• Explore why retirement confidence may be slipping, using insights from the Employee Benefit Research Institute and the University of Michigan, and see how inflation and oil prices have historically been associated with changing outlooks.

• Break down the difference between fiduciary and non-fiduciary advisors to provide a backdrop when evaluating who you trust with your financial picture.

• Walk through listener questions on 457(b) vs. 401(k) plans, Roth vs. traditional strategies, and how early retirement access rules actually work.

• Get more clarity on VEBA HRA accounts vs. HSAs, and consider what may be affecting Roth IRA growth—including allocation choices and tools used.

• Think through when a trust might make sense and how savings accounts, money markets, and bonds may play different roles as interest rates shift.

• Consider ways to prepare for long-term care costs, including self-insuring concepts that tie into income planning and HSA savings over time.

Looking to explore big picture retirement planning without getting lost in the weeds? This episode is a great place to start. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast!

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• Reimagine how achieving financial independence may shift your sense of purpose, and consider ways to redirect that drive toward a more fulfilling retirement.

• Size up how property taxes may shape where you live and your retirement comfort level over time.

• Stack up lump-sum versus pension-income options to help understand the trade-offs among flexibility, longevity risk, and steady income.

• Map out retirement withdrawal strategies using historical market data and behavioral factors, while recognizing that outcomes may vary.

• Make sense of today’s “mixed signals” economy by connecting jobs data, corporate margins, inflation, and Federal Reserve policy as context, not predictions.

• Think through options for late starters and compare 529 plans with Solo Roth 401(k)s as potentially flexible ways to approach education funding within a broader plan.

Listen to the Retire Sooner Podcast to hear the full conversation and explore how these ideas may apply to your situation. Subscribe for more thoughtful, real-world context on retirement planning, investing, and the decisions that shape long-term financial life.

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• Discover how consistent saving and long-term investing have historically supported greater flexibility in retirement, though past performance does not guarantee future results and may not indicate future market direction.

• Picture how your retirement location, cost of living, and closeness to family may shape your day-to-day happiness.

• Use a simple framework to research and test potential retirement destinations before making a big move.

• Navigate housing transitions by thinking through timing gaps, home equity access, and tax considerations.

• Compare ways to fund a home purchase using Roth IRAs, traditional IRAs, and brokerage accounts.

• Understand how TSP, high-yield savings, mutual funds, and ETFs differ in fees, taxes, and flexibility.

• Weigh whether keeping a TSP or rolling assets into an IRA may fit your broader financial picture.

• Examine how investment fees and annuities may play a role in long-term planning decisions.

• Consider early retirement scenarios by factoring in income variability, taxes, and sustainability over time.

Take a fresh look at your retirement strategy with insights grounded in real-life decisions and long-term thinking. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for more educational content to help inform your financial decisions.

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• Examine why many Americans feel financially behind while weighing the risks often associated with higher-risk areas such as crypto, meme stocks, options trading, and sports betting—and the behavioral pull of comparison-driven investing.

• Evaluate pension choices by comparing lump sum payouts versus lifetime income streams in the context of longevity, income needs, and personal financial goals.

• Understand how dividends may factor into total return and how reinvestment has historically contributed to long-term investment outcomes.

• Assess how to use proceeds from a home sale by balancing debt reduction, investment opportunities, and liquidity for future flexibility.

• Explore investment options often considered more conservative, such as Treasury money markets and short-term bond ETFs, while recognizing trade-offs between stability, income, and interest rate risk.

• Differentiate between fixed annuities and CDs by reviewing guarantees, liquidity considerations, and how each may fit within a broader retirement income strategy.

• Take a fresh look at your portfolio by balancing different time horizons, being mindful of taxes, and thoughtfully managing RSU stock (Restricted Stock Units) with an emphasis on diversification.

Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for more educational conversations about financial decisions and the world around them.

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• Discover how “Trump Accounts,” seed funding, and consistent contributions are being discussed as tools for early, tax-advantaged, multigenerational savings.

• Explore how a Year Zero Savings Plan may shape a child’s financial starting point while highlighting the impact of time in long-term investing.

• Evaluate traditional retirement accounts versus Roth conversions when considering tax diversification over time.

• Compare conservative and balanced portfolios using the efficient frontier to better understand theoretical risk and return tradeoffs.

• Assess how pensions and VA disability income are sometimes viewed within broader investment frameworks.

• Examine the FIRE movement alongside the Retire Sooner Method and a “dimmer switch” approach as different perspectives on retirement timing.

• Get answers to listener questions on target-date funds, Roth IRAs for Americans abroad, and contribution strategies within current guidelines.

• Recognize the role of periodic portfolio reviews and coordination with financial and tax professionals as part of an ongoing planning process.

Hear what these topics and ideas may mean for your own financial planning. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay informed and engaged with the decisions shaping your retirement and future.

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• Explore how rising oil and energy prices may influence gasoline, travel, and everyday consumer costs through petroleum-based dependencies.

• Assess how production levels, demand shifts, and changing consumer behavior may shape economic activity and regional growth.

• Evaluate how international slowdowns and Federal Reserve rate decisions may influence U.S. markets, inflation trends, and investor sentiment.

• Consider general approaches to portfolio positioning during market uncertainty, including the role of liquidity (dry powder) in navigating volatility.

• Examine risks across alternative investments, including private equity, private credit, ultra-high-yield strategies, and business development companies, which may involve higher risk and reduced liquidity.

• Identify common financial pitfalls tied to annuities, retail pricing structures, and shortcut-driven investment decisions.

• Recognize how lifestyle trends like pickleball may influence healthcare utilization and long-term cost considerations.

Understand the financial forces shaping today’s retirement landscape and how they may connect to retirement strategy and long-term planning decisions. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay informed and engaged.

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• Assess how geopolitical events and oil price volatility may influence inflation, consumer costs, and market performance.

• Understand how energy markets and real-time information flow may contribute to stock market swings and investor sentiment.

• Review historical market behavior following geopolitical shocks to add context to short-term volatility.

• Apply portfolio rebalancing principles to maintain alignment with long-term investment objectives during market declines.

• Recognize the role of consistent retirement contributions, including 401(k) plans, in supporting long-term market participation.

• Compare fixed-income investments and high-yield savings options when evaluating rates, liquidity, and diversification.

• Analyze how artificial intelligence may be influencing productivity, workloads, and small business hiring trends.

• Address listener questions on early retirement, portfolio diversification, gifting strategies, and maximizing contributions.

• Explore considerations for transitioning into financial planning, including income variability and career outlook.

Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing perspective on investing, retirement planning, and navigating market conditions.

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• Evaluate international vs. U.S. stocks when considering portfolio diversification and the potential influence of recency bias in investment decisions.

• Assess global market trends and examine how diversified asset allocation may support a long-term retirement investing strategy.

• Clarify narratives about the U.S. dollar’s global reserve status and consider how central bank actions and global currency dynamics may influence markets.

• Consider how owning large multinational companies in a U.S. portfolio may already provide meaningful international economic exposure.

• Review how portfolio rebalancing may reposition a diversified investment portfolio when previously underperforming asset classes begin to recover.

• Measure retirement readiness by evaluating total net worth and applying the “Rich Ratio” framework—assets divided by spending needs.

• Examine how pension income, debt freedom, and lifestyle spending may influence long-term retirement stability.

• Compare nondeductible IRA contributions with taxable brokerage accounts when evaluating tax treatment and long-term investment flexibility.

• Evaluate strategies for managing financial windfalls, including the tradeoffs between mortgage payoff and directing additional savings toward long-term investments.

• Identify foundational investing principles for young adults building wealth early in their careers, particularly when monthly investing contributions may fluctuate.

Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to hear Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase explore ongoing conversations about retirement planning, investment strategy, and long-term financial independence.

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• Compare dollar-cost averaging versus lump-sum investing and evaluate how investor psychology may influence portfolio results.

• Reassess what it means to feel behind on retirement savings and explore catch-up strategies, contribution limits, and long-term discipline.

• Evaluate how to handle windfalls, consolidate retirement accounts, and apply the Rule of 55 guideline when considering early access to employer plans.

• Interpret average versus median retirement savings data to better contextualize your own retirement planning progress.

• Weigh Roth 401(k) contributions later in your career, particularly in high-tax states, within a broader tax-aware retirement strategy.

• Analyze covered call ETFs, bond allocations, and diversification across U.S. stocks, international markets, real estate, and commodities.

• Emphasize consistent participation over market timing when attempting to build a resilient retirement portfolio.

Clear context may lead to better decisions. Listen to—and subscribe to—the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay informed and continue refining your retirement investment strategy.

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• Assess how rising grocery and beef prices reflect inflation and evaluate ways to think about purchasing power over time.

• Review stock market all-time highs alongside historical correction patterns to frame risk within a diversified allocation.

• Examine what retiring in your 40s may require, including savings rates, spending assumptions, and trade-offs.

• Structure financial support for younger family members through gifting strategies, investment vehicles, and clear boundaries.

• Stress-test retirement projections—including tools like Wealthfront’s PATH—by applying more conservative inputs.

• Balance equity exposure with “dry powder” assets in the context of withdrawal rates and long-term income needs.

• Coordinate irregular or business-owner income by aligning tax planning, liquidity, and disciplined investment decisions.

• Consider when a commercial trustee may be appropriate for long-term estate and legacy planning goals.

Retirement clarity comes from steady evaluation and informed decisions—not short-term noise. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for grounded conversations that may help you think critically about your financial future.

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• Assess cash-flow strategies for small business owners, including how Roth IRA contribution rules may create flexibility.

• Interpret the latest U.S. jobs report and education-level unemployment trends to help frame portfolio and career decisions.

• Evaluate small-cap and value stock performance after years of lagging returns within a diversified allocation.

• Examine why savings account rates may trail broader interest rate moves and what that can mean for cash positioning.

• Compare long-term care insurance with self-funding approaches, including planning implications tied to Washington State’s LTC program.

• Review 457 and 403(b) rollover considerations and clarify how early Social Security benefits are calculated.

• Measure total investment results by factoring in dividends and interest income—not just price changes.

Explore retirement planning considerations through balanced, long-term thinking grounded in real data and real scenarios. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay aligned with today’s evolving financial landscape.

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• Explore how inflation cycles have historically resurfaced and how price shocks may influence spending and wage conversations.

• Compare growth and value stocks using simple analogies that help clarify their role in retirement portfolios.

• Break down how retirement withdrawals and tax planning are commonly coordinated, including Roth conversions and differences between 457 and 401(k) plans.

• Explain key considerations around Employee Stock Ownership Plans, including diversification challenges in private companies.

• Discuss where bonds and cash may fit when dependable income already covers everyday expenses.

• Consider how lump sums and ongoing savings are often invested while balancing valuation concerns with disciplined approaches like dollar-cost averaging.

• Review how buffered investment strategies are typically evaluated, including trade-offs involving downside limits, liquidity, and long-term return expectations.

• Clarify pension payout choices by outlining common tax considerations and rollover mechanics tied to lump-sum decisions.

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If inflation headlines and market swings have you rethinking your plan, this episode adds perspective without the noise. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay grounded in ongoing market and retirement conversations.

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• Analyze movements in gold prices and the U.S. dollar to clarify what currency shifts may indicate for markets and everyday economic conversations.

• Explain why a modestly weaker dollar is not inherently negative and how it can affect U.S. company competitiveness.

• Break down how the 4% retirement withdrawal rule of thumb is commonly discussed and why flexibility is central to long-term planning.

• Compare viewpoints from prominent financial commentators on sustainable retirement withdrawals and why results may differ by household.

• Outline considerations for retirement drawdowns, including when cash reserves versus equities are often referenced during market stress.

• Evaluate diversification considerations for investors concerned about concentrated exposure to technology- and AI-focused funds.

• Address the widespread concern about running out of money in retirement using commonly referenced planning frameworks.

