Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, especially for women, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of delaying big decisions or thinking “we” have it covered, when it turns out your name might not even be on that 401(k).

In this episode, I sit down with retirement consultant and consumer advocate Marcia Mantell, who has spent over 30 years translating Social Security, Medicare, and retirement rules into clear, practical guidance.

We explore why women face a retirement gap, debunk Social Security myths, and discuss delaying planning until it’s urgent. Marcia offers practical steps to boost your confidence and control over your future, regardless of age.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The Hidden Retirement Gap for Women
   Why women often have less in retirement, even if they were high earners or took “time out” for family, and how missing career years affect Social Security.
2. The Truth About Social Security
   Social Security isn’t a personal bank account or a one-stop retirement solution. Learn how benefits are calculated, what ‘35 years” really mean, and why claiming early at 62 can permanently reduce your check.
3. No Such Thing as a Joint 401(k)
   Why “we” doesn’t exist in retirement accounts, the key difference between owning and being a beneficiary, and what every married (or divorced!) woman should know about her account name.
4. Don’t Fall for the COLA Myth
   Cost-of-living increases sound helpful, but Marcia explains why they won’t replace early benefit reductions and what truly protects your retirement income.
5. It’s Never Too Late to Make a Difference
   Whether you’re behind in savings or starting to think about retirement at 50 or 60, Marcia shares three realistic steps any woman can take now to improve her security and peace of mind for the next 30 years. 

Music by: 

Epidemic Sound 

Call to Action:

If you found value in this conversation, hit that Subscribe button and leave a comment below: What is your biggest financial fear or goal when it comes to retirement? 

📕 Resources: 

https://createthebestme.com/ep164

https://boomerretirementbriefs.com/ 

https://mantellretirementconsulting.com/

https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/  

⚖️ Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational use only, not financial, investment, or legal advice. Consult your advisor before making retirement decisions. Guest views are their own and may not reflect those of Create The Best Me.

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