Advised | with Rick Luchini

Are you afraid to spend money in retirement — even though you’ve saved diligently for decades? You’re not alone. Many retirees face a surprising challenge: shifting from saver to spender. In this episode of The Advised Podcast, Rick Luchini unpacks the psychology behind why it feels so hard to enjoy your money after years of disciplined saving. We talk about: Why the “middle-class millionaire” often struggles the most with spending The mindset shift needed to confidently move from accumulation to distribution How to balance enjoying bucket-list experiences with the fear of running out If you’ve ever worried about spending “too much” in retirement, this conversation will help you reframe your thinking and find the confidence to use your money with purpose.

When it comes to saving for your kids’ future, the options can feel overwhelming—529 plans, UTMA accounts, taxable brokerage accounts, or just keeping the money in your own name. Which is best? And how do new tax law changes (like the SECURE Act 2.0 and the “Big Beautiful Bill”) change the conversation? In this episode, we break down: The pros and cons of 529 college savings plans (and how new rules make them more flexible than ever) Why UTMA/UGMA custodial accounts can be powerful—but also risky once kids gain control at 18 or 21 The case for simply saving in your own brokerage account and gifting later How grandparents, aunts, and uncles should think about gifting strategies for education The tax angles that make each option more or less attractive Whether you’re a new parent, soon-to-be grandparent, or just trying to figure out the smartest way to support your kids’ future, this conversation cuts through the confusion. 👉 Don’t just default to a 529 plan because Google says so. Understand the trade-offs, the flexibility, and the long-term tax impact.

When it comes to taxes in retirement, most people only think about last year’s return. But focusing only on history can cost you tens of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. In this episode, we break down the critical difference between a tax accountant (historian) and a tax planner, and why you may need both. You’ll learn why accountants often focus on minimizing taxes this year, while planners look decades ahead, helping you avoid April surprises, create flexibility, and reduce your lifetime tax bill. We’ll share real examples of clients who avoided five-figure tax shocks by planning just one to two years ahead—and why “no surprises” is one of the most valuable gifts in retirement planning. If you want to understand how proactive planning can save you stress, money, and headaches, this episode is for you.

I sat down with somatic health coach Mitch Webb to unpack one of the most overlooked pillars of retirement: your health. We often spend decades building careers, growing wealth, and planning tax strategies — but if our bodies break down, what’s the point? Mitch explains how a dysregulated nervous system, poor nutrition, and chronic stress can quietly rob us of the very freedom we’re working toward. We cover: How high-achievers can transition from a go-go lifestyle into a healthy retirement. Why “wealth means nothing without health.” Practical, low-barrier steps you can start today: nutrition shifts, nervous system regulation, daily movement, and habit stacking. How to avoid the “duck syndrome” of calm on the surface, but stressed and anxious underneath. If you want to enjoy your retirement years with energy, clarity, and longevity, this conversation is a must-listen.

Are your taxes really going to be lower in retirement? Many financial advisors and rules of thumb assume so, but for high-earning savers and retirees with large IRAs or 401(k)s, the reality is often very different. In this episode, Rick Luchini breaks down the myth of lower retirement taxes and explores why many retirees actually face similar or even higher tax bills in retirement. We’ll cover the impact of Roth IRAs vs. traditional IRAs, how Roth conversions can create flexibility, and why taxable brokerage accounts are often underrated in retirement planning. You’ll learn about required minimum distributions (RMDs), the so-called “retirement tax bomb,” and how taxes can unexpectedly explode when a surviving spouse inherits retirement accounts and is forced into higher tax brackets. If you’re planning for retirement—or already retired—this discussion will give you actionable insights on tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, avoiding sticker shock, and why flexibility matters more than outdated rules of thumb. ✅ Learn how to protect yourself from unexpected retirement taxes ✅ Understand when Roth accounts make sense ✅ Avoid common tax planning mistakes that could cost you thousands

Are you approaching retirement and worried about taxes? In this episode of Advised, we dive into the reality of Roth conversions, IRAs, RMDs, and retirement tax planning—and why so many people experience sticker shock when they first see the tax bill. Too often, retirees hesitate on powerful strategies like Roth IRA conversions because they’re focused only on the short-term cost instead of the long-term lifetime tax savings. Rick breaks down how to make these decisions without fear, including: Why writing a big check to the IRS today could save you hundreds of thousands in the future How Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) force taxable withdrawals and how to plan around them Balancing Roth conversions with healthcare premiums, Medicare surcharges, and inheritance planning Why fees and financial advisor costs aren’t just expenses—they’re investments in value and strategy Whether you have a seven-figure IRA or a more modest retirement account, this episode will help you see the bigger picture and align your money decisions with your goals, values, and legacy.

