Behaving Your Way to a Better Retirement with Greg Davies

This is episode 75! And I’m thrilled to introduce my guest today. He is a true pioneer in the field of behavioural finance, Dr. Greg Davies. Greg is the Head of Behavioural Finance at Oxford Risk and has spent his career shaping how we understand investor psychology, financial decision-making, and the emotional complexities that come with managing money—especially in retirement. In this episode, we’ll explore the behavioural traps that retirees often fall into, how to build financial resilience, and why understanding your own psychology is just as important as having a well-structured portfolio. Throughout our conversation, Greg and I explore the multifaceted aspects of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of guaranteed income and its psychological benefits. We discuss how behavioural finance plays a crucial role in spending habits during retirement, the impact of inflation on purchasing power, and the distinction between risk and volatility in investment strategies. We also touch on future trends in retirement planning, particularly the potential need for and benefits of health insurance and a shift in focus from bequest to spending during retirement. Key Takeaways Greg Davis shares his journey from economics to behavioral finance. Behavioral finance combines psychology, economics, and finance. The importance of practical applications of behavioral science in finance. People often make poor financial decisions due to cognitive biases. Simplifying complex financial concepts is crucial for better decision-making. Emotional comfort plays a significant role in financial decisions. Retirement planning today is more complex than in previous generations. Technology can help simplify financial decision-making processes. Understanding personal values is essential for effective retirement planning. The removal of guaranteed income streams complicates retirement planning. Financial advisors often overlook the emotional aspects of retirement planning. Guaranteed income can alleviate fears of running out of money. Behavioral finance significantly influences spending habits in retirement. People with guaranteed income tend to spend more comfortably. Inflation poses a significant risk to retirement savings. Understanding the difference between risk and volatility is crucial for investors. Many retirees are too conservative with their investment strategies. Health insurance will become increasingly important in retirement planning. The focus of retirement planning is shifting from bequest to spending. Planning for retirement should consider both financial and emotional factors. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Greg Davis and His Journey 01:22 - The Intersection of Behavioral Science and Finance 05:45 - Building a Behavioral Finance Team at Barclays 10:53 - Understanding Behavioral Challenges in Retirement 21:57 - Navigating Retirement in a Complex World 29:50 - The Emotional and Financial Aspects of Retirement Planning 32:04 - The Role of Guaranteed Income in Retirement 36:16 - Behavioral Benefits of Guaranteed Income 40:05 - Real-Life Impacts of Guaranteed Income 44:23 - Inflation and Its Impact on Retirement Planning 48:37 - Understanding Risk vs. Volatility in Investments 57:27 - Future Trends in Retirement Planning Books & Authours Mentioned Nudge by Richard Thaler Misbeahving by Richard Thaler Thinking, Fast and Slow By Daniel Kahneman Research & Papers Referenced "A License to Spend" by David Blanchett, Michael Finke, and Wade Pfau The Jam Study (Choice Overload Study) by Shenna Lyengar and Mark Lepper Other Things to Note Oxford Risk Connect with Greg on LinkedIn Humans vs Retirement The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement

  Bob is a pioneer in the psychology and social science of retirement. He is a five-time best-selling author, nationally syndicated columnist and recognized presenter at retirement conferences across the US. He is the founder of the Retirement Coaches Association, Certified Professional Retirement Coach Designation and Retirement Intelligence Assessment. His work has reached millions of retirement readers through seven books, twelve guides, and over 800 articles. In addition to his own writings, he frequently appears in major business media outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CNBC, MarketWatch, the New York Times, and more. As a former social worker turned retirement expert and author, he has found that retirement is among the most fascinating, yet least understood, phases of life. As a result, he has developed a powerful message to tackle the mental, social, physical, spiritual, and financial aspects of retirement. In this episode Bob and discuss the common misconceptions about retirement, the rise of grey divorce, and the importance of pre-retirement planning. We also tackle some tricky subjects and highlight the dark side of