Kristin and Greg dive into a new survey ranking Americaâs top bottled water brandsâcomplete with strong opinions, unexpected picks, and even a little âbougieâ vs. budget debate. Then the conversation shifts to serious retirement talk, with Greg outlining the key questions to ask when interviewing financial advisors, how different fee structures work, and why a truly customized retirement plan matters more than a cookie-cutter approach. Itâs part lighthearted taste test, part essential financial ...
Aug 19, 2025â˘11 min
This week, we discuss the new iPhone emojis and the surprising truth behind the âprayerâ handsâbefore shifting gears into a real conversation about balance. We explore why many workers leave paid time off unused, how our team balances productivity and personal life, and the parallels between work-life balance and smart retirement planning. Whether itâs juggling risk and safety in your portfolio or making sure you actually take that vacation, itâs all about finding the mix that works for you! Rea...
Aug 12, 2025â˘12 min
In this episode, we delve into the humorous miscommunications that arise with age and simply being human. We also discuss another equally important aspect: financial liquidity in retirement. From surprise plumbing disasters to flying curtain weights (yes, really), life happens â and having the right emergency fund in place can be the difference between stress and freedom. Weâll explore how much liquidity might be right for you, why itâs not one-size-fits-all, and how it ties into your retirement...
Aug 05, 2025â˘10 min
Even the happiest couples argue â and sometimes itâs on air! đŠââ¤ď¸âđ¨ Kristen and Greg get real about relationships, tone of voice, and why mutual respect matters at home and with Uncle Sam! Speaking of strained relationships, if youâre turning 73 this year, your mandatory date with the IRS is about to begin. We break down everything you need to know about Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): when to take them, how theyâre calculated, the difference between IRAs and 401(k)s, and how smart plan...
Jul 29, 2025â˘12 min
In this episode, we share a heartfelt story about a travel-loving mom who never lost her sense of adventure, even at the age of 90. Then we dig into the surprising history of taxesâfrom the ancient Egyptian Pharaohâs grain grabs to the modern-day IRSâand how those same tax burdens can sneak up on your retirement. Learn how to spot the warning signs, avoid common tax pitfalls, and why using tools like TestMyRetirement.com can help you keep more of what youâve worked so hard to save. Need a little...
Jul 22, 2025â˘12 min
In this episode, we go from laundry piles to financial files! We discuss whether we really have to wash new clothes before wearing them (spoiler: yes), and the importance of kids having household responsibilities. Then, the conversation shifts to another kind of clutter: unused subscriptions and hidden financial costs. Greg compares this to tax-deferred retirement accounts like 401(k)sâconvenient now but potentially costly later. They break down the difference between delaying and saving on taxe...
Jul 08, 2025â˘14 min
Greg and Kristin kick things off with a fun fact about sea otters that might just resemble Gregâs love language in real life. From playful jabs to deeper relationship dynamics, the conversation takes a meaningful turn, exploring the importance of planning and staying connected in retirement as well. They break down a real-life scenario: if you're 65 and have $300,000 set aside to put into a fixed indexed annuity, how much could it pay and for how long? The duo explains the three main income stra...
Jul 01, 2025â˘14 min
This week, we discuss small spending habitsâsuch as eating out, using DoorDash, and daily coffeeâthat most Americans admit are wasteful but struggle to quit. Then we pivot to a bigger financial picture: retirement readiness! We share the story of a couple with over $500,000 saved who asked the key question: â Have we done enough? â Their journey reveals how thoughtful planning, balancing risk, and maximizing income sources can make retirement possible, even without a million-dollar nest egg. Rea...
Jun 24, 2025â˘12 min
Denmark is making headlines with plans to raise its retirement age to 70 by 2040, reflecting a growing global trend of adjusting retirement based on life expectancy. This sparks a bigger conversationâwhat is the right age to retire, and are you really ready? đ§ Greg and Kristin explore the three key areas of retirement readiness: financial, social, and emotional. Through real-life stories, they show how retirement planning isnât just about numbersâitâs about creating the freedom to choose when a...
