Simplify Your Retirement

Stephen Stricklin, Founder and President of Wise Wealth, LLC is joined by COO, Paul Brock to answer frequently asked questions from clients and podcast listeners. They cover common concerns such as: How often do you make changes or rebalance my portfolio? Do you watch the market and move assets out based on short-term volatility? How does my savings or retirement plan compare to others at this stage of life? Stephen and Paul discuss the importance of rebalancing portfolios, which they typically do once a year to maintain the desired asset allocation and capitalize on buying low and selling high. While portfolio managers adjust for short-term market trends, clients should stay disciplined and stick with their long-term plan, as short-term volatility shouldn't dictate investment decisions. Trusting the plan and remaining invested is key to achieving the desired rate of return over time. They also explain how investor behavior, such as trying to time the market, often hinders success more than market fluctuations themselves, as missing just a few of the best market days can drastically affect returns. The key is sticking with a long-term plan, trusting portfolio manager, and remaining disciplined regardless of short-term market volatility. The key is understanding your time frame and risk tolerance—investing in the market should align with your long-term goals. The episode also addresses the idea of “comparing” your savings and retirement plan to others. The truth is, your plan should be tailored to your unique goals, income needs, and lifestyle choices. Everyone has their own "number," which represents what they need to achieve their goals in retirement, and the only way to determine this is through a personalized plan. Ultimately, your retirement plan's success isn't about comparing it to others but ensuring it meets your individual needs and goals. True success is measured by the peace of mind and financial freedom it provides, allowing you to fully enjoy life in retirement. Ready to take the next step? www.wisewealth.com/contact-us info@wisewealth.com 816.246.WISE (9473)

In this episode, Stephen Stricklin, Founder & President of Wise Wealth, is joined by Paul Brock, Vice President. They discuss the importance of having a comprehensive financial plan, focusing on key components such as a liquid plan, an income plan, and a growth plan. One major risk for retirees is long-term care, which should always be addressed in any financial plan. Additionally, the concept of short-term care is becoming increasingly relevant in retirement planning. Paul Brock, an insurance expert with over 21 years of experience, explains the differences between short-term and long-term care. Short-term care typically lasts up to a year, while long-term care extends beyond that, with each serving different healthcare needs. Despite Medicare covering a range of healthcare services, it does not cover either long-term or short-term care, making it crucial to understand these distinctions when planning for retirement. Tune in to the full episode and learn more about: Medicare vs. Skilled Care Conditions for coverage Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare with a Supplement Short-term care insurance Policy types & underwriting For more information on this topic or to explore any other questions you may have, contact the Wise Wealth team at 816.246.WISE (9473) or by email at info@wisewealth.com. Visit us at www.wisewealth.com.

In this episode of The Blockchain Breakdown: Understanding Cryptocurrency, we explore the importance of understanding digital assets and cryptocurrency as they become mainstream. Digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, are emerging as a new asset class with unique risks and opportunities for diversification. Tune in as we discuss key terms such as Bitcoin, tokens, NFTs, and share our insights on how to incorporate digital assets into a well-diversified portfolio While investing in digital assets, like Bitcoin, can add significant potential upside to a portfolio, it should be a small allocation (around 1%) using only funds set aside for high risk. It's also important to treat it as a long-term investment (5+ years) and be prepared for the possibility of losses. The key to successful investing in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies is having time and discipline, rather than acting on fear or greed. A well-balanced, thoughtful strategy with small allocations (1-5%) and a long-term horizon (5+ years) is essential. Ultimately, investing should provide peace of mind, fit within your broader financial plan, and free you to focus on life’s most important priorities. If you want to learn more about Wise Wealth and our Retirement Freedom Plan™ feel free to contact our team. One of our experience financial advisors will be happy to answer any questions you have! Contact Us: www.wisewealth.com/contact-us info@wisewealth.com 816.246.WISE (9473)

