Shows
The Perfect Retirement Plan?What is a Roth Conversion, and Why Would I Do That?Paying taxes on purpose sounds backwards...until you understand why Roth conversions are one of the most talked-about retirement planning strategies for people nearing retirement.In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith explains what a Roth conversion actually is, why some retirees use them to reduce future taxes, and when they make sense (and when they don’t). This is a no-hype, plain-English walkthrough designed for people getting close to retirement (and those recently retired) who want clarity, not pressure.We cover how Roth conversions work, how they show up on...
2026-02-1220 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Retirement Withdrawal Strategies that WorkThe hardest part of retirement isn’t saving the money. It’s knowing how to withdraw income for 30+ years without constantly worrying about market swings, taxes, or running out too soon.In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith breaks down retirement withdrawal strategies that work in real life, not just on paper. We unpack why the popular 4% rule became so appealing, where it falls short, and how dynamic withdrawal strategies with guardrails can help retirees adapt through market volatility, changing tax rules, and different phases of retirement.Th...
2026-01-3019 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Retirement Income Sequencing Explained: Why Timing (and Coordination) Matters More Than MathYou can do all the math and still miss retirement if the pieces are out of order. In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith explains why retirement success is less about formulas and more about coordination, timing, and rhythm. Using a simple layup analogy, we explore how Social Security timing, IRA withdrawals, pensions, Medicare, and housing decisions need to work together, not in isolation.This conversation is built for people who are about to retire, or who have recently retired, especially those who feel confident about their savings but uneasy about how e...
2026-01-1606 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Is the ACA Subsidy Going Away?If you’re about to retire (or already retired) and relying on the Affordable Care Act for health insurance, you’ve probably seen the headlines: “The ACA subsidy is going away.” In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith cuts through the noise and explains what is actually changing in 2026, what is not changing, and why this matters so much for retirement planning between ages 62 and 65.You’ll learn the difference between the original ACA premium tax credit and the temporary enhanced subsidy created during the pandemic. We break down how the American Rescue Plan and Inflat...
2026-01-0509 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How to Retire Without Chasing Hot Stock TrendsHow to Retire Without Chasing Hot Investing Trends Practical, tax-smart guidance for people about to retire or recently retiredHot stock trends are like pumpkin spice season: loud, overhyped, and gone before you finish your latte. In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies explains why chasing the latest investment craze can sabotage your retirement confidence. Learn how to avoid FOMO-driven decisions, focus on what really builds wealth, and retire in Oregon with a calmer, more disciplined plan.Phillip breaks down why “can’t-miss” investment tips trigge...
2025-12-1210 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Do I Retire in Oregon Without Losing Sleep? (The Psychology of Retirement Income)You spent decades saving. Now you have to start spending. Why does that feel so hard? In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith explains the psychology of retirement income for people about to retire or recently retired in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Learn why the paycheck-to-withdrawal shift triggers anxiety, how couples can stay in sync, and how to design a simple income system you can trust. We cover predictable cash buffers, automated “paychecks,” behavioral tools, and a practical retirement rehearsal you can run before Day One. If you have searched “how do I start spending in ret...
2025-11-2610 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How to Retire Before Medicare Kicks In (Smart pre-65 Retirement Strategies)You’ve hit 62 and you’re ready to clock out, but Medicare doesn’t start until 65 and COBRA coverage costs more than your first car. What now? In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies explains how to bridge the gap between early retirement and Medicare without draining savings or triggering surprise taxes.You’ll learn how to blend your three retirement money buckets (pre-tax, Roth, and taxable) for maximum flexibility, keep your ACA subsidies intact, and avoid income traps that can shrink them. Discover how smart Roth conversions, capital-gain timing, and debt...
2025-11-1422 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Much Cash Should I Keep in the Bank When I'm Retired (and When is Cash a Liability)?Cash feels safe—until it quietly starts working against you. In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies explores why “cash is king” can be both comforting and costly for people about to retire or recently retired. You’ll learn how too much cash can lose value to inflation, trigger extra taxes, and delay smart decisions like investing or Roth conversions. Phillip explains how to find your personal “sleep-well number”—the right balance between liquidity, growth, and peace of mind.Using a simple tidepool analogy, he shows how cash acts like stil...
