Shows
Can I Retire Now?How to Budget for the Holidays and Avoid Overspending (Ep. 34)The holidays bring joy, but they also bring financial pressure that can leave you dazed come January.What if you could enjoy the season without the post-holiday regret? What if your spending reflected what truly matters to you?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner share strategies for managing holiday expenses while staying aligned with your values. From creating supportive budgets to choosing meaningful gifts over material exchanges, they offer fresh perspectives on celebrating without overspending. They also reveal startling statistics about gift returns and discuss creative alternatives that prioritize experiences and c...
2025-11-2035 minCan I Retire Now?The Big Four Hidden Taxes in Retirement (Ep. 33)Taxes don’t stop when you retire; they just get sneakier. From Social Security surprises to Medicare premium surcharges, retirees face more hidden taxes than they might expect.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner reveal how to spot and manage the “Big Four Hidden Taxes” that can quietly drain your retirement income. They break down these taxes, how they interact, and what proactive planning can do to minimize their bite.Nick and Becky also uncover how to recognize, anticipate, and plan for the hidden tax traps that impact retirees’ income, investments, and healthcare costs.
2025-11-0539 minCan I Retire Now?Even Dying Requires Paperwork: Estate Planning and Legacy Management (Ep. 32)Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy. It’s about giving your loved ones clarity and control when it matters most.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner explain why estate planning should start early, the essential documents everyone needs, and how to protect digital and financial assets for your family’s future. They share personal stories, practical advice, and even a touching family example that shows how thoughtful planning can leave a lasting legacy.Nick and Becky explore:Why failing to plan can cause emotional and financial chaos for familie...
2025-10-2253 minCan I Retire Now?Small Businesses, Big Retirements: Choosing the Right Plan (Ep. 31)Running a business means wearing many hats, but retirement planning doesn’t have to get lost in the shuffle.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner unpack retirement savings strategies designed for small business owners and entrepreneurs. From SEP IRAs to solo 401(k)s, they explain how different plans work, who they’re best suited for, and why offering retirement options can help retain employees. They also share real-life examples and discuss how flexibility is key as your business grows and changes.Key points:The differences between SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, solo 401(k)s, a...
2025-10-0830 minCan I Retire Now?Planning Through the Decades: Money Habits for Every Stage of Life (Ep. 30)Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner break down what retirement planning really looks like at each stage of life. From the first savings habits in your 30s, to protecting your income and family in your 40s, to running “stress tests” in your 50s to see if you are truly on track, this episode is packed with practical insights and relatable stories. Nick shares how even $300 a month in your 30s can grow into $1 million, why time in the market matters more than timing, and how reviewing insurance and running projections can prevent costly mistakes later on. Becky adds real...
2025-09-2528 minCan I Retire Now?Divorce and Money: Financial Lessons You Can’t Afford to Miss (Ep. 29)Nick and Becky open up about a deeply relevant topic: divorce and finances. Drawing from both personal experience and professional perspective, they highlight the hidden financial pitfalls and overlooked steps that can make or break a secure future after separation.Listeners will learn:Why updating beneficiaries is one of the most urgent post-divorce tasksHow Social Security benefits may still apply after 10 years of marriageThe role of pension planning and life insurance in protecting income streamsThe difference between equal and equitable when dividing assetsAnd more!Previous Episode of Interest:Marriage: The U...
2025-09-1034 minCan I Retire Now?Marriage and Money: What Every Couple Needs to Know (Ep. 28)Marriage isn’t just about romance. It’s also one of the most impactful financial partnerships you can form.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner mix humor and practical advice as they explore the financial pros and cons of tying the knot. From tax breaks to Social Security benefits, they cover how marriage can boost your finances and where it can cause headaches. The conversation also touches on statistics about money habits, financial infidelity, and why open conversations about money matter at every stage of life.Key Points:Finan...
