Retirement isn’t just a financial milestone; it’s one of life’s biggest transitions. In my conversation with Andy Panko on the Retirement Planning Education Podcast, we dug into the real questions that many of my clients face: How do I know if I’ve saved enough? What’s the smartest way to draw from my accounts? Who am I now that I’m no longer working?
At Daybreak Wealth, I work with individuals and families who want more than a spreadsheet—they want clarity, confidence, and purpose. During this episode, Andy and I talked about taxes, mindset, and the emotional side of stepping into retirement. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, grounded approach to planning your next chapter, you’re in the right place.
Shifting the Retirement Mindset
One of the most powerful parts of planning isn’t about numbers—it’s about identity. I’ve worked with many people who realize that retirement brings more questions than answers: What will I do every day? Will I still feel fulfilled?
I believe retirement is an opportunity to live intentionally. The financial plan is just the vehicle—your purpose and joy are the destination.
Yes, Taxes Still Matter—But Let’s Keep Them in Perspective
A big part of my work involves helping clients make smart tax decisions, especially in the early years of retirement. But as Andy and I discussed, while tax planning is certainly important, it’s sometimes given too much weight in retirement planning conversations. The key is finding the right balance—taxes matter, but they shouldn’t overshadow other critical aspects of your financial plan.
Some key topics we covered include:
- Strategically using Roth conversions
- Navigating required minimum distributions (RMDs)
- Managing withdrawals to smooth out taxable income over time
Done right, tax planning can help you keep more of your money and reduce future surprises. But remember, it’s just one piece of a comprehensive retirement strategy.
What Does “Enough” Look Like for You?
A common concern I hear is: Have I saved enough? But before we can answer that, we need to ask: Enough for what?
I guide clients through defining what “enough” means to them—whether it’s traveling more, spending time with grandchildren, or simply feeling secure. Once that’s clear, the numbers start to take shape. We shift from chasing wealth to aligning it with what matters most.
Making Planning Personal
What I strive to offer is not just advice, but partnership. I want my clients to feel heard, understood, and confident—not overwhelmed. That means fewer spreadsheets and more conversation. Less jargon, more clarity.
Andy and I are both passionate about making financial planning accessible. At the end of the day, the best plan is the one you actually understand and feel good about.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
There’s so much more in the full conversation—from how to approach long-term care to managing emotions around spending in retirement. If you’re looking for a warm, real-world perspective on retirement planning, I’d love for you to check it out:
