As the year comes to a close, Roger Whitney reflects on the power of words, walks through an important year-end tax planning reminder for retirees, shares listener stories and perspectives, and invites listeners to choose a guiding word for 2026 as a way to approach retirement with greater intention and clarity.
OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN
- (00:00) This show is dedicated to helping you not just survive retirement, but have the confidence and clarity to lean in and rock it.
- (00:45) Roger reflects on slowing down, reclaiming meaning in familiar words, and recommitting to clearing the battlefield as we head into a new year.
RETIREMENT TOOLKIT
- (03:22) Roger explains why estimated quarterly tax payments matter in retirement and how they can help prevent unwelcome tax surprises.
- (05:44) He outlines safe harbor rules and practical best practices for withholding taxes from Social Security, IRA distributions, and pensions.
RETIREMENT LIFE LAB
- (13:33) Roger shares listener responses about corporate words and phrases people are eager to retire when they leave the workforce.
ROCKING RETIREMENT IN THE WILD
- (19:33) Mick and Patty share reflections on fitness, travel, and meaning in retirement, including experiences shaped by history and family.
FOCUSING FORWARD: A WORD FOR 2026
- (21:10) Roger discusses the practice of choosing a single word to define the coming year and reads listener-submitted words for 2026.
- (28:40) Roger reveals his own word for 2026.
SMART SPRINT
- (34:07) Roger encourages listeners to reflect on the season they are entering and consider choosing a word to help guide decisions in 2026.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
- (34:55) Roger responds to listener feedback on charitable giving and enjoying retirement, emphasizing balance, generosity, and intentional living as the year ends.
REFERENCES
What is Retirement Answer Man?
A top retirement podcast. Roger Whitney, CFP®, CIMA®, CPWA®, RMA, guides you on how to actually do retirement well financially and personally. This retirement podcast isn't afraid to talk about the softer side of retirement. It will teach you how to retire with confidence. Two-time PLUTUS winner for best retirement podcast / blog and the 2019 winner for best financial planner blog. This retirement podcast covers how to create a paycheck, medicare, healthcare, Social Security, tax management in retirement as well as retirement travel and other non-financial issues you'll need to address to rock retirement. Retirement isn’t an age OR a financial number. It’s finding that balance between living well today and feeling confident about your retirement. It’s about gaining more freedom to pursue the life you want. Join the rock retirement community at www.rogerwhitney.com