Shows
The Healthy & Wealthy RetirementWhy Beneficiary Designations Can Make or Break Your Estate Plan with Estate Planning Attorney Jennifer SpaldingAre your beneficiary designations putting your estate at risk without your knowledge? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers sits down with estate planning attorney Jennifer Spalding to identify the hidden risks of beneficiary designations.
Listen in to learn the difference between per stirpes and per capita, how probate works, and why healthcare directives matter. You'll discover what you can do today to protect your legacy and your loved ones from costly surprises.
Resources:
Special Offer - If you mention the podcast when calling Spalding Law Office and schedule a Life a...2025-07-1831 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementTop 10 Ways to Avoid IRMAA and Save on Medicare in RetirementAre you paying too much for Medicare? You might be, especially if you’re overlooking the IRMAA surcharge. This little-known fee can quietly eat into your retirement savings if you're not careful.
In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the top 10 strategies to help reduce or avoid this hidden tax on Medicare premiums. Listen in to learn how smart tax planning, like Roth conversions, tax-efficient withdrawals, and charitable giving, can save you thousands in retirement.
Curious about working with Mark? Go to:
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www...2025-07-1121 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementRun Your Retirement Like a Marathon: Lessons in Discipline and StrategyIs retirement more like a sprint or a marathon? Turns out, it’s definitely a marathon, and the lessons from long-distance running might be exactly what your retirement plan needs.
Certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers shares personal stories from his half-marathon in Duluth and relates them to practical retirement planning strategies. Listen in to learn how pacing, adaptability, and preparation apply just as much to your finances as they do on race day.
Curious about working with Mark? Go to:
https://www.videoask.com/fd9svtp2l
www.SonaWealthAdvisors.com
Di...2025-07-0417 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe 2+ Bucket Strategy Explained for Secure RetirementIs the bucket strategy right for your retirement? The idea sounds simple: set aside a few “buckets” to manage your money in retirement. But is it really that easy or effective?
Certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers takes a deep dive into the 2+ bucket strategy, a retirement income approach designed to balance predictability and growth. Listen in to learn how the right mix of income, emergency funds, and growth assets can give you peace of mind, why individual bonds may beat bond funds, and what to watch out for when it comes to taxes, inflation, and RMDs.
2025-06-2729 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementShould You Put Crypto in Your Retirement Account?
Does cryptocurrency belong in your retirement account? Some say it’s the future of money. Others call it a digital tulip bubble. With all the hype, headlines, and heated opinions, it’s hard to know what’s signal and what’s noise.
Certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the real risks and potential rewards of crypto in retirement. Listen in to hear why predictability matters more than performance, how Bitcoin compares to gold, and what to consider before putting even 3% of your portfolio into digital assets.
Curious about working with Mark? Go...2025-06-2019 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementSailing with Phoenix: Lessons on Non-Traditional Retirement Paths
What can a 29-year-old sailor with a cat teach us about retirement? More than you’d expect. When Instagram adventurer Oliver Widger, known as “Sailing with Phoenix,” quit his job, cashed out his 401(k), and set sail for Hawaii with nothing but grit and his cat, it raised eyebrows—but it also sparked some interesting ideas.
Listen in as certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers shares what retirees can learn from Oliver’s unconventional story, including embracing imperfection, building resilience, and redefining what success looks like in your golden years. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best ret...2025-06-1321 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe Diderot Effect and How Lifestyle Creep Begins in Retirement
What if one purchase was enough to throw off your entire retirement plan? It starts small: a new couch, a dream vacation, upgraded luggage… Before you know it, your spending snowballs, and your careful financial planning starts to unravel.
It’s called the Diderot effect, and it can lead even the most disciplined retirees into retirement lifestyle creep. Listen in as certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers shares why even the most frugal retirees are vulnerable to this sneaky psychological trap, as well as practical ways to protect your budget—without sacrificing joy in your golden years...2025-06-0622 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementAre Barrier Notes Right for Your Retirement?
What are barrier notes? And should they have a place in your retirement portfolio? While barrier notes promise higher returns and some downside protection, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explains why these complex investments might be more trouble than they’re worth.
