When your IRA stock portfolio is down in value, does it make sense to covert a portion to a Roth? Since the value is lower, you can convert a higher portion to a Roth for the same tax liability. However, this may not be the best approach to deciding on a Roth conversion. In this show we discuss converting to a Roth in a Bear market.

The Federal Reserve is raising rates at a fast pace to fight inflation. This has created a lot of volatility in the stock/bond markets. These Fed rate changes ultimately lead to interest rate increases for mortgages and other debts. Yet, these increases might actually be a good thing, particularly for retirees.

In his book, "The Four Phases of Retirement" Dr. Riley Moynes outlines four distinct phases people go through after retiring. In this show, we discuss these four phases and the financial aspects of each phase. Are some phases more expensive than others?

Inflation is high. There is no doubt that people are concerned about rising inflation and prices. In fact, according to a recent BMO survey, many are delaying retirement because of inflation! In this show we discuss if people should delay retirement because of inflation.

Rising interest rates impact many things such as mortgages rates, bond prices, and the overall economy. What impact do rising rates have on annuities? Do annuities pay more as interest rates go up? Should I buy an annuity in a rising interest rate environment? What is a fixed annuity or a MYGA (Multi-Year Guarantee Annuity)? We answer all of these questions in this show about interest rates and annuities.

People like to know where they stand, particularly when it comes to their bank accounts. Do I have enough to retire? How much money should I have saved by age 55 or 60? This info is definitely interesting to know, but does it provide any value? In this show we talk about what the average retirement savings are at various ages and discuss why this information may not be as useful as you think.

Inflation impacts everyone and seemingly every financial plan. Does your retirement plan factor inflation? In this show we talk about how inflation has a major impact on those in retirement. We also discuss specific strategies and tips for dealing with inflation when you are retired.

How much income is needed to be happy? In the past, a major study indicated that $75,000 was the magic number. After that, additional income doesn't move the happiness needle all that much. However, a more recent study suggests otherwise. In this show we talk about this idea of how much income is enough income.

We all know the financial cost of Long Term Care is high. Not only are communities and facilities expensive, but so is insurance, or even home health assistance. The costs go well beyond the numbers and have an emotional and physical strain on the caregiver as well. In this show, we talk about these issues with Linda Burhans, a caregiver expert. She share experiences, tips, and strategies to offset the hidden costs of long term care.

Who wants to be debt free? As people get closer to retirement, the main (and usually only) debt is the home mortgage. Should you pay off your mortgage as you entre retirement? Maybe so maybe not. In this show we discuss the reasons for and against paying off your mortgage.