The Retirement Show: Your Life, Your Money with Scott Sierens
A top retirement podcast dedicated to helping you: Reduce Taxes | Make Work Optional | Maximize Retirement Income | Invest Confidently | Optimize Stock Compensation | Help Future Generations Scott Sierens, financial advisor at Sierens Financial Group, will provide thoughts, strategies, and ideas on each episode to help you thrive in life, wealth and retirement. The goal is to take complex financial subjects and make them simple and easy to understand so you can feel confident to take action, enjoy life, and eliminate financial stress and anxiety. Scott, along with guests from across various industries, will cover topics such as tax savings strategies, investments and wealth management, IRAs, 401(k)s, retirement planning, retirement income strategies, pensions, estate planning, social security, healthcare, and much more. Retirement isn't an age or number. It's finding the balance between living life today and feeling financially confident about YOUR tomorrow. Ask Scott your questions by calling 847-235-6989 or check out our podcast website at https://maxretirementshow.com for more resources.
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3 Solid Reasons to Take Social Security at 62!
06/02/2025
3 Solid Reasons to Take Social Security at 62!
Are you thinking about taking Social Security at age 62? That’s what many Americans consider when they approach Social Security age, but just because you can take it early doesn’t always mean that you should. Claiming too soon could shrink your benefits for life so it’s not a decision you want to rush to make. If you can check the box on one of the three situations we're going to discuss in this video, then claiming Social Security at age 62 might actually be the right move for you. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Why taking benefits early reduces your lifetime income 💰 Tax planning and Roth conversions — timing is everything 🧍♀️ Survivor benefits and spousal strategy insights 🧠 Why flexibility matters more than getting the “most” from Social Security Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube:
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4 Important Accounts for Retirement (PLUS Ways to Use Them & Help Reduce Taxes)
05/19/2025
4 Important Accounts for Retirement (PLUS Ways to Use Them & Help Reduce Taxes)
As you save for retirement, it’s not just about having a retirement account, it’s about having the right types of accounts and knowing how to use them most effectively. So today’s video will break down the four most important retirement accounts you should consider having and the strategies you can implement to get the amount of income in the most tax efficient way. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 How to reduce taxes using account strategy 🔁 Why sequence matters when withdrawing income 💰 A flexible account most people overlook 🧾 Real-life example of using conversions to save money Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Check us out on YouTube:
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Before You Retire: Simplify These 3 Areas
05/12/2025
Before You Retire: Simplify These 3 Areas
Heading into retirement should feel like freedom, but too many people carry financial clutter into this next phase of life, creating confusion, missed opportunities, and unnecessary stress. In this week’s show, Scott outlines three key areas to simplify before you retire: your bank accounts, your investment and retirement accounts, and your overall strategy. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🏦 Simplify your bank accounts for clearer budgeting 📂 Clean up old 401(k)s and scattered investment accounts 🧠 Stick to one clear investment strategy that works long-term 📉 Why having money in different places doesn't mean you're diversified See the chart of the week: Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Check us out on YouTube:
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Near Retirement? 3 Strategies to Consider In a Market Downturn
04/28/2025
Near Retirement? 3 Strategies to Consider In a Market Downturn
When the market is down, it can make you feel pretty uneasy. Emotions can rise and panic can feel like the natural response, especially when you’re nearing retirement. You spent decades just saving to get to this point, and now you're watching your retirement savings drop in value. You might be wondering what changes you should make. Should you move to cash? What action should you be taking with your accounts as you watch your accounts drop in value and you're getting closer to your retirement date? We want to focus on strategies that can help our plan during these high emotions versus letting emotions potentially hurt our plan. This video is going to draw out some simple and practical strategies you can utilize during a market downturn that can actually help your retirement plan instead of hurting it. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: ⚖️ Strategy #1: Rebalance your portfolio to take advantage of market shifts 💵 Strategy #2: Increase contributions when prices are low 🔁 Strategy #3: Use Roth conversions to lock in tax-free growth 📉 What happens if you miss the market’s best days 🧾 Roth alternatives when your income is too high Look at the chart we referenced: Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube:
