Functional Retirement Podcast

Hosted by Thatcher Taylor

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Latest episode

May 2026

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About the show

The Functional Retirement Podcast takes a functional approach to retirement planning, exploring the convergence of your money with health, longevity risk, and retirement planning. Hosted by Thatcher Taylor, CFP® MBA, this podcast offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for achieving financial and health-related retirement goals. As a financial planner and health enthusiast, Thatcher believes in a holistic approach to retirement planning that takes into account both financial and health-related goals. In each episode, he covers topics such as financial planning, health and wellness, and longevity risk. The podcast is built for sharing insights and strategies for achieving a fulfilling retirement. The Functional Retirement Podcast also features expert guests who share their knowledge and perspectives on various retirement-related topics. Whether you're a retiree, a pre-retiree, or simply interested in learning more about retirement planning, this podcast offers valuable insights and practical advice. So, join us for a functional approach to retirement planning on The Functional Retirement Podcast. Subscribe to our podcast and YouTube channel, and follow us on social media for more updates.

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60 recent

May 22, 202615 min

Step-Up in Basis: A Tax Break for Your Heirs | #063 The Functional Retirement Podcast

The step-up in basis is a tax benefit that many retirees may have heard of but often do not fully understand. This concept can significantly impact estate planning and tax liabilities for heirs, potentially saving families hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. In this discussion with Financial Planner Thatcher Taylor, we will delve into what the step-up in basis is, how it works, and its implications for estate planning.The step-up in basis is particularly beneficial for assets held in taxable brokerage accounts, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. It allows heirs to avoid significant tax liabilities that would otherwise arise from the appreciation of these assets over time. For many families, this can mean substantial savings in taxes, making it a meaningful consideration in estate planning.00:11 Step-up in basis explained.5:44 Step-up in basis benefits.11:24 Community property states benefits.12:41 Step up in basis benefits.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

May 15, 202627 min

Where Will You Live as You Age? | #062 The Functional Retirement Podcast

In this episode, Financial Planner Thatcher Taylor discusses late-life housing and care options. As individuals approach retirement and later life, planning for housing and care becomes crucial. Understanding these options can help retirees and their families make informed decisions.1. Aging in Place2. Independent Living Communities3. Assisted Living4. Memory Care5. Skilled Nursing Facilities6. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)Each of these six options presents unique advantages and challenges. The right choice depends on individual health, financial situation, personal values, and family dynamics. Early planning and open conversations about these options can help ensure that retirees and their families are prepared for the future, avoiding last-minute decisions made under pressure.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

May 8, 202626 min

Social Security Delay Decision | #061 The Functional Retirement Podcast

The decision of when to claim Social Security is highly personal and can have lasting financial implications. While waiting until age 70 may be beneficial for some, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. A thorough analysis that considers individual circumstances, risk factors, and the dynamics of married couples can help retirees make informed decisions that align with their retirement goals. As always, consulting with a financial planner can provide tailored advice to navigate this critical decision effectively.Several factors can influence whether delaying Social Security is the right choice for an individual:Health Concerns: If you have serious health issues or a family history of shorter life expectancy, the rationale for delaying benefits diminishes. Portfolio Balances: Individuals with lower portfolio balances may face a different set of challenges. Behavioral Factors: Emotional considerations, such as the risk of regret, also play a role in the decision-making process. Ultimately, Social Security serves as a crucial financial instrument that can hedge against longevity, inflation, and poor investment returns. By understanding the mechanics and risks involved, retirees can navigate this decision more effectively and reduce the potential for regret.Thank you for joining me on the Functional Retirement Podcast. If you found this episode valuable, please share it with someone approaching retirement or in need of a better strategy. I'm Thatcher Taylor, and I'll see you next time.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

May 1, 202635 min

Avoiding the "Too Much Deferral" Problem | #060 The Functional Retirement Podcast

In this episode of the Functional Retirement Podcast, host Thatcher Taylor, a Certified Financial Planner, dives into a practical scenario involving a couple, Dan and Sally, who have just retired. With a combined need of $72,000 per year from their investment accounts to supplement their Social Security income, Thatcher explores the complexities of determining which accounts to draw from—traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or taxable brokerage account. He emphasizes that the answer is not straightforward and depends on various factors, including tax brackets, future distribution requirements, Medicare considerations, and estate planning goals. Listeners are encouraged to think critically about their own retirement planning and the unique variables that impact their income distribution strategies. Tune in for an insightful discussion on navigating retirement finances effectively.[00:02:23] Withdrawal sequencing strategies.[00:05:58] Withdrawal strategies and tax implications.[00:09:31] Roth IRA withdrawal strategy.[00:13:01] Tax deferral strategies in retirement.[00:17:02] Retirement income tax strategies.[00:20:57] Managing tax brackets in retirement.[00:25:40] Roth conversion strategies for retirement.[00:28:50] Medicare IRMA surcharge explained.[00:33:30] Tax strategies in retirement income.🤝 Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedNot ready yet? No problem... Learn How To Get Worry-Free Retirement Income👉 https://www.propathfinancial.com/guides🎧Listen To The Podcast: https://thefunctionalretirement.buzzsprout.com📺Watch The Functional Retirement Podcast On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7A5bFh5NxnW3JkaMuGwFGM3PIQP2iLKDWatch Full Videos Now @functionalretirement📝Free Retirement Vision Workbook https://propath.ck.page/workbook🔔 Subscribe for notification of all future videos: https://www.youtube.com/functionalretirement?sub_confirmation=1DISCLAIMER: The information provided in these videos is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown in any of these videos is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

April 24, 202623 min

Will Your Emotions Spend Too Little In Retirement? | #059 The Functional Retirement Podcast

In this episode of the Functional Retirement Podcast, we tackle one of the most common questions I receive from clients: "Will I run out of money in retirement?" While this is a valid concern, research shows that the bigger issue for many affluent retirees is not running out of money but rather not spending enough of it. This episode delves into the concept of the "retirement consumption gap" and the "spending paradox."We explore the behavioral phenomenon affecting many retirees, particularly those who have diligently saved and built a certain lifestyle. Despite having sufficient funds, these individuals often fail to spend their annual income, let alone dip into their principal. This cautious approach stems from various factors, including the fear of the unknown, the saver's identity, and the mathematical logic supporting early restraint.I discuss a study published in the Journal of Financial Planning, which found that affluent retirees often underspend relative to what their assets can support. This behavior is influenced by longevity risk, the ingrained habit of saving, and the need for portfolio growth in the early years of retirement.To address this issue, I offer three practical ideas:1. Get Clarity on Your Real Number: Understand your current living costs, including taxation, and stress-test your financial plan to ensure it can sustain various scenarios.2. Separate Your Money: Distinguish between non-negotiable expenses, living expenses, and lifestyle money to make more informed spending decisions.3. Focus on Health: Your physical and mental health significantly impact your ability to enjoy retirement. Being healthy allows you to spend more actively and efficiently.The episode emphasizes the importance of balancing experiences, generosity, and happiness with maintaining a certain portfolio balance. Your portfolio should be viewed as a tool, not a trophy. The ultimate goal is to live a fulfilling retirement, enjoying the fruits of your labor without undue anxiety about running out of money.If this episode resonated with you and you're unsure whether your plan allows you to spend confidently, I invite you to reach out for a complimentary conversation. Let's work together to create a specific strategy tailored to your situation and goals.Thank you for joining me on the Functional Retirement Podcast. If you found this episode valuable, please share it with someone approaching retirement or in need of a better strategy. I'm Thatcher Taylor, and I'll see you next time.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