Today, we’re joined by Starla Hendricks, Vice President of Intermediary Sales at KEEP by Stone Castle. With over 30 years in financial services, Starla works closely with RIAs and wealth managers to help them navigate the cash and deposit landscape, providing solutions like KEEP—a high-yield, FDIC-insured cash account that offers protection and a better rate than typical savings accounts at local banks. We’re excited to dive into how KEEP can provide clients with a secure, higher-yield alternative to traditional banking. • KEEP by Stone Castle offers a unique advantage by providing up to $100 million in FDIC insurance on a single account, compared to the typical $250,000 limit at a local bank. Unlike local banks, where individuals with larger sums must spread their funds across multiple institutions to maintain FDIC coverage, KEEP allows clients to consolidate their funds into one account with full protection, all under a single tax ID. • It’s crucial for individuals to fully understand the limits of FDIC insurance. If you have more than $250,000 in a single bank account, any amount over that is not protected if the bank fails. Many people don’t realize that, for example, if they inherit money or have accumulated significant savings, they could be leaving a large portion of it uninsured. With over $7 trillion currently sitting above the FDIC limit, much of it earning zero interest, it’s essential to stay informed and ensure your funds are properly protected and earning a competitive return. • KEEP not only offers higher returns but also makes a positive impact by investing in community banks and credit unions, particularly those serving underserved populations. Through the Keep Impact initiative, funds are directed to minority depository institutions and community development financial institutions, helping to fund housing, minority-owned businesses, and other vital community projects. It's important to note, this is an option and there are other products to consider. As a fiduciary advisor, it is our responsibility to consider all options available and determine what products are a good fit based on the individual needs and goals of every client. Let's create your Retirement Freedom Plan™, starting with the “Clarity Conversation”. Reach out to us at 816-246-WISE or email info@wisewealth.com to start the journey toward freedom. 📅 SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION: 816.246.WISE (9473) info@wisewealth.com www.wisewealth.com

The conversation continues with guest, Samantha Tiller who focuses on eight key areas where retirees need to be intentional in order to achieve peace of mind during their retirement. If you missed the last episode, be sure to go back and watch & listen to the first three areas of the “Retire Wellthy Framework” – financial wellness, occupational wellness, and social wellness. Continue watching or listening this episode and learn the final 5 dimensions of the Retire Wellthy Framework: Emotional Wellness Environmental Wellness Intellectual Wellness Spiritual Wellness Physical Wellness Emotional wellness in retirement involves creating balance and managing daily emotional shifts. Key challenges include loss of identity and feeling disconnected. Building a routine with activities like meditation or outdoor walks helps maintain emotional health, fostering peace and contentment. A fulfilling retirement goes beyond finances—it's about developing habits that support emotional well-being. Environmental wellness focuses on creating pleasant, stimulating spaces in both your home and community. This includes improving your living spaces, considering your neighborhood, and ensuring your surroundings support your well-being. Simple changes can have a big impact, whether it's enhancing your home environment or exploring new places that uplift and energize you. Intellectual wellness in retirement is about staying curious and continuously learning, whether through creativity, new topics, or skills like language learning. It’s important to avoid stagnation and remain open to growth, exploring new interests and challenges to stay engaged and youthful. Spiritual wellness in retirement involves reflecting on one’s relationship with a higher power and finding peace about life’s transitions, including aging and the afterlife. It’s important to make space for spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, or connecting with nature, helping to nurture the soul and maintain a sense of inner peace. And finally… Physical wellness in retirement involves a holistic approach, focusing on nutrition, activity, and sleep. Instead of jumping into a rigid fitness routine, it’s important to ease into healthy habits that suit your body’s current needs, while also being mindful of the other dimensions of wellness. To learn more about how Samantha Lane helps retirees walk through all 8 dimensions of wellness, contact her at Sam@Lumina-Coaching.com or by phone at 913.522.9295. If you’re ready to take the next step and talk with one of our experienced financial advisors, schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Call: 816.246.WISE (9473) Contact us: www.wisewealth.com/contact-us

