Ep 117: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis explore how the principles of improv can help retirees strengthen relationships and find new ways to connect. Their guest, Chip Brewer, has performed and taught improv for more than 20 years, working with Fortune 100 executives, educators, and students, as well as authoring his debut thriller novel. Chip shares how core improv lessons like “yes, and,” active listening, and making others look good can bridge generational gaps, spark joy in everyday family interactions, and turn awkward moments into opportunities for deeper trust. From navigating conversations with teenagers, to building shared stories with grandkids, to keeping family gatherings fun and inclusive, this episode offers retirees a playful yet practical toolkit for enhancing connection and meaning in retirement. Chapters: Meet Chip Brewer, improv performer, teacher, and author. [00:01–02:44] From Amsterdam stages to teaching Fortune 100 companies. [03:06–07:19]  “Yes, and,” active listening, and making others look good. [07:47–13:12] Using improv to bridge gaps with kids and grandkids. [13:12–27:25] Why embracing flaws leads to deeper trust. [36:05–39:48] Simple improv games retirees can try at home. [44:23–48:25] Chip’s personal vision for a fulfilling retirement. [49:12–50:43]

Ep 116: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis welcome Jenna Biehn, Senior Sales Director at Dirigo Pines, to dive into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of senior living. Jenna shares her path into the industry and the powerful lessons she’s learned helping families make decisions about retirement living. From the growing shortage of units and caregivers to the risks of waiting until a crisis strikes, she explains why early planning and open family conversations are essential to preserving independence and choice. Jenna offers a candid look at the innovations and advocacy needed to prepare for the baby boomer wave, while sharing her own vision for retirement success. This episode delivers both practical guidance and a broader view of where senior living is headed in the years ahead. Chapters: Jenna’s transition into senior living and what makes the work meaningful [03:07–04:32] The lack of planning and why families often make decisions in crisis [04:45–05:59] The looming supply-demand gap in senior living and workforce shortages [09:18–12:44] How lifestyle expectations are reshaping communities (socialization, enrichment, fitness) [22:21–26:26] Why planning early preserves choice and independence [27:17–32:10] Innovative models and advocacy needed to meet future demand [34:35–45:38] Jenna’s personal vision of retirement success [51:23–54:27]

Ep 115: In this episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis sit down with Princella Seymour—known as America’s Solutionist for the Aging Community and CEO of Complete Elder Solutions—to tackle one of the biggest threats facing retirees today: financial scams. Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Princella shares real stories of fraud targeting older adults, why shame often keeps victims silent, and the steps families can take to prevent and recover from scams. From spotting caregiver manipulation to building stronger support systems, this conversation provides essential tools to protect retirement savings and independence. Chapters: Princella Seymour’s Journey – Why she’s known as America’s Solutionist for the Aging Community [03:28] Complete Elder Solutions – Founding the company and addressing retirees’ biggest challenges [04:56] Princella’s Book: Everything You Need to Know About Me – How documenting wishes helps families and prevents confusion [06:51] The Rise of Financial Scams – How schemes targeting retirees have evolved [11:41] Why Older Adults Are Vulnerable – Factors like loneliness, shrinking circles, and trust [16:07] The Role of Shame – Why embarrassment stops victims from asking for help [20:07] What To Do If Scammed – Key steps in the first 24–48 hours [26:08] Aftermath of Fraud – The financial and emotional toll on retirees and families [30:19] Prevention Strategies – Building support networks and balancing independence with protection [38:30] Retirement Success – Princella’s personal vision and planning for her future [45:24]

