The Simply Retirement Podcast

Divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions and financial uncertainty collide. How do you make clear decisions when everything feels uncertain? And how can the right guidance help you avoid costly mistakes along the way? In this episode, I sit down with Carolyn Daly, Managing Partner at Cohen Seglias, to talk through how women can approach divorce with clarity and structure. We cover the importance of understanding your assets, avoiding emotional decisions, and working with the right professionals early. Carolyn also shares how alternative processes like mediation can reduce stress and costs, along with practical ways to move forward with confidence and protect your financial future. Key takeaways: Why understanding all assets early helps avoid confusion and poor decisions during divorce settlements How emotional attachment to the house can lead to long-term financial strain and missed opportunities The importance of reviewing tax implications, especially capital gains, when dividing investment assets Why delays in the process often increase stress, conflict, and overall costs for both parties How mediation and arbitration can offer more control, reduce conflict, and speed up resolution timelines And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Carolyn Daly: (973) 474-5003 LinkedIn: Carolyn Daly Website: Cohen Seglias Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Carolyn Daly is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and Seton Hall University School of Law. She is admitted to practice in both New Jersey and New York, with a primary focus on New Jersey, and is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and previously served as president of the New Jersey Chapter. Carolyn is an active member of the New Jersey State Bar Association, including its Family Law Section and Family Law Executive Committee. She also serves on the New Jersey Courts’ Supreme Court Family Practice Committee. Her professional involvement extends into the community, where she volunteers with the battered women’s legal assistance project. She has also contributed to the Morris County Child Support Partnership Committee, participated in a domestic violence task force, and supported the Morris Family Justice Center. Carolyn has written for the New Jersey Family Lawyer, including an article titled “College Contribution: A Contrarian View,” and contributed a chapter titled “What To Do When Your Spouse Says “I’m Out of Here!” to a book focused on navigating financial crises. Her practice is centered on family law matters, including divorce, custody, domestic violence, grandparents’ rights, and non-dissolution issues. She is also a trained mediator and an AAML-certified arbitrator.

Most people think tax season ends when the return is filed, but that may be where the real opportunity begins. What if your tax return could guide smarter financial decisions instead of sitting untouched for a year? In this episode, I explain how your tax return can become a valuable planning tool instead of something you file away. I walk through how to review your return for accuracy, compare it year to year, and identify missed items that could impact your taxes.  We also share how understanding key numbers like income and tax rates can shape better decisions, and how building a “base case” early in the year helps you plan ahead and avoid last-minute tax surprises. Key takeaways: Why reviewing your tax return after filing can uncover missed details and potential savings opportunities How comparing year-to-year returns helps identify changes, errors, or missing income and deductions What key numbers like taxable income and tax brackets reveal about future planning decisions How small reporting mistakes like Roth conversions or QCDs can lead to unnecessary taxes Why using your return early in the year creates a base case for proactive tax planning  And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Retirement tax return review checklists: Retired Retirement tax return review checklists: Still Working #54 – How Social Security Gets Taxed: What You Need to Know #75 – Year-End Tax Planning Checklist for 2025 Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Facing major life changes can feel overwhelming, especially when the future is unclear and the stakes are high. How do you move forward when fear, finances, and identity are all shifting at once? In this episode, I chat with Claudia Porter, CFP®, CDFA®, Wealth Advisor at RFG Advisory, about navigating divorce, financial uncertainty, and rebuilding life with purpose. She shares her personal journey from feeling financially powerless to taking control, the mindset shifts that helped her move forward, and how small steps can create momentum.  Claudia also explores the importance of support systems, journaling for clarity, and empowering women to take an active role in their financial lives. Key takeaways: How financial control in relationships can limit independence and decision-making during major life transitions Why taking one step at a time can help reduce overwhelm and build confidence in uncertain situations The role of journaling in creating clarity, distance, and better decision-making during emotional periods How building a trusted support team can provide guidance, perspective, and accountability when it matters most Why participating in financial conversations early can help avoid stress and uncertainty later in life And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  WOMEN, WEALTH, AND WINNING: Essential Strategies Female Business Owners Should Know to Master Your Money, Cultivate Success, and Build a Solid Financial Future by Claudia Porter On the Other Side: A Woman’s Guide to Rediscovering Strength and Success Beyond Adversity by Claudia Porter Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Claudia Porter: LinkedIn: Claudia Porter Website: RFG Advisory About our Guest:  Claudia was born and raised in West Germany. She is a Certified Financial Planner® and has been in the financial industry for 11 years and partnered with RFG Advisory in March, 2025 to go independent. She has a Master’s Degree in Teaching English and French from the University of Göttingen and a Ph.D. in Linguistics from Braunschweig Technical University. In 2014, she left academia to return to her earlier passion for financial planning and wealth management to make a more significant impact in people’s lives. For Claudia, “Success is not what you get, but the positive impact you make in other people’s lives.” She is the author of 2 books, “Women, Wealth, and Winning” and “On The Other Side: A Woman’s Guide to Rediscovering Strength and Success Beyond Adversity”. Claudia has 4 boys, 3 of whom are in college, 1 is still in high school.

What happens when retirement stops being a finish line and starts being a choice? What if the biggest barrier between you and financial freedom isn’t the math, it’s the mindset? In this episode, I sit down with Bernadette Joy, author and CEO of CRUSH Your Money Goals®, for a candid conversation about what it really takes to take control of your finances, redefine what retirement means to you, and finally stop waiting for the “right” time to live the life you actually want. We talk about the moment Bernadette discovered she had $72,000 in student loan debt she didn’t know was growing, how she paid off $300,000 in debt and reached financial independence, and why she believes financial fluency matters far more than financial literacy. This conversation will challenge how you think about money, work, and what retirement could actually look like for you. Key takeaways: How a shocking student loan balance became the turning point that led Bernadette to pay off $300,000 in debt Why learning finances is more like learning a language than solving a math problem, and what that means for women approaching retirement How the loss of a client changed Bernadette’s perspective on waiting for the “right time” to retire What financial independence actually looks like when work becomes optional, not obligatory Why women advocating for themselves in financial conversations is not just empowering, it is essential And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Bernadette Joy:  LinkedIn: Bernadette Joy Website: CRUSH Your Money Goals® YouTube: Bernadebtjoy About our Guest:  Bernadette isn’t your typical financial expert—she’s a powerhouse with real-world experience. With two business degrees and a background in psychology, Bernadette knows how to blend academic knowledge with street smarts. As a first-generation Filipino American and former corporate employee, she intimately understands the stress of financial uncertainty, even when the paycheck looks promising. She’s a featured money expert on CNBC, CNET, Forbes, MarketWatch, Yahoo Finance and has taken the stage at FinCon, SXSW, NASDAQ and TEDxHouston (just like Brene Brown!) But here’s where Bernadette truly shines: she’s walked the walk. In just three years, she obliterated $300,000 of debt. And by her thirties, she achieved a net worth of over $2 million—all while working part-time hours. That’s right—she clocks in just 20 hours a week.

One hundred episodes in. More than a milestone, this is a window into the heart behind the work. In this episode, I reflect on what it means to reach Episode 100 of the Simply Retirement Podcast, alongside the people who know me best, my family, Dawn Blake, Kaitlyn Blake-Lolliot, and Eric L. Blake.  We talk about why helping women feel confident around money matters so deeply, how communication and compassion shape our work, and what it means to build a business rooted in trust.  This conversation also pulls back the curtain on the personal side of Blake Wealth Management, from client relationships to family legacy. More than anything, this episode highlights the values that have carried us this far and the purpose that continues to guide what comes next. Key takeaways: Why making financial conversations easier to understand helps women feel more confident asking questions and making decisions How respect, communication, and legacy shape the way Blake Wealth Management serves clients What it means to support clients through life changes like widowhood, divorce, health issues, and other difficult transitions How Dawn, Kaitlyn, and Eric Lowell each bring a different perspective to the family business and client experience Why Episode 100 is both a celebration of the journey so far and a reflection on the future of a multi-generational firm And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Ultimate Guide to Women’s Social Security Success Connect with Eric Blake:  LinkedIn: Eric Blake www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Meet the Team: About Our Firm About our Guests: As the Client Success Coordinator at Blake Wealth Management, Dawn Blake’s goal is simple: to make your life just a little easier and ensure every interaction you have with our firm feels personal and meaningful. Whether she’s helping schedule a meeting, coordinating a transaction, or just checking in to see how you’re doing, Dawn wants you to feel like our only client. As Client Service Associate at Blake Wealth Management, Kaitlyn Blake-Lolliot’s role is all about making sure the client experience behind the scenes is just as thoughtful and smooth as the one our planning team delivers up front. Whether she’s managing schedules, processing paperwork, streamlining internal systems, or solving the daily challenges that come with running a growing firm, Kaitlyn’s goal is to support both our clients and team with clarity, efficiency, and care. As a Paraplanner at Blake Wealth Management, Eric L. Blake supports our planning team by helping build retirement plans, conducting investment research, and analyzing the tax and financial information that guide the strategies we deliver to clients. A large part of his work involves organizing data, running projections, and making sure every detail behind the scenes aligns with the goals, values, and long-term needs of the families we serve.