• Review how pension cost-of-living adjustments work and the factors considered when comparing lump-sum and annuity options.

• Discuss the potential role and risks of high-yield bonds within balanced, income-focused portfolios.

• Highlight why aligning brokerage account registrations with a living trust is frequently referenced in estate planning discussions.

Listen to the Retire Sooner Podcast for clear, educational context on the retirement topics investors are talking about right now. Subscribe to stay connected to ongoing conversations focused on long-term planning, discipline, and perspective.

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Listen as long-term data, market history, and household-level considerations are used to frame—not forecast—how these issues connect.

• Examine why the U.S. middle class is often described as shrinking and how income mobility, inflation-adjusted thresholds, and household dynamics influence that narrative.

• Review how artificial intelligence is commonly discussed in relation to productivity, workforce demand, and labor market participation.

• Outline general considerations around emergency savings, including income consistency, job stability, and insurance coverage.

• Explain factors households often weigh when deciding whether to engage a financial professional for planning support.

• Provide historical context on gold, market corrections, and why gold is sometimes referenced in diversification discussions.

• Summarize why dividends are frequently included in long-term investing conversations across market cycles.

• Highlight planning considerations for investment club assets, including potential capital gains implications during account or custodian transitions.

• Examine variables that may influence retirement spending needs, reinforcing that planning outcomes vary by household.

• Compare commonly discussed perspectives on dollar-cost averaging versus lump-sum investing during periods of market volatility.

This episode focuses on education and perspective—not individualized recommendations. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that place investing and retirement topics into long-term context.

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In this episode, you’ll hear discussions that:

• Define the differences between small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap stocks and explain how market-capitalization classifications are commonly discussed in retirement planning.

• Examine why individual investors have historically experienced returns that differ from market benchmarks, referencing behavioral research frequently cited by DALBAR.

• Compare recent performance trends between the S&P 500 and small-cap indexes while reinforcing that market leadership shifts across cycles.

• Explain how trillion-dollar companies have reshaped modern definitions of large-cap and mega-cap stocks.

• Review the types of investment options typically available in employer-sponsored retirement plans and discuss why chasing recent performance is often identified as a behavioral risk.

• Discuss why small-cap equities remain part of long-term market history conversations while acknowledging higher volatility and variability.

• Compare Roth IRAs and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) by outlining differences in tax treatment, eligibility, and planning considerations.

• Explain how dividend-focused ETFs are commonly referenced in retirement income discussions and the historical role of dividends in total return.

• Reinforce the importance of diversification and disciplined decision-making by addressing behavioral tendencies such as fear of missing out, or FOMO.

• Address listener questions on market timing, lump-sum investing, Roth versus traditional 401(k) contributions, and Roth IRAs for younger earners using educational frameworks rather than personalized guidance.

Listen to the Retire Sooner Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform—and subscribe to stay connected to conversations designed to provide context, discipline, and long-term perspective on retirement and investing.

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• Highlight Clark Howard’s perspective on Warren Buffett stepping down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at age 95 and the transition to Greg Abel.

• Review Berkshire Hathaway’s long-term role in markets and why its history is frequently referenced alongside the S&P 500.

• Frame why long-term market participation is commonly emphasized during periods of leadership change at iconic companies.

• Discuss why Clark Howard views this transition as the close of a defining chapter in modern investing history.

• Explain how Berkshire Hathaway’s conglomerate structure differs from traditional private equity, including transparency and fee considerations.

• Examine growing market concentration and the shrinking number of U.S. public companies—and why those trends continue to matter.

• Outline how exposure to both public stocks and privately held businesses is often discussed when considering diversification.

• Summarize several big-picture themes shaping 2026 conversations, including artificial intelligence, tax-refund dynamics, and election-cycle uncertainty.

• Clarify what “dry powder” means and how cash, money market funds, and select bonds are commonly described in retirement safety discussions.

• Address listener questions by reviewing general considerations around investing settlement proceeds, tax-advantaged accounts, and dividend-oriented ETFs.

This episode offers a thoughtful conversation featuring Clark Howard with Wes Moss, focused on long-term perspective rather than short-term reaction. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions that bring clarity and context to retirement and investing topics.

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• Review current U.S. wealth statistics by discussing commonly cited data on net worth, retirement account balances, and generational financial trends.

• Outline household risk considerations by examining how families often think about emergency savings, retirement contributions, and income stability.

• Discuss real estate planning considerations by evaluating factors involved in purchasing a condo for college-bound children, including cash flow and potential resale dynamics.

• Describe fiduciary planning relationships by outlining services commonly associated with comprehensive retirement planning, tax coordination, and advisory fee structures.

• Explain the “Rule of 55” by clarifying how early access to employer-sponsored retirement plans is typically referenced.

• Summarize shared characteristics of long-term savers by highlighting recurring themes reported by listeners with higher household savings levels.

• Compare buffered ETFs by discussing how downside buffers and capped upside features are typically weighed within diversified portfolios.

• Examine mortgage buyout scenarios by outlining considerations for co-owned property, interest-rate assumptions, and loan structure implications.

• Analyze bond duration risk by discussing how interest-rate changes and yield-curve movements may influence long-duration bond pricing.

If you’re searching for clear, educational discussions around retirement planning, investing considerations, and household financial decision-making, this episode may add perspective. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that help place financial topics in a long-term context.

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• Share findings from a 2025 Money and Happiness in America study that looks at how social connection is commonly linked to reported retirement satisfaction.

• Talk through research showing how the number of close personal relationships is often discussed when measuring happiness among retirees.

• Reflect on how American friendships have changed over time and why staying socially connected is frequently part of retirement lifestyle discussions.

• Put into context recent government jobs reports by explaining what unemployment and labor-market numbers generally indicate.

• Walk through estate-planning considerations around life insurance, guardians, and trustees that many families review over time.

• Cover the core factors people often look at when evaluating bond funds, including yield, duration, expenses, and benchmarks.

• Discuss how Roth IRAs, traditional IRAs, brokerage accounts, and HELOCs are commonly weighed when addressing short-term cash needs during real-estate transitions.

• Answer listener questions about Roth IRA contributions, in-plan conversions, account-funding priorities, and retirement-plan considerations when changing jobs.

The episode keeps the focus on education, context, and real-world questions retirees and pre-retirees are already asking. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that connect money, lifestyle, and long-term planning—without the hype.

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• Review current healthcare enrollment periods, including Affordable Care Act considerations, and why coverage timing is often discussed by early retirees.

• Illustrate a real-world healthcare planning example that examines estimating and managing medical costs before age 65 using publicly available comparison tools.

• Explain recent healthcare policy changes by outlining how subsidy rules and updated federal poverty thresholds are referenced in retirement healthcare planning.

• Contextualize recent Federal Reserve rate cuts by discussing how interest-rate changes are typically viewed in relation to mortgages, housing activity, and broader economic conditions.

• Address listener questions by outlining commonly discussed considerations around retirement timing, asset allocation approaches, principal-protected notes, and early retirement trade-offs.

• Compare Social Security claiming considerations by reviewing trade-offs associated with different filing ages based on individual circumstances.

• Clarify how taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts are often viewed together when discussing overall portfolio allocation.

• Share perspectives from retirees on aligning lifestyle goals—such as travel, part-time work, or relocating abroad—with sustainable withdrawal planning discussions.

• Reinforce why significant financial and healthcare decisions are commonly reviewed with qualified professionals before implementation.

Interested in an educational retirement podcast focused on context, trade-offs, and long-term planning awareness? Listen to this episode and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations designed to inform retirement planning decisions—not predict outcomes.

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• Review how Roth IRA conversions are generally evaluated and why converting an entire retirement account balance in a single tax year can materially affect taxable income calculations.

• Explain how marginal tax brackets apply to large conversions and why simplified terms like “tax bomb” may not fully reflect how tax liability is determined.

• Highlight considerations associated with forgotten or inactive 401(k) accounts and why consolidation is often discussed from an organizational or administrative perspective.

• Examine how withdrawal flexibility prior to Social Security eligibility is commonly framed when discussing early-retirement income planning.

• Outline factors frequently reviewed when evaluating whether life insurance coverage remains appropriate as family and financial circumstances change.

• Clarify how Secure 2.0 legislation outlines limited 529 plan–to–Roth IRA rollovers, including applicable statutory rules, eligibility criteria, and contribution constraints.

• Compare the traditionally cited 4% withdrawal framework with alternative retirement income scenarios that include pensions or guaranteed fixed-rate income sources.

• Discuss how “dry powder” reserves are often described using bond ETFs or money market ladders within retirement planning conversations.

• Evaluate the role small- and mid-capitalization stocks may play alongside large-cap equities within diversified, long-term portfolio discussions.

• Reframe home value benchmarks in an inflationary environment while noting why mortgage status is often considered when assessing retirement readiness.

Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions that explore retirement planning concepts, market context, and long-term financial considerations.

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• Explore the behavioral and psychological dynamics behind transitioning from a saver mindset to a spending mindset in retirement, including the frequently cited “millionaire’s paradox.”

• Understand how creating a written retirement plan may help provide structure, along with why general withdrawal frameworks—such as the commonly referenced 4%+ rule—are used for discussion rather than as recommendations.

• Consider approaches for maintaining emotional objectivity when making financial decisions throughout retirement.

• Reflect on why some financial professionals continue working and how their experience may contribute to broader retirement-planning conversations.

• Review the potential role a fiduciary or financial advisor may play in helping individuals identify common planning pitfalls, organize long-term strategies, and evaluate tax and estate considerations.

• Identify widely used criteria for assessing whether a fiduciary advisor aligns with an individual's values, communication preferences, and planning philosophy.

• Explore end-of-year tax-related considerations—including SALT limits, charitable deduction rules, HSAs, clean-energy credits, bonus depreciation provisions, and updates to 529 plan flexibility—while recognizing that tax implications depend on each household’s specific circumstances.

• Evaluate the educational value some families see in establishing custodial investment accounts for children or grandchildren as part of broader financial learning.

• Assess the administrative reasons some individuals review whether consolidating retirement accounts may support clearer oversight of their financial landscape.

If you're interested in expanding your understanding of the factors that may shape retirement decision-making, this episode offers context to help you think through your own process. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions centered on thoughtful, well-informed retirement planning.

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• Explore how the proposed 50-year mortgage is influencing conversations around affordability, home-equity timelines, and shifting real estate structures.

• Recognize how the K-shaped economy reflects differing financial experiences across households and shapes discussions about consumer sentiment and wealth-building patterns.

• Clarify how mortgage leverage and ultra-long terms relate to borrowing structures, payoff timelines, and the considerations homeowners may evaluate.

• Understand how equal-weighted investing frameworks are designed to help distribute exposure more evenly across sectors to address concentration awareness.

• Review how equal-weighted and sector-weighted ETFs and mutual funds structure market exposure and present alternative allocation methodologies.

• Assess the factors often discussed when evaluating early Social Security filing, especially when immediate income needs are already met.

• Compare modeled scenarios that illustrate how different 401(k) contribution timelines can affect projected balances under various assumptions.

• Examine informational considerations for highly compensated employees, including restoration plan structures, tax mechanics, and withdrawal rules.

• Weigh the structural differences between W-2 and 1099 income in high-income medical professions, including taxation, liability frameworks, and benefits access.

• Explore available approaches for high earners encountering Roth IRA limits, such as after-tax contributions, mega-backdoor Roth structures, and ETF allocation strategies.

• Hear listener questions addressing savings habits, employer-plan options, and retirement-plan mechanics discussed in real-world scenarios.

• Identify informational steps that may support ongoing awareness throughout different stages of retirement planning.

If you want to stay current on the retirement conversations shaping today’s financial landscape, listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast. Join Wes Moss, Christa DiBiase, and the Retire Sooner community for grounded, ongoing discussions aimed at helping listeners stay informed and intentional about long-term planning.

