What does retirement really look like when you’re not fully there yet?


In this special roundtable episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, all six partners come together — three couples, three lifelong friends, and six people navigating very different stages of retirement. Some of us are fully retired, some are semi-retired, and some are still working full-time while dreaming about what comes next.


At the heart of this conversation is a unique bond that started decades ago when Kim, Maria, and Nancy were college roommates. Life took each of us in different directions — careers, marriages, military service, career changes — but retirement brought us back together in an unexpected way.
This episode is an honest, relatable look at retirement as a transition, not a finish line. We talk about balancing work and life, navigating change as couples, redefining purpose, and how building Retired Life, Wish You Were Here has helped all of us prepare for the next chapter — even before it officially begins.


If you’re retired, planning to retire, or just wondering what life after 55 can look like, this episode is for you.


What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Why retirement isn’t one moment — it’s a journey
How three couples navigate different stages of work and retirement
The power of lifelong friendships in shaping your next chapter
What it’s like when one partner is retired and the other is still working
How career changes and reinvention affect retirement plans
How Retired Life, Wish You Were Here grew from an idea into a shared purpose
Advice for listeners who aren’t retired yet but are thinking ahead
 
Meet the Partners
Kim & Stuart — One still working, one fully retired from military service, building community and creativity together
Mumy (Maria) & Bill — One working full-time, one retired, finding shared purpose and joy in retirement planning
Nancy & Dave — Navigating career changes and dreaming forward together while still working full time
 
Why This Episode Matters
So many retirement conversations focus on what happens after work ends. This episode is about what happens before — the planning, the mindset shifts, the fears, the excitement, and the friendships that make the journey meaningful.


Listener Takeaways:
You don’t have to wait until retirement to start living well
Retirement looks different for every couple
Community and connection matter more than timelines
Purpose doesn’t disappear — it evolves


About the Show:
Retired Life, Wish You Were Here is a lifestyle podcast for people 55+ who are turning the page into their next chapter — with curiosity, joy, and community. Through real conversations, inspiring guests, and shared stories, we explore what it means to build a fulfilling retired life… even if you’re not quite there yet.


Merchandise Mention
Celebrate your retired life (or your future retired life!) with our Retired Life, Wish You Were Here merchandise — including mugs, tumblers, wine glasses, beach bags, and apparel designed to make this season of life fun and connected.
👉 www.retiredlifewywh.com

Brenda Sulmonetti turned to painting in her fifties, trading a conventional career for the canvas. In a few short years she developed a signature contemporary-impressionist voice — rich in color, light, shadow and emotional resonance — and gained representation with galleries and design-world clients. Her journey is a living testament to reinvention: it’s never too late for a second act. Episode Focus / Theme: 

• Reinvention in later life — rediscovering creativity post-career / post-retirement
• The emotional, practical, and spiritual journey of starting anew
• Translating passion into purpose — building a meaningful second act
• Encouragement and guidance for listeners seeking their own reinvention

  Key Highlights / Talking Points (we’ll discuss on the show): 

• What sparked Brenda to pick up a paintbrush after retirement
• Overcoming self-doubt, starting from scratch, finding her style
• Her early steps: studio setup, experimentation, discovery
• First successes: first sale, first gallery representation, first collectors
• The power of consistency, daily creative practice, and community/support
• Advice for listeners: how to begin — even if you’ve never painted before or feel it’s “too late”
• The meaning, purpose, and joy she draws from art — especially in “second life”
• What’s next: future art plans, dreams, and continued evolution

  Websites & Social Media / Where to Find Her Work Platform / SitePurpose / What You’ll Find

- Official Website / Online Studio — SulmonettiStudio.com Portfolio, shop of available paintings, bio, contact info, exhibitions & events 
- Gallery Representation Page — DK Contemporary Gallery (dkGallery.us) Selected works, artist profile, gallery representation info
- Artist Profile & Portfolio Archive — ArtworkArchive.com (Brenda-L. Sulmonetti) 


Full catalogue of works (sold and available), past exhibitions, contact / inquiry info
Instagram — @sulmonettistudio
Facebook — Brenda Sulmonetti

Podcasts, Merchandise, and everything we do can be found at retiredlifewywh.com!

Info@retiredlifewywh.com email us ideas or if you would like to be a guest.

