My Retirement Clarity with Lee Perkins

Graduation season isn’t just a time for caps, gowns, and celebrations, it’s a pivotal financial crossroads for many young adults stepping into independence. As they leave the classroom behind and enter the workforce, the financial decisions they make now can quietly shape the next 40 years of their lives. Today, Lee talks about why it’s so important for parents, grandparents, and mentors to help them lay a solid foundation, not just with money, but with mindset. Listen in as Lee shares practical ways to equip recent graduates for long-term success. From starting an emergency fund to making early Roth IRA contributions, he outlines the key conversations and habits that matter most. He also reflects on real stories, including his own, and offers creative gift ideas for families who want to offer more than just a check. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: 🧠 Life lessons for financial independence at 22, not 52 💳 The sunglasses that taught Lee a credit card lesson 📈 Why your first paycheck is your best investment weapon 🔥 The two-fund strategy: emergency vs. “fun” money 🎁 Gift ideas for graduates that build wealth Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

The headlines are loud, the markets are messy, and your gut might be telling you to do something — anything — right now. If recent volatility has you feeling uneasy, you're not alone, but reacting the wrong way can cost you far more than a bumpy month in the markets. In this episode, Lee breaks down how tariffs and trade tensions are fueling market swings and what that really means for your retirement plans. He also shares practical steps to stay calm, stay invested, and keep your financial house in order. You'll learn why short-term chaos often clouds long-term fundamentals, why diversification is more critical now than ever, and how emotional decisions derail otherwise solid strategies. Plus, you'll hear how past crises hold key lessons for investors today. Tune in to learn more about how to navigate times of market volatility and hold onto peace even when the headlines are telling you it’s time to panic. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: 🌍 How tariffs and trade wars impact your portfolio 📉 Why volatility spikes and why it’s normal 🏠 Building a strong financial "house" to weather storms 📊 The real power of diversification during chaos 🔮 Why patience beats prediction every time Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

Reinvention can be exciting, but is it risky when retirement is on the horizon? In this episode, Lee answers a question from a listener who wants to shift from corporate life to a new career in real estate at age 53, using IRA withdrawals to stay afloat during the transition. He also breaks down why early withdrawals can be financially dangerous and how commission-based careers may not offer the stability needed in this phase of life. Beyond the technical advice, Lee explores the emotional side of starting over, how to balance passion with practicality, and what questions to ask before making a leap. He shares a practical framework for pursuing your passion without jeopardizing your long-term goals: get clarity, know your value, and make sure someone is willing to pay for the problems you solve. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: 🚫 The penalty trap of early IRA withdrawals 🏦 Why 401(k) rules after age 55 offer more flexibility 📉 The income risks of commission-based careers 🧠 How to turn passion into a paid skillset 💼 Why a salaried job may offer better financial stability Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

Many people approach retirement age asking the question, “Have I done enough?” It’s a common worry, but are they really focusing on the right things? Based on a survey of nearly 400 experienced advisors, Lee explores the gap between what clients fear and what he believes truly deserves their focus when planning for retirement. He unpacks why concerns like outliving your money and market crashes dominate our minds and the two key factors he believes matter more. Retirement is often seen as a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but it can also be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. Understanding the common worries can help individuals better prepare for this important phase of life, even in the wake of rising costs and increasing life expectancies. Tune in for tips on how to feel more confident about your financial future! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: 📉 Outliving your money is a top fear but solvable with the right plan 📬 Reliable income = confidence in retirement 🧾 Healthcare is a concern, but not the only thing worth planning for 👫 The financial impact of losing a spouse is often underestimated 💸 Don't just save money- learn how to spend it purposefully Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

March Madness is here, and just like filling out a bracket, picking individual stocks can feel like a thrilling gamble. But the odds of winning big are slim. In fact, history shows that most stock picks, like most brackets, end up busted. Many investors can’t resist chasing big wins, even though diversification is a smarter play. One economist, Hendrik Bessembinder, analyzed the returns of nearly a century of stock performance. Let’s compare what he found to March Madness history and uncover what March Madness can teach us about investing! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: 🏆 Many people guess winners, the majority lose money 📉The odds of sustainable success are slim ❌ The most familiar choice doesn’t mean victory 📚 Lee’s financial lessons and takeaways Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

For years, $1 million was considered the gold standard for retirement savings. But is it really enough? In this episode, Lee and Ben explore just how far that million-dollar nest egg can take you in retirement, depending on where you live. Recent studies reveal a stark reality: in some states, $1 million could last a lifetime, while in others, it may barely cover 15 years. But geography isn’t the only factor. Spending habits, debt, and lifestyle choices all play a crucial role in determining whether your savings will truly sustain you. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: 💰 How long $1 million lasts in retirement across different states 💳 The biggest factors that impact your retirement savings beyond location 🧩 Why retirement planning is not one-size-fits-all 🌴🏖️ How to determine if your nest egg is truly enough for the retirement you envision Resources for this episode: 📌https://www.gobankingrates.com/retirement/planning/how-long-million-last-retirement-state/ 📌https://www.gobankingrates.com/retirement/social-security/how-far-1-million-plus-social-security-goes-in-every-state/ Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

If you’ve spent years successfully managing your own investments, do you really need a financial advisor? That’s the question Bob, one of our listeners, sent in. He’s got an MBA, knows the markets well, and has always handled his portfolio solo. So, is working with an advisor just an extra expense, or could it actually add real value? In this episode, we break down when and why even experienced investors might benefit from professional guidance and when they’re probably fine on their own. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

This week, Lee and Keith dive into Carl Richard’s timeless article, Pretending To Be An Investor Is Dangerous, and discuss how to avoid the common mistakes many people make when managing their investments, particularly as they approach retirement. They explore what it means to be a "pretend investor" and break down the six key behaviors that can derail your financial security- from obsessing over short-time market fluctuations to chasing the latest hot stock. Tune in for a great discussion on how to focus on what truly matters- your financial health- while avoiding the distractions and fears created by the news cycle and peer pressure. You’ll learn why sometimes, ignoring the chatter is the smartest move you can make with your retirement funds. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Resources for this episode: Check out more articles from Carl Richards here: https://behaviorgap.com/ Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

A recent article on Fortune highlights a growing trend among baby boomers: continuing to work well into their 60s and 70s. Surprisingly, this is not out of necessity, but for the mental stimulation, social connections, and fulfillment that work provides. With nearly 20% of Americans over 65 still employed, this shift is challenging traditional views of retirement and sparking important conversations about what it means to truly retire. Join us as we explore this growing trend on today’s show. Lee has witnessed firsthand how retirement goals have shifted in recent years and is having more frequent conversations with clients about the evolving landscape of retirement. Is staying in the workforce the right choice for you? Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

As we step into 2025, many of us set New Year’s resolutions—whether it’s eating healthier, exercising more, or cutting back on a vice. But what if we also focused on improving our attitude toward money? The New Year is a great time for a reset and to adjust our attitudes when it comes to finances, and in this episode, Lee will break down what some of those financial attitude shifts could be. From being more mindful of the long-term financial impact of today's decisions to taking that first step toward building a retirement plan, there’s always room for improvement when it comes to managing money. Let’s kick off 2025 on the right financial foot! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

In this episode of My Retirement Clarity, Lee sits down with a long-time client and friend, Joey Kinard, to discuss how he and his wife are making the most of their retirement years. From traveling to new places to embracing an active lifestyle, Joey shares what’s been working for them as they enjoy this exciting chapter of life. Joey’s early retirement was filled with memorable RV adventures. These days, he and his wife enjoy exploring state parks, visiting local farmers markets and festivals, and spending time at their favorite getaway- Alligator Point, Florida. Joey offers great insights on checking off bucket list items, staying active and maintaining a sense of community in retirement. Along the way, we’ll talk about financial freedom, the importance of knowing your spending habits, and why time is your most valuable resource in retirement. Tune in as we explore what it means to retire with intention and enjoy the journey! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

At JL Perkins Wealth Management, we receive all sorts of questions about financial and retirement planning, but some themes come up more often than others. In today's mailbag edition of the show, we'll tackle some of the most common questions we answer on a daily basis. Lori wonders whether it’s advisable to help her aging parents financially, especially with potential long-term care needs. Matt asks if he should resume his 401(k) contributions after pausing them due to the election. If you’re listening to this episode, you’ve likely had questions about one or two of these items, so stick with us! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

When it comes to retirement planning, it’s critical that you and your spouse are on the same page. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll agree on every little detail, but it does mean that compromise and honest conversations are a big part of navigating the process together. Join Lee as he dives into why aligning with your spouse is so important, where disagreements tend to arise, and the key topics you should be discussing. Plus, he’ll share how financial advisors can help couples find financial common ground. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

Remember the thrill of shaking a Magic 8 Ball to get answers to your childhood questions? Would we ace that math test? Would we be famous someday? Well, today, we're bringing a bit of that magic back. But instead of asking about pop quizzes and playground crushes, we’re turning to the Magic 8 Ball for advice on something much more important: your retirement planning! What would the Magic 8 Ball have to say about these common retirement questions if it had the wisdom of a financial advisor? Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

National Financial Planning Month is here! In this episode, we’ll do a little bit of celebrating as we look at what financial planning truly means, as well as what drew Lee into the field! We’ll break down what it means to be a fiduciary, how JL Perkins is different from other wealth advisory firms, and what the standard process looks like with us. Lee also shares a key tip to help you avoid starting your financial plan on the wrong foot, along with insights into the work he did before becoming a financial planner. You don’t want to miss what we have coming today, so pull up a chair and listen in! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

A random, retired YouTuber did a simple video 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). Let’s see what regrets made the list and, more importantly, explore what proactive steps you can take to avoid having the same regrets when you retire. Planning and working with an advisor can make all the difference in addressing these regrets. A financial advisor can help you create a personalized retirement plan that balances your financial goals with your desire for a fulfilling lifestyle. Tune in for some valuable insights to ensure your retirement is everything you hope for! Here are the regrets we discuss in today’s show: Retiree regrets video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNUSJ3juAbA Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. Today, we’re digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning. How do you know how much income you’re going to need when you retire? How do you know if your retirement plan is tax-efficient? Stay tuned as Lee sheds light on these questions and more! Here’s some of the how-do-you-knows we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

We get a lot of questions about 401(k)s because they can be tricky to navigate. So, in today’s episode, we’re tackling some of the most frequently asked questions about 401(k)s. Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of what they are, how they work, and how you can make the most of them! We’ll cover everything from understanding company matches and target date funds to the pros and cons of 401(k) loans and rollovers into IRAs. This is a super informative conversation that you don’t want to miss! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

We’re thrilled to welcome the Mayor of Macon, Lester Miller, to the My Retirement Clarity podcast today! If you’re from the area, you’re familiar with who he is and some of the incredible things that have happened under his leadership. With the reputation of Macon on the rise, we thought it would be fun to discuss some of the key projects that have made the city a must-visit destination. From the world's largest indoor pickleball facility, Rhythm & Rally, to a vibrant new amphitheater and a revitalized downtown, there's so much happening in Macon- and even more on the horizon. If you want to learn more about the exciting developments in Macon and hear directly from Mayor Lester Miller, this episode is for you! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Learn more about Mayor Lester Miller: https://maconbibb.us/mayorlestermiller/ Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

With tax rates set to change soon and national debt on the rise, tax planning might be the most critical piece of retirement planning right now. That’s why we wanted to catch up with David Brooks, a renowned tax expert from Omaha, Nebraska. David, who we consider a tax guru, shared invaluable insights into the world of tax strategies, proactive planning, and the future of tax policies. For those that aren’t as familiar with our current tax landscape, we’ll spend some time on the details of today’s taxes and how to prepare for future changes. With the national debt crossing $35 trillion and interest expenses skyrocketing, it's crucial to anticipate how tax policies might shift post-election. Regardless of political affiliations, we should all be focusing on policy implications and plan accordingly. Join us as we get into the tax strategies we’re utilizing in 2024 and why this proactive tax planning can really help mitigate tax liabilities in retirement. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com About our guest: https://retiresmartomaha.com/