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.
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Ep 127: To Crypto or Not?
12/24/2024
Ep 127: To Crypto or Not?
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, and their implications for retirement planning. He addresses common misconceptions, the potential benefits and risks of including cryptocurrencies in retirement portfolios, and emphasizes the importance of a balanced investment strategy. Zaegel provides insights into how cryptocurrencies can fit into a broader financial plan, while also cautioning that they are not a necessity for every investor. Takeaways: Cryptocurrencies have gained significant attention and value over the past decade Bitcoin serves as the primary currency for blockchain technology. Cryptocurrency can be a part of retirement planning but is not mandatory. Investors should consider a small proportion of crypto in their growth bucket. There are alternative investments that may perform just as well as cryptocurrencies. The regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is evolving positively. Investing in cryptocurrencies carries both potential rewards and risks. Diversification is key in retirement investment strategies. It's important to consult with a financial planner before making investment decisions. The future of cryptocurrencies remains uncertain, and caution is advised.
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Ep 126: Health Savings Accounts
12/17/2024
Ep 126: Health Savings Accounts
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the intricacies of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and how they differ from Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). He emphasizes the tax benefits of HSAs, including tax deductions on contributions and tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses. Zaegel also highlights the importance of having a qualifying insurance plan to contribute to an HSA and suggests strategies for maximizing the benefits of HSAs for retirement planning. Takeaways Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are often confused with Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). HSAs allow contributions that can grow tax-free and be withdrawn tax-free for medical expenses. To contribute to an HSA, you must have a qualifying high-deductible health insurance plan. Using out-of-pocket funds for medical expenses allows your HSA to grow tax-free. HSAs can serve as a powerful retirement planning tool if structured correctly. Contributing to an HSA year after year can build a substantial balance for retirement. You can still benefit from HSAs even if you pay medical expenses directly from the account. HSAs provide a tax deduction for contributions, enhancing their appeal. In retirement, HSAs can function similarly to Roth IRAs for medical expenses. It's advisable to evaluate your financial situation to determine the best use of HSA funds.
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Ep 125: Is My Inheritance Taxed?
12/10/2024
Ep 125: Is My Inheritance Taxed?
In this episode of the Retire with Peace Podcast, host Dave Zaegel addresses common questions regarding the tax implications of receiving an inheritance. He clarifies that there is no tax on the inheritance itself, but discusses scenarios where taxes may apply, particularly with inherited IRAs and the concept of step-up in basis for inherited assets. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding estate taxes and planning for potential tax liabilities in the future. Takeaways: There is no tax on receiving an inheritance. Estate taxes are assessed at the estate level, not on the inheritor. High estate tax exemption limits mean fewer people face estate taxes. Inheriting an IRA requires understanding required distributions and tax implications. A step-up in basis can reduce capital gains taxes on inherited assets. The IRS took years to finalize regulations on inherited IRAs. Inheritors should be aware of tax implications when growing inherited assets. Receiving an inheritance does not create a taxable event immediately. Planning for estate taxes is important due to changing thresholds. Fear of taxes on inheritance is common but often unfounded.
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Ep 124: Stay Healthy This Winter
12/03/2024
Ep 124: Stay Healthy This Winter
In this episode of the Retire with Peace Podcast, host David Zaegel shares his personal journey of maintaining health over the past year and offers practical tips for staying healthy during the winter months. He emphasizes the importance of hydration, sleep, exercise, and nutrition, particularly protein intake, as key strategies to boost immunity and overall well-being. David encourages listeners to adopt these habits to enhance their health and avoid common winter illnesses. Takeaways David celebrates a year of good health without illness. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when feeling unwell. Sleep plays a vital role in the body's repair process. Even light exercise, like walking, can be beneficial. Strength training releases important chemicals that help fight illness. Protein intake is essential for muscle health and recovery. Implementing these health strategies can improve overall wellness. Maintaining health in winter requires proactive measures. Simple lifestyle changes can lead to significant health benefits. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize their health this winter.
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Ep 123: Tax Cuts Don't Mean Lower Tax Receipts
11/26/2024
Ep 123: Tax Cuts Don't Mean Lower Tax Receipts
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host David Zaegel discusses the complexities of tax planning, particularly in relation to government tax receipts and the impact of tax cuts. He explores historical data to illustrate how tax cuts do not always lead to decreased revenue for the federal government, emphasizing the importance of the economy in determining tax receipts. The conversation also ties into retirement planning, highlighting the long-term strategies individuals can employ to manage their tax liabilities effectively. Takeaways Tax cuts do not always result in lower government revenue. Historical data shows mixed results for tax cuts and receipts. The economy plays a crucial role in tax revenue. Individual income taxes make up the bulk of government receipts. Corporate taxes are a small percentage of total receipts. Tax planning can help save money over the long term. It's important to focus on long-term strategies in retirement planning. Changes in tax rates may not significantly impact overall receipts. Planning should be based on current knowledge, not assumptions. Future tax rates could increase due to government debt concerns.
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Ep 122: What Are Bonds & Structured Notes?
11/19/2024
Ep 122: What Are Bonds & Structured Notes?
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the fundamentals of bonds and structured notes, emphasizing their importance in providing guaranteed income for retirement. He explains how bonds work as debt instruments, the significance of bond quality, and the role of structured notes as alternatives to bonds. The conversation also highlights the advantages of using individual bonds over bond funds for ensuring income stability during retirement. Previous Episodes Mentioned: Takeaways Bonds and structured notes are essential for retirement income. Having at least five years in safe investments is crucial. Bonds are debt instruments that provide guaranteed payments. Quality of bonds is more important than the interest rate. Structured notes can offer growth potential with a guaranteed floor. Individual bonds provide more security than bond funds. Bond funds lack a set maturity date, increasing risk. In a rising interest rate environment, bond funds can underperform. Understanding the purpose of investments is key to financial planning. Safety and guaranteed returns are priorities in retirement planning.
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Ep 121: Donating Stock for Charitable Contributions
11/12/2024
Ep 121: Donating Stock for Charitable Contributions
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses effective tax planning strategies for charitable donations, particularly focusing on the benefits of donating appreciated stock instead of cash. He explains how this approach can help avoid capital gains taxes and maximize tax deductions, especially in high-income years. The conversation also covers the advantages of using Donor Advised Funds to streamline charitable giving and enhance tax benefits. Additionally, Zaegel highlights the importance of considering state tax credits for charitable contributions, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how to optimize their charitable giving from a tax perspective. Takeaways: Donating appreciated stock can avoid capital gains tax. Charitable donations can provide tax benefits even at standard deduction levels. Using a Donor Advised Fund allows for strategic charitable giving over time. Maximizing deductions in high-income years is crucial for tax planning. State tax credits can significantly enhance the benefits of charitable donations. It's important to plan donations to maximize tax benefits. Avoid selling stock before donating to fully utilize tax advantages. Charitable contributions should be approached strategically, not just as cash gifts. Understanding the tax implications of donations can lead to better financial outcomes. Effective tax planning can benefit both the donor and the charitable organization.
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Ep 120: Don't Beat the S&P 500 in Retirement
11/05/2024
Ep 120: Don't Beat the S&P 500 in Retirement
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of strategic retirement planning, particularly focusing on the S&P 500 index and the risks associated with investing during retirement. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that includes both long-term growth investments and a short-term investment bucket to mitigate risks such as sequence of returns. The conversation highlights the significance of having a well-structured investment strategy that prioritizes safety and growth for retirement income. Takeaways Beating the S&P 500 isn't always a great idea. Investing in the S&P 500 provides diversification and low costs Short-term money should not be invested in the stock market. Sequence of returns risk can significantly impact retirement savings. Having a short-term investment bucket is crucial for retirees. A balanced investment strategy typically includes 30-40% in short-term funds. Long-term growth is essential, but safety is equally important. Retirement planning should focus on both growth and income needs. It's important to avoid hyper-focusing on the S&P 500 during retirement. A well-structured investment strategy can mitigate risks.
