Shows
Retirement Starts TodayShould We Move to Save $$$ on Taxes?What are the perceived benefits of moving to a low-tax state in retirement? Is it all it’s cracked up to be? We’re gonna cover a Wall Street Journal article by Debbie Carlson that delivers an important dose of nuance: “Don’t let the income-tax tail wag the total-spending dog.” I also answer a very thoughtful question from Lynn about sequence of returns risk, as well as average returns vs order of returns. Key topics from the article: 🏠 Real Estate & Insurance Can Eat Up the Savings 📊 For Middle-Income Retirees, Sales & Property Ta...2025-05-0514 minRetirement Starts Today9 Smart Moves to Make During Market VolatilityHow do you stay calm and confident when the markets get messy? In today's Retirement Headlines we go through Cullen Roche's article from Discipline Funds - "Finding Certainty in a Sea of Uncertainty". With tariffs, global uncertainty, and market volatility making headlines again offers nine practical steps to help you stay grounded, focused, and on track with your retirement plan. The 9 Calming, Confidence-boosting steps the article lays out are: Revisit Your Financial Plan Update Your Estate Plan Consider Tax Loss Harvesting Dollar Cost Average Excess Cash Think in Terms of Time Horizons Stay the C...2025-04-2820 minRetirement Starts TodayWhen Does Sequence of Return Risk Go Away?One of the biggest and often overlooked risks facing retirees is sequence-of-returns risk. The risk of experiencing investment losses early in retirement can have an impact on the sustainability of savings over the long term. Morningstar researchers dug into this in their latest State of Retirement Income study. Their findings confirm what many retirement planners already suspect: the first five years of retirement are make-or-break. I'll also answer a listener question: "Are there advantages to moving all your mutual funds into a brokerage firm such as Schwab? " Resource: Morningstar article: How to A...2025-04-2116 minRetirement Starts TodayWhat We’ve Learned From 150 Years of Stock Market CrashesIt’s no secret that market volatility can feel especially nerve-wracking when you’re no longer earning a paycheck. But what if I told you that, historically, every single crash has ended the same way—with a recovery? That's what happened after the Covid-19 market crash, the 2021 downturn, and even the Great Depression. We're going to discuss an article titled "What We’ve Learned From 150 Years of Stock Market Crashes" by Emelia Fredlick. The article highlights some of the worst market downturns in history and, more importantly, the lessons they offer for long-term investors...2025-04-1418 minRetirement Starts TodayHow To Protect Your 401(k) from a Stock Market CrashIs your 401(k) prepared for a market crash? With market volatility on the rise, many investors are wondering how to protect their portfolios. In this episode, I share an article from Go Banking Rates on how to safeguard your retirement savings during turbulent times. I’ll highlight key takeaways from the article, share my own insights on where I agree or disagree, and explain why certain strategies may be more effective than others. After that, I answer a listener’s question about long-term care (LTC) insurance. We’ll explore different types of LTC policies, discuss the ide...2025-04-0723 minRetirement Starts TodaySneaky Retirement Taxes (The Tax Traps You Never Saw Coming)Most people assume their tax burden lightens in retirement, but what if I told you that some taxes are actually designed to creep up on you year after year—without Congress passing a single new law? In this episode, we expose the sneaky taxes that can quietly erode your retirement income, from Social Security taxation to Medicare IRMAA surcharges. These hidden costs don’t just affect the ultra-wealthy anymore; thanks to outdated rules and inflation, they’re hitting everyday retirees harder than ever. If you're relying on Social Security, investment income, or Medicare in retirement, you may alread...2025-03-3119 minRetirement Starts TodayFive Key Retirement Challenges (and Solutions)Most people focus on saving for retirement, but what happens when you actually get there? Retirement isn’t just about having enough money—it’s about managing risks that can threaten your financial security and lifestyle. In this episode, we explore Five Key Retirement Challenges (and Solutions), inspired by a Kiplinger’s Personal Finance article by Walt West. From unexpected market downturns to rising healthcare costs, these challenges can catch retirees off guard if they’re not prepared. We break down each challenge—financial instability, healthcare expenses, taxes, inflation, and estate planning oversights—and discuss practical strat...2025-03-2418 minRetirement Starts TodayTop 3 Retirement Mistakes - An Interview with Mr RetirementClick here to work with us! Most people plan for retirement by focusing on their savings and investment returns—but what if some of the most important decisions happen after you stop working? In this episode, I sit down with Jeremy Keil, also known as Mr. Retirement, to discuss the three biggest mistakes retirees make—mistakes that can cost them financial security, tax savings, and peace of mind. From misunderstanding the best time to take Social Security to underestimating how long retirement will last, we break down the key oversights that can derail even t...2025-03-1721 minRetirement Starts TodayThe 2% Trap: Why Retirees Spend Far Less Than They CouldClick here to work with us! Many retirees enter their golden years with the goal of financial security, but what if the biggest risk isn’t running out of money—it’s not spending enough of it? A surprising new study reveals that retirees are withdrawing just 2% a year from their savings—barely half of what’s traditionally considered safe. This cautious approach might seem responsible, but it often leads to unnecessary frugality, missed experiences, and larger-than-expected tax burdens later in life. The hesitation to tap into personal savings, even when there's plenty available, raises an importa...2025-03-1015 minRetirement Starts Today7 Inefficiencies on Rich Retirees' Tax ReturnsClick here to work with us! A lot of retirees assume their tax situation gets simpler once they stop working, but that’s not always the case. There are plenty of ways high-net-worth retirees end up paying more than they need to—sometimes without even realizing it. Maybe it’s interest and dividend income getting taxed at higher rates, or IRA withdrawals happening earlier than necessary. Maybe it’s something as simple as missing the right way to report charitable giving. These things add up, and over time, they can quietly eat away at retirement savings.2025-02-2422 minRetirement Starts TodayThe 5 Pillars of a Fulfilling Retirement (That Nobody Talks About) with Dr. Daniel CrosbyClick here to work with us! Most people plan for retirement by focusing on their finances—building up a nest egg, securing passive income, and minimizing taxes. But what if that’s only part of the equation? Many retirees find themselves financially secure yet feeling unexpectedly lost, disengaged, or even unhappy. The truth is, money alone doesn’t guarantee a fulfilling retirement. Dr. Daniel Crosby explains how work naturally provides purpose, engagement, relationships, and growth—key elements we often lose in retirement without realizing it. Without a plan to replace them, retirees risk dissatisfaction, depression, and even...2025-02-1727 minRetirement Starts TodayAre Retirement Income Worries Overblown?Click here to work with us! Many people fear running out of money in retirement, assuming they'll struggle financially once they stop working. But a recent Gallup poll shows 80% of retirees have enough to live comfortably, despite concerns about Social Security, longevity risk, and pension declines. Why the difference between expectation and reality? Many retirees find their expenses drop, Medicare covers more than expected, and Social Security plays a bigger role in their income. However, many