6 Changes To Social Security Happening in 2026, #292
Retire With Ryan
The landscape of Social Security is changing yet again. As we enter 2026, six big changes will impact both current and future retirees. I break down everything from the new cost of living adjustment (COLA), increases in the earnings test limit, and updated eligibility requirements, all the way to shifts in the full retirement age and the solvency projections for the Social Security Trust Fund. You’ll also hear practical tips on maximizing your Social Security benefits, how to prepare for what’s ahead, and why it’s more important than ever to have a solid retirement plan in place. ...
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Protecting Your Schwab Accounts From A RAT Attack, #291
Retire With Ryan
Have you ever fallen victim to a RAT attack? No, not the furry kind, a Remote Access Trojan attack. I’m discussing how cybercriminals use social engineering to target victims, and the real-world impact these threats can have on your investment accounts and personal information. I reveal the latest tactics scammers use, and, most importantly, offer practical tips to help you recognize warning signs, safeguard your accounts, and minimize your risk, whether you’re an individual managing your retirement nest egg or a business owner overseeing company assets. You will want to hear...
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Can I Contribute to My 401(k) and a Traditional IRA in the Same Tax Year?, #290
Retire With Ryan
A listener recently wrote in with a common and important retirement planning question: If I’m already maxing out my 401(k), can I also contribute to a traditional IRA in the same year? The short answer is yes—but whether it makes sense, and how much benefit you receive, depends on your income, tax situation, and long-term goals. In this episode, I break down how traditional IRA contributions work alongside employer-sponsored retirement plans, when those contributions are deductible, and what options are available if your income is too high for a deduction. We also explore alternative...
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Top 5 Growth ETFs to Own For 2026 and Beyond, #289
Retire With Ryan
Last week, we covered the best investments to preserve your money, but this week we are shifting gears to focus on growth. For retirees, the goal is to have an income that outpaces inflation, and historically, the best way to achieve that is by having 50% to 70% of your portfolio invested in stock funds. In this episode, I break down five specific Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that can help you grow your wealth in 2026. I discuss why I prefer ETFs over mutual funds, specifically focusing on cost, transparency, and liquidity, and provide the exact ticker symbols and expense ratios for the funds...
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7 Best Investment Options To Preserve Your Money in 2026, #288
Retire With Ryan
This episode is your introduction to the world of conservative investing, so it’s perfect for you if you’re looking to preserve your principal and grow your money at a steady pace. I’m walking you through seven standout investment choices for 2026, ranging from high-yield online money market accounts to short-term bond funds, CDs, and Treasury bonds. We’ll discuss how to shop around for the best rates, the importance of keeping up with inflation in retirement, and the benefits and limitations of each strategy. There’s something here for anyone who wants their money to work a little...
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4 Things All Successful Retirees Do, #287
Retire With Ryan
In this episode, I’m helping you kick off 2026 by reflecting on financial habits that pave the way for a successful retirement. As we set our goals for the year ahead, I share the four key traits I’ve observed in successful retirees, drawn from years of experience working with people from all walks of life. You’ll hear practical advice on how to work hard and invest consistently, the importance of living within your means, and ways to avoid common investment pitfalls that can derail your progress. Whether you’re just starting your retirement planning or fine-tuning your financial...
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6 Stock Market Predictions For 2026, #286
Retire With Ryan
As we turn the calendar to 2026, I reveal my forecasts for the stock market, interest rates, and top asset classes, and take a look back at how my 2025 predictions stacked up against reality. From the S&P 500’s rollercoaster performance to the ongoing rivalry between growth and value stocks, and even a showdown between bitcoin and gold, I break down what the numbers were, where I hit the mark, and where I missed. You’ll also hear my insights on international versus U.S. stocks, the outlook for small caps, and what the Federal Reserve might do with interest rates in the year ahead. Get...
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Most Asked Financial Questions of 2025, #285
Retire With Ryan
2025 has been a year of significant highs and lows, a bittersweet time marked by personal loss but also tremendous growth in our community of listeners and clients. As we wrap up the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect and, more importantly, to give back by answering the most pressing questions on your minds. In this episode, I’m tackling the top 10 most asked financial questions I received in 2025 from both clients and listeners. From the future solvency of Social Security and the reality of rising inflation to the specifics of Bitcoin and long-term care, we are covering the topics...
