By Mark Goldstein
5
3333 ratings
The podcast currently has 84 episodes available.
Pat Nelson is a retired Dean of Education. She served as a professor and dean at several universities, including the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Penn State, and the University of Akron. She is a Christa McAuliffe National Fellow for Education and an Anne Lister diary decoder.
Patty Book is a retired academic administrator who has served as vice president of continuing education and distance education at several universities, including the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Penn State, Kent State, and the American Council on Education in DC. She is also an Anne Lister diary decoder.
Summary
In this conversation, Mark Goldstein interviews Patty Book and Pat Nelson about their experiences living in Fort Collins, Colorado, as retirees. They discuss the city's climate, geography, cost of living, healthcare services, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The guests highlight the community's friendliness, outdoor activities, and the importance of climate action. They also touch on the LGBTQ-friendly environment and the various amenities available for seniors, making Fort Collins an attractive place for retirement.
Takeaways
Fort Collins boasts 300 days of sunshine annually.
The city has a moderate four-season climate with low humidity.
Climate change has led to more hot days and droughts in the area.
Fort Collins is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.
The cost of living has increased, with median home prices around $550,000.
Transportation is accessible, with a robust public transit system and bike-friendly infrastructure.
The vibrant arts and culture scene has numerous galleries, theaters, and music festivals.
Safety is a priority, with low crime rates reported in the community.
Healthcare services are excellent, with multiple hospitals and specialized care available.
The community is inclusive and welcoming, particularly for the LGBTQ population.
Scott Hier
Born and raised in Syracuse, New York, Scott lives in Camillus, a charming suburb outside the city. He comes with a rich worker-compensation background, where he honed his negotiation skills over a commendable 23-year career at an insurance company, specializing in high-dollar claims for a decade.
During the challenging times of COVID-19 in 2020, Scott pivoted towards a new passion—real estate. After completing his licensing in September 2021, he transitioned from his corporate role in early 2022 to focus full-time on helping individuals and families find their perfect homes. His previous experience has proven invaluable, especially in assisting buyers navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.
Scott's journey into real estate began over sixteen years ago when he first recognized his passion for the field. Although initially held back by financial constraints, his love for home renovations and genuine satisfaction in assisting others to achieve their dream of homeownership kept his interest alive. Today, he's not just selling homes but also helping familiarize newcomers with the myriad opportunities Central New York offers, ensuring they understand the buying and selling process thoroughly. Scott, welcome to the show, and thank you for joining us to share your insights and experiences in Syracuse's vibrant real estate market.
Summary
Mark Goldstein interviews Scott Hier, a real estate expert from Syracuse, New York, in this conversation. They discuss various aspects of living in Syracuse, including its climate, housing market, cost of living, healthcare services, transportation options, and the vibrant arts and culture scene. Scott shares insights into the local LGBTQ+ community, the support systems available, and the ongoing revitalization of downtown Syracuse. The conversation highlights the unique characteristics of Syracuse, making it an attractive place to live and work. In this conversation, Scott Hier shares insights about Syracuse, highlighting its vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining options, and the community's overall safety. He emphasizes the city's appeal as a hidden gem, especially for retirees and the LGBTQ community, while discussing the seasonal changes and activities available throughout the year. Scott also touches on the prospects of Syracuse, including new developments and the importance of community involvement.
Takeaways
Are you looking for a place to call home in Syracuse, New York? Contact Scott Hier: https://g.co/kgs/dHsDFsF
https://scotthier.huntrealestate.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-hier-7ab4b3190/
https://www.facebook.com/p/Scott-Hier-Licensed-Real-Estate-Salesperson-at-HUNT-Real-Estate-ERA-100078649444177/
Waldron McGinnis is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He lived in China for six years and earned his PhD from the University of South Carolina, researching high education reforms in China.
Waldron spent twenty-five years in the Pacific Northwest of the US. He developed a master's degree and doctorate in leadership at a university. He traveled the world doing partnership work with global non-profit leaders. For the past thirteen years, he has lived in downtown Tacoma as part of an intentional community that provides transitional housing for homeless people, recent immigrants, and people released from incarceration. He has led men’s work through the Mankind Project and working with men in prison.
In 2023, Waldron received Irish citizenship through his grandfather and, in 2024, retired to County Wexford, Ireland.
Summary
Waldron McGinnis, a retiree in Courtown, Ireland, shares his experience of retiring in Ireland. Courtown is a village in County Wexford, known for its fishing and seaside charm.
