In this episode, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the implications of overpaying a mortgage and explore alternative strategies for managing cash flow and financial planning in retirement. They emphasize the importance of flexibility in financial decisions, particularly regarding mortgage payments, and the role of life insurance in providing additional security and cash flow. The conversation highlights the need for strategic planning to address potential financial challenges in retirement, s...
Jun 30, 2025•19 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the common financial question of whether individuals should overpay on their mortgages. They explore the implications of mortgage overpayment on cash flow, financial stress, and overall financial planning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of liquidity and how having access to cash can alleviate financial worries, especially as individuals approach retirement. Through various strategies, they illustrate how managing...
Jun 23, 2025•19 min
In this episode, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the impending changes to the Washington State estate tax, including updates to the exemption limits and tax rates. They emphasize the importance of proper estate planning to navigate these changes effectively and ensure that individuals and families can protect their assets and minimize tax liabilities. The conversation highlights the need for coordination among financial advisors, estate planning attorneys, and CPAs to create a comprehensive...
Jun 16, 2025•22 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins delve into the intricacies of index investing, particularly focusing on the S&P 500. They discuss common misconceptions about index investing, the importance of diversification, and the risks associated with over-concentration in large-cap stocks. The conversation also touches on the differences between active and passive investing strategies, emphasizing the need for a well-rounded approach to portfolio management. The hosts ai...
Jun 09, 2025•21 min
In this week's episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo explains the concept of mortgage recasting — a lesser-known alternative to refinancing. He walks listeners through a scenario in how this process works. While not available through all lenders (especially federal loans), mortgage recasting can be a valuable strategy for those looking to improve cash flow or prepare for retirement without refinancing at a higher interest rate. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of y...
Jun 02, 2025•6 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the valuable lessons learned from their experiences with clients over the years. They explore the importance of maintaining emotional balance, planning for both success and worst-case scenarios, and the significance of taking time for family and personal health. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility in financial planning and the evolving nature of personal goals. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a q...
May 26, 2025•19 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the role of buffered ETFs in financial planning. They explore the mechanics of buffered products, including their potential for equity exposure and downside protection. The conversation delves into how these products can be integrated into financial strategies, particularly for individuals nearing retirement or already retired. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the risks and returns associated with buffered...
May 19, 2025•23 min
In this episode, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss effective retirement planning strategies that ensure individuals are not solely dependent on market performance for their retirement income. They emphasize the importance of liquidity, market risks, and the need for a diversified approach to asset allocation. The conversation highlights various withdrawal strategies and the impact of market volatility on retirement savings, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach that mitigates risks wh...
May 12, 2025•21 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Alex Collins discusses the intricacies of converting traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs, including the types of conversions, strategies for implementation, and the tax implications involved. He emphasizes the importance of consulting with tax advisors and financial planners to navigate these decisions effectively. The conversation also covers the timing of conversions, potential costs, and unintended consequences as individuals approach retirement. Check out our web...
May 05, 2025•15 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Alex Collins discusses various strategies for contributing to Roth accounts, including Roth IRAs, Roth 401ks, backdoor Roths, municipal bonds, and permanent life insurance. He emphasizes the importance of consulting with tax professionals and understanding individual circumstances when choosing the best strategy for tax-free growth and withdrawals. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.l...
Apr 28, 2025•12 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the nuances of Roth accounts, focusing on when to contribute to them and the importance of understanding tax brackets. They explore the differences between marginal and effective tax rates, the significance of tax diversification, and strategies for funding Roth accounts. The conversation emphasizes the need for personalized financial planning and the impact of future income on tax strategies. Check out our website: beerandm...
Apr 21, 2025•17 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses essential aspects of retirement planning, focusing on cash flow, taxation, and the risks associated with relying solely on market returns. He emphasizes the importance of setting up a flexible balance sheet to ensure financial security in retirement, while also addressing legacy objectives and minimizing tax liabilities. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingb...
Apr 14, 2025•13 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the essential elements of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of making informed decisions today to secure a successful retirement in the future. He outlines key factors that individuals should consider when saving for retirement, including income needs, tax implications, and the desire to leave a legacy. The episode also delves into asset allocation strategies and the use of Monte Carlo simulations to assess the risk of outliv...
Apr 07, 2025•11 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Alex Collins shares his personal journey in the finance industry, discussing his background, the importance of financial planning, and the impact of partnerships in his career. He emphasizes the significance of helping clients achieve their financial goals and the emotional aspects of financial planning, particularly in times of loss. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesh...
Mar 31, 2025•13 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo shares his personal journey and professional evolution into financial advising. He discusses his background, the importance of understanding client goals, and the role of effective communication in financial planning. Ryan emphasizes that financial planning is not just about money, but about helping clients achieve their desired lifestyles and goals. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to:...
Mar 24, 2025•11 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the importance of umbrella policies in personal finance. They explain what an umbrella policy is, how it provides an extra layer of liability insurance beyond standard policies, and why it is crucial for protecting assets and income. The conversation also covers the cost-effectiveness of these policies and how to determine the right amount of coverage needed. The hosts emphasize the importance of consulting with financial an...
