Mark Fried

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April 29 2025

S2E7: Maximizing Income, Minimizing Risk: Relevant Retirement Planning Tips

Mark Fried Podcast Annuities explained for retirees, Best investments for retirees, Diversified retirement portfolio planning, High-yield retirement investments, How to generate retirement income, Maximizing Social Security benefits, Protecting retirement savings, Retirement income planning, Retirement income strategies, Safe income strategies for retirement

In this episode of Road Rules for Retirement, host Mark Fried and Jen Reza from the Retirement News Network dive deep into powerful strategies to help retirees maximize their income and build a more secure future.

Discover why focusing solely on past investment returns can be dangerous and how understanding the critical difference between growth and yield can transform your retirement planning. Mark shares smart income-generating investment options, from high-yield bonds and preferred stocks to tax-exempt bonds and annuities — all designed to help you create steady, reliable income for life.

You’ll also learn how to avoid common retirement mistakes like being overexposed to market risk or too conservative with your savings, both of which can jeopardize your financial security. Plus, Mark offers expert tips on Social Security optimization and breaks down the four key types of annuities you need to know to make confident, informed decisions.

If you’re looking to create a comprehensive retirement income plan that protects your savings, maximizes your cash flow, and gives you lasting peace of mind, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss!

Key Topics Covered:

Building a retirement income plan that lasts a lifetime

Understanding the real drivers of retirement income

Choosing investments that generate reliable cash flow

Rebalancing your portfolio safely during market highs

Why being too conservative can hurt your retirement

Strategic tips for claiming Social Security benefits

The pros and cons of immediate, fixed, variable, and indexed annuities

Special Offer:
Ready to take control of your retirement? Enroll in Mark Fried’s Retirement Masterclass to build your own customized financial roadmap. Visit WhenCanIRetire.us and use coupon code RRFR2024 for a special discount.

Why Listen?
If you’re nearing retirement or already retired, this episode offers actionable advice to help you protect your savings, manage taxes, and ensure your money lasts. Tune in now and start building the retirement plan you deserve!

April 15 2025

S2E6: Don’t Outlive Your Money: How to Plan Retirement Income That Lasts

Mark Fried Podcast Best investment options for retirees, Diversifying retirement income sources, How to replace your paycheck in retirement, Making your money last in retirement, Retirement budgeting tips, Retirement income strategies, Retirement planning masterclass, Risk management in retirement, Safe investments for retirement income, Social Security optimization strategies

In this episode of The Road Rules for Retirement Show, host Mark Fried shares expert strategies to help you shift from saving money to generating reliable income in retirement—a critical transition that many retirees overlook. Without a clear income plan, even a well-funded retirement portfolio can fall short.

Mark kicks off the conversation by introducing the Two-Bucket Expense Strategy, a powerful budgeting method that helps retirees categorize essential vs. lifestyle expenses. He then tackles two of the most underestimated retirement risks: inflation and rising taxes, and explains how they can erode your purchasing power over time if left unaddressed.

Listeners will learn how to calculate their monthly retirement income needs using a simple yet effective formula, and how to make that income last for decades. Mark also breaks down the complexities of Social Security planning, offering tips to avoid common mistakes and strategies to maximize your benefits.

Throughout the episode, Mark emphasizes the need for a written income plan—not just scattered accounts and statements—and dives into why risk management is more important than ever in the retirement years. He unpacks the Three Investment Worlds, explaining the trade-offs between liquidity, safety, and return, and provides guidance on how to strike the right balance for long-term success.

Plus, discover the importance of diversification beyond the market, including tax diversification and income stream variety, to create a more resilient financial future.

Finally, don’t miss the exclusive listener offer: access Mark’s Retirement Income Masterclass—a five-module course designed to help you build your own written plan—for just $99.

Whether you’re already retired or preparing to leave the workforce, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build a more confident, income-secure future.

April 1 2025

S2E5: Navigating Market Volatility: Safeguard Your Retirement Income

Mark Fried Podcast Financial planning for retirees, Investment tips for retirees, Maximizing retirement income, Navigating market volatility in retirement, Retirement budgeting tips, Retirement income strategies, Retirement risk management, Safe retirement investments, Social Security optimization, tax-efficient retirement planning

Welcome to the Road Rules for Retirement Show with Mark Fried, where we focus on strategies to build and sustain your retirement income. In this episode, Mark dives into practical and insightful tips to help retirees make the most of their savings and investments.