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$2.5 Million in Retirement Savings – Can You Afford a Vacation Home? (Case Study)
04/21/2025
$2.5 Million in Retirement Savings – Can You Afford a Vacation Home? (Case Study)
You’ve saved up $2.5 million and you’re wondering whether you can buy a vacation home or whether you should just do a long-term rental. Maybe you should just scratch the idea altogether. This is a conversation we have with clients and today’s show is going to walk you through how we help determine if the vacation home is going to work with a hypothetical case study. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💵 Comparing buy vs. rent scenarios in retirement 📊 How large purchases affect long-term income and taxes 💬 Why your “retirement paycheck” must align with your goals 🧾 Is it smart to get a mortgage pre-retirement? Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Check us out on YouTube:
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When NOT to Do a Roth Conversion: 5 Critical Red Flags
04/14/2025
When NOT to Do a Roth Conversion: 5 Critical Red Flags
We talk a lot about taxes because they’re going to be a huge expense for you in retirement, which is why many people ask about Roth conversions. It’s a strategy that could potentially save you money in retirement, but the truth is that Roth conversions aren’t for everyone and could actually cost you money. In today’s show, we’ll walk you through the five reasons why it might not make sense for you to do a Roth conversion. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📊 Consider future tax rates and income projections before making the move ⏳ The timing of a conversion could make or break your strategy 💸 Understand the impact of RMDs and how they affect your retirement income 🧑⚖️ Medicare premiums can be higher if your conversion pushes you into a higher bracket See the chart we discussed here: Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: 10:!8 Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube:
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Retiring Soon? 3 Costly Mistakes People Make in Their Early 60s (And How to Avoid Them)
04/07/2025
Retiring Soon? 3 Costly Mistakes People Make in Their Early 60s (And How to Avoid Them)
Once you reach your early 60s, you’re in a window of time where the moves you make will drastically shape the next 30 or 40 years of your financial life and taxes. The right decisions can put you in a great position for retirement but the wrong decisions can leave you playing catch-up. In this video, we’re going to walk you through the three most common (and costly) mistakes people make during this pivotal stage and tell you how to avoid them. With rising costs for goods and services, it's vital to factor inflation into your financial strategy. Our retirement chart of the week provides insights into historical inflation rates, emphasizing the importance of having your investments structured for growth to maintain your lifestyle in retirement. We’ll close out the show with a listener question regarding how to manage a lump sum inheritance. The advice is simple: take your time to evaluate your options. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Going too conservative too soon can kill long-term growth 🧾 Use tax strategies before RMDs and Medicare hit 🧠 Retirement age should be based on planning—not assumptions 💰 Inheritances require calm thinking and smart allocation strategy Check out the chart we discussed: Want to get in touch? Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Check us out on YouTube:
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3 Social Security Tax Mistakes (Potentially Costing You Thousands!)
03/31/2025
3 Social Security Tax Mistakes (Potentially Costing You Thousands!)
Social Security is a key part of maximizing your retirement story. The decisions you make about when and how to claim it can have a big impact on how much you keep versus how much goes to the IRS. In today’s show, we’ll break down 3 common Social Security tax mistakes- some of which could cost you big- and how to avoid them. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:51 – Mistake 1: Believing Social Security Is Tax-Free 3:20 – Mistake 2: Not Planning For Medicare Impacts 4:12 – Mistake 3: Timing Social Security with Roth Conversions 7:12 – Retirement Chart Of The Week 9:49 – Diversification In Investing 10:30 – Listener Question Periodic Table of Investment Returns Want to get in touch? Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube: Facebook: LinkedIn:
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3 Costly Retirement Tax Traps (And Ways to Avoid Them)
03/24/2025
3 Costly Retirement Tax Traps (And Ways to Avoid Them)
