning.
  • The rich life mantra includes living well, giving back, and leaving a legacy.
  • Purpose is essential for a fulfilling life after retirement.
  • A happiness portfolio consists of eight non-financial areas of life.
  • Retirement can bring challenges in personal relationships.
  • Leisure is just one aspect of a fulfilling retirement.
  • Self-understanding is the first step in retirement planning.
  • Accountability is key to implementing a retirement plan.
  • Leisure is a vital part of retirement planning.
  • Changing relationships require open communication.
  • Hedonic adaptation can diminish the joy of leisure activities.
  • Structuring time is essential for a fulfilling retirement.
  • The retirement honeymoon phase should be managed carefully.
  • Setting boundaries is crucial to avoid overcommitment.
  • Planning for the next chapter is as important as financial planning.
  • Retirement should be reframed as a new beginning.
  • Storytelling is more impactful than numbers in retirement planning.
  • Communication about expectations can enhance family dynamics

Sound Bites

"Live well, give back, leave a legacy."
"Purpose is a human need that we all need."
"It's a very individual journey."
"Leisure is such a vital part."
"You need to really think about it."
"It's vital to communicate your boundaries."
"We need to retire the word retirement."
"We are storytellers over spreadsheets."
"Make a plan for your next chapter."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors
05:23 - The Shift from Financial to Non-Financial Planning
10:31 - Understanding the Rich Life Mindset
17:00 - Building a Happiness Portfolio for Retirement
24:50 - The Importance of Leisure in Retirement
27:13 - Navigating Changing Relationships
29:47 - The Reality of Leisure Activities
33:01 - Structuring Time in Retirement
35:57 - The Retirement Honeymoon Phase
38:56 - Setting Boundaries and Communication
43:06 - Reframing Retirement: A New Perspective

Links

29 Mar 2024Navigating Money and Relationships in Retirement with Ed Coambs00:56:48

Summary

In this episode, Ed Coambs, a financial planner, and therapist, discusses the challenges couples face in managing money and planning for retirement. He shares his personal journey from being a firefighter to becoming a financial planner and therapist. Ed emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own relationship with money and how it impacts relationships. He introduces the concept of financial intimacy and explains how it can help couples navigate the complexities of retirement planning. Ed also highlights the role of attachment theory in understanding couples' dynamics around money.

In this conversation, Ed and I discuss the challenges couples face when transitioning from work to retirement and how financial therapy can help. He emphasises the importance of creating a safe space for vulnerability and open communication. He also explores the influence of childhood experiences on money management and the challenge of spending money in retirement. Our conversation highlights the need for balance in money management and the role of financial therapy in helping couples live a happy and fulfilling retirement.

Takeaways

  • Understanding one's own relationship with money is crucial for successful financial planning and healthy relationships.
  • Couples often have different expectations and visions for retirement, which can lead to conflicts and challenges.
  • Financial intimacy, where both partners are actively involved in financial decision-making and have open and honest conversations about money, is essential for a harmonious retirement.
  • Attachment theory can provide insights into individuals' behaviours and attitudes towards money and relationships. Couples often struggle to transition from work to retirement and may find it difficult to let go and enjoy the fruits of their labour.
  • Creating a safe space for vulnerability and open communication is crucial for couples to navigate retirement successfully.
  • Childhood experiences play a significant role in shaping individuals' attitudes and behaviours towards money.
  • Spending money in retirement can be a psychological challenge, and finding a balance between spending and saving is essential.
  • Financial therapy can help couples address their money-related issues and create a healthy and fulfilling retirement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:15 The Journey to Financial Therapy

10:35 The Healthy Love and Money Way

23:34 The Importance of Financial Intimacy

28:00 The Struggle to Transition from Work to Retirement

32:38 Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability

35:12 The Influence of Childhood Experiences on Money

38:18 The Challenge of Spending Money in Retirement

44:07 The Importance of Balance in Money Management

51:08 The Role of Financial Therapy in Retirement

Episode Links & Resources

04 May 2024Ep 8 of 10 - Yes & No Are The 2 Most Powerful Words In Retirement00:07:47
17 Nov 20236 weeks into his retirement! An inspirational real retirement story with Neil Jones00:48:19

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I’m so fortunate to be able to have a conversation with my wonderful and newly retired client, Neil Jones. Neil graciously shares his first-hand experiences and challenges in planning his retirement as well as his career story and how he began to think seriously about what life after work would look like. We discuss how important planning and preparation was for Neil, as well as the emotional and psychological adjustments that he has had to make and continues to work through. This episode provides a first-hand perspective on the realities of life after work and offers valuable insights for anyone approaching retirement.

Useful Links

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

02 Jul 2024The Overlooked Risk of Regret in Retirement with David Blanchett00:56:40

Summary

David is Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, and Head of Retirement Research for PGIM DC Solutions. In this role, he develops solutions to help improve retirement outcomes for investors with a specific focus on defined contribution plans. Prior to joining PGIM he was the Head of Retirement Research for Morningstar Investment Management LLC and before that the Director of Consulting and Investment Research for the Retirement Plan Consulting Group at Unified Trust Company. 

In this episode David and I discuss retirement planning and income generation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the cost of retirement and the need to start planning early. Retirement is a complex and individualized process, and the traditional concept of retirement is evolving, David suggests using the term 'financial independence' instead.  

He also challenges the 4% rule for retirement withdrawals, suggesting that a personalized approach is necessary because flexibility in retirement income planning is crucial, as it allows for adjustments in spending based on changing circumstances. He also talks about why holding cash can provide both economic and behavioural benefits in retirement portfolios.  

Other highlights of our conversation are where we discuss the need for advisors and coaches in retirement planning, the importance of understanding and addressing regret risk, the value of spending money on experiences and giving during retirement, the impact of longevity risk on retirement confidence, the benefits of guaranteed lifetime income in retirement planning and Davids famous Retirement smile concept.  

Takeaways

  • Understanding the cost of retirement and starting planning early are crucial for financial security in retirement.
  • The traditional concept of retirement is changing, and 'financial independence' may be a more appropriate term.
  • The 4% rule for retirement withdrawals may lead to underspending and regret, and a personalized approach is necessary.
  • Flexibility in retirement income planning allows for adjustments in spending based on changing circumstances.
  • Holding cash in retirement portfolios can provide both economic and behavioral benefits.
  • Advisors and coaches play a crucial role in retirement planning by providing accountability and helping individuals understand their blind spots.
  • Regret risk, or the regret of not doing more during retirement, is an often overlooked risk that can impact the fulfillment of the second half of life.
  • The fear of spending money in retirement and the transition from a savings mindset to a spending mindset can hinder individuals from enjoying their retirement and lead to inefficient spending.
  • Longevity risk, or the risk of outliving one's savings, is a significant concern in retirement planning, and there is a need for greater longevity literacy.
  • Guaranteed lifetime income can help address longevity risk and provide individuals with the confidence to spend money on experiences and give during retirement.
  • The retirement smile, where real-time spending falls during the early years of retirement and may increase slightly in later life, challenges the assumption that spending increases with inflation every year.

Sound Bites

"Retirement is the most expensive purchase most people will ever make."

"Retirement is radically changing for everyone, what it means to retire, what it means to keep working, how long you're gonna live, what your activity level is gonna be."

"The 4% rule will lead people into a retirement of underspending and regret."

"We are not the person that's receiving the advice or coaching, right?"

"If we create one of those [retirement plans] that's got a hundred percent success rate, i.e. we're telling you that you're never going to run out of money. That to me is a hundred percent failure on living a fulfilled second half of life."

"It's just really, really hard to spend down this pool of assets when you don't know how long you're gonna live, you know what the markets are gonna do and you don't wanna go back to work."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of David Blanchett
03:02 Understanding the Cost of Retirement
08:12 The Changing Nature of Retirement
12:33 Challenging the 4% Rule for Retirement Withdrawals
19:49 The Benefits of Holding Cash in Retirement Portfolios
26:56 The Role of Advisors and Coaches
28:19 The Overlooked Risk of Regret
30:06 Overcoming the Fear of Spending
35:28 Understanding and Addressing Longevity Risk
39:39 The Benefits of Guaranteed Lifetime Income
47:01 The Retirement Smile: Challenging Assumptions

06 Oct 2023How to Light Your Retirement Torch with The Father of Life Planning, George Kinder00:53:56

Summary

Author, international thought leader, and life-planning pioneer George Kinder has been at the forefront of the financial services industry for more than 35 years, spearheading a movement to put the lives that clients desire to live at the centre of their financial plans. Through books, workshops, and speaking engagements, George has trained thousands of professionals globally in the field of financial life planning. After 30 years as a practicing financial planner and tax adviser, he founded the Kinder Institute of Life Planning in 2003. His three books on money, The Seven Stages of Money Maturity (1999), Lighting the Torch (2006), and Life Planning for You (2014), are considered foundational and essential works in the field of financial life planning, for both professionals and consumers.

George's many accomplishments include:

Financial Planning Association’s first Heart of Financial Planning Award in 2006, recognizing “individuals who demonstrate commitment and passion in doing extraordinary work to contribute or give back to the financial planning community and/or the public.”

The Transparency Task Force’s Transparency Trophy (2017), recognizing his role in “helping to navigate the industry towards a more transparent, competitive and enlightened state.“

“One of 20 People Who Shaped the Financial Planning Industry” (“50th Anniversary of Financial Planning” Special Edition, InvestmentNews, 2019).

George has appeared on many radio and television programs, and his expertise has been featured in FP Today, The Financial Times, Forbes, InvestmentNews, The Journal of Financial Planning, New Model Adviser, The New York Times, Time Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal.

In this episode George and I discuss the true impact of Life Planning on retirement. He shares the 3 questions that when answered change everything as well as his famous EVOKE process for building a Life Plan. Some of the other amazing topics covered are

  • Life planning empowers financial freedom.
  • Retirement is a new beginning.
  • Retirement should be redefined.
  • Importance of building a vision.
  • Understand clients before financial planning.
  • Reflect on your life's purpose.
  • Embrace the present moment fully.
  • Freedom is personal and unique.
  •  Retirement is an incredible opportunity.

Useful Links

Connect With George

Connect With Me

www.humansvsretirement.com 

30 Jul 2024How to experience TRUE WEALTH in retirement with Ken Honda00:48:59

Summary 

Money and happiness expert Ken Honda is a bestselling self-development author in Japan, with book sales surpassing eight million copies since 2001. His first English language book, “Happy Money: The Japanese Art of Making Peace With Your Money” (June 2019, Simon & Schuster), is an international bestseller. His new novel is “True Wealth – 9 Lessons From a Grandfather on Happiness and Abundance” (​​May 14, 2024, Hay House). Learn more at KenHonda.com.

In this episode Ken Honda discusses the concept of true wealth, which goes beyond material abundance and includes intangible assets such as trust, bonding, love, and friendship. He emphasizes the importance of creating precious memories and highlights the need to redefine wealth as we approach retirement. Ken also explores the power of intuition in decision-making and shares three steps to tap into our intuition. He discusses coping with anxieties and fears around money and retirement, suggesting that facing fear head-on can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Ken encourages listeners to find their Ikigai, their life purpose, and to make choices that align with their passions and values. He also emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive relationship with money and using it as a tool to bring joy and happiness in retirement.

Takeaways

  • True wealth goes beyond material abundance and includes intangible assets such as trust, bonding, love, and friendship.
  • Creating precious memories is more important than accumulating material wealth.
  • Facing fears and taking risks can lead to personal growth and new opportunities in retirement.
  • Finding your Ikigai, your life purpose, and making choices that align with your passions and values is crucial in retirement.
  • Cultivating a positive relationship with money and using it as a tool to bring joy and happiness in retirement is essential.

Sound Bites

"True wealth is something that you cannot see. It's invisible assets like trust, bonding, love, and friendship."

"There's always some kind of guiding force to just take us to something very important."

"If you can face your fear, you will be less afraid of taking more steps, taking more risks."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the Concept of True Wealth
06:03 The Power of Intuition in Decision-Making
09:25 Coping with Anxieties and Fears in Retirement
15:30 Finding Your Ikigai in Retirement

12 Jun 2023How to not fade away but thrive in retirement with Celia Dodd00:51:53

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I get to have a great conversation with journalist and author Celia Dodd about her book "Not Fade Away: How to Thrive in Retirement". The conversation focuses on the emotional challenges of retirement and offers practical examples of real people who have gone through retirement that Celia spent time with when writing the book. Celia shares her expertise and research on the retirement, offering insight and advice for those looking to live a happy, healthy, and wealthy retirement. I encourage everyone to check out Celia’s book with a link to buy it in the show notes.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about

  • The emotional and practical challenges of retiremen
  • The importance of planning and adaptability
  • The need to find purpose and meaning in retirement through soul searching and exploration.
  • The importance of finding new pursuits and interests.
  • The challenges and opportunities of retirement for couples.

About My Guest

Celia Dodd is the author of a ground-breaking book about retirement, Not Fade Away, which was serialised in the Daily Mail and the Daily Express. She acts as a consultant on retirement courses, and last year created a retirement preparation toolkit for Hampshire Police Force.

Celia appears regularly on radio (including Woman’s Hour) to talk about retirement and other issues that affect the over-50s. Her other books include The Empty Nest: Your changing family, your new direction and All Grown Up, which is about relationships with adult children.

As well as writing books she is a feature-writer for national newspapers and magazines, including The Times, The Independent and Radio Times.

Find out more via www.humansvsretirement.com

 

06 May 2024Ep 10 of 10 - How To Live A Rapturous Retirement00:08:47
12 Apr 2024Humans Vs Retirement is 1 Year Old - Thank You!00:04:11
28 Apr 2024Ep 2 of 10 - Looking at The Harvard 85 Year Study To Determine What makes A Happy Retirement00:07:55
29 Nov 2024How to Retire with Christine Benz01:01:12

Summary

In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back to the show Christine Benz as we delve into her best selling book How to Retire: 20 Lessons For a Happy, Succesful, And Wealthy Retirement. 

When Christine was a guest on the podcast in ep 36 back in March of this year, her book had not yet been released but we did get a sneak peek into what she had in store for us.  

Now, having got my hands on a copy and seeing how successful the book has become I wanted to get Christine back on the show to talk about my 5 favourite chapters or lessons from the book. So, stay tuned as we discuss 

  • Laying the groundwork with Fitz Gilbert
  • Creating a spending plan with Jonathan Guyton
  • Permission to spend on what matters most with Ramit Sethi
  • Structuring portfolios for cashflow by Christine herself
  • Leave no regrets with Jordan Grummet 

 Throughout our conversation Christine and I explore the multifaceted aspects of retirement, focusing on the importance of mindful spending, the balance of time, money, and health, effective cash flow strategies, and the significance of purpose in life. We discuss how individuals can align their spending with their values, the psychological benefits of structured cash flow, and the necessity of reflecting on life to avoid regrets.  

Key Takeaways

  • Retirement is a unique life stage that requires thoughtful planning.
  • Visualizing how to use retirement years is crucial.
  • Financial resources should support lifestyle choices in retirement.
  • People often underestimate the complexities of retirement planning.
  • A holistic approach to retirement includes both financial and non-financial aspects.
  • Laying groundwork involves both financial and personal preparations.
  • Experiencing mini-retirements can provide valuable insights.
  • Flexible spending strategies are essential for adapting to life changes.
  • Non-portfolio income sources can enhance financial security in retirement.
  • Understanding the behavioral aspects of spending can improve retirement planning.
  • Mindful spending aligns with personal values.
  • Revisiting values annually is crucial for retirees.
  • Cash flow strategies provide peace of mind in retirement.
  • Purpose in life can be cultivated through small actions.
  • It's important to enjoy the journey of life.
  • People regret not attempting rather than failing.
  • Elevating your worry-free number can reduce stress.
  • Understanding the balance of time, money, and health is essential.
  • Small P purposes can lead to a fulfilling retirement.
  • Time is a non-renewable resource that should be valued. 

Sound Bites

"This is a really special life stage."
"Use your time wisely, use it thoughtfully."
"You need a unified vision for retirement."
"Mini retirements can be really impactful."
"Flexible spending strategies are essential."
"Non-portfolio income sources are important."
"Spending feels better than saving."
"Spending your money on what matters to you."
"Elevate your worry-free number."
"Purpose is not found, it's created."
"We regret not attempting, not failing."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Retirement Planning
03:13 - The Essence of Retirement: Time and Vision
06:00 - The Complexity of Retirement: Balancing Finances and Purpose
08:55 - Laying the Groundwork for Retirement
12:05 - Experiencing Mini-Retirements
21:05 - Creating a Flexible Spending Plan
29:30 - The Importance of Spending Mindfully
36:30 - Understanding Time, Money, and Health Balance
42:15 - Cash Flow Strategies for Retirement
48:42 - Leaving No Regrets: Embracing Purpose in Life

Links

 

22 Sep 2023Exploring the Power of ‘Your Future Self’ in Retirement with Hal Hershfield00:55:44

Summary

Hal Hershfield is a Professor of Marketing, Behavioural Decision Making, and Psychology at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and holds the UCLA Anderson Board of Advisors Term Chair in Management. He is also the author of the recently released best-selling book Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today

His research, which sits at the intersection of psychology and economics, examines the ways we can improve our long-term decisions. He earned his PhD in psychology from Stanford University.

