Retire With Peace

The Retire With Peace podcast brings you actionable information for your retirement planning. Topics include financial planning, taxes, investments, social security, Medicare, personal health & wellness, and much more. Join Dave Zaegel, CPA, CFP as he covers various financial and lifestyle topics to help you Retire With Peace.

Ep 179: Tax Harvesting - Automation vs. Planning 12/23/2025

Ep 179: Tax Harvesting - Automation vs. Planning In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel delves into the concept of tax harvesting, particularly focusing on tax loss harvesting. He explains the mechanics of how gains and losses on investments affect taxes, emphasizing the importance of understanding non-qualified accounts. Zaegel discusses the potential benefits of both harvesting losses and gains, and the implications of automated tax harvesting systems. He cautions listeners about the limitations of automated systems and the necessity of personalized tax strategies for effective financial planning. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39496555

Ep 178: Roth IRAs Provide Power and Flexibility 12/16/2025

Ep 178: Roth IRAs Provide Power and Flexibility In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the advantages of Roth IRAs, particularly in the context of tax planning and health insurance costs. He emphasizes the flexibility that Roth IRAs provide, especially for clients who are retiring before Medicare eligibility. Zaegel explains how strategic Roth IRA conversions can lead to significant savings on health insurance premiums, particularly as subsidies change. He encourages listeners to take advantage of lower tax rates now to maximize their financial flexibility in the future. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39410110

Ep 177: Roth Conversion Math (& Extra Benefits) 12/09/2025

Ep 177: Roth Conversion Math (& Extra Benefits) In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the intricacies of Roth IRA conversions, emphasizing the importance of understanding tax implications and the timing of conversions. He uses a farming analogy to illustrate that whether taxes are paid now or later, the outcome can be the same if tax rates remain constant. Zaegel also highlights additional benefits of Roth conversions beyond tax rates, such as income management and risk mitigation in the event of a spouse's death. He concludes by stressing the need for individualized planning to optimize tax strategies for retirement. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39333455

Ep 176: Guardrails Monte Carlo 12/02/2025

Ep 176: Guardrails Monte Carlo In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel delves into the intricacies of Monte Carlo analysis and retirement guardrails. He explains how Monte Carlo analysis works, its relevance in retirement planning, and the common misconceptions surrounding the 4% rule. Zaegel emphasizes the importance of shifting from a percentage-based mindset to a guardrails approach, allowing for more flexibility and confidence in spending during retirement. He discusses the necessity of making adjustments based on market conditions and encourages listeners to embrace a more proactive and less fearful approach to their retirement finances. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39218895

Ep 175: Don't Bow Down to Software 11/25/2025

Ep 175: Don't Bow Down to Software In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the importance of understanding and critically evaluating financial planning software. He emphasizes that while these tools can provide valuable insights, they should not be blindly trusted. Zaegel highlights the need for human oversight in interpreting software outputs and adapting plans as life circumstances change. He warns against the pitfalls of relying solely on software for retirement planning and stresses the importance of being informed and proactive in financial decision-making. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39136600

Ep 174: Stock Market Drop Coming 11/18/2025

Ep 174: Stock Market Drop Coming In this episode, David Zaegel discusses the inevitability of stock market drawdowns and emphasizes the importance of preparing for these events in retirement planning. He encourages listeners to shift their mindset from viewing market drops as an 'if' to a 'when', highlighting the need for financial preparedness and long-term investment strategies. By setting aside sufficient funds outside the stock market, individuals can mitigate the stress of market volatility and seize opportunities when they arise. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39058850

Ep 173: Tax Relief on Tips & Overtime 11/11/2025

Ep 173: Tax Relief on Tips & Overtime In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses a new tax rule regarding tips and overtime income. He clarifies that while there is a provision for tax-free tips and overtime up to certain limits, the actual implementation will occur during tax return filing, not on paychecks. The conversation highlights the income limits and the need for further guidance from the IRS on reporting these changes. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38988405

Ep 172: Shiny Objects 11/04/2025

Ep 172: Shiny Objects In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the concept of 'shiny investments'—those alluring but potentially distracting investment opportunities like cryptocurrencies, gold, and popular stocks. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced investment strategy, ensuring that core financial needs are met before pursuing riskier ventures. Zaegel shares client examples to illustrate how financial security allows for more aggressive investment choices without jeopardizing overall stability. The conversation highlights the need for diversification and prudent risk management in investment strategies. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38904990

Ep 171: When Investing, You Will Be Wrong 10/28/2025

Ep 171: When Investing, You Will Be Wrong In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, David Zaegel discusses the importance of embracing uncertainty in investing. He emphasizes that investors do not need to be right all the time and should balance confidence with humility. Zaegel also highlights effective risk management strategies, including taking gains off the table and sizing investments appropriately to mitigate potential losses. The conversation encourages listeners to focus on what they can control in their investment decisions, ultimately leading to better outcomes. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38788645

