Retire With Purpose - The Retirement Podcast

Your finances may be ready to enter your second act, but retirement coach Joe Casey explains why the bigger question is whether you've prepared for the life, relationships, health, learning, and fun that come after work. In this episode, you'll learn: Why having more free time doesn't automatically create a fulfilling life How retirement can expose gaps in your social life Why your "best Wednesdays" may matter more than your bucket list How to start experimenting with your future before retirement The questions you and your spouse should be asking before you leave work Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade and Joe Casey provide thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/583 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Could doing everything "right" with your retirement savings actually be limiting your financial freedom?  As part of our "By the Numbers" series, in this episode, you'll learn: Why "max out your 401(k)" isn't always the right answer The overlooked value of liquidity and accessible cash When you may have already saved enough for retirement How taxes can quietly become one of retirement's biggest expenses Why your retirement plan should support your life; not the other way around Today's article is from the Use Your Wealth blog titled You Should Probably Stop Saving for Retirement. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/582 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

What if one of the biggest keys to a healthy, meaningful retirement has nothing to do with money? Author and psychology professor Dr. Marc Schulz reveals why your relationships, social connections and "social fitness" may play a surprisingly important role in how well you age — and how you can strengthen them before and during retirement. In this episode, you'll learn: How retirement can disrupt your social network Ways introverts and extroverts can approach social fitness differently The "2 a.m. friend" test for evaluating your relationships How couples can navigate different social needs in retirement Dr. Schulz's practical 30-day social fitness challenge Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade and Dr. Marc Schulz provide thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/581 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process  

Today, I'm excited to welcome Bill Perkins to the podcast. Bill is an entrepreneur, hedge fund manager, investor, and bestselling author of Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life. Throughout his career, he's challenged one of the most common assumptions about wealth: that accumulating more money should always be the ultimate goal. Instead, Bill encourages people to think differently about how they use their time, health, and financial resources to create a more fulfilling life. Far too many retirees spend decades building wealth only to discover that saving money is much easier than confidently spending it. Bill believes retirement isn't about maximizing your account balance; it's about maximizing your experiences while you still have the health and time to enjoy them. That means being intentional about when you travel, when you create memories with loved ones, and even when you pass wealth on to the next generation. In our conversation, Bill explains why money should always serve your life instead of becoming the goal itself, how "time bucketing" can help prioritize life's most meaningful experiences, why health may be your most valuable retirement asset, and how intentionally spending, giving, and creating memories can ultimately lead to a richer and more purposeful retirement. GET A FREE COPY OF BILL'S BOOK, DIE WITH ZERO: GETTING ALL YOU CAN FROM YOUR MONEY AND YOUR LIFE Here's how: Just text the word BOOK to 888-599-4491, and we'll send you a link to claim your free copy! In this podcast interview, you'll learn: Why maximizing fulfillment—not maximizing wealth—should become your retirement goal. How time bucketing helps you prioritize experiences before opportunities disappear. Why your health becomes one of your most valuable retirement resources. How memory dividends can create lasting returns long after an experience ends. Why intentionally giving wealth during your lifetime may create a greater legacy than leaving an inheritance after you're gone. How designing simple systems can help you live more intentionally instead of on autopilot. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/580 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Headlines say Social Security is going bankrupt, but the real story is far more nuanced, and understanding it could help you make smarter retirement decisions before it's too late. In this episode, you'll learn: What the latest 2026 Trustee Report reveals Why retirees could still receive benefits, even without Congressional action How AI, longevity, and future productivity could change the outlook The most likely solutions Congress could pursue How to stress test your retirement income plan for multiple Social Security scenarios Today's article is from the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College titled, Social Security's Financial Outlook: The 2026 Update in Perspective. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/579 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our

When it comes to a confident retirement, what if the biggest risk isn't running out of money, but waiting too long to enjoy it? As part of our "Freedom After 50" series, author Mike Drak explores: Why so many retirees struggle emotionally with spending How retirement spending naturally changes over time The difference between spending on things vs. meaningful experiences How fear of future healthcare costs can hold you back today Practical ways to spend with greater confidence and fewer regrets Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade and Mike Drak provide thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/578 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Everyone says to "invest for the long term," but what does that actually mean when you're approaching or living in retirement?  As part of our "By the Numbers" series, in this episode, you'll learn: Why "long term" means much more than simply waiting How retirement changes the way you should think about investing The psychological cost of staying invested during market downturns Why buying and forgetting isn't a successful investment strategy How to know if you're taking more risk than you actually need Today's article is from the Safal Niveshak blog titled What I Mean When I Say 'Long Term' Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/577 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

What if one simple exercise could help you uncover what truly brings you joy, clarify your purpose, and shape a more meaningful retirement?  As part of our "Freedom After 50" series, author Jet Vertz shares: How the "Lifeline Exercise" helps uncover defining moments in your life Why your happiest moments often reveal your deepest values How to identify the strengths, passions, and experiences that should shape your retirement Why honesty with yourself is essential to creating a retirement filled with meaning instead of simply staying busy A simple reflection exercise you can do on your own, or even with your spouse Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade and Jet Vertz provide thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/576 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Today, I'm excited to welcome Dr. Phil Pearlman to the podcast. Phil is the founder of the Pearl Institute, a clinical psychologist, former financial executive, and one of the leading voices exploring the intersection of health, behavioral psychology, and long-term performance. Through his writing, coaching, and research, he helps people build healthier lives by focusing on sustainable habits, emotional resilience, and purposeful daily decisions. After years of success in finance, Phil experienced his own health transformation that completely changed how he thinks about performance, longevity, and fulfillment. Today, he believes one of the biggest blind spots in retirement planning isn't your portfolio, it's your health. Because no matter how well you've prepared financially, it's difficult to enjoy the retirement you've worked so hard to build without the physical and mental capacity to fully experience it. In our conversation, Phil shares why health and wealth follow many of the same behavioral principles, how our relationship with food and money is driven by the same psychological forces, and why improving your health may be the greatest investment you can make in your future.  In this podcast interview, you'll learn: Why your health may be the most overlooked risk to a successful retirement. How our relationship with food and money is shaped by the same psychological biases. Why lasting health habits are built through identity, not willpower. How improving your metabolic health can lead to better decisions, focus, and resilience. Why comparing yourself to your past self and nobody else creates the greatest long-term progress. The simple daily habits Phil believes deliver the biggest return for your future health. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/575 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Your greatest investment risk may not be missing the market, but relying on your ability to identify the small handful of stocks that become the next big winners.  As part of our "By the Numbers" series, topics covered in this episode include:  Why most individual stocks fail to outperform the market What increasing market concentration means for retirees Why average returns can create dangerous expectations How to think about risk, diversification, and income in retirement The surprising case for Treasury bills and liquidity Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade and Bruce Feiler provide thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/574 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Retirement isn't just about leaving your career; it's about learning how to navigate one of life's biggest transitions with confidence and resilience. As part of our "Freedom After 50" series, best-selling author Bruce Feiler shares why the most fulfilling retirements come from embracing change instead of resisting it. Topics covered in this episode:  Why retirement is often a "lifequake," not just a life event The three phases everyone experiences during major life transitions How to avoid getting stuck after retirement How couples can navigate retirement transitions together A simple exercise to identify where you are and what you need most Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade and Bruce Feiler provide thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/573 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Could AI be the force preventing a recession, and are today's biggest AI winners only the beginning of a much larger economic transformation?  As part of our "By the Numbers" series, topics covered in this episode include:   Why market "breadth" matters more than headlines How today's AI boom compares to the dot-com era The four phases of the AI market cycle What retirees should consider amid concentrated market growth Today's article is from the TrendLabs.com titled Would We Be in a Recession Without AI Stocks? Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/572 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

You've accrued wealth to finally retire, but your "best" retirement involves learning how to enjoy the life your wealth was meant to support. As part of our "Freedom After 50" series, hospice doctor Jordan Grumet explores how to discover what truly brings you fulfillment once money is no longer the main objective.  Topics covered in this episode:  The emotional transition from accumulation to retirement Why reaching financial independence doesn't automatically create peace of mind The 3 phases of spending and how expectations often clash with reality Ways to spend with confidence while staying aligned with your values Today's article is from the The Purpose Code blog titled How I Finally Stopped Caring About Spending. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/571 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

