Winning in Retirement

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, certified financial planners, discuss healthcare options for early retirees. They emphasize the importance of planning healthcare decisions before age 65, when Medicare eligibility begins. Jeff explains that Medicare is primary coverage for those working at small companies, while large companies' health insurance remains primary. They detail options like COBRA, which can cost up to 102% of the premium, and the Maryland Health Connection for individual market plans, which range from $100 to $500 per month. They also highlight the need for dental and vision insurance and the importance of financial planning to manage healthcare costs effectively.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of financial planning, emphasizing that everyone needs it. They highlight the concept of "you don't know what you don't know" and provide examples like the misconception that taxes will be lower in retirement. They stress the significance of a personalized financial plan, termed a "financial fingerprint," which tailors strategies to individual goals and circumstances. They also address common financial pitfalls, such as the impact of unexpected healthcare costs and the importance of early planning to maximize compounding. The discussion underscores the need for proactive financial advice to ensure a secure retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss portfolio design for retirement planning on their radio show. They emphasize the importance of starting early, with Alex noting that most people in their 30s don't think about retirement. They stress the need for a comprehensive financial plan, including tax efficiency and risk management. Brian highlights the significance of understanding net worth and the importance of diversifying investments. They also discuss the impact of emotions on investment decisions and the necessity of regular portfolio reviews. The show concludes with a call to action for listeners to schedule a free consultation with AKERS Financial Group.

Send us Fan MailBrian AKERS, CFP, and his son Noah AKERS, a financial advisor, discuss the importance of parental financial advice on their radio show. Brian shares how his mother's influence led him to a career in financial planning, emphasizing the value of work ethic and confidence. Noah reflects on his own journey, highlighting the significance of small, consistent actions and the impact of his mother's encouragement. They stress the importance of financial planning, starting with a clear understanding of one's financial situation (financial fingerprint), and the role of financial advisors in guiding clients towards their goals. The show aims to honor Brian's mother on her 80th birthday and encourages listeners to start planning for their retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco from Akers Financial Group discuss strategies for creating income in retirement. They emphasize the importance of financial independence and planning for unexpected events like job loss. They highlight the need for a balanced approach to retirement income, including guaranteed sources like Social Security, pensions, and annuities. They stress the significance of tax planning, particularly Rothification, to minimize future tax liabilities. The conversation also covers the impact of income on Medicare premiums and the importance of a diversified portfolio to ensure longevity of retirement funds.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss simplifying complex financial issues through comprehensive planning. They emphasize the importance of understanding clients' financial goals and situations to provide tailored advice. Key points include the overwhelming nature of financial management, the necessity of tax and estate planning, and the benefits of having a financial plan. They highlight the importance of beneficiary updates and proper estate documentation. The show aims to educate listeners on making informed financial decisions and the value of professional financial guidance in achieving retirement goals.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk, both Certified Financial Planners, discuss the importance of a winning financial mindset on their show "Winning in Retirement." They emphasize the consequences of neglecting financial responsibilities, such as not signing up for a 401(k) or not balancing a checkbook. They highlight the value of investing in oneself, whether through education or career advancement, and stress the importance of saving early and consistently. They also discuss the role of financial advisors in guiding clients through financial planning, emphasizing the need for proactive decision-making and careful investment strategies to ensure a secure financial future.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, co-hosts of the "Winning in Retirement" podcast, discuss strategies for achieving financial independence and planning for retirement. They emphasize the importance of understanding one's "financial fingerprint" and creating a personalized plan. Key points include starting early, managing debt, and investing wisely. They share success stories of clients who have achieved financial security and contentment in retirement. The conversation highlights the role of advisors in guiding clients through financial decisions, ensuring sustainable income, and preparing for unexpected expenses like taxes and healthcare. The hosts encourage listeners to take action and seek professional advice to secure their retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss strategies for reducing lifetime tax brackets on their radio podcast. They emphasize the importance of tax planning beyond just seeking the largest refund, as this can lead to higher future taxes. They explain the concept of marginal and effective tax rates, using 2026 tax brackets as an example. They highlight the significance of Roth conversions, effective tax rates, and the impact of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which locked in current tax brackets until 2028. They also discuss the benefits of proper investment planning, such as using index funds to avoid unexpected dividends and capital gains.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss strategies for minimizing taxes in retirement through Roth IRAs and Roth conversions. They emphasize the benefits of paying taxes now to avoid future tax burdens, highlighting that Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth and withdrawals. They note that Roth conversions can help reduce Medicare premiums and IRMAA levels. The conversation also covers the importance of comprehensive financial planning, including estate planning and tax strategies. They advise against self-managing Roth conversions due to the complexity and potential tax implications, recommending professional guidance instead.

