In this episode, Roger Whitney breaks down essential elements you need to consider before and during retirement. From understanding inflation risks to strategic asset reallocation, this episode offers practical advice to help you make informed decisions and craft a retirement that aligns with your values.OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN PODCAST

Introduction and overview of upcoming topicsRETIREMENT TOOLKIT

Why inflation poses a significant risk to retirees

What is inflation and how is it measured

Causes of inflation: demand, supply constraints, and rising costs

Historical inflation rates and what they mean for your planning

How to choose a realistic inflation assumption in your plan

Strategies to hedge against inflationROCKIN RETIREMENT IN THE WILD

Jim’s story: diversity in retirement activities and the importance of adaptabilityPRACTICAL PLANNING SEGMENT

Mike’s question reframed: focus on designing your retirement life first, not account tactics

Roger reviews Mike’s facts

The importance of building a feasible plan of record, estimating expenses, and creating a realistic monthly budget for retirement

Clarifying values and how they shape your retirement goals

Income side of the plan: social security, pensions, and tax considerations

Once the plan is feasible, start testing versions of the plan and planning paycheck

401(k) and 457 decisions can wait—focus on positioning assets for income first

Consider building after-tax savings now to increase future optionalityLISTENER QUESTIONS

Listener shares story about roadside cafe

Michael asks a question about ROTH conversions in a down market

Steve asks how to better time Roth conversions to avoid triggering IRMAA Medicare surcharges?SMART SPRINT

Smart Sprint: Before acting, ask yourself “what problem am I actually solving?”ON THE BOOKSHELF