still claim Social Security early, leaving money on the table. By making strategic choices, like delaying Social...2025-02-1022 minRetirement Starts TodayFor Canadian Eyes Only (bonus episode!)Listen in to this BONUS episode as Canadian CFP and host of the Your Retirement Planning Simplified Podcast, Joe Curry, interviews me (Benjamin) about: The non-financial aspects of retirement planning Shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset Retiring to something rather than from something and embracing creativity to design a fulfilling post-career life Key insights include overcoming spending anxiety, identifying passions, building social connections, and planning purposefully for a no-regrets retirement. With actionable insights and a focus on mindset, this episode is perfect for those looking to simplify and enrich their retirement journey. Enjoy!2025-02-0625 minRetirement Starts TodayJoe Saul-Sehy Shares How to Get the Most from Your Employee BenefitsClick here to work with us! Employee benefits are one of the most overlooked aspects of financial planning. We often check a few boxes during open enrollment and move on—but are we truly maximizing what’s available to us? This week, we sit down with Joe Saul-Sehy, host of Stacking Benjamins, to uncover the hidden value in workplace benefits. From disability insurance pitfalls to term vs. whole life insurance, Joe walks us through key strategies to ensure we’re not leaving money (or protection) on the table. Joe also introduces a powerful HR bene...2025-02-0330 minRetirement Starts TodayPeter Lazaroff’s Options for Reducing Taxes on Deferred Gains Pre-RetirementClick here to work with us! What if you could turn those green numbers in your investment account into retirement income while paying as little in taxes as possible? That’s exactly what we’re covering today with Peter Lazaroff, Chief Investment Officer at PlanCorp. We’re tackling the challenge many of us face: managing deferred gains in our portfolios and figuring out the smartest ways to reduce the tax hit as we transition to retirement. Peter and I talk through a range of strategies for handling concentrated stock positions, whether it’s selling off winners...2025-01-2722 minRetirement Starts TodayFired After Announcing Retirement?Click here to work with us! Can you be fired after announcing your retirement? It's a question that raises eyebrows and stirs concern for anyone nearing the end of their career. A recent article highlights the legal and financial implications of being terminated after sharing retirement plans, and it’s a scenario more common than you might think. Employers often operate under at-will employment laws, giving them broad rights to terminate employees, even after a retirement announcement. But what does that mean for you? Understanding protections like ERISA and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act ca...2025-01-2022 minRetirement Starts TodayHow to Spend More (or Less) in RetirementClick here to work with us! Are you spending too little in retirement, worried you might outlive your savings? Many retirees struggle to strike the right balance, often holding back on enjoying the wealth they’ve worked a lifetime to build. I’ll show you how to overcome those fears and spend with confidence while still planning for the future. What about real estate? Whether you’re thinking about renting instead of owning, leveraging home equity for long-term care, or even investing in rental properties, the right approach can make all the difference. I’ll share pra...2025-01-1319 minRetirement Starts TodayPurpose vs purpose: An interview with Doc GWhat does it mean to live a life of purpose? I talk with Jordan Grumet, aka Doc G, host of the Earn & Invest podcast, about how his work as a hospice doctor shaped his understanding of purpose and regret. His new book, “The Purpose Code,” offers insights on how to live with intention and meaning. We talk about the difference between "Big P" and "Little P" purpose and why focusing on grand goals often leads to frustration. Jordan shares how the terminally ill reflect on their lives, emphasizing the courage it takes to prioritize what truly matters. ...2025-01-0619 minRetirement Starts TodayUsing Guardrails For The 4% Rule [Rebroadcast]Originally aired February 2024: You’ve heard of the 4% rule, and if you’ve listened to this podcast before, you’ve heard of Guyton’s guardrails strategy. But have you ever heard of using them together? Today’s retirement headline explores this idea. Overall, the article highlights the importance of considering sequence-of-returns risk in retirement planning and adopting flexible strategies, such as guardrails, to ensure financial security throughout retirement. Listen in to learn more about this combination of strategies as well as my opinion on the matter. Then stick around for the listener question segment wh...2024-12-0923 minRetirement Starts TodayIs the 4% Rule Too Safe? [Rebroadcast]Originally aired June 2024: The 4% rule is the “golden rule” of retirement planning. Everyone is familiar with it and it’s easy to work out for some quick, back-of-the-napkin math. Since it is so easy to calculate and implement, many use it as their retirement withdrawal rule. However, this approach may be overly conservative. While using a significantly higher withdrawal rate may go too far, the 4% rule may be too cautious. Listen in to hear the limitations of sticking with this overly simplistic rule of thumb. Outline of This Episode (2:25) Is the 4% rule too sa...2024-12-0222 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Four Unique Risks in Decumulation [Rebroadcast]You’ve been accumulating your savings your entire life, but when the time comes to draw down your investments, there are new risks. In this episode, we’ll discuss four risks that come with the decumulation phase of retirement. Press play to learn how to avoid these risks in retirement. Are you looking for a new advisor? One of our listeners is looking for a checklist to help him hire a retirement advisor. While answering that question I went ahead and made my advisor checklist available to all of you to download here. Outlin...2024-11-2521 minRetirement Starts TodayNavigating the Complex World of Inherited Wealth with Myra SalzerReady to learn how to make a lasting and meaningful legacy for your loved ones? I had an in-depth conversation with Myra Salzer from the Wealth Conservancy. Myra brings a unique perspective as a financial advisor who specializes in helping clients navigate life after inheriting significant wealth. We explore not just the financial implications but the deeply personal challenges that can come with inheriting a fortune. Myra shows us how inheritors are similar to retirees in that both are financially independent, yet they differ significantly in their experiences. Unlike retirees who have worked, saved, and planned, many...2024-11-1819 minRetirement Starts TodayVeterans Day Special: Reflecting on Service and Lessons LearnedIn this episode, we step away from our usual financial discussions to share personal stories from our military service. Why? To give listeners a glimpse of who we are beyond our roles as financial advisors—so we opened up about how our time in the service shaped our lives. Bret shares his experience working in logistics and on the flight line in the Air Force, while I discuss my years as a combat engineer in the Army National Guard. We both reflect on how those experiences influenced our paths and continue to impact our work today. B...2024-11-1120 minRetirement Starts TodayInvesting in Health: The Steps to a Longer, Better RetirementInvesting in health can lead to a more vibrant, enjoyable retirement. In this episode, I share the personal health investments I've made, like sleep tracking and working with a health coach, each designed to enhance well-being and longevity. Prioritizing health alongside wealth allows us to fully embrace retirement. I detail four key health tools, each with its own costs and benefits. From the Whoop Strap for monitoring sleep quality to