Your Retirement Countdown ™
The essential guide to planning a successful retirement
A clear, actionable plan for every piece of the retirement puzzle — healthcare, asset protection, estate planning, tax-smart strategies, Social Security timing, and more.
Your Roadmap to a Confident Retirement
Your Retirement Countdown™ by Justin Madsen is the essential guide for anyone within 10 years of retirement — or newly retired — who wants confidence, clarity, and peace of mind about their future. Unlike books that only focus on investing, this guide gives you a clear, actionable plan for every piece of the puzzle: healthcare, asset protection, estate planning, tax-smart strategies, Social Security timing, and more.
Through relatable stories and simple tools — including the inspiring “Grandpa Don” legacy lesson — Madsen shows you how to maximize your dollars, prepare emotionally for the shift from work to retirement, and build the right team of professionals to support you along the way.
Whether you're worried about running out of money, overwhelmed by decisions, or simply want to ensure you leave behind a legacy of wisdom and freedom, Your Retirement Countdown™ is your roadmap. Practical, easy to follow, and packed with proven strategies — it's the retirement guide you can't afford to miss.
Four Takeaways That Change Retirement
Master the Make-or-Break Years
The 5–10 years before retirement — and the first five after — can define your entire future. This book gives you a simple framework for protecting your assets, planning for healthcare, and navigating the emotional transition into retirement.
Use Proven Financial Strategies That Work
Learn the bucket strategy to shield against market swings, maximize your Social Security benefits, and apply tax-smart withdrawal techniques that save you thousands over time. These aren't theories — they're battle-tested strategies you can put to work immediately.
Build Your Retirement Dream Team
From financial advisors to estate attorneys, discover how to assemble the right experts to guide you through complex choices. Plus, learn how to mentally “practice” retirement so you're ready for both the financial and lifestyle shift ahead.
Create a Legacy That Lasts
Inspired by the author's own family story, this book helps you pass down more than just wealth — it's about passing down wisdom. Gain the tools to retire confidently while leaving a meaningful impact on the people you love.
What's Covered, Chapter by Chapter
Meet Justin Madsen
Justin Madsen is a Financial Advisor who leads a highly regarded wealth management practice at one of the nation's largest firms. He specializes in guiding clients as they approach and enter retirement, supporting business owners, and helping families navigate wealth transitions to the next generation.
Recognized by Forbes as both a Next Gen Best-in-State Wealth Advisor and a Best-in-State Wealth Advisor, Justin is known for his client-first approach that goes far beyond building assets. His philosophy centers on planning wisely with the resources you have today to create a life of meaning, purpose, and freedom — the “dream life” his clients envision for themselves.
Justin lives in Central Iowa with his wife, Natalie, and their three children: Isaac, Andrew, and Maria. Outside the office, he enjoys boating, golfing, and giving back through charitable organizations in his community. His personal journey — and the timeless lessons passed down from his grandfather, “Grandpa Don” — inspired him to write Your Retirement Countdown™ and share the wisdom that can help others achieve financial confidence, security, and legacy.