Jun 17, 2025â˘12 min
In this episode, we reflect on our grandparentsâ simple, family-focused lives and contrast them with the retirement worries of today, including taxes, investments, and planning. Greg and Kristin share touching family stories and emphasize the importance of planning carefully for today's retirees, particularly regarding taxable withdrawals from 401(k)s, IRAs, and the growing government debt. The website mentioned for a FREE personalized tax map report is TestMyRetirement.com . See omnystudio.com/...
Jun 10, 2025â˘11 min
Greg and Kristin reflect on the emotional journey of their son Christianâs high school graduation, and how these family milestones often parallel the retirement planning they do with clients. Listen for insight about the importance of organizing, embracing change, and finding new purpose in both family and financial life transitions. Confident you're on the right path to create your version of a Winning Retirement? Complete this brief form to schedule a complimentary consultation. See omnystudio...
Jun 03, 2025â˘11 min
We touch on Tom Cruiseâs latest Mission: Impossible, and his intent to never retire, then shift to Warren Buffettâs advice to invest in a low-cost S&P 500 index fund. While that might work for younger investors, Greg and Kristin warn retirees to be cautious. Market drops can seriously impact income in retirement! Their takeaway: donât follow headlines blindly. Build a plan with your portfolio that balances income, growth, and safety, especially as you near retirement. Unsure if youâre on tra...
May 27, 2025â˘12 min
Greg and Kristin dive into a pressing issue affecting more families than ever before: the increasing need for long-term care in America. Youâll hear a personal caregiving experience, a journey that has become common among friends, neighbors, and loved ones. But hereâs the catch: traditional long-term care insurance is disappearing, and the few policies still available are often too expensive, and if you donât use them, you lose the money you paid in. Listen to learn about other strategies availa...
May 20, 2025â˘14 min
Greg and Kristen discuss tipping trends and why some people tip less with digital prompts. They also break down Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): when to take them, how theyâre taxed, and strategies to avoid costly mistakes. Unsure if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out this short form for a FREE consultation . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
May 13, 2025â˘12 min
After discussing the differences between being frugal and being cheap, Greg and Kristin highlight why many retirees find it challenging to begin spending their money. In addition to having an investment and income plan, creating a spending plan is essential. Retirement represents a significant life change that many people fail to recognize, and transitioning from saving to spending from your portfolio is a crucial part of this shift. We also examine what retirement may look like for those who ow...
Apr 29, 2025â˘13 min
We recap Uber's weird lost and found items and share a tale of a misfortune-stricken philanthropist. Then explore the rewards of generosity. Kristin will also provide us with an update on the latest developments at Dare For More , one of her beloved charities. Need a little help getting organized? Download a FREE copy of Legacyâs My Retirement Kit to help you get organized: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Apr 24, 2025â˘12 min
After discovering that Greg and Kristin work and exercise together, we shift our focus to family matters. We examine the various reasons why retirees sometimes provide financial assistance to their adult children. Listen for stories that shed light on both sides of this important issue. Wondering if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out this short form for a FREE consultation . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Apr 22, 2025â˘11 min
Google searches for " how to reduce stress " have reached a record high. With the markets responding to tariff news, many individuals with retirement funds on Wall Street are feeling uneasy. Greg and Kristin discuss the importance of having a plan that considers challenging times so that your income isnât dependent on the uncertainties of the market! đ¤ Wondering if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out this short form for a FREE consultation . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat...
Apr 17, 2025â˘10 min
This week, we're discussing everyday things that make us feel unsettled or uncomfortable. One topic that stands out is Math Anxiety. This issue can create significant challenges during retirement. If memories of Geometry and Algebra are causing you to avoid your financial and retirement planning, remember that you donât have to tackle it all by yourself! Greg and Kristin talk about âdoing the mathâ to NOT run out of money in retirement. Feeling stuck with your retirement planning? Download a FRE...
Apr 15, 2025â˘13 min
The world has changed dramatically in just the past 10 years! This is especially true for Greg and Kristin as the school season comes to a close. In this episode, we reflect on various aspects of life, from movies and music to customer service and everything in between. We discuss how we approach different parts of our lives much differently than we did just a few years ago. Planning for retirement has evolved as well. Whether you have a 401(k), pension, stocks, bonds, ETFs, mutual funds, or an ...