In this podcast conversation, our guest is Samantha Tiller, the owner and founder of Lumina Coaching. She is a life transition coach specializing in helping people navigate significant life changes, particularly retirement. With her expertise, she helps clients find meaning, purpose, and direction after they retire, addressing the common fear of becoming aimless or disconnected. She emphasizes the importance of not only filling time with activities but also exploring deeper questions about identity and who one wants to be in this new phase of life. Samantha shares her experience of working with clients both before and after retirement, helping them navigate feelings of uncertainty and find meaning in their new phase of life. She explains the common "honeymoon phase" of retirement, where people enjoy the initial freedom but eventually face a sense of emptiness after a few months of leisure activities. Samantha offers a coaching approach centered around the idea that awareness plus choice equals peace, encouraging retirees to reflect on what they want their post-work life to look like and how to achieve lasting contentment. Learn the Retire “Wellthy” Framework which includes 8 dimensions of wellness: Financial Wellness Occupational Wellness Social Wellness Emotional Wellness Environmental Wellness Intellectual Wellness Spiritual Wellness Physical Wellness Awareness in these eight areas allows retirees to move confidently into retirement, with a focus on balance and improvement, not perfection. Being intentional about planning for a successful retirement requires focusing on more than just your financial wellness. That is why we are proud to have Samantha on our podcast, as we know how much she can benefit our clients. For more information about her services, visit www.lumina-coaching.com. Call: 816.246.WISE (9473) Contact us: www.wisewealth.com/contact-us Schedule a date & time online: https://calendly.com/myretirementsurvey/15min?month=2024-12

“Every client deserves the right to invest according to their values.” This is a quote from one of our guests, Mark Reifer. He's a financial advisor, and certified kingdom advisor (CKA), with a long history of managing portfolios and experience in biblically responsible investing. He emphasizes the importance of asset allocation, strategy, and moral screening in portfolio management. Along with Mark, we are joined by Ben Malick: A chartered financial analyst (CFA) and certified kingdom advisor (CKA), Ben focuses on building biblically responsible portfolios under Bright Portfolios, which balance good returns with ethical investments. In this episode, we dive into what kind of companies we are looking to include and which ones we want to exclude and why., The main focus is on finding companies that are "doing good" by treating employees, customers, and communities well, while also delivering positive products and services. The goal is to invest in businesses that are ethically responsible, avoid exploiting people or profiting from harmful practices like addiction, and align with values like loving your neighbor. The process for selecting companies to invest in focuses on three key criteria: products, processes, and priorities. 1. We assess whether the products or services a company offers are morally sound. For example, they avoid companies involved in pornography, even if it's just a small part of their business. 2. Then, we evaluate how the company treats its employees and suppliers, considering ethical business practices. 3. Finally, we examine the company's charitable activities and overall stance in the marketplace. A scoring system is used to evaluate companies based on these factors, aiming to find businesses that align with ethical standards. While the process is selective, it still results in a diversified portfolio, providing ample diversification while ensuring that investors can feel confident about the companies they own. The conversation also highlights the importance of "good returns", not only in terms of financial performance but also in the peace of mind investors get from knowing their investments align with their values. Contrary to common misconceptions, values-based investing does not sacrifice returns. Third-party studies on faith-driven and socially responsible investing show that applying a values overlay can enhance performance, rather than detract from it. Ethical investing can be both financially rewarding and aligned with personal values. Have questions about Biblically Responsible Investing? Or, would you like to speak to one of our financial advisors about ethical investing? Contact Us: info@wisewealth.com www.wisewealth.com/contact-us 816.246.WISE (9473)

In this special edition of the Simplify Your Retirement Podcast, Stephen Stricklin, CFP® President of Wise Wealth, and Vice President Paul Brock discuss the recent 2024 U.S. election and its immediate impact on the stock market. The episode focuses on three key questions people have about investing during election years and the broader economic outlook. 1. Why did the stock market respond favorably to Donald Trump's second-term win? 2. Why didn’t the advisors change investment strategies before the election? 3. What can people expect economically from a Trump presidency? The episode wraps up with the idea that time and discipline are crucial for successful investing. The focus should always be on having a solid financial plan, which should drive investment decisions, rather than chasing short-term trends or reacting to political events. The hosts encourage viewers to understand their own financial goals and stay disciplined in their approach.