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Ep 119: Good vs. Optimal Timing in the Stock Market
10/29/2024
Ep 119: Good vs. Optimal Timing in the Stock Market
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the concept of market timing and its implications for investors. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the time frame for investments, distinguishing between short-term and long-term strategies. Zaegel provides historical context by analyzing market trends during significant events like COVID-19 and the Great Recession, illustrating that while optimal timing is elusive, long-term investing generally yields positive results. He encourages listeners to focus on long-term growth rather than trying to predict market fluctuations. Takeaways Don't invest short term in the stock market with money you can't afford to lose. If you need money in the next five years, it doesn't belong in the stock market. Historically, long-term investments in the stock market have proven beneficial. Waiting for the optimal time to invest can lead to missed opportunities. Investing for the long term is always a good strategy. Market timing is less important than the duration of your investment. The stock market has historically recovered from downturns over time. Investing during market dips can yield significant returns in the long run. Focus on long-term growth rather than short-term fluctuations. Now is a good time to invest if you're looking long-term.
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Ep 118: Recession Is Coming
10/22/2024
Ep 118: Recession Is Coming
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, Dave Zaegel discusses the inevitability of recessions and the importance of planning for them in retirement. He emphasizes that while recessions are a natural part of the economic cycle, the constant predictions of impending recessions can lead to unnecessary fear and missed opportunities. Zaegel advocates for a proactive approach to financial planning, suggesting that having at least five years of income set aside can provide security and allow retirees to take advantage of market downturns. He encourages listeners to focus on what they can control in their financial planning to ensure a peaceful retirement. Takeaways: Recessions are inevitable, but their timing is unpredictable. Fear of recession can lead to poor financial decisions. Planning for at least five years of income can provide security. Market downturns can present investment opportunities. It's important to control what you can in financial planning. Constant recession predictions can create unnecessary anxiety. Having a diversified investment strategy is crucial. Individual bonds and structured notes can be safer than bond funds. Retirement planning should account for economic uncertainty. A proactive approach to financial planning leads to peace of mind. Important Quotes: "Recession is coming and we have no idea when." "Don't freak out about a possible recession." "Recessions don't have to be scary."
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Ep 117: Elections & Investments
10/15/2024
Ep 117: Elections & Investments
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the intersection of politics and financial planning, particularly in the context of upcoming elections. He emphasizes that while political events can create anxiety, they do not significantly impact long-term investment strategies. Zaegel encourages listeners to focus on what they can control in their financial planning and to remain calm amidst political uncertainty. He provides historical examples of political promises that were not fully realized, reinforcing the idea that change is often slower than anticipated. Ultimately, the message is to engage in politics but not to let it disrupt personal financial plans. Takeaways: Elections create anxiety, but they don't significantly impact investments. Historical political promises often go unfulfilled. Control what you can control in your financial planning. Don't let political events dictate your financial decisions. Engagement in politics is important, but don't panic. Focus on long-term planning rather than short-term political changes. Good people will work to ensure stability in times of change. Past crises have been weathered successfully, showing resilience. Managing anxiety is key to retiring with peace. Your financial plan should remain steady despite political noise.
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Ep 116: Must Sleep
10/08/2024
Ep 116: Must Sleep
In the Episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the critical importance of sleep for overall health, particularly as individuals age. We discuss how adequate sleep—around 7-9 hours per night—supports metabolism, mood stabilization, and bodily repair, while also facilitating the brain's ability to process information and store memories. The episode emphasizes that sleep plays a key role in emotional regulation, highlighting that consistent sleep patterns are essential, as one cannot easily compensate for sleep deprivation. The engaging discussion underscores the necessity of prioritizing sleep for a healthier life. Takeaways: Sleep is crucial for health, especially as we age Helps with metabolism, mood, and body repair Aids brain in processing daily information and storing memory Regulates emotions and enhances emotional handling Recommended sleep: 7-8 hours per night, possibly 9 for some Consistent sleep is important, can't easily 'catch up' on lost sleep
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Ep 115: Are Supplements Worth It?
10/01/2024
Ep 115: Are Supplements Worth It?