We start by exploring the importance of creating a personalized retirement vision before delving into financial planning. Mark emphasizes that understanding your desired lifestyle is key to building a retirement strategy that truly works for you.

Next, we cover essential budgeting tips to help you plan for retirement expenses, including inflation, taxes, and healthcare costs. You’ll learn how to differentiate between essential and discretionary expenses and how to allocate your funds wisely.

Mark also discusses the critical balance between risk and safety when building your investment portfolio, ensuring you can achieve long-term financial security. He introduces the concept of the three investment worlds: liquidity, safety, and return, explaining why you can only choose two at a time.

You’ll also discover how to develop an income plan that guarantees consistent cash flow throughout your retirement years. Plus, Mark shares the importance of social security optimization and tax-efficient strategies, helping you maximize your income while minimizing financial risk.

The episode concludes with practical advice on managing market volatility to protect your retirement savings. Finally, Mark invites listeners to take advantage of his masterclass, designed to help you craft a customized retirement plan. For a limited time, this valuable course is available at a discounted rate exclusively for our listeners.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies to secure your financial future!

March 18 2025

S2E4: Retire Wealthier: Expert Tips on Social Security Timing, Taxes, and Investment Risk

Mark Fried Podcast 401(k) vs Roth IRA for retirement, Best annuities for retirement income, How to make money last in retirement, Investment strategies for retirees, Long-term healthcare costs in retirement, Maximizing Social Security benefits, Protecting retirement savings from inflation, Retirement financial planning tips, Retirement income strategies, tax-efficient retirement planning

Are you approaching retirement and wondering how to make the most of your hard-earned savings? In this information-packed episode of the Road Rules for Retirement Show with Mark Fried, we dive deep into the crucial elements of building a secure and fulfilling retirement.

First, we unravel the complexities of Social Security, revealing why timing is everything when it comes to claiming your benefits. Discover how delaying your claim can significantly boost your monthly income and learn about the various claiming options available for single, married, divorced, and widowed individuals. We highlight the potential pitfalls of making uninformed decisions and stress the importance of seeking professional advice to navigate these choices effectively. Learn about the power of delaying your claim, potentially increasing your payments by over 30% by waiting until age 70. For married couples, we explore the strategic advantages of coordinating your claims to maximize your combined benefits. We also tackle the often-overlooked topic of taxes on Social Security benefits and why understanding this is vital for your overall retirement income plan.

Next, we shift our focus to controlling your retirement tax burden. Gain valuable insights into tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, including the optimal order for accessing different retirement account types to minimize your tax liability. We emphasize the importance of knowing your retirement number and provide guidance on estimating your future spending needs, suggesting the proactive step of living on a retirement budget before you retire.

In today’s climate of market uncertainty, we underscore the significance of diversification and a well-defined income strategy to maximize your retirement income while effectively minimizing risk. Finally, we provide a roadmap for transitioning smoothly into retirement, outlining key steps to take in the crucial five years leading up to this major life change, including detailed financial reviews and planning for both Social Security and Medicare.

Ultimately, this episode empowers you to take action now for a secure future. We consolidate the essential elements of a successful retirement plan, emphasizing the critical roles of optimizing your Social Security benefits, strategically managing taxes and investment risk, and recognizing the invaluable support of professional financial guidance. Don’t leave your retirement security to chance – tune in and learn the road rules for building your best retirement!

March 4 2025

S2E3: The Smart Retiree’s Playbook: Secure, Grow, & Enjoy Your Wealth

In this episode of The Road Rules for Retirement Show, host Mark Fried dives into essential strategies for securing financial stability in retirement. He highlights why longevity is one of the biggest risks retirees face and shares key tactics to ensure your money lasts as long as you do.

Mark explains how to maximize Social Security benefits, revealing strategies that could add over $100,000 to your lifetime income. He also breaks down the role of annuities in providing guaranteed income and discusses the importance of building a contingency fund to safeguard against financial uncertainties later in life.

For those looking to keep more of their hard-earned savings, Mark covers smart tax strategies for retirees, including the benefits of Roth IRAs and tax-efficient withdrawal methods. Additionally, he explores how to make the most of 401(k) contributions and employer-matched savings to grow your retirement wealth.

The episode also touches on inflation’s impact on retirement savings, healthcare costs and insurance considerations, and why it’s crucial to plan ahead for rising expenses. Finally, Mark stresses the value of working with a financial professional, ensuring that retirees have a solid plan in place to navigate their financial future with confidence.

Tune in now to learn how to build a secure, lasting retirement income strategy!

February 18 2025

S2E2: Beyond the Bank: Smarter Income Strategies for Retirees

In this episode of Road Rules for Retirement, Mark Fried dives into smart income strategies to help retirees secure their financial future. He breaks down why focusing on yield—rather than past returns—is key to stable income, explores higher-yield investment options beyond traditional bank products, and explains how rebalancing can protect against market downturns. Mark also discusses the risks of being too conservative, the benefits of delaying Social Security, and the role of annuities in a well-rounded retirement plan. Plus, he shares insights on tax-efficient withdrawals and why working with a financial professional can help retirees avoid costly mistakes. Tune in for actionable strategies to build a reliable, long-lasting retirement income!

February 4 2025

S2E1: Stretch Your Savings: Key Steps to Avoid Running Out of Money in Retirement

Mark Fried Podcast Diversification in retirement, Financial planning for retirees, How to make money last in retirement, Investment strategies for retirement, Managing retirement risk, Retirement income strategies, Retirement planning for high net worth individuals, Tactical investing for retirees, Tax diversification in retirement, Tax-efficient IRA withdrawals

Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and strategies, you can secure a financially stable and fulfilling future. In the latest episode of the Road Rules for Retirement Show, host Mark Fried shares expert insights on how retirees can maximize their savings, manage risks, and create a reliable income stream. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics discussed in the episode:

Key Strategies for Maximizing Retirement Income

Your retirement savings should work for you. Learn effective strategies to generate steady income, including annuities, dividend investments, and real estate options.

How to Create a Diversified Investment Portfolio

Diversification is essential for minimizing risk while maintaining growth. We discuss the importance of balancing stocks, bonds, and alternative investments to protect your financial future.

Tips for Managing Retirement Expenses and Budgeting Effectively

Proper budgeting helps retirees maintain financial independence. We explore essential budgeting strategies, such as tracking expenses, cutting unnecessary costs, and preparing for unforeseen financial needs.

Understanding and Optimizing Social Security Benefits

Maximizing your Social Security benefits is crucial for long-term financial security. Learn when to claim benefits, how to increase your payout, and strategies to minimize taxation on Social Security income.

Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategies for Retirees

Smart tax planning can help retirees keep more of their money. We cover key strategies like Roth conversions, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and tax-free income sources.

The Importance of Healthcare Planning in Retirement

Healthcare costs can be a significant burden for retirees. Discover essential steps to manage medical expenses, including Medicare planning, long-term care insurance, and health savings accounts (HSAs).

Steps for Effective Estate Planning

Ensure your assets are protected and distributed according to your wishes. This section covers wills, trusts, power of attorney, and strategies to reduce estate taxes.

How to Protect Your Retirement Savings from Market Volatility

Market fluctuations can pose a risk to retirement savings. Learn how to safeguard your investments through diversification, safe withdrawal rates, and alternative income strategies.

The Value of Professional Financial Guidance

Navigating retirement alone can be daunting. We explore the benefits of working with a financial advisor to create a customized plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Retirement planning requires a proactive approach, and the strategies discussed in this episode can help you achieve financial peace of mind. Whether you are nearing retirement or already retired, these insights can guide you toward a secure and enjoyable future.

For more expert retirement advice, tune into the Road Rules for Retirement Show and start building the future you deserve!

January 14 2025

Episode 18: Finding the Right Financial Advisor: Key Questions You Must Ask

Mark Fried Podcast Choosing a fiduciary advisor, Estate planning for retirement, Financial advisor for retirees, Holistic retirement plans, How to make your money last in retirement, Long-term care planning, Retirement budgeting tips, Retirement income strategies, Retirement investment strategies, tax-efficient retirement planning

In this episode of Road Rules for Retirement, Mark Fried dives into the essentials of building a secure and fulfilling retirement. Learn why having a written retirement plan is crucial for financial stability and how it can guide major life decisions, such as relocating or supporting family milestones. Mark explains the importance of long-term care insurance, estate planning for legacy protection, and the key questions to ask when choosing a financial advisor. Discover the value of working with a fiduciary advisor, the red flags to watch for, and how emotional and financial transitions in retirement are best navigated with professional support. Plus, Mark shares how his team fosters lasting client relationships through workshops, events, and open communication. Tune in for actionable insights to help you retire with confidence!