Welcome to Retired Life, Wish You Were Here — the podcast where we explore what happens when the chapter we call “retirement” becomes the launchpad for something new and amazing

In this conversation, Darryl shares:
His long career in healthcare and how it shaped his view of service, stress, and human stories.
What prompted him to turn to writing — and why medical mysteries became his genre of choice.
How the writing class he and I attended together helped him find his voice and embrace the process.
How applying his professional experience gives his fiction authenticity while still being entertaining.
What “retirement” means to him today and how creativity has become a key part of his next chapter.
His advice for anyone listening who is thinking: “What’s next for me?”
What projects are on his horizon and how you can follow his work.

Whether you’re already retired, nearing that milestone, or simply curious about reinvention, this episode will inspire you to lean into your next act with purpose, joy and a healthy dose of suspense!

Guest Info & Links:
Website: www.DarrylBollinger.com  
Facebook: Darryl Bollinger Author  
Books to check out: Treatment Plan, The Healing Tree, The Cure and more.  

Connect with Us:
We believe retirement isn’t the end — it’s an open door to new adventures. Visit Retiredlifewywh.com for episodes, merchandise and ways to stay connected.

In this honest and empowering conversation, Stuart Lee leads a heartfelt discussion with men in mind — identity, aging, intimacy, and how to thrive when life enters its next season. Joined by life coach and wellness guide Tristan Eldridge, we explore what happens when men step away from their careers, face changes in their bodies, and confront the quieter challenges no one talks about. Kim Lee joins as co-host with warmth and humor, bringing the balance only a trusted partner can offer. Together, we break down the myths of “masculinity,” open the door on sexual health after 55, and highlight the new ways men can find purpose, confidence, and closeness in retirement. This is an episode meant for husbands, wives, partners — and honestly, anyone who wants to understand aging from the inside out.

🌟 Key Topics
We Cover How retirement affects a man’s identity and sense of purpose
The emotional shift away from the “provider” role
Sexual health without shame: ED, libido changes, and communication
Redefining intimacy and connection beyond performance
How hobbies, fitness, and friendships support healthy aging
Masculinity reimagined for the modern senior
How partners can support each other through physical and emotional changes
Why humor is one of the best tools for aging well

🎧 Why This Episode Matters Men don’t always talk about what’s happening inside — emotionally or physically. This episode opens space for real conversations, real solutions, and a chance to enhance connection with your partner, family, and community. It fits beautifully into the Retired Life, Wish You Were Here mission: helping retirees live boldly, love deeply, laugh often, and embrace every season of life with confidence.

🧭 About Our Guest — Tristan Eldridge Tristan is a life coach, performance specialist, and mentor who works with men and women seeking clarity, health, and purpose in their next chapter. Known for blending practicality with inspiration — and a little humor — he guides people into stronger relationships with themselves and their partners.

❤️ Perfect For:
Men entering or already in retirement
Couples navigating intimacy changes
Anyone wanting to understand aging from a man’s perspective
Listeners craving honest, elegant conversations about the realities of getting older

🔗 Connect With Us Follow Retired Life, Wish You Were Here for more episodes, stories, and lifestyle inspiration at retiredlifewywh.com 

Check out our merchandise, events, and upcoming guest lineup at retiredlifewywh.com

In this episode, Kim and Stuart sit down with their friend Charles Minter, a financial advisor who brings fresh perspective on what money really means after 55. Instead of complicated jargon, Charles talks about how to enjoy the years ahead with confidence—turning savings into lifestyle, making smart choices about Social Security, and preparing for surprises without losing sleep. Charles shares stories from his career and life experience, making finance less about numbers and more about freedom, purpose, and fun in retirement.  

Talking Points & Questions Covered  

• The big shift: saving years vs. retirement years
• How to feel confident spending what you’ve saved
• Simple “buckets” approach for money now, soon, and later
• Social Security timing—when does it make sense to wait?
• Smart ways to help kids or grandkids financially
• How to plan for healthcare and “what ifs” without fear
• What money mistake he sees most often in retirees
• One or two “wish you were here” stories where money created memories, not stress

 The conversation reminds us that retirement isn’t about penny-pinching—it’s about making choices that let you live fully and sleep well at night.

What happens when you and your spouse sell nearly everything, buy an RV, and decide to spend retirement exploring the open road? That’s the story of Dave and Carolyn Kaga, who for the past five years have been traveling full-time, chasing new horizons and proving that retirement can be the most adventurous chapter of all.

