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Retirement Answers Today is your go-to podcast for clear, actionable guidance to build your dream retirement. Hosted by experienced Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pros, each episode simplifies the complexities of retirement planning and wealth management, giving you strategies you can confidently implement today. Whether you’re nearing retirement or already there, we’ll cover crucial topics such as creating sustainable retirement income, managing taxes strategically, making smart investment decisions, maximizing your Social Security benefits, and much more. Our goal is simple: help you achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so you can spend retirement focused on what truly matters. Tune in weekly to get straightforward advice, timely insights, and practical answers to your biggest retirement questions. It’s time to secure your financial future—start listening to Retirement Answers Today and make informed decisions that help you retire with confidence.
Episodes

Monday Nov 25, 2024
The Pros and Cons of a Financial Freedom Account
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
In this episode, Jim Martin, the founder of Martin Wealth Solutions and a financial advisor, delves into the concept of financial freedom and discusses various types of retirement accounts, including 401(k), 403(b), IRA, and Roth IRA, along with the idea of a 'Financial Freedom Account.' He emphasizes the importance of tax-efficient strategies and proper planning for achieving financial independence and making work optional. Jim outlines key steps such as fully funding Roth IRAs and taking advantage of 401(k) matches before considering other investment options. The episode also addresses common mistakes, such as over-saving in qualified accounts, and offers practical advice for better managing cash reserves and investments to ensure a successful retirement.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
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 Nov 18, 2024
Is the 60/40 portfolio right for your retirement?
Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
In this episode, hosts and financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss the relevance of the 60/40 portfolio strategy in today's changing financial landscape. They delve into the impact of interest rate changes, newly set IRS contribution limits for 2025, and the current economic conditions indicated by the recent job reports. They also offer practical advice on investment strategies for retirees, emphasizing the importance of taking calculated risks. The conversation includes a lighthearted discussion on McDonald's spicy chicken nuggets and recommendations for TV shows like 'Unreal' and 'Your Honor.' Tune in for insights on how to manage your retirement funds effectively.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
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 Nov 11, 2024
Should you use AI to replace your advisor?
Monday Nov 11, 2024
Monday Nov 11, 2024
In this episode, financial advisor Jim Martin reminisces about his childhood memories of movies like 'The Terminator,' linking it to modern-day discussions on artificial intelligence (AI). Jim explores the potential impacts of AI on the financial services industry, particularly in wealth management and retirement planning. He discusses an interview with 'Horse's Mouth,' focusing on how AI can be leveraged by advisors for tasks such as automated portfolio rebalancing, risk management, and financial planning. Jim highlights both the benefits and drawbacks of AI, stressing the importance of human judgment and caution. He also touches on broader uses of AI in daily life and encourages listeners to explore AI tools while being wary of over-reliance on them for crucial financial decisions.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
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 Nov 04, 2024
Monday Nov 04, 2024
In this episode of the podcast, host Jim Martin is joined by all-star advisor Casey Bibb for a discussion on eye-opening and somewhat frightening statistics concerning retirement savings, recorded right before Halloween but released after. The conversation delves into how many workers have under $200,000 saved for retirement and the looming fears many might face. Casey and Jim explore reasons behind these trends, the importance of working with a financial advisor, and actionable strategies if you're behind on savings. They specifically address how these issues affect Gen Xers, Baby Boomers, and single women more acutely. Whether you find yourself anxious about retirement or confident but looking to stay informed, this episode covers the need to plan well to retire happy.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim

Monday Oct 28, 2024
"Die Broke" - Is this the right financial planning philosophy for you?
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Join Jim Martin of Martin Wealth Solutions as he introduces the compelling 'Die Broke' financial philosophy, inspired by the book 'Die Broke: A Radical Four-Part Financial Plan' by Stephen Pollan and Mark Levine. This episode explores how to enjoy your retirement without sacrificing your lifestyle. Discover the key pillars of this approach: shifting your mindset about work, living within your means, and reconsidering the traditional idea of retirement. Learn how to focus on guaranteed income, long-term care, and managing inflation while strategically planning for a secure and pleasurable retirement. Tune in for practical tips, financial strategies, and avoid common pitfalls to ensure you live the retirement you've always dreamed of. For more personalized advice, visit retirewithmartin.com.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
00:00 Introduction to the Die Broke Concept
01:36 Why Some People Choose to Die Broke
03:17 The Four Pillars of the Die Broke Philosophy
03:37 Pillar 1: Quit Today
05:10 Pillar 2: Pay Cash
07:19 Pillar 3: Don't Retire
11:00 The Concept of Not Retiring
11:26 The Radical Idea of Dying Broke
12:03 Challenges of the Die Broke Methodology
13:24 Financial Planning for a Secure Retirement
14:36 Ensuring a Comfortable Lifestyle
16:49 The Importance of Comprehensive Financial Planning
19:40 Final Thoughts and Resources
20:40 Conclusion & Disclaimers
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 Oct 21, 2024
The Simplest Way to Build Wealth and Enjoy Retirement
Monday Oct 21, 2024
Monday Oct 21, 2024
In this episode, Jim Martin, a financial advisor and founder of Martin Wealth Solutions, shares key insights on creating wealth for retirement. While reflecting on a trip to ACE Lake with his son and friends, Jim delves into the most fundamental principles of wealth-building: spending less than you earn, automatic and consistent investing, and maintaining patience and discipline. He emphasizes understanding debt, distinguishing between necessary and high-risk debts. Jim's engaging narrative includes personal anecdotes and outlines steps for financial planning, geared especially towards retirement-aged Americans. Visit planwellretirehappy.com for more resources and advisory services tailored to your retirement needs.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
00:00 A Day at ACE Lake
00:35 The Best Decade of Music
01:36 The Simplest Way to Create Wealth
03:13 Spend Less Than You Earn
05:15 Automatic Investing
07:09 Be Patient and Stay Disciplined
08:49 Understanding Debt
12:19 Final Thoughts and Disclaimers
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 Oct 14, 2024
Maximizing the Benefits of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in Retirement
Monday Oct 14, 2024
Monday Oct 14, 2024
In this episode, financial advisor Jim Martin explores the significance of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for retirement planning. He discusses the tax advantages HSAs offer, including tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses. Jim outlines how HSAs can serve as a healthcare cost buffer in retirement and emphasizes the importance of investing HSA funds for long-term growth. He also compares HSAs with other retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s and highlights common pitfalls to avoid when managing an HSA, such as not keeping receipts or investing funds. The episode encourages retirees to consider HSAs as a part of their financial plan to efficiently cover healthcare expenses in retirement.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
00:00 Introduction and Importance of Health Care Decisions
01:10 Understanding HSAs: Definition and Eligibility
01:58 Tax Advantages of HSAs
02:35 Using HSAs for Retirement Health Expenses
03:34 Contribution Limits and Strategic Planning
06:22 Investing HSA Funds for Long-Term Growth
08:13 Comparing HSAs with Other Retirement Accounts
10:04 Common Mistakes and Pitfalls to Avoid
12:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
13:01 Disclaimer and Legal Information
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 Oct 07, 2024
Top Three Financial Mistakes to Avoid for Retirement Success
Monday Oct 07, 2024
Monday Oct 07, 2024
In this episode, Jim Martin, founder of Martin Wealth Solutions, shares key insights from his recent conversations with clients about avoiding common pitfalls on the road to financial independence. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming procrastination, managing emotions when making financial decisions, and being cautious about whose advice you take. Jim also discusses practical strategies to maintain focus and highlights the value of seeking advice from reputable, fiduciary planners.
00:00 Introduction and Recent Travels
01:43 Avoiding Procrastination
08:01 Managing Emotions in Financial Decisions
13:46 Choosing the Right Financial Advisor
19:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
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 Sep 30, 2024
Navigating Life Insurance: Ensuring Financial Security for Your Family
Monday Sep 30, 2024
Monday Sep 30, 2024
In this episode, financial advisor Jim Martin shares essential insights on life insurance, its primary functions, costs, and the types suitable for different situations. He discusses income replacement, estate tax concerns, and fulfilling specific legacy goals, providing practical advice for selecting the right policy. Learn how life insurance can be leveraged for long-term care and the importance of understanding commissions. Perfect for retirees looking to secure their financial future and protect their families.
http://retiresmartscore.com <- Get your retirement score!
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
00:00 Introduction and Personal Story
01:18 Understanding Life Insurance
02:16 Reasons to Consider Life Insurance
08:48 Types of Life Insurance
11:46 Estate Tax Issues and Life Insurance
16:27 Life Insurance for Charitable Giving
19:26 Long-Term Care and Hybrid Policies
21:14 Conclusion and Disclaimers
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.

Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Want to maintain your lifestyle in retirement? Start preparing now!
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
In this episode, financial advisor Jim Martin from Martin Wealth Solutions dives deep into crafting the ideal retirement plan. Jim discusses the various lifestyle choices people envision for their retirement, ranging from globe-trotting adventures to modest, home-based routines. Learn how to prioritize your expenses and understand the phases of retirement - the go-go years, slow-go years, and no-go years - to ensure you have a solid financial plan in place. Jim also provides insights into budgeting, managing lifestyle creep, and how to prepare for a financially secure future. Whether you’re just starting to think about retirement or are nearing it, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you retire happy.
http://retirewithmartin.com/ <- Learn about working with Jim
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.