Listen in as he breaks down how these products really work, what alternatives could serve you better, and how to ask the right questions before adding them to your retirement portfolio. You'll learn about potential risks, as well as how to evaluate the suitability of barrier notes in the context of your overall re...2025-05-3019 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementAre Target Date Funds Ruining Retirement?
Are TDFs (Target Date Funds) right for you? While they’re marketed as convenient, “set it and forget it” solutions, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explains why these popular investment tools may not work for everyone—especially retirees.
Many retirees (notably baby boomers) equate the “target date” with a pension-like guarantee, only to be blindsided by volatility and inflexible investment structures when it matters most. Don't let this happen to you—listen to this episode to learn the limitations of TDFs, how they can fall short, and other options that can help you plan for a more secure...2025-05-2325 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe Top 3 Social Security Mistakes Couples Must Avoid
Could a simple mistake cost you thousands in Social Security benefits? The short answer is yes. Claiming too early, misjudging work penalties, or overlooking survivorship benefits can take a serious toll on your retirement income.
So how do you avoid this? Tune in as certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the top three Social Security mistakes couples make—and what to do instead. You'll learn how to coordinate benefits for maximum lifetime value, how work income can reduce early benefits, and why timing your claim isn't just about today’s cash flow, but...2025-05-1614 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe Roth IRA and SECURE Act: What Your Heirs Need to KnowWill your Roth IRA survive the SECURE Act? As the rules around wealth transfer keep shifting, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down what the SECURE Act means for your Roth IRA and, more importantly, for your heirs.
Listen in as we explore why Roth IRAs are still a powerful tool, how new beneficiary rules could impact your estate plan, and why making informed—not fear-driven—decisions is critical. We’ll cover the differences between non-designated, designated, and eligible designated beneficiaries, plus the tax traps and planning strategies you need to know.
Curious about w...2025-05-0920 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementIs Social Security Going Away? Planning for a Secure RetirementWill Social Security still be around when you retire? As fears about its future continue to rise, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers cuts through the noise with a grounded, facts-first approach to solvency, accessibility, and the threat of termination.
Listen in as we talk about why full termination is highly unlikely, how accessibility issues have changed post-COVID, and what kinds of adjustments (like tax caps or delayed retirement ages) are on the table to help preserve the system. Whether you’re nearing retirement or decades away, this episode offers practical insights to help you plan with confidence....2025-05-0232 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementStrategy vs. Tactics: Should You Change Your Portfolio Before a Recession?Should you be making changes to your portfolio with a recession looming? Market volatility brings a lot of anxiety, especially when retirement is just around the corner. But reacting out of fear can do more harm than good.
Listen in as your certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the main difference between strategy and tactics, as well as why knowing the difference can help you stay the course. Using a simple road trip analogy, he explains how to stick with your long-term plan while still making smart, tactical moves when the market throws you a curveball...2025-04-2319 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe Roth 5-Year Rule ExplainedConfused by the Roth 5-year rule? If so, you’re not alone. The Roth IRA can feel like a financial enigma, and the 5-year rule is often misunderstood, leading to hesitation and missed opportunities. But today, we’re breaking down the mystery.
Listen in as your certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explains the different variations of the 5-year rule, when each applies, and why timing is key—whether you’re planning a Roth conversion, eyeing early retirement, or mapping out a tax strategy. You’ll learn how Roth IRAs grow tax-deferred, when distributions become tax-free, and why even start...2025-04-1527 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating Life's Toughest Decisions: Financial Planning Insights from 'Being Mortal'Welcome to the latest episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement. Join host Mark Struthers as he explores the profound insights of Atul Gawande's book "Being Mortal." In this thought-provoking discussion, discover how the book's themes of quality of life, patient decision-making, and healthcare choices intersect with financial and retirement planning. Learn why it's crucial to be an active participant in your own life decisions, both medical and financial, to ensure a prosperous and fulfilling retirement.
Gain practical advice on understanding fears and hopes, evaluating trade-offs, and making informed decisions that align with your goals. Whether you're approaching...2025-02-1011 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMastering Retirement Expenses: The Floor & CeilingWelcome to this episode of the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement with Mark Struthers, your certified retirement counselor. In this insightful discussion, Mark explores various models of managing retirement expenses, offering valuable strategies to ensure your financial stability in later years.