December 31 2024

Episode 17: Taxes, Inflation, and Investments: Considerations for Your Retirement Plan

Mark Fried Podcast Diversified retirement portfolio, Financial advisor retirement planning, How to avoid running out of money in retirement, Inflation protection for retirees, Managing taxes in retirement, Retirement income strategies, Retirement masterclass for income planning., Retirement plan review, Safe retirement investment options, tax-efficient retirement planning

In This Episode
Join retirement expert Mark Fried and host Cynthia DeFazio as they break down the key elements of a successful retirement plan. Discover why traditional approaches—like relying solely on a 401(k) or IRA—aren’t enough and learn practical strategies to create a diversified, sustainable plan that withstands life’s uncertainties.

Key Topics Discussed:

Why Retirement Planning Is More Than Investments: Learn how income, taxes, and inflation impact your retirement security.
The #1 Retirement Mistake: Thinking a 401(k) or IRA is a complete plan—and how to avoid this common pitfall.
Creating a Diversified Income Strategy: How to ensure your money lasts through market ups and downs.
The Importance of Annual Reviews: Why updating your retirement plan regularly is critical to staying on track.
Taxes and Your Retirement Savings: Practical strategies to manage and minimize tax burdens.
Investment Risks to Avoid: Why trendy options like cryptocurrency may not belong in your retirement portfolio.
What to Expect in Your First Meeting: Mark Fried explains his client-first process for building a personalized plan.

December 17 2024

Episode 16: How to Retire Early and Secure Your Income for Life

Mark Fried Podcast 401(k) tax implications, Avoiding retirement tax mistakes, Early retirement planning, Financial planning for retirees, Retirement income strategies, Retirement lifestyle and income security, Social Security optimization, Sustainable retirement income, Tax planning for retirees, Tax-efficient retirement strategies

Episode Highlights

Retiring Early: Is It Possible?
Have you dreamed of retiring earlier than planned? Mark shares proven strategies to help you achieve financial independence sooner and design the life you’ve always wanted. Learn the steps to align your savings, investments, and spending habits with your early retirement goals.

Creating Sustainable Income in Retirement
Income stability is the cornerstone of a stress-free retirement. In this segment, discover how to generate steady, reliable income that lasts through your retirement years. Mark discusses key tools and strategies to ensure you never outlive your savings.

The 4% Rule and Why It Might Not Work
The traditional 4% withdrawal rule has long been a guideline for retirees, but is it still relevant? Mark explains why this strategy may not work in today’s economic climate and explores alternative approaches to safeguard your retirement funds.

Managing Future Tax Hikes
Future tax increases could significantly impact your retirement plans. Mark dives into potential risks posed by rising taxes and shares actionable ways to protect your income and savings against unexpected hikes.

Tax-Deferred Accounts: A Hidden Danger
Are your 401(k)s, IRAs, and other tax-deferred accounts really working in your favor? Mark uncovers the hidden tax traps of these accounts and how you can plan strategically to minimize tax burdens in retirement.

Tax Planning vs. Tax Preparation
Many retirees confuse tax preparation with tax planning. Mark explains the critical differences and why proactive tax planning is essential for preserving your wealth and securing a comfortable retirement.

The Role of Social Security in Your Retirement Plan
Social Security is a key component of many retirement plans, but are you making the most of it? Learn how to optimize your Social Security benefits to ensure they complement your overall retirement strategy.

Avoiding Lifestyle Cuts and Downsizing
No one wants to sacrifice their lifestyle in retirement. Mark shares practical strategies to help you maintain your standard of living without worrying about downsizing or budget cuts.

How to Work with a Financial Advisor for a Custom Retirement Plan
Retirement planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. Mark offers tips on selecting the right financial advisor and how to collaborate with them to create a customized plan tailored to your unique goals and circumstances.!