Retirement doesn’t come down to a magic number, it comes down to your number. This episode gives you a simple, personalized framework to decide when you can truly retire based on the life you want, not generic benchmarks.

First, get clear on monthly spending (baseline needs + lifestyle wants). Then reverse-engineer your target by layering in taxes, a sensible withdrawal strategy, guaranteed income (Social Security, pensions), and the one-time costs people forget—like cars, remodels, weddings, or big trips.

Beyond the math, we tackle the emotional side: purpose, identity, and designing days that feel meaningful, so the plan funds a life you actually want to live.

What you’ll learn

• A simple framework to find your number, not “the” number
• How to translate monthly spending into a retirement target
• Coordinating Social Security, pensions, and portfolio withdrawals
• Planning for taxes, RMDs, and estate basics without overwhelm
• Budgeting for big one-time expenses (and avoiding nasty surprises)
• Stress-testing returns and inflation—without getting lost in complexity
• Building purpose and rhythm in the first 1–2 years of retirement

If this brought clarity to your timeline, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—so more people can retire on purpose.

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Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

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Ari Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.