The Art And Science Of Retirement
Retirement isn’t just a number. It’s a phase of life that comes with big questions, evolving goals, and a need for real clarity. Welcome to The Art and Science of Retirement — a weekly podcast for people who want to make smart financial decisions and live fully in every stage of life. Hosted by Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, this show blends two decades of financial expertise with practical, down-to-earth conversations about money, planning, and purpose. Each week, we’ll unpack real-life scenarios, answer the questions you’ve been too afraid to ask, and help you think through what retirement — and financial independence — could look like for you. What to expect: → Retirement planning without the jargon → Candid insights from 20+ years in the advisory business → Case studies and stories from real clients (anonymized, of course) → Clear steps for building a life you don’t want to retire from Whether you're 15 years out or already retired, there's something here for you. Learn more at ellisretirement.com or email us at ellisteam@lpl.com to ask a question or suggest a topic.
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5 Things You MUST Do Before You Retire
12/19/2025
5 Things You MUST Do Before You Retire
Work with me: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/ If you’re between 50 and 65 and starting to think seriously about retirement, you’ve probably realized something: it’s overwhelming. I hear it from people every single day. There are so many moving parts, investments, estate planning, taxes, and income planning, that it’s hard to even know where to begin. In this episode, I’m walking you through the 5 key pieces of your financial planning puzzle (plus a bonus 6th piece specifically for retirees). This is the exact framework I use with families across the country as they prepare for, enter, and live in retirement. Instead of trying to analyze hundreds of details, this framework helps you focus on what actually matters. And if you’re at the point where it all feels like too much, that’s usually the best time to start working with a financial advisor. I’d love to meet you, hear your story, and see if we’re a good fit. 🔗 Work With Ellis Retirement Advisors We help people across the U.S. prepare for, enter, and live in retirement, both in person and virtually. Learn more: ellisretirement.com Schedule a call: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/ 👍 If you found this valuable: • Subscribe for more retirement planning content • Share this with a friend or family member nearing retirement • Leave a comment with your biggest retirement question
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My 5-Step Financial Planning Process You Need to Know
12/15/2025
My 5-Step Financial Planning Process You Need to Know
If you want help building a plan tailored to your goals, you can book a call with me here: , so we can walk through your situation together. Today I’m breaking down the exact 5-step financial planning process I use with my clients so you know what real financial planning looks like and how to make smarter decisions for your money, retirement, investments, and long-term goals. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the core stages of a complete financial plan: 1. Organize and Dream We gather every detail of your financial life, investments, retirement accounts, insurance, cash flow, estate documents, assets, and debt, and we talk about your goals, dreams, and vision for retirement. 2. Analyze We examine your investment portfolio, insurance and protection strategies, tax planning opportunities, estate plan, retirement income needs, and financial risks so we understand the full picture. 3. Present Your Financial Plan I show you personalized recommendations based on your goals. Not a one-time binder… but a living, adaptable financial plan built to evolve with your life. 4. Implement We help you execute each step, from investment adjustments to insurance updates to tax optimization and estate planning coordination. 5. Adjust Over Time Life changes quickly. Your retirement plan, tax strategy, investment strategy, and income needs will shift. Ongoing financial planning is where the real long-term value and peace of mind come from. My goal is simple: to give you the information and clarity you need so you can make confident decisions based on your goals and your future. 👉 If you want to find out what it looks like to work together, book a call with me here: And if this helps, don’t forget to subscribe and share it with a friend.