Mar 17, 2025•16 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the concept of exchange funds, particularly for individuals with concentrated stock positions. They explore the implications of holding large amounts of stock in a single company, the tax ramifications of diversifying, and various strategies to manage risk and enhance portfolio diversification. The conversation emphasizes the importance of working with financial and tax advisors to create a tailored strategy for managing con...
Mar 10, 2025•20 min
In this episode of Beer & Money, Ryan Burklo discusses two common misunderstandings about dividends. He explains what dividends are, how they affect stock prices, and the tax implications associated with them. The episode aims to educate listeners on the nuances of dividends, emphasizing the importance of understanding their impact on investments and taxes. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/...
Mar 03, 2025•9 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the recent changes to the rules governing inherited IRAs, particularly focusing on the new 10-year rule that requires non-spouse beneficiaries to deplete inherited accounts within a decade. He explains the implications of this rule, exceptions for certain beneficiaries, and the importance of tax strategies when managing inherited funds. The episode emphasizes the need for financial planning and awareness of IRS regulations to avoid penalti...
Feb 24, 2025•9 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the importance and benefits of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). He explains the qualifications for opening an HSA, the contribution limits, and the unique triple tax advantage that HSAs offer. Ryan emphasizes the potential for long-term growth and the importance of investing the funds within an HSA for future medical expenses, especially in retirement. He also highlights common misconceptions about HSAs and encourages listeners to take adva...
Feb 17, 2025•10 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins delve into the complex topic of tariffs, exploring their definition, implications, and effects on businesses and the economy. They discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of tariffs, including their impact on consumer prices and the risk of trade wars. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding market dynamics and preparing for economic volatility, particularly for small businesses and investors. Check out our ...
Feb 10, 2025•14 min
In this episode, Ryan Burklo discusses the five essential principles of investing, emphasizing the importance of having a well-structured balance sheet, understanding risk, diversifying investments, rebalancing portfolios, and maintaining good behavioral finance practices. He highlights how these principles can help investors navigate market fluctuations and achieve long-term financial success. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: h...
Feb 03, 2025•21 min
In this episode of Beer andMoney, Ryan Burklo discusses various tax strategies for retirement, emphasizing the importance of planning with the end in mind. He explores the implications of different income needs, the 4% withdrawal rule, and compares various tax strategies including amortization and annuities. The conversation highlights how where you place your money can significantly impact your tax bracket and overall financial health in retirement. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a...
Jan 27, 2025•27 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the importance of tax planning for retirement. He emphasizes the need to understand the net after-tax income and how different retirement accounts, such as traditional and Roth accounts, affect future tax liabilities. The conversation includes a visual representation of a fictitious client's financial situation, highlighting the distribution of taxable and non-taxable assets. Ryan encourages listeners to consider their own financial pie ch...
Jan 20, 2025•13 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the intricacies of the tax system, focusing on the differences between marginal and effective tax rates, how bonuses are taxed, and the implications of choosing between traditional and Roth retirement accounts. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts for effective tax planning and long-term financial strategy. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://w...
Jan 13, 2025•11 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the often misunderstood concept of recovery rates in investing, particularly after market downturns. They explore the mathematical realities of recovering from losses, the importance of strategic retirement planning, and the need for a balanced approach to investing that includes both market and non-market assets. The conversation aims to debunk common myths about rate of return and emphasizes the significance of cash flow i...
Jan 06, 2025•19 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo, Alex Collins, and estate planning expert Rob Bukacek discuss the intricacies of estate planning. They cover the importance of having a trust, the process of finding the right attorney, and how to prepare for meetings with legal professionals. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper documentation, the significance of choosing beneficiaries wisely, and the necessity of reviewing estate plans regularly. Listeners are encouraged to take proacti...
Dec 30, 2024•38 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the concept of obligations that individuals actually want to have in their lives. He emphasizes the importance of understanding personal goals beyond traditional financial aspirations, such as retirement and education for children. Ryan encourages listeners to reflect on their current obligations and how they align with their desired lifestyle, particularly in relation to family time and personal health. He shares personal anecdotes about ...
Dec 23, 2024•12 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo discusses the critical distinction between inheritance and investment, drawing from a transformative conversation with a mentor. He emphasizes the importance of investing in children today rather than solely focusing on leaving an inheritance. The discussion highlights how experiences and values can shape financial education and generational wealth, ultimately leading to a more meaningful legacy. Check out our website: beerandmoney.net For a quick a...
Dec 16, 2024•10 min
In this episode of Beer and Money, Ryan Burklo and Alex Collins discuss the five biggest factors of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of income streams, asset location, liquidity, tax distribution status, and tax strategy. They challenge the conventional focus on accumulating a large nest egg and encourage listeners to consider how their savings will translate into cash flow during retirement. The conversation highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to retirement planning ...
Dec 09, 2024•29 min
