Ryan Ledden - Podcast Details

Shows

Perfect Game Retirement How to Ask Better Questions About Retirement📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html You’ve heard the phrase, “There’s no such thing as a bad question.” But in retirement planning, the quality of your questions often determines the quality of your outcome. Today Ryan reframes common retirement questions, and shares how clearer question lead to better strategies, and more confidence about the future. The smartest investors don’t just look for answers. They learn to ask better questions. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💰...

2025-12-2314 min

Perfect Game Retirement Warning Signs You Picked the Wrong Advisor📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html How do you know if your financial advisor is actually a good fit, or quietly working against your best interests? In this episode, Ryan walks us through common red flags that signal an advisor may not be serving you well. From cookie-cutter plans to poor communication, they explain what to watch for before small issues become costly mistakes. A great advisor builds trust, listens well, and never leaves you feeling in the dark. Here’s...

2025-12-1811 min

Perfect Game Retirement How to Plan Together When You Keep Finances Separate📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html More couples are entering marriage later in life with established careers, children from previous relationships, and financial lives they prefer to keep separate. Ryan breaks down how couples can still build a unified retirement plan without combining accounts. If you’ve ever wondered how to “team up” financially while keeping your money separate, this conversation gives you a blueprint. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💍 Later-Life Remarriage: unique challenges couples face when...

2025-12-1113 min

Perfect Game Retirement How to Give with Purpose & Meaning📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Giving Tuesday and year-end donations always spark generosity, but the real impact comes when giving is intentional, not rushed or emotional. Ryan breaks down how to align your generosity with your financial plan so your giving feels meaningful and works smarter behind the scenes. The goal is to support causes you care about while staying thoughtful about timing, taxes, and long-term strategy. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: ❤️ The “Why” Behind Gi...

2025-12-0414 min

Perfect Game Retirement Smart Ways to Protect Your Finances in an Uncertain Economy with Bob Ginty📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html What’s the fastest way to regain control when your finances feel chaotic? This week, Ryan talks with Ramsey-Preferred Financial Coach Bob Ginty about practical ways to stabilize your finances, even when the economy feels unpredictable. They explore key areas that can help you create a stronger financial foundation no matter what’s going on around you. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💰 Emergency Funds & Investing: building a strong base before tak...

2025-11-2622 min

Perfect Game Retirement Warning Signs That Financial Trouble Could Be Ahead?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Are you missing the warning signs in your financial life? In this episode, Ryan and Ramsey-Preferred Financial Coach Bob Genty discuss the biggest money challenges families are facing today—from overspending and debt stress to a lack of clear financial direction. They break down the habits and decisions that quietly sabotage progress and share practical ways to get back on track. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🚩 Red Flags: common warnin...

2025-11-2016 min

Perfect Game Retirement Should You Have More Than One Financial Advisor?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Some investors believe having more than one advisor means more ideas, more diversification, and more protection. But in reality, it often creates more confusion than clarity. Ryan breaks down the pros and cons of working with multiple advisors, when it might make sense, and why a unified plan often leads to better results. At the end of the day, it’s not about how many people manage your money, it’s about how coordinated your strategy i...

2025-11-1310 min

Perfect Game Retirement Do Your Feelings Belong in Your Financial Plan?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Most people think financial planning is about calculators, spreadsheets, and strategies. But that’s only half the story. The truth is your feelings about money can have just as much impact on your retirement as the numbers do. Today, Ryan explores the human side of money and how your feelings about home, debt, giving, and family can quietly shape your entire financial plan. At the end of the day, numbers give us the framework...

2025-11-0612 min

Perfect Game Retirement Retirement Health Care Costs Just Jumped Again (2025 Update)📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Fidelity just released their 2025 Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate, and the number is staggering: $172,500 for a 65-year-old retiring today. The bigger problem? One in five Americans hasn’t even thought about health care costs in retirement. Ryan breaks down what this means, why it matters, and how to prepare before medical costs derail your plan. Health care is one of retirement’s biggest wildcards, but with the right strategy, you can make it just another budget ite...

2025-10-3013 min

Perfect Game Retirement Where Should Someone Invest $1 Million?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html What should a financial advisor do if a client comes in with $1 million in cash to invest? That was the question posed to three financial advisors in a recent article, and their answers sparked a lively debate. Ryan reacts to each of their investment strategies and then shares his process for helping clients determine where to invest. It’s interesting to hear what other pros recommend, but the reality is that every million-dollar plan is unique...

2025-10-2313 min

Perfect Game Retirement Pre-Tax vs After-Tax Contributions: Which One’s Right for You?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Pre-tax or after-tax? That is the question. There’s no Life 101 class that talks you through these choices, and one wrong move could impact how much of your retirement savings you get to keep. Ryan breaks down the key differences between Traditional and Roth IRAs, explaining how each impacts your taxes, contributions, and withdrawals. Tune in for practical tips to help you maximize your retirement savings and choose the best approach for your financial goals. He...

