Make Retirement Great

The Make Retirement Great Podcast is your go-to resource for creating a retirement that truly excites you. If you’re ready to simplify retirement planning and learn proven strategies that lead to financial confidence and peace of mind, you’re in the right place. Each week, we’ll dive deep into essential retirement topics, including investment strategies, tax optimization, income withdrawal techniques, Social Security benefits, Medicare and insurance planning, and more. Retirement doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Our mission is simple: empower you with practical advice, actionable insights, and clarity so you can spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying life. Whether you’re close to retirement or already there, our podcast provides clear guidance and real-world solutions designed to help you maximize your retirement lifestyle. Subscribe today and join our growing community committed to making retirement the greatest chapter of life. Your journey to a fulfilling and financially secure retirement starts right here!

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Episodes

Monday Apr 14, 2025

In today's episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss the essential steps to prepare for relocating to another state in retirement. They cover key considerations including financial assessment, healthcare and insurance implications, legal and estate planning, and integrating into a new community. They emphasize the importance of understanding state taxes, real estate markets, cost of living, and social security implications. The duo also talks about practical tips like trying out living in the new state for a month and connecting with local social networks. Additionally, they touch on personal stories and the significance of researching all aspects to ensure a smooth and enjoyable transition.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction: Ready for Sunshine and Relocation
00:40 Personal Thoughts on Relocation
01:12 Meet Casey: Remodeling Updates
02:02 Step 1: Assessing Financial Implications
03:17 State Taxes and Residency
03:43 Real Estate Market and Housing Costs
05:16 Social Security and Pension Considerations
07:17 Healthcare and Insurance Considerations
10:02 Local Senior Services and Final Thoughts
10:59 Happy Meals for Dogs
11:26 Aging and Relocation Considerations
12:31 Estate Planning Essentials
14:07 Building Social Networks in a New State
16:09 Cost of Living Adjustments
17:41 Practical Tips for Relocation
19:29 Casey's Book Report
20:39 Conclusion and Contact InformationOpinions 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.

Monday Apr 07, 2025

In today's episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb explore how taxes can be a major expense in retirement and discuss strategies to potentially lower your tax bill. We cover tax pitfalls and methods used by wealthy individuals to pay less in taxes, including Roth conversions, tax-efficient withdrawal plans, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), and tax loss harvesting. Additionally, we delve into the importance of optimizing Social Security and Medicare timing.  Jim and Casey emphasize the need for comprehensive financial planning and how utilizing tools like a tax calculator can help retirees plan better. Listener questions about handling old 401(k) plans and dealing with market volatility are also addressed, providing practical advice for Americans aged 40-60 looking toward a more confident retirement.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction to Retirement Taxes
01:10 Understanding Tax Pitfalls in Retirement
01:42 Welcoming Casey to the Show
02:38 The Reality of Tax Deferred Accounts
05:52 Strategies to Lower Your Tax Bill
06:04 Roth Conversions Explained
07:40 Tax Efficient Withdrawal Plans
09:57 Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
11:35 Harvesting Tax Losses
13:07 Common Financial Planning Mistakes
13:22 Strategic Filing for Social Security and Medicare
14:23 The Butterfly Effect in Financial Planning
15:48 Using Tax Calculators and Projections
18:11 Finding the Right Financial Advisor
20:13 Listener Q&A: Managing Old 401(k)s
22:09 Listener Q&A: Market Volatility Concerns
23:14 The Three Pointer Story
24:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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.

Monday Mar 31, 2025

In this episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin and Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss effective strategies to help you invest wisely and sleep easy during market volatility. They introduce the 'Bucket Strategy' to manage short-term, medium-term, and long-term investments, and explore how this can ensure a stress-free retirement. Additionally, the hosts delve into financial planning, discussing budgeting for summer travel and smart saving techniques. Listeners will gain valuable insights into achieving financial peace of mind and making retirement enjoyable.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction to Market Volatility
01:12 Understanding Investor Emotions
01:38 Meet Your Hosts: Jim and Casey
03:06 The Bucket Strategy Explained
06:43 Real-Life Applications and Benefits
10:48 The Importance of Planning Ahead
15:38 The Bonus Bucket: Long Term Care and Legacy Planning
16:30 The Importance of Financial Security and Peace of Mind
18:51 Travel Plans and Saving Money on Vacations
20:56 Travel Hacks and Budgeting Tips
26:44 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
27:59 Podcast Disclaimer and Closing RemarksOpinions 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.

Monday Mar 24, 2025


Ever heard the advice "never touch your Roth IRA"? In this episode, Jim Martin and Casey from Martin Wealth Solutions unpack the truth behind that common piece of wisdom. They’ll guide you through the pros and cons of Roth IRAs, discuss why the financial industry typically warns against withdrawals, and highlight specific situations when tapping into your Roth can actually be a smart move.
You'll discover how strategic Roth IRA distributions can help you avoid bumping into higher tax brackets, reduce Medicare costs, and minimize impacts on your Social Security benefits. Plus, Jim and Casey share insights on using Roth IRAs for legacy planning and reaching your financial independence goals.
Stay tuned until the end for a fun, playful chat about space travel—because retirement planning can be informative and entertaining!
 
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.com 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.

Monday Mar 17, 2025

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb from Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the emerging trends of hybrid and mini retirements. They explain how many people are now opting to work fewer hours as they age, gradually easing into retirement, or taking extended breaks during their careers for personal fulfillment. The hosts outline the benefits and risks of these alternative retirement strategies, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and health considerations. They offer real-life examples and encourage listeners to assess their career paths and retirement plans for a happier, healthier future.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.comArticles referenced:https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/fitness/art-20046433 https://nypost.com/2025/03/05/health/how-many-push-ups-you-should-be-able-to-do-at-every-age/
00:00 Introduction to Modern Retirement Trends
00:30 Traditional vs. Hybrid Retirement
03:21 Defining Mini and Hybrid Retirements
06:11 Benefits and Risks of Mini Retirements
12:37 Planning for Mini and Hybrid Retirements
14:23 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories
17:28 Physical Fitness and Aging
21:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOpinions 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.

