Queer Money®: How Gay People Do Money

Queer Money

Queer Money is a bi-weekly show dedicated to creating desperately needed generational wealth within the gay community because we deserve to sleep better at night and we must stand up to the anti-LGBTQ+ industrial complex. Listen and watch regularly to eliminate financial insecurity and generate personal wealth, prepare for a secure and fun retirement, find the most affordable, LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the US to live in or travel to, grow your stock portfolio to $1,000,000+, build a real estate empire and start a small business. Your hosts are husbands and money experts David & John Auten-Schneider who have been the leaders in LGBTQ+ finance since 2015. With nine seasons, nearly 500 episodes, over a million downloads and features by Oprah, Advocate, Variety, CNBC and more, the award-winning Queer Money is the longest running show made by and for the LGBTQ+ community and is the only show solely dedicated to our financial well-being as gay people. · For more financial information and helpful resources, visit queermoneypodcast.com · For complementary charts and grafts (and pretty pictures), subscribe to Queer Money on YouTube @ https://www.youtube.com/@queermoney?sub_confirmation=1

  1. 6 Countries with the Easiest Visas for Gay Retirees | Gay Retirement | Queer Money Ep. 628

    3D AGO

    6 Countries with the Easiest Visas for Gay Retirees | Gay Retirement | Queer Money Ep. 628

    6 LGBTQ-Friendly Countries Where Americans Can Retire for Less—and Still Achieve Retirement SuccessMost gay men assume retiring abroad requires extreme wealth, immigration lawyers, or giving up their U.S. passport. The truth? If you’re over 50 and have Social Security, a pension, rental income, or a 401(k), you may already qualify for residency in multiple LGBTQ-friendly countries—and at a cost that actually supports retirement success instead of draining it. In this episode of Queer Money, we break down six verifiable LGBTQ-friendly countries where Americans can legally obtain residency without being ultra-wealthy—and where everyday life costs significantly less than in the United States. This conversation is about grounding the dream of retiring abroad in reality. These are real visa programs, real income thresholds, and real places where gay men can live openly, affordably, and with dignity. We cover:Why retiring abroad is often easier than people thinkHow reciprocity, visa policy changes, and global politics affect AmericansWhy cost of living—not net worth—is the real driver of retirement successHow residency visas work for retirees, investors, and financially independent individuals Countries Covered in This Episode:Portugal – Income-based residency, strong LGBTQ protections, and EU accessMexico – Familiar culture, flexible residency paths, and major healthcare savingsThailand – Marriage equality, retirement visas, and exceptional affordabilityGreece – EU residency options with one of the lowest Golden Visa thresholdsBrazil – Strong LGBTQ protections and low income requirementsLatvia – An emerging EU option with Schengen access and lower costs Key Takeaways for Retirement Success:You don’t need millionaire money to retire abroad—clarity beats wealthCost-of-living arbitrage can extend your retirement years dramaticallyResidency is about documentation and income, not perfectionThe right country can turn “barely enough” into “more than enough” Retiring abroad isn’t about running away. It’s about running the numbers—and choosing a life that actually works. If retirement success means more freedom, less stress, and living openly as yourself, this episode shows you where to start. 👉 Want to know how long your money could last—at home or abroad? Use the Happy Gay Retirement Calculator to see what retirement success actually looks like for you. 🔗 Start here: a href="https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    17 min
  2. The #1 Thing Keeping Your From Financial Independence | Queer Money Ep. 627

    FEB 3

    The #1 Thing Keeping Your From Financial Independence | Queer Money Ep. 627

    Why Brutal Honesty Is the Missing Link to Retirement Success for Gay MenWhat if the reason you haven’t achieved retirement success yet isn’t the market, your income, or your age—but your relationship with the truth about your money? In this episode of Queer Money, we get radically honest about the quiet habit that keeps most gay men financially stressed well into midlife: avoiding the full truth about how we earn, spend, and use money to cope. Not because we’re bad with money—but because honesty feels unsafe when money has long been tied to identity, belonging, and survival. Many gay men over 45 believe they’re doing “fine.” The bills are paid. The lifestyle looks good. But underneath that calm exterior is often anxiety, denial, and a nagging sense that retirement success feels farther away than it should. That’s not a spending problem. It’s an honesty problem. In this conversation, we unpack why so many of us: Overestimate how well we’re doingUnderestimate how much we actually spendConfuse gross income with real financial capacityAvoid the numbers because we’re afraid of what they’ll say We also explore the deeper emotional layer: how growing up queer taught many of us to perform success, buy safety, and fund the appearance of being chosen—often at the expense of long-term financial independence. Key Takeaways for Retirement Success:Why net income is the only number your life actually runs onHow emotional spending becomes a lifelong coping mechanismWhy financial freedom isn’t unlimited spending—it’s having optionsHow guardrails create freedom without killing joyThree simple actions you can take this week to regain control We also share how getting honest about our own money story helped us pay off $51,000 in credit card debt, reach Coast FI, and create work that supports our lives instead of draining them. Retirement success isn’t about pretending you’re fine. It’s about telling yourself the truth—and building from there. If you want less stress, more choice, and a real path to financial independence, this episode is your starting point. Download the Happy Gay Retirement Calculator here: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc Chapters:00:00 - Intro00:45 - The Truth01:35 - Spending Problems?02:27 - Lack of Knowledge02:58 - Avoidance03:40 - Misconception04:25 - Getting Brutal05:47 - Authority06:36 - Outro Mentioned in this episode: a...