Hershfield publishes in top academic journals and contributes op-eds to the New York Times, Harvard Business Review, the Wall Street Journal, and other outlets. He consults with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, many financial services firms such as Fidelity, First Republic, Prudential, Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, and Avantis. The recipient of numerous teaching awards, Hershfield was named one of “The 40 Most Outstanding B-School Profs Under 40 In the World” by business education website Poets & Quants.

In this episode Hal and I discuss the challenges that individuals face when it comes to retirement and how our present selves often anchor us and distort our decisions about the future. We also delve into the importance of seeing our future selves and how it can impact our happiness and well-being and our conversation touches on the dangers of procrastination and the need to prioritize experiences and make intentional choices in retirement.

Useful Links

Buy Hal’s brilliant book Your Future Self: How to Make Tomorrow Better Today

Visit Hal’s website

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Hal

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

Find out more at www.humansvsretirement.com

 

13 Oct 2023Sleeping Your Way to a Vibrant Retirement: The Science & Strategies for Optimal Sleep with Frances Taylor00:57:06

Summary

Frances Taylor is known as “The Sleep Fixer” and is a wellbeing expert supporting business leaders, managers and teams to build personal and organisational resilience.

Frances says that “sleep is the Cinderella of Good Health. People knew about diet and exercise but take sleep for granted – until that is, they wake up to the fact that they aren’t getting enough”.

She has distilled all her experience and learning to create powerful science-backed programmes that show people how to sleep well, work well and live well.

Frances is a Trustee and Fellow of the International Stress Management Association (UK) with specific responsibility for establishing new professional standards. I also established a regional network for businesses and individuals working in the field.

Frances is trained in CBTi, (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia) which is now the clinically researched front line treatment for both the UK and US.

In this episode Frances and I explore the often-overlooked subject of sleep and its impact on retirement and later life well-being. Frances shares valuable insights on the importance of good quality sleep as well as practical tips and strategies on improving your sleep quality and how to spot the signs that will affect your sleep.

Useful Links

Connect With Frances

Connect With Me

29 Apr 2024Ep 3 of 10 - The Human Quirk of Relative & Absolute Outcomes00:09:18
15 Sep 2023Preventing Cognitive Decline: Practical Tips for a Sharp and Healthy Brain in Retirement with Dr Moira Somers00:57:23

Summary

Dr Moira Somers is the founder of Money, Mind and Meaning, a renowned psychologist, neuroscientist, and family wealth consultant that specialises in the psychology of money. She is a faculty member at the Ultra High Net Worth Institute and at the Sudden Money Institute and leads the Financial Psychology Special Interest Group for the American Psychological Association.

In this episode Moria and I discuss a number of key challenges when it comes navigating the complexities of life after work and in particular i tap into Moira’s neuroscience background to talk about cognitive decline and how we can think about keeping our brain sharp and healthy throughout retirement

Useful Links

Connect With Moira

Connect With Me

Find out more by visiting www.humansvsretirement.com

 

26 Jan 2024The Importance of Addressing Your "Money Scripts" in Retirement with Sonya Lutter00:52:33

Summary

In this episode, Sonya Lutter discusses the intersection of financial wellbeing and mental health in retirement. She emphasises the importance of addressing money scripts and financial behaviours, as well as aligning spending with values in retirement. Sonia also explores the challenges that arise in marriage and relationships during retirement and highlights the significance of purpose in leading a happy and fulfilling retirement. Additionally, she discusses the value of working with a financial advisor in achieving financial satisfaction and relationship satisfaction in retirement. In this episode, Dan and Sonia discuss the key to happiness in retirement and the impact of financial planning on people's lives. They also explore Sonia's work and resources for individuals and couples preparing for retirement. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of love in retirement planning.

Takeaways

  • Financial planning can lead to greater happiness and freedom in retirement.
  • Sonia offers online courses, books, and research papers to help individuals and couples prepare for retirement
  • Love should be prioritized over money when planning for retirement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:00 The Intersection of Financial Wellbeing and Mental Health

08:21 The Emotive Nature of Money

11:02 Money Scripts and Financial Behaviours

14:55 The Importance of Addressing Money Scripts in Retirement

19:06 The Challenge of Spending Money in Retirement

21:35 Aligning Spending and Values in Retirement

27:04 Navigating Changes in Marriage and Relationships in Retirement

30:47 Mental Health Challenges in Retirement

34:47 The Importance of Purpose in Retirement

38:55 The Value of Working with a Financial Advisor

47:01 The Key to Happiness

48:03 Sonia's Work and Resources

49:21 Love Comes First

Episode Links & Resources

 

08 May 2023Dispelling the myths around spending your money in retirement with Abraham Okusanya00:43:11

Summary

In this episode of the Human vs Retirement podcast, Dan interviews author and fintech founder Abraham Okusanya. Abraham is the founder and CEO of Timeline, a technology platform designed to help retirees invest and spend with confidence, and author of Beyond the 4% Rule. Dan and Abraham discuss the obstacle of spending money with freedom in retirement, and how retirees are on the whole far too conservative when it comes to spending their savings, particually during their best years. 

What You'll Learn

The listener will learn about retirement planning, including overcoming behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges. The episode covers topics such as the importance of not being too conservative with spending, the cautionary nature of human beings, the myth of U-shaped spending, the fear of unmanageable care costs, giving during one's lifetime, aligning money and time with values, and the role of human financial advisors. The episode also discusses the 4% rule for retirement spending, improvements to the rule, and a more dynamic approach to retirement spending. 

About My Guest

Abraham is the founder and CEO of Timeline, a financial technology company on a mission to help millions of people face retirement with confidence. The company currently manages over £2bn in client assets.

He is the author of ‘Beyond the 4% Rule: the science of retirement portfolios that last a lifetime’ and has delivered talks to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Personal Finance Society (PFS), The Association of British Insurers (ABI), Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) and conferences in around the world. 

He holds a master’s degree from Coventry University and an alphabet soup of designations, including the Investment Management Certificate (IMC), Certified Financial Planning, Chartered Financial Planner and Chartered Wealth Manager.

Find out more: www.humansvsretirement.com

15 May 2023How to fund your contentment in retirement with Brian Portnoy00:47:26

Summary

In this episode of the Human vs Retirement podcast, Dan interviews author and behavioural finance expert Brian Portnoy. Brian is an expert in simplifying the complex world of money, and they delve into his book "The Geometry of Wealth." Throughout the episode, Brian shares insights from his years of experience coaching and mentoring people on financial wellness, offering tips and wisdom on how to overcome the behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges of retirement and specifically delves into his contentment framework of the 4 C’s.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about retirement planning, including the challenges of retirement, the importance of finding purpose beyond financial stability, and the four sources of contentment in life. The episode also discusses the relationship between money, work, contentment, and happiness, as well as the role of adaptation in retirement planning. Brian emphasises the need to question whose script you are living and to be an editor of one's own life narrative. The episode includes recommendations for resources and tools for retirement planning.

About My Guest

Brian Portnoy is the founder of Shaping Wealth, a financial wellness platform that engages with individuals and organisations to make better money decisions. In his two highly acclaimed books in the field of behavioural finance, The Investor’s Paradox and The Geometry of Wealth, he tackles the challenges of making better financial decisions and figuring out how money fits into a joyful life. He has served as keynote speaker, seminar leader, and coach to thousands of investors on topics ranging from portfolio strategy to the connection between money and happiness. Brian has worked in the hedge fund and mutual fund industries for more than two decades. He is a CFA Charterholder, earned his doctorate at the University of Chicago, and serves on the advisory board for the Alliance for Decision Education. He lives in Chicago with his wife and three children.

Find out more by going to www.humansvsretirement.com

 

14 Feb 2025The Scarcity Trap: How to Shift to a Prosperity Mindset in Retirement with Leisa Peterson01:00:23

Today I welcome Leisa Peterson to the show, Leisa is the author of The Mindful Millionaire in which she writes brilliantly about overcoming scarcity, experiencing true prosperity and creating the life you really want.

Leisa is on a mission to help 1,000,000 people elevate their financial consciousness by realizing their true value and creating greater financial security for themselves.  

As a money coach, business consultant and spiritual teacher, Leisa host’s the Mindful Millionaire podcast as well as virtual workshops and transformative retreats. 

Her masterful blend of sound financial strategy and mindfulness training helps people break free of patterns of lack, scarcity and money fears, allowing them to finally lead the rewarding, fulfilling, and abundant lives they most desire.  

Leisa has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and The Huffington Post to name a few and has been featured on many podcasts and radio shows.

In this great conversation Leisa and I explore the intricate relationship between money, mindset, and personal values. Leisa shares her journey from a life of scarcity to becoming a mindful millionaire, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's emotional connection to money.

We discuss how past experiences shape financial behaviours, the significance of cultivating a prosperity mindset, and the role of mindfulness in overcoming financial fears.

We explore the importance of slowing down to make better financial decisions, aligning spending with personal values, and confronting financial realities. There is also some great nuggets of wisdom as we talk about the normalization of financial fears, the impact of past money stories, and the process of rewriting financial narratives.

And make sure you listen in as Leisa introduces her, I Prosper process, which integrates mindfulness and emotional wellbeing into financial planning, ultimately leading to a reinvention of life and relationships.

Key Takeaways

  • The journey from scarcity to abundance is transformative.
  • Understanding your money mindset is crucial for financial well-being.
  • Mindset is deeply emotional, not just logical.
  • Focusing on what you have can shift your perspective.
  • Redefining success involves aligning values with financial decisions.
  • Life events can catalyze significant changes in financial perspectives.
  • Fear often drives financial decisions and behaviors.
  • Storytelling can make financial planning more relatable and effective.
  • Mindfulness practices can help manage financial anxiety.
  • Emotional awareness is key to enjoying life and spending money.
  • Slowing down is essential for better decision-making.
  • Aligning spending with personal values can enhance fulfillment.
  • Confronting financial realities can be daunting but necessary.
  • Normalizing financial fears helps in addressing them.
  • Understanding past money stories can reveal limiting beliefs.
  • Rewriting financial narratives is possible at any stage of life.
  • The I Prosper process offers a holistic approach to financial planning.
  • Reinventing life involves prioritizing meaningful relationships.
  • Every moment of life is precious and should be cherished.
  • Mindfulness in financial planning can lead to emotional wellbeing.

Books Mentioned:

Websites & Resources:

Concepts & Frameworks:

Additional Resources:

Related Media:

Humans vs Retirement

 

 

26 Apr 2024Welcome to my daily 10 episode retirement mini series!00:03:23
17 Apr 2023Happiness, Fulfilment & Contentment in Retirement with Neil Bage00:45:24

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, Dan is joined by Neil Bage, co-founder of Shaping Wealth, to discuss the subconscious behaviours that drive decision making in retirement.

As a renowned expert in bridging scientific theory with real world understanding, Neil offers valuable insights into understanding and overcoming behavioural and emotional challenges of retirement. Together, Dan and Neil examine the intersection of the behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges that retirees often face and offer practical advice for achieving a happy, healthy, and wealthy retirement.


What You’ll Learn


The listener will learn about the challenges of retirement, particularly the importance of understanding human behaviour and the need to maintain a sense of purpose and identity. The podcast emphasizes the importance of preparing early, identifying activities that bring happiness and fulfilment, and focusing on purpose and identity in retirement planning. Dan and Neil also discuss the cognitive changes that occur during retirement and the conflict between our present and future selves.

 

More about us: www.humansvsretirement.co.uk

15 Mar 2024How to Live a Regret Free Retirement with Christine Benz00:57:13

Summary

Christine is director of personal finance and retirement planning for Morningstar, Inc. In that role, she focuses on retirement and portfolio planning for individual investors. She also co-hosts a podcast for Morningstar, The Long View, which features in-depth interviews with thought leaders in investing and personal finance. and I was honoured to be asked to be a guest on last year (link in the show notes). She is a prolific writer and her published Morningstar articles are must reads for anyone interested in retirement planning. 

In this episode, Christine and I cover a lot of ground! We discuss various aspects of retirement planning, including blind spots, sequence risk, inflation, the bucketing approach to income management, the importance of continuing to work, and lessons for a happy and successful retirement. Christine emphasizes the need to consider both financial and non-financial aspects of retirement and to make choices that align with personal happiness and purpose and also highlights the value of working with a financial planner to navigate the complexities of retirement planning.

Takeaways

  • Retirement planning should consider both financial and non-financial aspects, such as happiness, purpose, and social connections.
  • Blind spots in retirement planning include sequence risk, inflation, and unexpected spending shocks.
  • A bucketing approach to retirement income can help manage sequence risk and ensure liquidity for short-term needs.
  • Continuing to work in retirement can provide financial security, social connections, and a sense of purpose.
  • Spending in line with personal happiness and avoiding regrets are key considerations in retirement planning.
  • Working with a financial planner can help navigate the complexities of retirement planning and ensure a successful retirement. Retirement planning is crucial for financial security in later years.
  • Common mistakes in retirement planning include underestimating expenses and not starting early enough.
  • Financial advisors can provide valuable guidance and expertise in retirement planning.
  • Behavioural biases can negatively impact retirement planning decisions.
  • Seeking outside help, such as financial advisors or experts, can help identify blind spots and provide a fresh perspective.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

07:15 The Blind Spots of Retirement

13:38 Mitigating Sequence Risk and Inflation

17:47 Bucketing Approach to Retirement Income

25:26 The Importance of Continuing to Work in Retirement

35:37 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement

38:20 Spending to Optimize Happiness

40:26 Living Life with No Regrets

48:15 The Value of Working with a Financial Planner

10:32 Common Retirement Planning Mistakes

23:45 The Role of Financial Advisors in Retirement Planning

34:56 The Impact of Behavioral Biases on Retirement Planning

43:21 The Value of Seeking Outside Help

51:09 Blind Spots and the Importance of Outside Perspective

Episode Links & Resources

19 Jun 2023Retirement is a flawed concept with Carl Richards00:53:05

Summary

In this episode I get to have a brilliant conversation with bestselling author, New York Times columnist and founder of The Behaviour Gap Carl Richards. Carl is internationally renowned for his ability to explain complex financial concepts in an easy-to-understand manner through his sketches and books. We discuss the importance of real financial planning, and the challenges people face in retirement. Carl shares his insights and experiences on how to overcome the behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges of life after work. This episode provides valuable advice and inspiration for anyone navigating retirement planning.

What You’ll Learn

  • The idea of retirement as a man-made invention that may not be suitable for everyone, especially those engaged in knowledge work.
  • Retirement may not align with our values and that we may miss out on opportunities to contribute to society and rebuild relationships with loved ones if we retire too early.
  • Retirement is not just a financial problem to be solved with numbers, but a human problem that requires exploration of fears, anxieties, dreams, and aspirations.
  • Many people are unprepared for the emotional and behavioural challenges that come with retirement.
  • The importance of aligning one's values and interests with their retirement plans and finding activities or hobbies that bring joy and fulfilment.

About My Guest

Carl Richards is a Certified Financial Planner™ and creator of the Sketch Guy column, which appeared weekly for a decade in The New York Times.

Carl has also been featured on Marketplace Money, Oprah.com, and Forbes.comIn addition, Carl has become a frequent keynote speaker at financial planning conferences and visual learning events around the world.

Through his simple sketches, Carl makes complex financial concepts easy to understand. His sketches also serve as the foundation for his two books, The One-Page Financial Plan: A Simple Way to Be Smart About Your Money and The Behaviour Gap: Simple Ways to Stop Doing Dumb Things with Money (Portfolio/Penguin).

His sketches have appeared in a solo show at the Kimball Art Centre in Park City, Utah, as well as other showings at Parsons School of Design in New York City, The Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California, and an exhibit at the Mansion House in London. 

His commissioned work is on display in businesses and educational institutions across the globe.

31 May 2024Empowering Women To Take Control of Their Retirement with Stephanie McCullough00:58:20

About Stephanie

Stephanie founded Sofia Financial in 2011 after 14 years as a financial advisor, with the goal to empower women to make wise financial decisions and reduce their money stress. In her early years she encountered too many women who found finances and investing so intimidating that they either outsourced money decisions to a man in their lives (sometimes with disastrous consequences), or relied on “professionals” who too often focused more on their own paycheck than providing true education and guidance. Financial planning plays into Stephanie’s love of hearing people’s stories, and understanding and explaining complex topics clearly. She is passionate about helping more women find and succeed on this career path.

Summary

Stephanie McCullough, founder of Sophia Financial and host of the Take Back Retirement podcast, discusses the challenges women face when planning for retirement. She shares her journey of entering the financial industry and focusing on helping women with their retirement planning. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of empowering women to take control of their finances and make informed decisions. She highlights the unique challenges women face in retirement, such as the dominance of the male spouse in financial decisions and the need for women to take the reins after divorce or the death of a spouse. Stephanie encourages open conversations and non-judgmental support to help women navigate these challenges and create a fulfilling retirement.

In this conversation, Stephanie and I discuss the challenges women face in the financial planning industry and how they can take control of their retirement. We explore the dominance of men in financial meetings, the importance of meaningful money conversations, and the need for both spouses to be involved in financial planning. They also discuss the impact of social connections on retirement happiness and how women can build and maintain strong social networks. The conversation concludes with advice for women to pay attention to their feelings around money and find a money buddy to share and learn together.

Takeaways

  • Women often face unique challenges when planning for retirement, such as the dominance of the male spouse in financial decisions.
  • Divorce and the death of a spouse can significantly impact a woman's retirement plans and financial decisions.
  • Open conversations and non-judgmental support are crucial in helping women navigate these challenges and make informed decisions.
  • Empowering women to take control of their finances and plan for retirement can lead to a more fulfilling and secure future. Women often face challenges in the financial planning industry, with men dominating meetings and focusing on investments rather than meaningful money conversations.
  • Both spouses should be involved in financial planning to ensure transparency and avoid financial abuse.
  • Social connections and networks are crucial for retirement happiness, and women are often better at building and maintaining these connections.
  • Women should pay attention to their feelings around money and find a money buddy to share and learn together.
  • Women can take control of their retirement by being intentional, exploring different opportunities, and finding their own identity and purpose.

Sound Bites

"There's got to be a way to have a more meaningful conversation with women."
"Retirement is the opportunity to figure out exactly what you want to do with your time and go do it."
"Open up conversations about retirement between couples to ensure both partners' needs and desires are considered."
"There's often a dominance about... the man has done this and they often kind of... dragged them along to the meeting and... they open up the meeting and they're dominant in it."
"How can we have a different money conversation? How can we have something that's actually meaningful and relatable? How can we make this money actually interesting?"
"A lot of women have that impression because that's the experience they've had in the financial advisor offices."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Stephanie's Journey
06:20 Why Focus on Women Planning for Retirement?
10:25 Challenges Women Face in Retirement
16:26 Navigating Retirement After Divorce
28:27 The Impact of Grief on Retirement Plans
30:52 The Importance of Meaningful Money Conversations
35:12 Building and Maintaining Social Connections
44:08 Paying Attention to Feelings Around Money
51:48 Taking Control of Retirement

Links

Take Back Retirement Podcast

Sofia Financial

 

 

01 May 2024Ep 5 of 10 - Going From A Savings Habit To A Spending Mindset00:09:41
22 Oct 2024How to Build a Legacy to Die For with Dr Kimberly Harms00:55:27

About Kimberly

Dr. Harms helps people understand the importance of showing their love for their families by setting them up for success through comprehensive legacy planning.

Dr. Harms has witnessed death up close many times throughout her life. She suffered the loss of her mother and her son to suicide and, eventually, her husband from a broken heart. These events shaped her views on finding meaning in grief, and she set out on a mission to end the stigma around end-of-life planning.

As a fourth-quarter coach and international speaker specializing in grief, conflict resolution, and legacy planning, she helps people put an emotional life insurance plan in place so that their loved ones are left in an emotionally healthy space after they are gone.

Her book Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For discusses how to build a legacy that lives on after your death. It was a #1 bestseller on Amazon and Barnes & Noble and named the most inspirational book of 2024 by the Pacific Book Awards.

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, Dr. Kimberly Harms shares her profound journey through grief, loss, and the quest for purpose in the later stages of life.

At 68, Kimberly reflects on her experiences, including the tragic loss of her Mum, son and husband, and how these events shaped her understanding of legacy and the importance of living fully.

She emphasises the need for purpose in retirement, the significance of building quality relationships, and the power of love letters as a means to connect with family beyond death.

Kimberly's insights encourage you to confront your mortality, embrace your life stories, and create meaningful legacies that transcend material wealth.

Throughout our conversation, Kimberly and I explore the significance of building a legacy that resonates with love and connection. We discuss the importance of appointing trusted individuals to carry out one's wishes, navigating difficult conversations about death, and the emotional benefits of downsizing.

Kimberly shares her personal experiences with grief and the importance of maintaining relationships, culminating in her concept of a 'Grateful But Not Yet Dead Tour' where she expresses appreciation to those who have impacted her life.

Key Takeaways

  • Grief affects everyone around us, and we must fight to overcome it.
  • Retirement can lead to a sense of emptiness without purpose.
  • Building quality relationships is key to happiness in life.
  • Understanding mortality allows us to live more fully.
  • Love letters can provide comfort and connection after death.
  • We should take the initiative to develop relationships and not wait for others.
  • Legacy is not about money; it's about the impact we leave behind.
  • Writing letters can help express love and pride to family members.
  • It's important to prepare for death to ease the burden on loved ones.
  • We can reinvent ourselves in the later stages of life.  Appoint trusted individuals to carry out your wishes.
  • Last minute statements can provide immense comfort.
  • Regularly express love to family members.
  • Cultural attitudes often deny discussions about death.
  • Navigating conversations about death can be challenging but necessary.
  • Downsizing can be painful but ultimately freeing.
  • Focus on relationships over material possessions.
  • Planning for the future can ease family burdens after death.
  • Creating memories and experiences is a vital part of legacy.
  • Expressing gratitude can enhance personal happiness and relationships.

Sound Bites

"I realized that I am in the fourth quarter of my life"
"It's worth it to get out there and fight your way out"
"Retirement is a time to reinvent ourselves"
"You can't underestimate the power of those moments."
"Those last minute statements are so powerful."
"It's important to tell our family how much we love them."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Kimberly Harms
01:29 - Kimberly's Journey Through Grief and Loss
09:38 - The Impact of Grief on Life and Purpose
17:22 - Understanding Mortality and Living Fully
24:54 - Building a Legacy Beyond Money
29:10 - The Importance of Appointing Trusted Individuals
33:02 - Navigating Difficult Conversations About Death
40:01 - Downsizing and Emotional Wellbeing
49:18 - The Grateful But Not Yet Dead Tour

Links

Kimberly's book Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For

 

 

22 Mar 2024The Money Sandwich: Balancing Adult Children, Aging Parents, and Retirement with Marc Bineham01:00:39

Summary

Have you ever herd of ‘the sandwich generation’? Are you part of it? And if so, what challenges does it bring to your retirement?

Well. In this episode I get to have a conversation with a guy that has literally wrote the book on the subject!

Mark Bineham is one of Australia’s top keynote speakers on retirement and the award-winning author of 'The Money Sandwich”.

Mark’s goal has always been to help people live their very best life through positive mindset, promoting well-being and simply achieving financial freedom that much sooner, because in his words “we all deserve that, don’t we?.

In 2019, a turning point occurred in his life when he underwent open-heart surgery. Prompting a re-evaluation of his 30-year career as a financial advisor, including four years as the national president of the Association of Financial Advisers. While he always loved helping his own clients reach their goals and aspirations, he realised most people just couldn’t afford help or advice, and that had to change.

That’s when he decided to pour all the knowledge he gained over his career into a book, which he proudly titled The Money Sandwich and subsequently setting up a family business with his Daughter Katherine by the same name which enables him to take this message out to the wider world through presentations, workshops and courses.

In this thought-provoking conversation Mark and I discuss the challenges faced by the sandwich generation, who are responsible for supporting both their adult children and aging parents. Mark emphasizes the importance of having conversations about retirement and estate planning with your elderly parents and adult children. He also introduces the concept of the 'third act' as a more positive and fulfilling way to approach retirement and highlights the need for mindset shifts and an understanding of the emotional aspects of money in order to achieve happiness in retirement.

Our conversation explores changing attitudes towards work and retirement, the negative connotations of money, the impact of financial stress on productivity and health, the importance of talking about money, the value that financial planning professionals add at this stage of life, and what financial freedom looks and feels like.

Takeaways

  • The sandwich generation faces the challenge of supporting both adult children and aging parents.
  • Having conversations about retirement and estate planning with elderly parents is crucial to avoid future conflicts.
  • The 'third act' is a more positive and fulfilling way to approach retirement.
  • Understanding the emotional aspects of money is essential for achieving happiness in retirement. Younger generations are redefining work-life balance and are more focused on enjoying life.
  • Financial stress is a major cause of anxiety, arguments, and relationship breakdowns.
  • Financial stress negatively affects productivity in the workplace.
  • Talking about money and seeking professional help can alleviate financial stress.
  • Financial planning professionals can provide guidance and support in managing money and achieving financial freedom.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

05:25 Unleashing Your Third Act

08:34 The Money Sandwich and the Sandwich Generation

14:30 Challenges of Supporting Adult Children

22:35 Challenges of Supporting Aging Parents

29:24 Reframing Retirement as the Third Act

38:44 Money Shifts for Happiness

45:31 Changing Attitudes Towards Work and Retirement

47:00 The Negative Connotations of Money

48:31 Financial Stress and its Impact on Productivity and Health

49:30 The Importance of Talking About Money

50:52 The Need for Financial Planning Professionals

53:51 What Financial Freedom Looks Like

Episode Links & Resources

08 Jan 2025Finding Purpose in Retirement with Jordan Grumet00:56:41

Summary

I had the privilege to sit down with Jordan Grumet, author of the brilliant new book The Purpose Code and host of The Earn & Invest Podcast.

In this conversation, Jordan shares his journey from being a physician to discovering the importance of purpose in life, particularly in retirement.

He discusses the paradox of purpose, the difference between Big P and Little P Purpose, and how societal expectations can lead to anxiety around finding purpose.

Jordan emphasises the need to create and build purpose rather than simply searching for it, and highlights the importance of community and connections in achieving fulfillment and happiness. 

Jordan and I explore the concepts of purpose, identity, and the flawed notion of retirement. We discuss how individuals often strive for external validation through accomplishments, but true fulfillment comes from understanding one's identity and engaging in meaningful activities. Our discussion emphasises the importance of time over money, the impact of little-p purpose in life, and the common regrets people have at the end of their lives.

Ultimately, Jordan encourages you to focus on the journey of life rather than the destination, and to seek out what truly lights you up.

Key Takeaways

  • Purpose is essential for a fulfilling life, especially in retirement.
  • Big P Purpose can lead to anxiety and frustration.
  • Little P Purpose focuses on the process and is more attainable.
  • Creating purpose involves identifying what lights you up.
  • Community and connections are vital for happiness.
  • People often replace work-based purpose with similar frameworks in retirement.
  • Meaning is about understanding our past, while purpose is about present actions.
  • Happiness comes from both meaning and purpose working together.
  • Investing in personal passions can inspire others, especially children.
  • The journey to enoughness is crucial for finding true fulfillment. We often strive for external validation through accomplishments.
  • True fulfillment comes from understanding our identity.
  • Retirement should be viewed as a journey, not a destination.
  • Time is always more important than money.
  • Money is a tool, but little-p purpose moves the needle.
  • Many people regret not pursuing their true passions.
  • Success is less important than the effort and journey.
  • Living with purpose can lead to a peaceful end of life.
  • We should focus on what lights us up in life.
  • The concept of enough is often smaller than we think.

Sound Bites

"We need to put purpose first."
"Big P Purpose is associated with anxiety."
"Little P Purpose focuses on process, not goals."
"You have to build and create purpose."
"Purpose is a conduit to people."
"Happiness is meaning and purpose together."
"You can't purpose your way to enough."
"Identity is based not on goals, but on actions."
"Retirement is a flawed concept."
"Money is a mirage."

Chapters

00:00 -Introduction to Purpose and Identity
02:31 - Jordan's Journey: From Doctor to Purpose Advocate
06:57 - The Paradox of Purpose: Anxiety vs. Fulfillment
12:39 - Big P vs. Little P Purpose: Understanding the Difference
16:31 - Creating Purpose in Retirement: The Challenge Ahead
20:52 - Building Community Through Little P Purpose
27:40 - Meaning vs. Purpose: The Journey to Enoughness
30:29 - Finding Meaning Beyond Striving
31:56 - The Challenge of Identity
34:04 - Redefining Retirement as a Journey
39:26 - The Value of Time Over Money
42:05 - The Impact of Little-P Purpose
46:27 - Regrets and Lessons from the Dying

Links

 

29 May 2023Retirement should not be viewed as the third and final phase of life with Dr Thomas Mather00:59:51

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I have a great conversation with Dr Thomas Mather, Head of the Centre for Behavioural Research for Aegon UK, about the emotional and behavioural challenges retirees face. Tom shares his expertise and research into the specifics around connecting and empathising with your future self and how we must challenge the narrative that retirement is the natural last phase of life. Dan & Tom discuss the importance of research in understanding these challenges and strategies to help individuals live a happy, healthy & wealthy retirement.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about:

  • The emotional and behavioural challenges of retirement.
  • How to make confident and informed decisions about retirement planning.
  • The importance of connecting with and empathising with one's future self.
  • Having a strong and meaningful connection to the future.
  • Spending money on things that bring joy and purpose.
  • The societal expectation of retirement as the natural last phase of life.
  • Encouraging a more open and adaptable approach to aging.
  • The importance of self-knowledge and having a flexible mindset and playbook to adapt to unforeseen risks in retirement planning.

About My Guest

Tom heads up the Centre for Behavioural Research, at Aegon UK, a small team of behavioural scientists and psychologists who work in the space where Behavioural Finance and Financial Wellbeing meet.

He has a PhD in Social Anthropology from Berlin and later completed further training in Behavioural Economics at LSE.

He lives in Edinburgh with my wife and 6-year-old twins (who’re non identical twins and hence useless for experimental purposes).

Find out more at www.humansvsretirement.com

 

10 Nov 2023Bold Not Old: Embrace Your Entrepreneur Spirit in Retirement with Wallis Pattisonn00:55:14

Summary

Wallis is an authority on how to be an ageing entrepreneur. She is a speaker, and author and is intent on disrupting the accepted norm around what is possible as we age. Wallis is different to most people her age, she is straightforward, quirky and has an attitude of let’s give it a try. She is the founder of Bold Not Old, a platform for education and self-awareness for ‘The Silver Economy’ and CEO and editor-in-chief of Empowering Boldness a bi-monthly magazine.

Her passion is to challenge those who are 55+ to get out of their comfort zone rethink retirement and have a go at being an entrepreneur. She encourages creativity, daring to be different, thinking fabulous and proving that pursuing a passion can add years to our lives. As Wallis herself says “there is no Utopia, but life can be joyous, even the challenges can be small bumps on the journey to what is next”

In this episode Wallis and I discuss challenging the traditional beliefs about aging, explore the power of entrepreneurship in retirement and the ability for today’s ‘retirees’ to disrupt societal norms.

Useful Links

Check out Bold Not Old

Visit Wallis’s website

Subscribe to Wallis’s brilliant YouTube channel

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Wallis

LinkedIn

Twitter/X

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

07 Mar 2025Behaving Your Way to a Better Retirement with Greg Davies01:04:33

This is episode 75! And I’m thrilled to introduce my guest today. He is a true pioneer in the field of behavioural finance, Dr. Greg Davies.

Greg is the Head of Behavioural Finance at Oxford Risk and has spent his career shaping how we understand investor psychology, financial decision-making, and the emotional complexities that come with managing money—especially in retirement.

In this episode, we’ll explore the behavioural traps that retirees often fall into, how to build financial resilience, and why understanding your own psychology is just as important as having a well-structured portfolio.

Throughout our conversation, Greg and I explore the multifaceted aspects of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of guaranteed income and its psychological benefits.

We discuss how behavioural finance plays a crucial role in spending habits during retirement, the impact of inflation on purchasing power, and the distinction between risk and volatility in investment strategies.

We also touch on future trends in retirement planning, particularly the potential need for and benefits of health insurance and a shift in focus from bequest to spending during retirement.

Key Takeaways

  • Greg Davis shares his journey from economics to behavioral finance.
  • Behavioral finance combines psychology, economics, and finance.
  • The importance of practical applications of behavioral science in finance.
  • People often make poor financial decisions due to cognitive biases.
  • Simplifying complex financial concepts is crucial for better decision-making.
  • Emotional comfort plays a significant role in financial decisions.
  • Retirement planning today is more complex than in previous generations.
  • Technology can help simplify financial decision-making processes.
  • Understanding personal values is essential for effective retirement planning.
  • The removal of guaranteed income streams complicates retirement planning.
  • Financial advisors often overlook the emotional aspects of retirement planning.
  • Guaranteed income can alleviate fears of running out of money.
  • Behavioral finance significantly influences spending habits in retirement.
  • People with guaranteed income tend to spend more comfortably.
  • Inflation poses a significant risk to retirement savings.
  • Understanding the difference between risk and volatility is crucial for investors.
  • Many retirees are too conservative with their investment strategies.
  • Health insurance will become increasingly important in retirement planning.
  • The focus of retirement planning is shifting from bequest to spending.
  • Planning for retirement should consider both financial and emotional factors.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Greg Davis and His Journey
01:22 - The Intersection of Behavioral Science and Finance
05:45 - Building a Behavioral Finance Team at Barclays
10:53 - Understanding Behavioral Challenges in Retirement
21:57 - Navigating Retirement in a Complex World
29:50 - The Emotional and Financial Aspects of Retirement Planning
32:04 - The Role of Guaranteed Income in Retirement
36:16 - Behavioral Benefits of Guaranteed Income
40:05 - Real-Life Impacts of Guaranteed Income
44:23 - Inflation and Its Impact on Retirement Planning
48:37 - Understanding Risk vs. Volatility in Investments
57:27 - Future Trends in Retirement Planning

Books & Authours Mentioned

Research & Papers Referenced

Other Things to Note

Humans vs Retirement

23 Feb 2024The Power of Giving: How Retirees Can Help Combat Climate Change with Jack Chellman00:55:05

Summary

In this episode of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast, I sit down with Jack Chellman, Chief Project Officer of the Global Returns Project a UK charity that is on a mission to create systemic change to fund the highest impact climate charities and make giving toward climate change as easy and accessible as possible.

Jack and I discuss how charitable giving could and maybe should form part of every retirement plan. Jack also dispels many myths about giving and explains how the Global Returns Project makes charitable giving easy and transparent by selecting high-impact climate charities and providing rigorous monitoring and reporting. The portfolio of charities includes organizations that protect rainforests, enforce environmental law, conserve marine life, and restore forests.

