Ready For Retirement

James Conole, CFP®
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Sep 16, 2025 • 14min

What’s the Smartest Investment Mix for Retirees Right Now?

Explore the evolving landscape of retirement investments beyond the traditional 60/40 model. Discover how sequence of return risk can jeopardize financial stability and learn about the innovative concept of 'Root Reserves' to mitigate early withdrawal impacts. Delve into the importance of growth investments to combat inflation and preserve purchasing power. Finally, understand the often-overlooked behavioral risks in investing, emphasizing emotional comfort with market fluctuations as crucial to retirement planning.
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Sep 15, 2025 • 7min

The Real Reason Most People Struggle in Retirement (It’s Not Money)

Retirement isn’t just about money; it’s about finding purpose. Many struggle due to a loss of identity after leaving their careers. Success isn’t measured by wealth alone, but by meaningful relationships and personal fulfillment. An intriguing exercise helps clarify what truly matters by imagining how to spend a sudden windfall. Establishing a clear vision guides financial decisions, ensuring that retirement can be a vibrant and authentic chapter in life.
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Sep 13, 2025 • 13min

How Much Can I Spend In Retirement with a $2 Million Portfolio?

A retirement story that challenges everything you thought you knew about what’s possible in your golden years.Meet Michael and Lisa: a couple in their early sixties with $2 million saved who are worried about running out of money too soon. Their initial plan looked bleak, but three simple adjustments reshaped their retirement outlook without working longer or cutting back on their lifestyle dreams.The shift came from questioning assumptions. Instead of projecting first-year expenses forever, they recognized that travel-heavy budgets don’t last into their 80s and 90s. Pair that insight with a portfolio tailored to their situation, not arbitrary rules, and a smart Roth conversion strategy, and their success probability jumped from 32% to 74%.The real takeaway isn’t just the numbers. These strategies are accessible to anyone. Retirement planning works best when expenses evolve with time, portfolios reflect personal circumstances, and taxes are managed proactively.Your retirement might be closer than you think. Let's explore how the right adjustments can turn uncertainty into confidence.-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 Strategy ⬇️ Get Started Here.Join the new Root Collective HERE!
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Sep 9, 2025 • 12min

Top 5 Social Security Secrets Every 60-Year-Old Needs to Know

Discover the hidden complexities of Social Security that could save retirees tens of thousands. Learn how maximizing spousal and survivor benefits can be a game changer for couples. Explore the impact of taxes on your benefits and how smart planning can reduce that burden. Understand the importance of separating retirement and claiming decisions to boost your financial strategy. Get ready to transform your retirement by mastering essential Social Security secrets!
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Sep 5, 2025 • 10min

Retiring at 65 Might Be Too Late (Here’s Why)

Most retirement plans focus on money alone, but the equation is incomplete without factoring in healthspan. Lifespan is how long someone lives, but healthspan is the number of years spent in good physical and cognitive health. The gap is significant. The average American lives to 77, but healthspan often ends around 66.This creates a retirement paradox. Many professionals work into their mid-60s to maximize Social Security and retirement accounts, only to discover declining health limits the freedom they saved for. The financial benefits of working longer are measurable, but the hidden costs are just as real: strained relationships, stress-related health problems, and missed life experiences.True retirement planning goes beyond asking “Can I afford to retire?” The real question is “What is the cost of not retiring?” For those financially secure, continuing in a stressful job can shorten healthspan and diminish quality of life.The hardest retirement stories are not about running out of money. They are about running out of health before enjoying the freedom that was earned. A strong plan considers both financial security and healthspan, ensuring not just wealth in later years, but the ability to create memories when they matter most.- 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 Strategy ⬇️ Get Started Here.Join the new Root Collective HERE!
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Sep 4, 2025 • 18min

Inside Root’s Growth Plan (And the Promise Refuse to Break) │ Root Talks

What happens when businesses grow? The discussion dives into how companies like Patagonia inspire a mission-driven culture, prioritizing employee engagement over profits. Personal anecdotes reveal the pitfalls brands face when expanding—like declining quality and customer perception. The concept of 'anti-goals' emerges as a strategy to maintain service amid growth. Additionally, lowering investment minimums is explored as a way to make financial services more accessible, showcasing the balance between demand and sustainable growth.
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Sep 2, 2025 • 18min

How to Avoid the Widow’s Tax (Before It’s Too Late)

Discover how the shift from married to single tax brackets can significantly impact surviving spouses during a vulnerable time. Explore three proactive strategies to mitigate the widow’s tax, including strategic Roth conversions to lower future tax exposure. Learn how to maximize Social Security benefits for a stronger income foundation and navigate IRS life expectancy tables for efficient withdrawals. With careful planning, you can ensure financial stability for the future and ease the burden during tough times.
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Aug 26, 2025 • 39min

They Gave Up the ‘Traditional’ Retirement to Live the Life They Always Wanted: The Retirement Travelers

Redefining retirement with purpose and adventureJohn and Bev retired at 55, sold almost everything, and traded their dream home for two backpacks, golf clubs, and a life of full-time travel. Since then, they have visited 107 countries and all 50 states as “The Retirement Travelers.”Their journey began during COVID, when cancelled plans led to an Airstream trip across America’s national parks. Living in 220 square feet showed them how little they truly needed—freeing them to downsize, travel, and focus on experiences over possessions.With Bev’s MS diagnosis adding urgency, they embraced their “go-go years” while working closely with financial planners to ensure their plan supported their lifestyle. They now share stories, practical tips, and inspiration through their platform, proving meaningful travel does not require expensive, tourist-heavy destinations.Their message is simple: whatever your dream is, pursue it now.Learn more here: https://www.retirementtravelers.com_ 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 Strategy ⬇️ Get Started Here.Join the new Root Collective HERE!
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Aug 21, 2025 • 18min

The Hidden Cost of Financial Optimization (And How to Avoid It)

Is financial optimization always the best path to happiness? The discussion dives into the Five Types of Wealth—financial, time, social, mental, and physical. Real-life examples highlight how investing in convenience or health can lead to greater well-being. The balance between financial decisions and personal peace of mind is explored, illustrating how comfort levels play a crucial role. Ultimately, the conversation challenges the notion that wealth is solely about money and advocates for a life focused on fulfillment and joy.
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Aug 19, 2025 • 21min

When Money Isn’t Enough: The 5 Types of Wealth You Need Before Retiring

Exploring the complexity of retirement, this discussion reveals that wealth isn't just financial. It highlights the importance of balancing financial security with time freedom, relationships, and well-being. Personal stories emphasize setting boundaries for family and emotional fulfillment. The journey of self-reflection guides listeners to redefine what 'enough' means in life. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for a holistic approach to wealth, encouraging a life well-lived beyond just numbers.

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