2025-08-2728 minCan I Retire Now?The Most-Asked Financial Questions of 2025 (Ep. 27)From geopolitical conflicts to viral financial trends, there’s no shortage of worries bombarding investors daily.But how much of it matters for your money?This week, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner answer the burning questions they keep hearing from clients, busting myths and calming nerves about global events, political chatter, and financial TikTok trends.Nick and Becky discuss:Whether global conflicts like Russia/Ukraine or unrest in the Middle East should trigger panic for investorsCommon misunderstandings about Donald Trump running for a third presidential term Strategies to avoid getting overwhelmed by 24/7 new...
2025-08-1134 minCan I Retire Now?Poker and Planning: What the Cards Can Teach Us About Investing (Ep. 26)What do poker and smart investing have in common? More than you think.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner explore how strategies from the poker table can lead to smarter financial decisions. From managing emotions under pressure to calculating odds and pivoting in uncertain environments, they draw surprising parallels between poker psychology and sound financial planning. You’ll also learn the meaning behind classic poker lingo, the origin of the “dead man’s hand,” and why Becky still needs a cheat sheet every time they play.Nick and Becky discuss:How mastering psycholo...
2025-07-1632 minCan I Retire Now?The Truth About Life Insurance (Ep. 25)Life insurance isn’t just about death, it’s about what happens to the people you care about most.How much coverage is enough? What kind of policy should you have? And why do most policies never pay out?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner uncover the purpose, types, and real value of life insurance. From ancient burial clubs to modern strategies, they share relatable stories, surprising facts, and practical guidance for evaluating your current coverage—or getting started the right way.Nick and Becky discuss:The key differences between term a...
2025-07-0241 minCan I Retire Now?Social Security 101: Understanding Your Retirement Benefits (Ep. 24)Social Security is one of the most misunderstood aspects of retirement planning, but understanding it can make a big difference.What does it take to qualify for benefits? How does timing impact your payout? And what strategies can you use to maximize your benefits?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner discuss the essentials of Social Security, covering its role in retirement planning, how contributions are calculated, and the importance of timing when claiming benefits. They also debunk myths and highlight strategies to ensure listeners make informed decisions about their financial future....
2025-06-1833 minCan I Retire Now?What Market Volatility Really Means (Ep. 23)Volatility gets a bad reputation, but is it really something to fear?Is the market truly unpredictable, or are we just reacting to the wrong signals? What if understanding volatility could help you make better, calmer financial decisions?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner talk about the misunderstood concept of market volatility, how it impacts emotional decision-making, and what historical data reveals about long-term investing. They explain how staying grounded and informed can lead to better outcomes in retirement planning.Nick and Becky discuss:How “market volatility” is often mischaracterized and...
2025-06-0630 minCan I Retire Now?Nutrition, Supplements, and Plant-Based Diets with Dr. Ara Suppiah - Part 2 (Ep. 22)Want to know the truth about nutrition and supplements? Are you confused by all the conflicting information out there?Find out as Nick Russell continues his conversation with Dr. Ara Suppiah, Founder of The Functional Sports Medicine Institute. They explore the facts and myths surrounding nutrition, multivitamins, and plant-based diets, and their impact on your energy.They discuss:The importance of calories in the bodyThe role of macronutrients and micronutrientsCommon misconceptions about supplements and nutritionThe value of a good multivitaminThe importance of Omega-3sAnd more!Resources:Lose Weight and Feel Great Forever...
2025-05-1432 minCan I Retire Now?How Health Impacts Wealth with Dr. Ara Suppiah Pt. 1 (Ep. 21)Money may fund your dreams, but your body is what allows you to chase them.What if feeling tired, stressed, or “off” wasn’t just aging but something fixable?In this episode, Nick Russell interviews Dr. Ara Suppiah, Founder of The Functional Sports Medicine Institute, about the essential connection between health and financial well-being. They discuss how traditional healthcare often overlooks root causes and how Functional Sports Medicine prioritizes personalized, holistic strategies to help people feel their best, especially as they age.Dr. Suppiah discusses:The essence of Functional Sports Medicin...
