Could Your Age Gap Change Your Retirement Plan?

What happens when one spouse is ready to retire, but the other may need the money to last another decade or more? Michelle Anthony explores the unique challenges married couples can face when there’s a significant age gap. She discusses planning for two retirement timelines, bridging the health ins…

Think Twice Before Moving Your Retirement Money

One retirement decision can create a ripple effect across your taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and more. Michelle Anthony discusses why major financial moves deserve a closer look before signing on the dotted line. From Roth conversions and inherited IRAs to large withdrawals, she explores how se…

Is Your Retirement Plan Built for the Unexpected?

What happens if retirement arrives before you’re ready? Michelle Anthony explains why a retirement plan shouldn’t depend on one perfect date and explores the circumstances that can push people out of the workforce earlier than expected. She discusses stress-testing a plan for an earlier retirement,…

Are You Too Scared to Spend Your Retirement Savings?

What if the biggest retirement mistake isn't spending too much, but spending too little? Michelle Anthony explores why many retirees struggle to shift from a lifetime of saving to confidently using the money they've worked hard to accumulate. The conversation covers the emotional impact of inflatio…

Why Market Volatility Feels Different Once You're Retired

What happens to your retirement paycheck when the market drops 20% overnight? Michelle Anthony explains why retirees experience market volatility differently and why waiting until a downturn to create an income strategy can be costly. The discussion covers sequence of returns risk, building cash re…

What Do You Want Your Money to Keep Doing After You're Gone?

What if the most valuable thing you leave behind has nothing to do with money? Inspired by the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, Michelle Anthony explores the difference between an estate and a legacy, and why financial planning should reflect the values, stories, and causes that matter most. The co…

Can a Withdrawal Rate Really Guide Your Retirement?

What if the biggest retirement rule of thumb is giving you a false sense of certainty? In this episode, Michelle Anthony examines the popular 4% rule and its updated 4.7% version, explaining why retirement income planning is about far more than a single withdrawal percentage. She discusses sequence…

Why Spousal Benefits Aren't What You Think

Could one Social Security misconception quietly cost your household thousands in retirement? Michelle Anthony explains why spousal benefits follow different rules than retirement benefits, and how claiming too early, waiting too long, or misunderstanding the "50% rule" can impact retirement income.…

Can't Afford to Retire, or Are You Just Afraid To?

What if the biggest obstacle to retirement isn't your savings account, but your mindset? Michelle Anthony explores why many people delay retirement even when the numbers suggest they're financially ready. She breaks down the emotional hurdles that come with shifting from saving to spending, the fea…

Warren Buffett Went to Cash. Should You?

What if playing it safe with your retirement money could create a different kind of risk? Michelle Anthony examines why Warren Buffett’s massive cash position before retirement doesn’t necessarily translate into a smart strategy for everyday retirees. She breaks down the hidden dangers of holding t…