Should you buy an annuity or stick with drawdown?

In this episode, Nick Hutchings breaks down the pros and cons of both, explains how your values and lifestyle affect your choice, and shares real-world examples to help you make a more confident decision.

No one-size-fits-all, just clear, calm insight for your retirement planning.

Before we dive into the how-tos of retirement planning, there’s a more important question to ask: what does retirement actually mean to you?

In this opening episode, host Nick Hutchings reflects on how the meaning of retirement has evolved over the past few decades—and why defining it for yourself is the most powerful first step you can take.

You’ll hear about the diverse ways people describe retirement in Nick’s work as a Chartered Financial Planner, and why unclear expectations can lead to what he calls “analysis paralysis.” Whether it’s freedom, purpose, or simply rest you’re after, this episode will help you get clear on what you’re really planning for.

In this episode:

• Why the “old school” view of retirement no longer fits

• The risk of retirement without a vision

• Real-life examples of how different people define it

• Nick’s take on how you can build a version of retirement that actually excites you

Ready to rethink retirement? Let’s begin.

🎧 Listen now and start shaping a future you’re excited about.

Retirement isn’t just a financial milestone—it’s an emotional journey. In this episode, Nick Hutchings explores the often-overlooked emotional aspects of retirement and why planning for them is just as crucial as budgeting or investment.

From identity loss and shifting routines to changing relationships and mental health challenges, Nick shares heartfelt insights and personal stories that help you prepare for the psychological transitions ahead. You’ll hear practical thoughts on topics like:

• The loss of purpose and how to rediscover meaning

• Coping with boredom, regret, or a lack of structure

• Navigating marital changes and evolving family dynamics

• Managing anxiety, depression, or fears around ageing

• The paradox of too much free time

Whether you're on the cusp of retirement or already navigating it, this episode offers a compassionate, clear-eyed look at what to expect emotionally—and how to prepare with intention.

🧭 “It’s not just what you’re retiring from—but what you’re retiring into—that makes the difference.”

👉 Listen now and start planning not just for your future lifestyle, but for your future self.

In this episode, Nick shares practical steps to help you feel more confident and deliberate in planning for retirement - whether you're just starting to think about it or already living it.

From financial foundations to emotional preparation, Nick covers:

• Why a good financial plan is like having a sat-nav for your future

• The importance of “elegant simplicity” in managing your finances

• How your spending patterns change over the decades of retirement

• The benefits of annuities, cash reserves, and preparing for care

• Why mindset matters as much as money — and how to shift it

With relatable stories, thoughtful insights, and actionable advice, this episode helps bring clarity to one of life’s biggest transitions.

Listen now to start preparing not just for retirement, but for a fulfilling life beyond work.