2025-10-1618 min

Perfect Game Retirement Retirement Mailbag: RVs, Roth 401(k)s, and Smarter Investing📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Ever thought about buying an RV in retirement, but not sure if it makes sense financially? Or maybe you’ve built up a big nest egg but don’t feel confident about how to actually invest or withdraw it. And what about those new Roth 401(k) options showing up at work, are they worth it? In this episode, Ryan answers real listener questions about these exact scenarios, breaking down the tax traps, planning strategies, and smarter wa...

2025-10-0911 min

Perfect Game Retirement Reacting To Unfiltered Retirement Takes from YouTube📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Forget polished advice. If you want the real story on retirement, head to the YouTube comments. That’s where people speak their minds, sharing fears about running out of money, frustrations with the system, and creative strategies they’ve tried themselves. In this episode, Ryan digs into those unfiltered takes and separates what’s solid from what can steer you wrong. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💵 Does taking Social Security e...

2025-10-0216 min

Perfect Game Retirement What If You Fall Short of Your Retirement Savings Goal?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html In this episode, Ryan tackles a listener question about falling short of your retirement savings goal. Beverly’s goal was to reach $1 million in her 401(k), but she’s currently at $850,000 and unsure if she can retire comfortably in just one more year. Ryan shares how the “magic number” varies for everyone and the importance of flexibility in your retirement plan. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏦 How much do you really need...

2025-09-2512 min

Perfect Game Retirement The Hidden Medicare Penalty You Might Be Paying📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Think Medicare is free once you hit 65? Not quite. Many retirees are surprised by IRMAA—the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. This hidden surcharge can quietly increase your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums, shrinking your Social Security check by thousands each year. The frustrating part? It’s tied to your income from two years prior, so you might trigger higher premiums without even realizing it. Here’s what we discuss in this episode:...

2025-09-1815 min

Perfect Game Retirement Fuzzy Math Could Be Sabotaging Your Financial Future📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html You’ve probably said it before: “I ran the numbers, and I should be fine.” But what if the math you’re relying on isn’t telling the whole story? In this episode, Ryan unpacks some of the most common examples of fuzzy retirement math and how they can quietly derail your financial future. Don’t let fuzzy math sabotage your future, learn how to spot it before it’s too late. Here’s what we discuss in t...

2025-09-1110 min

Perfect Game Retirement If I Won’t Live to 90, Should I Claim Social Security Early?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html If your parents passed away relatively young, it’s only natural to wonder whether you’ll follow the same path. And from a financial standpoint, does that change how you should approach things like retirement planning and when to draw Social Security benefits? In this episode, Ryan answers a listener’s question on this exact topic. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: ⏳ Claiming at 62 locks in lower benefits for life 📈 Ho...

2025-09-0411 min

Perfect Game Retirement 5 Signs You’re Wealthier Than You Think📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Most people don’t feel wealthy. But what if your day-to-day habits are quietly building serious financial strength? A recent article from Kiplinger outlined five surprising signs that you might be richer than you think. And none of them involve yachts or private jets. Today, Ryan analyzes the habits that signal real, lasting wealth and what to do if you are (or aren’t) on the right track. Here’s what we discuss in this epis...

2025-08-2815 min

Perfect Game Retirement Back To School Retirement Planning Quiz📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html The kids might be heading back to school, but today it’s your turn to take a pop quiz—on retirement planning. In this episode, Ryan puts us to the test on five essential financial questions every retiree and pre-retiree should know. So, let’s test your knowledge with a quick financial pop quiz and see how ready you really are. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📆 When you can claim full So...

2025-08-2112 min

Perfect Game Retirement 7 Retirement Assumptions to Reconsider in 2025📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Just because something used to be true doesn’t mean it still is, especially in retirement planning. In 2025, rising interest rates, tax uncertainty, and longer retirements mean it’s time to rethink some of the old advice. These seven assumptions sound smart at first… but they could quietly hurt your plan if you’re not careful. In this episode, Ryan walks through the most common retirement “rules” that may have expired, and explains what to consider instead.

2025-08-1415 min

Perfect Game Retirement Gen X, It’s Your Turn: It’s Time To Think About Retirement📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Cue the mixtape of Nirvana, Madonna, and Prince… Gen X, it’s your turn to get ready for retirement. And the stakes are high. You were the first 401(k) generation, hit by two major market crashes, and now you’re entering retirement with more financial uncertainty than the Boomers before you. But you also have something else: resilience. If you're in between your mid-40s and early 60s, it’s time to get serious about what retirement...