When divorce puts the future of your home into question, the biggest risk is making decisions before you fully understand your options. In this episode, I sit down with Stacey Ellison, Certified Divorce Lending Professional and Divorce Mortgage Planner at Divorce Mortgage Solutions, to walk through how mortgage planning, settlement language, and income rules can shape what is actually possible when it comes to keeping a home.  We talk through how assets, support payments, and loan strategies factor into qualification, especially for women navigating this transition later in life. We also address the emotional pull of the family home and how to balance that with long-term financial stability.  Key takeaways: Why divorce mortgage planning should happen before the settlement agreement is finalized How settlement language can affect whether support, assets, or other funds count as qualifying income What options may be available when someone wants to keep the house, including loan assumptions, FHA, and asset depletion strategies Why emotions around the marital home can lead to costly decisions if long-term affordability is not considered How women going through gray divorce can use retirement income, Social Security, and other assets to qualify more effectively And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Stacey Ellison:  (908) 229-2705 LinkedIn: Stacey Ellison Website: Divorce Mortgage Solutions Instagram: Divorce Mortgage Solutions Facebook: Stacey Ellison, Certified Divorce Lending Professional About our Guest:  Stacey Ellison, CDLP®, is a Certified Divorce Lending Professional and Divorce Mortgage Planner with a deep understanding of the financial complexities that arise during and after divorce. With over 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry, Stacey brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and compassionate guidance to individuals navigating one of life’s most challenging transitions.  Since earning her CDLP® designation in 2020, Stacey has worked closely with family law attorneys, mediators, financial planners, and other divorce professionals to provide strategic mortgage guidance tailored to each client’s needs. Her role is to ensure that both parties in a divorce understand their options when it comes to home equity, mortgage qualification, and long-term housing goals. Whether helping a client determine if they can keep the marital home, qualify for a new mortgage, or explore equitable buyout solutions, Stacey provides clarity, structure, and confidence in the decision-making process. Her goal is to help divorcing homeowners make sound financial choices that support both their immediate needs and long-term stability.

When life feels noisy, the real issue is not always a lack of time; it is often a lack of clarity. The biggest decisions in life rarely get solved by doing more. They get solved by cutting through the clutter, focusing on what matters most, and taking one small step at a time. In this episode, I talk with Jill Beck, founder of Go Long, about why so many women stay stuck during major life transitions and how accountability, clarity, and small actions can help them move forward. Jill shares her own path out of high-pressure corporate life, why women often put themselves last, and how her text-based coaching helps make hard changes feel more manageable. Key takeaways: How Jill’s health journey and corporate experience led her to help women through major transitions Why fear, perfection, and helping others can keep women from facing the changes they need to make How text-based accountability can make hard decisions feel more manageable The value of narrowing your focus, understanding your why, and being willing to get uncomfortable Why breaking a big task into smaller steps can reduce overwhelm and create momentum And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Ultimate Guide to Women’s Social Security Success Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Jill Beck:  LinkedIn: Jill Beck Website: Go Long Instagram: @justgolong Substack: Go Long YouTube: Go Long About our Guest:  Jill Beck worked at one of the top investment banks, traveled extensively, and built what many would describe as a dream career. Behind the scenes, she was exhausted, overwhelmed, and neglecting her own well-being. She was working 90+ hour weeks, skipping meals, relying heavily on Diet Coke, and getting very little sleep. Even after being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, she continued pushing forward. She told herself she would focus on her health when things slowed down, but that moment never came. It was not until she reached a breaking point that she realized something had to change. She began making small, intentional adjustments, focusing on what she could do instead of trying to meet every expectation at once. Today, at 53, she is in the best shape of her life. She takes active vacations with her husband, hikes regularly, and wakes up feeling energized about her day. What made the difference was not a complete overhaul overnight. It came from simplifying, focusing, and creating space for herself without guilt. Now, she helps others take a similar approach through practical, personalized steps that align with their life, goals, and priorities.

Many women approaching retirement worry that Social Security may not be there when they need it most. That uncertainty can make retirement planning feel overwhelming. But what do the numbers actually say? In this episode, I break down the real projections behind Social Security and what they mean for women approaching retirement. I explain why benefits are not expected to disappear, how potential reductions could work, and how to plan conservatively without making decisions based on fear. Most importantly, I walk through how Social Security fits into the broader retirement income puzzle. Key Points: Why Social Security is projected to continue paying benefits even if the trust fund faces depletion What the projected 81% funding level actually means for future benefits Why Social Security remains a foundational piece of retirement income for many women How to stress test your retirement plan with a possible 20% benefit reduction How Social Security should fit into your broader retirement income strategy And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  What’s New with Social Security? 8 Topics to Watch in 2026 The 2025 OASDI Trustees Report Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Many people ask whether retiring early will help them live longer. The real conversation is much bigger than that. Statistics and social media posts often push simple conclusions, but retirement decisions are rarely simple. Health, caregiving responsibilities, longevity, and financial readiness all play a role. In this episode, I explore a study about retirement timing and longevity and explain why statistics alone should never guide your retirement decisions. I walk through how planning, financial preparedness, and understanding what you are retiring to matter far more than the age you stop working. The conversation also highlights why women in particular must plan for longer retirements and how reducing financial stress can influence both physical and emotional well-being. Key Points: Why statistics about retirement and longevity can be misleading The difference between retiring early and being prepared for retirement How health and caregiving responsibilities influence retirement timing Why women must plan for longer retirements and financial longevity The importance of knowing what you are retiring to, not just when you retire And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Article: Is Delayed Retirement Bad for Your Health? Ultimate Guide to Women’s Social Security Success Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Many women enter retirement assuming life insurance is no longer necessary, only to discover that the real issue is not coverage, but access to cash when it matters most. In this episode, I walk through how the purpose of life insurance changes as you approach and enter retirement. I explain why the real question is not whether you should keep a policy, but what risks still exist in your plan. I share practical examples involving pensions, Social Security, mortgages, estate taxes, and the desire not to burden your children. I also outline how to evaluate existing policies and determine whether term or permanent coverage fits your situation. Key points: How life insurance shifts from income replacement during working years to liquidity planning in retirement Why retirement accounts and investment assets may create tax or timing challenges at death The risks of losing pension or Social Security income for a surviving spouse Why adding a child as a joint owner on accounts is rarely the right solution How to determine the right type and amount of coverage based on risk, not product And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #11 – Unlocking the Secrets of Long-Term Care with Dina Mabry #93 – Life Settlements Explained: Turning Life Insurance into Opportunity  What Issues Should I Consider When Reviewing My Existing Life Insurance Policy? 2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube

Choosing a financial advisor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as you approach retirement, especially if you’re navigating it on your own.  Yet many women don’t realize how much clarity and confidence can come from simply asking the right questions before committing to a long-term relationship. In this episode, I walk through seven essential questions every woman should consider before hiring or changing a financial advisor. We discuss why so many women change advisors after losing a spouse, how to evaluate an advisor’s process, and what to listen for when recommendations are presented. I also explain why retirement income planning, Social Security strategy, and tax coordination require a different level of focus than simply saving for retirement, and how to think about value beyond just the advisory fee.  Key Takeaways: Why the commonly cited statistic about women changing advisors highlights the need for better conversations The importance of understanding an advisor’s process before agreeing to work together How to evaluate whether recommendations truly align with your goals, values, and concerns Why retirement income planning, Social Security, and tax strategy require specialized focus How to assess value beyond fees, including adaptability, communication, and long-term partnership And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube

Many retirees unknowingly walk away from life insurance policies without realizing they may still hold value. For women navigating retirement, widowhood, or major life changes, understanding every available option can make a meaningful difference. In this episode, I talk with Lisa Rehburg, President of Rehburg Life Insurance Settlements, about how life insurance settlements work and why they are often misunderstood or overlooked. We explore when this strategy may be appropriate, how it fits into retirement planning, and why timing and education matter. Lisa also explains the legal foundation, tax considerations, and the role advisors play in helping clients make informed decisions. This conversation is about awareness, asking better questions, and making thoughtful choices before letting a policy lapse or be surrendered. Key takeaways: Why many seniors let life insurance policies lapse and what may be missed How life insurance settlements work and when they may apply Legal foundations behind selling a life insurance policy Tax considerations and the importance of coordinating with professionals How this option may help fund retirement or long-term care needs And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap The Simply Retirement Community Facebook Group 2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Life Insurance Settlement Association (LISA) Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Lisa Rehburg:  LinkedIn: Lisa Rehburg Website: Rehburg Life Insurance Settlements Facebook: Rehburg Life Insurance Settlements About our Guest:  Lisa Rehburg is President of Rehburg Life Insurance Settlements, a life insurance settlements broker. Ms. Rehburg is passionate about assisting financial, insurance, legal, and non-profit professionals to help their clients benefit from their unwanted or unneeded life insurance policies. Lisa has been in the health and life insurance industries for over 30 years. She has presented to hundreds of organizations, including various Financial Planning Associations, Fiduciary Associations, Estate Planning Councils, Planned Giving Roundtables, NAPFA, NAIFA, and Health Underwriters Associations, to raise the visibility of life insurance settlements as an option for clients, when appropriate. She has held executive roles at carriers, general agencies, and TPAs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Development.