In this episode of the Retire with Peace Podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the role of supplements in maintaining health, particularly as it relates to retirement. He emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, nutrition, and sleep, while providing insights into specific supplements like multivitamins and creatine. The conversation aims to clarify the benefits and risks associated with various supplements, encouraging listeners to prioritize foundational health practices before relying on supplements. Takeaways Health is crucial for a quality retirement. Supplements can be beneficial but should be approached with caution. Multivitamins may have limited benefits but are generally safe. Creatine is a well-studied supplement with proven benefits. Focus on exercise, protein, sleep, and hydration first. Consult with a doctor before starting any supplement regimen. Not all supplements are well-studied or necessary. A healthy lifestyle is more important than relying on supplements. Be aware of the marketing around supplements. Understanding what you're taking is essential for safety. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Health in Retirement 01:28 Navigating the World of Supplements 03:23 Multivitamins: Worth the Hype? 05:23 Creatine: A Proven Supplement 07:18 Final Thoughts on Supplements and Health
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Ep 114: Walking Is Underrated
09/24/2024
Ep 114: Walking Is Underrated
In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the often overlooked benefits of walking as a form of exercise. He emphasizes its accessibility, affordability, and the numerous physical and mental health benefits it provides. From calorie burning to immune system support, walking is presented as a simple yet effective way to enhance overall well-being, especially during the fall season. Zaegel encourages listeners to incorporate walking into their daily routines, highlighting its role in retirement planning and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Takeaways: Walking is an underrated form of exercise. - It's easy and free, requiring minimal equipment. Walking provides numerous physical and mental health benefits. Burning calories through walking is effective, even if not as much as high-intensity workouts. Walking can help reduce blood sugar and hunger. - Moderate exercise like walking supports the immune system. Walking outdoors in the morning may offer additional benefits. Incorporating walking into other activities enhances overall fitness. Walking is a low-impact exercise suitable for everyone. Regular walking can significantly improve health and well-being. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Retirement Planning and Walking Benefits 02:54 The Underrated Power of Walking 05:50 Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Walking
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EP 113 - Replay of Episode 31 with Dr. Julie Smith
09/17/2024
EP 113 - Replay of Episode 31 with Dr. Julie Smith
A happy retirement involves much more than just having enough money. Your good health is a critical component to retiring with confidence. Sometimes, that health is out of our control. But often times, it's is our actions (or inactions) that determine how healthy we are physically and mentally. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Julie Smith, a physical therapist and health coach, to learn more about her journey and how to stay healthy as we get older. You can find more information about Julie at: Website: Facebook: Dr. Julie FitSmith Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AJzHPvUhMOB... Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conv...
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Ep 112: Replay of Episode 32 with Chelsea Theodoropoulos
09/09/2024
Ep 112: Replay of Episode 32 with Chelsea Theodoropoulos
This Episode is a Replay of Episode 32. A happy retirement involves much more than just having enough money. Your good health is a critical component to retiring with confidence. Sometimes, that health is out of our control. But often times, it's is our actions (or inactions) that determine how healthy we are physically and mentally. In this episode, we are joined by Chelsea Theodoropoulos, owner of Burn Bootcamp St. Louis, to learn more about her journey, Burn Bootcamp, and how to stay healthy as we get older. You can find more information about Chelsea at .
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Ep 111: Resistance Training to Retire with Peace
09/04/2024
Ep 111: Resistance Training to Retire with Peace
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. Takeaways Strength training improves muscle function, movement, and strength. Resistance training increases bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Strength training helps reduce cognitive decline and boosts metabolism. Muscles release chemicals that can help fight disease and support the immune system. Even simple exercises like bodyweight squats and using resistance bands can provide significant benefits. Incorporating strength training into a regular fitness routine can contribute to overall health and retirement. Starting slow and gradually increasing intensity is key to long-term success with strength training. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Strength Training and Retirement 03:25 The Benefits of Resistance Training for Bone Density and Overall Health 06:19 Muscles and Their Impact on Cognitive Decline and the Immune System 09:41 Simple Exercises for Significant Benefits 10:39 Incorporating Strength Training into a Regular Fitness Routine
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Ep 110: Lifestyle Fitness with Lucas Rockwood
08/27/2024
Ep 110: Lifestyle Fitness with Lucas Rockwood
In this episode of Retire with Peace, 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. Takeaways Flexibility, mobility, and strength are crucial for a fulfilling and active life as we age. Consistency is key in maintaining fitness and reaping long-term benefits. Exercise should be focused on lifestyle fitness, enabling you to do the things you want to do in retirement. A mix of cardiovascular activities, strength training, and stretching is recommended for overall fitness. Exercise not only improves physical health but also enhances energy, strength, balance, and quality of life.
