Retirement Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode, we break down the critical differences between taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-exempt accounts to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. We explore how different structures—like the Roth IRA, 401(k), and standard brokerage accounts—impact your bottom line through varying rules on contributions and withdrawals. Join us as we share strategic insights on "asset location" to ensure you're utilizing the right accounts to shield your investments from unnecessary IRS bites.

In this episode, we move beyond the spreadsheets to explore how life insurance serves as a tangible expression of love and long-term commitment to your family. We sit down to discuss the emotional hurdles of estate planning and why the most effective strategies are built on personal values rather than just tax efficiencies. Tune in to learn how to transform a complex financial product into a meaningful cornerstone of your family’s unique legacy.

In this episode, we break down the foundational structures required to transform a standard inheritance into a robust, multi-generational financial fortress. We explore the critical integration of tax-efficient estate vehicles and proactive leadership training to ensure your heirs are prepared to manage significant capital. Tune in to learn how to align your family's core values with a strategic wealth roadmap that secures your legacy for decades to come.

In this episode, we tackle the emotional and practical hurdles of discussing estate planning with aging parents without making the conversation feel confrontational or morbid. We break down actionable strategies for approaching these "legacy talks" with empathy, ensuring your family’s wishes are documented and understood long before a crisis occurs.

Most people assume a will is the final word, but your beneficiary designations are actually the "plot twists" that can override your entire estate plan. This episode breaks down why these often-ignored forms are the ultimate shortcut for passing on your legacy and keeping your assets out of the hands of the probate courts. Tune in to learn how a few quick updates today ensure your money tells the story you intended, rather than leaving your loved ones with a legal cliffhanger.

Kick off the new year with an episode dedicated to finding your "Retirement Awakening" and the clarity needed to navigate the months ahead. We share real-world stories of clients who experienced powerful financial breakthroughs, from discovering hidden savings potential to finally redefining their vision for the future. These inspiring narratives serve as a guide to help you recognize your own "aha" moments and set a purposeful, confident course for your retirement journey in 2026.

This episode reframes the common goal of retirement planning: instead of solely focusing on the peak number you need to accumulate, we stress the importance of the descent—safely making your savings last through your entire life. We'll discuss crucial "safety gear" like inflation protection, sequence of returns risk mitigation, and withdrawal strategies that ensure you not only reach retirement but thrive in it. Learn how prioritizing financial durability over arbitrary accumulation targets can lead to a more secure and stress-free retirement.

During this episode, we’re going to consider changes that are coming to IRAs, 401(k)s, and HSAs in 2026 that may keep more money in your pocket.

This episode uses the powerful metaphor of building a strong house to explain the critical concept of Asset Allocation in your investment strategy. We detail how to select the right mix of "building materials"—stocks, bonds, real estate, and cash—to create a portfolio foundation that is both stable and resilient to market storms. Tune in to learn how proper asset allocation, customized to your risk tolerance and timeline, is the single most important decision for long-term financial success.

The holiday season brings "Jingle Bills" for everyone, but this episode shows you how to spend smartly and avoid the dreaded January credit card hangover. We walk you through building a realistic holiday budget, implementing clever spending limits for gifts and travel, and utilizing "sinking funds" to cover all your festive expenses without dipping into savings. Tune in to enjoy a meaningful, debt-free holiday season that perfectly aligns with your financial goals.

This episode goes beyond simply calculating your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) to explore the critical financial choices you face once that withdrawal hits your bank account. We break down the tax ramifications, including how your RMD can push you into a higher tax bracket and potentially increase your Medicare premiums (IRMAA). Learn smart strategies for managing the cash—whether through tax-efficient reinvestment, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), or ensuring you don't compromise your overall retirement income security.

On the heels of the official announcement, we break down the 2026 Social Security COLA increase, explaining exactly what the 2.8% boost means for your monthly check. We analyze current inflation trends and projected Medicare premium hikes, revealing whether this cost-of-living adjustment truly keeps pace with the rising expenses retirees face. Plus, we look at the new Social Security taxable maximum for 2026 and how it impacts high-earning workers.

Now is the perfect time to optimize your finances before the year ends, and this episode breaks down the essential tasks you need to complete before December 31st. We cover critical year-end maneuvers, including last-minute tax-loss harvesting, maximizing retirement contributions, and making strategic charitable gifts to reduce your tax bill. Tune in for a comprehensive checklist that ensures you start the new year on the strongest financial footing possible.

Divorce statistics consistently show that money arguments are a leading cause of breakups, but most couples still avoid the crucial conversations until after they say "I do." This episode dives into why financial transparency is the ultimate pre-marital counseling, providing a roadmap for couples to openly discuss everything from current debt and credit scores to future goals like retirement and children's education. Learn how to align your money mindsets now to build a powerful foundation of trust and teamwork that can secure your relationship's financial and emotional future.

This episode explores the powerful connection between your personal finances and genuine self-care. Jaclyn also has a huge announcement to share! Tune in to shift your mindset from financial burden to financial empowerment, seeing money management as a vital part of your overall well-being.

This episode guides you through the process of taking your personal finances to the next level. We'll explore advanced strategies beyond basic budgeting and saving, covering topics like optimizing your investment portfolio and leveraging debt strategically. Tune in to learn how to move from financial stability to true financial freedom and build lasting wealth.

During today’s show, we’ll consider how much it costs to be a grandparent and how you can build a financial strategy that positions you to enjoy your grandkids while also taking care of your own financial needs.

During this show, we’re going to discuss how you can save money on withdrawals from retirement accounts.

During this show, we’ll take a much deeper look at how the recently signed Big Beautiful Bill will specifically affect Social Security and older Americans.

In this episode, we'll delve into the often-overlooked emotional and social aspects of retirement, moving beyond the numbers to discuss how to truly find fulfillment in this new chapter. We'll explore strategies for building a strong social network, pursuing passions, and maintaining a sense of purpose. Join us to learn how to create a retirement that isn't just financially secure, but also rich with joy and meaning.

During this episode, we’ll discuss eight signs that could tell you that you’re ready to retire as well as traits that lead to more retirement savings.

During today’s show, we’re going to discuss what the newly signed federal budget bill may mean for older Americans and retirees. We will dive into explaining what each new segment means for our taxes, children, and our future.

Inheriting an annuity is not as simple as receiving a check; it comes with complex tax rules and beneficiary choices. In this episode, we break down the critical options available to you, including the five-year rule, and taking a lump-sum distribution. Tune in to understand the tax implications of each path and learn how to make the best financial decision for your unique situation.

This episode tackles the often-confusing world of inherited Roth IRAs, a situation many people unexpectedly face. We'll break down the crucial 10-year rule, explaining how it impacts your distribution options and potential tax implications. Learn essential strategies for managing these assets to maximize their tax-free growth and avoid costly penalties.

When you inherit an IRA, it can feel like a windfall, but there are crucial decisions to make. This episode breaks down the immediate steps you should take, including understanding the different types of inherited IRAs and their unique rules. We'll guide you through potential tax implications and explain how to avoid costly mistakes, ensuring your inherited wealth works for you.

Don't let avoidable errors cost you when it comes to your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)! This episode dives into the most common missteps retirees make, from incorrect calculations to missed deadlines, and how to steer clear of them. Tune in to ensure your RMD strategy is sound and your retirement savings stay on track.

We tackle common misunderstandings surrounding these powerful financial tools. This episode busts pervasive myths, revealing how annuities actually work to secure your retirement income and protect your principal. Tune in to gain clarity and discover if an annuity is the right fit for your long-term financial strategy.

In this episode we talk about more of the mistakes people make when moving or rolling over their retirement accounts. We talk about how to avoid these costly mistakes.

In this episode we talk about the biggest mistakes people make when moving or rolling over their retirement accounts. We talk about how to avoid these costly mistakes.

During this episode, we’re going to discuss tips for handling your finances and having a plan that will help you if the US goes into a recession.

During this episode, we’ll consider if those who wanted to retire in 2025 may need to reconsider, and we’ll also touch on how those running behind on retirement savings can still catch up.

During this episode we’re going to discuss the two hottest current financial news stories: The tariffs, the market downturns, and it's affect on your 401(k).

During this show, we’re going to look at five possible Social Security steps for couples as well as basic Social Security elements that everyone should know.

In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked financial challenges faced by widows, providing practical advice on managing assets. We explore strategies for adjusting to a single-income household and offer guidance on making informed decisions about investments and long-term financial security.

In this episode, we break down the five most significant Social Security adjustments coming in 2025, from potential benefit increases to eligibility rule shifts. We'll explore how these changes could impact your retirement planning and what steps you can take to prepare. Tune in to understand the future of your Social Security benefits and ensure you're maximizing your potential income.

In this episode Jenna talks about the importance of purpose and passion and what that means to her. We also talk about the financial and retirement topics we will be covering on our upcoming episodes.