Stay Wealthy Retirement Podcast

Retirement is about so much more than money—it's a complete life transition. In this episode, I'm sharing my recent conversation with Adam Cmejla, where we explore the often-overlooked aspects of retirement planning. We discuss: ‣ Why retirement can feel like a grieving process—and how to navigate it ‣ The surprising role responsibility and community play in long-term happiness ‣ Smarter ways to approach Monte Carlo simulations, taxes, and cash management We also share our favorite retirement and investing charts that reinforce the principles essential to keeping financial plans grounded. Whether you’re 10 years out from retirement or already there, this conversation challenges common assumptions and offers a helpful perspective on this stage of life. *** SCHEDULE YOUR FREE DISCOVERY MEETING: My team and I have guided hundreds of families across the U.S. through retirement’s biggest challenges over the last two decades. The result? Smarter tax strategies, better investment decisions, and a more confident retirement. If you’re seeking clarity and a proven retirement planning process, we’d be honored to help. 👉 Schedule a Complimentary Discovery Meeting *** EPISODE RESOURCES: →  Grab the Episode Show Notes → Join the Stay Wealthy Retirement Newsletter →  Get Your FREE Retirement & Tax Analysis!

Discover how Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) might require hefty withdrawals from your retirement savings. Uncover the surprising differences in life expectancy predictions between the IRS and Social Security. Learn the method behind RMD calculations and why you should plan strategically before hitting age 73. Get insights into using RMDs for a dynamic withdrawal strategy and explore effective tax planning tips to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket. It's essential advice for optimizing your retirement!

Is retiring in your 50s actually realistic for everyday Americans? According to a recent NerdWallet survey, the average target retirement age for households earning $100,000+ isn't 65—it's 58. And these aren't tech moguls or lottery winners. They're teachers, small business owners, and dual-income couples who’ve steadily built their nest eggs and now want to enjoy their healthy, active years while they can. But retiring in your 50s requires a very different kind of plan. One that accounts for early withdrawal penalties, health insurance gaps, and delayed Social Security. These obstacles are the "triple threats" of early retirement. In today’s episode, I’ll share how to combat them and provide a simple 5-step process for turning your retirement vision into a reality.  *** SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL: Looking to hire a retirement and tax planning expert? We help 100+ families across the country navigate retirement, optimize investments, and reduce taxes. 🗓️ Schedule a Complimentary Discovery Meeting to Learn More. *** EPISODE RESOURCES: →  Grab the Episode Show Notes → Join the Stay Wealthy Retirement Newsletter →  Get Your FREE Retirement & Tax Analysis!

Nick Maggiulli, a data scientist and COO of Ritholtz Wealth, dives into the complexities of managing wealth after surpassing the $1 million mark. He reveals why savers in the $1-10 million range often feel financially 'stuck' and discusses the surprising risks wealthy retirees face in preserving their wealth. The conversation underscores the crucial importance of health over mere monetary wealth, alongside the need for robust investment strategies to ensure a successful retirement. Tune in for insightful takeaways on navigating the new financial landscape.

A recent study reported that 76% of retirees regret not saving more money. But after working with hundreds of successful retirees and analyzing thousands of survey responses, I've discovered something interesting:  Their deepest regrets actually have little to do with financial shortfalls. Instead, they revolve around critical aspects of financial planning that significantly impact purpose, independence, and fulfillment in your golden years. In this episode, I'm revealing three (3) retirement regrets that many people don't consider until it's too late. I'm also sharing how to avoid the same mistakes so YOUR retirement is fulfilling instead of filled with regret. *** SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY DISCOVERY CALL: Looking to hire a retirement and tax planning expert? We help 100+ families across the country navigate retirement, optimize investments, and reduce taxes. 🗓️ Learn more and schedule a Discovery Meeting with us. *** EPISODE RESOURCES: ✏️  Grab the Episode Show Notes 📫 Join the Stay Wealthy Retirement Newsletter 📊  Get Your FREE Retirement & Tax Analysis!

Curious about the impact of the new 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' on your retirement? Discover five key takeaways that simplify complex tax changes and clarify misconceptions. Learn how reduced tax brackets and increased deductions influence your financial planning. Explore recent legislative shifts affecting high-income individuals and health savings accounts for Medicare enrollees. Finally, navigate the political noise with insights on proactive engagement for a secure retirement. Pour yourself a drink and get ready to reshape your financial future!

Retirement at 62 might be more attainable than you think! Forget arbitrary savings benchmarks that don't fit your life. Discover why taking Social Security early could actually boost your wealth. Learn a practical four-step process to tailor your early retirement plan. If you feel behind on savings, this discussion offers new perspectives to help you confidently step into retirement sooner than expected!

Many retirees regret not planning for a purposeful retirement, focusing solely on finances instead. A striking 40% wish they had waited longer to retire, highlighting the emotional challenges of this transition. Discussing the 'Bridge Strategy,' the conversation emphasizes five steps to create a meaningful retirement that aligns with personal values and experiences. It encourages individuals to think about what they are retiring to, not just what they are retiring from, ensuring fulfillment beyond a substantial portfolio.

Explore the surprising risks of relying on high-yield cash for retirement. Discover how inflation can erode those enticing returns, making them less safe than they seem. Learn why a balanced investment strategy, incorporating riskier assets, is crucial for maintaining purchasing power. Get insights on critical performance metrics that can guide your portfolio decisions in an uncertain market.

You’ve finally made it to retirement! But what if some of the choices you’re making right now are quietly pulling you back to work? Every year, countless retirees are forced back into the workplace. Not because they were reckless, but because they followed advice that sounded smart and safe. In this episode, I'm sharing 7 of the most common retirement pitfalls that can derail even the best-laid plans. I'm also sharing our Total Retirement System™—a comprehensive framework to ensure you retire once and never look back.  If you're approaching retirement (or already there) and want to avoid mistakes that force people back to work, this episode is for you. *** 2025 TAX CHEATSHEET Subscribe to the Stay Wealthy Retirement Newsletter! As a thank you,  you'll receive my recently updated 2025 Tax Cheatsheet (PDF).  You'll also receive weekly retirement and investing tips from yours truly. 👉 Click here to subscribe and grab your cheatsheet. *** EPISODE RESOURCES: 📊  Get Your FREE Retirement & Tax Analysis! ✏️  Grab the Episode Show Notes