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• Explore how the “Retire Sooner Richter Scale” frames the relative influence of major life catalysts on retirement planning.

• Recognize how family transitions—college milestones, caring for aging parents, or losing a spouse—may shift emotional, logistical, and financial considerations.

• Consider how relationship changes, such as marriage, remarriage, or divorce, may alter household finances and planning priorities.

• Evaluate how moving, home renovations, or major projects can temporarily affect budgets and long-term plans.

• Embrace core pursuits, travel decisions, and lifelong learning as accessible ways to support purpose and engagement in retirement.

• Assess job changes, early retirement offers, or selling a business as catalysts for reassessing benefits, income, and next-phase goals.

• Acknowledge that inheritance may help, but generally works best as a supplemental planning element.

• Track milestone ages—59½, 62, 65, 67, 70, 73—that align with key retirement, Social Security, and healthcare rules.

• Explore “unretirement,” including part-time work or renewed professional involvement.

• Monitor market conditions and potential tax law changes that may influence planning assumptions.

• Prioritize reducing debt, including mortgages, to support long-term flexibility.

• Anticipate long-term care needs and evaluate available coverage options.

• Update estate documents—wills, trusts, and powers of attorney—as circumstances evolve.

If you want a concise, research-informed overview of catalysts that may influence retirement readiness, this episode delivers meaningful context. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast, and share it with someone who may appreciate clear, objective discussions around long-term financial planning.

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In this episode, you’ll:

• Explore how non-monetary inheritance can influence family values, expectations, and financial communication across generations.

• Review key considerations when evaluating whether to help adult children with debt while maintaining alignment with your own financial priorities.

• Understand how focusing on personal financial stability can contribute to more durable and sustainable multigenerational planning.

• Clarify what may occur when accessing target date funds and how portfolio allocation generally functions within workplace retirement plans.

• Analyze the current discussion surrounding backdoor Roth IRA strategies in connection with 2025 tax legislation and broader tax-advantaged planning choices.

• Assess situations that may prompt a review of your financial plan, including market fluctuations, life transitions, or meaningful changes in account balances.

• Highlight World Economic Forum projections on how artificial intelligence may influence workforce trends and job categories over the coming years.

• Identify occupations that may evolve, contract, or emerge as technology expands—from smart-home system roles to next-generation agricultural positions.

• Compare traditional and Roth considerations commonly discussed within the FIRE community across various income situations.

• Outline factors individuals may consider when receiving lump-sum back pay, including potential implications for overall financial planning.

• Enjoy a lighthearted discussion about Gala versus SnapDragon apples and how everyday preferences can reflect broader spending habits.

• Examine how fixed-income sources can be viewed within the context of an individual’s overall retirement framework.

This episode provides clear, educational discussion for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of retirement-related topics. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay connected to future conversations.

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• Review current housing market trends and how shifting buyer and seller dynamics may be influencing property values across the U.S.

• Identify regions where housing supply and demand are changing, and how local factors might shape opportunities for homeowners and prospective buyers.

• Clarify the relationship between Federal Reserve rate changes and mortgage rates, and understand the broader economic influences that affect borrowing costs.

• Compare the considerations of maintaining retirement assets in a TSP versus transferring to another investment platform, including factors like plan flexibility, fees, and ERISA protections.

• Evaluate ways to balance cash, bonds, and equities in a diversified portfolio when interest rates fluctuate, keeping long-term goals and risk tolerance in focus.

• Discuss how Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) and TIPS ladders might function as inflation-aware options within a retirement income strategy.

• Explore the potential role of dividend-paying stocks in retirement portfolios, recognizing both their income potential and market risk factors.

• Reflect on the story of a 58-year-old who joined a college football team, illustrating how personal growth and purpose can possibly remain central at any stage of life.

• Hear examples of retirees finding meaning in second careers, creative work, and volunteer efforts, highlighting how purpose may support emotional and financial well-being.

• Consider how partnering with a fiduciary financial advisor can sometimes help you evaluate choices, understand trade-offs, and create a plan that aligns with your family’s priorities.

Stay informed and intentional as you think through what your own version of a fulfilling, financially confident retirement could look like. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for thoughtful discussions on investing, financial planning, and attempting to live a happier, more purposeful life in retirement.

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• Explore how AI-related stocks are influencing the S&P 500 and what increased market concentration may mean for maintaining a diversified investment mix.

• Review thoughtful rebalancing considerations designed to help preserve diversification across asset classes—including small caps, mid caps, international equities, and fixed income.

• Understand the structure and potential risks of employee stock purchase plans (ESPPs), including holding periods and portfolio exposure considerations.

• Clarify what the idea of a “million-dollar retirement” represents by examining how individual goals, income needs, and household spending habits differ.

• Consider long-term planning concepts such as Roth IRA conversions for inherited assets and the potential benefits of engaging multiple generations in family financial discussions.

• Examine the latest Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), how it compares historically, and common perspectives regarding future program sustainability.

• Evaluate options for managing excess savings allocated toward shorter-term goals—such as travel or home projects—based on time horizon and comfort with potential market movement.

• Discuss flexible withdrawal and income planning considerations that may help support the transition from early retirement to Social Security eligibility.

Enhance your financial awareness and stay up to date with the Retire Sooner Podcast. Listen and subscribe for educational discussions on market trends, retirement fundamentals, and strategies to help you make well-informed financial decisions.

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• Discuss how shifting economic conditions are influencing how Americans view retirement readiness.

• Review market valuation trends and how historical context can inform today’s conversations around investing.

• Compare different investment philosophies that emphasize patience, discipline, and perspective.

• Examine how technological advancements, including artificial intelligence, may affect corporate performance and investor sentiment.

• Consider the concentration of large-cap companies in market indexes and what that means for diversification discussions.

• Recognize the role of behavior and emotion in financial decision-making, especially during market volatility.

• Reflect on lessons from past market cycles that highlight the importance of long-term participation and steady perspective.

• Address common retirement concerns, such as inflation and uncertainty, through the lens of thoughtful financial planning.

• Explore the emergence of private equity options in retirement plans and potential considerations around structure, transparency, and access.

• Emphasize the value of continued education and awareness in navigating evolving retirement landscapes.

This conversation between Wes Moss and Clark Howard focuses on education, context, and perspective—helping listeners stay informed about financial and retirement trends. Listen and subscribe to The Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions that encourage thoughtful understanding of markets, money, and financial planning concepts.

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• Explore how private equity is being considered for inclusion in 401(k) plans, what this potential change could mean for plan sponsors, participants, and the broader retirement system, and understand how it differs from related categories like private credit and private infrastructure—including key factors to consider when evaluating these alternative investments.

• Hear Wes and Christa respond to listener questions about teaching financial values, communicating about family wealth, and encouraging healthy money discussions at home.

• Discuss the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement, and how reaching certain savings milestones—such as $1 million—can offer flexibility without guaranteeing financial independence or early retirement.

• Consider the reasoning behind more conservative portfolio allocations being discussed in today’s market and how they may relate to broader investment risk and retirement planning themes.

• Review how private equity funds may be structured within 401(k) plans, including their potential advantages, limitations, and regulatory considerations.

• Compare Roth and traditional 401(k) options as Wes and Christa emphasize how employers can foster education and awareness—without directing individual investment decisions.

• Learn how inherited IRAs and 401(k)s, along with community property laws, can affect Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and estate planning outcomes.

• Examine how covered call ETFs may function within a diversified portfolio, including the potential trade-offs between income generation and growth opportunities.

This episode offers thoughtful discussions to help listeners stay educated about current financial topics without making predictions or recommendations. **Listen and subscribe to the **Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing educational conversations that promote understanding, balance, and informed decision-making in your retirement planning journey.

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• Review how the current bull market compares to past market cycles and what history may suggest about long-term investment behavior.

• Reflect on the difference between being financially “set” and emotionally “settled” when preparing for retirement.

• Evaluate potential considerations when choosing to pay down a mortgage or allocate extra cash toward long-term financial goals.

• Understand how 401(k) providers record traditional and Roth contributions and maintain accurate tax reporting for participants.

• Compare UGMA/UTMA custodial accounts and 529 plans as common education savings options, each with unique features and limitations.

• Recognize that effective financial planning includes lifestyle, estate, tax, withdrawal, and healthcare considerations—not just investment management.

• Discuss common causes of retirement-related anxiety and explore approaches that can help promote greater financial peace of mind.

• Clarify how management fees appear in fund performance and why transparency matters when reviewing investment options.

• Comprehend the pros and cons of financial planners who communicate clearly, align with your comfort level, and structure their services to support your individual needs.

• Consider how consistent investing through dollar cost averaging has sometimes reduced emotional reactions to short-term market volatility.

Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for thoughtful conversations about retirement planning, financial confidence, and long-term investing strategies that can help you navigate your own financial journey with purpose.

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• Explore the discussion around what it may take to reach the American Dream and whether a $5 million lifetime target is a realistic benchmark.

• Review how inflation has historically influenced the stock market and why the concept of a “Goldilocks zone” may be relevant for long-term investors.

• Compare how inflation can affect different categories of stocks, including dividend-paying and growth-oriented companies.

• Discuss what pursuing a CFP designation or considering a late-stage career shift into financial planning might involve.

• Consider how high-yield bond ETFs are typically viewed in the marketplace and why “junk bonds” continue to spark debate among investors.

• Examine different ways couples might think about retirement savings benchmarks—whether by age-based charts or total household goals.

• Illustrate the role of compound growth in both saving and investing when working toward retirement readiness.

• Highlight factors to weigh when assessing whether to maintain or drop life insurance as retirement approaches, including debt, dependents, and overall assets.

• Outline new Secure 2.0 provisions that allow certain 529 plan funds to be redirected to Roth IRAs for children.

• Showcase how automation and behavioral systems can encourage consistent savings habits across different income levels and career stages.

Every financial situation is unique, but gaining context can help make more informed choices. Listen now and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that keep you engaged with today’s retirement and financial planning landscape.

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• Discover how a focused 30-minute financial conversation between spouses about income, assets, and liabilities can reduce uncertainty and help families feel more organized and informed in their money matters.

• Understand why nearly half of Americans do not have a written financial plan and what this may indicate for retirement preparedness.

• Clarify retirement account protections within TSPs, along with rules for required minimum distributions (RMDs) and available investment options after age 73.

• Examine UTMA and UGMA accounts for minors, including potential tax implications, gifting considerations, and impact on financial aid eligibility.

• Consider when a financial planner may be appropriate, approaches to managing planning-related FOMO, and the features of advisory services offered by various firms.

• Explore the 0.01% Rule of thumb and how it may guide thinking about saving versus spending without implying specific outcomes.

• Review historically effective withdrawal rates, including whether a paid-off home could influence planning assumptions and evolving perspectives on the 4% rule of thumb.

• Assess strategies such as “buy, borrow, die”, including potential tax considerations, leverage, and portfolio risk factors.

• Compare keeping assets in a TSP for Roth conversions versus transferring them to another custodian, considering fees and investment options.

Gain perspective and knowledge to help support thoughtful retirement planning decisions—listen now to the Retire Sooner Podcast.

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• Examine how the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cut may influence mortgages, loans, and stock market activity.

• Understand why homeowners may appear “locked in” to current mortgage rates and explore potential shifts in housing trends.

• Explore how the Fed balances inflation with employment data and what this could mean for your financial outlook.

• Review historical stock market outcomes following Fed rate cuts near all-time highs.

• Consider strategies for small business growth, including business checking accounts and high-yield options.

• Compare dividend reinvestment with manual reallocation to assess approaches for your retirement phase.

• Navigate backdoor Roth IRA contributions, conversions, gains, and tax-efficient dollar-cost averaging.

• Address common retirement questions and explore planning steps that may provide financial clarity.

• Benchmark savings against national averages and examine actionable retirement milestones.

• Utilize spousal IRAs to maintain contributions while transitioning toward retirement.

• Understand 72(t) IRA withdrawals and evaluate flexibility for early retirement considerations.

• Assess ultra-high-yield ETFs and review the potential risks of concentrated portfolios.

Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay informed and explore considerations that can support your financial planning and retirement goals.

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• Unpack five pillars of investing that may guide decision-making across both strong and volatile markets.

• Clarify how capital gains tax rates work, including how some investors may stay in the 0% long-term bracket under current tax law.

• Address listener questions on diversification, from S&P 500 funds to total market and international fund considerations.

• Examine how required minimum distributions (RMDs) may fit into retirement withdrawals alongside concepts such as the 4% rule.

• Break down cost basis options with Vanguard and explain how tax-loss and tax-gain harvesting may impact your returns.

• Highlight the new, increased senior tax deduction window (2025–2028) and what it could mean for retirees.

• Consider strategies for investing short- and intermediate-term savings for kids and teens by aligning time horizon with risk.

• Evaluate why choosing a reputable investment custodian may matter and what questions can be asked about where assets are held.

Stay informed and proactive—listen now and seek to expand your understanding of investing and tax planning. Subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for weekly conversations designed to keep you engaged with today’s financial landscape.

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• Examine why a strong stock market may not reflect the real economy and what seems to be influencing current market movements.

• Break down company stock in 401(k)s and explore how net unrealized appreciation (NUA) can affect tax planning.

• Explore listener examples of balancing Social Security benefits and retirement account withdrawals to create a thoughtful income plan.

• Review early retirement rules, including 457 plans, 72(t) distributions, and the rule of 55, and how they often impact access to funds.

• Analyze estate planning mistakes, even among high-profile cases, to understand potential pitfalls and planning considerations.

• Compare brokerage accounts, investment research tools, and target-date funds to evaluate what may fit your individual situation.

• Evaluate the trade-offs between mortgage payoff strategies and staying invested when interest rates fluctuate.

• Clarify how Roth 401(k) and IRA withdrawal rules differ before age 59 ½ and what that could mean for accessing retirement funds.

Gain actionable insights and considerations to help make informed retirement planning decisions. Listen now and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay updated on the key factors shaping today’s financial planning and retirement strategies.

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·       Review how stock dividends have historically compared with bond interest over the long term.

·       Explain total return as the combination of growth and income, and discuss how it relates to inflationand purchasing power.

·       Compare the historical performance of stocks and bonds and outline the effects of compounding over decades.

·       Consider the role of bonds in a portfolio, particularly for those seeking stability and diversification.

·       Address listener questions on money supply, cash reserves, risk tolerance, and the potential influence of guaranteed income sources on retirement timelines.

·       Explore options for self-employed retirement savings, including the flexibility of solo 401(k) plans.

·       Reflect on the psychological value of having a financial plan during periods of market uncertainty.

·       Highlight trends in U.S. manufacturing productivity, including the impact of AI, robotics, and Midwest innovation.

·       Discuss approaches to balancing an emergency fund with retirement contributions, and review considerations around Roth accounts.

·       Examine practical examples of retirement-related decisions, such as early home purchases, Roth IRA conversions, and considerations for taxes, Social Security, and pensions.

Gain insights into the discussions shaping retirement planning and investing today. Listen and subscribeto the Retire Sooner Podcast to explore more perspectives that can help guide your financial journey.

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• Examine how large IRA withdrawals—such as those used for home renovations—can affect Medicare premiums, and consider strategies to help manage taxable income.

• Break down the concept of tokenization in investing as Robinhood and the SEC highlight this trend, and think about the possibilities for fractional ownership in the future of investing.

• Weigh the trade-offs between applying rental income toward your mortgage principal versus investing it for long-term retirement flexibility.

• Clarify how Social Security survivor benefits may extend to grandchildren, what dependency rules apply, and why guardianship status alone may not be enough.

• Review why withdrawal planning and tax awareness—including the value of professional guidance—remain key components of effective financial planning for retirement.

• Learn how capital gains tax brackets work and why timing investment sales can play a role in overall tax outcomes, especially for families with changing incomes.

• Assess the role of REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) within a diversified investment approach and what to weigh when considering them as part of your retirement income plan.

• Explore the growing use of artificial intelligence in financial planning, from investment research to estate modeling, while keeping in mind its potential benefits and current limits.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and stay confident in your path forward. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for thoughtful conversations that support a fulfilling retirement journey.

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• Hear a retirement story illustrating how asset allocation strategies can change over longer time horizons.

• Explore how retirees might evaluate investment choices when guaranteed income streams exceed spending needs.

• Question the traditional “own your age in bonds” rule and consider how personal comfort with market risk can shape retirement planning.

• Understand the Federal Reserve’s influence on interest rates and what rate changes may mean for savings, housing, and the broader economy.

• Examine the inverted yield curve and consider historical patterns regarding economic slowdowns.

• Identify market sectors, including consumer staples and utilities, that may show relative stability during market fluctuations.

• Clarify misconceptions about global stock market capitalization and assess how international diversification may fit into a retirement plan.

• Review the 6% test as a framework for comparing pension lump sum options and monthly payments.

• Consider wealth-building benchmarks and habits for younger savers that support gradual accumulation over time.

• Explore irrevocable trusts and other legal strategies that may help manage and protect certain assets.

• Listen as Wes and Christa address listener questions covering retirement planning considerations across different life stages.

Empower yourself with knowledge and thoughtful considerations for your financial future. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for weekly discussions on investing, retirement planning, and financial security 🎧

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• Question what "Is the 60/40 Dead?" means for balanced investing and consider how classic stock/bond allocations might still fit modern portfolios.

• Analyze the evolution of balanced portfolios and prioritize flexibility and personalization to match your unique goals.

• Evaluate the benefits of working with a fiduciary advisor versus managing a low-cost index fund portfolio on your own.

• Clarify the mechanics of Roth conversions, including tax management, employer plan rules, and common pitfalls like the pro rata rule.

• Assess the advantages and drawbacks of using self-directed brokerage windows within your 401(k) and identify key considerations.

• Uncover the realities behind the Great Wealth Transfer and plan for receiving and leaving inheritances thoughtfully with estate planning insights.

• Emphasize the importance of communicating family values and wishes about money to help facilitate smoother inheritance discussions.

• Compare the tax efficiency of target-date ETFs versus mutual funds when shaping your taxable investment approach.

• Decode fully paid lending programs from brokerages such as Fidelity and weigh the implications of loaning your stock holdings.

• Consider appropriate asset allocations for elder care responsibilities when acting as a power of attorney, factoring in rising costs and longevity.

Empower your retirement future with practical, actionable knowledge from this episode. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay informed on real-world financial strategies that may help support your goals.

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• Jump-start your savings approach in your 40s and 50s, even if you're just beginning to focus on retirement.

• Unlock the “50+ Retirement Catch-Up Toolbox” with tools like Roth conversions, HSAs, and enhanced contribution limits.

• Discover what’s ahead with new “super catch-up” contribution rules and upcoming IRS changes that may impact your planning.

• Maximize your Social Security outlook by understanding how the timing of withdrawals could influence your benefits.

• Hear how annuities and home equity were discussed as potential components in long-term financial planning.

• Tune in to real-world stories from listeners managing late-in-life parenting, mortgages, and the pursuit of financial independence.

• Reconsider the risks and rewards of penny stocks with a balanced conversation about their place in a retirement portfolio.

• Weigh the role of pensions in your overall asset allocation for a more personalized investment approach.

• Rethink your withdrawal game plan with a closer look at the 4% rule—its origins and relevance today.

• Confront concerns around global exposure by reviewing how emerging markets and China-related investments might affect your portfolio.

• Strengthen your retirement mindset with income-focused planning designed to help support a more stable financial future.

Get energized with actionable ideas and relatable stories that help make retirement planning feel more approachable. 🎧 Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to join a community focused on financial clarity and living a purpose-filled retirement.

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• Define what the “rich ratio” means and consider how it may reframe your retirement outlook.

• Compare your savings habits to U.S. medians to understand the broader landscape.

• Acknowledge that building wealth typically occurs over long periods and that consistency can be meaningful.

• Discuss research on how happiness and financial confidence often plateau beyond certain savings levels.

• Evaluate the roles of traditional and Roth IRAs, 457(b)s, pensions, and brokerage accounts to support flexibility.

• Identify scenarios where a standalone brokerage account may be unnecessary for certain savers.

• Consider a target date fund allocation approach that may better align with your stated risk tolerance.

• Weigh convenience, costs, and tax features of index mutual funds versus ETFs, including changes following a major fund industry patent expiration.

• Clarify how the Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) rule for company stock in 401(k)s works and where tax treatment can differ.

• Review key factors when choosing between a state pension plan and a self directed plan for teachers and public employees.

• Position specialized pension income, including Railroad Retirement, as part of a base income layer within an overall plan, subject to program rules.

• Incorporate year round tax planning as a component of a well documented retirement strategy, noting that individual circumstances vary.

Listen and SUBSCRIBE to the Retire Sooner Podcast for weekly educational conversations that can inform more confident financial decision making.

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What you'll explore in this episode:

• Begin investing at any income level by seeing how access to markets has evolved.

• Focus on long-term participation instead of trying to perfectly time the market.

• Revisit the role of cash in your strategy and reflect on whether “cash is king” still holds.

• Understand why not all bonds carry the same level of risk, despite common assumptions.

• Consider how long-term investing differs from gambling based on historical probabilities.

• Explore modern tools and AI platforms that can support your portfolio analysis.

• Avoid the comparison trap by staying grounded in your personal financial goals.

• Compare the potential uses of whole life insurance versus long-term investing in special needs planning.

• Remember that market declines only become losses when assets are sold.

• Recognize the limitations of using past performance to estimate future outcomes.

• Examine whether real estate consistently appreciates by looking at real-life exceptions and patterns.

• Shift your perspective from outperforming the market to maintaining a long-term plan.

• Emphasize the importance of hobbies and social connections alongside financial readiness in retirement.

• Track your accounts and consider when changes to a managed portfolio may be appropriate.

• Reassess how supplemental funds—like vacation accounts—fit into your broader plan and tax picture.

• Simplify charitable giving by analyzing options such as donor-advised funds and intentional planning.

🎧 Listen today and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for thoughtful insights to help guide your retirement journey._

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Tune in to the latest episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase, where you'll hear thoughtful, real-world insights designed to help you make informed financial decisions and pursue a more confident, purposeful retirement.

• Explore ways to optimize Social Security benefits, including timing strategies, spousal considerations, and personalized withdrawal approaches.

• Understand common sources of retirement anxiety, even among high-net-worth individuals, and consider approaches for managing emotional and financial uncertainty.

• Learn how trusts can support estate planning goals, from avoiding probate to managing real estate assets within your long-term financial plan.

• Consider retirement account strategies such as the Rule of 55, Roth conversion timing, and prioritizing tax-efficient cash flow.

Review your investment mix by comparing target date funds and balanced funds, and evaluate which may better align with your risk tolerance and retirement timeline.

• Weigh different withdrawal strategies by comparing the timing of distributions from retirement accounts versus claiming Social Security.

• Examine how 529 plans and Roth IRAs may fit into your education and retirement planning—especially if you’re part of a high-income household navigating recent tax law changes.

Compare the structure and features of S&P 500 mutual funds and ETFs to help determine which may be more appropriate for your investment preferences.

🎙️ Subscribe** and listen to the Retire Sooner Podcast today** for thoughtful conversations that can support your journey toward long-term financial well-being.

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• Discover a common Roth IRA misstep that can lead to unexpected taxes in retirement and learn how to approach it with more clarity.

• Explore the process of rolling over a Roth 401(k) into a Roth IRA and how the five-year rule of thumb might impact your withdrawal timeline.

• Hear real-world scenarios that highlight different outcomes based on how long your Roth accounts have been in place.

• Understand how to approach IRA rebalancing, including what to consider when dealing with concentrated stock positions and market changes.