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Ep 109: Drink Your Water
08/20/2024
Ep 109: Drink Your Water
The conversation covers two main topics: eating protein and drinking water. In the first part, the speaker discusses the importance of consuming enough protein and provides tips on how to incorporate it into a daily diet. He suggests aiming for one gram of protein per day per ideal body weight and recommends lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and eggs. In the second part, the speaker emphasizes the benefits of staying hydrated by drinking water. He encourages increasing water intake and lists various health benefits associated with proper hydration. Takeaways Aim for one gram of protein per day per ideal body weight Incorporate lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and eggs into your diet Increase water intake for various health benefits Proper hydration helps with digestion, skin health, blood pressure, and more Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Review of Eating Protein 03:03 Choosing Lean Protein Sources 06:48 The Importance of Staying Hydrated
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Ep 108: Eat Your Protein
08/13/2024
Ep 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. Takeaways Being healthy is essential for enjoying retirement. Eating enough protein is crucial for overall health and weight loss. Calculate protein intake based on ideal body weight. Divide protein intake into multiple meals throughout the day. Focus on what goes into your body and keep calories under control. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Prioritizing Health and Wealth 03:19 The Importance of Eating Enough Protein 08:36 Calculating and Dividing Protein Intake 11:01 The Benefits of Eating Enough Protein 12:28 Conclusion: Focusing on What Goes into Your Body
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Ep 107: Advisor Transitions
08/06/2024
Ep 107: Advisor Transitions
In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the trend of financial advisors retiring or transitioning their businesses to someone else, and the challenges that can arise for clients in these situations. He provides advice on how to address issues with a new advisor and emphasizes the importance of communication and setting expectations. Dave also encourages listeners to take action and get organized with their finances before the end of the year. Takeaways When a financial advisor retires or transitions their business, it can lead to challenges for clients. Open communication and setting expectations with a new advisor is crucial to ensure a successful relationship. Changing advisors is easier than many people think, and it's important to find someone who can communicate well and has a process that aligns with your needs. Taking action and getting organized with your finances before the end of the year is essential for effective tax planning and long-term financial success. Quotes "Disturbing trend of advisor retirements and business transitions" "Feeling unheard or not taken care of by new advisors" "Finding an advisor who can communicate well and has the right process"
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Ep 106: Enjoy a (stock) Discount
07/30/2024
Ep 106: Enjoy a (stock) Discount
Summary In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of embracing stock market declines and viewing them as opportunities rather than losses. He emphasizes that market declines are temporary and that the market has a long history of going higher. Dave provides strategies for taking advantage of market downturns, such as buying at discounted levels and setting up a buffer of five years' worth of income. He also highlights the benefits of being near retirement and having both a buffer of income and the ability to buy in at lower levels. Overall, Dave encourages listeners to welcome market discounts and not to panic during temporary declines. Takeaways Stock market declines are temporary and the market has a long history of going higher. Market downturns can be opportunities to buy at discounted levels. Setting up a buffer of five years' worth of income can provide peace of mind during market declines. Being near retirement and having both a buffer of income and the ability to buy in at lower levels can be advantageous. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor 00:31 Embracing Stock Market Declines as Opportunities 03:25 Setting Up a Buffer of Income 05:22 Advantages of Being Near Retirement 07:14 Conclusion
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Ep 105: Supply & Demand of Stocks
07/23/2024
Ep 105: Supply & Demand of Stocks
Summary In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the concept of supply and demand in investing. He explains how supply and demand impact stock prices and investment decisions. He highlights three main areas where supply and demand dynamics come into play: alternative investment options, new companies coming public, and stock buybacks. Zaegel emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics when making investment choices. Takeaways Supply and demand dynamics have a significant impact on stock prices and investment decisions. Alternative investment options, such as interest rates on bonds and CDs, can influence the demand for stocks. The number of new companies coming public affects the supply of stocks in the market. Stock buybacks can impact stock prices by reducing the supply of shares. Understanding supply and demand dynamics is crucial for making informed investment choices. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:00 The Impact of Supply and Demand on Stock Prices 06:24 New Companies Coming Public and Stock Supply 09:17 Stock Buybacks and Supply Reduction
