Where Do Gays Retire Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Scott Hier

Born and raised in Syracuse, New York, Scott lives in Camillus, a charming suburb outside the city. He comes with a rich worker-compensation background, where he honed his negotiation skills over a commendable 23-year career at an insurance company, specializing in high-dollar claims for a decade.

During the challenging times of COVID-19 in 2020, Scott pivoted towards a new passion—real estate. After completing his licensing in September 2021, he transitioned from his corporate role in early 2022 to focus full-time on helping individuals and families find their perfect homes. His previous experience has proven invaluable, especially in assisting buyers navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.

Scott's journey into real estate began over sixteen years ago when he first recognized his passion for the field. Although initially held back by financial constraints, his love for home renovations and genuine satisfaction in assisting others to achieve their dream of homeownership kept his interest alive. Today, he's not just selling homes but also helping familiarize newcomers with the myriad opportunities Central New York offers, ensuring they understand the buying and selling process thoroughly. Scott, welcome to the show, and thank you for joining us to share your insights and experiences in Syracuse's vibrant real estate market.

Summary

Mark Goldstein interviews Scott Hier, a real estate expert from Syracuse, New York, in this conversation. They discuss various aspects of living in Syracuse, including its climate, housing market, cost of living, healthcare services, transportation options, and the vibrant arts and culture scene. Scott shares insights into the local LGBTQ+ community, the support systems available, and the ongoing revitalization of downtown Syracuse. The conversation highlights the unique characteristics of Syracuse, making it an attractive place to live and work. In this conversation, Scott Hier shares insights about Syracuse, highlighting its vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining options, and the community's overall safety. He emphasizes the city's appeal as a hidden gem, especially for retirees and the LGBTQ community, while discussing the seasonal changes and activities available throughout the year. Scott also touches on the prospects of Syracuse, including new developments and the importance of community involvement.

Takeaways

• Syracuse is known for its heavy snowfall, but recent winters have been milder.
• Although the housing market in Syracuse has seen significant price increases recently, it remains affordable compared to national averages.
• Healthcare services in Syracuse are robust, with several specialized hospitals.
• Syracuse has made strides in walkability and bike lanes, enhancing urban mobility.
• The downtown area is revitalizing, with old buildings being converted into condos.
• Various organizations and events support the LGBTQ+ community in Syracuse.
• Syracuse hosts a pride festival that has grown in popularity over the years.
• Syracuse's arts and culture scene includes museums, theaters, and live performances.
• Syracuse University contributes to the local arts scene with its drama department.
• Transportation options include public buses, Amtrak, and ride-sharing services. Syracuse has a rich cultural scene with plenty of shows and events.
• The dining options in Syracuse are diverse and plentiful, especially Italian cuisine.
• Safety in Syracuse is generally high, with a downward trend in violent crime.
• Syracuse is often overlooked but offers a lot for residents and visitors alike.
• The city has a variety of seasonal activities, making it appealing year-round.
• Retirement in Syracuse is attractive due to its community and amenities.
• Syracuse is evolving with new developments and revitalization efforts.
• The city is well-connected, with many attractions within a short drive.
• Community involvement is encouraged, and many volunteer opportunities are available.
• Syracuse's charm lies in its balance of urban and natural offerings.

Are you looking for a place to call home in Syracuse, New York? Contact Scott Hier: https://g.co/kgs/dHsDFsF

https://scotthier.huntrealestate.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-hier-7ab4b3190/

https://www.facebook.com/p/Scott-Hier-Licensed-Real-Estate-Salesperson-at-HUNT-Real-Estate-ERA-100078649444177/

Waldron McGinnis is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He lived in China for six years and earned his PhD from the University of South Carolina, researching high education reforms in China. 

Waldron spent twenty-five years in the Pacific Northwest of the US. He developed a master's degree and doctorate in leadership at a university. He traveled the world doing partnership work with global non-profit leaders. For the past thirteen years, he has lived in downtown Tacoma as part of an intentional community that provides transitional housing for homeless people, recent immigrants, and people released from incarceration. He has led men’s work through the Mankind Project and working with men in prison.

In 2023, Waldron received Irish citizenship through his grandfather and, in 2024, retired to County Wexford, Ireland. 

Summary

Waldron McGinnis, a retiree in Courtown, Ireland, shares his experience of retiring in Ireland. Courtown is a village in County Wexford, known for its fishing and seaside charm.

Waldron chose Courtown because he wanted to live in a smaller town near Dublin for travel and welcoming guests.

He highlights the mild climate, affordable cost of living, and access to healthcare as benefits of retiring in Courtown.

Waldron also discusses the process of obtaining Irish citizenship and the visa requirements for retirees.

He emphasizes Ireland's vibrant arts and culture scene, with music, theater, and museums being popular attractions.

The food scene in Courtown offers a variety of options, including traditional Irish dishes and international cuisine. Moving to Ireland offers a safe and peaceful environment with high public trust. The crime rate is low, and the country has strict gun control laws.

Research the cost of living and housing beforehand, and join expat groups for valuable information. Set up a bank account and obtain car insurance ahead of time. Ireland is known for its natural beauty, cultural activities, and historical sites. The language barrier is not an issue; the friendly and inclusive society makes it a welcoming place for LGBTQ individuals. Public transportation is convenient, and cashless payments are standard. Overall, Ireland is an excellent choice for retirement.

Mykle Flatley and his spouse Doug moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Oloron Sainte-Marie, France in 2021. They chose Oloron Saint-Marie because of its climate, affordability, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Spain. Michael, who is a dual Irish and American citizen, obtained Irish citizenship 20 years ago, which made moving to France easier. The biggest challenge for them has been the language, but they have found the French to be kind and helpful. Oloron Saint-Marie does not have a large LGBTQ community, but Mykle and Doug have felt accepted and welcomed by their French neighbors. They have made friends with both expats and locals and have found the local economy to be affordable. In this part of the conversation, the principal themes discussed include healthcare expenses, the cost of housing, taxes, and taxation, visas for residency, language barriers, arts and culture, restaurants and food, public transportation, and driver's licenses. In this conversation, Mykle Flatley shares his experience of moving from the United States to France, specifically the towns of Oloron and Pau. He discusses the process of obtaining a driver's license in France, the low crime rate in his town, the affordable and comprehensive healthcare system, and the cultural differences he has encountered. Mykle encourages others to consider living abroad and emphasizes the importance of learning the local language. He concludes by expressing his love for his new home and the opportunities it has provided.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a commune in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department in southwestern France. It is located at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains, at the confluence of the Gave d'Oloron and the Gave de Pau (Pronounced Po) rivers. The town has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a historic town, with a rich cultural heritage. The town center is pedestrianized and lined with half-timbered houses. There are also several churches and other religious buildings in the town.

Oloron-Sainte-Marie is a popular tourist destination, particularly for those who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. The town is also a center for Basque culture, and there are several Basque festivals and events held here throughout the year.

Summary

• Nancy Schneider, a Philadelphia retiree shares her experience of retiring in the city.
• Philadelphia is located on the East Coast of Pennsylvania, with easy access to New York City, Washington DC, and the Jersey coast.
• The city has a temperate climate and offers a variety of quick getaways, including New York, the Jersey Shore, and nearby gay towns like New Hope and Rehoboth.
• Philadelphia has a vibrant LGBTQ neighborhood known as the Gayborhood, but being gay is accepted throughout the city.
• The city has a rich arts and
• culture scene, with attractions like the Kimmel Center, Walnut Street Theater, Museum of Art, Barnes Museum, and more.
• The cost of living in Philadelphia varies depending on the neighborhood, but there are affordable options available.
• The city is walkable and offers convenient public transportation options.
• Philadelphia's food scene is exceptional and offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese, African, and more.
• The city is known for its sports culture, with basketball, football, and baseball being popular.
• Crime is a factor to consider, but the new mayor is taking action to address it.
• Philadelphia has excellent healthcare options, with renowned hospitals and a high number of doctors.
• The city has an urban lifestyle with walkability and access to arts, culture, and entertainment.
• Philadelphia offers easy access to travel, including an international airport.
• Pennsylvania offers tax benefits for retirees, including tax exemptions for retirement income, 401K withdrawals, IRAs, pensions, and social security. The state has the lowest flat tax rate in the country and provides property tax and rent rebate programs. The cost of living in Pennsylvania is slightly below the national average, and the average sales tax rate is 6.17%.
• Transportation savings include discounts on auto insurance for drivers aged 55+, free bus, subway, and trolley rides for seniors over 65, $1 regional rail rides during off-peak hours, and discounted bridge tolls for drivers aged 65+ with a New Jersey EZPass.
• Overall, Philadelphia is considered a hidden gem in the Northeast.

Check out this link and video about LGBTQ+ healthcare at Cooper at Cooper University HealthCare in South New Jersey. (3.7 miles and 14 minutes from Philadelphia) https://www.cooperhealth.org/services/cooper-proud-lgbtq-health?utm_source=pgn&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PGN

Renato is a Bolivian entrepreneur who currently resides in Madrid.

He has a passion for languages and has found a way to make money from it.

In addition to being multilingual, he also has a fondness for the arts, particularly pottery and music. He played in the orchestra of his city in Bolivia and Spain for approximately 5 years.

Renato was born in Japan, then moved to Bolivia where he studied until he was 16 years old. He finished his high school education in Logroño, Spain, and in 2022 he moved to Madrid to start his Spanish school. But instead of giving up, he kept trying and now he is the principal of his school in the center of Madrid.

Renato enjoys traveling around the world and is planning to retire at the young age of 25 if everything goes according to plan.

Summary

Renato Padilla, a Bolivian entrepreneur in Madrid, shares his experiences and insights about living and retiring in Madrid, Spain.

He discusses his background, the reasons for choosing Madrid, the LGBTQ+ community in the city, the importance of learning Spanish, and the local economy and housing costs.

Renato also provides information about Madrid's geography, climate, and utility costs. Madrid offers high-quality public services, including healthcare and education, funded by high taxes.

The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, museums, and live performances. Madrid is a food lover's paradise, offering various cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, French, Ethiopian, and more.

The city has excellent public transportation, including local trains, high-speed bullet trains, buses, and a metro system.

While pickpocketing can be a concern, overall, Madrid is considered a safe city. Renato shares insights about safety, healthcare, visas, and living in Madrid in this conversation.

He recounts a personal experience of losing his wallet and how it was returned to him, highlighting the honesty and safety in the city.

Renato discusses the healthcare system in Madrid, emphasizing the accessibility and affordability of both private and public options. He also provides information about obtaining a visa, particularly the non-lucrative visa for retirees. Renato mentions the importance of understanding the different autonomous regions in Spain and their varying rules and taxes. He concludes by offering advice for those considering relocating to Madrid.

Unveiling the Tapestry of Madrid, Spain: A Quick Guide

Bustling Heart of Spain: Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital city, pulsates with energy. As the country's largest metropolis (population: 3.3 million).

Climate and Geography: Nestled on a central plateau at over 2,000 feet, Madrid experiences distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, perfect for strolling through charming plazas or exploring verdant parks like El Retiro. Winters tend to be crisp, with occasional snowfall.

Getting Around: Madrid is a pedestrian's paradise. Many historic areas are best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the architectural grandeur and vibrant street life. A comprehensive public transportation network offers efficient travel via metro, buses, and trams for longer distances.

A Welcoming Embrace for the LGBTQ+ Community: Madrid has long championed LGBTQ+ rights, fostering a thriving and inclusive community. The city explodes with rainbow colors during the annual Pride celebration, one of the largest in Europe. Numerous LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and cultural centers provide safe spaces for connection and self-expression.

A Feast for the Senses: Arts & Culture: World-renowned museums like the Prado Museum and Reina Sofía Museum house masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and Picasso. The city's energy extends beyond museums, with captivating flamenco performances, lively theaters, and a constant buzz of creativity.

Tantalizing Your Taste Buds: Dining & Restaurants: Madrid is a haven for gourmands. From the iconic tapas bars overflowing with delectable bite-sized delights to Michelin-starred restaurants crafting exquisite culinary experiences, the city caters to every palate. Don't miss out on indulging in local specialties like cocido madrileño (a hearty chickpea stew) or churros con chocolate (deep-fried dough sticks dipped in hot chocolate).

Cost of Living: Compared to other Western European capitals, Madrid offers a relatively moderate cost of living. However, it's important to factor in your lifestyle choices, as dining out and entertainment can add up.

Crime and Safety: Madrid is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any major destination, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It is recommended that tourists be aware of their surroundings and take precautions with their belongings.

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Frontiers of Equality in the Development of EU and US Citizenship

Author: Dr Jeremy B. Bierbach

Jeremy Bierbach (1975) is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, in 1996 with a bachelor’s degree in linguistics, Jeremy worked as an IT specialist for several years. In 2001, Jeremy emigrated to the Netherlands. In 2003, he changed his career direction. He studied law at the University of Amsterdam, earning a bachelor’s degree in Dutch law in 2006 and a master’s in constitutional and administrative law in 2007. Jeremy subsequently worked as a legal advisor through Avocado Legal, where he focused on immigration and European migration law. In January 2014, Jeremy joined Franssen Advocaten and was sworn into the Dutch bar as an attorney. In September 2015, he successfully defended his PhD thesis in European constitutional law at the University of Amsterdam. A commercial edition of his thesis, Frontiers of Equality in the Development of US and EU Citizenship, was published in 2017 by Asser Press. 

His specialty and focus of interest are in invoking norms of international law — EU law in particular — as a source of protection for members of minority groups who are unrepresented or underrepresented in the democratic process: in particular EU citizens, their non-EU citizen family members, and other non-EU citizen immigrants to the Netherlands (including British citizens as former EU citizens).

Takeaways

• Amsterdam is a popular city due to its charm and infrastructure.
• The Netherlands is located northwest of Europe and is known for its flat landscape and canals.
• Amsterdam has a temperate climate with short days in winter and long days in summer.
• The city has a history of tolerance and a vibrant LGBTQ community.
• Housing in Amsterdam can be expensive, with limited availability.
• Utilities, including gas and electricity, can be costly.
• The price of groceries in Amsterdam is lower compared to the US, with high-quality produce available.
• Meeting friends and gay people in Amsterdam is relatively easy due to the city's diverse and inclusive culture.
• The Red Light District is a famous area in Amsterdam known for its adult entertainment. Obtaining a visa in the Netherlands is challenging for non-EU citizens, as Dutch immigration law is based on the concept that the country is already whole and has a housing shortage.
• The only ways for non-EU citizens to move to the Netherlands are through family connections, work-related migration, or the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty, which allows US citizens to legally reside in the Netherlands to develop and run a business.
• Living in Amsterdam has its advantages, such as a high quality of life, good infrastructure, and a vibrant queer scene. Still, it also has limitations, including limited housing stock and strict zoning regulations.

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Eric is French, born and raised in Paris where he lived and worked as a business journalist until Michael and he left for Malta.

Michael is American by birth (born in Hollywood, Florida) and became French while living in Paris. An HR Executive for 2 very large conglomerates, Michael has moved around a lot for his companies and traveled the world. 

He and Eric decided that life was too short to pass up a move to somewhere warm, and sunny yet still close to Eric's family in Paris. They decided to move to Malta in 2014 and opened a couple of rental properties before restoring an ancient property to become a boutique hotel, Senglea Suites.

Summary:

• Eric Tenin and Michael Salone discuss their move from Paris to Malta.
•  Reasons for choosing Malta as their new home.
• Climate, expat community, LGBTQ+ acceptance, language, and local economy discussed.
• Integration and acceptance of foreigners, cost of housing, and living expenses explored.
• Various aspects of living in Malta covered: taxes, cost of living, the impact of expats, rental properties, quality of life, healthcare system, services, amenities, food prices, transportation, infrastructure, proximity to the airport, and low crime rate.
• Gun laws and safety, cultural differences, honesty, safety for women, homelessness, challenges, access to goods/services, obtaining visa/residency, buying citizenship/residency, and cons of living discussed.

 Takeaways:

•  Malta is popular for expats due to its warm climate, English proficiency, and LGBTQ+ acceptance.
•  English is widely spoken alongside Maltese.
•  Diverse expat community, particularly in areas like Senglea.
•  Housing is expensive, with rental prices ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 euros for a two-bedroom apartment, and home prices averaging around 1 million euros.
•  Gun ownership laws and cultural attitudes differ from the US.
•  Malta is considered safe with low crime rates.
•  Homelessness is not significant due to cultural/legal factors.
•  Limited access to goods/services like Amazon Prime.
•  Obtaining a visa/residency is expensive, and may require meeting financial criteria.
•  Considerations for relocating include lifestyle preferences, language barriers, and access to amenities.

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pamm meyers

pamm meyers is, storyteller, dynamic leader and advocate dedicated to fostering prosperity within the LGBTQIA community through business innovation and social advocacy. With a multifaceted background, pamm has become a trailblazer in various fields, leaving an indelible mark on New Mexico’s LGBTQIA and business communities. 

As CEO of Go Social, pamm meyers Social Media.

https://www.pammmeyerssocialmedia.com/ pamm is at the forefront of digital marketing and podcasting solutions for business owners and organizations. Her visionary approach has empowered countless ventures to harness the potential of social media, unlocking new avenues for growth and engagement. It is a driving force behind her client’s success, leveraging the power of connectivity to elevate their brand through digital marketing and podcasting. 

pamm is the managing partner of Two Flower Productions, a podcasting company that produces “Lip Service, the podcast of Our Coming Out Stories”, New Mexico’s Business Podcast.

Previously the Execu?ve Director of the New Mexico Out Business Alliance, currently, Board Advisor for the Way Out West Film Fest, Board Advisor for the Albuquerque Community Founda?on Pride Circle, hMps://abqcf.org/pride-circle/

supporting the LGBTQIA community through philanthropy. 

pamm meyers

https://www.pammmeyerssocialmedia.com/ pamm@pammmeyers.com

Albuquerque, New Mexico with Pamm Meyers 

Summary 

Pam Myers, a dynamic leader and advocate, shares her retirement experience in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

She discusses the LGBTQ+ community, arts and culture, cost of living, and transportation in the area.

Pam highlights the welcoming and safe environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and the thriving arts scene in Albuquerque. She also mentions the affordable cost of living and the abundance of galleries, theaters, and restaurants in the city. Pam concludes by mentioning the unique attractions in New Mexico, such as the Balloon Fiesta and the historic train rides.

Albuquerque, New Mexico offers an enchanting atmosphere with its blue skies and sense of peacefulness. Albuquerque's lack of traffic and affordable housing make it an attractive option. The city has a public transportation system, including buses and a rail trolley, but owning a car is still necessary.

The airport is conveniently located and undergoing renovations.

Crime rates in Albuquerque are comparable to other cities of its size, with petty theft being the most common issue.

The healthcare system is well-equipped, with multiple hospitals and reasonable wait times for specialists. The LGBTQ+ community in Albuquerque is welcoming and supportive. Overall, Albuquerque offers an ideal climate, affordability, and a strong sense of community.\

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Rick retired on Dec 31 2023 with 35 years and 21 Emmy Awards under his belt as a producer, writer, and director. 

He began his work as a public service when he was elected as Dane County WI County Board Supervisor for which he will aim for reelection on 4/2/24. 

He is an advocate for the disenfranchised serving as a CASA volunteer in 3 states, as co-chair of Pride In Prevention, focused on harm reduction within the queer PWUD community, and as a fierce feminist.

He also writes regularly for The Word In Season, a daily Christian devotional that is translated into 30 languages. He lives in Madison, WI having moved there from Shreveport, LA.

Summary

Rick Rose, a retired producer, writer, and director, discusses his move from Shreveport, Louisiana to Madison, Wisconsin. He shares his reasons for choosing Madison and talks about the climate and amount of snow in the area. Rick also discusses the LGBTQ+ community in Madison and the absence of a specific gayborhood.

He highlights the growth and economy of Madison, the ease of making friends, and the presence of arts and culture in the city.

Rick also mentions the local food and dining scene in Madison. Madison, Wisconsin has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with a thriving comedy community and a diverse range of performances and events.

The city also has a strong public transportation system, with options for biking, electric transportation, and plans for an Amtrak center.

Healthcare in Madison is highly regarded, with access to quality providers and affordable insurance options.

While crime exists, Madison is considered a safe city overall. The city also has a significant Native American community and is working towards preserving and promoting Native American culture and tourism.

Takeaways

Madison, Wisconsin offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an attractive place to retire.

The city experiences a wide range of weather, including hot and humid summers and snowy winters.

While Madison does not have a designated gayborhood, it is known for its progressive and inclusive community.

The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with opportunities to enjoy live music, theater, and visual arts.

The cost of living in Madison can be high, with average home prices and rental rates above the national average. 

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Dwayne was born/raised in the northern Utah area (Ogden, north of SLC) and also spent time in southern California (Oxnard)

He was educated in Utah through high school, and went to Weber State University, majoring in Architecture, but discontinued his education. 

Raised in the area's predominant religion (Latter Day Saints, Mormon) Served a church mission to So. Korea. Has since left organized religion.

They have been in a relationship since 1987, They were legally married in Oakland CA, when it was legal in California and then again In Salt Lake after the federal recognition of same-sex marriage.

His employment is in Fire Protection and he worked in the Salt Lake area for 8yr and currently in the Oakland/San Francisco CA area (27 years) but remains living in SLC Utah. 

He has lived in downtown Salt Lake since 2002. They recently sold our condo there and live in South Ogden. He enjoyed the SLC community/vibe since he's a city guy, but his husband is not so much!

He was part of the neighborhood community, and also supported the gay community but was not active/involved in the community.

He has already planned for retirement locations and has a tiny home in Littlefield AZ (a sliver of Arizona between Utah and Nevada) and a place in Baltimore MD. 

They chose to remain in Northern Utah for our primary retirement location.

Hobbies are camping (maybe considered glamping! LOL), hiking in summer, snowshoeing in winter, riding side by side in the mountains and desert, attending local car shows, local community festivals, small venue music concerts, and evenings with friends enjoying dinner and wine.

I'm still working, but I enjoy traveling when we can (when I can) to different places around the country and sometimes the world. 

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, often shortened to Salt Lake or SLC, is the capital and most populous city of Utah, United States. It is the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. 

Salt Lake City, state capital and seat (1849) of Salt Lake County, north-central Utah, U.S., situated on the Jordan River at the southeastern end of Great Salt Lake.

Summary of cost of living in Salt Lake City, UT, United States: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 3,766.4$ without rent. A single person's estimated monthly costs are 1,047.8$ without rent. Salt Lake City is 30.6% less expensive than New York (without rent).