My Smart Retirement
Whether you are planning to retire someday, or find yourself already there, you know there’s lots of advice swirling around - some dangerous, some making outrageous claims. Where do you go? Who can you trust? How do you avoid the danger zone? Nancy Fleming with Fleming Financial Services features a weekly show that offers sound, practical solutions to these concerns and more. New episodes offered every Saturday.
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Episode 6: Keys to a Successful Retirement Plan
03/19/2025
Episode 6: Keys to a Successful Retirement Plan
Are you ready to secure your financial future? Join Sean as he dives into the essential elements of a successful retirement plan. In this episode, Sean will guide you through maximizing your Social Security benefits, developing a strategic investment plan, and reducing tax liabilities. He also covers how to protect yourself against rising healthcare costs and ensure your legacy is preserved and your assets are passed on tax-efficiently. Sean emphasizes the importance of not only creating but also highly monitoring your plan, ensuring it adapts to your evolving needs over time. Whether you're nearing retirement or just starting to plan, Sean’s expert insights will help you navigate every aspect of retirement planning with confidence. Tune in to create a retirement plan that supports your dreams and secures your future!
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Episode 5: Questions to ask a Financial Advisor
03/05/2025
Episode 5: Questions to ask a Financial Advisor
In this episode, Sean breaks down the key questions you should ask when seeking advice from a Financial Advisor. With so many potential questions out there, it can be overwhelming to know which ones matter most. Sean cuts through the noise, sharing the questions he believes are essential to ask—and why. He also offers insight into the questions he thinks aren’t worth your time, giving you a clearer sense of what to prioritize when it comes to your financial future. Whether you're just starting to build wealth or looking to refine your financial strategy, this episode will guide you in asking the right questions to get the most out of your financial advisor.
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Building Wealth Early: The Power of Compounding Interest
02/19/2025
Building Wealth Early: The Power of Compounding Interest
In this episode we are giving helpful tips to discuss with your children and grandchildren. Help them understand the importance of compounding interest at a tax free growth. We Also discuss the importance of protecting the family at a low cost with term life insurance.
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Episode 3: Maximizing Social Security
02/04/2025
Episode 3: Maximizing Social Security
In this episode, Sean dives deep into the crucial decision of when to start taking Social Security benefits. Should you claim at 62 or wait until 67? Sean breaks down the long-term dollar differences and explores how delaying your claim could impact your financial strategy. He also discusses the challenge of finding supplemental income if you choose to wait—and how long it may take to make up for the benefits you delayed. With many of the old strategies for maximizing Social Security no longer available, Sean shares new approaches to make the most of your benefits. Since the decision is highly nuanced, Sean emphasizes the importance of working with a professional to craft a personalized plan that puts you in the best financial position.
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Episode 2: The Truth Behind Annuity Gimmicks
01/22/2025
Episode 2: The Truth Behind Annuity Gimmicks
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of annuities and uncover the truth behind the flashy promises often made by radio hosts, TV personalities, and seminar speakers. While many people are lured by gimmicks and bold claims, the reality is that what most individuals truly want is financial protection and reliable income. For those seeking both growth and security, annuities can be a great option—but it’s essential to understand how they actually work. We break down the importance of indexes, participation rates, and how advisors track these investments to ensure you're not falling for exaggerated claims. Many offers come with impressive-sounding participation rates, but the underlying data often tells a different story. We share how to evaluate these offers with a professional’s eye and explain why it's crucial to know the full details before making any decisions. Additionally, we discuss how the financial stability of the company offering the annuity matters and why we only work with those we trust to keep their promises. If you're seeing an "amazing" offer in an ad, email, or seminar, don’t make a move until you talk to us first. We’re here to help you cut through the noise and make informed decisions that are right for your financial future. Tune in for insights that can help you navigate the world of annuities and avoid falling for misleading gimmicks!
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Episode 1: A New Year
01/07/2025
Episode 1: A New Year
Welcome back! After a brief hiatus, we're thrilled to be podcasting again and excited for what 2025 has in store. In this first episode of the year, Sean shares the company's renewed focus on excellence in customer service, outlining the goals and strategies designed to better serve our clients. We’re committed to making a real impact and delivering exceptional service. Tune in as Sean discusses the company's vision for the year ahead and how we plan to raise the bar in financial services.