Monday Mar 10, 2025

In this episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss the top five regrets of retirees and provide actionable steps to avoid them. Topics include the importance of saving enough, the implications of claiming Social Security early, the risks of retiring with too much debt, the consequences of retiring prematurely, and the significance of prioritizing health. The hosts also share insights from real-life cases, tips on financial planning, and personal stories to help listeners plan for a secure and enjoyable retirement. Special guest Casey Bibb shares his experience of overcoming the fear of flying. The episode closes with a lighthearted discussion on New Orleans' beignets.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.com 
00:12 Top Five Regrets of Retirees
00:43 Casey's First Flight Experience
01:52 Regret #1: Not Saving Enough
07:17 Regret #2: Starting Social Security Too Early
09:26 Regret #3: Retiring with Too Much Debt
14:15 Regret #4: Retiring Too Soon
17:12 Regret #5: Not Prioritizing Health
20:53 Listener Questions and Final ThoughtsOpinions 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.

Monday Mar 03, 2025

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss how a change in U.S. presidency, specifically under Donald Trump, could impact the stock market and retirement planning. They delve into topics such as the potential extension of the Trump tax cuts and its effects on retirees, the implications of deregulation, concerns about Social Security, the impact of tariffs and trade wars, and how to maintain focus on personal financial goals amidst political changes. The hosts highlight the importance of tax-efficient strategies, diversification, and maintaining a long-term perspective. Join the conversation for a thoughtful analysis on making informed retirement decisions during politically volatile times.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction to Administration Changes and Market Concerns
01:07 Personal Updates and Casual Conversation
02:04 Discussing Trump's Impact on Retirement Planning
03:31 Tax Policy and Its Implications for Retirees
10:06 Social Security and Potential Changes
14:26 Trade Wars and Tariffs: Trump's Economic Strategies
15:54 The Impact of Tariffs on American Jobs
17:18 Union Issues and Plant Relocations
17:51 Market Reactions to Trump's Policies
19:32 Deregulation and the Retirement Industry
20:47 Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Investing
24:49 Final Thoughts on Economic Policies
26:59 Staying Focused on Personal Financial Health
28:59 Entertainment Recommendations and Closing RemarksOpinions 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.

Monday Feb 24, 2025

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb explore the concept of behavioral finance, focusing on how psychological factors like emotions, biases, and cognitive distortions impact our financial decisions. We discuss strategies to gain control over finances and ensure smart investment choices for retirement. Topics include diversifying investments, working with advisors, and overcoming biases such as loss aversion and confirmation bias. The conversation also covers practical tips like automating decisions, setting financial guardrails, and preparing for market volatility. Guest Casey Bibb shares personal anecdotes and emphasizes the importance of educational resources in making rational financial decisions.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction to Behavioral Finance
00:34 Emotional Triggers in Financial Decisions
01:00 Welcoming Casey Bibb
01:59 The Impact of Cognitive Biases
07:01 Fear of Running Out of Money
11:01 Practical Strategies for Financial Stability
21:45 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts
25:58 Conclusion and DisclaimersOpinions 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.

Monday Feb 17, 2025

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb discuss the various options available for handling an old 401(k) from a previous job. They explore the pros and cons of leaving it with the old employer, rolling it into a new employer's plan, cashing it out, and moving it into a traditional IRA. The episode also touches on the implications of taxes, investment fees, and risk management associated with these choices. Additionally, they delve into social security survivor benefits and offer insights into planning for a spouse's death to ensure financial stability. 
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction: What to Do with an Old 401k
00:25 Meet the Hosts: Jim Martin and Casey Bibb
01:16 Exploring Your 401k Options
01:49 Option 1: Leaving Your 401k as Is
03:44 Option 2: Rolling Over to a New Employer Plan
05:14 Option 3: Cashing Out Your 401k
06:29 Option 4: Rolling Over to a Traditional IRA
08:31 Recap of 401k Options
12:43 Special Considerations for 403Bs and 457s
14:22 Social Security and Survivor Benefits
22:06 Closing Thoughts and OutroOpinions 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.

Monday Feb 10, 2025

In this episode, we discuss the top five retirement mistakes and how to avoid them, with expert insights from financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb. Topics include claiming Social Security too early, the importance of a withdrawal strategy, underestimating inflation and healthcare costs, balancing investment strategies, and planning for taxes in retirement. A personal story underscores the importance of comprehensive financial planning. The show also touches on current developments in AI technology and a fun discussion about getting a new Tesla.http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
www.planwellretirehappy.com
00:00 Introduction: Avoiding Big Retirement Mistakes
00:46 Guest Introduction: Casey Bibb Joins the Podcast
01:20 Mistake #1: Claiming Social Security Too Early
04:14 Mistake #2: Lacking a Withdrawal Strategy
06:12 Mistake #3: Underestimating Inflation and Healthcare Costs
10:10 Mistake #4: Investing Too Conservatively or Aggressively
12:30 Mistake #5: Failing to Plan for Taxes in Retirement
15:52 Bonus Tip: The Power of Having a Financial Plan
16:04 Personal Story: The Importance of Planning
19:54 AI and Financial Planning: A New Frontier
26:34 Conclusion: Plan Well, Retire Happy
 
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.

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