Send us Fan MailBrian AKERS and Alex Monk, both Certified Financial Planners, discuss strategies to avoid taxes in retirement. They emphasize the importance of proper financial planning to minimize lifetime tax burdens. Key points include avoiding federal income tax by maximizing deductions and Roth conversions, avoiding mistake taxes like excess IRA contributions and estimated tax penalties, and understanding penalty taxes on early withdrawals and inherited IRAs. They also highlight the benefits of tax-efficient investing, such as tax harvesting and using tax-advantaged accounts. AKERS Financial Group offers free consultations to help individuals plan for their retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the importance of planning and implementing financial strategies for retirement. They emphasize the need to bring financial plans to life, not just create them. Brian uses coaching analogies to illustrate the process of planning, executing, and adjusting strategies. They highlight the significance of understanding individual financial goals, the risks of not planning, and the benefits of having a comprehensive financial plan. They also stress the importance of regular reviews and updates to ensure the plan remains relevant and effective. The show aims to educate listeners on the value of professional financial guidance in achieving a secure retirement.

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Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Nick Molite discuss retirement planning on their radio show. They emphasize the importance of understanding one's financial situation, using tools like E money software, and addressing concerns such as longevity, inflation, taxes, and market volatility. They highlight the significance of having a balanced portfolio, including safe investments like fixed annuities and Treasury bonds, and the need for regular portfolio reviews. They also discuss the impact of inflation on costs, such as Disney World tickets, and the importance of Roth conversions while tax rates are low. The goal is to create a tailored financial plan that ensures a comfortable retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeffrey Akers, both Certified Financial Planners, discuss strategies for building wealth and creating a legacy in retirement. They emphasize the importance of planning beyond financial independence, focusing on wealth preservation and tax efficiency. They highlight the significance of determining the purpose of money, whether for family, charity, or other causes. The conversation covers various financial tools like trusts, charitable gift annuities, and donor-advised funds to manage and distribute wealth effectively. They stress the need for comprehensive estate planning to minimize taxes and ensure assets are distributed according to one's wishes, ultimately aiming to create a lasting legacy.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Mark Diorio from Brookstone Capital Management discussed the 2025 market performance and 2026 outlook. In 2025, the S&P 500 rose 16.6%, despite an initial 15% drop. The Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts and a strong earnings season supported the market. Diorio highlighted the importance of diversification, noting that large-cap tech stocks dominated but left opportunities in small and mid-cap stocks. He also emphasized the benefits of high-quality dividend stocks and the potential for international markets to outperform. Diorio predicted two rate cuts by mid-year, bringing short-term rates to 3.25% and the 10-year treasury to 4%.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and his son Noah discuss the concept of a "financial fingerprint," emphasizing the unique nature of each individual's financial situation. They highlight the importance of comprehensive financial planning, which includes identifying all assets and liabilities, educating clients on their financial status, assessing risk tolerance, and intelligently allocating investments. They stress the need for ongoing portfolio evaluations and the significance of having a detailed financial plan. The Akers Financial Group approach focuses on understanding clients' goals and providing tailored advice, contrasting with product-driven sales. They also discuss the importance of knowing where one's money is and the benefits of having a fiduciary relationship with a financial advisor.

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Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, co-hosts of the "Winning in Retirement" podcast, discuss strategies for achieving financial independence and planning for retirement. They emphasize the importance of understanding one's "financial fingerprint" and creating a personalized plan. Key points include the necessity of saving, investing wisely, and managing cash flow. They highlight the significance of tax planning, healthcare costs, and debt management. Success stories illustrate how proper financial planning can lead to a stress-free retirement, allowing individuals to enjoy their desired lifestyle. The hosts encourage listeners to start planning early and seek professional advice to ensure a secure financial future.

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Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco from AKERS Financial Group discuss the importance of starting seriously with financial planning for a fun retirement. They emphasize the need to be proactive in planning, including understanding your financial situation, setting goals, and implementing strategies. They highlight the significance of comprehensive financial planning that includes asset allocation, income planning, estate planning, and tax strategies. The conversation also touches on the importance of regular reviews and adjustments to ensure financial stability. They encourage listeners to seek professional advice early and stress that planning should be tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

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Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, Certified Financial Planners, discuss the importance of life insurance in financial planning. They explain different types of life insurance: term, whole, and universal, highlighting their features and costs. They emphasize the need for life insurance to cover debts, replace income, and fund future goals. They also discuss the use of life insurance for long-term care and estate planning, including tax-free inheritance through irrevocable life insurance trusts. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding why life insurance is needed and how much is required, tailored to individual financial situations and goals.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers discuss the financial challenges of retiring single, highlighting that 45% of people over 65 are single. They emphasize the importance of financial planning, especially after a spouse's death, to manage tax implications and ensure financial stability. Key points include the need for Roth conversions to take advantage of lower tax brackets, the impact of Medicare premiums under IRMAA, and the significance of having a retirement income plan and annuities. They stress the importance of working with a financial advisor to navigate these complexities and maintain a secure financial future.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, both certified financial planners, discuss strategies for funding children and grandchildren's education through 529 plans. They highlight the benefits of starting early, contributing $19,000 annually per beneficiary, and leveraging state tax deductions, such as Maryland's $2,500 deduction. They explain the flexibility of 529 plans, including using funds for K-12 education, private school, and trade schools, and the option to convert unused funds into Roth IRAs. They also address the importance of financial aid considerations and the potential for using 529 funds to pay off student loans. The discussion emphasizes the need for comprehensive financial planning to ensure educational and retirement goals are met.

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Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of starting to save early for retirement. They emphasize the need to maximize workplace benefits, such as 401(k) matches and health savings accounts, and to avoid debt. Brian highlights the significance of financial planning, including understanding one's job benefits and creating a budget. They stress the importance of saving first and living off the rest, and the impact of compound interest. Paul advises cutting up credit cards once they are paid off to prevent future overspending. They conclude by urging listeners to take action and plan for their financial future.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss financial tips for those under 40, emphasizing the importance of early planning. They highlight the role of compound interest, urging listeners to start saving early to achieve financial independence. They stress the need to prioritize savings, avoid consumer debt, and understand expenses. Paul shares a client success story where consistent contributions over 26 years grew to $1.6 million. They also discuss the importance of having insurance, legal documents, and diversified investments. The rule of 72 is explained to illustrate the power of compounding, and they advise on maximizing employer matches and considering Roth contributions for tax efficiency.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and attorney Kevin Bress discuss legacy and charitable giving on the "Winning in Retirement" radio show. They emphasize the importance of estate planning, including wills and beneficiary forms, to ensure assets are distributed according to one's wishes. Kevin explains the federal and state estate tax exemptions, noting Maryland's $5 million threshold. They highlight the benefits of charitable giving, such as reducing taxable estates and supporting causes important to the deceased. Kevin also discusses the use of trusts and donor-advised funds to manage assets and charitable contributions. The conversation underscores the need for proactive planning to avoid unintended consequences and ensure a lasting legacy.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers discuss strategies for maximizing retirement savings in 2025. They highlight the importance of contributing to retirement plans, emphasizing the tax advantages of qualified plans like IRAs and 401(k)s. For IRAs, the base limit is $7,000 annually, with a $1,000 catch-up for those over 50, totaling $8,000. Employer-sponsored plans allow up to $23,500 annually, with a $7,500 catch-up for those over 50, totaling $31,000. They also discuss the benefits of Roth IRAs, which offer tax-free growth and withdrawals, and the importance of starting early and regularly reviewing and contributing to retirement accounts.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the challenges and strategies for small business founders on their radio podcast. They emphasize the importance of planning, delegation, and balancing personal and professional life. Brian shares his experience of starting a business 35 years ago and the significance of having a well-structured business plan. They highlight the need for founders to treat their businesses as professional entities, including having separate business bank accounts and proper tax structuring. The conversation also touches on the value of financial advisors in guiding business owners and the importance of exit planning for future financial security.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk from Akers Financial Group discuss the concept of financial independence, likening it to the U.S. Independence Day. They emphasize the importance of financial planning to achieve this state, where individuals can retire on their terms without financial stress. They highlight the need for a comprehensive financial plan, including understanding one's financial fingerprint, managing debt, and optimizing tax strategies. They also discuss the impact of external factors like job security and market volatility on financial independence. The show encourages listeners to start planning for their financial independence to ensure a secure retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian AKERS and Mark Diorio from Brookstone Capital Management discuss the mid-year market update. They highlight the market's resilience, noting the S&P 500's V-shaped recovery after a 12% drop in April. Despite geopolitical risks, the market has remained stable with inflation around 2.5%. They emphasize the importance of diversification, particularly in dividend stocks, which have underperformed this year. Diorio mentions that the S&P 500 is heavily concentrated in mega-cap stocks, presenting opportunities in smaller companies. They also touch on the potential impact of interest rates and the future of cryptocurrencies.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the impact of the new tax law, referred to as the "one big beautiful bill," signed on July 4, 2025. They highlight key provisions such as the permanent extension of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act's tax brackets, the introduction of a temporary senior personal exemption for those aged 65 and older, and the increase in the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap to $40,000 for incomes below $500,000. They also cover the tax deductibility of tips and overtime, the potential car loan interest deduction, and the new Trump account for children born between 2024 and 2028. The emphasis is on the importance of financial planning and reviewing one's financial situation in light of these changes.

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Send us Fan MailEstate planning is crucial for protecting one's legacy and managing family dynamics after death. Ashley Rowe and Brian Akers emphasize the importance of working with an attorney for personalized advice and highlight the dangers of using online platforms like Legal Zoom. They discuss essential aspects of estate planning, including understanding net worth, asset titling, and beneficiary designations. They also stress the importance of having a power of attorney and updating estate plans every few years. Establishing revocable trusts can provide creditor protection and avoid probate, while trusts and power of attorney are crucial for managing incapacitated individuals' assets. Ashley Rowe and Brian Akers emphasize the value of having a comprehensive estate plan in place to avoid potential legal issues.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Ashley Row discuss the importance of estate planning, including power of attorney and legal documents. They emphasize the need for these documents to ensure wishes are carried out and to avoid probate. Brian and Ashley also highlight the benefits of having a will, including avoiding probate and offering protection for beneficiaries. In the second segment, Speaker 2 and Brian Akers explore potential issues with multiple power of attorney agents and the importance of regularly reviewing beneficiary designations. They emphasize the significance of having a clear estate plan in place, including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations, to ensure one's affairs are in order.https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the concept of "rothification," or converting pre-tax retirement accounts to Roth IRAs to pay taxes now and enjoy tax-free growth. They explain the history of Roth IRAs, which began in 1998, and the rules for qualified withdrawals at age 59 1/2. They emphasize the importance of tracking contributions on Form 8606 to avoid paying taxes twice. The conversation also covers the benefits of Roth conversions for high-income earners and those nearing required minimum distributions. Additionally, they highlight the strategic use of Roth accounts in estate planning and the potential tax savings for future generations.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the emotional aspects of financial planning, including understanding and separating emotions from money, building trust, and guiding clients towards their financial goals. They emphasize the importance of personalized financial planning for retirement, tailored approaches that consider each individual's unique situation, goals, and circumstances, and the need to balance life's enjoyment with saving for the future. Both speakers highlight the benefits of starting early and the anxiety that comes with running out of time, emphasizing the importance of saving money and paying off debt for a comfortable retirement.https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss strategies for achieving a lower stress retirement through financial planning. They emphasize the importance of protecting a portion of one's portfolio, particularly as retirement approaches, by using tools like fixed index annuities. These annuities offer principal protection and growth tied to market indices, with caps on potential losses. They also highlight the benefits of income riders, which provide guaranteed lifetime income. The conversation underscores the need for a diversified portfolio, including both growth and protected investments, to ensure financial stability in retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian and Jeff Akers discuss the importance of financial planning for a smooth retirement transition. They emphasize the need for a personalized plan, steady income stream, tax-free growth, and understanding tax effects on investments. They also stress the importance of starting early, prioritizing saving, and adapting to changing circumstances. Jeff highlights the benefits of using exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and indexes for tax efficiency, while Brian uses gardening theory to explain how to manage an investment portfolio. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of understanding one's financial situation and making informed decisions to ensure a comfortable retirement.https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss retirement planning and financial literacy and how to retire once!  They emphasize the importance of personalized planning, understanding an individual's unique financial situation and goals, and managing cash flow effectively. They also discuss the significance of reducing volatility through protected investments and individualized portfolio design in volatile markets. Additionally, they highlight the importance of understanding current pension plans and social security, and saving through workplace plans and other accounts.https://www.akersfinancial.com/winning-in-retirement?utm_source=podcast%20description&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast%20description

