Inflation is a topic that affects everyone but can be a bit confusing to understand, especially when it comes to retirement planning. If you’ve found yourself wondering where inflation numbers come from and how they might impact your situation, today’s episode is for you! Stay tuned as we cover the basics of inflation and help you understand its impact on retirement planning. Listen in as Liz and Marc unpack the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index, and other...
Mar 21, 2024•18 min
Is 'Lazy Money' still a concern in 2024's higher interest rate landscape? In this episode, we explore this question, examining how the recent rise in interest rates affects the money sitting in savings accounts, CDs, and conservative investments. Stay tuned as we cover where these options fit in a savvy investment strategy. You’ll gain valuable insights into making your money work smarter, ensuring that your retirement portfolio not only meets your needs today but continues to do so in the ever-...
Mar 07, 2024•13 min
Would you benefit from a backdoor Roth strategy? Join us as we explore the ins and outs of this question, tackling what it is, how it works, and, most importantly, whether it might be the right move for you. We’ll discuss the pros and cons, identify the ideal candidates, and talk about why it’s gaining traction in today’s financial landscape. We’ll kick off the episode by addressing the basics of the backdoor Roth and dispel some common misconceptions about it. Then, we’ll discuss the potential ...
Feb 22, 2024•15 min
When it comes to retirement planning, many people think about what year they’d like to retire. But choosing the optimal month to retire is just as important. In this week’s episode, we’ll discuss some important things to think about when it comes to finding the ideal timing for you. From financial factors like bonuses and stock options to strategic retirement income planning, tax implications, and emotional aspects, there’s more to consider than you might think. Don't miss this episode for impor...
Feb 08, 2024•19 min
Are you prepared for the realities of long-term care? While conversations about long-term care might not be the most thrilling, they are undeniably important. Listen in as Liz and Marc provide an insightful guide to understanding the nuances of long-term care. In this conversation, we’ll explore the various levels of assistance that may become necessary for you or your loved ones, shedding light on associated costs and effective ways to financially prepare for the future. Stay tuned as we debunk...
Jan 25, 2024•25 min
Everyone wants to know. Will the economy boom or bust in 2024? Join us as we explore a range of expert predictions, from the shifting trends in housing prices to the looming question of a potential recession or stock market crash. We'll balance our discussion with both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives from an array of sources to give you a comprehensive view. Tune in to navigate the uncertainties and opportunities of 2024's economic landscape and equip yourself with knowledge for the year...
Jan 11, 2024•18 min
Have you ever wondered what questions to ask your financial advisor, or why those questions are crucial? In today’s episode, we’re tackling exactly that. We're discussing the vital questions that bring transparency and depth to your financial advisory relationship. It's about getting clarity on how advisors work, what they specialize in, and how they align with your financial goals. From how much your advisor gets paid to who you’ll be working with on the team, these are the questions you MUST a...
Dec 21, 2023•26 min
Are you over 55 and pondering retirement? Dive into the world of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) with us. RMDs can be confusing, so in today’s episode, Liz is here to unravel the mystery and ensure you have a clear understanding of the process. Listen in as we demystify the reasons behind mandatory withdrawals from your retirement savings. We’ll make sure you understand how to calculate them, share strategies to potentially avoid them and help you understand the risks of not preparing for ...
Dec 07, 2023•24 min
We're nearing the end of the year, but it's not quite over yet! Join 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. Together, we'll navigate through essential topics like managing RMDs, exploring tax-saving opportunities, and even touch ...
Nov 16, 2023•22 min
The SECURE Act 2.0 was passed in January, and it is still confusing to most people. Today we're going to talk about five times the SECURE Act could impact you, whether you're working, retired, or planning for your legacy. Intriguingly, the Secure Act 2.0 has provided more tools and options for retirement planning. However, it's up to you to seize the opportunities these changes offer! Join us for this episode to delve deeper into these vital modifications and ensure you're well-equipped to retir...
Nov 02, 2023•20 min
Are you confused about the four different parts of Medicare and what they each do? Do you have questions about when to enroll? Medicare is a critical component of your retirement plan, and understanding its intricacies is essential. In today’s episode, we break down the ins and outs of Medicare and help you understand the basics of this important health care program. We’ll tackle some common misconceptions about Medicare, explore what it does and does not cover, and more. It’s open enrollment se...
Oct 19, 2023•21 min
Are you contemplating retirement but unsure if it’s the right time? Retiring is a big decision, and the idea of this significant life change can feel intimidating. Many worry about whether they've saved enough, how long their retirement savings will last, and what unexpected events might impact their retirement. Listen in as we explore some common fears and uncertainties that hold people back from embracing this new chapter and explore 5 compelling reasons to consider retiring sooner rather than...
Oct 05, 2023•24 min
Do you have a well thought out written plan that connects your family values with your resources and ensures you can live the retirement you want to live while leaving the legacy you want to leave. Whether you already have a plan, or you're looking to create a plan, you'll want to know some common mistakes you should avoid. Join us today as we’ll run through an important list of seven mistakes that you want to avoid when putting together your retirement plan. Here’s what we’ll cover on the show:...
Sep 21, 2023•20 min
Are you financially prepared for retirement? Many individuals near retirement age find themselves facing uncertainty when it comes to their income plan. In this episode, we explore the importance of a well-constructed retirement income plan and why it's often overlooked. Listen in as Liz shares insights on the complexities of retirement income planning and the dramatic shift from saving and accumulating wealth during one's working years to creating a sustainable income stream in retirement. Disc...
Sep 07, 2023•19 min
In a digital world filled with evolving cyber threats, protecting your financial well-being has never been more crucial. Following the recent data breach involving the “MOVEIt” software program, Liz and Marc discuss 7 practical ways to shield yourself and your family from the increasingly sophisticated tactics of hackers. From safeguarding your credit bureau information with security freezes to using private emails solely for financial matters, we explore actionable strategies that empower you t...
Aug 17, 2023•22 min
Retirement planning often focuses on numbers, and while this is crucial, it's just one part of the equation. A fulfilling retirement is also about having something to retire to - a clear sense of purpose, a social circle, and activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Taking a look at a Kiplinger article , Liz and Marc discuss seven habits for a happy retirement in this episode. Tune in as we discuss staying healthy, maintaining optimism, practicing mindful gratitude, and the joy of having furry...
Aug 03, 2023•23 min
There are plenty of decisions that you’ll make in the retirement planning process that can’t be undone, so you want to make sure that you make the right call. In this episode, Liz and Marc will explain why these decisions are so important and can’t be undone, and provide guidance on making informed choices from the start. The episode will cover various financial decisions that have a substantial impact on your retirement, including determining when to claim Social Security benefits, evaluating p...
Jul 20, 2023•19 min
Celebrate the spirit of July 4th with our latest episode as we tackle the concept of Financial Independence. While the American colonists fought for freedom from British rule, we’re here to discuss what you’re striving to be independent from in your retirement. We’ll unveil the common foes you’ll face on the journey. And good news, no muskets required for these battles! Tune in as Liz explains the importance of being financially prepared so that you can make decisions based on choice rather than...
Jun 29, 2023•19 min
Are you unsure of when to rebalance and how to do it? In this episode, we’ll uncover the importance of rebalancing your portfolio and discuss everything from frequency to tax implications. Plus, we’ll share a cautionary tale about the consequences of neglecting rebalancing. Discover why rebalancing is crucial for maintaining your desired risk tolerance and ensuring portfolio stability. Whether you're still working or already retired, find out how rebalancing can help align your investments with ...
Jun 22, 2023•20 min
If you're approaching retirement, you're likely finding that there is much to think about when planning your retirement withdrawal strategy. Today, Liz and Mark talk about 3 common mistakes you should avoid to get the most out of your retirement savings. Join us as we dive into some popular portfolio strategies that are now a bit outdated and may not work for everyone. We’ll kick off this episode by discussing the importance of understanding your cash flow. Then, we’ll explore the importance of ...