Are you prepared for hidden tax traps in retirement? Many retirees assume their tax rates will go down, but for those with significant savings, unexpected tax burdens could cost them thousands of dollars each year. Today, Scott Sierens, CFP®, uncovers three major retirement tax traps that could push you into a higher tax bracket, increase your Medicare premiums, and reduce your Social Security benefits. We’ll also address trending news about the potential elimination of taxes on Social Security benefits and answer a listener's question about the timing of claiming Social Security. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: ⚠️ RMD Shock – How required minimum distributions can spike your taxes 💰 Medicare IRMAA Surcharges – Why higher income can increase your healthcare costs 📉 Social Security Taxation – How much of your benefits could be taxed? 0:00 – What’s coming up 2:10 – 1st Tax Trap 5:24 – 2nd Tax Trap 8:25 – Social Security in the news 12:34 – Listener question on SS claiming Resources for this show: Want to get in touch? Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube: Facebook: LinkedIn:
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Retirement Spending Secrets: A Smarter Strategy Than the 4% Rule
03/17/2025
Retirement Spending Secrets: A Smarter Strategy Than the 4% Rule
How much can you really spend in retirement without running out of money? In this debut episode of The Max Retirement Show, Scott breaks down the biggest retirement spending mistakes, why the 4% rule might not work for you, and how to create a dynamic spending plan that adapts to market conditions, taxes, and life changes. Plus, Scott answers a listener question about annuities vs. brokerage accounts for legacy planning and shares his Retirement Chart of the Week, helping you navigate market volatility. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Big updates and intro 2:25 – The 4% rule 4:11 – 3 Key Factors 8:28 – A smarter withdrawal strategy 10:55 – Chart of the week 13:22 – Listener question Want to get in touch? Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube: Facebook: LinkedIn:
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5 Clear Signs It’s Time to Retire
12/26/2024
5 Clear Signs It’s Time to Retire
Are you starting to feel like you might be ready to retire but can’t quite pinpoint why? If so, today’s episode is perfect for you! We’ll explore five clear signs that it may be time to move on to the next chapter of your life. Join Scott as he breaks down these key indicators, including one crucial sign that should apply in every case- being financially prepared to take that next step. Don’t miss this insightful episode as Scott shares real-life stories to help you recognize these signs and determine if they apply to you! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 3:11 – You can’t wait to retire 4:30 – You don’t enjoy work anymore 7:01 – Things are changing at work 11:27 – You desire more personal or family time 13:54 – You’re financially prepared to retire Want to get in touch? Company website: Podcast website and resources: Phone: (847) 235-6989 Contact our team: office@sierensfinancialgroup.com Schedule your no-cost introductory call: Join us for our next financial workshop: Check out our free guides: Unlocking Hidden Tax Savings Guide: Social Security Benefits Guide: Will Your Money Last As Long As You Do Guide: Check us out on YouTube: Facebook: LinkedIn:
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Big Retirement & Tax Updates Coming in 2025
12/12/2024
Big Retirement & Tax Updates Coming in 2025
Big changes are on the horizon for 2025, and this episode is all about keeping you in the loop. From updates to 401(k)s, Social Security, and Medicare to new tax brackets and changes for inherited IRAs and HSAs, we’re covering it all. Whether you’re retired, approaching retirement, or just beginning to map out your plans, this discussion is for you. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:30 – 401(k)s, 403(b)s and 457s 6:45 – IRAs and Roth IRAs 8:08 – Social Security and Medicare updates 13:08 – Tax changes 18:34 – Health savings accounts 20:58 – Inherited IRAs for non-spousal beneficiaries Resources for this episode 401k Changes Social Security & Medicare Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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The Reasons Your Retirement Transition Isn’t Easy (And How to Fix It)
11/29/2024
The Reasons Your Retirement Transition Isn’t Easy (And How to Fix It)
Scott recently met with a prospective client who asked, “Why isn’t the transition into retirement easy?” While there’s no “easy button” for retirement, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or confusing either. In today’s episode, Scott explores why retirement, or the transition into it, might feel difficult, and why many people find the process more challenging than expected. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:57 – The junk drawer of accounts 10:13 – Savers who have a hard time spending 15:58 – Putting together your retirement vision Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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3 Big Retirement Regrets!
