Retirement Success Blueprint With Michael Stewart

We heard from a listener who has managed their own money for years and done well. So why would they need an advisor now that retirement is around the corner? Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

A new proposal out of Washington is adding a fresh angle to the Social Security solvency debate. Today, we're breaking down what's proposed, if it might cost you money in the future, and what questions it raises for anyone planning around Social Security right now. Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Financial media loves simple answers: always do this or never do that. But real financial planning doesn’t work that way. Most of the biggest decisions people face in retirement live in the gray.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Everyone’s got an opinion about money (especially the people with a book deal or a TV show). Some of that advice is useful. Some of it sounds better on a stage than it works in real life. Let’s break it down.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

There’s no shortage of financial advice out there, and unfortunately, not all of it is good. Some of the most damaging retirement mistakes don’t come from reckless behavior, but from ideas that sound reasonable and get repeated often enough to feel true. Today, we’re busting some of the most common retirement planning myths and explaining why believing them can quietly derail an otherwise solid plan.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

After a year marked by volatility, uncertainty, and more than a few economic curveballs, it’s understandable if optimism doesn’t come easily. But at least one economist is arguing that the outlook for 2026 may be brighter than many people expect. Allison Schrager's Article: https://www.fa-mag.com/news/five-reasons-to-be-optimistic-about-the-2026-economy-85324.html?section=68 Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Nothing will mess with your financial confidence faster than comparing your savings to your brother, your coworkers, or that guy on YouTube who claims he retired at 35. Your retirement number isn’t a competition. Let’s talk about what really matters when you’re trying to figure out if you’re behind on your savings goals…and what to do if you actually are.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

A lot happened in 2025… Big political swings, stubborn inflation, new tax rules, and even a historic government shutdown. But what actually matters for your financial life? Today, we’re breaking down the year’s biggest headlines and what they may mean for your plan moving forward.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

You’ve heard the saying, “There’s no such thing as a bad question.” But in retirement planning… some questions are definitely better than others. The way you frame your question often determines the quality of your answer and, in some cases, the quality of your retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

How do you know if your financial advisor is a bad fit for you? What about an advisor that you’re thinking about working with? What red flags should you be looking out for?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Some people believe having two financial advisors means double the wisdom. But does it really equal double the problems? Today, we’ll tackle a person’s question about this very dilemma.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Most people think financial planning is about calculators, spreadsheets, and strategies. But that’s only half the story. The truth is, your feelings about money can have just as much impact on your retirement as the numbers do. Today, we’re exploring the emotional side of planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

You’ve probably said it before. ‘I ran the numbers, and I should be fine.’ But what if the math you're relying on isn’t telling the whole story? Today, we’re unpacking some of the most common examples of fuzzy retirement math and showing you how to spot them before they cause real problems.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Inflation may not be in the headlines like it was in 2022, but for most Americans, it’s still public enemy number one when it comes to saving for retirement. A new Schwab survey reveals just how many people still feel unprepared and how that affects their confidence in their financial future.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Just because something used to be true doesn’t mean it still is, especially in retirement planning. In 2025, rising interest rates, tax uncertainty, and longer retirements mean it’s time to rethink some of the old advice. These seven assumptions sound smart at first… but they could quietly hurt your plan if you’re not careful.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

No two retirements look the same, and often clients come in with circumstances that make a cookie-cutter plan impossible. Let’s look at some examples of these more unique and challenging scenarios and explore the solutions you’ll need to successfully retire.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Markets crash. Taxes shift. Congress waffles on Social Security. You can’t control any of that. And stressing over it won’t help. What will? Focusing on the four things that actually move the needle in retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let’s be honest, it’s always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We’re starting a financial book club where a couple of times a year, we’ll discuss a book in the financial realm to see what we can learn…or what we might disagree with. Today, we’ll look at a few concepts from Morgan Housel’s book, The Psychology of Money…   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Are you saving so much for retirement that it’s squeezing your life today? In this episode, we’re answering a smart viewer question about finding the right balance between preparing for the future and living fully in the present.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

It's been a volatile month. And if you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. But how we respond in moments like this often has roots in the crashes we’ve lived through before. In this episode, we look at how past market meltdowns shaped investor psychology, how today’s chaos might be leaving its own mark, and what lessons we can take with us to navigate what’s next.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

The headlines are loud, the markets are messy, and your gut might be telling you to do something — anything — right now. But what should you actually do when your portfolio takes a hit?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Valentine’s season is all about love, but let’s be honest, money plays a huge role in any relationship. Whether you’ve been together for decades or are just starting out, financial stress can put a strain on even the strongest partnerships. So, how do you talk about money without killing the romance? In today’s episode, we're looking at the questions every couple should ask about finances and retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

For years, $1 million was considered the gold standard for retirement savings. But is it really enough? A new analysis shows that depending on where you live, that million could last a lifetime… or barely 15 years.  In this episode, we break down the shocking cost-of-living differences across states and see if $1 million saved is enough or too little for your retirement plan.    Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Dolly Parton isn’t just a music icon—she’s a source of timeless wisdom. In this episode, we explore her most inspiring quotes and how they can guide your financial decisions, from saving to dreaming big. Let Dolly’s advice help you build a life, and wallet, worth singing about!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092    

Inflation has been a hot topic in recent years, and its impact on retirement planning is arguably bigger than ever. In this episode, we’ll explore how to adjust your strategy for 2025.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

It’s almost the beginning of a new year – a time when many of us make resolutions to improve our lives. But how often do we resolve to improve the way we feel about our finances? Today, we’re talking about spending with confidence, a surprising challenge for many retirees.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Did you know most Americans retire earlier than planned, often due to unexpected health issues, job changes, or financial surprises? These challenges can force people out of work early, leaving them unprepared for decades of retirement. In this episode, we’ll explore recent research highlighting the importance of planning for early retirement, even if it’s not in your current plans.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