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Roth or Pre-Tax? My Simple Guide to Making the Right Choice
12/08/2025
Roth or Pre-Tax? My Simple Guide to Making the Right Choice
Choosing between Roth vs. Pre-Tax contributions is one of the questions I get asked the most at Ellis Retirement Services. And I completely understand why it can feel confusing, and there’s a lot of misinformation online. In this video, I break down the difference between Roth and Pre-Tax accounts in the simplest way possible so you can finally understand what they mean, how they work, and which one might make the most sense for your situation. 👉 Here’s what I’ll walk you through: ✔ What “pre-tax” actually means ✔ What a “Roth” account really is (and what it isn’t) ✔ Why neither option is always “better” ✔ How your income, tax bracket, and timeline affect your choice ✔ Why some people benefit most from using both ✔ How having multiple tax buckets creates more flexibility in retirement My goal is to remove the confusion, clear up the myths, and help you make informed decisions that support your long-term financial goals, not what the internet tells you to do. If you’re saving for retirement and want clarity on Roth vs. Pre-Tax, this video will help you understand your options and take the next step confidently. 📅 Want to work with me? You can schedule a Zoom call with me here: ➡️ ellisretirement.com 📧 Have questions? Feel free to send me an email or connect with me on social media. If this video helped you, please share it with someone who might benefit too. It helps more people take control of their retirement planning.
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Investment Accounts Explained: The Simple Breakdown Everyone Needs
12/01/2025
Investment Accounts Explained: The Simple Breakdown Everyone Needs
I simplify the confusing world of investment accounts, custodians, and tax rules so you can make better financial decisions and feel confident about your retirement plan. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want personalized guidance, you can schedule a FREE call with me at 👉 ellisretirement.com I’ll help you map out your financial puzzle, from taxes, investments, and estate planning, all the way to your long-term retirement goals. 📌 Why This Matters - Your investment account structure affects: - Your tax burden - How money transfers to your beneficiaries - How you withdraw funds in retirement - Your overall financial strategy Understanding your accounts is one of the most powerful steps toward a secure retirement. ------------------------------------ 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - The two major categories of investment accounts → Retirement vs. Non-Retirement Accounts - Why account titling matters (ownership, control, beneficiaries) - What custodians are and how they affect your accounts - How investment accounts impact your taxes now and in retirement - When to consider working with a financial advisor or family wealth planner. ------------------------------ 💬 Have Questions? Drop them in the comments! I love hearing your stories and helping you get the answers you need.
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End-of-Year Tax Tips to Save You Money (5 Essential Checkups)
11/28/2025
End-of-Year Tax Tips to Save You Money (5 Essential Checkups)
The end of the year is quickly approaching, and if you haven’t started thinking about your taxes yet, now’s the time to act! Taxes play a crucial role in your overall wealth management and retirement plan. In this episode, Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, breaks down 5 important tax checkups you should review before the year ends. Whether you're planning for retirement or just managing your finances, these tips can help you avoid unnecessary tax penalties and optimize your financial situation for the next year. Topics covered include: Retirement Account Contributions – How to confirm your 401(k) and IRA contributions, ensure you don’t exceed the limits, and avoid penalties. Tax Withholdings – Ensure your withholdings are accurate so you’re not over- or underpaying taxes. Capital Gains & Losses – Learn how to handle capital gains taxes and what to do with any losses you’ve incurred this year. Charitable Contributions – Maximize deductions by understanding the impact of your charitable donations. Income Checkup – Understand your total income sources and how to avoid accidentally moving into a higher tax bracket. Don’t let tax season sneak up on you. Make sure you’re fully prepared by following these 5 essential steps. Whether you're an employee, business owner, or retiree, these strategies will help you keep your tax bill in check and make smarter financial decisions for next year. If you want personalized advice or have any questions about taxes, wealth management, or retirement, book a FREE Zoom consultation with Grant Ellis directly on our website. Let's talk about how we can help you build a solid financial future. 👉ellisretirement.com Subscribe to the channel for more valuable tips on retirement, taxes, and wealth management. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this video with anyone who could benefit from these insights!
