The Secure Retirement Method Podcast

Retirement can feel like a confusing maze—especially when the stakes are high, and the choices are permanent… What if you could transform your retirement planning from overwhelming to effortless? In this episode, April Schoen walks FRS members through the most important decisions and strategies for making retirement planning easy, secure, and tailored to your life. You’ll discover… The 4 freedoms...

Most retirees are shocked by how much of their hard-earned savings goes straight to taxes—are you prepared? Discover the strategies that can help you keep more of your money in retirement and avoid the most common tax pitfalls. In this episode, April Schoen reveals how smart tax planning can dramatically impact your future income and financial freedom after you stop working. You’ll discover… Why m...

Navigating Social Security can feel like running through an airport for a connecting flight—one wrong move could cost you thousands. Ready to make sure you don’t miss out on the benefits you’ve worked for all your life? In this episode, April Schoen breaks down the crucial Social Security decisions every retiree faces—and reveals the game-changing strategies to maximize your benefits. You’ll disco...

You’ve worked hard and checked every financial box—so why doesn’t it feel like enough? If you ever find yourself celebrating one moment and stressing over your bank account the next, you’re not alone. Discover the subtle signs that it’s finally time for your financial glow-up. In this episode, April Schoen, financial advisor at Curry Schoen Financial, unpacks the five signs that you’re ready for t...

Storm clouds can form on your financial horizon at any time—are you truly prepared to weather the next crisis? Discover the secrets to resilience, clarity, and action when financial uncertainty strikes—without feeling overwhelmed or lost. In this episode, April Schoen walks you through the essential steps to weather any financial storm, blending real-world advice, proven frameworks, and a calming...

What if your retirement feels more like a question mark than a dream come true? Most people think they’re prepared—until the freedom finally arrives, and with it, uncertainty. Have you forgotten to plan for what really matters after the alarm clock stops? In this episode, April Schoen helps you design a roadmap for the life you want—with clarity, confidence, and purpose—so your retirement isn’t ju...

Retirement planning should feel empowering—not overwhelming. But what happens when you’re faced with a maze of options, perplexing pension choices, and high-stakes decisions that keep you up at night? In this episode, John and April unravel the complexities of retirement planning for Florida Retirement System (FRS) members—making it clearer, simpler, and surprisingly fun. You’ll discover… The stor...

Think you’ll pay less in taxes when you retire? Think again. Discover why tax diversification might be the secret to keeping more of your money in retirement—and why most people get it wrong. In this episode, April Schoen unravels the surprisingly complex world of taxes in retirement and reveals actionable strategies for tax-efficient retirement planning. You’ll discover… A common retirement tax m...

Navigating the intricacies of Social Security can feel like deciphering a complex puzzle... But what if you had expert guides to help secure your financial future? In this episode, John Curry and April Schoen explore the vital aspects of Social Security retirement benefits, offering insights on how to maximize them for a secure retirement amidst the backdrop of economic uncertainties. In this epis...

Life insurance might not be the most exciting topic, but what if it was the secret ingredient to securing your financial future and living your best life? In this episode, John Curry and April Schoen dive deep into the transformative power of whole life insurance and reveal how it can be an essential financial tool for building and safeguarding wealth. You’ll discover… Why most people, including s...

Retirement is not without its challenges... What are the key financial risks and how can you safeguard your future? In this episode, hosts April Schoen and John Curry unravel the top five financial risks in retirement, and share insights on how to effectively manage and reduce them for a secure future. You’ll discover: The surprising impact longevity can have on your financial security. Why tradit...

Retirement is a time for relaxation and enjoyment, but what happens when life's unexpected events disrupt your plans? In this episode, April Schoen guides you through crucial strategies to financially prepare for unexpected retirement events. In this episode, you’ll discover: The real-life impact of health-related surprises and how to plan for them. Why diversifying income sources is essential for...

Taxes might be daunting, but mastering them can mean thousands more for your golden years! In this essential episode, April Schoen dives deep into tax strategies specifically designed for Florida Retirement System (FRS) members. Discover how expert tax planning could unlock more wealth and flexibility than you ever imagined for your retirement. You’ll discover: Why tax planning is the key to more...

In this episode, April Schoen dives deep into the secrets of setting meaningful financial goals for the new year to guide you towards a secure and prosperous 2025. In this episode, you’ll discover… The pivotal role of the SMART framework in financial planning Unique strategies for building a robust emergency fund Methods to maximize your retirement contributions effectively Insights into tackling...

How can a simple program supercharge your retirement income strategy? In this episode, April Schoen breaks down the intricacies of DROP, The Deferred Retirement Option Program, and its latest updates impacting your financial future. In this episode, you’ll discover… The enticing benefits that make the DROP program a game-changer. Key eligibility changes in 2023 that could affect your retirement ti...

Retirement planning can be confusing and filled with misinformation. How can you ensure you're making the best choices for your future? In this episode, John Curry and April Schoen, tackle the common questions and misconceptions about the Florida Retirement System (FRS) that many employees face. You’ll discover… A surprising truth about why some employees might opt for the Investment Plan over the...

Retirement isn't just about building a nest egg—it's about crafting a balanced, fulfilling life. Dive into a conversation that goes beyond the numbers. In this episode, John and April uncover the holistic approach to retirement planning that goes far beyond financial savings. You’ll discover… Why retirement planning involves much more than just accumulating wealth Four essential areas to focus on...

Planning your retirement can be a maze, but knowing when to claim your Social Security benefits might just be the key to unlocking a secure future. Ready to make the most pivotal decision of your retirement journey? In this episode, April Schoen, dives into the intricacies of Social Security, outlining strategies to ensure your golden years are actually golden. You’ll discover… How to determine if...

Retirement planning can be overwhelming, but what if you could uncover strategies to secure a steady income and live stress-free? In this episode, April Schoen dives deep into various strategies to maximize your retirement income and ensure financial stability. You’ll discover… The key factors influencing the timing and strategy of claiming Social Security benefits. Different pension options and t...

Drowning in paperwork and unsure how long to keep important documents? Don't let the clutter consume you! Learn the secrets to organizing your financial life and gain peace of mind. In this episode, Erika Bell, owner of Organize with E, shares her expertise on how to effectively manage paperwork, digitize documents, and communicate crucial information to loved ones. In this episode, you'll discove...

Are you truly ready for retirement, or are you headed for a retirement disaster? In this episode, April Schoen and Matthew Wallat share their insights on creating a comprehensive retirement plan to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a worry-free retirement. In this episode, you'll discover… The surprising similarity between an adventurous trip and retirement planning The crucial step that brings rel...

Retirement planning can feel like a daunting jigsaw puzzle—where do you even begin? Discover the secrets to securing your financial future and achieving a lifestyle of freedom and fulfillment! In this episode, John Curry and April Schoen unravel the complexities of retirement planning for FRS members and beyond. Get insights into making informed and strategic decisions that ensure peace and stabil...

Are you making the right moves to secure your financial future? In this episode, April Schoen delves deep into how to construct a bulletproof retirement framework aimed at ensuring you won't outlive your money. In this episode, you’ll discover… The critical element you might be missing in your retirement spending plan.  How to identify potential income gaps before it’s too late. The role of regula...

In this episode, April Schoen and John Curry dive deep into one of the crucial components of retirement planning: Social Security. They explore the significance of timing your Social Security benefits and how it impacts lifelong income, offering expert insights into making the most informed decisions. They’ll cover: Why the decision of when to take Social Security is critical and how it affects yo...

Welcome to another episode of "Ask April" on The Secure Retirement podcast. Today's episode is essential for anyone with questions about life insurance, its benefits beyond death benefits, and its role in ensuring financial security for you and your family. We'll be discussing real-life applications of life insurance at different stages of life, demystifying term and permanent life insurance, and...