2025-05-0134 minCan I Retire Now?Choosing a Financial Advisor: 7 Key Questions to Ask Before You Decide (Ep. 20)Selecting a financial advisor can shape your financial future, so asking the right questions is vital.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner discuss key considerations when choosing a financial advisor, emphasizing the importance of understanding fiduciary responsibilities, communication styles, and compensation models. They highlight how advisors’ approaches can significantly impact your financial planning and stress the value of finding someone you trust.Nick and Becky discuss:The importance of confirming if an advisor is a fiduciary and why this matters for your financial interestsQuestions to clarify the range of...
2025-03-1939 minCan I Retire Now?Understanding Annuities: Breaking Down the Basics (Ep. 19)Annuities can be a confusing financial topic, often met with strong opinions and misconceptions.What are they, how do they work, and who should consider them? Are they really as complicated as they seem?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner tackle the fundamentals of annuities, explaining the four main types and how they function. They break down the potential benefits and drawbacks, providing clarity on how annuities can fit into different financial strategies.Nick and Becky discuss:The four main types of annuitiesCommon misconceptions about annuities, including concerns about fees...
2025-03-0632 minCan I Retire Now?In-Service Distributions: The Hidden Opportunity in Your Retirement Plan (Ep.18)Financial decisions can be daunting, especially when they involve understanding complex options like in-service distributions.How can you make sure your retirement planning stays on track? What steps should you take to optimize your savings without falling into common pitfalls?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner explore the concept of in-service distributions, demystifying its nuances and explaining how it can benefit your financial strategy. They provide relatable anecdotes, practical advice, and insights to empower listeners in their retirement planning journey.Key Discussions:The definition of in-service distributions and how they...
2025-02-1929 minCan I Retire Now?Retirement Catch-Up Contributions: Time Travel and Condiments (Ep. 17)Retirement planning doesn’t have to be daunting, even if you feel like time has slipped away.With a little strategic action, you can still make significant progress toward financial stability.In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner tackle practical ways to increase retirement savings, even if you’ve started late. They explore little-known opportunities to contribute retroactively to your accounts, discuss updated contribution limits, and explain creative strategies for staying on track as you near retirement. All this, with a touch of humor and real-world relatability.They discuss: How individuals can r...
2025-02-0626 minCan I Retire Now?Retirement and Investing Cheat Codes (Ep. 16)Managing finances for retirement doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.Learn straightforward strategies that can help simplify your financial planning!In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner share three practical "cheat codes" for managing retirement investments, from understanding how money grows over time to determining safe withdrawal rates. With humor and clarity, they break down complex concepts into actionable tips, ensuring listeners leave informed and empowered.Nick and Becky discuss:The Rule of 72, a simple method to estimate how long it takes for an investment to double based on the...
2025-01-1334 minCan I Retire Now?Financially Smart Holiday Celebrations (Ep. 15)Holidays bring joy but often come with hidden financial pressures. Balancing festive cheer and budgeting is crucial for long-term financial health.How can you celebrate the season without overspending? This week, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner delve into practical tips for managing holiday budgets, fostering meaningful connections, and avoiding post-season debt. Discover strategies to prioritize experiences and financial security over extravagance.They discuss: Budgeting beyond gifts, including overlooked holiday expenses like travel, food, and hosting costsThe emotional and financial benefits of shifting from material gifts to experience-based celebrationsCreative approaches to red...
2024-12-1835 minCan I Retire Now?Tax Loss Harvesting: Turning Setbacks into Savings (Ep. 14)Ever wondered how you could save money on taxes by losing money? What if those past financial losses could actually be a blessing in disguise?In this episode of Can I Retire Now? Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner take you through the ins and outs of tax loss harvesting. Join them as they discuss how this financial strategy might turn your investment losses into tax savings, all without corporate lingo. With a mix of humor and real-world examples, Nick and Becky demystify the topic to help even the most finance-averse listeners understand. T...