2025-10-3108 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Before You Buy! The Truth About "Be Your Own Bank" in RetirementHave you heard the pitch: “Use whole life insurance, borrow tax-free, and be your own bank”? In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies breaks down the truth behind the “infinite banking” trend and what it really means for people about to retire or recently retired.Learn how policy loans actually work, why early costs and commissions can drain returns, and how missteps can trigger taxable income right when you need retirement cash flow. You’ll also hear when this strategy might make sense, when it definitely doesn’t, and which
2025-10-1715 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?What Do I Do If The Market Crashes When I'm About to Retire?About to retire or recently retired and worried a market drop could derail your plan? In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith explains how to build a retirement strategy that still works when stocks fall. You’ll learn how sequence-of-returns risk hurts new retirees, why a 3–4 year cash reserve buys time, and how flexible “guardrails” withdrawals, smart rebalancing, and tax moves (loss harvesting, Roth conversions) protect your income plan. We also touch on Oregon PERS timing, Social Security, and IRMAA so your retirement planning is resilient in real life. What you’ll lear...
2025-10-0813 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Should I Rollover from a Roth 401(k) to A Roth IRA When I'm About to Retire?[Should I Roll Over My Roth 401(k) to a Roth IRA When I’m About to Retire?] – Clear, tax-smart guidance for people close to retirementAbout to retire – or recently retired – and wondering if you should move Roth 401(k) dollars into a Roth IRA? In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith explains why a Roth 401(k) is great while you’re working, but why the rules at retirement can change taxes, timing, and flexibility. We cover the different 5-year clocks, plan withdrawal limits, pro-rata taxation on non-qualified plan distributions, the 2024 RMD update for designa...
2025-09-2515 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Medicare IRMAA: Trying to Avoid Surcharges and Reduce Your Taxes in RetirementMedicare IRMAA can blindside people who are about to retire - and especially those who have recently retired. In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith (Financial Planner with Tidepool Wealth Strategies breaks down IRMAA in plain English and shows how smart retirement planning in your low-tide tax window can lower lifetime premiums and taxes. You’ll learn about the 2025 IRMAA income thresholds, the 2-year lookback, how Roth conversions and one-time income can trigger the surcharge, and practical ways to set income buffers, time conversions, harvest gains on purpose, and appeal to Social Security with SSA...
2025-09-1110 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?The Solo 401(k) - Retirement Planning for the Self-EmployedRunning a consultancy, LLC, or S-Corp in the Pacific Northwest and getting close to retirement? This episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan? is built for you. Phillip Smith, Financial Planner with Tidepool Wealth Strategies, shows late-career small business owners how a Solo 401(k) can cut today’s taxes, accelerate savings in your final 5–7 working years, and stay flexible when income is lumpy. We cover 2025 Solo 401(k) contribution limits, stacking employee deferrals with employer profit sharing, age-50 catch-ups and the enhanced 60–63 super catch-up, plus pretax vs Roth vs after-tax dollars (including when a “mega backdoor Roth” makes sense). You’ll also...
2025-08-2816 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?5 Mistakes to Avoid as You Get Close to Retirement5 Mistakes to Avoid as You Get Close to Retirement – Clear, Tax-Smart Guidance for People Close to RetirementAre you close to retirement – or recently retired – and wondering how to dodge the biggest (and priciest) errors people make in their final working years? In this episode, Phillip Smith, CRPC®, financial planner at Tidepool Wealth Strategies, breaks it down in plain English.What you’ll learn00:30 Intro – why this topic matters now01:24 Mistake #1 – getting aggressive too late02:58 Mistake #2 – Ignoring Sequence-of-Returns risk04:25 Mistake #3 – Overestimating retirement income06:02 Mistake #4 – Wait...
2025-08-1512 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?The Income Replacement Rule May Fail You in Retirement - Here's What Really Matters!If you're about to retire and researching retirement wirhdrawl strategies online, you'll see retirement calculators thay say you must replace 70%-80% of paycheck. That rule can torpedo real retirement confidence. In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Marine Corps veteran and financial planner Phillip Smith shows why your target isn’t a percentage. It’s 100% clarity that every bill and dream are funded. Learn how a personalized spending number, dynamic “guardrails” withdrawals, and rigorous stress-tests beat the old income-replacement ratio for late-career professionals juggling Social Security, Medicare, and market swings. We unpack payroll-tax myths, hidden IRM...
2025-08-0706 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Tariffs, Tumult - and How it May Affect Your Retirement PlanTrade-war headlines spiking your stress? Discover how tariff turmoil can shake markets, and how a solid retirement plan keeps you steady. In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies unpacks import taxes, retaliation risks, and the 2018 China tariff shock, then shows late-career professionals exactly how to protect (and even grow) their nest egg. You’ll learn why staying invested beats panic selling, how strategic diversification cushions volatility, and where to hunt for bargains when fear misprices quality stocks. Perfect for anyone searching “tariffs and stock market,” “retirement portfolio volatility,” or “trade war investment strategy.”
