Medicare isn’t exactly the most thrilling topic, but it’s one that can make or break your peace of mind as you head toward retirement. So many people put it off, get overwhelmed by the mailers and commercials, or think they’re automatically covered at 65—only to find themselves scrambling at the last minute. In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis and guest Amy Terrell dig deep into what Medicare really is, who qualifies, when you should start planning, and how to avoid the pitfalls that can cost you big time down the road.

Amy is a licensed Medicare agent with My Medicare Network who’s helped hundreds of people figure this out without losing sleep. She explains why 64-and-a-half is the “sweet spot” for starting the process, breaks down the alphabet soup of Parts A, B, C, and D, and clarifies when it makes sense to compare your company plan to Medicare, even if you're still working at 65.

Throughout the episode, Amy and Shannon emphasize that no two retirees are alike, even within the same household, and that working with an expert can help you sort the options without the spam calls and mail clutter.

They wrap with common mistakes people make, the importance of reviewing your plan annually during open enrollment, and a reminder that this decision is deeply tied to your broader retirement strategy, from Social Security to pensions.

Key Takeaways:

• Start planning for Medicare around age 64.5 so you have time to understand options and avoid delays.
• Medicare is not automatically free at 65—Part B premiums are income-based with a two-year tax look back.
• Original Medicare (Parts A and B) leaves 20% out-of-pocket exposure with no cap, making supplements or Advantage plans worth considering.
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans have higher premiums but more flexibility and fewer bills later.
• Medicare Advantage plans often have lower premiums but networks, and offer extras like dental, vision, hearing, and gym memberships.
• Be cautious of marketing mailers and commercials that don't account for your doctors, prescriptions, or needs.
• Review your plan annually during open enrollment, as plans and benefits can change each year.
• Amy offers free Medicare assessments to help individuals compare options and find the best fit for their situation.

Chapters

00:57 Introduction and Why Medicare Matters

03:56 Medicare 101: What is it and Who Qualifies

06:28 When to Start the Process

11:07 How Much Does it Cost

17:05 Supplements Vs Advantage Plans

20:53 Personalized Assessments: Getting the Help You Need

22:37 Special Considerations for Public Safety Retirees

25:16 Tackling the Mail Pile

27:06 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

Helpful Links:

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

Wouldn’t it be great if there were a way to procrastinate putting things off? To procrastinate the procrastination! Too often, especially when it comes to retirement and financial decisions, folks wait too long to take the first step. And then, it’s often too late to take advantage of what is in your best interest. Even taking a moment to ask for help to learn more is a first step that can pay big dividends.

This is the second episode in a special series of the Compounding Change Podcast called “Do Something”, as host Shannon Davis and Leadership Coach Jenna Stoliker focus on things we can all do to take action on some of life’s most important and impending stages.

In this episode, they delve into the complexities of Medicare and Social Security, sharing personal experiences and insights on navigating these essential systems. They emphasize the importance of proactive financial planning, the need for emotional safety in discussions about aging and benefits, and the power of taking small, actionable steps towards understanding and managing one's financial future.

The conversation encourages listeners to seek knowledge, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions about their financial well-being.

Takeaways

-Medicare does not cover everything; there are significant gaps.

-Social Security benefits vary based on individual circumstances.

-It’s crucial to enroll in Medicare at the right time to avoid penalties.

-Understanding Social Security requires knowledge of personal work history and marital status.

-Proactive financial planning is essential for retirement.

-Asking questions and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

-Emotional safety is important when discussing financial matters with loved ones.

-Checking your earnings history can impact your Social Security benefits.

-Conversations about finances should be ongoing and not left until retirement age.

-Taking small steps towards financial literacy can lead to greater empowerment.

Chapters

01:10 Introduction

04:27 Navigating the Complexities of Social Security

08:35 Empowering Conversations About Financial Planning

10:45 Taking Action: The Do Something Challenge

Helpful Links:

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

1st Responder Financial Advisors , PlanMember Securities Corporation and Jenna Stoliker/Conscious Leadership Alliance are independently owned and operated.

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a registered

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Retirement Plan Advisors, LLC, a Federally Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge Investment Research and Retirement Planning Advisors are not related to DavisCompoundingChange.com or this podcast.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

Life is hard. Making decisions is hard. But sitting back and taking a “wait and see” attitude isn’t going to make it any easier. Often, the very best thing you can do, is “Do Something”.

This is a special edition of the Compounding Change Podcast, as host Shannon Davis welcomes back Leadership Coach Jenna Stolliker as they introduce the 'Do Something' series. Here, Jenna and Shannon focus on things we can all do to take action on some of life’s most important and impending stages.

