Don't F-Up Your Retirement: You Built It. Don't Let Retirement Break It.

Retirement changes more than your schedule. Here are 5 things that can quietly disappear after you stop working, and how to plan before they catch you off guard.Full show notes: Bonfirefinancial.com/what-happens-when-you-retireTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: Bonfirefinancial.comThis content is for educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. We believe it's accurate but don't guarantee it, and it isn't a complete analysis of any topic. Viewing it creates no advisory relationship, so always consult a qualified professional about your own situation before acting. Advisory services are offered through Bonfire Financial, an SEC-registered investment adviser, only under a written agreement. Any strategies or examples are hypothetical and for illustration only. They don't reflect actual client results and don't guarantee future performance. All investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Comments are the views of individual users. They are unverified, possibly inaccurate, and not testimonials or endorsements.

Can $100K really grow into $2 million by retirement? In this episode, Brian breaks down the five retirement investing strategies that can make the biggest difference. If you want to build real wealth without guessing, timing the market, or chasing the next hot stock, this episode is for you.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/retirement-investing-strategyTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Is your 401(k) actually enough to retire comfortably? In this episode, Brian breaks down how much you should have saved by age, why the “average” 401(k) balance may leave you short, and the hidden mistakes that can cost you in taxes, fees, and flexibility. You’ll learn why building a big balance is only part of the equation, and what it takes to create a retirement plan that actually works.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/how-much-should-you-have-in-your-401k-by-ageTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most retirement assets look smart on the surface, but some quietly drain your wealth for years. In this episode, we break down 8 retirement assets wealthy retirees often avoid and the hidden costs, fees, and financial traps many people never see coming.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/retirement-assetsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com Disclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most people with pensions are planning for retirement completely wrong. In this episode, we break down why a pension changes how much you need saved, how you should invest, the lump sum vs. monthly payment decision, and the critical mistake that could impact your spouse for life. If you have a pension, your retirement strategy should look very different.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/pension-retirementTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com Disclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most retirees focus on growing their money. Very few focus on how to keep more of it. In this episode, Brian breaks down powerful retirement tax strategies that wealthy families use to reduce taxes, avoid costly Medicare surcharges, and create more tax-free income in retirement. From Roth conversions and HSAs to the hidden IRMAA trap, you’ll learn practical strategies that could potentially save you thousands over time.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/retirement-tax-strategiesTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most people leave money on the table with Social Security without even realizing it. These 5 simple moves could increase your monthly check for life.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/how-to-increase-your-social-security-benefitsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

You’ve spent years building your life… but what if the key to a better retirement is knowing what to let go of? In this episode, we break down 5 things you should consider selling before retirement, and a simple framework to decide what’s actually worth keeping. This isn’t about cutting back. It’s about making retirement feel like freedom, not stress.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/before-retirementTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Should you pay off your mortgage or invest? It’s one of the most common financial questions, but the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. In this episode, we break down how interest rates, risk, and your personal situation all play into making the right decision.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/pay-off-mortgage-or-investTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most people think investing is about picking the right stock or timing the market, but that’s not what actually builds lasting wealth. In this Q&A conversation, we break down the misconceptions that even high earners get wrong, why relying too heavily on a 401(k) can limit flexibility, and the fundamentals that create real financial clarity over time. If you’ve ever wondered why making more money doesn’t always translate into more peace, or what it actually takes to feel fully in control of your financial life, this is where to start.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/common-investing-mistakesTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Investing isn’t about timing the market, it’s about having a plan that works. In this episode, we show you how to invest in 2026 without guessing or overcomplicating it. If you want clarity and a real plan, this is where to start.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/how-to-invest-in-2026To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Retirement changes more than your schedule. When your portfolio becomes your income, risk feels different. In this episode, we explain why the year you retire is the right time to revisit your portfolio and adjust for your new reality.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/retiring-in-soonTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

When do RMDs really start, how are they taxed, and what happens when that money passes to your kids? We break down the rules, the common misconceptions, and the smart planning moves that can save you from costly surprises.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/rmdTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

