The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast

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]