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.
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