Shows
Winning in RetirementStarting Seriously for a Fun RetirementSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco from AKERS Financial Group discuss the importance of starting seriously with financial planning for a fun retirement. They emphasize the need to be proactive in planning, including understanding your financial situation, setting goals, and implementing strategies. They highlight the significance of comprehensive financial planning that includes asset allocation, income planning, estate planning, and tax strategies. The conversation also touches on the importance of regular reviews and adjustments to ensure financial stability. They encourage listeners to seek professional advice early and stress that planning should be tailored to individual...2025-06-2151 minWinning in RetirementBuild Wealth and Create a LegacySend us a textBrian Akers and Jeffrey Akers, both Certified Financial Planners, discuss strategies for building wealth and creating a legacy in retirement. They emphasize the importance of planning beyond financial independence, focusing on wealth preservation and tax efficiency. They highlight the significance of determining the purpose of money, whether for family, charity, or other causes. The conversation covers various financial tools like trusts, charitable gift annuities, and donor-advised funds to manage and distribute wealth effectively. They stress the need for comprehensive estate planning to minimize taxes and ensure assets are distributed according to one's wishes...2025-06-1451 minWinning in RetirementRothification - Never Pay Taxes AgainSend us a textBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the concept of "rothification," or converting pre-tax retirement accounts to Roth IRAs to pay taxes now and enjoy tax-free growth. They explain the history of Roth IRAs, which began in 1998, and the rules for qualified withdrawals at age 59 1/2. They emphasize the importance of tracking contributions on Form 8606 to avoid paying taxes twice. The conversation also covers the benefits of Roth conversions for high-income earners and those nearing required minimum distributions. Additionally, they highlight the strategic use of Roth accounts in estate planning and the potential tax savings...2025-06-0751 minWinning in RetirementJump Into SavingsSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of starting to save early for retirement. They emphasize the need to maximize workplace benefits, such as 401(k) matches and health savings accounts, and to avoid debt. Brian highlights the significance of financial planning, including understanding one's job benefits and creating a budget. They stress the importance of saving first and living off the rest, and the impact of compound interest. Paul advises cutting up credit cards once they are paid off to prevent future overspending. They conclude by urging listeners to take action and...2025-05-311h 00Winning in RetirementChildren and Grandchildren: LegacySend us a textBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, both certified financial planners, discuss strategies for funding children and grandchildren's education through 529 plans. They highlight the benefits of starting early, contributing $19,000 annually per beneficiary, and leveraging state tax deductions, such as Maryland's $2,500 deduction. They explain the flexibility of 529 plans, including using funds for K-12 education, private school, and trade schools, and the option to convert unused funds into Roth IRAs. They also address the importance of financial aid considerations and the potential for using 529 funds to pay off student loans. The discussion emphasizes the need for comprehensive...2025-05-2451 minWinning in RetirementNervous or Excited? First MeetingSend us a textBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the emotional aspects of financial planning, including understanding and separating emotions from money, building trust, and guiding clients towards their financial goals. They emphasize the importance of personalized financial planning for retirement, tailored approaches that consider each individual's unique situation, goals, and circumstances, and the need to balance life's enjoyment with saving for the future. Both speakers highlight the benefits of starting early and the anxiety that comes with running out of time, emphasizing the importance of saving money and paying off debt for a comfortable retirement.2025-05-1752 minWinning in RetirementRetire Once: Retire and Stay RetiredSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss retirement planning and financial literacy and how to retire once! They emphasize the importance of personalized planning, understanding an individual's unique financial situation and goals, and managing cash flow effectively. They also discuss the significance of reducing volatility through protected investments and individualized portfolio design in volatile markets. Additionally, they highlight the importance of understanding current pension plans and social security, and saving through workplace plans and other accounts.https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20d...2025-04-2652 min
Leading In The DarkNick Akers & Brian WilcoxIn the premiere episode of Leading in the Dark, host Nick Akers sits down with Brian Wilcox, a seasoned executive, former CFO/COO, and current board member, to discuss leadership, career transitions, and the lessons learned from decades of experience in corporate America. From GE’s intense culture under Jack Welch to scaling Fortitech into a global leader, Brian shares insights on leadership, strategic growth, and the transition from executive to board member. Tune in for a candid conversation about navigating business challenges, fostering a winning culture, and building meaningful professional relationships.2025-04-1458 minLeading In The DarkNick Akers & Brian WolfeIn this episode of Leading in the Dark, Nick Akers sits down with Brian Wolfe, former Kirkland & Ellis partner turned investor, educator, and entrepreneur. Brian shares lessons from his early career at Amazon, his unexpected leap into public education leadership, and his deep experience in private equity and ETA (Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition). They explore the realities of buying and scaling small businesses, the importance of relationship-driven leadership, and hard truths from his widely read paper on what ETA investors do and don't do. Whether you're exploring search funds or just curious about strategic pivots in...2025-04-1442 minWinning in RetirementThe Myth of Conventional Financial WisdomSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco, financial advisors from AKERS