Shows
Retirement For LifeAvoiding the Retirement Planning Void: The CPA, The Advisor & The Chaos - Ep 40To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/7UF42D1NlhwAre you navigating retirement with a team of financial professionals but no real quarterback? You may be stuck in what I call "the retirement planning void" - a dangerous place where critical opportunities get missed between your investment advisor and your tax professional.Today's episode tackles three major financial issues affecting retirees: the new spending and tax bill, tariff agreements (particularly with Japan), and most importantly, how to avoid the retirement planning void that threatens...2025-08-0835 min
Retirement For LifeCollege Planning Secrets with Expert Paul Compeau, CFP® - Ep 39To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here atDiscover strategies for college planning that protect retirement savings while maximizing financial aid opportunities for your grandchildren. • College degrees still hold significant value, demonstrating a person's ability to persist toward long-term goals• Traditional savings vehicles like 529 plans may not always be the optimal choice for every family situation• Financial aid eligibility often depends on proper positioning of assets and income years before college begins• School selection is crucial—finding the right campus, curriculum, and cost fit helps students graduate on time• Even...2025-07-2530 min
Retirement For LifeThe Big Beautiful Bill: What It Really Means for Retirees - Ep 38To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/CEgPwpYGQX0The recent tax bill, retirement health vitality agreement, and the evolution of guaranteed income strategies present both opportunities and challenges for today's retirees.• Trump's tax bill keeps rates low for the foreseeable future, preventing significant tax increases in 2026• National debt concerns remain critical despite short-term tax benefits• Consider Roth conversions now while tax rates remain historically low• The "$6,000 deduction" for Social Security recipients benefits only some retirees, not eliminating taxes completely• Nearly two-thirds of Social Security recipients...2025-07-1125 min
Retirement For LifeYour Top Questions About Roth Conversions - Answered! - Ep 37Roth conversions present one of the largest financial opportunities for a generation of savers, especially for those in their 60s with substantial retirement account balances. We address the six most common questions from our viral Hidden Roth Conversion video that generated nearly 1,000 comments and 100,000 views in its first hour.• How to pay taxes on Roth conversions without substantial cash reserves• Converting retirement funds while still employed, even when your employer doesn't offer Roth options• Understanding how Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Roth conversions work together• Accounting for healthcare costs and IRMAA surcharges during conversion years2025-06-2729 min
Retirement For LifeThe Hidden Roth Conversion Window - Ep 36To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/1a152r_o8RgThe ticking tax time bomb in your retirement accounts could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Most Americans approaching retirement don't realize they'll likely face higher tax rates in their 80s than during their working years, thanks to Required Minimum Distributions forcing withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts.We're currently experiencing what financial experts call the "hidden Roth conversion window" - a perfect storm of historically low tax rates combined with looming tax increases due to skyrocketing national...2025-06-1329 min
Retirement For LifeFour Questions Retirees Should Ask Themselves About Their Investment Allocations - Ep 35To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/I6UFdIuSCPMAsset allocation is a critical yet overlooked component of retirement planning, with most retirees unaware of their current investment mix and appropriate risk levels for their situation.• Two primary asset classes for retirees: stocks (growth-oriented but volatile) and bonds (stable income but limited growth)• Typical retirement allocations range from 50/50 to 60/40 stocks/bonds, but individual circumstances vary widely• Consider proximity to retirement, risk tolerance, income needs, and personal financial situation• Most common mistake is letting emotions drive investme...2025-05-3019 min
Retirement For LifeSecuring Your Legacy - Estate Planning Essentials - Ep 34To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/TB_Q8ENgWCgWe discuss the essentials of estate planning and why so many retirees don't have their documents properly organized. Through our game "Will You or Won't You," we explore common misconceptions and critical components of securing your legacy.• Debunking the myth that the state takes your assets without a will – assets go through probate court instead• Understanding which assets bypass your will (401ks, IRAs, life insurance)• Why naming minor children as direct beneficiaries isn't recommended• The critical d...2025-05-1623 min
Retirement For LifeTech-Savvy Retirement: How Technology Can Improve Your Life - Ep 33To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/VLWR9pCIXWUTechnology offers retirees powerful tools for staying connected with family, managing finances, and enhancing daily life. We explore essential apps, demonstrate how ChatGPT can transform retirement planning, and share strategies to protect yourself from increasingly sophisticated scams.• Communication technologies like FaceTime help grandparents maintain close relationships with distant family members• ChatGPT serves as a free personal assistant for everything from planning trips to creating customized meal plans• Rocket Money helps track subscriptions and unusual charges, saving users thousa...2025-05-0229 min
Retirement For LifeThe First 5 Years of Retirement: Avoiding These Common Pitfalls - Ep 32To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/jmfF9z4g65kThe first five years of retirement represent a critical "danger zone" where key decisions can make or break your financial future. In this eye-opening episode, Christian Cyr, CPA CFP® and his team unpack the most common pitfalls that derail even carefully planned retirements.We explore why both retiring too early and waiting too long can be problematic, revealing surprising research from the Journal of Happiness about the health and mental wellbeing benefits of timely retirement. You'll discover w...2025-04-1836 min
Retirement For LifeBonus Episode: Tariffs, Trade Wars & $3,000 iPhones: Is Your Retirement Ready?Market chaos? Tariff uncertainty? While most financial advisors hide when markets crash, we're calling our clients who remain surprisingly calm. The economic drama unfolding around tariffs has created unprecedented volatility, with Peter Navarro directing a trade strategy that runs counter to mainstream economic thought. Most economists view these policies skeptically, recognizing that despite any relative advantage they might provide the imposing country, tariffs ultimately harm all parties involved.The real-world impact could be staggering—analysts project iPhone prices potentially reaching $3,000 if current policies persist. Yet beyond immediate price shocks lies a deeper manufacturing dilemma: building new factories in...2025-04-1406 min
Retirement For LifeStaying Invested in a Down Market - Ep 31Market downturns are inevitable, but a properly structured retirement plan with guardrails can protect retirees from making emotional decisions that damage long-term financial security.• The stock market historically grows approximately 10x over a 20-year period despite occasional downturns• Missing just the five best market days since 1988 could reduce long-term gains significantly• The danger zone (five years before and after retirement) requires the most conservative allocation• Proper retirement portfolios typically allocate only 30-60% to stocks with the remainder in bonds and "mailbox money"• Income needs should be primarily met through stable sources like social security a...2025-04-0421 min
Retirement For LifeLife Settlements: Getting Value From Your Unwanted Life Insurance Policy with Rob Haynie - Ep 30Rob Haynie, a 30-year veteran of the life settlement industry, shares how retirees can get substantial value from unwanted life insurance policies instead of surrendering them or letting them lapse. He explains the process of selling policies to investors who offer competitive bids, often resulting in payouts significantly higher than surrender values.• Approximately 90% of life insurance policies lapse or surrender, leaving potential value unclaimed• Universal life policies are most commonly settled, followed by term policies approaching conversion deadlines• Life settlements can be a better option than surrendering policies, especially when premiums become burdensome• Tax implicat...2025-03-2126 min
Retirement For LifeDo You Really Need a Financial Advisor? - Ep 29To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/J97GI2wbU0IThis episode explores the critical question of whether or not you truly need a financial advisor. We examine the common misconceptions surrounding financial advisors and highlight the distinct advantages they provide in retirement planning.• Discussing the frequent question: Do I need a financial advisor? • Delving into the potential value that financial advisors add to portfolios • Highlighting important elements of financial planning, beyond investments • Insights on confidence levels among individuals with significant assets but no advisors 2025-03-0728 min
Retirement For LifeSocial Security 2.0 vs. Annuities Clearing up the Confusion - Ep 28Interested in the AIM Retirement System? See if it's a good fit for you → https://aimassessment.comThe Aim Retirement SystemTM has four primary goals…Enhance Probability of Retirement SuccessMaximize Your Retirement Income StreamLeverage Advanced Tax Reduction StrategiesFoster Multi-Generational Wealth and Estate PlanningIn the AIM Retirement SystemTM you always work with our a team, not just a single advisor. Our credentials include CFP®, CPA, CFA and CRPC. My Name is Christian Cyr. I am the pres...2025-02-2122 min
Retirement For LifeElon Musk Backs Down From Bold Statement, Can San Francisco be Saved by Blue Jeans Heir, and Why Nobody Knows Where to Invest in 2025! - Ep 27Join us as we tackle the volatile financial forecasts of 2025, promising to arm you with the knowledge you need to navigate uncertain waters. With insights from special guests Emma and Andrea, we scrutinize the potential market turbulence and debate the realism of Elon Musk's audacious plan to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget. Our discussion not only forecasts financial futures but also highlights the importance of preparedness in retirement planning amidst economic unpredictability. San Francisco’s downtown crisis is unraveling, and we're here to expose the alarming exodus of retailers from Union Square. Rising crime, dwindling law enf...2025-01-2431 min
Retirement For Life2025 Predictions - Ep 26Prepare for an exciting yet cautious 2025 with insights on market predictions, political influences, and critical strategies for retirees. Focusing on income security, taxes, and estate planning can help ensure a comfortable retirement amid uncertainty.• Importance of predicting market trends • Political influences on market conditions • Trusting financial advisors for effective planning • Value of “mailbox money” for income stability • Tax strategies including Roth conversions to safeguard assets • Necessity of proper estate planning for lasting impact • Overall emphasis on proactive planning for retireesWe love hearing from you!! Record your retirement questions anytime at www.Retiremen...2025-01-1035 min