In this episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, Kim and Stuart Lee sit down with the Kagas to hear how they made the bold decision to let go of “stuff,” what life is really like in an RV, and the joys and challenges of traveling as a couple. From budgeting and healthcare on the road to favorite destinations and unexpected surprises, this conversation is packed with practical insights and heartfelt stories that will inspire seniors to consider their own adventures.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why Dave and Carolyn decided to sell everything and start fresh on the road.
How downsizing can bring freedom and joy in retirement.
Tips for couples traveling together full-time — balancing space, patience, and teamwork.
How RV life keeps retirees active, social, and engaged.
Their favorite destinations, hidden gems, and “must-see” spots.
Reflections on purpose, health, and what it means to truly live retired life on their own terms.

Perfect For:
Couples looking for shared adventures in retirement. Retirees curious about RV travel or full-time life on the road. Anyone dreaming of simplifying, downsizing, and making room for experiences over things.

Planning your next adventure? Don’t forget your Retired Life, Wish You Were Here gear — from mugs and shirts to travel bags, perfect for RV life or wherever the road takes you. Visit retiredlifewywh.com.

Cruising isn’t just about big ships, buffets, and Broadway shows. In this episode, hosts Kim Lee and Stuart Lee talk with travel expert Kim Este Campbell dive deep into the world of expedition cruises and theme cruises—two exciting options that are drawing more and more 55+ travelers who want something unique. From exploring the glaciers of Alaska to joining a jazz cruise on the Caribbean, this episode shows you how to match your personal passions with unforgettable journeys at sea. 

What We Cover

Expedition Cruises 101: What makes them different from traditional cruises (smaller ships, immersive excursions, cultural connections).
Bucket-List Destinations: Antarctica, Galápagos, Alaska, Arctic Circle—what makes these expedition trips worth it.
Theme Cruises: From music and food to wellness and faith-based gatherings, how theme cruises create instant community and friendships.
Accessibility for Retirees: How seniors can enjoy active expedition trips (with different activity levels) and still feel safe and supported.
Costs & Planning Tips: Why expedition and theme cruises can be more expensive, and what to look for when booking.
Kim Este’s Insider Tips: The best ways to find deals, plan early, and choose the right cruise line for your lifestyle.
Making it Social: How retirees can combine friend groups, family, or even grandkids on a theme cruise for a shared memory of a lifetime.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Connect with our guest, Kim Este Campbell at Beste Travel Design, and don’t forget to subscribe to Retired Life, Wish You Were Here wherever you listen to podcasts. 

👉 And before you pack your bags, grab your Retired Life merch—mugs, shirts, and totes perfect for documenting your next adventure! Visit retiredlifewywh.com to shop now.

🌊🚢 Ready to sail beyond the ordinary? Forget buffets and crowded decks—retirement cruising just got an upgrade!

In our latest Retired Life, Wish You Were Here podcast, Kim Lee and travel expert Kim Este Campbell dive into: 
✨ Expedition Cruises – glaciers, wildlife, bucket-list adventures
🎶 Theme Cruises – music, food, wellness & more, with your tribe
👫 Travel that connects you with people and passions you love

Retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about choosing the adventure that fits YOU. 🗺️💙

#RetiredLifeWYWH #TravelAfter55 #CruiseLife #ExpeditionCruise #Cruise #Retired #ThemeCruise#BesteTravelDesigns #Adventure #podcast #retirement #retirementplanning

What’s the real secret to aging well? It might just be your circle of friends. Strong friendships can keep you young, happy, and even healthier. Join me and my closest friends as we laugh, reminisce, and reflect on why community matters so much in retirement. This story isn’t just our story - it’s an invitation to reflect on your own friendships. 

Retiredlifewywh.com

#retiredlifewishyourwerehere
#turningsexty
#lifeafter55
#activeretirement

Entrepreneur Dana Jones, founder of Turning Sexty, joins us to talk about aging boldly with confidence, style, and joy. Learn how to feel celebrated, inspired, and yes—sexty at 60

#Turningsexty.com
www.turning60.com
Instagram@turningsexty.com
Facebook@turningsexty.com

Thinking about a cruise for your next adventure? In this episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, hosts Kim and Stuart Lee sit down with luxury travel advisor Kim Este Campbell, co-founder of Beste Travel Design. From her days leading student trips through Europe to curating unforgettable experiences for retirees, Estey shares expert insights on why cruising is perfect for seniors, how to choose the right trip, and the hidden costs you’ll want to plan for. 