Ep 114: Retirement doesn’t always mean slowing down. For some, it means stepping up to support a loved one with autism. In this episode, Ben and Curtis talk with Dr. Alexandra Rogers, a retired psychologist and autism advocate, about the unique role many grandparents and retirees play as caregivers. With warmth and deep experience, Dr. Rogers explores how to better understand autism from the perspective of the individual, how to balance love, advocacy, and boundaries, and how to thoughtfully plan for long-term care and housing. She also offers guidance on how caregivers can recognize when they need support for their own mental health and how to care for themselves while caring for others. Whether you're helping a grandchild, adult child, or extended family member, this conversation offers practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement for finding purpose and peace in a complex role. Chapters: How did Dr. Alexandra Rogers begin working with autism in her career? [04:21] What does autism look like in everyday life? [11:46] Why do retirees often become caregivers for family members with autism? [14:19] What are the emotional challenges of caregiving? [16:09] What should families know about group homes and other housing options? [20:15] How can caregivers advocate effectively? [26:52] How can grandparents support from a distance or without overstepping? [28:31] What are signs caregivers need mental health support? [32:49] What does Retirement Success look like for Dr. Alexandra Rogers? [36:24]

Ep 113: What happens when a beloved teacher retires but still has more stories to tell? In this heartfelt episode, Ben and Curtis sit down with Jim Smith—retired social studies teacher, proud grandfather, and creator of the Kenduskeag History Tales Facebook group—to explore how retirement can spark a whole new chapter of community impact. After leaving the classroom, Jim found purpose by reconnecting with his small town’s past and sharing it through photos, archives, and personal storytelling. From cleaning gravestones to launching a town flag design contest and even helping dedicate a bridge to a fallen WWII soldier, Jim shows how retirement can be a time of deep connection and legacy-building. Chapters: How did Jim approach the transition into retirement? [03:54] What sparked the idea for Kenduskeag History Tales? [09:40] What challenges did Jim face learning the technology? [18:37] Who’s engaging with the history project, and how far has it reached? [21:55] How does Jim uncover and share local stories? [25:09] What’s the most memorable story Jim has shared? [29:03] How did the Kenduskeag town flag and bridge dedication projects come to life? [31:39] How has this work shaped Jim’s identity in retirement? [42:31] What does Retirement Success look like for Jim? [46:56]

Ep 112: On today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast, Ben and Curtis sit down with Coach Andy Wary, founder of Silverback Strength Training, to break down the transformative power of strength training for older adults. Whether it's walking the dog, chasing grandkids, or just getting up and down stairs confidently, retirees want to stay active and independent, and Andy shows us exactly how to make that happen. Drawing on his personal journey from childhood to playing Division I football and eventually launching his own fitness business, Andy shares how strength training not only preserves mobility and prevents falls but also supports mental toughness and emotional resilience as we age. He explains how tailored, approachable fitness routines can help people of all ages overcome fear, chronic pain, and self-doubt. Chapters: Why does strength training matter so much in retirement? [02:52] How did Andy’s personal story lead him to coaching? [04:10] What common challenges do older adults face with mobility and strength? [13:00] How does strength training improve everyday activities? [18:05] What’s the right way to start if you have pain or past injuries? [22:15] Is walking enough, or do we need more? [27:13] Why is strength training important during weight loss? [29:55] What does “becoming unbreakable” mean for retirees? [35:17] What does retirement success look like for Andy? [41:20]

Ep 111: Today’s episode is focused on one of the most complex and emotional decisions retirees and their families face: senior care. When the time comes to consider assisted living, home care, or long-term care, families often feel overwhelmed by industry jargon, pricing structures, and the uncertainty of choosing the right path. Many seniors accept the pricing presented to them by facilities without knowing there’s room for negotiation or better-suited options available. Others struggle to navigate the differences between private pay and Medicaid-funded communities, unaware of how these choices impact their care and financial future. Our guest today specializes in helping families cut through the confusion and find the best senior care solutions. If you’ve ever wondered when to start planning, how to navigate the system, or what the real differences are between private pay and Medicaid options, stay tuned - this is a conversation you won’t want to miss! Chapters: Welcome, Kaitlyn Cunningham Morse! [2:45] What are the key benefits of having a Buyer’s Agent for senior living? [6:30] What are the differences between private-pay and Medicaid-funded senior care options? [13:44] How can families plan for care in a way that may allow them to stay in their homes? [20:16] What steps can be taken today that would help be proactive and avoid last-minute (costly) decisions when it comes to senior care? [30:28] How will Kaitlyn find her personal Retirement Success? [35:58] Episode Conclusion. [38:48]

