Retirement Today

In this episode, we dive into the financial and emotional realities of caring for aging parents as living expenses and healthcare needs rise. We address the "sandwich generation" squeeze, clearing up common misconceptions around Medicare while highlighting how open family communication prevents costly surprises. Finally, we walk through five practical steps to protect your parents'...

Navigating retirement planning can feel overwhelming, so we are keeping it simple by breaking down the key ages every pre-retiree and retiree needs to know. From catch-up contribution limits and early withdrawal penalties to Social Security strategies, Medicare eligibility, and Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), we cover how these milestones impact your financial future. Tune in as we share pr...

In this episode, we address the unique financial and retirement challenges women face, from navigating career interruptions to overcoming the confidence gap. We highlight the importance of personalized income planning, strategic Social Security claiming, and building a secure future tailored to longer life expectancies. Tune in to learn practical steps for gaining financial clarity, taking control...

In this episode, we address the financial and emotional impact of an unexpected job loss, particularly for those navigating a career transition later in life. We outline immediate steps to stabilize your cash flow, including setting up a transition budget, managing emergency funds, and exploring health insurance options like COBRA and marketplace plans. Additionally, we discuss strategies for prot...

In this episode, we break down key updates coming to Medicare in 2027, including major shifts in prescription drug coverage, expanded telehealth access, and new rules surrounding Medicare Advantage and income-based surcharges. We examine how these changes will directly impact out-of-pocket costs, choice of providers, and overall retirement health planning. Finally, through real-world client exampl...

In this episode, we dive into the vital role of legacy planning and why preplanning your funeral is one of the most loving gifts you can leave for your family. We discuss how an irrevocable funeral trust can protect your assets from Medicaid spend-down rules, ease the emotional and financial burden on your loved ones, and ensure your final wishes are honored. Tune in to learn how preplanning provi...

Retiring before age 65 often brings the unexpected challenge of managing high healthcare costs before Medicare kicks in. In this episode, we break down your main coverage options—from ACA marketplace plans and COBRA to private insurance and health-sharing ministries. We share practical strategies for managing your taxable income and avoiding pre-existing condition pitfalls so you can protect your...

This episode explores the mechanics and impact of the Education Freedom Tax Credit, breaking down how new funding provisions aim to expand school choice. We discuss the opportunities these financial incentives create for families, taxpayers, and scholarship organizations. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of how this policy shifts the educational landscape and impacts communities nationwid...

In this episode of Retirement Today, we break down the seven biggest financial mistakes Gen Xers are making as retirement draws closer. From treating retirement like an arbitrary finish line to over-extending finances for family, Jenna shares real-life client stories to highlight where mid-career investors fall short. Tune in to learn actionable strategies on tax diversification, health care plann...

Ever wonder if your portfolio actually matches your emotional comfort zone? This episode introduces the "Color of Money" risk analysis, a simple framework that categorizes your investments into distinct color zones based on safety, growth, and risk. Tune in to discover your true risk tolerance and ensure your retirement nest egg is properly color-coded for long-term stability.

You don't have to choose between supporting your favorite causes and protecting your hard-earned wealth. This episode breaks down three powerful charitable planning strategies that allow you to maximize your philanthropic impact while significantly lowering your tax bill. Tune in to learn how smart giving can become one of the most effective tools in your overall retirement plan.

Converting a traditional retirement account to a Roth IRA creates a powerful stream of future tax-free income, but it usually comes with a massive, immediate tax bill. This episode breaks down how pairing your conversion with a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) allows you to use your charitable giving to directly offset those heavy conversion taxes. Tune in to discover how this advanced strategy lets you c...

Your annual financial review is much more than a routine check-in—it’s your best opportunity to proactively recalibrate your wealth strategy for the year ahead. This episode breaks down exactly how to prepare for this crucial meeting, from rebalancing your portfolio to adjusting your plan for recent life changes. Tune in to learn the vital questions you need to ask so you can leave your review con...

The collision of sticky inflation data and wild swings in oil prices is presenting a brand-new puzzle for everyday investors. This episode breaks down exactly how these macroeconomic forces impact the corporate earnings driving the S&P 500's latest record runs. Tune in to discover what this means for your portfolio and how to position your retirement nest egg against sudden market shifts.

This week, Dave and Jaclyn are mixing things up by throwing out the script and drawing listener questions straight out of a hat! Tune in for a fun, fast-paced episode where your biggest retirement questions get answered completely on the fly. You won't want to miss this lively Q&A session—your question might just be the next one drawn!

Embracing a "soft life" doesn't mean draining your bank account; it means alignment between your spending and your personal peace. This episode explores how to curate a luxurious, low-stress lifestyle by making intentional financial moves that support your well-being today without sacrificing your tomorrow. Tune in to discover the smart budgeting, investing, and automation strategie...

Long-term care is one of the biggest wildcards in retirement, but preparing for it doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode, we break down actionable, stress-free strategies to protect your hard-earned savings from rising healthcare costs without compromising your lifestyle. Tune in to discover how proactive planning can turn a source of anxiety into a confident blueprint for your fut...

Navigate the complexities of funding a future with an expert breakdown of 529 plans, UTMAs, and the strategic use of life insurance. This episode moves beyond the numbers to explore how different investment vehicles align with your family's unique goals and timelines. Learn how to maximize tax advantages and flexibility to build a robust educational foundation for the next generation.

As retirement nears, the margin for error shrinks, and even common financial oversights can derail decades of hard work. In this episode, we break down the most frequent blunders people make in the "red zone" of their careers, from aggressive tax mismanagement to miscalculating your risk levels. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies to shore up your portfolio and transition into yo...

Retirement planning often feels like a series of cold calculations, but for many women, the true concern is the emotional and practical uncertainty of "will I be okay?" This episode dives into the unique financial hurdles women face, from longer life expectancies to the complexities of the gender wealth gap. Join us as we move beyond the spreadsheets to provide actionable strategies and...

In this episode, we sit down with industry expert Lisa Schreiber to dissect the growing volatility in global markets fueled by escalating energy concerns. We explore the critical factors driving the current surge in oil prices and how persistent geopolitical uncertainty is reshaping investor sentiment. Finally, Lisa offers her strategic outlook on what happens next and how to position your portfol...

In this episode, Priscilla Dabney hosts to discuss the major technology platforms that Beacon Wealth Advisory provides for their clients. Learn how to properly use Generational Vault and Orion to better your lifestyle and potentially ease some stress.

In this episode, we explore how to maintain a kingdom-focused perspective when market volatility and economic shifts create a sense of unease. We sit down to discuss practical strategies for aligning your investment portfolio with your core spiritual values.

During today’s show, examine and discuss five planning pillars that may help you on your path to retirement.

In this episode, we break down the mechanics of a Roth IRA conversion and how shifting your tax burden to the present can unlock a lifetime of tax-free growth. We explore the strategic timing necessary to avoid common pitfalls during the transition. We share actionable frameworks to help you determine if paying the IRS now is the smartest move for your long-term legacy.