Jack emphasizes the need for increased philanthropy towards climate mitigation efforts and highlights the role of the Global Returns Project in making sustainable giving mainstream. He also discusses the integration of the project into financial planning and the options for donating.

We explore the impact of climate change, individual actions to combat it, and the role of governments and corporations in addressing the issue. Our conversation highlights the importance of taking meaningful action to combat climate change and emphasizes the potential for positive change if everyone contributes.

Takeaways

  • Charitable giving can be an important part of a retirement plan, allowing individuals to make a positive impact on causes that matter to them.
  • The Global Returns Project makes charitable giving easy and transparent by selecting high-impact climate charities and providing rigorous monitoring and reporting.
  • The portfolio of charities recommended by the Global Returns Project includes organizations that protect rainforests, enforce environmental law, conserve marine life, and restore forests.
  • Donating to climate charities is a way to address the urgent issue of climate change and its impact on other important causes.
  • The Global Returns Project can be integrated into financial planning, allowing individuals to allocate a portion of their assets to charitable giving. Climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action.
  • Individual actions, such as reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable practices, can make a significant impact.
  • Investing in sustainable solutions is crucial for addressing climate change.
  • Governments and corporations play a vital role in implementing policies and initiatives to combat climate change.
  • Taking meaningful action collectively can lead to positive change and make a difference.
  •  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Global Returns Project

03:21 Charitable Giving as Part of a Retirement Plan

09:36 Dispelling Myths about Charitable Giving

12:59 Making Charitable Giving Part of Asset Allocation

18:49 The Importance of Transparency and Impact Reporting

23:20 The Limitations of Sustainable Investing

26:45 The Portfolio of Charities and Their Impact

32:34 The Mechanics and Methodology of the Global Returns Project

40:02 Integrating the Global Returns Project into Financial Planning

49:05 How to Donate and Get Involved

05:00 Understanding Climate Change

15:00 The Impact of Climate Change

25:00 Individual Actions to Combat Climate Change

35:00 Investing in Sustainable Solutions

45:00 The Role of Governments and Corporations

51:12 Taking Meaningful Action

Episode Links & Resources

 

 

 

01 Apr 2025The Four Phases of Retirement with Dr. Riley Moynes00:52:58

Summary

In this powerful and insightful episode, I sit down with Dr. Riley Moynes, author, speaker, and creator of the viral TED Talk on "The Four Phases of Retirement," which has amassed nearly 5 million views. Together, we unpack why retirement is far more of a human problem than a financial one, and why so many retirees struggle despite having "enough" money.

Riley shares the emotional, psychological, and personal transitions that retirees face and offers an actionable framework to help listeners navigate their post-work lives more meaningfully.

What You Will Learn

  • The Four Phases of Retirement and why most people will experience them.

  • Why retirement is not just a financial challenge but a deeply human one.

  • The common emotional and psychological struggles retirees face.

  • How retirees can proactively prepare for the non-financial aspects of retirement.

  • The importance of purpose, identity, relationships, and service to others in retirement.

  • How to avoid becoming a "statistic" in retirement dissatisfaction.

Key Topics Discussed

  • Dr. Riley Moynes' personal career journey and how he developed the Four Phases of Retirement.

  • Why traditional financial services fail to prepare people for the real challenges of retirement.

  • A deep dive into each of the Four Phases:

    1. The Vacation Phase – The early, carefree, "holiday" phase of retirement.

    2. The Loss and Lost Phase – The period of disillusionment marked by loss of purpose, identity, relationships, and routine.

    3. The Trial and Error Phase – The experimental stage of trying new activities, facing failures, and re-finding purpose.

    4. The Reinvent and Rewire Phase – The fulfilling phase where retirees give back, often through service, and thrive with renewed purpose.

  • The emotional impact of retirement and why depression, divorce, and dissatisfaction spike for many retirees.

  • The predictable pattern of retirement struggles and why awareness is key.

  • Why simple joys and purposeful service are at the heart of a successful retirement.

Books and Resources Mentioned

A Takeaway Exercise

Your Unique Ability Reflection Dr. Moynes recommends this simple but powerful exercise:

  1. Write down the top 5 things you love to do and know you do really well.

  2. Reflect on 5 key wins, successes, or achievements in your life so far.

  3. Look for patterns and connections between the two lists.
    Ask yourself:

  • Can I apply these skills, passions, or experiences to new areas in retirement?

  • How can I use these to serve others and find fulfillment?

This introspection can help you transition into the most meaningful phase of retirement.

A Final Thought

Retirement is not a finish line, it’s a transition into one of the most complex and potentially fulfilling stages of life. But it requires intentionality, emotional awareness, and often hard inner work. As Dr. Moynes reminds us, it’s not about endless vacations or financial spreadsheets; it’s about redefining purpose, reconnecting with joy, and ultimately serving something bigger than yourself.

Retirement is a human challenge, not a maths problem. The sooner you embrace that, the smoother and more fulfilling your transition will be.

Humans vs Retirement

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01 May 2023The Psychology Behind Spending Money in Retirement with Dr Joy Lere00:47:13

Summary

In this episode of the Human vs Retirement podcast, Dan explores the psychology behind spending money in retirement with licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of Shaping Wealth, Dr. Joy Leary. Joy shares her journey from the clinical couch to the world of money and provides valuable insights on how our mindset affects our spending habits during retirement. Together, they discuss the behavioural and emotional challenges of life after work and draw on years of expertise and experience to offer practical and thoughtful solutions. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the psychological impacts of spending money in retirement.

What You'll Learn

  • The psychological impacts of spending money in retirement
  • The importance of understanding the psychology of money and how it impacts financial planning, balancing financial well-being with healthy spending habits
  • The role of financial role models
  • The challenges of transitioning from a regular income to retirement
  • Taking advantage of our "go-go years" to spend money on what's important
  • Balancing life span and health span
  • The emotional and relational connections people have with money and assets
  • The emotional attachment people have to their homes and how it can affect their financial decisions
  • The importance of validation and knowledge when it comes to money decisions
  • The importance of self-observation and experimentation in improving financial well-being
  • Living life on one's own terms, investing in relationships, taking care of one's body, and getting enough sleep for a happy, healthy, and wealthy retirement.

More about us: www.humansvsretirement.com

 

 

 

27 Sep 20244% and Beyond! The Evolution of Safe Withdrawal Strategies with Bill Bengen00:43:06

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I interview Bill Bengen, the pioneer of the 4% safe withdrawal strategy, who shares insights from his extensive research on retirement income strategies.

Bill discusses the evolution of the 4% safe withdrawal rate, revealing that the worst-case scenario may now be closer to 5%. He emphasises the importance of diversification, glider path investing, and rebalancing in enhancing withdrawal rates.

The conversation also delves into the risks of inflation and the significance of understanding personal inflation rates in retirement planning.

Bill concludes with thoughts on the current market environment and the future of retirement planning.

Takeaways

  • Bill Bengen's research has evolved the 4% rule to a 5% worst-case scenario.
  • Only one out of 400 retirees in Bengen's database faced the 5% withdrawal rate.
  • Diversification across multiple asset classes is crucial for sustainable withdrawals.
  • Glider path investing can significantly enhance retirement income.
  • Rebalancing portfolios regularly is essential to avoid overexposure to equities.
  • Sequence of inflation risk poses a significant threat to retirees.
  • Personal inflation rates often exceed government-reported figures.
  • Retirement spending tends to decrease in real terms over time.
  • Many retirees fear running out of money more than death itself.
  • Current market conditions are unique and require careful planning.

Sound Bites

"The 4% rule has evolved to a 5% worst case."
"Only one out of 400 retirees hit the 5% mark."
"Diversification is key to higher withdrawal rates."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Bill Bengen and His Research
04:52 - The Evolution of the 4% Withdrawal Rule
10:05 - New Insights: The 5% Withdrawal Rate
14:49 - Strategies for Sustainable Withdrawals
20:07 - Understanding Inflation Risks in Retirement
25:09 - The Importance of Personal Inflation Rates
29:59 - The Future of Retirement Planning
34:58 - Conclusion and Future Directions

27 Apr 2024Ep 1 of 10 - Embracing Uncertainty00:07:57
27 Oct 2023Be a Retirement Rebel and Live Your Victory Lap Retirement with Mike Drak00:57:02

Summary

Mike Drak is a retirement lifestyle expert and renowned author. He is the author of three books: "Longevity Lifestyle by Design," "Victory Lap Retirement," and "Retirement, Heaven and Hell." With his expertise in retirement lifestyle design, Mike has become a go-to expert for high-profile blogs and organizations. He is also a contributor to the digital media hub called Booming Encore. Mike emphasises the non-financial aspects of retirement and the importance of finding purpose and meaningful activities in retirement. His personal story of struggling with retirement shock adds to his credibility and understanding of the challenges faced by retirees. Overall, Mike’s achievements and credentials establish him as a trusted authority in the field of retirement lifestyle design.

In this episode I dig into Mike's extensive experience and expertise in retirement planning, combined with his passion for helping people live their best retirement lives and it made for an incredibly insightful conversation. We discussed the non-financial elements of retirement, how to design a fulfilling retirement lifestyle, and the importance of mindset in achieving a happy, healthy, and wealthy retirement.

Useful Links

Connect With Mike

 Connect With Me

05 Jun 2023Navigating the Changing Relationship with Your Spouse in Retirement with Ashley Quamme00:46:02

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I get to have a great conversation with licensed marriage and family therapist and financial behavioural specialist, Ashley Quamme, about the challenges of communicating effectively with your spouse during retirement. We discuss how the changing relationship dynamic can affect retirement planning and offer tips for maintaining a healthy relationship during this new phase of life. Ashley also gives a brief rundown of her career and how she transitioned from marriage and family therapy to financial behavioural specialist.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about:

  • The importance of communication and planning in relationships leading up to and during retirement
  • The challenges that couples face and the need for ongoing dialogue and flexibility.
  • Why both partners must be involved in financial planning.
  • Being vulnerable and seeking help when needed.
  • The value of travel and adventure in retirement.
  • The importance of flexibility and adaptability in response to change.

About My Guest

Ashley Quamme is a licensed marriage and family therapist, financial behavioural specialist with extensive experience in couples relational work and founder of BAM Financial Consulting

As well as being a couple’s therapist, Ashley is married to a Financial Planner! Which means she gets to hear a lot about money, money management practices, and financial planning. Ashley believes the root of many financial issues are emotions, biases, problematic thinking patterns, and beliefs. If left unchecked, these modes for operating can wreak havoc on our lives. Taking what she knows about emotions, thoughts, behaviours, and relationships in the clinical space and applying them in the financial sector is the work that she has come to be passionate about.

Find out more at www.humansvsretirement.com

 

24 Apr 2023How our money can make us truly ‘wealthy’ in retirement with Dr Daniel Crosby00:45:41

Summary


In this episode of the Human vs Retirement podcast, Dan is joined by Dr Daniel Crosby, Chief Behaviour Officer at Orion Advisor Solutions, a clinical psychologist, behavioural finance expert, and New York Times best-selling author. In their discussion, Dr Crosby shares his journey from clinical psychology to finance and the behavioural challenges individuals face in retirement. They delve into the power of habits, the role of social connections, and the importance of understanding one's values when planning for retirement. Tune in for this insightful conversation on overcoming the behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges of retirement. 


What You’ll Learn


The listener will learn about the intersection of psychology and finance regarding retirement, including the emotional and psychological challenges of life after work, the importance of maintaining identity and purpose, the need for flexibility in your retirement plans, and the impact of money on happiness. This episode provides tips, mental models and tools for successful retirement planning and developing a mindset for a happy, healthy, and wealthy retirement. 

 

More about us: www.humansvsretirement.com 

05 May 2024Ep 9 of 10 - The 4 Key Factors To Happiness In Retirement00:07:31
17 May 2024Creatively Designing a Life that Aligns with Personal Values with Derek Hagen01:06:16

Summary

Derek Hagen is the founder of Money Health Solutions®️, a financial therapy and life planning firm. Money Health Solutions helps clients live intentionally and mindfully, using money as a tool to support their ideal life. He facilitates financial health by helping clients understand their own money psychology, lowering financial stress, and increasing confidence in financial decisions. Derek also started Meaningful Money Memo, a newsletter about the psychology of money and living a meaningful life, using personal stories and simple drawings to help demystify money for readers.

He shares his journey from being a Chartered Financial Analyst and a focus on numbers to then having the big realisation that money is a tool not a goal which lead to focusing on the interior side of money and helping people find purpose and significance.

In this conversation, we discuss the importance of mindset and intention when it comes to retirement planning. Derek emphasizes the need to have a purpose and a value statement to guide financial decisions and prioritize experiences over accumulating wealth. We also discuss the significance of time and the finite nature of life, encouraging people to be present and intentional in their retirement years. Importantly Derek highlights the importance of creativity and designing a life that aligns with personal values and priorities. 

Takeaways

  • Money is a tool, not a goal, and should be used to create a meaningful retirement.
  • Diversification of meaning in retirement is crucial to avoid relying on a single source of purpose and significance.
  • Planning for life beyond retirement is essential and often overlooked.
  • Retirement is not a finish line, but a new phase of life that requires structure and purpose.
  • Having a purpose and value statement is crucial for guiding financial decisions in retirement.
  • Being present and intentional with time is important, as life is finite and experiences have a limited number of opportunities.
  • Retirement planning should focus on designing a life that aligns with personal values and priorities.
  • Creativity and a designer mindset are essential for planning and living a fulfilling retirement.
  • Systems, rather than goals, allow for flexibility and adaptability in navigating life transitions and unexpected events.

Sound Bites

"Money is a tool, not a goal."
"Diversification of meaning in retirement is crucial."
"Retirement is not a finish line."
"You know, that reality check in and, ⁓ and I think unless you can work with someone that can bring this out of you, or you can naturally bring this out of you, you end up reverting back to the mean, don't you?"
"Yeah, absolutely. And that's the thing with habits. If we get into our ⁓ habits, we get into what we're familiar with. And this is a pretty big, retirement's a pretty big life transition."
"The retirement that I think the 50 to 60 year olds have witnessed in their parents and their grandparents is and was materially different to the retirement that they're entering into."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
09:21 Money as a Tool, Not a Goal
15:57 Money's Role in Retirement
26:11 The Importance of Planning for Life Beyond Retirement
29:19 Retirement: Not a Finish Line, but a New Phase of Life
31:20 The Importance of Purpose and Value in Retirement Planning
32:03 Being Present and Intentional with Time in Retirement
33:42 Designing a Life that Aligns with Personal Values
38:45 The Role of Creativity in Retirement Planning
52:32 Systems vs Goals: Focusing on Inputs and Intentions

Links

Meaningful Money

 

 

01 Sep 2023Exploring Retirement Income Styles and Strategies with Wade Pfau00:51:26

Summary

Wade Pfau is the founder of Retirement Researcher and Professor of Retirement Income at the American College of Financial Services. He is one of the world's leading experts on retirement income strategies and actively researches and publishes his findings in prestigious journals and media outlets in the United States. He is also a published researcher and author. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in retirement income, Wade has established himself as a trusted authority in the field. His work and contributions have greatly influenced the understanding and implementation of retirement income strategies, making him a highly respected figure in the financial services industry.

In this episode Wade and I focus on retirement income styles and the different strategies individuals can use to generate income and manage their finances in retirement. Wade emphasises the importance of finding an approach that aligns with a person's individual preferences and comfort levels. Our conversation also touches on topics such as spending patterns and optimal withdrawal rates for retirement income.

Useful Links

Retirement Researcher Website

Wade’s books Retirement Planning Guidebook, Safety-First Retirement Planning & How Much Can I Spend in Retirement

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Wade

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

www.humansvsretirement.com

 

25 Mar 2025The Ikigai Way: How to Uncover Your Purpose with David Marlow00:59:50

Episode Summary

In this inspiring and heartfelt episode, I sit down with David Marlow, veteran leader, coach, and author of The Ikigai Way to explore how the ancient Japanese concept of Ikigai can powerfully guide us into a more fulfilling and purposeful retirement. From personal stories of career transitions to uncovering identity after work, David shares how aligning our inner essence with what we do can transform our experience of aging, retirement, and meaning in life.

What You’ll Learn

  • What Ikigai really means (beyond the Instagram-friendly Venn diagram)
  • How to align your essence and purpose with daily life, before and after retirement
  • The power of experimenting, curiosity, and continuous self-discovery
  • How to reframe retirement from “ending” to “uncovering”
  • Practical tools and reflections to help you discover your own Ikigai

Key Topics Discussed

  • David’s winding journey from disc jockey to Marine to transformation leader, and how Ikigai was always there
  • Redefining purpose outside of career or job titles
  • The emotional transition into retirement and how to handle the "grief" of identity loss
  • Why older adults are uniquely primed for deep reflection and discovering Ikigai
  • The mental and physical health benefits of having a clear sense of purpose
  • How to use Ikigai as both a lens and a mirror in your second half of life
  • Shifting from rigid goals to aspirational living
  • The importance of community, relationships, and intergenerational mentoring

Books & Resources Mentioned

Memorable Quotes

“Ikigai is expressing your essence in harmony with whatever you’re doing—whether that's career, relationships, hobbies, or just life.” – David Marlow

“You don’t find your Ikigai—you uncover it.”