2025-08-0714 min

Perfect Game Retirement Big Beautiful Bill Myths Debunked📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Big tax law changes always bring big rumors. But before you assume Social Security is now tax-free or that you’re getting a $40K deduction just for breathing, let’s set the record straight on what this new bill didn’t actually do. In this episode, Ryan sets the record straight on some of the most misleading claims surrounding the new “Big Beautiful Bill.” Here’s what we discuss in this episode: ⚠️ Six big myths...

2025-07-3112 min

Perfect Game Retirement What The “Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Your Retirement Plan📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html A new tax bill has officially passed (you’ve probably heard it mentioned as the “Big Beautiful Bill”). And while most headlines are focused on politics, we’re focused on what it means for your retirement. The choices you make in the next year or two could have a significant impact on how much you keep and how much goes to Uncle Sam. In this episode, Ryan unpacks the key changes and why they matter for your retire...

2025-07-2413 min

Perfect Game Retirement The 4 Things You Can Control in Retirement📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html Markets crash. Taxes shift. Congress waffles on Social Security. You can’t control any of that. And stressing over it won’t help. What will? Focusing on the four things that actually move the needle in retirement. In this episode, Ryan breaks down the key areas where retirees actually do have control, and how leaning into those can make all the difference. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Why risk consistency...

2025-07-1713 min

Perfect Game Retirement Should You Gift Money While You’re Alive or Leave A Legacy?📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html You’ve worked hard, saved well, and now you’re thinking about giving back—maybe to your kids, your grandkids, or a cause you care about. But should you wait and pass that wealth on later, or give while you’re still around to enjoy the impact? Let’s talk about how to make that decision with confidence. In this episode, Ryan walks through the key considerations for making smart, intentional choices with your wealth, inclu...

2025-07-1012 min

Perfect Game Retirement Retirement Breaking News: The 4% Rule Gets a Makeover📅 Book a 1-on-1 with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ 📦 Grab your FREE Tax-Free Retirement Toolkit: https://toolkit.blackoakam.com/podcast-toolkit.html The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let’s be honest, it’s always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision? In this episode, Ryan breaks down what this new 4.7% number really means—and more importantly, what it doesn’...

2025-07-0313 min

Perfect Game Retirement The Lazy Way to Retire? Let’s Talk Target-Date FundsTarget-date funds just passed $4 trillion in assets. They’re now the default investment in many 401(k)s, and millions of Americans are using them without really understanding how they work. So, are they a smart choice… or just the easiest one? These funds promise convenience and automatic adjustments, but with so much riding on a one-size-fits-all solution, it’s worth asking—are they really helping you, or just keeping you on autopilot? In this episode, Ryan explains how target-date funds work, why they’ve become so popular, and the hidden pitfalls that many investors miss. Here’s wha...

2025-06-2614 min

Perfect Game Retirement Financial Lessons Parents & Grandparents Can Teach A New GraduateGraduation season is an exciting milestone, not just for the grads, but for parents and grandparents who have supported them along the way. Today, Ryan wants to share practical ways you can help your graduate make smart financial decisions early, along with actions that could have a lasting impact on their future. Join us as we discuss ways families can pass on more than just good wishes. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🎓 Celebrate with wisdom, not just gifts 🏦 Teach saving vs. investing (and early!) 💳 Credit cards: tools or traps? ...

2025-06-1913 min

Perfect Game Retirement 5 Ways Wishful Thinking Can Damage Your RetirementA little hope is good for the soul, but when it comes to retirement planning, wishful thinking can lead to serious financial mistakes. Today, Ryan walks through five common examples of wishful thinking that can quietly damage your retirement and how you can build a plan that protects your future instead of relying on luck. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏦 The myth of living off interest alone 📉 Why future tax rates might surprise you 🧓 Assisted living planning mistakes 🍽️ Retirement spending isn't always lower 🧳 The danger in counting...

2025-06-1212 min

Perfect Game Retirement Market Strategy for Type A Investors: Why Doing Less Might Be Your Best MoveToday we’re talking about Type A personalities. If you’re driven, competitive, and goal-oriented, then you’re part of the club that often struggles during difficult markets. When things get tough, your instinct is to work harder, push more, and fix the problem. But in investing, that instinct can sometimes backfire. In this episode, Ryan explores how Type A investors can unintentionally sabotage their own success by overreacting to market swings. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💼 Why Type A traits clash with smart investing 📉 When doing less actually protects your portfolio...

