Episodios

  • 21 - When Should You Claim Social Security? Smart Timing Strategies for Maximizing Retirement Income
    Dec 20 2025

    Unlock the best time to claim Social Security and avoid costly mistakes. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael breaks down how claiming at 62, full retirement age, or 70 can dramatically impact your lifetime income. You’ll learn the key factors that determine your ideal claiming age—health, longevity, taxes, spousal benefits, and income sources—plus strategies to maximize benefits and reduce taxes. If you want clarity, confidence, and a personalized Social Security plan, this episode shows you why working with a financial planner can make all the difference.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    8 m
  • 20 - What To Do When You Receive an Inheritance: Tax Rules, Smart Strategies, and Expert Guidance
    Dec 18 2025

    Navigating an inheritance can feel overwhelming — emotionally and financially. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael breaks down what to do when you receive an inheritance, including how different assets are taxed, the rules for inherited IRAs, the benefits of the step‑up in basis, and smart strategies for using your inheritance to strengthen your long‑term financial plan. Whether you’ve inherited cash, real estate, investments, or retirement accounts, you’ll learn how to avoid costly mistakes, reduce taxes, and make confident decisions that honor your loved one’s legacy. A must‑listen for anyone looking for expert inheritance planning guidance and long‑term financial clarity.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    11 m
  • 19 - “Retirement Readiness Checklist: Income, Taxes, Healthcare & Lifestyle Planning
    Dec 14 2025

    Discover how to know if you’re truly ready to retire. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael breaks down the essentials of retirement planning — from defining your lifestyle vision and maximizing Social Security benefits to managing healthcare costs, taxes, and investment strategies. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes with RMDs, create a tax‑efficient withdrawal plan, and prepare for longevity risk. Whether you’re 10–15 years away or approaching retirement now, this guide will help you build confidence, clarity, and a secure financial future.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    9 m
  • 18 - Smart College Planning: 529 Savings, Tax Credits, Financial Aid & Student Loan Strategies
    Dec 12 2025

    Discover proven strategies to make college more affordable without sacrificing your retirement. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael breaks down the best ways to save for college with 529 plans, Coverdell ESAs, and Roth IRAs, while explaining how to maximize tax credits like the American Opportunity Tax Credit and Lifetime Learning Credit. Learn insider tips on navigating FAFSA and financial aid formulas, avoiding costly mistakes, and building smart student loan repayment and forgiveness strategies. Whether you’re a parent planning ahead or a graduate managing debt, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you save money, reduce stress, and keep your financial future on track.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    9 m
  • 17 - Why the 50-30-20 Budget Rule No Longer Works in 2025 — And What to Use Instead
    Dec 10 2025

    In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael breaks down why the classic 50-30-20 rule no longer works in today’s world of high housing costs, student loans, childcare expenses, and inflation. You’ll learn the hidden flaws in this outdated framework—and discover smarter, flexible budgeting strategies that actually fit your income, goals, and lifestyle.

    Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or navigating irregular income, this episode gives you practical steps to build a realistic budget that supports your financial future.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    8 m
  • 16 - Roth Conversion Timing Strategies: Tax Planning and Retirement Windows Explained
    Dec 8 2025

    Maximize your retirement savings with smart Roth conversion strategies. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael explains how to convert pre‑tax retirement accounts into a Roth IRA for tax‑free growth and withdrawals. Learn the best timing windows — from retirement gap years to market downturns — and how to avoid costly mistakes like Medicare IRMA surcharges and bracket creep. Discover how Roth conversions can reduce future RMDs, lower lifetime taxes, and create a more tax‑efficient inheritance for your heirs. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing estate taxes, or exploring charitable giving strategies, this episode offers actionable insights to help you protect your wealth and legacy.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    10 m
  • 15 - Estate Planning Explained: Wills, Trusts, Taxes & Legacy Protection
    Dec 6 2025

    Discover how to protect your wealth and secure your family’s future in this episode on estate planning. Certified Financial Planner Michael breaks down the essentials — from wills and trusts to beneficiary designations, tax planning, and legacy protection. Learn the difference between per stirpes vs. per capita inheritance, how the SECURE Act impacts retirement accounts, and why updating beneficiaries and planning for incapacity are critical. Whether you’re building a legacy, minimizing estate taxes, or exploring charitable giving strategies, this episode offers actionable insights to help you create a comprehensive estate plan that truly works for your loved ones.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    12 m
  • 14 - Leaving Your Job? Smart Moves for Your Retirement Savings
    Dec 4 2025

    Changing jobs? Wondering what to do with your old 401k, 403b, TSP, or other employer retirement plan? In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Michael explains the four key options—leave your money in your old plan, roll it into a new employer’s plan, move it to an IRA, or cash it out. You’ll discover the pros and cons of each choice, IRS rollover rules, the Rule of 55, Roth IRA conversions, required minimum distributions, and strategies to avoid costly taxes and penalties. Whether you’re comparing IRA vs 401k rollovers or deciding how to protect your retirement savings, this guide will help you make smarter financial decisions and set up long‑term success.

    Free Consultation with Michael: https://forms.gle/9s8innFwpXtWEJW3A

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    11 m