Financial Group, discuss the myths of conventional financial wisdom on their radio show "Winning in Retirement." They emphasize the importance of personalized financial planning over generic advice. Key points include the misconception that Medicare covers long-term care, the necessity of planning for long-term care, and the need for proper estate planning. They also address the fallacy that taxes will be lower in retirement, the importance of Roth IRAs, and the impact of Social Security benefits on taxation. The hosts advocate for a balanced investment...2025-04-0551 minWinning in RetirementPay Less Tax - LevelizeSend us a textBrian Akers and Jeff Akers discuss strategies for minimizing taxes in retirement through the concept of "levelizing." They explain how current tax decisions can impact future tax liabilities, emphasizing the importance of understanding tax brackets and the benefits of contributing to Roth accounts. They highlight that the 2025 tax brackets range from 10% to 37%, with significant jumps at certain income levels. They also discuss the impact of state taxes, such as Maryland's, and the potential benefits of moving to tax-free states. The key takeaway is to plan now to pay less tax over a lifetime...2025-03-2952 minWinning in RetirementThe Inheritance TalkSend us a textBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, Certified Financial Planners, discuss inheritance planning on their radio show "Winning in Retirement." They emphasize the importance of proper estate planning, including naming beneficiaries and setting up trusts. They highlight the concept of "estate flow" to outline where money goes upon death. They explain the tax implications of inheritance, such as step-up basis for stocks and tax-free status for life insurance payouts. They also discuss the importance of planning for special needs and the role of trusts in managing inheritances. The show aims to educate listeners on the...2025-03-2251 minWinning in RetirementAdvisors who Solve vs. SellSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco from AKERS Financial Group discuss the importance of having an advisor who solves financial problems rather than just selling products. They emphasize understanding client needs, planning for retirement, and ensuring financial security. They highlight cases where clients lacked basic financial planning, faced tax issues, and needed guidance on inheritance and annuity reviews. The advisors stress the importance of comprehensive financial planning, including tax and estate planning, and the value of having a trusted advisor who provides unbiased advice and long-term support. They encourage listeners to schedule free consultations...2025-03-1552 minWinning in RetirementYour Important QuestionsSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of financial planning in retirement. They address common questions such as when to retire, whether one has enough income, tax planning, and investment strategies. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive financial plan tailored to individual circumstances. Akers highlights the significance of cash flow, tax planning, and the 4% withdrawal rate. Franco shares examples of clients' financial situations, such as a federal employee who could retire immediately and a couple planning tax-efficient strategies. They stress the importance of understanding one's financial fingerprint and seeking professional advice...2025-03-0851 minWinning in RetirementInvesting with PurposeSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of investing with a purpose, emphasizing the need to understand individual financial goals and risk tolerances. They highlight the significance of knowing why one invests, whether it's for short-term needs like buying a car or long-term goals like retirement. Akers and Franco argue against the notion that investing is gambling, advocating for strategic, long-term planning. They stress the importance of diversification, risk management, and tailoring investments to specific purposes. The conversation also touches on the benefits of goal-based investing, the limitations of target date funds...2025-03-0147 minWinning in RetirementHacks to Max Retirement SavingsSend us a textBrian Akers and Jeff Akers discuss strategies for maximizing retirement savings in 2025. They highlight the importance of contributing to retirement plans, emphasizing the tax advantages of qualified plans like IRAs and 401(k)s. For IRAs, the base limit is $7,000 annually, with a $1,000 catch-up for those over 50, totaling $8,000. Employer-sponsored plans allow up to $23,500 annually, with a $7,500 catch-up for those over 50, totaling $31,000. They also discuss the benefits of Roth IRAs, which offer tax-free growth and withdrawals, and the importance of starting early and regularly reviewing and contributing to retirement accounts.2025-02-2252 minWinning in RetirementPlan - to Not Pay TaxesSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss strategies for minimizing taxes during retirement. They emphasize the importance of understanding your tax bracket and planning accordingly. Key points include the benefits of contributing to Roth IRAs, which offer tax-free growth, and the potential for Roth conversions to reduce future tax liabilities. They also highlight the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) strategy, which allows retirees to donate up to $108,000 annually from their IRAs to charity, thus reducing taxable income. Additionally, they advise on the importance of proper withholding and planning to avoid unexpected tax bills.2025-02-0851 minWinning in RetirementWhen are You Retirement Ready?Send us a textBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the importance of being retirement ready, emphasizing that it involves both financial and emotional preparedness. They highlight the need for a comprehensive financial plan, including understanding one's income sources, managing cash flow, and planning for healthcare and lifestyle changes. They stress the importance of saving early and consistently, and the potential risks of early retirement, such as market volatility and the need to avoid high withdrawal rates. The conversation also touches on the benefits of financial planning, the role of advisors in guiding clients through retirement, and...2025-02-0151 minWinning in RetirementInvesting to Thrive in 2025! Market UpdateSend us a textBrian Akers and Mark Diorio from Brookstone Capital Management discuss market updates and investment strategies for 2025. Diorio highlights that the top 10 companies in the S&P 500 now represent 40% of the index, emphasizing the need for diversification. He notes that interest rates are expected to continue