Are you unknowingly sabotaging your retirement just because you're afraid to talk about money? In this episode of Beyond the Paycheck, Paula Christine sits down with financial therapist John Hankins to unpack the real emotional and mental blocks that hold people back from smart retirement planning. They explore how childhood money mindsets carry into adulthood, why people avoid financial planners, and the anxiety that comes with managing a big retirement account. You’ll also learn why visualizing your “future self” can help you make smarter decisions today. If you've ever put your finances in a drawer and walked away, this one’s for you.

John Hankins is a Certified Financial Therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps people overcome fear, shame, and anxiety around money. Through his practice, Financial Therapy Me, he supports clients, especially those nearing or in retirement, in making confident, informed financial decisions. Blending emotional insight with practical tools, John meets people where they are and guides them toward a healthier relationship with money.

Get in touch with John Hankins:
🌐 Website: https://www.financial-therapy.me/
📧 Email: john@financial-therapy.me
📞 Phone: +1 (970) 833-1589

Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(3:00) How money beliefs start early

(4:43) Retirement mindset shift needed

(6:01) The fear of facing your finances

(8:06) Why do people delay financial help

(9:48) Planning is better than panic

(13:21) The “future self” method

(16:04) Roth Vs. Pre-tax decisions

(18:33) Helping your kids financially

(21:08) Why retirement planning is harder now

(24:29) Roths, taxes, and emotional relief

(27:49) Final advice: Take the first step

(31:10) Outro

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Reach Paula at paula@paulachristine.com or through her website, paulachristine.com.