Early Retirement: Dream Come True or Financial Trap?

Equipping Points:

Ever fantasize about leaving your 9-to-5 before traditional retirement age? You’re not alone, but is early retirement even possible? In today’s episode, Eric explores what it really takes to retire early including how to tackle healthcare costs, how to make money last longer and the importance of shifting your mindset from spender to saver.

As workers experience career burnout, dissatisfaction with work, or health issues, it’s no surprise that early retirement is becoming a more serious consideration. Whether you’re dreaming of an early exit or just curious about your options, this episode will help you ask better questions and decide if early retirement is truly within your reach.

Here’s some of what we discuss:

💼 Why many retirees return to part-time work (and love it!)

🏦 Retirement account rules—what you can access at age 55

💡 How to know if early retirement is truly realistic for you

📊 Why running the numbers is the first step to freedom

If you have any questions about what we discussed on the show or want to follow up with any financial planning questions of your own, get in touch with us and schedule a visit here. 

 

Today’s Takeaway:

Related Episodes:

More From Eric:

The host: Eric Peterson - Contact - Call: (515) 226-1500

Subscribe To The Podcast:

Apple Podcasts  -  Google Podcasts  -  Spotify  -  Stitcher  -  iHeartRadio  -  TuneIn

Check out some other recent episodes

What 400+ Advisors Say Really Keeps Retirees Up at Night

April 3, 2025

What are Americans really concerned about when it comes to retirement? In this episode, we unpack the results of an insightful survey from Financial Advisor Magazine, which was completed by over 400 financial advisors. We’ll also compare these answers with the real-world concerns we hear every day from the clients in our own practice.

Read More

Bracket Busters and Stock Flops: The Risky Game of Picking Winners

March 27, 2025

March Madness is here, and just like filling out a bracket, picking individual stocks can feel like a thrilling gamble. But the odds of winning big are slim. In fact, history shows that most stock picks, like most brackets, end up busted.

Read More

Are Hidden Fees Draining Your Retirement Savings?

March 20, 2025

In this episode, Eric reveals the true cost of investing and how to protect yourself from unnecessary financial drains.

Read More

What Game Night Can Teach Us About Financial Planning

March 13, 2025

In this episode, Eric breaks down the surprising financial lessons hidden in classic board games, offering valuable insights to help you navigate your retirement strategy.

Read More

Mailbag – Upsizing, Financial Advisors & Business Owner Planning

March 6, 2025

Join us as we answer questions about the challenges of downsizing, the emotional aspects of planning for family gatherings, and the realities of transitioning into a financial advisory career.

Read More

Planning for Unique Situations in Retirement

February 27, 2025

While many face the same general retirement concerns, each individual’s situation is unique, requiring tailored solutions.

Read More

Planning for Kids, Grandkids, & Your Future

February 20, 2025

As many nearing retirement age are discovering, adult children and grandchildren can significantly influence financial strategies, making it crucial to understand how to navigate these relationships effectively.

Read More

Financial Planning Conversations for Couples

February 13, 2025

This episode is focused specifically on that planning we do with couples with insights on how we help them navigate tricky conversations about money and retirement.

Read More

Is Your Retirement Based on Wishful Thinking?

February 6, 2025

Many people fall into the trap of wishful thinking when it comes to what they expect will happen in retirement, but a successful retirement isn’t built on hope and assumptions.

Read More

Spending With Confidence in Retirement

January 30, 2025

Eric shares strategies to help retirees enjoy their savings while ensuring financial security.

Read More

Leave a Comment