Ep 110: Many retirees are looking for ways to stay mentally engaged, prevent cognitive decline, and find meaningful ways to connect with others, especially during long, isolating winters here in New England. That’s where ​Bridge comes in. Studies have shown that playing Bridge regularly can improve memory, strengthen problem-solving skills, and even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. But it’s not just about brain health; Bridge is also a social game that fosters friendships and community, whether played in person or online. Our guest today is a professional Bridge teacher and co-founder of The Bridge Teachers, a company that helps people of all ages, especially beginners, discover the joy of ​Bridge. Whether you’ve never picked up a deck of cards or you’re looking for a new way to challenge your mind, today’s episode will show you why ​Bridge might just be the perfect activity for your retirement. Chapters: Welcome, Brian Reynolds! [2:22] What are the basics of the game? [12:11] Bridge and aging. How can the game contribute positively to the aging population? [24:04] What are some digital opportunities for retirees looking to learn and play Bridge? [33:23] How can Bridge help us grow as people, outside of the game? [37:24] What’s one piece of advice for someone considering trying Bridge for the first time? [49:05] What does Retirement Success look like to Brian? [50:28] Episode Conclusion. [54:10]

Ep 109: Today’s episode dives into a topic that is crucial as we age: how to balance medications, nutrition, and fitness to live healthier and age better. As we grow older, medications often become a regular part of our lives, helping us manage chronic conditions and improve our quality of life. But how do we know we’re using medications effectively—and not relying on them at the expense of healthier habits like nutrition and exercise? We’re also witnessing a trend of medications being used as shortcuts for weight loss, raising important questions about their long-term sustainability and effectiveness compared to traditional approaches like proper diet and fitness. Our guest today is uniquely qualified to guide us through this conversation. She’s an expert in pharmacy, nutrition, and fitness, and she’s here to share insights on how we can take control of our health by making smarter choices about the tools we use—whether that’s medications, food, or fitness routines. So, if you’re looking to strike the right balance and live a longer, healthier life, you’re in for a treat! Chapters: Welcome, Amy Wilson! [2:20] What are some of the most common mistakes made when managing medications in older adults? [10:41] What are some pros and cons of using common weight loss medications? [17:31] How can we work with healthcare providers to ensure we’re only taking necessary medications? [24:31] How will Amy Wilson find her personal Retirement Success? [41:12] Episode conclusion. [43:20]

Ep 108: Today’s episode explores one of the most significant challenges we face as we age: loneliness. Loneliness doesn’t always stem from being alone; it often comes from feeling unseen or disconnected, even when surrounded by others. This is a topic that many of us struggle with in silence, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Our guest today, Brandon Lee, is no stranger to this conversation. He’s an entrepreneur, coach, and writer whose work focuses on helping people connect more deeply with themselves and others. Through his own experiences and insights, Brandon has developed tools to help us combat loneliness by fostering meaningful, fulfilling relationships. From finding the courage to share our true selves to learning how to build communities that support us, today’s episode will offer practical tools and strategies to help you feel seen, supported, and connected—no matter where you are in life. So, if you’re ready to take a step toward overcoming loneliness and creating deeper connections, stay tuned. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss! Chapters: Welcome, Brandon Lee! [2:06] Why is feeling ‘seen’ so critical for connection? [10:04] What can retirees do to form deeper connections at this stage of life? [18:24] What are some ways to take “small risks” as a way to deepen conversations? [24:18] How can people stay motivated and patient while trying to build their community? [37:30] What’s one takeaway for overcoming loneliness? [40:33] How will Brandon find his personal Retirement Success? [43:39] Episode Conclusion. [46:59]

