Retire Early Podcast

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions address a common question among people approaching retirement: Should I retire now or work one more year?
Sam and Linwood explain how an additional year of work could affect several parts of a retirement plan. Working longer may provide another year of income, retirement account contributions, employer benefits, and potential investment growth while also reducing the number of years your portfolio must support you. However, the decision is not purely financial.
They also discuss the importance of evaluating healthcare coverage, Social Security timing, retirement income, current expenses, and whether the additional year would meaningfully improve the strength of your plan. The episode encourages listeners to weigh the financial benefits of continuing to work against their health, family priorities, personal goals, and the value of their time.
For anyone standing at the edge of retirement, this conversation offers a helpful framework for determining whether one more year is necessary—or whether you may already be ready to begin the next chapter.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction: Should you work one more year?00:39 Meet Sam and Linwood01:08 The financial benefits of another year of income02:04 Social Security and retirement income considerations03:10 Considering the intangible benefits of working an additional year5:00 The importance of paying off different types of debts07:08 Reducing the number of years your savings must support08:31 Practicing a “transitional year” from employment to retirement09:35 Will one more year significantly improve your financial security? 10:10 Continuing to work because you simply enjoy it 11:44 Health, family, and personal priorities14:30 Experiencing burnout at work and its effects15:40 Preparing for unexpected changes and events16:53 Balancing financial security with the value of time and once-in-a-lifetime moments 18:25 Key takeaways, final thoughts and closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss why many early retirees end up paying more in taxes than necessary—and what they can do to avoid it.
Sam and Linwood explain that retirement creates unique tax planning opportunities, but without a strategy, retirees can unknowingly increase their tax bill. They discuss how different account types are taxed, why withdrawal sequencing matters, and how careful income planning can help reduce lifetime taxes. They also cover common mistakes involving Social Security, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), Roth conversions, and Medicare premium surcharges, showing listeners how proactive planning can keep more money working for them instead of going to the IRS.
Whether you're planning to retire early or are already enjoying retirement, this episode highlights practical tax strategies that could make a meaningful difference over the long term.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to today's topic00:52 Meet the hosts02:05 Avoiding unexpected surprises with your taxes03:57 Why withdrawal order matters06:37 The importance of tax diversification08:35 What to lookout for with Roth conversion opportunities10:38 Social Security taxation and hidden tax costs11:50 Coordinating investments with tax strategy12:36 What to do with Employer stock14:29 Retirement planning and buyer's remorse16:15 Common tax mistakes retirees make16:53 Action steps to improve tax efficiency 17:35 Final thoughts and closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties' informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the warning signs that may indicate you are not quite ready to retire.
Retirement readiness involves more than reaching a certain age or account balance. Sam and Linwood explain why retirees also need a dependable income plan, a clear understanding of their expenses, a strategy for healthcare, and a plan for how they will spend their time after leaving work. They also address the risks of carrying too much debt, relying on unrealistic investment returns, or making a retirement decision before both spouses are on the same page.
The episode encourages listeners to identify potential gaps before submitting their retirement notice. With proper planning, many of these warning signs can be addressed, helping you approach retirement with greater clarity, confidence, and flexibility.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction: Are you truly ready to retire?00:46 Meet the hosts01:44 Retirement readiness is about more than your savings02:26 Sign #1: You don’t understand your retirement expenses05:01 Sign #2: You haven’t built a dependable income plan10:41 Sign #3: You haven’t planned for healthcare costs13:19 Sign #4: You’re carrying too much debt15:51 Sign #5: You don't have any emergency reserves18:50 Sign #6: You don't have a strategy for your taxes 22:41 Sign #7: You haven't created a plan with your spouse23:56 Planning for purpose, routine, and social connection26:07 Stress-testing your retirement strategy26:25 Final thoughts and closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss why earning six figures does not always translate into feeling financially secure. As income rises, spending often increases alongside it, leaving many high earners wondering why they are not making more progress toward their financial goals.
Sam and Linwood explore how lifestyle inflation, housing costs, vehicles, debt, taxes, subscriptions, and everyday spending can quietly consume a strong income. They explain the difference between earning a high salary and actually building wealth, as well as the importance of understanding where your money is going each month.
The episode also offers practical ideas for taking control of cash flow, using raises and bonuses intentionally, automating savings, and aligning spending with the goals that matter most. Whether you recently received a raise or have earned a strong income for years, this conversation can help you turn that income into greater financial confidence and long-term wealth.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction: Making six figures but still feeling broke00:52 Meet the hosts01:42 Why a strong income may not feel like enough03:32 How lifestyle inflation affects high earners05:30 Understanding where your money is going07:34 Housing, vehicles, debt, and recurring expenses09:38 The difference between earning money and building wealth11:32 Why budgeting still matters at higher incomes13:24 Using raises and bonuses intentionally15:18 Automating savings and investing17:12 Aligning spending with your financial priorities19:10 Avoiding comparison and keeping up with others20:48 Practical steps to start making progress22:14 Final thoughts and closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties' informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss a situation many long-time employees eventually face: having a large portion of their retirement savings tied up in company stock.
Sam and Linwood explain the risks of being overly concentrated in a single investment—even if it's the company you've worked for and believe in. They discuss diversification, tax considerations, emotional attachment to employer stock, and strategies for reducing concentration risk without derailing your long-term retirement plan.
Whether you've accumulated company stock through a 401(k), stock purchase plan, restricted stock, or executive compensation package, this episode provides practical guidance to help you make informed decisions before retirement.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to today's topic00:48 Meet the hosts01:28 Why company stock can become a large part of your portfolio03:06 The risks of being overly concentrated in one investment04:52 Emotional attachment versus sound financial planning06:34 Diversification and why it matters08:18 Tax considerations when selling company stock09:58 Strategies for reducing concentration risk over time11:40 Coordinating company stock with your retirement income plan13:18 Common mistakes investors make with employer stock15:02 Key takeaways and practical planning tips17:02 Final thoughts and closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties' informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions answer one of the most common questions from aspiring early retirees: How can you retire before age 59½ without paying unnecessary penalties?
Sam and Linwood explain that while many retirement accounts have age-based withdrawal rules, there are several strategies that may allow individuals to access retirement assets before age 59½. They discuss the importance of planning ahead, understanding account types, building bridge assets, and coordinating withdrawals in a tax-efficient way.
Whether you're hoping to retire in your 50s or simply want more flexibility in your financial future, this episode provides practical guidance on how early retirement can be achievable with the right plan.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to today's topic00:50 Meet the hosts01:32 Why age 59½ matters for retirement accounts03:08 Common misconceptions about early retirement withdrawals04:52 Bridge accounts and taxable investments06:34 Understanding the Rule of 5508:18 72(t) / SEPP withdrawals explained10:02 Roth IRA contribution withdrawal rules11:42 Building flexibility before retirement13:20 Tax planning for early retirees15:04 Coordinating multiple income sources16:46 Common mistakes to avoid when retiring early18:08 Key takeaways and planning tips19:20 Final thoughts and closing
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties' informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the unique challenges and opportunities couples face when there is a significant age difference between spouses.
Sam and Linwood explain how an age gap can affect retirement timing, Social Security strategies, healthcare planning, income needs, and investment decisions. They also discuss how couples can balance different retirement goals, coordinate benefits, and create a financial plan that works for both spouses throughout retirement.
Whether you're several years apart in age or simply want to better understand the planning considerations involved, this episode offers practical strategies to help couples build a retirement plan that supports both partners.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to today's topic00:52 Meet the hosts01:34 Why age gaps create unique retirement planning challenges03:12 Deciding when each spouse should retire05:08 Coordinating Social Security benefits07:02 Healthcare and Medicare timing considerations08:56 Managing retirement income for different life stages10:44 Investment strategies for couples with different timelines12:36 Balancing risk when spouses have different retirement horizons14:24 Estate planning and beneficiary considerations16:08 Planning for survivor income needs17:52 Common mistakes couples make when planning together19:22 Key takeaways and action steps20:48 Closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties' informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions share six practical travel tips to help retirees and soon-to-be retirees enjoy their adventures with greater confidence and less stress.
Travel is one of the biggest goals many people have for retirement, but successful trips require more than booking flights and packing bags. Sam and Linwood discuss important considerations like budgeting for travel, protecting yourself with travel insurance, planning for healthcare needs abroad, managing finances securely while traveling, and preparing for unexpected disruptions.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or the international trip you've dreamed about for years, this episode offers practical advice to help you travel smarter and make the most of your retirement years.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to today's episode00:58 Meet the hosts02:04 Why travel is a major retirement goal04:02 Travel Tip #1: Build travel into your retirement budget06:18 Travel Tip #2: Don't overlook travel insurance09:02 Travel Tip #3: Plan for healthcare while traveling11:36 Travel Tip #4: Protect your money and personal information14:08 Travel Tip #5: Prepare for unexpected delays and emergencies17:02 Travel Tip #6: Make the most of travel rewards and planning tools20:12 International travel considerations22:18 How to avoid common travel mistakes in retirement24:46 Creating memorable experiences without overspending27:08 Final travel planning checklist29:12 Closing thoughts and encouragement
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties' informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions continue their discussion on one of the most misunderstood estate planning tools: trusts.
Building on the foundation from Part 1, Sam and Linwood dive deeper into how trusts function, who controls assets within a trust, and the practical benefits trusts can provide for families. They explain common trust provisions, how trusts can help avoid probate, and why proper coordination between your trust, beneficiary designations, and other estate planning documents is essential.
Whether you already have a trust or are considering one, this episode provides practical insights to help you better understand how trusts fit into a comprehensive financial and retirement plan.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
 