In this episode, we break down the “Big Beautiful Bill” — a major piece of tax legislation that could significantly impact your retirement planning, paycheck, and overall financial strategy. Whether you're retired, working overtime, collecting Social Security, or just trying to make smart tax moves, this bill matters. Perfect for pre-retirees, retirees, and high-income earners who want to keep more of their money and avoid costly tax mistakes. Don’t miss this clear, no-BS walkthrough of what changed, what didn’t, and how to plan accordingly. Subscribe for more personal finance and retirement planning content!

In this episode, we dive deep into Roth IRAs, Roth conversions, and the most common mistakes people make when trying to take advantage of these powerful retirement planning tools. Whether you're thinking about a backdoor Roth IRA, navigating the pro-rata rule, or wondering when it’s smart to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth, this episode is packed with practical, strategic advice. We break down when Roth conversions make sense (and when they don’t), how to avoid costly tax surprises, and why understanding your current and future tax brackets is crucial. We also explore Medicare IRMAA surcharges, Social Security tax traps, and the flexibility Roth accounts offer in retirement. If you’re a high-income earner, in your 40s or 50s, or nearing retirement and want to optimize your tax strategy, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to build tax-free income, reduce future RMDs, and make smarter financial decisions. 🔔 Subscribe for expert tips on personal finance, tax planning, and retirement strategies.

Most retirees never plan for the financial impact of losing a spouse — here's what you need to know before it happens. In this episode, we discuss a crucial but often overlooked part of retirement planning: preparing for the loss of a spouse. If you're planning for retirement, understanding what happens financially when a spouse passes away is essential. We cover the impact on Social Security benefits, pension decisions, retirement income changes, tax implications, and the importance of estate planning. Whether you're nearing retirement or already retired, these personal finance strategies can help you protect your future and minimize financial stress during difficult times. Learn how to adjust your financial plan, update beneficiaries, avoid probate, and build a support system to navigate the emotional and financial aftermath of losing a spouse. Don't leave these important conversations for later — proactive planning is key to a secure retirement! 👉 Subscribe for more expert advice on personal finance, retirement income strategies, and wealth management. #PersonalFinance #RetirementPlanning #SocialSecurity #EstatePlanning #WidowPlanning #FinancialAdvisor #RetirementIncome ⏱ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Intro: Why this topic matters 00:23 – Planning for the unexpected death of a spouse 01:08 – How retirement income changes 02:26 – Understanding Social Security survivor benefits 04:35 – Pension decisions and survivor options 05:00 – How taxes change for surviving spouses 06:36 – Updating your retirement tax plan 07:25 – Planning for potential spending increases 09:05 – Probate, estate planning, and account registrations 12:43 – Simplifying finances for the surviving spouse 13:45 – Emotional considerations and building a support system 14:25 – Final thoughts

In this eye-opening episode, we dive into one of the biggest misconceptions in personal finance and retirement planning: retirement spending isn't flat. Learn how the "Retirement Smile"—also known as the Go-Go, Slow-Go, and No-Go Years—affects how much you should spend and when. Discover how dynamic retirement income planning helps you avoid underspending during your healthiest years, and why maximizing experiences can be more valuable than maximizing your Social Security benefits. We'll show you how traditional tactics like the 4% rule and flat annuity income can lead to regret—and what to do instead. Whether you're in your 50s, 60s, or already retired, this is a must-listen for optimizing your retirement lifestyle and avoiding financial regret. 🔔 Subscribe for more personal finance, retirement planning strategies, and smart investing tips!

