Managing Financial Friction in Retirement
In this segment, financial planner Mike Milligan explains a simple client exercise where he asks couples to list 5–10 non‑negotiable travel experiences they want over the next decade. The exercise prompts the couple to articulate and share their priorities, leading to a clearer, shared understanding and improved communication, as evidenced by a follow‑up email from the clients expressing gratitude. Milligan emphasizes that while he is not a therapist, a financial planner can serve as a neutral sounding board, helping individuals and couples discuss and vet major financial decisions before they become problematic. He argues that having a planner reduces the risk of unilateral, catastrophic choices, especially for single clients who lack a partner to consult.