retirement, including loneliness and addiction, and the necessity of establishing new routines to maintain mental health and social connections post-retirement. Bob discusses the evolving concept of retirement, emphasising the importance of identity, purpose, and personal fulfilment over financial wealth and he introduces the Retirement Quotient framework, which assesses readiness for retirement through various personal dimensions, including emotional and spiritual well-being. Key Takeaways Retirement planning should focus on the individual, not just finances. Many retirees experience a drop in social interactions. Pre-retirement planning is crucial for a successful transition. The 'honeymoon phase' of retirement can lead to disillusionment. Loneliness and addiction are significant issues in retirement. Couples often struggle with identity and purpose post-retirement. Establishing new routines is essential for mental health. Workaholism can hinder the retirement experience. Communication between partners is vital for a successful retirement. Retirement should be planned as a new chapter, not an end.  The new wealth is found in work-life balance and connections. Retirement amplifies who you already are, not who you want to be. Maslow's hierarchy applies to retirement, focusing on self-actualization. Retirement requires a proactive framework for success. The Retirement Quotient assesses personal readiness for retirement. Understanding personal traits is crucial for retirement planning. Retirement is an empty bucket that needs to be filled meaningfully. Mindset and habits are essential for a fulfilling retirement. Stop waiting for retirement to start living your values. The only guarantee in retirement is the inevitability of death. Books Mentioned Retirement Intelligence – Bob Laura’s book From Strength to Strength – Arthur Brooks book mentioned in the discussion about workaholism and identity) The Top Five Regrets of the Dying – Bronnie Ware’s book referenced when discussing regrets and priorities in retirement The Power of Regret – Daniel Pink’s book talked about in relation to turning regrets into action  Websites & Resources Retirement Coaches Association – Bob Laura’s organization focusing on retirement coaching Bob Laura’s Website – Link to Bob Laura’s official website for resources, blogs, and retirement coaching. Retirement Quotient (RQ) Assessment – Bob’s online assessment tool for RQ Harvard Study of Adult Development – The famous study mentioned in the discussion about social connection and longevity.  Other Mentions Gray Divorce Statistics – The Gray Divorce Revolution: Rising Divorce Among Middle-aged and Older Adults, 1990-2010 Loneliness & Aging Research – Loneliness in Old Age: An Unaddressed Health Problem Humans vs Retirement The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement  

Today I welcome Leisa Peterson to the show, Leisa is the author of The Mindful Millionaire in which she writes brilliantly about overcoming scarcity, experiencing true prosperity and creating the life you really want. Leisa is on a mission to help 1,000,000 people elevate their financial consciousness by realizing their true value and creating greater financial security for themselves.   As a money coach, business consultant and spiritual teacher, Leisa host’s the Mindful Millionaire podcast as well as virtual workshops and transformative retreats.  Her masterful blend of sound financial strategy and mindfulness training helps people break free of patterns of lack, scarcity and money fears, allowing them to finally lead the rewarding, fulfilling, and abundant lives they most desire.   Leisa has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes and The Huffington Post to name a few and has been featured on many podcasts and radio shows. In this great conversation Leisa and I explore the intricate relationship between money, mindset, and personal values. Leisa shares her journey from a life of scarcity to becoming a mindful millionaire, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's emotional connection to money. We discuss how past experiences shape financial behaviours, the significance of cultivating a prosperity mindset, and the role of mindfulness in overcoming financial fears. We explore the importance of slowing down to make better financial decisions, aligning spending with personal values, and confronting financial realities. There is also some great nuggets of wisdom as we talk about the normalization of financial fears, the impact of past money stories, and the process of rewriting financial narratives. And make sure you listen in as Leisa introduces her, I Prosper process, which integrates mindfulness and emotional wellbeing into financial planning, ultimately leading to a reinvention of life and relationships. Key Takeaways The journey from scarcity to abundance is transformative. Understanding your money mindset is crucial for financial well-being. Mindset