What if retirement planning isn't about how much money you save, but how much income you'll actually need? In the relaunch of Ask the Plan Man, Bruce Weinstein, known as "The Plan Man," joins Mel Albin, CEO of the Source Radio and TV Network, to challenge conventional thinking about retirement, investing, and financial security. Drawing on more than 40 years of financial services experience, Bruce introduces the central concept behind his new book, Solving for X: The Retirement Equation Nobody Taught You. Your X is the income your retirement assets need to generate to support your lifestyle beyond Social Security and pensions. Understanding that number can change how you save, invest, manage risk, and prepare for retirement. In this episode, you'll discover: Why successful retirement planning starts with your desired lifestyle, not investment products. How to calculate your retirement income needs by working backward from your goals. Why inflation, market volatility, and changing interest rates can threaten retirement security. The hidden costs of retiring early, especially healthcare expenses before Medicare. How asset allocation, diversification, and risk management fit into a long-term financial strategy. Why retirement, college savings, family protection, and estate planning require coordinated decisions. The importance of revisiting your financial plan as your life and circumstances change. Bruce also shares the deeply personal story behind his philosophy of retiring with financial dignity—having the knowledge, resources, and flexibility to make financial decisions on your own terms. Whether you're approaching retirement, already retired, or just starting to plan, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on building a financial roadmap that fits your life. Follow Along with Solving for X Want to take your retirement planning beyond the conversation? Get a signed copy of Bruce Weinstein's Solving for X: The Retirement Equation Nobody Taught You or a downloadable copy of the companion workbook so you can follow along as we break down the book, explore real-world financial challenges, and help you build your own retirement roadmap. Get the Book in Print, Kindle or Audible: https://amzn.to/4xFjWMp Get the Workbook: https://amzn.to/4jiw6WT Get a Autographed copy of the Book or the downloadable version of the Workbook: https://signed.planmaninsurance.com/solving-signed Watch the Episode: https://youtu.be/6TrbGPWQrW0 Sponsored by Fit Wealth Management Your journey should fit your life, not the other way around. Learn more at https://fitwgt.com. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Consult qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.