Retire Early Podcast

Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to ”The Retire Early Podcast,” your essential guide to achieving the retirement you’ve always dreamed of—sooner rather than later! Hosted by Sam Benson and Linwood Fraher, this podcast is tailored specifically for individuals aged 50-65 who are passionate about retiring early and living their best lives. Each week, we’ll dive deep into essential retirement topics including tax-efficient strategies, smart investing, healthcare planning, income optimization, Social Security tips, estate planning, and actionable financial advice. We’ll feature expert insights, inspiring stories, and practical tools to empower you on your journey toward early retirement. Whether you’re planning to retire in 5 years or 15, ”The Retire Early Podcast” equips you with the knowledge and confidence to secure your financial future, maximize your wealth, and enjoy the retirement lifestyle you deserve. Subscribe today and join our community committed to retiring early and thriving in retirement!

  1. 1d ago

    Stop. Overpaying. Your Taxes.

    In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss why many early retirees end up paying more in taxes than necessary—and what they can do to avoid it. Sam and Linwood explain that retirement creates unique tax planning opportunities, but without a strategy, retirees can unknowingly increase their tax bill. They discuss how different account types are taxed, why withdrawal sequencing matters, and how careful income planning can help reduce lifetime taxes. They also cover common mistakes involving Social Security, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), Roth conversions, and Medicare premium surcharges, showing listeners how proactive planning can keep more money working for them instead of going to the IRS. Whether you're planning to retire early or are already enjoying retirement, this episode highlights practical tax strategies that could make a meaningful difference over the long term. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction to today's topic 00:52 Meet the hosts 02:05 Avoiding unexpected surprises with your taxes 03:57 Why withdrawal order matters 06:37 The importance of tax diversification 08:35 What to lookout for with Roth conversion opportunities 10:38 Social Security taxation and hidden tax costs 11:50 Coordinating investments with tax strategy 12:36 What to do with Employer stock 14:29 Retirement planning and buyer's remorse 16:15 Common tax mistakes retirees make 16:53 Action steps to improve tax efficiency  17:35 Final thoughts and closing remarks   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.

  2. Aug 11

    7 Red Flags That Mean You Shouldn't Retire Just Yet

    In this episode of the Retire Early podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the warning signs that may indicate you are not quite ready to retire. Retirement readiness involves more than reaching a certain age or account balance. Sam and Linwood explain why retirees also need a dependable income plan, a clear understanding of their expenses, a strategy for healthcare, and a plan for how they will spend their time after leaving work. They also address the risks of carrying too much debt, relying on unrealistic investment returns, or making a retirement decision before both spouses are on the same page. The episode encourages listeners to identify potential gaps before submitting their retirement notice. With proper planning, many of these warning signs can be addressed, helping you approach retirement with greater clarity, confidence, and flexibility. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction: Are you truly ready to retire? 00:46 Meet the hosts 01:44 Retirement readiness is about more than your savings 02:26 Sign #1: You don’t understand your retirement expenses 05:01 Sign #2: You haven’t built a dependable income plan 10:41 Sign #3: You haven’t planned for healthcare costs 13:19 Sign #4: You’re carrying too much debt 15:51 Sign #5: You don't have any emergency reserves 18:50 Sign #6: You don't have a strategy for your taxes  22:41 Sign #7: You haven't created a plan with your spouse 23:56 Planning for purpose, routine, and social connection 26:07 Stress-testing your retirement strategy 26:25 Final thoughts and closing remarks   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.