2025-07-2507 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Know These Social Security Strategies If You're About To RetireReady to squeeze every dollar from Social Security? This episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan? is a must-listen for career professionals getting close to retirement. Want bigger lifetime benefits and lower taxes? Phillip Smith, financial planner and Marine veteran, shows how the right filing sequence can add six figures to lifetime household income and help bolster the surviving spouse’s check.Chapters Roadmap: • Why Social Security timing matters for dual-income couples • Strategy 1: Delaying benefits for a 26% boost and stronger survivor income • Strategy 2: Coordinating spousal benefits for an instant household “pay raise” • Strategy 3: Fi...
2025-07-1111 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?5 Quick Tips to Help Super-Charge Your Retirement Savings BEFORE You Retire!Ready to crank your nest egg into overdrive? This episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan? arms late-career professionals with five quick moves to help pump thousands of extra dollars into retirement accounts before the paycheck stops.Phillip Smith – financial planner and Marine veteran – reveals how to:Max out 2025 401(k) and IRA catch-up contributions, including the new SECURE 2.0 super catch-up;'Harvest low-bracket “tax valley” years for Roth conversions that slash future RMDs and Medicare IRMAA charges;Nail asset location, so bonds and REITs grow tax-deferred while stocks compound tax free in a Roth;Turn an HSA into a triple...
2025-07-0211 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Do I Really Need a Financial Advisor, or Can I Handle My Retirement Plan Alone?Thinking about retiring DIY-style because “why pay 1% for something I’ve managed for decades?” In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan? podcast, Phillip Smith, financial planner and Marine Corps veteran, asks the hard question: Do you really save money going solo, or does a skilled financial advisor quietly pay for themselves?We dive into why career professionals love the do-it-yourself approach, then expose hidden costs important to identify when reasearching retirement strategies: tax drag, behavioral mistakes, sequence-of-returns risk, and decision fatigue backed by Vanguard Advisor’s Alpha, DALBAR, and Russell Investments data. Discover where a fiducia...
2025-06-2317 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Do I Maximize My HSA for Retirement?Are you getting the most out of your Health Savings Account (HSA)? In this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan?, titled “How Do I Maximize My HSA for Retirement?,” financial planner Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies walks late-career professionals (ages 55–65) through the powerful, often-overlooked features of the HSA, and how to use it as a tax-advantaged retirement tool. You’ll learn how to avoid common HSA myths, understand 2025 eligibility rules and contribution limits, and discover how investing your HSA (instead of parking it in cash) could grow your account into a six-figure healthcar...
2025-06-0916 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Did You Inherit an IRA Recently? Here's How to Reduce Your Tax Bill!Just inherited a traditional IRA and dreading the 10‑year payout rule? Episode 17 of The Perfect Retirement Plan? podcast shows you how to shrink that looming tax bill instead of sacrificing your windfall. Phillip Smith, Marine‑turned‑financial‑planner at Tidepool Wealth Strategies, unpacks the SECURE Act’s 10‑Year Rule, then introduces his IRA‑to‑401(k) Conduit strategy, a tax-efficient retirement planning strategy used to offset taxable inherited‑IRA withdrawals with boosted pre‑tax 401(k) contributions. You’ll hear a clear step‑by‑step example, learn how to avoid bracket creep, discover why HSA contributions add an extra tax shield, and spot common...
2025-05-2311 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Will I Run Out of Money in Retirement? (And 4 Other Fears That Keep Retirees Up at Night)Are spiraling healthcare bills, a sudden market crash, or a nasty tax bite keeping you up at night? In Episode 16 of The Perfect Retirement Plan? podcast, Phillip Smith, CFP® (Oregon‑based wealth manager, Marine veteran, and host) dissects the five biggest retirement fears: outliving your savings, skyrocketing medical costs, portfolio‑crushing bear markets, loss of identity after work, and stealthy retirement taxes. Packed with statistics (current as of 2024), real client stories, and and a little humor, this deep‑dive delivers actionable tactics late‑career professionals can use right now. Discover sustainable withdrawal guardrails, Roth conversion timing, bucket strategies, Medicare & Medigap c...
2025-05-1610 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Will Medicare Really Cover All My Healthcare Expenses in Retirement?Curious whether Medicare alone will cover all your healthcare expenses in retirement? In this episode, Phillip addresses the pressing questions late-career professionals (ages 55–65) have about Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Uncover the biggest coverage gaps - like dental, vision, hearing, and out-of-country healthcare - and learn how Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies can help shield you from crippling out-of-pocket costs. Phillip also explores the pros and cons of Medicare Advantage plans and why network restrictions, changing benefits, and possible out-of-pocket surprises could impact your retirement strategy. Plus, discover why long-term care expenses aren’t covered under Medic...