In this first episode of the series, they talk about the uncomfortable topics surrounding retirement planning and caregiving. As sisters, they share personal experiences and insights on navigating the emotional complexities of these life stages, emphasizing the importance of taking small, intentional actions to address overwhelming situations.

The conversation highlights the need for open discussions about difficult topics and offers practical challenges to encourage listeners to engage with their loved ones about their wishes and needs.

Takeaways

-This series is about moving from avoidance into action.

-Retirement planning often brings up uncomfortable topics.

-Caregiving can be emotionally overwhelming and complex.

-It’s important to have conversations about end-of-life wishes.

-Understanding the emotional weight of caregiving is crucial.

-Navigating Medicare and Social Security can be confusing.

-Taking small steps can lead to significant change.

-It’s okay to feel overwhelmed during caregiving.

-Validating feelings is the first step to regaining agency.

-Every small step adds up to create meaningful change.

Chapters

01:03 Introduction to Do Something Series

03:28 Real-Life Challenges of Caregiving

06:22 Navigating Emotions in Caregiving

11:50 Understanding the System: Medicare and Social Security

13:15 Do Something Challenge: Taking Action

Helpful Links:

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

1st Responder Financial Advisors , PlanMember Securities Corporation and Jenna Stoliker/Conscious Leadership Alliance are independently owned and operated.

---------

Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

Change is inevitable. It happens, and there is not much that can be done to steer the direction it will take. Change is hard, and many people resist it. But change is an opportunity, and those who accept it, learn from it, and move with it can take advantage in ways that were never available before.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis welcomes back Leadership coach Jenna Stoliker. Together, they discuss the challenges and resistance faced by individuals, particularly first responders, when it comes to financial change.

They explore the psychological aspects of why people resist change, the importance of mindset shifts, and how to reframe financial decisions as opportunities rather than threats. The conversation emphasizes the need for alignment with financial advisors and the value of community support in navigating financial uncertainties.

Takeaways

-Resistance to change is a common human experience.

-Predictability is crucial in high-stakes environments like firefighting.

-Uncertainty triggers resistance in financial decision-making.

-Asking for help can be met with internal resistance.

-Mindset shifts are essential for navigating financial changes.

-Reframing change as an opportunity can reduce fear.

-Surrounding yourself with supportive people is vital.

-Alignment with financial advisors is key to effective planning.

-Small consistent actions lead to significant results.

-Continuous learning is necessary for effective financial guidance.

Chapters

00:56 Introduction

02:16 Frustrations with Financial Planning Changes

10:55 Step by Step Process

15:55 Resistance to Change

19:14 The Right People On Your Team

23:41 Conclusion and Contact Information

Helpful Links:

Jenna Stoliker: https://jennastoliker.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

1st Responder Financial Advisors , PlanMember Securities Corporation and Jenna Stoliker/Conscious Leadership Alliance are independently owned and operated.

Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

Being a firefighter takes a toll on more than just your health, which is significant for anyone who has seen a firefighter do their thing. It also affects your mental health, and it affects your family relationships. We always expect firefighters to take care of us. Who is taking care of them?

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis speaks with Jim Burneka, a retired firefighter and author of 'Overcoming Tuesday.' They discuss Jim's journey through the challenges of firefighting, including personal trauma, health risks, and the importance of resilience and wellness.

Jim shares insights on navigating career transitions, planning for retirement, and the dynamics within the firefighting community. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness around mental health and the impact of personal experiences on professional life, and how professional experiences absolutely impact the personal life, especially as a firefighter.

Helpful Links:

Jim Burneka: [email protected]

Overcoming Tuesday Book: https://www.amazon.com/Overcoming-Tuesday-Responders-Healing-Resiliency/dp/B0CYMZ228H

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

Takeaways

-Firefighting presents unique challenges that can lead to personal struggles.

-Health risks, including cancer, are significant concerns for firefighters.

-Wellness initiatives are crucial for supporting firefighters' mental health.

-Planning for retirement is essential, especially in high-risk careers.

-Navigating career transitions can be challenging but rewarding.

-Community support is vital in the firefighting profession.

-Vulnerability can enhance the ability to help others.

-Personal experiences shape professional perspectives and actions. Divorce rates are high -among firefighters due to job stress.

-Communication with partners is crucial for relationship health.

-Radical acceptance can lead to positive life changes.

