Stop Worrying You're Retired

We all know someone who wants to keep working right up until the end. Unfortunately, it’s not always our choice to make. George explains that the key is knowing you can financially handle whatever comes your way, AND how your advisor is going to help you through the process. He also dives into the importance of understanding what your advisor does for you, how they get paid… And what happens if yo...

Just because something is old, that doesn’t mean it lacks worth. If fact, it can sometimes be even more valuable ! However, many things in our lives will NOT stand the test of time, and that’s especially true when it comes to financial rules of thumb. After a nostalgic soap opera flashback, George warns of some common financial beliefs that have fallen by the wayside, and how they could be detrime...

We’re all tired of hearing about and dealing with the corona virus, but health experts warn we might see a second wave in the coming months or early next year. Millions of Americans are still out of work, and our country went through the first stock market tumble into bear market territory in over a decade back in March. Without giving into the hype, George breaks down how we should we prepare for...

Those that work in the travel industry have been hit  especially hard  from the pandemic and economic downturn. Furloughs, layoffs and early retirement packages have become a reality for millions of Americans in various industries. On this episode, George unpacks how to deal with this overwhelming financial hurdle… and how to prepare in advance for the  “what ifs”  of retirement. See omnystudio.co...

When it comes to Social Security, figuring out some the acronyms and jargon can be overwhelming. On this episode we make understanding the phrases we hear most often a little fun with George and Zach, and more importantly shed light on how you can maximize you benefits! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many businesses across the country have struggled to keep prices low during the coronavirus pandemic, and some have been forced to add what they call a "COVID-19 surcharge" to survive this economic period. Some customers understand, but others are irritated to say the least – especially if they didn’t know about the fees! If extra charges such as this bug you, George explains why and how to take a...

Coming in at just over $2 trillion, the LARGEST stimulus package in U.S. history is now part of our economy. As we continue to adjust to many changes, George clarifies how we must  also  prepare for  changes to our future taxes in retirement … And how we can do it as efficiently as possible. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George & Kristen have some friends chime in on an interesting topic:  If they’d known the financial part of this crisis was coming, what would they have done differently with their money?  Plus, if you’re nervous to open your 401(k) statement during this time… George explains the pros and cons of that coping method. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The stock market experienced unprecedented growth for 11 years… But what a difference a little over a month makes! Some Americans near and in retirement are asking themselves if they should add an annuity to their portfolio after the recent stock market decline. On this brief episode, George explains the pros and cons of this strategy so that you can decide what’s best for you! See omnystudio.com/...

Considering our current deficit and the new $2 trillion bailout, it isn’t a huge leap to think tax rates will go up in the future. That’s why some are saying it’s the “best time in history” to do a Roth conversion. George explains why this is TRUE, how you can take advantage of this for your own retirement… and how easy it is to accomplish! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us are dealing with some sort of physical distancing right now, and cabin fever has set in… George and his family included! That’s why we’re sharing ideas of how you can  feel less constrained  at home and focus on the small joys we’re fortunate to have. Plus, George discusses the GOOD NEWS about the stimulus package and the new options  you have for your retirement accounts during 2020. S...

George shares a personal story of how the coronavirus has impacted his family, and it includes some good news we all need to hear! Plus, he explains how those of us near and in retirement should be looking at the current market… and more importantly, controlling the future of our personal economy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Friday, the final numbers from wall street concluded U.S. markets’ worst week since the 2008 financial crisis. George explains what those over 55 need to be focused on... and suggests a great idea of how you can save money while staying home to remain healthy! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We experienced a major market nosedive this past week in reaction to what everyone is talking about… the Coronavirus. George describes how to prepare in advance for times like this with diversification, and how pensions aren’t immune to the volatility either. – But most importantly, how you have more control of the economy inside the 4 walls of your home than you realize! See omnystudio.com/listen...

When there’s volatility on Wall Street it’s normal to feel a bit nervous, but how do you avoid that feeling? On this episode, George explains how to react to drops like this, and more importantly how to plan so that unexpected and uncontrollable events don’t ruin your retirement.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chicago’s music is an essential part of the soundtrack of our lives, and a while back George sat down with Robert Lamm & Jimmy Pankow of Chicago to talk about just that. Listen as they reminisce about some of their most memorable performances, and to find out what keeps them rockin’ after 50 plus years! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We hear the term “portfolio” all the time, but what makes up a portfolio? You may not realize it, but every saver has one. However, many just don’t know how to get it organized and balanced. On this episode, George breaks down how it's not as complicated or as overwhelming as many may think. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A national study recently found that in Anderson and Greenville, SC, $1 million should support a 22 to 25-year retirement. George has been a financial advisor in the upstate for many years, and happily points out why this study isn’t exactly true and what numbers you should be focused on. Plus, what a DIY investor should know when they’re over age 55. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform...

AARP recently published a study with some upsetting numbers: Americans who are 50-and-older make up just 35% of the population…but they pay 59% of all the federal income taxes! Considering that and the new SECURE Act becoming law, George explains how he helped a client create a tax-free income strategy for when he stops working. Plus, details of how NorthStar advisor Zach Jenkins’ National Social...

Overall your investments probably did pretty in 2019, but what’s coming this year? George explains how to plan for the “what if” for 2020 and beyond. Plus how soon to be and current retirees should approach having an emergency fund. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re planning to roll over assets from a traditional IRA to a Roth, you might want to pause before you make any changes… and listen to this episode. George explains why reducing taxes in retirement is important, but why it can’t be done by following blanket advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to resolutions, we each approach the New Year from our own unique circumstances… but share the common goal of doing something better in the new year. Today George addresses why it’s vital that you resolve to be more focused on what’s really happening with your investments all year long, especially when it comes to taxes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After some nostalgia about the Sears catalogue, George shares a funny story from his childhood about his Christmas wish list. Plus, we discuss if DIY retirement planning can realistically work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we wrap up 2019, many of us spend some time looking back on the past year thinking about accomplishments, as well as missteps. Hopefully, you’ve learned lessons from both. George explains how and why you should assess your retirement, and make sure you’re on track to reach your goals for 2020 and beyond! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are pension plan participants being shortchanged when their former employers offer them lump sum buyouts? Well… it depends. On this episode, George explains how you should evaluate any pension options you and your family are offered. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.