Shows
Retirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeListener Questions About Old 401(k)s & Roth ConversionsWe’re diving into your questions about old 401(k)s—should you roll them over, leave them, or something else entirely? Plus, we’re breaking down Roth conversions—when they make sense, and how they might save you money in the long run.
Also, this is the final regularly scheduled Retirement Pathfinder Podcast. Most future episodes will feature shorter, bite-sized, news story-type episodes. Think of them as mini podcasts. They'll still publish twice per month and contain helpful retirement planning insights. And Barb and Phil will return to the "airwaves" occassionally for commentary on major market events and othe...2025-01-0222 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhat Financial Advisors Wish Every Investor KnewImagine you could read your financial advisor’s mind before you even walked through the door for the first time. What would they want you to know? In this episode, we bring you the game-changing insights financial pros wish every saver and investor understood. Plus, Barbara and Phil will react to the election and discuss what might be on the agenda for the new administration.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule a 15-minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2024-11-2127 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeRetirement Mailbag: Roth Conversions, Debt Management, and Trusts ExplainedBarbara Lane and Phil Guske answer listener questions on a variety of retirement planning topics. From Roth conversions and their tax implications to strategies for paying off debt while still saving for retirement, they cover key considerations for anyone approaching retirement. Barbara and Phil also discuss the importance of involving both spouses in financial planning, offer investment advice for high-income earners, and provide insights into managing inherited trusts.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule a 15-minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2024-11-0723 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeUnlock Your Potential During National Financial Planning MonthWith National Financial Planning Month upon us, we’re sitting down with Barbara and Phil to uncover the strategies and steps that go into building a personalized financial plan. From that first phone call to implementing a strategy that aligns with your goals, this discussion will offer valuable insights for anyone looking to understand what it looks like to go through the planning process with a real financial advisor.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule a 15-minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2024-09-1918 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeBest of Mailbag Questions (Part 2)We're back with another special edition of the podcast for you today! We've pulled more of our favorite mailbag questions from prior episodes and compiled them into one conversation for you. In this week's show, Barbara and Phil talk about making financial decisions after a real estate sale, long-term care coverage, and ethical considerations in investing.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2024-04-0416 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeBest of Mailbag QuestionsWe've got a special edition of the podcast for you today! We've pulled some of our favorite mailbag questions from prior episodes and compiled them into one conversation for you. Stay tuned as Barbara and Phil discuss tax laws, pensions for federal employees, traveling in retirement, and more. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from real-life financial planning scenarios!
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2024-03-2120 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Are Year-End Charitable Donations Still Tax-Beneficial?In this week's mailbag episode, Dan asks whether the changes in tax laws in recent years have affected the tax benefits of his charitable donations. Amy asks if her approach of not rushing to pay off debt, utilizing a Home Equity Line for major expenses, and prioritizing retirement savings is advisable. Listen in as Barbara and Phil tackle these questions (and a few more) in today's show!
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2024-01-0420 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskePatience Pays: The Power of Delayed GratificationSometimes it’s hard to make financial sacrifices when the reward might not be seen until several years in the future. Today we’ll talk about some of the situations where you might be inclined to take the immediate benefit, when you should really consider the delayed rewards. Plus, Barbara and Phil will provide an update on interest rates and what we might expect to see in the new year.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
2023-12-2125 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: I’ve Maxed Out My 401(K)- Where Should I Invest Additional Money?Join us for a great mailbag episode today! This is your chance to gain valuable insights from the financial questions of our listeners. In today's show, Chris asks where to invest additional money for retirement since he is already maxing out his 401(k). Tony asks if he needs a will, trust, or both to evenly split two rental properties between his sons after he passes. Tune in to see how Barbara and Phil answer these questions and more.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://Pa...2023-12-0718 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeBiggest Money Mistakes In Retirement PlanningIn the complex world of retirement planning, there are countless pitfalls one could fall into. In this episode, we've distilled it down to what we believe are the top 4 mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these crucial missteps can have a significant impact on the success of your retirement plan. Join us as we delve into these key issues and learn how to navigate them effectively when it's your turn to plan for retirement. But before we dive in, Barbara and Phil will reflect on the current financial environment.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Ma...2023-06-1526 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeAre You Making These Common Retirement Excuses?In today's episode, we're diving into the 4 common excuses that people often use to keep from retiring. Taking the leap and deciding to retire can be daunting. Whether you love your career, are afraid of being bored after you leave the workforce, or are simply afraid that you can't retire, Barbara and Phil will help you get over that hurdle so that you can move on to the next chapter of your life with ease. Join us as we discuss the importance of having a clear retirement plan that you can feel confident in.
