Episodit

  • A seven-figure portfolio can feel like a green light for retirement—but the numbers don’t always tell the full story. In one case study, a couple with over $1 million saved faced a withdrawal rate close to 14% based on their desired lifestyle. That’s nearly three times higher than what’s typically considered sustainable.

    This story is a reminder that retirement success isn’t just about hitting a number, it’s about how your money is structured to support your life.

    A solid plan makes the difference between retiring with confidence and retiring with uncertainty.

    Let’s help you build the kind of plan that lasts.

    -

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

    The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

    Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

    Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs often get all the attention, but there’s another tool that can play a powerful role in your long-term strategy: the humble brokerage account.

    Unlike retirement accounts with age restrictions and penalties, brokerage accounts offer flexibility. You can access funds at any time, for any purpose without early withdrawal penalties. That kind of control can be incredibly valuable, especially if your goals include retiring early, helping family, or funding big life moments along the way.

    Having a mix of account types—pre-tax, Roth, and brokerage—can give you more control over your income and taxes in retirement. It also helps you avoid a common challenge: having most of your wealth tied up in accounts that are difficult (or costly) to access when you need them most.

    A thoughtful strategy includes more than just maxing out retirement accounts. It’s about building flexibility, tax efficiency, and confidence into every stage of your financial life.

    -

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

    The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

    Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

    Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


    Get Started Here.

    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

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  • After working with hundreds of people navigating retirement, we’ve seen a clear pattern: the biggest regrets aren’t about money. They’re about meaning.

    Too often, people retire from something—but never toward something. They solve the financial side without planning for the life side. And that leads to some common regrets:

    No clear purpose after work: Retirement without direction quickly turns from freedom to restlessness.Neglecting health too long: Wellness is what fuels the retirement you’ve dreamed about—don’t wait to prioritize it.Losing social connection: The workplace offers more structure and belonging than many realize until it’s gone.Expecting retirement to feel like a vacation forever: It won’t. But with intention, it can become a reinvention.Being too afraid to spend: Your money is a tool to live—not something to hoard while life passes by.

    Don’t wait to think about what really matters. The best retirements are built not just on financial security—but on vision, relationships, health, and joy.

    Start designing a life you won’t regret.

    -

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

    The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

    Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

    Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


    Get Started Here.

    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • The biggest question I hear from people planning for retirement is this: Am I going to run out of money before I run out of life? But here’s the thing, no matter how much you’ve saved, that fear doesn’t automatically go away. In this video, I walk through what the data actually says about your chances of running out of money, where the 4% rule comes from, and why many people end up being far too conservative with their spending.

    I’ll also share a more flexible way to approach withdrawals so you can protect your future without missing out on the life you want to live right now. This isn’t about guessing or hoping for the best. It’s about building a plan that supports the kind of retirement you’re excited to wake up to.

    -

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

    The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

    Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

    Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


    Get Started Here.

    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • What does it really mean to change someone’s life through financial advice? While we’re not saving lives like doctors, the impact we have on our clients’ futures can be just as meaningful. Often, it’s not about the numbers—it’s about helping someone move forward when fear is holding them back.

    We’ve seen it firsthand. Like the dentist who had every detail in place to open her own practice but couldn’t take the final step. What helped wasn’t another spreadsheet—it was a mindset shift. Or the couple who had more than enough to retire but needed a gentle nudge to believe it was truly okay. These are the moments where great financial advice becomes personal and transformative.

    At Root, we believe a solid financial plan is about more than projections. It’s about building a life you’re excited to live. That’s why we focus not only on technical guidance, but on walking with our clients through the real-life decisions that matter most.

    -

    Viewing this video does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. We only provide advisory services to clients under a written agreement.

    Investment strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results.

    Any opinions expressed are as of the date of recording and are subject to change.

    Comments left on this video reflect the views and opinions of the individual commenters and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial Partners, LLC. Comments should not be considered a testimonial or endorsement of our services and have not been solicited or compensated. Root does not verify the accuracy of comments and is not responsible for their content.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


    Get Started Here.

    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • If your goal is to spend $10,000 a month in retirement, how much do you really need saved? The answer isn’t as simple—or as overwhelming—as it might seem.

    In this episode, I break down the key factors that influence your retirement number beyond the common 4% rule. We’ll explore how Social Security can significantly reduce what you need to save, why account types like Roth vs. traditional IRAs make a major difference, and how your withdrawal strategy and retirement age can shift the numbers by hundreds of thousands of dollars. Using real planning software, I walk through examples that show how all these variables come together.

    Whether you plan to spend $5K or $15K a month, these principles apply. It’s not about hitting a one-size-fits-all number—it’s about understanding what works for your unique plan.

