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.

Summary

Climate change is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a retirement destination, especially for the LGBTQ community seeking both safety and inclusivity. In this engaging episode of "Where Do Gays Retire?" host Mark Goldstein explores various U.S. cities that stand out for their proactive approaches to climate change mitigation. From the eco-conscious vibes of Portland, Oregon, to the wind-powered ambitions of Chicago, Illinois, each city is committed to sustainability while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ community. Mark also highlights affordable cities with minimal climate risks, such as Madison, Wisconsin, and Burlington, Vermont, where retirees can enjoy a progressive lifestyle without breaking the bank. For those considering international options, cities like Lisbon, Portugal, and Auckland, New Zealand, emerge as top contenders, offering charm, affordability, and vibrant LGBTQ scenes without the looming threat of climate chaos.

Show Notes

Exploring the intersection of climate change and retirement, Mark Goldstein delves into the best cities for LGBTQ retirees seeking sustainable and inclusive environments. Focusing on proactive and affordable cities, the episode covers key factors like municipal equality scores and climate resilience. Cities like Austin and Chicago are praised for their green initiatives, while Madison and Burlington are noted for their affordability and safety from climate extremes. The narrative offers a blend of humor and practical advice, emphasizing the importance of choosing a city that aligns with one's values and is resilient against climate challenges. The episode concludes with a look at international destinations, providing a global perspective on retirement options.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.wheredogaysretire.com

Summary/Intro

The podcast episode delves into the experiences of LGBTQ retirees living in Malaga and Valencia, Spain, highlighting the allure of these Spanish cities for those seeking a vibrant and inclusive retirement destination. Host Mark Goldstein engages with guests Steve Aronberg from Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli from Valencia, who share insights about the climate, cost of living, healthcare, and the welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ individuals. Both cities boast a high quality of life, affordable living costs, excellent healthcare systems, and a rich cultural landscape, making them attractive options for expatriates. The discussion also touches on practical aspects such as obtaining residency, navigating Spanish bureaucracy, and the minimal crime rates, underscoring the safety and comfort of living in Spain. With personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode offers valuable guidance for those considering a move to these sun-soaked destinations.

Show Notes

Exploring the nuances of retirement in Spain, Mark Goldstein hosts an engaging dialogue featuring insights from Steve Aronberg in Malaga and Dave Piccolo and Jesus Bartoli in Valencia. This installment of the "Where Do Gays Retire?" podcast offers a comprehensive look at the factors influencing expatriates' choice of retirement location, from climate and geography to local culture and real estate.

Steve shares his experience of Malaga's sunny Mediterranean climate and its appeal to retirees seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle. He discusses the region's cultural richness, including its lively arts scene and historical landmarks. Dave and Jesus highlight Valencia's affordability and flat terrain, making it an ideal place for walking and cycling. They emphasize the vibrant food culture, where local markets and diverse dining options abound, offering a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine.

The episode also addresses the practical aspects of living abroad, such as healthcare and language barriers, while reassuring listeners about the safety and inclusivity of both cities. Both locations are portrayed as welcoming to the LGBTQ community, with a sense of acceptance and integration into the broader society. The discussion encourages potential retirees to explore different parts of Spain to find a location that aligns with their personal and financial needs, highlighting the benefits of a slower-paced, culturally rich lifestyle.

Takeaways:

• The podcast explores two Spanish cities, Malaga and Valencia, as potential retirement destinations for the LGBTQ community.
• Malaga offers a sunny climate with 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an attractive place to live outdoors.
• Valencia is a flat, walkable city with a low cost of living. It is famous for its rice dishes, such as paella.
• Malaga and Valencia have vibrant LGBTQ-friendly communities and are very accepting of diversity.
• The healthcare system in Spain is affordable and accessible, with private insurance options for non-residents.
• Spain is known for its safety, with low crime rates and a lack of gun culture, providing peace of mind.

Steve Aronberg

He was born in Nuremberg, Germany. His dad was in the army and stationed there. His dad proposed to his mom, who flew over to get married. He spent all his teen years in New Bedford, MA, and graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst with a degree in Business Administration.

His entire career was with the U.S. Federal government, and he spent his last 25 years working for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He is a strong proponent of equality and was fortunate to spend most of his working career supporting civil rights. He was also fortunate to retire at the young age of 55.

During his career, he lived in the Washington, D.C. metro area and worked in...