2025-05-0910 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Can I Avoid a Tax Bomb in Retirement?Discover how to avoid one of retirement’s biggest threats: the dreaded “tax bomb.” Phillip unpacks the hidden triggers that can derail your financial future. Learn why Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), Social Security timing, Medicare IRMAA surcharges, “Widow Bomb” tax brackets, and delayed Roth conversions can all converge to raise your tax bill unexpectedly. Phillip also explains why a proactive strategy is vital to minimize the lifetime tax burden on your 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement accounts. If you’re approaching retirement (age 55–65) and want guidance on tax planning, estate planning, or portfolio management, this episode offers practical tips on defusi...
2025-05-0114 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?What Should I Do With My Old 401(k) Account? Are you among the millions of Americans who’ve left an old 401(k) behind with a former employer? In this episode, Philip Smith, a financial planner at Tidepool Wealth Strategies in Oregon, explores the crucial steps late-career professionals (ages 55–65) should consider before ignoring a potentially major part of their retirement savings. Learn why these “forgotten” accounts can potentially sabotage your long-term goals through unnecessary fees, poor investment choices, and lost growth opportunities. Discover the four key options (leaving your 401(k) in place, rolling it into a new employer’s plan, transferring it into an IRA, or cashing it out) and why the...
2025-04-2114 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Do I Know if I'm Really Ready to Retire? 5 Benchmarks You Shouldn't Ignore!Are you nearing retirement and wondering whether you’re truly ready to leave the workforce? In this episode titled “How Do I Know if I’m Ready to Retire? 5 Benchmarks You Shouldn’t Ignore,” Phillip offers professional guidance to help late-career professionals (ages 55-65) assess their retirement readiness. This essential episode covers five critical benchmarks, from savings milestones and budgeting considerations to debt management, emergency funds, and emotional preparedness. Learn how to test-drive your retirement budget, explore dynamic withdrawal strategies, and minimize tax exposure with effective risk and portfolio management. If you’re looking for clarity on retirement ti...
2025-04-1111 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Should I Cash Out Now and Wait For the Stock Market to Get Better?Curious whether you should pull all your money out of the market during turbulent times? In this episode, financial planner Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies (Oregon) provides clarity for late-career professionals (ages 55–65) who may be feeling uneasy about market volatility. Discover why knee-jerk reactions, like selling off your stocks and going to cash, often do more harm than good, and how history shows that patient investors typically fare better in the long run. Phillip breaks down the hidden costs of sitting on the sidelines, including lost potential gains and the eroding effects of inflation. When...
2025-04-0909 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Should I retire early, or work a few more years?Wondering if you should retire early or keep working longer? In this episode of “The Perfect Retirement Plan?”, Phillip explores both options. Uncover hidden costs like health care gaps and potentially reduced Social Security benefits, and learn how working longer can boost financial security. Phillip also shares tips on maintaining purpose and community through passion projects, social connections, and meaningful pursuits beyond your career.Discover how to align your retirement timeline with personal values like freedom, fulfillment, and security. Whether you crave morning coffees in your bathrobe or a few more years of professional growth, this conversation help...
2025-03-3113 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Where will my retirement checks come from?Join financial planner Phillip Smith in this episode of "The Perfect Retirement Plan?" as he dives into the crucial topic of retirement income sources. Whether you're about to retire or just planning ahead, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.Discover various income streams that could support you in retirement, including Social Security, pensions, rental income, annuities, and personal retirement savings accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. Phillip breaks down the pros and cons of each source and shares strategies for combining them to create a stable and fulfilling financial future.Learn from real-life stories...
2025-03-2115 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?What's the best way to create a personalized retirement strategy?In this episode, "What’s the Best Way to Create a Personalized Retirement Strategy?" we explore how to build a tailored retirement plan that aligns with your unique goals, lifestyle, and values. Tailoring your retirement strategy is crucial for late-career professionals who seek peace of mind regarding their financial future. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work when it comes to retirement, and this episode dives into key areas of personalization. Learn how to strategize income planning that suits your desired retirement lifestyle, taking into account inflation and healthcare costs. We also discuss the importance of balancing your inv...
2025-03-1411 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?What's the Best Strategy for Taking Money Out of My Retirement Accounts?Are you a late-career professional or pre-retiree wondering about the best withdrawal strategy for your retirement accounts? In “What’s the Best Strategy for Taking Money Out of My Retirement Accounts?,” we explore how to optimize your withdrawals across taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts. The right approach can help you minimize taxes, prolong your nest egg, and protect your financial future. We’ll talk about why many retirees benefit from tapping into taxable accounts first, leaving tax-deferred accounts like Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s for later, and saving Roth IRAs or other tax-free vehicles for last. Additionally, we’ll address th...
2025-03-0310 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Should I Adjust My Investment Portfolio as I Approach Retirement?Are you nearing retirement age and wondering how to adjust your investment portfolio for optimal security? In this video, we explore some essential considerations for balancing stocks, bonds, and cash reserves as you approach retirement. We’ll delve into the importance of aligning your portfolio with your evolving risk tolerance, analyzing how inflation, market volatility, and potential healthcare costs can impact your nest egg. Our discussion also covers why diversification is crucial in safeguarding your retirement savings, offering insights into preserving capital while still seeking growth where appropriate. Whether you’re a late-career professional refining your investment mix or a pr...
2025-02-2109 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?When is the best time to start Social Security?#PreRetirees In this episode, “When Is the Best Time to Start Social Security,” we explore the optimal timing for claiming Social Security benefits, especially for late-career professionals nearing retirement age in Oregon. We’ll highlight how delaying your Social Security, when financial feasible, can potentially boost your monthly benefit and provide key strategies for maximizing your total retirement income. As a working professional approaching retirement, you’ll discover valuable insights into the financial implications of postponing your benefits, including how it can align with your existing retirement savings, 401(k) contributions, and overall wealth-building plan. We’ll discuss how healthc...
2025-02-1310 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Why Retirement Planning is Never "Set It and Forget It"“Why Retirement Planning is Never Set It and Forget It” explores the dynamic nature of financial strategies, particularly for late-career professionals who are approaching that retirement milestone. In this episode, we delve into essential reasons for reevaluating your retirement planning goals, whether a result of changes in life, the economy, or your own aspirations, and we touch on factors that can derail a static plan, like market volatility, healthcare costs, longevity risk and more. As a pre-retiree, you need to remain proactive, consistently updating your financial plan to accommodate shifting healthcare expenses, inflationary pressures, and potential Social Security adjustments.
2025-02-0506 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?The Roth Conversion Debate: Is It Worth It?Are you a late-career professional debating whether a Roth conversion is the right move for your retirement strategy? In this episode, “The Roth Conversion Debate: Is It Worth It?,” we explore the benefits and drawbacks of converting your Traditional IRA or 401(k) into a Roth IRA. Learn about potential long-term tax advantages, greater flexibility in retirement distributions, and strategies to minimize tax implications. We also discuss key factors like your current tax bracket, expected future income, and Social Security timing, all of which can play a significant role in determining the success of a Roth conversion. Our conve...
2025-01-2409 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?How Much Money Do I Need to Retire?Are you about to retire and wondering, “How much money do I need to retire?” If so, this episode is tailored for you! Perfectly suited for career professionals who are getting close to retirement and looking into retirement strategies. We break down the essential steps involved in retirement planning, including maximizing your 401(k) contributions, exploring Roth IRA options, and understanding Social Security benefits. This episode also touches on important considerations like pension payouts, tax implications, and effective investment strategies, all with the goal of helping you align your financial objectives with your desired retirement lifestyle. Our conversation cover...
2025-01-1510 min
The Perfect Retirement Plan?Introduction to Financial Planning for People Close to RetirementAre you getting close to retirement and looking to secure a more confident financial future? In this episode, “Introduction to Financial Planning for Late-Career Professionals,” we delve into essential strategies designed to help you navigate the transition into retirement. From maximizing your 401(k) contributions to exploring Roth IRA benefits, our discussion breaks down the critical steps needed to set the stage for lasting financial well-being. We also explore often-overlooked considerations such as healthcare costs, inflation factors, and pension payout options, highlighting the importance of well-rounded decision-making.Our podcast is dedicated to helping those of you who are near...
2025-01-1008 minThe Perfect Retirement Plan?Welcome to "The Perfect Retirement Plan?"Welcome to "The Perfect Retirement Plan?" the podcast that wades into the idea that "perfect" is a matter of perspective when it comes to successful retirement.This is intended as an audio retirement planning guide to money management, pursuit of long-term financial growth, and creating an adaptive strategy tailored to your unique and evolving journey. My goal in each episode In every episode is to share concise, actionable insights that help you plan a retirement of purpose, resilience, and confidence. The series is aimed at late-career professionals nearing retirement, who are seeking guidance on how t...
2025-01-0307 min
Jess AskThe Power of Belief | FT Phillip A. Sullivan Ph.D | EP54Joining us for this enlightening chat is the brilliant Dr. Phillip A. Sullivan, Ph.D. We kept it real as we explored the transformative power of belief, faith, and community in our mental health journeys. In this episode, we were all about creating a safe space to unpack some serious wisdom. Dr. Sullivan shared his insights on how our belief systems shape our mental well-being, along with practical tools like the "ABCs of Mental Health" to help us thrive.Originally from Madison, Alabama, Dr. Phillip Sullivan is a higher education professional currently working in the state of Georgia...