11/14/2024
3 Big Retirement Regrets!
A random, retired YouTuber exploring the top 5 regrets from other retirees he interviewed (all in their 70s). It blew up to almost half a million views (and counting). In today’s episode, we’re diving into three of the most impactful regrets from this list and offering proactive steps you can take to avoid making the same mistakes in your own retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 3:04 – The phases of retirement 5:25 – Wishing they retired earlier 13:14 – Wishing they had taken better care of their health 17:15 – Wishing they would have spent more early in retirement Retirement regrets video Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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2 MAJOR Reasons to Overhaul Parts of Your Retirement Plan
10/31/2024
2 MAJOR Reasons to Overhaul Parts of Your Retirement Plan
How do you know when it’s time to make updates to your retirement plan? With a personal story as the backdrop, Scott explores two major categories of life changes that can (and should) influence your financial strategy. The first category revolves around changes in financial needs. Whether it's an unexpected job change, a decision to retire earlier than planned, or simply wanting to take on new travel adventures, these scenarios require careful consideration and potential updates to your investment and income plans. The second category focuses on family changes. Scott explains how family dynamics, whether it's a marriage, divorce, or the birth of a grandchild, can affect your retirement plan. Join us today as we talk about the importance of maintaining a flexible and adaptable strategy that can accommodate the unexpected twists and turns of life! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 3:53 – Changes in your financial needs 10:09 – Family changes and impact on your retirement plan 15:49 – Wrapping up Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Year-End Tax Reduction Strategies (Part 2)
10/17/2024
Year-End Tax Reduction Strategies (Part 2)
In this second part of our year-end tax reduction series, we dive deeper into actionable steps to reduce your long-term tax burden. If you missed we discussed what makes up taxable income, tax planning vs. tax preparation, and got into some year-end tax planning strategies. In this episode, we’re shifting the focus to strategies you can implement now to minimize your future tax liability. Stay tuned to learn about Roth conversions, charitable giving, and more ways to keep more money in your pocket. With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire soon, now is the time to act. Listen today to avoid surprises come tax season! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 4:12 – Roth conversions explained 9:27 – Charitable strategies 14:55 – When stock options should be exercised 16:44 – Tax harvesting 19:51 – The annual gift exclusion 22:03 – Avoiding the big surprise Donor Advised Funds Video - Qualified Charitable Distributions Video - Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Year-End Tax Reduction Strategies (Part 1)
09/26/2024
Year-End Tax Reduction Strategies (Part 1)
You've worked hard for your money, and naturally, you want to keep as much of it as possible instead of handing it over to Uncle Sam. Fortunately, there are smart strategies to help reduce your tax burden and keep more of your earnings where they belong- in your pocket. And, as the end of the year approaches, it's the perfect time to start thinking about these tax reduction strategies. In part one of this two-part conversation, Scott breaks down the difference between tax preparation and tax planning and provides a detailed walkthrough of a hypothetical couple's financial situation to illustrate how different income sources and savings impact their taxable income. As the episode progresses, he shares several year-end tax strategies that you should consider implementing before December 31. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 - Intro 6:47 – Tax preparation vs. tax planning 9:22 – How income planning ties into tax planning 17:47 – Understanding what your taxable income is 23:06 – Tax brackets 27:19 – Workplace retirement plans 32:08 – Health Savings Account 33:37 – Backdoor Roth IRA Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Election 2024, The Stock Market & Your Retirement Savings: Separating Fact from Fiction
09/12/2024
Election 2024, The Stock Market & Your Retirement Savings: Separating Fact from Fiction
Feeling uneasy about your finances with election season approaching? You’re not alone. Political uncertainty often raises questions about market stability, and it’s easy for that anxiety to seep into concerns about your retirement savings. Join Scott as he breaks down market trends during election years, and explores how elections can affect retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s. Don’t miss these actionable insights to help you stay focused on your long-term financial goals, even during election uncertainty. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 - Intro 4:18 – Common concerns among investors about the election 8:19 – How the stock market performs in election years 12:15 – How the market has performed across past presidencies 16:20 – Focusing on what matters most to you 20:25 – Impact of election on IRAs and 401ks 25:56 – Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 29:42 – Focusing on controllable factors Resources for this episode: Investor Fear CNBC Article: The 2024 Election and Your Finances: How Does the Stock Market Perform in an Election Year? Investing During an Uncertain Election Year: Average Stock Market Return Under Democratic and Republican Presidents: Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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401k FAQs Near Retirement
08/29/2024
401k FAQs Near Retirement
When you’re nearing retirement, a lot of questions can arise when it comes to decisions around your 401k. In this episode, Scott answers 5 frequently asked 401k questions- specifically for those nearing retirement. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to managing your 401(k) as you approach or enter retirement! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 - Intro 4:16 – Using target date funds 11:46 – Catch-up contributions 17:00 – Company offering 401k advising for a fee 22:00 – Company stock in 401k 25:54 – What should I do with my 401k? What Should I Do With My 401k Video: Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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5 Ways to Simplify Your Retirement Plan
08/15/2024
5 Ways to Simplify Your Retirement Plan
Did you know that the first week of August was National Simplify Your Life Week? Just as decluttering your home can ease the stress of cleaning and upkeep, decluttering your finances can reduce stress when it comes to planning for your retirement. Join Scott as he outlines five key strategies to simplify your retirement plan and reduce stress. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 - Intro 3:40 – Paperwork to keep vs throw away 8:12 – Tax paperwork 11:09 – Automating your savings 14:32 – Simplifying investments 18:47 – Understanding your investment strategy 22:52 – Simplifying taxes 27:53 – Keeping your retirement paycheck simple Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Are You Independent?
