Shaping Your Retirement Podcast

Redefining what it means to retire.

Welcome to the Shaping Your Retirement Podcast.

In this episode, Jess Mizerak and Leslie Mizerak talk about the podcast and their Why!

In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we’re diving into fitness, mobility, and strength after 50 with Kim Knapp, founder of K-Factor Coaching. Kim shares insights on how women over 50 can gain balance, flexibility, and vitality through simple but powerful at-home workouts. She debunks myths about building muscle at any age and provides practical tips for maintaining strength, mobility, and independence well into retirement. Tune in to learn how you can take control of your health—no gym required!

Kim Knapp can be reached at https://thekfactorcoaching.com/

Are you holding onto things you don’t really need? In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, 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!

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 how to make 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 Practices in Retirement

You can learn about Debbie Ivie and Fit RX performance at: fitrxperformance.com

In 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 next unforgettable trip. ✈️🌍

Getting Personal About Retirement Finances with Lauren Hunt, CFP ®

Retirement isn’t just about saving enough—it’s about knowing how to use what you’ve saved to create a fulfilling, secure future. In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, we sit down with Lauren Hunt, Certified Financial Planner and founder of Daybreak Wealth, to discuss how to approach retirement planning with confidence and clarity.

Lauren shares her journey from the Chicago Stock Exchange to building her own financial planning firm, as well as key strategies for managing financial transitions, preparing for market volatility, and making smart money decisions in retirement.

💡 Key Takeaways:
✔️ Why defining your own version of success is crucial
✔️ The importance of cash buffers and financial flexibility
✔️ How to navigate the emotional shifts of retirement
✔️ Common retirement planning misconceptions—and how to avoid them

Whether you're a few years away from retirement or already in it, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you feel empowered about your financial future.

Lauren Hunt, CFP - Daybreak Wealth - https://daybreak-wealth.com/

Where Will You Live in Retirement? Exploring Your Housing Options

When it comes to retirement, money and location tend to dominate the conversation. But what about housing that truly fits your lifestyle and needs?

In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, Jess & Leslie break down the modern housing trends for retirees and those over 50. From 55+ communities and co-housing to multi-generational homes and communal living, there are more choices than ever before.

🔹 What’s the difference between co-housing and retirement communities?

🔹 Why are more retirees choosing multi-generational living?

🔹 How does social connection impact housing choices in later life?

🔹 Which options are the most affordable and accessible?

If you’re thinking about where you’ll call home in retirement, this episode is packed with insights to help you explore your options.

The Truth About Early Retirement: A Conversation with Cory Bittner, CRPC®

Many dream of early retirement, but what does it really take to retire before 60? More importantly—what happens after you retire?

In this episode of Shaping Your Retirement, Jess & Leslie sit down with Cory Bittner, CRPC®, co-founder of Falcon Wealth Advisors and host of the Upticks podcast, to talk about the financial strategies, tax planning, and life adjustments needed to retire early.

💰 What you’ll learn:
✅ The biggest financial mistakes early retirees make
✅ How to access retirement savings before 59 ½ without penalties
✅ Why healthcare planning is a critical piece of the puzzle
✅ The importance of purpose and staying engaged in retirement

Thinking about early retirement? Before you quit your job, make sure you have a plan that works for you.

Cory Bittner, CRPC - Falcon Wealth Advisors - https://falconwealthadvisors.com/

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About the podcast.

Shaping Your Retirement is a dynamic podcast that redefines what it means to retire in today’s world. We dive into modern retirement opportunities, challenges, and adventures, covering topics such as health and wellness, financial planning, Social Security, Medicare, travel, relocation, and finding purpose in this exciting life stage.

We aim to inspire and empower our audience—retirees and those planning for retirement—with actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and expert advice.