Retire There with Gil & Gene

Special Episode - George Siegal, Buying and Building in the Era of Climate Change - EP 222 After years in the television industry — including a long run as a weatherman — George Siegal relocated from San Antonio, Texas to Tampa, Florida, only to find himself facing the very extreme weather conditions he once reported on. That experience inspired him to examine how climate change and rising sea levels are reshaping the way we buy and build homes. The result: two award-winning documentaries from Move the World Films — The Last House Standing and Built to Last: Buyer Beware — that explore critical home-buying decisions, construction standards, and the growing challenges of insurance in a changing climate. To hear George’s insights on smart home buying, resilient building practices, and protecting your investment in an unpredictable world, listen to Episode 222 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Link in bio. More of George’s work may be found here: https://movetheworldfilms.org/ If you enjoyed the episode and wish to leave George a review, please visit: https://speakerhub.com/speaker/george-siegal?leaveTestimonialRequest=true After submitting your review, you’ll receive access to George’s valuable resource: “List of Questions One Should Ask Their Builder or the Seller of the Property They Are Purchasing.” #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #movetheworldfilms #thelasthousestanding #builttolastbuyerbeware #retirewhere retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Special Episode - Federica Grazi, Founder, Mitos Relocation Solutions - EP 221 Dream of retiring to Europe but have no idea where - or how - to begin? Federica Grazi can help. Through her consulting firm, Mitos Relocation Solutions, Federica specializes in guiding retirees through every step of moving abroad. From deciding whether relocation is right for you, to choosing the best destination and settling in with confidence, Mitos Relocation provides expert support from start to finish. Hear Federica share her strategic insights on international retirement in Episode 221 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Link in bio. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #federicagrazi #mitosrelocation #mitosrelocationsolutions Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New Yorker Jill Chalsty tried retiring in both South Carolina and Florida—without success. By the end of 2024, she was still recovering from a battle with cancer and grieving the loss of her husband. Looking for a fresh start, Jill decided to explore potential retirement destinations by embarking on an around-the-world cruise aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne. The ship departed from Brooklyn in January 2025, visiting 26 ports across six continents over four months. After a long but rewarding journey, Jill came to an unexpected conclusion: the best place for her to retire was right where she had been all along—Manhattan. Find out more about Jill’s search for a new place to call home on Episode 220 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Link in bio. Jill Chalsty’s recently published memoir is Packets of Hope: A Journey of Healing and Rediscovery (https://www.amazon.com/Packets-Hope-Journey-Healing-Rediscovery-ebook/dp/B0FSYGTY7V/ref=sr_1_1?crid=38W66TNRV02PP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.FE3XnhQzvjFy4HpwgkOGP6dP7LYfPEQMtYjfB4f5oj_q9ZAnnDPywRmU2qvk5c7TQF6wjr5jUj6kwwtk9wVRWaI3-Eow97HvEVYmjZ3WpwX0_8U2V36BHS-MqyITrrO-.fW2WWHrcCJyq60EgRCNAr5p4E_pxGQyxu9Xde97Q7Vs&dib_tag=se&keywords=packets+of+hope&qid=1768186547&s=books&sprefix=packets+of+hope%2Cstripbooks%2C269&sr=1-1). She is also the Founder and Chairperson of the nonprofit life skills curriculum publishing organization Overcoming Obstacles (https://www.overcomingobstacles.org/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19821851477&gbraid=0AAAAADJZKlUbguAYppkNMj-ya7q85i_Zs). Jill’s website is PacketsOfHope.com (http://packetsofhope.com/). #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #bestplacetoretire #jillchalsty #packetsofhope Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Celebrate the New Year with Gil & Gene! Tune in as we reflect on the remarkable growth and transformation of the Retire There Podcast throughout 2025. We share what kept us busy this year, revisit highlights, and offer a sneak peek into the exciting plans for 2026. Episode 219 - Link in bio. If you value the Retire There show, consider supporting us by making a donation at buymeacoffee.com/retiretherepod. Each contribution goes towards production expenses. Retire There was featured in the November 27, 2025 issue of Business Insider: We’re