    9 min
  3. Germany's Top 5 Cities for Gay Retirees | Queer Money Ep. 626

    JAN 27

    Germany's Top 5 Cities for Gay Retirees | Queer Money Ep. 626

    Gay Retirement Abroad: Why Germany Might Be Better Than the U.S.Imagine a retirement where Pride isn’t just a parade once a year — it’s woven into everyday life. You walk to your favorite gay café.Your neighbors actually know your name.Your biggest decision of the day is beer by the Rhine… or in your own neighborhood. If you’re thinking about retiring abroad, you’re not alone — and Germany might surprise you. In this episode of Queer Money, we’re breaking down the best German cities for gay retirees, where you can live well, feel safer than in much of the U.S., and potentially retire earlier than you thought — without selling your soul or your Roth. We cover:Affordable, walkable German cities with real LGBTQ+ communitiesWhat life actually feels like for gay retirees in GermanyRent, cost of living, and geo-arbitrage opportunities compared to the U.S.Where Germany shines — and where reality checks matterOur Queer Money Retirement Ratings for each city Cities featured include:HeidelbergDresdenLeipzigCologneMagdeburg (our #1 geo-arbitrage darling) Germany won’t sell you a fantasy. But it will sell you stability, dignity, strong infrastructure, and a future that actually works. 🎯 Not sure how much money you need to retire — in Germany or anywhere else? Grab our free, new & improved Happy Gay Retirement Calculator and get clarity on when and how you can retire fabulously. Chapters:00:00 - Intro00:49 - Heidelberg02:59 - Dresden04:41 - About Germany05:39 - Leipzig07:25 - Cologne09:08 - Recap10:27:06 - Magdeburg13:05:13 - Outro Mentioned in this episode: Ready to retire where you can be yourself... fully? Learn more about the Portugal Golden Opportunites Fund with Optimize Get Your Portugal Golden Visa Here! Ready to retire where you can be yourself... fully? Learn more about the Portugal Golden Opportunites Fund with Optimize a...

    15 min
  4. 7 Ways Gay Men Are Sabotaging Their Retirement Success (And Don’t Even Realize It) | Queer Money Ep. 625

    JAN 20

    7 Ways Gay Men Are Sabotaging Their Retirement Success (And Don’t Even Realize It) | Queer Money Ep. 625

    Are Gay Men Ruining Their Retirement Success Options?Hoodies. Hookups. Hotels. Thirst traps. They may look fabulous — but they could be quietly destroying your retirement success. In this bold, no-BS episode of Queer Money, we break down seven very real ways gay men sabotage their financial futures, often without realizing it. Inspired by conversations in our community (and a little tough love), this episode isn’t about shame — it’s about clarity. If you’re a gay man wondering why retirement feels out of reach despite a good income, this episode will likely hit close to home. We talk about:How status spending and “looking successful” often replace real financial securityWhy buying approval, love, or validation is one of the most expensive habits we haveThe hidden cost of “treat yourself” culture and convenience appsHow gay comparison culture quietly drains long-term wealthSubscription overload and the illusion of freedomWhy believing money is “un-gay” is one of the biggest myths holding us back This isn’t about giving up joy, pleasure, or fabulous living. It’s about stopping the habits that trade short-term dopamine for long-term stress — and choosing a version of retirement that actually feels safe, free, and fulfilling. ✅ Key Takeaways for Retirement SuccessRetirement success isn’t about earning more — it’s about leaking lessApproval spending is one of the most expensive habits gay men carryTrue self-care is financial stability, not another impulse purchaseWealth doesn’t change who you are — it reveals who you’ve always been If you want a retirement that inspires you — not one you fear — this episode is your wake-up call. 👉 Your Next StepIf you want to know how close you actually are to retirement success, start here: Get the Happy Gay Retirement Calculator: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc Chapters:00:00:00 Intro01:06 - Money for sex01:48 - Buying love & attention03:17 - But I deserve it!04:04 - Outsourcing for convenience04:42 - The Great Gay Competition05:44 - Subscription hell06:22 - Money is so un-Gay!07:07 - You can still be fabulousspan class="ql-ui"...

    9 min
  5. Top 5 Gay Cities in Panama for Retirees | Queer Money Ep. 624

    JAN 13

    Top 5 Gay Cities in Panama for Retirees | Queer Money Ep. 624

    Retirement Success in Panama: Top 5 Gay Cities for Warm Weather, Lower Costs & a Softer LandingIf you’re a gay man 45+ thinking, “I want retirement success, but I also want sunshine, lower costs, and a life that doesn’t feel like a constant financial stress-test,” Panama might be your sleeper hit. In this episode, we break down the Top 5 gay cities in Panama for retirees, ranked #5 to #1 with affordability weighted heavily (because vibes don’t pay rent). You’ll hear what life could look like in places ranging from practical inland hubs to expat-friendly beach communities and a major international city with real LGBTQ+ visibility. We cover:David (Chiriquí): practical, hospital access, quiet queer scene, solid valuePedasí: beachy and blissed-out… but remote (medical care requires planning)Coronado: gated, developed, expat-heavy, close to Panama City (higher rent)Boquete: cooler mountain air, coffee + hiking, friendly but sleepyPanama City: the most queer-visible option with neighborhoods, bars, and top-tier healthcare ✅ Takeaways for retirement successPanama can lower your cost of living versus many U.S. cities while keeping comfort high.LGBTQ+ life is often low-key outside Panama City—think social circles vs gayborhoods.Healthcare access and language comfort vary widely by city—choose based on your lifestyle, not a fantasy. Which Panama city fits your version of retirement success? Chapters:00:00 - Intro01:01 - David03:34 - Pedasí05:15 - Disclosure05:45 - Coronado07:50 - About Panama09:45 - Boquete10:54 - Series Table Set12:12 - Panama City14:41 - Outro Mentioned in this episode: Ready to retire where you can be yourself... fully? Learn more about the Portugal Golden Opportunites Fund with Optimize Get Your Portugal Golden Visa Here!

    15 min
  6. 2026 Thinking for Retirement Success | Queer Money Ep. 623

    JAN 6

    2026 Thinking for Retirement Success | Queer Money Ep. 623

    5 Mindset Shifts for Retirement Success in 2026 (No Hustle, Just Standards)Imagine it’s December 31, 2026… and you’re not scrambling, apologizing, or promising “next year will be different.” You’re calm. Your money feels intentional. Your life feels designed. In this episode, we’re sharing 5 practical mindset shifts for retirement success—especially for LGBTQ+ folks who are tired of starting over every January and ready to build real momentum. These aren’t “new year, new you” clichés. They’re identity upgrades + small daily standards that compound into big results—like stronger savings, lower debt, and more confidence about retirement. ✅ Key Takeaways for Retirement SuccessYour identity doesn’t change your life—your standards do.Retirement success is built through 1% changes that compound, not one big “perfect plan.”Many money struggles are really tolerance problems (clutter, subscriptions, debt delays, default spending).You’re never failing—you’re learning. The win is breaking the loop with a minimum daily standard.Know your numbers, but don’t worship the shortage: progress beats panic. 💬 Question We Want You to AnswerWhat’s one thing you’re no longer willing to tolerate with your money or your life in 2026? 👉 Get the Happy Gay Retirement CalculatorWant clarity on whether you’re on track—and what to do next for retirement success? ✅ Download the Happy Gay Retirement Calculator here: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc Chapters00:00 Intro01:03 Tip 1 - Wanted Identity → Standards → “After-Me” Win 07:12 Tip 2 - Flip the Script → Distrust the “Best Little Boy” Instinct12:00 Tip 3 - Lighten the Load → Raise Your Tolerance Threshold14:04 Tip 4 - Win or Learn → Break the Neural Loop18:43 Tip 5 - Stop Obsessing Over the GAP → Focus on the GAIN23:00 Outro