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Ep 407: What I’ve Learned Throughout My Career- Farewell Episode
05/25/2023
Ep 407: What I’ve Learned Throughout My Career- Farewell Episode
In this episode, Nancy shares some of the things she has learned throughout her 30 years of working in the field of retirement planning. As she heads into retirement herself, she reflects on her experiences with clients throughout the years and shares her major tips and takeaways for your retirement journey. In this farewell episode, Nancy discusses the power of beginning your financial planning journey with the end in mind and envisioning retirement at a young age. She cautions against sacrificing important aspects of life for early retirement and highlights the need for a balanced approach, while still taking your finances seriously. Join us for an enlightening episode, as Nancy shares her thoughts on aligning your spending with your values and the need for effort, planning, and evaluation throughout your planning journey. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: Beginning your retirement saving journey with the end in mind. (1:05) Each chapter of life is valuable. (5:19) The importance of understanding how to use your money. (7:59) “If you don’t get serious about your money, you’ll never have serious money.” (11:50) Find the leakage in your finances. (13:11) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 406: How Age & Wisdom Impact Financial Planning
05/18/2023
Ep 406: How Age & Wisdom Impact Financial Planning
Today, we're diving into a topic that affects everyone, regardless of age or financial status: how age and wisdom impact financial planning. No matter where you are in life, your financial goals and priorities will change over time, and it's important to have a plan that reflects your unique needs. In this episode, we'll explore the ways in which age and wisdom impact financial planning strategies and provide practical tips and insights to help you make informed decisions about your finances. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Nancy as she explores how our financial goals evolve over time and emphasizes the value of integrating personal experiences into financial planning. She’ll discuss the impact of working with a seasoned financial advisor who has extensive experience working with a diverse set of clients and can help navigate whatever changes life throws your way. Tune in as we dive into the significance of maintaining emotional awareness and decision-making mindfulness throughout your financial planning journey and more. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: Nancy reflects on her latest trip to California. (1:25) Why does age matter in financial planning? (4:46) Studies show that as we age, more decisions are made on feelings and intuition. (7:21) The importance of incorporating life experiences and lessons into financial planning. (10:09) How the aging process changes people’s perceptions about money. (12:35) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 405: Your Retirement Memory Bank
05/11/2023
Ep 405: Your Retirement Memory Bank
Are you finding it hard to transition into retirement after living frugally and saving diligently for many years? In today's episode, Nancy shares the story of a couple who struggled with the idea of spending their hard-earned savings on experiences after they retired. In today’s episode, Nancy will introduce the concept of a "memory bank" and explain how it can help retirees shift their mindset around retirement spending. Join us as we explore the importance of sacrificing in the present so that you can prioritize the things you value in retirement. Nancy will also guide you through the process of finding your values in retirement and show you how the “memory bank” concept can be used as a guide to spending your retirement funds on the experiences that matter most to you. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: A conversation about frugality and delayed gratification. (3:49) Having a hard time spending money in retirement after living frugally. (6:31) Transferring money from your financial bank to your memory bank. (8:17) How will you make your memory bank full? (12:17) Deciding what your values are in retirement. (14:53) The importance of setting money aside for your memory bank. (16:28) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 404: When Should I Claim Social Security?
05/04/2023
Ep 404: When Should I Claim Social Security?
