The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast: Recent Episodes
Guidance Point Advisors, LLC.
This podcast highlights resources, stories, and ideas for helping Mainers find their own success in retirement.
Ep 126: What happens when the people who helped build a company become its owners?
In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we welcome Thomas Flynn to discuss the growing role of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), particularly here in Maine. Thomas explains how ESOPs work, why more business owners are choosing employee ownership over private equity or third-party sales, and how these plans can help employees build meaningful retirement wealth.
We also explore the benefits and challenges of employee ownership, the importance of diversification, and what both business owners and employees should understand before making the transition. Whether you're an employee at an ESOP company, a business owner planning your exit strategy, or simply curious about this increasingly popular model, this episode provides an accessible introduction to one of the most important trends in business succession planning.
Chapters:
Introduction & What Is an ESOP? – Understanding employee ownership and why it's gaining momentum in Maine [00:01]
Why More Business Owners Are Choosing ESOPs – Comparing employee ownership with private equity and other exit strategies [10:44]
How ESOPs Build Retirement Wealth – Tax advantages, employee benefits, and the role of ownership in long-term financial security [28:16]
The ESOP Process for Business Owners – What it takes to transition a company to employee ownership and what employees can expect [31:43]
Managing ESOP Shares in Retirement – Diversification, retirement distributions, and common misconceptions [41:25]
What Makes an ESOP Successful? – Building an ownership culture and creating lasting value for employees and business owners [54:54]
Retirement Success & Final Thoughts – Thomas shares his own retirement philosophy and key takeaways for listeners [59:43]
Ep 125: What does the Arctic have to do with Maine? More than most people realize.
In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we sit down with Darryl Lyon to explore why a changing Arctic could have major implications for Maine’s economy, security, trade, and future growth.
From Cold War history and Arctic shipping routes to Greenland, climate change, indigenous communities, and international competition, Darryl explains why Maine is uniquely positioned to play a larger role in the Arctic conversation. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead, and why understanding the High North may be increasingly important for Mainers in the years to come.
If you've ever wondered why the Arctic matters to Maine, this episode is a fascinating place to start.
Chapters:
Introduction & Why the Arctic Matters to Maine – Understanding Maine's historical, economic, and geographic connection to the Arctic [00:00:26]
Security, Shipping & Strategic Importance – From the Cold War to modern Arctic trade routes, defense, and infrastructure opportunities [00:07:47]
Greenland, Geopolitics & Global Competition – Why Greenland has become a strategic focal point and what it means for the United States [00:19:25]
Indigenous Communities, Climate Change & Arctic Law – Balancing development, sovereignty, environmental concerns, and international cooperation [00:35:13]
Maine's Opportunity in the High North – How the state can strengthen its role academically, economically, and politically in Arctic affairs [00:49:23]
Leadership in the High North & Building Momentum – Key takeaways from Maine's Arctic conference and what's next for the state [00:54:17]
Retirement, Time & Defining Success – Darryl's personal reflections on retirement, health span, and making the most of the time we have [00:59:10]
Ep 124: What does it really mean to be a trusted adult in a young person’s life?
In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we welcome back a favorite guest of ours, Chris McLaughlin, MSW, LCSW, for a powerful conversation about connection across generations.
Together, we explore why today’s youth are facing unprecedented levels of pressure, isolation, comparison, and mental health challenges, and why retirees, grandparents, mentors, neighbors, and volunteers may play a more important role than ever before.
Chris shares practical ways adults can build trust with children and teens without being overbearing, judgmental, or out of touch. From navigating technology and social media to supporting struggling youth and balancing family dynamics, this episode offers thoughtful guidance for anyone who wants to show up more meaningfully for the next generation.
Whether you’re a grandparent trying to stay connected, a mentor looking to make a difference, or simply someone who wants to better understand today’s kids, this conversation is full of wisdom, empathy, and actionable takeaways.
Chapters:
Introduction & Why Trusted Adults Matter – The important role retirees can play in the lives of today’s youth [00:01]
What Builds Trust with Kids Today – Curiosity, authenticity, consistency, and avoiding common relationship mistakes [04:04]
The Pressures Facing Modern Youth – Social media, comparison culture, belonging, and mental health challenges [12:22]
Building Connection Across Generations – Grandparents, parenting dynamics, communication, and showing up without pressure [19:10]
Technology, Social Media & Safety – Understanding digital life without needing to fully live in it [29:39]
Supporting Youth Through Mental Health Struggles – Warning signs, suicide prevention, and the responsibility of trusted adults [42:06]
Ep 123: What good is retirement if your body won’t let you enjoy it?
In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we sit down with Travis Deabay, founder of Deabay Physical Therapy, to discuss how physical therapy can help retirees stay active, independent, and doing the things they love most.
From chronic back pain and arthritis to balance issues, mobility limitations, and recovery after surgery, Travis explains how movement-based care can improve quality of life far beyond traditional rehab. We also explore why many aches and pains are connected to the way we move every day—and how proactive treatment can prevent bigger problems later on.
Whether you want to travel more comfortably, play with your grandkids, stay on the golf course, or simply move through life with less pain, this episode offers valuable perspective on why investing in your physical health may be one of the most important parts of retirement planning.
Chapters:
Introduction & Why Mobility Matters in Retirement – Staying active, independent, and pain-free as we age [00:01]
Building a Better Physical Therapy Approach – Travis’s background, in-home care model, and helping people move better [03:18]
What Physical Therapy Really Does – Beyond post-surgery rehab to pain management, movement, and everyday function [08:11]
Mobility, Strength & Chronic Pain – Arthritis, balance, back pain, and why movement matters more than people realize [16:27]
Golf, Balance & Everyday Movement – How mobility limitations affect sports, aging, and long-term independence [26:07]
Vestibular Therapy & Preventing Falls – Addressing dizziness, balance issues, and staying proactive before bigger problems develop [32:26]
Retirement Success Through Health & Longevity – Why staying physically healthy is essential to enjoying retirement [38:44]
Ep 122: What happens when the titles fade… but you’re still searching for meaning?
In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we welcome back AmyK Hutchens to explore one of the biggest transitions successful professionals face: moving from a life driven by achievement and status to one guided by purpose, connection, and authenticity.
Together, we unpack why so many retirees struggle with identity after leaving their careers, and how the real challenge isn’t financial, but emotional. AmyK shares practical ways to quiet the ego, reconnect with what truly matters, and have the honest conversations that can reshape your relationships, your time, and your future.
From navigating family dynamics to rediscovering long-buried dreams, this episode will challenge you to rethink what success really looks like and how to start living it.
Chapters:
Introduction & Retirement Mindset Shift – Redefining success beyond career and titles [00:01]
Ego vs. Heart in Retirement – How identity, control, and fulfillment evolve [01:25]
Letting Go of “Shoulds” & Status – Making decisions based on what truly matters [13:10]
Rediscovering Purpose & Possibility – Revisiting dreams and overcoming fear [20:45]
Relationships & Communication – Navigating family dynamics and speaking from the heart [24:15]
Connection, Comparison & Legacy – Social media, presence, and what really lasts [38:41]
Defining True Retirement Success – What it means to live fully in this next chapter [46:49]
Ep 121: In Episode 121 of the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben Smith and Curtis Worcester revisit the evolving world of cryptocurrency and digital finance with returning guest Tyler Frederick.
Since their last conversation, crypto has moved further into the mainstream with ETFs, institutional adoption, and new innovations like stablecoins and tokenization. Tyler breaks down what’s changed, what’s coming next, and what retirees should actually pay attention to, without the hype.
The episode also explores real-world applications, security risks, and scams, helping listeners understand how this technology may impact their financial lives, even if they never invest in it directly.
Chapters:
Why Cryptocurrency Matters Today [00:00]
Meet Tyler Frederick and His Background in Crypto [02:00]
Understanding Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Basics [08:30]
How Crypto Has Evolved Since 2021 [14:30]
Stablecoins and the Future of Digital Money [16:30]
Tokenization and Faster Financial Systems [19:45]
Risks, Volatility, and Investing Considerations [14:50]
Scams, Security, and Protecting Your Assets [28:30]
The Future of Crypto in Everyday Life [41:15]
Retirement Success and Final Thoughts [43:45]
Ep 120: In this episode of the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we revisit one of the most important decisions retirees face: Medicare.
Our guest, Ann Shea, Medicare Supervisor at the Eastern Area Agency on Aging, shares practical insights about how Medicare works in 2026 and beyond, including changes to prescription drug costs, Medicare Advantage plans, and rising premiums.
Our conversation breaks down the differences between Original Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage, explains how to evaluate your options, and highlights common mistakes retirees make when choosing coverage.
If you're approaching age 65 or helping a loved one navigate Medicare, this episode will help you better understand your choices and make more confident decisions.
Chapters
Intro: Medicare and Retirement Planning [00:00]
Meet Ann Shea and the Eastern Area Agency on Aging [02:00]
Understanding Medicare Basics [08:00]
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare [23:00]
Medicare Costs and Prescription Drug Changes [33:30]
When and How to Review Your Medicare Coverage [43:00]
Advice for People Approaching Medicare [49:00]
Ann’s Retirement Success and Final Thoughts [52:00]
Ep 119: For many retirees, the question of who will serve as a power of attorney or executor is often answered by naming their children, but there is a growing population of "solo agers" who don’t have that traditional safety net. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Sara Zeff Geber and Dr. Jay Zigmont to explore how those without children can navigate the complexities of aging, from managing healthcare decisions to protecting their financial legacy. We dive into the creation of the Child-Free Trust, a first-of-its-kind national service that provides professional fiduciary support to ensure you have a dedicated advocate in your corner, regardless of your family structure. Whether you are child-free by choice or circumstance, this conversation offers essential insights into building a secure, independent future and finding a support network that truly has your back.
Chapters:
04:11 – Defining Solo Aging: Dr. Geber defines solo agers as those 60+ who lack children or family they can depend on for support as they age.
05:03 – The Service Gap: Dr. Zigmont discusses the "existential crisis" of finding decision-makers for the 15 million child-free people over age 55 who lack a clear next of kin.
08:40 – Legal Protections: The guests highlight the importance of having legal paperwork in place to avoid falling into court-appointed guardianships or conservatorships.
13:27 – The Risk of Naming Friends: Dr. Zigmont and Dr. Geber discuss why relying on friends—who may be the same age or on vacation—can lead to significant burdens and complications.
17:32 – Child-Free Trust Logistics: A breakdown of the subscription model, which includes document creation, a $999 annual membership, and 24/7 emergency response for medical crises.
20:19 – Intentional Planning: Why solo agers should prioritize senior living communities to maintain social networks and ensure they have access to care as they stop driving or face frailty.
24:00 – Combating Elder Fraud: A look at how professional fiduciaries and trusted account contacts can help protect solo agers from sophisticated scams and abuse.
31:24 – Legacy and Purpose: An exploration of how to leave a meaningful "legacy without lineage" through mentorship, leadership, and leaving the world a better place.
37:12 – Challenges in Rural Maine: Dr. Zigmont explains why retirees in remote areas like Maine must stress-test their plans against limited local caregiving resources.
43:56 – Redefining Retirement Success: The guests share their personal definitions of success, focusing on a "next chapter" filled with meaning rather than a total cessation of work.
Ep 118: Are you feeling stuck in your career but not ready to retire — and definitely not ready to start from scratch? In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis sit down with career strategist Mike Dwyer, founder of Emplana Career, to reveal how professionals in their 50s, 60s, and beyond can pivot into their next chapter without losing all the progress they’ve already built.
Mike brings decades of experience from the private and public sectors and he shares how to outsmart today’s job-market challenges, beat the bots and AI that screen résumés, and use his proven five-day Emplana Career Framework to uncover new opportunities fast. From networking that actually works, to building a personal “career board,” to breaking into leadership roles or mission-driven organizations later in life, Mike gives listeners a playbook for creating meaningful, energizing work in the second half of life.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What’s next for me?”, this episode delivers the clarity, confidence, and inspiration to take your next step — without starting over.
Chapters:
Intro & Guest Background – Setting the stage and meeting Mike Dwyer of Emplana Career. [00:01–02:50]
Why Career Pivots Feel Hard – Mike’s journey, the résumé story, and why professionals feel stuck. [02:50–09:05]
Today’s Job Market Realities – AI, bots, applications disappearing, and how to fight back. [09:05–14:47]
Networking & Connection – Getting in the right rooms, networking for introverts, and building real relationships. [14:47–24:59]
The Emplana Career Framework – Mike’s 5-day workbook and how to explore roles without starting over. [19:16–28:32]
Leadership, Culture & Mentorship – Moving into management, evaluating culture, and finding helpful mentors. [28:32–45:18]
Energy from Innovation Ecosystems – How startups and mission-driven orgs unlock opportunities later in life. [49:51–53:10]
Retirement Success – Mike’s vision for easing into retirement with curiosity and purpose. [53:10–54:23]
Ep 117: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis explore how the principles of improv can help retirees strengthen relationships and find new ways to connect. Their guest, Chip Brewer, has performed and taught improv for more than 20 years, working with Fortune 100 executives, educators, and students, as well as authoring his debut thriller novel.
Chip shares how core improv lessons like “yes, and,” active listening, and making others look good can bridge generational gaps, spark joy in everyday family interactions, and turn awkward moments into opportunities for deeper trust. From navigating conversations with teenagers, to building shared stories with grandkids, to keeping family gatherings fun and inclusive, this episode offers retirees a playful yet practical toolkit for enhancing connection and meaning in retirement.
Chapters:
Meet Chip Brewer, improv performer, teacher, and author. [00:01–02:44]
From Amsterdam stages to teaching Fortune 100 companies. [03:06–07:19]
“Yes, and,” active listening, and making others look good. [07:47–13:12]
Using improv to bridge gaps with kids and grandkids. [13:12–27:25]
Why embracing flaws leads to deeper trust. [36:05–39:48]
Simple improv games retirees can try at home. [44:23–48:25]
Chip’s personal vision for a fulfilling retirement. [49:12–50:43]
Ep 116: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis welcome Jenna Biehn, Senior Sales Director at Dirigo Pines, to dive into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of senior living. Jenna shares her path into the industry and the powerful lessons she’s learned helping families make decisions about retirement living. From the growing shortage of units and caregivers to the risks of waiting until a crisis strikes, she explains why early planning and open family conversations are essential to preserving independence and choice.
Jenna offers a candid look at the innovations and advocacy needed to prepare for the baby boomer wave, while sharing her own vision for retirement success. This episode delivers both practical guidance and a broader view of where senior living is headed in the years ahead.
Chapters:
Jenna’s transition into senior living and what makes the work meaningful [03:07–04:32]
The lack of planning and why families often make decisions in crisis [04:45–05:59]
The looming supply-demand gap in senior living and workforce shortages [09:18–12:44]
How lifestyle expectations are reshaping communities (socialization, enrichment, fitness) [22:21–26:26]
Why planning early preserves choice and independence [27:17–32:10]
Innovative models and advocacy needed to meet future demand [34:35–45:38]
Jenna’s personal vision of retirement success [51:23–54:27]
Ep 115: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis sit down with Princella Seymour—known as America’s Solutionist for the Aging Community and CEO of Complete Elder Solutions—to tackle one of the biggest threats facing retirees today: financial scams. Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Princella shares real stories of fraud targeting older adults, why shame often keeps victims silent, and the steps families can take to prevent and recover from scams. From spotting caregiver manipulation to building stronger support systems, this conversation provides essential tools to protect retirement savings and independence.
Chapters:
Princella Seymour’s Journey – Why she’s known as America’s Solutionist for the Aging Community [03:28]
Complete Elder Solutions – Founding the company and addressing retirees’ biggest challenges [04:56]
Princella’s Book: Everything You Need to Know About Me – How documenting wishes helps families and prevents confusion [06:51]
The Rise of Financial Scams – How schemes targeting retirees have evolved [11:41]
Why Older Adults Are Vulnerable – Factors like loneliness, shrinking circles, and trust [16:07]
The Role of Shame – Why embarrassment stops victims from asking for help [20:07]
What To Do If Scammed – Key steps in the first 24–48 hours [26:08]
Aftermath of Fraud – The financial and emotional toll on retirees and families [30:19]
Prevention Strategies – Building support networks and balancing independence with protection [38:30]
Retirement Success – Princella’s personal vision and planning for her future [45:24]
Ep 114: Retirement doesn’t always mean slowing down. For some, it means stepping up to support a loved one with autism. In this episode, Ben and Curtis talk with Dr. Alexandra Rogers, a retired psychologist and autism advocate, about the unique role many grandparents and retirees play as caregivers.
With warmth and deep experience, Dr. Rogers explores how to better understand autism from the perspective of the individual, how to balance love, advocacy, and boundaries, and how to thoughtfully plan for long-term care and housing. She also offers guidance on how caregivers can recognize when they need support for their own mental health and how to care for themselves while caring for others.
Whether you're helping a grandchild, adult child, or extended family member, this conversation offers practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement for finding purpose and peace in a complex role.
Chapters:
How did Dr. Alexandra Rogers begin working with autism in her career? [04:21]
What does autism look like in everyday life? [11:46]
Why do retirees often become caregivers for family members with autism? [14:19]
What are the emotional challenges of caregiving? [16:09]
What should families know about group homes and other housing options? [20:15]
How can caregivers advocate effectively? [26:52]
How can grandparents support from a distance or without overstepping? [28:31]
What are signs caregivers need mental health support? [32:49]
What does Retirement Success look like for Dr. Alexandra Rogers? [36:24]
Ep 113: What happens when a beloved teacher retires but still has more stories to tell? In this heartfelt episode, Ben and Curtis sit down with Jim Smith—retired social studies teacher, proud grandfather, and creator of the Kenduskeag History Tales Facebook group—to explore how retirement can spark a whole new chapter of community impact.
After leaving the classroom, Jim found purpose by reconnecting with his small town’s past and sharing it through photos, archives, and personal storytelling. From cleaning gravestones to launching a town flag design contest and even helping dedicate a bridge to a fallen WWII soldier, Jim shows how retirement can be a time of deep connection and legacy-building.
Chapters:
How did Jim approach the transition into retirement? [03:54]
What sparked the idea for Kenduskeag History Tales? [09:40]
What challenges did Jim face learning the technology? [18:37]
Who’s engaging with the history project, and how far has it reached? [21:55]
How does Jim uncover and share local stories? [25:09]
What’s the most memorable story Jim has shared? [29:03]
How did the Kenduskeag town flag and bridge dedication projects come to life? [31:39]
How has this work shaped Jim’s identity in retirement? [42:31]
What does Retirement Success look like for Jim? [46:56]
Ep 112: On today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis sit down with Coach Andy Wary, founder of Silverback Strength Training, to break down the transformative power of strength training for older adults. Whether it's walking the dog, chasing grandkids, or just getting up and down stairs confidently, retirees want to stay active and independent, and Andy shows us exactly how to make that happen.
Drawing on his personal journey from childhood to playing Division I football and eventually launching his own fitness business, Andy shares how strength training not only preserves mobility and prevents falls but also supports mental toughness and emotional resilience as we age. He explains how tailored, approachable fitness routines can help people of all ages overcome fear, chronic pain, and self-doubt.
Chapters:
Why does strength training matter so much in retirement? [02:52]
How did Andy’s personal story lead him to coaching? [04:10]
What common challenges do older adults face with mobility and strength? [13:00]
How does strength training improve everyday activities? [18:05]
What’s the right way to start if you have pain or past injuries? [22:15]
Is walking enough, or do we need more? [27:13]
Why is strength training important during weight loss? [29:55]
What does “becoming unbreakable” mean for retirees? [35:17]
What does retirement success look like for Andy? [41:20]
Ep 111: Today’s episode is focused on one of the most complex and emotional decisions retirees and their families face: senior care. When the time comes to consider assisted living, home care, or long-term care, families often feel overwhelmed by industry jargon, pricing structures, and the uncertainty of choosing the right path.
Many seniors accept the pricing presented to them by facilities without knowing there’s room for negotiation or better-suited options available. Others struggle to navigate the differences between private pay and Medicaid-funded communities, unaware of how these choices impact their care and financial future.
Our guest today specializes in helping families cut through the confusion and find the best senior care solutions. If you’ve ever wondered when to start planning, how to navigate the system, or what the real differences are between private pay and Medicaid options, stay tuned - this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!
Chapters:
Welcome, Kaitlyn Cunningham Morse! [2:45]
What are the key benefits of having a Buyer’s Agent for senior living? [6:30]
What are the differences between private-pay and Medicaid-funded senior care options? [13:44]
How can families plan for care in a way that may allow them to stay in their homes? [20:16]
What steps can be taken today that would help be proactive and avoid last-minute (costly) decisions when it comes to senior care? [30:28]
How will Kaitlyn find her personal Retirement Success? [35:58]
Episode Conclusion. [38:48]
Ep 110: Many retirees are looking for ways to stay mentally engaged, prevent cognitive decline, and find meaningful ways to connect with others, especially during long, isolating winters here in New England. That’s where Bridge comes in. Studies have shown that playing Bridge regularly can improve memory, strengthen problem-solving skills, and even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. But it’s not just about brain health; Bridge is also a social game that fosters friendships and community, whether played in person or online.
Our guest today is a professional Bridge teacher and co-founder of The Bridge Teachers, a company that helps people of all ages, especially beginners, discover the joy of Bridge. Whether you’ve never picked up a deck of cards or you’re looking for a new way to challenge your mind, today’s episode will show you why Bridge might just be the perfect activity for your retirement.
