Real Retirement

What if every moment of your life was truly yours?

 In this powerful episode of The Real Retirement Show, we sit down with the legendary George Kinder — father of the life planning movement, mindfulness teacher, and global force for authentic living.

With heart, humility, and poetic clarity, George shares how to design a life rooted in freedom, purpose, and presence — and why your dream of living fully can’t wait until retirement.

From the serenity of his New England cabin to the bustling streets of London, George reveals his journey of awakening, the power behind his EVOKE® process, and why the future of retirement — and humanity — depends on trustworthiness and values-aligned action.

We explore:

• How to uncover your true purpose and make it real
• The three domains of freedom — and why they matter now more than ever
• Why fiduciary duty belongs not just in finance, but in every institution
• How mindfulness and deep listening shape our ability to lead, connect, and transform

Whether you're reimagining your next chapter or simply seeking deeper meaning, this conversation will awaken something in you.

Listen in — and begin the journey to your most meaningful life.

00:00 Introduction to the Three Domains of Freedom

01:35 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

01:45 Meet George Kinder: Pioneer of Life Planning

02:56 George Kinder's Journey and Philosophy

06:23 The Power of Trustworthiness and Freedom

08:51 Maintaining Passion and Purpose

10:05 The Serenity Cabin and Nature's Influence

13:37 The Three Dimensions of Freedom Workshops

20:57 Global Impact and Cultural Embrace

23:35 Reflections on Age and Passion

25:01 The Evolution of Fiduciary in Business

26:14 Building Trust in Client Relationships

27:06 The Financial Therapy Movement

28:33 The Importance of Trustworthiness

28:42 Kitchen Table Conversations on Fiduciary

30:32 Life Planning for Everyone

31:47 The Role of Trust in Financial Advice

36:46 Humanity and Global Communication

42:10 The Impact of AI on Humanity

44:25 The Future of Fiduciary Standards

46:57 The Three Domains of Freedom

49:35 Closing Thoughts and Future Meetings

About George Kinder

George Kinder is a globally renowned thought leader, author, and mindfulness teacher, widely recognized as the father of the Life Planning movement. He is the founder of the Kinder Institute of Life Planning and creator of the EVOKE® process, which helps individuals align their financial lives with their deepest values and dreams. With over 50 years of mindfulness practice and decades of experience as a financial advisor, George has trained thousands of professionals across 30+ countries to lead with purpose, empathy, and trust. Through his books, teachings, and art, he continues to inspire people around the world to live with greater freedom, authenticity, and meaning.

Website: 

https://www.georgekinder.com/

https://www.kinderinstitute.com/

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen welcome Polly Chandler, a leadership development and transition coach. They explore Polly's journey from academia to coaching, highlighting how she helps individuals navigate major life transitions by leveraging their strengths. Polly shares her innovative approaches, including the use of the StrengthsFinder tool and her concept of a 'Hope Journal,' to inspire people to discover their true calling and find joy and purpose. The conversation delves into topics such as addressing career transitions, finding hope, combating fears, and realizing one's potential using a strengths-based approach.

00:00 Overcoming Roadblocks and Finding Purpose

01:27 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

02:10 Introducing Polly Chandler: A Journey of Reinvention

04:25 Polly's Transition from Academia to Coaching

09:02 The Hope Journal: Finding Hope and Purpose

14:08 Strengths-Based Approach to Life Transitions

22:31 Exploring Strengths and Individualization

23:04 Coaching Through Transitions

23:39 Energy and Alignment

24:20 Understanding and Utilizing Strengths

26:53 Navigating Roadblocks and Comparisons

31:43 The Role of Community and Mentorship

32:35 Optimism, Hope, and Action Plans

39:04 Finding Your Tribe and Passion

42:27 Final Thoughts and Anchors

About Polly Chandler

Polly Chandler is a Leadership Development and Transition Coach for Polly Chandler Coaching. This career path evolved from an intentional decision to focus on what energizes her most: coaching, mentoring and training facilitation. Her previous career was in higher education where she served as the Chair of the Department of Management and Director of the MBA in Sustainability at Antioch University New England.