Ep 170: Hire a Financial Planner Before You Need To 10/21/2025

Ep 170: Hire a Financial Planner Before You Need To In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel emphasizes the importance of engaging a financial planner early in the retirement planning process. He discusses how many individuals feel overwhelmed by the complexities of retirement planning and how professional guidance can alleviate that stress. Zaegel highlights specific strategies, such as Roth IRA conversions and qualified charitable distributions, that can be optimized when planned for in advance. He encourages listeners to develop a relationship with a financial planner before retirement to ensure a smoother transition and greater confidence in their financial decisions. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38724740

Ep 169: Online Fraud Is Evolving — Are You Ready? 10/14/2025

Ep 169: Online Fraud Is Evolving — Are You Ready? This week, we revisit key takeaways from Dave's conversation with Kathy Stokes of AARP — and how they apply to today’s rapidly changing digital landscape. From deepfake scams to AI-powered fraud attempts, it’s more important than ever to know how to verify, protect, and respond. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38573475

Ep 168: Online Scams 10/07/2025

Ep 168: Online Scams In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the rising threat of online scams, particularly in the context of advancements in artificial intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of being aware and verifying information to combat these scams. Zaegel also shares practical tips for enhancing online security, including the use of strong passwords and two-factor authentication, to protect against identity theft and fraud. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38483545

Ep 167: Using Donor Advised Funds 09/30/2025

Ep 167: Using Donor Advised Funds In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the importance of charitable donations and the strategic use of donor advised funds. He explains how these funds can serve as a powerful planning tool for tax purposes, allowing individuals to batch their donations for maximum tax benefits. The conversation covers the mechanics of donor advised funds, including the ability to donate appreciated stock, the timing of donations, and the potential for investment growth within the fund. Zaegel emphasizes the importance of tax planning and how donor advised funds can benefit both the donor and the charities they support. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38385200

Ep 166: Charitable Tax Credits - Missouri 09/23/2025

Ep 166: Charitable Tax Credits - Missouri In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the various tax credits available for charitable donations in Missouri. He explains how these credits work, emphasizing that they are dollar-for-dollar credits rather than deductions. The conversation covers different categories of donations, including food pantries, diaper banks, pregnancy resource centers, domestic violence shelters, and educational support through MO Scholars. Zaegel encourages listeners to consider these options for their charitable giving, especially as the year comes to a close and tax planning begins. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38319340

Ep 165: Social Security Advanced Planning 09/16/2025

Ep 165: Social Security Advanced Planning In this episode, David Zaegel wraps up the series on Social Security by discussing advanced topics, including the importance of Roth IRA conversions and their tax implications. He emphasizes the need for strategic planning to protect surviving spouses and maximize benefits from Social Security and IRAs. The conversation highlights the interplay between tax strategies and retirement planning, urging listeners to consider the long-term effects of their financial decisions. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38232730

Ep 164: Social Security Strategies for Couples 09/09/2025

Ep 164: Social Security Strategies for Couples In this episode, David Zaegel discusses planning strategies for couples regarding Social Security benefits. He emphasizes the importance of maximizing benefits, planning for taxes, and protecting the surviving spouse. The conversation covers various strategies, including delaying benefits for higher earners and considering health factors when deciding when to claim benefits. Zaegel highlights the need for couples to work together in their planning to ensure they receive the maximum potential benefits. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38127845

Ep 163: Social Security Benefit Calculations 09/02/2025

Ep 163: Social Security Benefit Calculations In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel delves into the intricacies of Social Security calculations, focusing on how benefits are determined based on an individual's earnings history. He explains the importance of the highest 35 years of earnings, the adjustment for inflation, and the calculation of the Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME) and Primary Insurance Amount (PIA). Additionally, he discusses spousal benefits and the strategies couples can employ to maximize their Social Security benefits. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/38053255

Ep 162: The Basics of Social Security 08/26/2025

Ep 162: The Basics of Social Security In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the fundamentals of Social Security, including its history, funding mechanisms, eligibility requirements, and the timing of retirement benefits. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how Social Security works to effectively plan for retirement, highlighting key aspects such as the minimum and maximum ages for collecting benefits and the impact of waiting to claim benefits on monthly payouts. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37939965

Ep 161: Downsize Sooner Rather Than Later 08/19/2025

Ep 161: Downsize Sooner Rather Than Later In this episode, we explore why making the move sooner rather than later can save you money, reduce stress, and give you more freedom in retirement. Here’s what you’ll discover: ✅ The hidden costs of waiting to downsize ✅ How moving earlier can improve cash flow and reduce taxes ✅ The emotional and lifestyle benefits of simplifying sooner ✅ Practical steps to decide when the time is right /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37872615

Ep 160: Affordable Care Act Subsidy Changing 08/12/2025

Ep 160: Affordable Care Act Subsidy Changing In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses significant changes in retirement planning due to the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act premiums. He emphasizes the importance of tax planning strategies to manage insurance premiums and the implications for future income. The conversation highlights the need for proactive planning as the expiration date approaches, encouraging listeners to consider their financial strategies for 2026 and beyond. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37768370