Apr 10, 2025â˘12 min
Did you know pure gold (23-24 karat) is safe to consume in small quantities? You might have seen advertisements about investing in precious metals. That's why we're exploring gold as an asset class for individuals who are in or approaching retirement as part of a diversified portfolio. This is especially relevant now, with market volatility! Also, listen to learn how much of a creature of habit Greg is! Ready to design your ideal retirement? Schedule a FREE consultation! See omnystudio.com/liste...
Apr 08, 2025â˘13 min
Are you feeling overwhelmed when it comes to making money decisions? Youâre not alone. A recent survey shows that 53% of Americans feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about their finances. Greg and Kristin discuss the importance of avoiding "paralysis by analysis" and how collaborating with a fiduciary financial advisor can alleviate some of those feelings. Additionally, they emphasize the need to avoid being âGoogle slapped,â as Greg puts it. Wondering if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out...
Apr 03, 2025â˘12 min
Are you feeling overwhelmed when it comes to making money decisions? Youâre not alone. A recent survey shows that 53% of Americans feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about their finances. Greg and Kristin discuss the importance of avoiding "paralysis by analysis" and how collaborating with a fiduciary financial advisor can alleviate some of those feelings. Additionally, they emphasize the need to avoid being âGoogle slapped,â as Greg puts it. Confident you're on the right path to create your ver...
Apr 01, 2025â˘9 min
Americans do a lot of giving, and often, that giving mindset doesnât change when you stop working. In retirement, there are efficient ways to give that some take advantage of. In fact, Kristin shares how one woman made her qualified charitable distribution (QCD) goals from her retirement accounts come to life despite some paperwork obstacles. Need a little help getting organized? Download a FREE copy of Legacyâs My Retirement Kit to help you get organized. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy...
Mar 25, 2025â˘10 min
Retirement can be a challenging transition. This week, we discuss how to tailor your retirement plans to your unique situation, considering your budget, portfolio, income, and more. We'll also explore the "normal" expectations of retirement and share stories of people enjoying their unique retirement lifestyles. Wondering if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out this short form for a FREE consultation . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Mar 18, 2025â˘13 min
In this episode, Greg and Kristin dive into the world of annuities, breaking down the key differences, including their advantages and disadvantages, to help you navigate retirement income concerns. đ¸ Plus, the interesting story behind the first-ever selfie and when it was taken! Feeling stuck with your retirement planning? Download a FREE copy of Legacyâs My Retirement Kit to help get organized: See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Mar 11, 2025â˘12 min
This week's episode covers encouraging economic news regarding Americans and debt, the significance of maintaining an emergency fund as you approach or enter retirement, and advice for those worried about market volatility and risk exposure. Unsure if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out this short form for a FREE consultation . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Mar 04, 2025â˘12 min
From investing to spending, budgeting, and even charitable giving, maintaining open communication about finances is crucial for couples. đŠââ¤ď¸âđ¨ Greg and Kristin share how they avoid money miscommunications, and how they encourage the families they help to do the same. Need a little help getting organized? Download a FREE copy of Legacyâs My Retirement Kit to help you get organized. ________________ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Feb 25, 2025â˘11 min
We discuss tax season and what you need to know if you're approaching age 73 and preparing to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). We'll cover important topics such as how much you need to withdraw, penalties and fees to avoid, and the benefits of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). By the end of this episode, you should have a clearer understanding of your future tax obligations in retirement. Wondering if youâre on track with your future taxes in retirement? Click here for a FREE...
Feb 18, 2025â˘14 min
Does your advisor address how youâll use your money in retirement? Have they helped you create a plan to be tax-efficient with your portfolio when you stop working? Hear insight into those questions, plus Gregâs âwhyâ on this weekâs episode. Wondering if youâre on track for retirement? Fill out this short form for a free consultation . ___________________ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....
Feb 11, 2025â˘12 min
