Retirement IQ

In this episode of Retirement IQ, host John Stregger delves into the often-overlooked intricacies of tax planning during retirement, specifically discussing the concept of the " RRSP Meltdown" .  Many retirees spend their working years focused on tax reduction but enter retirement without a solid plan to manage their tax liabilities. John explains how multiple income sources—such as the...

In this episode of Retirement IQ, host John Stregger explains why retirement planning often feels like assembling IKEA furniture without the instructions. He moves past generic advice to focus on the "gaps" that actually matter—like the difference between hitting a target number on a bank statement and actually having the cash flow to fund your daily life. John explains why deciding when...

In this episode of Retirement IQ, host John Stregger tackles a hard truth: simply living longer doesn't mean living better. He breaks down the critical difference between lifespan and health span , and warns listeners to stop treating every retirement year as equal.  John challenges the common habit of delaying major goals for a "someday" that may not arrive.  Prompting the vital qu...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ , host John Stregger breaks down one of the most important steps in retirement planning: finding and evaluating the right financial advisor. While many people know they might need a second set of eyes on their financial situation, John explains that knowing exactly how to interview and select an advisor is crucial for building a successful, long-term partnershi...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , host John Stregger breaks down one of the most misunderstood tools in retirement planning: the Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) . While TFSAs offer tax-free growth and flexibility , John explains that many Canadians make common mistakes that reduce their long-term value. John begins with a simple overview of how TFSAs work , including how contribution...

Kick off 2026 with Retirement IQ ! In this episode, host John Stregger looks back at the key topics from 2025 - CPP strategies, OAS planning, retirement myths, and gives a sneak peek at what’s coming this year.  From how your insurance choices can affect your retirement to avoiding probate and estate planning pitfalls , John shares practical tips to help you build a smarter, more confident financi...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Springer tackles a concern he hears all the time from friends and family: “I wish I’d never bought RRSPs.” That frustration usually comes from the shock of paying tax when RRSP money is withdrawn. In this episode, John sets the record straight and explains why RRSPs are not the problem — poor planning is. John walks throug...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ , retirement wealth coach John Stregger walks listeners through the essentials of building a secure and reliable retirement income plan. With the number one concern for Canadians over 55 being the fear of running out of money, John focuses on how to create guaranteed lifetime income that can support you through an unknown retirement timeline. John breaks down t...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Stregger takes a closer look at one of Canada’s most important retirement benefits, Old Age Security (OAS) . Building on last week’s discussion about the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), John explains how OAS works, who qualifies, and how to make the most of this lifetime benefit. Learn why OAS is a taxable benefit starting at a...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Stregger tackles some of the most common misconceptions about the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) . Many Canadians wonder if the CPP will still exist when they retire or how much income they can really expect. John breaks down the facts to help you plan with confidence. Learn how CPP benefits are calculated, when it might make s...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , host John Stregger welcomes renowned financial planner, author, and New York Times columnist Carl Richards to explore the powerful connection between money and life. Carl, famously known as the “Sketch Guy” , shares how his simple illustrations make complex financial concepts easy to understand. Discover why financial planning should align with your l...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Stregger unpacks one of the biggest risks to your retirement: market volatility. Learn why volatility can help during your savings years but harm you during retirement withdrawals, and how to protect yourself with smart strategies. John explains the cash wedge strategy , a proven approach to secure income for the first thr...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Stregger explores the overlooked side of retirement planning: knowing when to retire and how to create a meaningful life beyond money. Learn why retirement is more than just financial stability, how to identify your core values and passions, and the importance of “test driving” activities before leaving work. With real cli...

In this episode of the Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Stregger explains why a true retirement plan goes far beyond investment strategies. Discover how to align your money with your values and goals, the difference between a retirement plan and an investment plan, and why your plan should be a living document that evolves with life changes, markets, and tax laws. Packed with r...

In the first episode of Retirement IQ Podcast , retirement wealth coach John Stregger reveals how to take control of your financial future and avoid “financial autopilot” in your 50s and 60s. Learn how to build your retirement blueprint, turn savings into reliable income, reduce taxes, and make smart choices about CPP, pensions, and estate planning. With 25+ years of experience, John shares proven...