Waldron chose Courtown because he wanted to live in a smaller town near Dublin for travel and welcoming guests.
He highlights the mild climate, affordable cost of living, and access to healthcare as benefits of retiring in Courtown.
Waldron also discusses the process of obtaining Irish citizenship and the visa requirements for retirees.
He emphasizes Ireland's vibrant arts and culture scene, with music, theater, and museums being popular attractions.
The food scene in Courtown offers a variety of options, including traditional Irish dishes and international cuisine. Moving to Ireland offers a safe and peaceful environment with high public trust. The crime rate is low, and the country has strict gun control laws.
Research the cost of living and housing beforehand, and join expat groups for valuable information. Set up a bank account and obtain car insurance ahead of time. Ireland is known for its natural beauty, cultural activities, and historical sites. The language barrier is not an issue; the friendly and inclusive society makes it a welcoming place for LGBTQ individuals. Public transportation is convenient, and cashless payments are standard. Overall, Ireland is an excellent choice for retirement.
Summary
Climate change is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a retirement destination, especially for the LGBTQ community seeking both safety and inclusivity. In this engaging episode of "Where Do Gays Retire?" host Mark Goldstein explores various U.S. cities that stand out for their proactive approaches to climate change mitigation. From the eco-conscious vibes of Portland, Oregon, to the wind-powered ambitions of Chicago, Illinois, each city is committed to sustainability while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ community. Mark also highlights affordable cities with minimal climate risks, such as Madison, Wisconsin, and Burlington, Vermont, where retirees can enjoy a progressive lifestyle without breaking the bank. For those considering international options, cities like Lisbon, Portugal, and Auckland, New Zealand, emerge as top contenders, offering charm, affordability, and vibrant LGBTQ scenes without the looming threat of climate chaos.
Show Notes
Exploring the intersection of climate change and retirement, Mark Goldstein delves into the best cities for LGBTQ retirees seeking sustainable and inclusive environments. Focusing on proactive and affordable cities, the episode covers key factors like municipal equality scores and climate resilience. Cities like Austin and Chicago are praised for their green initiatives, while Madison and Burlington are noted for their affordability and safety from climate extremes. The narrative offers a blend of humor and practical advice, emphasizing the importance of choosing a city that aligns with one's values and is resilient against climate challenges. The episode concludes with a look at international destinations, providing a global perspective on retirement options.
Links referenced in this episode:
Summary/Intro
The podcast episode delves into the experiences of LGBTQ retirees living in Malaga and Valencia, Spain, highlighting the allure of these Spanish cities for those seeking a vibrant and inclusive retirement destination. Host Mark Goldstein engages with guests Steve Aronberg from Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli from Valencia, who share insights about the climate, cost of living, healthcare, and the welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ individuals. Both cities boast a high quality of life, affordable living costs, excellent healthcare systems, and a rich cultural landscape, making them attractive options for expatriates. The discussion also touches on practical aspects such as obtaining residency, navigating Spanish bureaucracy, and the minimal crime rates, underscoring the safety and comfort of living in Spain. With personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode offers valuable guidance for those considering a move to these sun-soaked destinations.
Show Notes
Exploring the nuances of retirement in Spain, Mark Goldstein hosts an engaging dialogue featuring insights from Steve Aronberg in Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli in Valencia. This installment of the "Where Do Gays Retire?" podcast offers a comprehensive look at the factors influencing expatriates' choice of retirement location, from climate and geography to local culture and real estate.
Steve shares his experience of Malaga's sunny Mediterranean climate and its appeal to retirees seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle. He discusses the region's cultural richness, including its lively arts scene and historical landmarks. Dave and Jesus highlight Valencia's affordability and flat terrain, making it an ideal place for walking and cycling. They emphasize the vibrant food culture, where local markets and diverse dining options abound, offering a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.
The episode also addresses the practical aspects of living abroad, such as healthcare and language barriers, while reassuring listeners about the safety and inclusivity of both cities. Both locations are portrayed as welcoming to the LGBTQ community, with a sense of acceptance and integration into the broader society. The discussion encourages potential retirees to explore different parts of Spain to find a location that aligns with their personal and financial needs, highlighting the benefits of a slower-paced, culturally rich lifestyle.
Takeaways:
Steve Aronberg
He was born in Nuremberg, Germany. His dad was in the army and stationed there. His dad proposed to his mom, who flew over to get married. He spent all his teen years in New Bedford, MA, and graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst with a degree in Business Administration.
His entire career was with the U.S. Federal government, and he spent his last 25 years working for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He is a strong proponent of equality and was fortunate to spend most of his working career supporting civil rights. He was also fortunate to retire at the young age of 55.
During his career, he lived in the Washington, D.C. metro area and worked in San Diego, CA, for 17+ years. He met his husband in San Diego, and they have been together for 25 years. They have been married since 2013.
They bought their home in Spain in January 2017. He is a Spanish resident and lives there full-time.
Dave Piccolo
He lived as a real estate agent in Indianapolis, Indiana, for 30 years. In July 2019, he met Jesus from Venezuela and only planned to stay for three months before moving to Spain. They got married and moved to Dallas to be closer to his mom. They lived there for just one year before moving to Fort Myers, Florida. When Hurricane Ian came through Fort Myers and destroyed most of it (luckily, their house was spared), a displaced family needed housing, so they decided to rent it. As a result, they moved back to Dallas temporarily.
The political climate in Florida under Ron DeSantis and in Texas under Greg Abbott had become so extreme that he was experiencing anxiety and a general sense of unhappiness. When he and Jesus met, they talked about moving to Spain. Their goal was to move when he retired at 65 (he was 54 then). He started perusing Idealista to get a feel for the real estate market in Valencia. He spent the next six months looking at over 1,000 properties online from Dallas. He came across a property that was the needle in the haystack. It was newly converted into a residence (previously commercial), fully renovated, bright, open, spacious, and furnished with a 200-square-foot terrace. And it was half the budget they had anticipated.
They called the realtor and had him do FaceTime so they could see the apartment and neighborhood virtually. As a realtor, he knew they could not afford to pass this up and wait another ten years. So, they purchased it without ever setting foot in Valencia! They have been there about 14 months, love it, and have no regrets!
Jesus Gallardo Bartoli
Jesus was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, where he went to college and earned his degree in Business Administration and Tourism. In 2010, he moved to Bogota, Columbia, where he owned a Venezuelan restaurant for ten years. In 2019, he visited a friend in the US and planned to live in Spain. Dave and Jesus met in Indianapolis in 2019. They planned to move to Spain when Dave retired in 2027. A series of open doors allowed them to (semi) retire to Valencia in 2023.
Steven recently retired from teaching high school math and enjoys having no responsibilities besides his family and hobbies. He has renewed his hobbies of quilting, cooking, and racquetball. He is currently ranked #3 in his age division in Washington State.
Steven moved to Seattle after graduating from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, in 1989 and met his husband in 1990. They have been together for thirty-four years. They have two adopted sons and await grandchildren, although none are imminently expected.
Steven's community involvement is a testament to his commitment to social causes. He's an active member of their Lutheran congregation and other civic groups. His activism includes advocating for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the Lutheran Church and working to alleviate hunger and homelessness. One of his most significant achievements is helping a refugee family from Syria start a new life in British Columbia. Recently, he took on the role of regional coordinator for Gonzaga University's Lavender Alumni Network.
Steven Chapman, a retired high school math teacher, shares his experience living in Seattle. He fell in love with the city after visiting for Thanksgiving in 1988 and has lived there ever since. Seattle is known for its unique climate, with rain over extended periods rather than concentrated bursts.
The city is also surrounded by water, with Puget Sound to the west and Lake Washington to the east.
With high housing prices and rental fees, Seattle's living cost is approximately 50% higher than the national average. However, the city has a vibrant food scene and is LGBTQ-friendly, with inclusive community centers and events like Pride.
Seattle offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with symphonies, ballets, operas, art museums, and Broadway touring companies. Burlesque shows are also popular in the city. Seattle hosts the Seattle International Film Festival, one of the largest film festivals in the country.
The city has a commuter-based transit system, with light rail and buses, but having a car in certain areas may be necessary.
Healthcare in Seattle is excellent, with multiple hospitals and a high number of LGBT doctors.
The state of Washington does not have an income tax, which benefits retirees, and property taxes can vary depending on the location and value of the property. Seattle has high property taxes and sales tax, which fund government services.
Crime rates vary by neighborhood, but systemic racism within the police department is a problem.
Due to high housing costs, Seattle has a significant homeless population. The city provides some services and housing options for the homeless, but it's insufficient.
Seattle is known for its laid-back culture, acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, and beautiful natural surroundings. However, the city experiences gloomy winters and is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.
In this solo episode of Where Do Gays Retire, Mark Goldstein compares Sitges and Torremolinos, Spain, two of the most popular retirement destinations for the LGBTQ+ community. Mark covers critical aspects such as climate, cost of living, healthcare, LGBTQ+ community, transportation, walkability, arts and culture, dining, and safety. Stay tuned until the end as Mark reveals which destination is top for LGBTQ+ retirees.
