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.

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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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