2025-06-0511 min

Perfect Game Retirement Why Your Emotions May Matter More Than MathMost people believe financial success comes down to numbers, but the truth is your emotions and mindset may play an even bigger role than any spreadsheet ever could. In this episode, Ryan unpacks key lessons from Morgan Housel’s best-selling book The Psychology of Money, revealing how behavior, beliefs, and background shape our financial choices. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🧠 Why no one’s crazy when it comes to money 💸 The danger of always chasing “more” 🤝 Why reasonable beats rational in real life 🏠 What paying off your mortgage early ca...

2025-05-2914 min

Perfect Game Retirement Inside the Advisor’s Office: What People Are Actually Concerned AboutEver wonder what other people talk about with their financial advisors? A new survey of nearly 400 experienced advisors reveals the biggest concerns, challenges, and financial goals their clients are facing today. From retirement planning to working longer than expected, Ryan’s breaking down the key takeaways and how they compare to what he sees in his own client conversations. We’ll also uncover the #1 concern advisors have, a surprisingly overlooked issue that deserves far more attention. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💬 What clients are really asking their advisors 📊 Survey insights that reveal...

2025-05-2215 min

Perfect Game Retirement Is It Bad to Leave My 401(k) Where It Is?Got an old 401(k) collecting dust after a job change? You're not alone, and what you do with that account might have a big impact on your long-term financial health. In this episode, Ryan answers a listener’s question about whether it’s okay to leave your 401(k) where it is, or if you’re better off rolling it over. Spoiler alert: the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but there are some key pros and cons you need to know. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📂 Should you roll over that old 401(k)? 🕵️ Hidden f...

2025-05-1510 min

Perfect Game Retirement Retirement Assassins: The Silent Killers of Your Financial FutureWhen it comes to retirement planning, it's often the threats you don't see coming that do the most damage. In this episode, Ryan uncovers five silent "assassins" that can quietly erode your financial future, including market crashes, inflation and some surprises along the way! More importantly, he explains how proper planning can defend your wealth against these hidden risks. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 How market crashes hit when you least expect 📈 Why inflation is a "silent killer" of wealth 🏥 The overlooked cost of long-term care 🛡️ Smart defenses t...

2025-05-0814 min

Perfect Game Retirement What Should You Actually Do When the Market Drops?The headlines are loud, the markets are messy, and your gut might be telling you to do something - anything -right now. But what should you actually do when your portfolio takes a hit? In this episode, Ryan walks through the four key questions every investor should ask during a downturn, offering clear and practical steps to block out the noise and get some clarity on today’s market situation. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Gut-checking your financial plan when markets dip 📊 Risk tolerance: percentages vs. real dollars 🔁 Reba...

2025-05-0114 min

Perfect Game Retirement Retirement Lessons From The MastersThe Masters is a beautiful reminder of just how much strategy, patience, and long-term focus goes into a great round of golf. Turns out, retirement works a lot like the game. Today, Ryan is teeing up a few key lessons from the course and how they translate into smarter planning for your financial future. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: ⛳ Why chasing a “hole-in-one” rarely pays off 📆 Why timing matters more than you think in retirement 🕓 The “back nine” of retirement is critical 📉 Recovering from financial setbacks with strategy, not em...

2025-04-2414 min

Perfect Game Retirement Key 2025 Tax Breaks & Adjustment OpportunitiesTax season is here, but filing your 2024 return is just one piece of the puzzle. Now is also the perfect time to take advantage of new tax rules for 2025 before the year gets away from you. With higher standard deductions, increased retirement contribution limits, and updated HSA rules, there are plenty of opportunities to potentially lower your tax bill and boost your savings. In this episode, we’ll break down the key changes and how you can start planning now to make the most of them. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📄 New standar...

2025-04-1712 min

Perfect Game Retirement Preparing For Taxes on Your RMDsIn this episode, Ryan unpacks a listener question that’s becoming increasingly common: What should I do about my RMDs if I’m still working at 74 and contributing to my 401(k)? Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and the tax penalties for missing them, can catch even the most financially prepared retirees off guard, especially those still working into their 70s. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📆 Working past RMD age can delay required distributions (in some cases) 💸 IRAs and 401(k)s follow different rules, you need to know the difference 🏦 Moving IRAs int...

2025-04-1013 min

Perfect Game Retirement April Fool’s: Beliefs That Fool Retirement Savers The MostApril Fool’s Day is all about jokes and pranks, but when it comes to retirement planning, getting fooled can cost you real money. Today, we’re unpacking five retirement myths that often trick retirees into making decisions based on fear or flawed assumptions. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🧠 Don’t let fear rush your Social Security decisions 💸 Tax planning is essential, not optional ⚠️ The 4% rule isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution 📉 Dividend stocks alone won’t fund your retirement 🔄 Retirement planning isn’t “set it and forget it”—adjustments ar...