2024-11-2736 minCan I Retire Now?Should I Stay or Should I Go? Deciding Between Moving or Renovating (Ep. 13)Should you invest in renovating or find a new home altogether?In this episode, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner share their recent whirlwind experience of deciding between renovating and moving. Recently caught off-guard by a sudden home move, they discuss the factors that led to their decision shift, offering insights into navigating big life changes with clear financial thinking. Will their story inspire you to rethink your own home and financial plans?Find out as they dive deep into the emotional and practical sides of this common dilemma.Nick an...
2024-11-1343 minCan I Retire Now?The Election Cycle and Your Investments: A Non-Partisan Financial Approach (Ep. 12)What role does the election cycle play in your financial future? Should political shifts influence your retirement planning?In this episode of Can I Retire Now?, Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner break down the effects of presidential elections on the stock market and retirement savings. They share unbiased insights on the historical performance of the market under different political regimes, revealing strategies that focus on long-term growth rather than political outcomes.Nick and Becky discuss: Historical market performance under different presidential partiesThe surprising benefits of a split Congress versus single-party co...
2024-10-3039 minCan I Retire Now?Navigating Mortgage Decisions in Retirement (Ep. 11)Are you nearing retirement and wondering if you should pay off your mortgage first? Is downsizing or relocating a good idea upon retirement?Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner discuss the mortgage question in retirement. They explore whether it's a good idea to pay off a mortgage before retirement and the factors to consider when making this decision. They also discuss downsizing and relocating in retirement and the financial implications of these choices.Nick and Becky discuss: Is paying off a mortgage before retirement always the best choice, especially when the interest rate is low?W...
2024-10-1028 minCan I Retire Now?How 529 Plans Can Set Your Kids Up for Financial Success (Ep.10)Saving for your kid’s college doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your own financial security.Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner explore the ins and outs of 529 plans, the versatile college savings vehicles that can do so much more than just cover tuition fees. From understanding the tax advantages to exploring the flexibility and contributions limits, Nick and Becky break down everything you need to know about these financial tools. Nick and Becky discuss: The fundamentals of 529 plans and their tax benefitsDifferences between 529 plans and prepaid tuition plansThe versatility of 529 funds for various educational and re...
2024-09-2531 minCan I Retire Now?Demystifying the Federal Reserve: Who is the Fed? (Ep. 9)Ever wonder who controls the rise and fall of interest rates and how it impacts your financial life? Join Nick and Becky as they delve into the role of the Federal Reserve and explain what happens when interest rates go up or down. Discover how these changes can affect everything from your mortgage to your retirement portfolio. Gain insightful tips on how to navigate the shifting landscape of interest rates to better plan for your financial future.Nick and Becky discuss: Who is the Fed?: Understand the Federal Reserve's role and its significant impact on...
2024-09-1128 minCan I Retire Now?Redefining Yourself in Retirement (Ep. 8)Have you ever wondered how you'll introduce yourself once you retire? Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner explore the often-overlooked challenge of identity after leaving the workforce. Tune in to hear Becky’s personal experiences and get tips on how to craft a new, meaningful self-description that doesn’t rely on your job title. Nick and Becky discuss: The importance of redefining personal identity post-retirementBecky’s humorous attempts at inventing job titlesStrategies to introduce yourself without mentioning your careerTips for engaging others in conversations that don’t focus on workAnd moreConnect wit...
2024-08-2823 minCan I Retire Now?What Do I Do Now? Turning Hobbies into Happiness (Ep. 7)One of the biggest concerns when it comes to retirement is finding something to replace the time you would be spending working. The question "What are you going to do with all that free time once you retire?" seems to always creep up. We aim to answer this question and more! Join in the conversation as Nick and Becky guide you through discovering multiple hobbies that can bring joy, fulfillment, and even improve your overall happiness in retirement!Transitioning from a busy work schedule to retirement can be daunting. Understanding how to fill yo...
2024-08-1431 minCan I Retire Now?Financial Literacy Insights on Investment Returns and Risk Management (Ep. 6)Think you can just 'set it and forget it' with your retirement plans? Think again! Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner dive into the key factors that impact your investment returns, using relatable and amusing analogies to demystify financial concepts. They discuss how to manage investment risk, the difference between asset allocation and diversification, and why regular reviews are essential for financial success. Nick and Becky touch on: Understanding risk management in your retirement investmentsDifferentiating between asset allocation and diversificationHow to maintain a long-term perspective while investingThe importance of regular review and rebalancing of...
2024-07-2427 minCan I Retire Now?Understanding the Tax Triangle (Ep. 5)Are your savings smartly diversified to beat the tax man in retirement?Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner delve into the intricacies of taxes and retirement savings, breaking down the 'tax triangle' to shed light on how different tax treatments affect your investments. Their easy-to-understand explanations aim to make a complex topic more approachable, ensuring you're better prepared for your financial future.Nick and Becky discuss: Tax-deferred accounts and their impact on retirement savingsUnderstanding taxable accounts and annual tax liabilitiesThe benefits of Roth IRAs and other after-tax investment optionsReal-life examples to illustrate the i...
2024-07-1023 minCan I Retire Now?Exploring the Basics of Retirement Accounts (Ep. 4)Did you know that over 60% of people don't understand the differences between various retirement accounts? Are you ready to decipher the mysteries of retirement accounts and take control of your financial future?Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner dive deep into the essential topic of financial literacy in retirement planning. Get ready to untangle the complexities of products like 401(k)s, IRAs, and Roth IRAs, as they break down how these accounts work, the importance of employer matches, and common misconceptions.Nick and Becky discuss: What are the ins and outs of 401(k) plans, including e...
2024-06-2635 minCan I Retire Now?The Art of Money Management (Ep. 3)How much are you spending on eating out and “treats”? If you add up the miscellaneous costs, would it equal less than your monthly pay?Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner explore the art of tracking your spending habits. They reveal how this simple act can uncover surprising truths about your financial health and pave the way for a firmer grip on your future finances. Nick and Becky discuss: The difference between tracking and budgeting your expensesReal-life examples of how small, everyday transactions add up St...
2024-06-1228 minCan I Retire Now?Follow the Money to Financial Savings (Ep. 2)Are you feeling lost in the maze of your finances and dreaming about retirement? Imagine how changing one small habit could transform your financial future.Nick Russell and Becky Wagoner dive deep to unravel the secrets of mindful spending and its pivotal role in shaping your retirement dreams. Whether it's about setting a budget or the nuances of tracking daily expenditures, this conversation is a ladder to financial clarity.Nick and Becky discuss: The importance of tracking your spending to unveil financial habits.Strategies for s...
2024-06-1234 minCan I Retire Now?Unveiling Retirement Realities with 'Can I Retire Now?’ (Ep. 1)Have you ever wondered if retirement is just a dream or a feasible reality? What’s holding you back from starting your retirement planning journey?Join Nick Russell and his wife Becky Wagoner in the first episode of "Can I Retire Now?" as they explore various questions related to retirement planning. Listen in as they discuss their backgrounds, the motivation behind the podcast, and why taking a holistic approach to financial planning is crucial. Nick and Becky aim to ignite meaningful financial discussions for listeners at home and beyond, offering ins...
2024-06-1225 min
The Retirement Engineer with Jim Kruzan - Your Path to a Bigger, Bolder RetirementThe Intricate World of Long-Term Care and Caregiving — Part II with Becky Eizen (Ep. 21)Caring for an aging loved one is by no means an easy feat. Whether it is you, another family member, or an industry professional who is the one taking the wheel, we want to ensure they receive the care they deserve. In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, dives deep into the heart of family … Read More Read More
2024-03-0637 minThe Retirement Engineer with Jim Kruzan - Your Path to a Bigger, Bolder RetirementDo Our Loved Ones Need Extra Support? The Value of Family Connection — Part I with Becky Eizen (Ep. 20)Are you or a loved one facing the realities of aging? This week on The Retirement Engineer, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, is joined by Becky Eizen, founder and CEO of the Eizen Consulting Group. Together, they navigate the often-overlooked aspects of elder care. They explore the critical role of geriatric care managers and how to … Read More Read More
2024-02-2135 min