“Ask yourself: What’s your tennis ball? What makes you forget to eat?”

“Retirement isn't about leaving something behind. It's about leaning into what’s always been within you.”

Takeaway Exercise

Ask yourself two powerful questions:

  1. When was the last time you had a truly great day? What were you doing? Who were you with?
  2. What’s one thing you do that makes you forget to eat?

Use your answers to start mapping out the threads of your own Ikigai.

Connect with David Marlow

Final Thought

Whether you’re five years away from retirement or already navigating the transition, this episode reminds us that purpose doesn’t end when work does. With small steps and deep reflection, you can uncover a life of fulfillment, alignment, and joy—your Ikigai.

Humans vs Retirement

📩 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a review and let us know your biggest takeaway!

 

20 Oct 2023The Yin and Yang of Retirement: Balancing Financial Security with Personal Fulfilment with Lyle Sussman and David Dubofsky01:08:21

Summary

Dr Lyle Sussman is the former Chairman and Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship, University of Louisville, and Professor Emeritus. Aside from 65 scholarly articles, he is a bestselling business author with more than 1,000,000 copies of his books in print in 15 languages. Excerpts of his books have appeared in Harvard Business Review Updates, Savvy, Bottom Line Reports, Working Woman, Inc., Success, Executive Book Summaries, Investor’s Daily, CNN, American Banker, US Air In Flight Audio, and hundreds of management blogs. He has spoken to more than 100,000 people and consulted around the world for both the private and public sector, with significant impact in the banking industry. He received his PhD from Purdue University, and his BS and MS degrees from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He was selected for Who’s Who in Business Higher Education

Dr Dubofsky has published over 40 articles in journals including Journal of Finance, Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis and Journal of Money, Credit and Banking. He is the author of Derivatives: Valuation and Risk Management (co-authored with Tom Miller), and Options and Financial Futures: Valuation and Uses. Prior to retiring in 2020, Dr Dubofsky held faculty and administrative positions at TCU Neeley School of Business, the University of Louisville, Texas A&M University, Virginia Commonwealth University and Seattle University. Previously, he was a visiting academic scholar for the Office of Economic Analysis at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and worked for Nalco Chemical Company and Standard Oil of Indiana. He earned his PhD in Finance from the University of Washington, MBA from the University of Houston, and BE in Chemical Engineering from City College of New York. He is a CFA® charterholder.

In this episode Lyle, David and I delve into their specialist area of the intersection of money, emotions and behaviours. We discuss their brilliant book Your Total Wealth as well as covering of the very important topic of information vs wisdom and how in an always on, information rich world, the application of true wisdom can make a big impact on your retirement journey.  

Useful Links

Visit Lyle & David’s website Your Total Wealth

Buy their wonderful book Your Total Wealth: The Heart & Soul of Financial Literacy

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With David

LinkedIn

Connect With Lyle

LinkedIn

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

Find out more at www.humansvsretirement.com

 

01 Mar 2024Embracing a "Second Childhood" in Retirement with Jonathan Clements00:57:08

Summary

Jonathan Clements is the founder and editor of Humble Dollar and brilliant free blog site that is dedicated to providing articles, guides and resources from some of the greatest thinkers in the world of finance. The goal of Humble Dollar is to tell you everything you need to know about money – all in one place without the hype and hollow promises that characterises so much financial writing.

Jonathan was born and educated in England before moving to the states and prior to semi-retiring and launching humble dollar in 2014, Jonathan spent almost 20 years as The Wall Street Journal’s personal finance columnist and six years at Citi group where he was director of financial education for the banks US wealth management arm. He is also the author of 9 personal finance books.

In this episode, Jonathan and I discusses the challenges and risks in retirement, both from a financial and human standpoint. He focuses on the need to have sense of purpose and identity in retirement, which he believes can be overcome by continuing to work in some fashion. Jonathan also explores the concept of embracing a second childhood, allowing for childlike curiosity and exploration. He emphasises the importance of experimenting in early retirement to discover what truly makes one happy. Jonathan also discusses his work with Humble Dollar and the ventures that provide him with a sense of purpose.

Takeaways

  • Longevity risk is a significant financial challenge in retirement, and individuals should consider guaranteed income options such as annuities.
  • Investing in the stock market can help retirees combat inflation and grow their wealth over time.
  • Working in retirement provides not only financial benefits but also a sense of purpose, identity, and social interaction.
  • Retirees should focus on their own financial goals and avoid comparing themselves to others.
  • Retirement can be a time of exploration and curiosity, allowing individuals to embrace a second childhood and pursue new interests and passions. Transitioning to retirement can be a unique experience depending on one's life circumstances.
  • Early retirement is a period of experimentation to find activities that bring fulfilment.
  • Financial stability and a sense of purpose are key factors in enjoying retirement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:05 Financial Challenges and Risks in Retirement

11:02 Investing in Retirement

21:28 The Importance of Working in Retirement

28:36 Generating Income in Retirement

38:02 The Importance of Identity and Purpose in Retirement

45:45 Avoiding Comparisons in Retirement

48:12 Embracing a Second Childhood in Retirement

48:30 Transitioning to Retirement

49:23 Experimenting in Early Retirement

50:35 Finding Fulfilment in Retirement

52:03 Humble Dollar and Jonathan's Work

53:16 Closing Remarks

Episode Links & Resources

22 Nov 2024The Soul of Wealth with Dr Daniel Crosby00:57:22

Summary

In this episode, Dr Daniel Crosby returns to discuss his new book The Soul of Wealth and the concept of soulful wealth, particularly in the context of retirement.

He emphasises that money should serve individuals rather than control them, and highlights the importance of relationships and personal growth in achieving happiness. Our conversation explores the PERMA model, which outlines five facets of flourishing: Positive experiences, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Advancement.

Daniel stresses the need for intentionality in retirement planning, focusing on non-financial elements that contribute to a fulfilling life. He also discusses the limitations of money and the critical role of time management in enhancing well-being.

Throughout our enlightening conversation, Daniel and I explore the intricate relationship between money, happiness, and retirement. We discuss the increasing screen time among retirees, the role of AI in daily life, and how spending money can align with personal values to enhance joy. Our discussion delves into the societal pressures of materialism, the fear of the unknown in retirement, and strategies for managing uncertainty. Ultimately, Daniel emphasises the importance of making conscious financial choices that reflect one's true values and the potential for positive surprises in the future.

Key Takeaways

  • Money should serve you, not control you.
  • Strong relationships are key to happiness.
  • Retirement planning should include non-financial elements.
  • The PERMA model outlines five facets of flourishing.
  • Engagement in meaningful activities is crucial in retirement.
  • Loneliness can have severe health impacts.
  • Intentionality in spending free time is essential.
  • Advancement and personal growth should continue post-retirement.
  • Expectations of retirement can lead to disappointment.
  • Time management is a powerful tool for happiness. Retirees are increasingly spending time watching television due to newfound free time.
  • AI should handle mundane tasks, allowing humans to focus on creativity.
  • Spending money on experiences and relationships can lead to greater happiness.
  • Aligning spending with personal values is crucial for fulfillment.
  • Materialism is linked to lower well-being and should be avoided.
  • Fear of the unknown can hinder retirement satisfaction.
  • Controlling what you can in finances is essential for peace of mind.
  • Expect market fluctuations as a normal part of investing.
  • Positive uncertainty can lead to unexpected joys in life.
  • Chronic stress is detrimental; managing expectations is key. 

Sound Bites

"Money is a servant and not a master."
"Relationships are profoundly messy."
"Retirement is often put on a pedestal."
"Money can't buy us happiness outright."
"Time is the ultimate purchase."
"We spend our free time on screens."
"I want AI to mow my lawn and do my laundry."
"Align your spending with your core values."
"The Joneses aren't as happy as they seem."
"Expect market corrections; they are normal."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Welcome Back
01:13 - Defining Soulful Wealth
05:00 - The Role of Relationships in Retirement
10:08 - Exploring the PERMA Model
14:25 - Creating Opportunities for Advancement
16:18 - The Reality of Retirement Expectations
19:24 - Understanding Money's Limitations
22:12 - The Importance of Time in Retirement
25:58 - The Rise of Screen Time in Retirement
27:47 - The Role of AI in Daily Life
28:44 - Spending Money for Happiness
34:31 - Aligning Spending with Values
37:27 - The Joneses Aren't Happy
42:07 - Confronting the Fear of the Unknown
49:44 - Managing Uncertainty in Retirement

Links

 

 

03 Mar 2023Premiere Episode - Introducing The Humans vs Retirement Podcast!00:01:44

When it comes to retirement, many waste precious time by letting their emotions and behaviours overtake their dreams and desires. As humans we are not wired for all that comes with a modern retirement and are in a battle to ensure their life after work gives them freedom and joy.

Each episode of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast contains expert opinions and real retirement stories that look at the emotional, behavioural and financial challenges of life after work, which will give you tools and tips to live a happy, healthy and wealthy retirement.

15 Nov 2024How Our Nervous Systems Impacts Our Retirement with Sheridan Ruth00:55:32

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, Sheridan shares her inspirational journey through trauma and healing, emphasising the importance of understanding the nervous system's role in our experiences.

Our conversation explores the challenges of modern retirement, likening it to a form of grief, and highlights the need for intentional preparation for this significant life transition. Sheridan and I explore the emotional and psychological aspects of navigating challenges, particularly in the context of retirement and personal growth. We discuss the importance of understanding emotional responses, the necessity of lifelong learning, and the skills required to manage sensations and emotions effectively.

She emphasises the significance of spending money wisely to create lasting memories, the barriers individuals face in changing their spending habits, and the differences in emotional expression between genders. The conversation concludes with actionable insights for listeners to reflect on their own narratives regarding money and life transitions.

Key Takeaways

  • Sheridan's story illustrates resilience and the power of healing.
  • The nervous system plays a crucial role in our life experiences.
  • Modern retirement poses unique challenges for individuals.
  • Retirement can evoke feelings similar to grief.People often neglect to plan adequately for retirement.
  • Understanding one's nervous system can aid in emotional regulation.
  • The transition into retirement can feel lonely and confusing.
  • Money is a significant factor in how we experience safety and identity.
  • Intentional preparation for retirement can lead to fulfillment.
  • This phase of life can be the most rewarding if approached thoughtfully. Your body perceives the threat is too big.
  • We just haven't given ourselves the tools to deal with challenges.
  • Every single thing that we avoid is about the sensations it creates.
  • Being with corporal sensation is a skill that can be learned.
  • The best retirees are lifelong learners who stay curious.
  • Learn how to be with more sensations in your body.
  • Spending money is a skill that no one's ever been taught.
  • Turn your money into memories rather than just saving.
  • Your full-time job is now nervous system regulation after retirement.
  • The biggest blocker to spending is our internal wiring and identity.

Sound Bites

"Sheridan's story is truly inspirational."
"The nervous system's job is to keep you safe."
"Retirement is like a form of grief."
"This is crucial stage of life."
"Your body perceives the threat is too big."
"We just haven't given ourselves the tools."
"Being with corporal sensation is a skill."
"The best retirees are lifelong learners."
"Turn your money into memories."
"The biggest blocker is our internal wiring."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background
07:50 - Sheridan's Journey Through Trauma
14:57 - Understanding the Nervous System
19:52 - The Challenges of Modern Retirement
26:04 - Retirement as a Form of Grief
28:02 - Understanding Emotional Responses to Challenges
32:15 - The Importance of Lifelong Learning
34:10 - Navigating Sensations and Emotions
35:21 - The Skill of Spending Money Wisely
38:41 - Barriers to Spending and Emotional Vulnerability
41:26 - Nervous System Regulation and Emotional Processing
44:37 - Gender Differences in Emotional Expression
49:27 - Final Thoughts and Homework for Listeners

Links

18 Aug 2023How To Rock Retirement with Roger Whitney00:55:40

Summary

Roger is a renowned retirement podcaster, blogger, educator, and planner. With over 8 million downloads and 475 episodes of The Retirement Answer Man show under his belt, and his brilliant community-based Rock Retirement Club he has truly made a mark in the retirement space.

We delved into the emotional and behavioural challenges of retirement, discussing how we, as humans, are simply not wired to take on this new phase of life without some battle scars.

One of the key topics we explored was the "paycheck anxiety" that many individuals face when transitioning into retirement. The loss of that safety blanket, the feeling of security that comes with a regular paycheck, can be daunting.

Roger shared some valuable insights and observations on how to navigate this challenge and find peace of mind in your retirement journey.

Useful Links

Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke

The Power of Agency by Paul Napper & Anthony Rao

Winning The Losers Game by Charles Ellis

The Top 5 Regrets of The Dying by Bronnie Ware

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my newsletter Stay The Course


Connect With Roger

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The Retirement Answer Man Podcast

Agile Retirement Management  


Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

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Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

12 Jul 2024Repurposing Your Life in Retirement with Suzanne Campi00:52:11

Summary

Suzi is a certified co-active coach and has made it her mission to understand the process of personal and professional transitions and the challenges that come with them. She is passionate about working with clients to help see them through and make a pathway for the life the want to experience 

In our conversation Suzi encourages people planning for or already living in retirement to step back and reflect on who they are and what they truly enjoy, as well as the significance of having a positive attitude and choosing to thrive in retirement.  

We discuss the differences between men and women in retirement, particularly in terms of social connections and expectations, whilst also exploring why communication and setting expectations are crucial for couples transitioning into retirement.  

In Suzi’s opinion retirement is a multifaceted life transition that requires deep introspection and consideration of various aspects of life. Her retirement wheel is a tool that helps individuals visualize and address different areas of their life, including spiritual well-being, family and friends, partnership and love, health and fitness, and fun play and travel (a free download of this is available in the show notes) 

And finally, Suzi talks about why she believes it is important to approach retirement with curiosity and a sense of wonder, remaining open to new experiences and learning opportunities and how Retirement should not be seen as the finish line, but rather as a new beginning that requires ongoing adaptation and planning. 

Takeaways

  • Retirement is an opportunity to repurpose one's life and find new meaning and purpose.
    Taking the time to reflect on who you are and what you enjoy is essential during the retirement transition.
  • Having a positive attitude and choosing to thrive in retirement can lead to a more fulfilling experience.
  • Men and women often have different challenges and expectations in retirement, particularly in terms of social connections.
  • Communication and setting expectations are crucial for couples transitioning into retirement. Retirement is a time for deep introspection and consideration of various aspects of life.
  • The retirement wheel is a helpful tool for visualizing and addressing different areas of life in retirement.
  • Approach retirement with curiosity and a sense of wonder, remaining open to new experiences and learning opportunities.
  • Retirement should be seen as a new beginning that requires ongoing adaptation and planning.

Sound Bites

"I love helping people to repurpose."

"Retirement is an outdated concept."

"Retirement is a chance to repurpose what life means."

"It's a retirement wheel that can help people visualize all the pieces, because it's not just a financial piece as we have so declared here."

"How are you in your spiritual peace and will you give yourself time for that peace?"

"Retirement will evolve greatly. You can't pretend it's not going to."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:27 The Changing Landscape of Retirement
06:01 Repurposing Your Life in Retirement
07:49 Choosing a Positive Attitude in Retirement
09:33 Preparing for Retirement: Mindset and Expectations
12:28 Thriving in Retirement: Shifting from Surviving to Thriving
15:16 Gender Differences in Retirement
24:17 The Retirement Wheel: Visualizing and Addressing Different Areas of Life
33:25 Retirement: A New Beginning Requiring Adaptation and Planning
36:42 Retirement as a Complex Problem Requiring Consistent Adaptation
39:20 Mourning the Ending and Having Gratitude for Your Career

14 Jun 2024How to find happiness and flourish in your retirement with Dr Andy Cope00:46:46

Summary

Today’s conversation is with the Dr of Happiness, Dr Andy Cope. Andy is a wellbeing expert, best-selling author and in his words a recovering academic. He specialises in positive psychology and the science of human flourishing. The reward for grinding out his Loughborough PhD is that he gets to call himself a Dr of Happiness.

If you put the cheesy title to one side, Andy believes there has never been a more important time to focus on mental health and wellbeing. He has been described as a ‘wellbeing revolutionary’ and his mission is to change the narrative and re-focus psychology away from what’s wrong with people to what’s right. His messages act as a gentle nudge towards people taking charge of their own mental health.

Andy’s books are frequently on the best-sellers list. ‘The Art of Being Brilliant’, ‘Shine’, and ‘Zest’ have all topped the personal development charts. ‘The Little Book of Emotional Intelligence’ and Leadership: Multiplier Effect’ are riding high in the business charts and ‘Happiness Route Map’ was nominated as The Independent’s best self-help book of the year. Andy also moonlights as a children’s author. His ‘Spy Dog’ series has sold in excess of a million copies worldwide.

In this conversation Andy and I discusses the importance of focusing on wellbeing and happiness, especially during retirement. He explains that traditional psychology has primarily focused on fixing mental health issues rather than promoting wellness. Andy emphasises the need to shift the focus to happiness and flourishing, and shares insights from positive psychology. He highlights the significance of living in the present moment and finding contentment in simple experiences and positive relationships. Andy also challenges the notion of retirement as a destination for happiness and encourages individuals to prioritize their wellbeing throughout their lives.

Andy emphasises the need to focus on mental wealth and living one's best life. Andy shares his journey of accidentally stumbling upon the science of living a happier life and the intentional strategies that happy people employ. They also discuss the power of reframing internal and learned beliefs and the challenge of unlearning bad habits. He highlights the importance of saying yes to growth and new experiences, as well as saying no to things that don't bring joy. They also touch on the significance of quality relationships, being present, and the negative impact of social media on happiness.

