🎙️284 – Are You Living in Your Wheel House – with Kim Costa

In this episode of Beyond Retirement, Jacquie Doucette talks with Kim Costa about finding the right place to live in retirement.

You’ll learn why retirement is a “third life”, not an ending, how life changes can cause your “perfect home” not to fit anymore, and practical ways to stay put, if that’s what you want, plus how to clarify what’s working for you.

What we cover

• Why retirement is a “third life,” not an ending
• The Wheelhouse Method: using eight life areas to clarify what’s working and what isn’t
• How life changes (empty nest, health shifts, career ending, family moving) can make a once-perfect home stop fitting
• Downsizing options: lock-and-leave living, reducing maintenance, and freeing up equity
• Practical ways to stay put: “shut down” unused floors, adjust thermostats, and reduce cleaning/expenses
• Repurposing rooms for who you are now (hobbies, writing, yoga, podcasting)
• The most neglected area on the wheel: spirituality (connection to nature, grounding, sunlight)
• Avoiding “should” decisions (e.g., moving somewhere because it’s what people do)
• Try-it-first strategies: house-sitting, seasonal stays, and inviting family to test a destination home
• Biggest regret drivers: moving too fast, not thinking it through, and market pressure

Key takeaways

• Your home should match your current life stage. What worked at 25 may not work at 60.
• Fix the pain point—but don’t create a new problem. Consider health care access, finances, and connection before you leap.
• Enjoyment is allowed. Retirement is a season to reclaim what you loved—and design your space to support it.
• Small changes count. You can often improve fit by repurposing rooms and reducing unused space.

Her new book, Live in Your Wheel House, is available now for preorder and ships March 24th! https://amazon.com/dp/B0GKTB5Z7C

Connect with Kim:

• Website: lifestylefoundations.com
• Socials: KimECosta