Retirement Starts Today

Have you ever considered joining a retirement mastermind group? Many of us choose mastermind groups to further our careers, businesses, or other areas of our lives, but few think to create one for retirement planning. Today, we’ll focus this entire episode on Fritz Gilbert’s recent article on his experience creating a retirement mastermind group. You won’t want to miss out on hearing what you could learn from a retirement mastermind. Make sure to listen until the end to hear how you can create your own retirement mastermind group. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned What I’ve Learned From My Retirement Mastermind GroupInvesting in Yourself – An Interview with Fritz GilbertRetirement Planning Education Facebook Group (Formerly Taxes in Retirement)The Law of SuccessThink and Grow Rich Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Have you ever thought about how much money you need to be truly happy? If so, you’re not alone. And chances are that number is elusive. In today’s Retirement Headline segment, we’ll check out an article from The Atlantic called “The Reason Many Ultrarich People Aren’t Satisfied With Their Wealth.” In doing so, we’ll explore human nature and how to know when enough is enough. In the Listener Questions segment, one listener asks how to withdraw funds from a taxable account during early retirement. Don’t miss out on discovering the logistics of how to access your money in retirement. Press play to find out. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned The Reason Many Ultrarich People Aren’t Satisfied With Their Wealth Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

If you have found this podcast you’re probably interested in spending more money, spending less in taxes, and making life even better in retirement. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’re taking a look at how to spend more money in retirement by assessing a two-part article from AdvisorPerspectives.com called A Framework for Assessing Variable Spending Strategies. If you are trying to figure out how to maintain your desired standard of living throughout retirement, you won’t want to miss hearing the authors’ findings. Press play to listen. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned A Framework for Assessing Variable Spending StrategiesHow Could This Go Horribly Wrong? Lessons in Estate Planning Part 1My Kids Don’t Want My Stuff – Lessons in Estate Planning Part 2Conversations about “Guardrails Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Welcome back to the second part of our lessons in estate planning. Bret and I recently reviewed all of our clients’ estate plans and in doing so, we learned a lot from this exercise that could help you and your heirs. If you haven’t listened to last week’s episode make sure to go back and listen–especially if you have stepchildren or blended families. In this episode, you’ll learn why you might want to disclaim some assets, how to specifically disinherit a child, and why it is so important to clearly state your medical wishes to all of your kids. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned How Could This Go Horribly Wrong? Lessons in Estate Planning Part 1this link Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Bret and I recently reviewed all of our clients’ estate plans this spring and, as a result, we have so much to share with you about what we learned. It was so much that we had to break it into multiple episodes! If you are curious about how this sort of meeting goes and wish that you could be a fly on the wall, you won’t want to miss this episode. Today we’ll discuss why you need to ask yourself what could go wrong, why it’s so important to consider where your documents are located, why you may want to consider having your medical power of attorney or living will a digital document, and how an executor is a mini dictator. Everyone needs an estate plan. Listen in to hear what you need to consider when you create or update yours. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned this calendar link Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Do you ever get together with your friends from high school and wonder why they all look so old? Are you surprised by the image that you see in the mirror each morning? If so, you’re not alone. In today’s retirement headline segment, we’ll explore an article from Jennifer Senior at MSN.com that examines the abstract concept of feeling a different age in your head than you physically are in years. Related to the retirement headline, today’s listener question is about how to understand when you are mentally ready to retire. Learn how important purpose is in your decision to retire. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned The Puzzling Gap Between How Old You Are and How Old You Think You Are Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Have you made any changes to your retirement savings due to the poor economy? If you did, you’re not alone. According to a Financial-Planning.com article, half of America stopped saving for retirement last year. Don’t miss hearing why this is such a bad idea. Stick around for the listener questions segment where Bret and I address one listener’s worry about the upcoming changes to the tax code. Retirement Starts Today is the podcast where you learn how you can spend more money, pay fewer taxes, and live a better life. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Half of America stopped saving for retirement last year amid soaring inflationThe Retirement Tax Podcast Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