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Top 5 Tax Benefits of 529 Plans, #284
Retire With Ryan
529 college savings plans are a favorite tool for families looking to fund education, but recent updates have made them even more compelling. With the passing of the One Big Beautiful Tax Act in 2025, there have been some exciting changes to what you can use 529 funds for, including expanded coverage for K-12 tuition, test fees, vocational programs, and support for learning differences. I also discuss the various tax advantages of contributing to a 529 plan, like state tax deductions, tax-deferred growth, and even the ability to roll leftover funds into a Roth IRA for your child. He offers...
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4 Ways To Receive A Tax Deduction For Charitable Contributions in 2025 and 2026, #283
Retire With Ryan
In the season of giving, we’re discussing making charitable contributions in 2025 and 2026. Americans are known for their generous donations to worthy causes, but understanding the best ways to give and maximize your tax benefits is key. This episode covers four effective strategies for making charitable contributions, from utilizing Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your retirement accounts to cash donations, gifting highly appreciated stock or real estate, and using donor-advised funds. I also break down recent and upcoming tax law changes that impact your ability to itemize...
info_outlineIn this episode, I’m helping you kick off 2026 by reflecting on financial habits that pave the way for a successful retirement. As we set our goals for the year ahead, I share the four key traits I’ve observed in successful retirees, drawn from years of experience working with people from all walks of life. You’ll hear practical advice on how to work hard and invest consistently, the importance of living within your means, and ways to avoid common investment pitfalls that can derail your progress.
Whether you’re just starting your retirement planning or fine-tuning your financial strategy, this episode is full of actionable tips to help you improve your financial life in 2026. If you’re ready to take charge of your future and put a solid plan in place, this episode is a must-listen.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
- 00:00 Retirement success traits revealed.
- 05:29 Budgeting for financial growth.
- 07:49 Invest simply and consistently.
- 10:36 Improve and grow net worth.
- 13:38 Keep an eye on your net worth.
Four Habits of Highly Successful Retirees
There’s no magic bullet to achieving a comfortable retirement. Many successful retirees weren’t born into wealth; in fact, about 80% of millionaires started with little and built their nest eggs from scratch. The through-line is diligence and perseverance.
A powerful habit among this group is paying themselves first. Rather than saving what’s left at the end of the month, successful retirees set aside a portion of their income before budgeting for other expenses. Many automate investments into employer-sponsored retirement accounts or other savings vehicles. This intentionality ensures that the priority remains on building wealth, not just sustaining a lifestyle.
Budgeting plays an essential role here. I recommend reviewing your annual spending, categorizing transactions, and identifying excesses. Small changes can help you free up cash for investments and debt reduction. If you struggle with credit card overspending, consider switching to cash or debit cards, which make it easier to visualize your available funds and stay disciplined.
There’s also a growing temptation to “keep up with the Joneses,” especially when social media showcases other people’s amazing vacations! Appearances can be deceiving, you never know whether your neighbours are deeply in debt despite flashy photos. The key is to focus on your own financial journey, not someone else’s highlight reel.
Keep Your Investments Simple
Despite the barrage of complex investment themes and “get rich quick” schemes circulating online, the most effective investors stick to the basics. Avoid speculative strategies like day trading, option contracts, and penny stocks for the bulk of your portfolio. These approaches can lead to significant losses, or even financial ruin.
Successful retirees typically lean on a diversified, straightforward mix of investments: blue-chip stocks, index funds, bonds, and some real estate. A simple, repeatable investment plan not only reduces stress but also reduces the chance of costly errors. If an investment sounds complicated or “too good to be true,” it likely isn’t the right tool for you.
Track Your Net Worth, Every Year
A great habit to get into is consistently tracking your net worth. For example, every year, I take inventory and value all of my assets, subtract any liabilities, and calculate my own net worth. This exercise isn’t just about patting myself on the back, it’s an important annual check-in on financial progress which helps me course-correct if I’m getting off track.
If you discover stagnant or shrinking net worth, it’s a signal to look at spending, debt, or investment choices. For those carrying high-interest debt (over 6–7%), prioritizing repayment can yield safer and higher “returns” than most investments. Even in retirement, monitoring net worth is vital. Spending down savings is natural, but keeping an eye on the pace ensures your money lasts as long as you need it to.
Take Action Today
Successful retirees don’t wait for luck or windfalls, they put in the work, invest with discipline, stay clear of fads, and track their progress. Start by reviewing your own budget and net worth, and set realistic, meaningful goals for the year ahead. Your future self will thank you.
Resources Mentioned
- Retirement Readiness Review
- Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel
- Download my entire book for FREE
- Budget Worksheet
- Net Worth Spreadsheet
Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management
www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact