In this episode of Finding Financial Freedom Podcast, Dr. Disha Spath sits down with Fritz Gilbert, founder of The Retirement Manifesto and award-winning blogger, to uncover the secrets of a successful retirement. Fritz shares how he planned his early retirement, built financial security, and navigated the emotional and relational aspects of this major life transition.

Discover the strategies behind his three-year cash cushion, the bucket system for managing retirement spending, and how he handled investments during market downturns. Plus, get insights on Roth IRA conversions, the 72(t) rule, and why non-financial aspects of retirement are just as important as the numbers.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Preparing for Early Retirement

• What inspired Fritz to retire early and how he planned for it.

2. Building a Three-Year Cash Cushion

• How cash reserves provide security in retirement.

3. Estimating Retirement Spending

• Using cash buckets to create a sustainable withdrawal strategy.

4. Investment Strategy During Market Downturns

• Did Fritz pause withdrawals during COVID? The 72(t) Rule Explained

5. How it allows penalty-free early retirement withdrawals.

• Roth IRA ConversionsTax-efficient strategies for long-term wealth.

6. Beyond Money The Emotional Side of Retirement

• Why relationships and purpose matter just as much as finances.

7. Avoiding Common Retirement Planning Mistakes

• Lessons from Fritz's experience.

Resources Mentioned:

• Keys to a Successful Retirement by Fritz Gilbert
• The Retirement Manifest Blog by Fritz Gilbert
• How to Retire by Christine Benz

Listener Takeaways:

• Build a cash cushion to weather market downturns in retirement.
• Structure your retirement paycheck with a clear spending and withdrawal plan.
• Understand the key tax strategies, like Roth conversions and the 72(t) rule.
• Plan beyond finances—focus on relationships, purpose, and fulfillment.

Connect with Us:

• Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician

• Guest: Fritz Gilbert: Founder of The Retirement Manifesto

Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to share this episode with anyone navigating student loan repayment.

This episode is also sponsored by

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