You may be excited to jump on the early retirement bandwagon, but before you do, listen to this episode. In our retirement headlines segment, we explore a peer-reviewed article that shows that early retirement can accelerate cognitive decline. Stay tuned for the listener questions segment to hear how to reimagine your retirement spending mindset by creating a flexible spending plan. Retirement Starts Today Radio is a way to learn about having more income, paying fewer taxes, and creating an even better retirement, so if that sounds like the life you’re trying to create, press play now. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Research shows that early retirement can accelerate cognitive decline Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Many DIY investors would like to learn more about the latest changes in financial and tax laws but don’t have the same opportunities to attend professional financial conferences. The good news is that Bret and I do have these opportunities, and we relish sharing our findings. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, Bret shares his insights from his boots-on-the-ground experience at Ed Slott’s recent conference in Las Vegas. If you are curious about the changes surrounding IRAs and other retirement accounts as a result of the Secure Act 2.0, you won’t want to miss Bret’s distillation. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Ed SlottDevin Carroll on YouTubeSocial Security Intelligence Episode 279 - Secure Act 2.0 Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Have you ever used a Monte Carlo analysis to help you plan retirement? If so, the results can seem scary. You may be looking for a 100% likelihood of success so that you can rest easy–after all, you are probably hoping for a 100% successful retirement. However, in this episode of Retirement Starts Today, you’ll learn why a 100% success rate should not be your goal. Listen in to hear why. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Monte Carlo Failures Aren’t Plane Crashes Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

We talk about retirement income guardrails a lot on this show, but today we’ll go into greater depth while exploring an article from Kitces.com. This article was written by a mentor of mine and takes an advisor’s perspective on how to discuss spending increases and decreases with clients. These are fantastic conversations to review if you have been implementing or thinking about using the guardrails strategy in your retirement plan. Grab a pen and paper and take some notes to reflect as you listen so that you can keep them handy and run them through your own filter. Stick around until the end to hear from a listener who is unhappy with their advisor, yet concerned about the tax implications of switching to a new one. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Implementing Retirement Income Guardrails to Facilitate Spending Raises and CutsDynamic Distribution Rate white paperJarvis Financial Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Do you want to know how you can fully utilize your biggest advantage over the IRS? Listen to this episode to find out. Today, we explore a ThinkAdvisor.com article that turns traditional retirement tax thinking on its head. Then, Bret helps me answer a listener's question about opening a Roth IRA when your salary is too high. Bret has a great tip that you may not have thought of before. Finally, you’ll hear from Mike in Tuscon who is engaging in his love of music in retirement. Don’t miss out on this episode to hear how you can plan to improve your retirement. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Delaying Taxes in Retirement Isn’t Always Best, Award-Winning Paper ShowsPersonal CapitalBetterment Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Do you have an HSA? If so, do you simply use it to pay for your medical expenses? Or do you use it as a way to build your wealth? Today we’ll look at an article from Financial Advisor Magazine that will help us identify opportunities for wealth creation. Listen in to learn how to maximize the triple benefit of the humble HSA. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned A Few Simple Tricks Turn Humble HSAs into Wealth BuildersPBGC.gov Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Do you combine your finances with your partner? If you do, chances are that you might be happier. In this episode of Retirement Starts Today, we’ll explore a WSJ article written by Julia Carpenter titled Couples Who Combine Finances Are Happier. So Why Don’t More Do It? In addition to examining the benefits of combining finances, we’ll take a look at the reasons couples choose not to pool their resources. Finally, I’ll share my thoughts on why merging with your spouse's finances could be a boon to your retirement. Make sure to stick around for the listener question segment. Bret and I discuss whether it is worth self-funding long-term care rather than purchasing long-term care insurance. Listen in to hear discover whether you’re surprised by our response. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Couples Who Combine Finances Are Happier. So Why Don’t More Do It? Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Giving advice to your parents can be a challenge both for you and for them. However, there comes a time when the roles reverse and our parents may need to hear our practical advice. If you have been wondering how to go about doing this you’re not alone. This week we’ll explore a retirement headline from Francine Russo at WSJ titled How to Give Your Parents Advice That They Will Actually Listen To. And to continue with the parent-child relationship theme we’ll answer a listener question about moving to be near the kids and grandkids in retirement. Don’t miss out on this helpful episode. Press play now. Outline of This Episode Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Investing in yourself is a great way to invest in your retirement. You may know Fritz Gilbert from the Retirement Manifesto blog or you may even have read his book, Keys to a Successful Retirement. What you may not know is how he has invested in himself in retirement. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, you’ll hear how Fritz has chosen to invest in his community and himself through a charity that his wife started. Listen in to hear how Fritz's life took off in unexpected directions because he chose to follow his curiosity. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Younger Next YearCan Carl Retire? See The Retirement Planning Process In ActionFI Chautauqua EcuadorThe Hidden Chances of Retirement with Fritz Gilbert Connect with Fritz Gilbert Freedom for FidoThe Retirement ManifestoKeys to a Successful Retirement Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Do you typically like to get your taxes done early? Before you rush out to submit your tax return, listen to this episode to hear why you might want to wait. In this episode, we’ll explore a CNBC article by Kate Dore that lists the reasons you may want to wait to file your taxes in 2023. After the Retirement Headlines segment, Bret and I will discuss the differences between bonds and bond funds to see if we can answer which one is better. Finally, in the Personal Development section, Scott from Houston will let us know what he has been doing to improve his life and health in retirement. This episode is packed full of helpful, informative ideas that you can use to improve your life in retirement. Press play now to listen. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Raise Your Healthy Deserve LevelRaise Your Healthy Deserve Level an Interview with Gary Kadi‘Early filers’ should wait to submit their tax return in 2023, the IRS warns. Here’s why Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletterwww.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

