The Five Big Retirement Shifts You Need to Prepare for in 2026

On this week’s episode of Understanding Money, Matt McClure joins Parker Noles, Tyler Noles, and Evan Griffith for a wide-ranging roundtable discussion on the big retirement shifts unfolding in 2026 and beyond.

The retirement landscape is changing fast—and many of the old assumptions no longer apply. From where you live, to how you plan for healthcare, to how long your money really needs to last, this episode breaks down what’s different today and what retirees need to do about it.

The group dives into:

  • How geography can dramatically impact retirement success
  • Why healthcare costs may matter more than market returns
  • How longevity is reshaping retirement income planning
  • Why Social Security can’t be your only safety net
  • And why purpose is just as important as money in retirement


This episode blends practical financial insight with real-world perspective—helping listeners understand not just what is changing, but how to adapt with confidence.