Ep 107: Today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast touches on a topic that impacts every single one of us but often doesn’t get the attention it deserves: sleep. As retirees seek to live healthier, more fulfilling lives, getting good-quality sleep is often overlooked as a critical key to success in aging well. In this episode, we’ll explore why improving sleep quality is one of the most powerful ways to boost physical, emotional, and cognitive health in retirement. We’ll uncover how better sleep helps prevent memory decline, manage stress, and even reduce risks for chronic illnesses like heart disease. From identifying common but overlooked sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, to practical strategies for achieving restorative, high-quality sleep, this episode will provide actionable insights for our listeners. So, if you’re ready to learn how prioritizing sleep can unlock more energy, clearer thinking, and greater vitality in retirement, stay tuned! We’ve got a fantastic expert to guide us through why sleep truly is the key to aging better. Chapters: Welcome, Dr. Barry Krakow! [2:55] What happens to our bodies when we experience bad and broken sleep over time? [11:20] How can we emphasize quality sleep over quantity of sleep? [19:34] What are common disruptions that prevent people from achieving critical sleep stages? [35:49] Where can people start tonight to improve their sleep quality? [42:53] How will Dr. Barry Krakow find his personal Retirement Success? [45:14] Episode conclusion. [47:45]

Ep 106: Today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast explores a topic that’s both deeply personal and incredibly powerful: how to design your life with intention. As retirees, you’ve spent decades achieving goals and caring for others. But now, you have the opportunity to reflect on what brings you joy, pride, and meaning—and to ensure that your next chapter aligns with the legacy you want to leave. We’ll be joined by a Life and Career Coach who specializes in helping individuals clarify their purpose, set meaningful goals, and make the most of every area of life—whether that’s relationships, personal growth, or even rethinking how we approach the end of life. From uncovering the moments you’re most proud of to exploring what you still wish to experience, we’ll discuss how to live a life with no regrets and plenty of intention. So, if you’re ready to rediscover what fulfillment means to you and craft a life that truly reflects your values and aspirations, stay tuned. This conversation is one you won’t want to miss! Chapters: Welcome, Sherri Parks! [2:17] How can people begin to design their lives with intention? [15:10] How do people intentionally nurture relationships in their lives while also staying true to their personal goals? [22:52] What strategies can people use to maintain balance when focusing on the five key areas in life? [32:56] How will Sherri find her personal Retirement Success? [42:54] Episode Conclusion. [45:41]

Ep 105: Today’s episode visits the theme of travel and the evolution of travel since our last travel-themed episode. As retirees look to make the most of their newfound freedom, travel becomes an essential way to explore the world and discover new experiences. But as travel trends evolve, how can retirees align their adventures with meaningful goals—whether that's staying active, bonding with family, or prioritizing longevity? In this episode, we’ll explore the biggest travel trends set to define 2025 and 2026, and how they can help retirees build more enriching, intentional travel experiences. From new ways to combine wellness and longevity with exploration, to small-group, interest-based trips that open doors to deeper connections, these trends offer retirees exciting opportunities to travel in ways that align with their lifestyles and values. We’ll also dive into how retirees can maximize comfort and efficiency while traveling, from premium services that offer peace of mind to luxury experiences that make the journey itself just as exciting as the destination. Whether you’re dreaming of a personalized luxury cruise, a journey by private train, or traveling with family to create lifelong memories, we’ll cover how to approach these trends thoughtfully and avoid the overwhelm of modern travel logistics. Chapters: Welcome, Jess Rhinehart! [2:40] How have traveler behaviors, preferences, and expectations shifted in recent years? [7:53] What happened in the Cruise industry since COVID? [16:05] How is interest-based travel expanding? [18:36] What are some of the latest technological advancements or tools in the world of travel? [28:44] How is Jess going to find her Retirement Success? [34:24] Episode conclusion. [36:26]

Ep 104: A few weeks ago, we were talking with one of our listeners, and she shared something that struck us. After retiring from a long and successful career, she found herself feeling unfulfilled. She said, 'I spent years looking forward to retirement, but now that I’m here, I don’t know what to do with myself. I feel like I’ve lost my purpose.'​ It made us realize that many retirees, while they’ve planned carefully for their finances and even their social lives, often overlook the importance of continued personal growth. How do you find new challenges to take on when your career is behind you? How do you keep learning, growing, and staying curious when the structure of a job no longer defines your days? Our goal today is to explore how embracing lifelong learning and new challenges can give you a renewed sense of purpose in retirement. Whether you're already in retirement or approaching it, this episode will provide inspiration and practical steps to help you continue growing and thriving in this next phase of life. So, if you're ready to make your retirement years as fulfilling as possible, stay with us for some valuable insights. Chapters: Welcome, Anne Montgomery! [2:34] Embracing Lifelong Learning and New Challenges. [23:13] Dealing with Setbacks and Frustrations. [44:07] How is Anne Montgomery going to find her personal Retirement Success? [55:49] Episode conclusion. [57:30]

