Joe Knows Retirement

If you have a pension and $1 million or more saved, you could be heading toward one of the biggest retirement tax traps most retirees never see coming. In this episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down the hidden dangers of tax bracket creep and why retirees with pensions often end up paying far more in taxes than expected. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/who-hates-taxes-the-best-time-to-plan-for-taxes-is-now 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1 million or more saved, this video is a must-watch. Too many retirees make costly pension mistakes that quietly drain six figures from their retirement over time. In today's episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down the biggest pension planning mistakes we see retirees make and how proper strategies can dramatically impact your retirement future. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/reducing-lifetime-taxes-for-retirees-in-two-percent-club 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1 million or more saved, there's a major Roth conversion window you need to understand before it closes. In this video, Joe breaks down the biggest opportunities retirees have right now to reduce future taxes, lower Medicare costs, avoid the widow's penalty, and create more tax-free income in retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/roth-conversion-can-head-off-medicare-irmaa 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1 million or more saved, retirement planning is completely different. In this episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down the biggest pension mistakes retirees make and how to avoid paying unnecessary taxes, Medicare penalties, and retirement income mistakes. If you've worked 30 to 40 years for your pension, this video will help you protect it and maximize it for your retirement, your spouse, and your family. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirement-planning/are-you-being-tax-smart-about-your-pension 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Only 2% of Americans have both pensions and $1 million or more saved for retirement. If that is you, welcome to the 2% Club! This book was written for you. It's dedicated to all the American heroes who've lived a life of service, and the blue-collar professionals who've worked hard and saved diligently for decades. In this book, you'll learn how to: - Simplify and optimize your retirement with the "5 Pillars of Pension Planning" - Enjoy the full value of your pension (it may be more valuable than you think) - Decrease your tax bill through strategic Roth conversions and smart withdrawal planning - Plan for pension options such as lump sum options and survivorship options - Optimize Social Security and protect your wealth from Medicare premium increases - Enjoy your retirement and spend more money (many in the 2% Club struggle with spending money) - Create a legacy that benefits your family and favorite charities Having a pension puts you in a rare financial position that requires advanced planning. This book will help you become a better steward of what you worked so hard to build. You've already done the heavy lifting. Now is your time to retire with peace, purpose, and a plan. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/reducing-lifetime-taxes-for-retirees-in-two-percent-club 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Timestamps: (00:00) – The 2% Club (00:13) – Introduction: What Is the 2% Club? (01:41) – Chapter 1: The 2% Club Are "Midwestern Millionaires" (05:13) – Chapter 2: Having a Pension and Being in the 2% Club (11:19) – Chapter 3: Tax Planning (38:18) – Chapter 4: Investment Planning (51:20) – Chapter 5: Income Planning (01:07:12) – Chapter 6: Pension Options (01:31:09) – Chapter 7: Healthcare Planning (01:37:12) – Chapter 8: Estate Planning (01:43:05) – Chapter 9: Purpose Planning (01:52:31) – Conclusion (01:55:47) – A Team to Serve You in Retirement (02:00:02) – Thank You For Listening

Everyone despises taxes for a reason: they drain your income and limit your financial freedom. Discover the solution in I Hate Taxes and keep more cash in your pocket. You should pay your fair share in taxes—but not a penny more. It's time to end excessive tax payments and say hello to financial freedom. Within this book, you'll learn: - Proven tax-saving strategies that put money back in your hands. - How to legally navigate the tax code to your advantage. - The tax-planning secrets financial planners won't share. - The power of paying your fair share while maximizing your savings. - How to make your life savings work for you, not the government. This book empowers you to take control and save thousands of dollars over your lifetime. End Uncle Sam's grip on your wallet, and welcome in a brighter future. The power to keep your money is in your hands—are you ready to make it happen? 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/who-hates-taxes-the-best-time-to-plan-for-taxes-is-now 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Timestamps: (00:00) – I Hate Taxes (00:11) – Introduction (03:21) – Chapter 1: Why Act Now (05:02) – Chapter 2: We're Different From Other Planners (11:31) – Chapter 3: Kick Uncle Sam to The Curb (17:36) – Chapter 4: Will Taxes Go Up or Down? (21:07) – Chapter 5: The Nitty-Gritties (30:08) – Chapter 6: Taxes Are on Sale (36:12) – Chapter 7: The Tax-Deferred Bucket (41:40) – Chapter 8: The Tax-Free Bucket (45:47) – Chapter 9: Roth Conversions (51:13) – Chapter 10: Brace Yourself - There is a Tax Bill (01:02:48) – Chapter 11: Like What You're Hearing? (01:05:23) – Chapter 12: Basics of Required Minimum Distributions (01:08:00) – Chapter 13: Basics of Legacy Planning and IRAs (01:17:36) – Chapter 14: Two Valuable Tax-Free Opportunities (01:18:48) – Chapter 15: Basics of The Taxable Bucket (01:38:04) – Chapter 16: Charitable Strategies (01:47:05) – Chapter 17: State Taxes (01:52:36) – Chapter 18: Medicare Premium Basics (01:55:55) – Chapter 19: How Does Social Security Impact Your Taxes? (02:01:22) – Chapter 20: For The Analytical Mind (02:14:40) – Chapter 21: Peak Retirement For You (02:29:13) – Thank You For Listening