    -

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult with your CPA or attorney regarding your specific situation.

    Viewing this video does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. We only provide advisory services to clients under a written agreement. Investment strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. All investments involve risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Any opinions expressed are as of the date of recording and are subject to change.

    The Retirement Planning Academy is an educational program offered by Root Financial Partners, LLC. Access to the Academy is provided through a one-time payment and does not establish an advisory relationship. The content is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not include personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Participation in the Academy does not make you a client of Root Financial Partners, LLC. Please consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

    Comments left on this video reflect the views and opinions of the individual commenters and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial Partners, LLC. Comments should not be considered a testimonial or endorsement of our services and have not been solicited or compensated. Root does not verify the accuracy of comments and is not responsible for their content.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Retirement planning isn’t about chasing numbers, it’s about building a life with intention.


    The Sequoia System helps you get clear on what matters most, organize your finances around that vision, and create a plan that supports the freedom, peace of mind, and purpose you’re truly after.

    We start with your life vision, translate that into a monthly income goal, and map out your cash flow using a mix of reliable income sources and portfolio withdrawals. Then we align your investments with those needs, optimize for taxes, and protect the plan through insurance and estate strategies, so everything works together to support the life you want to live.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • In this episode, Ari and James explore the emotional and practical sides of retiring—specifically, how to have the conversation that officially ends your career.

    Whether you're months away or years out, this discussion tackles the fear, hesitation, and freedom that come with telling your boss you're done. You'll hear real stories from Root Collective members who’ve taken the leap, insights on counteroffers, and a powerful reframe: every “yes” to more work is a “no” to your time, your family, your dreams.

    -

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

    The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

    Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

    Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


    Get Started Here.

    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • In this episode, we walk through a retirement planning scenario involving a couple in their early 60s with a $4 million investment portfolio. Their financial plan reveals something surprising: they may not need to wait until 65 to retire. Instead, thoughtful planning opens the door to retiring earlier—without compromising the lifestyle they value.

    What we cover:
    • A breakdown of how a $4 million portfolio can support early retirement
    • Income sources, spending needs, and sustainable withdrawal strategies
    • The impact of delaying Social Security to age 70 on long-term portfolio health
    • How adjusting travel or discretionary expenses affects financial longevity
    • Why the right financial plan is less about hitting a number—and more about designing a life

    Whether you're working toward financial independence or already approaching retirement, this episode offers insight into how personalized planning can unlock real flexibility—regardless of your portfolio size.




    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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  • Deciding when to start your Social Security benefits might be the single most consequential financial decision of your retirement journey. Should you claim early at 62, wait until full retirement age at 67, or delay until 70 to maximize your monthly check? The answer isn't as straightforward as many think.

    Your Social Security benefit is calculated using your 35 highest-earning years, adjusted for inflation. This forms your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) – what you're entitled to at full retirement age. But here's where strategy enters: claiming at 62 permanently reduces your benefit by about 30%, while each year you delay beyond full retirement age adds a valuable 8% to your monthly check (up to age 70).

    The early claiming strategy at 62 offers immediate cash flow and potentially preserves your investment portfolio longer. However, it comes with serious trade-offs: permanently reduced monthly benefits, earnings limits if you're still working ($23,400 before penalties kick in), and potentially smaller survivor benefits for your spouse. This decision isn't just about you – it affects your family's financial security after you're gone.

    Waiting until full retirement age gives you 100% of your calculated benefit and eliminates the earnings test if you're still working. It represents a balanced approach that neither maximizes nor minimizes your benefit. Meanwhile, delaying until 70 increases your monthly check by a substantial 24% over your full retirement age benefit – creating the strongest possible income floor for life and maximum protection against longevity risk. This delay strategy also opens tax planning opportunities in your 60s, particularly for Roth conversions.

    The optimal claiming age depends on your unique circumstances. Consider your health outlook, marital status, other income sources, tax situation, and overall retirement income needs. Remember that this isn't simply about break-even calculations – it's about creating security and maximizing quality of life throughout your retirement journey.

    Ready to get clarity on your optimal Social Security strategy? Visit our website to discover how personalized retirement planning can help you make the most of your benefits and create lasting financial security for you and your loved ones.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Retired with millions—but full of regret?

    In this episode of Root Talks, James and Ari share the real stories no one talks about: wealthy retirees who did everything “right” financially but still feel like they missed out. From sacrificing health and relationships for more savings, to realizing too late that they were planning for someone else’s version of success, these lessons are emotional, practical, and essential.

    What you’ll learn:
    Common regrets wealthy retirees confess after leaving work
    Why financial freedom means nothing without health, time, or joy
    How to avoid estate planning mistakes that burden your spouse or family
    Why intentional living matters more than chasing a number
    Simple, high-impact ways to prepare for retirement now

    If you're building wealth, nearing retirement, or want to live more meaningfully today—this conversation is for you

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


    Get Started Here.

    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Jeffrey and Cindy came to me with $3 million saved and one big question: How much can we actually spend in retirement? In this video, we walk through a retirement planning scenario—looking at spending goals, taxes, travel, healthcare, and how Social Security might factor in.

    While the numbers vary, the framework we use applies whether you're working with $300,000 or $30 million. We explore how to think about sustainable withdrawal rates, portfolio flexibility, and trade-offs between spending today and planning for tomorrow.

    This isn’t just about getting by—it’s about using what you’ve saved to live intentionally. And just as important, it’s about avoiding the regret of leaving money (and meaningful experiences) unused.

    If you're thinking about how to align your spending with your values in retirement, this conversation is for you.

    Questions we explore:

    How can I estimate a sustainable spending level in retirement?How do I balance enjoying life now with preserving assets for the future?



    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - Jeffrey and Cindy's plan
    3:24 - Understand cash flows
    5:45 - Projected portfolio withdrawals
    7:22 - Probability of success
    9:26 - Monitor your withdrawal rate
    11:12 - Key takeaway
    13:26 - Wrap-up

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Many great savers hesitate to spend once they retire—unsure how to shift gears after years of discipline. In this episode, we talk through what it looks like to use money with intention, not just someday, but now.

    Prompted by a thoughtful note from a Root Collective member, we share stories—personal and client-based—about the small upgrades that matter: better experiences, more time, stronger health, and generosity that deepens relationships.

    We also walk through five areas where spending often brings clarity and connection: experiences, time, giving, health, and environment.


    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Advisory relationships are established only through a signed agreement. Any examples discussed are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes. If client experiences are referenced, no compensation was provided and their experience may not be representative of others. Root Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. Tax planning topics are discussed in the context of comprehensive financial planning and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. All investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Watching or listening to this content does not create an advisory relationship. Comments shared publicly are unsolicited and do not reflect the views or experience of all clients. They are not verified and should not be construed as testimonials or endorsements.

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) don’t get much attention—but they should. With triple tax advantages (tax-free contributions, growth, and qualified withdrawals), HSAs offer a level of flexibility that’s hard to beat.

    I break down how to use an HSA not just for healthcare today, but as a long-term planning tool. That includes how to qualify, contribute, invest the funds, and take strategic withdrawals.

    I also explain why it’s worth tracking medical expenses—even if you don’t reimburse yourself right away—to create future options for tax-free income.

    What you'll learn:
    1. How an HSA can help reduce your lifetime tax burden and fit into a broader retirement strategy
    2. Ways to maximize the tax benefits beyond just paying current medical bills

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - How HSAs work
    1:12 - Eligibility and contribution limits
    3:19 - HSA details and nuances
    4:36 - Timing flexibility
    8:11 - Case study -- John
    9:31 - Leveraging tax benefits
    10:50 - Qualified medical expense
    11:51 - Use HSA to the fullest extent
    14:19 - HSAs in the grand scheme of things

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • If you’re sitting on large investment gains in a brokerage account and wondering whether it’s worth taking the tax hit, this episode is for you. I walk through a clear framework I use with clients to help them decide when—and if—it makes sense to realize those gains.

    I also explain several strategies that can potentially reduce or even eliminate the taxes you might owe, including how to take advantage of the 0% long-term capital gains tax bracket, gifting appreciated assets, and tax-loss harvesting. Whether you're approaching retirement or just looking to be more intentional with your investments, these tools can help you make more informed decisions.

    Toward the end, I also point to a related video where I explain how a separately managed account may benefit high-income investors with significant brokerage assets.

    Questions answered:
    1. When does it make sense to realize investment gains in a taxable brokerage account—and when should you hold off?

    2. What strategies can help reduce or eliminate the taxes owed on long-term capital gains?

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - When not to sell
    2:40 - Understand risks on both sides
    5:54 - Tax strategies
    8:55 - Gifting stocks to charities
    11:14 - Gifting to family
    12:44 - Understanding step-up in basis
    14:18 - Capital losses offset capital gains
    15:11 - Wrap-up

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • What actually goes into creating a world-class client experience at Root? We're walking through the structure behind Root's advisory team—and how we ensure every client gets consistent, thoughtful guidance no matter who they’re working with.

    We break down the different advisor roles, from Client Service Associate to Senior Financial Advisor, and explain how our “farm system” approach helps us grow top-tier advisors from the ground up. It’s not just about years of experience—it’s about shared values, rigorous training, and a culture of mentorship.

    If you’re considering working with Root—or just curious about what makes us different—this behind-the-scenes conversation will give you a look at how we build a team designed to support you and your goals at every step.

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - Selling product vs service
    2:58 - Four roles supporting clients
    5:36 - Project management
    8:16 - Root's growth plan
    11:00 - A farm system
    12:33 - Requirements to be a Root advisor
    15:09 - Freedom within guardrails
    19:03 - Why this matters
    21:31 - Wrap-up


    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Wondering if you can retire at 60 with $2 million? In this episode, I walk you through a simple, 3-step process to figure out exactly how much you need in your portfolio to retire comfortably—and confidently. Whether you've already run the numbers or you're just starting to think about retirement, this is a great way to gut-check your plan.

    We'll talk about how to calculate your real retirement expenses (hint: it’s probably not your current salary), factor in income like Social Security or a pension, and then figure out what size portfolio you actually need to fill the gap. I’ll also cover some key nuances that can make or break your plan—like uneven income, taxes, and what happens if one spouse passes away.

    If you’re looking to make smart decisions about retirement, this episode is for you.

    Questions answered:
    1. How do I figure out how much I really need to retire, based on my actual expenses—not just my current income?

    2. How can I tell if my $2 million retirement portfolio will be enough to support my lifestyle at age 60?

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - Determine retirement expenses
    3:54 - Retirement taxes will be lower
    5:12 - 2 ways to determine expenses
    7:17 - Determine nonportfolio income sources
    8:38 - Determine portfolio withdrawal rate
    11:06 - Consider uneven income sources and expenses
    12:54 - Consider taxes in retirement
    14:00 - When a spouse dies
    15:22 - Wrap-up

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Want to pay less in taxes during retirement? You actually have more control over your tax rate than you might think. James breaks down how different investment accounts—like brokerage accounts, 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, HSAs, and inherited accounts—are taxed and how smart withdrawal strategies can help you minimize taxes over time. He also explains key concepts like the 0% capital gains bracket, step-up in basis, and Social Security taxation. Learn how to make tax-smart moves with your retirement income so you can keep more of what you’ve saved.

    Questions answered:
    1. How can I reduce the amount of taxes I pay in retirement?

    2. How are different retirement accounts—like 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, brokerage accounts, and HSAs—taxed when I withdraw money?

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - Brokerage accounts
    4:29 - Standard 401(k)
    6:27 - Health savings account
    9:54 - HSAs after age 65
    11:00 - Inheritance
    13:01 - Inherited IRA account
    15:33 - Social Security
    17:00 - Wrap-up

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!

  • Many professionals find that retiring isn’t just about having enough money—it’s about feeling ready to leave behind the structure, identity, and comfort of a career.

    In this Root Financial podcast episode, James and Ari explore the emotional hurdles of retiring from a high-paying, high-stress job, even when financially prepared. They highlight the value of aligning retirement with your future self’s goals and priorities, not just your current fears.

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - A comment from the Collective
    3:03 - A first-day-of-school analogy
    4:25 - What would my future self do?
    6:47 - Helpful feedback
    8:32 - Make sure you're ready financially
    10:20 - A life you don't retire from
    13:18 - The opportunity cost
    16:39 - More words of wisdom
    18:44 - Making the decision is the scary part

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  • Many retirees focus on achieving a high Monte Carlo “probability of success” in retirement—but is chasing a 99% success rate always the best move? In this episode, James highlights a real-life story of a man forced to delay retirement after a divorce dropped his probability of success from 99% to 70%. James explores why this single number shouldn't drive such massive decisions. He explains how context—like income sources, spending flexibility, and home equity—matters more than a static success rate. You’ll learn why 100% isn’t always ideal, and how to build a retirement plan that supports a meaningful life, not just a perfect score.

    Questions answered?
    1. Should I delay retirement if my Monte Carlo probability of success drops?


    2. Is a 100% probability of success the best goal for my retirement plan?

    Submit your request to join James:
    On the Ready For Retirement podcast: Apply Here
    On a Retirement Makeover episode: Apply Here

    Timestamps:
    0:00 - An encounter at the gym
    2:37 - What is Monte Carlo analysis?
    4:18 - Consider severity of failure
    6:19 - Consider other assets, like property
    7:35 - Is a 100% probability score really success?
    10:55 - Monitor and course correct
    14:13 - Margin
    15:07 - No universal number
    16:13 - Assumptions about spending
    18:27 - Retirement spending smile
    20:57 - Context matters

    Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️


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    Join the new Root Collective HERE!