2024-05-091h 01
First Baptist Portales SermonsUnhindred Exile // Daniel 4 & 5Listen in as Pastor Phillip compares the stories of King Nebuchadnezzar and King Belshazzar. Both kings are destroyed by pride, but only one listens to Daniel's warning and responds accordingly. Still, Daniel effectivly communicates truth in both situations. So, what does all of this mean for us today?
2023-08-0739 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsUnhindered Exile // Daniel 3Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses the danger of mixing allegiances when God expects every bit of our loyalty to go to Him first. This may mean that there are things followers of Jesus refuse to participate in as they stand loyal to their savior.
2023-08-0239 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsUnhindered Exile // Daniel 2Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about how exiles influence the culture around them even if it stands against God's values.
2023-08-0240 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsUnhindered Exile // Daniel 1Listen in as Pastor Phillip breaks down Daniel 1 and looks at how exiles must resolve not to comprimise. In a world and culture that will regularly try to influence us, faith in God often means standing against that influence.
2023-07-1839 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsUnhindered Exile // Daniel 1 & Jeremiah 29Listen in as Pastor Phillip introduces the story of Daniel and his friends: 4 teenage boys who resolved to be faithful even in the face of the indoctrination programs of their Babylonian conquerors.
2023-07-1237 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsNever Hindered // Acts 28:30-31Listen in as Pastor Phillip explores the ending of Luke's biography of the early church. After pages describing the hindering of Paul's church planting journey resulting in a Roman house prison, Luke closes by saying that the Gospel was preached "without hinder." Is Luke being ridiculous, or is there something more happening?
2023-07-1234 min
By His GraceSgt. Betsy Brantner Smith: Honoring the Red, White, and THE BLUEOn this episode of By His Grace, our guest is National Police Association spokes person Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith, a retired police officer with a long and distinguished career in law enforcement. Sgt. Smith shares her experiences and insights into the challenges and dangers faced by police officers on a daily basis. She addresses the negative portrayal of law enforcement in the media and emphasizes the importance of understanding local police departments and their day-to-day activities.
Sgt. Brantner Smith highlights the value of programs like the Citizens Police Academy, which provides participants with hands-on experiences, from visiting...
2023-07-0621 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (The Final Warning) // Matthew 7:24-29Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus' means for ending His sermon. Rather than an easy mnemonic technique to help you memorize, Jesus ends his sermon with a warning about doing. Information and knowledge is not enough to be good Christ follower. A true disciples puts Jesus' teachings into practice.
2023-06-2032 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (2 Ways) // Matthew 7:17-22Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus' final warnings as He closes His sermon on the Mount giving the same call as Moses did in Deuteronomy calling us to make a decision on who we will follow.
2023-06-1536 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus and the Golden Rule) // Matthew 7:12Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus’ radical rule summarizing the the whole of the Old Testament and how it was totally revolutionary not only for his day but for ours as well.
2023-06-0131 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Pray for the Father is Good) // Matthew 7:7-11Listen in as Pastor Phillip looks at Jesus' clear desire for his disciples to have deep prayer lives. Most of us know our need for prayer, but far fewer actually pray like we should. Might it be we don't fully understand God and therefore don't pray accordingly?
2023-05-2435 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus, Correction, and Condemnation) // Matthew 7:1-6Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses the infamous "Do not Judge" passage. Is Jesus making a blanket statement about judgement, or is he giving boundaries to help his community of followers truly grow?
2023-05-1536 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus on Anxiety) // Matthew 6:25-34Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus' view of creation and how understanding God's care for us and the world is the ultimate relief to even the most anxious cultures.
2023-05-1035 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus, Consumerism, and Simplicity) // Matthew 6:19-24Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus' vision for human flourishing involving turning everything over to God rather that storing up things for ourselves.
2023-05-0133 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Altruism, Hypocrisy, and Righteousness) // Matthew 6:1-4Listen in as Pastor Phillip begins the next section of the Sermon on the Mount looking at how transformed hearts take action within our world trusting in God's attention and approval rather than man's.
2023-04-1838 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus on Love and Intimacy) // Matthew 5:27-32Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus' view of love and intimacy and the human heart's ability to totally ruin God's vision set forth in Genesis 1 and 2.
2023-03-1338 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus on Anger) // Matthew 5:21-26Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about how Jesus explores the external command of "Do not murder," but quickly makes it more personal with the internal problem of anger.
2023-03-1336 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Jesus and Scripture) // Matthew 5:17-20Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about how Jesus views the Old Testament helping us to better understand it and Him.
