Best Struthers Podcasts (2025)

1
Naughty or Nice?: A Holiday Checkup for Your Retirement Plan 26:09

Play Pause

6d ago26:09

26:09

Many people quietly wonder if they’re doing retirement “right,” especially around the holidays. So in this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers puts a seasonal spin on some of the most common retirement behaviors he sees every day. Using a “naughty or nice” framework, Mark explains why certain choices—like holding too much cash, b…

1
Don’t Let FOMO Destroy Your Nest Egg: NVIDIA, Concentration Risk, and Retirement 20:38

20d ago20:38

20:38

Strong earnings from Nvidia have dominated headlines, and with it comes a familiar emotional tug for many investors: FOMO (the fear of missing out). For retirees and near-retirees, moments like these can create unnecessary stress and confusion about whether to chase big winners or stay the course with a long-term plan. In this episode, Certified Re…

1
Travel in Retirement: Smart Strategies for Cost, Comfort, and Connection 55:02

1M ago55:02

55:02

Retirement is your time to explore, but meaningful travel takes more than just picking a destination. It’s about creating experiences that align with your values, health, and financial goals. In this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers talks with veteran travel journalist Megan Padilla about how to plan trips that are memorable, …

1
Give More, Keep More: Tax-Smart Charitable Strategies for Retirees 20:30

2M ago20:30

20:30

The holiday season brings out our generous spirit, but are you giving in the smartest way possible? In this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers explains how to make your charitable giving more tax-efficient, emotionally rewarding, and financially sustainable through Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) and Qualified Charitable Distribution…

1
How to Protect Your Retirement Savings: Spot Scams Targeting Seniors 17:52

2M ago17:52

17:52

Scams are getting smarter, and retirees are increasingly in the crosshairs. In this episode, Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers talks about one of the fastest-growing threats to retirees: financial fraud (especially powered by AI). He shares real-world stories of people caught in sophisticated scams and explains how emotion, urgency, and…

1
Medicare Changes 2025: What Retirees Need to Know About the One Big Beautiful Bill 49:45

3M ago49:45

49:45

Healthcare costs are rising, and new legislation could bring big changes to Medicare, Medicaid, and retirement planning. In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers interviews health insurance expert Matt Wicklund about the “One Big Beautiful Bill” and how upcoming policy changes will affect Medicare, Medicaid, and premium tax cr…

1
Rethink Retirement: How Green Light Spending Beats the 4% Rule 15:49

3M ago15:49

15:49

The 4% rule has been the gold standard for decades, but is it holding you back? What if you could retire earlier, spend more, and still feel confident your money will last? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers introduces his Green Light Spending approach, a smarter, more flexible alternative to the rigid 4% rule. Listen in…

1
How to Write a Retirement Letter to Your Spouse 18:36

4M ago18:36

18:36

We all know about retirement letters to employers, but what about the person who’s been by your side through every late night, career win, and missed vacation? What if retirement was marked not just with HR paperwork, but with a heartfelt letter to your spouse, the real partner who carried you across the finish line? In this episode, certified reti…

1
Private Equity in 401(k)s: The Good, Bad, and Ugly 36:37

4M ago36:37

36:37

Private equity and private credit have long been the playground of institutional investors and the ultra-wealthy, but now they may be coming to your 401(k). Is this a golden opportunity or a risky gamble for your retirement savings? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the good, the bad, and the downright ugly …

1
The Stress Paradox: Why Good Stress Is Essential for a Healthier Retirement 33:20

5M ago33:20

33:20

Is all stress bad? Not quite. We’ve been told for years that stress is the enemy, but what if some stress is exactly what your body and mind need—especially as you age? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explores the surprising science behind The Stress Paradox by Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist. Listen in to hear why certai…

1
Why Beneficiary Designations Can Make or Break Your Estate Plan with Estate Planning Attorney Jennifer Spalding 31:47

5M ago31:47

31:47

Are your beneficiary designations putting your estate at risk without your knowledge? In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers sits down with estate planning attorney Jennifer Spalding to identify the hidden risks of beneficiary designations. Listen in to learn the difference between per stirpes and per capita, how probate wor…

1
Top 10 Ways to Avoid IRMAA and Save on Medicare in Retirement 21:41

6M ago21:41

21:41

Are you paying too much for Medicare? You might be, especially if you’re overlooking the IRMAA surcharge. This little-known fee can quietly eat into your retirement savings if you're not careful. In this episode, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the top 10 strategies to help reduce or avoid this hidden tax on Medicare premi…

1
Run Your Retirement Like a Marathon: Lessons in Discipline and Strategy 17:31

6M ago17:31

17:31

Is retirement more like a sprint or a marathon? Turns out, it’s definitely a marathon, and the lessons from long-distance running might be exactly what your retirement plan needs. Certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers shares personal stories from his half-marathon in Duluth and relates them to practical retirement planning strategies. Liste…

1
Talking About Watches With MrWatchMaster Ft. Rebecca Struthers 23:37

6M ago23:37

23:37

In this episode I speak with Rebecca Struthers, an award-winning designer, watchmaker, and historian; Rebecca is half of the founding husband and wife team behind Struthers Watchmakers. Born and raised in Birmingham, Rebecca was just 17 when she set out on her path to becoming one of Britain’s leading watchmakers. Initially training as a jeweller a…

1
The 2+ Bucket Strategy Explained for Secure Retirement 29:16

6M ago29:16

29:16

Is the bucket strategy right for your retirement? The idea sounds simple: set aside a few “buckets” to manage your money in retirement. But is it really that easy or effective? Certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers takes a deep dive into the 2+ bucket strategy, a retirement income approach designed to balance predictability and growth. List…

1
Should You Put Crypto in Your Retirement Account? 19:48

6M ago19:48

19:48

Does cryptocurrency belong in your retirement account? Some say it’s the future of money. Others call it a digital tulip bubble. With all the hype, headlines, and heated opinions, it’s hard to know what’s signal and what’s noise. Certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the real risks and potential rewards of crypto in retirement. …

1
Sailing with Phoenix: Lessons on Non-Traditional Retirement Paths 21:35

7M ago21:35

21:35

What can a 29-year-old sailor with a cat teach us about retirement? More than you’d expect. When Instagram adventurer Oliver Widger, known as “Sailing with Phoenix,” quit his job, cashed out his 401(k), and set sail for Hawaii with nothing but grit and his cat, it raised eyebrows—but it also sparked some interesting ideas. Listen in as certified re…

1
The Diderot Effect and How Lifestyle Creep Begins in Retirement 22:06

7M ago22:06

22:06

What if one purchase was enough to throw off your entire retirement plan? It starts small: a new couch, a dream vacation, upgraded luggage… Before you know it, your spending snowballs, and your careful financial planning starts to unravel. It’s called the Diderot effect, and it can lead even the most disciplined retirees into retirement lifestyle c…

1
Are Barrier Notes Right for Your Retirement? 19:09

7M ago19:09

19:09

What are barrier notes? And should they have a place in your retirement portfolio? While barrier notes promise higher returns and some downside protection, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explains why these complex investments might be more trouble than they’re worth. Listen in as he breaks down how these products really work, what al…

1
Are Target Date Funds Ruining Retirement? 25:18

7M ago25:18

25:18

Are TDFs (Target Date Funds) right for you? While they’re marketed as convenient, “set it and forget it” solutions, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explains why these popular investment tools may not work for everyone—especially retirees. Many retirees (notably baby boomers) equate the “target date” with a pension-like guarantee, only…

1
In Conversation with George Bamford founder of Bamford watch department and Marc Michel-Amadry, Managing director of Girard-Perragauxat the launch of the New Deep Diver 35:50

7M ago35:50

35:50

In this episode we are joined by George Bamford founder of Bamford watch department and Marc Michel-Amadry, Managing director of Girard-Perragaux. Sit down with us as we discover the New Deep Diver limited edition and learn about the inspiration behind the project, live from the launch event hosted by Watches of Switzerland Knightsbridge showroom.…

1
The Top 3 Social Security Mistakes Couples Must Avoid 14:32

7M ago14:32

14:32

Could a simple mistake cost you thousands in Social Security benefits? The short answer is yes. Claiming too early, misjudging work penalties, or overlooking survivorship benefits can take a serious toll on your retirement income. So how do you avoid this? Tune in as certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the top three Social Sec…

1
The Roth IRA and SECURE Act: What Your Heirs Need to Know 20:05

8M ago20:05

20:05

Will your Roth IRA survive the SECURE Act? As the rules around wealth transfer keep shifting, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down what the SECURE Act means for your Roth IRA and, more importantly, for your heirs. Listen in as we explore why Roth IRAs are still a powerful tool, how new beneficiary rules could impact your estate…