Retirement For LifeStop Contributing To Your 401k - Ep 25To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/7Dk9wsvwdg8Your 401k a ticking tax time bomb waiting to explode during your retirement! Join us as we challenge the conventional wisdom of tax-deferred 401k contributions. We dive into the startling reality faced by many retirees—a massive tax liability that could leave you paying more taxes in retirement than you ever did while working. With a compelling story of a couple whose $1.5 million 401k triggers a tax nightmare, Chris reveals how Required Minimum Distributions can become a financial trap. This eye-opening episode ur...2024-12-1325 min
Retirement For LifeUncovering the Truth: When Your Retirement Plan Falls Short - Ep 24What if you discovered your retirement plans had a mere 40% chance of success? Join us as we unravel the compelling story of a 61-year-old couple facing this exact predicament. We dive into the intricacies of their financial journey, from the initial daunting forecast to reshaping their strategy into a more secure future. We promise an engaging blend of practical financial wisdom and personal stories, equipping you with tools to master your own retirement planning.In an episode brimming with actionable insights, we dissect the complexities of the AIM retirement system's extensive planning versus a streamlined, one-page approach...2024-12-0424 min
Retirement For LifeTop 5 Regrets of The Dying - Ep 23To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/oCbHSxfOQmMUnlock the secrets to a truly fulfilling retirement, where happiness and purpose take center stage. Join me, Christian Cyr, CPA as we explore the journey beyond financial security, emphasizing life fulfillment through hobbies, health, and deep social connections. Inspired by Bronnie Ware’s profound insights on living without regrets, we'll reveal how retirees find joy and meaning in this new chapter of life. Hear real stories from those who have embraced authentic living and learn how to prioritize what truly matters in yo...2024-11-1515 min
Retirement For LifeNature's Path to Happiness with Joe Gardener - Ep 22To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at - https://youtu.be/nWaSSnGjINgDiscover how gardening can transform your retirement with our special guest, Emmy Award-winning gardener Joe Lamp'l, affectionately known as Joe Gardener. This episode promises to enrich your life with insights on how gardening provides both physical health and a sense of purpose. I share personal stories that connect the dots between my passion for drumming and the fulfillment gardening brings, while Joe offers his wealth of expertise, ensuring that whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you’ll find pr...2024-11-0131 min
Retirement For LifeHappy Retirement Comes Down To 5 Things - Ep 21To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/Lbk_mFNS0iYUncover the secrets to a fulfilling and transformative retirement journey right here with me, Christian Cyr, as I share heartwarming stories and expert insights from our recent Retirement Gala. Experience the magic of shifting from business acquaintances to lifelong friends, highlighted by the touching tale of Marie, our very first client. Meet Mike, a diligent saver who disliked his job, yet found hope and direction through our AIM Retirement System. His journey exemplifies the powerful impact of meticulous retirement planning...2024-10-1825 min
Retirement For LifeDiscover the AIM Retirement System Part 2 - Ep 20To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/Y2KY0p4pheoCurious about how to secure a stable retirement income and reduce your stock market dependence? Tune in to our latest episode where we unravel the AIM Retirement System's innovative approach to achieving financial peace of mind. We'll walk you through the pivotal strategy visit, a crucial step where clients learn about the concept of "mailbox money" and gain insights into income stability. Join us as we explore a real couple's journey, focusing on the wife's concerns about their financial...2024-10-0427 min
Retirement For LifeDiscover the AIM Retirement System Part 1 - Ep 19To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/ITjlQpb5Sn8Ever wondered how you can secure a comfortable and confident retirement? Discover the AIM Retirement System's unique and comprehensive approach in our latest episode. We'll walk you through the intricate, two-month journey from that first anxious meeting to the thrilling moment when retirement success feels within reach. With nearly 20 components, our system is unmatched in its depth and precision, focusing on maximizing retirement success, income stability, advanced tax strategies, and multi-generational wealth. Tune in to understand how our dedicated team—including a...2024-09-2024 min
Retirement For LifePlanning Your Bucket List Trip: Interview with Chris Christensen - Ep 18To get the full RFL experience, watch the episode here at https://youtu.be/NGOtVv4GiIsWhat if you could turn your retirement into an endless adventure? Join us as we sit down with Chris Christensen, the award-winning travel journalist and host of the Amateur Traveler podcast, who shares his wisdom on making travel a cornerstone of your golden years. From the charms of domestic hotspots like New York and Las Vegas to the allure of international gems such as London and Paris, Chris offers expert tips on how to make the most of your travel experiences...2024-09-0633 min
Retirement For LifeUnderstanding Expenses In Retirement - Ep 17What if a small miscalculation in your monthly expenses could derail your retirement plans? In this episode of Retirement for Life, we reveal the powerful impact of accurately estimating and managing retirement expenses. You'll hear a real-life example that underscores how even minor financial oversights can have major consequences. Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, our practical advice and engaging anecdotes aim to guide you towards financial security and peace of mind.Ever wondered if political betting can offer a more accurate prediction than traditional polls? We dive into this intriguing topic, examining how real-money bets...2024-08-2334 min