2025-04-0313 min

Perfect Game Retirement The Money Questions Every Couple Needs To DiscussValentine’s season is all about love, but let’s be honest, money plays a huge role in any relationship. Whether you’ve been together for decades or just starting out, financial stress can put a strain on even the strongest partnerships. So, how do you talk about money without killing the romance? In today’s episode, looking at the questions every couple should ask about finances and retirement. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💰 Spenders vs. Savers – Finding common ground on financial decisions 📊 Merging Finances in Retirement – Should couples combine or keep things separ...

2025-03-2713 min

Perfect Game Retirement Built a Business, But Not a Retirement Plan? Here’s What to Do NowYou’ve built a successful business, but now the big question is, how do you turn that into a retirement plan? If you’re like many entrepreneurs, you’ve spent years reinvesting in your business, but what happens when it’s time to step away? Can you sell it? Can you create passive income from it? Or should you start saving in other ways right now? In this episode, we’re breaking down strategies for business owners who need to turn years of hard work into long-term financial security. Here are some of the highlights in this ep...

2025-03-2014 min

Perfect Game Retirement Do Smart Investors Need to Work With a Financial Advisor?If you've successfully managed your own investments for years, do you really need a financial advisor? Many DIY investors see it as an unnecessary expense, but as you approach retirement, it might be time to enlist the help of someone to help you with the other areas of retirement? Today we’ll tackle this common question and explains how advisors add value beyond investment returns. Here are some of the things we discuss: 💰 Investing is just one piece – Advisors offer much more than stock picking ⚖️ Tax efficiency matters – The right strategy can save you thousands...

2025-03-1313 min

Perfect Game Retirement Retirement Lessons from Andy Reid: Championship-Worthy Financial StrategiesThe Super Bowl may be over, but there’s still a lot to learn from one of the best coaches in the game, Andy Reid. Whether you’re planning the perfect play on the field or preparing for retirement, success comes down to strategy, discipline, and knowing when to adjust. Today, we’re breaking down some of Coach Reid’s best quotes and how they apply to building a winning retirement plan. As a former professional athlete and teacher, this is a topic that hits close to home. The conversation covers how focusing on the "next play" instead...

2025-03-0615 min

Perfect Game Retirement Which Retirement Account Should I Withdraw From First?There’s a real mindset shift when someone gets to retirement and has to start taking money out of their accounts after saving for years. It gets even more difficult to figure out where to pull your money from when you have multiple types of accounts with different tax considerations. So which should you pull from first and does it really matter the order you choose? That’s the question we’re tackling today and it’s an important one because income planning is the foundation of a retirement plan. Join us to discover how to navigate your 401...

2025-02-2709 min

Perfect Game Retirement The New Retirement: Why Many Are Choosing Work Over LeisureA recent article on Fortune highlights a growing trend among baby boomers: continuing to work well into their 60s and 70s, not out of necessity, but for the mental stimulation, social connections, and fulfillment that work provides. With nearly 20% of Americans over 65 still employed, this shift is challenging traditional views of retirement and sparking important conversations about what it means to truly retire. Join Ryan as we discuss the reasons behind this phenomenon, from the desire for social interaction to the fulfillment of staying engaged in meaningful work. Here’s what we discuss in this ep...

2025-02-2013 min

Perfect Game Retirement Inflation-Proof Your Retirement In 2025In recent years, inflation has become a significant concern for many individuals, especially those planning for retirement. While rates have returned to more normal levels, Americans still can’t ignore the profound impact it can have on your financial future. Today’s show will discuss ways to inflation-proof your retirement, particularly looking ahead to 2025 and beyond. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:03 – How high inflation changes planning 5:37 – What rate do we typically use? 6:54 – Strategies to outpace inflation 9:02 – Client story Visit us online: https...

2025-02-1311 min

Perfect Game Retirement Mailbag: Should My Husband Be More Involved In Financial Planning?We're diving into the mailbag today on the show. Tune in as Ryan answers a variety of financial and retirement planning questions. Ruth asks if her husband should get more involved in managing their household finances as retirement approaches. Rachel wonders what investment options make the most sense for someone in her high-income position. Let's jump in! Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

2024-11-2125 min

Perfect Game Retirement Unlock Your Potential During National Financial Planning MonthWith National Financial Planning Month upon us, we’re sitting down with Ryan to uncover the strategies and steps that go into building a personalized financial plan. From that first phone call to implementing a strategy that aligns with your goals, this discussion will offer valuable insights for anyone looking to understand what it looks like to go through the planning process with a real financial advisor. Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our You...

