Shaping Your Retirement Podcast

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. Leslie and Jess explore ways to keep (or build!) meaningful relationships after leaving the workplace. Whether you're an introver...

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...

🏡 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 b...

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 fin...

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 adve...

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...

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 longev...

In 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 exerc...

Meet 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 o...