You’ll hear practical tips on river vs. ocean cruising, booking excursions, the importance of travel insurance, and how to make the most of loyalty programs. Whether you’re dreaming of the Mediterranean, exploring Ireland, or even heading to Antarctica, this episode will inspire you to pack once, relax, and set sail into the next chapter of life.

In this episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, we step onto the pickleball court with Tristan Eldridge, the pro at Margaritaville, and coach in the Bay county area, who brings a unique perspective to the fastest-growing sport in America. Tristan teaches that the quality of our shots depends on the quality of our thoughts, and the way we play is influenced by the words we say.

Together, we explore how focus, attitude, and positive self-talk can completely transform not only your pickleball game—but your outlook on retirement living. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a retiree picking up a paddle for the first time, you’ll hear practical tips, inspiring stories, and plenty of encouragement to play with confidence and joy.

🎾 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why mindset is just as important as mechanics in pickleball How the words we say shape our performance on and off the court Mental resets and routines to stay calm under pressure The special benefits pickleball offers retirees—physically, mentally, and socially Simple mantras and mental warm-ups anyone can use before a match How pickleball lessons spill over into everyday retired life

🌟 Who This Episode is For: Retirees looking for fun, social, and healthy ways to stay active Pickleball players at every level who want a mental edge Listeners curious about how sports mindset can improve everyday living

🛍️ Support the Show Love what you hear?
Support the Retired Life, Wish You Were Here community by checking out our merchandise—mugs, tees, hats, wine glasses, and more—at retiredlifewywh.com

Carry a little piece of retired life wherever you go!

Find Tristan PB Coach on Facebook

Think you could spot a scam? You might be surprised — but today Leeah Pridgen from Truist, joins us to make sure YOU can. In this episode of The Retired Life: Wish You Were Here, we sit down with Leah Pridgen, branch manager at Truist Bank, to tackle one of today’s fastest-growing threats—financial scams targeting seniors. Leah shares eye-opening insights on how scammers adapt, the most common fraud tactics affecting retirees, and the practical steps you can take to safeguard your savings.

From romance and tech support scams to fake lottery wins and phishing texts, Leah explains how to spot red flags, avoid embarrassment, and act quickly if you or a loved one are targeted. With clear advice and real-life examples, this conversation empowers listeners to protect their money, their identity, and their peace of mind in retirement.

Links & Resources:
🎙️ Listen to more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TxRG4Tn5_k
🛍️ Grab your Retired Life, Wish You Were Here merch Retiredlifewywh.com
📷 Follow us on Instagram: retiredlife_wishyouwerehere

In this episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, LPGA Hall of Famer Becky Sowers shares her journey from professional golf to founding the Lady Links Golf Association. Becky reveals how golf builds friendships, confidence, and community for women 55 and older—while keeping retirement fun and active.

From tips for beginners to inspiring stories of women picking up the game later in life, this conversation is packed with insight, encouragement, and a love for the sport.

Check out our Retired Life, Wish You Were Here merchandise — tees, hats, and tumblers for folks who are thriving, not just surviving! Retiredlifewywh.com

🔗 Connect with Us:
🌐 Website: retiredlifewywh.com
📬 Newsletter Signup: retiredlifewywh.com

Kim and Stuart Lee welcome four very special guests, their grandchildren, for a heartwarming, laugh-filled conversation about the joy and connection between grandparents and grandkids. From epic family trips to Colorado, the Bahamas, and cruise ships, to pool days, golfing, and even moonwalk dance lessons, this episode celebrates how younger generations keep retirees active, social, and young at heart.

The grandkids share their honest (and hilarious) views on what grandparents do all day, what they’ve learned from them, and why spending time together matters.

Whether you're a grandparent, future retiree, or simply love family-focused content, this episode offers touching moments, big laughs, and meaningful reminders about creating memories that last a lifetime.

Check out our Retired Life, Wish You Were Here merchandise — tees, hats, and tumblers for folks who are thriving, not just surviving! Retiredlifewywh.com

🔗 Connect with Us:
🌐 Website: retiredlifewywh.com
📬 Newsletter Signup: retiredlifewywh.com

In this episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, we sit down with the unstoppable Mary Barley — former Miss Tallahassee, Miss Southeastern USA for Bodybuilding, and current Health & Wellness Coordinator for Leon County, Florida. At 75 years old, Mary is living proof that wellness doesn’t retire.

