As I approach my 62nd birthday, I’ve found myself thinking a lot about retirement. Not the kind where you buy an RV and start glamping in national parks (though I’ll admit, that does sound tempting). No, I mean the kind where you sit down with your Social Security statement and suddenly feel overwhelmed, anxious, and a little exhausted from all the questions swirling around in your head. Should I take it at 62? Wait until full retirement age? Hold out until 70? The more I asked, the more overwhelming it all felt.

In this episode, I sit down with my husband, Derek Lenington. You might remember Derek from my very first episode, so it feels especially fitting to have him back as the season one finale. Derek is a financial coach who recently launched his own business, and he’s the perfect person to help me untangle these questions.

We talk about Social Security, Medicare, spousal benefits, working while retired, and how to think about the “break-even” point. Derek also shares why retirement planning is about so much more than numbers—it’s about identity, navigating transitions, and preparing for the future.

If you’ve ever wondered about your own retirement or just felt confused by all the options, this conversation will help clear things up. Derek reminds us that retirement isn’t just about math—it’s about life, identity, and what comes next.

Listen in and learn with me.

—David

If you would like to work with Derek you can find him here: www.dereklenington.com

A Queer POV: Friends, Loves, & Life with DavidYou can listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Substack, and YouTube.And if you enjoy it, please leave a review—it helps more than you know.

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PS: When I’m not podcasting, I also make wedding, birthday, and anniversary cake toppers. (Yes, really.) Take a peek at the shop: Taylor Street Favors

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