#LGBTQRetirement #SitgesSpain #TorremolinosSpain #WhereDoGaysRetire #LGBTQTravel #SpainRetirement #RetireInSpain #LGBTQLife #GayRetirement
Torremolinos has a warmer climate year-round compared to Sitges
Sitges has a higher cost of living than Torremolinos
Torremolinos has better healthcare access and proximity to hospitals
Sitges has a more established and longer-standing LGBTQ+ community
Both cities offer excellent walkability and public transport options
Sitges has a more vibrant arts and culture scene, while Torremolinos is more focused on beach and nightlife
Sitges offers a diverse dining scene, while Torremolinos is better for casual, traditional meals
Both cities are generally safe but experience petty theft due to tourism
Torremolinos has better tax advantages, particularly regarding income and inheritance tax
Torremolinos is the winner!
This conversation compares Torremolinos and Sitges in Spain. Torremolinos is in the Andalusian region, while Sitges is in Catalonia. Both places have a similar climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
The cost of living is relatively high in both areas, especially for housing. Healthcare is accessible in both places, with private health insurance being standard. However, the public healthcare system in Catalonia does not cover PrEP for HIV prevention.
Overall, Torremolinos and Sitges offer a vibrant lifestyle with access to beaches, outdoor activities, and various amenities. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss healthcare, language barriers, transportation, and arts and culture in Torremolinos and Sitges.
They mention the availability of STD testing and HIV medication in Catalonia, the friendliness of the Spanish and Catalan people, the language differences between Catalan and Spanish, and the importance of meeting people halfway in terms of language.
They also talk about the transportation systems in both places, including the local trains and buses, and the ease of walking to most places.
In terms of arts and culture, they mention the presence of art galleries, museums, festivals, and theaters in Torremolinos, Sitges, Barcelona, and Malaga.
Tormelinos and Sitges are excellent destinations for food lovers, offering a variety of cuisines. Tormelinos is known for its fresh sardines grilled on swords, while Sitges provides a range of Spanish and international dishes.
Both places have a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with numerous gay bars and clubs. The communities are welcoming and accepting, making it a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Regarding residency and taxes, Spain offers retirement visas for those who can prove they have the means to support themselves. The country has a double taxation treaty with the US, allowing residents to deduct what they pay in Spain from their US taxes.
Crime rates are generally low in both Torremolinos and Sitges, and there is a strong police presence and a sense of safety.
When moving to these areas, it is recommended to join local expat and LGBTQ+ communities for support and advice.
Richard Jasicki
He just turned 65 in May! He had a Mid-Atlantic Ocean childhood in Europe and the US as a US Air Force brat with an English “Mum.” He worked many years in the UK and California before retiring at 62 and moving to Spain.
He met his life partner, Charles, in 2001 online. Their first meeting turned out to be at a wedding venue that had been canceled and opened its doors to the public—very auspicious! They married as soon as it was legal in 2014 by their pool in San Diego.
He has lived in Torremolinos on the Costa del Sol for almost two years and loves it. Their apartment has a beautiful view of the Mediterranean.
Leo Boni
They wanted a change of lifestyle. They lived in the SF Bay Area and are both tired of the high cost of living, the lack of vacation time, and not being able to shake the feeling that they could not afford to retire there. He is Italian by birth, so they first wanted to move to Italy; they chose Spain because of its weather and infrastructure. They made an exploratory trip to Barcelona and liked it but didn't fall in love with it. They did fall in love with Sitges. They moved to Barcelona first for various reasons, mainly because this was pre-pandemic, and his job required him to be in the office, located off Passeig de Gracia in BCN. When quarantine came, they took the opportunity to move to Sitges. There were several deciding factors, being on the beach, in a smaller town, with a vibrant gay and food scene. Sitges offered them the more tranquil life they were looking for.
He is an Italian citizen, so he and his partner have the right to live and work in Spain. For Leo, the immigration process was easy; it took less than 10 minutes, but for Bill, his partner, it took over six months.
Brent grew up in the college town of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and is the son of a teacher/school administrator (dad) and a successful real estate broker (mom).
On a family trip to NYC when Brent was in grade school, he saw Ethel Merman in Hello, Dolly! This sparked a love of theater and eventually a move to Manhattan to pursue a career in musical theater. Brent has performed off-Broadway, in regional theaters across the US, and on cruise ships worldwide for over ten years. In the late 1990s, Brent left the theater and began working in non-profit administration, spending almost 20 years as the business manager for a Nobel laureate in a research laboratory at Rockefeller University.