Ep 103: Many of us imagine our retirement years filled with travel, relaxation, and time to pursue long-neglected hobbies. But for some, the reality of retirement brings new responsibilities, particularly in the form of caregiving for a loved one. While caring for a parent or a loved one can be rewarding, it can also be incredibly challenging—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Today, we’ll explore the complexities of caregiving: How do you balance the emotional weight of watching a parent age with the practical needs of their care? What do you do when the roles of parent and child are reversed? And how can we find lightness and connection even in the most trying moments? Whether you’re currently caring for a loved one, anticipating that responsibility, or simply want to hear a story of resilience, love, and humor, this episode will be filled with insights and inspiration for anyone navigating the caregiving journey. Chapters: Welcome, Mark Steven Porro! [2:45] Mark’s background and relationship with his mother. [5:38] Mark’s caregiving experience. [24:19] Reflecting back on Mark’s time spent caregiving. [38:04] How will Mark find his personal Retirement Success? [53:08] Episode Conclusion. [57:13]

Ep 102: Today’s episode of The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast is one that speaks to resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, and how we can find deeper meaning in life, especially after going through life-altering events. It’s a story that reminds us of the fragility of life, but also of the immense strength that can emerge from tragedy. Our guest today has an extraordinary story. In 2011, he was involved in a near-fatal car crash with a tractor-trailer, leaving him with just a 1% chance of survival. After a grueling recovery process, he emerged not only as a survivor but as someone dedicated to helping others overcome their own adversities. He has gone on to become a keynote speaker, mental health advocate, self-published author, and life coach, using his story to empower people to face life's challenges with courage and resilience. Today, we’ll hear from him about the emotional trauma of that event, how it impacted his relationships with his family and friends, and what lessons he’s learned that could help all of us find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. Whether you’ve faced health challenges, experienced a traumatic event, or simply want to better understand how to cope when life feels overwhelming, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to move forward with hope and determination. Please join us and welcome Ethan Poetic to the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!   Chapters: Welcome, Ethan Poetic! [2:45] Overcoming the emotional trauma of the accident. [10:53] What was the physical rehabilitation experience following the accident? [22:54] What lessons can be taken from Ethan’s journey and how has life changed? [31:15] How is Ethan going to find his Retirement Success? [36:09] Episode conclusion. [39:59]  

Ep 101: A while back, we were talking with one of our clients, and he shared that there was one area where he felt powerless: his physical health. Specifically, he had been dealing with chronic pain that, despite his best efforts, seemed to impact his ability to fully enjoy retirement. That made us realize that many retirees, while they’ve planned for their finances, social lives, and even hobbies, often don’t anticipate the physical challenges that may come with aging, especially how to manage chronic pain. How do you maintain a positive attitude and find purpose when pain becomes part of your daily life? How can you continue to live a fulfilling and meaningful retirement despite physical limitations? Our guest today is a sought-after speaker who believes in the power of a good story to help, inspire, and motivate people to lead their uncommon and extraordinary lives. By combining his twelve-year cancer journey with his diverse business, athletic coaching, and hostage negotiating background, he shares his wealth of knowledge on Managing & Overcoming Chronic Pain in Retirement. Please welcome Terry Tucker to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Chapters: Welcome, Terry Tucker! [3:02] Terry’s cancer journey [10:13] What can people do to keep at positive mindset during physically and emotionally challenging times? [19:09] How can we ensure that we are leaving behind a meaningful impact as a part of our legacy? [24:58] How does Terry adapt his Four Truths to someone where health concerns start to play a bigger role in their lives? [38:50] How can we shift our perspective to focus on gratitude and positivity? [49:22] How will Terry find his personal Retirement Success? [52:24] Episode Conclusion. [54:58]

