Early Retirement - Financial Freedom (Investing, Tax Planning, Retirement Strategy, Personal Finance)

Ari Taublieb, CFP®, MBA
undefined
Aug 4, 2025 • 13min

Here's When A Will Is Sufficient And Trust Isn't Necessary (Part 1)

Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated. This episode breaks down the essentials: wills, trusts, and what actually matters, so you can protect your assets and give your loved ones peace of mind.Wills determine where assets go after death. Trusts do that and more. They can manage assets during your lifetime and help avoid probate, offering more flexibility and control.In states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida, probate tends to be fast and affordable, so a will might be enough. But in places like California, New York, and Oregon, a trust can help you avoid long, expensive, and public court proceedings. Some situations call for extra planning regardless of location, such as blended families, special needs beneficiaries, or owning property in multiple states.This episode also explores the idea of a “dead box,” a digital folder that holds important documents, passwords, and instructions to make life easier for your family during a difficult time.Estate planning isn’t just about legal documents. It’s about creating clarity and making sure your family knows what to do when it matters most.Listen to Part 2: FAQs: Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorneys, and Other Estate Planning Tools -Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.
undefined
Jul 28, 2025 • 15min

Why I Love Retirement Planning At 29 Years Old

What does soccer have to do with retirement? A lot more than you'd think. As a 5'5" former college soccer player turned financial advisor, I’ve learned it’s not about brute strength. It’s about smart decisions. That mindset guides the way I approach financial planning today.At 29, people ask why I care so much about retirement. The answer is simple: good planning gives you time. And time with the people you love is the most valuable thing there is. I've seen how a well-structured plan, from managing taxes to optimizing healthcare and using flexible accounts, can buy you years with aging parents, a spouse, or even just your own freedom.But there are traps, like being "qualified rich." That $2 million in your 401(k)? After taxes and penalties, it’s not what it seems. That's why I'm a big fan of what I call “superhero accounts” like brokerage accounts that let you retire on yourterms. And don’t get me started on the healthcare gap between early retirement and Medicare. It’s one of the biggest mindset hurdles we help people overcome.I got into this work after watching my own parents get burned by multiple advisors. Some were too fancy, some were too hands-off, and none truly planned holistically. That gap in the industry is what I aim to close.To me, the goal is recreational employment. Working because you want to, not because you have to.-Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.
undefined
Jul 24, 2025 • 17min

How to Know If You’re Ready to Retire (Hint: It’s Not Just About Money)

The hardest part of retirement isn’t always financial, it’s psychological. For many, stepping away from work isn’t a light switch, but a dimmer that adjusts over time. This episode of Root Talks unpacks what makes the retirement decision so complex, especially for high-achieving professionals whose identity is tied to their careers.Through a real-life case study, the conversation explores how severance offers can become powerful “test drives” for retirement, offering space to reimagine life beyond work. Ari and James examine the impact of golden handcuffs— when financial incentives cloud what really matters: time, health, and meaningful connection.If retirement feels more like a mental block than a math problem, this episode offers a new lens. Learn how tools like Tim Ferriss’s fear-setting exercise can help unpack the real risk of not of leaving work, but of staying too long. -Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.
undefined
Jul 21, 2025 • 17min

5 Surprising Statistics That Will Make You Want To Retire Early

Discover the surprising benefits of retiring early, from enhanced creativity to improved relationships. Research shows that stepping away from work sooner can significantly boost life satisfaction and emotional well-being. Delve into vital statistics that reveal how early retirement fosters deeper social connections and purposeful living. Learn the importance of a solid financial strategy, as well as understanding when enough is enough. This is your call to rethink retirement: it's not just about free time, but prioritizing what truly matters.
undefined
6 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 20min

Here's How To Plan For Social Security If You Retire Early

Many people put off retirement to maximize their Social Security benefits, missing out on precious years of freedom. A more holistic approach involves accessing your portfolio early while allowing Social Security to grow. Personalized financial guidance is crucial in navigating this landscape, ensuring you align retirement plans with your lifestyle and health needs. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of clear communication regarding both financial and healthcare decisions to make truly informed retirement choices.
undefined
Jul 10, 2025 • 20min

DIY vs. Financial Advisor: How to Know When It’s Time to Get Help

Exploring the emotional and practical reasons behind hiring a financial advisor, the conversation reveals how guidance can protect your future and save you time. A DIY-er shares surprising benefits of professional advice, including better sleep and a trusted partner in financial decisions. Delegating financial tasks is emphasized as a way to enhance personal fulfillment and focus on what truly matters. The balance between costs and life satisfaction is discussed, encouraging self-reflection on financial strategies for a happier retirement.
undefined
Jul 7, 2025 • 16min

The Not-So-Obvious Reason To Retire Early

We often focus on the fear of running out of money in retirement—but what if the bigger risk is running out of health before you can enjoy it? After watching The Amazing Race, I was reminded of a client story we hear all too often: years of diligent saving, only to be sidelined by health issues just before retirement begins.At Root, we’ve seen clients retire with more than enough—only to realize the extra working years came at the expense of their physical well-being. One client had $3 million saved but told us she would’ve been happier (and healthier) retiring with $2.2 million if it meant enjoying her travel plans pain-free.That’s why we encourage thinking about your money in terms of “movement speeds”:Walking dollars: short-term cash for 1–3 yearsJogging dollars: mid-term goals for 3–7 yearsSprinting dollars: long-term investments for 10+ yearsThis framework helps you balance living well today with planning wisely for tomorrow. The most consistent advice we hear from our clients? Don’t just plan to retire—plan to enjoy it. Prioritize your health alongside your wealth.-Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.
undefined
26 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 20min

Why Retire Early? History Of The Podcast

Ever wondered if work could be a choice? Listen in as the hosts share personal anecdotes that highlight the journey to financial freedom. With humor and practical insights, they explore engaging strategies for early retirement. Discover how smart tax planning can unlock massive savings! Their mission? To empower you to create a life where work is optional. Tune in for a blend of financial wisdom and inspiration on achieving your dreams.
undefined
Jun 26, 2025 • 19min

Why Brokerage Accounts Might Be the Most Underrated Tool in Your Financial Plan

Explore the hidden potential of brokerage accounts, dubbed 'superhero accounts' for their flexibility. Learn how relying solely on traditional retirement accounts can leave you 'qualified rich, cash poor.' Discover the psychological benefits of accessible funds and how brokerage accounts can ease the transition from saving to spending in retirement. Plus, uncover the importance of a diverse financial strategy that combines brokerage accounts with 401(k)s to optimize your access and tax efficiency.
undefined
Jun 23, 2025 • 18min

How to Calculate Your EXACT Early Retirement Number (Simple Formula)

Retirement doesn’t come down to a magic number, it comes down to your number. In this episode, we walk through a simple, personalized framework to help you understand when you can truly retire, based on what you want life to look like, not generic benchmarks.We cover the core question: How much do you want to spend each month? From there, we reverse-engineer your retirement target, factoring in taxes, withdrawal strategies, estate planning, and those big one-time expenses that often get missed.And it’s not just about the math. We dive into the emotional side of retirement. It's about how to find purpose, identity, and meaning in this next chapter. Whether retirement feels decades away or just around the corner, this episode will help you stop guessing and start planning with clarity.- Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult your CPA or attorney regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements.Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app