What does it really look like to work with a financial planning team that knows your federal benefits inside and out—and shows up for you year after year? In this episode, John and Tommy take you behind the scenes of Mason & Associates’ Strategic Planning Meeting Season (SPM), where they conduct over 400 client meetings in just six weeks. They share real conversations, real actions, and the process that makes it all work. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Me...
Jun 23, 2025•1 hr 2 min
What does it take to grow a financial advisory firm the right way, without sacrificing client experience? In this episode, John and Tommy pull back the curtain on the strategic direction of Mason & Associates, sharing how they’re enhancing services, refining internal systems, and ensuring their clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you’re already a client or someone searching for the right financial advisor, this episode offers valuable insights into the kind of care and inte...
Jun 09, 2025•30 min
Federal salaries don't always tell the whole story. In this episode, John and Tommy take a closer look at the true value of federal employment, highlighting how benefits like pensions, FEHB health coverage, TSP matching, and survivor options stack up against the private sector. You'll learn why it could take a 30-50% higher salary elsewhere to match the federal total compensation package, and why those numbers matter when making career decisions. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associa...
May 26, 2025•51 min
Is reviewing your tax return enough or are you missing the bigger picture? In this episode, Tommy and John break down why simply looking at last year’s return doesn’t cut it, and how projection-based planning connects directly to key financial decisions like Roth conversions, mortgage deductions, and retirement income strategy. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn TurboTax Fo...
May 12, 2025•40 min
What does a real financial planner actually do—and how do you know if you’ve hired one? In this episode, Michael, Tommy and John break down the most common misconceptions about financial planning and explain why it’s about much more than just investment management. You’ll learn why financial planning is especially crucial for federal employees, how fiduciary standards impact the advice you receive, and what red flags to look for in a planner. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates,...
Apr 28, 2025•46 min
What if your six-month emergency fund isn’t enough? In this episode, John, Michael, and Tommy tackle the shifting financial landscape for federal employees in 2025. As government changes create uncertainty—think early retirements and layoffs—they share smart, strategic ways to prepare. You’ll learn how to build a tiered emergency plan, optimize your liquidity, and adapt your lifestyle budget in case your income suddenly takes a hit. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resou...
Apr 14, 2025•44 min
Should you elect full survivor benefits when retiring as a federal employee? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Mike discuss one of the most critical decisions for federal retirees. They explore the costs, benefits, and long-term financial implications of survivor benefits, urging retirees to carefully consider their options. They also emphasize the importance of full survivor benefits for ensuring continued income for spouses after retirement, providing real-life examples to show how these benef...
Mar 31, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Medicare decisions can be overwhelming, and with rising costs and policy changes, making the right choice is more important than ever. In this episode, Bryan Gay, owner of Boomer Insurance Group, shares his insights from helping over 20,000 clients navigate Medicare enrollment, insurance options, and the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act. He explains why working with his team can be a game-changer and how choosing the wrong plan could cost you in the long run. Access the full show notes at M...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 6 min
Is the Deferred Resignation Program an opportunity or a risk for federal employees? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Michael break down what this program means, how it’s impacting federal employees, and why having a solid financial plan in place is more important than ever. They’ll discuss why you can’t rely on every media headline, the importance of working with a knowledgeable team, and how to position yourself for financial stability—no matter how secure your job may seem. Access the full sh...
Mar 03, 2025•43 min
Did you know that the recent passage of the Social Security Fairness Act could significantly increase retirement income for many Americans? In this episode, John and Tommy break down the elimination of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), explaining how these changes impact public sector employees and their Social Security benefits. They discuss how financial advisors can help clients navigate these shifts, optimize their benefits, and prepare for potenti...
Feb 17, 2025•47 min
Are you ready to make informed decisions about your federal benefits and financial future? In this episode, Tommy, John and Ben explore the current market landscape and what the start of 2025 could mean for investors, especially those navigating the complexities of federal benefits. They discuss the importance of staying focused on long-term growth despite market volatility and share actionable tips on building a financial plan for the new year, balancing personal goals, tax considerations, and ...
Feb 03, 2025•51 min
How will upcoming changes to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) impact your retirement strategy? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben explore the evolving landscape of TSP, focusing on new contribution limits and, coming in 2026, in-plan Roth conversions. They emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach to financial planning, avoiding groupthink, and tailoring strategies to each client’s unique needs. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Tommy Black...
Jan 20, 2025•43 min
What happens when Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy take the reins of government efficiency? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben dive into the bold initiatives of Trump 2.0's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Musk and Ramaswamy. With plans to slash $2 trillion in federal spending and eliminate entire agencies, this duo's vision could ripple through the federal and state systems, impacting employees, communities, and businesses alike. Access the full show notes at Mason & Assoc...
Jan 06, 2025•41 min
Are you concerned about the future of Social Security? ith proposed changes to taxation and potential expansion of who is eligible for benefits, it's more important than ever to understand how these changes could impact your retirement. In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben, explain the complexities of Social Security. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
Dec 23, 2024•59 min
Are you a federal employee curious about the best mortgage strategies in today’s market? In this episode, John and Tommy are joined by James Anderson, Regional Market Manager at CapCenter, to explore how inflation, interest rates, and economic resilience impact federal employees looking to buy or refinance. Learn how income is defined for mortgage purposes, why interest rates might improve over time, how to navigate today’s market without waiting for rates to drop, and how federal retirees can d...
