The Humans vs Retirement Podcast

In this deeply insightful and refreshingly honest conversation, I sit down with retirement coach and former financial services executive Toni Petrillo, founder of Retire with Intention. We explore the emotional complexities and personal transformations that often define life after full-time work, diving into the hidden challenges retirees face, particularly around identity, relationships, and what Toni calls the “messy middle.” From evolving partnership dynamics to redefining self-worth and navigating the in-between, this episode offers both practical wisdom and warm reassurance for anyone feeling unsettled in retirement. What You’ll Learn Why a solid financial plan isn’t enough, and what you need instead The concept of “retiring with intention” and how to do it well How relationship dynamics shift after work ends (and how to prepare) The danger of rushing through retirement's “messy middle” Tools and exercises to rediscover identity, purpose, and self Why curiosity and honest self-reflection are underrated retirement superpowers The real reason so many retirees feel lost, even when everything looks great on paper Key Topics Toni’s journey from financial executive to retirement coach Letting go of your business card and your professional identity The new relationship rules for life post-career Setting boundaries with adult children and grandchildren Rebuilding your relationship with yourself in retirement Understanding and embracing the “messy middle” of post-work life Designing a retirement based on your individual AND shared vision The power of pausing, experimenting, and reflecting The underestimated emotional labour of retiring Why permission, especially to feel, pause, and evolve, is everything Resources & Mentions Retire with Intention — Toni Petrillo’s coaching practice Harvard Online Course: Managing Happiness (mentioned by Toni) Statistics on Grey Divorce in the UK  Stay Connected Want more thought-provoking conversations like this one? Subscribe to Humans vs Retirement on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Visit humansvsretirement.com for tools, downloads, and insights Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it; you might just save them (and their family) from future chaos. Download for free my whitepaper - The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Connect with me on LinkedIn for more insights and updates. Subscribe to my weekly newsletter - The Retirement Fix Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review if this episode helped shift your perspective! It helps spread the word.

In this powerful and entertaining episode, I'm delighted to be joined by podcasting legend Matt Halloran, co-founder of ProudMouth. Together, we explore why podcasting isn't just a tool for business; it’s a deeply human medium that offers purpose, connection, and even legacy in retirement. Whether you're a financial planner looking to build trust with your audience or you're approaching retirement and searching for a creative outlet to share your story, this episode is packed with insight, humour, and encouragement. From storytelling to encore careers, legacy creation to building an ecosystem around your voice, this one goes beyond the mic. What You’ll Learn Why podcasting is the perfect pursuit for your second half of life How telling your story can create a real connection and leave a lasting legacy The simple tools and mindset needed to launch a podcast, even in retirement How podcasting can transform how financial advisers build trust and attract clients Why “giving away your wisdom” isn’t bad business, it’s great business The 4-part formula for powerful content: storytelling, education, entertainment, and call-to-action Key Topics Covered My journey into podcasting and how Matt helped spark it The evolution of podcasting: from radio tapes to legacy libraries Podcasting as therapy, storytelling, and a vehicle for human connection How retirees can use podcasting to reinvent themselves post-career The magic of interviewing clients, friends, and family Building a podcast around your encore career or consultancy Using voice to build trust and deepen client relationships Pitfalls to avoid when starting and how to play the long game Why being proud of your voice is the first step to being heard Resources & Mentions ProudMouth – Matt’s podcasting and marketing company for financial professionals The PodRocket Academy – Free courses to help you launch your podcast Book: Influence by Dr. Robert Cialdini Podcast: Ologies by Alie Ward (Matt’s pick for top-tier podcast hosting) Stay Connected Want more thought-provoking conversations like this one? Subscribe to Humans vs Retirement on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Visit humansvsretirement.com for tools, downloads, and insights Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it; you might just save them (and their family) from future chaos. Download for free my whitepaper - The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Connect with me on LinkedIn for more insights and updates. Subscribe to my weekly newsletter - The Retirement Fix Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review if this episode helped shift your perspective! It helps spread the word.  

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Jeff Brown, a distinguished economist and policy expert from the University of Illinois, dives into the often-overlooked world of annuities. He reveals how guaranteed income can boost retirees' confidence and joy, transforming financial fears into peace of mind. Dr. Brown discusses the psychological barriers to annuity adoption, the complexities of planning for retirement, and innovative ideas reshaping how we think about financial security. His unique blend of behavioral science and practical wisdom makes this discussion both enlightening and engaging.

In this engaging discussion, Tony Taylor, a retired entrepreneur and healthy aging coach, shares his insights on the 7 Pillars of Aging Responsibly. He emphasizes the importance of navigating retirement with purpose and resilience, moving beyond merely financial concerns. Tony highlights how to structure daily routines for better health, combat complacency, and the overlooked impact of cross-generational relationships. With practical tips on strength training and embracing curiosity, he advocates for a proactive approach to living well in later life.

In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode of Humans vs Retirement, I sit down with The Executive Book Coach, Helen Wilkie to explore why retirement may be the ideal moment to write the book you've always dreamed of. From memoirs to how-to guides, legacy to creativity, Helen shares practical insights and soulful encouragement for anyone curious about turning lived experience into lasting written impact. Whether you're scribbling down notes already or just entertaining the idea, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn Why retirement can be the most powerful time to write a book The difference between a book being your legacy vs holding your legacy How the writing process helps you rediscover purpose, identity, and structure The most common obstacles that stop people from starting and how to overcome them The importance of editing, time-blocking, and defining your “why” before writing How ghostwriting and book coaching work (and why it’s not cheating) Key Topics Creativity in the second half of life How to write a book after retirement Purpose and identity beyond work Memoirs, business books, and other nonfiction options Fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome Writing as an experience, not a task Turning vague ideas into a finished manuscript Legacy, storytelling, and honouring your life Resources & Mentions Helen Wilkie’s free gift: How to Write a Memoir PDF and 20-minute exploratory session Email Helen at: helen@theexecutivesbookcoach.com with subject line: “Memoir Guide” Helen’s memoir: Rare Steak, Red Wine, Hot Tango Recommended reading: On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King Learn more about Helen: https://theexecutivesbookcoach.com Stay Connected Want more thought-provoking conversations like this one? Subscribe to Humans vs Retirement on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Visit humansvsretirement.com for tools, downloads, and insights Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, you might just save them (and their family) from future chaos. Download for free my whitepaper - The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Connect with me on LinkedIn for more insights and updates. Subscribe to my weekly newsletter - The Retirement Fix Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review if this episode helped shift your perspective! It really helps spread the word.

In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Stuart Ritchie, chartered tax advisor, estate planning expert, and author of Who Will Get My Money When I Die, to explore one of the most emotional and misunderstood aspects of later-life financial planning: inheritance tax. This episode isn’t about doom and gloom, it’s about taking control. Whether you’re planning for your own legacy, thinking about your children’s future, or simply want to make sure the government doesn’t get more than its fair share, this is a must-listen. What You'll Learn Why inheritance tax is about more than just money, it’s about clarity, fairness, and family harmony The critical role of wills and why DIY ones often cause more harm than good What lasting power of attorney actually does and why it’s vital even if you’re married How to avoid common traps when it comes to gifting, trusts, and tax bills Why talking to your family before you die might be the greatest gift you give them Key Topics Wills and the rules of intestacy: what really happens if you don’t plan The psychology of leaving a legacy: control, conflict, and clarity Power of Attorney: the two types and the risks of not setting one up Blended families, second marriages, and planning with complexity in mind Lifetime gifting and the 7-year rule explained Life assurance, pensions, and the new inheritance tax reforms The emotional and practical costs of poor estate planning Resources & Mentions Stuart Ritchie’s book: Who Will Get My Money When I Die? – available on Amazon Stuart’s firm: www.ritchiephillips.co.uk The Economist & Kaiser Family Foundation study on end-of-life priorities UK Government: Rules of Intestacy Reflection Exercise "What do I want to happen to my money, my possessions, and my responsibilities after I’m gone?" Take 15 minutes today to reflect on this question. If you were to pass away tomorrow: Do you have a valid will in place? Have you named executors and powers of attorney you trust? Have you had conversations with those closest to you about your wishes? Do you know the potential tax implications of your estate? Clarity now brings peace later, for you and everyone you love. Stay Connected Want more thought-provoking conversations like this one? Subscribe to Humans vs Retirement on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Visit humansvsretirement.com for tools, downloads, and insights Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it—you might just save them (and their family) from future chaos. Download for free my whitepaper - The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Connect with me on LinkedIn for more insights and updates. Subscribe to my weekly newsletter - The Retirement Fix Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review if this episode helped shift your perspective! It really helps spread the word.  