2024-10-1729 min

Wealthy Advisor Mindset 17 | Ryan Ledden | Grinding It Out: The Secrets to Long-Term Success in the Financial IndustryIn today's episode of The Wealth Advisor Mindset podcast, Nina is joined by financial advisor Ryan Ledden as he shares his insights on balancing work, family, and personal life. He emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries and priorities, ensuring that family time remains a top focus. Ryan's dedication to being present for his children's activities, even at the expense of potential business opportunities, demonstrates his commitment to family values. He highlights the need to shut off work-related thoughts and distractions when spending time with loved ones, ensuring that quality time remains undisturbed.Ryan discusses his disciplined...

2024-05-1334 min

Perfect Game Retirement End of Year Financial Planning For 2023Join us for a thoughtful episode where we unpack our 2023 edition of key year-end planning strategies for those nearing or embracing their retirement years. We'll explore the nuances of optimizing your investment portfolio, safeguarding your assets, and ensuring a stable, rewarding lifestyle in the years to come. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: An update on Ryan’s CFP test. The importance of rebalancing your portfolio and managing investing risk. The tax strategies to consider that could save you money next April. Why we need to look at budget, income, Socia...

2023-12-0730 min

Perfect Game Retirement Money Mistakes You’ll Regret and How to Avoid ThemEver wish you could foresee financial missteps before they happen? On today’s episode explore some real-life stories of regret and arm yourself with the essential dos and don'ts to ensure your money works for you, not against you. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What can go wrong when you withdraw money from your IRA early. Don’t let lifestyle creep set in and keep you from saving more during your peak earning years. A general savings tip that Ryan gives people. What are your funding options for college tuition...

2023-11-1630 min

Perfect Game Retirement Navigating Finances After Losing a Spouse: Strategies & Mistakes to AvoidLosing a spouse is an unimaginably tough life event, but the financial implications can add another layer of stress to the grieving process. In this episode, we delve deep into the most common financial issues faced by widows and widowers, from dealing with income gaps to navigating tax changes as a single filer. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Two of the most common challenges widows face are the income gap and changes in tax filing. What are your Social Security and pension options when you lose your spouse? There are...

2023-10-1922 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 48: 22 Money Resolutions for 2022You might not be able to follow through on all 22 of these resolutions, but implement even just a few of these and you’ll be well on your way to a more prosperous financial life in the coming year. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2022-01-0631 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 47: Mailbag: Pension OptionsWe open up the mailbag to answer some of our listener's questions on today's podcast. We will cover managing your risk tolerance, options for a pension, and early retirement considerations. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-12-1621 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 46: Unreasonable RequestsCertainly, none of our podcast listeners would be guilty of making unreasonable requests, but let’s talk about some of the unreasonable requests we hear from others in the financial world. We’ll explore what makes them unreasonable and what proper expectations look like instead. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-12-0223 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 45: Tax Consequences - Pros & Cons of Various Account TypeThere's a variety of different tax accounts to choose from, and while some seem good in the short term, they also carry long-term consequences. Let's further examine the different types and what pros and cons that accompany them. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-11-1832 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 44: How Overconfidence Can Lead To Financial RuinConfidence is always important when it comes to a financial plan, but sometimes being overconfident can also be the demise of that plan. Let's talk about what mistakes people can make when it comes to being overly confident. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-11-0425 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 43: Financial Mistakes Couples Often MakeGetting husbands and wives on the same page with their retirement plan can often be a challenge. Let’s talk about some of the things that couples often mess up. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-10-2126 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 42: Mind The GapIf you’ve ever ridden the subway in London, you’ve probably seen the “Mind the Gap” signs warning you to be aware of the gap between the train door and the station platform. Let’s talk today about minding the gaps in retirement planning. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-10-0729 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 41: Mailbag! Answering Your Financial QuestionsWe dedicate this show to answering some mailbag questions. Today we will discuss estate taxes, planning out a retirement with a significant age gap, and robo advisors. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-09-1627 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 40: What Makes Your Financial Advisor Tick?It’s time to peel back the curtain a little bit to learn about your financial advisor. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-09-0226 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 39: It's Just a JokeTalking about finances doesn't always have to be so serious. In today's episode we use a couple of dad jokes to discuss some common misconceptions and topics that viewers may be unsure about. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-08-1927 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 38: 5 Things You Must Know About Decumulation To Retire SuccessfullyOften times we focus just on the accumulation of assets as we near retirement, but decumulation is just as important when it comes to collecting those assets. Ryan goes through five things we should watch out for as we enter retirement. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-08-0524 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 37: Learning Through Uncommon SenseAt first glance, each of these statements seem like basic common sense that everyone agrees with. But when we look at the way people actually behave with their money, it seems that common sense is actually a bit uncommon. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-07-1526 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 36: Not Your Father’s RetirementIf you’re of the age that your mom and dad retired 20 or 30 years ago, the world was a much different place when they walked away from their paychecks. Let’s talk about how things are different now. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-07-0131 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 35: Do Retirees Really Need Life Insurance?Ironically, life insurance is a young man’s game. The perception among many people is that your need for life insurance dramatically decreases and perhaps becomes completely unnecessary as you age. Is that really the case? On this episode, let’s explore some ins and outs of life insurance and its various uses. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-06-1723 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 34: Financial Fact or FictionSometimes the easiest way to learn about something is make it really simple. Like some of the first true/false tests you might have taken in school, let’s play a round of fact or fiction to test your financial planning acuity. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-06-0326 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 33: How Long Will Your Money Last? Let’s Run The NumbersIf you had a million dollars, how long would it last you in retirement? How drastically does that longevity change if you move to a bigger/smaller city? We’ll take a look at some stats from various areas across the country to show how difficult it is to make your money last in some areas, and how easy it might be in others. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-05-2025 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 32: Are You Flirtin’ With Disaster?Let’s talk about some of the areas of your financial life where you might be flirtin’ with disaster and don’t even know it on today's show. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-05-0625 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 31: The Status of the American Pension PlanAre pension plans truly disappearing across the country? Let’s take a look at the status of pension plans in America and how changes in that space impact you when planning for retirement. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-04-1524 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 30: This is Why You Never AssumeYou know what they typically say about making assumptions. Ryan shares many of the common assumptions people have about their financial future and how you should prepare for them before it's too late. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-04-0126 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 29: Retirement Planning For Business OwnersBusiness owners are particularly vulnerable to some misconceptions and false assumptions about their retirement. Let’s address a few of these issues. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-03-1830 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 28: How Women Can Make Sure They’re Involved In Financial DecisionsA recent survey found that nearly half of the female respondents said they defer major financial and investment decisions to their spouses. Most of the explanations amounted to just wanting to stick their heads in the sand. They want to just know they’re taken care of, but not get mired in the minutia. But we’ve heard countless stories of why this is a bad idea because one day you might become the lead decision maker. On this episode, let’s go over some tips for how women can get back in the game when it comes to involv...

2021-03-0427 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 27: The Three Qualities of MoneyRyan discusses how each revenue stream factors in the three qualities of money: growth, safety, and liquidity. We also discuss how these factors change in relation to each other as you make financial decisions. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-02-1826 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 26: Where All My Financial Knowledge Comes FromFrom smart decisions he made during his baseball career to eventually owning his own financial company, Ryan tells stories of how he gained the financial knowledge he has today as well as what listeners can do to start making smarter decisions. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-02-0428 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 25: Understanding the Different Types of RiskThere are many more risks to guard against in retirement planning than most people realize. Let’s explore some of the planning risks we all face and how to prepare for them. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-01-2128 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 24: Things Nobody SaysYou’ve probably never heard anyone make these statements that we’ll provide on today’s episode. And there are some great reasons why. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2021-01-0725 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 23: A 5 Question Retirement Preparedness QuizWant to grade your preparedness for retirement? Here are five key questions you need to ask yourself. Your answers will help determine how ready you are for retirement. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-12-1723 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 22: Is Diversification for Suckers?If you look up quotes about diversification from famous investors, you might come across one from renowned investor Warren Buffet that will certainly raise your eyebrows. It goes, “Diversification is protection against ignorance. It makes little sense if you know what you are doing.” Yet, we’ve always heard about diversification being one of the keys to success for retirement planning. How can these seemingly different ideas both be right? Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-12-0328 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 21: The 401(k) FAQsThis episode is all about addressing the most frequently asked questions about 401(k)s. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-11-1929 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 20: Following The Financial CommandmentsOn this episode, we present you with five commandments that are worth of being written on stone tablets in your retirement plan. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-11-0526 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 19: Eye Opening Stats Showing How Americans SaveVanguard’s “How America Saves 2020” report is packed with lots of intriguing stats and findings about Americans and how they save for retirement in the crazy year that is 2020 (most of the recent data is technically from 2019 although some figures are current through the Spring of 2020). Let’s look at some of the top takeaways from the study and how you might compare to the “normal” savings behaviors of Americans. Show Notes: How America Saves 2020 Article: https://institutional.vanguard.com/ngiam/assets/pdf/has/how-america-saves-report-2020.pdf Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com

2020-10-1529 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 18: Obsolete Retirement Planning IdeasJust like your iPhone or your computer can become obsolete and need to be replaced, the way that some people think about retirement is obsolete and needs to be replaced. Let’s talk about some outdated ideas that people still cling to. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-10-0126 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 17: Financial Issues Particularly Challenging For WomenMany financial issues impact us all the same. But, of course, other challenges have varying impacts from person to person because our situations are all unique. Let’s take a look at some of the financial and retirement challenges that are unique to women. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-09-1725 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 16: How To Build Your Financial HouseFor some people, the idea of putting together a financial plan doesn’t sound like much fun. But the idea of building a home sounds like a lot of fun. So let’s find the similarities in building a strong financial plan and a dream home. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-09-0326 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 15: The Difficulty Of Financial Planning After The Death Of A SpouseIt is a life event that can be one of the most difficult things to go through both emotionally and financially. When one spouse dies, the remaining spouse is left to wrestle with a mountain of questions and choices. And although it’s difficult to discuss, proper planning can help make it easier to transition through this major life event. Let’s explore what someone should do in the event of a spouse’s passing, but also some of the pre-planning that can take place. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-08-2026 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 14: Classic Pre-Retiree MistakesThere are some financial planning blunders that are interesting to talk about but are quite rare in reality. On the other hand, there are some financial planning mistakes that happen far too often. Let’s talk about the mistakes so many people have made in the past it has made them “classic”. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-08-0624 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 13: What Mark Twain Can Teach Us About MoneyWhat can we learn about money by exploring some quotes from the great Mark Twain? Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-07-1622 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 12: Traditional IRA Vs Roth IRAIt seems that most people don’t have a clear picture of whether they should contribute to a traditional IRA or a Roth. Let’s discuss how to determine what’s best for you. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-07-0224 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 11: Are You Paying Attention To Your Biggest Assets?If you really took inventory of your financial situation, you might find that you’ve been taking for granted some assets that make up a huge piece of your puzzle. Is it possible you should be putting a little more thought into some of these assets? Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-06-1820 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 10: How to Avoid Critical Retirement Planning MistakesLet’s talk about some of the common mistakes that we see being made time and time again by retirees and pre-retirees… Show Notes: NG3 Website: www.ng3.org FCA Website: www.fca.org Browns Bridge Website: brownsbridge.org Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-06-0429 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 9: Retirement AccountsThe Coronavirus stimulus bill now makes it easier for Americans to withdraw money from their 401(k)s and other types of retirement accounts. Is this a wise choice to help ease the burden of the crisis? Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-05-2124 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 8: Coronavirus Market UpdateTime for an update on where we stand with the markets, the economy, and retirement planning as it relates to the Coronavirus pandemic. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-05-0728 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 7: Financial CrosswordIf you’ve ever done a crossword puzzle, you know how much a wrong answer can mess you up. You might think that you have the right answer for 17-across, but you just can’t figure out how the answer to 13-down starts with the letters “XC.” Well, the problem is that you have the wrong answer in 17-across, and that X should really be an S. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-04-1624 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 6: Stages Of RetirementHow far out from retirement are you? 15 years? 10? 5? Is it on the doorstep? No matter which stage you’re in, there are some really important things you should be thinking about as you inch closer to that day you call it quits at work. On this episode, we’ll walk through these different stages to see exactly the kinds of things you should be doing from a planning perspective and how your focus changes as you get closer to the big day. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-04-0224 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 5: How To Set Financial & Retirement GoalsWe talk all the time about how people need to give their dollars purpose or set goals for their retirement and even specifically for certain investments. But let’s dive deeper into what different goals look like for various folks approaching retirement. How do you determine if a goal is realistic or out of reach? We’ll tackle that conversation with plenty of examples on this episode. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-03-1923 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 4: Everything You Need to Know About Roth ConversionsThe idea of a Roth conversion is intriguing to a lot of people, and for some people it can be a great strategy to enact. Let’s explore the concept… Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-03-0525 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 3: Lies You Learn in Broker SchoolA lot of financial professionals say things that just aren’t true. And it’s not that they’re intentionally trying to mislead, it’s just that they’ve been trained to use certain talking points, which they might even believe to be true themselves. Let’s talk about the statements you should be cautious of if you hear them from a financial advisor. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-02-2024 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 2: Where to Find Bias in Financial MediaIt’s always good to keep yourself up to date with what’s going on in the financial world. But it’s also important to understand that the information you get from the media isn’t completely unbiased. Let’s talk about some of the problems with the financial media. Show Notes: Call: 470-508-0508 Website: https://blackoakam.com/

2020-02-0622 min

Perfect Game Retirement Ep 1: Get To Know Your Host - Ryan LeddenWelcome to The Perfect Game Retirement Podcast with former professional baseball player and now financial coach at Black Oak Asset Management, Ryan Ledden! The Perfect Game Retirement Podcast is brought to you by Black Oak Asset Management, serving the greater Atlanta area with offices in Alpharetta, Cartersville and Macon. This is the show that'll help you make the right decisions, so you can pitch a "perfect game" in retirement. On this first episode, we'll get to know Ryan & Black Oak Asset Management a little bit better. We'll talk about what you can expect on future episodes of t...

2020-01-2823 min