The Retirement Roux

What if your retirement plan is missing the most overlooked asset—your legacy?
In this episode, John Blanchard unpacks the deeper layers of retirement planning, from the strategic role of bonds to preparing the next generation for wealth transfer. He explores how working with financial advisors can help tailor financial plans to individual needs, and why tax efficiency is more than just a buzzword—it’s a corner...

What if your retirement could be shaped by the choices you make today?
In this episode, John Blanchard breaks down the essentials of financial planning for retirement, with a sharp focus on Social Security as a foundational income source. He explores how additional income streams, tax efficiency, and smart investment strategies can contribute to a more secure and flexible future. The conversation also touches on the freedom reti...

In this episode, John Blanchard discusses the intricacies of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of timing, family connections, and strategic financial decisions. They explore the implications of delaying retirement, the emotional and financial aspects of market timing, and the necessity of professional tax planning. The conversation highlights the balance between enjoying life and making prudent financial choices, ulti...

What if the biggest obstacle to retirement isn’t money—but mindset?
In this episode, John Blanchard unpacks the emotional and financial complexities of retirement planning. From understanding safe withdrawal rates to confronting the psychological resistance many face when stepping away from work, they explore how to build a life that’s not just financially secure but personally fulfilling. The conversation emph...

Why do so many 401(k)s fall short of expectations—and what can you do about it? In this episode of Retirement Roux, John Blanchard breaks down the hidden pitfalls of retirement planning, from underperforming accounts to overlooked tax strategies. He explores how setting clear financial goals and building a structured action plan can help align your retirement strategy with your aspirations. Whether you're just starting o...

In this conversation, John Blanchard discusses essential strategies for retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of saving, understanding income streams, and the pitfalls of guaranteed income annuities. He highlights the need for careful investment choices and the significance of seeking second opinions on financial advice. The discussion also touches on the effectiveness of index funds compared to traditional stockbrokers a...

What if delaying retirement could cost you more than you think? In this episode, John Blanchard unpacks the emotional and financial stakes of retirement timing. From the hidden risks of DIY tax strategies to the power of informed decision-making, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating their financial future.

Let's dig deeper into this conversation. Get a second opinion on your current retirement plan or tax strate...

What if your retirement dreams could be derailed by the very tools meant to secure them? In this episode, John Blanchard unpacks the hidden complexities of retirement planning—from the tax traps in Social Security to the overlooked risks of income annuities. He breaks down the pros and cons of target date funds and explains how interest rates quietly shape your investment outcomes. The conversation also explores how personal ...

Is Your Retirement Plan Ready for What’s Coming?
In this must-hear episode, John Blanchard breaks down the critical threats facing your retirement, starting with the ballooning national debt, the uncertain future of Social Security, and the hidden risks in your current financial plan. Discover the non-negotiable milestones you need to hit, the red flags to watch for in financial advisors,...

What if your retirement plan isn’t as bulletproof as you think? In this episode, financial strategist John Blanchard unpacks how market volatility could quietly sabotage your future—and introduces the “Now, Soon, Later” asset allocation strategy that’s helping retirees stay steady in uncertain times. But this conversation goes beyond dollars and cents. It’s about designing a retirement that&rsquo...

Retirement is changing fast—are you ready? In this episode, John Blanchard breaks down the high-stakes economic shifts impacting your financial future. With interest rates holding steady and Baby Boomers facing critical decisions, discover powerful tax strategies, smart investment vehicles, and income withdrawal tactics to protect and grow your wealth. Don’t leave your retirement to chance—tune in now to gain the ...

When the market dips, do you panic or plan? In this episode of The Retirement Room, John Blanchard breaks down why emotional investing can sabotage your 401(k), how to structure your retirement buckets for resilience, and why Roth conversions during downturns might be your smartest move. From tax-efficient strategies to avoiding costly annuity traps, this episode is packed with insights for anyone nearing or navigating retirem...

In this eye-opening episode of The Retirement Roux Podcast, John Blanchard confronts the fears that keep many retirees up at night—outliving savings, skyrocketing medical bills, and the creeping threat of taxes eating into their nest egg. But fear doesn’t have to lead your future. John breaks down smart, actionable tax strategies that can help you simplify your finances, reduce liabil...

In this episode, John Blanchard discusses the intricacies of retirement planning, focusing on balancing risk and security in investment portfolios, the importance of tactical planning, and the need for regular adjustments to financial plans. He emphasizes the significance of finding purpose in retirement and how to effectively use the tax code to enhance financial well-being.

Do you want to dig deeper into this conversation? Get a ...

In this episode, John Blanchard discusses the importance of retirement planning, especially in the context of potential market fluctuations and economic changes. He emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to investments, the benefits of phased retirement, and the implications of Social Security on retirement income. The conversation highlights the significance of having a clear plan to navigate the complexities of retirement, ...

In this episode, John Blanchard discusses the importance of financial planning as one approaches retirement, particularly focusing on market volatility and the strategies to mitigate risks. He emphasizes the need for a structured approach to asset allocation, dividing investments into three buckets: now, soon, and later. The conversation also touches on the significance of having a fulfilling life post-retirement, encouraging liste...

In this episode, John Blanchard discusses the intricacies of retirement planning, focusing on Roth conversions and the implications of good versus bad debt. He emphasizes the importance of timing and strategy in converting traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs, as well as the potential tax benefits. The conversation also delves into the concept of leveraging debt for wealth building, highlighting the distinction between good debt, such as ...

John Blanchard discusses various aspects of retirement planning, including the timing of required minimum distributions (RMDs), the impact of market volatility on investments, the revised 4% withdrawal rule, signs that it may be time to change financial advisors, and the importance of tax planning in retirement. He emphasizes the need for personalized strategies to minimize tax liabilities and maximize wealth in retirement.

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In this episode, John Blanchard discusses the key aspects of retirement planning, including signs that indicate it's time to retire, the impact of market turbulence on investments, and the importance of assessing one's readiness for retirement. He emphasizes the need for a tailored financial plan that considers risk tolerance, tax strategies, and estate planning. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges faced by baby ...