RMDs are one of those retirement rules that feel simple on the surface, until the tax consequences show up years later. In this episode, I walk through what required minimum distributions are, when they start, and why missing or mismanaging them can quietly raise taxes, Medicare costs, and long-term financial stress. I explain how planning early creates flexibility, especially for women navigating retirement transitions, widowhood, or income changes. We also cover practical strategies that can help reduce the tax impact without turning retirement upside down. Key takeaways: How required minimum distributions work and when they begin under current law The penalties and long-term damage caused by missed or unplanned RMDs How RMDs can increase taxes on Social Security and Medicare premiums Using qualified charitable distributions to reduce taxable income Timing strategies like Roth conversions and filling lower tax brackets And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  www.thesimplyretirementpodcast.com/RMD #52 – I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes #73 – Roth IRAs and Retirement: What You Need to Know #91 – 2026 Retirement Contributions Explained: How to Prioritize Accounts & Help Reduce Lifetime Taxes Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Converting to a Roth IRA is a taxable event and may increase your current-year tax liability. Roth conversions cannot be undone. Individuals should consult a qualified tax professional regarding their specific circumstances.

Most people know they should be saving for retirement, but fewer understand how contribution rules, taxes, and prioritization actually work together. Small decisions, like where you save first or how you respond to changing tax brackets, can shape long-term outcomes far more than people realize. In this episode, I walk through the 2026 retirement contribution limits and explain how to prioritize different retirement accounts when you cannot fund everything at once. I break down common misconceptions around employer matches, Roth versus pre-tax contributions, and the belief that taxes are always lower in retirement. We also explain how spousal IRA rules can keep savings moving even during caregiving or time away from work. Key points: How to prioritize retirement contributions when you have limited cash flow Why an employer match matters, but does not tell the whole story How tax brackets influence Roth versus traditional decisions Why retirement planning should focus on progress, not perfection How spousal IRA rules apply during caregiving or career pauses And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  2026 Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or individualized financial advice. Roth IRA contribution and withdrawal rules, eligibility, limits, and tax treatment are subject to IRS requirements and may change. Qualified withdrawals depend on meeting specific conditions, and non-qualified withdrawals may result in taxes or penalties. Consult a qualified tax or financial professional before making contribution or withdrawal decisions

Divorce later in life is not just a legal event; it is an emotional and financial turning point that reshapes identity, confidence, and long-term planning. In this episode, I sit down with Mardi Winder, a strategic divorce consultant and founder of Positive Communication Systems, to discuss what really happens before, during, and after a gray divorce.  We explore why so many women feel stuck in fear, how financial uncertainty can drive costly decisions, and why clarity must come before action. I also share how retirement planning and divorce strategy need to work together so women can move forward with confidence, not confusion. Key Takeaways: Why high-conflict divorces often create a loss of identity after the process ends How fear around money keeps women stuck or leads to poor settlement decisions Where strategic divorce coaching fits alongside legal and financial professionals Why financial clarity should come before hiring attorneys How early guidance can prevent costly mistakes in the first months of divorce And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet (updated for 2026) Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Mardi Winder:  LinkedIn: Mardi Winder Website: Positive Communication Systems Podcast: The D Shift: Redefining Divorce and Beyond Instagram: @divorcecoach4women Facebook: Divorce Coach 4 Women  Facebook personal: Mardi Winder  YouTube: @divorcecoach4women  About our Guest:  Mardi Winder is a Strategic Divorce Consultant and trusted authority for high-achieving individuals navigating separation and divorce. She is known for helping clients reduce the emotional and financial costs of the process by strengthening decision-making, communication, and conflict management during high-stakes transitions. With more than 30 years of experience, Mardi brings deep expertise in high-conflict, complex, and high-asset divorces. Her background spans mediation, executive and leadership coaching, conflict resolution and mediation, emotional intelligence, and strategic communication, allowing her to support clients in maintaining clarity, confidence, and control throughout divorce and beyond.

Social Security decisions can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand spousal and survivor benefits.  What benefits are you entitled to based on your spouse’s record? When should you claim them? In this Q&A episode, I address two common Social Security questions that women face. I walk through the step-by-step process for determining spousal benefits for married couples and explore the strategic decisions widows face when choosing between their own retirement benefit and survivor benefits. I also share practical guidance for a recent widow navigating cash flow challenges, work decisions, and benefit timing in the early months after loss. Key points: The six-step process to determine spousal benefit eligibility and calculate the maximum benefit amount How survivor benefits differ from spousal benefits and why this distinction matters for your strategy Why starting one benefit early while delaying another can maximize lifetime Social Security income Cash flow considerations when facing the decision to return to work while receiving benefits The importance of sequencing decisions rather than rushing to solve everything at once And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #47 – Three Game-Changing Social Security Strategies #37 – Top 5 Questions on Social Security Survivor Benefits #24 – Understanding Spousal (and Ex-Spousal) Social Security Benefits Ultimate Guide to Women’s Social Security Success Navigating Life After Loss: 3 Part Episode Series Tax and Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet (updated for 2026) Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Major life transitions can leave you feeling lost and uncertain about your financial future. How do you move forward when everything feels overwhelming? What questions should you even be asking when you’re navigating divorce, widowhood, or any significant financial change? In this episode, I sit down with Tony Steuer, Author and Host of The Get Ready Podcast. Tony shares his perspective on why so many people freeze when facing financial decisions and how reframing your relationship with money, treating it like learning a new language, can transform confusion into confidence. We discuss practical steps for getting organized, recognizing red flags in advice you receive, and giving yourself permission to ask for help without shame. Key Insights: Why acknowledging overwhelm is the essential first step before making any financial decisions The concept of financial fluency and how treating money like a new language removes shame from the learning process Red flags that signal potentially harmful financial advice, including time pressure and isolation tactics Simple organizational steps to inventory your financial life and understand what you actually have How working with fee-based insurance consultants can provide unbiased reviews of existing policies And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Tony Steuer:  Website: Tony Steuer LinkedIn: Tony Steuer  The Get Ready Money Podcast  The Get Ready Movement  About our Guest:  Tony Steuer, CLU, LA, CPFFE, is an internationally recognized financial preparedness advocate, award-winning author, podcaster and fintech advisor who is changing the way we think about money. Tony is the host of The Get Ready Money Podcast. Tony developed the Get Ready Movement to empower and educate people on all areas of personal finance. He is an Advisor at Insurance Nerds and Dingo Technologies, an expert content reviewer for Nerdwallet and Bankrate as well as a member of The Forbes Advisor Insurance Advisory Board. Tony is a five-time recipient of the Excellence in Financial Literacy Education Award as well as a member of the ThinkAdvisor’s LUMINARIES Class of 2022 as a Finalist in Thought Leadership & Education. Tony served as a long-term member of the California Insurance Department Curriculum Board.

That annual Social Security increase announcement can be confusing.  Is it a bonus? Will it cover your rising costs? More importantly, how does it really affect your decisions about when to retire and when to claim your benefits? In this episode, I unpack the new 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment for 2026. We explore how Social Security benefits grow differently before and after age 62, why the inflation measure might not match your personal expenses, and how your early work years still count. We provide clarity on how delaying your claim and continuing to work can increase your lifetime benefits, especially important for married couples planning for survivor income. Key Points Covered: The meaning behind the 2026 2.8% COLA and why personal inflation may be higher How Social Security uses CPI-W, an inflation index for workers, which can undervalue senior expenses like healthcare The role of wage indexing in growing your pre-retirement benefits and the “gap” from age 60 to 62 The powerful impact of delaying your filing age on your monthly benefit and future COLA dollar amounts How working in your 50s, 60s, or 70s can replace low-earning years and permanently increase your benefit And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Divorce doesn’t have to be devastating.  It can be empowering when approached with clarity and the right support. In this episode, I sit down with Karen Covy, divorce coach, attorney, and mediator, to explore how women can take control of the divorce process. We talk about choosing the right process for your situation, understanding your finances, and why preparation and strategy make all the difference in creating a smoother transition and stronger future. Key Takeaways: The importance of choosing the divorce process that best fits your goals and circumstances Why most lawyers promote only the process they practice, and how coaching helps you find the right one for you How planning early and understanding your financial picture can prevent years of regret What it means to become the “CEO of your own divorce” and coordinate your full team Practical first steps to start regaining confidence and clarity if you feel stuck or afraid to move forward And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Free Divorce Process Comparison Chart Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Karen Covy:  LinkedIn: Karen Covy Website: Karen Covy Facebook: Karen Covy Instagram: @karencovylawyer X: Karen Covy YouTube: Karen Covy TikTok: Karen Covy About our Guest:  Karen Covy is a Divorce Coach, Lawyer, Mediator, Author, Speaker, and Podcaster. She coaches busy professionals and business owners all over the world to make clear, confident decisions about their most important relationships. She also helps them navigate through divorce with less conflict, unnecessary expense, and needless drama so that they can create the life they truly desire sooner rather than later. Karen is the author of When Happily Ever After Ends: How to Survive Your Divorce Emotionally, Financially, and Legally. She is also the creator of the online divorce programs, The Divorce Road Map 3.0 and How to Successfully Mediate Your Divorce, as well as the host of the podcast, Off the Fence: Mastering Decision-Making Divorce and More.

