What kinds of financial mistakes do people make amidst a divorce? If you find yourself facing a divorce, there are some financial things you will want to be aware of as you move forward. From how to divvy up assets in a way that is financially sound to dealing with your emotions, there’s a lot to keep in mind.    Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Choosing the house over other financial assets. Don’t ignore tax implications of retirement funds. Rolling a spouse’s retirement account directly into an IRA. Your emotions can cloud your decision-making. How does an advisor h ..read more

Movie villains are usually pretty easy to identify with their ominous music, masks, and often dark clothing. In the financial world, some of the villains can be a bit harder to spot. We talk about some of the most infamous movie villains and share what they have in common with some of the dark and scary things financially speaking. From the Wicked Witch of the West and her flying monkeys to the hardships that inflation can cause, which of these villains are you ready to face head-on?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Inflation shows up with a vengeance. Overly fixating on ..read more

What are the milestone moments you face in retirement as you age? Today, we talk about some of the ages to keep in mind and why they are important as you reach each one. Whether you are a few years off or if you are right in the middle of these, thinking through what you should be doing with the money can make a huge impact in your financial life.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The unofficial kickoff of retirement is age 50. Age 55 is when you need to think about your 401(k) options. When you turn 59 and a half, you have access to your funds. Under current law, age 62 ..read more

What are your portfolio expectations? Are they too high? Today we talk through an article that shares investor expectations on their portfolio and why, in many cases, they are higher than they should be. We discuss some of the differences in expectations across the globe. More than that, we consider what the meaning of those returns are and how much we should place value on them. What does your lifestyle require? How can you create more clarity with your finances?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Investment return expectations for investors vs. financial advisors. How do ..read more

Let’s play a game of fill in the blank with Sean to see how he would finish off these financial statements. What will the market do to you? What’s the best way to set yourself up for success in retirement? What’s the biggest financial mistake retirees make?   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The best way to be sure you don’t run out of money in retirement. The stock market has the ability to do what? Run the other way when a financial advisor does what? The most common mistake retirees make.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/&n ..read more

Ever wish you could learn about financial planning from a funny cartoon character? Today, we take some lessons from Homer Simpson to see what kind of financial wisdom we can learn. From what we are teaching our kids about money to facing uncertainty about our retirement savings, you’ll want to have some healthy financial habits. You also likely have a number of goals you want to achieve. Having a financial plan in place will give you the strategy and action steps needed to get there.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: “Kids are great…with the internet now, they practically ..read more

Before we reach the end of the year, what financial goals can you easily cross off your list? As a continuation of this two-part series, we discuss five more easy wins you can make when it comes to your financial life. If you didn’t hear part one, go back and listen to hear what other simple financial steps you can take.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Analyze tax efficiency of your investments. Make sure your beneficiary designations are up-to-date. Rebalance your portfolio. Have a proper emergency fund in place. Automate your savings.   For more, visit us online ..read more

From having the right amount of money in the bank to consolidating your accounts, there are simple ways you can improve your finances. On this two-part series, we discuss some of the easy wins you can make when it comes to your financial life. These things can add up to make a big difference, so stay tuned!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Having the right amount in cash. Finding the life insurance policy for you. Consolidating your 401(k) accounts. Considering your mutual funds. Replacing your funds as needed.   For more, visit us online at https://retirement ..read more

Dave Ramsey is known for doling out financial advice, but a lot of it is broad and general. Some of it is sound advice and some of it might be more for the benefit of building up likes and views on social media. Today, we talk through what’s what and see what Sean thinks as a financial advisor. Make sure your financial strategy is customized to your unique needs and goals.   Here is the financial advice we discuss to see if it rings true:   “Don’t invest in anything if you can’t tell me how it works.” “Don’t invest in something if you’re excited. If your pulse rate goes up too high ..read more

The pandemic brought some long-lasting changes, including remote meetings. In fact, Sean says about half of their financial advising meetings are still virtual. How does this benefit the client?   Here’s what we talk about on today’s show: With the change in technology, virtual meetings are more common. Convenience can come from meeting online. If you prefer meeting in person, how can you get the same experience? What should you ask a potential advisor about working together remotely? How can you be sure the information is secure?   For more, visit us online at https://retirem ..read more