Smart Wealth and Retirement

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.

Healthcare in Retirement 101

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisor and retirement planner Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions is joined by special guest Theresa Martin to discuss one of the most underestimated parts of retirement planning — healthcare costs.

Together, they unpack what retirees often overlook when it comes to planning for rising medical expenses. Casey and Theresa dive into the differences between Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, the gaps that can catch retirees off guard, and how to prepare for both routine and unexpected healthcare needs. They also explore long-term care options, the benefits of HSAs, and how proactive planning can help protect your nest egg from medical surprises.

If you’ve ever wondered how much to budget for healthcare in retirement — or how to make sure your plan covers more than just the basics — this conversation offers practical insight and clarity.

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

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction & Episode Setup
00:35 Meet the Hosts — Casey & Special Guest Theresa Martin
01:20 Why Healthcare Costs Matter in Retirement
03:05 Medicare Basics: Parts A, B, C & D
05:10 Coverage Gaps & Supplemental Options
07:05 Long-Term Care: What to Know & When It Makes Sense
09:00 HSAs & Tax Angles Before/After 65
10:35 Building a Healthcare Budget Inside Your Plan
12:20 Real-Life Example & Lessons Learned
14:10 Action Steps & Common Pitfalls to Avoid
15:30 Final Takeaways & Where to Get Help

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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.

Hidden Retirement Risks: How to plan for them.

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions tackle the question that keeps many investors up at night — “What if ....?”

They unpack the “what ifs” that often cloud retirement planning — market volatility, inflation, healthcare costs, and unexpected life changes. Jim and Casey share how proper planning can turn uncertainty into confidence through diversification, income planning, and risk management. They also discuss how retirees can prepare emotionally and financially for market fluctuations, and why the right strategy matters more than trying to time the market.

This conversation offers a calm, rational look at how to protect your retirement plan when the future feels uncertain.

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

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Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The “What If” Scenarios of Retirement
01:03 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
02:00 The Fear of Retiring Before a Market Drop
04:28 How Diversification Protects Income
07:40 Building a Retirement Plan That Survives “What Ifs”
10:52 Inflation, Healthcare, and the Unexpected Costs of Retirement
13:17 The Emotional Side of Market Volatility
15:30 Real-Life Client Example: Staying the Course During a Downturn
18:45 Why Planning Beats Prediction
21:12 Final Thoughts & Takeaways

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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.

Downsizing in Retirement: Smart Move or Mistake?

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions dive into one of the biggest lifestyle and financial questions facing retirees — when and how to downsize.

They explore the emotional and financial sides of moving to a smaller home, freeing up cash flow, and simplifying life in retirement. Jim and Casey walk through key considerations such as market timing, tax implications, and the impact of housing costs on your long-term plan. They also share real client stories of those who downsized successfully (and those who wish they’d done it sooner), along with practical guidance on how to decide whether now’s the right time to make the move.

Whether you’re thinking about selling your family home, relocating to a lower-cost area, or exploring retirement communities, this episode will help you make an informed decision that supports both your heart and your balance sheet.

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

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The Emotional Side of Downsizing
01:08 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
02:25 Why Downsizing Comes Up So Often in Retirement Planning
04:47 The Financial Math Behind a Smaller Home
07:32 Tax Considerations When Selling Your Home
09:45 Real Client Story: Moving to Simplify Life
12:58 Hidden Costs and Pitfalls to Avoid
15:40 Market Timing: Sell Now or Wait?
18:12 Lifestyle Shifts After Downsizing
20:55 Final Thoughts: Clarity Over Comfort

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.

Why a Roth IRA Might Hurt Your Retirement (Yes, Really)

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb challenge the idea that Roth IRAs are always the best solution. While Roth accounts offer incredible benefits like tax-free growth and no required minimum distributions, they also come with risks and timing issues that can derail your retirement plan.

Jim and Casey share real-life examples, including a client who paid unnecessary taxes after converting too much too fast. Together, they unpack situations where a Roth may not make sense — such as when future tax rates are lower, when you don’t have cash to cover conversion taxes, or when healthcare and Medicare surcharges come into play.

Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of how to evaluate Roth conversions and contributions strategically — as part of a broader financial plan, not just because “everyone’s doing it.”

👉 Learn more at retirewithmartin.com
👉 Visit planwellretirehappy.com

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⏱️ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction: The other side of the Roth story
00:55 – Client Story: Mr. Reynolds’ $500,000 Roth conversion gone wrong
04:30 – The Importance of Tax Timing and why conversions should be done gradually
06:18 – Reason #1: Expecting lower taxes in retirement — when a Roth may not make sense
08:40 – Reason #2: You don’t have extra cash to pay conversion taxes
10:52 – Reason #3: Roth conversions can impact Medicare and Social Security taxes (IRMAA)
13:24 – Reason #4: You may not have enough time for the Roth to pay off
15:46 – Reason #5: Charitable giving — why Roths don’t help charities or QCDs
18:05 – Reason #6: If you’re child-free, legacy benefits may not apply
20:40 – Reason #7: High-income earners may not benefit from Roth contributions
23:16 – Reason #8: Already diversified with tax-free income sources (munis, life insurance, Roth 401k)
26:00 – Final Thoughts: It’s not about following trends — it’s about personalized planning
27:55 – Q&A:
 • Should you convert a little each year or all at once?
 • What if tax rates go up later — will I regret not converting?
30:50 – Closing Thoughts: Use math, not emotion, when making conversion decisions
32:00 – Wrap-Up & Disclosures: Visit martinwealth.com for more information

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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 party’s 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. Investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.