Ep 159: DIY Tax Planning Will Be More Difficult 08/05/2025

Ep 159: DIY Tax Planning Will Be More Difficult In this episode, David Zaegel discusses the complexities introduced by recent tax legislation and the importance of careful tax planning. He emphasizes the challenges of navigating the new tax landscape, particularly for those attempting to manage their taxes without professional help. Zaegel shares insights on the necessity of understanding various tax credits and deductions, and the potential pitfalls of DIY tax planning. He advocates for the use of specialized software and professional guidance to avoid costly mistakes and maximize tax benefits. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37656450

Ep 158: How Individual Bond Returns Work 07/29/2025

Ep 158: How Individual Bond Returns Work In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the advantages of investing in individual bonds over bond funds, emphasizing the importance of understanding coupon rates and bond pricing. He explains how interest rate fluctuations affect bond values and how to calculate actual returns based on the purchase price of bonds. The conversation provides valuable insights for investors looking to secure their retirement income through strategic bond investments. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37589185

Ep 157: Social Security is Still Taxed 07/22/2025

Ep 157: Social Security is Still Taxed In this episode, David Zaegel clarifies misconceptions surrounding a recent bill affecting Social Security taxation. He emphasizes that the bill does not eliminate taxes on Social Security income but introduces an additional standard deduction for seniors, which can help reduce taxable income. The discussion includes details about income limits and how the new deduction works in retirement planning. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37486365

Ep 156: IRA Review: Traditional vs. Roth 07/15/2025

Ep 156: IRA Review: Traditional vs. Roth In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel delves into the fundamental differences between Traditional and Roth IRAs. He explains the tax implications of each type of IRA, including income limits and the benefits of tax deductions versus tax-free withdrawals in retirement. Zaegel emphasizes the importance of understanding these differences for effective retirement planning and suggests a balanced approach by utilizing both types of accounts. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37397910

Ep 155: Big Beautiful Bill: Key Planning Items 07/10/2025

Ep 155: Big Beautiful Bill: Key Planning Items In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the significant impacts of a new bill passed in Congress on financial and retirement planning. He outlines ten key items from the bill, including the permanence of current tax rates, changes to the SALT cap, and new deductions for seniors and children. The conversation emphasizes the complexities introduced by the bill, while also highlighting potential benefits for tax planning. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37368180

Ep 154: Good Retirement Plans Don't Fail (Unless You Do) 07/01/2025

Ep 154: Good Retirement Plans Don't Fail (Unless You Do) Summary In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the key elements of a successful retirement plan. He emphasizes that a well-structured retirement plan can withstand economic fluctuations and stresses the importance of making necessary adjustments over time. Zaegel warns against common pitfalls such as panic selling during market downturns and consistently overspending, which can jeopardize retirement security. He advocates for the use of financial guardrails to help individuals navigate their retirement spending and investment strategies effectively. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37215880

Ep 153: Turbulence in Investing 06/24/2025

Ep 153: Turbulence in Investing In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses how to maintain calm amidst the chaos of the stock market and economic uncertainty. Using the analogy of flying through turbulence, he explains that just as pilots remain composed during bumpy flights, investors can also navigate market fluctuations with confidence. Zaegel emphasizes the importance of understanding that companies are actively working to overcome challenges and that market downturns can present opportunities for long-term investors. He advocates for having a solid financial plan in place, including setting aside sufficient income to weather market storms, allowing time for companies to recover and thrive. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37116330

Ep 152: What Do Higher Interest Rates Mean? 06/17/2025

Ep 152: What Do Higher Interest Rates Mean? In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the recent changes in interest rates and their implications for retirement planning. He explains the historical context of interest rates, the impact of rising rates on bonds and stocks, and offers strategies for managing investments in a changing economic environment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics to make informed financial decisions for retirement. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/37039155

Ep 151: Government Validation of Planning Strategy 06/10/2025

Ep 151: Government Validation of Planning Strategy In this episode, David Zaegel discusses the importance of having a solid investment strategy, especially during volatile market conditions. He emphasizes the need for retirement planning that includes setting aside at least five years of income in secure investments to alleviate stress and uncertainty. The conversation highlights the validation of these strategies in the current market environment, showcasing how proper planning can lead to financial security and peace of mind. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/36930440

Ep 150: Don't Wait for the Housing Drop 06/03/2025

Ep 150: Don't Wait for the Housing Drop In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the current housing market dynamics, emphasizing that potential buyers should not wait for housing prices or interest rates to drop before making a purchase. He explains that significant declines in housing prices are rare and often tied to economic crises. Zaegel also highlights the importance of understanding interest rates and the potential for refinancing in the future, encouraging listeners to focus on their budget and the overall cost of homeownership rather than waiting for ideal market conditions. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/36828365

Retire With Peace

TOPICS