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Mark Diorio discuss market volatility and its impact on investments. They highlight a recent 10% market drop due to policy uncertainty and tariff shocks, noting that such corrections are normal and typically recover. Diorio explains the concept of a "tariff tantrum" and its effects on inflation and economic growth. He emphasizes the importance of a strategic, risk-managed approach, using tools like buffer ETFs and hedged equity to mitigate downside risks. They also discuss the potential for opportunities in sectors like infrastructure and AI, and the importance of planning and diversification in retirement portfolios.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Alex Monk discuss the importance of planning for financial volatility in retirement. They highlight the unpredictability of market movements, citing recent events like COVID-19 and tariff impacts. They emphasize the need for a diversified portfolio, including protected assets and growth investments, to mitigate risks. They advise against basing retirement spending on short-term market fluctuations and stress the importance of long-term planning. They also discuss strategies like Roth conversions and tax-efficient portfolio design to manage tax liabilities. The key is to have a plan that can adapt to market volatility and ensure financial security in retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco, financial advisors from AKERS Financial Group, discuss the myths of conventional financial wisdom on their radio show "Winning in Retirement." They emphasize the importance of personalized financial planning over generic advice. Key points include the misconception that Medicare covers long-term care, the necessity of planning for long-term care, and the need for proper estate planning. They also address the fallacy that taxes will be lower in retirement, the importance of Roth IRAs, and the impact of Social Security benefits on taxation. The hosts advocate for a balanced investment strategy that protects and grows wealth, tailored to individual needs.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers discuss strategies for minimizing taxes in retirement through the concept of "levelizing." They explain how current tax decisions can impact future tax liabilities, emphasizing the importance of understanding tax brackets and the benefits of contributing to Roth accounts. They highlight that the 2025 tax brackets range from 10% to 37%, with significant jumps at certain income levels. They also discuss the impact of state taxes, such as Maryland's, and the potential benefits of moving to tax-free states. The key takeaway is to plan now to pay less tax over a lifetime, ensuring financial stability in retirement.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Jeff Akers, Certified Financial Planners, discuss inheritance planning on their radio show "Winning in Retirement." They emphasize the importance of proper estate planning, including naming beneficiaries and setting up trusts. They highlight the concept of "estate flow" to outline where money goes upon death. They explain the tax implications of inheritance, such as step-up basis for stocks and tax-free status for life insurance payouts. They also discuss the importance of planning for special needs and the role of trusts in managing inheritances. The show aims to educate listeners on the complexities of inheritance and the need for thorough financial planning.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco from AKERS Financial Group discuss the importance of having an advisor who solves financial problems rather than just selling products. They emphasize understanding client needs, planning for retirement, and ensuring financial security. They highlight cases where clients lacked basic financial planning, faced tax issues, and needed guidance on inheritance and annuity reviews. The advisors stress the importance of comprehensive financial planning, including tax and estate planning, and the value of having a trusted advisor who provides unbiased advice and long-term support. They encourage listeners to schedule free consultations to ensure their financial plans are on track.

Send us Fan MailBrian Akers and Paul Franco discuss the importance of financial planning in retirement. They address common questions such as when to retire, whether one has enough income, tax planning, and investment strategies. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive financial plan tailored to individual circumstances. Akers highlights the significance of cash flow, tax planning, and the 4% withdrawal rate. Franco shares examples of clients' financial situations, such as a federal employee who could retire immediately and a couple planning tax-efficient strategies. They stress the importance of understanding one's financial fingerprint and seeking professional advice to ensure a secure retirement.