In this episode, we break down the 2026 contribution limit changes and explain how to set up your investments so they run automatically. Learn how to adjust your 401(k), IRA, Roth, and HSA once a year and let consistent, effortless investing do the heavy lifting.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/2026-contribution-limitsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

The new year is the perfect time to reset your finances. Today we are walking through key tips to automate, review, and maximize your financial plan so you can spend less time managing money and more time living your life.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/new-year-financial-tipsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Learn how tax-efficient investing can help you keep more of what you earn. From Roths and HSAs to smart portfolio strategies, we break down where your money should go and why it matters.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/tax-efficient-investingTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure 

In this client Q&A, Brian breaks down how to tell if you are truly ready to retire, how much risk is appropriate, and what realistic investment returns actually look like once retirement is in sight.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/am-i-ready-to-retireTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure 

Inheriting an IRA is common, but handling it correctly is not. In this episode, Brian breaks down how inherited IRAs and Roth IRAs work, the 10-year rule, and the costly mistakes to avoid so you do not pay more in taxes than necessary.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/inherited-iraTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure 

A practical rundown of the year end financial moves that matter most. From HSAs and FSAs to 401k contributions, Roth conversions, and RMDs, this quick two minute drill helps you wrap up the year with confidence and keep more of your money working for you.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/year-end-planningTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure 

In this client Q&A episode, Brian breaks down the most common retirement questions, from Roth conversions to RMDs, to how you actually get your money once you stop working. Simple, clear answers to help you make smarter decisions.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/retirement-questionsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Unlock the truth behind fee only advice and find out how to make sure your financial advisor is truly working for YOU and not a commission.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/fee-onlyTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure 

The last penny has been minted. What does it mean for inflation, digital payments, and where money is headed next? Learn what this small "change" says about a much bigger shift. Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/future-of-moneyTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Should you pay off your mortgage before retirement, or keep your low-interest loan and let your money work elsewhere? In this episode, we break down the numbers, mindset, and myths around the “debt-free” dream. Learn when paying off your home makes sense and when investing the difference could set you up for a stronger retirement.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/should-i-pay-off-my-mortgage-before-retirementTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Making money is one thing. Keeping it, and growing it, is another. In this episode, discover the simple habits that turn high income into high net worth over time.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/high-income-to-high-net-worthTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Learn how to give smarter and keep more. From donor-advised funds to QCDs, discover powerful charitable giving strategies to lower your tax bill and make a bigger impact.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/charitable-giving-strategies To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

The account type you choose could change your tax bill, and your retirement timeline. Learn how Qualified vs. Non-Qualified Accounts impact your flexibility, taxes, and long-term wealth.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/qualified-vs-non-qualified-accountsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

You’ve hit the 401k limit, congratulations! But now comes the big question: where should your money go next? In this episode, we break down smart strategies beyond your 401k, from Roth options to taxable accounts, so you can keep building wealth without missing a beat.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/maxed-out-401kTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Got an old 401k sitting with a past employer? You’re not alone. In this episode, we cover how to track down forgotten accounts, your best rollover options, and how to keep your retirement savings working for you.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/old-401kTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Everyone asks, “What’s the best age to retire?” but the truth is, age has little to do with it. In this episode, we dig into the history of retirement, the myths about spending less, and the real question you should be asking: when will you have enough to live the life you want?Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/best-age-to-retireTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Think 401(k)s are the limit? A Cash Balance Plan could change everything, especially for business owners and high earners who want to catch up on savings fast.https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/cash-balance-planTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Think you’ve covered all your bases for retirement? Think again. In this episode, we uncover the most common expenses retirees overlook. These hidden costs can derail even the best-laid plans. Tune in to learn how to spot them early and protect your future.https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/retirement-planning-mistakesTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Market shifts can quietly change your portfolio’s risk profile. Rebalancing helps preserve wealth, maintain diversification, and keep long-term plans aligned. Tune in to learn how rebalancing keeps your portfolio aligned with your goals, through both bull and bear markets. Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/rebalancingTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Wills and trusts aren’t just necessary legal documents, they’re the tools that determine how smoothly your wealth transfers across generations. In this episode we explore the nuanced differences between the two, when each makes sense, and how to preserve both privacy and control while protecting your legacy.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/wills-and-trustsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