Chapters:
Welcome, Brian Reynolds! [2:22]
What are the basics of the game? [12:11]
Bridge and aging. How can the game contribute positively to the aging population? [24:04]
What are some digital opportunities for retirees looking to learn and play Bridge? [33:23]
How can Bridge help us grow as people, outside of the game? [37:24]
What’s one piece of advice for someone considering trying Bridge for the first time? [49:05]
What does Retirement Success look like to Brian? [50:28]
Episode Conclusion. [54:10]
Ep 109: Today’s episode dives into a topic that is crucial as we age: how to balance medications, nutrition, and fitness to live healthier and age better. As we grow older, medications often become a regular part of our lives, helping us manage chronic conditions and improve our quality of life. But how do we know we’re using medications effectively—and not relying on them at the expense of healthier habits like nutrition and exercise?
We’re also witnessing a trend of medications being used as shortcuts for weight loss, raising important questions about their long-term sustainability and effectiveness compared to traditional approaches like proper diet and fitness.
Our guest today is uniquely qualified to guide us through this conversation. She’s an expert in pharmacy, nutrition, and fitness, and she’s here to share insights on how we can take control of our health by making smarter choices about the tools we use—whether that’s medications, food, or fitness routines.
So, if you’re looking to strike the right balance and live a longer, healthier life, you’re in for a treat!
Chapters:
Welcome, Amy Wilson! [2:20]
What are some of the most common mistakes made when managing medications in older adults? [10:41]
What are some pros and cons of using common weight loss medications? [17:31]
How can we work with healthcare providers to ensure we’re only taking necessary medications? [24:31]
How will Amy Wilson find her personal Retirement Success? [41:12]
Episode conclusion. [43:20]
Ep 108: Today’s episode explores one of the most significant challenges we face as we age: loneliness. Loneliness doesn’t always stem from being alone; it often comes from feeling unseen or disconnected, even when surrounded by others. This is a topic that many of us struggle with in silence, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
Our guest today, Brandon Lee, is no stranger to this conversation. He’s an entrepreneur, coach, and writer whose work focuses on helping people connect more deeply with themselves and others. Through his own experiences and insights, Brandon has developed tools to help us combat loneliness by fostering meaningful, fulfilling relationships.
From finding the courage to share our true selves to learning how to build communities that support us, today’s episode will offer practical tools and strategies to help you feel seen, supported, and connected—no matter where you are in life.
So, if you’re ready to take a step toward overcoming loneliness and creating deeper connections, stay tuned. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss!
Chapters:
Welcome, Brandon Lee! [2:06]
Why is feeling ‘seen’ so critical for connection? [10:04]
What can retirees do to form deeper connections at this stage of life? [18:24]
What are some ways to take “small risks” as a way to deepen conversations? [24:18]
How can people stay motivated and patient while trying to build their community? [37:30]
What’s one takeaway for overcoming loneliness? [40:33]
How will Brandon find his personal Retirement Success? [43:39]
Episode Conclusion. [46:59]
Ep 107: Today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast touches on a topic that impacts every single one of us but often doesn’t get the attention it deserves: sleep. As retirees seek to live healthier, more fulfilling lives, getting good-quality sleep is often overlooked as a critical key to success in aging well.
In this episode, we’ll explore why improving sleep quality is one of the most powerful ways to boost physical, emotional, and cognitive health in retirement. We’ll uncover how better sleep helps prevent memory decline, manage stress, and even reduce risks for chronic illnesses like heart disease. From identifying common but overlooked sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, to practical strategies for achieving restorative, high-quality sleep, this episode will provide actionable insights for our listeners.
So, if you’re ready to learn how prioritizing sleep can unlock more energy, clearer thinking, and greater vitality in retirement, stay tuned! We’ve got a fantastic expert to guide us through why sleep truly is the key to aging better.
Chapters:
Welcome, Dr. Barry Krakow! [2:55]
What happens to our bodies when we experience bad and broken sleep over time? [11:20]
How can we emphasize quality sleep over quantity of sleep? [19:34]
What are common disruptions that prevent people from achieving critical sleep stages? [35:49]
Where can people start tonight to improve their sleep quality? [42:53]
How will Dr. Barry Krakow find his personal Retirement Success? [45:14]
Episode conclusion. [47:45]
Ep 106: Today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast explores a topic that’s both deeply personal and incredibly powerful: how to design your life with intention. As retirees, you’ve spent decades achieving goals and caring for others. But now, you have the opportunity to reflect on what brings you joy, pride, and meaning—and to ensure that your next chapter aligns with the legacy you want to leave.
We’ll be joined by a Life and Career Coach who specializes in helping individuals clarify their purpose, set meaningful goals, and make the most of every area of life—whether that’s relationships, personal growth, or even rethinking how we approach the end of life. From uncovering the moments you’re most proud of to exploring what you still wish to experience, we’ll discuss how to live a life with no regrets and plenty of intention.
So, if you’re ready to rediscover what fulfillment means to you and craft a life that truly reflects your values and aspirations, stay tuned. This conversation is one you won’t want to miss!
Chapters:
Welcome, Sherri Parks! [2:17]
How can people begin to design their lives with intention? [15:10]
How do people intentionally nurture relationships in their lives while also staying true to their personal goals? [22:52]
What strategies can people use to maintain balance when focusing on the five key areas in life? [32:56]
How will Sherri find her personal Retirement Success? [42:54]
Episode Conclusion. [45:41]
Ep 105: Today’s episode visits the theme of travel and the evolution of travel since our last travel-themed episode. As retirees look to make the most of their newfound freedom, travel becomes an essential way to explore the world and discover new experiences. But as travel trends evolve, how can retirees align their adventures with meaningful goals—whether that's staying active, bonding with family, or prioritizing longevity?
In this episode, we’ll explore the biggest travel trends set to define 2025 and 2026, and how they can help retirees build more enriching, intentional travel experiences. From new ways to combine wellness and longevity with exploration, to small-group, interest-based trips that open doors to deeper connections, these trends offer retirees exciting opportunities to travel in ways that align with their lifestyles and values.
We’ll also dive into how retirees can maximize comfort and efficiency while traveling, from premium services that offer peace of mind to luxury experiences that make the journey itself just as exciting as the destination. Whether you’re dreaming of a personalized luxury cruise, a journey by private train, or traveling with family to create lifelong memories, we’ll cover how to approach these trends thoughtfully and avoid the overwhelm of modern travel logistics.
Chapters:
Welcome, Jess Rhinehart! [2:40]
How have traveler behaviors, preferences, and expectations shifted in recent years? [7:53]
What happened in the Cruise industry since COVID? [16:05]
How is interest-based travel expanding? [18:36]
What are some of the latest technological advancements or tools in the world of travel? [28:44]
How is Jess going to find her Retirement Success? [34:24]
Episode conclusion. [36:26]
Ep 104: A few weeks ago, we were talking with one of our listeners, and she shared something that struck us. After retiring from a long and successful career, she found herself feeling unfulfilled. She said, 'I spent years looking forward to retirement, but now that I’m here, I don’t know what to do with myself. I feel like I’ve lost my purpose.' It made us realize that many retirees, while they’ve planned carefully for their finances and even their social lives, often overlook the importance of continued personal growth. How do you find new challenges to take on when your career is behind you? How do you keep learning, growing, and staying curious when the structure of a job no longer defines your days?
Our goal today is to explore how embracing lifelong learning and new challenges can give you a renewed sense of purpose in retirement. Whether you're already in retirement or approaching it, this episode will provide inspiration and practical steps to help you continue growing and thriving in this next phase of life. So, if you're ready to make your retirement years as fulfilling as possible, stay with us for some valuable insights.
Chapters:
Welcome, Anne Montgomery! [2:34]
Embracing Lifelong Learning and New Challenges. [23:13]
Dealing with Setbacks and Frustrations. [44:07]
How is Anne Montgomery going to find her personal Retirement Success? [55:49]
Episode conclusion. [57:30]
Ep 103: Many of us imagine our retirement years filled with travel, relaxation, and time to pursue long-neglected hobbies. But for some, the reality of retirement brings new responsibilities, particularly in the form of caregiving for a loved one. While caring for a parent or a loved one can be rewarding, it can also be incredibly challenging—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Today, we’ll explore the complexities of caregiving: How do you balance the emotional weight of watching a parent age with the practical needs of their care? What do you do when the roles of parent and child are reversed? And how can we find lightness and connection even in the most trying moments?
Whether you’re currently caring for a loved one, anticipating that responsibility, or simply want to hear a story of resilience, love, and humor, this episode will be filled with insights and inspiration for anyone navigating the caregiving journey.
Chapters:
Welcome, Mark Steven Porro! [2:45]
Mark’s background and relationship with his mother. [5:38]
Mark’s caregiving experience. [24:19]
Reflecting back on Mark’s time spent caregiving. [38:04]
How will Mark find his personal Retirement Success? [53:08]
Episode Conclusion. [57:13]
Ep 102: Today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast is one that speaks to resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, and how we can find deeper meaning in life, especially after going through life-altering events. It’s a story that reminds us of the fragility of life, but also of the immense strength that can emerge from tragedy.
Our guest today has an extraordinary story. In 2011, he was involved in a near-fatal car crash with a tractor-trailer, leaving him with just a 1% chance of survival. After a grueling recovery process, he emerged not only as a survivor but as someone dedicated to helping others overcome their own adversities. He has gone on to become a keynote speaker, mental health advocate, self-published author, and life coach, using his story to empower people to face life's challenges with courage and resilience.
Today, we’ll hear from him about the emotional trauma of that event, how it impacted his relationships with his family and friends, and what lessons he’s learned that could help all of us find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. Whether you’ve faced health challenges, experienced a traumatic event, or simply want to better understand how to cope when life feels overwhelming, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to move forward with hope and determination. Please join us and welcome Ethan Poetic to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Ethan Poetic! [2:45]
Overcoming the emotional trauma of the accident. [10:53]
What was the physical rehabilitation experience following the accident? [22:54]
What lessons can be taken from Ethan’s journey and how has life changed? [31:15]
How is Ethan going to find his Retirement Success? [36:09]
Episode conclusion. [39:59]
Ep 101: A while back, we were talking with one of our clients, and he shared that there was one area where he felt powerless: his physical health. Specifically, he had been dealing with chronic pain that, despite his best efforts, seemed to impact his ability to fully enjoy retirement. That made us realize that many retirees, while they’ve planned for their finances, social lives, and even hobbies, often don’t anticipate the physical challenges that may come with aging, especially how to manage chronic pain. How do you maintain a positive attitude and find purpose when pain becomes part of your daily life? How can you continue to live a fulfilling and meaningful retirement despite physical limitations?
Our guest today is a sought-after speaker who believes in the power of a good story to help, inspire, and motivate people to lead their uncommon and extraordinary lives. By combining his twelve-year cancer journey with his diverse business, athletic coaching, and hostage negotiating background, he shares his wealth of knowledge on Managing & Overcoming Chronic Pain in Retirement. Please welcome Terry Tucker to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Terry Tucker! [3:02]
Terry’s cancer journey [10:13]
What can people do to keep at positive mindset during physically and emotionally challenging times? [19:09]
How can we ensure that we are leaving behind a meaningful impact as a part of our legacy? [24:58]
How does Terry adapt his Four Truths to someone where health concerns start to play a bigger role in their lives? [38:50]
How can we shift our perspective to focus on gratitude and positivity? [49:22]
How will Terry find his personal Retirement Success? [52:24]
Episode Conclusion. [54:58]
Ep 100: When we think about the world of food, it’s not just the ingredients or the dishes that make it special; it’s the people behind them—the chefs, restaurateurs, and innovators who bring culinary art to life. In retirement, we often have the time and freedom to explore new passions, and what better passion than discovering the stories and talents of the legends and future legends of the culinary world? Today, we’re diving into how retirees can enrich their lives by seeking out these remarkable individuals, learning from their experiences, and planning trips that revolve around the incredible food they create.
Chapters:
Welcome back, David Page! [1:58]
How does someone start their journey to uncover hidden gems and rising stars in the food scene? [7:23]
Where can people go to experience specific food festivals or events? [20:43]
In the world of food, what makes the best the best? How can we find these people and follow their careers? [34:28]
How can people bring the taste of a world-class culinary experience to their homes? [39:50]
How can we use food to create connections with people? [48:15]
What’s next for David Page? [54:46]
Episode conclusion. [1:01:45]
Ep 099: In recent years, we've witnessed significant shifts in economic landscapes, career trajectories, and personal life choices, leading to a rise in the number of young adults returning to their parental homes. These individuals often head back home for a variety of reasons, including economic pressures like student loan debt, job loss, or the high cost of living. For others, it's a strategic move during career transitions or a personal decision influenced by life events such as divorce or health issues. This growing trend presents unique challenges and opportunities for families. For parents, it can mean adjusting to a new household dynamic and redefining boundaries and roles. For the returning adult children, it often involves balancing independence with respect for family rules and routines. The interplay of these dynamics can be complex, requiring open communication, mutual understanding, and a bit of patience.
To help us navigate these waters, we're thrilled to have a very special guest who is a renowned expert in life transition. She has spent years studying and working with families to address the challenges of multi-generational living. Our guest today will share insights on why this trend is on the rise, how it impacts both parents and adult children, and what strategies can be employed to make this living arrangement work effectively for everyone involved. Please welcome Ellen Rothstein to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Ellen Rothstein! [3:15]
What does it mean to have Boomerang Children? [11:53]
How to approach privacy and schedule with Boomerang Children. [22:38]
How can you set boundaries and expectations with Boomerang Children? [30:19]
How are family dynamics affected (if at all) with Boomerang Children? [39:25]
How will Ellen find her Retirement Success? [48:14]
Episode conclusion. [51:05]
Ep 098: A few weeks ago, we spoke with an older client who had managed her retirement planning well but hadn't addressed end-of-life issues beyond financial aspects, such as her legacy and comforting her loved ones. To help with this, we brought in a world-renowned retirement coach specializing in finding meaning and purpose in retirement challenges. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools for a confident and fulfilling retirement, including thoughtful end-of-life planning and its impact on loved ones.
Our next guest on the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast is Dr. Dorian Mintzer, a renowned therapist, relationship and executive coach, writer, and speaker with over 50 years of expertise in retirement and aging. She is the co-author of "The Couple's Retirement Puzzle" and the founder of the Revolutionize Retirement community, providing valuable resources and guidance for navigating midlife transitions. Dr. Mintzer is also a licensed psychologist and thought leader in retirement coaching, with her work featured in major media outlets like the New York Times, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal.
Chapters:
Welcome Dorian Mintzer! [5:00]
How can individuals approach end-of-life planning to ensure their wishes are respected and fulfilled? [14:45]
What should people keep in mind when planning their own funeral, and how can taking charge of these arrangements contribute to a sense of peace and ensure their wishes are respected? [22:23]
What are some insights for people thinking about legacy planning? [28:06]
What are some of the key emotional and spiritual aspects that individuals commonly face as they end up approaching death? [36:04]
How can families and caregivers best support someone emotionally and spiritually during end-of-life planning, and what advice would you give to those involved in this sensitive process? [40:23]
How can we effectively broach the conversation about end-of-life planning when there is difficulty from either party? How can we ensure that wishes are discussed and documented with family members to benefit everyone involved? [46:25]
How is technology influencing the documentation of our own stories for future generations? [59:58]
How is Dorian going to find her personal retirement success? [1:06:00]
Conclusion of show [1:11:04]
Ep 097: When working with retirees, we often face the question - “Where do I want to live in retirement?” This is something that we’ve discussed in previous episodes, but in this episode, we are taking a different angle. What if you could live in arguably the Happiest Place on Earth while in retirement? Of course, we are talking about Disney! Is that even possible? On today’s episode, we discuss utilizing Disney Vacation Club (DVC) to accomplish just that!
We are joined by a Disney Vacation Club Expert who has spent more than 20 years working in the world of Disney and Disney Vacation Club. Our guest has sold over $22 Million in Disney Vacation Club direct and over $42 Million in DVC Resale. He is also a 6-time DVC Leadership Circle Award Winner. Please welcome Derek DeBoer to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Derek DeBoer! [5:02]
What drove Derek to work for Disney, and ultimately Disney Vacation Club? [17:23]
What are 3 not well-known things that everyone at Disney should experience? [25:06]
What did Disney learn from the perception of timeshares and how did it shape how Disney approached Disney Vacation Club? [30:57]
How do costs work throughout the life of the DVC contract? [35:14]
Are there better times than others to buy (especially on the resale market)? [45:06]
Rapid Fire! Quick questions about DVC Contracts. [53:57]
Can DVC Contracts be transferred/inherited and is that a good idea? [1:05:53]
How is Derek going to find his Personal Retirement Success? [1:10:25]
Episode Conclusion. [1:15:39]
Ep 096: We are back! After taking a little bit of a break here in 2024 we are excited to have a new episode to share. Our firm has been growing and as businesses grow, you resource up, and we've been just working on that a lot. Thank you to those who have just stayed with us and are tuning in again today after our little hiatus. We promise we're back. We’ve got some really great guests that we're lining up here.
For today’s show, seeing as it's been a bit, one of the things that we want to talk about is that as we've been hiring people and as people hire us, we've been getting these questions of, "Okay, well who is this Guidance Point, and what do you guys stand for? Aren't all investment advisors the same?" We've been thinking about that a little bit internally, so much so that we put together a little bit of a thing that we call our Culture Code. The Culture Code is really who we are, what makes us different, and then why, so we want to walk you through that today by just spending a little bit of time on our firm and what makes us different, so today that’s exactly what this episode is about!
Chapters:
What is The Culture Code? [2:50]
Rule #1 Make it Simple. [9:12]
Rule #2 Earn Your Business. [11:50]
Rule #3 Solve for My Success. [12:35]
Rule #4 Treating People Like a Person, not a Persona. [13:45]
Rule #5 Owning Your Screw Ups. [16:19]
Rule #6 Don’t Block the Exit. [19:39]
Rule #7 I Don’t Mind Paying, But I Do Mind Being Played. [21:36]
Rule #8 Do the Right Thing, Even When It’s Hard. [22:54]
Ep 095: When we sit down with our clients, one of the greatest fears in retirement is needing Long-Term Care services as we age. But our long-term care needs are often undefined. We don’t know how we’ll age. Some of us do know a bit about how our immediate family has aged and what their experience with long-term care has been, but is that relevant for us?
With our clients, we can roughly game plan whether our current retirement assets and savings might be enough to support one or two people’s long-term care needs. But it’s certainly a guess and it only discusses the financial component of long-term care. What about the burden on my family? What is their role going to be and how should they be involved in my aging process? Is it possible to strategize an Eldercare strategy for each of us individually? So, that is exactly what this show is about!
Our next guest spent 4 years specializing in molecular genetics and data science at UC Berkeley and did all things technical foundations, including biology, chemistry, physics, data science, computer science, statistics, and linear algebra. She has spent the last few years pushing for the early adoption of AI in biotech and healthcare. She is an Ex-NASA data scientist building the future of financial planning tools for eldercare using Artificial Intelligence. She’s the founder of WaterLily Planning, a software that leverages AI to help you personalize your long-term care plans. Please welcome Lily Vittayarukskul to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Lily Vittayarukskul! [3:15]
How does the WaterLily software work? [10:46]
Examining WaterLily’s output, using Ben! [15:00]
Caregiving and Long-Term Care. [24:39]
What’s the future of Long-Term Care in the United States? [37:04]
What is a Successful Retirement to Lily? [47:34]
Episode conclusion. [50:46]
Ep 094: On today’s episode, we venture into a topic that all of us know one way or another, adversity. Throughout our lives, we spend countless hours planning for monumental life goals. We take time planning to carefully map out how we want our lives to play out. But, what happens when the things we strive towards for years, don’t happen at all? This emotional rollercoaster can be especially amplified when it comes to retirement. We spend decades planning our retirement and accumulating expectations, but then life throws us a curveball. Maybe we don’t have the money to carry out our plans, maybe we can’t live where we want, or maybe our health or the health of our family members declines. On today’s episode, we’re going to talk about what to do when things REALLY don’t go as planned.
Our guest today is a self-made entrepreneur who has dedicated his life to helping others by sharing his own story of dedication, resiliency, and faithfulness. He is the founder and CEO of The Adversity Academy, which is a coaching and consulting firm that helps individuals and businesses turn their challenges into opportunities. Our guest has graced several magazines such as Forbes, FOX, New York Times, and Entrepreneur Shark. He currently hosts The Overcoming Adversity Podcast and has been able to share his exact steps for overcoming adversity in his book, Overcoming Adversity: Getting Your Life Back on Track. Please welcome Michael Allison to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Michael Allison! [3:10]
What is Michael’s process to overcome adversity? [20:45]
What is the end goal that we strive for when we overcome adversity? [35:36]
How important is it to keep in perspective other people’s adversity versus our own? [41:18]
What role do other people play in helping us overcome our own adversity? [50:20]
How is Michael going to find his own Retirement Success? [56:18]
Episode Conclusion. [59:20]
Ep 093: Maine offers a lot of unique opportunities for those looking to acquire real estate. Whether you're interested in growing your real estate portfolio, purchasing a rental property, or finding a second home to escape to, you've come to the right place. With more people working remotely, and Maine experiencing an influx of new residents, how is this trend effecting our real estate? For those who already own real estate in Maine, there can be questions regarding when to sell or how national trends will impact our region. On today's episode, we're going to unravel the strategies, challenges, and potential rewards of investing in real estate.
Our guest brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer at Union Square Capital Partners, a firm specializing in real estate fund management. Our guest holds a Certificate in Commercial Real Estate from NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate. Please welcome Tom Miller to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Tom Miller! [2:20]
Introduction to Union Square Capital Partners (USQ). [5:24]
What are some trends that Tom is seeing nationally around read estate? [7:48]
How is property like Timberland typically valued? [15:53]
Compare and contrast real estate investing through a fund versus privately. [21:49]
What trends is Tom seeing around Shopping Mall Real Estate? [33:57]
What has the market been like for second, luxurious home purchases? [37:52]
How will Tom find his personal Retirement Success? [45:00]
Episode Conclusion. [46:50]
Ep 092: We often hear that our clients are sifting through old pictures, VHS tapes, DVDs, YouTube videos, etc., and are looking for a way to keep their memories alive over time, but it all seems unorganized and not coordinated to the people we ultimately want to give these memories and their context to! Enter MyArkit, an online digital archival company preserving the legacy of loved ones and friends. As we live our lives digitally, we save memories to devices, clouds, or social media sites that may get lost due to faulty equipment or careless handling. We all have thousands of pictures and videos on our devices that get clicked away with no story behind them that gives them real meaning and emotion. Imagine your great-grandkids being able to view your life in your own words and thoughts. Well, that is exactly what we are talking about today!
Please welcome our next guest, the Principal and CEO of MyArkit.com, Jim Gebhardt to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Jim Gebhardt! [1:56]
Intro to MyArkit.com. [5:43]
How has the process of passing down images evolved over time? [12:02]
How has digital storage evolved? [16:01]
How does MyArkit address Cybersecurity and protecting client files? [19:27]
What happens when the owner of a MyArkit account passes away? [22:34]
How is Jim going to find his personal Retirement Success? [27:25]
Episode Conclusion. [28:49]
Ep 091: When we sit down with many of our clients, one of their greatest fears is not being able to stay in their homes for the duration of their retirement. So, if that’s one of the biggest fears, what are we doing about that to ensure we stay in our homes as long as possible? We can use our retirement savings to make our homes more age-friendly, but are we investing in ourselves through diet and fitness to do activities to keep us moving appropriately in our homes? That is exactly what this show is about, Using Functional Fitness to Successfully Age in our Homes!
Our next guest, a Naturopath and Yoga therapist, has authored multiple book series and has been published in major publications such as Reader’s Digest, Shape, SELF, SPRY, The Chicago Times, Huffington Post, Thrive Global, and Redbook. She was featured as one of the “hottest” fitness professionals over fifty in Spry Magazine. She is the creator and producer of Doctor Lynn’s Anti-Aging Workouts for Every Body with international distribution. She has also created and produced Doctor Lynn’s Functional Fitness for JLTV.T. Please welcome Doctor Lynn Anderson to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Doctor Lynn! [1:59]
What is Functional Fitness? [11:34]
How can we adapt to take care of ourselves as we go through the decades? [17:28]
Why do people struggle aging in their homes? [22:45]
What should we know about diet and our bodies that can be applied over time? [35:18]
How will Doctor Lynn find her personal Retirement Success? [37:23]
Episode conclusion. [40:42]
Ep 090: One thing we know about retirees is that while they’ve left the workforce, they have many useful skills and want to find something to do that gives purpose and hopefully adds a few dollars to their pocketbook. Almost everyone at one time or another comes up with a good idea or improvement for a consumer product. The problem is most people don't have a clue what to do with those ideas, or that they even can do something with them! So, how do we do this? That is exactly what this show is about, Bringing Your Lifelong Invention Idea to Market!
Our next guest is an award-winning inventor, renowned intellectual property strategist, lifelong entrepreneur, author, speaker, and columnist. He has over 20 patents in his name and the dozens of concepts he has brought to market have retailed in Walmart, 7-Eleven, and Disney stores and parks worldwide. In 1999, he cofounded InventRight to teach others his unique process for harnessing the power of open innovation and the licensing business model. Please welcome Stephen Key to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Stephen Key! [2:20]
What are the initial options for someone who wants to bring their idea to reality? [10:12]
Stephen’s 10-Step System to bring an invention idea to market! [19:40]
What’s the experience for someone using InventRight – what’s the process? [35:24]
How will Stephen find his Retirement Success? [42:26]
Episode Conclusion [45:06]
Ep 089: In our meetings with retirees, they sometimes express to us that they feel lost. What previously gave them purpose in their career was no longer there and they sometimes lack motivation to get up, get out of the house, and embrace life. Questions such as “who am I?”, “What should I do with my time?” and “What next?” occupy their thoughts. So how do we go about answering these questions and finding ourselves in this next chapter? How do we reinvent ourselves now that we have time to do so? That’s what this episode helps answer!
Our next guest had a 37-year career as a probation officer. Since retiring, she has become an actress, author, public speaker, and blogger. She has appeared in television, film, commercials, theater, and print jobs. Her transition to becoming an actress in her senior years has been written about in Time Magazine, the Los Angeles Times newspaper, AARP, and in Marlo Thomas’ 2014 book, It Ain’t Over…Till It’s Over, which profiles different women who have reinvented themselves. Please welcome Lee Gale Gruen to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Lee Gale Gruen! [1:51]
How did it feel (for Lee Gale) that day when she was forever done with her job? [12:38]
What do retirees struggle with around their own personal happiness? [18:27]
What was the journey like going through acting classes with her father? [20:45]
What is the secret to retirement? [31:16]
What’s next for Lee Gale? [42:50]
Episode conclusion. [45:05]
Ep 088: For this episode and we want you to think about the following. I’m nearing retirement and I’ve been working a job or career for my ENTIRE LIFE that doesn’t allow me to be an expression of my true self. We all have family priorities and bills that need to be paid. There are many of us out there that might be in this situation. As a result of working a job that doesn’t provide our purpose and align with our true selves, we’ve had to stuff our emotions deep inside of us to match who our job or career needs us to present ourselves as. So, that is exactly what this show is about. How do we use emotional healing to address the pain caused by a lifetime of misaligned purpose? And as a result, start moving forward as our true selves!
Our next guest is an emotional wellness coach and author of 'Feelings First Shadow Work' and '10 Mind Hacks for Quicker Emotional Healing'. He teaches self-love and shadow work, to show people how to master their emotions as quickly, easily, and painlessly as possible. He’s helped clients overcome stress, anxiety, fear, guilt, shame, PTSD, and depression, and find the real and lasting self-love and joy they've struggled so many years to attain. Please welcome Benjy Sherer to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Benjy Sherer! [3:56]
What’s it like being an emotional wellness coach? [20:47]
How can someone who is age 62-65 go about finding the version of themselves that’s been trapped beneath who they were for their entire career? [33:45]
Is it true that we, as people, have to sacrifice who really are in order to make more money? [40:48]
Why is retirement the perfect time to explore making changes to be more true to ourselves? [48:03]
Is it possible to live with less anxiety and be more at peace if we just believe that everything will be okay? [59:46]
How will Benjy achieve his personal Retirement Success? [106:38]
Retirement is a significant milestone in one's life, a time to embrace newfound freedom and embark on new adventures. However, along with this exciting phase comes the challenge of managing possessions accumulated over a lifetime, navigating smaller living spaces, and finding balance amidst a sea of sentimental items. On this podcast, we'll explore practical strategies, expert advice, and inspiring stories that will empower retirees, their families, and anyone interested in creating organized, peaceful living spaces. We'll discuss the unique needs and considerations of retirees when it comes to decluttering and downsizing, helping them transition seamlessly into this new chapter of their lives.
Our next guest is a Certified Professional Organizer, who, through her adroit advice and insightful instruction, she has transformed both the living spaces and personal lives of her thousands of followers, clients, and students on five continents! Her current mission is to bring order to cluttered desks and overwhelmed minds with her signature course “The Paper Cleanse”. Please welcome C. Lee Cawley to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Ep 086: Retirement is a time for rediscovery and new patterns. But as we age, there may be times that we lead ourselves astray. Perhaps we’re more sedentary or find ourselves searching for purpose and meaning in our next chapter and turn to food for comfort. This might be especially true as we have more time to boredom eat. Thus, on various levels, we can begin to have an unhealthy relationship with food in retirement. So, if you find yourself, a loved one, or a friend in a situation that brings you concern, we wanted to have a conversation about our relationship with food and defining what’s healthy as we age.
We wanted to bring on a guest that has experienced this type of relationship with food, so this show is about, How Overeating was Cured by Climbing the Pleasure Ladder! Our guest is a Harvard-educated author of over 40 Jewish children’s books and is also the author of a candid memoir for adults about how she became an observant Jew and overcame food addictions joyfully and spiritually. Please welcome Bracha Goetz to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Bracha Goetz! [2:18]
What is an eating disorder? [12:11]
What is the Pleasure Ladder and how did Bracha learn about it? [14:31]
Why is gratitude the “secret weapon” of the Pleasure Ladder? [32:16]
How does someone reach the point, either internally or externally, where they get the trigger to say, “I need to change something about myself”? [38:10]
How is Bracha going to find her Retirement Success? [45:10]
Austin, Ben, and Curtis conclude the episode. [47:25]
Ep 085: We often deep dive into many retirement topics including the opportunities and challenges that many of us face, but what about the people themselves that are retiring? If you zoom out and look at themes and shared experiences that shape their worldviews, what differs one generation from another? What about the Baby Boomer generation and what makes them unique from the previous generations that have gone through retirement? Why do flippant statements such as “Ok, Boomer” come about and how do we turn that around? Why don’t we turn “OK, Boomer” into “Thank you, Boomer”?
Our next guest is a co-founder of the website BabyBoomer.org which was built expressly to be Baby Boomers' most Trusted and Ultimate Source for News, Information, and Community. The mission of the site is to, 1) bring Baby Boomers together to improve their quality of life, 2) use Baby Boomers to help younger generations, 3) help Baby Boomers pay it forward as knowledgeable elders, and lastly, 4) change Baby Boomer perception from OK Boomer to THANKS Boomer. With that, please welcome Marc Joseph to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Marc Joseph! [2:00]
Who are “Baby Boomers” and what brings them together? [9:19]
Why is there a dismissive attitude towards the Baby Boomer generation? [17:39]
Why is the concept of being a “Sandwich Generation” new and why have Boomers taken on this role? [25:29]
How did babyboomer.org start and how is it going today? [34:14]
How will Marc find his Retirement Success? [38:13]
Episode conclusion. [40:47]
Ep 084: It feels like in today’s news, all we hear about is artificial intelligence. It drives stock market returns for companies that are utilizing it in their services, it is helping functions such as copywriting and various other workflow items. It can answer almost anything you ask of it by compiling information on the internet in a more direct and conversational answer. If we can ask things of an AI construct, we were thinking that maybe it would make for a fun episode of our podcast to ask retirement questions and see what the responses are. With that, our episode today is, how can AI help us retire better?
Our guest is ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI. ChatGPT is a powerful AI companion designed to engage in informative and thought-provoking conversations. With its ability to understand and generate human-like text, ChatGPT opens endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. Please welcome ChatGPT to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, ChatGPT! [3:33]
What is the history of ChatGPT? [4:48]
What is ChatGPT’s opinion of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast? [7:05]
Will ChatGPT or artificial intelligence ever replace the need for using a financial advisor? [9:08]
What are the biggest fears of people as they approach retirement? [13:19]
Many people fear that social security is going to run out and they will never be able to afford to retire. Is this fear a practical one? [15:50]
How realistic is it that someone that retires today lives to age 90 and 95? [20:11]
We’re interested to hear your (ChatGPT’s) take on aging themes that our listeners should be aware of. Especially, we’d love to get your take on where there are some opportunities and challenges. What are your (ChatGPT’s) thoughts here? [23:31]
How will the concept of retirement change over the next 20 years? [28:40]
I just turned 55 years old, what should I do right now to begin getting ready for retirement? What resources would help me plan for a successful retirement? [33:23]
How can today's retiree use AI such as ChatGPT to make their lives better? [38:18]
We hear a lot that AI is going to ruin our society and take over the world like a science fiction movie. Is this fear realistic or unfounded and why? [43:17]
How should today's retiree define whether their retirement was a success? [48:49]
Austin, Ben, and Curtis conclude the conversation. [54:07]
Ep 083: Lately with our show, we've been going into a lot of purpose driven topics and naturally, our goal is to be tying money and purpose as part of our Practice, but also as a podcast theme here on The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast. Sometimes, we think that we need to lean back into the financial end on this show, and that's exactly what we are going to do on this episode! In this episode, you’ll hear from Austin, Ben, and Curtis, from Guidance Point Advisors, directly as they are going to share with you some of the top financial tips that they are providing in their financial planning and advisory sessions each day.
Chapters:
Take a hard look at your cash accounts. [2:22]
Take a look at your debts. [7:42]
Pad your emergency fund. [10:04]
Fight Inflation. [13:43]
Re-think your stock to bond mix. [26:45]
Be greedy when others are fearful. [28:00]
Consider a ROTH Conversion. [31:40]
Check your pandemic subscriptions. [33:24]
Be careful of what you hear/see online. [36:45]
Ep 082: We all know that life can change in an instant. Picture yourself sitting through an MRI for 30-45 minutes, and as you’re being wheeled out, you catch a glimpse of the screen and you see a mass, a white mass, and the doctor comes in and says, “We’re really glad you came in today.” Your heart sinks. The radiologist has confirmed that you have a tumor on your brain and it’s a 4-centimeter tumor. The sound of that diagnosis doesn’t come lightly to anyone’s ears. You start thinking about how would this news change how you spend your days. What would you say to your spouse, kids, or other loved ones? Would you think differently about your past experiences and relationships? How would you plan your life to maximize your time alive? This is exactly what happened to our next guest. In this episode we’ll talk to him about his current health, how he was able to live focused on an optimistic future instead of dwelling in the past, and how to NOT live a life of comfortable complacency!
Our guest started an Instagram page @culminationpoint in which he posts regular messages about surviving brain cancer, trauma, and lessons learned about healing and growth. As a Regional Vice President for Nationwide Insurance, he understands the value of planning and is doing all he can as a husband and father of two girls to make every day count. Please welcome Chris Gathers to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Chris Gathers and hear his story! [2:07]
What is comfortable complacency? [23:31]
How can we reconcile pain in the past? [34:30]
Where do we all need to improve so that we don’t settle into being comfortably complacent? [49:02]
How will Chris find his personal Retirement Success? [57:02]
Episode Conclusion [1:00:41]
Ep 081: We all have stories we have about ourselves as we age. Stories that tell us we’re too old for this or it’s too late for that. Our team of financial advisors hears this ALL the time. One thing we heard from Michelle Dickinson in a previous episode was her idea of a happiness scale. She talked with us about on a scale from 0 to 100, where 100 is the happiest you’ve ever been, how happy are you now? What sort of things would you like to do that would make you happier? We have asked these questions a few of them said “I’m too old to do that thing I’ve always wanted, it’s too late” or, “Maybe it’s not possible to be that happy again”. These are the thoughts that we tell ourselves and make reality just by thinking about them. So how do we overcome these thoughts to make our dreams and vision of our lives a reality? Our next guest is here to tell us!
She is an energetic leadership coach, cultivating confident leaders who are able to engage, communicate and lead teams with success. She helps businesses and leaders create cultures where employees are loyal, engaged, and where they WANT TO WORK! She’s able to allow business owners and executives to focus on the day-to-day operations while she supports their leadership teams by providing 1:1 support, education, and strategic leadership courses. Our guest has had a successful corporate career at such places as Bank of America and Northern Light Health and now has her own coaching business. Please welcome Danielle Abbott to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Danielle Abbott! [3:16]
What is a limiting belief? [11:27]
Why are we scared of achieving a better version of our current self? [14:18]
How can caregivers talk through and challenge limiting beliefs? [20:40]
How can we help other people overcome their own limiting beliefs? [35:22]
How will Danielle find her personal Retirement Success? [45:25]
Ben and Curtis conclude the conversation. [47:52]
Ep 080: In our practice with our financial planning clients, we see signs of anxiety and untreated anxiety start to shrink our clients’ worlds. They start getting more anxious about traveling to other parts of the world, they get anxious about social situations, or they stop going to the doctor because they might be anxious about hearing possible bad news. There are things that we can do to address our anxiety and help us manage our fears, whether logical or illogical. Today, we wanted to have a discussion about managing anxiety as we age.
Our next guest attended Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine where he earned a B.A. with a double major in psychology and music. After a year he spent the next decade completing an M.A. and Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Nebraska and a clinical psychology predoctoral internship at Indiana University Medical School. For more than the past 17 years, he’s worked at Northern Light Acadia Hospital, a psychiatric treatment facility in Bangor, as a psychologist, program director, and quality improvement director. Please join us in welcoming David Prescott to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, David Prescott, PhD! (2:45)
What is an anxiety disorder? (10:29)
What are some common anxiety triggers? (20:32)
What is helpful anxiety and what is unhelpful anxiety? (26:16)
When does a doctor or patient know when it’s time to use medication to assist with managing anxiety? (35:47)
What resources are out there for people experiencing anxiety? (44:56)
How will David find his personal Retirement Success? (47:52)
Ben and Curtis conclude the show. (52:06)
Ep 079: Our team at Guidance Point Advisors (GPA) is often asked to give our thoughts on the investable markets and what it means for our retirement. On this show, we mainly discuss life challenges pre and post-retirement, to hopefully lead to a Successful Retirement. As we say goodbye to 2022 and move into 2023, we wanted to bring some of the GPA team together to discuss some important topics around the investable markets right now. Please join us for Episode #79 where we have a 2022 Roundtable Recap and 2023 Preview!
Chapters:
Welcome, to the Guidance Point Advisors Roundtable! [1:10]
A recap of the year 2022. [5:57]
Is the 60/40 portfolio dead? [10:56]
Bonds are terrible, right? [15:31]
What can investors do when their Financial Plans get off-track? [22:18]
Should we still be concerned about inflation? [30:48]
Ep 078: One thing that we agree upon is that we are both passionate about really great food. Our conversations in previous episodes have helped us with how to really experience food in retirement. But one area that we haven’t done is how to experience the best of the best foods in our own backyard, the state of Maine! So, that’s what this show is all about!
Our next guests are “The Maine Foodies” - food bloggers that have been documenting their Maine food adventures as a hobby since 2020. The Maine Foodies live in Portland, Maine’s Arts District, and are passionate about supporting their local Maine restaurants, bars, and farms across our beautiful state. They are continuously seeking the best food and drink experiences Maine has to offer. Please welcome Alexis and Erik Dirkmaat, The Maine Foodies, to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, The Maine Foodies! [1:48]
What is it that makes the Maine food scene unique? [10:43]
For someone visiting Maine, what are some recommendations for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? [14:43]
Lobster Rolls! What makes the perfect lobster roll? [17:16]
Doughnuts! What makes a doughnut the best doughnut? [20:02]
What are some must-do food experiences in Maine? [24:01]
Burgers! What is the perfect Maine burger and fries? [27:58]
What’s going on with the beer and spirits scene in Maine? [31:04]
What is next for the food scene in Maine? [34:55]
How will The Maine Foodies find their personal Retirement Success? [42:05]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [46:56]
Ep 077: One topic that we know we wanted to discuss on our show is gambling and retirement in the State of Maine. So far, we have two retail casinos in Maine, one in Oxford and one in Bangor. Also, sports betting is getting closer and closer to becoming available in the Pine Tree State. With some cold harsh winters in Maine and a lack of entertainment options, there could be some potential for us to get a bit carried away with participating in retail and sports gambling. But how do we know if we’re developing an addiction that we can’t control? How much is too much? This can be especially problematic for retirees that feel like they have money to gamble but might be living beyond their means to allow for their funds to last for the entirety of their retirements. That’s what this show is about!
Our next guest is a graduate of the University of Washington and eventually went on to work for himself as a general contractor. He built a solid reputation for years and was widely respected as a business owner and professional. What people didn’t know is that he also spent 15 years as a raging gambling addict, lost millions, and nearly destroyed his family. Our guest is a TEDx speaker currently presenting to college student-athletes across the country, and he’s been fortunate enough to guest on over 200 podcasts worldwide. With that, please welcome Patrick Chester to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Patrick Chester! [3:11]
What are the signs of a gambling problem versus recreational gambling? [16:13]
What are the major risks with problem gambling and who is more likely to develop a compulsive gambling issue? [22:27]
What is the best way for us to help a loved one suffering from a gambling addiction? Is there a “right way” to help? [30:36]
How will Patrick find his personal Retirement Success? [43:03]
Ben and Curtis conclude the conversation. [46:11]
Ep 076: One of our favorite charitable events we support each year is the Energy4Life Golf Scramble. Maritime Energy started the Energy4Life program to help local families dealing with cancer. Each year, hundreds of golfers come together to support the Energy4Life charity, and this year, our guest was speaking to the group on behalf of the Maine Cancer Foundation. He painted a picture of how cancer is impacting the State of Maine but how the dollars raised locally are helping our families, friends, neighbors, and communities. We ran up to him after his talk and introduced our podcast and how it would be a great episode to discuss what happens next when we’ve been diagnosed with cancer and how Maine in particular is impacted by cancer rates. So, that is what we’re going to discuss today!
Our next guest earned a degree in criminal justice from St. Joseph’s College of Maine and began work as a beat cop in Portland in 2005. In 2018, he joined the Maine Cancer Foundation, first as the Community Outreach Manager and the Director of Development and NOW as Executive Director. He's just as easily found in Aroostook County as he is in Cumberland. An avid outdoorsman and studying to become a registered Maine guide, it's not uncommon for him to forgo a hotel room for his tent while on the road for Maine Cancer Foundation. With that, please welcome Ray Ruby to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Ray Ruby! [3:17]
What is the Maine Cancer Foundation? [10:03]
What’s happening in Maine around cancer? [18:18]
What is “day one” after receiving a cancer diagnosis? [34:18]
What can we do to be prepared regarding our treatment plan? [42:50]
What can we all do to help kick cancer in the butt? [53:19]
How will Ray find his personal Retirement Success? [58:40]
Ep 075: The Huffington Post republished an article from Collective Evolution entitled, “The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying”, delving further into how these regrets exist in our lives today but are suppressed until the promise of living no longer exists. The #5 regret on the list is, “I wish I had let myself be happier.” It’s the one with the most opportunity for introspection and growth that can lead to greater joy and fulfillment in our lives. Although it is the last regret on this list, this is the one that rings true as we hear from retirees and pre-retirees on the precipice of taking more control of their time and life. That’s what this episode is about ~ giving yourself permission to experience joy in retirement!
Our next guest is a Resilience Coach, Workplace Mental Health Strategist, TEDx speaker, and published author! She goes first and sees herself as the bridge that helps people get comfortable with their mental health so that they reach out and get the support they need before they hit a crisis. She makes it ok to not be ok and thrives on making a real difference in the lives of others. In her practice, she works with people to help them reclaim balance, their power, and create better structures and routines that help them feel better and in control of their overall emotional well-being. Let's welcome Michelle Dickinson to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters
Welcome, Michelle Dickinson! [3:39]
How can we measure how happy we actually are? [10:34]
Why don’t we live more for today? [20:32]
How do we break through the fear of having a perfect retirement? [31:34]
How is Michelle going to find her personal Retirement Success? [41:47]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [44:40]
Ep 074: Over the past few years, we've had several clients that have kids with special needs. They’ve been taking care of them over their lifetimes, and they wonder how they can continue to provide support for their adult children (or other family members) with special needs when they’re physically unable to as they age, or after they pass away. Many of us may have heard about Special Needs Trusts but what should we know about them and some of the pros and cons of using them in these sorts of cases? That’s what this episode is all about!
Today's guest focuses her legal practice at Rudman Winchell on estate planning and probate litigation. She assists individuals and families with estate planning, wealth transfers, trust and estate administration, guardianship and conservatorship, and other probate matters. She is dedicated to developing creative plans and finding practical solutions to her client's legal issues, and she’s here today to help us better understand Special Needs Trusts. Please welcome Kristy Hapworth to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Kristy Hapworth! [2:32]
What is a Special Needs Trust and how does one work? [9:55]
What is the process to set up a Special Needs Trust? What are some good things to know when setting up a Special Needs Trust? [21:21]
What are some ways that people may use a Special Needs Trust incorrectly? [41:19]
What is Kristy’s definition of a Successful Retirement? [48:20]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [50:44]
Ep 073: From our client base as Fiduciary Financial Advisors, we have some really awesome clients and many that get us roaring with laughter from their stories and jokes. That got us to wonder: what if they were able to take their natural talents of humor and make some money from it? What would it take to be a comedian? For those of you out there that want to learn some tidbits about unleashing your inner comic, this episode is for you!
Our guest is a serial entrepreneur who created over a dozen companies in his lifetime. His lifelong love of comedy led to producing Live Comedy Shows, TV Series, and Concerts; and in no time he opened his first comedy club, Laughs Unlimited - just the 12th full-time comedy club in the entire United States. He built this into a chain of successful comedy clubs in Northern California. He has worked with some of the most famous names in comedy: Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Bob Saget, and Dana Carvey while also helping to develop talents such as Paula Poundstone, Brian Posehn, and Tim Bedore. He hosts a podcast called “Standup Comedy - Your Host & MC” and has written several books. Please welcome Scott Edwards to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Scott Edwards! [2:56]
How does someone start in the world of staged comedy? [17:26]
How do we find out what area of comedy we are best at? [25:20]
Are we all going to bomb the first time we go on stage? [34:47]
How can we make sure we are really speaking or joking with our audience? [46:22]
How does Scott define Retirement Success? [1:00:05]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [1:03:55]
Ep 072: We've had clients in the past say to us, "I love being busy and I have a lot to offer – why not get paid while I do it?". The discussions of consulting, part-time jobs, and side hustles then come up as ways to make some money while retiring from our full-time careers. According to an article at Zapier, 40% of Americans have a side hustle in 2022, up from 34% in December 2020. So it’s getting popular, but what do we need to know about side hustles and how to get the right side hustle FOR ME? That's what this episode is about!
Our next guest's entrepreneurial journey began at an early age. In 2013, he started Side Hustle Nation and The Side Hustle Show podcast to begin spreading the gospel of this lower-risk brand of entrepreneurship. Through the blog and podcast, he's helped thousands of readers and listeners earn more money and start businesses of their own. The site is read by 2.2 million visitors a year, and 30,000 listeners tune into The Side Hustle Show each week. (WOW!) Please welcome Nick Loper to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Nick Loper! [3:11]
What is a side hustle and what are some popular side hustles out there today? [13:16]
How can someone figure out what they want to do as a side hustle? [18:39]
Looking at side hustle failures, what is it that causes the failure(s)? [25:51]
How can someone build a successful side hustle, but still retain control of their time? [33:12]
How will Nick define a Successful Retirement? [41:45]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [43:23]
Ep 071: Over the past few years, we've been hearing from our clients that they've heard about private equity and they wonder whether they should consider investing their own money into these sorts of strategies. So what is Private Equity? How does it work? WHO can invest in it? Private Equity is also impacting the state of Maine. During the past few years, we've talked to many business owners in the state and New England that are receiving (and sometimes accepting) offers from private equity funds to buy their businesses and combine them with other national, regional, and/or local businesses. Is this a good trend or should we be suspicious of these pools of money coming into the State? All of these things we'd like to cover in today's show!
Today's guest is the head of Private Equity in Vanguard's Portfolio Review Department. Our guest leads a team of experts responsible for the strategy, marketing, and investment support of Vanguard’s private equity offer. Please welcome Rich Powers to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Rich Powers! [3:10]
What is Private Equity? [13:36]
Who can invest in Private Equity? Why do certain investors like Private Equity so much? [22:26]
What are the stages of how a Private Equity fund works? [30:30]
How is Private Equity changing today and what does the future look like? [41:06]
What is some of the (fair or unfair) criticism of Private Equity? [43:51]
How will Rich find his own Retirement Success? [50:00]
Ben and Curtis conclude the conversation. [51:22]
Ep 070: We've been having a lot of client meetings lately to discuss how 2022's investment volatility is impacting financial plans. One of the things we're hearing routinely is that our set of retirees can't wait to get back out in the world exploring after being cooped up for a couple of years. Especially for the newly retired! But the world of travel is different with a variety of new wrinkles, roadblocks, and requirements to be aware of. So, what are some tips, tricks, and hacks that allow us to overcome more smoothly some of these roadblocks when they present themselves?
Today’s guest is a Maine transplant, originally from St Louis, Missouri. After studying to be a diplomat, and a brief career as a teacher in Salzburg, Austria, she fell in love with the travel industry and its ability to connect people across countries and cultures. She pursued a Master’s in Tourism Administration with a focus on Sustainable Destination Development. Please welcome BACK to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast for a third time, Keri Forbringer Hetherman!
Chapters:
Welcome back, Keri Forbringer Hetherman! [3:28]
How has the world changed related to travel? [11:24]
What are some possible tips, tricks, and hacks to overcome travel challenges? [16:23]
What is the best way to negotiate airline travel right now? [26:36]
How has multi-generational travel grown as a theme? [31:00]
What are some things Keri’s clients have done to combat rising costs? [39:49]
How does Keri help her clients overcome their “fears” when traveling? [46:35]
How would Keri plan the perfect weekend in Maine for someone who has never been? [51:17]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [54:23]
Ep 069: Disability is something many Americans, especially younger people, think can only affect the lives of other people. Tragically, thousands of young people are seriously injured or killed, often as the result of traumatic events. Many serious medical conditions, such as cancer or mental illness, can affect the young as well as the elderly. What is life really like when something happens to us? How do we reinvent WHO we are and what provides us purpose now that our life has changed due to a change in health status?
At the height of popularity for radio stations and DJs in the 70s and 80s, our next guest blazed a trail for himself as “Kid” Curry. His iconic, “Bed Check” segment, helped propel him to star status in Miami and it followed him during his 20-plus year path to his dream job of Major Market Program Director. Life was on track, but, Multiple Sclerosis had other plans. Our guest dismissed the early signs of the disease and continued with his optimistic outlook until a fateful round of golf led to the diagnosis that halted a lifelong career and extinguished his dreams. Here to tell his story is Kim “Kid” Curry!
Chapters:
Welcome, Kim “Kid” Curry! [3:00]
What was the progression of Kid’s career in radio? [11:37]
What led to Kid’s sudden retirement and how did Kid approach it? [22:45]
How did Kid and his wife work to recompose their roles in the relationship after Kid’s retirement? [35:14]
What was Kid’s pivot from radio to writing like? [51:00]
How is Kid defining and living his Successful Retirement? [1:00:34]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [1:06:32]
Ep 068: In its most basic sense, a blended family is one where the parents have children from previous relationships, but all the members come together as one unit. Consider the statistics: Roughly 17% of people remarry after a divorce or the death of their first spouse, according to the Census Bureau. Adults who remarry later in life are more likely to bring significant assets to the new union, in the form of retirement savings, brokerage accounts, life insurance policies, and real estate. Understanding the basics of a blended family can be essential for ensuring your family can embrace its strengths and work through its differences. Many blended families successfully overcome these difficulties and become strong, supportive family units for every member. But how?
That's what our guest is here to share! She offers family and relationship coaching services as the founder of Talk To Nicole. Specializing in blended family dynamics, Talk To Nicole helps clients to achieve the life they want by building strong relationships and planning for a brighter future. She is the author of multiple books including Blended to Perfection, Dating Made Simple For Women, and the international best-sellers, Mom's Who Boss Up -Post Pandemic, and Cracking the Rich Code Vol 7. Please welcome Nicole Odom-Hardnett to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Nicole Odom-Hardnett! [4:06]
Nicole’s own experience with a Blended Family. [7:50]
What to do, and not to do, in the early stages of blending families. [22:38]
When blending families, what should people keep in mind regarding their assets, both today and in the future (estate planning)? [39:39]
What is Nicole’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [51:54]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [53:26]
Ep 067: The abuse of prescription opioids is a serious national crisis. While the opioid epidemic has been declared a national public health emergency, in Maine the situation is particularly alarming: Our state’s rate of opioid-related overdose deaths is among the highest in the country. As you may know from listening to our show, we attempt to find experts that look to provide solutions to real problems that our clients face or may face in retirement. So what do we do when our child, grandchild, spouse, or loved one becomes addicted to substances? How do we live with ourselves when a loved one commits suicide?
When our next guest's son Keven begged her for permission to die, she refused. Keven had spent half his life struggling with addiction while his single mom battled courts, health care companies, rehab facilities, and mental health professionals in an effort to protect him. As their relationship strained and his drug use progressed, she was forced to accept and love Keven as he was in their limited time together—two years before his suicide. In her book, "Keven's Choice: A Mother's Journey Through Her Son's Mental Illness, Addiction and Suicide," she tells the story of trying to navigate the dark worlds of her son’s substance use and depression while also addressing her complicated guilt and regret over how she handled it. In the process, she shines a light on the hidden anguish of countless parents taking care of children that society tells them to abandon. Please welcome Barbara Legere to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Barbara Legere! [3:24]
When did Barbara start to see signs of mental illness in Keven? [10:12]
Does tough love work in a situation like Keven’s? [19:39]
How do you manage money in a situation like Keven’s? Does the money help or cause more harm? [27:14]
What kind of barriers did the stigma against mental illness and addiction cause for Keven? [38:41]
What does Barbara think Keven’s lasting legacy is on this world? [49:09]
Ben and Curtis highlight the conversation. [57:56]
Ep 066: It’s time to part with our things, or with a relative's things! How do we get the most value from them? What about the collections that we've obsessed over during our lives, what should we do with those? Isn't that why people have estate sales, to just get rid of things all at once? We decided to seek out an expert in the vintage and antique marketplace to share the tips and tricks we can all use to get the most value from our things. That's the premise of today's show!
In 1988 our guest set off on an antique odyssey. From 1990 to 1998, he and his business partner Jeffrey Nelson operated The Wrigleyville Antique Mall (WAM), one of the first modern multi-dealer vintage stores in Chicago. He then wrote “Selling Dead People’s Things” which documents a slice of those early years of vintage retailing. Today, our guest is an owner of The Broadway Antique Market, home to 75 top dealers. It’s Chicago’s largest multi-dealer shopping destination. Please welcome, Duane Scott Cerny to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Duane Scott Cerny! [1:51]
How should we pre-plan our things in our wills and trusts, or other people’s things that we have inherited, that will allow us to get the most value for them? [14:45]
What are some issues with estate sales, and what can be done to improve them? [27:43]
What resources can people use to get better educated on selling their things and finding out if they have something of value? [32:25]
How have collections performed as an investment for those who have them? [39:31]
What are some items that may surprise people with their value? [51:36]
How will Duane define his personal Retirement Success? [55:00]
Ben and Curtis conclude the conversation. [58:52]
Ep 065: Today we turn 65! What's one thing that every retiree is eligible for when they reach age 65? Medicare, right? Of course, we had to wait for our podcast to be Medicare eligible BEFORE we'd do a Medicare episode. So how do we access Medicare? What are the steps to applying? What are the influences of paying more or less for the benefit? How do we access Medicare as we age? How do I find the right mixture of Medicare coverages for me? What mistakes do people make when on Medicare? That's the premise of today's show!
Our next guest helps educate the public on how to maximize their Medicare benefits. She is the Community Services Manager at Eastern Area Agency on Aging. She's worked at EAAA since 2018. Before coming to EAAA, she spent 13 years working in the Mental Health field. She strongly believes in EAAA's mission and the work they do within the 4 counties they serve within the State of Maine. Please welcome Jami Aleksiev to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Jami Aleksiev! [2:07]
What is the “experience” of claiming Medicare benefits? [6:41]
What are the differences between Part A, Part B, Part C, Part D, and Medigap coverages? How do I know which coverage(s) I need? [15:40]
What questions should people be asking about Medicare? [26:04]
How do people adapt their coverage as they age or as their medical needs change? [28:24]
What has Jami’s experience been, with Mainers, regarding out-of-pocket healthcare costs in Retirement? [41:24]
What are common mistakes people make when they are new to claiming Medicare benefits? [44:20]
What will a Successful Retirement look like for Jami? [45:43]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [48:27]
One thing that we have been discussing a lot with our clients recently is, inflation. As we retire and we think we have so much money to live on and all of a sudden, our cost of living becomes higher and higher. What should we be doing to shore up our financial plan and our portfolio? What are some things that we should be thinking about? In today’s show, we want to take time to better understand inflation.
Our next guest is an Investment Consultant with our team, Guidance Point Advisors. In his 27 years in the financial services industry, he’s provided capital market expertise to some of the world’s largest money management institutions. Over the course of his career, he's transacted in multiple types of fixed income securities, and securitized US treasuries, agencies, corporates, and municipals. Prior to joining Guidance Point Advisors, he spent fifteen (15) years at Goldman Sachs, six (6) years as a director at Deutsche Bank, and six (6) years as a managing director at Nomura Securities. Please welcome our colleague, Chris Del Col to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Chris Del Col! [2:19]
What are the larger impacts that inflation will have on our lives and financial assets? [8:06]
What are the pros and cons of inflation/deflation? [15:42]
How does the supply of money impact inflation? [19:36]
How has inflation been impacting stocks and bonds in 2022? [31:04]
What’s been the history of rising inflation impacting stocks and bonds? [39:34]
How will Chris find his personal Retirement Success? [46:39]
Ben and Curtis discuss the conversation. [48:42]
Ep 063: The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. Gratitude is a way for people to appreciate what they have instead of always reaching for something new in the hopes it will make them happier or thinking they can't feel satisfied until every physical and material need is met. Gratitude helps people refocus on what they have instead of what they lack. And, although it may feel contrived at first, this mental state grows stronger with use and practice.
Our next guest practices gratitude every day. He is a husband, father and successful salesman who has worked in the financial services industry for nearly 20 years. The Cincinnati native is also living with kidney cancer. He was first diagnosed in 2015, but after one of his kidneys was removed, doctors told him he was cancer-free. Then, in late 2018, the cancer returned, and the biopsied tumor was malignant. Since then, he started a blog to track his journey and inspire others. His disease has taught him that how you respond to situations you face defines who you are. Please welcome Matt Moran to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Matt Moran! [4:45]
Matt’s journey with cancer. [9:02]
What is the meaning of G-R-A-T-I-T-U-D-E to Matt? [18:13]
How does being more grateful improve our relationships? [27:32]
What are the Four Houses of Health? [33:45]
What are Matt’s thoughts on practicing gratitude in a comparative way? [44:28]
Why is making amends so important to the practice of gratitude? [48:49]
How will gratitude continue to shape Matt’s life and his retirement? [52:13]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [58:49]
Ep 062: Currently, more than 29,000 people in Maine are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and over 46,000 caregivers provide 68,000,000 hours in unpaid care. Dementia caregivers are providing 20% more care than in 2009. Alzheimer's and dementia deaths have increased by 16% during the COVID-19 pandemic. (alz.org/facts) Some of our long-time listeners of the podcast might remember we had an AWESOME conversation in EPISODE #8 with Dr. Cliff Singer of Northern Light Health Acadia Hospital breaking down what is "normal" cognitive decline versus something more serious. But what about Alzheimer's specifically? And what's happening with Alzheimer's in the State of Maine?
Our next guest serves as the Program Manager for the Maine Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. She holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Social Work from Temple University and has held previous leadership roles with Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, Lehigh Valley Aging in Place Coalition, Catholic Charities, United Way, and CarePatrol. Please welcome Amy Angelo to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Amy Angelo! [3:29]
What is Alzheimer’s and what is its relationship with Dementia, Parkinson’s, or Lewy Body Dementia? [16:48]
What’s the best way to start a conversation with our loved ones about seeing a concern in their brain health? [22:14]
What should caregivers know about understanding and responding to dementia related behaviors? How can caregivers arm themselves with this knowledge? [28:13]
What are some things we can do today to help prevent developing Alzheimer’s and what’s out there on the horizon for treatment? [40:48]
How is Amy going to find her personal Retirement Success? [45:45]
Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [47:46]
Ep 061: A few months back, one of our clients that we work with in our practice lost her husband after sudden cognitive decline. It was terrible, but also now, she, the spouse has been completely lost. She is trying to figure out her place in the world and has expressed to us that taking on everything her husband did is leaving her continually overwhelmed. She's questioned, how is it possible to find out who she is without her husband? The majority of her adult life has been made up of being in this relationship with someone she loves more than anything.
So how common is this occurrence of losing our spouse? According to US Census numbers, 40% of women and 13% of men aged 65 or older have lost their spouses. Our next guest is a lifelong New Yorker and entrepreneur who loves music, art, travel, and adventures. Her husband, David, and she were together 25 years, married for 20 of them. On October 12th, 2015, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer – life expectancy, 6 weeks to 4 months. Together, they learned to live fearlessly in the face of death itself.
Saturday, September 10th, 2016, without pain or fear, David took his last four breaths, and she was a widow. What did it mean to be a widow, though? It’s impossible to prepare for such a loss. She was isolated and lonely but could not find resources to solve how to reconnect, get back to work and open up to love again - so she created them. She began BadWidow.com and it resonated with people who had suffered a loss too. Our guest is now a grief resilience coach, #1 bestselling author on Amazon, global speaker, and Affluence Code® consultant. Her recently published #1 bestselling book, The Bad Widow Guide to Life After Loss: Moving Through Grief to Live and Love Again is now available on Amazon, and she also has a free 3-video mini-series supplement to her book and ongoing grief resilience tips. Please welcome Alison Pena to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Alison Pena! [3:14]
Why does Alison call herself a Bad Widow? [14:35]
What did Alison learn about living fearlessly as David was fighting his cancer? [20:40]
How can we handle depression, fear, anger, grief, etc., after suffering the loss of a spouse? [26:49]
What steps did Alison take to rejoin life again after she lost her husband? [36:02]
What does it mean to make better distinctions as someone reinvents themselves after a loss? [47:12]
How is Alison going to find her own Retirement Success? [55:42]
Ben and Curtis look back on the conversation. [57:46]
Ep 060: One thing that we hear all the time from our clients – “You know what? I could write a book!”
And we will add, our clients are great storytellers! They've lived many interesting lives and can weave their experiences into story ideas that are very compelling. BUT many of us have never written before! Where would we start? What are some things that novice writers do that get us stuck? What things SHOULD we know before we go down this road? Well, that's the premise for this show..."HOW TO WRITE YOUR BOOK AND GET PUBLISHED!"
Our next guest is an award-winning investigative journalist and novelist, he is the author of 21 books and more than 4,000 articles. He also served as the senior speechwriter (wrote 232 speeches) and consultant to a guy who served two terms as Mayor of Los Angeles. Additionally, he was the Executive Editor of one of the largest business magazines in the US, and for several years he worked as the Publishing Director for a series of health books. He has successfully negotiated publishing contracts in 15 countries. He is also the co-founder of Sixty Degrees Publishing. Our guest enjoys sharing his passion for telling stories about the sometimes inspirational, sometimes illegal, but always compelling things that people do.