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction and recap of Part 100:50 Meet the hosts01:30 How trusts actually work03:02 Key parties involved in a trust04:40 Understanding trustees and successor trustees06:12 How assets are managed inside a trust07:46 Why funding a trust matters09:18 Common trust provisions and protections10:54 How trusts help families avoid probate12:28 Coordinating trusts with beneficiary designations13:58 Common mistakes people make with trusts15:22 When a trust may or may not make sense16:46 Key takeaways and planning considerations17:58 Final thoughts and closing remarks
 
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions begin a two-part discussion on one of the most misunderstood estate planning tools: trusts.
Sam and Linwood break down the basics of what a trust is, how it works, and why it can play an important role in protecting assets, simplifying estate administration, and carrying out your wishes. They explain common misconceptions about trusts, discuss who may benefit from having one, and outline how trusts fit into a broader financial and retirement plan.
Whether you're approaching retirement, thinking about your legacy, or simply trying to understand your estate planning options, this episode provides a practical introduction to trust planning.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Introduction to today's topic01:42 Why trusts are often misunderstood03:28 What exactly is a trust?05:14 The key parties involved in a trust07:02 Common reasons families establish trusts08:46 Trusts vs. wills: understanding the differences10:32 How trusts help manage and transfer assets12:18 Avoiding common estate planning misconceptions14:04 Who should consider having a trust?15:52 Trust administration basics17:38 Situations where a trust may be beneficial19:24 Common trust planning mistakes21:08 How trusts fit into a retirement plan22:52 Key takeaways from Part 1
Disclaimer
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Martin Wealth Solutions, unless otherwise specifically cited. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, but no representations are made by our firm as to another parties’ informational accuracy or completeness. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that any statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. All information or ideas provided should be discussed in detail with an advisor, accountant or legal counsel prior to implementation. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.