Polly now coaches individuals and trains teams in many sectors. She is particularly interested in helping people to navigate personal and professional transitions. Her speciality areas are strengths based leadership development, post career reinvention, and serving people and the planet. 

Website: http://pollychandlercoaching.com

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pchandler1

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen delve into the evolving concept of retirement with guest Marilyn Hintsa. Marilyn shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting her pivot from a corporate career to becoming a retirement coach. She discusses the pressures and expectations surrounding retirement, emphasizing the importance of personal choice and rejecting societal 'shoulds.' Marilyn also introduces her initiative, Next Chapter Dialogues, which offers group sessions encouraging retirees to explore life after work. Through meaningful conversations and community support, Marilyn helps clients find joy and purpose in their post-career lives. The episode underscores the value of direct conversation, shared experiences, and stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Retirement

00:51 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

01:35 Meet Marilyn Hintsa: A New Path in Retirement

02:43 Marilyn's Journey into Coaching

05:17 Challenges and Insights in Retirement Coaching

06:24 The Importance of Group Dynamics

07:15 Mindset Shifts and Overcoming Fear

14:05 Purpose in Retirement

21:48 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability

28:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell

About Marilyn Hintsa

Marilyn has been on her own retirement journey since late 2019 when she was unexpected “early retired” from a corporate career. Not ready to go out to pasture, she became certified as a leadership coach, decided to use her new skills to help her contemporaries lead themselves into their post-career lives, and set up her practice, ULeadU Post Career Pathing, in 2021.  Since then, her practice has evolved and recently launched Next Chapter Dialogues, a weekly, Zoom-based, guided discussion group that people join on a monthly subscription basis. Next Chapter Dialogues is a powerful opportunity for people anywhere on a retirement journey to travel together in community and, with Marilyn’s guidance, explore topics related to life after work, aging and longevity.

Website: https://www.uleadu.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hintsa/

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this inspiring episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen sit down with Mike Drak—retired financial services professional turned author, public speaker, and Ironman-in-training at 70—to explore the non-financial dimensions of retirement. Mike shares his powerful journey from retirement shock to personal reinvention, revealing how he overcame fears, embraced purpose, and adopted the principles of a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Together, they discuss the importance of physical vitality, meaningful relationships, and a growth mindset—and why financial advisors must expand their role beyond numbers to guide clients through life’s next chapter. Tune in to hear how Mike is breaking stereotypes and redefining what it means to truly thrive in retirement.

00:00 Discovering Your Purpose and Overcoming Fears

02:00 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

02:43 Meet Mike Drak: Author and Retirement Expert

03:33 Mike's Ironman Challenge at 70

05:24 Redefining Retirement: The Retirement Rebel

08:12 The Concept of Watching Your Life Movie

09:59 Experiencing Retirement Shock

14:57 The Nine Principles for a Fulfilling Retirement

16:41 Longevity and Retirement: Bridging the Gap

18:12 Practical Steps to Extend Your Health Span

19:58 Inspiration from Clive: A Model for Active Aging

20:39 The Importance of Fun and Connection in Fitness

21:49 Balancing Purpose and Consistency in Life

23:08 Financial Mindset in Retirement

24:47 Navigating Finances with a Partner

26:38 The Role of Advisors in Holistic Retirement Planning

31:48 Personal Growth and Overcoming Fears

36:47 Resources for a Fulfilling Retirement

38:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

About Mike Drak

Mike is an author, public speaker and recognized authority on the non-financial aspects of retirement. After having spent 38-years in the financial services industry, Mike retired and personally faced what he called “retirement shock”. During this time, Mike found himself on a journey of self-discovery and authored three best-selling books on retirement; Victory Lap Retirement, Retirement Heaven or Hell: Which Will You Choose? and Longevity Lifestyle By Design. Mike is a Senior Contributor at Booming Encore and dedicates his time to helping other retirees design a fulfilling, meaningful retirement lifestyle for themselves.

Resources

Get both these books for free at https://boomingencore.com/

• Retirement Heaven or Hell: Which Will You Choose?
• Longevity Lifestyle by Design

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-drak-6b401095/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retirement_rebel/

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen welcome Joanne Waldman, a pioneer in retirement coaching with over 30 years of experience. Joanne shares powerful stories and strategies for helping clients transition into retirement, focusing on emotional and personal growth beyond financial planning. From reframing fear to visualization techniques, Joanne provides practical methods to navigate the complexities of retirement. The episode dives deep into her unique approach, her pivotal life moments, and the significant impact of curiosity, love, and open-ended questions in coaching. Joanne also offers insights into the common challenges faced by retirees and emphasizes the importance of planning and communication. Listeners gain valuable tips for making a fulfilling and joyful retirement transition.

00:00 Client's Journey from Fear to Footwork

01:01 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

01:44 Introducing Joanne Waldman: A Trailblazer in Retirement Coaching

03:26 Joanne's Personal and Professional Journey

06:38 Unique Approaches to Retirement Coaching

09:10 Challenges and Niches in Retirement Coaching

11:54 Signature Exercises and Frameworks

18:11 Powerful Client Transformations

21:49 Qualities of a Great Coach

26:49 Top Tips for Retirement Planning

30:27 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

About Joanne Waldman

With more than 30 progressive years in the career transition field, Joanne is a trailblazer in the retirement coaching world. For 18 years she served as the Director of Training with Retirement Options and has an extensive background as a webinar leader with the International Coach Academy, and Coaching Cognition. She is the owner of New Perspective Coaching where she works with clients to plan their second or third reinvention into retirement. A Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation, a Board-Certified Coach through the Center for Credentialing and Education, and through the National Career Development Association in 2009, she was selected as their Career Practitioner of the Year. In 2021, Joanne was honored with the Retirement Catalyst Award from the Retirement Coaches Association. Joanne received a retirement coaching certification through Retirement Options. She is also a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri, a nationally certified counselor and a nationally certified gerontological counselor. Joanne is a co-author of "Out of the Box Retirement-Creative Ideas, Role Models and Possibilities" and has been quoted as a retirement expert in Kiplinger’s, Forbes, Wall Street Journal/Market Watch and Where to Retire magazine.

Resources

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-waldman-0002281/

Website: https://www.newperspectivecoaching.com/

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joanne.waldman

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen talk with Dr. Sara Zeff Geber, a leading expert on solo aging. Sara shares her journey highlighting the unique challenges faced by solo agers - individuals aging without family support. The discussion explores critical aspects such as choosing living arrangements, including the pros and cons of aging in place versus senior living communities. Sara emphasizes the importance of planning for financial, legal, and social needs, and introduces the concept of home sharing as a viable option for social interaction and care. She also stresses the need for professionals, such as financial advisors and legal experts, to assist solo agers in creating robust support systems. Sara concludes with inspiring stories of solo agers who have proactively planned their futures and offers resources for further learning.

00:00 Introduction: The Biggest Hurdle for Solo Agers

01:22 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

02:05 Meet Sara Zeff Geber: Expert on Solo Aging

03:10 Sara's Personal Journey into Solo Aging

05:29 Defining Solo Aging

09:06 Challenges and Misconceptions of Solo Aging

15:00 Planning for the Future: Financial, Legal, and Social Aspects

18:41 Community and Support Systems for Solo Agers

27:51 Inspiration and Success Stories

32:03 Final Thoughts and Resources

About Sara Zeff Geber, PhD

Sara is the nation’s foremost expert on Solo Aging.  She is an author, professional speaker, and certified retirement coach. 

In 2018, Sara was named an “Influencer in Aging” by PBS’ Next Avenue and is a regular contributor to Forbes.com in the areas of aging and retirement. 

She has also been featured and quoted in The Journal of Active Aging, Certified Senior Advisor Journal, Next Avenue, Senior Living Foresight, McKnights Living, Senior Housing Business, and many others.