ETFs or mutual funds, which one’s right for you? In this episode, we cut through the jargon and break down the real differences (and surprising similarities) between these two investment staples. Tune in to learn how they work, why it matters, and which option is best for you. Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/etfs-vs-mutual-fundsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Listen in to unlock your HSA’s full potential, from tax savings to unexpected uses, and why it can be a game changer for your retirement plan.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/hsa-benefits To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

RMDs can be a retirement game-changer, and not always in a good way. In this episode, we break down what they are, when they hit, and smart moves to keep them from wrecking your tax bill. Learn how to make RMDs work for you instead of against you.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/required-minimum-distributionsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Think your old insurance policy is still doing its job? Think again. In this episode, we break down why a quick insurance review could save you thousands, boost your coverage, and bring your protection strategy into the present.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/insurance-reviewTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

The Big Beautiful Bill Act brought major tax changes, but also big planning opportunities. In this episode, we break down what retirees and near-retirees need to know to make the most of the new rules, tax cuts, and optimize their strategy.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/big-beautiful-bill-tax-cutsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Learn how to spot FOMO-driven decisions, avoid buying at the top, and stick to a strategy that actually builds wealth. Brian shares practical tips to keep emotions out of your investing.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/fomo-investingTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Business owners and self-employed professionals: uncover powerful retirement planning strategies that reduce taxes today and build serious wealth for tomorrow using SEP IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, and more.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/self-employed-retirement-planningTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Maxed out your 401k? Learn what to do next to keep your investments growing with tax-efficient strategies and flexible account options.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/maxing-out-401kTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Thinking about investing in CDs but not sure if they’re worth it? In this episode, we break down what CDs are, how they work, and how strategies like laddering can help you stay flexible while growing your money with less risk.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/investing-in-cdsTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Life insurance can feel a bit overwhelming, and honestly, a little shady. Brian dives into the real difference between permanent life insurance and term life insurance, why term often makes more sense, and how to avoid getting sold on fear instead of facts.  Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/permanent-vs-term-life-insuranceTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

In this episode, Medicare specialist Andrew Mersereau breaks down the critical decisions around Medicare enrollment, including why your initial choice could be permanent, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're nearing 65 or helping a loved one, this is a must-listen.Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/medicare-choiceTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

You work hard, but are you enjoying the payoff? Today we are talking about how to spend with intention, save smart, and make room for the moments that matter most.Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/living-for-todayTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Think Social Security doesn’t matter if you’re wealthy? In this episode, Brian explains why it does, and how to maximize your Social Security benefits so your kids or favorite charity will thank you.  Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/maximize-your-social-security-benefitsGet your Social Security Cheat Sheet: https://www.bonfire.financial/social-security-medicare-cheat-sheet  To learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most people think Roth conversions are just a retirement tax move. In reality, they can be one of the most powerful estate planning tools available. In this episode, we break down how a well-timed Roth conversion can help your family avoid a massive tax bill, and why paying a little now could save your family a lot later. If you’re serious about leaving a legacy (not a tax mess), this one’s for you.Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/roth-conversion-strategiesTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

The word gets thrown around a lot. But what does it really mean to work with a fiduciary? In this episode, Brian breaks down what a fiduciary is, why it matters, and how it impacts your financial life. He shares real-life examples and explains how to tell whether your advisor is truly putting your interests first. Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/fiduciary-financial-advisorTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

Most investors think they understand their risk tolerance until markets drop or an opportunity knocks. In this episode, Brian breaks down why risk tolerance is more art than science, how asymmetric risk fits into a smart investment strategy, and how to take calculated risks without putting your long-term goals at risk.  Full show notes:  https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/asymmetric-riskTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure

What's actually in your mutual fund? Most people don't know. In this episode, we break down mutual funds and EFTs and clear up common misconceptions. Full show notes: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/mutual-funds-explainedTo learn more about Bonfire Financial, please visit: https://www.bonfirefinancial.comDisclosure: https://www.bonfirefinancial.com/disclosure