In this episode, Stephen Stricklin and Paul Brock discuss the importance of providing clients with a balanced approach to investing, focusing on portfolio construction that aligns with both financial goals and values. Guests Ben Malik and Mark Riefer offer their experience and expertise. Ben Malik: A chartered financial analyst (CFA) and certified kingdom advisor (CKA), Ben focuses on buildingbiblically responsible portfolios under Bright Portfolios, which balance good returns with ethical investments. Mark Riefer: A financial advisor, and certified kingdom advisor (CKA), with a long history of managing portfolios and experience in biblically responsible investing. He emphasizes the importance of asset allocation, strategy, and moral screening in portfolio management. Philosophy of Investing: Wise Wealth emphasizes long-term investing and discipline, advising clients to stay committed to their growth portfolios despite short-term market fluctuations. Modern Portfolio Theory: While both Mark and Ben appreciate the theory’s focus on risk-adjusted returns, they recognize inefficiencies in the market that provide opportunities for active management. Diversification and Asset Allocation: They advocate a forward-looking approach in portfolio construction, taking into account market cycles, risk levels, and opportunities for adjusting asset allocations. Importance of Values-Based Investing: A key element of the episode is the integration of biblically responsible investing (BRI), ensuring the companies they invest in align with ethical and moral values. Their portfolios are regularly reviewed and adjusted, focusing on long-term growth without losing sight of the clients’ values. Investor Behavior: The hosts discuss the importance of investor discipline and how managing emotions during market fluctuations is critical to long-term success. Wise Wealth builds investment portfolios that not only meet financial objectives but also adhere to clients' moral and ethical standards, blending portfolio management with biblically responsible investing principles. Interested in learning more about our portfolios? Schedule a 15-minute Conversation with one of our experienced financial advisors. www.wisewealth.com/contact-us 816.246.WISE (9473) info@wiseweath.com

Many people dismiss reverse mortgages based on misconceptions. Watch & listen to this episode to learn more about the benefits of using a reverse mortgage as a part of your overall financial plan. Meet our guest: HARLAN ACCOLA, National Reverse Mortgage Director, Author of the book, Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages. Harlan Accola has been in the mortgage industry for more than 20 years and is widely recognized as an authority on reverse mortgage loans and retirement finance issues. The most rewarding part of his career has been helping homeowners and homebuyers aged 62 and older to realize the benefits of reverse mortgages and achieve better retirements. In this episode, Harlan highlights that home equity, often overlooked, constitutes a significant asset for retirees—nearly $14 trillion is tied up in seniors' homes. This equity is frequently unmanaged and is rarely utilized effectively, often passed to heirs who may not value it. Using Reverse Mortgages: Leverage home equity to fund experiences and memories with family while still alive, such as vacations. Homeowners can withdraw cash from their reverse mortgage and gift it directly to their children. Since the funds from a reverse mortgage are tax-free, this can be a way to help with expenses like education or a home purchase. Utilize funds from a reverse mortgage for various purposes such as home repairs or modifications, long-term care funding, and more. Eligibility and Rules: Eligibility begins at age 62 (some states allow it at 55). The reverse mortgage is federally insured, ensuring access to funds and protecting heirs from debt if the home value decreases. Upfront costs include a 2% fee based on the home’s value, which is deducted from the loan and not paid out-of-pocket. If you have questions about this topic or would like to know more about how Wise Wealth can help you with your unique situation, feel free to reach out. www.wisewealth.com/contact-us 816.246.WISE (9473) info@wisewealth.com