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What Do Financial Advisors Actually Do? | Understanding Financial Advisory Services
11/28/2025
What Do Financial Advisors Actually Do? | Understanding Financial Advisory Services
Confused about what financial advisors actually do? You're not alone. The term "financial advisor" has no legal definition, and ten different advisors could offer completely different services. In this video, I break down everything you need to know about the financial advisory industry so you can make an informed decision about who to work with. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why the term "financial advisor" is so confusing (and what it really means) ✅ The 3 primary services financial advisors provide: Investment Management, Financial Planning, and Access to Financial Tools/Products ✅ The difference between wealth managers, financial planners, brokers, and consultants ✅ How to determine which type of advisor YOU actually need ✅ My recommendation on the best approach for most people ✅ The single best way to vet a financial advisor before working with them to know if an advisor can help you Why this matters: After 21 years of helping people prepare for and enter retirement, I believe everyone should start with comprehensive financial planning. Think of it as having a personal CFO for your family who helps coordinate all aspects of your financial life—from investments and insurance to estate planning and tax strategy. Financial planning isn't a one-and-done document; it's a living, breathing process that evolves as your life changes. Whether you're approaching retirement, trying to build wealth, or simply want someone to help manage your investments, this video will help you understand what to look for and how to find the right fit. About Ellis Retirement Services: For over 21 years, we've been helping individuals and families prepare for and successfully transition into retirement through comprehensive financial planning and investment management. 👉 Related Resources: 📌 How Financial Advisors Get Paid 📌 Visit us at EllisRetirement.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This video is for informational purposes only and not individualized investment advice. Always consult a financial professional for your personal situation. Grant Ellis, CEO & Owner | Ellis Retirement Services
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The Widow’s Tax Penalty: The Cost No One Warns You About
11/11/2025
The Widow’s Tax Penalty: The Cost No One Warns You About
If you spent your whole life saving and planning for your family’s future… only to find out your spouse could be hit with a massive tax bill after you’re gone — wouldn’t that frustrate you? In this video, I break down a hidden tax trap that catches thousands of retirees off guard: the Widow’s Penalty. You’ll learn what it is, why it happens, and how to reduce the impact before it’s too late. Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ What happens to your IRA and 401(k) distributions when one spouse passes away ✅ Why “married filing jointly” suddenly changes everything ✅ How your spouse could jump from a 22% tax bracket to 32% overnight ✅ Two strategies to reduce the widow’s penalty — Roth conversions and strategic life insurance Whether you’re nearing retirement or already taking RMDs, this episode will help you see your plan through a new lens — and protect your family from unnecessary taxes. If you want to chat with me, I'd love to meet you via Zoom. You can schedule a chat via our website below. 👋 Schedule a free call: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a review. It allows more people to find it. Thanks!
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Buy Bitcoin In Your 401k? Learn About Trump's Executive Order
09/15/2025
Buy Bitcoin In Your 401k? Learn About Trump's Executive Order
President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order that could change the future of 401(k) retirement plans. Most people haven’t heard about it — but it could open the door to alternative investments like crypto, private equity, and real estate inside your retirement account. What you’ll learn in this episode: What Trump’s executive order on 401(k) plans actually says Why it’s unusual for a president to step directly into retirement plan rules What “alternative investments” are and why they’ve been restricted until now How this could affect your 401(k) in the future (and what’s most likely to happen) The potential role of Bitcoin, crypto, and private equity in retirement accounts Why this matters: The 401(k) is the #1 way Americans save for retirement. Even small changes to how plans are structured could impact millions of savers. Whether you’re 30 years away from retirement or only a few months out, it’s critical to understand how these changes may affect your money. 👉 Resources & Next Steps: 📌 Get my free guide: 32 Things to Know Before Retirement → 📌 Schedule a free 30-minute Zoom chat → ellisretirement.com 📌 Visit us at ellisretirement.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This video is for informational purposes only and not individualized investment advice. Always consult a financial professional for your personal situation.