If you were given an inheritance, would you go ahead and spend it or find the best way to preserve it and make it last over a larger duration? We’ve found that there are two main types of money managers: those who choose to hold onto the money they have and others that are eager to spend it. These same principles apply to decisions about when to start taking Social Security. Although the government incentivizes people to wait longer before claiming their benefits, many Americans still tap into Social Security as soon as they’re eligible. In fact, a recent study showed that most Americans are claiming Social Security at the wrong time, potentially losing out of tens of thousands of dollars. So, when should you take Social Security? What are some best practices for doing so? This is a loaded question with many factors to consider. Join us as we discuss this topic and why it’s important to think about your life expectancy, health, and overall income picture before making the decision to take Social Security. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: Most Americans are claiming their Social Security benefits at the wrong time. (1:39) Health is a big factor to consider when it comes to taking Social Security. (5:37) Only 4% of retirees wait until 70 to claim Social Security. (9:39) What are some best practices for claiming Social Security? (10:39) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 403: Growing Your Wealth: What Gardening Can Teach Us About Financial Planning
04/27/2023
Ep 403: Growing Your Wealth: What Gardening Can Teach Us About Financial Planning
Typically, the things we desire most in life are also the most challenging and demanding, but they ultimately bring us the greatest satisfaction and yield the best outcomes. Just like gardening, well-planned financial plans require time and patience to succeed. In today’s episode, we explore the parallels between gardening and financial planning and the lessons we can learn from them. While investing all your money into a single account may seem convenient, it is likely not the best approach for long-term success. Join us as we explain why it’s worth spending the time and effort to develop a diverse portfolio. We’ll also discuss the importance of staying vigilant and using the right tools to achieve your financial goals. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: The importance of diversifying your investment portfolio and the potential risks of relying solely on one type of investment tool for income. (2:13) Much like gardening, well-planned retirement strategies take time and patience to grow and produce rewards. (4:34) The “weeds” and “pests” of the financial world to look out for. (6:33) Using the right tools for your objectives. (10:28) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 402: Financial Stress in America: Why Retirement Planning Is More Important Than Ever
04/20/2023
Ep 402: Financial Stress in America: Why Retirement Planning Is More Important Than Ever
Recent surveys have shown that Americans are feeling more financially stressed due to inflation, economic instability, and lack of savings. People are unsure about creating a budget, where to invest their money, and how to save for retirement. Some worry that their savings won't last and that they will have to rely on credit cards and debt. In today’s episode, we’re going to discuss some of these prominent stressors and the importance of taking action with your retirement plan in the midst of uncertainty. Over the course of this episode, we'll explore a wide range of topics. We'll analyze the latest inflation rates, dissect some subcategories in the CPI report, review recent studies on financial stress in America, and address the concerns about the U.S. potentially losing its reserve currency status to China. Ultimately, Nancy will discuss why it’s more important than ever to pay attention to your financial decisions in today’s economy. Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: What surveys are showing about financial stress in America. (1:45) Inflation rates slowed down in March. (3:19) Reviewing some subcategories in the CPI report. (6:03) The importance of sticking to your retirement plan even with these current pressures. (9:59) The fear that the U.S. will lose its reserve currency status to China. (12:13) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 401: Crash Course: The Psychology of Investing in the Wake of Historic Market Crashes
04/13/2023
Ep 401: Crash Course: The Psychology of Investing in the Wake of Historic Market Crashes
Have you ever wondered why you handle money the way you do? It turns out your financial behaviors can be traced back to your formative memories. In this episode, we explore how historic market crashes have left a lasting impact on our relationship with money. From the Great Depression to the sudden COVID-19 market crash in 2020, we’re taking a journey through time to examine some of America’s most notable financial crises. By contrasting earlier events with more recent downturns, we gain a deeper understanding of how they may have influenced our financial perspectives and decision-making. Join us for a fascinating exploration of financial psychology, as we reflect on the lessons of history and their relevance to today's economic landscape. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode! Here’s some of what we’ll discuss in this episode: The lasting impact of the Great Depression. (3:00) The banking world took the forefront in the late 70s and early 80s because of high-interest rates. (6:12) How the Dot-Com crash of 2000 changed the way people thought about investing in the stock market. (9:03) The impact of the sudden COVID-19 market crash in 2020. (11:19) These historical market crashes have impacted generations differently. (15:19) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 400: Answering More Of Your Tax Filing Questions
04/06/2023
Ep 400: Answering More Of Your Tax Filing Questions
Today we are following up on last week’s episode to talk a little more about taxes. Filing your taxes can feel overwhelming, and when you’re near or in retirement, there are some additional factors to consider. In today’s episode, we will answer some questions we received about filing taxes in retirement and provide you with more helpful tips to maximize your earnings. We’ll cover a range of topics such as Roth conversion strategies, ways to save money on taxes when working a job on the side, and changing tax brackets. We’ll also take a moment to reflect on happy moments in life and talk about enjoying retirement throughout the financial planning process. Stay tuned for some helpful insight and real-life examples on how to best navigate taxes in retirement. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: Reflecting on happy moments in life and enjoying our time in retirement. (1:53) Is it a bad idea to do a Roth conversion if I have a high income? (3:38) Some ways to save money on taxes when earning extra income with a side job. (9:14) Should I be making estimated payments on taxes every quarter if I change tax brackets? (11:39) Helping family members navigate finances after the loss of a spouse. (17:51) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 399: Tax Pitfalls: What You Need To Know Before Filing This Season
03/30/2023
Ep 399: Tax Pitfalls: What You Need To Know Before Filing This Season
With Tax Day right around the corner, we wanted to record a timely episode to answer your tax questions for 2023. In fact, tax filing season might look a little different this year than it has in years past. In today’s episode, we’re going to cover some common tax pitfalls and how to avoid them. We’ll dive into some interesting statistics on tax filing in the U.S. and talk about some recent bills and rule changes that you need to be aware of before filing this year. Should you hire a professional accountant to file your taxes? What happens if you push off filing your return? We’ll answer all these questions and more. Join Nancy for this informative episode so you can make the most of filing your taxes this season. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: We might see smaller refunds and jolting capital gains tax this year. (0:57) Some interesting statistics on tax cheating. (3:38) The tax change bill in 2018 that made it more difficult to itemize charitable donations. (5:32) Should you hire a professional accountant to file your taxes? What statistics are showing about filing taxes through software programs. (8:33) The consequence of putting off filing your return. (12:15) The new rules for taking money out of inherited IRAs. (18:00) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 398: Moving Your Retirement Goalpost- Is It Worth The Risk?
03/23/2023
Ep 398: Moving Your Retirement Goalpost- Is It Worth The Risk?
Do you ever feel like your retirement planning goals are always moving? You're not alone. We’ve found that people often move the goalposts in their own retirement planning, often to their detriment. In this episode, we're diving deep into the psychology of retirement planning and the dangers of moving the goalposts. As life throws its ups and downs, it can be tempting to put off investing in our retirement while we deal with immediate needs. It might also be tempting to delay investing until you have accumulated a certain amount of money in your savings account. No matter what reason you might have for moving your goalpost, sticking to a financial plan is important so that you can retire when you’re ready. In today’s episode, we’ll tackle questions such as “Should I push my retirement date back if I don’t have the details figure out?” and “How conservative do I need to be five years from retirement?” Join us as we dive into the complexities of retirement planning and offer insight to help you stay on track with your financial goals. Here’s some of what we'll dicuss in this episode: Should I push my retirement date back if I don’t have the details figured out? (2:40) While having an emergency fund is important, it can be tempting to hold onto excess cash as a safety net instead of utilizing it to your advantage. (6:46) Prioritizing retirement savings so that you are prepared for unexpected circumstances and can maintain a flexible retirement timeline. (9:42) How conservative do I need to be five years from retirement? (11:29) It is important to have a contingent, flexible retirement plan that prepares you for unexpected circumstances. (16:57) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 397: Life’s Other Retirement Plan
03/16/2023
Ep 397: Life’s Other Retirement Plan