His newest novel, GODS OF OUR TIME: A Paris Love Story, recently won the Best International Novel of the Year award from the Book Publicists of South California. He has written for the L.A. Times, N.Y. Times, and Reader's Digest, and he and he has been featured on CBS, NBC, ABC, 20/20, the Oxygen Channel, HBO, and more than 150 radio stations nationwide. He has worked as a freelance writer and editor for several years and now serves as CEO of Sixty Degrees Publishing, which offers an author-friendly environment 'where art and literature meet'. He loves working with authors to help them write, publish, and promote their work. Please welcome Michael Bowker to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Michael Bowker! [3:00]
What are the right steps to take when starting your writing journey? [15:55]
What things lead novice writers to get stuck? [20:25]
What if I have a great story in my head, but I can’t develop the skills to write? How can I get my story told? [27:20]
What if my writing has some commercial success? What does a publicity tour for writing look like? [35:43]
What is the process of turning a story you’ve written into a television series or movie? How is ownership of your work affected? [43:47]
How do we go about writing our own life (or someone else’s) story? [49:36]
How will Michael find his personal Retirement Success? [57:49]
Ben and Curtis discuss the episode. [1:01:52]
Ep 059: When working with retirees like as do, we know that one thing our clients generally like to do as a special treat is to go out to eat at restaurants, right? Sometimes we might have a local haunt that we visit routinely, say on a Friday or Saturday night to break up the week. Food is a big deal in our lives, not just from the enjoyment of the food itself, but also a gathering place for families to share stories and their lives. So, we wanted to have a show to not only talk about this big part of our lives that we all enjoy but how can we elevate it? How can we experience food better when dining out? What about doing a better job of finding the best places to eat for us as we vacation?
Our next guest is a two-time Emmy winner and changed the world of food television by creating, developing, and executive-producing the groundbreaking show "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Creating Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and hands-on producing its first eleven seasons took him deep into the world of American food—its vast variations, its history, its evolution, and especially the dedicated cooks and chefs keeping it vibrant. His next series, the syndicated Beer Geeks, dove deep into the intersection of great beer and great food. It is those experiences, that education, and the discovery of little-known stories and facts that led him to dig even deeper and tie the strands together in his new book, "Food Americana." Please welcome David Page to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, David Page! [2:15]
How did David come up with the show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”? [11:22]
What can the retiree population do better when eating out? [17:41]
How can someone find spots to go eat that they may not know about yet? [23:21]
How can someone elevate their vacation food experience? [30:49]
What are David’s top-five places to experience the best food? [38:53]
What is David’s food experience with the state of Maine? [53:28]
How will David find his personal Retirement Success one day? [57:43]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation [1:00:27]
Ep 058: So far in our show, we've uncovered the theme that there are many things that brings our lives fulfillment. One thing we consider as we discuss our own mortality is our legacy, right? What have we changed or made better? Sometimes our work is our legacy. Sometimes our volunteer work. Sometimes it's the family bonds and memories. But another way to build a legacy is to use our savings during or after our lives to give to a charity that can impact others' lives. There are countless worthy nonprofits and charities out there. So what should we know about finding which charity is the best match for our values and dollars? WHEN should I give to charity? HOW & HOW MUCH should we give them?
Our next guest is a Vice President and charitable planning consultant for Fidelity Charitable®, an independent public charity that has helped donors support more than 328,000 nonprofit organizations with $51 billion in grants. In his role, he is a premier resource on charitable planning for advisors and their clients in the Northeast area. He educates advisors on current charitable planning trends and strategies, along with leveraging the benefits of Fidelity Charitable’s donor-advised fund program, to help philanthropic clients give more to the charities they support. Please welcome Glenn Garbutt to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Glenn Garbutt! [2:54]
Why do people give charitably? [9:51]
How can someone identify which causes are important to them and what impact their donation is going to have? How can they figure out the best place for them to give? [16:52]
How do people today give to charity (from an asset perspective)? [31:00]
What are Donor Advised Funds and when did they come about? [37:39]
Many scenarios can immediately influence someone’s liquid wealth – what are some planning considerations for these types of scenarios? [46:39]
How is Glenn going to find his personal Retirement Success? [52:53]
Ben and Curtis wrap-up the conversation [55:37]
Ep 057: What should we know about HOW mental health issues present themselves, how should we identify them in ourselves or others, how do we field a successful team around someone we love that needs help, and what does the future look like for those aging with a brain health issue?
Our next guest is an author and elite-level NCAA Basketball coach. She received a BA from Northwestern University and an MBA from Auburn University and has coached at Maine, Michigan State, and Duke, making National Coach of the Year 2005, and winning numerous championships at all three schools. She is the only coach in history to win Coach of the Year in four different conferences. An advocate for mental health and melanoma, she is also a wife, and mom of two, Maddie and Jack. She has extensive media experience, on radio shows and podcasts, and has provided color commentary for four years in the WNBA.
In her book, "Secret Warrior: A Coach and Fighter, On and Off the Court", she's written a compelling memoir following her own mental health journey through the realities and challenges within the sports world. Using the recurring theme of "faith over fear" to reduce the stigma associated with impaired mental health and encourage those suffering from mental health issues to reach out to coaches, student-athletes, and to all people across the world- she offers real direction, experiences, and personal stories to teach and reassure those adversely affected by the dynamics of the mind and body experience. Motivational and heartfelt, Secret Warrior drives home the need for more education, stories, action, and an overall change to the narrative about brain health. Please welcome Joanne P. McCallie - (Coach P as her players refer to her!) to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Joanne P. McCallie (Coach P)! [3:02]
What does it mean to have a mood disorder? [16:07]
Would today’s day and age change how Coach P’s diagnosis was approached? [26:59]
Looking back at Coach P’s first Manic Episode (1995), how would that experience differ if it were to occur today? [36:35]
What has Coach P learned from her recent “Pivot” and what’s next? [41:43]
How can someone with a mental illness build a winning team around them? [46:22]
How will Coach P find her own Retirement Success? [54:48]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [56:23]
Ep 056: Today's topic is something we have touched on here and there within our podcast - Cognitive Decline as we age. We think it’s something almost everyone worries about as we age - for our spouse and ourselves! So recently, our connections at Vanguard shared with us a new Vanguard whitepaper – "The Risk of Cognitive Decline: Investors' perception and preparation". It really addresses a lot of questions that we hear daily from clients and our listeners of this show.
Today's guest is a Senior Investment Strategist with the Vanguard Investment Strategy Group. She has a B.A. in sociology from the University of the Philippines Los Banos, an M.A. and Ph.D. in sociology and demography from The Pennsylvania State University and was a postdoctoral fellow at the Carolina Population Center. She also authored the before mentioned whitepaper – “The Risk of Cognitive Decline: Investors' perception and preparation”, please welcome Anna Madamba, Ph.D. to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Anna Madamba! [2:22]
How is cognitive decline defined? [10:25]
How do investors perceive their risk of cognitive decline? [16:56]
Who is likely to be named an agent in the event of cognitive decline? [21:16]
When should someone transfer control over their affairs? [33:16]
How should DIYers structure the management of their financial assets in the event that they experience a decline? [50:53]
What is Anna’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [1:00:10]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [1:02:26]
Ep 055: As Financial Advisors, we are very frequently asked to give our thoughts on the investable markets and what it means for our retirement. While our show mainly discusses life challenges pre and post-retirement, we wanted to share a bit of our team's expertise on how investments and financial movements may be impacting your retirement directly or indirectly from the events of 2021. Join us for Episode #55 where we have a 2021 Roundtable Recap with some of the team at Guidance Point Advisors!
Chapters:
A look back at 2021. [4:37]
What is next for 2022? [13:30]
What is resonating most with clients right now? [22:10]
Why are clients hiring us right now? [31:15]
Ep 054: Has there ever been a time in your life that you've struggled with eating foods that you know weren't good for you or eating too much, and you couldn't just seem to make positive choices with foods? Us, too! We've heard from clients that this is one of their biggest life struggles ~ that they're in a war with food and they just can't seem to find the right balance that leads to a healthier body image. It's the one addiction that we still need to engage with to sustain our lives.
Talking about our relationship with food is something that many of us struggle with and might look to change at retirement or even post-pandemic. So WHY do we struggle with food and HOW are other areas in our lives driving our food choices. If we're going to ENGINEER our retirement and design WHO we want to be, we think exploring our relationship with food and the things that STOP us from realizing our weight and health goals. So how can we STOP struggling with our food choices in retirement and START living a healthier and more balanced life in retirement?
Our next guest is a Life and Weight Loss Coach who works with women in midlife who want to lose weight but are done with dieting by coaching them to better health through easy-to-do, sustainable habits. Today's guest is a Chicago native, but now conducts her coaching business in Mexico, and through the advancements in technology, meets with her clients through video: focusing on the areas of health: eating, moving, stress and sleep management, body image and how we think about them. Please welcome Elizabeth Sherman to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Elizabeth Sherman! [3:20]
Why is it hard to maintain a balanced relationship with food? [18:54]
How can we build a solid foundation with food so that life’s events don’t totally disrupt our habits? [28:40]
Affirmations are BS! [37:16]
Discomfort now? Or, discomfort later? [49:10]
Why is retirement the perfect time to hit “reset” on our health and nutrition habits? [53:07]
How is Elizabeth going to find her Retirement Success? [56:52]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [58:33]
Ep 053: For a while, our team has been looking for a guest that can speak to the relationship between the State of Maine and our aging population. What systems currently in place are identifying and addressing the needs of today's seniors and retirees? Where are there gaps and needs to be addressed? How are the federal government, state legislature, and Maine's local communities working together to help today's (and tomorrow's) aging population? Are there other states that are more of a role model for how our state can support our aging population?
Our next guest is the Executive Director of the Maine Council on Aging and leads and manages a broad, multidisciplinary network of more than 120+ organizations, businesses, and community members working to ensure we can all live healthy, engaged, and secure lives as we age in our homes and in community settings. In this role, she advances statewide public policy initiatives, provides leadership within Maine’s aging network, and supports Maine’s Legislative Caucus on Aging. Her areas of specific focus include housing, transportation, workforce, “aging in place” and care across all settings. She leads the Maine Healthy Aging Initiative and the Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging, a regional learning collaborative aimed at increasing the collective impact of community-driven aging initiatives. She annually organizes statewide and regional events that advance aging policy. She co-authored Building a Collaborative Community Response to Aging in Place and Maine’s Blueprint for Action on Aging. A licensed Maine attorney, she worked for 17 years in the Maine Office of the Attorney General. Last but not least, she graduated from the University of Maine School of Law and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Please welcome Jess Maurer to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Jess Maurer! [2:07]
What are the solutions (if any) to Maine’s short supply of care partners for our aging population? [15:29]
What is the Maine State Plan on Aging and what does is hope to accomplish? [24:30]
What has the State of Maine done historically, good and bad, to support older Mainers? [31:04]
How is agism prevalent with older Mainers, and what kind of barriers is it creating? [43:48]
Why is high speed internet access statewide (in Maine) so vital for our aging population? [53:05]
What is the state of healthcare in Maine and how is the current service model working? [57:55]
What is Jess’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [1:05:35]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [1:09:11]
Ep 052: In today's day and age, we're having more and more conversations with our financial planning and advisory clients that they haven't saved enough for retirement. It's tough enough to try and figure out what lifestyle you WANT and how much you can AFFORD, but we also hear continuously about how expensive healthcare is in retirement and that we should budget for that as well. Many of us have sat in that 401(k) or 403(b) meeting where we hear about retirement costs and we hear a figure that we'll need hundreds of thousands or possibly close to a million dollars to cover our healthcare costs in retirement. But is that actually true? What are RETIREES actually spending? How has that changed over time? How are we spending our retirement funds on healthcare? Perhaps healthcare costs are not as much as you think they are!
Today's guest is the retirement insights leader for T. Rowe Price U.S. Intermediaries. He has served in a variety of roles related to retirement thought leadership and product development – currently helping develop the firm's expertise on major topics that impact the retirement industry. He is a frequent speaker at client and industry events as a retirement subject matter expert and serves as one of the firm's spokespersons to national media organizations. He holds an M.B.A., an M.A. in political science, and a B.S. in electrical engineering. He is a Certified Financial Planner professional; is a Series 6, 7, and 66 registered representative; and has taught personal finance as an adjunct faculty member at Johns Hopkins University. Please welcome BACK Stuart Ritter, CFP® to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome back, Stuart Ritter! [2:37]
What is Stuart’s team seeing related to high healthcare costs? [11:00]
What do healthcare costs look like over a retiree’s lifetime? [33:22]
What are some resources T. Rowe Price has developed to help folks learn more about planning for health care costs? [48:16]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [55:05]
Ep: 051 7,300 days. 175,200 hours. 10,512,000 minutes.
That is the amount of time you can expect to have in retirement, considering the average length of retirement is approximately 20 years, according to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. How will you spend all of that newfound free time? Without a sense of purpose, the risk of dissatisfaction increases, and what should be a meaningful time becomes an anxious or uninspiring one. The average retiree in Britain grew bored after just one year, according to a U.K. survey. And one-third of retirees eventually give up on retirement and return to the workforce, according to a 2016 Federal Reserve study. The notion of retirement as a time of leisure is outdated. Most older adults want a similar level of engagement and meaning as in their working years. This is as it should be. From traveling the world to helping people in need, there are a variety of activities that can give you meaning and joy in retirement. BUT sometimes we get STUCK by being overwhelmed by what we CAN do that we don't know WHAT to do.
Our next guest had this struggle and worked to build a great life after a several decade-long career. He's written a book for the 55-70ish age group this is at or near completion of their long career. He's titled the book, "Tapas Life: A rich and rewarding life after your long career" and is a step-by-step guide to assembling a great life once your big J-O-B is G-O-N-E. Please welcome Andy Robin to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Andy Robin! [3:10]
What does Andy mean when he says “Tapas Life”? [12:34]
How can we live a “Tapas Life” but still have enough structure in our lives? [18:10]
How do people work through their list(s) of things that they want to try or not try? [23:08]
How do people get through the “catch up” phase of retirement and move into the fun stage? [33:48]
What does it mean to “choose health”? [39:11]
How does Andy think retirement is going to evolve over time? [44:49]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [47:59]
Ep:050 Cybercriminals and fraudsters will always attempt to go after the most vulnerable targets, and not enough is being done to protect and educate the elderly who are among those most regularly targeted by online scams. Much is discussed about protecting the workforce online, but as the web-using population ages, there's an increasing number of older web users who are using the internet without an in-house security team to help them navigate the dangers posed by scammers.
Criminals have always targeted the elderly and away from the protections of an organization with firewalls, anti-virus protection, and other security measures, older users – especially those identified as wealthy – are viewed as easy targets for cyber attackers. Be it phishing emails, fake invoices, or phony tech support calls, scammers are attempting schemes against people who, in some cases, are the most vulnerable targets. But as the population grows older – and more and more services switch to being predominantly digital and online – the issue of cyberattacks targeting the elderly is only going to become a bigger, more damaging issue if something doesn't change first. That's the premise of today's show!
Our next guest graduated from Harvard University and studied Advanced Computer Security at Stanford. He is the founder and CEO of Achilleion, a cybersecurity startup based in Los Angeles. He is a software developer, cybersecurity, and compliance expert, serial entrepreneur. He serves as a technical advisor to several companies in the healthcare, consumer technology, real estate, and financial sectors. He served as CEO of Rizm/Equametrics, which developed revolutionary algorithmic trading technology. Rizm raised $5.1M and was acquired in 2015. He also has extensive experience building web-based and mobile applications in multiple languages and frameworks. Please welcome Amir Tarighat to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Amir! [3:16]
What is Elder Fraud and Cybersecurity? What are common schemes? [11:05]
How can people protect themselves from these schemes? What should someone do if they fall victim to one of them? [18:13]
How should people balance the implementation of technology in our lives with the cost of privacy loss? [27:24]
In a world of cryptocurrency, how can someone protect their digital financial assets? [42:07]
What is Amir’s definition of Retirement Success? [45:13]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [46:52]
Ep:049 We did things a little differently this episode – no guest! Instead, Ben and Curtis sat down to give you a Retirement Potpourri. Tune in to hear them give an update on Guidance Point Advisors and The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast. Further in the conversation, Ben and Curtis share some helpful Retirement Resources and discuss what’s trending in the retirement universe. Use the link below to listen in!
Chapters:
An update on Guidance Point Advisors. [2:00]
An update on The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast. [8:17]
Retirement Resources! [17:00]
Retirement Trends! [19:48]
Why are people retiring now? [41:24]
How are retirees accessing retirement? [44:10]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [53:37]
Ep 048: According to a September 8, 2020, CNBC article "Here’s what you need to know about moving in retirement" by Jill Cornfield, “Sixty-four percent of retirees say that they are likely to move at least once during retirement." Downsizing, such as moving to a smaller, more manageable property in the same area, is the most typical move people make. It makes sense from several perspectives, right? It’s most likely to be in line with lifestyle goals, and your life isn’t uprooted. BUT what's the barrier for us to accomplish this? It's usually our stuff! If we're downsizing, we probably need to cut back on the THINGS we have - but how do we choose which of our things will fit our new home and which won't? Maybe you're not downsizing to a new home but perhaps you're an empty nester with a house full of "stuff" that represents memories, your loved ones, and things you can't JUST get rid of because they all mean something to you? Or perhaps you're now in retirement and enjoying ALL the things you always wanted to do, but one thing you DON'T want to do is declutter your things? Or perhaps you're aging in place (in your current home), and your home needs to be rearranged so that you can safely live in it? Or maybe you are helping a relative or recently a relative has passed away and YOU have the big job of going through their things but don't know where to begin. Well, these are common conversations that we have with our clients and it represents a BARRIER (and a common stressor to relationships) to them moving to the next stage of their lives. So we wanted to have someone on our show to discuss this. We went to the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM) website and looked up any members in Maine and that's how we found our next guest and her business, SimplySized Home! Our next guest, along with her sister, with aging parents of their own and an attic full of long-forgotten treasures, soon came to understand how emotional and overwhelming the task of cleaning out a house can be. Every item had a story, each possession evoked a memory. As they sat among piles of books, Legos, and their beloved Barbie Dolls, they knew there had to be an easier way; and SimplySized Home was created. Today's guest has a retail, marketing, and project management background. She loves her business SimplySized Home because she realizes the value the company brings to families who face the emotional task of downsizing and moving. For her, it is the perfect blend of working with wonderful clients through the logistical deadline-driven process of moving. When not working she spends time with her 2 kids, husband, family, and friends. Her favorite places to spend time are Panther Pond and Bayside. Please welcome Kim Dorsky to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Kim! [2:53]
How is a Move Manager service different than a Moving Company? [12:37]
What psychological barriers are encountered when stepping in as a Move Manager? [18:06]
How much does using a Move Manager service generally cost? [22:40]
How does a Move Manager go through the process of helping to sort out what has value, what do you sell, consign, or donate, but also how do you agree on what's an appropriate price? [25:48]
How does a Move Manager help with the selling and buying of homes? [34:00]
How does a Move Manager team build harmony with parties in a situation with multiple people involved on behalf of the individual who is downsizing? [42:51]
When is the best time to be downsizing our stuff? [48:30]
What is Kim’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [51:56]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [54:54]
Ep 047: In today's day and age, we're having more and more conversations with our financial planning and advisory clients that they want their values to be incorporated in all aspects of their lives. There are hot button items that they want to be impacting wherever possible. Maybe its climate. Maybe its social inequality. Maybe its disclosure of a company's business practices or countless others. 2020 was a solid reminder of these issues to many of us as COVID impacted the world significantly and there were urgent calls to address racial injustice after the murder of George Floyd. According to the Report on US Sustainable and Impact Investing Trends 2020, which tracked data as of year-end 2019, found that investors are considering "ESG" factors across $17 trillion of professionally managed assets, a 42 percent increase since 2018. So what is "ESG" and how can someone tie their values to their investments? That's the premise of today's show!
Today's guest is the Head of Fundamental Equity Client Portfolio Management team for Emerging Markets and International Equities in the Americas, and an Emerging Markets specialist at Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM). She leads the building of the Emerging Markets and International Equities franchise, drives business expansion, designs new portfolios, and communicates Fundamental Equity strategies to clients in the Americas. In her role as an Emerging Markets specialist, she is focused on helping clients gain appropriate access to emerging markets, as well as assisting with their strategic asset allocation decision making process.