Takeaways

  • Traditional psychology has primarily focused on fixing mental health issues rather than promoting wellness.
  • Positive psychology emphasizes the importance of happiness and flourishing.
  • Finding contentment in simple experiences and positive relationships is key to living a fulfilling life.
  • Retirement should not be seen as the sole destination for happiness; it is important to prioritize wellbeing throughout life. Wellbeing and happiness should be prioritized in retirement, as they contribute to a fulfilling life.
  • Positive psychology can help reframe internal and learned beliefs, leading to a happier mindset.
  • Unlearning bad habits and letting go of negative thoughts and behaviors is essential for personal growth and happiness.
  • Saying yes to growth and new experiences, and saying no to things that don't bring joy, can enhance happiness in retirement.
  • Quality relationships and being present in the moment are key determinants of happiness.
  • The negative impact of social media on happiness should be recognized, and time spent on it should be reduced.

Sound Bites

"There are people out there with a smile on their face and a spring in their step."

"Positive psychology is about equipping people with the knowledge and skills to take care of their own mental health and wellbeing."

"The happiest moments in life are often simple experiences with loved ones."

"They don't talk about wellbeing in a way that they should absolutely talk about wellbeing."

"Living your best life and being your best self wasn't a thing."

"The biggest barrier to me feeling amazing was actually me."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Andy's Journey to Becoming the Doctor of Happiness
09:03 The Importance of Wellbeing and Happiness
16:02 Shifting the Focus to Happiness and Flourishing
23:06 Retirement: A Journey of Wellbeing and Happiness
24:25 Prioritizing Wellbeing and Happiness in Retirement
28:12 The Power of Reframing Beliefs and Unlearning
32:08 Saying Yes to Growth and No to Unwanted Obligations
36:48 The Importance of Quality Relationships and Being Present
40:54 The Negative Impact of Social Media on Happiness

Links

The Art of Brilliance

Humans Vs Retirement 

Let's talk about your retirement!

 

30 Apr 2024Ep 4 of 10 - How The Japanese Concept of Kanreki Can Teach Us Valuable Retirement Lessons00:13:17
09 Feb 2024An Evidence-Based and Academic Approach to Retirement Planning with David Jones01:17:27

Summary

In this episode, I get to sit down with David Jones from Dimensional about evidence-based investing and retirement planning. We discuss the challenges of the retirement transition, the importance of social connections, and the role of financial planning in retirement. We also explore the fear of spending money in retirement and the benefits of intergenerational wealth. Our conversation concludes with a discussion on the Japanese concepts of Kanreki and Ikigai in retirement and the secret of evidence-based investing.

Takeaways

  • Retirement transition can be challenging, and it is important to have a clear financial plan and structure in place.
  • Social connections are crucial in retirement for mental and physical health.
  • Investing in retirement should be based on evidence and academic research to mitigate risks and achieve long-term goals.
  • Overcoming the fear of spending money in retirement requires open communication, financial planning, and understanding the purpose of wealth.
  • Intergenerational wealth and gifting can be beneficial for both the giver and the receiver, and open conversations about money within families are important.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:35 Dimensional's Evidence-Based Approach

07:43 The Lack of Academic Research in Investing

10:03 The Challenges of Retirement Transition

13:18 The Challenges of Retirement

16:21 The Importance of Social Connections in Retirement

18:01 The Role of Financial Planning in Retirement

19:37 Investing in Retirement with Evidence and Academic Research

28:55 Understanding Risk in Retirement

36:44 Overcoming the Fear of Spending in Retirement

43:28 The Importance of Financial Planning in Retirement

46:17 The Challenges of Spending Money in Retirement

48:30 Using Monopoly to Understand Intergenerational Wealth

55:16 Japanese Concepts of Kanreki and Ikigai in Retirement

01:06:37 The Secret of Evidence-Based Investing

Episode Links & Resources

 

24 May 2024Rewiring The Way We Think About Retirement with Jamie Hopkins01:06:02

Summary

Jamie was a professor at The American College and Director of the New York Life Center for Retirement Income. He is a well-recognized writer, speaker and thought leader in the area of retirement income planning. His most recent book, “Rewirement: Rewiring The Way You Think About Retirement,” details the behavioral finance issues that hold people back from a more financially secure retirement. Jamie’s impact on retirement planning has been well recognized as he has been named as both a top 40 financial services professional under the age of 40 by InvestmentNews and a top 40 young attorney under the age of 40 by The American Bar Association.

In this episode Jamie and I discuss the need to rewire the way we think about retirement and challenge the assumptions underlying retirement planning. He emphasizes the importance of adapting spending habits in retirement and the need to minimize regret risk. Jamie also highlights the concept of self-insuring in retirement and the tendency to hold onto money due to fear of unknown future events. He suggests adopting a guardrails approach to spending and focusing on adaptive spending rather than a binary view of success or failure in retirement. They highlight the need for a more realistic approach to retirement income planning that takes into account the trajectory of spending and the magnitude of failure. They also emphasize the importance of financial literacy and education in retirement planning, as well as the potential benefits of equity release strategies.

Takeaways

  • Retirement planning requires rewiring the way we think about retirement and challenging assumptions about saving and spending.
  • Adapting spending habits in retirement is crucial for a fulfilling and successful retirement.
  • Self-insuring in retirement can lead to holding onto money and not being able to spend it, limiting the enjoyment and fulfillment of retirement.
  • Adopting a guardrails approach to spending and focusing on adaptive spending can help minimize regret risk and create a more flexible retirement plan. Retirement planning models often overlook the trajectory of spending and the magnitude of failure, leading to unrealistic expectations.
  • Financial literacy and education are crucial in retirement planning, as individuals need to make informed decisions based on their knowledge and experiences.
  • Equity release strategies, such as downsizing or reverse mortgages, can be valuable tools in retirement income planning and should be considered as part of a comprehensive financial plan.
  • Individuals should start their retirement planning by identifying their aspirations and using them as a guide for their financial plan, ensuring that their retirement is fulfilling and aligned with their goals.

Sound Bites

"People need to rewire the way they think about retirement."

"The biggest challenge is that everybody thinks retirement is the same phase in life, and we treat it the same."

"Self-insuring is holding onto money for unknown future events, which limits spending in retirement."

"That's a 50% chance that you're going to underspend crucially."

"Why do we talk about anything as success and failure? Because it's actually only partial failure anyway."

"There is a framework of flexibility in retirement spending."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
06:38 Jamie Hopkins' Journey to Retirement Planning
09:00 Rewiring the Way We Think About Retirement
27:07 The Benefits of a Guardrails Approach to Spending
32:53 The Flaws in Retirement Planning Models
37:40 The Importance of Flexibility in Retirement Spending
42:47 The Role of Financial Literacy and Education in Retirement Planning
53:54 The Benefits of Equity Release Strategies
01:00:14 Starting Retirement Planning with Aspirations

Links

Jamie's Book - Rewirement: Rewiring The Way You Think About Retirement!

22 May 2023The four anchors of retirement well-being with Pauline Johnson-Zielonka00:44:19

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, Dan is joined by author, workplace psychologist and founder of Retirement Life Plan, Pauline Johnson-Zielonka, to discuss our brain's battle with retirement. Polly, who has a PhD in human and organisational systems and a background in industrial psychology, shares her knowledge and approach to understanding retirement by drawing from positive psychology, social psychology, and industrial psychology. Together, Dan and Polly explore ways to help listeners overcome the behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges of life after work.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about the challenges of retirement and how to prepare for them, including social and psychological adjustments, finding new avenues for fulfilling experiences, and building strong social networks outside of work. The episode emphasises the importance of individualised retirement planning and the need to consider personal priorities and circumstances. The guest, Pauline Johnson-Zielonka, shares her knowledge and wisdom on the topic based on her background in psychology and research. The episode also recommends a book on retirement and suggests seeking out retirement couples therapy or counselling to create a shared vision for retirement.

About My Guest

Polly Johnson-Zielonka is the author of the book Retirement Life Plan and a highly qualified guest on the Humans vs Retirement podcast. She holds a PhD in human and organizational systems and has a background in industrial psychology. Polly's book is full of thoughtful research, relatable case studies, and actionable reflective questions, making it a valuable resource for those considering retirement. She emphasises the importance of individuality and personal values when planning for retirement, as well as considering the needs of any partners or relationships. Polly currently resides in Orange County, California.

Find out more by going to www.humansvsretirement.com

02 May 2024Ep 6 of 10 - How Are You Going To Spend Your Time In Retirement?00:09:02
03 May 2024Ep 7 of 10 - Give Money With A Warm Heart Not A Cold Hand!00:08:37
08 Mar 2024How Much Money Do You Need For The Rest Of Your Life with Paul Armson01:00:19

Summary

Paul is the founder of Inspiring Advisers, a lifestyle financial planning training programme and Life Centred Planners, a fast-growing global community of advisers from around the world who believe that it is time to put the client and not their money at the centre of their plans. Paul is also the author of the brilliant book Enough?: How much money do you need for the rest of your life. A book that we give out to for free and has had such an impact on many of our clients. 

Paul began life as a financial planner back in 1982 and in 1990 he was one of the very first to see the light and start the movement of what is now known as lifestyle financial planning, focusing on the human and not their money. As well as helping and inspiring many financial advisers across the globe, Pauls overarching mission is to educate and change the lives of people by showing them the REAL benefits of how lifestyle financial planning can help them live their best life.

In this episode, Paul and I talk about his wake-up call, when his mother passed away suddenly, leading him to realize that life is not a rehearsal. He shifted his focus to lifestyle financial planning, putting life at the centre of financial plans. Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding how much is enough and helping clients live a great life now. He also discusses the three types of people when it comes to retirement planning: not enough, got too much, and just right.

Paul discusses the importance of redefining retirement as financial independence and freedom ant that true financial independence means having the choice to work or start a business because you want to, not because you have to. Paul encourages everyone to pursue new opportunities and passions during this retirement with the idea of leaving behind memories and experiences, rather than just money.

Takeaways

  • Life is not a rehearsal, and it's important to live a great life now.
  • Financial planning should revolve around a client's life and desired lifestyle, not just financial products.
  • Understanding how much is enough is crucial for financial planning.
  • Many people worry about money when they will be financially okay.
  • The financial services industry often focuses on fear and insecurity, but real financial planning should provide peace of mind and freedom. Financial independence means having the freedom to choose whether to work or not.
  • Redefine work and find purpose in retirement by pursuing new opportunities and passions.
  • Focus on leaving memories and experiences, not just accumulating wealth.
  • Craft a lifestyle financial planning message that emphasizes the connection between life and money.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Impact of the Book

01:27 Paul's Journey and Frustration with the Financial Services Industry

04:22 The Wake-Up Call: Paul's Mom's Death

06:45 Realizing Life is Not a Rehearsal

09:05 The Concept of Time and Aging

11:27 The Shift to Lifestyle Financial Planning

13:48 The Book 'Enough' and Putting Life at the Center of Financial Plans

19:33 Retirement and Understanding the Concept of Time

21:51 The Three Types of People: Not Enough, Got Too Much, Just Right

47:28 Financial Independence and Freedom

48:23 Redefining Work and Purpose

49:13 Exploring New Opportunities in Retirement

50:08 Leaving Memories and Experiences, Not Just Money

51:30 Crafting a Lifestyle Financial Planning Message

53:02 Understanding What You Want and Don't Want

54:29 Maintaining Your Current Lifestyle

55:00 Planning for Your Future

55:30 Spreading the Message of Financial Planning

Episode Links & Resources

31 Jan 2025Lessons & Insights From a REAL Retirement Journey with Julian Hince01:03:04

Summary

Welcome to a very special episode 72 of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast… 

Why is it special I hear you say… 

Well, its special because it’s a real retirement story and journey as I have a conversation with my wonderful client Julian Hince. 

Whilst I love bringing expert opinions to you I think nothing hits home and resonates more than a real story of someone who has been through and is living through his own retirement journey.  

As a bit of background to our conversation, Julian recently retired after a long career in financial services. He shares his journey towards retirement, discussing the emotional challenges he faced, the importance of seeking help, and the misconceptions surrounding how much is enough. He emphasizes the need to have open honest and vulnerable conversations about money and the emotional aspects of retirement planning, highlighting that retirement is not just about finances but also about finding purpose and identity in this new phase of life.  

Julian shares inspirational insights and experiences on his journey to retirement, emphasizing the importance of financial advice, emotional preparation, and the joy of spending time with family. He discusses the transformative freedom retirement brings, the significance for him of giving back to the community, and the need for having accountability in managing his retirement finances. Julian also highlights his changing spending patterns in retirement, noting a natural decline his expenses as he becomes more vigilant about his spending. Throughout our conversation he offers first hand valuable advice for those considering retirement, stressing the importance of commitment and professional guidance. 

Key Takeaways

  • Julian emphasizes the importance of seeking help when planning for retirement, even for those in the financial industry.
  • The emotional aspects of retirement are as crucial as the financial ones, and should not be underestimated.
  • Many people have misconceptions about how much money is needed for retirement, often influenced by outdated benchmarks.
  • Julian's journey involved making sacrifices, such as selling possessions, to achieve his retirement goals.
  • The transition to retirement can be emotionally challenging, requiring individuals to find new purpose and identity.
  • Conversations about money and retirement are often avoided, leading to misinformation and fear.
  • Julian found joy in decluttering his life, realizing that material possessions held less value than his newfound freedom.
  • The journey to retirement is ongoing, with emotional ups and downs that need to be navigated.
  • It's important to think beyond the initial excitement of retirement and consider long-term fulfillment.
  • Julian's experience highlights the need for a new generation to redefine retirement planning in a changing financial landscape. You might be surprised at how much is enough financially.
  • Don't underestimate the emotional impact of retirement planning.
  • Engaging with a professional can provide invaluable support.
  • Spending time with family is one of the biggest joys of retirement.
  • Loneliness is a significant issue for the elderly.
  • Creating memories is more important than just focusing on money.
  • Being vigilant about spending can lead to significant savings.
  • Retirement allows for more time to focus on personal passions.
  • Giving back to the community can enhance personal fulfillment.
  • Accountability is crucial in managing retirement finances.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Julian's Retirement Journey
01:56 - Julian's Career in Financial Services
04:31 - The Decision to Seek Help
06:37 - Understanding the Emotional Aspects of Retirement
09:53 - Challenging Preconceptions About Retirement Savings
12:58 - The Importance of Conversations About Money
15:58 - Making Sacrifices for Retirement
19:37 - The Joy of Letting Go of Material Possessions
22:38 - Surprises in the Transition to Retirement
24:56 - Navigating Emotional Challenges
27:52 - The Ongoing Journey of Finding Purpose
30:50 - Breaking the Silence on Retirement Finances
32:09 - Lessons Learned on the Retirement Journey
34:05 - Embracing Freedom and Family
36:40 - The Joy of Giving Back
39:10 - The Importance of Accountability
44:47 - Finding Purpose in Retirement
49:05 - Understanding Spending Patterns in Retirement
56:43 - Top Advice for Future Retirees

Links

 

05 Apr 2024Don't Retire... Graduate! with Eric Brotman01:00:20

Summary

Eric is the founder and CEO of BFG Financial Advisors a large financial planning business in Baltimore, USA that specialises in retirement planning.

As well a writing his book Eric hosts a podcast by the same name and id a regular contributor to forbes.com and Sunday morning TV in Baltimore

In this conversation Eric and I discuss the concept of retirement as a graduation and the need to redefine retirement as an opportunity for growth and exploration. Eric highlights the significance of having an abundance mindset and being open to reinventing oneself in retirement. 

Eric shares the three secrets to the happiest retirees: being debt-free, taking care of your health, and having a sense of purpose.

Takeaways

  • Retirement should be seen as a graduation and an opportunity for growth and exploration.
  • Financial independence is key to a fulfilling retirement, and it is important to plan for it early in life.
  • Having an abundance mindset and being open to reinvention can lead to a more fulfilling retirement.
  • Financial literacy is crucial in achieving financial independence and making informed decisions.
  • The fear of running out of money in retirement can be alleviated by working with a financial advisor and having a well-thought-out plan.
  • The three secrets of the happiest retirees include embracing a second childhood, cultivating wisdom and mindset, and finding purpose and identity in retirement. Being debt-free or adverse debt-free is important in retirement to reduce anxiety and ensure a peaceful retirement.
  • Taking care of your health is crucial, as it is easier to stay healthy than to get healthy.
    Having a sense of purpose gives retirees a reason to get out of bed every morning and brings fulfilment to their lives.
  • Retirees should plan and have intention in their retirement to ensure a smooth transition and make the most of their time.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
06:03 Redefining Retirement as a Graduation
09:25 Embracing a Second Childhood
14:10 Compounding Mindset and Wisdom
19:25 Finding Purpose and Identity in Retirement
23:21 The Emotional and Psychological Challenges of Retirement
28:20 The Importance of Financial Literacy
35:25 The Fear of Running Out of Money in Retirement
37:47 Achieving Financial Independence without Being Good with Money
42:56 The Three Secrets of the Happiest Retirees
43:05 The Three Secrets to the Happiest Retirees
44:05 Taking Care of Your Health
45:01 Having a Sense of Purpose
46:44 Debt and Financial Freedom
48:29 The Importance of Good Health
49:26 The Value of Purpose in Retirement
50:23 The Inflation Rate for Retirees
52:13 Planning and Intention in Retirement
53:10 Finding a Sense of Purpose in Retirement
54:08 What Financial Freedom Looks Like

Episode Links & Resource

 

25 Jan 2025How to Make Better Choices in Retirement with Richard Shotton01:02:06

Summary

In this episode I get to chat with author and behavioural scientist, Richard Shotton. 