Retired Lawyers Who Started a Podcast to Figure Out Where to Live. 5 Years in, We’ve Got a New Idea. #retirethere #retiretherewithgilandgene #retiretherewithgilandgenepodcast #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #bleav #businessinsider Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What would you do if you had to walk away from the thriving Bed & Breakfast you’d run on Mexico’s Pacific Coast for more than 20 years—because of medical issues? That was the challenge facing Canadians Brooke and Rick Gazer. Their solution: relocate to Mérida, the cosmopolitan capital of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Frequently ranked among the safest cities in North America, Mérida offered them a fresh start and a high quality of life. Discover what it’s like to live there on Episode 218 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. To learn more about life in Mexico, check out Brooke’s book, House of Blue Water: Memories of Our B&B in Mexico, and her blog, BrookeGazer.com. #retirethere #retiretherewithgilandgene #retiretherewithgilandgenepodcast #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #merida #meridamexico #mexico #huatulco #huatulcomexico #yucatan #yucatanpeninsula Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you considering moving to Europe for retirement but unsure where to start? Andrew Motiwalla’s company, The Good Life Abroad, offers exclusive month-long programs in some of Europe’s most captivating cities for adults 55+. These programs fill the gap between guided tours and independent travel, providing retirees the perfect balance of community and independence. Designed for those eager to live like locals, guests settle into private apartments, enjoy curated activities, and have ample free time to explore—all with the support of a local host and the camaraderie of a small group. To learn more about The Good Life Abroad’s program of showing travelers what it might be like to live in Europe, check out Episode 217 of Retire There with guest Andrew Motiwalla, Founder and CEO of The Good Life Abroad. The company’s website is TheGoodLifeAbroad.com. #retirethere #retiretherewithgilandgene #retiretherewithgilandgenepodcast #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #thegoodlifeabroad #andrewmotiwalla Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Janice Deerwester, a retired teacher and widow, was working at Cracker Barrel when a song stopped her in her tracks—Peggy Lee’s “Is That All There Is?” It struck a chord, sparking a deep realization: there had to be more to life. Determined to make a change, Janice set out to transform her reality. After being captivated by the stunning Chateau de Fontainebleau in a movie, she knew she had found her new home — Fontainebleau, France. At 70, Janice sold most of her belongings, gave away what she could, and embarked on a bold new chapter with just three suitcases, a cat, and a dog in tow. Today, she’s thriving in France, proving it’s never too late to chase your dreams and live life on your own terms. Follow Janice at JaniceInFrance.com, @janiceinfrance on Instagram and her YouTube channel, Janice In France. #retirethere #retiretherewithgilandgene #retiretherewithgilandgenepodcast #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #JaniceInFrance, #fontainebleau, #fontainebleaufrance, #france, #chateaudefontainebleau, #fontainebleauforest Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ashley and Jason Barton had established careers in the restaurant and hospitality industries in New York City when they realized there was something missing in their lives. With great ambition, but not a lot of money, they decided to start a cooking school/inn/farm in Italy. The adventurous couple relocated (from Bay Ridge Brooklyn!!) to an agricultural section of Le Marche, outside the small town of Piobbico, a place known worldwide for its annual Festival of the Ugly. The farm, inn and cooking school, known as La Tavola Marche has garnered accolades from numerous prestigious publications. Learn more about Ashley and Jason’s path to a stunning Italian countryside on Episode 215 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Check out the couple’s establishment at LaTavolaMarche.com and their podcast The Podcast From Italy. #retirethere #retiretherewithgilandgene #retiretherewithgilandgenepodcast #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #bayridgebrooklyn #bayridge #brooklyn #latavolamarche #slowtravelitaly #cookinginitaly #gourmettraveller #podcastfromitaly #italy #marcheitaly #piobbico #piobbicoitaly #marche #discovermarche #piobbicoitaly #italyvibes #slowtravel #clubdeibrutti #uglyclub #worldassociationofuglypeople #festivaloftheugly

Where can a writer, editor, illustrator, and avid mountain-sports enthusiast find solace and inspiration in semi-retirement? For Peter Moore, the answer was clear: Fort Collins, Colorado. This vibrant college town is celebrated for its thriving arts scene, live music, theater, craft breweries, and easy access to both ski resorts and Rocky Mountain National Park. After being laid off from a high-level position at a national magazine, Peter and his wife Claire decided to turn the page and start a new chapter in Fort Collins. Today, they’re living their dream in the foothills of the Rockies. Hear their full story—and how they found their own “Rocky Mountain high”—on Episode 214 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Bonus: Peter has written in his diary every day since he was 22, and now shares his humorous, illustrated stories on his popular Substack. Check it out at PeterMoore.Substack.com. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #fortcollins #fortcollinscolorado #colorado #visitftcollins #foco #thisisfoco #northerncolorado#retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #fortcollins #fortcollinscolorado #colorado #visitftcollins #foco #thisisfoco #northerncolorado #downtownfoco #petermoore #coloradosun

Growing up in the gritty industrial town of Middlesbrough, England, Gerald “Ged” Hogg was told he wouldn’t amount to much. Determined to prove otherwise, he left town at the first opportunity, embarking on a global journey as a chef aboard cruise ships and top-tier hotels and restaurants. Ged eventually settled in Australia, where he spent most of his adult life with his wife. After more than 40 years of marriage, the couple divorced, prompting Ged to rethink his future. Faced with Australia’s high cost of living, he began exploring more affordable, tropical destinations in Asia. His search ultimately led him to the laid-back seaside town of Hua Hin, Thailand—where he now lives happily. Tune in to Episode 213 of Retire There with Gil & Gene to discover what makes Ged’s life in Hua Hin so fulfilling. Gerald Hogg is also a prolific author, with 14 books to his name. His work includes guides on retiring in Thailand and other countries, as well as a selection of novels. You can find his books listed on Amazon. His informative YouTube channel is Thailand My Land… Retiring Disgracefully. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #huahin #huahinthailand #thailand #thailandmyland #retiringdisgracefully

When Scott Dukette left his hometown of Plattsburgh, New York, to attend college, he never imagined he’d return for more than the occasional family visit. But as retirement approached, Scott and his wife, Barbara, couldn’t pass up the chance to buy a home directly on Lake Champlain—for just $210,000. Now, they spend their summers soaking up life on what’s known as “the Adirondack Coast” or “the poor man’s Vermont.” Although Plattsburgh may seem secluded, there is plenty to do including lounging on a beautiful beach, and it is not far from Montreal, Canada; Burlington, Vermont; and Lake Placid, New York. Find out more about the Dukettes’ lakeside adventure on Episode 212 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #plattsburgh #plattsburghnewyork #plattsburghny #lakechamplain #adirondackcoast #poormansvermont #adk #adirondackmountains #adirondackpark #lakegeorge #adirondacks #upstateny #saratogasprings #lakegeorgeny #newyork #iloveny #lakeplacid #upstatenewyork #ny #lakelife #saratoga #adks #adklife #adirondacklife

When we—Gil & Gene—are curious about where people are choosing to retire, we often turn to the “Where To Retire” Facebook Group for inspiration. That’s where we became intrigued by Marilyn Kaslofski, the group’s Administrator, who chose Racine, Wisconsin as her retirement destination. We were eager to find out why, so we invited her to share her story on our show! Marilyn’s husband had always dreamed of living by the water, and at first, Florida seemed like a natural choice—until Marilyn, who strongly dislikes hot weather, ruled it out. Determined to find a place they would both love, she launched an extensive search of towns and cities along the shores of Lake Michigan. One Indiana town had attractive lakefront homes, but Marilyn preferred a condo. Chicago was too pricey, and the Milwaukee condos were too far from the water. Then they discovered Racine—just right in terms of location, lifestyle, and affordability. The couple ultimately purchased a two-bedroom lakeview condo for $245,000. While it needed some updating, it checked all the boxes. Hear the full story of Marilyn’s journey to Racine on Episode 211 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #racine #racinewi #racinewisconsin #racinearchitecture #franklloydwrightarchitecture #lakefronthomes #rootriver #lakemichigan

Retire in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal! EP 210 Bill and Jola Mansfield lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, for over 30 years before deciding to move to Europe to be closer to their son in Helsinki, Finland and Jola’s mother in Poland. While many places across Europe captured their interest, it was Portugal’s island of Madeira — with its lush mountains, vibrant flowers, and scenic hiking trails — that truly stole their hearts. It’s no wonder Madeira is often called the “Hawaii of Europe.” The couple eventually settled in the city of Funchal, a charming old European town nestled in a tropical-like paradise, and have no regrets. Discover more about Bill and Jola’s European adventure in Episode 210 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #funchal #madeira #portugal #madeiraportugal #funchalcity #madeiraisland @funchal_municipio

After spending most of their lives in Northern California, Matt and Dawn had planned to wait a few more years before retiring to Europe. But everything changed when they decided to move to Nazare, Portugal, on the Silver Coast, while still working. They say the Silver Coast offers many of the best aspects of Northern California—without the downsides. As The Unretirees, they launched A Guide to Unretirement Abroad to help others make the leap to living overseas while still earning an income. Their website, TheUnretirees.com, is a hub of resources, and their fun, educational YouTube channel shares tips on everything from visas to flexible work options. If you’re dreaming of a life abroad while staying financially secure, Matt and Dawn show that it’s never too early to unretire. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #nazare #nazareportugal #portugal #theunretirees #unretirees #movingtoportugal #americansabroad #silvercoast #silvercoastportugal #leavingcalifornia

Eileen Vorbach Collins and her husband Hugh had retired to Florida, but after growing weary of repeatedly fleeing hurricanes, they decided it was time for a change. Wanting a place that wasn’t too cold, they settled in a 55+ community in Garner, North Carolina, just outside Raleigh—making them “halfback retirees,” a term which refers to retirees who move from the Northeast to Florida, only to relocate halfway back to states like the Carolinas, Virginia, Tennessee, or Georgia. Although Eileen once believed she was too young for a 55+ community, she took the leap. Find out if she's thriving in North Carolina on Episode 208 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Eileen Vorbach Collins is the author of Love in the Archives: A Patchwork of True Stories about Suicide Loss. Her website is LoveInTheArchives.com. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #garnernorthcarolina #garnernc #raleigh #raleighnorthcarolina #raleighnc #northcarolina #nc #loveinthearchives #eileenvorbachcollins

Patty Blue Hayes was living in San Luis Obispo, California, recovering from a “near-death” divorce. Seeking a fresh start, she bought an RV and embarked on a cross-country journey across the United States. During one of her late-night real estate scrolling sessions, she came across a listing for a home in Panama that caught her eye. Intrigued, Patty parked her RV at the airport, booked a flight, and flew to Panama with the determination to see the house in person. However, Patty never did visit the property. Instead, she fell in love with Panama the moment she landed. Her love affair with the country was instantaneous. Eventually, she sold both her RV and home and made the bold decision to move to Panama. But the journey to find her dream home wasn’t smooth sailing. Several homes she was interested in fell through, and Patty admits it was the hardest time she’d ever had trying to spend money. After much searching, she finally settled on a dilapidated fixer-upper in El Valle de Antón, Panama. Tune in to episode 207 of Retire There with Gilen & Gene to hear the story of what it's really like to purchase and renovate a home in Panama. Find out more about Patty by visiting her website, PattyBlueHayes.com. Her books include: (1) Wine Sex and Suicide-My Near Death Divorce; (2) The Self Care Workbook for Emotional Healing and Self Discovery After a Breakup; and (3) How to Change Your Life With Easy Mindfulness Micro Habits-Declutter Your Mind Stop Negative Thinking and Empower Yourself. Patty’s casita in El Valle de Anton “Spacious Casita with Bamboo View” can be found on Airbnb. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #elvalledeanton #elvelle #elvalledeantonpanama #elvallepanama #panama #pattybluehayes