Understanding Social Security can feel complicated, especially when life events like divorce or widowhood come into play.  In this episode, I join Karen Covy on her podcast, Off The Fence, to walk through the rules that often matter most for women. We discuss how full retirement age works, how spousal, ex-spousal, and survivor benefits are determined, and what to know about the 10-year marriage rule. Our conversation also covers the Social Security Fairness Act and how it affects certain workers with pensions. Together, we outline key considerations that can help listeners better understand their options when planning for future income. Key Topics: How full retirement age determines your benefit amount and why this number is critical to every Social Security decision The difference between spousal, ex-spousal, and survivor benefits, and how remarriage affects your eligibility The 10-year marriage rule for divorced individuals, and what documentation you need to claim benefits How the Social Security Fairness Act eliminated penalties that primarily affected women with pensions Strategic timing considerations when you’re still working and approaching retirement age And more! Next week, Karen will be joining me on the Simply Retirement Podcast to discuss how women can move forward with strength and strategy after divorce. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it. Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Ultimate Guide to Women’s Social Security Success Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Karen Covy:  LinkedIn: Karen Covy Website: Karen Covy Facebook: Karen Covy Instagram: @karencovylawyer X: Karen Covy YouTube: Karen Covy TikTok: Karen Covy About our Guest:  Karen Covy is a Divorce Coach, Lawyer, Mediator, Author, Speaker, and Podcaster. She coaches busy professionals and business owners all over the world to make clear, confident decisions about their most important relationships. She also helps them navigate through divorce with less conflict, unnecessary expense, and needless drama so that they can create the life they truly desire sooner rather than later. Karen is the author of When Happily Ever After Ends: How to Survive Your Divorce Emotionally, Financially, and Legally. She is also the creator of the online divorce programs, The Divorce Road Map 3.0 and How to Successfully Mediate Your Divorce, as well as the host of the podcast, Off the Fence: Mastering Decision-Making Divorce and More.

Many people nearing retirement are unsure how recent rule changes might affect what they can receive. What happens when long-standing limits disappear, and families finally gain access to benefits they were denied for years? In this special replay, we revisit one of our most crucial and widely discussed episodes of the year: the one focusing on the Social Security Fairness Act. I walk through the details of the Social Security Fairness Act and highlight its significant impact, especially on survivor and spousal benefits for women across the country. I explain how removing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) could open new income opportunities. Additionally, I discuss what these potential changes mean for teachers and public sector workers, and the immediate steps listeners should consider taking now. Key takeaways: How eliminating WEP and GPO shifts eligibility for many women previously reduced or blocked from benefits Why survivor and spousal payments may now be available even if pensions once prevented them How timing, age, and filing strategies still influence benefit amounts Action steps for reviewing statements, applying promptly, and preparing for retroactive payments Why staying informed is essential as Social Security adjusts to this major policy change And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Visit SSA.gov: To check Social Security statements and eligibility #14 – Top 5 Things Every Woman Should Know About Social Security #24 – Understanding Spousal (and Ex-Spousal) Social Security Benefits #32 – The Essentials of Social Security: An Insider’s Insights to Help You Plan with Confidence #37 – Top 5 Questions on Social Security Survivor Benefits Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Retirement planning doesn’t end once you stop working; it evolves.  In this episode, I wrap up my seven essential strategies for successful investing in retirement, focusing on two of the most pivotal: managing your tax burden and deciding whether to work with an advisor.  I share how to plan ahead for taxes, the importance of timing withdrawals, and why every woman deserves a seat at the financial table. Key Takeaways: Why emotional decisions during market downturns often lead to poor outcomes How to manage your lifetime tax liability, not just your yearly one Why your retirement income plan should start 2–5 years before retiring The key questions to ask before hiring a financial advisor The importance of involving both spouses, especially women, in financial conversations And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Website: Savvy Ladies Website: Purse Strings #48 – How to Pay Taxes in Retirement: What You Need to Know #54 – How Social Security Gets Taxed: What You Need to Know #65 – How the New Tax Law Could Impact Your Retirement #75 – Year-End Tax Planning Checklist for 2025 #80 – Investing in Retirement – Part 1: It Starts with a Plan #81 – Investing in Retirement – Part 2: Changing the Way You Think About Retirement #82 – Investing in Retirement – Part 3: The Building Blocks of Your Retirement Portfolio Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube

Investing in retirement requires a completely different mindset, one focused on income, not just preservation. In this episode, I continue our Seven Strategies for Successful Investing in Retirement series by explaining Strategy #4: Understanding the Role of Stocks in Retirement, and Strategy #5: The Value of Dividend Growth Investing.  Together, these two approaches show how stocks can generate sustainable income and growth throughout your retirement years. Key Takeaways: Why stocks shouldn’t be viewed like gambling, and what their long-term record actually shows How a balanced stock and bond mix can fuel income growth over decades The real-world power of dividends to combat inflation and support retirement income Why reacting emotionally during market downturns often hurts long-term outcomes How dividend growth investing can provide ongoing income, compounding, and stability And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #80 – Investing in Retirement – Part 1: It Starts with a Plan #81 – Investing in Retirement – Part 2: Changing the Way You Think About Retirement S&P 500 at Your Fingertips – Political Calculations (data for dividend and portfolio growth 1993–2022) Historical Returns of the S&P 500 – Aswath Damodaran, NYU Stern School of Business S&P 500 Earnings and Dividend Data – Aswath Damodaran, NYU Stern School of Business:  The Power of Dividends – Hartford Funds / Ned Davis Research (Dividend growers vs. non-dividend payers, volatility comparison)  Deconstructing 10, 20 & 30 Year Stock Market Returns – Ben Carlson, A Wealth of Common Sense Connect with Eric Blake:  [email protected]  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 large U.S. companies. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. Index returns do not include fees or expenses.

What if the way you’ve been told to protect your money in retirement is actually putting your future at risk? In this episode, I continue our series on the seven essential strategies for successful investing in retirement. We tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of retirement planning, defining the real purpose of your portfolio and reframing how you think about risk. This conversation is designed to shift your perspective from fear and preservation to growth and resilience. Key takeaways include: Why “not running out of money” and “preserving principal” are often conflicting goals The impact of inflation and longevity on retirement income needs A real-life story about my grandmother’s retirement and long-term care costs How the financial crisis illustrates the value of having a retirement “war chest” Risk in retirement as “years of income” rather than portfolio percentages And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #80 – Investing in Retirement, Part 1: It Starts with a Plan Data References: Average Life Expectancy at Birth (U.S.) Across all demographics, the average life expectancy at birth in the U.S. is in the late 70s. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Vital Statistics Reports Inflation & Purchasing Power Historical U.S. inflation has averaged around 3% over the long term. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI Inflation Calculator 2008 Portfolio Decline (70/30 Portfolio) A 70% stock / 30% bond portfolio declined approximately 24% during the Great Financial Crisis (calendar year 2008). Source: Can Your Retirement Portfolio Survive a Stock Market Crash? Here’s How to Tell Great Financial Crisis Recovery Timeline Source: The S&P 500 at Your Fingertips  Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube [email protected]

Retirement is shifting in ways that require new thinking, new planning, and new strategies. In this episode, I launch a new series on the seven essential strategies for successful investing in retirement. I explain how today’s retirement looks different than past generations, why the Great Wealth Transfer is so impactful for women, and why starting with a clear financial plan is more important than ever. In this conversation, we cover: How the retirement landscape has changed Why investing in retirement is different than investing for retirement The Great Wealth Transfer and its impact on women managing wealth for the first time How values and goals form the foundation of your financial roadmap Why a financial plan is the cornerstone of all retirement strategies And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #50 – Women Will Soon Control the Financial Landscape – But Is the Financial Services Industry Ready? #56 – What Will You Do with Your 1,000 Hours a Year in Retirement? #72 – Exit Planning for Business Owners: Preparing Financially, Personally, and for Legacy Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Retirement isn’t just about slowing down. It’s about stepping into a chapter that feels alive with meaning and joy. In this episode, I speak with Joy Levin, President of Gen X Exec Encore and Certified Professional Retirement Coach, about how Gen X women can reimagine retirement as an encore to life. Together, we explore how to shift from career identity to personal fulfillment, build meaningful relationships, and create a future that truly lights you up. Joy discusses: The challenges Gen X professionals face when leaving long careers and redefining purpose Her “Mix Tapes to Meaning” framework, built around the five Rs: rewind, remix, reset, reconnect, and revive The role of consulting, volunteering, and passion projects in crafting an encore life How small actions and social connections can transform fulfillment in retirement Practical ways couples can align different visions of their retirement years And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Joy Levin:  LinkedIn: Joy Levin Website: Gen X Exec Encore  Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Joy Levin is the Founder and President of Gen X Exec Encore. In working with Gen X high-achieving professionals, she recognizes that for many, this next phase isn’t about traditional retirement—it’s about creating an encore that blends passion, purpose, and new opportunities.  As a market research consultant and entrepreneur for nearly three decades, Joy has guided executives and business owners across industries in making strategic, well-informed decisions. Like many Gen Xers, she wants a future in which she can remain productive, explore meaningful pursuits, and build new connections. With an honest, warm, friendly and highly professional approach, she guides accomplished professionals to discover their next purpose-driven chapter, empowering them to create an encore life with confidence and clarity. 

The holiday season often inspires generosity, but how you give can make a big difference for both your loved ones and your finances. In this episode, I explore seven actionable gifting strategies you can use before the year ends to support your children, grandchildren, and favorite charities while also being mindful of tax planning opportunities. I walk through practical examples to help you give with purpose and joy. Keypoints: The $19,000 annual gift exclusion and how it works with lifetime estate tax limits Gifting appreciated assets like stocks to family or charities to reduce taxes Paying tuition and medical bills directly to providers without gift tax concerns Leveraging 529 accounts, custodial accounts, and new temporary Trump accounts Charitable giving strategies, including qualified charitable distributions and donor-advised funds And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #52 – I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes #61 – The Science of Happier Spending: Behavioral Finance Insights with Brendan Frazier #65 – How the New Tax Law Could Impact Your Retirement #75 – Year-End Tax Planning Checklist for 2025 Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Our financial legacy is important, but our stories and memories are priceless.  This time, we go beyond numbers to focus on preserving the voices, photos, and experiences that define a family’s history. In this episode, I sit down with Zoe Martin, founder of The Zoe Martin, to talk about the importance of capturing family stories and portraits before it’s too late. She shares her deeply personal journey that inspired her work and offers practical ways anyone can start preserving their legacy today. Zoe discusses: The personal story of her sister’s passing and how it inspired her mission to record life stories Why families shouldn’t wait to capture stories and memories before they fade The role of legacy in retirement and estate planning beyond finances Practical advice on how to start recording family stories, even with simple tools like a phone The unique process she offers families, from multi-generational portraits to legacy video interviews And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Website: Bridge Breast Network Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Zoe Martin:  LinkedIn: Zoe Martin Website: The Zoe Martin Facebook: The Zoe Martin Instagram: The Zoe Martin Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Zoe Martin is a personal historian who’s passionate about helping people and organizations preserve their most important stories. With a heart for visual and narrative storytelling, she creates portraits and videos that document people’s lives into lasting treasures, including heirloom albums, custom wall art, coffee table books, and life story videos. As a guest on various podcasts and community stages, Zoe shares her insights on why it’s so important to capture and preserve legacies while we still can. Her passion for storytelling is deeply personal, inspired by the memory of her late sister, Kristina. A portion of every project supports The Bridge Breast Network, which provides breast cancer resources to underserved communities in the DFW area. Zoe’s work helps clients reflect on their lives, strengthen relationships, and leave a meaningful legacy for future generations by encouraging people to make every moment matter. Because Moments Become Memories

What if your most painful experiences could become the foundation for new strength and hope? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Brooke Jones, Founder of Stronger Women, to talk about her journey of survival, recovery, and empowerment. She shares her story of leaving abuse, the challenges women face when trying to rebuild their lives, and the importance of financial independence. Together, we uncover how resilience, faith, and hope can transform even the darkest moments into a brighter future. Dr. Brooke Jones discusses: Her personal journey from surviving abuse to founding Stronger Women How isolation and dependency often mark the beginning of abusive relationships Why leaving abuse often means giving up nearly everything, including financial stability How the science of hope helps women move from surviving to thriving The ripple effects of domestic violence on families, children, and communities And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Stronger Women – Get Involved 40 Days of Hope book by Dr Brooke Jones.  National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-677-1116 Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Dr. Brooke Jones:  LinkedIn: Dr. Brooke Jones Website: Stronger Women Stronger Women Email: [email protected]  Stronger Women Phone: 469-307-8488 Facebook: Stronger Women  Instagram @Strongerxwomen  About Stronger Women Survivors often move on, but are left overwhelmed by shame, fear, low self-esteem and powerlessness. Because LOVE has always come with a promise – and then pain – survivors; feel disconnected and even pain when they hear the word Love, especially the notion, “God loves you.” Every Stronger session is written for survivors by survivors. This insight an integral piece to understanding the survivors’ journey from hurt to healing through restorative and prevention programs. The Stronger healing model combines proven curriculum, the power of small groups, and ongoing development of practical tools to restore survivors. Stronger focuses on exponential growth by equipping certified facilitators to launch restorative healing groups in their local community, church and organization. As survivors tell their stories, they begin to heal from trauma in a safe and supportive setting. Participants gain: Increased self-awareness, renewed thought patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, build resilience, improved self-esteem, establish healthy boundaries, improve family and parenting skills, improved communication skills, and healthier relationships. We believe it is critical to provide practical tools so everyone can walk alongside these survivors in their healing journey with respect and dignity. About Dr. Brooke Jones: Dr. Brooke Jones is a national and international speaker on topics of global oppression of women, domestic & gender based violence and human trafficking. Brooke is wife to Rick, mom of two young kids, and is a two-decade survivor of domestic violence and aggravated stalking. Brooke earned her Bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship, her Master’s degree in Education and in 2016 received an Honorary Doctorate degree in Theology to recognize her contribution and impact through the Stronger Women programs.

The final months of the year are the perfect time to review your finances and take action before December 31st.  New tax laws bring both opportunities and risks, making this year’s planning even more important. In this episode, I walk through my year-end tax planning checklist to help you understand the key areas that can impact your retirement, your taxes, and your long-term goals. I explain how to approach contributions, distributions, and deductions strategically while also touching on family gifting and estate considerations. Key points: Why reviewing your tax plan in October and November helps maximize opportunities before the year ends How to use retirement accounts, Roth IRAs, and HSAs to reduce taxes and grow long-term wealth The importance of required minimum distributions (RMDs) and qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) Family gifting strategies and the unique advantages of 529 contributions Deduction changes, charitable giving rules, and new provisions under the current tax law And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  End-of-Year Planning Issues Checklist #48 – How to Pay Taxes in Retirement: What You Need to Know #54 – How Social Security Gets Taxed: What You Need to Know #57 – 7 Ways to Access Retirement Funds Early Without a Penalty #65 – How the New Tax Law Could Impact Your Retirement Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Roth IRA earnings grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals are also tax-free, provided certain conditions are met (e.g., the account has been open for at least 5 years and you are age 59½ or older, or meet another qualifying condition). Eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA phases out at higher income levels. Non-qualified withdrawals of earnings may be subject to income taxes and a 10% early withdrawal penalty. Converting a traditional IRA or other tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event and may increase your current-year tax liability. Roth conversions cannot be undone.

Deciding when to start Social Security is more than a math equation. It’s about balancing life expectancy, risk tolerance, and long-term income needs. In this episode, I explore the trade-offs of claiming early versus delaying for larger benefits. I explain how investing early benefits might change the picture, why survivor benefits matter, and how taxes and policy changes could influence your strategy. This conversation highlights the importance of tailoring the decision to your unique situation. Key Points: Why breakeven calculators don’t tell the full story about Social Security timing The potential of investing early benefits into accounts like a Roth IRA How spousal benefits and survivor planning influence claiming strategies The role of taxes, risk tolerance, and other income sources in the decision Possible future adjustments Congress may make to Social Security rules And more Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #3 – Preparing for Retirement: Seven Essential Strategies for Successful Investing in Retirement Free white paper: Preparing for Retirement: Seven Essential Strategies for Successful Investing in Retirement Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube

Roth IRAs can feel confusing—but when you understand how they work, they can become one of the most powerful tools in your retirement plan. In this episode, you’ll discover how Roth IRAs may give you more control over your taxes in retirement, create flexibility for future withdrawals, and help protect your income for the long run. We’ll cover the basics—what Roth IRAs are (and aren’t), how the rules for contributions, conversions, and withdrawals really work, and why Congress has been pushing Roth accounts more in recent years. You’ll also hear how Roth IRAs may help you avoid hidden tax traps like higher Medicare premiums or unexpected Social Security taxes. Key takeaways: Why Roth IRAs are not investments themselves, but tax-advantaged account types that act like umbrellas shielding money from future taxes How Congress is encouraging Roth contributions through Secure Act 2.0, giving retirees long-term tax-free opportunities The importance of tax diversification, comparing it to and even elevating it above portfolio diversification Four ways to fund Roth accounts: contributions, conversions, rollovers, and backdoor strategies The five-year rule, distribution order, and how Roth IRAs can help control tax brackets, Medicare premiums, and Social Security taxation And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Check out our Free Roth IRA Toolkit! #54 – How Social Security Gets Taxed: What You Need to Know #57 – 7 Ways to Access Retirement Funds Early Without a Penalty #65 – How the New Tax Law Could Impact Your Retirement Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Roth IRA earnings grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals are also tax-free, provided certain conditions are met (e.g., the account has been open for at least 5 years and you are age 59½ or older, or meet another qualifying condition). Eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA phases out at higher income levels. For 2025, contributions begin to phase out at a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of approximately $150,000 for single filers and $236,000 for married couples filing jointly. Non-qualified withdrawals of earnings may be subject to income taxes and a 10% early withdrawal penalty. Converting a traditional IRA or other tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event and may increase your current-year tax liability. Roth conversions cannot be undone.

Exiting a business is more than just a financial transaction. It’s a life transition that can affect family, legacy, and the future you envision. In this episode, I sit down with Renita Wolf, MBA, founder and CEO of Poe Wolf Partners, to discuss how business owners can thoughtfully plan for a smooth and meaningful exit. We explore the importance of preparation, both financial and emotional, and what truly defines a successful transition. Renita discusses: Why over 80% of businesses never sell, and how to avoid being in that group How emotions and identity play a big role in preparing for life after selling a business The importance of early planning and cleaning up financials before going to market How family members can influence and support exit readiness Why a successful exit is about freedom, legacy, and choices, not just the sale price And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Poe Wolf Partners: Exit Ready Assessment Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Renita Wolf: LinkedIn: Renita Wolf Website: Poe Wolf Partners About Poe Wolf Partners: Poe Wolf Partners is a boutique advisory firm that helps middle-market business owners, particularly those with companies generating between $10 million and $100 million in revenue, prepare for and navigate business exits. We specialize in aligning financial outcomes with personal and legacy goals, so owners can exit confidently and on their own terms. About Renita Wolf: Renita Wolf is the founder and principal advisor at Poe Wolf Partners, a boutique exit planning firm serving middle-market business owners. With a background in corporate finance and M&A at Fortune 50 companies like Wells Fargo, HP, and Cray Research, Renita brings over 20 years of strategic and financial expertise to business transitions. At Poe Wolf Partners, she guides owners through complex exit planning, helping them define a clear vision, build a tailored strategy, and assemble the right advisory team. Renita’s approach is holistic and client-focused, addressing not just the financial side of an exit, but the personal, emotional, and legacy-driven aspects as well. She is especially passionate about supporting women business owners and those navigating life transitions, such as widowhood or divorce, to ensure they exit their businesses with confidence and clarity.

Retirement rarely unfolds exactly as planned, especially when unexpected life changes occur. In this episode, I share a real listener’s story involving Social Security, divorce, and the possibility of going back to work. I walk through step-by-step strategies to help women understand their Social Security options and prepare for future benefits. Key points: How to determine whether Social Security payments are based on personal or spousal benefits The rules for withdrawing a Social Security application within 12 months (Form SSA-521) and the repayment requirements The earnings test and how going back to work before full retirement age can reduce or later recalculate benefits How additional work years can replace low-earning years and improve future Social Security benefits The differences between ex-spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and how remarriage affects eligibility And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #47 — The Game-Changing Social Security Strategies #63 – Social Security Planning After Divorce: Crucial Rules and Mistakes to Avoid Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Too often, retirement planning focuses only on documents, but what happens when you don’t have the right people to rely on? In this episode, I sit down with elder law attorney and founder of Solo Allies, Kathy McNair, to talk about the unique needs of solo seniors and why legal paperwork alone isn’t enough. We explore how to choose the right people for critical roles, when to consider professional support, and how to build a community for peace of mind in retirement. Kathy discusses: The difference between an estate planning attorney and an elder law attorney What it really means to be a solo senior and why planning matters Why “Planning + People = Peace of Mind” is a critical formula for aging well How to choose and prepare a power of attorney, and what happens when you don’t Resources, tools, and community programs like Solo Allies and the Aging Allies Club And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Book: The Solo Senior’s Guide to Thrive: Planning for Legal, Financial, and Personal Well-Being — available via SoloAllies.com/book Website: Senior Solutions Website: Navigating Solo #26 – Navigating the Solo Aging Journey Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Kathy McNair:  Website: Solo Allies  Facebook: Solo Allies YouTube Channel: @planwellagewell LinkedIn: Kathy McNair Email: [email protected] About our Guest:  Kathy McNair is an elder law attorney with over 25 years of experience serving seniors. She is the founder of Senior Solutions LLC in Boston and the national resource platform Solo Allies, dedicated to helping solo agers—those without reliable family support—plan for their legal, financial, and personal well-being. Kathy is also the creator of the Aging Allies Club, a small-group planning program designed to provide both legal tools and meaningful connections. She frequently speaks to community groups and has written The Solo Senior’s Guide to Thrive, a practical guide to aging with independence and security. Appointed by Governor Deval Patrick in 2008, she served 15 years as a Public Administrator of Suffolk County, managing estates with no known heirs. She also serves on the Board of Directors at McNamara House, an affordable senior housing community in Boston. Kathy earned her J.D. from Boston College Law School and her bachelor’s in psychology from St. Lawrence University.

The first year after losing a spouse brings overwhelming emotions alongside important decisions. Knowing what needs immediate attention versus what can wait can make the difference between added stress and thoughtful progress. In Part 3 of our Navigating Life After Loss series, I share how to approach both urgent and long-term planning after the loss of a spouse. I explain which financial and lifestyle choices deserve early focus, how tax planning can protect your future, and why building a supportive foundation is essential. Together, we look at practical ways to move forward with clarity and confidence. Key takeaways include: The impact of pre-death planning, wills, estate plans, and beneficiary designations on easing stress after loss The key financial updates in the first year, including executors, trustees, Social Security timing, and income sources How tax filing status changes after a spouse’s passing, and strategies like Roth conversions and capital gains harvesting Rebuilding a financial foundation through account consolidation, investment updates, and income planning The importance of lifestyle and emotional choices, such as housing, community support, and designing the next chapter of life And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Navigating Life After Loss: A Guide for the Newly Widowed #67 – Navigating Life After Loss – Part 1: The First Week #68 – Navigating Life After Loss – Part 2: Financial & Legal Aspects #37 – Top 5 Questions on Social Security Survivor Benefits #60 – Downsize or Rent in Retirement? 5 Key Decisions You Should Consider #66 – Understanding The Widow’s Penalty and What You Can Do About It Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

