Latest Episode:

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

Episode 13: Retire Early or Keep Working? Understanding Today’s Retirement Trends
In this episode of The Road Rules for Retirement Show, host Mark Fried delves into the latest trends in retirement planning and the unique challenges and opportunities facing retirees today. Mark discusses the rising interest in early retirement among remote workers and explains how his Retirement Readiness Review helps clients make confident retirement decisions. From […]

Episode 14: Empowering Women in Retirement Planning: A Guide to Financial Independence
In this episode of The Road Rules for Retirement Show, hosts Mark Fried and Lisa Odoski bring their wealth of expertise to the table, offering actionable insights for retirees and those planning for retirement. Discover why having a comprehensive financial plan is essential for peace of mind and learn how personalized strategies can transform your […]

Episode 15: Wealth Enhancement Unpacked: Strategies to Grow and Protect Your Retirement Savings
In this episode, Mark dives into the concept of “wealth enhancement” and explores how it goes beyond traditional investment portfolios. Discover insights on managing differing retirement expectations between spouses and the emotional impact of past financial experiences on planning for the future. Learn about the financial phases of life—saving, investing, and withdrawing—and address key fears […]

Episode 16: How to Retire Early and Secure Your Income for Life
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 RetirementIncome stability is […]

Episode 17: Taxes, Inflation, and Investments: Considerations for Your Retirement Plan
In This EpisodeJoin 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: Special Offer:Ready to […]

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

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

S2E4: Retire Wealthier: Expert Tips on Social Security Timing, Taxes, and Investment Risk
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 […]
S2E5: Navigating Market Volatility: Safeguard Your Retirement Income
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 […]