I’m so excited to bring you this interview with Gary Kadi. Gary is the author of one of the best books I read in 2022, Raise Your Healthy Deserve Level. I call this an accidental retirement book because although it is not specifically written for retirees, many topics apply to retirement. Gary has so much to share in this interview. We discuss how to receive good things in life, how your net worth is directly proportional to your self-worth, why you shouldn’t reject good things, why only 5% of people retire with financial freedom, and how to find fulfillment in retirement. This was a fantastic interview and I know you’ll enjoy hearing from Gary Kadi. Press play to hear what he has to say. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned Raise Your Healthy Deserve LevelThink and Grow RichBenjamin HardyBe Your Future Self Now Connect with Gary Kadi Raise Your Healthy Deserve Level Facebook group Connect with Benjamin Brandt www.RetirementIncome.University http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletter Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Many people are concerned that rising interest rates will eventually crash the housing market. Future retirees can become overly worried about the housing market since the value of their homes plays a huge role in their retirement plans. This is why an article from Annie Lowrey at the Atlantic caught my eye. Today, we’ll dive into the article, The U.S. Needs More Housing Than Almost Anyone Can Imagine, and prognosticate the future of the housing market. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned The U.S. Needs More Housing Than Almost Anyone Can Imagine Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletter Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Have you ever thought about what the future might be like for your children and grandchildren? In this week’s retirement headline, we’ll explore a Wall Street Journal article called What Old Age Might Be Like for Today’s 30-Year-Olds. During the listener questions segment, one listener wonders whether it is possible to have too much Roth money. Finally, stay tuned for the personal development segment where we learn what Jerry is doing to find purpose and stay active in retirement. Outline of This Episode Resources & People Mentioned What Old Age Might Be Like for Today’s 30-Year-OldsRaise Your Healthy Deserve LevelThe Retirement Manifesto Connect with Benjamin Brandt http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ https://twitter.com/retiremeasaphttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletter Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify