Smart Wealth and Retirement

Caring for Aging Parents Without Sacrificing Your Retirement

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the growing reality many families face: supporting aging parents while protecting your own retirement plan.

Jim and Casey walk through the emotional, financial, and logistical challenges that arise when parents begin needing help. They cover how to start difficult conversations, understand care options, coordinate finances, and avoid common mistakes that can strain relationships and derail long-term plans. The conversation offers practical guidance for navigating caregiving responsibilities with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: When caring for parents becomes part of your plan
02:02 – Why more families are facing caregiving decisions
03:34 – The emotional impact of helping aging parents
05:22 – Starting the conversation with Mom & Dad
07:14 – Understanding care options: in-home, assisted living, and beyond
09:26 – Financial considerations families often overlook
11:42 – Coordinating siblings and shared responsibilities
13:58 – How caregiving can affect your own retirement goals
16:04 – Planning ahead to avoid crisis-driven decisions
18:22 – Legal and documentation considerations
20:14 – When professional help may be needed
22:06 – Common mistakes families make
24:10 – Key takeaways for caregivers and planners

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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.

When One Spouse Is Ready to Retire — and the Other Isn’t

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions tackle a sensitive — but very common — retirement challenge: when one spouse is ready to retire and the other isn’t.

Jim and Casey discuss why this situation happens more often than people expect and how differences in identity, purpose, finances, and timing can create tension. They explore the emotional and practical considerations behind staggered retirements, how income planning changes when only one spouse stops working, and why communication and clarity are critical before making any big decisions.

If you or your spouse are approaching retirement and feeling unsure about taking that step together, this episode offers thoughtful guidance to help couples move forward with confidence and alignment.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: When retirement timing isn’t aligned
01:46 – Why this issue comes up so often with couples
03:12 – Emotional reasons one spouse may not want to retire
05:08 – Identity, purpose, and work beyond the paycheck
07:06 – Financial concerns behind staggered retirements
09:02 – How income planning changes when one spouse retires
11:14 – Social Security and benefit timing considerations
13:06 – Communication mistakes couples often make
15:02 – How to start the retirement conversation productively
17:04 – Planning options when spouses retire at different times
19:10 – Real-life client examples and lessons learned
21:12 – Final thoughts and closing

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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.

7 Retirement Investment Myths That Could Cost You

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions take on some of the most common — and dangerous — investment myths that can derail retirement plans.

Jim and Casey break down widely held beliefs about risk, market timing, diversification, income investing, and “playing it safe” in retirement. They explain why these myths persist, how they can quietly hurt long-term outcomes, and what a smarter, more disciplined investment approach looks like as you near or enter retirement.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about how to invest once retirement is on the horizon, this episode provides clarity and perspective to help you make confident, informed decisions.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why retirement investment myths are so common
01:42 – Why misinformation spreads in investing
02:10 – Myth #1: “The Stock Market is too risky in retirement”
05:03 – Myth #2: “Bond are always safe”
06:03 – Myth #3: “You can just live off dividends and interest”
08:34 – Myth #4: “Can you time the Market?”
10:12 – Myth #5: “Past performance predicts future results”
12:20 – Myth #6: “Fees don't matter if performance is good”
13:48 – Myth #7: “You don't need professional help - You can do it yourself”
16:40 – How to protect yourself from investment myths
21:06 – What smart investing really looks like in retirement
23:10 – Key takeaways and final thoughts

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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.

Should You Own Bonds in Retirement? Here’s What to Know

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down one of the most confusing — yet essential — components of retirement planning: bonds.

Jim and Casey explain what bonds are, how they generate income, and why they behave differently from stocks. They dig into interest rates, bond ladders, risk vs. reward, and why bonds can either stabilize a retirement portfolio or hold it back depending on how they're used.

Whether you're already retired or planning ahead, this episode clarifies the role bonds should play in your long-term income plan — especially in today’s evolving interest-rate environment.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why bonds matter in retirement
01:36 – What exactly is a bond?
02:58 – How bonds generate income
04:26 – Why bonds behave differently from stocks
05:58 – Interest rates and how they affect bond values
07:46 – The role bonds play in stabilizing a retirement portfolio
09:30 – When bonds can actually hurt your retirement plan
11:12 – Understanding bond duration and risk
12:58 – The pros and cons of bond ladders
14:40 – How to know if you have the right amount of bonds
16:12 – Bonds vs. CDs vs. annuities — what’s the difference?
17:48 – Practical tips for building a bond strategy

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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.

The Biggest Retirement Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down some of the most common — and costly — mistakes people make leading up to and during retirement.

From emotional investing and improper risk management to underestimating taxes, Social Security timing, and overspending early in retirement, Jim and Casey explain why these issues show up so often… and what you can do to stay clear of them.

They share real-world client experiences, discuss the habits that lead to long-term success, and offer practical steps to help retirees and pre-retirees avoid unnecessary stress, poor decisions, and financial regret.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why retirement mistakes happen
03:05 – Mistake #1: Overspending early in retirement
06:14 – Mistake #2: Not having a written plan
08:10 – Mistake #3: Not investing your age
10:34 – Mistake #4: Working longer than you really needed to
13:29 – Mistake #5: Ignoring taxes until it's too late
14:23 – Mistake #6: Delaying big decisions
16:50 – Mistake #7: Not reaching out to our team 
17:40 – Q&A with Casey
20:45 – Key takeaways & closing thoughts

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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.

Staying Sane in a Nervous Market: How Smart Investors Keep Their Cool

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions talk through one of the biggest emotional challenges retirees face: staying calm during market volatility.

Jim and Casey unpack why markets feel so unpredictable, the psychological traps investors often fall into, and the practical steps you can take to keep your financial plan on track when headlines turn scary. They also share real client experiences, lessons learned from previous downturns, and the mindset shifts that help long-term investors stay confident rather than reactive.

Whether you're retired or nearing retirement, this episode provides clarity and reassurance for navigating uncertain times with a steady hand.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why markets feel more “nervous” lately
02:04 – What a “nervous market” really means
03:30 – Why volatility feels worse than it actually is
05:22 – Emotional traps investors fall into
07:10 – Recency bias, fear, and market overreactions
09:18 – What history tells us about volatile periods
11:26 – How long-term investors can stay grounded
13:14 – Building a plan that can weather any market
15:06 – Why staying invested matters more than timing
17:20 – Real client stories from past downturns
19:02 – Practical steps to stay calm and make smart decisions
21:18 – How to evaluate your portfolio during volatility
22:42 – Final thoughts and encouragement

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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.

Your 10-Step Year-End Financial Checklist

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions walk through a practical, easy-to-follow year-end financial checklist to help you finish the year strong and set up a successful year ahead.

Jim and Casey cover ten items every household should review before December 31st — They explain why each step matters, what most people overlook, and how small adjustments now can make a big impact on your long-term retirement plan.

Whether you’re nearing retirement or still building toward it, this is a simple and actionable guide to making sure your financial life is aligned and prepared for the coming year.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why year-end planning matters

01:34 – What to review before December 31

03:18 – Checklist Item #1: Review your tax situation

04:24 – Checklist Item #2: Take your RMDs

05:06 – Checklist Item #3: Maximize retirement contributions

05:56 – Checklist Item #4: Harvest gains & losses wisely

07:20 – Checklist Item #5: Give strategically 

08:15 – Checklist Item #6: Review your portfolio & rebalance

09:05 – Checklist Item #7: Check beneficiaries & estate documents

10:10 – Checklist Item #8: Review your insurance coverage

10:45 – Checklist Item #9: Review long-term care insurance

11:05 – Checklist Item #10: Set next year's financial goals

13:10 – Q&A with Casey

15:25 – Final thoughts & takeaways

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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.

Long-Term Care 101: What You Need to Know Before You Retire

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions dive deep into one of the most important — and often misunderstood — parts of retirement planning: long-term care.

They break down what long-term care really means, how it fits into a retirement plan, and the pros and cons of having insurance versus self-funding. Jim and Casey explore the emotional and financial impact of care decisions, discuss the difference between traditional and hybrid policies, and share real-life examples from clients who’ve faced these challenges firsthand.

Whether you’re in your 50s, nearing retirement, or already retired, this episode offers practical insight into protecting your assets and your loved ones while maintaining peace of mind.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Why long-term care planning matters
02:12 – What “long-term care” actually covers
04:05 – How rising healthcare costs affect retirees
06:14 – Why planning early can make a big difference
08:02 – The pros of long-term care insurance
10:26 – Common drawbacks and misconceptions
12:45 – Comparing traditional vs. hybrid policies
15:04 – When self-funding may make more sense
17:10 – How long-term care can impact your income plan
19:22 – Real-life client examples and lessons learned
23:02 – Key takeaways and next steps

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Disclosure

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.

Rental Properties in Retirement: Smart Investment or Stress Trap?

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions explore whether owning rental properties is a smart move during retirement.

They discuss the pros — such as steady income, appreciation, and diversification — along with the cons that retirees often overlook, including taxes, maintenance headaches, liquidity issues, and tenant risk. Jim and Casey share real-life stories from clients who’ve both succeeded and struggled with investment properties, and they examine alternatives like REITs and other passive income options that offer exposure to real estate without the stress of being a landlord.

If you’ve ever wondered whether real estate belongs in your retirement plan, this conversation offers a balanced look at the opportunities and pitfalls — so you can make decisions that align with your goals, not just the headlines.

http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: Is real estate the right move in retirement?
02:06 – The appeal of rental income for retirees
04:25 – The realities of being a landlord
06:40 – Taxes, repairs, and cash flow surprises
08:58 – When rental properties become more work than reward
11:10 – Client story: managing multiple rental homes
13:18 – Evaluating the opportunity cost of real estate ownership
15:06 – REITs and other alternatives to direct property management
17:45 – How to know if real estate fits your retirement plan
20:12 – Final thoughts and key takeaways

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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.

Do You Really Need $1.5 Million to Retire? Breaking Down the Myth.

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions tackle one of the most common retirement questions — “Do I really need $1.5 million to retire comfortably?”

Jim and Casey break down where that number comes from, why it’s often misunderstood, and what truly determines how much you need. They discuss the key variables that shape your retirement number — lifestyle, spending habits, healthcare, taxes, and longevity — and explain how income planning can often matter more than your total account balance.

Whether you’re just starting to save or approaching the finish line, this episode helps you replace the guesswork with a plan that fits your real life — not a headline.

👉 http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us
👉 www.planwellretirehappy.com

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The $1.5 Million Question
00:48 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
01:35 Where the $1.5M Rule Comes From
03:22 Why “One-Size-Fits-All” Doesn’t Work
05:10 Lifestyle & Spending: The Real Drivers of Your Number
07:00 How Location and Cost of Living Impact Your Plan
08:45 The Importance of Income Planning Over Total Savings
10:58 Understanding Taxes, Inflation, and Longevity Risks
13:42 Real Client Story: Living Well Below $1.5 Million
16:05 How to Calculate Your Personal Retirement Number
18:10 Common Mistakes People Make When Estimating Needs
19:35 Final Thoughts: Confidence Over Comparison

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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.