In this episode of the Retire Early Podcast, financial advisors and retirement planners Sam Benson & Linwood Fraher of Martin Wealth Solutions kick off a deeper conversation around asset classes, starting with one of the most misunderstood: cash.
Sam and Linwood explain why cash is more than just “money in the bank” and how it plays a strategic role in retirement planning. They discuss when holding cash makes sense, when it can quietly hurt long-term outcomes, and how to think about cash as a tool for stability, flexibility, and peace of mind — not just safety.
This episode helps listeners better understand how cash fits into a well-balanced retirement plan, especially during periods of uncertainty, market volatility, and life transitions.
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Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Introduction: Why cash deserves a closer look
01:46 – What we really mean by “cash” as an asset class
03:18 – Why people feel safer holding cash
05:02 – The hidden risks of holding too much cash
06:56 – Inflation and purchasing power over time
08:52 – When cash plays a valuable role in retirement
10:48 – Cash as a buffer during market volatility
12:36 – How much cash is “enough”?
14:28 – Cash vs. opportunity cost
16:14 – Different uses for cash at different life stages
18:06 – How cash fits into an overall income strategy
20:02 – Common mistakes retirees make with cash
22:06 – Building intentional cash reserves
24:02 – Key takeaways for using cash wisely
26:10 – Final thoughts & closing
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