07/11/2024
Are You Independent?
With Fourth of July celebrations recently behind us, we're focusing on the theme of independence in today's episode. But this isn't just about whether you've saved enough money for retirement. Instead, we’ll explore different categories that contribute to our sense of independence in retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:00 – Independence from employment 9:10 – Independence from the stock market 14:58 – Independence from the IRS Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Retirement Half-Truths!
06/13/2024
Retirement Half-Truths!
We hear a lot of half-truths in the financial world. This isn’t necessarily because people try to make misleading statements, but because sometimes a simple statement just doesn’t quite tell the whole story. Listen in as Scott shares a few examples that show that, while common financial advice can be helpful, it's important to dig deeper and understand the full scope of your retirement needs during the planning process. Here are some of the half-truths we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:58 – “Diversification is key!” 8:15 – "Medicare will cover all your healthcare needs!" 13:51 – "Contribute enough to get the company match!" Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Estate Planning Essentials with Attorney Lauren Jackson
05/13/2024
Estate Planning Essentials with Attorney Lauren Jackson
We're thrilled to welcome an experienced attorney based in Illinois, to our podcast today! With over two decades of legal expertise, Lauren specializes in real estate, estate planning, and probate law. Today, she's here to demystify the world of estate planning and offer invaluable insights to our listeners. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 6:25 – Why do we need estate planning documents? 10:15 – The importance of a healthcare power of attorney 28:44 – The importance of a power of attorney for property 46:50 – What does having a will in place do? 49:53 – How does the probate process work? 1:04:31 – The complexities of guardianship Learn more about Lauren: Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Do I Need Life Insurance in Retirement?
04/25/2024
Do I Need Life Insurance in Retirement?
Do you need life insurance once you’ve retired? We get this question all the time in our office. And, as with most things in financial planning, the necessity of it depends on your situation. So, in today’s video, Scott is here to share some examples of why one would or would not need life insurance in retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 5:20 – Focusing on your investment strategy instead of the news 11:11 – The basics of life insurance and its purpose 15:49 – Do single individuals need life insurance in retirement? 19:57 – Do couples need life insurance in retirement? 26:59 – How to determine the right path for your situation Stock Market Crashes Article: Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Social Security Fact or Fiction
04/11/2024
Social Security Fact or Fiction
Navigating Social Security can feel confusing. With a sea of information out there it’s hard to discern what’s fact and fiction. In this episode, Scott addresses five common statements about Social Security and breaks down whether they’re true or false. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:04 – Average retirement spending for 65-year-old 7:47 – Social Security taxes 13:39 – Taking Social Security when you retire 18:05 – Keeping all Social Security benefits when a spouse passes 20:30 – Penalties for working and taking Social Security 24:29– Collecting Social Security at 70 vs 62 Article – Retirement Planning: How Much the Average 65-year-old Retiree Spends Monthly Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Retiree Regrets
03/28/2024
Retiree Regrets
Many of us have experiences that we regret. How can we avoid these feelings in our retirement years? In today’s episode, Scott shares common retiree regrets and practical strategies to sidestep them. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 7:13 – Waiting too long to retire 9:01 – Not having goals and a purpose in retirement 13:06 – Losing touch with family 15:16 – Not enjoying more while you’re younger 21:20 – Not taking your health seriously earlier in life 23:39 – Not planning for long-term care 26:11 – Listener question about spending in retirement 7 Biggest Regrets of Retirees 10 Retirees Share Their Biggest Regrets US News Article: Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Market Risks, Generational Wealth & Happiness in Retirement
03/14/2024
