Balancing Retirement Math and Emotion

Dana Anspach, CFP® and founder of Sensible Money, returns to explain why retirement isn't one long, predictable chapter, it's a series of distinct phases with different financial and emotional needs. Using the framework from her new book, Living Off Your Acorns, Dana walks Bill and Jackie through the pre-go, go-go, slow-go, and no-go years.

This episode covers

1. Dana's four phases of retirement: pre-go, go-go, slow-go, and no-go
2. Why retirement planning should begin at least five years before leaving work
3. The emotional transition from receiving a paycheck to living off your accumulated "acorns"
4. A three-part pre-retirement checklist: cash flow, stress testing, and planning your time
5. Why social connections and identity need as much planning as the financial side
6. Fundedness ratios, the Critical Path, and alternatives to relying only on a safe withdrawal rate
7. Special considerations for people retiring early, including healthcare and longer time horizons
8. Mortgages, HELOCs, pledged asset lines, and when debt can still be useful in retirement
9. How spending naturally changes during the slow-go years
10. Fraud, cognitive decline, powers of attorney, and preparing for someone else to eventually help manage your finances

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"Mama Are We Poor?" is a new childrens book by co-host, Dr. Bill Yount and past guest, Monica Scudieri. They teamed up after the interview on episode #120 (https://youtu.be/oerxEJYrTdM?si=vt2aZSE2wgKVGeIn) in 2025. Monica shared a sweet moment she had with her son and he asked here the question "Mama are we poor". Almost two years later, they collaborated to create a heartfelt, beautifully illustrated picture book that helps parents and caregivers open up conversations about money, financial stress, and family resilience with young readers. Through a child's eyes, kids learn that worth isn't measured in dollars-and that love, stability, and gratitude can carry a family through hard times.

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F.I.R.E. For Dummies

Co-host Jackie Cummings Koski, CFP®, AFC® is author of "F.I.R.E. For Dummies". This is the perfect guide for anyone looking to move from the basics of their finances to reaching F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence, Retire Early) and enjoying the time freedom it creates. Even if you feel behind on your finances, the steps in this book will help you catch up sooner than you ever imagined.

📕 Get Your Copy (currently 40% off on Amazon)

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RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Sensible Money

📙Living Off Your Acorns

The Retirement Manifesto

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⏰ Related Episodes

How To Build Your Own Paycheck: From Saver to Spender | Fritz Gilbert & Dana Anspach | 171

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📌Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.