  3. Aug 4

    Making Six Figures But Still Broke? How High Earners Fix Their Finances

    In this episode of the Retire Early podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss why earning six figures does not always translate into feeling financially secure. As income rises, spending often increases alongside it, leaving many high earners wondering why they are not making more progress toward their financial goals. Sam and Linwood explore how lifestyle inflation, housing costs, vehicles, debt, taxes, subscriptions, and everyday spending can quietly consume a strong income. They explain the difference between earning a high salary and actually building wealth, as well as the importance of understanding where your money is going each month. The episode also offers practical ideas for taking control of cash flow, using raises and bonuses intentionally, automating savings, and aligning spending with the goals that matter most. Whether you recently received a raise or have earned a strong income for years, this conversation can help you turn that income into greater financial confidence and long-term wealth. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction: Making six figures but still feeling broke 00:52 Meet the hosts 01:42 Why a strong income may not feel like enough 03:32 How lifestyle inflation affects high earners 05:30 Understanding where your money is going 07:34 Housing, vehicles, debt, and recurring expenses 09:38 The difference between earning money and building wealth 11:32 Why budgeting still matters at higher incomes 13:24 Using raises and bonuses intentionally 15:18 Automating savings and investing 17:12 Aligning spending with your financial priorities 19:10 Avoiding comparison and keeping up with others 20:48 Practical steps to start making progress 22:14 Final thoughts and closing remarks   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.

  4. Jul 28

    Should You Sell Your Company Stock Before Retirement?

    In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss a situation many long-time employees eventually face: having a large portion of their retirement savings tied up in company stock. Sam and Linwood explain the risks of being overly concentrated in a single investment—even if it's the company you've worked for and believe in. They discuss diversification, tax considerations, emotional attachment to employer stock, and strategies for reducing concentration risk without derailing your long-term retirement plan. Whether you've accumulated company stock through a 401(k), stock purchase plan, restricted stock, or executive compensation package, this episode provides practical guidance to help you make informed decisions before retirement. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction to today's topic 00:48 Meet the hosts 01:28 Why company stock can become a large part of your portfolio 03:06 The risks of being overly concentrated in one investment 04:52 Emotional attachment versus sound financial planning 06:34 Diversification and why it matters 08:18 Tax considerations when selling company stock 09:58 Strategies for reducing concentration risk over time 11:40 Coordinating company stock with your retirement income plan 13:18 Common mistakes investors make with employer stock 15:02 Key takeaways and practical planning tips 17:02 Final thoughts and closing remarks   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.

  5. Jul 21

    Can You Retire Before 59½ Without Penalties?

    In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions answer one of the most common questions from aspiring early retirees: How can you retire before age 59½ without paying unnecessary penalties? Sam and Linwood explain that while many retirement accounts have age-based withdrawal rules, there are several strategies that may allow individuals to access retirement assets before age 59½. They discuss the importance of planning ahead, understanding account types, building bridge assets, and coordinating withdrawals in a tax-efficient way. Whether you're hoping to retire in your 50s or simply want more flexibility in your financial future, this episode provides practical guidance on how early retirement can be achievable with the right plan. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction to today's topic 00:50 Meet the hosts 01:32 Why age 59½ matters for retirement accounts 03:08 Common misconceptions about early retirement withdrawals 04:52 Bridge accounts and taxable investments 06:34 Understanding the Rule of 55 08:18 72(t) / SEPP withdrawals explained 10:02 Roth IRA contribution withdrawal rules 11:42 Building flexibility before retirement 13:20 Tax planning for early retirees 15:04 Coordinating multiple income sources 16:46 Common mistakes to avoid when retiring early 18:08 Key takeaways and planning tips 19:20 Final thoughts and closing   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.

  6. Jul 14

    How Couples with an Age Gap Should Plan for Retirement

    In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the unique challenges and opportunities couples face when there is a significant age difference between spouses. Sam and Linwood explain how an age gap can affect retirement timing, Social Security strategies, healthcare planning, income needs, and investment decisions. They also discuss how couples can balance different retirement goals, coordinate benefits, and create a financial plan that works for both spouses throughout retirement. Whether you're several years apart in age or simply want to better understand the planning considerations involved, this episode offers practical strategies to help couples build a retirement plan that supports both partners. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction to today's topic 00:52 Meet the hosts 01:34 Why age gaps create unique retirement planning challenges 03:12 Deciding when each spouse should retire 05:08 Coordinating Social Security benefits 07:02 Healthcare and Medicare timing considerations 08:56 Managing retirement income for different life stages 10:44 Investment strategies for couples with different timelines 12:36 Balancing risk when spouses have different retirement horizons 14:24 Estate planning and beneficiary considerations 16:08 Planning for survivor income needs 17:52 Common mistakes couples make when planning together 19:22 Key takeaways and action steps 20:48 Closing remarks   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.