Market Risks, Generational Wealth & Happiness in Retirement
In this episode, Scott is going to share some of the wisdom he gained from AE Wealth Management’s Wealth Elite Symposium he recently attended in Nashville, Tennessee. This event featured esteemed speakers from Schwab, former writers for the Wall Street Journal, experts from Fidelity, and more. Listen in as Scott shares his takeaways on market risk, recessions, interest rates, generational wealth, and happiness in retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 - Intro 3:23 - Market risks, recessions, and the unpredictability of economic events 10:41 - Having an investment strategy that aligns with your timeline, tolerance, and income plan 12:48 - The impact of Fed interest rates on the market + accounting for inflation in your retirement plan 17:56 - How the potential decline in interest rates affects online savings accounts 20:48 - Items to keep in mind during this election year 23:30 - Normalizing conversations around wealth + being transparent with your beneficiaries 31:31 - Bringing happiness into your morning routine Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Market Highs, Elevated Interest Rates & Your Retirement
02/22/2024
Market Highs, Elevated Interest Rates & Your Retirement
In today’s financial landscape, the market has been hitting new highs and interest rates remain at elevated levels. You might have even heard some of the buzz surrounding the Federal Reserve and interest rate adjustments. We’re here to bring some clarity to the question on many investors’ minds: What does all of this mean for my investments and retirement plans? Is all of this exciting or cause for concern? Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 3:20 – Understanding S&P 500 + Recent Market Highs 7:36 – Impact of Economic Indicators on Market Performance 9:56 – Analyzing Historical Returns + Being Cautious of Market Noise 15:12 – Market Performance Impact on Your Retirement 19:40 – Understanding the Federal Funds Rate 25:18 – Interest Rates Impact on Your Retirement 32:06 – Listener Question: Financial Indecision Resources for this episode: JP Morgan Chart – Investing during all time highs Additional Information Interest Rates USA Today Article - Nasdaq.com article - Bankrate – Biggest Winners & Losers - Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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The Retirement Hazard Zone
02/08/2024
The Retirement Hazard Zone
In today’s episode, we’re going to discuss the retirement hazard zone. This is the 10 years leading up to retirement and the first decade of retirement itself. Listen in Scott compares this period to driving through a construction zone, focusing on the need to slow down, think differently, and be prepared for the unexpected. Before we jump in, Scott will discuss the top 5 financial scams targeting retirees and pre-retirees and share some essential tips to help you avoid financial fraud. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:58 – Scams targeting older adults + prevention 14:50 – Thinking differently in retirement 19:00 – Preparing for the unexpected 21:56 – Slowing down 25:39 – Listener question on Social Security NCOA Article on Scams Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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Max out your 401k for Retirement First? Or, Consider Other Investment Options First?
01/25/2024
Max out your 401k for Retirement First? Or, Consider Other Investment Options First?
Are you considering maxing out your 401(k) but unsure what to do next? We face this question all the time at the Sierens Financial Group so today we’ll explore if it’s wise to max out your 401(k) before investing anywhere else. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:44 – What’s on today’s show 4:33 – What’s in the news right now? Spot Bitcoin was just approved by the SEC. 8:40 – What should you know about Spot Bitcoin? 10:50 – An 85-year study from Harvard reveals the one simple element that is the key to happiness. 14:26 – Should you max out your 401(k) first, or consider other options before contributing the max? 16:13 – Reasons you might want to max out your 401(k). 19:23 – Reasons you might NOT want to max out your 401(k). 23:08 – Exploring your options and how taxes play a role. 27:00 – Jacob’s question: Should you start Social Security at 67 if you’re still working? References for this episode: Want to get in touch? Web: Email: Phone: 847-235-6989 Read more and get additional financial resources here: Check out our YouTube channel:
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