Refinement NOT retirement

Tesla Model 3 Highland vs MG5: Not a battle, but a brilliant double act. One for the pickleball run, one for the road trip.

In this deep-dive episode, veteran EV enthusiast Tony shares his comprehensive one-year review of the Tesla Model 3 Highland.  Drawing from experience with 7 different EVs over 7 years , Tony delivers an unvarnished assessment of Tesla's latest refinements. From the sleek exterior updates and quieter cabin to the controversial stalkless driving system and Autopilot features, this review covers...

Why were we AWOL? 🤔 Tony's back with a recap of our life refinements , including our move from London to the Cotswolds, other major life changes , and a few unexpected detours (narrowboating anyone?) - including ALSO, our passion for pickleball, veganism , electric cars. And then .... .a family emergency that took us off-air. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster and a hopeful return! 🙏 L...

In this special holiday episode of the Refinement NOT Retirement podcast, Tony and Christine spill all the beans about their vegan adventure at Disney World, Florida this festive season! 🤩 Whether you're a Disney regular or a first-time visitor, join them as they dish out: 🏠Where they stayed 🏨 🍴 What they ate 🌽 💰 Budget tips 💸 🎉 Crowd-beating strategies 🕺 Perfect for anyone planning a Dis...

Our SW Florida Trip - The Post-Election Part Tony & Christine return from their extended stay in Naples, Southwest Florida, to share their experiences during the aftermath of Trump's US election victory. In this episode, they dive into the atmosphere and reactions of Americans to the election results. Discover what locals were saying about the prospect of Trump's second term as the leader of t...

Trump's victory over Kamala Harris is being described as the biggest political comeback in history. We are stunned, still trying to process what's happened. What does this mean for the world? We suspect: nothing good for Ukraine; nothing good for tackling climate change; nothing good for NATO; nothing good for Gaza. That's for starters. But is it good for America? Let's discuss.....

On the eve of the most crucial US election in our lifetimes, Christine and Tony are here in Trumpland, in the sunshine state of Florida. What's it like? Tony describes what they are experiencing over there. Some of their friends are Trump supporters while others are the opposite. What's THAT like? They will be there for the fallout in a few hours when the likely winner is revealed. Stay tuned for...

Christine & Tony arrive in Naples, Florida, just in time for the final run-up to THE most consequential US election of our lifetimes! We will be reporting on our experiences from our UK-perspective as the election news over here unfolds. We'll also be playing LOTS of pickleball! Stay tuned!!

🌱 Curious about adding more plant-based meals to your diet? Join Tony and Christine as they spill the beans on their favourite vegan eats! From quick breakfasts to impressive dinners, we're dishing out practical tips and mouth-watering meal ideas.   Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just vegan-curious, this episode of "Refinement NOT Retirement" is packed with delicious inspira...

Join Tony from Refinement NOT Retirement as he dishes out the truth about veganism with a side of humour. Discover the surprising benefits of plant-based living, as Tony debunks common myths, and discusses why loving your pet while eating other animals might be the real contradiction.   Whether you're vegan-curious or a dedicated carnivore, this episode promises to entertain, inform, and maybe...

In this episode of the Refinement NOT Retirement podcast, Tony and Christine dive into one of their favourite life refinements: Pickleball ! This sport, which has been around for 50 years, has recently surged in popularity across the USA and is now taking the UK and Europe by storm. Fresh from attending the Skechers English Open by Pickleball England , the largest pickleball tournament outside the...

Tony 's back to talk about the latest developments in the Donald Trump saga from the perspective of a Brit who has always LOVED America. Trump’s DC Trial for allegedly doing illegal things in trying to overturn the outcome of the 2020 election is back in the hands of the trial judge, after extremist judges on the US Supreme Court delayed it in a shameful but successful attempt to help Trump po...

Tony discusses the dramatic twists and turns of the US presidential election from a British perspective. From the SCOTUS immunity ruling to assassination attempt, Tony explores the stormy skies that gave way to a new dawn. Discover how Kamala Harris, the formidable former prosecutor, takes on Trump, contrasting her strength with JD Vance’s controversial stance. It’s a battle of vigour and enlighte...

