Peeling Back Money and Life

In our increasingly digital world, your online presence—from financial accounts to social media profiles—constitutes a significant part of your legacy. In this episode, Casey and Mike delve into the importance of digital estate planning, offering actionable steps to ensure your digital assets are protected and accessible to your loved ones when the time comes. Resources Digital Estate Checklist (P...

In this episode of the PBML Podcast, Mike and Casey discuss essential estate planning steps and the importance of organizing documents for loved ones. They cover: The 5 critical legal documents everyone needs for estate planning How to create and organize a comprehensive Legacy Binder Practical tips for having difficult conversations with family members esources https://www.amazon.com/Art-Dying-We...

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the critical importance of beneficiary designations in estate planning. They explain the differences between per stirpes and per capita designations, share real-life examples of common mistakes, and emphasize the need for regular reviews of these designations to ensure that assets are distributed according to one's wishes. The conversation also touches o...

Many people enter retirement with a financial plan, but no clear life plan . A life review is a powerful way to reflect on the past, align with your values, and shape a meaningful future. In this episode, Casey and Mike explore: ✔️ What a life review is and how it differs from traditional goal-setting. ✔️ Why reflecting on your life’s journey can help you live with more purpose. ✔️ How to conduct...

In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of life after retirement. We'll explore the emotional and practical aspects of transitioning from a structured work life to retirement, discussing strategies for maintaining purpose, creating new routines, and making the most of this exciting phase. Whether you're newly retired or planning ahead, you'll discover actionable tips for navig...

In this essential episode, we guide you through the critical steps to take when you're just one year away from retirement. We'll cover everything from finalizing your financial preparations to managing the emotional transition from work life to retirement. Key topics we'll discuss: How to lock down your retirement budget and income strategy Essential checklist items for your final work...

In this episode, we dive deep into the critical steps you should take when you're about 5 years away from retirement. We'll explore comprehensive financial planning, investment strategies, and the often-overlooked emotional aspects of transitioning to retirement. From stress-testing your retirement plan to building adequate cash reserves, we cover essential strategies to help ensure a smoo...

In this episode of Peeling Back Money and Life, we explore the critical steps you need to take when you're about a decade away from retirement. We dive deep into financial and non-financial topics. Whether you're concerned about if your on track to retire, protecting your assets, ensuring your legacy, or maintaining your quality of life, this episode provides actionable insights to help yo...

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the journey of home ownership, emphasizing the importance of understanding the true costs associated with buying a home. They provide actionable tips for first-time buyers, including how to determine affordability, the steps to take when searching for a home, and the various loan options available. The conversation also highlights common mistakes to avoid du...

In this episode of Peeling Back Money and Life, we dive deep into the critical decisions around downsizing in retirement. Whether you're approaching retirement or helping loved ones navigate this transition, we explore when to consider downsizing, how to evaluate your options, and practical steps to make the process smoother. Resources: Mark Miller Independent Living Communities and here Minim...

Should you pay off your mortgage before retirement? It's a common question that doesn't have a one-size-fits-all answer. In this episode, we break down the crucial factors to consider when deciding whether to use investments or cash flow to eliminate your mortgage debt before retiring. We'll walk you through a practical framework that includes: Analyzing your financial factors Understa...

Planning for big ticket expenses in retirement requires careful consideration and strategic thinking. In this episode, we explore various approaches to funding major purchases without derailing your retirement plans. We'll discuss practical strategies to help you maintain financial stability while enjoying life's bigger purchases. Whether you're planning for travel, vehicle purchases,...

In this episode of Peeling Back Money and Life , Casey and Mike dive into one of the most debated topics in personal finance: Should you contribute to Traditional (pre-tax) or to Roth (post-tax)? They break down the pros and cons, discuss key factors like tax brackets, future tax rates, and retirement planning, and share practical tips to help you decide. Tune in to discover how to align your cont...

In this episode of Peeling Back Money and Life, Mike and Casey dive into essential strategies for minimizing taxes during retirement. They explore various income sources that can trigger tax liability and discuss smart planning techniques, including: • How to manage Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)• The benefits of delaying Social Security• Strategic Roth conversion opportunities• Tax-efficie...

In this episode, we explore the various strategies for managing taxes on Roth conversions. Casey and Mike break down different approaches to paying conversion taxes. They discuss the pros and cons of each method, share practical examples, and highlight common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you're planning your first Roth conversion or looking to optimize your existing strategy, this episode provid...

Join Casey and Mike as they break down the ins and outs of the Backdoor Roth IRA strategy. This episode dives deep into how high-income earners can legally contribute to a Roth IRA, even when they exceed income limits. You'll learn the step-by-step process, understand crucial tax implications. Key topics covered: Step-by-step guide to executing a Backdoor Roth IRA conversion Understanding and...

In this episode of Peeling Back Money and Life, Casey and Mike tackle a common dilemma faced by many workers: what to do with an old 401(k) plan. Whether you've recently changed jobs or have a long-forgotten retirement account from a previous employer, this episode breaks down your three main options: leaving it with your old employer, rolling it to your new employer's plan, or moving it t...

In this episode, we explore the essential steps you can take to prepare for retirement. We dive deep into creating a comprehensive retirement strategy, from defining your ideal retirement lifestyle to building a robust financial cushion. Whether you're just starting to think about retirement or are actively planning for it, this episode provides practical, actionable steps to help secure your...

In this episode of Peeling Back Money and Life, Casey and Mike explore the critical but often overlooked strategy of asset location in investment planning. They break down the differences between asset location and asset allocation, explain which investments work best in different types of accounts (taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free), and provide actionable steps for implementing an effective as...

Join Casey Redmond and Mike Dunlop as they explore three fundamental questions that every pre-retiree and retiree should consider. This episode dives deep into both the financial and emotional aspects of retirement planning, addressing: Have you had enough? - Understanding when it's time to transition from your career Do you have enough? - Evaluating financial readiness and building confidence...

Join us for an insightful discussion about investing for a multi-decade retirement. We explore crucial topics like life expectancy, the hidden impact of inflation on retirement portfolios, and effective investment strategies for both traditional and early retirees. Whether you're planning for traditional retirement or considering early retirement (FIRE), this episode provides actionable insigh...

Unlock the secrets to accessing your retirement funds before 59.5! In this eye-opening episode, we dive into smart strategies that can help you tap into your savings early without breaking the bank. From the Rule of 55 to Roth IRA conversion ladders, we've got you covered. Whether you're planning for early retirement or just want more financial flexibility, this is the episode you can'...

Casey and Mike explore strategies for making work optional, from defining your financial freedom number to creating passive income. Whether you're starting out or optimizing your approach, this empowering discussion could transform your view on work and money! Here's a list of valuable resources to help you on your journey to financial independence: Books: "Your Money or Your Life" by Vicki Robin...

Are you curious about the FIRE movement but think it’s only for people looking to retire by 40? Think again! In this episode, Casey and Mike break down the psychology behind Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) and how anyone—regardless of age or retirement plans—can benefit from adopting a FIRE mindset. From understanding the mental barriers around money to creating financial goals that fi...

Podcast Summary: In this episode, we explore the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, discussing its principles, different approaches, steps to achieve FIRE, challenges, and actionable tips for listeners interested in pursuing financial independence. Key Resources: The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins Financial Happiness by Mike Finley Minimalism: A Documentary About the Import...