What really matters in retirement? After the spreadsheets are done, the portfolio’s in place, and the paycheque has stopped, what's left? In this powerful and deeply human conversation, I sit down with Fritz Gilbert, author of Keys to a Successful Retirement and founder of The Retirement Manifesto, to explore the non-financial side of life after work. We dive into the real questions: How do you stay fulfilled? Where do you find purpose? And how do you avoid the emotional pitfalls so many retirees never see coming? Fritz shares his “10 Commandments of Retirement”, a personal code he created before stepping away from corporate life and how each one has guided his journey. From “Make No Obligations” to “Keep Eternity in Mind,” these principles offer a practical, heartfelt framework for anyone who wants to retire with intention, freedom, and joy. What You’ll Learn Why mindset matters more than money in retirement How to create your own guiding principles for life after work The 90/10 Rule: Why most people focus on the wrong things before retiring How Fritz skipped the “retirement depression” so many experience Why giving yourself space and grace in your first year can change everything How to find (or rediscover) your purpose in the second half of life The surprising power of legacy, contribution, and shared purpose Key Topics Discussed Fritz’s “10 Commandments of Retirement” and how they’ve held up over time The emotional challenges many retirees face and how to prepare for them What it means to shift from saving to spending, from doing to being The founding story of Freedom for Fido and how it brought deeper meaning to retirement The role of mindset, curiosity, and experimentation in building a rich post-career life Why “retirement planning” must include much more than your finances How to craft your own post-career mission, values, and personal compass Resources & Mentions The Retirement Manifesto Blog Keys to a Successful Retirement by Fritz Gilbert – Buy on Amazon Fritz’s article: The 10 Commandments of Retirement Freedom for Fido Charity Your Next Step Want to retire well? Start by writing your own commandments. Define your values, your purpose, and what a great life looks like before you leave work. Let’s Keep the Conversation Going Follow & connect with Fritz: LinkedIn Subscribe to Humans vs Retirement on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Connect with Dan: LinkedIn Leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review if this episode helped shift your perspective!

In this uplifting and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Patrice Jenkins, author of What Will I Do All Day?, to explore the real heart of retirement beyond financial plans. Together, we dig into why retirement is not simply about staying busy, but about rediscovering meaning, purpose, identity, and joy. Patrice shares insights from her decades of counseling and interviews with retirees, offering a compassionate, practical guide to navigating the messy, magical transition into post-career life. What You Will Learn Why financial readiness alone doesn’t guarantee a happy retirement. The emotional stages of transitioning into retirement and why patience is crucial. How to rediscover passions, build social portfolios, and embrace “space.” Why successful retirements often include a form of meaningful "work." How to avoid the trap of being "busy but unfulfilled." Simple frameworks to plan your next two years, not just your next thirty. Key Topics Discussed The difference between hiding out and holding out when nearing retirement. The importance of purpose, agency, and intention in retirement planning. Why internal validation matters more than external praise after leaving work. How relationships - spouses, adult children, friendships - evolve post-retirement. Embracing play, experimentation, and curiosity in later life. Strategies to transition through the inevitable “messy middle” of change. How to think differently about work as part of a fulfilling retirement. Resources Mentioned What Will I Do All Day? by Patrice Jenkins Patrice’s Website — patricejenkins.com Richard Leider’s The Power of Purpose  Book Mention: Die With Zero by Bill Perkins Memorable Quotes "Retirement is not about keeping busy. It’s about living meaningfully and purposefully every day." — Patrice Jenkins "Work gave you structure, identity, and purpose — but your next chapter can too. It just takes intention." — Patrice Jenkins "Perhaps work kept you so busy that you forgot what you used to love. It's time to remember." — Patrice Jenkins "You don't have to figure out your whole retirement — just the next two years." — Dan A Takeaway Exercise The 'What Lit You Up?' Reflection Grab a pen and a notebook. Reflect and jot down: What activities made you lose track of time when you were 10 years old? What hobbies or interests did you abandon during your working years? What would you do with a free afternoon if no one was watching? Circle one that sparks excitement and design a small experiment to try it out in the next two weeks! A Final Thought Retirement isn’t the end of the story, it’s the beginning of a new one. The key isn’t to stay busy; it’s to stay true. Stay curious. Stay purposeful. Whether you're months away from retirement or years in, there’s always an opportunity to dream, to experiment, and to build a life you’re excited to wake up to. Stay Connected If you enjoyed this episode, please: Subscribe to The Humans vs Retirement Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts Leave a rating and review, it really helps! Share this episode with someone who’s thinking about (or struggling with) their retirement journey. Download for free my whitepaper - The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Follow me on LinkedIn for more insights and updates. Subscribe to my weekly newsletter - The Retirement Fix

Join Dr. Riley Moynes, an author and speaker renowned for his TED Talk on the Four Phases of Retirement. He delves into why retirement is more about emotional and psychological shifts than finances. Listeners will uncover the four distinct phases retirees typically experience, from the initial excitement to the challenges of loss of identity. Dr. Moynes emphasizes the importance of redefining purpose and building relationships. His insights offer listeners a roadmap to navigate this transformative life stage with intention and fulfillment.

In this insightful conversation, David Marlow, a veteran leader and author of The Ikigai Way, discusses the transformative power of the Japanese concept of Ikigai in shaping a fulfilling retirement. He shares his diverse career journey and emphasizes aligning personal passions with daily activities. Marlow highlights how discovering one's purpose can enhance mental and physical health during retirement. He also dives into the importance of community and mentorship, and encourages a reframing of retirement as a vibrant new chapter instead of an ending.