Welcome to Shaping Your Retirement – the podcast designed to get you thinking about the retirement life you want to live!
Whether you’re gearing up for or currently navigating retirement, or are curious about living a more fulfilling and intentional life - join us!
ShapingYourRetirement.com
The First Month of Retirement: Grief, Gratitude, and the Open Highway | Shaping Your Retirement
In this episode, Leslie talks with Robin about what the first month of retirement has really felt like. Robin shares the emotions she expected, the grief she did not, and the questions that surfaced once the structure of work disappeared.
Together, they explore identity, purpose, social connection, marriage dynamics, and the importance of thinking about your “why” beyond work.
8 Jun 2026
What Road Trips Reveal About Who You Are Now | Shaping Your Retirement
In this short commentary episode, Leslie explores how time on the open road can reveal something important about who you are now, especially in retirement. When the usual schedule disappears, what you choose, how you respond, and what you notice can become clues to what matters most in this chapter.
3 Jun 2026
The Emotions Nobody Warns You About in Retirement | Shaping Your Retirement
In this mini episode of Shaping Your Retirement, Leslie Mizerak talks about the emotions many people do not expect in retirement, including grief, anxiety, loneliness, and the strange disorientation that can come when a long career ends.
1 Jun 2026
What You Miss About Work: Being Needed
In this short commentary episode, Leslie explores the emotional shift from being constantly needed at work to feeling unseen in retirement.
28 May 2026
The Couples' Conversation Nobody Has Before Retirement
In this short commentary episode, Leslie explores one of the most overlooked conversations in retirement: how couples will navigate time, space, autonomy, togetherness, routines, and expectations when work no longer structures the day.
28 May 2026
The Difference Between Staying Busy and Living with Purpose in Retirement
This Shaping Your Retirement episode invites listeners to pause and notice which moments actually stay with them at the end of the week. Those moments may offer clues about what this next chapter might truly be for.
7 Apr 2025
Ikigai & the Happiness Portfolio: Finding Purpose in Retirement with Vikash Kanani
Is 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 may be contacted via email at: vikash.kanani@sjpp.co.uk
Vikash Linkeidn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikash-kanani/
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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 are thinking about retirement or wanting to get more out of their retirement experience.
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📰Subscribe to our newsletter
https://www.shapingyourretirement.com/#newsletter-signup
💡 Want to design a retirement with more purpose and joy?
👉 Download our free eBook Retirement, Redefined and start shaping your best chapter yet.
🌐Find us on the web
https://ShapingYourRetirement.com
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Shaping Your Retirement is a podcast for anyone preparing for retirement – or currently in retirement – and wanting to explore new ideas and ways of living this phase of life. Hosted by Retirement & Executive Coaches Jess Mizerak and Leslie Mizerak, Shaping Your Retirement discusses the philosophy of retirement from a whole person perspective. Join us for engaging discussions that help you shape your retirement.
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🤝Get Connected
with Leslie Mizerak, Executive & Retirement Coach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliemizerak/
with Jess Mizerak, Retirement and Career & Life Transition Coach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mizerak/
Email us at: Hello@GetCourageous.com
👥Get social with us:
https://www.facebook.com/shapingyourretirement
https://www.instagram.com/retirement.coaching/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/getcourageous
#retirementcoaching #retirement #retirementgoals #retirementcoach
3 Apr 2025
Let’s Get Social: Creating Connection in Retirement
In 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.
19 Mar 2025
The Truth About Early Retirement with Cory Bittner, CRPC
What 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 regret
Whether you’re planning to retire at 50 or just want to know your options, this episode is full of valuable insights to help you retire smarter.
Cory Bittner's website is: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/
Cory Bittner's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corybittner/
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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 are thinking about retirement or wanting to get more out of their retirement experience.
---------------
📰Subscribe to our newsletter
https://www.shapingyourretirement.com/#newsletter-signup
🌐Find us on the web
https://ShapingYourRetirement.com
---------------
Shaping Your Retirement is a podcast for anyone preparing for retirement – or currently in retirement – and wanting to explore new ideas and ways of living this phase of life. Hosted by Retirement & Executive Coaches Jess Mizerak and Leslie Mizerak, Shaping Your Retirement discusses the philosophy of retirement from a whole person perspective. Join us for engaging discussions that help you shape your retirement.
---------------
🤝Get Connected
with Leslie Mizerak, Executive & Retirement Coach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliemizerak/
with Jess Mizerak, Retirement and Career & Life Transition Coach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mizerak/
Email us at: Hello@GetCourageous.com
👥Get social with us:
https://www.facebook.com/shapingyourretirement
https://www.instagram.com/retirement.coaching/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/getcourageous
#retirementcoaching #retirement #retirementgoals #retirementcoach
10 Mar 2025
Where 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 just curious about alternative living options, this episode will get you thinking.
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 are thinking about retirement or wanting to get more out of their retirement experience.
---------------
📰Subscribe to our newsletter
https://www.shapingyourretirement.com/#newsletter-signup
🌐Find us on the web
https://ShapingYourRetirement.com
---------------
Shaping Your Retirement is a podcast for anyone preparing for retirement – or currently in retirement – and wanting to explore new ideas and ways of living this phase of life. Hosted by Retirement & Executive Coaches Jess Mizerak and Leslie Mizerak, Shaping Your Retirement discusses the philosophy of retirement from a whole person perspective. Join us for engaging discussions that help you shape your retirement.
---------------
🤝Get Connected
with Leslie Mizerak, Executive & Retirement Coach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliemizerak/
with Jess Mizerak, Retirement and Career & Life Transition Coach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mizerak/
Email us at: Hello@GetCourageous.com
👥Get social with us:
https://www.facebook.com/shapingyourretirement
https://www.instagram.com/retirement.coaching/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/getcourageous
#retirementcoaching #retirement #retirementgoals #retirementcoach
4 Mar 2025
Getting Personal About Retirement Finances with Lauren Hunt, CFP ®
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 can retire with confidence and clarity. Don’t miss this insightful conversation filled with actionable advice for anyone planning—or living—their retirement years.
17 Feb 2025
Retirement Travel in 2025: Exploring the Trends with Travel Advisor Kim Huber
Kim Huber says 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 next unforgettable trip.
2 Feb 2025
Swedish 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.
Whether you’re facing an overflowing attic or inheriting a lifetime of belongings, this episode will get you thinking!
Visit us at: https://www.shapingyourretirement.com/
2 Feb 2025
Talking Fitness Trends in Pre-retirement & Retirement with Fitness Expert Debbie Ivie
Staying 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.
30 Dec 2024
Building Strength After 50 with Personal Fitness Coach Kim Knapp
We explore the best ways to build strength and muscle after age 50, for a healthy, strong and mobile future.
30 Dec 2024
Shaping Your Retirement Podcast Intro
Meet Jess and Leslie - the Founders and Coaches at Shaping Your Retirement. They share a bit about what listeners can expect upcoming podcasts. Welcome to Shaping Your Retirement.
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