MyFitnessPal for tracking nutrition, these tools help create a healthier lifestyle. My biggest investment was a full-body MRI, providing peace of mind and preventive insights—sometimes, the be...2024-11-0422 minRetirement Starts TodayDon’t be Rattled by RMDsAre you feeling rattled by Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)? We’re here to help. Today we get deep into managing RMDs as we explore an article by Pam Krueger from Kiplinger’s. I outline the complexities of RMDs, share strategies to minimize tax impacts, and talk about how to craft a "perfect RMD" strategy. Plus, I’ll dig into why so many retirement podcasters, myself included, have no plans to retire themselves. We kick things off by understanding the basics of RMDs, including when and how retirees must start withdrawing funds from tax-deferred accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s. I...2024-10-2822 minRetirement Starts TodayTake Advantage of Your Peak Deduction YearsAre you sure you're making the right call when deciding between Roth and traditional retirement accounts? A recent article on the Michael Kitsis blog started a debate into why, during your peak earning years, contributing to traditional pre-tax accounts might actually make more sense—even if tax rates rise in the future. I’m going to break down why high-income earners can often benefit more from deferring taxes now and paying them later in retirement when they have more control over their income. I’ll explain how using tax deductions at your highest earning years and wit...2024-10-2124 minRetirement Starts TodayWho Pays More when the Tax Cuts Expire?What could happen to our taxes if the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) expires in 2025? This week, we explore a Wall Street Journal article analyzing the TCJA’s potential expiration and its varied impacts across the U.S. from coast to coast. These tax cuts, enacted under President Trump, included reductions across multiple income brackets, increased standard deductions, and expanded child tax credits. However, when they’re set to expire, the shift could mean substantial tax hikes for many households. The discussion centers on the unique impact of these changes in different regions, showing how f...2024-10-1418 minRetirement Starts TodayRetirement Income Worries Often OverblownAre you actually prepared for how upcoming tax law changes could impact your retirement? I analyze insights featured on the Nerd’s Eye View blog, focusing on key tax strategies for retirees. With the potential 2025 sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act approaching, potential changes in marginal tax rates, personal exemptions, and deductions could significantly affect tax planning, especially for higher-income earners. Flexibility is super important when preparing for uncertain legislative changes. Roth conversions and gains harvesting are explored as ways to mitigate the potential impact of rising tax rates. By taking action now, retirees can st...2024-10-0722 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Closest Thing to a Sure ThingAre index funds really the "sure thing" in investing, or do our emotions get in the way? To help answer that question, we’re going to talk about a Wall Street Journal article by Jason Zweig, which demonstrates the simplicity and challenges that come with investing in index funds. While these funds are designed to replicate the market at a low cost, actual investor behavior is what can lead to underperformance. We’ll talk about why sticking to this seemingly easy strategy is harder than it looks and explore how to avoid the "behavior gap" that keeps inve...2024-09-3026 minRetirement Starts TodayLessons From Another ‘Faux-tirement’How can we better prepare for a successful retirement? We’re exploring the lessons from a recent article by Christine Benz of Morningstar, where she reflects on her six-week sabbatical and how "mini-retirements" can help us test the waters before we fully retire. We talk about how the luxury of unscheduled time, balancing purpose, and the importance of finding joy in small moments can shape our ideal retirement experience. I also have a listener-inspired segment on protecting personal data in the age of cyber threats and data breaches. Outline of This Episode [00:58] How...2024-09-2322 minRetirement Starts TodaySix Lessons From Six Years of Retirement (from Fritz Gilbert’s Retirement Manifesto)Are you actually prepared to navigate the complexities of retirement? We’re exploring Fritz Gilbert’s Six Lessons From Six Years of Retirement, shared from his blog The Retirement Manifesto. One by one, we’ll walk through these lessons, keeping in mind that retirement is an evolving journey, not a static experience. For those who still need to optimize their post-work life, these lessons will show you a roadmap. We then talk about a listener question about portfolio management—whether to prioritize Roth conversions or refilling cash buckets when your investments outperform expectations. We get deep into...2024-09-1618 minRetirement Starts TodayFreedom or Free-fall (Tom’s Story)Retirement is not just a transition from work to leisure. It’s a continuous journey of self-discovery. We explore the story of Tom, who reflects on the emotional and financial challenges he faced after leaving a successful career. From adjusting to a fixed income to finding new ways to matter outside of his career, Tom’s experiences give us valuable lessons for those nearing retirement. In light of Tom’s story, we talk more about Roth conversions and the evolving rules surrounding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). We’ll tell you how to manage Roth conversions, even after reaching...2024-09-0917 minRetirement Starts TodayHow Does Inflation Impact Retirement?You know inflation is something to consider in retirement, but how much should you worry about it? On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore an article from Of Dollar and Data that dives into the nitty gritty of inflation by analyzing three hypothetical retirement scenarios. Learn how to plan for any eventuality so that you can better prepare for rising costs as you age. Outline of This Episode [2:02] How inflation impacts retirement [9:10] In conclusion [11:05] Do balanced funds make sense in the distribution stage of retirement? Resources & People Mentioned...2024-09-0218 minRetirement Starts TodayPermission to Spend in RetirementIn retirement, retirees make the big switch–drawing on savings rather than contributing to them. This is often when the trouble comes–the psychological hurdle comes when it’s time to start spending your hard-earned savings. In this episode, you’ll learn how to understand the mental barrier that comes with the big switch and learn strategies to overcome it. Listen to learn how to use your retirement funds without guilt or fear of financial instability. Outline of This Episode [1:22] Will you need permission to spend in retirement? [4:06] Strategies to overcome your mental hurdle about spe...2024-08-2624 minRetirement Starts TodayHow Do You Know It’s Time to Retire?Knowing when to retire is not just an economic decision; it’s highly personal. In an era where your work is with your identity, deciding when to retire can feel monumental. So how do you know when the time is right? That’s what we’ll explore in today’s episode. In addition to discussing this retirement headline, Bret Mulvaney joins the show again to help me answer our listener question. Press play to listen. Outline of This Episode [1:06] Retirement Starts Today updates [3:48] How do you know it’s time to retire? [12:35] Does bank health mat...2024-08-2120 minRetirement Starts TodayTightwads vs SpendthriftsDo you feel pain when spending money? Or perhaps it’s the opposite, and you spend a little too freely without much thought, pain, or remorse? In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore an article on how to make the most out of retirement by trying to land somewhere in the middle of the spending spectrum. Whether you find yourself to be a “tightwad” or a “spendthrift” you’ll find this episode to be a helpful exploration of gaining happiness from your retirement spending plan. Outline of This Episode [1:22] The two types of money...2024-08-1218 minRetirement Starts Today5 Common Portfolio MistakesIt’s easy to make mistakes in your investment portfolio, but as you get closer to retirement, it becomes more important than ever to make sure you are maximizing your financial health so that you can achieve your long-term goals. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll take a look at an article written by Christine Benz which highlights several common errors that investors make. Listen in to avoid these mistakes and learn the actions you can take to rectify the problems. Outline of This Episode [1:34] Are you making these common portfolio mista...2024-08-0521 minRetirement Starts TodaySuper-Savers Confidence ScoreWhat would you say your retirement confidence level is? If you’re like many super-savers, it may be surprisingly low. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore an article from Investment News that dives into a phenomenon where wealthier Americans who are confident in their money management skills still feel shaky about retirement and transferring their wealth to their heirs. Listen in to learn how to become more confident in your retirement plan and stick around for the listener question where we discuss just how safe annuities really are. Outline of Th...2024-07-2916 minRetirement Starts TodayHow to Avoid This IRS PenaltyWe may think of many things when it comes to rising interest rates, but often we fail to understand how that could lead to rising IRS penalties. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll take a look at an informative article from the WSJ about how to avoid rising IRS penalties. Make sure to stick around for the listener questions segment where I answer Jeff’s question on how to bridge the income gap between retirement and Social Security. Outline of This Episode [1:42] Paying quarterly tax withholding [8:24] My two tips on avo...2024-07-2215 minRetirement Starts TodayMy Ex Has Your Inheritance…When was the last time you checked your beneficiaries on your retirement account? After listening to today’s episode, I guarantee you’ll be logging in to verify. In the retirement headlines segment, we’ll check out a Yahoo Finance article titled ”They Broke Up In 1989, But Now His Ex-Girlfriend Is Inheriting His $1 Million Retirement Account After Nearly 40 Years.” How’s that headline for clickbait? It certainly got me to click! Make sure to stick around to hear how a reverse mortgage could play a part in your retirement planning. Outline of This Episode...2024-07-1517 minRetirement Starts TodayI Just Retired. Why Am I Unhappy?While, for some people, the transition to retirement goes perfectly smoothly, that’s not the case for everyone. Most of us are counting the days until retirement. We’re excited by all the prospects this new stage in life will bring. However, some people struggle with the change. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll look at a common issue with retirement from a psychological perspective with this article from Psychology Today. In the listener question segment, I’ll touch on how to bridge the gap between the beginning of retirement and collecting Social Se...2024-07-0823 minRetirement Starts TodaySemi-Retire to Spend More $$$?!It’s no secret that I want you to spend more money in retirement. Why? Because you’ve worked for it! Retirement is about living the life that you have saved for all these years, so I’m looking for any way I can find to help you get out there and enjoy it. One way that has been gaining popularity in recent years is semi-retirement. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll look at an article that shows how partial retirement has been shown to lead to an increase i...2024-07-0115 minRetirement Starts TodayHow To Spend Your Money To Maximize HappinessWe’ve all heard the saying, “Money can’t buy happiness.” However, research suggests that while money may not buy lasting joy, it can certainly enhance our lives if spent wisely. The key lies in how we spend our money. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore a recent article on spending money to maximize your happiness. Stick around for the latest book update and sign up for the newsletter to learn how to preorder and stay up to date on book giveaways! Outline of This Episode [1:22] How we spend our m...2024-06-2417 minRetirement Starts TodayYour AI RetirementBy now, we’ve all heard of AI, but many people still have mixed feelings about this revolutionary tool. Since I’ve been using it in my life on a daily basis, I have been wanting to share how you all can use AI to help with retirement planning. When I came across this article from Business Insider, I knew I found my opportunity. Even if you’ve never used AI before, you’ll want to listen in to hear how you can use this versatile tool to help you plan your retirement. Outline of This Episo...2024-06-1722 minRetirement Starts TodaySocial Security's 'Biggest Myth' & Jury Duty ScamsMany factors should come into play when deciding when to take your Social Security benefit but doomsday headlines shouldn’t be one of them. On this episode, you’ll hear how Social Security’s biggest myth is costing retirees a lot of money. Don’t get caught unaware! Make sure to stick around until the end to hear about a jury duty scam that even I had never heard of. Outline of This Episode [1:42] Social Security’s biggest myth [8:35] My thoughts [11:09] Why buy bonds if they always go down in value? [18:27] The jury duty sc...2024-06-1025 minRetirement Starts TodayIs the 4% Rule Too Safe?The 4% rule is the “golden rule” of retirement planning. Everyone is familiar with it and it’s easy to work out for some quick, back-of-the-napkin math. Since it is so easy to calculate and implement, many use it as their retirement withdrawal rule. However, this approach may be overly conservative. While using a significantly higher withdrawal rate may go too far, the 4% rule may be too cautious. Listen in to hear the limitations of sticking with this overly simplistic rule of thumb. Outline of This Episode [2:02] Is the 4% rule too safe? [10:50] Does it make...2024-06-0321 minRetirement Starts TodayGold and GroceriesDid you know that you can buy gold at your local Costco? However, just because it’s easy to buy doesn't mean it’s easy to sell. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’re exploring gold and its role in your retirement portfolio. To do that, we’ll take a look at a retirement headline from WSJ and i’ll share my thoughts on the latest gold rush. Make sure to stick around until the end for Kevin’s question about the key difference between accumulation and decumulation. Outline of This Episo...2024-05-2716 minRetirement Starts TodayRisk Management: Spring Client MeetingsRisk is what is left over after you think you’ve thought of everything. – Carl Richards Getting to financial independence is job #1, but staying financially independent comes a close second. To do so you’ll need to be aware of the risks that could empty your accounts. Being vigilant of these risks and having a plan to work through or avoid them could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Listen in to hear how you can save your financial independence. Outline of This Episode [1:22] 3 big risks to look out for in retirem...2024-05-2029 minRetirement Starts TodaySpend More Money!There are two ways you can ruin your retirement: running out of money and dying with regret. If you are listening to this podcast, chances are, you’ve been a diligent saver and probably aren’t in danger of the first one. That’s why, today, we’re exploring an article from the White Coat Investor on ways to spend more money. Don’t risk ending your days with regret. Listen in to find out how you can enjoy all that you have worked for. Outline of This Episode [1:22] Two ways to ruin...2024-05-1317 minRetirement Starts TodayMedicare MistakesIt can be easy to forget your