is deeply emotional, not just logical. Focusing on what you have can shift your perspective. Redefining success involves aligning values with financial decisions. Life events can catalyze significant changes in financial perspectives. Fear often drives financial decisions and behaviors. Storytelling can make financial planning more relatable and effective. Mindfulness practices can help manage financial anxiety. Emotional awareness is key to enjoying life and spending money. Slowing down is essential for better decision-making. Aligning spending with personal values can enhance fulfillment. Confronting financial realities can be daunting but necessary. Normalizing financial fears helps in addressing them. Understanding past money stories can reveal limiting beliefs. Rewriting financial narratives is possible at any stage of life. The I Prosper process offers a holistic approach to financial planning. Reinventing life involves prioritizing meaningful relationships. Every moment of life is precious and should be cherished. Mindfulness in financial planning can lead to emotional wellbeing. Books Mentioned: The Mindful Millionaire by Leisa Peterson https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Millionaire-Overcome-Experience-Prosperity-ebook/dp/B0818QDPW1 The Money Catalyst by Leisa Peterson (Upcoming Release on May 11, 2025) (Pre-order link to be added when available) Websites & Resources: Leisa Peterson’s Wealth Clinic https://www.wealthclinic.com The Mindful Millionaire Podcast https://www.wealthclinic.com/podcast/ Concepts & Frameworks: The I PROSPER® Framework Leisa's 8-step process to help individuals transform their relationship with money. More details can be found here: https://www.wealthclinic.com/i-prosper-process/ Additional Resources: Mindfulness & Money Mindset Explore articles and resources on financial mindfulness at https://www.wealthclinic.com/mindful-millionaire-book/ Research on Spending & Happiness A study by Harvard Business School on how spending impacts well-being: https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=50495 Related Media: Interview with Leisa Peterson: How To Become A Mindful Millionaire https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ug0ghHVy9ww Humans vs Retirement The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement    

Summary Welcome to a very special episode 72 of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast…  Why is it special I hear you say…  Well, its special because it’s a real retirement story and journey as I have a conversation with my wonderful client Julian Hince.  Whilst I love bringing expert opinions to you I think nothing hits home and resonates more than a real story of someone who has been through and is living through his own retirement journey.   As a bit of background to our conversation, Julian recently retired after a long career in financial services. He shares his journey towards retirement, discussing the emotional challenges he faced, the importance of seeking help, and the misconceptions surrounding how much is enough. He emphasizes the need to have open honest and vulnerable conversations about money and the emotional aspects of retirement planning, highlighting that retirement is not just about finances but also about finding purpose and identity in this new phase of life.   Julian shares inspirational insights and experiences on his journey to retirement, emphasizing the importance of financial advice, emotional preparation, and the joy of spending time with family. He discusses the transformative freedom retirement brings, the significance for him of giving back to the community, and the need for having accountability in managing his retirement finances. Julian also highlights his changing spending patterns in retirement, noting a natural decline his expenses as he becomes more vigilant about his spending. Throughout our conversation he offers first hand valuable advice for those considering retirement, stressing the importance of commitment and professional guidance.  Key Takeaways Julian emphasizes the importance of seeking help when planning for retirement, even for those in the financial industry. The emotional aspects of retirement are as crucial as the financial ones, and should not be underestimated. Many people have misconceptions about how much money is needed for retirement, often influenced by outdated benchmarks. Julian's journey involved making sacrifices, such as selling possessions, to achieve his retirement goals. The transition to retirement can be emotionally challenging, requiring individuals to find new purpose and identity. Conversations about money and retirement are often avoided, leading to misinformation and fear. Julian found joy in decluttering his life, realizing that material possessions held less value than his newfound freedom. The journey to retirement is ongoing, with emotional ups and downs that need to be navigated. It's