She has 13 years of industry experience, joining Goldman Sachs in 2008. She graduated from Lehigh University magna cum laude with a B.S. in Finance in 2008. She was awarded the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation in 2012. Please welcome Katherine Bordlemay to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Goldman Sachs Disclosure - https://f.hubspotusercontent20.net/hubfs/2506374/Goldman%20ESG%20Podcast%20Disclosures.pdf
Chapters:
Welcome, Katherine! [3:40]
What is Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) and ESG? [9:55]
Why would someone want to invest their long-term savings in one of these vehicles (SRI/ESG)? [15:36]
How do asset managers evaluate ESG? [23:38]
As an investor, how can we know that an ESG’s strategy is really aligning with my values? [31:27]
How are asset managers themselves doing on ESG characteristics, including diversity and inclusion? [44:25]
What is Katherine’s definition of Retirement Success? [50:21]
Abby, Ben, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [51:38]
Ep 046: According to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data from 2017, the average monthly energy bill in Maine is just $87.21. That’s the lowest average energy bill of any state in New England, and one of the lowest in the U.S. For reference, Maine’s closest neighbor, New Hampshire, features a much pricier $114.95 average monthly energy bill. (Source: SmartData) However, that's not the entire picture where electrical energy is only ONE energy source that Mainers use ~ many Mainers use heating oil, gas, wood, pellets, solar, etc. to heat their homes during winter months or supplement electrical use. For many Mainers, heating and electrical use is the considerable budget item. Energy can also be talked about in regards to our transportation systems and our vehicles ~ Energy in Maine is a BIG topic! But for us Mainers today, what's going on in energy use today and how will it impact tomorrow? Especially for retirees, how should they be thinking about creating enough energy flexibility for their homes that they can adapt and react to changing prices on energy over their lives? That's the premise of today's show! Our next guest holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from Rensselaer. He is a former State Representative, where he was a member of the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee. He co-founded DuraLife Decking, a composite decking manufacturing company that continues to operate and grow in Biddeford. After the company's acquisition, he then served as Director of Sustainability for GAF, North America's largest roofing manufacturer, developing initiatives such as roofing recycling and the company's Zero-Waste-to-Landfill effort, as well as building networks with national organizations such as the US Green Building Council. Currently, our next guest is the Executive Director for E2Tech - the Environmental & Energy Technology Council of Maine. He also hosted "The Grow Maine Show" for over 100 episodes and 6 years and had his show picked up by WGAN, where it airs Sunday Morning at 11a. He grew up in Carthage, Maine, where his family still runs a small farm keeping Jersey cows. He and his wife Amy and their two children live in Biddeford where Amy works in the Biddeford School Department. Please welcome Marty Grohman to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Chapters:
Welcome, Marty! [2:53]
How is energy being utilized throughout the state of Maine? [16:22]
What are some things that Mainers can do to lower their heating and energy costs? [26:54]
What’s coming down the pike in terms of cutting-edge energy technologies? [37:50]
What is Marty doing today to future proof himself from energy costs and moving to more sustainable forms of energy? [44:31]
What is Marty’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [48:36]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [51:50]
Ep 045: The next jackpot for the next Powerball drawing has hit $1.5 billion. If you win it, you won't ever have to worry about money again--right? Wrong.
With good money management you--and your heirs--could live handsomely for many, many years. But from the moment that you claim that prize, you will be descended upon by vultures who want a hefty helping of those winnings. And if you didn't have smart money habits up until now, you could easily turn out to be your own worst enemy by quickly squandering the fortune. There's actually a term for this, it’s called a "Lottery Curse Victim"!
With that, we have wanted to tackle the concept of winning the Powerball with three pillars of help: legal, tax, and financial advisory. Our first guest was recently on episode #39 -Estate Planning Mistakes that Lead to Probate Litigation, she is on the executive committee for Legal Services for the Elderly in Maine, the Maine Justice Action Group, a member of the Academy of Special Needs Planners, and an advisor to the Peaks Island Fund, a Maine Community Foundation fund. She also teaches elder law as adjunct faculty at the University of Maine School of Law. She was a member attorney of Maine Center for Elder Law, LLC prior to the Center merging with Perkins Thompson, P.A. in September of 2019. Our second guest joined BBSC Certified Public Accountants in 2015 as a Senior Accountant with 7 years of experience in public accounting and is now a Principal at the firm. He works with small to medium-sized businesses in a variety of industries, including real estate development, retail companies, service providers, and construction companies. He advises on and prepares returns for partnerships, corporations, and individuals. He also handles the Firm’s personal property tax programs administered by the State of Maine and local municipalities, the BETE & BETR programs.
Please welcome Barbara Schlichtman and Justin Freeman to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
LEGAL SEGMENT – Barbara Schlichtman, Attorney [3:12]
Basics about a trust and why estate planning is so important, especially in a case of wealth. [3:55]
Why are Fiduciaries so important? [9:34]
I WON! What is the timeline for getting the legal structures in place before claiming the prize? [20:55]
What should people consider before gifting/donating away the prize money? [30:20]
TAX SEGMENT – Justin Freeman, CPA [39:38]
How are lottery and gambling winnings taxed? [41:34]
From a tax perspective, when does it make sense for someone to choose the annuity payout or the lump sum payout? [45:22]
When a pool of people purchases lottery tickets, and they win, how does that work from a tax perspective? [48:42]
What happens if the lottery ticket is purchased in another state? [50:36]
How much can charitable giving help reduce the tax bill over time? [54:40]
How can a trust receiving the winnings help from a tax perspective? [1:01:39]
FINANCIAL PLANNING SEGMENT – Guidance Point Advisors, LLC [1:10:07]
Annuity or Lump Sum, and why? [1:11:33]
How to invest the money? [1:18:41]
What to consider when realizing your dreams after winning the Powerball? [1:25:08]
What are some practical things to be doing with the winnings? [1:32:39]
Ep 044: In our show, we've covered many topics but we've not had the conversation about Caregiving. According to the National Alliance of Caregiving (NAC) and AARP, 53 million, or 21% of Americans are providing unpaid care to an adult with health or functional needs. 24% of caregivers are caring for more than one person. 26% of Americans are caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Lastly, 26% of family caregivers report THEIR own health as fair to poor! So what do we need to know about caregiving BEFORE we get into the role? How do we balance our own mental, physical, and emotional health and the person we're taking care of? Where do I go if I need help and have questions? How do I make sure I'm ok AFTER the adult I'm caring for is gone? That's the premise of today's show!
Enter an expert who has been a well-known patient advocate and licensed clinical social worker for the last 35 years. She began her career working with geriatric patients who experienced catastrophic illnesses and counseled them and their families about adapting to these medical problems. She helped them understand their medical condition and counseled them about how to cope with the disease and its impact on their lives. She continued to work on a rehabilitation unit in a large Chicago teaching hospital with patients who had suffered traumatic brain injuries, strokes, cancer, amputations, burns, and neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. She also covered the emergency room for 13 years seeing patients of all ages with a variety of medical problems.
In writing her new book, "Role Reversal: How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Aging Parents," our guest has come full circle. Her experience in caring for her beloved father, who died at age 97, triggered her passion in reaching out to others who suddenly find themselves in a caregiver role and are uncertain about what to do or where to go for help. In this book, she shares her father’s inspiring story and her personal and professional experience in assuming the challenges that come with being a caregiver for an aging loved one.
Today's guest has been doing freelance writing for the last 20 years. The focus of her work has been on health-related topics and assisting her readers gain knowledge that helps them feel less alone and empowers them in significant new ways. Please welcome Iris Waichler to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Iris Waichler! [2:29]
An introduction to caregiving. What is it? How does caregiving change as the person receiving the care ages? [12:46]
How can caregivers avoid burnout? How do caregivers cope as their loved one(s) decline? [21:30]
What advice does Iris have for someone who doesn’t have that immediate family member to step in as their caregiver? [35:48]
What is the “caregiver conversation” and when is the best time to step in? [38:44]
What is Iris’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [53:03]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the conversation. [55:08]
Ep 043: You'd think that in retirement we are going to be stress and anxiety free and life is just six Saturdays and a Sunday, right? But, there is always something to worry about - starting with the retirement transition period of "who am I and what do i do with the rest of my life?" to financial, medical, relationships, and life in general. One thing we've found with our clients is that just because one part of their life retires, other things in their life steps in to complete their time more, and with that, stress accompanies life. So what can we do to de-stress our lifestyles? How do we quiet our minds and heal ourselves from years of job, family, money, relational, and other life stresses? Well, meditation is a great way to clear our minds and de-stress ourselves. So we wanted to dive into meditation and how it can help today's retiree ~That's the premise of today's show!
Our next guest is a meditation teacher and energy worker specializing in meditation, women’s energetics, and sexual trauma healing. She is the author of The Art and Science of Meditation: How to Deepen and Personalize Your Practice and Chakra Empowerment for Women: Self-Guided Techniques for Healing Trauma, Owning Your Power & Finding Overall Wellness. She has trained in many energy healing modalities and is certified in both mindfulness meditation instruction and trauma sensitivity. Lisa is a member of the International Association of Meditation Instructors, the American Holistic Health Association, the Energy Medicine Practitioners Association, and The Breathe Network, a non-profit dedicated to supporting holistic healing for sexual trauma survivors. She supports individuals in goal attainment and to support physical healing, showing them how energy meditations and guided exercises can help. Please welcome Lisa Erickson to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Lisa! [2:11]
What are the different meditation forms, and what are the benefits of each? [7:28]
How can retirees specifically, start or develop their meditation or yoga practice? [21:24]
Meditate with us! [34:20]
Can group meditation help combat social isolation? [45:16]
What is Lisa’s definition of Retirement Success? [52:53]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the conversation. [55:20]
Ep 042: In the United States, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community is large; in fact, this group makes up approximately 4.5% of the country’s total population. An estimated 2.7 million adults in the US are both LGBTQ+ and over 50, with 1.1 million over the age of 65. Despite their size and prevalence, the LGBTQ+ community still experiences myriads of hurdles and challenges, especially when it comes to healthcare. Roughly 56% of lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals and 70% of transgender individuals have encountered anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination when attempting to access healthcare. Further, the LGBTQ+ community faces unique challenges through the aging process. So what are those challenges and what resources are available to help overcome them? That's the premise of today's show!
Our guest is the Associate Vice President of Community and Pediatric Services at Northern Light Acadia Hospital in Bangor, Maine. He has over 20 years of experience providing mental health services to youth and families across a variety of settings. He also is an adjunct faculty member at both UMaine in Orono and Husson University in Bangor and is the Clinical Consultant for the Bangor YMCA. He serves on the Maine Board of Social Work Licensing and is a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care. Locally, he was recognized in 2019 for his advocacy work with LGBTQ+ youth and was named Health Care Social Worker of the Year in 2019 by the Maine Hospital Association and the Maine Chapter of the SSWLHC. Nationally, he was the SSWLHC’s 2019 recipient of the Eleanor Clark Award for Innovative Programs in Patient Care for his work on youth suicide prevention. In the Spring of 2020, he was named the University of Maine School of Social Work's Alumni of the Year. Please welcome Christopher McLaughlin BACK to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Chapters:
Welcome back, Chris! [2:37]
When we talk about LGBTQ+, who are we talking about? [9:13]
What does it mean for the LGBTQ+ community to take ownership of who they really are? [20:47]
What are some things that LGBTQ+ seniors can do to reduce social isolation? [31:58]
In Maine, what organizations can LGBTQ+ seniors turn to to assist with their needs as they age? [46:16]
How do state statutes on rights and the stability of those rights impact the decision making on where to live? [50:24]
If Chris could have anything named after him, what would it be and why? [1:03:46]
Ben and Curtis wrap-up the conversation. [1:06:08]
Ep 041: One of the things as financial advisors, we get asked about a lot from clients, but also just people we bump into, is cryptocurrency - there just seems to be lots of questions about what it is and how it's impacting people. There are questions about what it is today, how it's impacting us and also, how it's tying into our lives, both today and in our retirement and how we think about aging as well. We really wanted to reach out to somebody that really knew about cryptocurrency, someone who has had some expertise in the past with it, but also is deeply involved, and could help teach us.
Enter Tyler Frederick, CFA. Tyler is a manager for the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston's Applied FinTech research team. He contributes to the bank's research and experimentation with emerging technology in its potential impact on both the financial services industry and the Federal Reserve's mission broadly. Prior to joining the Boston Fed, he worked for Circle internet financial, a cryptocurrency payments and exchange company. Where he led the compliance team's blockchain forensics and market surveillance functions. Before Circle, Tyler was a senior trader with Fidelity Investments where he was responsible for supervising teams of traders in a variety of asset classes. He's a graduate of the Boston college Carroll School of Management and a CFA Charterholder. Please welcome Tyler Frederick to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!
Chapters:
Welcome, Tyler! [4:03]
What is cryptocurrency? [10:30]
Why are cryptocurrencies so popular? [30:05]
How do we protect ourselves from fraud or theft once we’ve purchased a cryptocurrency? [39:57]
Why should retirees be paying attention to blockchain and cryptocurrency technology? [43:54]
Is cryptocurrency a “green” thing, or is it not a green trend at all? [49:01]
What is Tyler’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [55:00]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [57:11]
EP 040: It's estimated that for the average American retiree, 40% of our retirement income comes from Social Security. But how do I make sure that I'm making good decisions about a social security benefit that is supposed to pay me for the rest of my life? Am I asking the right questions of Social Security when I talk to them? Are there benefits that I might be entitled to that I don't know about? What about life complications that can impact my social security benefits like divorce, disability, death, With all of our shows, we want to discuss the insights that may better your upcoming or existing retirement. That's the premise of today's show!
Enter someone that helps educate the public on how to maximize their Social Security benefits. Our guest is the Social Security Administration’s Public Affairs Specialist for all District Offices in the State of Maine as well as for the Portsmouth, New Hampshire District Office. She has worked for the Agency since 2005 and enjoys sharing her knowledge of Social Security with the communities she serves. Disclaimer: “Participation in this presentation/podcast/video does not constitute an endorsement by the Social Security Administration or its employees of the organizations and information and products not provided by Social Security.” Please welcome Libby Newport to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Chapters:
Welcome, Libby! [1:17]
A conversation about the experience of claiming Social Security benefits. [7:54]
How do spousal Social Security benefits work? [15:08]
How do MainePERS and Social Security interact? [27:39]
How do spousal benefits change when a spouse passes away? [33:18]
How can folks really protect themselves from someone defrauding their Social Security benefit? [35:52]
How true is the statement, “Social Security won’t be there when I retire”? [38:49]
What questions does Libby wish people would ask of the Social Security Administration? [42:17]
What does Retirement Success mean to Libby? [49:45]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [51:31]
EP 039: Earlier in our shows, we had two estate planners come on and talk about the importance of having an up-to-date estate plan. In our experience as financial planners, many people come to us nearing retirement and have a will/estate plan that can date back to 30 years ago. So we all know now that we should keep these plans up to date. BUT, what are some common mistakes that we (as in Mainers) make by either not executing an estate plan, or having an old will that doesn't keep up with our wishes or state law, or perhaps we don't share the right information with our estate planning attorney so that they can make the best plan for us, our wishes, and our families? We wanted to have a conversation about the probate process POST death and how things can go RIGHT and how things can go WRONG. That's the premise of today's show!
Enter someone that helps her clients prepare themselves and loved ones for life events by designing personalized legal documents to carry out their wishes and protect their assets. Our guest is on the executive committee for Legal Services for the Elderly in Maine, the Maine Justice Action Group, a member of the Academy of Special Needs Planners, and an advisor to the Peaks Island Fund, a Maine Community Foundation fund. She also teaches elder law as adjunct faculty at University of Maine School of Law. She was a member attorney of Maine Center for Elder Law, LLC prior to the Center merging with Perkins Thompson, P.A. in September of 2019. Please welcome Barbara Schlichtman to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Chapters:
Welcome, Barbara! [1:52]
How can an incomplete or non-existent estate plan worsen the outcome for a family following a death? [12:29]
Barbara discusses the process of litigating an estate or trust. [20:30]
A deep dive into trusts. How well can a trust protect your assets? How/when do independent trustees come into the picture? Are trusts expensive to maintain? What mistakes are commonly made when setting up a trust? [30:26]
What sort of common family situations (dynamics/relationships/structures) would Barbara identify as being most likely to have challenged estate? [48:23]
What is Barbara’s definition of Retirement Success? [53:46]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [55:09]
EP 038: What's the one "hobby" that everyone associates with retirement? They might say "So now that you're retired, I bet you're playing lots of golf". Well, for some retirees that's EXACTLY what they want to do. But what if we've never actually played before, how do we start learning to play (is it too late)? Or we've played some while we've been busy in our careers, how can we get better? What about experiencing golf courses in the state of Maine or outside the State, what are some experiences that need to be on your list?
Our next guest is a PGA Professional, the Head Golf Coach for Bates College, a LPGA Tour Caddie, and host of Maine Golf Talk Podcast. You can access him as a coach through henryfallgolf.com or listen to Maine Golf Talk Podcast on all the major podcast platforms. Please welcome to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Henry Fall! Chapters:
Welcome, Henry! [2:46]
How does Henry recommend to those that are new to the game of golf, start playing and progress their skill? [20:50]
A conversation about golf accessibility as people age. [25:35]
What should we consider when planning a golf bucket list trip? [32:49]
What are some things to consider when deciding if becoming a member at a particular golf course is right for you? [41:12]
How does Henry define Retirement Success? [52:26]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [55:18]
EP 037: As we change from one stage of our life to another, one thing we observe is the RESISTANCE and STRUGGLE of losing our identity from a previous stage of life. Maybe we were a captain of industry, maybe we were a star athlete, or perhaps a parent to a child or children that are now independent. One identity struggle we have heard from women over 50 is that the things that have made them feel like a woman have been the hardest parts to feel like they've lost - beauty, their vocation, motherhood, being a spouse, etc. With this show, we wanted to have a guest on that has tackled their own visibility head on and been re-invented with a sense of optimism & hope in the face of this feeling.
Our next guest has survived multiple crises in her life. While living in Honolulu with her first husband and two biological daughters, she was suddenly widowed in her early 40's after her husband suffered a massive heart attack while traveling on business. In 1990, she married Real Estate Auction Pioneer Sheldon F. Good and together, they faced the challenge of creating a large blended family. She has also survived cancer and family suicide. Now, she is the matriarch of a blended family, and is a hip, sophisticated grandmother to 25 “GRANDS” and re-defining what it means to live life to the fullest as she has visited over 67 countries and regularly visits her children and grandchildren in 7 different US cities. Please welcome to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Susan Honey Good! Chapters:
Welcome, Susan Honey Good! [1:39]
How has Susan struggled with her own identity over time and how often does she see it with other women as well? What is her advice to other women struggling with this? [15:05]
What is one’s “Enchanted Self” and how does it help women build their identity? [24:35]
How can those around a woman who may be redefining her identity be supportive throughout the process? [36:57]
What advice does Susan have for adult kids/grandkids who see their parents/grandparents start to date again? [42:04]
How does Susan think that Retirement Success for Women is going to evolve as we move forward? [44:40]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the conversation. [47:13]
EP 036: What if we're thinking about retirement all wrong? What if retirement ISN'T exchanging a binge on working for 40 years for a binge of NOT working for 30 years? Many of the clients we talk to as they are in the mid-to-late stage of their career and may have already achieved a certain level of career success are searching for what is next. But what is next for us? This inflection point leads us to start asking questions in our lives such as "Is this the right time to invest [in myself] and grow?', "Or is it time to exit [something]?" "Or is it time for a change in focus?" But many times these questions are hard to articulate, hard to share with work colleagues, or even family members, much less work through to find answers. Due to this structural issue, many of us become stuck at this point in our lives. Enter the concept that life is a series of pivots where after each transformation we've created the next version of ourselves. So retirement isn't a hard stop of career life into leisure but a pivot of one version of yourself to another! Our next guest is an Executive Life Coach and Creator of the YOU PIVOT Program, where her clients have ranged from CEOs and C-suite executives from Inc. 500 companies, Crain’s Fast 50, Chicago Tribune’s Top 100 Workplaces, and Crain’s Largest Privately Held Companies. She has experience as a Fortune 500 company executive (Northern Trust), coupled with a successful pivot from the corporate world into entrepreneurship, that shaped her unique perspective. Every Sunday, she publishes stories about transitions, including sharing the life lessons from the storytellers she interviews. You can read and subscribe to these Sunday Stories on her website. Please welcome to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Elisa K. Spain! Chapters:
Welcome, Elisa! [2:55]
Why does Elisa think about “Retirement” as a pivot to “Career 2.0” or “Life 2.0”? [17:40]
What is an unreliable narrator and how Elisa has worked to not only identify it, but work through it with her clients? [26:22]
Once the “Today Story” has been identified, how can we move to the “Tomorrow Story”? [31:31]
Elisa shares a story about someone claiming to have failed retirement twice! [38:34]
How does Elisa help coach through change and the pressure that comes with it from not just us, but the people around us? [47:53]
How does Elisa define Retirement Success? [54:28]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [57:09]
EP 035: For many Mainers, families have a place where they retreat to during the spring, summer, and fall months and enjoy the best that Maine weather has to offer. Many families use this place, AKA camps, as the retreat where the family "from away" vacation to and reconnect with family members that are here. There are sounds of children swimming and jumping in the water, the firepit and bonfire by the water have s'mores, laughter around the dining table, swapping stories while playing cards, water skiing or tubing, kayaking, and so much more. For many previous generations of Mainers, there's this shared bond of doing these activities with those we love the most or even a great place to bring your dearest friends. Due to all of these precious memories, it's not surprising that we want to continue to have future generations use the camp in this way. But it's not that simple, is it?
Enter the concept of having legal, financial, and family structures in place to see this plan through. Today's guest is an attorney and has worked with many families on preserving this legacy asset to preserve family cultures. He provides estate planning to individuals and integrates his business practice with his estate planning practice to assist clients to develop an orderly succession plan for their businesses. He is a shareholder of Perkins Thompson and formerly a member of the firm’s Executive Committee. He has been selected by his peers to be included in The Best Lawyers in America© 2007-2020 in the field of Tax Law. Please welcome to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Tim Benoit!
Chapters:
Welcome, Tim! [2:10]
In Maine, how do we define what a camp is, and why are we so emotionally tied to them? [6:25]
What are the necessary ingredients needed for someone to successfully preserve a camp, and on the flip side, what have been the biggest mistakes that people make when trying to preserve their camp? [11:15]
How does the future generation address the ending of the preservation of a camp? [26:12]
How have the legal structures used in preserving camps changed over the years? [33:37]
When is it appropriate for someone to take the legal steps to preserve their camp? [38:13]
What is Tim’s definition of Retirement Success? [43:12]
Abby, Ben, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [44:40]
EP 034: What if there was a time machine? How would it change our lives? Would you do things differently if you could? Well, today we're talking about a different take on a time machine. As we're aging, we tend to be a bit more sensitive to HOW we spend our time and WHAT we do with our time. Many times, retirees state the goal of wanting to travel TO places and experiencing new things. But the biggest issue with the destination is GETTING there, especially where we are in Maine in the northeast corner of the country. The time machine comes into play where we might be used to driving to our destination. Perhaps we want to go visit Boston and it's a 2 or 6-hour drive to get there. What if you could get there in 1/2 or 1/3 of the time? What about if you winter in Florida and it takes you multiple full days to drive there? What if you could get there in one day? What about longer trips where you're at the whim of the commercial airline industry and their schedule? Enter the concept of private flights and finding true location freedom in retirement!