July 4, 202510 min

1 Year Before Retirement Checklist | Retirement Countdown Part 3 | #058 The Functional Retirement Podcast

If you’re just one year out from retirement, the planning phase should be behind you. This episode is all about shifting from prep mode to game day execution. Your income, healthcare, and lifestyle decisions should already be mapped out—now it’s time to focus on making it all happen. We’ll walk you through what the final stretch looks like, what not to stress about, and why midnight spreadsheet sessions are no longer the vibe. Let’s make this last lap count! Timestamps:1:02 Game day execution for retirement.6:30 Retirement planning and purpose.9:46 Retirement preparation and planning.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

June 27, 202511 min

5 Years To Avoid Retirement Regret | Retirement Countdown Part 2 | #057 The Functional Retirement Podcast

Hi everyone, welcome back to your classroom. Today, we're diving into part two of our retirement countdown series, focusing on what you need to consider when you're five years out from retirement. If you missed the previous episode, we discussed the preparations needed when you're ten years out. Now, let’s get into the critical steps for the five-year mark.Timestamps:1:25 Retirement preparation timeline.4:18 Retirement planning strategies.9:14 Retirement planning five years out.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

June 20, 202514 min

What To Do 10 Years Before Retirement | Retirement Countdown Part 1 | #056 The Functional Retirement Podcast

Most of my clients are over the age of 50, and I’ve noticed that as you get closer to retirement, your thought process evolves. Instead of one long discussion, I thought it would be more beneficial to break it down into manageable segments. This way, you can focus on the timeframe that’s most relevant to you.In this first episode, we’ll talk about what you should be doing 10 years out from retirement. Next week, we’ll cover the 5-year mark, and the following week, we’ll discuss the final year before you retire.Stay tuned for next week’s episode, where we’ll discuss what to focus on 5 years out from retirement. If you have any questions or want to learn more about financial planning, feel free to reach out to me at ProPathFinancial.com. See you next time! Timestamps:0:27 Preparing for retirement stages.5:08 Retirement planning strategies.9:57 Social Security and retirement planning.12:05 Retirement preparation strategies.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

June 7, 202522 min

Retirement Taxation By Account Type I Ep:055

Where will your retirement income come from, and how will it be taxed? This is a crucial question every retiree needs to understand.A client recently shared an intriguing Instagram post that highlighted how the average American retires at 64 and may only enjoy about 12 years of good health in retirement. This sparked a discussion about the importance of investing in health alongside financial assets.Your health significantly impacts your retirement income strategy. A mix of taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts allows you to control your taxable income each year, helping to manage expenses like Medicare surcharges and tax brackets.Timestamps:03:01- Invest in your health.05:46- Retirement income sources and taxes.10:36- Roth IRA tax benefits.14:03- Tax-efficient withdrawal strategies.18:01- Real estate and income taxation.20:55- Managing retirement income taxes.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.

May 23, 202521 min

What Does Retirement Really Look Like I Ep: 054

Retirement is Not Just One Thing: The traditional view of retirement—working until a certain age and then sailing off into the sunset—is just one of many paths. Whether you’re considering the FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early), semi-retirement, or even a career shift, it’s crucial to define what retirement means to you. Understanding your vision will help you create a tailored financial plan that aligns with your goals.Timestamps:02:15- Traditional retirement options explained.5:47- FIRE movement challenges.8:17- Semi-retirement and flexibility.14:23- Work optional retirement.16:10- Retirement planning and work.19:06- Defining your retirement version.✅Contact Thatcher at thatcher@propathfinancial.com with comments and questions!Are you over age 50 and need retirement help?Schedule a free consultation https://www.propathfinancial.com/get-startedSubscribe for all things retirement, investment, tax, & estate planning https://www.youtube.com/@propathfinancialJoin The Newsletter For All Wealth Building Tacticshttps://propath.ck.page/60fab1df4dDISCLAIMER: The information provided in these episodes is only to be considered helpful hints and education. Nothing said or shown is to be misconstrued as specific tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult with your tax, legal, or investment professional before acting on anything you see in these videos.Investment Advisory Services are offered through ProPath Financial, a registered investment adviser authorized to do business in states where registered or otherwise exempt from registration. Nothing discussed in this podcast should be viewed as investment advice.