Diane made a life-changing decision—she was done with suburban living and yearned to return to the energy of the city. She initially considered condos and co-ops in New York City, where her three adult children lived, but quickly realized the Big Apple was out of her financial reach. Declaring that she had “broken up with New York City,” Diane expanded her search to cities within a two-hour train ride of New York. Her journey led her to Philadelphia, where she found herself drawn to the charm of Old City—a neighborhood renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and affordable living. Diane purchased a one-bedroom condo in a renovated factory building for $306,000. To hear more about why Diane fell in love with the City of Brotherly Love, tune in to Episode 206 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Additionally, if you’re interested in publishing a book, check out Diane’s company, Rebel Books Press at https://rebelbookspress.com/ Diane has authored fiction and non-fiction books, including The Last Invention: The Day Death Died and How to Stop Project 2025 #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #oldcity #oldcityphilly #efrethsalley #philadelphia #philly #pennsylvania #visitphilly, #historicphilly #libertybell #phillygram #igers_philly #rebelbookpress

Karen Espig took early retirement from her government job in Ottawa, Canada, to dedicate more time to her passion for art. Concerned that her pension wouldn’t provide a comfortable lifestyle in Canada, she explored more affordable options in Europe. She initially settled in the small town of Pogradec, Albania, which met her financial criteria but ultimately felt isolating and unfulfilling. After two years, Karen discovered a far better fit in Arles, a charming town in the south of France renowned for its rich artistic heritage. It seems she has truly found her place in Arles! To hear more about Karen’s journey from Albania to France, tune in to Episode 205 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. Learn more about Karen’s art and travels go to Karen’s website, KarenEspig.com. Karen has written two books on Albania. They are Albania: A First-Timer’s Guide for Visitors & Expats and Pogradec, Albania: Tips for Tourists, Slow Travellers, & Digital Nomads. She has also published a number of date and birthday books. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #arles #arlesfrance #france #thesouthoffrance #southoffrance #pogradecalbania #albania #karenespig #karenespigart

Greg Kitzmiller and his wife, Jen, dreamed of retiring early after years of hard work and enduring chilly Michigan winters. However, since they were still in their 50s, they faced the challenge of securing affordable health insurance, as their jobs would no longer cover it once they retired. In their search for a warm, budget-friendly destination with excellent healthcare, they found Coronado, Panama. This charming beach town offered stunning condos, a relaxing atmosphere, and a lower cost of living. The couple found their perfect spot in a condo community with a country club, and they couldn't be happier with their decision. Tune in to Episode 204 of Retire There with Gil & Gene to explore the ins and outs of condo living in Coronado, Panama! Greg’s website about living in Panama is 2RetireInPanama.com. His book on the subject is Retired in Panama: A Comprehensive Guide for Retiring and Adventuring in Panama. Murder in Eagle Cove is Greg’s first mystery novel. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retireabroad #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #coronado #coronadopanama #panama #retiredinpanama #2retireinpanama

Carol Fahy had always dreamed of living in the tropics, and after talking to expats, she decided to stay in the U.S. She and her husband, Gene, moved to Oahu, Hawaii, but Gene, a car enthusiast, missed long drives. To satisfy this, they bought a second home in Prescott, Arizona, which is a unique rammed earth home. You can learn more about their experience of splitting time between Hawaii and Arizona in Episode 203 of Retire There with Gil & Gene. For more about rammed earth homes, check out the website of Aerecura Sustainable Builders or https://www.aerecura.ca/. Carol recommends two books on Hawaii: (1) Big Happiness: The Life and Death of a Modern Hawaiin Warrior, by Mark Panek and (2) Plague Doctors: How Hawaii Battled the Pandemic, by Jonathan Dworkin, MD. #retirethere #retiretherepodcast #retirewhere #retirehere #wheretoretire #retireearly #bestplacetoretire #retirement #retirementplanning #babyboomers #genxers #prescott #prescottarizona #prescottaz #arizona #rammedearthhomes #aerecurasustainablebuilders #kaneohe #kaneohehawaii #oahu #hawaii