Shows
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastIkigai & the Happiness Portfolio: Finding Purpose in Retirement with Vikash KananiIs retirement really about stopping—or about rediscovering what lights you up?
In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we’re joined by Vikash Kanani, Managing Director of Chatsworth Wealth Management, who brings a refreshing perspective on purpose, fulfillment, and legacy in retirement.
From the wisdom of Japan’s Blue Zones to the power of the “Happiness Portfolio,” Vikash shares how finding your Ikigai - your reason for being - can change everything. Whether you're preparing for retirement or simply craving more meaning, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what’s next.
Vikash...2025-04-0720 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastLet’s Get Social: Creating Connection in RetirementIn this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we’re diving into an essential but sometimes overlooked part of retirement: your social life. From work connections that naturally fade to newfound freedom and time, retirement can either expand or shrink your social circle—depending on how intentional you are. Leslie and Jess explore ways to keep (or build!) meaningful relationships after leaving the workplace. Whether you're an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, you'll hear fun, practical ideas for staying socially engaged through volunteering, hobbies, classes, pets, dinner parties, virtual groups, and more. Plus, we talk about how your personality play...2025-04-0317 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastThe Truth About Early Retirement with Cory Bittner, CRPCWhat does early retirement really look like? Is it about quitting work—or about creating more freedom and flexibility in your life?
In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we chat with Cory Bittner, CRPC®, co-founder of Falcon Wealth Advisors and host of the Upticks podcast, to explore the realities of retiring early.
💡 Topics we cover:
✔️ How to access your retirement funds before 59 ½
✔️ The importance of healthcare and tax planning in early retirement
✔️ Why some of the happiest retirees still work in some capacity
✔️ The key to maintaining purpose and avoiding post-retirement regret2025-03-1923 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastWhere Will You Live in Retirement? Exploring Your Housing Options🏡 Where Will You Live in Retirement? Exploring Modern Housing Options
Retirement is about more than just finances—it’s about where and how you want to live. In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, Jess & Leslie explore the evolving world of retirement housing, from 55+ communities to co-housing, communal living, and multi-generational homes.
They break down:
🏡 The growing demand for 50+ housing options
🔍 The difference between co-housing, communal living, and independent living
💡 The importance of social connection in housing decisions
📍 The surprising affordability of certain housing styles
Whether you’re planning your retirement or ju...2025-03-1019 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastGetting Personal About Retirement Finances with Lauren Hunt, CFP ®In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we’re joined by Lauren Hunt, Certified Financial Planner and founder of Daybreak Wealth. Lauren takes us through her fascinating career journey—from working on the Chicago Stock Exchange floor at 16 to launching her own financial planning firm.
We dive into what successful retirement planning really looks like, including the importance of defining your own version of success, building financial habits that last, and navigating the emotional shifts that come with retirement.
Lauren shares practical tips on everything from managing market volatility to creating a cash buffer, so you...2025-03-0417 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastRetirement Travel in 2025: Exploring the Trends with Travel Advisor Kim HuberIn this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we dive into the exciting world of traveling in retirement with Kim Huber, travel advisor at AdventuresandCruises.com
Retirement is the perfect time to explore new places, visit loved ones, and create meaningful experiences—and Kim shares the top travel trends for retirees, from private group travel to the rising popularity of river cruises.
Whether you're looking for a bucket-list adventure, a small-group experience, or just wondering how to break out of your travel comfort zone, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you plan your ne...2025-02-1715 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastSwedish Death Cleaning: How Much is Too Much?Are you holding onto things you don’t really need? In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, Coaches Leslie & Jess Mizerak explore the emotional and practical challenges of decluttering, downsizing, and preparing for the future with intention.
We break down the concept of Swedish Death Cleaning—a mindful approach to letting go—and why simplifying now can help ease stress for yourself and your loved ones later.
Shaping Your Retirement
Non-financial Retirement Coaches Jess and Leslie Mizerak believe in shaping a fulfilling life in retirement that represents who you are and what yo...2025-02-0321 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastTalking Fitness Trends in Pre-retirement & Retirement with Fitness Expert Debbie IvieStaying active is key to thriving in retirement! In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, host Leslie chats with Debbie Ivie, a medical exercise specialist and owner of FitRx Performance, about the importance of movement, habit formation, and holistic wellness. From the rise of pickleball to the benefits of meditation for focus and stress management, Debbie shares practical insights for maintaining strength, mobility, and longevity. Tune in for expert advice on making fitness a lifelong habit and set yourself up for a vibrant, active retirement.
Fitness Trends in Retirement
Building Accountability in Retirement
Increasing Aerobic Capacity
Personal Wellness...2025-02-0215 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastBuilding Strength After 50 with Personal Fitness Coach Kim KnappIn this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, Leslie and Jess sit down with Kim Knapp, Founder of K-Factor Coaching and author of Ageless Energy. Together, they explore the best ways to build strength and muscle after age 50, for a healthy, strong, and mobile future.
We discuss:
Myths about building (and losing) muscle at different ages
The most important exercises for building strength after 50
What holds people back from getting started
You can learn about Kim Knapp and The K-Factor at: https://thekfactorcoaching.com/
Shaping Your Retirement
Non-financial Retirement Coaches Je...2024-12-3024 min
Shaping Your Retirement PodcastShaping Your Retirement Podcast IntroMeet Jess and Leslie Mizerak- the Founders and Coaches at Shaping Your Retirement. They share a bit about what listeners can expect upcoming podcasts. Welcome to Shaping Your Retirement.
Shaping Your Retirement
Non-financial Retirement Coaches Jess and Leslie Mizerak believe in shaping a fulfilling life in retirement that represents who you are and what you want to accomplish. For some, that means time with family and friends or traveling; for others, it’s taking care of health or volunteering. Our co-hosts discuss retirement trends and interview guests who bring fresh perspectives to listeners who a...2024-12-3010 min