age as the birthdays roll around. However, when you’re about to turn 65 you’ll know. Medicare and all of their relevant service providers won’t let you forget. You may feel inundated with the amount of mail, emails, and even phone calls and text messages, but rather than ignoring all the excess information, it’s important to dig in and learn so tha you can make the best decision for your healthcare. To help you avoid potentially expensive and health-altering mistakes, today we’ll review 5 of the biggest Medi...2024-05-0620 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Four Unique Risks in DecumulationYou’ve been accumulating your savings your entire life, but when the time comes to draw down your investments, there are new risks. In this episode, we’ll discuss four risks that come with the decumulation phase of retirement. Press play to learn how to avoid these risks in retirement. Are you looking for a new advisor? One of our listeners is looking for a checklist to help him hire a retirement advisor. While answering that question I went ahead and made my advisor checklist available to all of you to download here. Outlin...2024-04-2921 minRetirement Starts TodayMore Muscles = Better RetirementA lot of us are looking to get in shape in retirement. This is a good thing since part of living an even better retirement is looking after your health and muscle mass. Staying healthier and more active longer will ensure that you are making the most out of your retirement. In addition, maintaining a healthy muscle mass is a huge part of keeping your health as you age. In this episode, we’ll explore a Scientific American article on keeping your muscles strong as you age. Make sure to listen in to discover some tools that I...2024-04-2216 minRetirement Starts TodayIndex Funds Have Officially WonDo you have index funds in your portfolio? Chances are you do! Our retirement headline today describes the rise of index funds over active funds and why that’s important. Discover how index funds connect with my investment philosophy by pressing play now. Outline of This Episode [1:22] Index funds have grown exponentially over the years [2:23] What are index funds [5:58] How index funds fit into my investment philosophy [10:04] Will my estimated Social Security benefit decrease if I retire before full retirement age? Resources & People Mentioned The Retirement Podcast Network Morning Star article Conn...2024-04-1516 minRetirement Starts TodayThe 529 to Roth IRA RolloverRecent legislation has made everyone’s favorite college savings plan a little more flexible. Funds in a 529 plan aren’t as locked up as they used to be now that your children’s unused college funds can be rolled into a retirement account. In this episode, we’ll discuss an article from the White Coat Investor which explores how the 529 can be rolled into a retirement account. We’ll discover the benefits and drawbacks of using a 529 to save for retirement. Listen in to hear whether the 529 rollover could help you in your retirement. Outline of This Epi...2024-04-0817 minRetirement Starts TodayThe 4 Phases of RetirementIt may be easy to define success in your working career, but defining success in retirement can be more difficult. What does success look like in retirement? What will you do daily or weekly to get the most out of your retirement? In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore a TEDx talk about the 4 phases of retirement that many (but not all) experience. Click play to hear how you can squeeze the most juice out of your retirement. Outline of This Episode [1:52] How to squeeze the most juice out of retirement [11:18] He...2024-04-0119 minRetirement Starts TodayA Short History of the 60/40 PortfolioDue to last year's poor market returns, you’ve probably seen the headlines that the 60/40 portfolio is dead. But is that really the case? This week’s retirement headline explores the history of this classic retirement investment strategy. After we tackle the headlines, Bret and I team up to consider the best places to move in retirement. Listen in to hear where not to move. Outline of This Episode [1:52] A history of the 60/40 portfolio [8:09] Why I like 60/40 [15:10] Where should retirees consider moving to for a great retirement? Resources & People Mentioned The Retirement Podcas...2024-03-2523 minRetirement Starts Today8 Ways to Become Poor in RetirementThere are many ways that could threaten your financial security in retirement. Knowing the common issues can ensure that you don’t fall into the traps. Today’s financial headline comes from Yahoo Finance and is called 8 Ways Baby Boomers Become Poor in Retirement. Listen in to learn what they are so that you don’t drive yourself into the poorhouse. Outline of This Episode [1:22] 8 ways to become poor in retirement [10:58] How can we determine the biases in an advisor Resources & People Mentioned The Retirement Podcast Network 8 Ways Baby Boomers Become Poor in Retir...2024-03-1820 minRetirement Starts TodayMore Than Half of Americans Want to Retire GraduallyWe all want to retire, but have you considered how you would like to transition to retirement? This week’s retirement headline article shares some interesting statistics on phased retirements: who is thinking about them, who is utilizing them, and what people think about them. Listen in to learn the findings. Then stick around for our listener question surrounding stock positions, diversification, and taxes. Outline of This Episode [1:42] Exploring the idea of a phased retirement [7:12] Can a phased retirement allow you to have your cake and eat it too? [11:38] A book update [13:10] Wei...2024-03-1121 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Retirement Crisis That Wasn’tOnce upon a time, there was a prediction that the baby boomer generation would face a retirement crisis. So how did this gloom and doom projection turn into the wealthiest generation in history? Listen in to find out. Make sure to stay tuned for the listener question: What is the best way to fund a large expense without a large tax bill? Outline of This Episode [1:37] The accuracy of predictions [7:26] What is the best way to fund a large expense without a large tax bill Resources & People Mentioned The Retirement Podcast Network...2024-03-0416 minRetirement Starts TodayUsing Guardrails For The 4% RuleYou’ve heard of the 4% rule, and if you’ve listened to this podcast before, you’ve heard of Guyton’s guardrails strategy. But have you ever heard of using them together? Today’s retirement headline explores this idea. Overall, the article highlights the importance of considering sequence-of-returns risk in retirement planning and adopting flexible strategies, such as guardrails, to ensure financial security throughout retirement. Listen in to learn more about this combination of strategies as well as my opinion on the matter. Then stick around for the listener question segment where Bret and I answer the...2024-02-2622 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Challenges of Retiring from a High-Powered JobIs it possible to suddenly step away from a high-powered job and into a life of leisure? This may not be the best idea for your retirement if you work at the executive level. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore an article from Harvard Business Review that outlines several pitfalls that could come with retiring from a high-powered job and insights on how to navigate them. Stick around for the listener question segment to hear the best ways to give money to your adult children while you are still living rather than...2024-02-1919 minRetirement Starts Today5 Expenses Retirees Wish They Spent More Money OnThere are two ways to mess up retirement: run out of money or die with regret. Oftentimes, people in the retirement space only focus on the running out of money part. In an effort to help you live an even better retirement, today’s retirement headline discusses the regret part. Join me to learn five expenses that retirees wish they had spent more money on so that you can learn from their mistakes. Stick around to hear the answer to our listener question: Is there one person who can help develop a comprehensive retirement plan? Or...2024-02-1222 minRetirement Starts Today2 Social Security MulligansIf you want to spend more money in retirement you’ll want to understand how to maximize your Social Security benefits. Many people think that there is no going back once you’ve decided to collect your Social Security benefits. However, today’s retirement headline discusses two options in case you’d like a do-over. In our listener question segment, one listener asks the best way to pass on their assets to their children. Listen in to hear the answer and scroll to the bottom of the show notes to discover more estate planning resources. Outline o...2024-02-0517 minRetirement Starts TodaySave Money with These Tax TipsTax season is here so when I found this article from Morning Star to share some tax tips for you. Your tax bill will be the largest bill you pay in retirement. If you want to reduce it, make sure to press play. Helping clients save money on taxes and avoid common investment mistakes is an important task for financial planners. If you don’t have a financial planner, that means you are your own financial planner, so you’ll want to take good notes. Outline of This Episode [1:22] Maximizing tax savings [3:30] How to utilize...2024-01-2920 minRetirement Starts TodayA Tax Break Worth the HassleSome tax breaks aren’t worth the hassle of pursuing them, however, today’s example is definitely worth the hassle! If you are charitably minded you’ll want to listen to learn about the advantages of making qualified charitable distributions. Discover how to increase your standard deduction while enjoying charitable tax benefits. Stick around for the listener question to hear a great way to start practicing spending your money when you have been over-flexing your savings muscle. Outline of This Episode [2:22] The power of qualified charitable distributions [5:56] How IRMAA thresholds work [7:27] Three key take...2024-01-2218 minRetirement Starts TodayWe Need to Talk About Your Retirement SpendingPlanning retirement spending is tough to do since there are so many unknowns. Many people tend to take a fear-based approach and rely on the 4% rule. Some even take a step further and spend less of their nest egg. Today’s Retirement Headline urges you to take a different approach. Listen in to hear what the article advises and my thoughts on the matter. Then stick around for the listener question to learn how our national macroeconomic situation affects financial planning. Outline of This Episode [1:22] Rethink underspending in retirement [5:01] My thoughts on the article [10:12] Ho...2024-01-1517 minRetirement Starts TodayI Don’t Want To Be Old When I Am OldI don’t know about you, but I want to stay active and healthy for as long as possible. That’s why when I saw this Forbes article I knew I wanted to share it with you. If you want to learn how to age gracefully and maintain your vitality, you won’t miss this episode. Then, stick around to hear my answer to the question: why do some people have a hard time with retirement? Outline of This Episode [1:24] How to age gracefully and maintain vitality [4:20] Embrace interdependence [9:55] Why do some people have a hard t...2024-01-0816 minRetirement Starts TodayLessons Learned from Fall Tax MeetingsAs you probably know by now, Bret and I are here to help you spend more money and spend less in taxes so that you can live an even better life in retirement. This week we’re helping you do that by sharing some lessons that we learned from our clients’ fall tax meetings. If you enjoyed our Lessons in Estate Planning episodes last spring, you’ll love hearing what we learned from our clients this fall. Press play to hear what you can learn from our experience with our clients. Outline of This Episode [1...2024-01-0119 minRetirement Starts TodaySpend Your Principal!Most people are worried about spending too much and running out of money in retirement. However, few people worry about spending too little. In this week’s episode of Retirement Starts Today, you’ll learn why you should spend your principal in retirement. Our retirement headline comes from Dr. Jim Dahle at the Whitecoat Investor and shows us why many people don’t spend enough of their money and how you can take a practical approach to spending more. If you are like most people, one of your main worries about retirement is that you’ll end up r...2023-11-2020 minRetirement Starts TodayBoost Your Retirement Confidence by 17% with One Simple TrickWould you like to have more confidence in your retirement plan? In the retirement headlines segment, you’ll learn one simple way to increase your certainty about what you can accomplish in retirement. In the listener questions segment, Bret helps answer what the essential aspects of an estate plan include. If you are ready to get serious about retirement planning press play to get started. Outline of This Episode [2:26] A written retirement retirement plan boosts your confidence [4:11] 4 areas to consider in your plan [11:15] What do you need to create an estate plan? Re...2023-11-1320 minRetirement Starts Today5 Alternatives To The 4% Retirement Withdrawal RuleDo you wish you had more optionality when it comes to designing your retirement? In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore an article from Forbes that poses five alternatives to the 4% rule that you may want to explore for your retirement withdrawal strategy. In our retirement headlines segment Bret and I team up to answer a question that both Google and ChatGPT got wrong. Find out what it is by listening until the end! Outline of This Episode [2:22] The types of spending strategies that can be used in retirement [13:30] Is creating a d...2023-11-0621 minRetirement Starts TodayI Saved Too Much for RetirementWhat happens if you get to retirement age and realize that you saved too much? Believe it or not, this does happen and has its own set of problems. In this episode, we’ll explore those problems along with some potential solutions. Stick around until the end of the episode to hear our listener question about deciding whether to do Roth conversions or take ACA health insurance premium tax credits. Outline of This Episode [2:32] Too much retirement savings does have its downsides [4:54] What you can do to combat [8:21] My thoughts on what you can do i...2023-10-3022 minRetirement Starts TodayBad Timing Cost Fund Investors 17%Would you like to make $170,000? On this episode, you’ll learn what you can do to save yourself 17% in lower returns over a decade. On a million-dollar portfolio that comes to $170,000! In the Retirement Headline segment, we’ll dive into an article from Financial Advisor Magazine which explores Morningstar’s annual Mind the Gap study analyzing the performance of mutual and ETFs and comparing them to the returns achieved by individual investors. Press play to hear what you can do to improve your investor performance. Outline of This Episode [3:12] Bad timing cost investors 17% in gains [1...2023-10-2326 minRetirement Starts TodayWays to Use Home Equity in RetirementHave you thought about using your home’s equity to help you fund a portion of your retirement? In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore a Morningstar article that examines ways to use this supersized emergency fund. If you are ready to start thinking about retirement outside the box, listen to this episode to hear how you can supplement your retirement by using your home equity. Outline of This Episode [1:22] Home equity is seen as a someday asset [9:28] Reverse mortgages could be a valuable lifeline [14:10] Clarifying the rules surrounding spousal Social Securi...2023-10-1622 minRetirement Starts TodayPlan on Living to 100Do you remember when you were a kid and were fascinated by the thought of living to be 100? It seemed like such a far-fetched idea, but now with advances in technology, nutrition, and medicine, this far-flung notion increasingly seems like a real possibility. As you may have