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 192: Replay of 111 - Resistance Training 03/24/2026

Ep 192: Replay of 111 - Resistance Training In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the benefits of strength training and resistance training for overall health and retirement. He explains that strength training not only improves muscle function and movement but also has positive effects on bone density, cognitive decline, metabolism, and the immune system. Dave emphasizes that resistance training can be started at any age and with various levels of intensity, and even simple exercises like bodyweight squats and using resistance bands can provide significant benefits. He shares personal experiences of how strength training has helped him stay healthy and recommends incorporating it into a regular fitness routine. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40579510

Ep 191: Replay of 110 - Lifestyle Fitness with Lucas Rockwood 03/17/2026

Ep 191: Replay of 110 - Lifestyle Fitness with Lucas Rockwood Lucas Rockwood, founder of YogaBody, discusses the importance of flexibility, mobility, and strength as we age. He shares his personal journey of transitioning from a marketing job to a career in yoga and wellness. Lucas emphasizes the concept of lifestyle fitness, which focuses on being able to do the things you want to do in retirement and living your best life. He recommends consistency in exercise, including a mix of cardiovascular activities, strength training, and stretching. Lucas also highlights the benefits of exercise in improving energy, strength, balance, and overall quality of life. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40503850

Ep 190: Replay of 109 - Drink Your Water 03/10/2026

Ep 190: Replay of 109 - Drink Your Water In this eye-opening replay, we dive into the often-overlooked habits that make or break your hydration. Water isn’t just about quantity—it's about how, when, and what you drink to maximize energy, focus, and overall well-being. Discover why many people are unknowingly dehydrating themselves and learn straightforward strategies to transform your hydration game without overcomplicating your routine. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40286435

Ep 189: Replay of 108 - Eat Your Protein 03/03/2026

Ep 189: Replay of 108 - Eat Your Protein In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of being healthy in order to retire with peace. He emphasizes the need to prioritize health alongside wealth and shares his personal journey to getting healthy. The main focus of this episode is on the importance of eating enough protein and how it can contribute to overall health and weight loss. Dave provides tips on calculating protein intake and suggests dividing it into multiple meals throughout the day. He also highlights the benefits of eating enough protein, including improved immune function and overall well-being. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40285830

Ep 188: It's Not So Easy 02/24/2026

Ep 188: It's Not So Easy In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses investment strategies with a focus on identifying market opportunities and the importance of patience in long-term investing. He emphasizes the need to understand market narratives and how they can create investment opportunities, particularly in the context of emerging technologies like AI. Zaegel also outlines the importance of structuring investments to ensure consistent income during retirement while allowing for growth in the long term. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40209845

Ep 187: Opening Trump Accounts When Filing a Tax Return 02/17/2026

Ep 187: Opening Trump Accounts When Filing a Tax Return In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the concept of Trump accounts for children, exploring their benefits and how they can be utilized by grandparents looking to support their grandchildren's financial future. The conversation delves into the mechanics of these accounts, the government's contribution, and alternative investment options such as custodial accounts, Roth IRAs, and 529 plans. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding various financial tools available for children and making informed decisions based on individual family goals. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40124875

Ep 186: Risk is Fine with Proper Safety 02/10/2026

Ep 186: Risk is Fine with Proper Safety In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of balancing aggressive investing with safety and discipline, especially in retirement. He emphasizes the need for proper controls and safety measures before taking on more risk, such as setting aside at least five years of income outside the market. Zaegel also highlights the significance of having discipline in managing investments, including taking profits and reallocating funds for safety. The conversation aims to encourage listeners to focus on growth while ensuring they have a solid safety net in place. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/40042495

Ep 185: IRA Withdrawal Order with RMDs 02/03/2026

Ep 185: IRA Withdrawal Order with RMDs In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the intricacies of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and their tax implications, emphasizing the importance of order in IRA withdrawals, particularly when dealing with Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Roth IRA conversions. He provides practical advice on how to effectively manage these financial tools to maximize tax benefits and ensure compliance with IRS rules. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39956345

Ep 184: Never Stop Learning, Even in Retirement 01/27/2026

Ep 184: Never Stop Learning, Even in Retirement In this episode, Dave Zaegel emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, especially as one transitions into retirement. He discusses how learning should not stop at any age and highlights various ways to keep the mind active, such as learning a new instrument, gardening, or exploring new cultures. The conversation underscores the idea that the brain, like any muscle, needs constant exercise to stay sharp and healthy. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39873285

Ep 183: Why the Federal Reserve and Interest Rates Matter 01/20/2026

Ep 183: Why the Federal Reserve and Interest Rates Matter In this episode of Retire with Peace, I break down what the Federal Reserve actually does, what it doesn’t control, and why relying on headlines instead of strategy can put your retirement income at risk. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39788230

Ep 182: Something Crazy Will Happen in 2026 01/13/2026

Ep 182: Something Crazy Will Happen in 2026 In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the expectations for 2026, emphasizing the likelihood of unexpected events impacting the market. He highlights the importance of planning for market fluctuations and preparing mentally for potential downturns. The conversation stresses the need for financial resilience, advocating for having a safety net of income outside the stock market. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39689435

Ep 181: Accounting at 1% of Business Revenue is a Good Deal 01/06/2026

Ep 181: Accounting at 1% of Business Revenue is a Good Deal In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel emphasizes the critical importance of accounting for business owners. He argues that spending 1% of revenue on accounting services is a worthwhile investment that can prevent costly mistakes and improve financial decision-making. Zaegel discusses the operational benefits of having accurate financial records and the implications for selling a business, highlighting how poor accounting can diminish its value. He stresses the need for business owners to prioritize their financial health to ensure a successful retirement. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39615195

Ep 180: Tax Planning is an Investment 12/30/2025

Ep 180: Tax Planning is an Investment In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the critical differences between tax preparation and tax planning. He emphasizes that while tax preparation can be seen as a cost, it can also serve as an investment if it leads to significant tax savings. Conversely, tax planning is framed as a long-term investment strategy that focuses on future tax liabilities rather than immediate savings. Zaegel warns against the pitfalls of short-term tax strategies that may sacrifice future financial stability and encourages listeners to adopt a long-term perspective in their tax planning efforts. /episode/index/show/77d0ec65-e9eb-4aa0-999c-1b050653e9ac/id/39552535

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

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