• Compare Social Security and police pension benefits while examining updates to the Social Security Fairness Act and what it could mean for spousal coverage.

• Consider the use of retirement income projection tools and how applying more conservative assumptions may help you plan with greater confidence.

• Reflect on a “retirement love letter” that reveals three powerful themes behind a fulfilling retirement: financial flexibility, lifestyle design, and intentional planning.

• Follow the story of a couple who built a $6 million net worth, established six income streams, and prioritized meaningful pursuits and family in retirement.

• Explore why consistent movement and a sense of adventure are strongly connected to retirement satisfaction—and how shared community living can sometimes support both.

• Examine how changing family dynamics may shift your highest spending years later in life and why it matters for long-term planning.

• Get a clearer understanding of buffered index-linked notes, including their structure, potential costs, and how they differ from ETFs and other options.

• Learn how to calculate the present value of a pension using basic inputs such as years of service and average salary.

• Hear answers to more listener questions, including how stay-at-home spouses may qualify for Social Security and what pensions might mean for younger professionals.

Listen now to explore thoughtful planning strategies, real retirement stories, and insights that can help you design a future with more purpose and peace of mind.

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They discuss why trend-chasing can be detrimental and how aligning with a consistent investment approach may help support long-term outcomes. You’ll hear comparisons of various investment styles—index, value, growth, momentum, and minimum volatility—and the potential drawbacks of “style timing” versus maintaining a steady allocation.

The episode also covers listener questions around portfolio transitions, including strategies for minimizing market disruption when moving IRAs or 401(k)s.

Additional topics include:

• Understanding TreasuryDirect accounts like I Bonds and EE Bonds

• Key risks of Market Linked Notes, including credit and liquidity concerns

• The “three-year dry powder” rule of thumb as a retirement buffer

• Age-based asset allocation considerations, including I Bonds as a potential emergency fund component for younger investors

• Considerations around high-yield municipal bond funds, especially for tax-conscious, high-net-worth retirees

• Factors to weigh when deciding whether to work with a financial advisor, including costs and allocation structure

Looking for help to strengthen your financial plan? Tune in for thoughtful insights to help you navigate market decisions with clarity and caution. For additional resources, visit yourwealth.com.

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• Tap Your IRA Early—Penalty-Free: Learn how Rule 72(t) and SEPPs can sometimes unlock your IRA before many expect and how that might help customize an early retirement plan.

• Rule of 55 vs. Rule 72(t): Compare two powerful early withdrawal strategies and discover which one could work for your retirement timeline.

• Smart Rollover and Roth Moves: Wes tackles listener questions on IRAs, dry powder strategy, and recovering from past investing mistakes.

• S&P 500 or Total Market Index? Find out which fund could fit your growth goals—and why broad diversification is often a winning strategy.

• The Real Source of Retirement Happiness: New research reveals it’s not just money—core pursuits like travel, hobbies, and connection can fuel lasting joy.

• Annuities & Life Insurance—Worth It? Explore the pros, cons, and ideal timing for annuities and whole life policies in your retirement plan.

Let years of retirement planning, actionable anecdotes, relatable listener questions, and eye-opening research fine-tune your investment and happiness game plan.

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• Are corporate earnings the #1 financial metric for long-term investors to track when making better investment decisions?

• Learn how to evaluate earnings per share (EPS) and earnings growth when investing in individual stocks or index funds.

• Should retail investors join earnings calls—or is it better to focus on broader S&P 500 earnings trends?

• Understand how proxy voting works and whether your shareholder vote might impact company decisions.

• Get insight on the “62/70” Social Security strategy—why one spouse claiming early while the other waits may optimize retirement income and possibly protect surviving spouses.

• Explore the Rule of 55, which lets you withdraw from your 401(k) without penalties starting at age 55, years earlier than the standard 59½ rule. Learn the critical conditions and employer plan requirements that determine Rule of 55 eligibility.

• Discover how a “reverse rollover,” for those who choose it, could unlock penalty-free access to retirement savings by shifting IRA funds into a qualifying 401(k).

• Understand the pros and cons of rules-based ETFs and factor investing versus traditional low-cost index funds.

• Hear Wes’s take on expense ratios, investment screening methods, and how to align your portfolio with your beliefs, without overpaying on fees.

• Dive into the mechanics of backdoor Roth IRAs and how those who choose to roll over traditional IRAs might be able to simplify the Roth conversion strategy.

• Learn how to optimize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) when changing jobs or insurance plans.

Start creating your path toward financial freedom and retirement happiness with these topics and more on this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast!

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• Gold as an Investment: Discuss the pros and cons of investing in gold, including historical performance and volatility. What’s an effective percentage to hold in a portfolio?

• Gold’s Performance Over Time: Gold has shown a respectable average annual return in recent decades; however, can it also be highly volatile?

• Gold in Times of Crisis: How does gold perform during a recession?

• Physical Gold vs. Gold ETFs: Both are options, but which offers greater ease of access and lower logistical risk?

• 401(k) Rollover Strategy: For retirees who choose to rollover 401k assets to an IRA, can dollar-cost averaging reduce emotional stress?

• Seeking Steady 7% Returns: Investors looking for steady 7% returns may be compelled to take on significant risk, such as high-yield junk bonds or illiquid private real estate. Does this make balanced portfolios more strategic long-term options?

• AI’s Impact on White Collar Jobs: Is there credence to the claims that AI could eliminate many entry-level white-collar positions in the next five years? Are there ways to assess job vulnerability and anticipate how new opportunities and industries will emerge in response to technological change?

• Investing in an AI-Transformed World: Rather than chasing individual AI stocks, can broad, diversified index investing capture overall market growth and the success of future industry leaders?

• Weighing Rental Properties vs. Selling: When considering whether to keep or sell a paid-off home, consider balancing the potential for appreciation and rental income against the additional management work and risk.

• Equal Weight vs. Cap Weight Indexes: Is there potential for ETF bubbles due to mega-cap stock concentration? Can equal-weighted ETFs mitigate some risk?

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• Is Passive Investing Creating a Bubble?

Are index funds inflating markets? Or do global diversification and ongoing price discovery demonstrate otherwise? Is it a mistake to dismiss all active strategies?

• Roth IRA Allocation

Roth IRAs often have the longest time horizon. Does that make them ideal for more aggressive, all-stock index fund investing?

• How to Diversify an IRA After a Rollover

Is it helpful to go beyond S&P 500 funds with mid- and small-caps? Treasuries? Corporates? REITs? Commodities? Energy pipeline investments?

• Avoid Paying Roth Conversion Taxes from a Roth?

Does it reduce long-term value to use Roth funds to pay taxes on a conversion? Is it okay to spread conversions over several years?

• What Is Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA)?

DCA can help reduce timing risk by investing consistently over time. Is it beneficial for large cash amounts and emotional ease?

• Investing a Lump Sum? What About a 50/50 Split?

Should you consider investing half up front and dollar cost averaging the rest over several months for balanced risk and reward?

• Effective Withdrawal Strategy in Retirement

Is it more strategic to pull from bonds/cash rather than stocks in down markets?

• Should You Use Target Date Funds?

They can be handy early in your career, but do some get too conservative by retirement age?

• Is the Reverse Glide Path Worth It?

Starting conservative and getting more aggressive later may look good on paper, but does its complexity overshoot its practicality in real life?

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• The importance of staying invested during market volatility, using a recent market upswing as an example of patience leading to productive results.

• The aforementioned differences between ETFs, index funds, and even mutual funds. Discover which ones might be most effective for your specific needs.

• An explanation of Lipper Ratings and how tax efficiency can matter in taxable accounts. Are ETFs more tax-friendly?

• Learn how the S&P 500, while typically having a strong investment core, can be tech-heavy and may sometimes lack exposure to sectors like energy, materials, and real estate. How can diversification be achieved?

• Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) can be exciting but are often risky. A small, speculative allocation might be fine, but is it productive to bet your retirement on IPOs?

• Wes introduces a powerful analogy.

• Retirement accounts = Crockpot: slow-cooking, tax-deferred, long-term.
• Brokerage accounts = Skillet: accessible, taxable, real-time impact.

• Use both types of accounts strategically—Wes explains how.

• When not to do a Roth conversion.

• Can pension income be used for Roth IRA contributions, or do folks need wages or self-employment income to contribute?

• Is it safe to link financial accounts to third-party companies to more regularly update info? Or do the cybersecurity risks and diminishing benefits mean manual updates once a year are sufficient?

🎧 Tune in now to hear stories, stats, and effective financial planning that could reshape your future. Subscribe, share it with a friend, and take one step closer to your happy retirement. Follow the show on Instagram and YouTube.

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• Explore the pros and cons of that homeownership question, housing as a long-term investment, and why it still matters. Learn why housing may serve as forced savings, inflation protection, and a path to mortgage-free retirement.

• Analyze the impact of housing market volatility and interest rates. Understand current trends in housing prices and mortgage rates, and what they could mean for your financial decisions.

• Decode the use of leverage in real estate to help build wealth. Discover how a modest down payment on a home might lead to a significant long-term return compared to methods constricted by contribution limits.

• Evaluate the 4% Rule of thumb. Is it still relevant? How can folks adjust withdrawal rates based on their retirement horizon? Get clarity on how long your money may last if your retirement timeline is 20 or 25 years instead of 30.

• Unpack static vs. inflation-adjusted retirement withdrawals. Hear Wes explain the real-world math behind lower-risk withdrawal strategies in retirement.

• Contrast investing in ETFs vs. individual stocks in a brokerage account. Weigh the pros and cons regarding diversification, tax-loss harvesting, and ease of rebalancing.

• Where can you keep your down payment more protected until you're ready to buy? Learn some productive options for short-term savings, including money market funds vs. CDs, and the risks of flying too close to the sun.

• What are the 5 questions you must ask any financial planner when meeting with them? Discover Wes’s Five P’s Framework: Planning, Portfolio, Protection, Passing It On, and Paying Yourself (and your taxes).

• Why are core pursuits essential for a happy retirement? Understand how personal passions contribute to a fulfilling life after work—and how to fund them.

• Is it worth moving funds from a 457(b) plan to an IRA? Explore the trade-offs between investment flexibility and creditor protection in retirement plans.

• Should you sell your home before moving overseas in retirement? Delve into guidance for retirees considering international living.

• Examine the most effective S&P 500 funds for your goals. Understand cost differences, tax structures, and platform integration for index fund investing.

• Why do convenience, safety, and cost matter when picking a financial platform? Break down final thoughts on choosing where to house your investments and manage charitable giving.

🎧 Tune in now to hear stories, stats, and effective financial planning that could reshape your future. Subscribe, share it with a friend, and take one step closer to your happy retirement.

Call 800-805-6301 to leave a voicemail or contact us HERE for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode.

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Wes and Christa analyze:

• Why 2025’s market feels more like a “bungee cord” than a rollercoaster.

• How to use the VIX (fear index) to gauge investor sentiment—and what it could mean for your investments.

• What historical spikes in fear (dot-com crash, 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis, COVID-19, inflation shock) might teach us about recovery patterns.

• Why most fear-filled crises eventually subside—and how to spot the turning point in hindsight.

• How central bank interventions, Fed rate changes, and global economic actions can sometimes calm markets over time.

They answer listener questions about families, retirement, and catch-up plans, including:

• How to save for retirement on one income with kids.

• If you have to take RMDs at 72 while still working. (Hint: You might not have to!).

• Why it’s okay for some to tap into their Roth IRA at age 80—and how to optimize account usage.

• How much a married couple need to cover basic expenses in retirement.

• How ETF providers profit when fees are so low.

• Revenue streams, plus the Costco hot dog strategy (yep, that’s a thing!).

• Elder Care and Safe Spending Tools.

Overall, Wes reminds folks that discipline usually means staying the course, because fear doesn’t last forever, and markets typically recover.

Don’t just listen—act! Subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast, share it with a friend, and take one step closer to your happy retirement. Call 800-805-6301 to leave a voicemail or contact us HERE for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode.

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Explore strategies like layering for early retirement and understand the implications of drawing down your TSP defined contribution plan. Examine rebalancing your taxable brokerage account, including ETFs and mutual funds, and learn the rules for rebalancing your Roth IRA.

Fine-tune your Roth IRA allocation for long-term growth, considering factors like pension plans and risk tolerance. Understand investment benchmarks and how to accurately assess your portfolio's performance. Zooming out to view a longer time horizon typically provides more perspective than comparing everything to your own market high watermark.

Compare maximizing your Social Security savings for short-term growth and with the benefits of optimizing based on your specific needs and stress points. Evaluate the role of home equity in your retirement planning and its impact on withdrawal strategies. Does equity count? The answer may be both yes and no.

Strategize about moving funds from a 457B to a Roth IRA as you approach retirement, and carefully consider the tax implications. It’s usually about taxes today vs. taxes tomorrow.

Tune in to the Retire Sooner podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase for essential insights on these and other crucial retirement topics and send us your questions at https://www.yourwealth.com/contact/schedule-appointment/

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Headlines are temporary, but your financial plan shouldn't be. Analyze the essential balance of diverse portfolios and dry powder. Accept that investing comes with the risk of down days, but realize the damage caused by missing the market rebounds.

Listen to Wes and Christa answer listener questions. Is it best to eradicate debt before retirement, even if that means tapping into reserve funds? Is a HELOC ever an effective strategy? Should you take Social Security early if given the opportunity, or maximize the impact by waiting?

Examine the Mappiness Project, where a team of data scientists from the London School of Economics used an iPhone application to measure happiness, anxiety, and emotions tied to geolocation. Find out what helps human beings cut through the superficial into deeper contentment, and where they tend to be when accomplishing that goal. Wes probes his interview with former Google data scientist Seth Stephens-Davidowitz to illuminate the unvarnished truth and surprising conclusions.

All this and a savvy Warren Buffett quote about haircuts on today’s episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast.

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Get strategic about funding early retirement for your parents with trusts,

tax-smart giving, and family financial planning—plus, a warning on why joint

accounts sometimes backfire. Hear insightful thoughts on dollar-cost averaging

frequency and why investing when you have cash may often beat spreading it out.

Unpack the tension between inflation and early retirement, and why transparency

can be essential when families share financial responsibilities.

Discover why market turbulence doesn’t have to shake your strategy. Hear how George

Clooney’s character in O Brother, Where Art Thou? becomes a

metaphor for staying the course—a reminder to tune out noise and resist letting

uncertainty derail your retirement journey.

Submit your question at RETIRESOONER QUESTIONS and catch this episode of The Retire Sooner Podcast, hosted by Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase.

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Analyze switching funds while managing a 401(k) or how Fidelity’s BrokerageLink might provide low-fee options without incurring taxes or penalties. Understand how to make the most of your retirement plan without worrying about tax implications.

Enjoy all this and more as Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase take listener calls, help ease tariff fears, and marvel at the power of the American Army of Productivity.

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Wes and Christa take listener questions to tackle substantial inheritance management, debate bonds vs. money markets for long-term gains, examine Robo-advisors hoarding cash, and the idea of doubling down on security to thwart hackers.

Wes wraps with John Bogle’s playbook: invest rather than speculate, slash expenses, and don’t let perfectionism ruin a solid financial plan. By taking action and investing with purpose, you may be able to retire sooner than you think.

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Find out why kids earning money from small businesses, like selling roadside squash, could qualify for a Roth IRA. Avoid common mistakes like investing in a target date fund too soon. Looking for a fee-only fiduciary? Learn the real costs of hourly financial planning and how some people find trusted guidance.

Thinking of ditching bonds for cash? Wes and Christa explain why bonds have historically outperformed money markets and why a balanced portfolio is key for long-term growth. Plus, dive into the Army of American productivity and how it impacts financial strategies.

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On today’s episode, Wes is joined again by Christa DiBiase, the COO of Clark Howard, Inc. By answering listener questions and sharing informed analysis, Wes points out the essential distinctions between fiduciaries vs. non-fiduciary advisors, reminds listeners about diversifying portfolios into broad market indices to help to minimize risk, and explains how a money market account is typically a higher-yield alternative to a standard low-interest savings account. Finally, he examines the power of starting to save for retirement at any age, even in your 50s, emphasizing that consistent saving and wise investing can lead to more financial flexibility than many might think.

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Wes zooms in on the need for patience and persistence in investing, advising against the pitfalls of impulsive decisions and ill-advised “perfection-chasing” behavior. Together, Wes and Christa attempt to equip listeners with strategies to navigate financial challenges, stay resilient, and retire sooner with confidence.

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With the current bull market still young and some earnings forecasts showing a robust 13% growth, optimism abounds. However, investors should prepare for the possible return of market volatility after two unusually stable years. Bonds are regaining appeal as yields climb, and income strategies like dividends offer a steadying force amid market swings.

Overall, Wes celebrates 2025’s potential for growth but reminds listeners that it will only benefit those disciplined folks who stay invested.

And he takes some listener questions!

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Wes is also joined by Christa DiBiase, COO of Clark Howard, Inc., to answer questions from across the country, offering insights on managing high investment fees, planning for retirement without Social Security, and balancing risk in portfolios.

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On this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Producer Mallory joins Wes in the studio to explain why a fear of missing out on the FOMO Freddies of the world is typically not worth the energy. Though his bluster may temporarily cloud your judgment, it doesn’t change the reality that consistently and patiently following the five key principles for successful investing can often provide a significant opportunity for you to achieve the financial freedom you seek.

Wes and Mallory discuss the probability of similar long-term returns for different investment styles, such as value, growth, quality, and minimum volatility, when investors incorporate diversification, patience, and discipline into those financial strategies. They underline the importance of understanding your risk tolerance and finding an investment style that fits your temperament so that you can endure for the long haul, no matter how “spectacular” FOMO Freddy claims the current craze to be.

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Using life-mapping exercises to compare expectations with actual experiences, it identified four essential qualities for a happy retiree. The “Four A’s”: Alignment (personal values), Awareness (self-knowledge), Agency (active goal pursuit), and Adaptability (flexibility to handle change).

Consider your own personalized retirement roadmap, and see if the “Four A’s” unlock the proactive planning and adaptability skills that might help you live a regret-free retirement life.

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In other words, more than half of Americans felt optimistic in 2012, and only slightly more than one-third do now.

Americans are consistently barraged with negative headlines and stressful news updates, from supersized natural disasters to political unrest to foreign wars. Despite the challenges, there is still plenty of evidence to justify a bullish attitude about the United States and the potential to reach the American Dream of financial prosperity. Five specific categories come to mind: education, demographics, geography/agriculture, energy, and the U.S. Constitution.

The road to a happy retirement can be lined with hazards, but the strength of the United States was never based on smooth and gentle tidings. It’s a comprehensive coalition that can put aside differences to forge ahead together, no matter what. Take a moment to look around. The uplifting signs of The Army of American Productivity are evident. The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well. By working together to shape an even more united set of fifty states, there’s no reason America’s best days aren’t still ahead.

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Though he died in 2019, his lessons continue to light the path toward a financially secure and happy retirement. Reviewing them is a healthy exercise for all those trying to make their hard-earned savings outpace inflation over time.

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Plus, we revisit our popular episode, “Income Investing: The Process, The Approach, and The Reward,” where Wes dives deep into the fundamentals of income investing. From understanding the emotional side of investing your retirement money to the diverse ways to approach investing, this episode covers it all. Whether you’re just starting your income investment journey or looking for a refresher, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Don’t miss this crucial discussion! Listen now and let us know your thoughts by leaving a review. Your feedback helps us create the content you care about most!

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Wes acknowledges that the specific challenges can differ for each market downturn but reassures listeners that productive reactions often follow evergreen principles. He then discusses the importance of having enough dry powder for periods of sluggish portfolio earnings. Finally, he digs into the potential stock growth for future retirees willing to practice patience and discipline. What’s a great way to plan for outpacing inflation without extending beyond your risk tolerance? Listen and find out.

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But as wonderful as an early retirement can be if you can afford it, there are potential hazards for people who don’t take the time to plan. On today’s episode, Wes dives into five common missteps that risk sabotaging the happiness you’ve worked so hard to achieve. With diligent and strategic planning, you can run down the list and make sure all of your ducks are in a row before making your decision.

The right lifestyle and money habits can help you prepare for a secure future so that you can decide the right time to make that future your present.

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Retirement insecurity may be a daunting reality,​ but on today’s episode Wes sets some theoretical parameters to illustrate potential scenarios and how they might positively affect the future. Planning for retirement can be challenging, but Wes points out that with self-discipline, some savings, and time, happiness and financial freedom may be within reach sooner than you think.

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On today’s episode, Wes breaks down the pros and cons and estimates the probability of success for a 6% withdrawal rate rather than 4%. With careful consideration and planning, he looks for a way to help listeners max out spending without running out of money.

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They reiterate that purchasing power is a perennial goal for the happy retiree. Inflation lay nearly dormant from 2009 to 2020 as if it were a prehistoric beast frozen deep inside an Arctic glacier. Unfortunately, the government’s post-pandemic monetary tidal wave reawakened it. Because of that, folks may need to adjust in 2024 to stay ahead of the curve.

Wes and Connor run through recent and long-term history and search for the clues that could determine what’s to come in the year ahead.

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On today’s episode, Wes discusses Dave Ramsey’s recent controversial statements about doubling the number to 8 percent. You read that correctly—8 percent! Wes runs Ramsey’s claims against data from Robert Shiller, an economist at the Yale School of Management, and attempts to set the record straight on how much people can safely expect to spend during retirement.

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If you have any ideas on topics you'd like for us to cover in the near year, please let us know! Visit the Contact page on RetireSoonerTeam.com. Those messages come straight to me and the Retire Sooner Team. We'd love to hear from you!

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In this episode, Wes breaks down the five financial secrets of the happiest retirees based on research from his latest book, What The Happiest Retirees Know, and reveals how these patterns are fundamental to building wealth and living a comfortable retirement.

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The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any company. The listener should not assume that an investment in the securities identified was or will be profitable.

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Disclosure:

This is provided as a resource for informational purposes and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular company. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. The information provided is strictly an opinion and for informational purposes only and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained herein.

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In the meantime, listen to your favorite Retire Sooner episodes at wesmoss.com/podcast or your favorite

podcast platform. Stay tuned for more episodes with tips on living a happy and

fulfilling retirement.

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In this episode, Wes Moss and Retire Sooner producer Mallory Boggs discuss the worth of a dollar and price volatility at every level of purchase power. Whether you noticed price increases for a bottle of soda or a new car, we’re all experiencing the impact of rising costs. First, Wes shares insights about the most recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers, though he notes that those differ from what investors should consider looking at right now. Next, he explains the US economy’s inflation, deflation, and avenues for capital once you've saved enough emergency cash. Finally, Wes and Mallory wrap up the episode with a few final thoughts and good news for investors.

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Today on Retire Sooner, Wes Moss dives into the Buffett mindset of sticking to your principles in long-term investing decisions and looking toward economic growth. In doing so, he discusses one investing planning strategy that could be essential to the journey of retiring sooner: investing in companies versus stocks. Taking Federal Reserve forecasts for 2023 into consideration, many companies can still survive, thrive, and have great returns. The episode concludes with the inspiration that having even a bit of the Buffett mindset may help you retire sooner than you think!

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When it comes to living a happy retirement, the more passions a retiree has, the better. But, on the other hand, our research shows that unhappy retirees tend to have less than two core pursuits driving their post-work life. So, how can you discover your core pursuits as part of your happy retirement plan? This episode will help you revisit ways to find core pursuits and what they can mean for you.

In honor of March Madness, we've compiled a Core Pursuits Bracket to square off sixty-four "hobbies on steroids" to see what kind of core pursuit is championed for the happiest retirees on the block. Would you choose gardening versus pickleball or skydiving versus pottery? Voting is still open, so make your selections on the Retire Sooner social media pages!

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While browsing through Buffett's rate-of-returns, Wes explains how Buffet's big numbers can equate to a more manageable scale that the average American can work with. He also assures that while Buffett is a special case of investing success, the mogul's lesson that the big wins tend to overshadow the little losses can be applicable to all who invest in stocks. The takeaway? Happy retirees aren't just savers, they're investors, too.

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In this episode, Wes gives a snapshot of key events from decades passed that had a significant impact on both the financial and cultural zeitgeist, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, despite every war, conflict, or struggle, Wes emphasizes the positive developments that keep him (and happy retirees) rationally optimistic. "Tomorrow" can always be somewhere good and great!

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What does it take to be wealthy in America? In this episode, Wes and Retire Sooner producer Mallory Boggs take a look at statistics from a new wealth survey showing what level of earner is considered "wealthy" in this day and age. They also discuss dividend investing, show what a balanced portfolio could look like, and the possibility of enjoying dividend returns in retirement. Wes and Mallory wrap up this episode sharing what they love about Valentine's Day!

This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. Stock prices fluctuate, sometimes rapidly and dramatically, due to factors affecting individual companies, particular industries or sectors, or general market conditions. For stocks paying dividends, dividends are not guaranteed, and can increase, decrease, or be eliminated without notice. Fixed-income securities involve interest rate, credit, inflation, and reinvestment risks; and possible loss of principal. As interest rates rise, the value of fixed-income securities falls. Past performance is not indicative of future results when considering any investment vehicle. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained in this article. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions. The information contained in the article is strictly an opinion and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. The views and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing and may change without notice at any time based on numerous factors, such as market or other conditions.

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Wes shares his thoughts on some of the biggest stock market challenges in 2022. He discusses why he's optimistic for investors in 2023, what he likes about what he sees with value stocks this year, and how shifts in the bond market, cryptocurrencies, and interest rates may shape the market in 2023.

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Wes wraps up this episode talking about the increasing popularity of pickleball, predictions for the ever-growing population, and unveils two of the most populous regions in the world.

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Listen as Wes Moss reveals why it’s never too late to find your core pursuits, tips for pinpointing what you love doing, and details from an enlightening interview he had with blogger, journalist, and best-selling author, Tom Vanderbilt. Later in the episode, Wes is joined by podcast producer, Mallory Boggs, to discuss the top four core pursuits of happy retirees, hobbies that they have tested so far, and resources Wes has generated to aid in detecting ideal core pursuits.

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To give listeners a piece of mind and a simple combative strategy, Wes Moss reveals ways to have income for life during this episode. He also uncovers why having multiple income streams is essential and the importance of financial planning. Wes also talks through the benefits of income investing, the average longevity of S&P 500 companies and how possessing a diversified investment portfolio can provide some income and inflation protection.

This is provided as a resource for informational purposes and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular company. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. The information provided is strictly an opinion and for informational purposes only and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained herein.

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In this episode, Wes breaks down the five financial secrets of the happiest retirees based on research from his latest book, What The Happiest Retirees Know, and reveals how these patterns are fundamental to building wealth and living a comfortable retirement.

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Anxiety comes hard and fast for investors and retirees during challenging times like today, so Wes walks listeners through three powerful keys to help them lower their stress and SWAN - Sleep Well At Night.

1. The Power of a Plan

2. The Power of Understanding Cash Flow

3. The Power of Diversification

Listen to hear how you can leverage these three powers to lower your anxiety levels and get back to focusing on retiring sooner.

This is provided as a resource for informational purposes and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations.  This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular company.  Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved.  The information provided is strictly an opinion and for informational purposes only and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing.  This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.  Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained herein.

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Listen as Wes Moss discusses how the Federal Reserve currently impacts the market along with how investors should examine the market for their mental well-being. Wes also analyzes details from a happiness study performed by the author of Happier Hour: How to Beat Distraction, Expand Your Time, and Focus on What Matters Most. To conclude the episode, Wes unveils ways to decrease anxiety around investing and why investing should start and end with a plan.

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Wes shares how running out of money is a top fear, why history can help us navigate through budgeting, and lists similarities between budgeting and dieting. He also talks through starting top down as opposed to bottom up when it comes to spending and provides examples of how the 4% and 4% Plus Rules can be used. Later in the episode, Wes discusses safe withdrawal rates, the importance of planning ahead of schedule, and why flexibility is the key in the budgeting process.

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Wes walks through how the market has impacted investors for the past few years, his insights on whether or not we are in a recession, and why 2022 still has a strong job market along with a sturdy travel industry. Additionally, he touches on having a disequilibrium when it comes to the consumer and how easy it is for investors to leave when markets get volatile. The episode wraps up with Wes sharing why businesses are the military of the economy and methods for riding through this tough year from an investment standpoint.

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Listen as Wes talks about how we’re living in a similar economy to the 1950s, what the media declares about being in a recession, and the National Bureau of Economic Research’s role and criteria. Additionally, Wes uncovers political views about a recession and why your long-term retirement plan doesn't have to be impacted. To wrap up the episode Wes reminds listeners that there are more years of spending ahead than you think and describes how the combination of stocks and bonds is important for any investor.

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Listen as Wes analyzes recent consumer sentiment data from the University of Michigan, what areas of the market are working in 2022, and dives into value investing versus growth investing. Additionally, Wes talks about the negative wealth effect and how bear markets typically operate. He also covers the current standing of the market and reveals details regarding the Retire Sooner Podcast summer series.

Disclosure: This is provided as a resource for informational purposes and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular company. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. The information provided is strictly an opinion and for informational purposes only and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained herein. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions. The views and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing and may change without notice at any time based on numerous factors, such as market or other conditions.

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Listen as he explains the details behind the LIV Tour and what is being offered to golfers on the tour along with his insight and the insights of fellow golfing colleagues surrounding the subject. Wes also reveals certain controversies behind the rules and regulations of LIV, the differences between European golf and golfing in the United States, and how inflation relates to golf. Lastly, he covers the Amazon split, defines a stock split with examples, and talks through the market psychology that overlays stock splits.

This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. There will be periods of performance fluctuations, including periods of negative returns and periods where dividends will not be paid. Past performance is not indicative of future results when considering any investment vehicle. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained in this article. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.  The information contained is strictly an opinion and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. The views and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing and may change without notice at any time based on numerous factors, such as market or other conditions,

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Wes explains bear markets and recovering markets along with how each is perceived by investors. He also talks about how long it takes markets to recover, reveals the average recovery time for all bear markets, and what percentages of recoveries happen. To wrap up the episode, Wes reveals how it takes 30 days for 30% of market recovery, what to do to avoid missing out on recoveries, and a helpful strategy surrounding dividend investing.

Listen to hear more of this original research that the Retire Sooner team was able to find using Bloomberg and historical data.

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In this episode, Wes discusses the market volatility that many investors have faced so far in 2022 and shares his perception of what the rest of the year could look like. He also reveals how a highly diversified, stable portfolio allows you to overcome decline, shares statistics surrounding market volatility, and reviews declines in history to unveil the impact on bonds and stocks. Finally, Wes describes the importance of not selling out to trade short-term relief for long-term regret, weighs in on if he sees another recession on the horizon, and uncovers the best armor as an investor to help families work towards their retirement goals.

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During the episode, Mallory reveals her answers to the quiz as Wes breaks down and compares each answer to his research on the happiest retirees. Wes also provides his insight and advice on how listeners can improve their answers with the aim of getting one step closer to landing in the happy retiree camp.

Find out if you’re on track to becoming a happy retiree! Take the new and improved quiz here: 

Will you retire happy? Take the Money & Happiness Quiz

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We’re back with part two of this episode, where Wes Moss introduces the remaining money and lifestyle habits of the happiest retirees that he compiled while researching for his latest book, “What The Happiest Retirees Know." Wes also reviews the money habits of happy retirees from part one and highlights an email from a podcast listener.

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During this episode, we discuss how to prepare for The Great Wealth Transfer, as well as why Generation X and Millennials are most likely to benefit and what wealth looks like for these generations in the future. Dan and Joel also touch base on The FIRE Movement and how people are now preparing children for wealth and not their wealth for their children. This episode wrapped up with Wes, Dan, and Joel discussing the spending habits of Happy Retirees, transferring finances into a Donor Advised Fund along with how inflation can impact transferred wealth, and tips for your own Great Wealth Transfer.

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In this episode, Wes addresses historic fluctuations in the housing economy due to oversupply, undersupply, and the unexpected impact of Covid. He discusses today's housing shortage coupled with increasing interest rates that will continue to rise throughout the rest of this year. He also addresses the advantages of paying off your mortgage, the correlation between paying off your mortgage to levels of happiness in retirement, what homeowners can do to pay down or pay off a mortgage, and what first-time homebuyers should consider when it comes to the reality of buying a home. This episode also wraps up with a few call-in questions that Wes answers from Retire Sooner listeners.

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He also provides examples of dividend growth, generating retirement income from your investment sources, and why it’s essential to have a plan and investment policy that aligns with your goals. Furthermore, Wes explains how modest yields can turn to significant yields, shares advice for young investors, and discusses the inverted yield curve along with what it means for the economy.

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In this episode, Wes Moss shares the benefits of traveling in retirement and how to create a cash flow from dividend investing that could supplement these trips. He also examines current traveling statistics and headlines, along with the benefits of traveling with groups of friends. Later in the episode, Wes breaks down dividend investing, the concept of yield at cost, answers a question from a listener regarding laddering CDs for retirement, and shares what could be the key to conquering inflation as an investor.

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During this episode, Wes Moss shares what we can do to invest in an inflationary environment. He also reveals the root cause of inflation while analyzing historic examples of economic disequilibrium, stagflation, and growth stocks vs. value stocks. Further, Wes explains the concept of participation vs. perfection in relation to investing and shares examples of elastic and inelastic products, along with the impact the pandemic had on the economy.

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During this episode, Wes Moss breaks down the Dry Powder Principle and stresses the importance of calculating your dry powder to prepare for inescapable market corrections. He also explains how the dry powder concept can add cushion to your investment portfolio and reshares a story about his son that reveals how losing money can be tough on anyone regardless of your age. Wes goes on to review historical market corrections, the two principles that dry powder is hinged on, and walks listeners through how to assess their own dry powder using the online calculator tool. To wrap up the episode, Wes is joined by the creator of the dry powder calculator tool and Senior Investment Advisor at CIA, James Lewis ​​CFP®, MBA

Use the Dry Powder Calculator to discover how much you have: https://www.wesmoss.com/dry-powder-calculator/

Call in with your financial questions for Wes to answer: 800-805-6301

Join other happy retirees on our Retire Sooner Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/retiresoonerpodcast

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During this episode, Wes references historical corollaries to help listeners grasp what the future holds for the market. Wes also simplifies the current state of military issues, explains what these issues mean for the United States, and how this can scare investors. Further, he shares historical market averages, a pattern in market corrections, and stresses why our best weapon against turning temporary losses into permanent losses is understanding the market. Wes concludes the episode by explaining how dry powder can provide a bridge to the other side of this difficult time.

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Wes provides insight on questions surrounding 401k’s, Roths, IRA’s, the 4% plus rule, investment portfolios, dry powder, and more! He also shares what he did during his time off, family updates, and plays a song that he wrote with his son.

If you’re planning for retirement and looking to have meaningful discussions then join our Retire Sooner Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/retiresoonerpodcast

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In upcoming episodes, we will cover topics such as Bitcoin 101, bucket list places to visit, and we'll interview a retired Wall Street workaholic in his 80s and the best shape of his life. Wes will also be answering listener questions and covering new financial, investment, and economic topics to help you towards a happy retirement. 

You can expect new episodes every Monday and Thursday. Be sure to mark your calendars, subscribe, and tune in to catch the latest! You can also join our Retire Sooner Facebook Group for more in-depth conversations and topics about retirement. https://bit.ly/3J8w1Qx

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Every day since the pandemic began, I have been on the air, coaching people through the economic roller coaster. During that time, I've also written and published a new book, and I've worked consistently to create the best content possible on this podcast, in my Atlanta Journal-Constitution column, and for my show on WSB radio. While I’ve enjoyed doing all of this, I’ve decided to take my own advice, and starting mid-November I’ll be focusing on some other core pursuits in my life for a bit. I'll be back in the spring of 2022 with some great new episodes for you here.

While I might be taking a short break on the current format of the podcast, I don't want you to take a break on working towards your goal of retiring at least one year sooner. So I’m turning over the mic (for a bit) to those who work tirelessly behind the scenes at Retire Sooner to answer the questions we see come in from our listeners every day. Starting November 15, we’ll be rolling out a new podcast format we’re calling, “Questions & Answers."

Our producer Mallory will be sitting down weekly with a member of our team of financial professionals to dig into a financial or economic topic where we’ve consistently seen confusion and questions. I hope you enjoy these new episodes, and I can't wait for you to see what's coming in the spring. 

If you'd like to reach me or the Retire Sooner Team, you can always find us at WesMoss.com.

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Disclosure: This is provided as a resource for informational purposes and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular company. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. The information provided is strictly an opinion and for informational purposes only and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained herein.

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In this podcast episode, Wes unveils the beneficial process of income investing. He also discusses the possibilities of inflation, the many ways to approach investing, the emotional side of investing your retirement money, why he admires income investing, a simple explanation of the income investment process, and steps to take to begin your income investment journey.

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During this podcast episode, Wes dives into the “I quit” job economy. He also shares which industries have a labor shortage, variables that lead to people quitting, why there is a labor shortage, research surrounding the job economy, how this shortage can impact your early retirement, and which industries people are quitting the most.

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In addition, Wes dives into diet and nutrition, explains why it’s important to possess healthy social connections, provides the benefits of traveling with friends, and outlines his new book What the Happiest Retirees Know: 10 Habits for a Healthy, Secure, and Joyful Life.

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In this podcast episode, Wes reveals a few of the habits of the happiest retirees. Wes also shares his purpose for studying these habits, his research and findings about retirement, the do’s and don’ts of retirement, the financial habits of joyful retirees, and outlines his new book What the Happiest Retirees Know: 10 Habits for a Healthy, Secure, and Joyful Life.

If you'd like to access the complimentary workbook, please visit - https://info.yourwealth.com/workbook-for-what-the-happiest-retirees-know

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In today’s episode, Wes addresses this common question and discusses the history and lessons we can learn from one of the greatest economic bubbles in history that occurred in Japan during the 1990’s. Wes also shares five nearly unbelievable scenarios that happened during Japan’s bubble, identifies the mark of a bubble, and discusses cycles of bear and bull markets.

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In this podcast episode, Wes answers questions sent in from podcast listeners. He also addresses his overall mission to help families retire happy. Additionally, he shares insights and tips around retirement, real estate, investing, and finances.

This is provided as a resource for informational purposes and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. The mention of any company is provided to you for informational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular company. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. The information provided is strictly an opinion and for informational purposes only and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions. Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained herein.

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In this podcast episode, Wes tackles the touchy subject of couples and their finances. He also explores relationship data in regards to talking about money, relationship transparency, why communication is key, how communication can impact your retirement, and the communication tendencies of happy retirees.

https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/about-fidelity/Fidelity-Couples-and-Money-Fact-Sheet-2021.pdf

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In today’s podcast episode, Wes dives into loss aversion, the psychological makeup that makes investing so tough for humans. He also shares a personal experience regarding loss aversion, the pain of losing versus the pleasure of gaining, four steps that we can take to combat the inherent behavior, and how those steps can increase our investing success.

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In this podcast episode, Wes examines the ever-changing housing market and where prices are headed in the future. He also dives into real estate trends, supply and demand, the factors that impact housing prices, the home price index, and home pricing comparisons from state to state. 

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During this episode, Wes shares his insights on the “perfect time” to kickstart your investment journey. He also compares investing at the best time versus investing at the worst time within the market, explains why participation is pivotal, and lays out how to control your investment itinerary. 

Source: Bloomberg L.P. Stocks are represented by the S&P 500, and cash equivalents by the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Treasury Bill Index. Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur fees or expenses, and cannot be invested directly.

This chart represents a hypothetical investment and is for illustrative purposes only. Dividends and interest are assumed to have been reinvested , and the example does not reflect the effects of taxes, expenses or fees. The actual annual rate of return will fluctuate with market conditions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations.  Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved.  There will be periods of performance fluctuations, including periods of negative returns and periods where dividends will not be paid.  Past performance is not indicative of future results when considering any investment vehicle. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.  Investment decisions should not be made solely based on information contained in this article. The information contained in the article is strictly an opinion and it is not known whether the strategies will be successful. There are many aspects and criteria that must be examined and considered before investing.

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On today’s podcast episode, Wes explains how social connectedness is vital for a happy retiree. He also dives into the softer side of planning for retirement, four happy retiree secrets of social connectedness, and shares his research on happy retirees versus unhappy retirees.

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In this episode, podcast host Wes Moss explains the Grey Zone of retirement for an early retiree. Retiring sooner can be a dream, but if you retire young enough to get a second career or transition job, then you should do so to ease into living off of your savings. Wes also shares a tool that he uses to navigate the zone and reviews the five steps for retiring sooner.

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Throughout this episode, Wes analyzes the historical correlation between tax rates, capital gains, stocks and addresses why some categories of stocks fare better when inflation or interest rates rise. Of course, historical events in markets may not repeat exactly the same, but many events show similarities. As investors, if we stick to a few rules of thumb, we may be able to weather any market conditions that come our way.

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In today’s episode, Wes addresses the critical importance of rational optimism for investors. He outlines a list of perpetual, formidable events that could negatively impact the economy at any time. While these events may seem bad now, savvy investors can counter this narrative with the knowledge that fundamentally good things are happening today - starting with the army of American productivity.

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Today we’ll discuss the 15/50 Stock Rule, which helps guide investors in maintaining a balance between risk and reward according to their time horizon. The 15/50 portfolio idea has been around for decades, championed by Columbia Business School professor Benjamin Graham (mentor to famed billionaire investor Warren Buffet), as well as Vanguard founder, John Bogle. In this episode, we’ll focus on the conversation soon-to-be retirees are likely having which is, ‘how much as a percentage of our portfolio should we have in stocks over time?’

More on the 15/50 Stock Rule and other sources for the show:

https://www.wesmoss.com/news/why-investors-should-consider-using-the-15-50-stock-rule/

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/morningstar-report-finds-that-retirement-savers-contributions-suffer-even-as-target-date-strategies-rebounded-from-q1-2020-bear-market-301250121.html

Disclosure: This information is provided to you as a resource for educational purposes and as an example only and is not to be considered investment advice or recommendation or an endorsement of any particular security. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. There will be periods of performance fluctuations, including periods of negative returns and periods where dividends will not be paid. Past performance is not indicative of future results when considering any investment vehicle. The mention of any specific security should not be inferred as having been successful or responsible for any investor achieving their investment goals. Additionally, the mention of any specific security is not to infer investment success of the security or of any portfolio. A reader may request a list of all recommendations made by Capital Investment Advisors within the immediately preceding period of one year upon written request to Capital Investment Advisors. It is not known whether any investor holding the mentioned securities have achieved their investment goals or experienced appreciation of their portfolio. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.

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In this episode, we’ll discuss the habits Thomas Stanley wrote about in 1996, of the people who have created not just high income, but wealth. We’ll talk about the ways you can implement the traits of the Millionaire Next Door, debunk the lies that you need to be hedonistically rich to retire successfully, share some millionaire statistics and the ways in which the Millionaire Next Door is related to the happy retiree.

The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas Stanley: https://www.themillionairenextdoor.com/

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Today I’m going to share with you one of the most powerful and helpful investment tools, in my opinion, to use when investing gets tough - The Dry Powder Principle. We’ll take a look at the history of how often and severe markets fall, the recovery time for all bear markets from 1928 and how The Dry Powder Principle can be helpful when preparing for retirement. Understanding market cycles can help us gain a sense of patience, look beyond the danger and stay invested over time - which is key to becoming a happy retiree.

More on The Dry Powder Principle: https://www.wesmoss.com/news/how-to-own-your-expenses-and-plan-ahead-for-market-storms/

The 15/50 Stock Rule: https://www.wesmoss.com/news/why-investors-should-consider-using-the-15-50-stock-rule/

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In my research, I’ve discovered that the happiest retirees know what to avoid and practice in order to retire sooner. So what mistakes are unhappy retirees making to prevent them from reaching economic freedom? In today’s episode, we’ll discuss the Rich Ratio, how much time you should really spend on your own finances, if you should purchase big-ticket items before or after retirement, and the things you should be focusing on while you save and plan for retirement.

David Bach on Retiring Overseas: https://www.wesmoss.com/podcasts/episode-2-david-bach-moving-overseas/

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In today’s episode, we’re talking about the history of inflation, how the national debt and recent stimulus packages could impact Americans in the next 5 to 10 years, and what rising inflation could mean for investors and retirees.

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No matter where you are on taxes, no one likes to think of them going higher. That’s why they’re important to talk about. Taxes are a large piece of our financial portfolios and the more we’re educating ourselves the easier it is to stay on the path to a happy retirement. In today’s episode, we discuss how to navigate the cards we’re dealt with when it comes to corporate taxes.

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There are many ways to invest, but the focus at Retire Sooner is to help you understand your investments and what they can produce for you in income once you stop working. As you listen to the episode today, focus on how you can make your money grow and payout over time.

Capital Investment Advisors’ study that compares how an investment in equities for dividend income has fared relative to investing in bonds for income: https://www.wesmoss.com/news/the-power-of-investing-in-dividends-generating-income-from-stock-dividends-vs-bond-interest/ 

This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. There will be periods of performance fluctuations, including periods of negative returns. Past performance is not indicative of future results when considering any investment vehicle.This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors.This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.

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In this episode, Wes explains how it works, discusses the controversy the rule has faced over the years, the exciting new development to this rule, and how retirees can use The 4% Rule to support their happy retirement.

4% Rule - background, history, and a general outline of Bengen’s study - https://www.wesmoss.com/news/the-new-verdict-on-the-4-rule-for-retirement/

Good News For Retirees Seeking Consistent Income: The 4% Rule Of Thumb Could Potentially Now Be 4.5% - https://www.wesmoss.com/news/good-news-for-retirees-seeking-consistent-income-the-4-rule-of-thumb-could-now-be-4-5/ 

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In the first episode of Retire Sooner, I talk a little about my upbringing and where my fascination with the relationship between money and happiness began. Then I dig into my research on the five secrets of the happiest retirees.

Follow us on Instagram: @retiresoonerpodcast

Reference:

These five secrets are based on a study I conducted of over 1,350 retirees in 46 states for my book, You Can Retire Sooner Than You Think.

Scary Retirement Statistics from Ramsey Solutions Retirement Study: https://www.chrishogan360.com/retirement/10-frightening-retirement-stats-that-should-scare-you-into-action  

Retired adults dependence on Social Security: https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2011/11/03/section-6-generations-and-entitlements/ 

Wharton study: https://penntoday.upenn.edu/news/money-matters-to-happiness-perhaps-more-than-previously-thought

This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. There will be periods of performance fluctuations, including periods of negative returns. Past performance is not indicative of future results when considering any investment vehicle. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. This information is not intended to, and should not, form a primary basis for any investment decision that you may make. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.

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