How will falling rates impact your retirement?

Ready to connect with us? Visit: martinwealth.com

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down how the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions ripple into retirement planning. They explore why rising or falling rates matter for bond investors, mortgage holders, and retirees living on fixed income. Jim and Casey also share insights on how rate policy impacts inflation, portfolio stability, and the timing of Social Security and pension decisions. Whether you’re approaching retirement or already living in it, this conversation offers strategies to help you adapt your plan during shifting economic conditions.

Want to work with us?
Visit: http://retirewithmartin.com/
Learn more: martinwealth.com

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00:00 Introduction: Why the Fed Rate Matters
01:12 Meet the Hosts – Jim & Casey
02:05 The Federal Reserve’s Role Explained
04:28 How Rising Rates Impact Borrowing and Mortgages
07:14 The Link Between Interest Rates and Inflation
09:45 What Retirees Need to Know About Bonds and Fixed Income
13:22 Portfolio Allocation During Rate Changes
16:41 Social Security Timing and Rate Considerations
19:15 Case Study: Retiree Adjusting to Higher Rates
22:40 Practical Steps to Stay Financially Flexible
26:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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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.

Estate Planning 101 for Your 50s & 60s

Ready to connect with us? Visit: martinwealth.com

In this episode of the Smart Wealth & Retirement podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions unpack the essential elements of estate planning every retiree should have in place. From wills and trusts to healthcare directives, powers of attorney, and beneficiary designations, Jim and Casey explain why these documents matter, common mistakes they see, and how proper planning can save your family time, money, and heartache. With real client stories and practical takeaways, this episode will help you take control of your legacy with confidence.

Want to work with us?
Visit: http://retirewithmartin.com/
Learn more: www.planwellretirehappy.com

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00:00 — Introduction & Why Estate Planning Matters

• Jim & Casey set the stage: estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy.

• Why retirees often overlook this step until it’s too late.

03:10 — Wills: The Foundation of an Estate Plan

• What a will does (and doesn’t) accomplish.

• The risks of dying without one.

07:25 — Trusts: Control and Probate Avoidance

• How trusts provide privacy and efficiency.

• When it makes sense to use one vs. relying solely on a will.

12:15 — Healthcare Directives & Living Wills

• Documenting your wishes before a crisis occurs.

• How this protects your loved ones from difficult decisions.

16:40 — Powers of Attorney: Financial & Medical

• The difference between financial and medical POAs.

• Why not having them can stall critical decisions.

20:55 — Beneficiary Designations: The Overlooked Detail

• Why your 401(k), IRA, and insurance beneficiary forms can override a will.

• Real-world example of a costly mistake from outdated paperwork.

25:30 — Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Failing to update documents after life changes.

• Assuming “one and done” instead of ongoing maintenance.

29:45 — Final Thoughts & Next Steps

• A 5-document checklist for every retiree.

• Encouragement to work with an estate planning attorney and advisor together.

Want to work with us?

Visit us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MartinWealth
Learn more: martinwealth.com

 

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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.

Can You Retire on $750K? How long will it really last?

Want to work with us? Visit: martinwealth.com

Retirement planning can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re trying to figure out if your nest egg will actually last. In this episode, Jim Martin and Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions break down what life looks like if you retire with $750,000 saved. They walk through the timeline year by year, showing how income, Social Security, investments, and spending all come together.

You’ll hear about the “Go-Go Years,” “Slow-Go Years,” and “No-Go Years” — and why understanding these phases is critical for planning smarter, spending confidently, and avoiding the fear of running out of money.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• 📊 How $750K can realistically provide income in retirement

• 🕒 Why the first 10 years matter most for your retirement timeline

• 💵 How Social Security fits into your income picture

• 🔄 The 3 phases of retirement (Go-Go, Slow-Go, No-Go) and how spending shifts in each

• ⚖️ The importance of balancing risk and protection in your portfolio

• 🧾 Key tax considerations that can help stretch your savings further

Why It Matters

Most people wonder: “Do I have enough?” This episode gives you a clear framework to evaluate your own retirement savings and avoid overspending early. It’s not just about the size of your nest egg — it’s about how you use it over time.

 

Want to work with us?

Visit us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MartinWealth
Learn more: martinwealth.com

 

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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.