Check ou...2023-05-2526 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeRetirement Savings Basics & What to Know About Silicon Valley BankAre you aware that not all retirement accounts are created equal? It's crucial to understand the purpose and advantages of each type of account to make the best choice for your future. In this episode, we'll delve into the different types of retirement accounts, including 401(k)s, IRAs, Roths, and several other examples. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each and give you insights into the purposes they serve so that you can make an informed decision. Join us and discover why understanding the purpose of these accounts is essential for securing a comfortable retirement. Pl...2023-03-1624 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeIs It Time to Panic?Inflation is up. Supply chain issues continue. The market is down. Military conflicts continue. Pretty much anywhere you look you'll find unsettling news. Is it finally time to panic? Let Barbara and Phil ease your nerves and tell you why this time is like all the others.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2022-05-1921 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeHow to Recognize Your Own Greed and Fight Against ItWhen it comes to your money, you might have several different voices in your head—maybe the voice of greed, or the voice of fear, and sometimes the voice of wisdom. Let’s look at some things we might hear from the voice of greed so you know how to recognize it when you hear it.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2022-03-1721 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: How Will A Divorce Affect My Retirement?For this week's podcast, we will answer some of the listener questions that have come in. We will discuss how a divorce could impact your retirement assets, opting out of paying into social security, and some retirement spending considerations.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2022-03-0320 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWho Even Needs a Financial Advisor?Some people feel that they’ll save money by handling their investments themselves instead of working with an advisor. Others may like the challenge of doing it themselves. Still others just don’t know who to trust so they end up not working with anyone. Let’s talk about some reasons that you might need an advisor.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2022-02-1724 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeRetirement Potpourri: Fill In The BlankTime for a little fun on this episode. We’ll use some fill-in-the-blank prompts to spark a good discussion about relationships between advisors and their clients, the stock market, common planning mistakes, and much more!
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2022-02-0323 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeHow ’The Great Resignation’ Could Impact You or a Loved One’s RetirementDroves of workers are retiring early or taking a break from work as they change career paths. It’s become known as The Great Resignation. On this episode, we’ll highlight some of the key takeaways of a recent Forbes article and explore a lot of the impacts on retirement planning from across different age groups in the wake of this massive workplace shift that’s underway.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2022-01-2020 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil Guske22 Money Resolutions for 2022, Part 1You might not be able to follow through on all 22 of these resolutions, but implement even just a few of these and you’ll be well on your way to a more prosperous financial life in the coming year. We will go over the first 11 resolutions on today's show.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-12-2122 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Should I Take The Monthly Pension Or Lump Sum Payout?We always love answering questions from our loyal listeners. Today, we'll dive into questions like: how long should I wait to take social security? Do I turn my monthly pension into a lump sum payout? Am I better off with two brokers or one?
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-12-0222 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeDoomsday Scenario 2.1The topic of inflation has been getting a lot of attention from the mainstream media lately. People are worried that inflation is going to continue to rise and skyrocket. Barbra and Phil will discuss some historic inflation numbers and how to hedge against this risk.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-11-2323 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: How Often Should I Talk To My Financial Advisor?We take some time this week to answer some of our listener questions that have come in. Today we will discuss using home equity for an emergency fund, spending money in retirement without worry, and setting up expectations with how often you sit down with your financial advisor.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-11-0421 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeRetirement PyramidSometimes it’s helpful to visualize complex topics to help make them easier to understand. On this episode, we’ll structure retirement planning in the form of a pyramid and work our way through each level. You’ll learn the elements that make up the foundation of a plan and which conversations build on top of that initial base.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-10-2120 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Should You Contribute To A Roth?We have another mailbag edition of the show! This time around we discuss where to get money to start a business, RMD rules, and considerations for contributing to a Roth IRA.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-10-0723 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEstate Planning With Special Guests Alex & Adam AgnewEstate planning can be a commonly overlooked component of retirement planning. It can be an uncomfortable conversation to have with your family, but it can make a huge difference. Alex & Adam Agnew join us on today's show. We will discuss some of the rules that have changed regarding the stretch IRA, efficient trust strategies, and why it's important to avoid probate court.