declining, with the 10-year treasury yield potentially reaching 5%. Diorio also mentions the importance of defensive sectors and value investing to mitigate market risks. Akers stresses the importance of tailoring portfolios to individual risk tolerances and goals, using a core and satellite approach. They encourage listeners to consult with...2025-01-1151 minWinning in RetirementGenerosity, Tithing, LegacySend us a textJeff and Brian Akers discuss charitable giving and retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one's time and money, understanding tax implications, and giving back to the community. They share strategies for maximizing charitable deductions, aligning financial decisions with values, and leveraging retirement accounts for giving. The conversation highlights the benefits of giving through reputable organizations and the importance of researching charities before donating.2024-12-2851 minWinning in RetirementThe Believe it, Achieve it RetirementSend us a textRetirement planning is crucial for financial security, and it's important to start early and understand one's financial situation. Brian Akers and Alex Monk emphasize the need for personalized financial planning, tax optimization, and regular check-ins to ensure clients are on track towards their retirement objectives. They also discuss the importance of imagining oneself retired to help visualize the ideal retirement and make informed financial decisions. Brian and Alex highlight the significance of saving money, understanding investments, and finding a balance between enjoying life now and saving for the future. They also emphasize the...2024-12-2151 minWinning in RetirementShould you Lower Portfolio Risk?Send us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of lowering portfolio risk as retirement approaches. They emphasize that as individuals get closer to retirement, they should scale down risk to preserve their money. Paul shares an example of a client who needed to reduce risk due to market performance and upcoming retirement. They explain that younger individuals can tolerate more volatility due to their longer time horizon. They also discuss the concept of target date funds and the benefits of diversification. Paul highlights the importance of regular portfolio reviews and the use of...2024-12-1451 min
Howl in the WildernessA Life of Yoga Study & Practice | Brian Dana Akers | HITW 160If you’d like to gain access to early release of full, ad-free episodes and support the podcast, consider becoming part of the pack over at patreon.com/howlinthewilderness. We are an independent production and rely on the support of listeners like you. Make a one-time contribution to http://paypal.me/brianjamessoulBrian Dana Akers has spent most of his life practicing and studying yoga, and in the last few decades writing and publishing translations of key yogic texts. His latest book is The Yoga Manifesto, a little book that explores the big questions, "Why Yoga?" and...2024-12-041h 16Winning in Retirement6 Tactics to Winterproof Your PortfolioSend us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss retirement planning strategies inspired by nature. They highlight six tactics, including diversifying investments and creating a sustainable income stream, and provide examples from the natural world to emphasize the importance of preparation. They also explore the idea of retirement migration and planning, emphasizing the need to consider taxation, lifestyle preferences, and financial stability when deciding where to live in retirement. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of adaptation and proactivity in retirement planning.https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description...2024-11-3051 minWinning in RetirementAnnuities: A 4-Letter Word?Send us a textBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the role of annuities in retirement planning, emphasizing their potential benefits as a protected income source for life. They also discuss the importance of understanding annuities and their associated fees, as well as the need for transparency and financial planning. Alex highlights the tax deferral benefits, investment options, and fees associated with annuities, while Brian raises concerns about relying solely on one investment tool. Both speakers emphasize the need for flexibility in financial planning and provided real-life examples of how annuities can be used to improve one's...2024-11-2351 minWinning in RetirementTips for Those Under 40Send us a textBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss financial tips for those under 40, emphasizing the importance of early planning. They highlight the role of compound interest, urging listeners to start saving early to achieve financial independence. They stress the need to prioritize savings, avoid consumer debt, and understand expenses. Paul shares a client success story where consistent contributions over 26 years grew to $1.6 million. They also discuss the importance of having insurance, legal documents, and diversified investments. The rule of 72 is explained to illustrate the power of compounding, and they advise on maximizing employer matches and...2024-11-1651 minWinning in RetirementElection and Medicare SeasonSend us a textBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, along with guest Mark Diorio from Brookstone Capital Management, discuss the impact of the recent election on the stock market and financial planning. Mark highlights that post-election, the market typically sees a rally, with cyclical sectors like energy and tech outperforming defensive sectors. He also notes the potential for continued interest rate reductions by the Fed, contingent on inflation and unemployment levels. Additionally, they cover the 2025 Medicare changes, including a $500 increase in 401(k) contribution limits and a new catch-up provision for those turning 60-63. They emphasize the importance...2024-11-0951 minWinning in RetirementActive Money ManagementSend us a textBrian Akers and Alex Monk from AKERS Financial Group discuss the importance of active money management in retirement planning. They emphasize the need for proactive management to ensure financial stability and longevity. Active management involves regular adjustments to portfolios based on market conditions and client needs. They highlight the pitfalls of static, set-and-forget strategies, citing examples of outdated portfolios and the risks of high-yield investments. AKERS Financial Group uses a core-and-satellite approach, diversifying across various asset classes and leveraging the best managers. They stress the importance of understanding client goals, tax implications, and...2024-11-0251 min