💬 In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How Mary’s passion for fitness began and evolved 
- Why strength training is critical for aging well 
- Easy ways to improve flexibility and mobility 
- The power of hydration and daily movement 
- Tips to stay social and connected in retirement 
- Mary’s no-nonsense advice for living with purpose and vibrancy 

Check out our Retired Life, Wish You Were Here merchandise — tees, hats, and tumblers for folks who are thriving, not just surviving! Retiredlifewywh.com

🔗 Connect with Us:
🌐 Website: retiredlifewywh.com
📬 Newsletter Signup: retiredlifewywh.com

In this episode of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here, Kim Lee and Co-host Stuart Lee sit down with Gene Linton — a man who turned his lifelong love of hunting dogs and the outdoors into a fulfilling second career. After years in the corporate world, Gene followed his passion for dog training and upland bird hunting, now working at Five Star Preserve where he trains some of the finest hunting dogs in the region. Gene shares stories of growing up in the field, what it takes to train a great bird dog, and how retirement doesn’t have to mean slowing down — it can be a chance to lean into what you love. If you’ve ever thought about chasing a dream later in life, this conversation is for you.

In This Episode:
Gene’s early introduction to the outdoors and hunting dogs
What makes a good hunting dog and how they’re trained
Why following your passion matters at any age
Advice for retirees considering a second-act career

Links & Mentions:
📍 Five Star Preserve
Kim’s Outfit #Chicos
Stuart’s Outfit #SouthernTide

🎧 Listen to more episodes of Retired Life, Wish You Were Here at Retiredlifewywh.com

Merch Alert: 🎽 Check out our Retired Life merchandise line — because life’s better when you’re chasing what you love! Visit Retiredlifewywh.com

Connect with Us: 📸 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @RetiredLifeWishYouWereHere

Dr. J.’s website: https://drjauthor.com/

Links to my books and cards.

Book a consult with Dr. J. 30 or 60 minute for Passion & Science Adult Education https://tidycal.com/drdonnajennings/empoweredpleasure30minutes
https://tidycal.com/drdonnajennings/individuals-and-couples-s3x-education-consult-60- minutes 

Resources Mentioned Women’s Health Rosy Wellness. https://meetrosy.com/

Ruby Glow Vibrator. https://www.therubyglow.com/

Vella Bioscience: https://www.vellabio.com

Julva: https://drannacabeca.com/

Books

Passionate Marriage David Schnarch
https://www.amazon.com/Passionate-Marriage- Intimacy-Committed-Relationships/dp/0393334279

She Comes First The Thinking Man’s Guide to Pleasuring a Woman. Ian Kerner https://www.amazon.com/She-Comes-First-Thinking-Pleasuring/dp/0060538260

Passionista: The Empowered Woman’s guide to Pleasuring a Man. Ian Kerner https://www.amazon.com/Passionista-Empowered-Womans-Pleasuring- Kerner/dp/0060834390/

Naked At Our Age: Talking Out loud About Senior Sex. Joan Price
https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Our-Age-Talking-Senior/dp/1580053386/

Tell Me What You Want: The Science of Sexual Desire and How It Can Improve Your Sex Life. Justin Lehmiller: https://www.amazon.com/Tell-Me-What-You-Want/dp/0738234966/

Come Together: The Science and Art of Creating Lasting Sexual Connections. Emily Nagoski. https://www.amazon.com/Come-Together-Science-Creating-Connections/dp/0593500822

Erotic Blueprints. Jaiya https://missjaiya.com/ The 5 Love Languages. Gary Chapman https://www.amazon.com/Love-Languages-Secret-that- Lasts/dp/080241270X/

In this episode, we welcome Joe Weaver, the founder of the popular Facebook page Your Happy Place PCB. Joe shares the story of how he and his wife Mary Anne made the big move to Panama City Beach, what inspired him to create a page for locals and retirees alike, and how he’s helping people discover hidden gems, restaurants, events, and more along the Your Happy Place PCB on https://www.facebook.com/groups/756007113098715/

Catch our conversation with Joe Weaver from Your Happy Place PCB — all about retiring at the beach, finding your community, and living your best coastal life!🌴🌊

👉 Follow Joe’s page: Your Happy Place PCB https://www.facebook.com/groups/756007113098715/ 

🎧 Listen now and check out our merch at https://www.retiredlifewywh.com/

Retired life never looked so good. Join us as Marcus shares golf cart adventures, local gems, and why 30A is the ultimate retirement vibe.

What’s it really like living in a 55+ community? Sherry and Tim open up about new friendships, endless activities, and why they wish they’d made the move sooner.