Sara’s book, Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers: A Retirement and Aging Roadmap for Single and Child-free Adults, was published in 2018, and was selected that year as a ‘best book on aging well’ by the WSJ. 

Resources

Website: https://sarazeffgeber.com/ 

Books: https://sarazeffgeber.com/books/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarazeffgeber/ 

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, our special guest is Dan Haylett, a UK-based financial partner at TFP Financial Planning. Dan specializes in retirement planning that goes beyond spreadsheets, focusing on the human side of this major life transition. Dan shares his personal journey from a high-pressure career to a fulfilling role where he helps individuals over 50 navigate emotional and behavioral aspects of retirement. We discuss the evolving landscape of retirement, including challenges like redefining purpose, identity, relationships, and spending money. Dan's innovative methods, including sketches and the Humans vs. Retirement podcast, provide valuable insights into breaking outdated norms and designing a fulfilling retired life. The episode offers valuable insights for both retirees and financial planners looking to incorporate more holistic, human-focused strategies in their work.

00:00 Introduction to a Different Kind of Financial Advisor

01:02 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

02:07 Meet Dan Haylett: Financial Planner and Podcast Host

03:47 Dan's Personal Journey and Career Shift

06:32 Holistic Approach to Financial Planning

12:43 Challenges in Retirement Spending

16:29 Reframing Money as Memories and Experiences

23:09 Dan's Confidence and Continuous Learning

26:44 Builder's House Analogy

27:30 Discovering Carl Richards

28:11 The Power of Sketching

28:40 Healthspan vs Lifespan

29:25 Go-Go, Slow-Go, No-Go Years

31:17 Impact on Business and Clients

33:33 Referrals and Client Engagement

35:42 State of the Financial Industry

39:45 Embracing Uncertainty in Financial Planning

42:59 Advising with Purpose and Identity

43:45 Advice for Advisors

44:58 Future Projects and Innovations

46:56 Humans vs Retirement Podcast

50:15 Final Thoughts and Farewell

About Dan Haylett

Our guest is someone who is passionate about challenging the outdated narratives around retirement and helping people truly thrive in their second half.

Dan Haylett, a financial planner and the Head of Growth at TFP Financial Planning in the UK. Dan specializes in financial planning, retirement planning, and life planning for individuals over 50. Beyond numbers and spreadsheets, he’s deeply invested in the human side of retirement, guiding people through the emotional and behavioral aspects of this major life transition. Dan is also the host of the podcast The Humans vs. Retirement, where he explores the psychological shifts, challenges, and opportunities that come with stepping into retirement. With a background in the asset-management industry and a mission to help 1 million people redefine their retirement experience, Dan brings a wealth of insight, experience, and inspiration to the conversation.

Resources

The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement 

https://artisanal-composer-7982.kit.com/f1ce297731 

Give Your Money Away With A Warm Heart, Not A Cold Hand!

https://www.humansvsretirement.com/post/give-your-money-away-with-a-warm-heart-not-a-cold-hand

Healthspan & Lifespan 

https://youtu.be/HeoSDEs5e0Y?si=DHbYAewtkSdmmSHE 

The 3 Phases of The Second Half of Our Lives 

https://humansvsretirement.myshopify.com/products/the-3-phases-of-the-second-half-of-our-lives

Podcast | Humans vs Retirement

https://www.humansvsretirement.com/podcast

Dan Haylett | LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-haylett-retirement-coach/

YouTube | Humans vs Retirement

https://www.humansvsretirement.com/youtube

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen explore the evolving concept of retirement for Generation X. Special guest Shelly McIntyre shares her insights on how Gen Xers are breaking away from traditional retirement models and creating vibrant, purposeful lives post-career. With extensive experience in coaching, Shelly offers practical advice on dealing with change, embracing new opportunities, and building a strong support network. Tune in to hear real stories, expert tips, and a deeper understanding of what retirement means for today's Gen Xers.