Jun 08, 2023•20 min
Beneficiaries play a crucial role in a carefully planned retirement strategy. Although naming beneficiaries may appear straightforward, there are certain aspects of this process that are easy to overlook if you’re not careful. Failing to handle these aspects correctly could cost you and your loved ones dearly in the future, so in today’s episode, Liz will cover the essentials of this planning process. Join us and learn how to avoid these potential complications. We will discuss the significance ...
May 25, 2023•21 min
Welcome to part 2 of our talk about this year’s top Social Security myths. In part 1, we talked about the myths surrounding benefits for stay-at-home moms, taxes, and whether the Social Security Administration can really help you make decisions. On today’s show, we’ll talk about when to claim benefits, whether you can work and still claim benefits, and more. There are a lot of misconceptions about Social Security out there, and we’re here to set the record straight. Tune in and learn the truth a...
May 11, 2023•18 min
Have you ever wondered if the Social Security system will run out of money before you retire? Or if claiming benefits as soon as you're eligible is the best decision for your financial future? In this two-part episode, we'll debunk the most common myths about Social Security. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about Social Security out there, and we’re here to set the record straight. Tune in and learn the truth about this important benefit, so that you can make the most informed d...
Apr 27, 2023•21 min
If you're planning to leave your wealth to your children and grandchildren, should you also make gifts to them throughout your lifetime? With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expiration on the horizon, we’ve had several questions about this recently. Today we’ll talk about some important things you should think about when considering lifetime gifts. In this episode, we’ll explore the benefits of lifetime gifts, including how they can reduce your tax burden and provide financial support to your loved on...
Apr 13, 2023•24 min
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, it’s important to be aware of potential pitfalls that could derail your financial plan. On this episode, we’ll cover some of the top rookie mistakes we see people make and illustrate how to avoid them or how to fix them if you’ve already made some mistakes in your financial life. It’s easy to get sucked into investment trends that do not align with your future goals, make emotionally based decisions, and to not fully understand the risks you ...
Mar 30, 2023•19 min
Retirement can come with a lot of tax questions and concerns. From understanding the tax implications of withdrawing from your retirement accounts to minimizing taxes on investment income, it can be overwhelming. On today’s episode, we’ll break down the top ten tax questions retirees are asking in 2023. Before you file your 2022 taxes and plan ahead for the rest of the year, make sure to listen to this episode as we’ll discuss some important tax questions that retirees should ask themselves to e...
Mar 16, 2023•22 min
Retirement is a big change of pace. So much of your daily routine is built around work, and when that goes away, it can be difficult to figure out how to keep yourself busy with all that free time. In this episode, we’ll discuss the six types of retirees and how they fill their time. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: Type 1: The Continuer (1:57) Type 2: The Easy Glider (3:41) Type 3: The Adventurer (4:52) Type 4: The Involved Spectator (6:42) Type 5: The Searcher (7:52) Type 6: ...
Mar 02, 2023•16 min
Another year is upon us and it’s a great time to ask yourself 10 questions to assess how ready you are for retirement to kick off 2023. If you’re retiring this year, it’s essential to have some concrete answers to these questions. In this episode, Liz will share this 10-point checklist and explain how each item might impact your retirement. If you’re still a few years from the milestone, tune in so you can start thinking about these critical conversations. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in th...
Feb 16, 2023•25 min
Did you plan to retire in 2023, but now you’re second guessing if that’s a wise move given the bad year in the stock market in 2022 and an uncertain economy in the months ahead? You’re not alone if you’re reconsidering your original retirement date. On this episode of Retire On Your Best Path, Liz will tell us about how these conversations are playing out in her office with clients and she’ll detail the pros and cons of adjusting your retirement date. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this epi...
Feb 02, 2023•20 min•Ep. 14
Market volatility became the norm in 2022. The question investors are asking now is are we in for more of the same in 2023? In this episode, we’ll talk about the market outlook for the next 12 months, plus share tips on how you can best prepare for potential future volatility. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: · What predictions are the experts making for 2023? (1:46) · We all have to be very mindful of recency bias when we make financial decisions. (4:39) · How should you react ...
Jan 19, 2023•26 min
