The Power of Zero: Traditional IRA & Roth

In this episode, Johnnie breaks down the “three bucket” approach to retirement planning: taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free. He explains why so many Americans focus heavily on traditional 401(k)s and IRAs, and why that can create significant tax exposure in retirement. He introduces a powerful analogy—treating the IRS like a business partner who owns part of your retirement account—and explains why many retirees should consider gradually “buying out” that partner through strategic tax planning and Roth conversions.