important to think beyond the initial excitement of retirement and consider long-term fulfillment. Julian's experience highlights the need for a new generation to redefine retirement planning in a changing financial landscape. You might be surprised at how much is enough financially. Don't underestimate the emotional impact of retirement planning. Engaging with a professional can provide invaluable support. Spending time with family is one of the biggest joys of retirement. Loneliness is a significant issue for the elderly. Creating memories is more important than just focusing on money. Being vigilant about spending can lead to significant savings. Retirement allows for more time to focus on personal passions. Giving back to the community can enhance personal fulfillment. Accountability is crucial in managing retirement finances. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Julian's Retirement Journey 01:56 - Julian's Career in Financial Services 04:31 - The Decision to Seek Help 06:37 - Understanding the Emotional Aspects of Retirement 09:53 - Challenging Preconceptions About Retirement Savings 12:58 - The Importance of Conversations About Money 15:58 - Making Sacrifices for Retirement 19:37 - The Joy of Letting Go of Material Possessions 22:38 - Surprises in the Transition to Retirement 24:56 - Navigating Emotional Challenges 27:52 - The Ongoing Journey of Finding Purpose 30:50 - Breaking the Silence on Retirement Finances 32:09 - Lessons Learned on the Retirement Journey 34:05 - Embracing Freedom and Family 36:40 - The Joy of Giving Back 39:10 - The Importance of Accountability 44:47 - Finding Purpose in Retirement 49:05 - Understanding Spending Patterns in Retirement 56:43 - Top Advice for Future Retirees Links The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement  

Summary In this episode I get to chat with author and behavioural scientist, Richard Shotton.  Richard specialises in how humans make choices and has written 2 excellent books on this subject, the choice factory and the illusion of choice. He further specialises on applying findings from psychology and behavioural science to how businesses market their services and why consumers buy stuff  In this episode, Richard discusses the intersection of behavioural science and marketing, particularly in the context of how people make spending decisions in retirement. He shares insights from his research and experiences, highlighting the importance of fairness, social proof, and the emotional aspects of financial choices.   Our discussion also emphasizes the benefits of spending on experiences and others, as well as the challenges individuals face in transitioning from saving to spending during retirement.   Richard and I explore the complexities of retirement planning, focusing on behavioural economics and the psychological factors that influence spending habits. We discuss the importance of making financial decisions easier, and the impact of loss aversion on retirees' spending behaviours. We also delve into the paradox of choice and how an abundance of options can lead to decision paralysis. Key Takeaways Behavioral science can significantly improve marketing effectiveness. Fairness influences decision-making, often leading to suboptimal choices. Social proof plays a crucial role in financial decisions, especially in retirement. People often focus too much on outcomes rather than the decision-making process. Experiential spending tends to yield greater happiness than material purchases. Generosity in spending can enhance personal happiness. Expectations can heavily influence our experiences and satisfaction with purchases. Consistency bias can hinder the transition from saving to spending in retirement. Nudges can effectively guide individuals towards better financial choices. Understanding behavioral biases is key to making informed decisions.  The shift in saving defaults has significantly influenced saving habits. Making financial decisions easier can lead to better outcomes. Loss aversion plays a crucial role in how people spend their money. People are more likely to spend from guaranteed income than from capital. The paradox of choice can hinder decision-making in retirement planning. Financial advisors should use simple language to communicate effectively. Concrete stories are more memorable than abstract concepts in financial advice. Visualizing retirement can help individuals make better financial decisions. Defaults in financial products can greatly impact consumer behavior. Understanding and leveraging biases can improve financial planning outcomes. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Behavioral Science in Marketing 06:01 - Social Proof and Herd Mentality in Retirement 12:10 - Spending Money Wisely: Experiences vs. Material Goods 17:53 - The Importance of Generosity in Spending 28:10 - Consistency Bias in Retirement Spending 36:02 - Behavioral Insights on Spending and Saving 42:10 - Navigating the Paradox of Choice 50:02 - Effective Communication for Financial Advisors Links The Choice Factory The Illusion of Choice The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement

Summary In this episode of The Humans vs Retirement Podcast is get to chat with Susan Latremoille Susan is a certified Retirement Coach (CPRC) and the author of The RichLife – Managing Wealth and Purpose, It’s Not Just about the Money – The Whole Life Approach to Wealth Management, and co-author – Thriving Throughout Your Retirement Transition.  Susan spent over 35 years as a wealth advisor assisting clients to financially plan for their retirement. She saw a common thread among her clients. Having enough money to retire was only a piece of the retirement puzzle. It was the non-financial side that had the greatest impact on the predictability of a successful retirement. That’s when Susan decided to launch next chapter lifestyle advisers, a retirement lifestyle consulting business that helps individuals and families create a retirement lifestyle plan   In our conversation Susan discusses her transition from a financial advisor to focusing on the non-financial aspects of retirement planning through her company, Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors. She shares insights on the importance of understanding your life journeys and the concept of a 'rich life' that encompasses living well, giving back, and leaving a legacy.   Susan introduces the idea of a happiness portfolio, which includes eight non-financial areas of life that contribute to a fulfilling retirement. Our conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to retirement planning that goes beyond numbers to include personal fulfillment and purpose.   Susan and I discuss the multifaceted aspects of retirement, emphasizing the importance of leisure, the dynamics of relationships, and the necessity of planning for a fulfilling next chapter in life. We explore the challenges retirees face in managing their time, setting boundaries, and maintaining social connections, while also advocating for a shift in perspective from traditional retirement to a more vibrant and purposeful next chapter.  Key Takeaways Many retirees are not as happy as they expected. Understanding the life journey is crucial for retirement planning. The rich life mantra includes living well, giving back, and leaving a legacy. Purpose is essential for a fulfilling life after retirement. A happiness portfolio consists of eight non-financial areas of life. Retirement can bring challenges in personal relationships. Leisure is just one aspect of a fulfilling retirement. Self-understanding is the first step in retirement planning. Accountability is key to implementing a retirement plan. Leisure is a vital part of retirement planning. Changing relationships require open communication. Hedonic adaptation can diminish the joy of leisure activities. Structuring time is essential for a fulfilling retirement. The retirement honeymoon phase should be managed carefully. Setting boundaries is crucial to avoid overcommitment. Planning for the next chapter is as important as financial planning. Retirement should be reframed as a new beginning. Storytelling is more impactful than numbers in retirement planning. Communication about expectations can enhance family dynamics Sound Bites "Live well, give back, leave a legacy." "Purpose is a human need that we all need." "It's a very individual journey." "Leisure is such a vital part." "You need to really think about it." "It's vital to communicate your boundaries." "We need to retire the word retirement." "We are storytellers over spreadsheets." "Make a plan for your next chapter." Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors 05:23 - The Shift from Financial to Non-Financial Planning 10:31 - Understanding the Rich Life Mindset 17:00 - Building a Happiness Portfolio for Retirement 24:50 - The Importance of Leisure in Retirement 27:13 - Navigating Changing Relationships 29:47 - The Reality of Leisure Activities 33:01 - Structuring Time in Retirement 35:57 - The Retirement Honeymoon Phase 38:56 - Setting Boundaries and Communication 43:06 - Reframing Retirement: A New Perspective Links Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors Susan's book 9 Steps to a Rich Life in Retirement The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement

Summary I had the privilege to sit down with Jordan Grumet, author of the brilliant new book The Purpose Code and host of The Earn & Invest Podcast. In this conversation, Jordan shares his journey from being a physician to discovering the importance of purpose in life, particularly in retirement. He discusses the paradox of purpose, the difference between Big P and Little P Purpose, and how societal expectations can lead to anxiety around finding purpose. Jordan emphasises the need to create and build purpose rather than simply searching for it, and highlights the importance of community and connections in achieving fulfillment and happiness.  Jordan and I explore the concepts of purpose, identity, and the flawed notion of retirement. We discuss how individuals often strive for external validation through accomplishments, but true fulfillment comes from understanding one's identity and engaging in meaningful activities. Our discussion emphasises the importance of time over money, the impact of little-p purpose in life, and the common regrets people have at the end of their lives. Ultimately, Jordan encourages you to focus on the journey of life rather than the destination, and to seek out what truly lights you up. Key Takeaways Purpose is essential for a fulfilling life, especially in retirement. Big P Purpose can lead to anxiety and frustration. Little P Purpose focuses on the process and is more attainable. Creating purpose involves identifying what lights you up. Community and connections are vital for happiness. People often replace work-based purpose with similar frameworks in retirement. Meaning is about understanding our past, while purpose is about present actions. Happiness comes from both meaning and purpose working together. Investing in personal passions can inspire others, especially children. The journey to enoughness is crucial for finding true fulfillment. We often strive for external validation through accomplishments. True fulfillment comes from understanding our identity. Retirement should be viewed as a journey, not a destination. Time is always more important than money. Money is a tool, but little-p purpose moves the needle. Many people regret not pursuing their true passions. Success is less important than the effort and journey. Living with purpose can lead to a peaceful end of life. We should focus on what lights us up in life. The concept of enough is often smaller than we think. Sound Bites "We need to put purpose first." "Big P Purpose is associated with anxiety." "Little P Purpose focuses on process, not goals." "You have to build and create purpose." "Purpose is a conduit to people." "Happiness is meaning and purpose together." "You can't purpose your way to enough." "Identity is based not on goals, but on actions." "Retirement is a flawed concept." "Money is a mirage." Chapters 00:00 -Introduction to Purpose and Identity 02:31 - Jordan's Journey: From Doctor to Purpose Advocate 06:57 - The Paradox of Purpose: Anxiety vs. Fulfillment 12:39 - Big P vs. Little P Purpose: Understanding the Difference 16:31 - Creating Purpose in Retirement: The Challenge Ahead 20:52 - Building Community Through Little P Purpose 27:40 - Meaning vs. Purpose: The Journey to Enoughness 30:29 - Finding Meaning Beyond Striving 31:56 - The Challenge of Identity 34:04 - Redefining Retirement as a Journey 39:26 - The Value of Time Over Money 42:05 - The Impact of Little-P Purpose 46:27 - Regrets and Lessons from the Dying Links The Purpose Code The Earn & Invest Podcast The Super Sunday Retirement Roundup Newsletter The Skill of Spending Money in Retirement Whitepaper The Humans vs Retirement Sketchstore Book in a Time For us to Chat About Your Retirement  

Welcome to a special end of 2024 solo episode of the Humans vs. Retirement podcast! This year there has been 40 episodes of the podcast released and I’m touching on 90,000 downloads, which blows my mind! I have been so lucky to have conversations with amazing guests and the feedback has been so humbling to hear.   So, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’ve tuned in to one episode or every single one, I’m so grateful for your support and the incredible conversations we’ve shared together this year. And if you haven’t yet had time to leave a review and rating then best Christmas present you could give me would be to leave one! It really helps spread the word!   As I look back at 2024, I want to share some highlights from the past 12 months, touch on the common themes that emerged, and leave you with five key takeaways that I hope will resonate as you reflect on your own journey Reflecting on 2024: Highlights & Themes  This year has been such a meaningful one for the podcast. Together, we’ve explored the realities of retirement, challenged common assumptions, and learned from so many insightful guests. Here are some highlights and recurring themes from our episodes this year:  The Emotional Side of Retirement:  We learned that retirement isn’t just about financial planning—it’s also about preparing emotionally. Guests shared how identity, purpose, and connection play vital roles in creating a fulfilling retirement.  Finding Purpose Post-Retirement:  A recurring message from our conversations was the importance of rediscovering purpose, whether it’s through volunteering, pursuing hobbies, or starting new ventures.  Navigating the Challenges of Change:  Many of our guests spoke candidly about the challenges they faced transitioning into retirement, from redefining routines to managing relationships.  Health as the Foundation:  Health and well-being emerged as central themes, with our guests emphasizing the need to invest in both physical and mental health to make the most of retirement.  The Power of Community:  Lastly, we often heard about the value of building and maintaining strong social networks during retirement—it’s truly a time when connections matter more than ever Five Big Takeaways from 2024 As we wrap up this incredible year, I want to leave you with five key takeaways from the conversations we’ve had on the podcast:  Retirement Is a Transition, Not a Destination:  It’s a process, not a single moment. Give yourself grace as you navigate this new chapter.  Purpose Doesn’t Retire:  Finding new ways to contribute, grow, and enjoy life is essential to a fulfilling retirement.  Plan Beyond the Finances:  A solid financial plan is important, but don’t neglect your emotional and social planning.  Stay Curious:  This is your time to explore, learn, and embrace new experiences. Stay curious about the possibilities ahead.  Invest in Relationships:  Relationships—both new and old—will be your greatest source of joy and support in retirement. Nurture them.  What does 2025 look like for you?  My team and I are looking to help 15 new families this year, so if you are based in the UK, thinking about your retirement in the next few years and want to explore working with me to plan and live your dream second half of life then please use the link below to book in a time for us to chat early in the new year. Book in a time for us to chat Of course we must be a right fit to work together on this very important phase of life so please fill in the form when clicking on the link and if we are a good fit then you will be able to book in a slot in my diary for us to chat.  Happy Holidays!! Before I sign off, I just want to say thank you once again for being part of this journey with me. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm mean the world, and it’s been a privilege to share these conversations with you throughout the year.  As we head into the holiday season, I hope you take time to celebrate, relax, and connect. I’m wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful start to the New Year.  Here’s to an exciting 2025 filled with new adventures, meaningful conversations, and continued growth. I’ve already got some brilliant episodes recorded and cracking guests lined up so I cannot wait to see you next year!    

Summary In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back to the show Christine Benz as we delve into her best selling book How to Retire: 20 Lessons For a Happy, Succesful, And Wealthy Retirement.  When Christine was a guest on the podcast in ep 36 back in March of this year, her book had not yet been released but we did get a sneak peek into what she had in store for us.   Now, having got my hands on a copy and seeing how successful the book has become I wanted to get Christine back on the show to talk about my 5 favourite chapters or lessons from the book. So, stay tuned as we discuss  Laying the groundwork with Fitz Gilbert Creating a spending plan with Jonathan Guyton Permission to spend on what matters most with Ramit Sethi Structuring portfolios for cashflow by Christine herself Leave no regrets with Jordan Grummet   Throughout our conversation Christine and I explore the multifaceted aspects of retirement, focusing on the importance of mindful spending, the balance of time, money, and health, effective cash flow strategies, and the significance of purpose in life. We discuss how individuals can align their spending with their values, the psychological benefits of structured cash flow, and the necessity of reflecting on life to avoid regrets.   Key Takeaways Retirement is a unique life stage that requires thoughtful planning. Visualizing how to use retirement years is crucial. Financial resources should support lifestyle choices in retirement. People often underestimate the complexities of retirement planning. A holistic approach to retirement includes both financial and non-financial aspects. Laying groundwork involves both financial and personal preparations. Experiencing mini-retirements can provide valuable insights. Flexible spending strategies are essential for adapting to life changes. Non-portfolio income sources can enhance financial security in retirement. Understanding the behavioral aspects of spending can improve retirement planning. Mindful spending aligns with personal values. Revisiting values annually is crucial for retirees. Cash flow strategies provide peace of mind in retirement. Purpose in life can be cultivated through small actions. It's important to enjoy the journey of life. People regret not attempting rather than failing. Elevating your worry-free number can reduce stress. Understanding the balance of time, money, and health is essential. Small P purposes can lead to a fulfilling retirement. Time is a non-renewable resource that should be valued.  