Federal Employee Financial Planning Podcast

Is it the right time to hire a financial planner? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Michael dive into the intricacies of financial planning and highlight the importance of expert guidance. They discuss the pitfalls of trying to manage your finances alone, the risks of bad advice, and why getting professional help early on can make all the difference.  Access the full show notes at Mason & Associat...

Are you wealthier than you think? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Mike will explore how you can activate your millionaire powers and start making decisions based on what you can afford, rather than what you think you can't. They'll discuss the importance of having a proactive approach to financial planning, so you're prepared to make well-informed decisions before it's too late. Access the full...

What goes into a successful strategic planning meeting? In this episode, Tommy, John, Ben, and Michael dive into their strategic planning meeting season, sharing valuable insights and lessons learned. They discuss the importance of holding these meetings to ensure everyone is aligned in their financial plans for 2024. You'll learn why it's crucial to plan for your future early and avoid letting re...

Have you considered whether your financial plan can adapt to fit your life as things change? Join Tommy, Michael, John, and Ben in this episode as they unpack distribution planning assumptions and explain why a one-time financial plan falls short. They tackle the myth that running out of money equals failure, highlighting how other income sources like federal benefits and investments can play a cr...

Have you ever wondered about the ins and outs of the Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and its impact on your financial future? In today's episode, John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben break down the competitive advantages and disadvantages of the TSP. We'll explore the benefits of maintaining your TSP long after retirement, including one option that allows post-tax contributions to grow tax-free. Access...

How does the financial-planner-to-client ratio impact the quality of financial advice? In this episode, John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben will discuss how the ratio of clients per advisor shapes their approach to financial planning. They will share their journey from managing 150 - 200 clients per planner to capping it at 100, explaining why this change was necessary for delivering top-notch service....

How do financial planners demonstrate value? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben explain the intricacies of the client relationships they maintain as financial planners. They unpack the distinction between onboarding and ongoing client service, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a continuous partnership with your financial advisor. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC  

What are the perks of virtual versus in-person client meetings? In this episode, Tommy, Ben, and John weigh the advantages, exploring how virtual meetings offer unparalleled flexibility and opportunities. They will explain how virtual meetings not only save time, but also provide greater access to financial advice, as well as the less intimidating nature of virtual interactions, where discussing f...

Wondering what goes on during strategic planning meeting season at Mason & Associates? Join Tommy, Ben, and John as they break down what to expect during this crucial time. From adjusting plans to accommodate changing goals to demanding excellence from your financial planner, this episode covers it all.  Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

Is your financial planner as knowledgeable as they say they are? Do they have all the experience needed to guide you? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, Ben, and John dive deep into the common misconceptions surrounding financial planning. They challenge the notion that anyone can be a financial planner and stress the importance of transparency in the industry. Listen in as they shed light on topics...

Have you ever wondered how your financial planner gets paid? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, John, and Ben tackle this question head-on, shedding light on the various compensation methods in the financial planning industry. They cut through the jargon to explain the surge in annual meetings and the strategic importance of mapping out financial goals at the beginning of the year. From explaining f...

Did you know that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has far-reaching implications up until 2025—with impending changes set to unfold in 2026? Today Michael, John, and Ben discuss the complexities of this legislation, from the sudden shifts in withholdings to the surprising revelations during tax season in April 2019. They also explain how seemingly minor adjustments can lead to significant financi...

Are you taking advantage of all that is available to you as a federal employee? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, Ben, and John discuss the "Rich Men North of Richmond" parody of federal employees, dissecting its jokes. From the unique benefits like inflation-adjusted pensions and cost of living adjustments (COLA), they cover what sets federal employees apart.  Access the full show notes at Mason &...

How do baseball and financial planning intersect? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, John and Ben break down the game of financial planning. From end-of-year tax strategies to building your financial 'team,' they explain what can help you win big. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

What exactly does a Roth account allow you to do? John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben dive into the intricacies of Roth accounts in this episode and discuss everything from Roth TSPs and conversions to the nuanced distinctions between Roth and traditional IRAs.  Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

In this year-end reflection, Michael, Tommy, Ben, and John dissect the financial landscape of 2023, sharing the surprises and lessons learned along the way. They explain the critical importance of discerning financial information sources, urging listeners to rely on professional advice over sensationalized media information.  Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

Small steps, big leaps. In this episode, Michael, John and Ben explain the power of initiating modest changes in your financial plan, drawing parallels to the similarly slow approach required in physical fitness. Tune in to discover why waiting for the future to pursue your dreams can be a costly delay. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

Unlock the doors to unique planning opportunities for dual federal employees as Michael, John, Tommy, and Ben delve into pre- and post-retirement strategies in this episode. They explain the untapped potential for fun and financial prosperity when dual federal employees understand the lucrative nature of their benefits and work with a financial planner who specializes in their unique situation. Ac...

You just got a call from the doctor—and it wasn't the news you were hoping for. You're scared, but you're determined to beat this sickness. Although it is important to keep a positive mindset and fight your way back to health, it is also essential to have a plan in place in the unfortunate event that you aren't able to overcome it. So what do you do next? In this episode, Michael, John, Tommy, and...

In the world of financial planning, the worst time to seek a financial planner is after the death of a spouse. So, in this episode, Michael, John, and Tommy share the importance of having a thoughtful plan in place before the loss occurs. They'll break down why it's crucial to work with planners well-versed in your specific situation, how to secure digital assets, and more. Access the full show no...

Going beyond the dollars and cents, retirement is a lifestyle shift, and it is essential to plan for it as such. In this episode, you'll discover the practicalities of planning for retirement as Michael, Tommy, and John discuss sick and annual leave, the value of proactive planning over reactive approaches, and how strategically using leave can impact not just your retirement, but also your curren...

Getting through a divorce is challenging, but it becomes even more complex when federal or military benefits are involved. In this episode, join Tommy, Mike, Ben, and John as they delve into the crucial topic of divorce and its implications for federal employees. Discover the significance of due diligence when seeking counsel, negotiation tips for a fair outcome, and more. Access the full show not...

Have you ever wondered about the fiduciary responsibility in financial planning, especially as a federal employee seeking financial guidance? Join Tommy, Mike, Ben, and John in this episode as they delve into the essential concepts of fiduciary service and what it takes to find the perfect financial planner for your unique situation. They'll discuss the significance of expecting, demanding, and re...

In the financial planning world, the practice of reviewing documents is often overlooked, leaving clients' financial futures hanging in the balance. Join John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben today as they discuss why document reviews are key, as well as why they meticulously examine tax statements, Social Security statements, insurance statements, and estate documents—unlike some who merely request these...

Today Mike and John are once again joined by Bryan Gay, Owner of Boomer Insurance, to explore the intricacies of TRICARE For Life Medicare Advantage. For many retirees, especially those with a military background, navigating the complexities of Medicare options can be daunting. Bryan sheds light on the two primary choices available to those with TRICARE for Life, and breaks down what to know about...