What if your Social Security benefit is worth far more than you realize, and the decision of when to claim it could be one of the biggest financial choices you'll ever make?   As part of our "By the Numbers" series, topics covered in this episode include:  Why Social Security should be viewed as an asset, not just monthly income How claiming at 62 vs. 67 vs. 70 impacts lifetime value The role inflation, taxes, and longevity play in your decision Common misconceptions about Social Security "running out" Practical steps to begin analyzing your own benefits today Today's article is from the Mr. Money Mustache blog titled The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Social Security. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/570 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Today, I'm honored to welcome Bill Bengen to the podcast. Bill is widely known as the father of the 4% Rule and as one of the most influential retirement-income researchers in history. His groundbreaking research transformed the way financial advisors and retirees think about generating sustainable income in retirement, and his work continues to shape retirement planning decades after its initial publication. Over the past 30 years, Bill has studied hundreds of historical retirement scenarios to better understand how retirees can spend confidently without the fear of running out of money. In his latest book, A Richer Retirement: Supercharging the 4% Rule to Spend More and Enjoy More, he challenges many assumptions people have about retirement spending and financial security. In our conversation, Bill addresses one of the biggest misconceptions about the 4% Rule, which was never intended to be a spending target for everyone, why inflation remains the greatest threat to retirement income, and how market valuations impact sustainable withdrawal rates. Bill also shares his views on diversification, annuities, retirement spending, and the common reasons retirees continue to underspend despite having more than enough. GET A FREE COPY OF BILL'S BOOK, A RICHER RETIREMENT: SUPERCHARGING THE 4% RULE TO SPEND MORE AND ENJOY MORE Here's how: Step 1: Subscribe to the podcast and leave an honest rating & review on iTunes. Step 2: Text the word BOOK to 888-599-4491, and we'll send you a link to claim your free copy! In this podcast interview, you'll learn: Why the original 4% Rule was designed around the worst retirement scenario in modern history. How Bill's research evolved from a 4% withdrawal rate to 4.7% through broader diversification. Why inflation remains the single greatest threat to a retiree's long-term success. How market valuations influence sustainable withdrawal rates and retirement income planning. Why many retirees could safely spend more than they currently believe. Why planning horizons should extend well beyond your projected life expectancy. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/569 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

What happens when the retirement you worked so hard for doesn't feel as fulfilling as you imagined, and how can you rediscover purpose, structure, and joy in this next chapter of life?  As part of our "Freedom After 50" series, topics covered in this episode include:  Why the "honeymoon phase" of retirement eventually fades Why curiosity may be the single most important retirement skill Practical ways to experiment, reinvent yourself, and find purpose again How retirees can avoid getting stuck in the "lost and loss" phase Why retirement planning should include far more than finances Today's article is from The Retirement Manifesto titled, The 4 Phases of Retirement. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/568 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Could one outdated beneficiary form, missing trust provision, or overlooked document completely derail the legacy you intended to leave behind?  Topics covered in this episode:  The biggest misconceptions retirees have about wills vs. trusts Why beneficiary designations can override your will The real purpose of a revocable living trust, and what it does NOT do Why estate planning failures often come down to poor account titling and coordination How trusts can protect children, spouses, and inherited assets from divorce, lawsuits, or poor financial decisions Today's article is from The Retirement Manifesto titled, Do You Really Need a Trust? And Other Estate Planning Questions Retirees Ask Most. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/567 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Retirement isn't always the carefree finish line people imagine. For many, it marks the start of a deeper search for purpose, identity, and fulfillment.  Topics covered in this episode:  Why so many retirees experience "retirement shock" after leaving work How loss of structure and purpose can impact happiness and mental health The growing importance of part-time work, passion projects, and volunteering Author Mike Drak's "late bloomer" philosophy for creating a second act How the Ikigai Method can help retirees uncover meaningful work and purpose Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade is joined by Mike Drak to explore why retirement can trigger a deeper search for purpose, identity, and fulfillment. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/566 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