00:00 Rethinking Retirement: Gen X's New Approach

01:21 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

02:04 Introducing Shelly McIntyre: Reinventing Retirement

02:56 Gen Xers' Unique Retirement Challenges

06:52 Navigating Corporate Loyalty and Personal Identity

13:15 The Role of Grief in Life Transitions

16:30 Planning for a Vibrant Future

31:37 Finding Your People: Building a Support System

36:44 Final Thoughts and Connecting with Shelly

About Shelley McIntyre

Shelley coaches post-corporate GenXers who want to design intentional and vibrant third acts. After a long career in technology and corporate strategy, Shelley pivoted to coaching, inspired by seeing smart people get in their own way. 

Shelley believes it’s never too late to reinvent yourself and reclaim your identity from corporate narratives. 

Through her coaching, she offers potent insights into change, grief, and identity, equipping clients to navigate life’s transitions with self-compassion. 

Shelley taps into her love of the arts and making stuff to create unique, transformative coaching experiences.

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-mcintyre/

Website: https://shelleymcintyre.com/

Elizabeth Kupferman's "Ladder of Trust" series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yE_Vo8HTTI4&list=PLu8p59ShPS96xgDL1XFr6iYUJo_VTr0c7 

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

Why Financial and Lifestyle Planning Are Both Critical for a Successful Business and Retirement

In this episode of the Real Retirement Show, Yasmin and Kathleen welcome Toni Petrillo, a seasoned financial industry leader with over 25 years of experience, to discuss the multifaceted world of retirement. Toni emphasizes the importance of addressing both financial and lifestyle plans for a fulfilling retirement, detailing her journey from a financial planning executive to a retirement coach. She shares insights on the emotional challenges retirees face, the importance of building trust with clients, and her unique approach to retirement coaching that combines financial and non-financial aspects. Through real stories and expert advice, this episode aims to help retirees transition confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

00:00 Building Trust with Clients

01:17 The Real Retirement Show Introduction

02:00 Meet Toni Petrillo

03:26 Toni's Retirement Journey

05:24 Challenges and Solutions in Retirement Coaching

11:14 Connecting Financial and Lifestyle Planning

24:21 Advice for Future Retirees

25:57 Final Thoughts and Resources

Antoinette Petrillo is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the financial industry, where she excelled in building and leading teams. Recently retired from her role as a financial executive, she identified a significant gap in resources for corporate professionals navigating the transition from a thriving career to a fulfilling retirement.

Throughout her career, Antoinette has been passionate about helping others lead with confidence, both in their personal and professional lives. This dedication has driven her to provide valuable support and guidance to individuals facing the unique challenges of transitioning from the corporate world to retirement. Her mission is to empower others by offering insights and strategies that foster confidence during this transformative phase of life.

Committed to leveraging her extensive experience, Antoinette now contributes her expertise to those seeking guidance, ensuring they navigate this transition with assurance and purpose. She continues to inspire and support professionals in redefining what retirement can mean for them.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinette-petrillo-cprc-cfp-27245198/

Website: https://retirewithintention.com/

Ask A Retirement Coach: https://boomingencore.com/community/people/a3e323c9-7af5-48ec-989b-739ec3173230

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube

In this episode of The Real Retirement Show, hosts Yasmin and Kathleen are joined by Deanne Gage, a seasoned personal finance reporter for Globe Advisor. The discussion delves into the multifaceted aspects of retirement beyond finances, focusing on topics like evolving workmate relationships, family dynamics, loneliness, and the importance of having a plan before retiring. Deanne shares her insights from over two decades of reporting on personal finance, discussing the importance of understanding life transitions, the varied visions couples might have for retirement, and how advisors can play a crucial role in helping their clients navigate these challenges.

00:00 Navigating Post-Retirement Friendships

01:26 Welcome to The Real Retirement Show

02:10 Introducing Deanne Gage

04:14 Unexpected Early Retirement

05:41 Realities of Retirement: Divorce and Aging Parents

09:58 The Loneliness Epidemic in Retirement

21:57 Advisors' Role Beyond Finances

31:08 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts

Real Retirement Video Podcast: Real Retirement - YouTube