Important Links:
Agnew Law Office Website: https://www.agnewlaw.com/
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2021-09-2325 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeJust What the Financial Doctor OrderedSo, you’re experiencing some concerning symptoms? Let’s have a visit with the money “doctor” to see what financial prescriptions you might need.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-09-0224 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhat Makes Your Financial Advisor TickIt’s time to peel back the curtain a little bit to learn about your financial advisor.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-08-1924 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeThe Things That Don’t Matter… Until They DoFire extinguishers, airbags in your car, and smoke alarms in your house are all examples of things in life that don’t really seem to matter until they’re the only thing that matters. On that rare occasion when you need one of those items, you’ll either be very glad that you have one, or really regretting the fact that you don’t. Let’s talk about some of the things in the financial world that don’t matter until they do.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvi...2021-08-0521 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil Guske4 Things You Must Know About Decumulation To Retire SuccessfullySo much focus in the financial world revolves around accumulating money. There’s all sorts of advice, how- to guides and guardrails in place when it comes to saving and investing, but a lot less resources out there to help retirees navigate the period of time after retirement. This is known as decumulation, the spending down and managing of the assets you’ve accumulated through your life. And on this episode, we’ll point at (at least) 4 things you must know about decumulation to retire successfully.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Conta...2021-07-2221 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Is A Tax-Free Retirement Too Good To Be True?We open up the mailbag on today's show to answer some of your questions. Some topics we cover today will be combining old 401(k) accounts, leaving an inheritance to children, and more.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-07-0119 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeLearning Through Uncommon SenseAt first glance, each of these statements seem like basic common sense that everyone agrees with. But when we look at the way people actually behave with their money, it seems that common sense is actually a bit uncommon.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-06-1722 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeFinancial Fact or FictionSometimes the easiest way to learn about something is make it really simple. Like some of the first true/false tests you might have taken in school, let’s play a round of fact or fiction to test your financial planning acuity.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-06-0320 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Having A Mortgage In RetirementWe are back with another mailbag show. This time around, we discuss a popular rule of thumb, rolling over your 401(k) after you retire, and much more.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-05-2022 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Is It Wise To Go Back To Work After A Major Health Event?It's another mailbag edition of the show! Today, we discuss possible ways to plan a retirement in a unique family situation, going back to work after a major health event, and concerns about the stability of social security.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-05-0620 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeAre You Flirting With Financial Disaster?Let’s talk about some of the areas of your financial life where you might be flirtin’ with disaster and don’t even know it.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-04-2224 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Grading A Financial Advisor's PerformanceIt's another mailbag edition of the show where we sit down and answer questions from our listeners. This time around we discuss leaving your entire 401(k) to a child, how you can grade your financial advisor's performance, and investment advice from the media.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-04-0123 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeThis Is Why You Never AssumeWe often see people making certain assumptions about retirement that just aren’t correct. Let’s explore some of those on today's show.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-03-1827 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeThe Pathfinder ProcessWe spend a lot of time on the podcasts covering general financial topics, but we have not explained the Pathfinder Process that Barbara and Phil use everyday in their practice. They'll discuss the three stages of their process, the various topics they will ask about, and the importance of educating their clients.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-03-0417 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeTax Tips for 2021As you get ready to file 2020 taxes and look ahead to the rest of this year’s tax implications, let’s cover some of the changes you need to be aware of and answer some important tax questions.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-02-1822 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: When Is The Best Time To Get Back Into The Market?On this week's podcast, Barbara and Phil answer some mailbag questions that have come into the show. They discuss when is the best time to get back into the stock market, using life insurance as retirement income, and much more.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-02-0423 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhere All Our Financial Knowledge Comes FromHave you ever stopped to think about your journey of learning all that you have about money and finances? Did you parents shape your financial views most heavily? Is there a TV or radio expert that has influenced you most? Or have you learned everything from a book or Google? This week we'll find out how Barbara and Phil grew into the financial advisors they are today.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-01-2123 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeThings Nobody SaysYou’ve probably never heard anyone make these statements that we’ll provide on today’s episode. And there are some great reasons why.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2021-01-0722 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEnd of Year Planning TasksLet’s explore some of the things you should be thinking about and checking on as we wrap up 2020 and begin 2021.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-12-2825 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeThe Customer Isn't Always RightIn the retail world, the old saying is that “the customer is always right.” But when it comes to financial planning, it’s probably not wise to subscribe to that idea. What’s the point of having a financial coach if your advice is better than your coach’s advice? Let’s talk about some statements you might hear from clients that might require you to push back because the customer isn’t always right.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-12-0332 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeIs Right Now The Ideal Time For A Roth Conversion?Happy Thanksgiving to all of our listeners! We are so thankful to each of you who tune into the podcasts regularly. Your feedback and input is invaluable. On this episode, Barbara and Phil will assess the country's debt and tax situation as we wrap up 2020 and discuss why right now, before the end of the calendar year, might be the best time to do a Roth conversion. Make sure to listen to this episode right away in case you need to take action before Dec 31st.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
2020-11-2516 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Going To Cash, Long-Term Care PoliciesToday's podcast is dedicated to answering questions that have come in from our listeners. A few topics we cover are long-term care policies, worries about the market, passing money down, and much more!
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-11-0522 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeFollowing The Financial CommandmentsOn this episode, we present you with five commandments that are worth of being written on stone tablets in your retirement plan.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-10-1523 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeIs It Too Good to Be True?The S&P 500 has risen on strong growth from large cap stocks but is it too good to be true? You might be feeling like you're missing out on these investments but maybe you aren't. Let's talk about whether it's a good investment moving forward and what we've learned from previous market data.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-10-0121 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeIs The Illinois Fair Tax Really Fair?Illinois voters will soon be deciding on an issue impacting the state’s financial future as well as their own bank accounts. This fair tax proposal has been a hot topic of conversation across the state but also with our clients. Today we'll break down the proposal to help you better understand exactly what this means for you.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-09-1719 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeHere Are Some Easy Ways To Ruin Your RetirementEveryone has read blogs, watched shows, and listened to people talk about all the key ways to improve or succeed in retirement. But what about how you can mess it all up? Let’s tackle five easy ways to ruin your retirement (then just do the opposite of these things and you’ll be fine).
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-09-0324 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeFinancial Issues Particularly Challenging For WomenMany financial issues impact us all the same. But, of course, other challenges have varying impacts from person to person because our situations are all unique. Let’s take a look at some of the financial and retirement challenges that are unique to women.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-08-2023 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Bonds, REITs, & Paying Off The MortgageOn this mailbag edition of the podcast, we'll talk about whether it's a good idea to invest in bonds or REITs, what services you should expect from your financial advisor, and whether or not you should pay off your mortgage. We'll also get Phil's take on the current state of student loan debt and whether or not colleges should be held accountable.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-08-0629 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeSurvival Guide: Lessons Learned For The Next Stock Market CrashSo, we’ve all experienced what a market crash feels like in recent memory. If you had forgotten what it felt like in 2008, then 2020 should have been a sobering reminder of what it’s like to experience that sudden market drop. Now, we don’t know when the next market crash will come. Will rising virus cases now or a resurgence in the fall cause another one? Will the lead up to, or result of, the election cause turbulence? We just don’t know what factor is going to come along and serve as the catalyst for the problem. But what...2020-07-1625 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Penalty Fees, Inheritance, Travel Budget, & Using A Trust In Your PlanOn today's show, we answer questions that have come in the mailbag. We discuss if it's worth paying a penalty fee on a variable annuity, letting your children know about their inheritance, how to budget for travel, and if incorporating a trust in your plan is a good strategy.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-07-0223 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhy Is The Stock Market Going Up When The Economy Is Going Down?There is no question that the COVID-19 pandemic caused major turmoil in the stock market, but it seems that the stock market has continued to go up since the big dip that initially happened. Some people are skeptical of this trend and do not think that the market will recover quickly, while others remain optimistic. Barbara and Phil will explain why this trend has been happening and where they think the economy is headed.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-06-1822 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeShould You Be Wary Of Some Of Dave Ramsey’s Advice?Dave Ramsey has earned a lot of respect among savers and investors over the years as evidenced by his enormously popular radio show, books and sold out performance venues when he speaks. But is all of his advice worth following? Is it possible that some of the things he professes will actually hurt you financially? Let’s take a look at some of Dave’s most popular advice and see if and when it makes sense for retirees and pre-retirees to disagree.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/co...2020-06-0429 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag EditionWe've had a lot of great listener questions come in, so we decided to make them the focus of this episode. Beverly asks if she is properly diversified given the large number of mutual funds in her portfolio. Amber is curious if she is on track to retire with the amount of money she has saved at age 55. Barbara and Phil tackle these questions and much more.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-05-2126 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeBest Intentions, Bad AdviceBarbara and Phil will provide an update on conversations they've had with clients about the Coronavirus and then move into a discussion on where you're getting financial advice from.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-05-0720 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeThe CARES ActCongress recently passed the CARES Act to try and help alleviate some of the financial impacts that the Coronavirus has had on the country. Barbara and Phil will run down the main points of this bill and discuss their overall thoughts of this new piece of legislation. We will also answer a few mailbag questions in the second half of the show.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-04-1623 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeSolid Financial TruthsA lot of things in the financial landscape have an “it depends” resolution. It can be frustrating when things are so fluid and vary person to person. So, let’s discuss some financial truths that we can state with confidence and see what we can learn from them.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-04-0224 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeCoronavirus Update & Financial DictionaryThe Coronavirus and other economic forces have caused the stock market to crater and experience some wild ups and downs the past few weeks. It has a lot of investors feeling emotional and worried about their retirement plans. Barbara and Phil will give their opinions on the down market and the advice they are currently giving their clients. We will also break down what a backdoor Roth IRA is and discuss the differences between active and passive management styles.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-03-1922 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeHow To Set Financial & Retirement GoalsWe talk all the time about how people need to give their dollars purpose or set goals for their retirement and even specifically for certain investments. But let’s dive deeper into what different goals look like for various folks approaching retirement. How do you determine if a goal is realistic or out of reach? We’ll tackle that conversation with plenty of examples on this episode.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-03-0519 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag Questions: 401(k) Limits, Multiple Advisors, & Socially Responsible InvestingWe dedicate another episode to answering your questions that have come in from the mailbag. Today we discuss 401 (k) contribution limits, having multiple advisors, and socially responsible investing.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-02-2019 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhere to Find Bias in Financial MediaIt’s always good to keep yourself up to date with what’s going on in the financial world. But it’s also important to understand that the information you get from the media isn’t completely unbiased. Let’s talk about some of the problems with the financial media.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-02-0621 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeSECURE Act ChangesThe new year brought big changes to retirement accounts with the SECURE Act so let's talk about the areas you need to pay attention to. Plus, we'll open up the mailbag to cover cash, stock, and retirement planning.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-01-1623 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhich Excuses Keep You From Retiring?Sometimes people say they don’t want to retire…and sometimes they really mean it. Other times it’s just a defense mechanism to compensate for the fact that they feel like they can’t retire. So let’s explore some of the possible meanings behind the statement, “I don’t want to retire.”
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2020-01-0227 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag Questions, Part 2Today's show is another mailbag edition. This time around we will answer how much risk is appropriate in retirement, consolidating multiple accounts, and more.
Important Links:
VA's Website: https://www.va.gov/pension/
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2019-12-1921 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeFinding Silver Linings In Bad Financial SituationsNot everything goes smoothly in your financial life. We’ll look at some negative circumstances that many retirees and pre-retirees face and help you find the silver lining in the midst of tough situations.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2019-12-0517 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEstate Planning MistakesThere are some people who don’t care at all about leaving a financial legacy, but for those who do, it’s important to eliminate some of the common estate planning mistakes.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2019-11-2122 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeSabotaging Your Own RetirementWith all of the things in the financial world that you can’t control, why would you sabotage your own retirement by messing up the things you can control? Let’s discuss some ways that people sabotage their own financial health.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
2019-11-0721 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag QuestionsWe dip into the listener mailbag to answer questions on rental properties, 401(k) rollovers, how much money you need in retirement, and how a business owner can invest their profits.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
Phone: (815) 399-9806
2019-10-3119 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhy The Final Decade Of Work Is So ImportantThe last decade of your working life is a very important one from a retirement planning perspective. Let's talk about some of the things you want to be sure you address during that 10-year period.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
Phone: (815) 399-9806
2019-10-0323 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhat Will The Next Market Crash Look Like?Some people think we're on the cusp of the next stock market crash. Others predict that we're just due for a minor correction. But let's talk about what the next market crash might look like, even if we don't know when it will come.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
Phone: (815) 399-9806
2019-09-1921 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeBusting The Biggest Financial MythsToday’s episode is simple. We’ll look at some of the most widely believed financial myths and try to bust them wide open. The scary thing is that a lot of people base their financial plans on some of these myths. Don’t be like that.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
Phone: (815) 399-9806
2019-09-0517 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil Guske3rd & 4th Quarter Planning To-Do ListAs we get into the 2nd half of 2019, there are several planning items you might want to run a quick checkup on, especially if you’re a retiree or pre-retiree, to make sure you’re still on the right financial track. Are you focusing on the right things? Listen to today’s podcast to find out.
Important Links:
Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/
Contact: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/contact/
Phone: (815) 399-9806
2019-08-1524 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeWhy You Should Plan For Retirement With A Sense Of UrgencySome people (in fact, probably most people) find it easy to procrastinate when it comes to financial planning issues. But let’s talk about some scenarios that might cause people to have a bit more sense of urgency…
2019-08-0124 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag - Nervous Spending, Forced Retirement & Professional HelpAre you too nervous to spend your money in retirement? Are you assuming you'll be in a lower tax bracket in retirement? Is 57 too early to retire? We'll answer all of those listener questions on today's show and explore why it's a good idea to get professional help with your financial plan.
2019-07-1822 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag - Dipping Into Retirement Savings, Switching Annuities, Company StockBuying a new car with retirement savings, switching one annuity for another, and overloading your portfolio in your company's stock. We'll cover all of those intriguing questions and more on today's mailbag edition of the podcast.
2019-07-0321 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeStorytime: Making Rare RecommendationsOn today's show, Barbara and Phil will share with us stories about a time they recommended something to a client that they almost never recommend to anyone else. Why did it make sense in these particular cases? We'll learn a lot from these stories on today's episode.
2019-06-2013 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil Guske5 Simple Retirement Questions (That Are Hard To Answer)Some of retirement planning’s most important questions seem so simple at first. They can be asked in just 4-5 words and give the impression the answers are a simple “yes” or “no”. But it’s tricky because many of these questions can become overwhelming to answer. Let’s cover some of the important retirement questions that are harder to answer than you might think.
2019-06-0622 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag - Retiring Early, Inherited Rental Property, Stretch IRA, Down MarketsYou asked some great questions this week. We're going to talk about the complications of retiring early, what to do with an inherited rental property, the possible elimination of the Stretch IRA strategy, and how to position yourself for a potential down market in the future.
2019-05-2321 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeFacing The 4 Major Realities of Retirement PlanningThe realities of retirement planning are different than they were even a decade ago. Let’s talk about some of the realities that affect how you need to plan…
2019-05-0222 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag - Getting Out of Real Estate, A Market Crash, Tax Brackets, Financial BooksAnswering your questions about the assumption of being in a lower tax bracket in retirement, whether a market crash is coming soon, and how to dump large positions in real estate as you transition into retirement. Plus, what are some great books you can read to arm yourself with information about retirement planning? We'll answer all those questions and have some fun along the way on this week's show.
2019-04-1823 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeSolving 4 Pain Points In Your Financial LifeWhen it comes to financial planning, everybody has some kind of pain point. Those pain points are different for each person, but everyone has something that bothers them. Phil and Barbara tell us about some times where they've helped clients through these frustrating areas.
2019-04-0425 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag - Roth IRAs, Robo-Advisors, Tech StocksBarbara and Phil answer a whole variety of listener-submitted questions this week. Find out their preferences on Roth vs. traditional IRA accounts, what you should know about robo-advisors, what you might do if you're heavily invested in tech stocks with a short time horizon, and more.
2019-03-2818 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #15: Mailbag - Cash Settlements, Social Security Taxes, InheritanceJoin us as Barbara and Phil feature your listener questions. They'll discuss how to handle a cash settlement from an auto accident, how much of your social security is taxable, what to do if you've maxed out your Roth IRA contributions, and more.
2019-03-0726 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #14: The 5 Dangerous Mindsets That Can Sink Your RetirementIn many phases of life our attitudes and mindsets can have big impacts on where we go and what we do. Retirement planning is no different. Let’s look at the five dangerous mindsets that can quickly sink your retirement if you’re not careful to guard against these, sometimes, natural instincts.
2019-02-2120 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #13: Mailbag - Social Security, Old Life Insurance Policies, and Market Crash FearsThis week, we feature listener questions on when to take social security, cashing out old life insurance policies, market crash fears, and more.
2019-02-0722 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #12: Market Volatility And How You Should ReactThe recent volatility in the stock market has dominated the news for months now, and when tension is high it can be difficult not to make rash decisions. So in this episode, Barbara and Phil will fill you in on how the news affects markets and how that should affect you and your financial plan.
2019-01-1713 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #11: The Complications Of An Early RetirementAn early retirement sounds fantastic to most people. Who wouldn’t want to kick off the extra travel, less stress and more freedom that retirement can often bring a little earlier than planned? However, a lot of people don’t realize the additional complications presented when you retire early. Let’s tackle what early retirement means for most people and how you can put together a realistic plan to execute it if it’s the right decision for you.
2019-01-0315 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #10: Important Financial Terms You Should KnowA lot of financial terms can get confusing, even if you’ve heard them talked about a lot in the news or in a financial meeting at work or even around the dinner table with family. Let’s explore some important terms you might have heard before, but also might need a better understanding of what they mean.
2018-12-1319 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #9: Solving The Financial PuzzleOn this weeks' episode, learn about the history of Pathfinder Advisory and the unique educational approach that Phil and Barbara take as financial advisors in order to empower their clients. And later, Barbara offers some insight into how to set expectations about your portfolio.
2018-12-0615 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #8: Settle The Debate - Right Or WrongDepending on who you ask, you could get very different answers to some of retirement planning’s most important questions. Let’s see where our opinions all stand on issues like insurance, mutual funds and annuities. And we’ll try to answer why there are so many different opinions on these concepts.
2018-11-1517 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeEpisode #7: Mailbag - IRAs, 401(k)s, Short-Term Investing, Rental PropertiesJoin us as we feature your questions on short-term investing, self-directed IRAs, and rental properties.
2018-11-0115 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeGetting Started: A Financial Plan’s First StepsFor some folks, the idea of putting together a financial plan can be overwhelming. But it’s less threatening if you just focus on a first step to get you started. But depending on your situation, your most logical first step could be one of several thing. Barbara will help you figure out what the right first step is for you.
2018-07-0511 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Too Much Life Insurance, Roth Accounts, Inflation, And Retirement EmpowermentWe've got another batch of great questions from listeners to the podcast. Marie wants to know if her three life insurance policies is too much. Later, Daniel wonders how to estimate inflation when planning for retirement. Barbara Lane will answer those questions and more on this episode of The Retirement Pathfinder.
2018-06-2212 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Do I Have Enough For Retirement?Clark in Roscoe wants to know if his family's $1.5 million is enough to have saved for retirement. It's a common question that the Pathfinder team gets. So, how much is enough to get you through retirement without having to worry about your money? Phil points us in the right direction on this week's podcast.
2018-06-0712 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeStorytime: A Few Of The Right ThingsPay yourself first. Compound interest. Be an owner, not a loaner. If you embrace those three mentalities, you'll be on your way to having a well prepared retirement plan. On today's podcast, Phil Guske makes his first appearance on the show and shares with us a little bit about his background. He'll tell us how the lessons he learned from a mentor in the Army led him into the financial industry. And he'll also show us how you can embrace some of the same philosophies that he did in order to experience a successful retirement future.
2018-05-2413 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeMailbag: Ex-Husband's Social Security, Tax Changes, Long Term Care, And Living On A Forced BudgetThe mailbag edition of the show gives us the chance to answer questions from folks like you around the Rockford area. We'll field questions about drawing social security from an ex-spouse, adjusting to the recent changes in the tax code, and whether it's possible to get long term care coverage without long term care insurance. Plus, Carrie has a question about an advisor who is "forcing" her to live on a budget. Do advisors often have rules and limitations they push their clients into? We'll ask Barbara if that's norm.
2018-05-1018 minRetirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil GuskeAn Important Question: How Do You Know?One of the most important questions you can ask is, “How do you know _____?” The blank is where we fill in the most crucial elements, the building blocks, of financial planning. On this podcast, we’ll cover what items you need to put in that blank and provide the guidance to help answer the different questions that arise
2018-04-2612 min