Guest Phil Graham | CEO @ The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan® Phil Graham is the driving force behind the development and innovation of The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan®. Phil brings more than 25 years of financial services experience, with a focus on designing and distributing products through financial advisors. With the Beneficiary Liquidity Plan®, you can help ensure your loved ones have quick, easy access to the funds they need to settle your estate. Many people have faced the burden of paying for a loved one's funeral out of pocket, and in this episode, we explore ways to provide immediate financial relief for families through these tough times. Sometimes it can take anywhere from 2 weeks up to six months to receive death certificates, which delays access to funds from financial institutions. For instance, in New Jersey, an 84-year-old widow had her joint bank account frozen after her husband died, as the bank required a state estate tax form and death certificate before releasing the funds. Nearly everyone (close to 100%) wants their family to access funds for funeral costs, yet only about 8% have prepaid funerals. We recommend pre-planning (not pre-paying) to ease decision-making for beneficiaries. Immediate Payment: The Beneficiary Liquidity Plan® allows for direct payment to the funeral home, eliminating financial stress for the family. For example, with a $25,000 allocation: • Average funeral expenses (approx. $15,000) are covered. • Remaining funds ($10,000) are deposited to the beneficiaries for immediate use. For more information or questions on this topic, feel free to reach out to our team at 816.246.WISE (9473) or by email at info@wisewealth.com. If you're not a client of Wise Wealth and lack a personalized financial plan, we offer a "Clarity Conversation" to help you get started. You can reach out via email, phone, or by taking our online quiz for a free copy of our updated book, "Simplify Your Retirement." Our goal is to simplify your retirement planning so you can fully enjoy life. 816.246.WISE (9473) | info@wisewealth.com | www.wisewealth.com/book | www.wisewealth.com/contact-us

People often research financial products after hearing about them through various channels, but they may be swayed by either overly positive or negative information. This can lead to risky decisions, as news often highlights sensational or negative stories to attract readers and sell ads. Algorithms amplify confirmation bias by continuously showing users articles that align with their previous clicks, which is why we advocate for principles-based financial planning—principles remain constant even as products and industry trends evolve. While products and industry trends may change, principles remain constant, and we've emphasized these principles throughout our previous podcast episodes. No Investment Decisions Outside the Context of the Plan The Plan Determines the Products Don’t Let Your Portfolio Take a H.I.T. (health care, inflation, and taxes) Protect the Income; Grow the Rest Financial Peace Comes from Having a Plan For clients of Wise Wealth, we provide continued education, and we were thrilled to host our Summer Education Series. This year’s theme, “Non-Traditional Investment, Income, and Inheritance Options,” which sparked many engaging discussions. A Beneficiary Liquidity Plan Including Life Insurance Living Benefits Housing Wealth Including Reverse Mortgages Understanding the Basics of Blockchain Technology and the Investment Opportunity for Digital Assets We’re focusing on non-traditional financial methods this season, including reverse mortgages, beneficiary liquidity planning, and digital assets, and we'll be discussing these topics in upcoming podcast episodes. Understanding your options can help you find the best fit for your individual needs. Having a plan is crucial because it allows for a thoughtful evaluation of various financial options, ensuring that each choice aligns with individual goals and needs. As fiduciaries, we are committed to presenting unbiased, well-researched information on diverse financial topics to help clients make informed decisions within the context of a comprehensive plan. If you're not a client of Weiss Wealth and lack a personalized financial plan, we offer a clarity conversation to help you get started. You can reach out via email, phone, or by taking our online quiz for a free copy of our updated book, "Simplify Your Retirement." Our goal is to simplify your retirement planning so you can fully enjoy life. Thank you for joining us as we kick off the sixth season of our podcast! 816.246.WISE (9473) info@wisewealth.com www.wisewealth.com/book www.wisewealth.com/contact-us

It's often said that people spend more time planning vacations than they do for retirement. But just as you wouldn't wing a vacation, retirement planning requires careful consideration. With potential decades ahead, the time invested in planning is relatively short. Therefore, it's crucial to approach retirement seriously, laying out all your desires to ensure they align with your vision. A common mistake is solely focusing on the day you can stop working. While reaching this milestone is significant, the ultimate goal is not just retirement but retirement freedom. Our goal is to guide individuals towards this state of financial freedom, not just reaching retirement but thriving through it. We aim to alleviate the fears and frustrations that often accompany retirement, enabling people to enjoy their golden years with peace of mind. And at the core of achieving this peace is having a well-thought-out plan. Whether it’s the cost of healthcare, rising taxes, stock market volatility, or inflation, our personalized Retirement Freedom Plan™ covers all potential risks eliminating those fears and what-ifs. In retirement, you want the freedom to pursue your desires without worrying about uncertainties or risks. Working with someone who understands this is crucial. Going it alone might work, but you could still face fear and frustration along the way. Robo-advisors lack the human touch needed to address your unique concerns. While they can provide numbers and estimates, they can't offer the empathy and experience of a human advisor. Trusting solely in automated assessments, like those from 401k providers, may not give you the full picture. What you really need is a financial planner who can guide you not just to retirement but through it, providing both expertise and empathy tailored to your needs. Let's create your Retirement Freedom Plan™, starting with the “Clarity Conversation”. Reach out to us at 816-246-WISE or email info@wisewealth.com to start the journey toward freedom. www.wisewealth.com

In the pursuit of financial freedom, retirement planning often revolves around achieving a specific nest egg or net worth target. However, true fulfillment in retirement extends beyond mere financial security. It encompasses a holistic approach that addresses uncertainties, unforeseen circumstances, and the desire to leave a lasting legacy. In this episode, we discuss the multifaceted aspects of retirement planning, highlighting the importance of proactive decision-making, essential documents, and specialized expertise to ensure a fulfilling and secure retirement journey. While many financial advisors often focus on reaching a specific nest egg or net worth target to support this goal, experience shows there's a further peak to strive for beyond mere financial security. The reality is a lot of people plan for about 30 to 35 years preparing for the day they retire, but you need to have a plan for the 30 to 35 years after you retire. When you get to retirement, now there are unknowns. How long are you going to live? How much is inflation going to impact you? Am I going to need long-term care? As you get closer to retirement, the risk increase, and the stakes are higher. Mistakes have to be avoided and you need to work with an advisor who specializes in the retirement phase of life. Specific investments are tailored for generating income, while others are geared towards growth. The choice of investment aligns with the intended financial plan. Beginning with an income plan, one progresses to an impact plan which encompasses legacy, insurance, and tax planning. Unforeseen circumstances such as incapacitation or illness can suddenly shift control away from one's intended decisions. This uncertainty can detract from the enjoyment of retirement, raising concerns about the distribution and management of assets, as well as the designation of decision-makers in times of need. The goal of retirement planning is to minimize fear, frustration, and risks to fully enjoy retirement. Essential documents such as powers of attorney, encompassing healthcare and financial matters, are crucial. A living will specifies directives for medical care in certain situations, relieving loved ones of difficult decisions. A traditional will dictates asset distribution, preferably through contractual arrangements. It's essential to document specific wishes and have them legally endorsed to ensure desired outcomes, particularly for personal items with sentimental value, to avoid potential conflicts among beneficiaries after one's passing. It's crucial to ensure that beneficiaries listed on policies accurately reflect your wishes, as these designations override the instructions in your will. Naming beneficiaries expedites the transfer of assets without the need for probate, streamlining the process. Trusts can be simple or complex, but legal expertise is often necessary for complex situations. While we offer assistance, we recommend consulting qualified attorneys to ensure validity and effectiveness. We stress to clients the importance of leaving more than just money behind—a legacy of values, beliefs, and memories. Encourage sharing messages, beliefs, and family stories through videos or other means, ensuring that the true essence of their legacy endures beyond financial assets. 📅 SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION: 816.246.WISE (9473), info@wisewealth.com, www.wisewealth.com

Tax Planning: A Lifetime Approach to Minimize Your Taxes In today's episode, we dive into the topic of taxes, drawing inspiration from Benjamin Franklin's famous quote: "There are only two things certain in life, death and taxes." Considering the uncertainty surrounding taxes and the fear it can evoke, we emphasize the importance of having a plan in case of tax increases. While your current tax rate forms the basis of our strategy, we also incorporate a contingency for potential future tax rate hikes, stressing the need for preparation regardless of your decision to convert to a Roth or not. Now, let me introduce Becca Ollar, whose unique background as a CPA with experience in financial planning sets her apart. Unlike CPAs in accounting firms primarily dealing with business and corporate returns, Becca's focus within a financial planning firm revolves around individual planning. In CPA firms or accounting firms, the work often happens behind closed doors with minimal interaction. Unlike the typical accounting firm setup where clients drop off tax documents in February and only reconnect in March or the following year, working with Becca involves more engagement and conversation throughout the year. It's rare to find a CPA focused on building meaningful relationships and actively helping clients achieve their goals, rather than just offering tax preparation services. This approach involves proactive communication, strategic planning before deadlines, and a partnership mentality, ensuring clients are well-informed and minimizing surprises come tax time. The advantage of combining CPA and financial advisor services lies in seamless access to comprehensive records and consistent advice. The proactive approach, often lacking in traditional tax preparation services, is crucial for a positive client experience. Interested in Tax Preparation? Call our office at 816.246.WISE (9473), or visit our website, www.wisewealth.com. Watch or listen to the full episode to hear Stephen’s perspective on paying taxes upfront on the seed, rather than navigating the uncertainties of future tax rates and amounts during the harvest. Also learn other tax strategies such as: Maximize conversion amount within the current tax bracket. Evaluate the Impact of Moving to Higher Tax Brackets: g., 12% to 22% versus 22% to 24%. By incorporating these insights into your tax planning, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals.

In this insightful conversation, Stephen Stricklin discusses the complexities of financial planning, focusing on the contrasting viewpoints regarding investments in the stock market and insurance planning. Leveraging his extensive industry experience, Stricklin underscores the significance of crafting a comprehensive plan that seamlessly integrates both aspects. There is an imperative need for objective advice, especially from a firm like Wise Wealth which can objectively navigate the intricacies of both insurance and investments. Many biased financial advisors may favor one approach due to licensing, affiliations, or personal preferences. Wise Wealth's approach involves tailoring recommendations based on a thorough understanding of clients' needs, initiated through a "Clarity Conversation," followed by the “Possibilities Meeting” - exploring diverse avenues for achieving financial goals. It’s important to understand that by investing in insurance you are transferring the risk to the insurance company which can lead to financial peace of mind. Stephen and his co-host, Paul Brock talk about the significant financial risk associated with long-term care, the complexities of Medicare, and the role of life insurance. In conclusion, it is crucial and imperative to adopt an objective and fiduciary approach when making decisions related to insurance. Key Topics Discussed: Understanding Insurance as Risk Transfer Long-Term Care as the Largest Financial Risk in Retirement Medicare Complexities and the Need for Expert Guidance Overview of Life Insurance: Death Benefits and Living Benefits Integral Role of Life Insurance in All Seven Areas of Planning The Importance of Comprehensive Financial Planning CONTACT US: www.wisewealth.com Email us at info@wisewealth.com, or give us a call at 816.246.WISE (9473). To request your copy of our book, Simplify Your Retirement, email us at info@wisewealth.com, or visit our website www.wisewealth.com/contact-us.

Investment Planning: The 2 Key Ingredients to Success Ever wondered what it takes to be a successful stock market investor? In this episode, Stephen Stricklin from Wise Wealth breaks down the two essential ingredients for success: time and discipline. 🔍 Key Takeaways: • Time & Discipline: The foundation of successful stock market investing. • The Three-Bucket Approach: Learn how to allocate your assets strategically. • #GSEL Mission: Discover Wise Wealth's mission—Give, Serve, Enjoy Life. • Seven Areas of Financial Planning: Gain insights into comprehensive retirement planning. Stephen explains the significance of the three-bucket approach – liquid, income, and growth – and why the growth bucket is a key component for long-term success in stock market investing. The episode provides insights into the five-year rule, a fundamental principle that dictates only taking diversified risks with money not needed for at least five years. Stephen emphasizes the role of the growth bucket in beating inflation, addressing healthcare costs, and managing taxes. He explains why having as much money as possible in the growth bucket provides financial flexibility and serves as "fun money" for retirees. Throughout the conversation, Stephen emphasizes the importance of staying disciplined and not making impulsive investment decisions based on short-term market fluctuations. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the growth bucket strategy and learn how it contributes to financial peace, confidence, and the freedom to enjoy life in retirement. CONTACT US: To request your copy of our book, Simplify Your Retirement, email us at info@wisewealth.com, or visit our website www.wisewealth.com/contact-us.

Income Planning: Smart Investment Allocations for Maximum Peace of Mind We understand that when retirees have a well-thought-out plan, they are more likely to experience true freedom. The ultimate goal of our retirement planning efforts is to achieve this freedom, enabling individuals to give, serve, and enjoy life without constraints. Once a plan is established for each of these six areas: liquidity, income, growth, tax, legacy, and insurance, true freedom becomes attainable. Our concept of freedom planning perfectly aligns with the mission of Wise Wealth, encapsulated by the hashtag #GSEL (give, serve, and enjoy life). To realize this vision, meticulous planning is necessary. One of the most pivotal questions to ask in financial planning is, "What does retirement look like to you?" This question is crucial as the answer varies for each individual. Retirement, for some, entails serene moments in a rocking chair or spending time with grandchildren, while for others, it means constant travel and never staying at home. There's no right or wrong answer, but an answer is essential. The response to the question "What does retirement look like to you?" not only carries an emotional aspect but also a numerical component. When we discuss income planning, we are essentially determining that number. At Wise Wealth, one of our guiding principles is that the plan determines the products. Using our easy-to-understand “3-Bucket Approach” we identify the purpose of the money—whether it's for liquidity, income, or growth. and we firmly believe that a single portfolio cannot effectively serve all three purposes. We believe a single portfolio cannot effectively serve all three purposes. Aligning investments with their intended purposes simplifies decision-making and enhances peace of mind. Today, our focus shifts to the income bucket. We'll discuss the rules governing how much should be allocated to this bucket and the investment options it offers. Many individuals approaching retirement, particularly those who have managed their finances independently or worked with advisors focused on asset growth, may find this transition challenging. They are accustomed to growing their assets, often through 401(k) investments. However, in retirement income planning, the dynamics change, requiring consideration of liquidity, safety, income, and growth. Many people mistakenly believe they only have these two extreme options, either taking no risk and accepting minimal returns (barely keeping up with inflation) or risking everything with potential losses as the market fluctuates. The downside is that this type of strategy doesn't lead to freedom or peace of mind. Individuals find themselves in constant fear, tied to market fluctuations, questioning every financial decision. There are alternative options in the middle ground, that are less risky and more cost-effective, giving a more balanced approach. Upon reaching retirement age, individuals should protect the portion of their money needed for an income stream. The rules for the liquid bucket involve determining your income number, solving for the gap by subtracting guaranteed income sources, and figuring out the least amount of assets needed to guarantee the required level of income. Almost everybody has an income gap, and the income gap formula is straightforward. Take your income need in retirement, subtract any guaranteed income sources, and start with a clear budget. To determine your income need, write it down—request our complimentary retirement worksheet at info@wisewealth.com. Our goal as planners is not to sell annuities or CDs but to have as much money as possible growing for our clients while protecting their income needs. We advise individuals, even up to the first 5 to 10 years in retirement, to start allocating assets today to solve for that gap 10 years from now. It's never too early to start planning. To request your copy of our book, “Simplify Your Retirement,

In planning for retirement, creating a budget is crucial for ensuring financial security and making work optional. The simplified approach involves dividing assets into three buckets: one for liquid expenses, another for income, and the third for growth. The budget, a formal plan for managing monthly income, helps avoid overspending and provides the freedom to enjoy retirement. Key points on budgeting for retirement: Living Expenses vs. Lifestyle Expenses: Distinguish between essential living expenses (e.g., housing, utilities, food) and desired lifestyle expenses (e.g., travel, recreation). Guaranteeing living expenses is crucial. Start with the Basics: Ensure a secure retirement by covering the necessities. Just as parents promise a roof, food, and clothes for their children, retirees should guarantee their own living expenses. Healthcare Costs and Inflation: Estimating healthcare expenses is a significant concern in retirement. A reasonable starting point could be $450 per person per month. Account for inflation in estimating future expenses. Regularly monitor and adjust the budget as circumstances change. Customization is Key: While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, everyone needs to identify their unique retirement number. Use a budget worksheet, estimate high, and adjust for inflation over time. Six months before retirement, start living on the budget to ensure its feasibility. Adjustments can be made based on the real experience. Remember, the goal is to retire with confidence, peace of mind, and the freedom to enjoy life without financial constraints. 📅 SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION: 816-246-WISE (9473) | info@wisewealth.com | www.wisewealth.com/contact-us