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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.