Retirement isn’t just about your savings and investments—it’s about designing a fulfilling lifestyle! In this episode, we’re diving into five crucial non-financial things you need to plan for before you retire. If you're in your 50s or 60s and thinking about retirement, this is a must-Listen. 🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The importance of finding purpose beyond your career ✅ Why having a daily routine matters more than you think ✅ How to maintain strong social connections in retirement ✅ The role of health and wellness in long-term happiness ✅ Deciding where to live in retirement—downsizing, relocating, or aging in place #advisedpodcast

Are you panicking over recent market downturns? In this episode, I dive into a critical client meeting that revealed two major lessons: perspective and empathy. Whether you're navigating personal finance, investing for retirement, or simply trying to understand the market's ups and downs, this episode will provide actionable insights to help you stay calm, focused, and financially secure. 🔹 Topics Covered: ✅ How emotions impact investment decisions ✅ Why market downturns aren’t the end of the world ✅ The right way to build a resilient financial plan ✅ Roth conversions & tax strategies for downturns ✅ The power of long-term investing over market timing ⏰ CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction & Client Story 01:55 - The Market Fear Cycle: Why Investors Panic 04:14 - The Real Concern: Running Out of Money? 06:54 - The Cost of Market Timing vs. Long-Term Growth 10:36 - Strategies to Navigate Market Volatility 12:45 - Roth Conversions: A Hidden Opportunity 14:33 - Tax Loss Harvesting & Smart Financial Moves 16:59 - The Power of Perspective: Zooming Out

In this episode, we uncover one of the best-kept secrets in retirement planning—the taxable brokerage account. While many focus on 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, and traditional IRAs, a taxable brokerage account provides unmatched flexibility, no contribution limits, and unique tax advantages. 💰 Key Topics Covered: ✔️ What is a taxable brokerage account and who can open one? ✔️ Why high earners & business owners should consider investing beyond retirement accounts ✔️ How to leverage long-term capital gains for lower tax rates ✔️ The power of tax-loss harvesting & tax-gain harvesting for smarter investing ✔️ Using brokerage accounts for early retirement, college savings, and generational wealth ✔️ How to avoid common tax mistakes and maximize returns If you're serious about personal finance, investing, and retirement planning, this episode is a must-watch! Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION BELL for more expert insights. 🔔 Follow for more personal finance & retirement tips! #RetirementPlanning #PersonalFinance #Investing #TaxPlanning #FinancialFreedom #WealthBuilding #BrokerageAccounts #401k #RothIRA

In this episode, we welcome legendary retirement researcher Bill Bengen, the creator of the original 4% rule, to discuss his latest findings and how retirement withdrawal strategies have evolved. If you’re planning for financial independence, early retirement, or traditional retirement, this episode is essential! 🔹 What is the new 4% rule, and how has it changed? 🔹 How to determine a safe withdrawal rate in today’s market 🔹 The impact of inflation on retirement portfolios 🔹 Stock market valuation and its role in retirement planning 🔹 How to avoid running out of money in retirement 🔹 Investment strategies to maximize long-term wealth Bill also shares insights from his new book, "A Richer Retirement: Supercharging the 4% Rule," where he reveals his latest research, updated safe withdrawal rates, and ways to optimize your retirement income strategy.

Are you unknowingly setting yourself up for massive tax bills in retirement? In this episode of #advisedpodcast, we break down essential retirement tax planning strategies to help you minimize taxes, maximize savings, and protect your wealth. ✅ When should you start planning for retirement taxes? ✅ How much tax do you really want to defer? ✅ Are you prepared for multi-generational tax exposure? ✅ What are the best strategies for tax efficiency in retirement? We explore key considerations for creating a tax-smart retirement strategy, including ways to manage taxable income, reduce future liabilities, and structure your assets more efficiently. By making informed decisions now, you can potentially save hundreds of thousands in unnecessary taxes and gain greater financial flexibility in retirement.

In this episode, we dive deep into everything you need to know about RMDs, tax planning, and strategies to protect your retirement savings. Discover how RMDs are calculated, why they can lead to a “tax bomb,” and how they affect Social Security, Medicare premiums, and overall retirement income. We cover actionable strategies like Roth IRA conversions, proactive tax planning, and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) to minimize your tax burden and maximize your wealth. This podcast is packed with expert insights and practical tips to help you plan for RMDs, avoid costly penalties, and preserve your retirement lifestyle. Whether you're just starting retirement planning or looking to refine your strategy, this video is your ultimate guide to personal finance and retirement planning success. Tags: retirement planning, personal finance, RMDs, required minimum distributions, tax planning, Roth IRA conversions, Qualified Charitable Distributions, IRA, 401(k), retirement savings, tax strategies, Medicare premiums, Social Security, retirement income, financial planning, retire rich, wealth management, financial independence, tax-efficient investing. Subscribe now for more expert advice on securing your financial future!

Thinking about investing in real estate but unsure how to determine if a property is a good deal? In this episode, we break down how to evaluate rental properties, calculate cash flow and ROI, and compare real estate to other investments like stocks and bonds. Whether you're a new investor or a seasoned landlord, understanding real estate valuation is crucial for maximizing profits and building long-term wealth. Join Rick Luchini and Austin Preece, a financial planner specializing in real estate investing and retirement planning, as they discuss: ✅ How to calculate cash flow and why it’s key to real estate investing success ✅ The four ways real estate generates returns (cash flow, appreciation, loan paydown, and tax benefits) ✅ How to analyze rental properties before you buy ✅ Real estate vs. stock market investing – which is better for retirement? ✅ Should you sell, hold, or refinance your properties? If you're planning for financial freedom, looking to grow passive income, or need a strategy for real estate investing in retirement, this video is for you! 🔔 Subscribe for more personal finance, real estate, and retirement investing tips! 💬 Comment below: What’s your biggest question about real estate investing?

Thinking about investing in real estate for retirement but unsure if it’s the right move? In this episode, we dive into the pros and cons of real estate investing, how it compares to stocks, and how your investment strategy should change before and after retirement. Join Rick Luciani and Austin Preece, a financial planner specializing in real estate investors and business owners, as they break down: ✅ How to build wealth with real estate through appreciation and cash flow ✅ The biggest tax benefits of owning rental properties (depreciation, 1031 exchanges, deductions) ✅ Why real estate is NOT passive income and how to manage properties effectively ✅ Real estate vs. stock market investing – which is better for long-term financial security? ✅ How to analyze real estate deals and avoid bad investments ✅ The best investment strategies for retirees looking for stable income If you're planning for financial freedom, want to diversify your portfolio, or need a retirement investing strategy, this video is for you! 🔔 Subscribe for more personal finance, retirement planning, and investing tips! 💬 Drop a comment below: Do you invest in real estate or stocks? #RealEstateInvesting #RetirementPlanning #PassiveIncome #FinancialFreedom #RealEstateVsStocks #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #InvestingForBeginners #CashFlow #1031Exchange

In this episode we dive into the top questions and concerns pre-retirees have before taking the big leap into retirement. Whether you're approaching retirement or helping a loved one plan, this discussion is packed with actionable insights and strategies. ✅ Topics Covered: Our candid conversation includes tips for making the most of your early "go-go" retirement years and balancing spending with long-term financial security. Whether you're worried about taxes, income, or health care, we’ve got you covered. 🎧 Don’t miss this episode! Like, comment, and subscribe for more content about personal finance, retirement strategies, and financial independence. #RetirementPlanning #PersonalFinance #HealthInsurance #SocialSecurity #FinancialFreedom #RetirementIncome #TaxPlanning #advisedpodcast

In this episode of #advisedpodcast we dive deep into essential retirement planning tips to help pre-retirees avoid costly mistakes. Learn about the importance of **estate planning**, why every family needs a **will** or a **trust**, and how to fix common gaps like outdated documents and incorrect beneficiaries. Key Take Aways: ✔️ Why 60-70% of families don't have an estate plan—and why YOU should. ✔️ The difference between a **will** and a **trust**, and how a trust can help you skip probate. ✔️ Easy fixes for mismatched or missing **beneficiaries** on 401(k)s, life insurance policies, and savings accounts. ✔️ How to keep your estate plan updated as life changes. This guide is packed with actionable advice to secure your family's future, reduce stress, and ensure your wishes are honored. Whether you're preparing for retirement or already retired, these tips are crucial!