FYR026: Treat Yourself: Why Intentional Spending Matters in Retirement with Chris Wagner

What Would You Do With $300?

In the latest episode of Well Balanced, Vector advisor Chris Wagner joins Ezra Firkins to discuss a simple but revealing question: Can a $300 purchase improve your life? From air fryers to flight upgrades, Chris and Ezra explore how small, intentional spending can bring real value—especially for clients who’ve spent a lifetime saving. The conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own comfort, habits, and hesitation around spending, even when their financial plans say, “Yes, you can.”

But this isn’t just about gadgets or upgrades. The episode dives into deeper territory—how savers can transition into purposeful spenders, how to build confidence through small financial experiments, and how tools like Vector’s Sojourn planning platform can model those choices. They also explore themes of legacy, joy, and the emotional work of allowing yourself to enjoy the wealth you’ve built.

Takeaways:

💸 Small purchases can spark big joy — Even $300 spent wisely can make life noticeably better.

🧠 Savers need a mindset shift — Transitioning from saving to spending in retirement is emotional, not just financial.

🧪 Start small, then evaluate — Try one thing (like a flight upgrade or a home project), and see how it feels.

🧰 Modeling builds confidence — Tools like Sojourn can show you exactly how a purchase fits into your plan.

• 🎁 Spending can be legacy too — Helping kids, supporting causes, or enjoying travel—these are meaningful uses of your wealth.

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & The $300 Idea  

03:31 – Why Savers Struggle to Spend  

07:02 – From Plans to Possibilities  

10:34 – Start Small, Build Confidence  

14:05 – Legacy, Comfort & Experience  

17:36 – Model Financial Choices

21:08 – Confidence in Action & Wrap-Up

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All content discussed in our podcasts, videos, or related blog articles are for informational purposes and should not be construed as individualized financial advice.

Opinions expressed herein are solely those of Vector Wealth Management, our staff, and guests. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources, however, we make no representations as to its accuracy or completeness. All information and ideas should be discussed directly and in detail with your financial advisor prior to implementation of a strategy or investment. This podcast and related content are not intended to render personalized investment advice, nor should it be viewed as an offer to buy or sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell the securities or strategies discussed.

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