Richard specialises in how humans make choices and has written 2 excellent books on this subject, the choice factory and the illusion of choice. He further specialises on applying findings from psychology and behavioural science to how businesses market their services and why consumers buy stuff 

In this episode, Richard discusses the intersection of behavioural science and marketing, particularly in the context of how people make spending decisions in retirement. He shares insights from his research and experiences, highlighting the importance of fairness, social proof, and the emotional aspects of financial choices.  

Our discussion also emphasizes the benefits of spending on experiences and others, as well as the challenges individuals face in transitioning from saving to spending during retirement.  

Richard and I explore the complexities of retirement planning, focusing on behavioural economics and the psychological factors that influence spending habits. We discuss the importance of making financial decisions easier, and the impact of loss aversion on retirees' spending behaviours. We also delve into the paradox of choice and how an abundance of options can lead to decision paralysis.

Key Takeaways

  • Behavioral science can significantly improve marketing effectiveness.
  • Fairness influences decision-making, often leading to suboptimal choices.
  • Social proof plays a crucial role in financial decisions, especially in retirement.
  • People often focus too much on outcomes rather than the decision-making process.
  • Experiential spending tends to yield greater happiness than material purchases.
  • Generosity in spending can enhance personal happiness.
  • Expectations can heavily influence our experiences and satisfaction with purchases.
  • Consistency bias can hinder the transition from saving to spending in retirement.
  • Nudges can effectively guide individuals towards better financial choices.
  • Understanding behavioral biases is key to making informed decisions.  The shift in saving defaults has significantly influenced saving habits.
  • Making financial decisions easier can lead to better outcomes.
  • Loss aversion plays a crucial role in how people spend their money.
  • People are more likely to spend from guaranteed income than from capital.
  • The paradox of choice can hinder decision-making in retirement planning.
  • Financial advisors should use simple language to communicate effectively.
  • Concrete stories are more memorable than abstract concepts in financial advice.
  • Visualizing retirement can help individuals make better financial decisions.
  • Defaults in financial products can greatly impact consumer behavior.
  • Understanding and leveraging biases can improve financial planning outcomes.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Behavioral Science in Marketing
06:01 - Social Proof and Herd Mentality in Retirement
12:10 - Spending Money Wisely: Experiences vs. Material Goods
17:53 - The Importance of Generosity in Spending
28:10 - Consistency Bias in Retirement Spending
36:02 - Behavioral Insights on Spending and Saving
42:10 - Navigating the Paradox of Choice
50:02 - Effective Communication for Financial Advisors

Links

02 Feb 2024Age Well and Feel Great: Optimise Your Age and Live Strong in Your Second Half with Al Lyman01:03:14

Summary

Al Lyman discusses the importance of health and quality of life in retirement. He emphasizes the difference between lifespan and healthspan, highlighting the need to focus on the quality of years rather than just the number of years lived. Al shares personal anecdotes about his mother's health struggles and the impact it had on her and her family. He provides practical steps for boosting energy and health in retirement, including focusing on real food, reducing sugar intake, and incorporating exercise. Al also addresses the importance of strength training, maintaining muscle mass, and the enjoyment and achievement that come with taking control of one's health in retirement. The conversation explores the importance of health in retirement and the second half of life. Al emphasises the need to prioritize health over material possessions and accumulate wealth for the purpose of enjoying time and experiences. Al also shares his personal experiences and aspirations for his own second half, highlighting the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and creating meaningful memories with loved ones.

Takeaways

  • Material possessions lose their importance in the face of ill health.
  • It is crucial to prioritize health in the 30-45 age group to prevent future difficulties.
  • Accumulating wealth should be for the purpose of enjoying time and experience   Living stronger in the second half of life involves taking control of one's health and creating meaningful memories.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Conversation

01:12 The Importance of Health in Retirement

03:03 The Difference Between Lifespan and Healthspan

07:42 The Quality of Years and Avoiding Chronic Disease

14:12 Practical Steps to Boost Energy and Health in Retirement

22:46 Being Intentional and Overcoming Fear in Retirement

36:30 The Importance of Strength Training and Muscle Mass

45:19 Enjoyment, Consistency, and the Truth in Aging

49:25 Material Possessions and Ill Health

51:10 The Importance of Health in the 30-45 Age Group

52:11 The Point of Accumulating Wealth

52:54 The Value of Health

53:35 Al Lyman's Second Half

57:16 Living Stronger in the Second Half

58:41 The Importance of Health in Retirement

Episode Links & Resources

16 Feb 2024How To Have An Epic Retirement with Bec Wilson01:10:11

Summary

In this episode, I get to have a great conversation with Bec Wilson, author of 'How to Have an Epic Retirement,' to discuss the key themes and pillars of retirement planning. Bec shares her journey into the retirement space and the inspiration behind her book. We discuss the importance of understanding lifespan and healthspan, as well as the financial confidence needed for retirement. Bec emphasizes the need for proactive health management and the role of exercise and diet in healthy aging. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of time, money, and health in creating an epic retirement. We have a great discussion about the 5 pillars of retirement: time, money, health, happiness, and your home as you age. We delve into the importance of happiness and fulfilment in retirement, emphasising the need for social interaction and meaningful activities. Finally, Bec introduces the five big stages of retirement: pre-euphoria, adjustment, euphoria, post-euphoria, and frailty.

Takeaways

  • Social interaction and building relationships are crucial for happiness and fulfillment in retirement.
  • Making informed decisions about housing can help minimize financial risks and maximize retirement enjoyment.
  • The five big stages of retirement are pre-euphoria, adjustment, euphoria, post-euphoria, and frailty.
  • Planning for retirement should include considerations for physical and mental health to maintain independence and minimize time spent in frailty.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:00 The Six Pillars of Retirement

24:36 Time: Understanding Lifespan and Healthspan

32:48 Money: Financial Confidence and Planning

39:04 Health: Taking Care of Your Body and Mind

43:32 Pillar 4: Happiness and Fulfillment

47:41 Pillar 5: Your Home as You Age

57:15 The Five Big Stages of Retirement

Episode Links & Resources

08 Nov 2024Beyond Your Career with Victoria Barker00:56:38

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I get to have a great conversation with Victoria Barker, co-founder of Beyond Your Career. Beyond Your Career is a programme led by a skilled team of expert coaches, psychologists and neuropsychologists to help ensure a smooth psychological transition from a demanding career, which includes workshops and insights from world-class experts and a supportive community of peers navigating the same transition.

We discuss the challenges of transitioning from demanding careers to retirement, the importance of early planning, and the psychological aspects of identity and purpose. Victoria shares her journey of co-founding Beyond Your Career, driven by her observations of the struggles faced by individuals, particularly men, during this transition.

Our conversation emphasises the need for community support, understanding one's identity beyond work, and the significance of preparing for retirement well in advance.

Victoria and I explore the themes of career transitions, rediscovering passions, and the importance of values in shaping one's purpose. We discuss the courage required to pursue new paths, the common tendency to follow societal expectations, and the significance of introspection in finding fulfillment. Our discussion also highlights the impact of the book 'The Why Cafe' on understanding purpose and the necessity of values as a foundation for personal growth and decision-making.

Key Takeaways

  • The transition from a demanding career can lead to identity crises.
  • Planning for retirement should start years in advance.
  • Community support is crucial during the transition process.
  • Many individuals struggle with mental health after leaving their careers.
  • Understanding personal values is key to a fulfilling retirement.
  • The disconnect between research and real-life experiences is significant.
  • Men are particularly at risk of struggling with retirement transitions.
  • It's important to explore who you want to be, not just what you will do.
  • Life reviews can help identify themes and desires for the future.
  • Crafting multiple identities can aid in a smoother transition. Reflecting on past aspirations can lead to fulfilling new paths.
  • Courage is essential for making bold career decisions.
  • Many pursue roles they think they should, rather than what they want.
  • Introspection is crucial for understanding personal desires.
  • Transitioning from full-time work can be gradual and beneficial.
  • Purpose can be found through exploration and experimentation.
  • Values serve as the foundation for identity and purpose.
  • Asking difficult questions can lead to deeper self-awareness.
  • The journey to purpose often involves trial and error.
  • It's important to recognize and avoid paths that don't resonate. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beyond Your Career
04:29 The Journey to Co-Founding Beyond Your Career
08:38 Understanding the Transition Process
12:34 Planning for Retirement: The Importance of Early Preparation
18:50 The Disconnect Between Research and Reality
21:46 Identity Crisis: Who Are You After Retirement?
27:57 Crafting a New Identity Post-Career
31:18 Rediscovering Passions and Aspirations
34:49 The Courage to Change Paths
38:13 Questioning the 'Shoulds' in Career Transitions
41:58 Navigating the Transition from Full-Time Work
44:17 The Y Cafe: A Journey to Purpose
55:38 Values as the Foundation for Purpose

Links

 

19 Jan 2024The Power of Building Social Networks in Retirement with Lee Robertson00:52:18

Summary

Lee Robertson, a former financial planner and co-founder of Octo Members, shares insights on the challenges and changes in retirement over the years. He emphasises the importance of planning for retirement, not just financially but also in terms of filling one's day and pursuing passions. Lee discusses the shift from traditional final salary (DB) pensions to defined contribution plans and the need for individuals to navigate retirement on their own. He encourages people to focus on creating memory dividends and living a fulfilled retirement. Lee also shares his personal journey of stepping away from a successful financial planning business to pursue his passion in setting up Octo Members. In this conversation, Lee discusses the importance of sleep and mental wellbeing in retirement. He shares his personal struggles with sleep and how it affected his transition from owning a financial planning business to starting a new start-up. Lee also recommends resources, such as Daniel Huberman's series and the Humans vs Retirement podcast, for people heading into retirement.

Takeaways

  • Retirement is a life transition that requires planning and preparation, both financially and in terms of filling one's day with meaningful activities.
  • The challenges in retirement include concerns about financial security, finding purpose and identity, and adapting to a new lifestyle.
  • Retirement has changed over the years, with the shift from traditional pensions to defined contribution plans and the need for individuals to take more responsibility for their retirement savings.
  • Creating memory dividends and pursuing passions are important aspects of a fulfilling retirement.
  • Following passion and purpose can lead to a more satisfying retirement, even if it means stepping away from a successful career or business.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:11 Challenges in Transitioning to Retirement

07:05 The Changing Landscape of Retirement

13:11 Retirement Challenges Over the Years

19:23 The Importance of Planning and Creating Memory Dividends

23:49 The Modern-Day Retirement

29:24 Stepping Away from a Successful Business

37:32 Following Passion and Purpose

45:30 Doing More of What You Love in Retirement

45:55 Recommended Resources

46:24 Sleep and Mental Wellbeing

47:22 Resources for Retirement

48:23 Closing Remarks

Episode Links & Resources

08 Sep 2023Embracing Triumph, Transition, and Transformation For a Vibrant Retirement with Dr. Preston Cherry00:53:56

Summary & About Guest

Dr. Preston Cherry is the Founder & President of Concurrent Financial Planning, Head of the Financial Planning Program, and Director of the Charles Schwab Centre for Personal Financial Planning at the UW – Green Bay. Preston specializes in empowering individuals to share stories that inform their financial resources and life’s design to achieve financial wellness and freedom that cultivates life wholeness. Preston has been cited by the New York Times, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, and Yahoo Finance. He is an Investopedia 100 Top Financial Advisor, 2022 ThinkAdvisor LUMINARY Finalist, WealthManagement.com Ten to Watch in 2023, President of the Financial Therapy Association and practitioner editor of the award-winning Journal of Financial Planning.

In this episode Dr. Cherry and I discuss the importance of understanding the meaning of retirement and creating a vision for the future. He introduces the concept of the four T's: trial, triumph, transition, and transformation, and explains how these stages can impact one's retirement journey. We also discuss the emotional aspect of money and the need to give oneself permission to enjoy retirement. Dr. Cherry shares personal stories and insights to inspire you to embrace your financial freedom and live a fulfilling retirement.

Useful Links

Dr Cherry’s Website

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Preston

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

Find out more at www.humansvsretirement.com 

27 Feb 2025How to Build Retirement Intelligence with Bob Laura01:02:53

 

Bob is a pioneer in the psychology and social science of retirement. He is a five-time best-selling author, nationally syndicated columnist and recognized presenter at retirement conferences across the US. He is the founder of the Retirement Coaches AssociationCertified Professional Retirement Coach Designation and Retirement Intelligence Assessment. His work has reached millions of retirement readers through seven books, twelve guides, and over 800 articles. In addition to his own writings, he frequently appears in major business media outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNBC, MarketWatch, the New York Times, and more.

As a former social worker turned retirement expert and author, he has found that retirement is among the most fascinating, yet least understood, phases of life. As a result, he has developed a powerful message to tackle the mental, social, physical, spiritual, and financial aspects of retirement.

In this episode Bob and discuss the common misconceptions about retirement, the rise of grey divorce, and the importance of pre-retirement planning. We also tackle some tricky subjects and highlight the dark side of retirement, including loneliness and addiction, and the necessity of establishing new routines to maintain mental health and social connections post-retirement.

Bob discusses the evolving concept of retirement, emphasising the importance of identity, purpose, and personal fulfilment over financial wealth and he introduces the Retirement Quotient framework, which assesses readiness for retirement through various personal dimensions, including emotional and spiritual well-being.

Key Takeaways

  • Retirement planning should focus on the individual, not just finances.
  • Many retirees experience a drop in social interactions.
  • Pre-retirement planning is crucial for a successful transition.
  • The 'honeymoon phase' of retirement can lead to disillusionment.
  • Loneliness and addiction are significant issues in retirement.
  • Couples often struggle with identity and purpose post-retirement.
  • Establishing new routines is essential for mental health.
  • Workaholism can hinder the retirement experience.
  • Communication between partners is vital for a successful retirement.
  • Retirement should be planned as a new chapter, not an end.  The new wealth is found in work-life balance and connections.
  • Retirement amplifies who you already are, not who you want to be.
  • Maslow's hierarchy applies to retirement, focusing on self-actualization.
  • Retirement requires a proactive framework for success.
  • The Retirement Quotient assesses personal readiness for retirement.
  • Understanding personal traits is crucial for retirement planning.
  • Retirement is an empty bucket that needs to be filled meaningfully.
  • Mindset and habits are essential for a fulfilling retirement.
  • Stop waiting for retirement to start living your values.
  • The only guarantee in retirement is the inevitability of death.

Books Mentioned

 Websites & Resources

 Other Mentions

Humans vs Retirement

 

29 Sep 2023Shifting the Retirement Mindset to "Think, Feel, Do" with Ross Marino00:47:19

Summary

Ross Marino is the founder of Transitus Wealth Partners and the founder & CEO of Advisor 2X which organises and hosts global leading human first financial conferences such as SHIFT. He is a passionate advocate for Human-First Financial Guidance and author of the brilliant book Shaping Change: How To Respond When Life Disrupts Your Retirement Plan. He is a Certified Financial Transitionist and a key member of the Sudden Money Institute.

In this episode Ross and I discuss the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and resilience in retirement and reveal how these qualities are crucial because our decisions are shaped by our experiences and learning, making them rational to us. We talk through why Ross believes that being open to change and adapting to new circumstances is key to navigating retirement successfully.

Furthermore, Ross and I discuss the freedom and agency that retirement brings, emphasising that after decades of constraints on resources like time, energy, and money, retirement allows individuals to make their own choices. Whether it's continuing to work, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with family, retirees have the ability to determine how they want to spend their time and resources. This newfound freedom is seen as exciting and empowering.

Useful Links

Ross’s book Shaping Change: How To Respond When Life Disrupts Your Retirement Plan

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Ross

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

www.humansvsretirement.com

 

03 Nov 2023Health & Wealth Are Two Sides of The Same Coin with Dr Phil Pearlman01:05:12

Summary

Dr Phil Pearlman is the founder of The Pearl Institute, a teacher by nature and expert in the areas of personal health and effective processes of change.

Phil set out on his own health journey after spending years neglecting his wellbeing and happiness and emerged thriving and eager to help others. From that he created The Pearl Institute and has dedicated his life to helping people optimize their wellbeing. That’s his calling!

He is the author of The Primecuts Newsletter, which focuses on cultivating a healthy lifestyle and mindset through the powers of creativity, reinvention, and grit and has been an advisor to and investor in social/digital media companies. He has served as CBO and CMO at Osprey Funds, EVP at Bank OZK, Executive Editor at Stocktwits, and Interactive Editor at Yahoo Finance.

Phil earned a Doctor of Psychology degree from Argosy University and lives with his wife and two boys in Montebello, New York.

In this episode Dr Phil and I discuss the importance of health in retirement and how it impacts our ability to enjoy and make the most of our financial resources we've accumulated and more importantly the newfound time and freedom we have. Phil shares his knowledge and wisdom on growing healthier, performing better, leading stronger lives, and making wiser decisions, all of which can be applied to retirement.

Useful Links

Subscribe to Phil’s brilliant newsletter Prime Cuts

Check out The Pearl Institute website and discover how Phil can help you!