guessed, today’s retirement headline discusses planning to live until age 100. We’ll explore what that prospect means for your retirement income, goals, and health. Share this episode with a friend so you can discuss it together! Outline of This Episode [2:42] What if you live to 100? [12:40] How to get...2023-10-0921 minRetirement Starts TodayTraveling After 65 with Danielle Roberts from Boomer BenefitsMedicare’s open enrollment is starting soon, so I’ve invited Danielle Roberts from Boomer Benefits to join me today. In this episode, we’re discussing what’s new with Medicare in 2024, the important dates to remember for open enrollment, when to reevaluate your health insurance options, and how to ensure you have health coverage when traveling abroad in retirement. Press play to hear what’s new in Medicare. Outline of This Episode [2:26] What’s new with Medicare this year? [8:44] How often do people reconsider advantage vs. supplement and drug plans? [15:42] Bearing risk [22:00...2023-10-0228 minRetirement Starts Today401K Millionaires are Back!As retirement super savers, you all know that slow and steady wins the race. According to this Wall Street Journal article, that race is paying off again for many Americans. In the retirement headlines segment, we’ll take a look at this article. Then in the Listener Questions segment, Bret and I will discuss the merits of having one firm handle investments, taxes, and retirement planning. Outline of This Episode [1:42] Stock market rally [12:27] When might having one firm handling all aspects of your financial matters might not be the best case Resources & People Mentioned Stoc...2023-09-2522 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Problems with Monte Carlo Are in Your MindEven if you aren’t familiar with Monte Carlo analyses, you’ve probably used it. Monte Carlo drives math behind the retirement planning software that you use. Monte Carlo software is truly amazing, however, the way people look at it is wrong. In this episode, you’ll hear the pros and cons of Monte Carlo analysis and how you can use a Monte Carlo calculator to maximize your full retirement potential. Outline of This Episode [1:52] When Monte Carlo simulations work and when they don’t [7:10] How to use Monte Carlo simulations effectively [15:13] Should you annuitize...2023-09-1826 minRetirement Starts TodayWhy Are the Notes Found in Aretha Franklin’s Couch a Valid Will?Aretha Franklin can teach you more than a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, you’ll learn from her estate plan (or lack thereof). After hearing about this estate plan gone haywire Bret and I will team up to answer a listener’s question on how you can transition from a saving to a spending mindset. Listen in to ensure that your estate isn’t tied up for years while your heirs battle out the details in court. Outline of This Episode [2:22] Why are the notes found in Aretha Franklin’...2023-09-1120 minRetirement Starts TodayOverdoing Delayed GratificationHere at Retirement Starts Today, we are always looking for ways to teach you how to spend more money so that you can enjoy an even better retirement. However, many times our clients and listeners have trouble loosening their purse strings. After years of being diligent savers, instead of enjoying the fruits of their labor, retirees reaching financial independence often find another reason to be frugal. Listen in to hear how you may be overdoing delayed gratification. Outline of This Episode [1:32] Will gratification always lead to a more fulfilling life? [2:55] How to find balance [4:01] H...2023-09-0417 minRetirement Starts Today7 Tips to Maintain a Sense of Purpose in RetirementI’ve always said that it’s important to retire to something rather than away from something. To do that means finding a sense of purpose. In this episode, we’ll explore an article from PhysicianOnFIRE.com that discusses how retirees can discover and maintain a sense of purpose in their lives after leaving the workforce. Make sure to stick around for today’s listener question. This one was my favorite one this year so don’t miss it! Outline of This Episode [2:12] How to maintain a sense of purpose as a retiree [8:43...2023-08-2820 minRetirement Starts TodayHow to Pay 0% on Capital GainsWould a 0% tax rate help you live an even better retirement? In this week’s Retirement Headline, we’ll explore a WSJ article titled How You Can Grab a 0% Tax Rate. If that doesn’t pique your interest, I don’t know what will! Listen in to hear how you can learn to plan so that you can take advantage of a 0% tax rate on capital gains income. Outline of This Episode [1:42] How to grab a 0% tax rate [7:08] 4 ways to take action [11:22] How will lowering my taxable income affect my future Social Security benefits? Resou...2023-08-2117 minRetirement Starts TodayDirty Dozen Tax ScamsScammers are constantly changing their playbooks to try and stay ahead of the authorities. That is why the IRS annually updates its “Dirty Dozen Tax Scam” list. This week we’ll explore the latest article from the IRS on this year’s tax scams then we’ll check out an article from Financial Advisor Magazine that involve questionable tax practitioners and charitable remainder annuity trusts. Don’t miss out on this week’s listener question because chances are, you have had this question as well. Outline of This Episode [2:22] What the IRS has to say about the dir...2023-08-1423 minRetirement Starts TodayShould We Even Worry About IRMAA?As a financial advisor that thinks a lot about the Medicare surcharge IRMAA, an article titled Stop Worrying About IRMAA written by a source I trust certainly caught my eye. In this episode, we’ll explore what IRMAA does, reflect on the article, and discuss whether the IRMAA surcharge is worth worrying about. If you have questions about IRMAA or are starting to approach Medicare age you won’t want to miss out on this episode. Outline of This Episode [1:22] How Medicare works [5:33] How IRMAA works [8:09] My thoughts [9:18] Action items [14:50] How to pay taxes on Ro...2023-08-0723 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Most Powerful Way to Live Longer?Who wants to live longer? I know I do! Before you start taking magic pills and seeking the fountain of youth in an effort to increase your life span, Alex Janin from the Wall Street Journal suggests you start exercising. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore Alex’s article, What if the Most Powerful Way to Live Longer Is Just Exercise? Make sure to stick around for the end of the show where Bret and I turn traditional retirement advice on its head as we answer one listener’s question about how to d...2023-07-3119 minRetirement Starts Today3 Tricks to Help Retirees Spend MoreIf you have diligently saved throughout your career, you may be ready to retire, yet still feel uncertain about spending your savings. To truly live your best life in retirement you need to learn how to shift from a saving mindset to a spending mindset. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll help you do just that. This is the podcast where you can learn how to spend more money and pay less taxes on your way to an even better retirement. Listen in to learn how you can start spending more money so...2023-07-2419 minRetirement Starts TodayThe #1 Retirement Challenge That No One Talks AboutIf you are new to the show, welcome! This is a place where we talk about how to spend more money, pay less taxes, and have an even better retirement. Today we’re investigating that last part–the even better retirement. In the retirement headlines segment, we’ll take a look at a CNBC article that dives into an 85-year happiness study from Harvard University. Results from this study reveal the number one retirement challenge no one is talking about. Listen in to hear what this could be. Outline of This Episode [1:22] The number one retir...2023-07-1716 minRetirement Starts TodayYour Brain Has Tricked You Into Thinking Everything Is WorseDo you long for a lost golden age when everything was better? If you do you’re not alone. Many people feel that society is experiencing a moral decline. But is that really true? On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore a New York Times article that challenges this way of thinking and attributes it to cognitive biases. Listen in to learn what you can do to improve your thinking about the present and the future so that you can experience an even better retirement. Make sure to listen until the end of the epi...2023-07-1016 minRetirement Starts TodayYour Future (Retired) SelfIf you want an amazing retirement you need to start thinking about your future self. We discussed the idea of your future self on a previous episode where I interviewed my coach, Dr. Benjamin Hardy. In this episode, we’re taking a look at another book on the future self, Your Future Self by Hal Herschfield. I’m listening to the audiobook now and this topic has me thinking about how it applies to retirement. Listen in to hear more about this book and my exciting announcement about my own explorations into the topic of the future self in...2023-07-0322 minRetirement Starts Today12 Reasons to Rent in RetirementOne of the greatest financial assumptions is that it’s always better to own than to rent. However, in retirement, this may not be true. Once you are financially independent it is important to realize that not every dollar you spend needs to yield a return. Join me for this episode of Retirement Starts Today to question traditional thinking and to see how you can improve your life, spend more money, and have more fun in retirement. Outline of This Episode [1:42] Change your relationship with money [3:21] With financial independence you can throw money away [3:55] 12 rea...2023-06-2621 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Power of Semi-Retirement and Work-Life BalanceHave you considered working part-time in retirement? A growing number of older adults are choosing to continue work even after reaching retirement age. While some continue work due to financial necessity, many choose work that offers fulfillment and enjoyment. In the retirement headlines segment of this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore the meaning and nature of work and what that could mean for your retirement. Make sure to stick around for the listener questions segment where we consider the pros and cons of keeping a stable value fund in a 401K while rol...2023-06-1918 minRetirement Starts Today$300 Gym Bag, Ep # 300If you clicked on this title you may be wondering what a $300 gym bag has to do with retirement. Well, this podcast focuses on learning how to spend more money and pay less taxes to set yourself up for the ideal retirement. Outline of This Episode= [1:32] What a new gym bag can teach us about retirement [4:20] The lens that you view your purchases through [6:25] A thought experiment Connect with Benjamin Brandt Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit: http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ Follow Ben on Twitter: https://twitter.com...2023-06-1213 minRetirement Starts TodayRetirement Mastermind GroupsHave you ever considered joining a retirement mastermind group? Many of us choose mastermind groups to further our careers, businesses, or other areas of our lives, but few think to create one for retirement planning. Today, we’ll focus this entire episode on Fritz Gilbert’s recent article on his experience creating a retirement mastermind group. You won’t want to miss out on hearing what you could learn from a retirement mastermind. Make sure to listen until the end to hear how you can create your own retirement mastermind group. Outline of This Epis...2023-06-0514 minRetirement Starts TodayRaise Your Healthy Deserve Level – an Interview with Gary KadiI’m so excited to bring you this interview with Gary Kadi. Gary is the author of one of the best books I read in 2022, Raise Your Healthy Deserve Level. I call this an accidental retirement book because although it is not specifically written for retirees, many topics apply to retirement. Gary has so much to share in this interview. We discuss how to receive good things in life, how your net worth is directly proportional to your self-worth, why you shouldn’t reject good things, why only 5% of people retire with financial freedom, and how to find fu...2023-02-0629 minRetirement Starts TodayBe Your Future Self Now, an Interview with my Coach, Dr. Benjamin HardyWhen we envision retirement, we think more about the things we’ll do to enjoy our time than about the person that we’ll become. My guest today encourages us to change that to spend more time thinking about who we want to be in the future. Dr. Benjamin Hardy is an organizational psychologist, speaker, and author, in addition to being my coach. I have been involved in Dr. Hardy’s coaching mastermind group for 8 months and I’m excited to extend his teaching to all of you. Make sure to stick around until the end of the episo...2022-09-2628 minRetirement Starts TodayThe Inflation Reduction Act - What it Means for RetireesI’m sure you have heard the news about the recent Inflation Reduction Act, but what will this Act mean to you as a retiree? We’ll explore this question by examining an article written by Kelly Anne Smith over at Forbes. If politics isn’t your thing, don’t worry, it’s not mine either. I scour the internet looking for the most neutral, least political articles that I can get my hands on. So, if you are interested in only the facts and how they apply to you, then don’t miss out on the retirement hea...2022-09-1215 minRetirement Starts TodayCities That Will Pay You to Leave TownHave you considered moving to a new city in retirement? If you work in the tech industry you may find a city willing to pay you to move there. In today’s retirement headline segment, we’ll dive into an article written by Christopher Mims at The Wall Street Journal which explores towns that provide incentives to lure highly paid tech workers away from Silicon Valley. Don’t miss out on the listener question segment especially if you have or are considering an annuity. I’ll explain the various fees, benefits, and drawbacks to these insurance i...2022-08-1519 minRetirement Starts TodayFuture You is Happier than Current YouHow much thought have you given to your future self? This week’s retirement headline explores the concept of nurturing your future self now so that you can increase your health, happiness, and financial security. Over in our listener questions segment, I’ll answer a question from an anonymous listener about increasing their spending in retirement. They are looking for advice on whether they can afford to substantially increase their spending this year. Listen in to hear the Retirement Starts Today version of Suze Orman’s “Can I Afford It.” Outline of This Episode [1:58] Thinking a...2022-04-2515 minRetirement Starts Today8 Reasons to File Your 2021 Tax Return EarlyTax season is here. This yearly duty is something that a good portion of citizens put off until the last minute, with some even requesting an extension to file later. However, today I have 8 reasons for you to consider filing your taxes early. Listen in to discover why you might want to bite the bullet and file your tax return early this year. Outline of This Episode [1:12] 8 reasons to file your 2021 tax return early [4:18] Why you should try to get as small a refund as possible in retirement [8:09] Should Marion invest 25% of her portfolio in a...2022-02-2117 minRetirement Starts TodayAre Stock Splits Good for Stocks?Have you seen the news about Tesla and Apple lately? Their stock prices are surging to new highs after the announcement of a stock split. Is this what is supposed to happen with a stock split? Learn more about stock splits and what they mean for you by listening to this episode of Retirement Starts Today. After we the Retirement Headlines I answer several listener questions. Have you been wondering about you and your spouse’s Social Security timeline? Should you roll over funds if you are happy with your 401K? Which is better--to dollar cost average or...2020-09-2819 min