Are you ready for a reality check when it comes to retirement? Today we wade through the myths and truths of post-career life, where the expectations of endless cruises clash with the reality of budgeting for healthcare. Learn why setting realistic goals and being adaptable are the keys to a successful retirement.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Life happens. Be ready to adjust. Know where your money goes. Don't be too proud to get some help with retirement planning. Make sure when you go to talk with an advisor, you're getting the right expectations.   For more ..read more

No matter what generation you’re in, you likely have questions when it comes to retirement. In this multi-part series we will discuss the different questions common among different generations. Today we talk through how to best prepare for that life transition if you are a Baby Boomer.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What are the big retirement questions Baby Boomers are asking? How do I manage the risks of the market? How do I get my money in retirement? What can be done to address healthcare costs? What’s the best way to pass on wealth to my heirs? How can I maximize ..read more

Sometimes technology and innovation can help simplify and streamline things, but other times it can cause more of a headache than before. Today, we talk about what can become more complex and what is improved when you introduce technology into your financial planning.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Can you Google it? When should you use robo-advisors? Online calculators are everywhere but do they give an accurate view? Are educational webinars useful? Is personal finance software helpful? Mobile banking apps have changed how many people do banking. Are online wills eff ..read more

How have things changed since when your grandparents were planning for retirement? So many things have gone up in cost! Instead of pretending things are still like they used to be or avoiding the topic, it’s important to face some of these facts head-on. Listen in as we wrap up our conversation about how retirement planning can be harder than it used to be.     Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Healthcare costs have heavy premiums. The sandwich generation is more prevalent. There were shorter life expectancies. Back in the day, there were more contributors to Social Se ..read more

We’ve all heard our parents or older generations say, “Well, back in my day…” Some things that were harder in the past have been eased with technology and other advances. But other things have become overcomplicated or more difficult. Today, we talk about the ways retirement planning has changed and potentially gotten more challenging than it used to be.     Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Career patterns have changed with job stability and company loyalty. We have to rely on personal savings. The housing market has not been as stable. Simplicity in investing is ..read more

We’re living in a fast-food world, but sometimes it’s worth waiting for the good stuff. Making financial sacrifices can be hard, but today we talk about when the delayed gratification is worth it. From saving for your future to having what you need in retirement, you’ll want to be strategic about your money.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Passing on the 401(k) match. Leveraging your Roth. Once you’re retired, do you need an emergency fund? Cashing out a retirement plan.   For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com  ..read more

More and more people are getting an inheritance these days. In today's show, we answer some of the common questions people face when receiving, or planning on one day receiving, an inheritance. Hearing these questions may help you prepare ahead of time for a smooth transition of assets when the time comes.   Here are some of the questions we discuss in this episode: Should mom sign the house over to me when she dies? What is a step-up in basis? Can I update my late spouse’s beneficiary to be me instead of his ex? What do I do if I’m the only family member who wants to keep the land inher ..read more

‘Tis the season for a bit of holiday cheer! What can we learn about financial planning from some classic Christmas songs? These tunes we sing along to every year carry some great metaphors and lessons if you know where to look. For instance, we all know Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer was made fun of and overlooked, but turned out to be a great asset on Christmas Eve. What kind of financial decisions and products are more valuable than some people realize at first glance?     Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The real cost behind “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The power of ..read more

Ready for an adventure? Sometimes climbing a mountain is full of adventure, and sometimes it’s more about being prepared. You have to get the proper gear, get used to using it, and practice before you summit a major mountain. Doing something step by step over time may be boring at times, but it helps you get to the goal. The same is true with saving for retirement.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: How are you getting ready for retirement? What should you be doing now? What decisions are crucial once you reach retirement? What do you need to manage in retirement?   ..read more

What can we learn about retirement planning from browsing the cereal aisle at the grocery store? We love finding relatable ways to teach about financial topics, so let’s scoop up a few bites of financial understanding on today’s show.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What in the financial world is hard to resist but not all that good for you? What seems good on the surface but isn’t as good as it appears? What is boring but hard to swallow? What does Nathan think is important to know?   For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com  ..read more