A friend from his theater days introduced Brent to Asbury Park, NJ, in the early 2000s when the city changed from a gritty ghost town to a Jersey Shore Mecca for gays wanting to nab an affordable house near the beach. After many vacation trips to Asbury, Brent and his husband bought their first shore home in 2011.
Brent retired early at the end of the pandemic and started a new career in real estate, following in his mother’s footsteps. He enjoys making many new friends, as his mother did, and helping to find the perfect shore home for his clients.
Brent enjoys small-town life. Now in his third Asbury home, he lives with his husband Joe, also a former actor turned non-profit professional, and their mini-Aussiedoodle Dickens.
Summary
Brent Winborn shares his journey to Asbury Park, New Jersey, highlighting the city's transformation from a gritty ghost town to a vibrant LGBTQ+ mecca.
He describes Asbury Park's geographical overview, unique perspectives, and proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. Brent also discusses the climate, which has four seasons but milder winters and longer fall periods.
He emphasizes the strong LGBTQ+ community in Asbury Park, the presence of gay bars and hotels, and the sense of community and acceptance.
Brent also provides insights into the cost of living, including home prices, rentals, utilities, and groceries. Asbury Park offers diverse housing options, from newer condos to renovated older buildings.
The vibrant cultural scene has festivals, music events, theaters, and galleries.
The restaurant scene is diverse, with options ranging from dive bar burgers to high-end dining.
Asbury Park is a walkable city, and while public transportation is limited, e-scooters and e-bikes are popular for getting around. Safety is not a major concern, and excellent healthcare facilities are nearby.
Challenges include parking availability and the need for more hotels. Overall, Asbury Park offers a unique small-town atmosphere with an urban feel.
For NJ State Tax info on Social Security, Pensions, 401K's and IRA's
Is There an E Street? Where?
E Street runs northeast through the New Jersey shore town of Belmar. According to Springsteen lore, the band took its name from the street because original keyboard player David Sancious's mother lived there and allowed the band to rehearse in her house. The titular avenue of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" is also in Belmar.
Mark DeLancey, a man of many accomplishments, is the Executive Director of the Salisbury, Maryland, PFLAG chapter. At 61, he is a retired Marine, a prominent LGBTQ leader, a Triplet, a world record holder, an Artist, a Horror Film buff, a Theatre enthusiast, a part-time gardener, and a recovering Gen X/Boomer cusp baby.
Mark's unique perspective on life and his commitment to the LGBTQ community has landed him in Salisbury, MD, where he has retired to settle down with his fiancée Eric and his new puppy, Ash. His work keeps him active and busy as he plans the city's new pride parade while he tries to find time with family and makes new friends from all over Delmarva.
While traveling worldwide and finally settling in Maryland, his life may be considered an adventure by some, a tragedy by others, and a short trashy novel by haters. However, he is living proof that we all have a story to tell.
Salisbury, Maryland
Mark Delancey, the executive director of the Salisbury, Maryland, PFLAG chapter, shares his journey of moving to Salisbury and why he chose it as his new home.
Salisbury is located on the Delmarva Peninsula and offers a unique downtown area, historical district, marina, beaches, museums, and a zoo. The LGBTQ community in Salisbury is not huge, but it is diverse and accepting. Rehoboth Beach, a thriving LGBTQ community, is only 45 minutes away.
The cost of living in Salisbury is relatively affordable, with rental prices for a two-bedroom, two-bath averaging around $1,180 per month. The town has been revitalized with new developments, walking paths, and community events.
Salisbury also offers arts and culture with galleries, a museum, and regular exhibits. Salisbury, Maryland, provides a welcoming and safe community for LGBTQ individuals. The city has a growing LGBTQ population and a supportive atmosphere. The healthcare system is accessible, with a major hospital and numerous clinics.
The restaurant scene in Salisbury is diverse, offering a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and seafood.
The city also has a thriving theater scene, with multiple theater companies and cultural centers. While Salisbury is predominantly a car-centric city, there is a focus on walkability and revitalization of the downtown area. The city is located within a reasonable driving distance to New York and Philadelphia, providing opportunities for theater and cultural experiences.
However, Salisbury does have some challenges, including political divisions and a lack of a larger LGBTQ community. Overall, Salisbury offers affordability, good healthcare, and a sense of community for retirees.
The podcast currently has 84 episodes available.
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