Dec 09, 2024•48 min
Are you still relying on traditional tax preparation methods or software? In this episode, John, Tommy, and special guest Rachel Meredith from Banks Mountain Financial dive into the crucial difference between tax planning and simple tax preparation. They explain why a proactive, year-round tax strategy is key to long-term financial success, as well as how their seamless collaboration helps clients navigate tax challenges with a forward-thinking approach. Access the full show notes at Mason &...
Nov 25, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Are you paying the right price for financial advice? Join Ben, Michael, John, and Tommy as they break down the complexities of financial advisor fees and the real value behind them. They’ll reveal the “all-in” costs clients face and explain why fees aren’t always comparable, shedding light on what makes a financial advisor worth their price. Through this episode, you’ll learn to assess the true worth of specialized advisors and why experience, like that of a seasoned CFP or CPA, might demand a h...
Nov 11, 2024•52 min
What happens when emotions mix with investments? In this episode, we dive into the intersection of politics, markets, and personal finance. John and Tommy share insights on how to design a portfolio that minimizes unknowns, regardless of political changes. You’ll learn why staying the course is crucial—even when market predictions seem tempting—and how a solid, long-term strategy can help you avoid emotional pitfalls. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC...
Oct 31, 2024•53 min
Are you a federal employee planning for retirement but feeling overwhelmed by your options? In this episode, Michael, Ben, Tommy, and John break down the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS), explaining key retirement benefits and strategies to maximize your pension. From the differences between immediate retirements to the role of sick leave and survivor benefits, this episode covers what you need to know. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC...
Oct 28, 2024•47 min
What happens to your estate planning documents when you move between states? In this episode, Megan Ingram and Julie Steinbacher from Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak share expert advice on the legal implications of relocating and how it affects your estate plan. You'll learn about the importance of keeping your documents updated, especially after major life changes or moves, and how laws like the Uniform Trust Act help estate documents travel across state lines. Access the full show notes at ...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 20 min
Are you confused about when to refinance your mortgage or how interest rates affect your decisions? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben dive into critical financial topics for federal retirees navigating today's housing market. You'll learn about the challenges of refinancing, when it's a good idea, and when you might want to hold off. They also explore discount points, what makes buying a home more difficult now than in the past, and how to prepare for future market changes. Access the full s...
Sep 30, 2024•47 min
Are you truly prepared for the unexpected? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, and John dive into how to protect yourself financially, tackling the common objections and biases they encounter in their decades of experience. You’ll hear key insights on insurance, including how to ensure you’re covered before you need it, how FEGLI Option B compares to Basic, and why life and disability insurance are non-negotiable. Listen in to learn why it's crucial to plan both for living a long, fulfilling life a...
Sep 16, 2024•49 min
What’s the best way to maximize your Social Security benefits? In this episode, Tommy and John dive into this critical topic with expert Elaine Floyd, CFP®, who shares insights from her extensive experience in retirement and life planning. Elaine explains the intricacies of Social Security, emphasizing that your benefit and retirement strategy should be tailored to your unique situation, rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC...
Sep 02, 2024•57 min
Is it the right time to hire a financial planner? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Michael dive into the intricacies of financial planning and highlight the importance of expert guidance. They discuss the pitfalls of trying to manage your finances alone, the risks of bad advice, and why getting professional help early on can make all the difference. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
Aug 19, 2024•43 min
Are you wealthier than you think? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Mike will explore how you can activate your millionaire powers and start making decisions based on what you can afford, rather than what you think you can’t. They’ll discuss the importance of having a proactive approach to financial planning, so you’re prepared to make well-informed decisions before it’s too late. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
Aug 05, 2024•47 min
What goes into a successful strategic planning meeting? In this episode, Tommy, John, Ben, and Michael dive into their strategic planning meeting season, sharing valuable insights and lessons learned. They discuss the importance of holding these meetings to ensure everyone is aligned in their financial plans for 2024. You'll learn why it's crucial to plan for your future early and avoid letting retirement sneak up on you, as well as the significance of having a consistent and smooth approach to ...
Jul 22, 2024•44 min
Have you considered whether your financial plan can adapt to fit your life as things change? Join Tommy, Michael, John, and Ben in this episode as they unpack distribution planning assumptions and explain why a one-time financial plan falls short. They tackle the myth that running out of money equals failure, highlighting how other income sources like federal benefits and investments can play a crucial role in financial security. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC...
Jul 08, 2024•44 min
Have you ever wondered about the ins and outs of the Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and its impact on your financial future? In today's episode, John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben break down the competitive advantages and disadvantages of the TSP. We'll explore the benefits of maintaining your TSP long after retirement, including one option that allows post-tax contributions to grow tax-free. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC...
Jun 24, 2024•46 min
How does the financial-planner-to-client ratio impact the quality of financial advice? In this episode, John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben will discuss how the ratio of clients per advisor shapes their approach to financial planning. They will share their journey from managing 150 - 200 clients per planner to capping it at 100, explaining why this change was necessary for delivering top-notch service. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC...
Jun 10, 2024•40 min
How do financial planners demonstrate value? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben explain the intricacies of the client relationships they maintain as financial planners. They unpack the distinction between onboarding and ongoing client service, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a continuous partnership with your financial advisor. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
May 27, 2024•45 min
