Reflecting on 2024 and My 5 Big Takeaways!

Welcome to a special end of 2024 solo episode of the Humans vs. Retirement podcast!

This year there has been 40 episodes of the podcast released and I’m touching on 90,000 downloads, which blows my mind! I have been so lucky to have conversations with amazing guests and the feedback has been so humbling to hear.  

So, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’ve tuned in to one episode or every single one, I’m so grateful for your support and the incredible conversations we’ve shared together this year.

And if you haven’t yet had time to leave a review and rating then best Christmas present you could give me would be to leave one! It really helps spread the word!  

As I look back at 2024, I want to share some highlights from the past 12 months, touch on the common themes that emerged, and leave you with five key takeaways that I hope will resonate as you reflect on your own journey

Reflecting on 2024: Highlights & Themes 

This year has been such a meaningful one for the podcast. Together, we’ve explored the realities of retirement, challenged common assumptions, and learned from so many insightful guests. Here are some highlights and recurring themes from our episodes this year: 

1. The Emotional Side of Retirement: 
   We learned that retirement isn’t just about financial planning—it’s also about preparing emotionally. Guests shared how identity, purpose, and connection play vital roles in creating a fulfilling retirement. 

2. Finding Purpose Post-Retirement: 
   A recurring message from our conversations was the importance of rediscovering purpose, whether it’s through volunteering, pursuing hobbies, or starting new ventures. 

3. Navigating the Challenges of Change: 
   Many of our guests spoke candidly about the challenges they faced transitioning into retirement, from redefining routines to managing relationships. 

4. Health as the Foundation: 
   Health and well-being emerged as central themes, with our guests emphasizing the need to invest in both physical and mental health to make the most of retirement. 

5. The Power of Community: 
   Lastly, we often heard about the value of building and maintaining strong social networks during retirement—it’s truly a time when connections matter more than ever

Five Big Takeaways from 2024

As we wrap up this incredible year, I want to leave you with five key takeaways from the conversations we’ve had on the podcast: 

1. Retirement Is a Transition, Not a Destination: 
   It’s a process, not a single moment. Give yourself grace as you navigate this new chapter. 

2. Purpose Doesn’t Retire: 
   Finding new ways to contribute, grow, and enjoy life is essential to a fulfilling retirement. 

3. Plan Beyond the Finances: 
   A solid financial plan is important, but don’t neglect your emotional and social planning. 

4. Stay Curious: 
   This is your time to explore, learn, and embrace new experiences. Stay curious about the possibilities ahead. 

5. Invest in Relationships: 
   Relationships—both new and old—will be your greatest source of joy and support in retirement. Nurture them. 

What does 2025 look like for you? 

My team and I are looking to help 15 new families this year, so if you are based in the UK, thinking about your retirement in the next few years and want to explore working with me to plan and live your dream second half of life then please use the link below to book in a time for us to chat early in the new year.

Book in a time for us to chat

Of course we must be a right fit to work together on this very important phase of life so please fill in the form when clicking on the link and if we are a good fit then you will be able to book in a slot in my diary for us to chat. 

Happy Holidays!!

Before I sign off, I just want to say thank you once again for being part of this journey with me. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm mean the world, and it’s been a privilege to share these conversations with you throughout the year. 

As we head into the holiday season, I hope you take time to celebrate, relax, and connect. I’m wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful start to the New Year. 

Here’s to an exciting 2025 filled with new adventures, meaningful conversations, and continued growth. I’ve already got some brilliant episodes recorded and cracking guests lined up so I cannot wait to see you next year!