Is this the best hotel on Zante island? Join Tony and Christine from the Refinement NOT Retirement podcast as they share their latest vegan travel experience in Zakynthos (also known as Zante). From panoramic views of the azure sea to fine dining on the terrace at sunset, they’ll take you through their stay at the Le Sante Blu boutique hotel . Learn from their BIG, costly mistake (like booking thr...

In this episode, Tony considers the aftermath of the UK election, exploring the implications of a Labour landslide victory after 14 years of Tory rule. He grapples with the UK’s core problem of a country running out of money and questions whether the current system truly serves the people. Tony shares his own voting journey, from post office scandals to climate concerns, and ponders the future of...

What in HELL was that? Tony reacts to last night's debate, and it's not pretty! What's next for a Democratic Party in CRISIS? Tell us what you think via our podcast's FACEBOOK page

Tony and Christine tackle the question: Is the LTA the right governing body for pickleball? With passion and firsthand experience, they dissect the LTA’s involvement, the perception surrounding it, and the impact on the beloved sport. From organizational dynamics to personal anecdotes, this episode sheds light on the future of pickleball in the UK.

In this heartfelt episode Tony considers the 80th anniversary celebrations of D-Day . Inspired by the moving tributes to our war heroes, this episode is dedicated to Thomas John Coe who bravely served during World War II. Join me as I share his untold story of sacrifice, capture, and unimaginable return from a prison camp in Germany called Stalag IX9-C . Together, let’s explore the significance of...

Tony and Christine explore breathtaking scenery in the Yorkshire Dales and stay at the first 100% plant-based hotel in England, Beck Hotel. There they enjoyed vegan, stream-side dining, and traversed landscapes shaped by millions of years of glacial activity. Then they moved on to the Lake District for a family celebration in a gorgeous setting. Join us! No animals or planets were harmed in the ma...

The Art of Refinement: The Podcast for Life's 2nd Life Join Tony and Christine’s extraordinary journey of life enhancements in the “Refinement NOT Retirement” podcast. 20 years ago, they chose to shun the concept of being “in retirement” in favour of making incremental life-enhancements. They call it being “in REFINEMENT”, an exciting journey that continues, and one that they LOVE to share wit...

Tony and Christine are both FASCINATED and WORRIED for their beloved America as they continue their series commenting, from a British perspective, on Trump's criminal trial. He's been found GUILTY on all 34 counts and is due to be sentenced by the judge on 13 July. But the country is divided on whether it was a fair trial or a "kangaroo court". It's all getting very UGLY. Som...

Will it be a HUNG JURY, an ACQUITTAL or CONVICTION? Join Tony as he provides a succinct update on the high-profile criminal trial of Trump in New York, offering a distinct British viewpoint on the unfolding legal drama. Today ( Tuesday, May 28, 2024 ) marks the pivotal moment of closing arguments , following a calamitous end to the defense case. With jury instructions set and evidence presented, t...

Embark on a journey with Christine and Tony as they delve into the heart of Egypt’s majestic history and vibrant vegan culture. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the serene flow of the Nile, our hosts share their awe-inspiring experiences visiting the timeless pyramids and other ancient marvels. With the guidance of knowledgeable Egyptologists, they uncover the secrets of the past while savour...

In this solo episode of the podcast, Tony delves into the ongoing criminal trial of Trump, offering a distinct perspective from across the pond. He unpacks the latest developments and ponders the future steps in the legal saga. The episode also touches on the startling incident involving Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito and the controversial display of the American flag at his residence. Plus, T...

Join Tony and Christine as they continue their commentary on the ongoing Trump trial in New York, offering a unique UK perspective. Fresh from their vegan voyage along the Nile, your hosts bring back stories and candid opinions from new American friends keen to share their opinions about Trump’s presidential campaign. Tune in as the New York prosecution nears the end of its case against Trump. #Tr...