Golden Years: A Roadmap to Navigate Retirement

Hosted by Mark Cordner

Business Investing Education

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Episodes

122

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

At Golden Years Financial, Mark Cordner and his team help Boomers transition into the “Third Age” (or chapter) of their lives, a time of increased personal meaning, self-realization, and success. Whether you're nearing retirement or already retired, "Golden Years" is your trusted resource for building a roadmap to a prosperous and fulfilling retirement. Subscribe today and embark on a journey toward the retirement you've always dreamed of. Your golden years are waiting – let Mark Cordner guide you there. If you live in the Las Vegas area and you’re ready to start your personalized roadmap, click here to schedule your first appointment. Follow on Facebook and LinkedIn .

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 18, 202618 min

The Retirement Risk No One Saw Coming

What if the biggest retirement risk isn't a market crash, but living longer than your money lasts? On this episode, Mark Cordner discusses why baby boomer retirements haven't triggered the market downturn many feared, the importance of balancing growth and preservation, and how inflation can challenge retirement income over time. He also explores longevity planning, Social Security's evolving role, strategies for creating reliable income, and key considerations when evaluating Roth conversions. The conversation focuses on managing risk, building income guardrails, and thinking differently about retirement in an era of longer life expectancies. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 11, 202615 min

Will the Great Wealth Transfer Ever Reach Your Heirs?

Will the Great Wealth Transfer leave a legacy, or be consumed by taxes, healthcare costs, and longer life expectancies? On this episode, Mark Cordner explores strategies families use to preserve wealth across generations, including Roth conversion planning and tax considerations for heirs. The conversation also examines why retirement income rules like the traditional 4% rule may not fit every situation, the value of customized income planning, and the often-overlooked impact of healthcare and long-term care costs. From legacy planning to retirement cash flow, this episode highlights key decisions that can shape the years ahead. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 4, 202617 min

Warren Buffett Cut Risk. Should Retirees Do the Same?

What happens when playing it too safe in retirement becomes its own financial risk? Mark Cordner discusses Warren Buffett’s decision to move billions into cash and what it reveals about managing risk in retirement, the importance of balancing preservation with growth, and how diversification may help manage risk. He also discusses the limitations of AI-generated financial guidance, the value of human insight in retirement planning, and growing concerns about Social Security's future. The conversation highlights retirement income strategies, including guaranteed income sources, and why proactive planning matters long before leaving the workforce. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 28, 202617 min

You May Not Need $1 Million to Retire After All

Do you really need $1 million to retire, or is the bigger question whether your income can support the life you want? On this episode, Mark Cordner breaks down why retirement readiness is about income, expenses, and expectations rather than chasing a specific savings number. He discusses Social Security uncertainty, alternative income sources, inflation's impact on retirement, health care and long-term care costs, and why many Americans retire earlier than planned. Learn how planning for income, health care, and lifestyle choices can shape a more informed retirement strategy. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 21, 202616 min

Can AI Really Tell You If You're Ready to Retire?

Can AI really tell you if you're ready for retirement, or is it missing something critical? This episode explores the growing role of artificial intelligence in financial planning and why experience-driven guidance still matters. Mark Cordner discusses the limits of AI-generated advice, the challenges of inflation and "number blindness," and how retirees can better understand what their savings may actually be worth. The conversation also examines market optimism, concentration risk, and why preservation and diversification become increasingly important as retirement approaches. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 7, 202613 min

Is 65 an Outdated Retirement Age?

Is 65 no longer the right retirement age? In this episode, Mark Cordner explores how longer life expectancies are reshaping retirement planning, why Social Security faces growing demographic challenges, and the benefits of staying engaged later in life. He also discusses hidden fees inside many 401(k) plans, the importance of reviewing portfolio costs before retirement, and how guaranteed income sources can help reduce financial stress. The conversation highlights why advance planning—especially in the five to ten years before retirement—can play a key role in building a retirement strategy. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July 2, 202614 min

The Retirement Move That Looks Cheaper—Until It Isn’t

Could moving to a cheaper retirement destination end up costing you more than you expected? Mark Cordner explores the hidden factors behind retirement relocation, from healthcare access and support systems to taxes and quality of life. He also discusses the financial and emotional impact of long-term care, why many retirees underestimate future income needs, and the importance of assigning a purpose to every retirement dollar. The conversation highlights how structured planning can help balance essential expenses, healthcare costs, memorable experiences, and legacy goals throughout retirement. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 23, 202614 min

Why Your 401(k) Withdrawals Could Cost You More Than You Think

Hidden taxes in retirement can quietly dismantle even the best savings strategy. Mark Cordner breaks down how “phantom income” from 401(k) withdrawals can trigger higher tax brackets, Medicare surcharges, and additional Social Security taxes if spending isn’t carefully managed. He highlights the importance of pacing withdrawals, balancing lifestyle choices, and using financial guidance as a sounding board. The conversation also explores rising national debt, potential tax increases, Roth conversion strategies, and growing concerns around Social Security’s future, emphasizing the need for proactive, individualized retirement planning. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 16, 202617 min

The Retirement Myth: Why Your “Magic Number” Doesn’t Matter

That “magic number” for retirement might be misleading—and income could matter far more. On this episode, Mark Cordner breaks down why retirement planning centers on reliable cash flow, not just savings totals. He explores income sources like pensions and annuities, the risk of portfolio drift, and why regular reviews are critical. The conversation also highlights overlooked challenges, including life structure after retirement, healthcare costs, and uncertainty around Social Security. With practical insights and real-life examples, the discussion focuses on aligning financial strategies with lifestyle needs and preparing for the realities that shape a sustainable retirement. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 9, 202617 min

The $5,300 Question: Can Your Retirement Cover Real Life?

What if your retirement paycheck doesn’t match your lifestyle? This episode breaks down how retirees actually spend—and why income, not assets, drives a successful plan. Mark Cordner explains how to evaluate Social Security, pensions, and savings to identify income gaps, while addressing overlooked costs like hobbies, healthcare, and inflation. The conversation also explores common 401(k) misconceptions and why relying on it alone can fall short. From budgeting realities to balancing safety and growth near retirement, this episode highlights the key decisions that shape long-term financial stability and quality of life. Are You Ready to Embrace Your Golden Years? Schedule an Appointment Check out our Newsletter! Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.