Sean Collins is the Eastern Regional Manager at Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), where he advocates for the general aviation interests for AOPA and its members at the state and local level from Maine to Virginia. He also works to build the general aviation community and represents AOPA at local and regional aviation events. He also has a Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings. Join us as we discuss Accessing the World of Piloting over 50 with Sean Collins!
Chapters:
Welcome, Sean! [3:30]
What is it that appeals to people to pilot their own plane and how do they get started? [9:29]
What should people know about being a private pilot as they age? [15:29]
Who can afford to pilot and fly planes? [23:30]
What are some pros and cons of private piloting versus commercial airlines? [41:07]
Just how risky is private piloting? [54:54]
What is Sean’s personal definition of Retirement Success? [1:01:23]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [1:02:59]
EP 033: As Financial Advisors, we are very frequently asked to give our thoughts on the investable markets and what it means for our retirement. While our show mainly discusses life challenges pre and post-retirement, we wanted to share a bit of our team's expertise on how investments and financial movements may be impacting your retirement directly or indirectly from the events of 2020. Join us for Episode #33 where we have a 2020 Roundtable Recap with our team at Guidance Point Advisors!
Chapters:
Welcome the team and hear our favorite Holiday movies. [2:09]
A look back on the year 2020. [5:03]
What’s next? What are we thinking about with our client portfolios as we head into 2021? [18:10]
What are some trends we’ve seen with new clients? Why are they choosing us? [26:08]
Ben wraps up the conversation. [33:49]
EP032: About now, we're all needing something to look forward to. One of those things that you and perhaps your spouse state is that you want to travel more. But what do you want to see? What if you and your spouse have different interests and tastes? How should we go about creating a "WanderList" of things we want to do and places we want to visit? What if we're interested in certain themes like "we're foodies" or "sports fans" or "history buffs" - how do we go about building trips on themes? In episode #3, we dove deep into traveling while in retirement and challenges as we age. In this episode, we wanted to really explore putting a solid travel plan in place. Listen in as Keri Forbringer of Luxury Travel Works helps us with "Dreaming & Creating Your Traveling WanderList" in Episode #32 of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Give it a listen and let us know what is the #1 destination on your Post-COVID19 WanderList!
Chapters:
Welcome back, Keri! [2:46]
What is a WanderList and what are some do’s and don’ts when creating one? [7:49]
Is it a good idea to due dates on your WanderList? [21:30]
What happens when two people go through the process of creating their WanderList and there is no commonality between the two? [31:32]
What happens when our dreams are bigger than our budget? [38:51]
How does the WanderList stay current? [43:18]
What does Keri think travel will look like 30 years in the future? [51:02]
EP 031: As we were creating our podcast, we looked around the State of Maine to see if anyone else was having similar conversations as what we're having here. We reached out to our next guest, Diane Atwood, about her "Catching Health Blog" and "Conversations About Aging Podcast" to discuss her writing and audio show. Many in Maine might have seen Diane's previous work as a Health Reporter at WCHS6 for over 20 years. Diane, with her reporter expertise, highlights individuals 60 and older life stories and also explores the joys and challenges of what they are currently facing. Join us on episode #31 as we have "Conversations about Aging" and hear more about Diane's passion project!
Chapters:
Welcome, Diane! [1:20]
How did Diane’s blog and podcast come to life? [11:56]
Why is it that aging and loneliness seem to go hand in hand? [24:13]
What are some of the best responses that Diane has received to her question, “If you could go back and change anything, would you?” on her podcast. [31:19]
What is Diane seeing in the realm of caregiving, specifically with children/grandchildren stepping in to provide care for their parents? [34:16]
How did Charles Garfield’s book, Our Wisdom Years, personally impact Diane? [44:16]
What does Retirement Success mean for Diane? [50:00]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [52:50]
EP 030: Do you ever get to the point that the weather in Maine kind of gets to you? Do you ever dream about moving to another destination, perhaps in retirement? Well, following our episode about international living, we wanted to explore a more traditional move that many Maine retirees make ~ moving to a sunnier locale in the U.S.! Our colleague, Larry Pelletier and his wife, Joyce, did just that a few years ago. What process did they undertake to find the perfect spot for them? What did they find out once they got there? Do they have any regrets now after a few years later? Join us on episode #30 as we go through a process that every pre-retiree should think about ~ "Choosing the Best Retirement Location for You!"
Chapters
Welcome, Larry & Joyce! [0:39]
How do you know when it’s time to retire? [4:04]
What was the first step for Larry & Joyce to make the decision to move from Maine? [7:55]
How can you navigate through the objection of moving away from your children/grandchildren? [11:06]
How did Larry & Joyce deal with the logistics of moving? [20:33]
What is the research process like when looking for a new place to live in retirement? [37:22]
How can you work through disagreements that may arise during this process of moving for retirement? [44:07]
What is Retirement Success for Larry & Joyce Pelletier? [1:04:35]
EP 029: A common goal we hear from our clients is that "I want to age in my home for as long as possible!" But when do we know that it's time to consider other living arrangements specifically targeted towards us as seniors? What are the various types of living and care arrangements and how do I know which one is right for me (not only now but in the future)? These are the types of questions we wanted to answer in episode #29 where we discuss the Spectrum of Senior Living with Susan Habeeb, who is the Director of Transitional Care at Dirigo Pines in Orono, ME. Susan has a very unique perspective as she was an RN for many years before working in the senior living industry. Join us as we dive deep into the common myths, concerns, and fears around senior living and how it can be much more than end of life care and the stereotypical nursing home environment!
Chapters
Welcome, Susan! [3:50]
What is Dirigo Pines and what are the services they offer? [13:36]
What are the various life stages of senior living? [18:50]
What are some myths that people have in their mind about places like Dirigo Pines? [34:13]
With life expectancy being longer, what sort of things are coming up that previously hadn’t been top of mind? [45:20]
What are the costs associated with living in a place like Dirigo Pines? [53:57]
How does Susan define Retirement Success? [1:05:20]
Ben and Curtis wrap-up the conversation. [1:08:29]
EP 028: Several of our clients have expressed to us over the years when visualizing their own retirement success that they are interested in living abroad. But living abroad means we'll have to change almost EVERYTHING about our life: different governments-different cultures-maybe different languages-different cost of living-changing citizenships (maybe?) -different healthcare access- and more! We've been searching high and low for an expert to discuss this ~ it was Dr. Sara Zeff Geber who mentioned to us that we NEED to talk to our next guest. Dan Prescher is our guest in today's podcast and is a Travel writer, copywriter, editor, event host, ex-pat, serial re-locator, & a musician. He is an author with Suzan Haskins of The International Living Guide to Retiring Overseas on a Budget and a Senior Editor for International Living Magazine. Tune in to "Considering Living Abroad in Retirement" to find out how doable living abroad really is and how to avoid some mistakes along the way!
Chapters
Welcome, Dan! [2:45]
What is International Living Magazine? [12:09]
How does someone find out where they want to live out of all the places in the world? [17:50]
How does citizenship work as you decide that you want to live abroad? [26:39]
What are the common myths that people let influence their decision NOT to move abroad? [29:47]
How can someone manage potential currency exchanges and taxation while living abroad? [38:56]
How can someone evaluate the healthcare systems in areas of the world that they may want to live? [47:58]
What are the common mistakes that Dan sees retirees make when deciding to live abroad? [56:51]
What is Retirement Success for Dan? [59:21]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [1:03:29]
Chapters
EP 027: Communication is hard. We were all born with a voice box, but it didn’t come with instructions on how best to use it. We see this in our financial planning sessions with clients ~ there are just some things they don't know HOW to say. We could be EMBARRASSED by feeling something or maybe we don't know how to navigate tough conversations without saying something we'll regret, giving our power away, or damaging relationships. Enter AmyK Hutchens - Master Communicator! She has consulted with The Home Depot, Starbucks Canada, Comerica Bank, Expedia, Lockheed Martin, Securian Financial, Walmart, John Paul Mitchell Systems, and hundreds more. She travels the globe sharing with executives, influencers, and go-getters on how to navigate their toughest conversations. With that, we wanted to have a REAL conversation with AmyK around Mastering Communication to Get What We Want in Retirement in Episode #27. Check it out and see why life happens one conversation at a time!
Chapters:
Welcome, AmyK! [2:03]
What’s the biggest tip that AmyK can offer to us to approach life conversations? [22:13]
What has the thought that “Life happens one conversation at a time” meant to AmyK throughout her life? [30:15]
What advice can AmyK give people to overcome fears and anxieties about stressful conversations? [33:26]
How would AmyK counsel someone to share their goals and aspirations throughout their life/relationships? [37:42]
How can someone start a conversation to help repair a relationship that over time, has degraded? [45:18]
What are some key takeaways from AmyK’s book, Get It: Five Steps to the Sex, Salary and Success You Want? [51:04]
How is Retirement Success defined for AmyK? [54:36]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [56:31]
EP 026: On this special episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, the show turns 1-year old! The team got together to recap the last year of the show, spending time discussing some key takeaways from the first 25 episodes. Ben, Abby, and Curtis also spend some time sharing what has surprised them the most from doing the show over the past year. The conversation wraps up with a discussion about where the show will go next. What will year #2 have in store? Be sure to tune in and hear what the team has to say!
Chapters:
What are some takeaways from the first 25 episodes? [2:00]
What has been surprising from the show thus far? [7:09]
What is some feedback we have received? [12:17]
What’s next for the show? [18:17]
EP 025: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, the team takes some time to discuss a necessary topic. Inevitably going through life we all experience the loss of a loved one, but how we process and grieve that loss may differ dramatically. At Guidance Point, Ben, Abby, and Curtis are often front-line to seeing this type of grief but are not professionally trained in the topic. So why not talk with someone who is? Joining this conversation is Bodhi Simpson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and a Registered Art Therapist. She has a private practice in Waterville, Maine called Conscious Art Therapy. Bodhi shares her expertise and experience by answering numerous questions from the team, including, “What to expect when going through the grieving process and how can they get to the other side of finding themselves again?” “What does a ‘typical’ session with a grief counselor look like?” “How does someone find a grief counselor?” "What about suicide ideation ~ we hear it from clients from time and time and how should family members, friends, or professional relationships handle statements about suicide?"
Chapters:
Welcome, Bodhi! [3:07]
What makes the work that Bodhi does unique? [7:17]
What to expect in the grieving process?[14:00]
What is the session look like when someone seeks Bodhi’s help? [23:53]
What is a successful journey through the grief process? [35:31]
What is Retirement Success for Bodhi? [41:01]
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Information. [43:08]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [44:45]
EP 024: On our show, we've talked about "how" to retire, we've talked about some of the "why" reasons people retire, "who" they want to spend their time with, but we haven't talked about "where"....until now. For today's episode, we invited Cary Weston of the Marketing & PR Agency, Sutherland Weston, to talk to us about why retirees should consider retiring to the Bangor area. What are the crucial elements retirees are looking for in a place when they retire? What are some elements of Bangor that would help lead some of us to retire better there? Cary's past experience on the Bangor City Council and Mayor help us navigate these questions and more, so make sure to check out this latest episode! (Cary even spins a Stephen King story and points out some things that Bangor natives might not even know!)
Chapters:
Welcome, Cary! [1:55]
What are some fun things to do if you’re residing in Bangor? [19:18]
How easy is it to access fun things not located in Bangor? [22:05]
Discussion about the Healthcare infrastructure in the Bangor area. [23:19]
What makes people choose Bangor? [29:40] What kind of community can people look for when they're retiring in Bangor? [34:02]
How does the cost of living and property taxes in Bangor compare to other areas of the state? [37:49]
What housing opportunities are there in Bangor for retirees specifically? [45:33]
Just how bad are the Maine (Bangor) winters? [49:37]
What is Retirement Success for Cary? [53:01]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [55:42]
For more information and Bangor related resources, go to our blog at https://blog.guidancepointllc.com/24
or give us an email shout at bensmith@guidancepointrs.com, abigaildoody@guidancepointrs.com, or curtisworcester@guidancepointrs.com .
EP 023: In this episode, we're digging into the concept of "Solo Aging". Solo Agers are those without kids, where the "kids" are usually the ones who take care of us as we age. Did you know that according to a 2005 Pew Research Study, 19.4% of the boomer generation did not have kids? So this is a big concept looking forward. So what better guest is there than the author of Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers, an Amazon best-seller and in the words of The Wall Street Journal, one of the “2018 Best Books on Aging Well”. Additionally, Dr. Geber is a regular contributor to Forbes.com on the topics of aging and retirement.
Dr. Geber shares her expertise by not only spending time laying the groundwork and providing background knowledge about solo agers but also by answering questions like, “What is the key to happiness for solo agers?” “What mistakes are commonly made by solo agers?” “How can solo agers leave behind a legacy?” and more! Are you a Solo Ager or know someone who is? Then this episode is for you!
Chapters
Welcome, Dr. Geber! [2:33]
What does it mean to be a solo ager and how prevalent is being a solo ager nationally? [12:27]
What are some myths out there about solo agers? [16.57]
What has Dr. Geber found to be the key to happiness solo agers? [18:16]
What are some big mistakes that solo agers may make? [24:25]
How can solo agers leave a legacy? [27:58]
What can solo agers do to bolster their social networks, especially as they retire from their careers? [31:57]
What role does spirituality play with solo agers? How can people make spirituality more a part of their life as they age? [39:02]
What are some of the considerations for solo agers as they decide how and where to live in later life? [42:33]
What is Retirement Success for Dr. Geber? [52:27]
Ben and Abby wrap-up the conversation. [54:37]
For more information and Solo Aging resources, go to our blog at https://blog.guidancepointllc.com/23
or give us an email shout at bensmith@guidancepointrs.com, abigaildoody@guidancepointrs.com, or curtisworcester@guidancepointrs.com .
EP 022: One of the visualization questions we ask clients is, "What is important to you in retirement?" The answers vary but many times it's about pursuing our passions and what fulfillment means. We've spent a bunch of shows about the goal of achieving these passions. But what if I'm not very healthy as I approach retirement or I'm in retirement? If I think forward, I'm now at the FUN part of life where I can do what I want but I'm scared about how UNHEALTHY I am and that I won't be around to enjoy the most amount of retirement that I possibly could. Perhaps I'm not in very good physical shape, or I have eating habits that could be improved. What steps can I take to get HEALTHIER? With that premise, we reached out to Wilcox Wellness & Fitness with locations in Bangor & Brunswick, who received the 2020 Bion and Dorain Foster Award for Entrepreneurship from the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce, to discuss this topic. Please join us in welcoming Mike Wilcox of Wilcox Wellness & Fitness!
Chapters
Welcome, Mike! [2:25]
What led Mike to start his own business? [8:25]
How has Wilcox Wellness & Fitness adapted to COVID-19? [15:48]
How do people (who are new to fitness) overcome their insecurities to not only walk through the door but to keep walking through the door? [25:06]
What motivates people throughout the different stages of Retirement to continue their health journey? [30:23]
How does Wilcox Wellness & Fitness help clients measure their success as they work towards their individual goals? [33:42]
What are some myths about retirees and pre-retirees when it comes to their fitness? [35:59]
How does Wilcox Wellness & Fitness address the thought that “It’s too late for me to start now”? [41:39]
How has Wilcox Wellness & Fitness helped retirees rediscover their life purpose or find that new passion? [45:59]
How can someone be re-motivated if they decide to stop pursuing their fitness goals? [49:00]
How can someone approach and address a concern about their partner’s health, without being hurtful or seeming judgmental? [52:49]
What is Retirement Success for Mike? [57:46]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [1:00:17]
EP 021: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Abby, Ben, and Curtis are joined by JoAnne Meyers, Esquire, CFL. JoAnne discusses the uncomfortable topic of divorce, specifically “Gray Divorce.” JoAnne discusses the overall trends of Gray Divorce, including her thoughts on why there has been such an uptick recently. We asked JoAnne some hard questions, such as: what are some ways to approach a divorce if it feels like your relationship is heading towards this area? With those over 50 having higher than other life stages financial assets, a messy divorce can be catastrophic. How can each side of this minimize this damage? What are the different steps of getting a divorce? Is it different for this demographic? What about costs – what can someone expect to pay for divorce services? JoAnne also provides insight and even some suggestions on how a divorce can lead to a good outcome for everyone involved.
JoAnne founded her own practice, Novick & Meyers in 1996 and has used her unique background as a Finance Major and Certified Financial Litigator (CFL) designation holder to thoroughly investigate and evaluate financial issues in a divorce.
Be sure to listen in and hear everything JoAnne has to say!
Chapters:
Welcome, JoAnne! [3:18]
Introduction to Novick & Meyers and the services they offer. [9:54]
What is "Gray Divorce"? [16:09]
How does someone approach a divorce? [25:18]
What are some stories of good and bad outcomes to a divorce? [30:42]
What are the costs associated with the divorce process? [46:21]
What is Retirement Success for JoAnne? [51:17]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [52:50]
EP 020: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, the team is joined by John Diehl, CFP® of Hartford Funds. We wanted to have John on the show with us, not only to share his expertise as Senior Vice President of Strategic Markets for Hartford Funds but also because John also oversees Hartford Funds’ relationship with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) AgeLab. With his experience at Hartford Funds and with the MIT AgeLab, John is considered an “all things retirement expert” and has been quoted widely in publications including The Wall Street Journal and made appearances on CNBC and Bloomberg Television. Our conversation with John focused on the retirement research conducted by the MIT AgeLab and how technology is having an impact on aging. John provided insight into questions like, how can someone visualize retirement? How is technology impacting the employment aspects of retirement? What impact does technology have on familial relationships in retirement? How is mobility affected by technology? and much more. Be sure to tune in to hear what John has to say!
Chapters:
Welcome, John! [2:49]
What is the MIT Age Lab and how has it developed? [11:26]
“Who will change my light bulbs?” [16:38]
“How will I get an ice cream cone?”[25:21]
“Who are you going to have lunch with?” [29:40]
How is technology impacting the employment aspects of retirees, especially in rural areas such as Maine?[35:24]
How is technology going to impact how family relationships stay intact throughout retirement? [43:09]
How is technology going to impact our mobility as we age? [48:06]
How can technology help people achieve the goal of staying in their homes as long as possible? [55:31]
What is Retirement Success for John? [1:00:04]
Ben, Abby, & Curtis wrap-up the episode. [1:07:21]
EP 019: A key point in our financial planning conversations with our clients as they near or go through retirement is, “WHO do you want to spend your time with in retirement?” and many times the answer is focused around their children and/or grandchildren. But, how do you develop AND maintain relationships with younger generations? What are some common mistakes that are made when dealing with two generations with differing value systems, interests, and tastes? How can technology help with building a better relationship with your grandchildren? Listen in as we ask these questions to Chris McLaughlin, Associate Vice President of Community and Pediatric Services for Northern Light Health Acadia Hospital with over 20 years of experience providing mental health services to youth and families across a variety of settings.
Chapters
Welcome to the show, Chris! [2:24]
What is Chris’s role at NLH Acadia Hospital, and what types of work does he do? [8:14]
How can an adult develop a better relationship with someone 20-30 years younger than them? [20:52]
It’s one thing to connect with a younger child, but how do you maintain that relationship throughout different adolescent stages? [24:21]
What are some common mistakes you see the older generations making when dealing with younger generations? [26:30]
What are some common myths or stereotypes about this generation of kids, and are those new themes or repeating? [32:35]
How does someone who feels unprepared to provide care for a child or grandchild seek assistance? [40:11]
How can someone with (financial) resources, use those resources to help with their familial relationships? What works and what doesn’t work? [43:08]
From the younger generation's perspective, what are some things that may cause them to turn off to that relationship with their parents or grandparents? [46:48]
Are there ways to use technologies, like Zoom, to better the relationships? [49:48]
What is Retirement Success for Chris? [56:05]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [58:11]
EP 018: Now that our show has turned 18, its time for us to get a haircut and get a real job. For many of us, our jobs give our life purpose. We recorded this episode to approach how many pre-retirees start feeling career burnout, age discrimination, feeling "stuck" in their work, and don't know what they should do next. Should you stay in your current job? But what if I haven't looked for a new job in decades?? Especially now due to COVID-19 and record layoffs, what do I do if I find myself unemployed and later in my career? Would anyone hire me? What can I do right now that can help position me for finding renewed purpose and success in the next job?
Enter Barbara Babkirk, Founder of Heart At Work Associates, an organization that specializes in Career Counseling. We ask Barbara about how folks at this stage of their life can find renewed purpose from an improved career path. Chapters: Welcome, Barbara! [2:46] Why Maine? [7:47] What do you love about working with people over 50? [12:35] What leads people to feel “stuck” in their career and how can they get “unstuck”? [17:21] In light of recent events (COVID-19 Pandemic), what advice do you have for pre-retirees or retirees that are needing to go back to work? [21:09] What are things that someone can do right now that can get them more prepared for that next job? [28:08]In regards to age discrimination, how often do you (Barbara) see it? And how can you combat it? [36:12] How can someone find something fun to be a working retiree? [49:50] What is an outplacement package? [56:23] How should employers start positioning themselves to keep their business running by utilizing this workforce (Boomers)? [59:11] What is Retirement Success for Barbara? [1:01:31] Ben, Abby, and Curtis conclude the episode. [1:04:01]
EP 017: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are joined by Maria MacDougal of the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME). Maria is a College Access Counselor who serves the eight central Maine counties; traveling to high schools, colleges, and businesses, talking about planning and paying for education after high school, furthermore presenting on topics related to financial literacy, from budgeting & saving, to understanding banking and credit, and more. Many of our clients express to that they want to leave behind an educational legacy to their next generations by helping with education expenses, so we thought Maria would be a perfect guest to talk to this topic. What are the pros and cons of our kids and grandkids attending school after high school? How can someone go about paying for a family member’s school? How does someone take into account forecasted rising costs that may not be funded until 18+ years in the future? For the answers to these questions and more, be sure to tune in!