Sound Bites "This is a really special life stage." "Use your time wisely, use it thoughtfully." "You need a unified vision for retirement." "Mini retirements can be really impactful." "Flexible spending strategies are essential." "Non-portfolio income sources are important." "Spending feels better than saving." "Spending your money on what matters to you." "Elevate your worry-free number." "Purpose is not found, it's created." "We regret not attempting, not failing." Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Retirement Planning 03:13 - The Essence of Retirement: Time and Vision 06:00 - The Complexity of Retirement: Balancing Finances and Purpose 08:55 - Laying the Groundwork for Retirement 12:05 - Experiencing Mini-Retirements 21:05 - Creating a Flexible Spending Plan 29:30 - The Importance of Spending Mindfully 36:30 - Understanding Time, Money, and Health Balance 42:15 - Cash Flow Strategies for Retirement 48:42 - Leaving No Regrets: Embracing Purpose in Life Links Buy How to Retire Book in a time for us to chat about your retirement plans  

Summary In this episode, Dr Daniel Crosby returns to discuss his new book The Soul of Wealth and the concept of soulful wealth, particularly in the context of retirement. He emphasises that money should serve individuals rather than control them, and highlights the importance of relationships and personal growth in achieving happiness. Our conversation explores the PERMA model, which outlines five facets of flourishing: Positive experiences, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Advancement. Daniel stresses the need for intentionality in retirement planning, focusing on non-financial elements that contribute to a fulfilling life. He also discusses the limitations of money and the critical role of time management in enhancing well-being. Throughout our enlightening conversation, Daniel and I explore the intricate relationship between money, happiness, and retirement. We discuss the increasing screen time among retirees, the role of AI in daily life, and how spending money can align with personal values to enhance joy. Our discussion delves into the societal pressures of materialism, the fear of the unknown in retirement, and strategies for managing uncertainty. Ultimately, Daniel emphasises the importance of making conscious financial choices that reflect one's true values and the potential for positive surprises in the future. Key Takeaways Money should serve you, not control you. Strong relationships are key to happiness. Retirement planning should include non-financial elements. The PERMA model outlines five facets of flourishing. Engagement in meaningful activities is crucial in retirement. Loneliness can have severe health impacts. Intentionality in spending free time is essential. Advancement and personal growth should continue post-retirement. Expectations of retirement can lead to disappointment. Time management is a powerful tool for happiness. Retirees are increasingly spending time watching television due to newfound free time. AI should handle mundane tasks, allowing humans to focus on creativity. Spending money on experiences and relationships can lead to greater happiness. Aligning spending with personal values is crucial for fulfillment. Materialism is linked to lower well-being and should be avoided. Fear of the unknown can hinder retirement satisfaction. Controlling what you can in finances is essential for peace of mind. Expect market fluctuations as a normal part of investing. Positive uncertainty can lead to unexpected joys in life. Chronic stress is detrimental; managing expectations is key.  Sound Bites "Money is a servant and not a master." "Relationships are profoundly messy." "Retirement is often put on a pedestal." "Money can't buy us happiness outright." "Time is the ultimate purchase." "We spend our free time on screens." "I want AI to mow my lawn and do my laundry." "Align your spending with your core values." "The Joneses aren't as happy as they seem." "Expect market corrections; they are normal." Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome Back 01:13 - Defining Soulful Wealth 05:00 - The Role of Relationships in Retirement 10:08 - Exploring the PERMA Model 14:25 - Creating Opportunities for Advancement 16:18 - The Reality of Retirement Expectations 19:24 - Understanding Money's Limitations 22:12 - The Importance of Time in Retirement 25:58 - The Rise of Screen Time in Retirement 27:47 - The Role of AI in Daily Life 28:44 - Spending Money for Happiness 34:31 - Aligning Spending with Values 37:27 - The Joneses Aren't Happy 42:07 - Confronting the Fear of the Unknown 49:44 - Managing Uncertainty in Retirement Links Buy Daniel's brilliant book The Soul of Wealth TED Talk by Martin Seligman on Positive Psychology & the PERMA Model Book in a time for us to chat about your retirement plans