You wouldn’t necessarily expect Mike Tyson, Kim Kardashian, and Lindsay Lohan to dispense valuable insights about financial planning matters. In fact, you’d probably expect the opposite. But with a little bit of creativity, we can get some financial planning pearls of wisdom from even the most unlikely of sources.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

The financial landscape is changing rapidly, and if you’re focused on retirement, these shifts can’t be ignored. In today’s episode, we break down the trends that will define the rest of 2024 and what they mean for your retirement plan.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

A random, retired YouTuber did a simple video exploring the top 5 regrets from other retirees he interviewed (all in their 70s). It blew up to almost half a million views (and counting). Let’s see what regrets made the list and, more importantly, explore what proactive steps you can take to avoid having the same regrets when you retire.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Remember the thrill of shaking a Magic 8 Ball to get answers to your childhood questions? Would we ace that math test? Would we be famous someday? Well, today, we're bringing a bit of that magic back. But instead of asking about pop quizzes and playground crushes, we’re turning to the Magic 8 Ball for advice on something much more important: your retirement planning! What would the Magic 8 Ball have to say about these common retirement questions if it had the wisdom of a financial advisor?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. In this two-part episode, we’re digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. In this two-part episode, we’re digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We hear a lot of half-truths in the financial world, not necessarily because people try to make misleading statements, but because sometimes a simple statement just doesn’t quite tell the whole story. On this episode, we’ll discuss a few examples...   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

In this episode, we’re diving into some famous words by the one and only Yogi Berra. You might know him for his legendary baseball career, but Yogi was also a goldmine of wisdom. We'll spin some of his classic quotes into financial advice. It's all about viewing things through the right lens—so let's see what financial insights we can uncover from Yogi’s memorable sayings!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Very often, we see people who know that the financial decisions that they’re making aren’t the best decisions, but they try to create excuses or explanations for why they’re doing what they’re doing. Let’s talk about why these excuses usually don’t hold water.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Retirement planning doesn’t have to be overwhelmingly complicated. It certainly doesn’t have to be as complicated as some people make it. In our next episode, we unravel the unnecessary complexities often woven into the fabric of retirement advice. We’ll debunk some myths, simplify strategies, and uncover the beauty of simplicity and straightforward retirement planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Psychologists have determined that retirement is one of the most stressful events that some people will experience in life. In this episode, we’ll look at the ways to proactively deal with the stress surrounding the retirement process.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Some people just need a reality check when it comes to understanding their retirement. Today, we'll explore why a realistic approach to retirement, inclusive of financial planning and the potential for unexpected challenges, is crucial.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

March Madness is upon us, and as you fill out your bracket and watch the NCAA Tournament this year, there are a few retirement planning lessons that you can learn along the way. Join us as we talk about them in today's episode!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Imagine your retirement plan as a ship sailing toward a horizon of rest and relaxation. But what if one leak could sink it all? In today’s episode, we spotlight some of the single oversights that could send your dreams to the bottom. We'll share key strategies to plug the gaps, ensuring your financial ship stays buoyant and on course. Tune in to protect your future from the one mistake that could derail everything.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We’ve all heard the apocalyptic predictions about Social Security, the national debt and other major issues that are supposed to sink the economy. Do any of these predictions have merit in the years ahead? On this episode, we’ll try to separate sensationalism from reality.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Everyone wants to know. Will the economy boom or bust in 2024? Join us as we explore a range of expert predictions, from the shifting trends in housing prices to the looming question of a potential recession or stock market crash. We'll balance our discussion with both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives from an array of sources to give you a comprehensive view. Tune in to navigate the uncertainties and opportunities of 2024's economic landscape and equip yourself with knowledge for the year ahead.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Have you ever wondered what questions to ask your financial advisor, or why those questions are crucial? In today’s episode, we’re tackling exactly that. We're discussing the vital questions that bring transparency and depth to your financial advisory relationship. It's about getting clarity on how advisors work, what they specialize in, and how they align with your financial goals. These are the questions you MUST ask your financial advisor.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Just like building a snowman in the crisp winter air, creating a structurally sound retirement strategy requires careful consideration and planning. From establishing a solid base to adding protective layers, we’re here to ensure your financial landscape remains cool and collected. Tune in and learn how to build a financial snowman that stands the test of time. So, bundle up and let’s get rolling!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Get ready to rock to the rhythms of retirement wisdom in this week’s episode! We've put together the ultimate retirement planning playlist, featuring timeless lyrics that reflect various stages of the planning journey. From setting financial goals to finding purpose in your golden years, this playlist sets the stage for important discussions about crafting your dream retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Join us for a thoughtful episode where we unpack our 2023 edition of key year-end planning strategies for those nearing or embracing their retirement years. We'll explore the nuances of optimizing your investment portfolio, safeguarding your assets, and ensuring a stable, rewarding lifestyle in the years to come. Together, we'll navigate through essential topics like managing RMDs, exploring tax-saving opportunities, and even touching on the often-overlooked emotional aspects of this pivotal life transition.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

"Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.” – Eleanor Roosevelt… Ever wish you could foresee financial missteps before they happen? On today’s episode, explore some real-life stories of regret and arm yourself with the essential dos and don'ts to ensure your money works for you, not against you.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

The retirement planning world is filled with plenty of advice and suggestions, but there are critical questions lurking in the shadows – the unasked, the overlooked. These are the questions that can help define the comfort and security of your retirement future. On this episode, we unearth and tackle these hidden, but essential questions about retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092