In Part 2 of our Navigating Life After Loss series, I share compassionate, practical advice for the critical first weeks after losing a spouse. I walk through the legal, financial, and everyday matters that can feel overwhelming, offering clear action steps to bring order during a difficult time. From meeting with an estate attorney and understanding probate versus living trusts to retitling property, updating beneficiary designations, and addressing debts, we help you focus on what matters most.  You’ll also learn how to protect against fraud, safeguard your privacy, and manage your loved one’s digital and social media presence. This conversation is about more than tasks; it’s about helping you prepare, prioritize, and protect your well-being while working through one of life’s hardest chapters. Key takeaways: Why meeting with an estate planning attorney early can prevent costly delays and probate complications The importance of retitling property, vehicles, and accounts in your name to avoid future issues How Social Security payments and survivor benefits work, including timelines and required forms Steps for handling debts, protecting against fraud, and safeguarding your spouse’s digital footprint When a living trust may be worth considering for privacy, efficiency, and avoiding probate And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Navigating Life After Loss: A Guide for the Newly Widowed #67 – Navigating Life After Loss – Part 1: The First Week #22 – How to Secure Your Legacy #37 – Top 5 Questions on Social Security Survivor Benefits Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Grieving the loss of a spouse is devastating. During that fog, there’s still paperwork, decisions, and urgent tasks demanding attention. In this episode, we open up a three-part series called “Life After Loss.”  I start by focusing on the first few days after losing a spouse, sharing essential steps to help with emotional healing and practical planning. Key takeaways: How to prioritize both emotional well-being and urgent financial responsibilities in the first week of widowhood The importance of requesting 20–30 certified death certificates and why it’s better to order more than needed Who to contact immediately, including attorneys, financial advisors, Social Security, and employers The impact of joint vs. individual account ownership and how that can affect access to funds How estate planning and clear communication can prevent emotional and financial turmoil for surviving spouses And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Navigating Life After Loss: A Guide for the Newly Widowed Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Losing a spouse is heartbreaking, but it can also trigger financial challenges that many women aren’t prepared for.  The Widow’s Penalty is real, and it can have long-term consequences on income, taxes, and retirement. In this episode, I walk through the Widow’s Penalty, what it is, why it disproportionately affects women, and what proactive steps can be taken to protect your financial future. We share real client stories, clear up tax myths, and offer strategies to navigate the road ahead with more confidence and clarity. Key points: How the Widow’s Penalty results in higher taxes and lower income due to filing status changes and reduced Social Security benefits Why women are more impacted due to longer life expectancy, smaller Social Security/pension benefits, and caregiving interruptions Real-life client examples, including challenging planning scenarios involving early widowhood and limited access to retirement assets Important tax strategies, like using Roth conversions and capital gains harvesting during joint filing years When couples should begin retirement planning conversations, emphasizing proactive communication before unexpected life events And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Episode 59: Breaking Money Silence with Kathleen Burns Kingsbury Episode 63: Social Security Planning After Divorce Episode 65: How the New Tax Law Could Impact Your Retirement Purdue University Study on Gray Divorce CDC Life Expectancy Data U.S. Census Bureau – Average Age of Widowhood Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Roth IRA earnings grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals are also tax-free, provided certain conditions are met (e.g., the account has been open for at least 5 years and you are age 59½ or older, or meet another qualifying condition). Eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA phases out at higher income levels. For 2025, contributions begin to phase out at a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of approximately $146,000 for single filers and $230,000 for married couples filing jointly. Non-qualified withdrawals of earnings may be subject to income taxes and a 10% early withdrawal penalty. Converting a traditional IRA or other tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event and may increase your current-year tax liability. Roth conversions cannot be undone

Tax law changes might not sound exciting, but these updates could have a powerful impact on your retirement plans. In this episode, I unpack the top provisions from the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act and how they may affect retirees, especially women planning for long-term income. I break down tax deductions, clarify what’s changing (and what’s not), and offer timely planning strategies you can apply before 2028. Key points: The new $6,000 bonus tax deduction for those age 65 and over, and how it stacks on top of standard or itemized deductions The deduction’s income limits, expiration in 2028, and how to plan around it strategically Changes to the SALT cap and how high-tax-state residents may benefit from a significant increase in deductible amounts The importance of reevaluating Social Security filing decisions and leveraging Roth conversions Charitable giving options, widow tax planning, and long-term income strategies to reduce lifetime tax liability And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Bill Text – One Big Beautiful Bill Act Social Security Press Release – Tax-free Benefits #47 – Three Game-Changing Social Security Strategies #48 – How to Pay Taxes in Retirement: What You Need to Know #54 – How Social Security Gets Taxed: What You Need to Know Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Converting a traditional IRA or other tax-deferred account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event and may increase your current-year tax liability. Roth conversions cannot be undone.

Changing careers or returning to the workforce after a long break can feel overwhelming. But what if the process could feel empowering instead? In this episode, I sit down with Kristi Cline, Founder & CEO of We Write It Now Resumes & Career Resources, to discuss how women approaching or in retirement can pivot their careers with confidence and purpose. Kristi shares strategies for crafting impactful resumes, networking effectively, and regaining clarity on your career values. Kristi discusses: Why job seekers must be intentional and strategic rather than relying on mass applications The value of identifying your career values and crafting a list of ideal companies How to use resume customization and the “mirroring” strategy to stand out The importance of networking and the role it plays in landing interviews Using LinkedIn and AI-powered tools to upskill, gain clarity, and build a confident job search plan And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Formula For A Quick Introduction: Your Elevator Pitch Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Kristi Cline:  LinkedIn: Kristi Cline Website: We Write It Now Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Kristi Cline is a 3X certified résumé writer, interview prep coach, job search strategist, and LinkedIn expert who helps high-achieving professionals—from emerging leaders to C-suite executives—land roles they’re proud of. As the founder of We Write It Now, Kristi has helped over 1,000 clients secure interviews, negotiate offers, and command salary increases of up to $50K. After earning a Journalism degree from Texas A&M, Kristi built a career spanning corporate communications, training, and marketing with companies like Eastman Kodak, Zale Corporation, and JCPenney. But her most defining pivot came at 50, when she realized she would be more fulfilled leveraging her skills and expertise to help job seekers navigate the job search space. In 2019, We Write Now was founded, and she has never looked back. Today, Kristi blends deep industry knowledge with a sharp writing instinct to deliver bold, modern, and highly personalized career documents that open doors. She’s especially passionate about helping senior professionals clarify their brand, show up with confidence, and navigate their next career transition with intention, strategy, and ease. And whether speaking on a virtual stage or working 1:1, her message is clear: job seekers deserve more than templates—they deserve strategy, clarity, and results. Her involvement with associations, including PARWCC, SERWC, the Dames, and the Thought Leadership Branding Club, has helped her skills remain sharp, keeping her at the top of her game. Kristi is a proud Texas native, mother of two recent grads, lifelong music lover, and enjoys living life on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Divorce is difficult enough without letting confusion over Social Security take a toll on your future income. In this episode, I explain the essential Social Security strategies every divorced woman should know, from the ten-year rule to remarriage traps. I highlight true stories of women who faced preventable financial setbacks and how proper planning could have saved them thousands.  This episode discusses: The importance of understanding the 10-year marriage rule for eligibility on an ex-spouse’s Social Security record How the timing of claiming benefits, including the impact of claiming early, can affect your lifetime income The effects of remarriage, before and after age 60, on eligibility for both spousal and survivor benefits The distinction between ex-spousal and survivor benefits, including how and when you can switch between them Why consulting a financial advisor or certified divorce financial analyst can help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your options Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap #62 – Gray Divorce and Retirement: How Collaborative Divorce May Protect Your Financial Future with Jill Lowe #47 – Three Game-Changing Social Security Strategies Am I Eligible For Social Security Benefits If I Have Been Divorced? Free PDF Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Gray divorce can significantly impact your retirement plans and emotional well-being. How do you protect your financial future when love fades later in life? What pitfalls should you avoid to stay financially sound? In this episode, I sit down with Jill Lowe, Collaborative Divorce Attorney at J Lowe Law, LLC, to discuss the financial and emotional layers of gray divorce. Together, we explore why more women are choosing divorce later in life and how preparation and informed decisions can lead to financial confidence. Jill discusses: How education becomes a crucial tool for women considering or going through divorce The growing trend of gray divorce and why more women are initiating the split The danger of letting emotions drive decisions around keeping the marital home How collaborative divorce offers a less combative, more goal-focused approach The essential role financial planners play in mapping out a stable future post-divorce And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Collaborative Divorce Texas Collaborative Divorce Collin County Purdue University Article: Overall divorce rates lowest in decades but ‘gray divorce’ soars #41 – Making Divorce Manageable: Financial and Emotional Insights with Neil Palache Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Jill Lowe:  Website: J Lowe Law Facebook: J Lowe Law Instagram: @jillloweattorney About our Guest: Jill Lowe is a Collaborative Divorce Attorney and founder of J Lowe Law, LLC. With over 20 years of legal experience—18 of those focused exclusively on family law—Jill brings a unique combination of legal expertise and personal insight to her work. She is licensed to practice law in both Texas and Florida and has been representing clients in collaborative divorces for more than 15 years. She’s also a trained collaborative professional in both states and has spent the past three years speaking publicly on the collaborative process. Jill’s commitment to peaceful resolution stems from her own experience as a child of divorced parents and her decision—after facing serious health challenges—to step away from litigation in favor of helping families resolve conflict with compassion. She believes divorce doesn’t have to be a battle, and her work focuses on healing and collaboration instead of confrontation.

What if money could buy happiness, but only if you knew how to spend it? In this episode, I sit down with Brendan Frazier, Chief Behavioral Officer at RFG Advisory, to uncover five practical, research-backed ways to feel more joy and purpose in your retirement spending. We talk about how aligning spending with values can remove guilt and increase fulfillment, especially for women navigating major life transitions like divorce or widowhood. Brendan discusses: Why spending on experiences creates lasting happiness over buying material things How to “buy time” and use money to focus on what matters most The psychological benefits of delayed gratification Why generosity lights up the brain’s reward center more than self-spending The key difference between spending more and spending better And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Widom of Wealth Video Series Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending by Elizabeth Dunn and Dr. Michael Norton The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Die With Zero by Bill Perkins Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Brendan Frazier:  LinkedIn: Brendan Frazier   Website: RFG Advisory Podcast: The Human Side of Money Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Brendan Frazier is the Chief Behavioral Officer at RFG, the host of The Human Side of Money podcast, and a nationally recognized voice on behavioral finance. After starting his career as a consultant to financial advisors around the country, he started his own financial advisory business and was twice named one of Investopedia’s Top 100 Financial Advisors in the U.S. Most recently, he built a global training platform to help financial advisors and their clients better understand the behavioral, psychological, and emotional sides of money. When he’s not diving into the latest behavior and psychology research, he is spending time with his wife Shannon and three kids, Brooks, Shepherd, and Merritt. And, he welcomes all unsolicited advice on how to successfully raise three kids.