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Dr Phil

LinkedIn

Twitter/X

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

X / Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning.

www.humansvsretirement.com

 

28 Aug 2024The Three Domains of Freedom with George Kinder00:56:47

Summary

Today’s conversation is a first for my podcast in that I welcome back a previous guest! 

And I couldn't think of having my first repeat guest as anyone better that the brilliant George Kinder!  

George was previously on the show in episode 20 where we discussed Life planning and how to light the retirement torch. For those that don't know, George is widely regarded as the father of Financial Life planning and a global leading voice in this field. 

Today's conversation centres around Goerges new book The Three Domains of Freedom which explores the different aspects of freedom and how the relate to a fulfilling life.  

The three domains we discuss are: The freedom of each moment, The freedom to pursue one’s life and the freedom within civilisation. 

During our conversation George emphasises the importance of mindfulness and being preset in each moment to experience true freedom. He also discusses the significance of having a passionate purpose and taking control of your life.  

George and I also discuss the the concept of freedom and its various dimensions. We talk about freedom of thought, freedom of time and the importance of celebrating achievements, no matter how small! 

We also touch on the state of society and the need for unity and trust and at the end George shares his proposal for a legislative solution to create a more trustworthy and humane civilisation. 

Takeaways

  • Mindfulness and being present in each moment is key to experiencing true freedom.
  • Having a passionate purpose and taking control of one's life leads to a sense of fulfillment.
  • Shortening timeframes and taking action can create a sense of energy and accomplishment.
  • Working with a skilled life planner can help uncover hidden desires and goals. Freedom encompasses more than just physical freedom; it includes freedom of thought and freedom of time.
  • Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, is important for a fulfilling life.
  • Society is currently fragmented and polarized, but there is a solution: unity and trust.
  • George Kinder proposes a legislative solution that requires institutions to have a fiduciary obligation to truth, democracy, the planet, and humanity.
  • Creating a trustworthy civilization starts with individuals and businesses adopting a fiduciary standard.

Sound Bites

"There were three domains.""Mindfulness is really about the mastery of the present moment."
"Feeling that I have a passionate purpose that I am moving toward or living in."
"It doesn't mean that it's freedom just to go and sit on the couch or lay on the..."
"When I talk to a lot of people that I've worked with, they actually talk about freedom of thought a lot."
"Celebrating achievements, you know, no matter how small they are, I think is really critical to a fulfilling life."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview
02:55 The Three Domains of Freedom
05:52 The Freedom of Each Moment
11:52 Finding Your Passionate Purpose
17:59 Shortening Timeframes for Action and Energy
26:21 Exploring the Dimensions of Freedom
28:30 Unity and Trust in a Fragmented Society
44:03 A Legislative Solution for a Trustworthy Civilization

Links

03 Jul 2023Reflecting on season 1: key insights for a happy, healthy, and wealthy retirement with host Dan Haylett00:39:36

Summary

In the final episode of season one, I’m flying solo to try and distil, summarise, and cover the key points from the previous 11 amazing episodes of the Humans vs Retirement podcast. I can’t express my gratitude to you the listeners enough and I’m so excited for season two, which will launch after a four-to-five-week break. Join me as I reflect on the amazing conversations and insights gained from exploring the behavioural, emotional, and financial challenges of life after work.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about

  • Finding new purpose and creating joy.
  • Spending money on experiences rather than material things in retirement.
  • The importance of not being too conservative with spending money.
  • The four sources of contentment in retirement.
  • The four anchors of retirement well-being.
  • Effective communication in retirement.
  • The importance of resilience.
  • The being human problem 

Useful Resources

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify
Download for free my 7 Step RetirementGPS Toolkit
Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning
LinkedIn
Twitter
Book in a chat if you want a conversation about your retirement. 
Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

 

 

15 Mar 2025The Retirement Mindset Shift with Lindsay Troxell01:07:54

Episode Summary

Retirement isn’t just a financial transition, it’s a psychological and emotional one, too. In this episode of Humans vs. Retirement, I sit down with Lindsay Troxell, a coach and life planner who has been at the forefront of shifting the financial industry’s focus toward a more human-first approach.

Lindsay shares powerful insights on mindset, identity, and habits, and why most people unknowingly experience an identity crisis in retirement. Lindsay and I explore how to reshape your beliefs, redefine purpose, and build new habits for a fulfilling second half of life.

If you’ve ever asked yourself: Who am I without my job title? How do I retire with meaning? or Why does retirement feel like a letdown?, this episode is for you.


What You’ll Learn in This Episode

  • Why retirement isn’t just about money—and why financial security alone won’t make you happy.
  • How habits and mindset shape your retirement experience (and how to rewire them).
  • The common identity crisis retirees face—and how to navigate it with confidence.
  • Why traditional financial planning treats retirement as a math problem, when it’s actually a human challenge.
  • How to develop purpose, fulfillment, and structure in retirement.
  • The importance of coaching and why having a financial plan isn’t enough.
  • How Lindsay’s business, Discretionary Inc., helps child-free entrepreneurs create a unique life plan that reflects their values and goals.

Key Topics Discussed

[00:02] – Introduction & Catching Up

  • Lindsay’s background in financial coaching and life planning.
  • The shift from numbers-focused planning to a holistic, human-first approach.

[00:10] – The Mindset Shift for Retirement

  • Why people treat retirement as a math problem (and why that’s wrong).
  • The emotional journey of retirement—why so many people feel lost after stopping work.
  • The three-dimensional approach to retirement: wealth, health, and identity.

[00:25] – Identity & Purpose in Retirement

  • The biggest identity crisis retirees face (losing structure, title, and purpose).
  • Why your identity is more than your job title.
  • The "retire with" framework: What are you bringing into retirement?

[00:40] – Mindset, Habits & Breaking Old Patterns

  • How beliefs shape our retirement experience.
  • The role of growth mindset and beginner mindset in reinvention.
  • The importance of failure and experimentation in building a fulfilling retirement.

[00:55] – Retirement & Relationships: The Gray Divorce Trend

  • How retirement impacts marriages and partnerships.
  • The rising trend of gray divorce (and why couples struggle post-retirement).
  • The three journeys: Your individual path, your partner’s path, and your shared path.

[01:10] – The Future of Retirement & Financial Planning

  • Why coaching is the missing link in financial planning.
  • How financial professionals need to adapt their services to serve clients better.
  • Lindsay’s business Discretionary Inc. and why child-free entrepreneurs need specialized financial and life planning.

[01:25] – Final Takeaways

  • Why the traditional retirement model is outdated and needs to evolve.
  • Practical steps to redefine your mindset and habits for a more fulfilling life.
  • Lindsay’s best advice for people approaching retirement.

Books & Resources Mentioned

Books:

  • The Psychology of MoneyMorgan Housel
  • Mindset: The New Psychology of SuccessCarol S. Dweck
  • Let ThemMel Robbins
  • MeditationsMarcus Aurelius
  • Letters from a StoicSeneca
  • The Bhagavad GitaHindu Philosophy on Purpose & Duty

Research & Studies:

  • Retirement & Depression: 40% increased risk of depression in retirees.
  • Gray Divorce Trends: Divorce rates for 60+ have risen from 9% (1990) to 40% (recent years).

Additional Resources:


Connect with Us

Follow Lindsay Troxell:

  • Website: www.ourcoachinginitiative.com/
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaytroxell/

Follow Dan & The Podcast:

  • Website: www.humansvsretirement.com
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dan-haylett-retirement-coach/
  • Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

📩 Enjoyed the episode? Leave a review and let us know your biggest takeaway!

06 Sep 2024How To Create Your 'Encore Career' with Dr Michelle Prince00:59:02

Summary

In today's episode I'm thrilled to get to have conversation with the author of the brilliant book Creating Your Encore Career, Dr Michelle Prince 

Michelle is a global leadership coach, HR technology advisor, human capital consultant and author. A certified leadership coach since 2006 with a doctorate in management and organizational leadership, she helps professionals and organizations achieve transformational growth. 

Michelle has over 30 years of corporate HR experience and now runs her consulting firm, MPrince Consulting LLC. An advocate for sustainability and empowering people to thrive, she wrote the book Creating Your Encore Career in 2024 to inspire others to craft their own fulfilling Encore Careers. 

Join us as Michelle and I discuss the concept of an encore career, which is a meaningful and purposeful career in the third act of life. 

Michelle shares her personal journey of transitioning from a corporate HR role to becoming a global leadership coach and senior career coach and explains that many people approaching retirement age feel uncertain about what they want to do next and may not know how to navigate job searching in today's technology-driven world. 

She wrote her book, 'Creating Your Encore Career,' as a step-by-step guide to help individuals in this stage of life explore their options, find fulfilment and transition into purpose driven work in their later years. 

We explore the importance of a self-reflection process to identifying passions, values and interests which means that people should redefine their retirement to align with increased lifespans and evolving aspirations. 

We also talk about the value of building a professional network and creating a personal brand to showcase expertise and attract new opportunities as well as exploring options like the gig economy, volunteering, entrepreneurship, or continued education 

Our conversation also highlights the benefits of growth, curiosity, and exploration in an encore career, as well as the importance of financial planning and managing healthcare and insurance costs. 

Takeaways

  • An encore career is a meaningful and purposeful career in the third act of life, providing individuals with an opportunity to continue contributing and finding fulfillment.
  • Many people approaching retirement age feel uncertain about what they want to do next and may not know how to navigate job searching in today's technology-driven world.
  • Financial security is an important consideration when transitioning to an encore career, but it is not the primary driver. The focus is on finding work that aligns with personal values and provides flexibility and fulfillment.
  • People in their 50s and beyond have accumulated knowledge, wisdom, and experience that make them valuable contributors in the workforce. It is never too late or too early to start planning for an encore career.
  • Self-reflection is key to identifying passions, values, strengths, and desired work environments. Having open conversations with family members about expectations and boundaries can also help in designing an encore career. Self-reflection and identifying passions and interests are crucial in transitioning into an encore career.
  • Expanding knowledge and skills through education and certifications can help overcome imposter syndrome and enhance credibility.
  • Building a professional network and creating a personal brand are essential for attracting opportunities and showcasing expertise.
  • Growth, curiosity, and exploration are key elements of an encore career, promoting wellbeing and preventing cognitive decline.
  • Financial planning and managing healthcare and insurance costs are important considerations in an encore career.

Sound Bites

"An encore career is a meaningful and purposeful career in the third act of life."
"Many people who are approaching retirement age feel uncertain about what they want to do next."
"Financial security is important, but it is not the primary driver of an encore career."
"You can create and design your own scenario"
"It's important that you communicate"
"Reflecting on your passions...what truly excites you"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey
05:16 Redefining Retirement and the Encore Career Movement
09:24 Challenges of Traditional Retirement Options
13:24 Increased Lifespans and Evolving Aspirations
18:38 Retirement Insecurity and Financial Considerations
24:13 The Value of Wisdom and Knowledge in the Third Act
26:21 Identifying Passions, Values, and Strengths
28:11 Transitioning into an Encore Career: Reflection and Passion
30:08 Building a Professional Network and Personal Brand for an Encore Career
36:07 Embracing Growth, Curiosity, and Exploration in an Encore Career
52:47 Financial Planning and Healthcare Considerations in an Encore Career

Links

26 Jun 2023Lessons and experiences through the lens of a real-life retirement journey with Andy Murphy00:53:06

Summary

In this episode of the Humans vs Retirement podcast, I’m so fortunate to be able to have a conversation with my client and good friend, Andy Murphy, to hear about his experiences and challenges in retirement. Andy shares his career story and how he began to think seriously about retirement. We discuss how important planning and preparation was for Andy, as well as the emotional and psychological adjustments that he has had to make and continues to work through. This episode provides a first-hand perspective on the realities of life after work and offers valuable insights for anyone approaching retirement.

What You’ll Learn

The listener will learn about:
•    The financial and non-financial aspects of retirement.
•    A real-life transition into retirement.
•    Why involving partners in retirement planning is crucial.
•    Getting your affairs in order is an important part of the planning phase.
•    How to think and pursuing passions in retirement
•    The importance of being flexible with your retirement plans
•    Where to find value in retirement
•    Why seeking professional and specialist advice is vital.

About My Guest

Andy had a long, successful 40+ year career working across a variety of roles for one of the big American banks. 5 years ago, Andy wanted to get his affairs in order to eventually retire from the bank. However, this first venture into retirement planning caused more questions than answers. Andy has been retired just over 12 months and now sees himself as a Music Discoverer! As well as his love of music, he enjoys fine art and cooking.

Find out more at www.humansvsretirement.com

 

16 Dec 2024Reflecting on 2024 and My 5 Big Takeaways!00:08:05

Welcome to a special end of 2024 solo episode of the Humans vs. Retirement podcast!

This year there has been 40 episodes of the podcast released and I’m touching on 90,000 downloads, which blows my mind! I have been so lucky to have conversations with amazing guests and the feedback has been so humbling to hear.  

So, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’ve tuned in to one episode or every single one, I’m so grateful for your support and the incredible conversations we’ve shared together this year.

And if you haven’t yet had time to leave a review and rating then best Christmas present you could give me would be to leave one! It really helps spread the word!  

As I look back at 2024, I want to share some highlights from the past 12 months, touch on the common themes that emerged, and leave you with five key takeaways that I hope will resonate as you reflect on your own journey

Reflecting on 2024: Highlights & Themes 

This year has been such a meaningful one for the podcast. Together, we’ve explored the realities of retirement, challenged common assumptions, and learned from so many insightful guests. Here are some highlights and recurring themes from our episodes this year: 

  1. The Emotional Side of Retirement: 
    We learned that retirement isn’t just about financial planning—it’s also about preparing emotionally. Guests shared how identity, purpose, and connection play vital roles in creating a fulfilling retirement. 

  1. Finding Purpose Post-Retirement: 
    A recurring message from our conversations was the importance of rediscovering purpose, whether it’s through volunteering, pursuing hobbies, or starting new ventures. 

  1. Navigating the Challenges of Change: 
    Many of our guests spoke candidly about the challenges they faced transitioning into retirement, from redefining routines to managing relationships. 

  1. Health as the Foundation: 
    Health and well-being emerged as central themes, with our guests emphasizing the need to invest in both physical and mental health to make the most of retirement. 

  1. The Power of Community: 
    Lastly, we often heard about the value of building and maintaining strong social networks during retirement—it’s truly a time when connections matter more than ever

Five Big Takeaways from 2024

As we wrap up this incredible year, I want to leave you with five key takeaways from the conversations we’ve had on the podcast: 

  1. Retirement Is a Transition, Not a Destination: 
    It’s a process, not a single moment. Give yourself grace as you navigate this new chapter. 

  1. Purpose Doesn’t Retire: 
    Finding new ways to contribute, grow, and enjoy life is essential to a fulfilling retirement. 

  1. Plan Beyond the Finances: 
    A solid financial plan is important, but don’t neglect your emotional and social planning. 

  1. Stay Curious: 
    This is your time to explore, learn, and embrace new experiences. Stay curious about the possibilities ahead. 

  1. Invest in Relationships: 
    Relationships—both new and old—will be your greatest source of joy and support in retirement. Nurture them. 

What does 2025 look like for you? 

My team and I are looking to help 15 new families this year, so if you are based in the UK, thinking about your retirement in the next few years and want to explore working with me to plan and live your dream second half of life then please use the link below to book in a time for us to chat early in the new year.

Book in a time for us to chat

Of course we must be a right fit to work together on this very important phase of life so please fill in the form when clicking on the link and if we are a good fit then you will be able to book in a slot in my diary for us to chat. 

Happy Holidays!!

Before I sign off, I just want to say thank you once again for being part of this journey with me. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm mean the world, and it’s been a privilege to share these conversations with you throughout the year. 

As we head into the holiday season, I hope you take time to celebrate, relax, and connect. I’m wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful start to the New Year. 

Here’s to an exciting 2025 filled with new adventures, meaningful conversations, and continued growth. I’ve already got some brilliant episodes recorded and cracking guests lined up so I cannot wait to see you next year!

 

 

25 Aug 2023The Power of Social Connections and Flow in Retirement with Dr. Jordan Hutchinson00:53:00

Summary & About Guest

Dr. Jordan Hutchison is VP of Technology for RFG Advisory in the USA and an expert in flow theory. adjunct instructor in Behavioral Finance for Kaplan’s College for Financial Planning. Jordan holds multiple industry certifications, a master's in financial planning, and a doctorate in business administration, specifically in behavioral science and positive psychology.

In this episode we discuss the importance of social connections and relationships in the retirement transition, as well as the concept of flow and its connection to identity shifts.

Jordan shares insights from his research and study of flow theory, career in the wealth management industry and personal insights from his time as a standout college basketball player and his parent’s life transitions.

Useful Links

Charles Schwab: The most overlooked factor in aging well (aboutschwab.com)

What is flow theory? – An article explaining what it is and how it may help and impact us

Flow: The Psychology of Happiness By Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Subscribe to the Humans vs Retirement podcast on Apple Podcasts, and Spotify

Download for free my 7 Step Retirement Toolkit

Subscribe to my fortnightly newsletter Stay The Course

Connect With Jordan

LinkedIn

Twitter

Connect With Me

TFP Financial Planning

LinkedIn

Twitter

Book in a chat if you want a second opinion about your retirement planning

Email at dan@tfp-fp.com

www.humansvsretirement.com

 

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