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Retirement Jobs & Hobbies: How to Stay Fulfilled
08/30/2025
Retirement Jobs & Hobbies: How to Stay Fulfilled
Get the free 32 point retirement checklist here: Retirement isn’t just about money. It’s about how you spend your time. After decades of working, many retirees find themselves asking: What now? In this episode, Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, shares how to build purpose and fulfillment in retirement—plus some fun ideas from his personal “retirement jobs list” to get you dreaming about what life after work could look like. ✅ Why planning your time matters as much as planning your money ✅ How “optional work” can add purpose (and maybe a paycheck) ✅ Creative ideas for retirement jobs, volunteering, and hobbies ✅ A free checklist of 32 things to consider before retiring 📌 Free Resource: Want a checklist of what to consider before retiring? Click the link below to download our “32 Things to Consider Before Retiring” guide. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these financial conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@LPL.com 👋 Visit us at EllisRetirement.com 🔔 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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What Do You Really Want To Spend Your Money On In Retirement?
08/04/2025
What Do You Really Want To Spend Your Money On In Retirement?
In this episode, Grant Ellis unpacks what a family vacation to Maine taught him about intentional spending—and why being honest about what really brings you joy is one of the most underrated financial planning tools out there. From ditching beach trips that never felt quite right, to navigating the social pressure of lake houses, boats, and vacation “flex culture,” Grant walks through the real-life exercise of aligning your money with your values. You’ll learn: ✅Why not all spending is created equal ✅How to “test drive” big financial decisions like second homes or retirement travel ✅Why Instagram-worthy doesn’t always mean life-giving ✅The importance of practicing retirement before you get there If you’ve ever wondered whether that beach house, boat, or bucket-list trip is really worth it—or how to find out—this episode is for you. 📍 Let’s talk about how to spend your money where it actually matters. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these financial conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@LPL.com 👋 Visit us at 🔔 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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When And How Should You Start Preparing For Retirement?
07/18/2025
When And How Should You Start Preparing For Retirement?
"When should I start planning for retirement?" It's one of the most common questions we get and the truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. n this episode, we break down how to think about retirement planning at every stage of life, from your 20s and 30s to your 50s and beyond. We’ll walk you through: ✅ The key financial moves to make in your 40s, 50s, and 60s ✅Why saving “6% of your paycheck” might not be enough ✅How to estimate your number—what you’ll actually need to live on ✅The life (not just financial) questions you should be asking before you retire ✅How to build a plan that adjusts as your life changes Whether you’re decades away from retirement or it’s just around the corner, this episode gives you a practical framework to get started. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these financial conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@LPL.com 👋 Visit us at 🔔 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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Let's Talk About Taxes And The Big Beautiful Bill
07/14/2025
Let's Talk About Taxes And The Big Beautiful Bill
There’s a new tax bill making headlines, and while most people are busy enjoying summer, we’re breaking down what actually matters for your financial life. We’ll cover: ✅ Why most people aren’t thinking about this (and why that’s fine) ✅ What the bigger standard deduction could mean for your taxes ✅ New tax breaks for retirees and families ✅ How the bill could impact your estate, charitable giving, and student loans ✅ Why your financial team matters more than ever for tax planning It’s not tax advice, just clear, practical insights to help you stay informed without losing your summer vibe. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these financial conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@LPL.com 👋 Visit us at 🔔 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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Money, Status, and What Really Matters
06/27/2025
Money, Status, and What Really Matters
What if your spending habits are saying more about you than you realize? In this episode, we explore how money, identity, and status get tangled up—and how to step back and make financial decisions that reflect your real values. It's not about guilt or rules. It's about being intentional, thinking clearly, and spending in a way that actually feels right. If you enjoyed this show, please consider leaving a review and ranking. It helps other people find it. If you'd like to connect with us, you find Grant on LinkedIn or visit our website at ellisretirement.com. Thanks for listening!
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Who Gets Your Money When You Die? (Avoid These Costly Mistakes)
05/14/2025
Who Gets Your Money When You Die? (Avoid These Costly Mistakes)
It may sound boring (even we admit it), but account titling and naming beneficiaries is one of the most crucial parts of financial planning—and it’s often misunderstood or totally overlooked. In this episode, we’re diving into the surprisingly tricky world of what happens to your investment accounts when you pass away—and why how you title those accounts matters a lot for your loved ones. We’ll cover: ✅ The difference between retirement and non-retirement account titling ✅ What "Joint Tenants with Rights of Survivorship" actually means ✅ The pitfalls of "Tenants in Common" and when to avoid it ✅ What "Tenants by the Entirety" is (and whether your state allows it) ✅ Why the right titling can save your family time, money, and stress 👀 Don’t wait until it’s too late—check your account titles and beneficiaries today. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@LPL.com 👋 Visit us at 🔔 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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4 Hidden Retirement Risks That Could Derail Your Future
05/05/2025
4 Hidden Retirement Risks That Could Derail Your Future
In this episode, we break down four often-overlooked risks that can derail your retirement if you're not prepared. Sure, everyone talks about market risk—but what about the risks that sneak up on you after you've already retired? We'll cover: ✅ Longevity risk – What if you outlive your money? ✅ Inflation risk – How rising prices slowly eat away at your lifestyle ✅ Sequence of returns risk – A technical but critical danger during early retirement ✅ Tax risk – Why your tax burden may spike after you stop working Retirement isn’t just about having enough—it’s about keeping enough, for long enough. Whether you’re five years out or already in retirement, this episode will give you clarity and confidence about the risks you may not even know to plan for. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@LPL.com 👋 Visit us at 🔔 Subscribe and leave a review for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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3 Things You Need in Retirement That Have Nothing To Do With Money
04/24/2025
3 Things You Need in Retirement That Have Nothing To Do With Money
Money matters in retirement—but it’s not everything. In this episode, Grant Ellis (founder of Ellis Retirement Services) shares the 3 P’s you must have in retirement to actually enjoy it: ✅ Purpose – What drives you when the job is done? ✅ People – Who’s in your corner when work friends fade out? ✅ Plan – What does your day actually look like now? After 20+ years helping folks retire, Grant knows: the ones who thrive think beyond the dollars. ======================= If you have questions or want help navigating these conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 👉 Visit us at 🔔 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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3 Estate Planning Documents You Need Before You Die
04/24/2025
3 Estate Planning Documents You Need Before You Die
Let's be honest—no one likes talking about death. But planning for it? That’s one of the best gifts you can give your loved ones. In this episode, Grant walks through the three key documents everyone should have in place before they pass away. Whether you're just starting to think about estate planning or you’ve been putting it off, this video breaks it down in a clear, approachable way. You’ll learn: ✅ Why having a will is crucial—and your options for creating one ✅ What a power of attorney actually does (and why you might need one) ✅ How medical directives protect your wishes in healthcare emergencies ✅ A few practical examples that show how these documents come into play 🎯 This isn’t legal advice, but it is a friendly nudge to get your planning started and take control of your legacy. If you have questions or want help navigating these conversations, don’t hesitate to reach out: 📧 EllisTeam@lpl.com 👉 Subscribe for more tips on retirement, life planning, and financial peace of mind.
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Not Another Show About Retirement!
04/16/2025
Not Another Show About Retirement!
Welcome to the very first episode of The Art and Science of Retirement — where we talk real life, real money, and everything in between. I’m Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, and after 20 years in the business, I’ve learned that the same financial questions, fears, and uncertainties show up time and time again. That’s why we’re launching this show — to answer your biggest money questions, unpack what financial advisors actually do, and help you navigate retirement and beyond with clarity and confidence. In this episode, we cover: ✅ Why another retirement show? ✅ What “retirement” really means (hint: it’s not just about boats in Florida) ✅ When to work with a financial advisor (and when you don’t need one) ✅ How we help people from $500K to $5M+ build a financial plan that fits their life ✅ Why your story matters more than your portfolio We’re here to help — not sell. Whether you're just getting started or already retired, you’ll walk away with practical insights and a better understanding of how to approach your financial future. 👉 Have a question for the show or want to chat? Visit https://www.ellisretirement.com or email . Leave a review, subscribe and join us weekly as we bring clarity to retirement — one episode at a time.
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