-Being present for family is a valuable outcome of retirement

Chapters

00:56 Introduction to Compounding Change Podcast

02:37 Impact of Firefighting and Writing the Book

07:37 Hard Reality of Being a Firefighter

15:50 Advocating for Health and Wellness for Firefighters

37:17 Life After Firefighting

40:38 Relevant Podcasts

47:07 Jim Burneka Contact info and Conclusion

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

Financial planning isn’t just about numbers. It’s about people. And when those people are first responders, well the job of a financial planner just got that much more critical. When you know who you are planning for, what matters to them, and why, then you can really make an impact with a strong financial plan. It matters, because the people we count on in moments of crisis, are counting on us.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis engages with financial advisors Ed Kindler and Phil Holstrom of Retirement Plan Advisors to discuss their experiences working with firefighters and police officers. They explore the unique challenges these professionals face, the importance of understanding their roles, and the significance of retirement planning for these unique individuals who give so much of their lives toward our safety.

Helpful Links:

Ed Kindler, Retirement Plan Advisors: https://retirementplanadvisors.com/meet-our-team/edward-kindler/

Phil Holstrum, Retirement Plan Advisors: https://retirementplanadvisors.com/meet-our-team/phil-holstrom/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

Takeaways

-The role of financial advisors extends beyond just retirement plans.

-Understanding the unique challenges faced by firefighters is crucial.

-Firefighters contribute significantly to their retirement savings.

-Building trust with clients is essential for effective financial advising.

-Financial education is lacking in many communities.

-Small increases in contributions can lead to substantial retirement savings.

-It’s important to review and update financial plans regularly.

-Firefighters often face intense situations that impact their financial decisions.

-The importance of being proactive in financial planning cannot be overstated.

-Advisors should focus on providing unbiased financial advice. Accessibility is crucial for clients, especially firefighters.

-Social security planning requires personalized attention and education.

Chapters

00:58 Introduction to Compounding Change Podcast

03:28 Understanding the Role of Financial Advisors for Firefighters

06:47 Insights from Fire Ops Training

12:01 Core Messages for Firefighters

18:29 Building Trust with Firefighters

25:55 The Importance of Social Security Planning

29:46 Timing Social Security Benefits

31:44 The Risks of Financial Rollovers

36:35 The Role of Financial Advisors

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

There is change in any professional career. If you're not evolving, the career will leave you behind. In no profession is this more true than in real estate. Technology, economical conditions, marketing trends, etc. The same goes for someone buying or selling a home. It's different than it was the last time you did it. Either way, it's better to stay on top of the changes that happen around you. Because if you try to catch up later, it might be too late.

In this episode of Compounding Change, host Shannon Davis speaks with Rich Ganim, a seasoned realtor and founder of The Ganim Group, about his journey into real estate, the importance of hard work, and the evolving landscape of homeownership.

Rich shares insights on building his business, the significance of education in home buying, and practical advice for young adults preparing for homeownership. The conversation emphasizes the need for gradual growth and the realities of the current real estate market, including the pros and cons of renting versus buying, the importance of home staging, and the lifestyle implications of real estate transactions.

They also touch on the significance of maintaining health while managing a busy career and family life, emphasizing that personal well-being is crucial for success in all areas of life.

Takeaways

-Success is a gradual process, often taking years of hard work and dedication.

-The real estate market has changed significantly since the early 2000s, affecting first-time homebuyers.

-Education about homeownership is crucial for younger generations.

-Renting can be a practical choice for many, allowing for financial preparation before buying a home.

-The average first-time homebuyer is now older than in previous generations, often due to market conditions.

-Investing in real estate requires financial preparedness.

-Home staging can significantly impact the sale of a property.

-The way we live in a home differs from how we sell it.

-Health should be prioritized alongside work and family.

-Finding time for personal health is essential for overall success.

-Small, consistent actions lead to big results.

Chapters:

01:00 Introduction to Compounding Change

03:18 Changes in Real Estate

09:33 The Hard Work Behind Success

17:14 Preparing for Homeownership

27:11 Preparing to Sell a Home

34:16 Balancing Health and Work

39:25 Connecting with Rich Ganim

Helpful Links:

Rich Ganim: https://theganimgroup.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

---------

Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

Wanting to be healthy is one thing. Knowing how to be healthy is another thing. But taking the first step toward a healthy lifestyle is something else entirely. It's not easy to make changes, but a few steps toward positive change today can add up to big changes in the future. Like investing, compounding change is at work in your health, too.

In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis speaks with Julie Smolen, Integrative Health Practitioner and founder of Holistic Hive about her transformative journey through health and fitness. They discuss the importance of small, intentional actions in creating compound changes in life.

Julie shares her experiences with fitness, health challenges, and the discovery of natural remedies, particularly essential oils, that have empowered her and her family. Shannon and Julie talk about the importance of eliminating toxins from the home, the role of nutrition as medicine, and the connection between gut health and mental well-being.

They emphasize the need for exercise and a holistic approach to health, particularly as it relates to aging and women's health issues. The discussion also touches on the impact of dietary choices on long-term health and the importance of planning for a healthy future.

Takeaways

-Small actions lead to big results in health and life.

-Health is not just about diet and exercise; it's holistic.

-Natural remedies can significantly improve well-being.

-Creating a healthy home environment is essential for families.

-Eliminating toxins from the home is crucial for health.

-Food should be viewed as medicine, focusing on whole foods.

-Mental health can be influenced by dietary chemicals.

-Gut health is linked to neurological conditions like Parkinson's.

-Regular exercise is essential for maintaining health as we age.

-Dietary choices today affect long-term health outcomes.

-Awareness of food's impact on health is vital for families.

-Small, consistent changes lead to significant health improvements.

-Listening to your body is important for overall wellness.

-Planning for health is as important as financial planning for retirement.

Chapters

01:35 Introduction to Compounding Change

04:39 Julie Smolen's Transformative Journey

06:51 Health and Fitness Competition

10:28 Facing Health Challenges

15:53 Discovering Natural Remedies

22:22 Eliminating Toxins for Better Health

25:58 Food as Medicine: The Importance of Nutrition

28:48 The Role of Exercise in Health and Longevity

34:04 Planning for a Healthy Future

Helpful Links: Juli Smolen: https://julismolen.lifestepseo.com/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

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Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

When you see those firemen at the intersection and you wonder what that's all about, it's about raising funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. How that works, what happens behind the scenes, and why it makes a difference that you help to "Fill the Boot" is the topic of this episode of the Compounding Change Podcast.

In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis speaks with Bill Matthews, the Ohio Association of Professional Firefighters (OAPFF ) State Representative for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

They discuss the history and impact of MDA, the importance of fundraising efforts like the Fill the Boot campaign, and the significant advances in research and treatment for muscular dystrophy. Bill emphasizes the transparency of MDA's fundraising, where 70% of donations go directly to treatments and advocacy.

The conversation also touches on the mental health challenges faced by first responders and the need for support in addressing PTSD. And of course, the fact that your donations, no matter how small, are making a difference by "compounding change" over time.

Takeaways

-Compounding Change focuses on small actions leading to big results.

-MDA has been raising funds for muscular dystrophy since 1952.

-Fill the Boot is the largest fundraising event for MDA.

-70% of donations to MDA go directly to treatments and research.

-There have been 18 FDA-approved treatments for muscular dystrophy since 2020.

-Community engagement is crucial for effective fundraising.

-Mental health support for first responders is increasingly important.

-MDA coordinates care to make it easier for patients to access services.

-Transparency in fundraising is vital for donor trust.

-Advocacy for individuals with disabilities is a key part of MDA's mission.

Helpful Links:

Ohio Association of Professional Firefighters: https://oapff.org/

Muscular Dystrophy Association: https://www.mda.org/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

-------------

Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis

It's hard to see the evidence in small changes on a day to day basis. But it's easy to look back over time and see what you've accomplished. And not a long time either, as age is not significant when it comes to change.

In this episode of Compounding Change, Shannon Davis speaks with Marcy Schoenborn, Author, and owner of Scho Fit, and a personal trainer and nutrition expert. They talk about the importance of small actions in achieving significant health and wellness results.

Marcy shares her personal journey of overcoming health challenges through nutrition and fitness, emphasizing that age is just a number and that it's never too late to start prioritizing health. The conversation covers the significance of mindset, the role of nutrition in health, and the importance of supplements, while also addressing the emotional aspects of making lifestyle changes.

Takeaways

-Focus on how you feel, not just how you look.

-Nutrition is foundational to health and fitness.

-Small actions can lead to significant health improvements.

-Mindset is crucial in overcoming health challenges.

-It's important to address emotional eating triggers.

-Supplements should complement a healthy diet, not replace it.

-Celebratory eating is okay; balance is key.

-Health is a lifelong journey, not a destination.

-You can start your health journey at any age.

-Helping others is a powerful motivator for change.

Helpful Links:

Scho Fit: https://www.scho.fit/

Shannon Davis: https://www.daviscompoundingchange.com/

---------------

Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions.

Representative is registered with and offers only securities and advisory services through PlanMember Securities Corporation, a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor, and member FINRA/SIPC. 6267 Carpinteria Ave. Carpinteria, CA 93013. 1st Responder Financial Advisors and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated.

Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Please note that investment involves risk, and no statements made in this recording are indicative of future performance.

The Compounding Change Podcast is brought to you by Shannon Davis