In a world obsessed with flashy lifestyles, Midwestern Millionaires embody a different kind of financial success: one built on making smart choices over their working years. Now, they require more advanced and specific planning because of the wealth they have created. This book reveals their traits and why Peak Retirement Planning, Inc. was founded to help serve them. Inside, you'll learn how to: - Protect your hard-earned savings from unnecessary taxes - Understand the advanced planning strategies required for those with $1,000,000 or more saved - Safeguard your wealth for future generations through smart estate planning If you've saved consistently, live by a strong set of values, and want to make sure you're maximizing your wealth through proactive planning, this book is for you. This book offers a clear roadmap, packed with real-life examples and actionable advice, that will help you confidently steward your wealth through retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Midwestern Millionaire": https://keap.page/bsd964/midwestern-millionaire-toolkit-podcast.html  🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Timestamps: (00:00) – Midwestern Millionaire (00:12) – Preface (01:17) – Introduction: Who is This Midwestern Millionaire? (06:19) – Chapter 1: The Traits of a Midwestern Millionaire (14:35) – Chapter 2: Why We Serve the Midwestern Millionaire (21:58) – Chapter 3: What Must a Midwestern Millionaire do? (30:38) – Chapter 4: Taxes (40:25) – Chapter 5: Which Buckets Hold Your Life Savings? (53:31) – Chapter 6: Advanced Strategies for the Tax Buckets (01:08:38) – Chapter 7: Social Security Strategies (01:19:17) – Chapter 8: Medicare Premium Strategies (01:22:35) – Chapter 9: Estate Planning and Transferring Wealth (01:43:36) – Chapter 10: The Purpose of Money (01:53:17) – Chapter 11: Why People Work With Us (02:00:31) – Thank You For Listening

Saving for retirement is like climbing a mountain. It takes a long time and one wrong move can be disastrous. But building a nest egg and getting to the top of the mountain is only half the battle. The journey back down the mountain is even more dangerous—and it's where most losses occur. In this book, Joe F. Schmitz Jr. shares a simple way to protect what you've worked so hard to create and to ensure your money makes it through the treacherous terrain called retirement. After reading this book, you'll appreciate and understand: - How Tax Planning strategies can ensure you do not overpay in taxes - Where Investment Planning can help you take less risk in retirement - When Income Planning with a distribution plan can lead to success - Why Healthcare Planning is nearly inevitable to plan for - What Estate Planning documents and strategies must be in place Saving for retirement is one thing. Enjoying retirement and making your money last is quite another. By following this proven process you'll be fully equipped to enjoy your trek down the mountain of retirement and will have taken every precaution to ensure a safe arrival. You deserve to enjoy your retirement without worrying about risks, dangers, or loss. Read this book to learn how to protect your savings—and your family—using the 5 Pillars of a Peak Retirement plan. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Peak Retirement Planning":  https://keap.page/bsd964/5-pillars-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/the-pillars-of-retirement-planning 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/ Timestamps: (00:00) – Peak Retirement (00:12) – Introduction (06:22) – Chapter 1: Pillar 1 - Tax Planning (15:39) – Chapter 2: Pillar 2 - Investment Planning (30:18) – Chapter 3: Pillar 3 - Income Planning (45:12) – Chapter 4: Pillar 4 - Healthcare Planning (55:29) – Chapter 5: Pillar 5 - Estate Planning (01:06:42) – Closing Remarks (01:08:21) – Thank You for Listening

If you are in or near retirement, these are the 7 biggest decisions you NEED to get right. We see these decisions impact retirees every single day, especially those with pensions and $1M+ saved. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Most retirees think a pension guarantees financial security forever… but what if inflation quietly cuts the value of your pension in half over retirement? In today's episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down one of the biggest hidden risks facing retirees with pensions: inflation risk. Even if you have a generous pension and over $1 million saved, failing to plan properly could force you to rely far more heavily on your investments later in retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirement-planning/are-you-being-tax-smart-about-your-pension 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, your retirement planning is completely different… and one wrong move could cost you six figures. In this video, Joe breaks down the 7 critical strategies every pension holder needs to understand to avoid overpaying taxes, maximize income, and protect their spouse and legacy. Most retirees don't realize that having a pension can actually push them into higher taxes, higher Medicare costs, and forced withdrawals later on. But with the right plan, you can turn this into a massive advantage. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're retiring with a pension and $1M+ saved, retirement isn't all sunshine and rainbows. In today's video, Joe breaks down the 5 worst things about retirement that we see from real clients every day. These are the hidden risks that can quietly cost you thousands in taxes, healthcare, and missed opportunities if you don't plan ahead. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/if-not-long-term-care-insurance-then-what 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and over $1M saved, your retirement taxes could be MUCH higher than you expect. Most people are told they will be in a lower tax bracket in retirement, but for high earners and diligent savers, that is often completely wrong. In this video, Joe breaks down the biggest retirement tax traps and what you can do NOW to avoid overpaying the IRS later. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/who-hates-taxes-the-best-time-to-plan-for-taxes-is-now 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're 60 years old with $1 million saved and a pension, are you actually ready to retire? In this video, Joe breaks down a real scenario and shows you exactly how retirement could work in your favor or completely fall apart depending on ONE key factor. Most people think $1M is enough, but they miss the bigger picture. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/what-being-in-the-2-percent-club-means-for-your-retirement 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, a Roth conversion could be one of the biggest financial decisions of your retirement, but most people do it WRONG. In this video, Joe breaks down the 7 critical questions you MUST ask before doing a Roth conversion so you don't overpay in taxes or miss massive opportunities. Most retirees assume they'll be in a lower tax bracket, but for Midwestern Millionaires with pensions, that's rarely the case. Between Social Security, RMDs, and pensions, your taxes could actually go UP in retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're nearing retirement or already there, these are the 10 biggest questions you NEED to answer before it's too late. In this episode, Joe breaks down the exact concerns we hear from thousands of retirees, especially those with a pension and $1M+ saved. From when to retire, to how much you can safely spend, to tax strategies that could save you thousands, this is the roadmap most people wish they had sooner. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Are you the best saver but the worst spender in retirement? If you've built up $1M+ and have a pension, you might be what we call a "Midwestern Millionaire," those who are hardworking, frugal, and struggle to enjoy their money. In this video, Joe breaks down the real reason retirees hesitate to spend and how to fix it before it's too late. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Midwestern Millionaire": https://keap.page/bsd964/midwestern-millionaire-toolkit-podcast.html  🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Are you stuck in "pension jail"… or sitting on a million-dollar opportunity? In today's video, Joe breaks down a real-life case study of someone facing one of the hardest retirement decisions out there: Walk away now and enjoy life, or stay for a massive pension boost. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirement-planning/are-you-being-tax-smart-about-your-pension 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're nearing retirement or already there, these are the 10 biggest questions you NEED to answer before it's too late. In this episode, Joe breaks down the exact concerns we hear from thousands of retirees, especially those with a pension and $1M+ saved. From when to retire, to how much you can safely spend, to tax strategies that could save you thousands, this is the roadmap most people wish they had sooner. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/reducing-lifetime-taxes-for-retirees-in-two-percent-club 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Most retirees think they're doing everything right… until it's too late. After working with thousands of people in their 60s with pensions and $1M+ saved, we consistently hear the SAME 5 regrets over and over again. In this video, Joe breaks down the biggest retirement mistakes wealthy retirees wish they could undo and how YOU can avoid them while there's still time. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

When should you take Social Security if you have a pension and solid savings? The answer is not as simple as you think. In this video, Joe breaks down the 3 biggest factors that determine the best time to take Social Security so you don't leave thousands on the table. If you're a diligent saver with a pension, your strategy is completely different than most retirees. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security-benefits-when-you-should-start-depends 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Everyone wants to save $1 million in taxes… but what if that's not the full story? In today's episode, Joe breaks down one of the biggest myths in retirement planning and shows you what Roth conversions really do for your wealth. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you've worked 30 to 40 years, built a pension, and saved $1M+, you're in a rare position, but also a risky one if you choose the wrong advisor. In this video, Joe breaks down the most important questions you MUST ask before trusting a financial advisor. These are the exact questions high-net-worth retirees and Midwestern Millionaires use to avoid costly mistakes. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Peak Retirement Planning":  https://keap.page/bsd964/5-pillars-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/hire-a-financial-planning-firm-questions-to-ask 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, your retirement planning is completely different than most people. In this video, Joe breaks down the 3 key pillars of pension planning that high-income retirees MUST get right to avoid costly mistakes. From hidden tax traps to investment missteps and estate planning gaps, these strategies could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Midwestern Millionaire": https://keap.page/bsd964/midwestern-millionaire-toolkit-podcast.html  🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirement-planning/are-you-being-tax-smart-about-your-pension 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Most financial advisors sound great, but that doesn't mean they're actually giving you the right advice. In today's episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down a real client story where another firm made recommendations that raised serious concerns. From pushing products too early, to high fees, to lack of real tax planning, this is what you NEED to watch out for. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/why-some-financial-planners-avoid-tax-planning 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1 million saved, you might be sitting on far more wealth than you realize. In this video, Joe breaks down why many retirees in this situation end up with way more money than they ever expected and more importantly, why that can actually become a problem. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Midwestern Millionaire": https://keap.page/bsd964/midwestern-millionaire-toolkit-podcast.html  🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, you might be asking the wrong question… It's not "Do I have enough?" It's "What should I do with all of it?" In today's episode, Joe breaks down exactly how to run your numbers, what your pension is really worth, and why most retirees in this position end up with MORE money than they ever expected. He'll also cover key strategies around tax planning, Roth conversions, and how to actually enjoy your retirement without regret. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/comfortable-retirement-how-much-do-you-need 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're a widow or planning ahead for your spouse, this is one of the most important retirement videos you'll watch. There are 4 shocking stats that most people don't realize until it's too late, and they can cost you thousands in taxes, lost income, and poor financial decisions. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/widows-penalty-how-to-prepare 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you've saved $1M+ and still struggle to spend… this video is for you. Most retirees we work with are what we call "Midwestern Millionaires:" hardworking, disciplined savers who did everything right, but now can't enjoy their money. And that leads to one of the biggest regrets in retirement: Not running out of money… but running out of life. In this video, Joe breaks down the 4 things you can do with your money so you can stop over-saving and start living with purpose, confidence, and freedom. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Midwestern Millionaire": https://keap.page/bsd964/midwestern-millionaire-toolkit-podcast.html  🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If your advisor isn't doing tax planning AND tax prep… you may be leaving thousands on the table. In today's episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down why most advisors don't offer full-service planning and what that means for YOU. Too many retirees are paying a 1% fee for investment management only… while missing out on tax strategies, Roth conversions, and coordinated planning that could dramatically improve their retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/why-some-financial-planners-avoid-tax-planning 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and have saved $1 million or more, your retirement is very different than most people… and most advice out there simply doesn't apply to you. In today's episode, Joe breaks down the 4 biggest retirement considerations for those with pensions so you can avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions with your life savings. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirement-planning/are-you-being-tax-smart-about-your-pension 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If your financial advisor is telling you certain things… it might be a HUGE red flag. In today's episode, Joe breaks down the exact phrases and strategies that expose advisors who don't actually work with high-net-worth clients. Because here's the truth: Most advisors focus on investment management and sales… NOT comprehensive retirement planning. And if you have a pension and $1M+ saved, that can cost you hundreds of thousands in taxes, missed strategies, and poor planning decisions. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/is-your-financial-adviser-doing-a-good-job-for-you 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Most retirees are paying little to NO federal taxes… so why are YOU paying so much? In this episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down the shocking truth behind why 80% of retirees avoid taxes and why high savers with pensions and $1M+ often end up paying MORE instead. If you've done everything right… saved diligently… built a pension… and now feel like you're being penalized, this video is for you. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/who-hates-taxes-the-best-time-to-plan-for-taxes-is-now 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're planning to take income from your investments in retirement, this could be one of the biggest risks you'll ever face… It's called sequence of returns risk, and it has the potential to completely derail even the best retirement plans. If you're a Midwestern Millionaire with a pension and $1M+ saved, this is critical to understand. The goal isn't just to retire… it's to maximize your income, minimize risk, and keep more of your money working for you. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/reducing-lifetime-taxes-for-retirees-in-two-percent-club 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension, there's a high chance up to 85% of your Social Security could be taxable… and most retirees don't see this coming. If you're a diligent saver with a pension and $1M+ saved, this is one of the biggest tax traps you need to understand before retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/will-you-pay-taxes-on-your-social-security-benefits 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, Roth conversions aren't just about if… they're about WHEN and HOW MUCH. In today's episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down 5 critical Roth conversion mistakes that could quietly cost you thousands in taxes, higher Medicare premiums, and lost retirement income. Most retirees assume they'll be in a lower tax bracket… but if you have a pension, that's often NOT the case. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension or $1 million saved for retirement, you could be walking straight into a massive tax problem… without even realizing it. Joe breaks down the 2 types of retirees who get hit hardest by taxes and why the old belief that you'll be in a lower tax bracket in retirement may not apply to you. If you've been a diligent saver, built up your nest egg, or have guaranteed income like a pension, your retirement may look very different than most people. And without the right strategy, you could end up paying far more to Uncle Sam than necessary. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/reducing-lifetime-taxes-for-retirees-in-two-percent-club 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Most retirees think their biggest fear is running out of money. But for many of the people we work with, that's actually not the real concern. If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, chances are you're already in a great financial position. The real question becomes something much deeper: Are you worried about running out of life before you actually enjoy the money you worked 30 or 40 years to save? In this video, Joe breaks down a powerful concept we discuss with many of our clients who fit the Midwestern Millionaire profile. These are diligent savers who did everything right but often struggle to transition from saving money to actually using it. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/spend-your-retirement-nest-egg-and-drop-the-guilt 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you're thinking about moving to another state in retirement, there are 5 major things you need to consider before making the decision. Many retirees focus only on taxes, but that's just one piece of the puzzle. Your quality of life, proximity to family, Roth conversion strategy, and estate planning can all dramatically impact your retirement. Joe breaks down the same checklist we walk through with our clients who are considering relocating in retirement. If you have a pension and $1M+ saved, these decisions become even more important because your taxes, income strategy, and legacy planning can change significantly depending on where you live. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/who-hates-taxes-the-best-time-to-plan-for-taxes-is-now 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

What should you do with your 401(k) when you retire? After working for 30 or 40 years and saving diligently, many retirees reach the same question: should you leave your 401(k) where it is or move it to an IRA? In today's episode, Joe walks through the four key things every retiree must understand before making this decision. Getting this wrong could cost you thousands in missed opportunities, higher taxes, or poor investment flexibility. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/should-you-move-your-401k-to-an-ira-at-age-59 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Roth conversions can be one of the most powerful tax strategies for retirees. But we constantly see people avoid them because of a few common myths. If you have a pension and have saved $1 million or more for retirement, these misconceptions could cost you a lot in unnecessary taxes over time. Joe breaks down three of the biggest Roth conversion myths we hear from retirees and pre-retirees. Understanding these could help you make a much smarter decision about when and how much to convert. If you want to reduce lifetime taxes, protect your retirement income, and plan more efficiently around pensions, Social Security, and RMDs, this is a strategy you should understand. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you recently inherited an IRA or expect to receive one in the future, there are some major tax mistakes you need to avoid. Many retirees assume they can treat an inherited IRA just like their own retirement account. Unfortunately, the rules are very different, and making the wrong move could cost you thousands in unnecessary taxes. In today's episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe walks through 7 key strategies to help you handle an inherited IRA the right way, especially if you're part of the group we often work with: retirees who have pensions and $1M or more saved. If you're a diligent saver, a pension holder, or what we call a Midwestern Millionaire, these planning decisions can make a huge difference in your retirement strategy. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/tax-planning-strategies-if-you-have-a-million-dollars 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and $1 million or more saved, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) could become one of the biggest tax challenges in your retirement. Most people are told they'll be in a lower tax bracket in retirement. But for those with pensions, Social Security, and large retirement accounts, the opposite is often true. Joe breaks down why prepaying your RMDs could actually be a powerful tax strategy and how it can help you. If you fall into the group of retirees with a pension and significant savings, your planning is different than most people. The strategies discussed here could potentially save tens or even hundreds of thousands in taxes over your lifetime. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirement-plans/required-minimum-distributions-rmds/604645/alternatives-to-required 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and serious savings, your retirement planning needs to be different. What works for most people can actually cost you hundreds of thousands in taxes and missed opportunities. In this video, Joe walks through a 7-point retirement checklist specifically designed for those with a pension and significant assets. This is advanced planning focused on taxes, income strategy, and protecting your spouse and family long term. If you are frugal, have Midwestern values, and want to retire with confidence while avoiding costly mistakes, this checklist is for you. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retiring-with-a-pension-what-to-know 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and serious savings, this new tax law could be one of the biggest retirement opportunities you'll ever see. In this episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down three powerful strategies inside the One Big Beautiful Bill that can help retirees keep more of their hard-earned money and avoid massive tax mistakes. If you are in or near retirement and want to maximize your income, protect your spouse, and reduce taxes long term, this is a must-watch. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/tax-saving-opportunities-in-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-obbb 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension, Social Security, and $1 million or more saved, you are in a rare group of retirees. You did everything right. But when all three income sources start working together, taxes, RMDs, Medicare premiums, and Social Security taxation can quietly explode if you do not plan correctly. In this episode, Joe breaks down the three-legged stool of retirement income and explains why high income retirees often pay more taxes in retirement than they ever expected. If you are a disciplined saver with Midwest values and a pension, this episode is for you. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/will-you-pay-taxes-on-your-social-security-benefits 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you already have a pension, you may already own the best income annuity there is and you might not need another one. In this video, Joe breaks down why pensions act like built in income annuities, when buying an income annuity is usually unnecessary, and the one specific situation where it could actually make sense. If you have a pension and want to avoid overpaying for income you already have, this is a must watch. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/taxes/tax-planning/what-being-in-the-2-percent-club-means-for-your-retirement 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Midwestern Millionaires do not look flashy, but they retire financially secure. In this episode of Joe Knows Retirement, Joe breaks down 60 real habits Midwestern Millionaires use to save more, waste less, and build lasting financial freedom. These are not extreme strategies. They are simple, practical decisions real retirees make every day that quietly compound over decades. Watch until the end and comment how many of these you actually do. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "Midwestern Millionaire": https://keap.page/bsd964/midwestern-millionaire-toolkit-podcast.html  🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/if-you-are-a-millionaire-you-may-be-a-terrible-spender 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

Most retirees guess when to do Roth conversions and that mistake can cost hundreds of thousands in unnecessary taxes. In this video, Joe explains why Roth conversions are not about if you should do them, but when and how fast you should act. This is especially important if you have a pension, over one million saved, or expect higher income later in retirement. Joe breaks down the current tax window, retirement gap years, required minimum distributions, and how pensions and Social Security timing impact your Roth strategy. This is a must watch if you hate taxes and want more control and flexibility in retirement. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "2% Club": https://keap.page/bsd964/2-percent-toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/reasons-roth-conversions-and-pensions-work-well-together 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/

If you have a pension and a large 401k balance, you could be sitting on a massive tax problem in retirement without even realizing it. In this video, Joe breaks down why the traditional advice of deferring taxes can backfire for high savers and walks through seven practical strategies you can start using today to reduce taxes, control income, and protect your retirement. We cover why most people with pensions are not in a lower tax bracket in retirement, how Roth strategies can create flexibility, and how smart planning around Social Security, pensions, and investments can save you hundreds of thousands over time. If you hate taxes, have done a great job saving, and want to make sure Uncle Sam does not get more than his fair share, this episode is for you. 🎥 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/430T9Lv 📚Get a FREE copy of Joe's book "I Hate Taxes":  https://keap.page/bsd964/toolkit-podcast.html 🟥 Read our latest article featured in Kiplinger: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/keep-your-401k-when-you-retire 📞 Schedule a call with our team: https://peakretirementplanning.com/schedule-a-meeting/