Retire Smarter with Kevin Kroskey, CFP® & Tyler Emrick, CFA® CFP®

Get your customized planning started by scheduling a no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is over 800 pages long and packed with tax changes that impact retirees, individuals, and small business owners. From expanded standard deductions and new senior tax breaks to permanent small business deductions and the end of many green energy credits, this bill reshapes key parts of the tax code — at least for the next few years. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down what’s actually in the bill and what it means for your planning. You’ll learn: Whether you’re already retired or planning ahead for your business and family, this episode will help you understand the real implications — without having to read 800 pages of tax law yourself. Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 20-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Watch the show now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjENBHOti-IEJFqeydZm_Fg?sub_confirmation=1

Get your customized planning started by scheduling a no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Retirees are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals — and the scams are getting more sophisticated. From fake emails and stolen phones to account takeovers and SIM card fraud, even cautious investors can be at risk. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, shares a real story of an attempted security breach involving a True Wealth Design client — and what made the firm catch it before damage was done. You’ll learn the most common cybersecurity threats facing retirees, how to secure your financial accounts, and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed. Plus, we cover smart strategies like using a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication, freezing your credit, and why every retiree should have a Trusted Contact on file. If you’ve worked hard to build a secure retirement, this episode will help you protect it. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🔐 $3.4 billion lost to scams in 2023—just from retirees 📞 How a client’s phone was hijacked and nearly cost them big 🎣 Phishing, fake tech support, romance scams & more 🔁 Best practices: strong passwords, 2FA, credit freezes, and identity monitoring 🛡️ New safety features: trusted contacts and “safe words” for financial accounts Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 20-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Some retirement mistakes are obvious. Others are silent — slowly eroding your plan year after year without setting off alarms. From investing the same old way to ignoring tax planning and claiming Social Security without a strategy, these missteps can cost you more than you think. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, walks through five of the most common — and avoidable — financial mistakes people make in and near retirement. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to strengthen your plan, avoid missteps, and make more confident decisions as you approach — and live in — retirement. Whether you're five years from retirement or already in it, this episode will help you spot hidden risks and take smarter action today. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Mistake #1: Investing the same way you always have 💰 Mistake #2: Taking too much risk trying to “catch up” 📊 Mistake #3: Not measuring progress against your plan 🧾 Mistake #4: Ignoring tax planning opportunities 🕰️ Mistake #5: Claiming Social Security without a clear strategy Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Check out our other no-cost financial resources here: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/financial-resources/ We're now on YouTube! Subscribe so you don't miss a show: https://bit.ly/3SNWIkg

Warren Buffett announced his retirement as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at the company’s 2025 annual meeting — marking the end of one of the most legendary investing careers in history. But his lessons aren’t just for billionaires or portfolio managers. They’re surprisingly relevant for anyone approaching retirement or looking to live more intentionally with their wealth. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores the timeless wisdom behind Buffett’s philosophy—from staying invested through downturns to making confident decisions when fear is high. We also discuss how a strong financial plan helps you make purposeful choices: knowing when to spend, when to give, and how to align your wealth with the life you want to live—now and in the future. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📈 What 90% of Buffett’s wealth after 65 teaches us about patience 🧠 "Be greedy when others are fearful" — and how to actually do it 📉 What to do when market fear clouds good decision-making 🌱 Giving while living — and planning to do it with confidence 🔧 Why your financial plan is your most powerful tool Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

