The 4 L’s of a Well-Built Retirement | Michael O’Rourke

Today, Ben is joined by Michael O’Rourke—Apex-based financial advisor, RICP®, and former environmental engineer—for a rich and human-centered conversation about what it really takes to transition from earning a paycheck to generating reliable retirement income. Drawing on years of advising and his work with the Retirement Income Style Awareness (RISA) framework, Michael shares how differences in temperament, risk tolerance, and even marital dynamics shape the way people experience retirement. Their discussion moves beyond spreadsheets into the deeper architecture of a good retirement: understanding longevity risk, discerning lifestyle desires, preparing for late-life care, and shaping a plan that honors each person’s unique “money language.” Together, they explore the surprising reality that adding more guaranteed income can actually expand long-term growth potential, why stability in retirement is more about peace of mind than products, and how thoughtful planning becomes a form of stewardship—one that frees people to enjoy their later years without fear of running out. Grounded in both practical experience and a respect for the human person, the conversation offers a vision of retirement where income supports vocation, strengthens marriages, and gives families the confidence to live generously in the years ahead.

Key Takeaways:

• The “Four L’s” of retirement—longevity, lifestyle, legacy, and liquidity—provide a helpful framework for evaluating retirement readiness.

• The Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®) designation equips advisors to plan across the full arc of retirement, not just investments.

• Risk capacity changes over time, and retirees may become either more risk-averse or more flexible depending on health, lifestyle, and family dynamics.

• Advisors serve as guides, not dictators, helping clients navigate decisions while honoring their personal values and preferences.

• Compatibility between client and advisor matters; shared values, communication style, and trust can make or break the relationship.

• Ultimately, good retirement planning is a stewardship exercise, giving retirees a sense of peace, purpose, and permission to enjoy the years ahead without fear of running out of money.

Key Timestamps:

(03:39) – Transitioning into Retirement Income

(07:15) – The Four Ls of Retirement Planning

(20:09) – Balancing Safety and Flexibility in Retirement

(27:59) – The Role of Annuities in Retirement Planning

(29:09) – Adapting Investment Strategies to Client Needs

(35:37) – Finding the Right Financial Advisor

Key Topics Discussed:

Catholic Money Mastermind, Catholic financial planning, Catholic financial planners, Catholic financial advisors, Ben Martinek, faith and finances

Mentions:

Website: https://www.hsiadvisors.net/ 

Mentions: 

Are You a Stock or a Bond?: Identify Your Own Human Capital for a Secure Financial Future by Moshe A. Milevsky Ph.D. 

More of Catholic Money Mastermind:

Catholic Money Mastermind Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

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