In this episode of Money Matters, host Christopher Hensley sits down with none other than Bill Bengen, the financial planner and researcher who created the legendary 4% Rule for retirement withdrawals. But what does that rule look like in a world of high inflation, volatile markets, and longer lifespans?
💡 What you'll learn in this episode:
Why inflation, not market crashes, is the greatest enemy of retirees
What still works—and what’s changed—about the 4% Rule in 2025
How to approach flexible withdrawal strategies (including guardrails!)
The power of gifting while living and financial legacy planning
How to emotionally prepare for turning off the paycheck
The importance of health, passion, and human connection in retirement
Whether you're a retirement advisor, pre-retiree, or simply want to build a more resilient income strategy, this episode delivers timeless wisdom—and some surprising updates—from the man who started it all.
📘 Get Bill's new book, “A Richer Retirement”:
Available now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers.
🔢 Episode: #334
🧠 Guest: Bill Bengen – Creator of the 4% Rule
🎧 Host: Christopher Hensley, RICP®, CES®
00:00 – Intro: The 4% Rule in 2025
01:30 – Inflation vs Market Risk
04:15 – Flexibility in Withdrawal Planning
07:40 – Evolution of Active vs Passive Strategies
10:00 – Gifting & Legacy Planning
12:30 – Cash Reserve Strategy
15:00 – Social Security’s Role
16:20 – Expanding to 7 Asset Classes
18:30 – Final Advice for Retirees
19:30 – Where to Get the Book
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👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with someone preparing for retirement!
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