2023-03-1343 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Salt and Light) // Matthew 5:13-16Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about the role of believers in a broken world.
2023-02-2131 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Beatitudes 2) // Matthew 5:1-12Listen in as Pastor Phillip explores the Beatitudes through the lens of the Kingdom of Heaven helping us to understand how Jesus brings blessings for today and hope for tomorrow.
2023-02-1337 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSermon on the Mount (Beatitudes 1) // Matthew 5:1-12Listen in as Pastor Phillip looks at Jesus' subversive opening words to his sermon on the mount helping us to reframe how we see the world and how is really "blessed."
2023-02-0636 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsIntentionally Like Jesus // Matthew 4:17-25Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about Jesus, His Kingdom, and our role within the Kingdom starting from Genesis and moving through the Old Testament
2023-02-0635 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsIntentionally Like Jesus // Matthew 4:1-11Sorry for the audio issues at the beginning; they are resolved quickly. Listen in as Pastor Phillip explores Jesus' testing in the wilderness proving his identity and showing us all a new way to be human.
2023-01-1840 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsIntentionally Like Jesus // Matthew 2:13-23Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses the 3 stories at the end of Matthew's Nativity narrative. We'll see how intentionally following Jesus does NOT mean all our wildest dreams come true. Rather, even when difficulty and hardship come our way, we can trust God's ability to turn evil on it's head to accomplish His plan.
2023-01-1036 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsIntentionality // Revelation 3:14-20Listen in as Pastor Phillip transitions from 2022 to 2023 reminding us of how following Jesus demands intentionality. Like the church in Laodicea, our comfort and wealth can drive us to becoming lukewarm and apathetic towards our God given purpose. When that happens, we need Jesus' presence back in our lives and our church.
2023-01-0332 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsThe Whole Story 2 // Matthew 1:18-25Listen in as Pastor Phillip connects the Christmas story all the way back to the Old Testament looking at how Jesus succeeds where everyone else before had failed in order to rescue broken humanity.
2022-12-2638 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsBelong 2 // Galatians 4 & 5Listen in as Pastor Phillip dives deeper into what it means to intentionally belong to God and the balance of Freedom that comes with the Gospel.
2022-11-2935 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsRenewal 2 // Hebrews 10:19-25Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks more about Renewal and the key parts of seeing renewal come.
2022-11-2840 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsThe Whole Story 1 // Matthew 1:1-17Listen in as Pastor Phillip dives into the the Opening of Matthew and the beauty of everything Matthew does to emphasize the importance of Jesus.
2022-11-2835 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsRenewal 1 // 2 Chronicles 28-30Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses the pattern of Renewal as we seek to live as a renewed church in a broken world.
2022-11-2838 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsBelong 3 // Galatians 5:16Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses how we who intentionally belong to God should interact with a world who would rather follow their own ways
2022-11-2832 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsBelong 4 (Next Gen Sunday) // Psalm 78Listen in as we celebrate the Next Generation at FBC. We begin with our youth reading "Spoken Word" and some of our children reading Scripture. Then Pastor Phillip will talk about how we should emphasize reaching the "Next Gen."
2022-11-2844 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsBelong 2 // Galatians 4 & 5Listen in as Pastor Phillip discuss the true meaning of Freedom in belonging to Christ. In short, true freedom is neither falling into sin, nor falling into legalism. Both of which Paul calls "Enslaving Elements".
2022-11-2835 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsBelong 1 // Galatians 3&4Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about what it means to intentionally belong to God and our job as Christ followers to draw more people to intentionally belong to their Creator.
2022-11-2835 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsCommunity 6 // Ephesians 4:1-6Listen in as Pastor Phillip wraps up our community series by talking about the Triune characteristic of "Mutual Deference" and what that means for a healthy church community.
2022-11-2831 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsCommunity 5 // Ephesians 4:17-5:2Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about finding Joyful Intimacy within the church. We were created to know and be known, but that can only happen if our minds are renewed by the power of God within the Gospel.
2022-09-2633 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsCommunity 4 // Ephesians 5:18-6:9Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses how Jesus' community of new humanity lives in glad submission. Our world tends to revolt against the idea of submission in any context, but Jesus sees submission as a vital part of what it means to follow him.
2022-09-1437 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsCommunity 3 // EphesiansListen in as Pastor Phillip gives an overview of the book of Ephesians showing how God desires to restore all humanity back to it's original created state...back to full equality. (Note: This sermon walks through a visual timeline. If you'd like to see it you can search for "First Baptist Portales" on YouTube and jump to about the half-way mark)
2022-09-0840 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsCommunity 2 // Genesis 1 & Matthew 3Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses why we need community finding the answer in the person of God himself. God has eternally existed in a community of love between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and man kind is created in that Image. This has so many implication for why we need community.
2022-08-3137 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsCommunity 1 // Mark 3:31-35Listen in as Pastor Phillip begins exploring our fourth core value of Community. The way Jesus sees is community has always been radicle and counter cultural, but that is especially true in our modern western society. How does the church reclaim Jesus' vision for community?
2022-08-2237 min
First Baptist Portales Sermonsinvite, ask, OBEYListen in as Pastor Phillip discusses the need to obey God even when it sometimes requires foolishness and waiting. God always works through our obedience, but we don't always see it.
2022-08-1040 minFirst Baptist Portales Sermonsinvite, ASK, obeyListen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus' expectation of asking. Multiple times Jesus invites us to ask things of the Father in Jesus' name, but is this just a formula to get what we want or is there more?
2022-08-0233 minFirst Baptist Portales SermonsINVITE. Ask. ObeyListen in as Pastor Phillip preaches through three simple steps to better attune ourselves to the Holy Spirit through inviting Him into our lives through surrender.
2022-08-0234 minFirst Baptist Portales SermonsPaying Attention: Finding QuietListen in as Pastor Phillip dives deeper into the biblical concept of slowing. In a world of busy and noise, often slowing down demands finding quiet places to reconnect with God. That's what happened with Elijah.
2022-08-0239 minFirst Baptist Portales SermonsPaying Attention: Slowing DownListen in as Pastor Phillip discusses why we don't often hear from the Spirit the way the Jesus followers did in Scripture. Maybe we're far too busy and distracted. Maybe the first step to building a stronger relationship with God in us is through slowing down.
2022-08-0235 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsEmbracing Grieving and LossListen in as Pastor Phillip reflects on loss, sadness, and grief.
2022-06-2730 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsThe Value of ScriptureListen is as Pastor Phillip discusses the value of Scripture, particularly looking at the Old Testament and examining how the bible is both a human and divine work given by God in some really fascinating ways!
2022-06-2737 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSpirit-Filled 5 // Acts 16 and Galatians 5Listen in as Pastor Phillip dives into the practical aspects of living a life filled with the Holy Spirit.
2022-06-0639 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSpirit-Filled 4 // Acts 8Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about how the Spirit moves in the story of Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch and how He is looking to move similarly in our lives today!
2022-06-0639 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSpirit-Filled 3//Acts 1:1-8Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Luke's continuation from his Gospel connecting what Jesus "did and taught" to the disciples and now to us explaining who the Spirit is and how we can give Him more control over our lives.
2022-05-1834 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSpirit-Filled 2 // John 16:1-13Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses Jesus statement in John 16:7. Is it really better for the physical presence of Jesus to be gone and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit be here? How so? The answer is found by looking through the entire biblical compilation.
2022-05-0939 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsSpirit Filled 1//Luke 3, 4, and Acts 1Listen in as Pastor Phillip dives into a discussion on the person of the Holy Spirit looking back at the ancient Hebrew understanding of the Spirit and the modern implications that has on today's church.
2022-05-0438 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsNehemiah 1 // Prayer PracticeJoin in as Pastor Phillip prompts us to pray through Nehemiah's prayer for his city reminding us that true restoration can only come from God.
2022-04-2538 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsEaster Sermon 2022Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses how Jesus is the only solution to the brokenness of the world as we celebrate this Resurrection Sunday.
2022-04-2536 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsGospel Rooted 4//Psalm 1Listen as Pastor Phillip discusses "what's at stake" if we fail to root into the Gospel. Any time we as individuals or the church attempt to root into something else we will always fall into ruin forfeiting a life of fruitful permanence.
2022-03-2831 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsGospel-Rooted 3 // Psalm 2Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses what it means to "apprentice the messiah" promised in Psalm 2 and fulfilled in Jesus.
2022-03-2135 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsGospel-Rooted 2 // Psalm 1Listen in as Pastor Phillip talks about how we root into the gospel by meditating on the word. In this highly practical sermon we discuss our need of meditating on scripture by slowing down, surrendering control, and seeking formation.
2022-03-1437 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsGospel-Rooted // Psalm 1&2Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses what it means to be Gospel-Rooted. We'll look at Psalm 1 and 2 and talk about knowing the story of the Gospel to root it into our identities.
2022-03-0733 min
First Baptist Portales SermonsLife-Giving 4 // John 21Listen in as Pastor Phillip discusses how Jesus gives life by offering restoration. We'll look into the restoration of Peter at the end of John's Gospel and see how it connects back to a plethora of stories leading up to this point.
2022-03-0734 min