  7. Jul 7

    6 Travel Tips Before & During Retirement

    In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions share six practical travel tips to help retirees and soon-to-be retirees enjoy their adventures with greater confidence and less stress. Travel is one of the biggest goals many people have for retirement, but successful trips require more than booking flights and packing bags. Sam and Linwood discuss important considerations like budgeting for travel, protecting yourself with travel insurance, planning for healthcare needs abroad, managing finances securely while traveling, and preparing for unexpected disruptions. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or the international trip you've dreamed about for years, this episode offers practical advice to help you travel smarter and make the most of your retirement years. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction to today's episode 00:58 Meet the hosts 02:04 Why travel is a major retirement goal 04:02 Travel Tip #1: Build travel into your retirement budget 06:18 Travel Tip #2: Don't overlook travel insurance 09:02 Travel Tip #3: Plan for healthcare while traveling 11:36 Travel Tip #4: Protect your money and personal information 14:08 Travel Tip #5: Prepare for unexpected delays and emergencies 17:02 Travel Tip #6: Make the most of travel rewards and planning tools 20:12 International travel considerations 22:18 How to avoid common travel mistakes in retirement 24:46 Creating memorable experiences without overspending 27:08 Final travel planning checklist 29:12 Closing 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.

  8. Jun 30

    How Trusts Protect Families and Assets

    In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions continue their discussion on one of the most misunderstood estate planning tools: trusts. Building on the foundation from Part 1, Sam and Linwood dive deeper into how trusts function, who controls assets within a trust, and the practical benefits trusts can provide for families. They explain common trust provisions, how trusts can help avoid probate, and why proper coordination between your trust, beneficiary designations, and other estate planning documents is essential. Whether you already have a trust or are considering one, this episode provides practical insights to help you better understand how trusts fit into a comprehensive financial and retirement plan. http://retirewithmartin.com/ ← Learn about working with us www.planwellretirehappy.com   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction and recap of Part 1 00:50 Meet the hosts 01:30 How trusts actually work 03:02 Key parties involved in a trust 04:40 Understanding trustees and successor trustees 06:12 How assets are managed inside a trust 07:46 Why funding a trust matters 09:18 Common trust provisions and protections 10:54 How trusts help families avoid probate 12:28 Coordinating trusts with beneficiary designations 13:58 Common mistakes people make with trusts 15:22 When a trust may or may not make sense 16:46 Key takeaways and planning considerations 17:58 Final thoughts and closing remarks   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.

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About

Welcome to ”The Retire Early Podcast,” your essential guide to achieving the retirement you’ve always dreamed of—sooner rather than later! Hosted by Sam Benson and Linwood Fraher, this podcast is tailored specifically for individuals aged 50-65 who are passionate about retiring early and living their best lives. Each week, we’ll dive deep into essential retirement topics including tax-efficient strategies, smart investing, healthcare planning, income optimization, Social Security tips, estate planning, and actionable financial advice. We’ll feature expert insights, inspiring stories, and practical tools to empower you on your journey toward early retirement. Whether you’re planning to retire in 5 years or 15, ”The Retire Early Podcast” equips you with the knowledge and confidence to secure your financial future, maximize your wealth, and enjoy the retirement lifestyle you deserve. Subscribe today and join our community committed to retiring early and thriving in retirement!

Information

  • Creator
    Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    76
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Retire Early Podcast