What’s the right housing move in retirement?  Sell and rent, or stay put and downsize? In this episode, I unpack five key decisions that go far beyond dollars and cents, inspired by a real conversation with a client. Whether you’re widowed, single, or simply evaluating your next step, this breakdown helps you consider every angle, both financial and emotional. Key points: How renting can offer convenience, but comes with rising costs and less control over long-term financial outcomes The critical role of home equity and the potential strategies to access it, including reverse mortgages Tax implications for widows and single retirees when selling a home, including the impact on capital gains The importance of lifestyle considerations, like proximity to social hubs or family, when making housing choices How emotional attachment to a home can often outweigh financial logic, and how to strike a balance between the two And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #8 – Unlocking Your Home’s Potential with a Reverse Mortgage #10 – Do I Have to Use a Realtor to Sell My Home? #26 – Navigating the Solo Aging Journey Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Money can feel like the last taboo, especially when it comes to retirement. But what if opening up could completely transform your future? In this episode, I sit down with Kathleen Burns Kingsbury, Founder of KBK Wealth Connection and author of Breaking Money Silence®, to explore how our early beliefs about money affect our entire financial life. We unpack the emotional side of retirement planning and how having the right conversations, even the uncomfortable ones, can lead to more confident and joyful retirements. Key points:  Kathleen’s journey from finance to counseling psychology and founding KBK Wealth Connection How unconscious beliefs form our money mindset from childhood Why many women feel excluded from financial decisions and how to reclaim their voice The emotional side of retirement and how it differs dramatically from previous generations Conversation starters and mindset shifts for clients and advisors to address financial silence And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Breaking Money Silence® by Kathleen Burns Kingsbury Discover the questions you need to answer to get ready for your next money conversation! Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Kathleen Burns Kingsbury:  LinkedIn: Kathleen Burns Kingsbury KBK Wealth Connection Unleash Your True Value Podcast Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Kathleen Burns Kingsbury isn’t your average money mindset and advisor coach; she’s a pioneering force in the realm of women and money, setting her apart from conventional counterparts. With over 18 years of specialized experience, she’s dedicated herself to empowering women across finance, business, and entrepreneurship. As a mentor to female entrepreneurs, Kathleen offers invaluable guidance, drawing from her extensive background in wealth psychology and client communication. Her expertise extends to working with financial advisors, helping them navigate the complexities of wealth management while fostering stronger client relationships. Her signature program, “Unleash Your True Value: How to Shift Your Mindset, Boost Your Confidence, and Close More Sales,” is the culmination of her expertise, honed through years of helping women executives, financial advisors, and entrepreneurs break free from money silence.

What happens when love meets life-altering diagnosis and financial pressure?  For Sandy Moss Moder, it meant stepping into the unknown and documenting every step of the way. In this episode, I talk with Sandy about her raw and revealing story as a caregiver for her husband battling frontotemporal degeneration. She opens up about the emotional, medical, and financial hurdles she faced—and how her journaling eventually became a published memoir. This conversation shines a light on caregiving, planning ahead, and the power of art and community. Key takeaways: The early behavioral changes that led to her husband’s FTD diagnosis and the lack of awareness among medical professionals The emotional toll and day-to-day unpredictability of caregiving for a spouse with cognitive decline The financial planning steps she took—including setting up a trust, adjusting Social Security, and building a support team Her process of documenting the disease through journaling, which turned into her memoir The importance of finding the right care facility, asking the right questions, and leaning on senior living advisors And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #21: Navigating Senior Living Decisions with Joyce Logan Book: If I Have One More Brain Thing… Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD): theaftd.org Essay: Heal the Heart, Sort Out the Truths, and Find a Way Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Sandy Moss Moder:  Personal Website: sandymossmoder.com Email: [email protected]  About our Guest:  Sandy Moss Moder, artist, art instructor at Calumet Art Studio, and now author. I found my creative side at a young age, drawing and painting on found paper and book reports, which led to art classes and writing a drawing curriculum I continue to teach. I have a love for interior design, an extension of color and placement. I began writing in junior high through poetry, journals, essays and stories, which led me to write a memoir, “If I Have One More Brain Thing…” I live in McKinney, Texas, with my two spaniels, “the girls”.

Accessing your retirement funds early doesn’t have to be a costly mistake. In this episode, I break down seven ways you may be able to withdraw from your retirement savings before age 59½ without facing that dreaded 10% early withdrawal penalty.  Whether you’re helping a family member, navigating a crisis, or just need more options, these strategies could offer critical flexibility. Key points:  The “Rule of 55” and when it applies to 401(k) withdrawals after job separation How SEPP (Substantially Equal Periodic Payments) can be used to create penalty-free income streams before 59½ Why Roth IRA contributions are a valuable option for young savers needing access to funds Little-known exceptions like domestic abuse withdrawals and how self-certification simplifies access Using inherited IRAs, education expenses, first-time home purchases, and unreimbursed medical costs as legitimate ways to avoid penalties And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  #39 – Empowering Women through New Beginnings with Shalonda Waggoner #48 – How to Pay Taxes in Retirement: What You Need to Know #52 – I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes SECURE Act 2.0 Provision: Distributions to victims of domestic abuse Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube

Retirement is about more than finances. How will you spend your time? How do you transition from a life dictated by schedules to one filled with purpose and joy? What steps can you take now to prepare for a fulfilling retirement lifestyle? In this episode, I explore “The Rule of 1000 Hours” in retirement, explaining how to balance freedom with intention. I offer strategies to avoid aimlessness and craft a life filled with meaningful activities. Points discussed: “The Rule of a Thousand Hours” and how it can shape your retirement schedule Common problems, like excessive TV watching, and how to avoid them Strategies for identifying energizing activities that align with your passions The value of experimenting with hobbies and creating a flexible retirement plan The importance of practicing retirement to test your financial and time management strategies before the big transition And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Link to Kiplinger Article: The Rule of 1000 Hours in Retirement Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube 

Financial empowerment transforms lives, especially when women have access to tailored resources and support. In this episode, I explore the incredible work of Savvy Ladies, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping women with financial knowledge and confidence. Alongside Judy Herbst, Executive Director, and Lisa Zeiderman, Board Chair, we discuss their mission, their groundbreaking helpline, and how their resources are helping women make informed financial decisions. Lisa and Judy discuss: The inspiring story behind Savvy Ladies’ creation and its mission to aid women How Savvy Ladies utilizes technology to provide free financial guidance The unique, free helpline connecting women with financial experts Overcoming challenges in retirement and gaining financial independence The role of Savvy Ladies in forthcoming wealth transfers and women’s financial empowerment And more! Resources: Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap  Website: Savvy Ladies Connect with Eric Blake:  www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast Blake Wealth Management YouTube  Connect with Lisa Zeiderman:  LinkedIn: Lisa Zeiderman Connect with Judy Herbst:  LinkedIn: Judy Herbst About Lisa Zeiderman:  Lisa Zeiderman is a Managing Partner of the law firm Miller Zeiderman LLP., who focuses her law practice solely in matrimonial and family law. As both an attorney and a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, she has a wealth of experience, understanding, negotiating and litigating high net worth and/or complex financial matters. She has been lead trial counsel in matters of custody, modification of custody, equitable distribution of assets, child support, alimony, contempt hearings and relocation matters. Lisa obtained her law degree at Fordham University School of Law and then went on to become a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst. She now sits on the Advisory Board of the American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators, and is a member of the Legislative Committee of the Family Law Section for the New York State Bar Association and on the executive board of the Justice Brandeis Law Society. She is also a member of the New York State Bar Association, the New York Women’s Bar Association and the Westchester Women’s Bar Association. About Judy Herbst:  Judy Herbst is the Executive Director of Savvy Ladies. She comes to Savvy Ladies with vast knowledge & experience working with women throughout her career. With over 20+ years of relationship-building experience working for the iconic brands’ Tiffany & Co, American Girl, and Worthy.com, Judy creates programs and campaigns that educate and speak to critical issues targeting women, parents, and families. In March 2021, Savvy Ladies welcomed Judy to spearhead initiates designed to expand Savvy Ladies reach focusing on technology & scalability to serve more women, championing women’s empowerment through financial knowledge. Judy brings her business acumen and creative, marketing & client relationship savviness along with her proven success record in developing, driving and executing scalable business growth initiatives. She is innovative and a passionate thought leader with success in sales, project and event management, managing teams, hiring, start-ups, coaching, writing, and community building.