Learn about the five common models, including inflation adjustment, guardrails, and the floor and ceiling approach. Discover how these methods can help you make informed decisions for a financially secure and happy retirement. Delve into the advantages and drawbacks of each model, understanding their role in preserving your portfolio longevity and maximizing initial withdrawal rates.
...2025-02-0307 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMastering Retirement Expenses: The Guardrails ApproachWelcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, where Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers dives deep into the holistic aspects of retirement planning. This episode emphasizes the critical role of understanding expenses in securing a healthier, wealthier future.
Filmed in the beautiful Edina, Minnesota, today's discussion centers on how expenses change as you transition into retirement, highlighting the "Guardrails" approach. This method allows for adjustments based on market performance to enhance portfolio longevity.
The episode also explores various expense models, including inflation-adjusted spending, retirement spending smiles, and stages of retirement. Mark provides valuable insights into maintaining...2025-02-0306 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMastering Retirement Expenses: Retirement StagesJoin Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers on the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement YouTube channel as he delves into the often-overlooked topic of retirement expenses. Learn how understanding your spending before and during retirement is crucial for financial planning and how it influences your overall retirement well-being.
This episode introduces the concept of the "retirement spending smile," explaining how spending patterns shift throughout the retirement years. From initial excitement and increased spending to eventual decline, except for healthcare costs, discover how to model these changes accurately. Mark elaborates on five different models to help you plan your retirement...2025-02-0310 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMastering Retirement Expenses: The Retirement Spending SmileWelcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement podcast, hosted by Mark Struthers. In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked topic of managing expenses in preparation for a financially secure retirement. Many approaching retirement are uncertain about their current and future spending habits, leading to potential challenges.
Mark discusses the importance of understanding your expenses and offers insights into various models for projecting retirement spending. From the inflation-adjusted approach to the "retirement spending smile," he highlights how inflation and changing lifestyle needs can affect your financial plan. Learn how to make informed decisions and avoid running...2025-02-0212 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementDecoding the 10x Rule for Retirement: Is It Too Conservative?Summary
In this conversation, Mark Struthers discusses the 10 times rule for retirement savings, which suggests that individuals should aim to have 10 times their gross income saved by retirement. He explores the origins of this rule, its benchmarks, and its effectiveness in providing adequate retirement income. Struthers critiques the rule, arguing that it may be too conservative for many individuals, especially higher earners or those planning to retire early. He emphasizes the importance of personalized financial planning over generic rules of thumb.
Takeaways
-The 10 times rule suggests saving 10 times your gross income by retirement.2024-12-2711 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating Volatility: The Japanese Carry Trade ExplainedSummary
In this episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, Mark Struthers discusses the recent market crash attributed to the Japanese carry trade, its implications for investors, and strategies to navigate financial uncertainty. He emphasizes the importance of having an emergency fund, diversifying investments, and reviewing bond portfolios to ensure a healthier retirement.
Takeaways
-The holistic approach to retirement includes financial, social, physical, and emotional well-being.
-The Japanese carry trade has significant implications for global markets.
-Market volatility is expected, especially in the short term.
-Investors should focus on long-term strategies...2024-12-2711 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMastering the 3-Bucket Strategy for a Secure RetirementWelcome to "Healthy and Wealthy Retirement" with Mark Struthers, your certified retirement counselor, who introduces a holistic approach to navigating the complexities of retirement planning. In this episode, Mark dives into the intricacies of the three-bucket strategy for retirement funding, designed to balance risk and provide comfort for retirees.
The episode sheds light on two main types of bucket strategies: one focused on time horizons and another on types of retirement spending. Discover how each bucket, from low-risk T-bills and money market funds to long-term high-risk investments, serves a purpose in securing income through the varied phases...2024-12-2717 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMoving to a Low-Tax State for RetirementSummary
In this episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, Mark Struthers discusses the considerations for relocating to a low-tax state. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the total tax burden, including property taxes and social security taxation. Mark also highlights the significance of home affordability, quality of life, job opportunities, and healthcare costs when making such a move. The conversation aims to guide listeners in making informed decisions for a healthier, wealthier, and happier retirement.