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Ep 104: Know What the Business Does
07/16/2024
Ep 104: Know What the Business Does
In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of understanding what a company does before investing in its stocks. He provides examples of companies like Disney, Apple, and NVIDIA, where the perception of their business may not align with reality. By analyzing financial statements and listening to earnings calls, investors can gain a better understanding of a company's revenue sources and growth drivers. It is crucial to look beyond the surface and recognize the underlying factors that contribute to a company's success. Takeaways Before investing in a company's stocks, it is essential to understand what the company does and how it generates profits. Perceptions of a company's business may not align with reality, and investors need to dig deeper to uncover the true revenue sources and growth drivers. Analyzing financial statements and listening to earnings calls can provide valuable insights into a company's operations and future prospects. Companies like Disney, Apple, and NVIDIA have experienced misconceptions about their businesses, highlighting the importance of thorough evaluation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor 04:20 Misconceptions and Realities: Examples from Apple 08:04 Misconceptions and Realities: Examples from NVIDIA 10:29 Misconceptions and Realities: Examples from Amazon 11:55 Analyzing Financial Statements and Earnings Calls 12:24 Looking Beyond Perceptions: Uncovering Revenue Sources and Growth Drivers
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Ep 103: Cash Flow Statements Matter
07/09/2024
Ep 103: Cash Flow Statements Matter
In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses important things to understand about investing in individual companies. He emphasizes the need for proper planning before making investments and highlights the importance of understanding management and the company's balance sheet. He then dives into the third financial statement, the cash flow statement, and explains why it matters. He provides examples and insights on how to interpret the cash flow statement and why it is a crucial tool for evaluating a company's financial health. Takeaways Proper planning is essential before making investments in individual companies. Understanding management and the company's balance sheet is crucial when investing. The cash flow statement is a key financial statement that provides insights into a company's financial health. The cash flow statement shows the cash flow from operations, investing activities, and financing activities. Cash flow from operations is a critical metric to evaluate a company's performance. The cash flow statement provides a more accurate picture of a company's financial situation compared to the income statement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship 01:57 Understanding Management and the Company's Balance Sheet 02:57 The Significance of the Cash Flow Statement 06:18 Analyzing Cash Flow from Operations 08:14 Cash Flow from Investing Activities: Assessing Investments and Expenses 10:11 Cash Flow from Financing Activities: Debt, Equity, and Dividends
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Ep 102: Balance Sheets Matter
07/02/2024
Ep 102: Balance Sheets Matter
In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of understanding a company's balance sheet when making investment decisions. He explains the components of a balance sheet and how it can provide insights into a company's financial health and risk. He uses Tesla as an example to illustrate how a company's balance sheet can change over time. Dave emphasizes the need to analyze the balance sheet to assess a company's ability to pay off debts and make informed investment decisions. Takeaways Foundational retirement planning is critical before focusing on investments. The balance sheet provides important information about a company's financial health and risk. Understanding a company's debts and ability to pay them off is crucial for investment decisions. Companies with strong balance sheets are often valued more highly in the market. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor 00:29 Importance of Foundational Planning 01:28 Shifting Attention to Investments 06:45 Assessing a Company's Financial Health 08:13 Impact of Balance Sheet on Valuation 10:03 Debt and Stock Price
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Ep 101: Management Matters
06/25/2024
Ep 101: Management Matters
Investments are secondary to overall retirement planning, which includes foundational elements like retirement income guardrails and tax planning. Good investments are important, but they must be tied into the overall plan. Understanding the management of a company is crucial when investing in individual stocks. Listening to earnings conference calls provides valuable information about the company, its management, and its future prospects. Management matters, and investors should take the time to know who is running the company and what they are saying. Takeaways Investments are secondary to overall retirement planning Good investments must be tied into the overall plan Understanding the management of a company is crucial Listening to earnings conference calls provides valuable information Management matters in investment decisions Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Retirement Planning 03:25 The Role of Investments in Retirement Planning 05:19 Understanding the Management of a Company 07:47 The Value of Listening to Earnings Conference Calls 10:12 Why Management Matters in Investment Decisions
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Ep 100: Highlights of Interviews from Previous 99 Episodes
06/18/2024
Ep 100: Highlights of Interviews from Previous 99 Episodes
This episode is a compilation of highlights from the previous 99 episodes. The interviews cover a wide range of topics including charitable giving, health and fitness, retirement planning, accounting for business sale, legacy interviews, fraud prevention, tax credits for donations, long-term care planning, and insurance coverage. The guests provide valuable insights and action items related to each topic. The episode concludes with a thank you to the guests and listeners, and an invitation for feedback. Takeaways Utilize donor advised funds for charitable giving and tax planning. Maintain muscle mass through resistance training for healthy aging. Stay active and prioritize nutrition consistency for overall health. Implement retirement income guardrails for effective retirement planning. Ensure clean accounting when selling a business for a peaceful retirement. Preserve stories and lessons learned through legacy interviews. Promote education and public policy change to prevent fraud. Explore ways to make donations and receive state tax credits. Plan for long-term care costs using AI software. Protect assets through insurance coverage and liability protection. Chapters 00:00 Maximizing Charitable Giving and Tax Planning 03:26 Implementing Retirement Income Guardrails 05:04 Preventing Fraud Through Education and Policy Change 05:30 Donations and State Tax Credits 05:53 Planning for Long-Term Care Costs 06:01 Protecting Assets Through Insurance Coverage
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Ep 99: Principles, Not Perfection
06/11/2024
Ep 99: Principles, Not Perfection
In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of following principles in retirement planning rather than striving for perfection. He emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach and that strategies should be tailored to individual circumstances. Examples include the decision to wait or not wait to take Social Security and the consideration of Roth IRA conversions based on income levels. Dave also highlights the significance of starting early and the flexibility to adapt strategies to fit personal financial plans. Takeaways: Retirement planning should be based on principles rather than striving for perfection. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to retirement planning, and strategies should be tailored to individual circumstances. Considerations such as when to take Social Security and whether to do Roth IRA conversions depend on various factors. Starting early in saving for retirement can provide more flexibility and better long-term results. Adapt strategies to fit your personal financial plan and goals.
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Ep 98: Yes, But ...
06/04/2024
Ep 98: Yes, But ...
In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the importance of retirement planning and how to mitigate the impacts of various uncertainties. He emphasizes the need to have a plan in place to handle tax planning and investment structure. Dave introduces the concept of retirement income guardrails or dynamic distribution rates, which allow retirees to withdraw more than the traditional 4% rule. He references a study that shows initial withdrawal rates of 5.2% to 5.6% are sustainable with a 99% confidence level for portfolios containing at least 65% equities. Dave concludes by encouraging listeners to focus on planning for the 99% rather than the 1% outlier scenarios. Takeaways: Have a plan in place to handle tax planning and investment structure in retirement. - Consider using retirement income guardrails or dynamic distribution rates to withdraw more than the traditional 4% rule. A study shows that initial withdrawal rates of 5.2% to 5.6% are sustainable with a 99% confidence level for portfolios containing at least 65% equities. Focus on planning for the 99% rather than the 1% outlier scenarios. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor 01:01 The Yes, Buts of Retirement Planning 07:17 Maximizing Withdrawal Rates with Equities 09:14 The Limitations of the 4% Rule 11:38 Planning for the 99%: Overcoming What-Ifs
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