No matter how much you plan or how well you prepare, life can sometimes stand in the way. You never know what the future has in store, and plans can change at a moment’s notice, leaving us with life’s other retirement plan. In this episode, Nancy will share some of the conversations she’s had recently with new retirees who have faced difficult and unexpected life changes. It’s never easy, but that’s where an advisor can come in and provide support and guidance. In these examples, we’ll talk about Social Security and spousal benefits. As we age, it can be difficult to come to terms with how we feel versus how we might be perceived, and we want to share a recent post on social media that really connected with us. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: Unexpected things that happen in retirement can change our entire plan. (1:47) Accessing your spouse’s Social Security benefits. (7:11) How the spousal benefits work. (10:15) Keeping the right perspective as we age. (16:22) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 396: The Dirty Dozen - 12 Ways Your IRA is Different from Other Retirement Accounts
03/09/2023
Ep 396: The Dirty Dozen - 12 Ways Your IRA is Different from Other Retirement Accounts
Most of the people we work with in Arizona have utilized an IRA to help save for retirement. It’s one of the most popular tools out there for good reason, and it’s a big piece of many retirement plans. But the IRA is also unique in a lot of ways from anything else you might use to save. In this episode, Nancy will tackle the ‘Dirty Dozen’ differences that an IRA has from other retirement accounts. There will probably be things on this list that you’re familiar with but we hope you’ll also pick up some new information during our discussion. No matter how well-versed you are with IRA accounts, it’s important that you know these differences because they will impact your financial decisions and retirement strategies. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: How the IRA is passed on to beneficiaries and not through a will. (3:38) IRAs are the only asset you own that require you to take money out even if you don’t want to. (5:02) The IRA has its own complex set of rules for distribution. (6:24) IRAs receive no step-up in basis upon death. (9:47) No joint ownership or joint distribution. (17:02) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 395: The Stressors of Retirement
03/02/2023
Ep 395: The Stressors of Retirement
Retirement is an exciting time and should be a period where life is free from worry and responsibility. We work every day to help people in Arizona find that financial freedom, but that doesn’t mean that stress won’t creep up in retirement. Today we want to talk about these stressors that people often deal with in retirement. Some of it stems from the unknown while other stress is created by the unexpected. No matter where it comes from, it’s important to us to help you through these experiences through proper planning and guidance. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: The things that are no longer stressful once you reach retirement. (0:38) How do you fill your time in retirement? (2:01) The unknown in retirement is stressful, including a down market early on. (4:38) How planning can help ease the stress you have. (6:55) Your plans in retirement could change completely but we want you to be able to do what you want. (9:00) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 394: Details on the Arizona Investor Alert for Self-Directed IRAs
02/23/2023
Ep 394: Details on the Arizona Investor Alert for Self-Directed IRAs
The Arizona Corporation Commission’s Securities Division released a warning to investors this month about self-directed IRAs, and it’s something that we immediately read through and processed. In this episode, we’re going to give you the details in the alert and help you better understand what you need to be aware of. If this is an account you have or are thinking about opening, then you want to have all the information available to help you make the best decisions possible. The self-directed IRA isn’t like a regular IRA. This product allows you to store other types of assets like real estate, promissory notes, precious metals, and other investments. When you’re dealing with this type of IRA, you increase the possibility of something not being legitimate and you incur additional risk beyond normal IRA investing. The alert, , makes points out a handful of risks you need to be aware of: You are solely responsible for evaluating and understanding the investments. There will be a lack of information and liquidity in these IRAs. These are considered high-risk investment options. This might be a fertile ground for fraud. There are complex tax rules that you need to know about. Join us as we break down this alert for Arizonans and provide an update on the latest inflation and monetary policies. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: Nancy’s feeling about all the monetary spending and inflation policies happening in Arizona. (3:21) What concerns Nancy most with the recent inflation reports. (7:23) Details on the five points in the self-directed IRA alert. (10:19) How can you avoid these risks if you have or want to have a self-directed IRA? (20:30) Contact The Office: 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit: For more, visit us online:
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Ep 393: Is This Your Tax Question?
02/16/2023
Ep 393: Is This Your Tax Question?
The first quarter of the year is always a time when people begin thinking about taxes just a bit more. That yearly filing will often stir up a few financial questions and get people asking about strategies to minimize taxes down the road. In this episode, we’re following that theme as we open up the mailbag to take a few questions that all deal with some aspect of retirement and tax planning. From converting IRAs to Roth, withdrawing from and inherited IRA, and how to project taxes in retirement, Nancy will tackle each of these to give you a better idea of how to approach these planning items. With it being the week of Valentine’s Day, we’ll also share a little nugget on the history of the holiday. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: · Is it a good idea to start converting as much as your IRA to a Roth if you’re retiring within 5-6 years? (2:00) · Some Valentine’s Day trivia. (6:05) · Rules for inherited IRAs and withdrawing money. (7:00) · Should you be making estimated tax payments every quarter and how do you project your tax amount in retirement? (10:33) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 392: Building a Retirement Life Portfolio
02/09/2023
Ep 392: Building a Retirement Life Portfolio
One thing we’ve learned through the years of helping people prepare for retirement is that everyone has a different vision for how they want to spend that time. Retirements come in all shapes and sizes and having a good idea of what you want will help us build a portfolio that aligns with the life you want to live. In this episode, Nancy and Sean will talk about the process for putting together a retirement life portfolio and why pre-retirees aren’t always prepared for the key transition points. They’ll also share a few different scenarios that they worked through with clients and give you a better idea of how the discussion goes. If you’re at or near retirement, make sure you’ve taken the necessary time to think through your transition and what goals you have for the next chapter. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: · Investors will often come up with arbitrary numbers when building their portfolio. (0:38) · What type of retirement do you want to have? (2:33) · The important transition points leading up to retirement. (3:32) · There are certain times a financial analysis might not help an individual. (4:59) · Some different goals we hear from clients and how we plan for them. (7:25) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 391: 401(k) Mistakes You Need to Avoid
02/02/2023
Ep 391: 401(k) Mistakes You Need to Avoid
Saving in your 401(k) can be an easy and painless way to build your retirement savings. But because it’s so easy and painless, it can also be easy to ignore for long periods of time, which often leads to mistakes. Since this retirement account is one of the most popular vehicles for saving, it’s important to make sure we’re doing all we can to get the most out of this money. In this episode, Nancy will cover at least five of the mistakes people make in their 401(k)s and explain what you can do to avoid this with your own investments. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: What options does someone have when they aren’t comfortable with risk but want to generate better returns? (3:38) What you should be doing with the money in an old 401(k) with a former employer? (9:46) People fail to rebalance their 401(k) enough. (12:28) Allocating too much money to a target date fund might not be giving you the customized solution you think. (13:35) Don’t just assume that fees and costs are minimal because they aren’t clearly outlined. (15:27) What you should do if you want to transfer your 401(k) to another custodian. (17:14) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 390: Warning Signs – Spotting Problems In Your Financial Life
01/26/2023
Ep 390: Warning Signs – Spotting Problems In Your Financial Life
Just like the lights on your dashboard can indicate if something is wrong with your car (like low tire pressure or leaking oil), there are indicators in your financial life that might point out that you have a problem that needs to be addressed. On this episode of My Smart Retirement, Nancy Fleming breaks down at least four warning signs that should give you a clue something isn’t quite right with your financial and retirement plan. Having no idea what it costs to fund your lifestyle, being overly focused on a specific dollar amount, or getting worked up over the financial impact of the day’s news stories are just some examples of the warning signs Nancy will explore. And stay tuned for the end of the show where Nancy peels back the curtain on a new industry buzzword/phrase called “Next Chapter Advisors.” Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: • Warning Sign #1: You have no idea what it costs to fund your lifestyle (3:00) • Warning Sign #2: You’re focused on attaining a certain net worth or account balance (5:37) • Warning Sign #3: Your mental image of retirement is based on what your parents had (7:23) • Warning Sign #4: You get worked up about current events because of the impact you feel that they have on your portfolio (11:07) • Nancy shares an analogy about comprehensive planning and balancing short and long-term goals and plans (12:57) • What are “Next Chapter Advisors”? (18:05) When the warning light pops up on your dashboard, sometimes you know what needs to be fixed. Other times, you have to consult a professional to know what the problem is and how to fix it. It’s the same thing in your financial life. Sometimes you’ll know the major areas where you need to improve, but a lot of times you’ll want a pro to help guide you and show you the way. If that’s the case, we’re always here to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 389: Is Your Retirement on Track? Use This Checklist
01/19/2023
Ep 389: Is Your Retirement on Track? Use This Checklist
Another year is upon us and it’s a great time to assess how ready you are for retirement to kick off 2023. If you’re retiring this year, it’s essential to have some concrete answers to these questions. If you’re still a few years from the milestone, tune in so you can start thinking about these critical conversations. Running through this entire list of planning items will ensure that you’ve checked the most important boxes off your list so that you will be prepared to make the transition into retirement. If you aren’t sure how you’d answer any of these questions, make sure you get with a financial professional to have that discussion. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: How much income do you need every month? (2:52) Which account should you start withdrawing from first in retirement? (3:50) Do you have a plan to combat inflation? (7:45) Do you have any current investments or products you don’t understand? (12:34) The healthcare costs you need to be thinking about. (18:25) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 388: Retirement Law Changes for 2023 (Part 1)
01/12/2023
Ep 388: Retirement Law Changes for 2023 (Part 1)
Another round of retirement changes are on the way after President Biden signed a spending bill in December 2022 that included the . Retirees and pre-retirees need to understand what this legislation means, how it might impact you, and what planning opportunities this could open up. With a significant number of changes beginning this year and next, we’re going to break the discussion up into two parts. In this first episode, Nancy will lay out the details for RMDs and the new age requirements. The rules will impact both account holders and spouses, and we’ll lay that out for you. Plus, she’ll tell you about a big change to the 529 plan that will allow people to move money to a Roth. There are some specific rules you’ll need to follow to qualify, but it’s great to have that possibility down the road. It will be another busy year for retirement planning so make sure you check in with your advisor to see what adjustments you’ll need to make based on this new legislation. Here’s some of what you’ll learn on this episode: The rules have changed for what age you have to take out Required Minimum Distributions. (2:32) How these new rules will impact spouses. (8:23) Changes to 529 plans will allow people to move that money to a Roth…with some qualifications. (12:31) Catch-up contributions increase for the upcoming year. (19:37) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 387: Achieving the Goals You Set
01/05/2023
Ep 387: Achieving the Goals You Set
Many of us like to set New Year's Resolutions. Today we will be discussing goals, but not resolutions in particular. We want to help lay the foundation for goal setting so you will be able to achieve them whether they are financial or personal. For this episode, you’ll want to take a moment to write out your goals and plan along with us as we discuss ways to help you achieve them. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: What kind of person do you want to be? (3:48) Setting dates for your goals. (6:10) “Ring out the false, and ring in the true” (9:42) Prioritize your goals using this method. (12:00) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 386: 10 Financial Steps to Take in 2023
12/29/2022
Ep 386: 10 Financial Steps to Take in 2023
The New Year is approaching in a matter of days. This time of year, many of us enjoy getting our lives organized to some degree. The same can go for your financial life. In this episode, we will be sharing 10 financial steps you should take to start 2023 off on the right track. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: Are you financially organized? (1:28) Do you review your budget each year? (6:32) Have you been meeting your savings goals? Do you have an emergency fund? (9:10) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 385: Is it Reality?
12/21/2022
Ep 385: Is it Reality?
On TV we often see moments that are exaggerated versions of reality. For example, when someone dies in a show or movie there is usually a will reading with the family present. Is that reality? In this episode, we will be diving into some of the things that are shown one way, when reality may look very different. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: Picture it: A will is being read to the entire family, and your great aunt, thrice removed, gasps in outrage as she discovers she won’t be inheriting a slice of the family fortune. Is it reality? (0:24) You suddenly get a letter in the mail about an investment you didn’t realize you had. Is this something that actually happens? (5:29) Can some actually time the market successfully (and intentionally)? (12:22) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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Ep 384: A Cool Million
12/15/2022
Ep 384: A Cool Million
We came across that cites 35% of millionaires saying it’s “going to take a miracle” to be ready for retirement. Why are Americans feeling less confident? Is it realistic that millionaires can’t feel surer about their retirement futures? In this episode, we will discuss why some may be feeling uneasy about retirement. Here’s some of what you’ll learn in this episode: Even many millionaires feel unsure about retirement. (1:33) Many are increasing their retirement savings. (10:20) What to know about end-of-the-year planning this year. (13:38) Contact The Office 480-632-8770 Schedule A Visit For more, visit us online
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