    25 min
  7. 5 Surprising Gay Cities for Retiring Abroad | Queer Money Ep. 622

    12/30/2025

    5 Surprising Gay Cities for Retiring Abroad | Queer Money Ep. 622

    5 “Sleeper Hit” Gay Cities to Retire Abroad (Affordable, Safer, and Surprisingly Fabulous)What if your dream retirement is hiding in a gay city you’ve never even thought to look at? In this episode, we’re going off-script and sharing five surprising gay cities for retiring abroad—places that are shockingly affordable, quietly queer-friendly, and built for real life (not just a two-week vacation). No, these aren’t the usual suspects like Lisbon, Mexico City, or Valencia. These are the gay cities that deliver on what most LGBTQ+ retirees actually want: safety, healthcare access, affordability, and community—without the “big-city price tag.” ✅ What you’ll get in this episode5 unexpected gay cities that are great for retiring abroadRent + cost-of-living reality checks (with U.S. city comparisons)The real queer vibe: low-key, inclusive, livableVisa + residency options for Portugal, Ecuador, Italy, Spain, and ThailandWhy we’re overweighting affordability in our gay cities research (because… math) 🔥 Key TakeawaysThe best gay cities for retirement aren’t always the most famous—sometimes they’re the most livable.“Queer-friendly” doesn’t always mean rainbow flags everywhere—it can mean safety, acceptance, and ease.If affordability is your #1 concern, you’ll want to look beyond the “glam” cities and toward sleeper-hit gay cities.Visa planning matters: most countries want you to arrive with stable income (investments, pensions, remote work, etc.).Retirement abroad gets easier when you plan around cost of living + healthcare access (not vibes alone). 👉 Get Your Next Step: Happy Gay Retirement CalculatorIf you’re thinking about retiring abroad—or you’re not sure if your money will last—start here: ✅ Happy Gay Retirement Calculator: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc Mentioned in this episode: Ready to retire where you can be yourself... fully? Learn more about the Portugal Golden Opportunites Fund with Optimize Get Your Portugal Golden Visa Here!

    28 min
  8. This Is How the F You're Feeling Right Now | Queer Money Ep. 621

    12/23/2025

    This Is How the F You're Feeling Right Now | Queer Money Ep. 621

    Afraid You’ll Never Be Able to Retire? You’re Not Alone. Here’s the Plan.What if retirement wasn’t scary anymore? In this episode of Queer Money, we share the real, unfiltered results of a recent Queer Money community poll — and what it reveals about the five biggest fears LGBTQ+ people have about retirement. From “bag lady energy” to healthcare panic, from how much is enough to where can I live safely and affordably, this episode isn’t about shame — it’s about clarity, strategy, and community. If you’ve ever wondered: Will I run out of money?What happens if healthcare bankrupts me before Medicare?Can I retire early… or abroad?What if Social Security or Medicare changes? This episode is for you. 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYSRetirement fear is emotional first — numbers come secondHealthcare uncertainty is the #1 wildcard for early retirementMost LGBTQ+ retirees want community + affordability, not luxuryGovernment uncertainty is pushing more people to explore retiring abroadConfidence comes from a plan, not perfection 🎙️ WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERSThis episode marks a turning point — not just for Queer Money, but for how LGBTQ+ people talk about retirement. You are not broken. You are not behind. You just haven’t been shown a roadmap that actually fits your life.And that’s what we’re building — together. Subscribe so you don’t miss what’s coming next in 2026. 👉 YOUR NEXT STEPIf you’re serious about building confidence — not just hope — start here: ➡️ Get the Happy Gay Retirement Calculator: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc Chapters: 00:00 Intro00:50 Context05:15 - “Do I Even Have Enough?”08:42 - “Healthcare Before Medicare Is Gonna Kill Us”11:30 - “Where Will We Live?”14:45 - “The Government Will Mess This Up”17:29 - “I Want Peace of Mind, Not Just Numbers”20:03 - Outro Mentioned in this episode: Ready to retire where you can be yourself... fully? Learn more about the Portugal Golden...

    23 min
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About

Queer Money is a bi-weekly show dedicated to creating desperately needed generational wealth within the gay community because we deserve to sleep better at night and we must stand up to the anti-LGBTQ+ industrial complex. Listen and watch regularly to eliminate financial insecurity and generate personal wealth, prepare for a secure and fun retirement, find the most affordable, LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the US to live in or travel to, grow your stock portfolio to $1,000,000+, build a real estate empire and start a small business. Your hosts are husbands and money experts David & John Auten-Schneider who have been the leaders in LGBTQ+ finance since 2015. With nine seasons, nearly 500 episodes, over a million downloads and features by Oprah, Advocate, Variety, CNBC and more, the award-winning Queer Money is the longest running show made by and for the LGBTQ+ community and is the only show solely dedicated to our financial well-being as gay people. · For more financial information and helpful resources, visit queermoneypodcast.com · For complementary charts and grafts (and pretty pictures), subscribe to Queer Money on YouTube @ https://www.youtube.com/@queermoney?sub_confirmation=1

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