Making Retirement Make Sense

The emotional attachment to a company that helped you build your wealth can make it difficult to make rational decisions about when to sell. This episode breaks down the data showing why only a small fraction of stocks create long-term wealth and how you can use strategies to transition out of a concentrated position while maintaining your financial security. Chapters: 00:00 Retirement Landmine In...

Many people assume an inheritance will simply “work itself out,” but small estate planning oversights can quietly create tax problems, family conflict, and long delays. In this episode, we explain how inheritances actually work—and how to plan so money goes where you intend without unnecessary friction. Chapters: 00:00 Inheritance Planning Intro 00:38 Lincoln Without a Will 01:22 Wills Titles Bene...

Most people think retirement readiness is about hitting a number, but that’s only part of the story. In this episode, we explore the emotional and identity shifts that determine whether retirement becomes deeply fulfilling—or quietly disappointing. Fritz Gilbert is the Founder of The Retirement Manifesto, an award-winning blog focused on “Helping People Achieve A Great Retirement.” He is the autho...

Choosing when to claim Social Security is an irrevocable decision that significantly impacts your long-term financial security. This episode breaks down the pros and cons of claiming early versus delaying, helping you build a strategy that fits your specific needs rather than following general rules of thumb. Chapters: Links & resources from this episode: Visit our website: https://makingretir...

Financial fraud is becoming more sophisticated, and retirees are being targeted in ways most people don’t expect. In this episode, we explain the most common scams we’re seeing today and how to reduce your risk without overcomplicating your life. (00:32) -  Introduction and Overview (01:01) - Shocking Statistics on Financial Fraud (10:57) - Protecting Yourself: Tips and Tools (31:18) - Spotting Em...

Curious about safe withdrawal rates in retirement? In this episode, we delve into their evolution, misconceptions, and practical applications for a financially secure retirement. (00:00) - Introduction and Overview (01:11) - The 4% Rule and Its Origins (06:58) - Customizing Retirement Plans (10:16) - Budgeting Approaches for Retirement (17:30) - Sequence of Returns Risk (20:58) - Exploring the Gua...