1
Is Social Security Going Away? Planning for a Secure Retirement 32:47

8M ago32:47

32:47

Will Social Security still be around when you retire? As fears about its future continue to rise, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers cuts through the noise with a grounded, facts-first approach to solvency, accessibility, and the threat of termination. Listen in as we talk about why full termination is highly unlikely, how accessibility …

1
Strategy vs. Tactics: Should You Change Your Portfolio Before a Recession? 19:25

8M ago19:25

19:25

Should you be making changes to your portfolio with a recession looming? Market volatility brings a lot of anxiety, especially when retirement is just around the corner. But reacting out of fear can do more harm than good. Listen in as your certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the main difference between strategy and tactics, a…

1
The Roth 5-Year Rule Explained 27:16

8M ago27:16

27:16

Confused by the Roth 5-year rule? If so, you’re not alone. The Roth IRA can feel like a financial enigma, and the 5-year rule is often misunderstood, leading to hesitation and missed opportunities. But today, we’re breaking down the mystery. Listen in as your certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explains the different variations of the 5-y…

1
Change a Girl's Life 44:17

10M ago44:17

44:17

In this special episode we are joined by a panel of inspirational women, in support of The King’s Trust’s Change a Girl’s Life Campaign, live from our Goldsmiths Trafford centre showroom. This episode is hosted by Daniel Andrews, founder of Creating Effective Generations. Daniel is joined by, Kiki McDonough, Vicky Brys and Young Ambassador Sionibha…

1
Navigating Life's Toughest Decisions: Financial Planning Insights from 'Being Mortal' 11:15

11M ago11:15

11:15

Welcome to the latest episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement. Join host Mark Struthers as he explores the profound insights of Atul Gawande's book "Being Mortal." In this thought-provoking discussion, discover how the book's themes of quality of life, patient decision-making, and healthcare choices intersect with financial and retirement plannin…

1
A In Year Review 2024 30:58

11M ago30:58

30:58

We sat down with Executive Director of Global Buying and Merchandising, Eric Macaire and Senior Buyer of Watches, Elizabeth Millward to take a look back on 2024 and the horological environment. In this episode the pair discuss their highlights of 2024, trends and future predictions for what to expect in 2025.…

1
Mastering Retirement Expenses: The Floor & Ceiling 7:07

11M ago7:07

7:07

Welcome to this episode of the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement with Mark Struthers, your certified retirement counselor. In this insightful discussion, Mark explores various models of managing retirement expenses, offering valuable strategies to ensure your financial stability in later years. Learn about the five common models, including inflation a…

1
Mastering Retirement Expenses: The Guardrails Approach 6:57

11M ago6:57

6:57

Welcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, where Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers dives deep into the holistic aspects of retirement planning. This episode emphasizes the critical role of understanding expenses in securing a healthier, wealthier future. Filmed in the beautiful Edina, Minnesota, today's discussion centers on how exp…

1
Mastering Retirement Expenses: Retirement Stages 10:34

11M ago10:34

10:34

Join Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers on the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement YouTube channel as he delves into the often-overlooked topic of retirement expenses. Learn how understanding your spending before and during retirement is crucial for financial planning and how it influences your overall retirement well-being. This episode intr…

1
Mastering Retirement Expenses: The Retirement Spending Smile 12:31

11M ago12:31

12:31

Welcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement podcast, hosted by Mark Struthers. In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked topic of managing expenses in preparation for a financially secure retirement. Many approaching retirement are uncertain about their current and future spending habits, leading to potential challenges. Mark discusses …

1
Talking About Watches With MrWatchMaster Ft. Inga Duffy-Shorokhova 21:32

11M ago21:32

21:32

In this episode I speak with Inga Duffy-Shorokova, Director of Marketing at Alexander Shorokhoff and Poljot-International. Inga graduated as a fashion designer where she demonstrated her creativity. After this she spent time in Milan studying marketing and luxury goods management. Having been exposed to the luxury market, it was at this time she de…

1
Decoding the 10x Rule for Retirement: Is It Too Conservative? 11:30

12M ago11:30

11:30

Summary In this conversation, Mark Struthers discusses the 10 times rule for retirement savings, which suggests that individuals should aim to have 10 times their gross income saved by retirement. He explores the origins of this rule, its benchmarks, and its effectiveness in providing adequate retirement income. Struthers critiques the rule, arguin…

1
Navigating Volatility: The Japanese Carry Trade Explained 11:32

12M ago11:32

11:32

Summary In this episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, Mark Struthers discusses the recent market crash attributed to the Japanese carry trade, its implications for investors, and strategies to navigate financial uncertainty. He emphasizes the importance of having an emergency fund, diversifying investments, and reviewing bond portfolios to ens…

1
Mastering the 3-Bucket Strategy for a Secure Retirement 17:32

12M ago17:32

17:32

Welcome to "Healthy and Wealthy Retirement" with Mark Struthers, your certified retirement counselor, who introduces a holistic approach to navigating the complexities of retirement planning. In this episode, Mark dives into the intricacies of the three-bucket strategy for retirement funding, designed to balance risk and provide comfort for retiree…

1
Moving to a Low-Tax State for Retirement 9:59

12M ago9:59

9:59

Summary In this episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, Mark Struthers discusses the considerations for relocating to a low-tax state. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the total tax burden, including property taxes and social security taxation. Mark also highlights the significance of home affordability, quality of life, job opportu…

1
Keystone Activities: The Cornerstone of a Happy Retirement 11:24

12M ago11:24

11:24

Welcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement podcast! In this episode, host Mark Struthers explores the concept of keystone activities and their pivotal role in fostering a fulfilling retirement life. Mark delves into how these activities can influence and enhance your social, physical, and emotional well-being, providing a foundation for a more c…

1
Navigating Inflation in Retirement 15:34

12M ago15:34

15:34

Welcome to the Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, where certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers explores the impact of inflation on retirees. In this episode, Mark discusses how the recent surge in inflation has heightened awareness and seriousness about planning for retirement. Mark explains how inflation erodes purchasing power over time, maki…

1
Navigating Risk in Retirement 7:59

12M ago7:59

7:59

Summary In this conversation, Mark Struthers discusses the multifaceted nature of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing various risks associated with retirement. He highlights the significance of holistic well-being, addressing not only financial aspects but also social, physical, and emotional factors. Strut…

1
Unlocking Early IRA Access: Understanding SEPP (72t) 13:14

1y ago13:14

13:14

In this episode of Healthy and Wealthy Retirement, certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers delves into the often-overlooked topic of 72T, a strategy for accessing funds within a traditional IRA without penalties. Mark explains the intricacies and challenges associated with Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP), highlighting how this ap…

1
Is Index Universal Life Insurance Right For Your Retirement? 17:09

1y ago17:09

17:09

Join Certified Retirement Counselor Mark Struthers on the 'Healthy and Wealthy Retirement' podcast as he sheds light on the complexities of permanent insurance, specifically focusing on Index Universal Life. Discover the hidden trade-offs and alternatives your insurance agent might not mention, as Mark guides you through making informed decisions. …

1
The Economic and Political Influence on Mortgage Rates 21:48

1y ago21:48

21:48

Welcome to the latest episode of The Healthy and Wealthy Retirement with certified retirement counselor, Mark Struthers. In this Thanksgiving special, Mark delves into the intriguing world of mortgage interest rates and their unexpected rise. He provides insights into how political events, particularly elections, can significantly impact financial …

1
Navigating the Challenges of "Failure to Launch" in Today's Economy 12:37

1y ago12:37

12:37

In this episode of "Healthier and Wealthy Retirement," host Mark Struthers delves into the pressing issue of the "Failure to Launch" phenomenon, inspired by a Bloomberg Wealth article. With U.S. parents spending an astounding $500 billion annually on their adult children, Mark explores the financial strain this places on retirement savings and the …

1
Navigating Retirement Beyond Finances - A Conversation with Retirement Coach Alara Rosenberg 46:13

1y ago46:13

46:13

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Healthy and Wealthy Retirement" with your host, Mark Struthers. Join us as we explore the multi-faceted journey of retirement beyond financial planning, emphasizing holistic well-being. Mark shares his vision for the podcast, inspired by his extensive experience in the financial industry and personal insights in…

1
The Fed is Recalibrating: Here are 4 Things You Should be Recalibrating Too 16:55

1y ago16:55

16:55

In this episode of "Healthy and Wealthy Retirement," certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers discusses the importance of recalibrating your approach to retirement in light of recent economic changes. With a focus on holistic well-being, Mark explores how the recent Fed conference and interest rate adjustments influence retirement planning. Ma…