Retirement is supposed to be the reward after decades of hard work—but what happens if your money doesn’t last as long as you do? In this episode of Compound Growth, Wheeler and Colin dig into one of the greatest financial anxieties people face: running out of money in retirement. With survey data showing that more Americans fear this than death itself, it’s a reality worth addressing.

The conversation unpacks why this fear is so widespread, from hidden spending habits and lifestyle creep to the unpredictability of medical costs and market downturns. The hosts draw parallels to everyday examples, like “secret eaters” who underestimate their calorie intake, showing how easy it is to misjudge financial outflows. They explore how behavioral blind spots, inflation, and the psychology of scarcity can sabotage even the most well-prepared retirement plan.

Most importantly, Wheeler and Colin share strategies to “bomb-proof” your retirement, including Social Security timing, understanding tax implications of 401(k)s, and using bucket strategies to safeguard against market volatility. Whether you’re 30 or 60, this episode will help you think critically about your future and give you the tools to plan with confidence—without letting fear call the shots.

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Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims