A Wiser Retirement®

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we discuss the importance of commercial airline pilot medical disability planning and why it’s often overlooked compared to life insurance. We explain how airline disability benefits work, the differences between short-term and long-term coverage, and why “own occupation” policies are essential. The conversation also covers supplemental insurance options, union vs. non-union benefits, and strategies to ensure your financial plan can withstand a sudden loss of income. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 173: Making the Most of Your Airline 401k - Ep 253: Navigating the Future of the Airline Industry - Ep 273: How Early Retirement Affects Pilot Benefits Related YouTube Videos: - New Delta Airlines Nonqualified Deferred Compensation (NQDC) Plan for Pilots - Tips for Airline Pilots Approaching Retirement Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

Retirement isn’t just a finish line, it’s a brand new chapter. In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Casey Smith and Financial Advisor Michaela Dowdy outline eight key things you should focus on starting five years before retirement. While more time is always better, the 3–5 year mark is when many people get serious. Here's how to make the most of it. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 276: How to Make Sure You're Ready for Retirement - Ep 245: Strategies for Early Retirement and Long-Term Security Related YouTube Videos: - Investing for Income vs Growth in Retirement: Finding the Balance - The 4% Rule in Retirement Isn’t for Everyone Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Casey Smith sits down with Robert Swarthout, founder and CEO of Teton Crypto Capital, to discuss how fast cryptocurrency is evolving and how banks are getting involved. - Ep 296: Crypto Update: Big Beautiful Bill, GENIUS Act, & Crypto Company IPOs - Ep 286: How can I evaluate crypto as a potential investment? Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we celebrate hitting a major milestone, 300 episodes! In this special episode, President Casey Smith and Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA®, reflect on the history of Wiser Wealth Management, the growth of the podcast, and the firm’s mission to provide real, relationship-driven financial planning. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 251: Shawna Theriault's Road to Becoming a Financial Advisor - Ep 241: The Heart and History of Wiser Wealth Management with President Casey Smith - Ep 173: Making the Most of Your Airline 401(k) - Ep 168: Everything You Need to Know About 529 Plans - Ep 184: What It’s Like Traveling Full Time in Retirement with the Retirement Travelers Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA® and Financial Advisor Michaela Dowdy dive into the essential financial conversations couples should have before saying “I do.” From discussing mindsets and money habits to navigating joint goals and future planning, they offer guidance on how to build a healthy financial foundation for marriage. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 233: How Second Marriages and Blended Families Impact Estate Planning - Ep 230: What Can and Can't be Included in a Prenup - Ep 183: How to Avoid Financial Conflict in Marriage Related YouTube Videos: - The Financial Pros and Cons of Marriage Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Casey Smith, Andrew Pratt, CFA, CBDA, and Shawna Theriault, CFP®, CPA, CDFA®, dive deep into the state of America’s national debt, what it is, how it got this large, and what it could mean for the country and for everyday investors. While it’s common to compare government debt to household finances, national debt is far more complex because the U.S. government controls its own currency. Still, unchecked debt growth has long-term consequences that shouldn't be ignored. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 277: Tariffs, Trump, and Turbulence: Making Sense of Market Mayhem - Ep 263: Trump’s Economic Policies: Tax, Tariffs, and More Related YouTube Videos: - What is Financial Planning? Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we explore the financial and emotional realities of stepping away from the workforce to become a stay-at-home parent. Whether you're considering staying home temporarily or long-term, it's a decision that deserves careful financial planning. From budgeting for a single income and understanding the trade-offs in retirement savings, to evaluating insurance needs and career impact, we break down what families need to consider to make the best choice for their future, both financially and personally. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 274: Buying a Home in the Best School District: What You Need to Know Related YouTube Videos: - Why Every Parent Should Consider a Roth IRA for Their Child - Greenlight Debit Card 2024 Honest Review Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Casey Smith sits down with Robert Swarthout, founder and CEO of Teton Crypto Capital, to unpack how recent legislation is reshaping the crypto landscape in the U.S. From tax changes to new opportunities for investors, here’s what you need to know. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 281: Crypto Update: Tariffs, Ripple’s Victory, and What’s Next for Investors - Ep 286: How can I evaluate crypto as a potential investment? Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, Estate Planning Attorney Arun Gupta joins Senior Financial Advisor Shawna Theriault to discuss how taking the simplest step in estate planning, creating a will, can make a profound difference. While many assume estate planning is only for the ultra-wealthy, a will helps ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, reduces confusion, and eases the burden on your loved ones during an already difficult time. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 123: Estate Planning for Young Adults - Ep 192: Estate Planning for Those that Travel Frequently or Live in Multiple States - Ep 233: How Second Marriages and Blended Families Impact Estate Planning - Ep 279: What Should Parents of Children with Disabilities Know About Estate Planning? Related YouTube Videos: - Estate Tax Law Changes Coming in 2026 - Using an Online Estate Planning Service vs Using a Local Attorney Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we cover how principles from aviation, like threat and error management, proactive and reactive planning, and strong team communication, can be applied to personal financial planning. Casey Smith is joined by airline Captain Evan Bogan to explore how pilots handle unexpected challenges and how families can do the same with their finances. From building a rainy day fund to managing opportunity money and avoiding unnecessary fees, they offer valuable insights for anyone looking to strengthen their financial flight plan. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 253: Navigating the Future of the Airline Industry - Ep 264: Shaping the Future of Aviation: Key Leadership Skills for Pilots - Ep 194: Delta, American & United: Who's Got the Best Pilot Retirement Offering? Related YouTube Videos: - New Delta Airlines Nonqualified Deferred Compensation (NQDC) Plan for Pilots - Pilots: Roth or No Roth... That's the Question - Why Financial Planning is Different for Pilots Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

Whether you're planning to retire, sell your business, or pass it on to the next generation, having a clear succession plan is essential. Unfortunately, many business owners delay this process, putting the value of their life's work at risk. In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we cover the key steps every business owner should take to successfully transition out of their business. business. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 283: How to Manage a Sudden Money Windfall: IPOs, Business Sale, or Inheritance - Ep 247: Why It’s Crucial to Separate Your Business and Personal Assets Related YouTube Videos: - Why Business Owners Need an Exit Strategy - Asset Protection Strategies for Business Owners Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we explore whether pursuing an MBA is truly worth the investment. We’re joined by Nancy Mercer, Assistant Dean and Director of MBA Marketing and Admissions, and Dr. Lauren Heller, Dean of the Campbell School of Business at Berry College, for an inside look at how MBA programs have evolved and what prospective students should consider. We highlight Berry College’s distinctive approach, including small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and new online flexibility. We also dive into career outcomes, employer support, and the lasting value of accreditation. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 295: What is the FAFSA, and how does it work? - Ep 287: The Financial $tuff They Don’t Teach You in School Related YouTube Videos: - How do I prioritize my financial goals? - What is Financial Planning? Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we explore how financial planning is different for entrepreneurs. From managing fluctuating income and separating personal and business finances to building a strong emergency fund and maximizing retirement contributions, we cover the essentials of creating a stable financial foundation as a business owner. We also dive into choosing the right business entity, tax planning strategies, quarterly tax payments, and how to prepare for succession or unexpected events. Whether you're just starting out or running an established business, you'll gain valuable insights to help you make smarter financial decisions. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 247: Why It’s Crucial to Separate Your Business and Personal Assets - Ep 283: How to Manage a Sudden Money Windfall: IPOs, Business Sale, or Inheritance Related YouTube Videos: - Why Business Owners Need an Exit Strategy - Asset Protection Strategies for Business Owners Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

Gold has long been considered a safe haven during times of uncertainty, often used to hedge against inflation and geopolitical risk. In this episode of the A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we explore how shifting economic conditions, the rise of lab-created gold, and growing interest in digital assets like Bitcoin are prompting investors to ask: Is gold still a good investment? Related Blog Post : - The Future of Gold: Could Lab-Made Gold Send Prices Plummeting? Related Podcast Episode: - Ep 220: Is Bitcoin more than digital gold? Related YouTube Videos: - Investing for Income vs Growth in Retirement: Finding the Balance - The Truth about ESG Investing Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

Pensions can provide a valuable source of retirement income, but deciding whether to stick with a job solely for the pension is more complex than it may seem. In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we give a breakdown of the key benefits and trade-offs of relying on a pension, and how to assess whether it's the right move for your financial future. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 137: Financial Planning in Your 50s Related YouTube Videos: - How Much is Social Security Reduced if I Have a Pension? - What's the difference between pensions and IRAs? Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we discuss how the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is crucial in determining eligibility for financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Whether or not your family qualifies for aid, understanding the FAFSA’s purpose and process is essential for anyone navigating college costs. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 136: Financially Preparing for Your High Schooler to go to College - Ep 270: What College Expenses are Tax-Deductible for Parents? Related YouTube Videos: - ​​How do I save money for my child's education? Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we talk about financial concepts that most people aren't taught in school but are essential for everyday life. From how taxes work to whether buying a home is always the better choice. We tackle common misconceptions that can lead to costly mistakes, and offer practical advice to help you make smarter financial decisions. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 46. Financial Terms Everyone Should Know- - Ep 215: Happy Financial Literacy Month! Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

Join us for this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast as we dive into how to evaluate cryptocurrency as a potential investment and whether it deserves a place in your portfolio. We’ll also unpack the latest crypto news, from major acquisitions to pending legislation, and discuss how these developments could impact the future of digital assets. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 281: Crypto Update: Tariffs, Ripple’s Victory, and What’s Next for Investors - Ep 275: Crypto Update: The U.S. Bitcoin Reserve, SBF’s Prison Interview, and 24-Hour Nasdaq Trading Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

Emotional investing is one of the biggest barriers to long-term financial success. With constant news cycles and market noise, it’s easy to make decisions based on fear, recent events, or overconfidence. In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we explore how the right framework, discipline, and guidance can help you stay focused and invest with confidence. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 285: Fear, Greed, and the Markets: Mastering Emotional Investing (Part 1) - Ep 277: Tariffs, Trump, and Turbulence: Making Sense of Market Mayhem Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we discuss how emotions like fear, greed, and regret can influence investment decisions and lead to costly mistakes. We explore common behavioral biases such as overconfidence, loss aversion, anchoring, and confirmation bias that often derail long-term financial plans. We emphasize the importance of staying disciplined, thinking long-term, and avoiding impulsive reactions to market noise or social media hype. Related Podcast Episodes: - Ep 154: Investing Through Times of Fear - Ep 277: Tariffs, Trump, and Turbulence: Making Sense of Market Mayhem Learn More: - About Wiser Wealth Management - Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom. - Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter - A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!