Takeaways
-Moving to a lower-tax state can be beneficial but requires careful planning.
-Consider the total tax...2024-12-2709 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementKeystone Activities: The Cornerstone of a Happy RetirementWelcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement podcast! In this episode, host Mark Struthers explores the concept of keystone activities and their pivotal role in fostering a fulfilling retirement life. Mark delves into how these activities can influence and enhance your social, physical, and emotional well-being, providing a foundation for a more connected and satisfying post-work life.
Discover how choosing the right keystone activities can forge deeper relationships and create communities that support a holistic approach to retirement. Whether it's CrossFit, martial arts, or volunteering, these activities not only enrich your life but also connect you with...2024-12-2711 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating Inflation in RetirementWelcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, where certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explores the impact of inflation on retirees. In this episode, Mark discusses how the recent surge in inflation has heightened awareness and seriousness about planning for retirement.
Mark explains how inflation erodes purchasing power over time, making it essential for retirees to have strategies in place to protect their financial well-being. He delves into the concept of compounding—both its wonders and its challenges—and emphasizes the importance of understanding its effect on retirement planning.
The discussion touches on fixed incomes, pensions, and...2024-12-2715 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating Risk in RetirementSummary
In this conversation, Mark Struthers discusses the multifaceted nature of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing various risks associated with retirement. He highlights the significance of holistic well-being, addressing not only financial aspects but also social, physical, and emotional factors. Struthers elaborates on different types of risks, including health, career, inflation, investment, and longevity risks, and offers insights on how to navigate these challenges effectively. He advocates for a proactive approach to risk management, encouraging individuals to understand potential outcomes and embrace the risks necessary for achieving a fulfilling retirement.
Takeaways2024-12-2707 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementUnlocking Early IRA Access: Understanding SEPP (72t)In this episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers delves into the often-overlooked topic of 72T, a strategy for accessing funds within a traditional IRA without penalties. Mark explains the intricacies and challenges associated with Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP), highlighting how this approach compares to other methods like the Rule of 55 or Roth conversions.
Mark provides insights into the three methods of calculating withdrawals, emphasizing the importance of precise financial planning and the potential risks involved. He guides listeners on how to strategically manage their IRA funds with SEPP to avoid pitfalls...2024-12-2213 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementIs Index Universal Life Insurance Right For Your Retirement?Join Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers on the 'Healthy and Wealthy Retirement' podcast as he sheds light on the complexities of permanent insurance, specifically focusing on Index Universal Life. Discover the hidden trade-offs and alternatives your insurance agent might not mention, as Mark guides you through making informed decisions.
Understand the significance of asking essential questions and knowing what you're insuring so it aligns with your financial plan. Whether your aim is to invest or support your family, gain insights into the possible advantages and disadvantages of these insurance products, enabling you to create a healthier, wealthier...2024-12-1817 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe Economic and Political Influence on Mortgage RatesWelcome to the latest episode of The Healthy and Wealthy Retirement with certified retirement counselor, Mark Struthers. In this Thanksgiving special, Mark delves into the intriguing world of mortgage interest rates and their unexpected rise. He provides insights into how political events, particularly elections, can significantly impact financial markets, including mortgage and treasury rates.
Mark discusses the surprising upward trajectory of mortgage rates following political developments, and how this affects first-time home buyers and existing property owners. Amidst the complexities of debt, deficit, and market speculation, he offers a clear perspective on what retirees should consider for...2024-12-0421 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating the Challenges of "Failure to Launch" in Today's EconomyIn this episode of "Healthier and Wealthy Retirement," host Mark Struthers delves into the pressing issue of the "Failure to Launch" phenomenon, inspired by a Bloomberg Wealth article. With U.S. parents spending an astounding $500 billion annually on their adult children, Mark explores the financial strain this places on retirement savings and the broader implications for both parents and their grown-up kids.
Mark discusses the cultural and economic factors contributing to this trend, including the impact of student loan debt, affordable housing, and the pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of equipping young adults with essential life skills...2024-11-1912 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating Retirement Beyond Finances - A Conversation with Retirement Coach Alara RosenbergWelcome to the inaugural episode of "Healthy and Wealthy Retirement" with your host, Mark Struthers. Join us as we explore the multi-faceted journey of retirement beyond financial planning, emphasizing holistic well-being. Mark shares his vision for the podcast, inspired by his extensive experience in the financial industry and personal insights into the broader aspects of a fulfilling retirement.
In this episode, Mark introduces Alara Rosenberg, a holistic, non-financial retirement coach and founder of AlignRx. They delve into the crucial elements of a rewarding retirement, focusing on purpose, identity, and social connections, often overlooked in traditional retirement planning.2024-10-3146 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementThe Fed is Recalibrating: Here are 4 Things You Should be Recalibrating TooIn this episode of "Healthy and Wealthy Retirement," certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers discusses the importance of recalibrating your approach to retirement in light of recent economic changes. With a focus on holistic well-being, Mark explores how the recent Fed conference and interest rate adjustments influence retirement planning.
Mark delves into four key areas to recalibrate: mindset, portfolio, emergency fund, and use of debt. He emphasizes the need to shift your mindset regarding inflation and recession probabilities, suggesting that lower inflation and interest rates could be on the horizon. He also highlights the significance of adjusting your...2024-10-0316 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementPrioritizing Your Retirement: The Big Rock, Little Rock ApproachWelcome to another episode of the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, hosted by certified retirement counselor, Mark Struthers. In this episode, Mark introduces a unique setting featuring his son, Will, to demonstrate the concept of "big rock, little rock" financial and retirement planning.
Mark discusses how prioritizing important financial goals can lead to a healthier, wealthier, and happier retirement. Through a practical demonstration with rocks of varying sizes, they illustrate the significance of addressing critical financial needs like retirement funds, emergency funds, housing, and education before focusing on smaller, less critical expenses.
This episode serves as...2024-09-1905 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementNavigating Market Volatility: 3 Reasons It May Not Be OverWelcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, where your certified retirement counselor, Mark Struthers, takes a holistic approach to retirement, going beyond finances and embracing holistic well-being. This YouTube channel will address everything you need for a healthier, a wealthier, and a happier retirement.
In today's episode, Mark Struthers discusses the recent market volatility and provides three reasons why it might not be over yet. He delves into the Japanese carry trade, Japan's government policies, and the potential sensitivity of the market to short-term data points as interest rates start to normalize.
Mark explains the...2024-09-1509 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMega Backdoor Roth: Supercharging Your Retirement SavingsWelcome to The Healthy and Wealthy Retirement with your host, Mark Struthers! In this episode, Mark dives deep into the intricacies of the Mega Backdoor Roth, a powerful tool for maximizing your retirement savings.
Discover how this strategy works within your 401k plan, the significant financial benefits it offers, and the key rules and limits you need to know. Whether you’re in your 50s, 60s, or already enjoying retirement, this episode provides essential insights to help you secure a healthier, wealthier, and happier future.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and ensure your retirement is everything yo...2024-09-1511 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementAre You on Track to Join the Top 1% of Retirement Savers?Welcome to The Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, hosted by certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers. In this special Fourth of July episode, Mark delves into what it takes to be among the top 1% of retirement savers and the surprising statistics behind retirement savings in the U.S.
Discover eye-opening data from the Federal Reserve, including the percentage of retirees who have saved $1 million, the average retirement savings, and how home equity factors into financial planning. Mark also discusses the importance of planning for a comfortable retirement, considering factors like long-term care costs and the variability of retirement ages.2024-07-1410 minThe Healthy & Wealthy RetirementMaximizing Your Return on Memories for a Fulfilling RetirementWelcome to The Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, hosted by certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers. In this episode, Mark explores the concept of ROM (Return on Memories), offering three practical ways to enhance your life's experiences beyond financial gains.
Firstly, Mark emphasizes the importance of being intentional with your time and money, drawing parallels to the principles of financial planning. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how thoughtful investments in activities and relationships can yield lasting, meaningful memories.
Secondly, Mark advises setting the stage for organic memories rather than trying to script them. He highlights the...2024-07-1422 min