What if the biggest risk to your legacy isn't taxes, but what your heirs do with the money once it's in their hands?  Topics covered in this episode:  Emotional and psychological triggers behind overspending Wealth transfer vs. wealth preservation Ways to give heirs a "second chance" with smarter distributions The role of trusts, trustees, and incentive-based planning Why communication with heirs is essential to a lasting legacy Today's article is from ThinkAdvisor blog titled Heirs Beware: 42% Spend Inheritance Within a Year, Study Finds. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/565 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Today, I'm very excited to welcome Jesse Cramer to the podcast. Jesse is the founder of The Best Interest blog and host of the Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors podcast, where he helps individuals cut through the noise of financial media and focus on what truly matters. In a world filled with headlines, predictions, and never-ending market chatter, Jesse brings a refreshing perspective for understanding what's actually important for your retirement plan. Jesse began his career as an aerospace engineer before transitioning into personal finance, combining analytical thinking with clear communication. His work has been featured in outlets such as CNBC and The Wall Street Journal, and his writing has gained a strong following for its ability to simplify complex financial topics, including investing, tax planning, and retirement strategy. We've featured Jesse's work many times over the years in our Weekend Reading series, and for good reason. In our conversation, we explore the concept of "signal vs. noise" and how it applies to retirement planning. Jesse explains why so much of what we hear in the media is designed to grab attention rather than provide value, and how retirees can filter through that noise to focus on what actually impacts their long-term success. In this podcast interview, you'll learn: How to distinguish between financial "signal" and "noise" in today's media landscape. Why confidence in retirement comes from adaptability, not perfect predictions. How sequence of returns risk impacts your retirement more than average returns. Why tax planning requires looking at your entire retirement timeline, not just the next year. The concept of "before and after" tax phases and how they shape your strategy. How different withdrawal strategies work and why there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Why understanding your own biases is critical to making better financial decisions. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/564 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

What if the goal of your bucket list isn't to slowly check it off, but to finish it, rebuild it, and use it to fuel a more meaningful retirement?  Topics covered in this episode:  How to build a purpose-driven bucket list that actually gets completed Why most bucket lists are too "self-focused" and how to fix that The power of small, achievable goals Why sharing your goals increases follow through The surprising reason retirees come back to create bigger bucket lists Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade is joined by Jet Vertz to rethink the bucket list to explain how completing, rebuilding, and sharing it can fuel a more meaningful retirement. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/563 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process

Are you actually better off getting a tax refund, or is your brain tricking you into celebrating a financial loss?   Topics covered in this episode:  Tax refunds vs. tax liability: what actually matters Behavioral biases (framing, loss aversion, anchoring, etc.) Strategic tax planning vs. emotional decision-making Real-world examples from retirees and working families How to align tax strategy with long-term financial goals Today's article is from Best Interest blog titled We Are So Irrational (Literally) About Taxes. Listen in as Founder and CEO of Howard Bailey Financial, Casey Weade, breaks down the article and provides thoughtful insights and advice on how it applies to your unique financial situation. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/562 📧 WEEKEND READING FOR RETIREES: Receive CFP® insight on 4 hand-picked financial articles delivered straight to your Inbox each Friday: https://bit.ly/3OEdGgu  📅SCHEDULE YOUR PERSONAL FINANCIAL REVIEW: Book a 15-minute call with Howard Bailey Financial to see how the topics discussed here apply to your individual situation: https://bit.ly/3T6oNDB ABOUT HOWARD BAILEY FINANCIAL: Our mission is to help others gain clarity in purpose and elevate meaning in their lives through personal and practical financial strategies. Our Retire With Purpose™ Framework starts with establishing your unique financial philosophy — the true meaning and purpose for your money in retirement. Through continued education, one-on-one meetings, and a comprehensive team planning approach, we have helped retirees across the country secure their financial futures. And while we can't work with everyone, our goal is to provide value to everyone we meet. Our team of advisors and support specialists strive to deliver the very best experience in pre-retirement and retirement planning. Learn more about our process here: https://howardbailey.com/our-process