When you're 12 months away from retirement, everything starts to feel real. From hard deadlines like pension elections and Medicare sign-ups to emotional shifts around identity and purpose, this final year before retirement can feel like a perfect storm. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores the unique challenges clients face in this transition — and how the financial planning process needs to evolve accordingly. You'll hear how True Wealth Design helps clients navigate not just the dollars and cents, but also their lifestyle risk, time horizons, and the often-overlooked emotional aspects of leaving a long career behind. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📆 Why the last 12 months before retirement matter so much. 💸 The truth about lumpy spending and how to plan around it. 💑 Pension decisions, Social Security timing, and survivor benefits. 🧠 How to navigate identity shifts and relationship changes. 📊 Why advisors should be more than number crunchers. Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Not all Roth dollars are created equal—especially during times of market volatility. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, unpacks when Roth contributions, conversions, or pretax savings make the most sense, and how recent market declines may present timely Roth conversion opportunities. You'll learn how to be strategic with what assets you convert, when conversions might come with risks, and how tools like the mega backdoor Roth can help high earners build tax-free wealth. Whether you're retiring early or just looking for more tax-efficient growth, this episode offers practical guidance for getting Roth right. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🔄 Roth IRA vs. Roth 401(k) vs. Mega Backdoor Roth 📉 How market drops create conversion opportunities 💡 Using Roths strategically before Medicare or RMD age 🧾 Why tax bracket awareness is essential 🧠 Advanced strategies like asset location and timing Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Markets have been shaken by a sharp selloff, with the S&P 500 down around 15% and the Nasdaq nearly 20% year-to-date. Much of the recent volatility is being driven by escalating trade tensions and a new round of tariffs that took effect on April 9. In this episode, Kevin Kroskey, CFP®, and Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, unpack what’s driving the recent market moves — from global supply chain disruptions to shifting investor sentiment and international dynamics. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Why the market hates uncertainty—and how that’s showing up now ⚖️ Risk vs. uncertainty: what’s the difference and why it matters 🔁 How “Runway” helps retirees avoid emotional investment decisions 🧰 Strategies we’re using: rebalancing, dry powder, diversification 🧠 What to do (and not do) when tempted to time the market Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

If the recent market drop has you feeling uneasy, you’re not alone — but sharp swings are regularities you need to navigate. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq have both taken hits this year, but history shows that intra-year declines like these are common and something long-term investors have weathered time and again. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down recent market moves, highlights where diversification is working, and shares how tax strategies and disciplined rebalancing can help keep your investment strategy running smoothing and financial plan on track. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Market pullbacks are normal—even healthy 📊 Diversification is your protection in volatile times 🔁 Rebalancing can improve long-term returns 💸 Tax-loss harvesting can create future tax benefits 🧠 Discipline beats emotion when markets get rocky Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Big tax changes could be coming soon! On February 25, the House passed a budget resolution setting a $4.5 trillion cap for a new tax bill that could replace the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) before it expires at the end of 2025. But what will the new law look like, and how will it impact your financial plan? In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down the key debates in Congress, what changes might be coming, and how you can prepare now to optimize your tax strategy. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 TCJA Expiration in 2026 – What happens when the current tax cuts expire? ⚖️ New Tax Bill Proposals – The biggest changes lawmakers are considering 💰 How to Prepare – What you should do now before changes take effect ⏳ Why Timing Matters – Waiting too long could cost you thousands 📊 Tax Planning for Retirement – Strategies to minimize your tax burden Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Are you leaving money on the table? For families weighing their options when choosing a financial advisor, Vanguard’s Advisor Alpha study has long been the go-to guide—and now, fresh research from SmartAsset echoes the sentiment that the right advisor could boost your net returns by over 2% annually. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, reveals why many advisors miss that extra edge and how True Wealth Design’s holistic approach—integrating smart investments, proactive tax strategies, and comprehensive financial planning—ensures you capture every opportunity. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Retirement isn’t just about your savings—it’s also about where you choose to live. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores WalletHub’s 46-factor framework for ranking states for retirees, examining everything from tax rates and cost of living to leisure opportunities and healthcare access. We also unpack the key financial and personal considerations, such as state taxes on Social Security and the importance of staying close to loved ones. Tune in for practical insights to help you pick the retirement destination that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Can money really buy a longer, healthier life? In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, dives into the surprising connection between wealth and longevity, uncovering how financial freedom can unlock better health, reduced stress, and more fulfilling retirement years. We also tackle the challenges of cognitive decline, exploring its impact on financial decision-making and how a trusted financial advisor can help safeguard your investments and create a solid aging plan to spend smarter, plan better, and protect your legacy as you age. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

The Social Security Fairness Act is shaking up the retirement landscape, eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) for millions of retirees. These long-standing provisions have impacted Social Security benefits for public sector workers like teachers, firefighters, and police officers—until now. In this episode, hear Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP® dive into what the changes mean, how retirees can expect retroactive payments, and the broader impact on the Social Security system. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores the key financial and psychological factors driving early Social Security claims. Discover how a well-optimized strategy could boost your lifetime spending by more than 10%. Your Social Security decision isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s a critical piece of your retirement puzzle. Join us to learn how to sidestep common pitfalls, maximize your benefits, and secure a more confident, fulfilling retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Remember in 2022 when both stocks and bonds fell in lockstep? Did you think diversification failed? Want to build a more diversified, resilient portfolio to better grow and protect your hard-earned dollars? Hear Kevin Kroskey, CFP®, MBA discuss how the TALS strategy adds unique sources of returns to your portfolio outside of traditional stocks and bonds. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Have a sizable brokerage account? Have unrealized capital gains? Pay income taxes at the highest rates? Want to pay your fair share but no more? If so, this is an episode not to miss. In part 1 of this series, Kevin Kroskey, CFP®, MBA explored why adding the TALS strategy may yield significant investing and tax benefits. He described how TALS can help you defer, avoid, and potentially eliminate your capital gains. For the most successful investors that meet the definition of an SEC Qualified Purchaser, generally one with $5m+ of investments, there is another leg to the TALS strategy that can help you solve your ordinary income tax problems too. Whether derived through your business or from non-business income such as wages, interest, non-qualified dividends be sure to tune in and listen closely. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Learn more about tax strategies and tax-aware investing here: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/part-2-the-long-and-short-on-tax-aware-long-short-tals-investing/ Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

For successful investors and high-income earners, this is an episode not to miss... Sure, you can own an S&P 500 ETF or mutual fund. You could also own the 500 stocks individually, a strategy nowadays called direct indexing. Direct indexing aims to capitalize on individual stock volatility and add tax benefits by harvesting losses. Or you may choose to go a step farther up the complexity ladder to own the 500 stocks individually with a tax-aware, long-short overlay. Let's call that TALS for short. Here you expect to obtain the return of the S&P 500, add an extra return from the overlay, increase diversification, and provide significantly more tax benefits than direct indexing. It's a mouthful, but it sure sounds good! Have a sizable brokerage account? Have unrealized capital gains? Be sure to listen to Kevin Kroskey, CFP®, MBA explore why adding the TALS strategy can help solve these good problems to have. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Tax-Loss Harvesting: Wall Street’s New Strategy Cuts Rich Americans' Bills – Bloomberg - https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-10-24/tax-loss-harvesting-wall-street-s-new-strategy-cuts-rich-americans-bills Watch Wall Street Finds Another Workaround With Taxes, Losses – Bloomberg - https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2024-10-25/wall-street-finds-another-workaround-with-taxes-losses-video

Is diversification dead? Over the last decade, putting all your eggs in the S&P 500 basket has outperformed diversified strategies. In this episode, hear Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explore why the U.S. market has been on an unprecedented run, why the global market portfolio hasn't kept up, and whether diversification is really the best move for long-term investors. We dive into the rise of ETFs, global market trends, and why the "SPY or die" mentality might not hold up in the future. Learn why diversification should still be a priority despite the recent performance gap. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

The clock is ticking on the 2017 Tax Cuts, and big changes are looming. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down the complexities of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and its upcoming expiration in 2025. We dive into the original intent behind these cuts, what changes were made, and the impact on your bottom line. Learn how the expiration could lead to a significant tax hike unless new legislation is passed. We highlight key strategies—like maximizing retirement accounts under lower rates and leveraging deductions—so you can prepare for the changes on the horizon. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

This episode explores the disconnect between retirement expectations and reality, referencing a recent Gallup report that shows most retirees live comfortably despite fears about running out of money. Hear Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, discuss why non-retirees may be more fearful than needed, the role of Social Security, and how age-based spending patterns contribute to the relative success of sustaining a retirement lifestyle. And be sure to pay attention to how working with the right financial advisor can help you achieve financial independence earlier (data suggests up to three years earlier) by measuring and modeling your current spending and retirement goals more appropriately. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Check out the Social Security episode referenced in this show: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/social-security-timing-reframing-your-thinking-for-better-decision-making/