Episode Summary:

Andrew shares the tragic story that changed his career: a couple delayed retirement until reaching a financial milestone, only for the wife to pass away before they could enjoy it. This moment reshaped his mission from managing money to helping people retire with confidence. He breaks down the three pillars of financial planning, explains how small spending habits reflect deeper priorities, and offers strategies that help clients shift from fear to freedom. He also challenges conventional advice on Social Security and urges listeners to take action, not just make plans. 

About the Guest:

Andrew LaFontain began as a CPA at a Big Five firm before transitioning to financial planning over 20 years ago. Based in Wisconsin, he works with clients nationwide and authored the Amazon bestseller "Beyond Enough."  

Key Concepts Explained:

The Three Pillars of Financial Planning:

•  Resource Allocation – Managing money, time, and energy
•  Retirement Income – Replacing your paycheck post-career
•  Risk Management – Protecting against disruptions

True planning must address all three; focusing on one weakens the whole strategy.

Beyond Enough Philosophy:
Most people want to leave a legacy, but hesitate until they feel secure. Confidence enables generosity, purpose, and freedom to live meaningfully.

Henry & Ava’s Story:
Despite having enough, Henry delayed retirement for a $2M goal. When they reached it, Ava passed away. They never fulfilled their dreams—not from lack of money, but lack of confidence.

Practical Strategies:

The $1,000 Rule:
Cutting $1,000/month reduces retirement needs by ~$300,000 (4% rule). If invested over 15 years at 8%, it grows to over $129,000—boosting both savings and flexibility.

The Pizza Story:
Andrew’s family spent $6,000/year on pizza—a surprise revealed during a spending review. It’s a light-hearted example of how small, unconscious habits add up.

Three-Bucket Retirement System:

• Bucket 1: 1–3 years of cash for near-term needs
• Bucket 2: Mid-term investments to refill Bucket 1
• Bucket 3: Long-term growth for legacy or care

This system cushions clients from market swings and supports steady income.

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs):
After age 70½, people can donate directly from IRAs to charities, tax-free. It’s a simple, underused way to increase impact without increasing out-of-pocket costs.

Challenging Conventional Wisdom:

Social Security Timing:
Waiting until 70 isn’t always best. Andrew shares a case where retiring at full retirement age gave a couple three extra years together—time they couldn’t reclaim by waiting.

Why Financial Plans Collect Dust:
Most plans fail not because they’re wrong—but because no one follows through. Andrew stresses the role of accountability: advisors, spouses, mentors who help ensure action.

Taking Action:

Confidence comes from clarity—and clarity requires action. Andrew urges listeners to reflect on their values, realign spending with purpose, and take the first step toward impact.

Connect with Andrew:

• Book: Beyond Enough (on Amazon)
• LinkedIn: Andrew LaFontain (Brookfield, Wisconsin)

“The goal isn’t just retirement—it’s confidence. When you have it, you stop delaying and start making the impact you were meant for.”

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