Ep 100: When we think about the world of food, it’s not just the ingredients or the dishes that make it special; it’s the people behind them—the chefs, restaurateurs, and innovators who bring culinary art to life. In retirement, we often have the time and freedom to explore new passions, and what better passion than discovering the stories and talents of the legends and future legends of the culinary world? Today, we’re diving into how retirees can enrich their lives by seeking out these remarkable individuals, learning from their experiences, and planning trips that revolve around the incredible food they create. Chapters: Welcome back, David Page! [1:58] How does someone start their journey to uncover hidden gems and rising stars in the food scene? [7:23] Where can people go to experience specific food festivals or events? [20:43] In the world of food, what makes the best the best? How can we find these people and follow their careers? [34:28] How can people bring the taste of a world-class culinary experience to their homes? [39:50] How can we use food to create connections with people? [48:15] What’s next for David Page? [54:46] Episode conclusion. [1:01:45]

Ep 099: In recent years, we've witnessed significant shifts in economic landscapes, career trajectories, and personal life choices, leading to a rise in the number of young adults returning to their parental homes. These individuals often head back home for a variety of reasons, including economic pressures like student loan debt, job loss, or the high cost of living. For others, it's a strategic move during career transitions or a personal decision influenced by life events such as divorce or health issues. This growing trend presents unique challenges and opportunities for families. For parents, it can mean adjusting to a new household dynamic and redefining boundaries and roles. For the returning adult children, it often involves balancing independence with respect for family rules and routines. The interplay of these dynamics can be complex, requiring open communication, mutual understanding, and a bit of patience. To help us navigate these waters, we're thrilled to have a very special guest who is a renowned expert in life transition. She has spent years studying and working with families to address the challenges of multi-generational living. Our guest today will share insights on why this trend is on the rise, how it impacts both parents and adult children, and what strategies can be employed to make this living arrangement work effectively for everyone involved. Please welcome Ellen Rothstein to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast! Chapters: Welcome, Ellen Rothstein! [3:15] What does it mean to have Boomerang Children? [11:53] How to approach privacy and schedule with Boomerang Children. [22:38] How can you set boundaries and expectations with Boomerang Children? [30:19] How are family dynamics affected (if at all) with Boomerang Children? [39:25] How will Ellen find her Retirement Success? [48:14] Episode conclusion. [51:05]

Ep 098: A few weeks ago, we spoke with an older client who had managed her retirement planning well but hadn't addressed end-of-life issues beyond financial aspects, such as her legacy and comforting her loved ones. To help with this, we brought in a world-renowned retirement coach specializing in finding meaning and purpose in retirement challenges. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools for a confident and fulfilling retirement, including thoughtful end-of-life planning and its impact on loved ones. Our next guest on the Retirement Success in Maine Podcast is Dr. Dorian Mintzer, a renowned therapist, relationship and executive coach, writer, and speaker with over 50 years of expertise in retirement and aging. She is the co-author of "The Couple's Retirement Puzzle" and the founder of the Revolutionize Retirement community, providing valuable resources and guidance for navigating midlife transitions. Dr. Mintzer is also a licensed psychologist and thought leader in retirement coaching, with her work featured in major media outlets like the New York Times, Forbes, and the Wall Street Journal. Chapters: Welcome Dorian Mintzer! [5:00] How can individuals approach end-of-life planning to ensure their wishes are respected and fulfilled? [14:45] What should people keep in mind when planning their own funeral, and how can taking charge of these arrangements contribute to a sense of peace and ensure their wishes are respected? [22:23] What are some insights for people thinking about legacy planning? [28:06] What are some of the key emotional and spiritual aspects that individuals commonly face as they end up approaching death? [36:04] How can families and caregivers best support someone emotionally and spiritually during end-of-life planning, and what advice would you give to those involved in this sensitive process? [40:23] How can we effectively broach the conversation about end-of-life planning when there is difficulty from either party? How can we ensure that wishes are discussed and documented with family members to benefit everyone involved? [46:25] How is technology influencing the documentation of our own stories for future generations? [59:58] How is Dorian going to find her personal retirement success? [1:06:00] Conclusion of show [1:11:04]