Chapters
Welcome, Maria! [3:16]
What is FAME and what kind of services do you provide? [10:50]
What are the post-high school options that someone may have? [21:22]
Is a college degree really worth it, considering all of the debt I went into to attain it? [23:20]
What are the different ways someone can save on education expenses? [35:43]
How can you forecast how much to save, considering the rising costs of education? [42:59]
How can someone who is saving for their own retirement, still help with their kid’s or grandkid’s education expenses? [45:18]
Taking into account these uncertain times (COVID-19), and someone who may now want to invest in their own education, later in life, how can that process work? [50:20]
What is Retirement Success for Maria? [56:09]
Ben, Abby, and Curtis wrap-up the episode. [58:28]
EP 016: In this episode of Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, our Guidance Point Advisors team is sheltering in place due to the COVID-19 virus. We thought it would be interesting to have a roundtable with the team around the health crisis - how is it impacting financial markets? How is it impacting retirements and retirement plans? What lessons have we learned from previous bear markets that we're applying today? What are some inspiring stories we've heard from our clients on how they are being resilient in these difficult times?
Chapters
Welcome! [0:25]
Introduction & Geography of the Guidance Point Advisors Team & Our Favorite Ice Cream [1:07]
When a client calls you up and asks, "what's going on in the stock markets?" What do you tell them? [4:10]
What lessons have you learned from previous bear markets that you've applied to this one? [12:03]
What are some inspiring stories you've heard from your clients on how they are being resilient in these difficult times? [18:56]
What has been the biggest disruption in each of our geographies? How has life changed so far? What changes do you think will "stick" after this health crisis is over? [29:15]
Has the health scare changed any of our outlooks on retirement, retirees, and pre-retirees? Will their attitudes and behaviors change? If so, how? [37:20]
Conclusion with Ben, Abby, and Curtis [45:17]
EP 015: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we’re joined by Stuart Ritter, CFP®, a Senior Financial Planner and Retirement Insights Leader at T. Rowe Price. We wanted to have Stuart on the Podcast because, aside from his over-arching knowledge of the retirement landscape, he is a thought leader on the Visualize Retirement project at T. Rowe Price. The project focuses on attaining happiness in retirement by developing a more holistic relationship with pre-retirees. The research has identified three core themes that directly impact the level of happiness in one’s retirement. Be sure to tune in and hear what Stuart has to say. After all, isn’t the ultimate goal to have a successful retirement is to have one full of happiness?
Chapters
- Welcome, Stuart! [1:59]
- How did you find a passion for the financial service industry? [3:48]
- Who is T. Rowe Price and why is T. Rowe Price a great fit for you? [7:12]
- What is your Visualize Retirement project and what is it intended to do? [11:09]
- What are you finding in your studies that retirees are not doing well? [19:32]
- Is there a specific group that is helped more than others by this visualization? [23:56]
- What are the 5 W’s of the project? [26:29]
- Of the three elements of happiness, is there one that’s more impactful than the others? [34:37]
- What sorts of things can someone do to start doing visualization on their own? [41:10]
- Is it possible that two people can express a similar vision, on the surface, but as you dig deeper you find they are much different? [44:49]
- How would you define Retirement Success for you? [48:47]
- Abby, Ben, and Curtis wrap up the episode. [50:24]
EP 014:In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are happy to be joined by Alison Lane, a Business Advisor for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Coastal Enterprises, Inc. (CEI). We wanted to have Alison on the show for a couple of reasons. One, because not only does she help others achieve their entrepreneurial goals, but she has also founded, managed, and sold her own start-up restaurant in the area. Second, we wanted to hear her thoughts on various questions that an aspiring entrepreneur may have, like; What are the barriers to entry for starting a business that typical entrepreneurs face? How does the success rate of seniors starting a business compare to the success rates for the average entrepreneur? What sort of special considerations should an older entrepreneur take into account when starting a business? And more. Be sure to tune in and hear what Alison has to say, you may be surprised to hear that it’s never too late to start that “dream” business!
Chapters
Welcome, Alison! [2:17]
You have now started and exited a business, what’s next? [6:15]
What is CEI and what is the relationship with the SBDC? What services are provided? [7:57]
Can you explain the nontraditional financing offered by CEI? [13:12]
What does the CEI Mission mean to Alison? [15:32]
How does Alison work with entrepreneurs? [17:37]
Is it too late to start? [31:18]
The importance of succession planning. [35.32]
What are some common barriers entrepreneurs face? [44:04]
What does Alison see in regards to the success rates for Senior Entrepreneurs? [46:34
What is Retirement Success for Alison? [49:46]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [53:22]
EP 013: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are joined by our teammate, A.J. Walker. A.J. is the Managing Principal of Guidance Point Retirement Services. We wanted to have A.J. on the show today to have a conversation about religion as A.J. is active with his faith in his local church in Portland. We’ve observed that many of our clients start to think about how people can discover religion in retirement. We wanted to hear A.J.’s thoughts on why do people seek out the church? What questions are retirees looking for the answers for that they think the church can help with? We also thought it would be important to hear how people find the right church for them. But what happens if something changes and you might not be the best match for your current church - do you need to stay at the same church forever? How do folks go about changing churches? Be sure to tune in and listen to A.J.’s thoughts on how today’s churches are adapting to stay viable as a new generation of church-goers are discovering their faith.
Chapters
Welcome, A.J.! [2:12]
A.J. is back working in Maine, what’s the next venture? [7:05]
Is religion something that you were raised into or did you discover religion? [16:08]
When people are seeking the church, what questions are they looking to have answered? [23:36]
How does someone find the right church for them? [29:49]
How does the process of changing churches compare to the initial search for a church? [34:50]
What are successful churches doing well today, and what will they need to do going forward to remain successful and popular? [42:10]
What is A.J.’s idea of Retirement Success? [51:24]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [55:43]
EP 012: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by Michael DiJoseph, CFA. Mike is a Senior Advice Strategist in Vanguard’s Financial Advisor Services department. More specifically, Mike is also a thought leader behind the Advisor’s Alpha research. We really were interested to hear Vanguard’s thoughts on “how should retirees be using a financial advisor?” What are the other activities that Mike’s study says does NOT add value to clients? How long does Mike think it will take for Financial Advisors to abandon tasks that don't add value to their clients? In a way, we're talking about a financial advisor being a "retirement coach" or "behavioral coach" to help someone find their retirement success. Mike’s paper identifies the three P's of behavioral coaching - planning, proactivity, and positivity - does Mike find that these three elements are equally important to retirees? In his studies, is one element more impactful than others and why? Be sure to listen in to hear some great first-hand stories about the importance and impact of behavioral coaching.
Chapters
Introduction to Mike DiJoseph and his background [2:20]
Discussion about Mike’s first job in the financial industry and how he learned what he wanted, or didn’t want, in a career in financial services [8:10]
What makes Vanguard different? What does it mean to be client-owned? [14:15]
What is Advisor’s Alpha? What has Mike found in his research? [18:25]
There are seven key components to Advisors Alpha, what are they? [29:38]
How can someone in Maine use Advisor’s Alpha to find the right financial advisor for them? [55:12]
What do the next 30 years of financial advice look like? [60:13]
What is Retirement Success for Mike? [66:32]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [71:14]
EP 011: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are joined by Bonnie-Jean Brooks. Bonnie is the President and CEO of OHI. OHI is a local nonprofit organization that provides support and services to people with intellectual disabilities, autism, and mental illness. We wanted to have Bonnie on the show with us because Bonnie has adamantly stated that she is NOT going to retire!
Bonnie begins by telling us about her upbringing, including her journey of becoming a first-generation college graduate, to how she lived all across the country and how along the way she was always willing to accept a challenge.
Ultimately, after some time away, Bonnie found herself back in Maine continuing her education career, until one day she received a phone call asking her to come through on a favor that she owed. That favor led to the 40-year career that Bonnie is still working to this day. Bonnie shares with us some insight into OHI and the great work that the organization is responsible for.
In a previous show, we talked to a family business owner where we discussed balancing the success of the organization with your own personal success. Sometimes they can be intertwined and sometimes exclusive. There may be a time when Bonnie has to involuntarily retire. How has she positioned OHI and herself for that inevitable change?
We discuss the natural gravity for someone to retire after working for 40 years and how Bonnie attributes having a career in a field she is so passionate about to be able to combat that gravity and still work every day. Bonnie also shares what aspects of the aging process scare her as she looks ahead into the next stage of her life.
Closing out the conversation, we ask Bonnie one final question, what advice would she give someone who, much like her, wants to work as long as they possibly can in a job that they love so much? Be sure to stick around to hear what she has to say!
What You’ll Learn in This Podcast Episode:
Welcome, Bonnie! [2:08]
Bonnie becomes a first-generation college graduate and travels around the country [11:25]
What drove Bonnie ultimately back to Maine? [16:51]
How did Bonnie get involved at OHI? What is OHI and what does the organization do? [21:24]
After 40 years, there’s a gravity to retire, how does Bonnie handle that? [32:55]
Discussion about doing a job for a career compared to having a career that is a passion. [36:13]
What scares Bonnie about the aging process? [46:37]
What advice would Bonnie give someone who wants to work as long as possible in a job that they love? [50:04]
Ben and Curtis wrap up the episode. [52:49]
EP 010: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast we travel to our Portland office to have a really great conversation with Charlie Dibner. Charlie is the President and Founder of Aurora Financial Group in Portland, Maine. Charlie has been in the Financial Services Industry for over four decades and we discuss with Charlie how the Financial Advice industry has evolved over time. Specifically, we wanted to discuss the following: With retirees living longer in retirement than we've seen, what types of challenges have come about that we haven't thought of? Have financial advisors adapted their practices to meet these challenges? What could the industry do better to solve these challenges? What have we figured out? Specifically in the State of Maine, do you think that those needing financial advice have different goals/attitudes/needs than those you encounter in other states? (I.e. we're a rural state, do things like geography come into play? or does our work attitudes play into how we think about retirement?)
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Introduce Charlie and learn about his upbringing and background [1:45] * A conversation about Charlie’s family summer camp business, specifically the level of care needed to run the camp. [8:12] * How Charlie went from running a summer camp to a career in financial advice. [15:29] * How did Charlie actually get into the financial advice industry? [21:42] * What was the industry like when Charlie entered in the late 1970s? How did Financial Planning become a part of the industry? [27:13] * How should a Financial Advisor maximize the experience for the clients and how it all circles back to core values. [35:54] * The evolution of the financial advice industry as Charlie has seen it throughout his career. [45:01] * Forecasting the future, how does Charlie think the industry will continue to evolve? [54:35] * Ben and Curtis reflect on the conversation with Charlie. [57:48]
EP 009: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are joined by Mary Marin Taylor. Mary Mary is the Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Bangor which is a local nonprofit organization that provides free English language tutoring services to Bangor area adults. Why are we talking about volunteerism in regards to Retirement Success? It seems many of the clients we work with have found that by donating their time in retirement to local nonprofits, they have become more fulfilled and find a purpose by seeing their time directly impacting a local cause. But is it that easy? What are some things to know about volunteering in different parts of the State? How does someone identify a good volunteering opportunity for them versus one that won't be a fit?
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Introduction of Mary and her background [2:16] * Discussion about Literacy Volunteers of Bangor, the organization and the services they provide. [10:30] * A conversation about the volunteer experience. How do Literacy Volunteers support its volunteers? What resources are available to the volunteers? [23:14] * Volunteer success stories that Mary has seen in her time at Literacy Volunteers. [35:35] * How can someone, without experience, get involved in committees or boards? [42:02] * What is Mary’s personal idea of Retirement Success? [47:33] * Closing thoughts [49:55]
EP 008: On today’s episode of the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, we are thrilled to be joined by Clifford Milo Singer, MD, DFAPA, AGSF, Chief, Geriatric Mental Health and Neuropsychiatry at Northern Light Acadia Hospital to have an in-depth conversation about mood/emotional and cognitive disorders that aging individuals may face. Some of the questions we ask Dr. Singer in this episode include:
*With many of our client conversations, our clients seem to have a lot of concern of developing mental illnesses as they age. How founded is that concern with the general population in aging? Are there higher risks based on certain factors?
*Are there certain behaviors or concerns that are more unique living in the Northeast, or specifically Maine?
*Can you describe each of the conditions, how they’re developed, and how the symptoms become apparent to yourself or your loved ones? If someone is noticing those symptoms, what’s the best way to address it with your loved one? It seems like that would be a hard topic for a family member to address. How early can some of these aging diseases be detected? How does early detection change how someone lives with the disease?
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Introduction of Dr. Cliff Singer and his background. [2:20] * A conversation about the program that Dr. Singer launched at Acadia Hospital [8:54] * Discussion about the overall concern(s) about developing mood/emotional and cognitive disorders and how founded those concerns are. [18:40] * How do I know if I’m developing mood/emotional or cognitive disorders? If so, what's next? [23:16] * Is it tough for people to admit vulnerabilities like facing their own mortality? [27:44] * When developing cognitive (decline) disorders, like dementia, are there warning signs? How does it progress? Can anything be done to delay the decline? [37:30] * What does the Geriatric Mental Health and Neuropsychiatry field look like over the next 30 years? [54:03] * What is Dr. Singer’s idea of Retirement Success?[57:57]
EP 007: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast we are joined by David Jean, CPA, Director at Altus Exit Strategies. In a previous episode, we discussed how hard it can be for owners and executives of businesses to exit to retirement with Susan Ware Page. We wanted to explore that conversation from another angle with David as his business is focused around helping those in this position - emotionally and financially. Some of the questions we discuss in this episode include: What is exit planning and who should be thinking about it? When should one start to engage with an exit planner and what steps are necessary to make an exit from an organization go smoothly? Are there certain characteristics of the state, both economically and demographically, that present challenges to this population? What are some themes around exit planning in Maine? Give the show a listen to find the answers to these and more!
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Welcome David to the show and a conversation about him and his background. [1:30] * Introduction to Albin, Randall,& Bennett and the relationship with Altus Exit Strategies. [8:30] * A conversation about retirement success, and the elements of success needed as an owner transitions out of a business [12:20] * Discussion about succession plans. What are the barriers to people? [18:30] * Specific to Maine, what are the trends with businesses and succession plans? [29:30] * Switching to retirement success, how does David see business owners approach that success? [36:29] * Are business owners sacrificing their own personal retirement success in favor of the business’s success? [41:42] * How does David see his own retirement success?[47:10]
EP 006: On this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast , we are joined by our teammate, Abby Doody. Abby is an Investment Consultant and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) at Guidance Point. Abby also has a personal interest in income-producing real estate. Why are we talking about real estate in regards to Retirement Success? It seems many of the clients we work with have an affinity towards buying properties with the idea of providing sustainable income over the remainder of their lives. But is it that easy? What are some things to know about buying properties in different parts of the State? How does this work to sustain her version of success in retirement?
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Introduction of Abby and her origin story. [2:03] * Discussion about Abby and her husband’s interest in real estate. [10:46] * What should one think about when finding the right tenant and location for the property? [15:12] * Abby talks about property #2. What led Abby and Casey to purchase another property? [24:50] * Will Airbnb affect/play a role in their properties? [28:35] * Discussion about Abby and Casey’s a-typical situation when it comes to their property locations. [35:19] * Abby discusses their third property and the “master plan”.[37:11] * What happens when the math just doesn’t add up?[42:25] * Moving to retirement success, how does the selling of rental properties work? [46:38] * Abby’s personal idea of Retirement Success in Maine. [53:55]
EP 005: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast we are joined by Joy Trueworthy and Rachel Trafton, Estate Planning Attorneys at Rudman Winchell. In regards to our priorities at Guidance Point, we want to highlight the importance of this episode for our clients and the public. Many people that we meet with do not have an up to date and structured estate plan in place. It was important to our team that this podcast highlight some of the reasons why people do not spend time on estate planning and mistakes they make as they think about what estate planning means. Some of the questions we receive from our client conversations include: how should an estate plan change for me during my life? What happens when a loved one passes away ~ what do I do? How is estate planning going to change in the future and how should I be thinking about it? What are some themes around estate planning in Maine? Give the show a listen to find the answers to these and more!
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Introduction of Joy Trueworthy and Rachel Trafton [1:40] * Why is an estate plan so important [10:00] * How does the estate planning process change as people age through their lives? [18:44] * Discussion about the structure at Rudman Winchell/Maine Elder Law and the services they offer. [25:52] * What are the 3 biggest mistakes made in regards to estate planning? [30:32] * What to expect when a loved one or spouse has passed away in regards to their estate? [44:03] * Discussion about the future of estate planning and how it may change. [49:30] * What does retirement success look like for Rachel and Joy? [58:45]
EP 004: In this episode, we travel to Rockland, Maine to have a conversation with the President of Maritime Energy, Susan Ware Page. What's interesting about Susan's story is that she's a 3rd generation business owner that has helped her father, John Ware, successfully exit the family business to find his own retirement success. What has she learned about helping her father find his retirement success that she is thinking about for herself? What pressure is there on Susan to sustain the business and hand the business to the next generation? Can she successfully do that as she stewards the company to the next family generation?
For more, see the full show notes at blog.guidancepointllc.com/4 .
Chapters:
Introduction of our guest, Susan Ware Page, and the history of the business. [2:00] Discussion about the succession of Maritime Energy from Susan’s grandfather, Roland, to Susan’s father, John. [7:00] With Susan’s father, John, running the company, how did the business evolve? [14:12] How did Susan grow up with the business? How did she end up with Maritime Energy? [25:55] Discussion about Susan’s father, John, and his personal retirement success. [35:00]
Discussion around Susan's Mom, Karen, and how while even receiving medical care for Cancer, she wanted her family to help fight cancer to save other families from similar struggles. And how the family and company created the Energy 4 Life 501c3. [39:48] Discussion about how Susan’s experiences with her father and losing her mother will impact her own retirement success. [49:06] How does Susan define her own retirement success? [52:20]
EP 003: In this episode, we interview Keri Forbringer, Travel Advisor, from Luxury Travel Works. Keri shares with us how she discovered her passion for travel throughout college and working abroad while planning trips for her family ignited a passion for planning travel for others. The interview launches into why someone would want to consider using a travel advisor, including a couple that planned on celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary traveling but never got around to going until they met Keri - two years later! We discuss how retirees or near-retirees should start thinking about their 'wander list' and how their travel needs may change as they progress in retirement. Lastly, we discover travel trends including multi-generational travel, going to less "tourist-y' places, and why "hot" is cold and "cold" is hot. For more, see the full show notes at https://blog.guidancepointllc.com/3/
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Introduction of Keri and her origin story. [2:16] * What is a travel advisor, compared to a travel agent? How do they work? [10:15] * Keri’s business, formation, and structure and how does align with her customers? [14:44] * How can travel and retirement work? [19:24] * Learn about multi-generational travel as a family. [35:30] * Who can afford a travel advisor? [40:04] * Keri’s thoughts on how the travel industry will change over the next 20 years.[46:55]
EP 002: In this episode, we interview with Dyan Walsh, Executive Director for Eastern Area Agency on Aging. Agencies on Aging act as a community resource hub for those that are in or near retirement AND community members supporting the retirement population. Dyan walks us through the history of Agencies on Aging, what they do, how to interact with them, and myths about her Agency. We also discuss how retirement has changed in Maine and some specific needs retirees will be navigating throughout the aging process, including healthcare, finding the right home fit as you age, lifelong learning, losing a loved one, and leisure. For more, see the full show notes at https://blog.guidancepointllc.com/2/
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Get to know Dyan and how she found herself in a career around social work. [1:06] * Learn about the Eastern Area Agency on Aging and what it’s all about. [6:00] * What types of services does the Agency offer? How can people use them? [10:45] * The importance of planning ahead for retirement. [20:30] * What is the best-kept secret about the Eastern Area Agency on Aging? [32:00] * What do retirees do well (and not do well) in navigating retirement? [36:45] * Dyan’s thoughts on the term “Retirement Success” and what that means for her. [41:00]
Ep 001: Welcome to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! In the first episode of our podcast, we kick off the conversation by talking with Wes Del Col, CFP(R), Managing Principal of Guidance Point Advisors. The hosts, Ben and Curtis, dig into Wes' background, the founding of Guidance Point Advisors, and how our clients have defined "retirement success" over time. For more, see the full show notes at https://blog.guidancepointllc.com/1/
What You'll Learn In This Podcast Episode: * Meet Wes! What made him become a Financial Advisor? [2:47] * Learn about Guidance Point Advisors. How did the company begin? [16:05] * How and with who does Guidance Point Advisors work? [28:41] * How does Guidance Point Advisors fit into our client’s Retirement Success? How is retirement success defined? [40:31] * What does retirement look like for Wes? What is his definition of retirement success? [56:36] * How do we expect to see the financial advice industry change over the next 20 years, and how will Guidance Point change with it? [1:01:00] * Ben & Curtis wrap-up [1:03:07]