Shotwell Rutter Baer

Shotwell Rutter Baer

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Shotwell Rutter Baer episodes

  • S3E26 – Using a Retirement Target Date Fund

    In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of target date funds—a topic we’ve touched on before but never explored in-depth. Inspired by a recent article that sparked some frustration, we discuss the pros and cons of these investment tools.

    https://youtu.be/SY1rkeJxeK0

    Here are the main points we cover:

    Overview of Target Date Funds:

    • Target date funds are investment tools designed to optimize your retirement savings by automatically adjusting the asset allocation as you approach your retirement date.
    • What Makes Target Date Funds Special?
      • Personal Choices and Understanding: Just like any other investment, target date funds can be beneficial if used correctly. It’s crucial to understand what you’re investing in to make the most of these funds.
      • A One-Fund Solution: These funds are designed to be a singular solution for retirement savings, adjusting risk levels as you near retirement.
      • Practical Use Case
        • Real-Life Examples: We discuss how people often choose the wrong target date fund due to misunderstandings about their retirement timeline.
        • The Pros of Target Date Funds
          • Simplicity: One of the standout benefits is the simplicity they offer. You don’t have to worry about asset allocation—the fund managers do it for you.
          • Diversification: These funds tend to be highly diversified, covering various asset classes, which can often include assets unavailable in standard 401(k) plans.
          • Cost-Effective: Many target date funds are inexpensive, especially those based on index funds.
          • Automatic Rebalancing: The fund managers take care of rebalancing, ensuring your portfolio remains aligned with your retirement goals.
          • The Cons of Target Date Funds
            • One-Size-Fits-All Approach: While these funds simplify investing, they also operate on a one-size-fits-all basis, which may not suit everyone’s individual financial situation.
            • Conclusion

              While target date funds offer numerous benefits, they are not without their drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about your retirement planning.

              Additional Resources

              For more insights into target date funds and how they can fit into your retirement plan, check out this Vanguard guide on target date funds.

              Feeling overwhelmed with retirement planning? Don’t worry, the right target date fund can simplify your path to a comfortable retirement. Tune in to our episode and learn how to make the most out of your investments. And if you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review us on YouTube

              Tune in to this episode for expert insights and practical tips to help you on your retirement planning journey.

              517-321-4832

              23 min
            • S3E25 – Q2 2024 Review and Q3 Outlook

              In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the market trends and economic indicators of Q2 2024, along with our outlook for Q3. We discuss the overall market performance, the impact of tech stocks, bond market stability, and the intriguing dynamics of the international stock market. Additionally, we explore the implications of unemployment rates, inflation, and consumer behavior on the economy.

              Key Points Discussed
              • Market Overview:
                • The overall market has shown strong performance in 2024 so far.
                • The Russell All Cap Index increased by 3.2% for Q2 and 13.5% for the year.
                • The S&P 500 grew by 4.3% for the year, driven predominantly by tech stocks.
                • Large-cap growth index (tech stocks) surged by 8.3% for Q2 and over 20% for the year.
                • Tech Stocks Dominance:
                  • A small subset of tech stocks significantly contributed to market gains.
                  • Considerations for diversified portfolios and potential risks if these stocks lose momentum.
                  • Bond Market:
                    • Aggregate bond index showed slight growth (0.1%) for Q2.
                    • Intermediate-term municipal bonds were the only negatively performing segment.
                    • Positive yield curve trends signal a more normalized economic outlook.
                    • International Stocks:
                      • Developed market stocks (mainly European) slightly declined due to a strong dollar.
                      • Emerging market stocks showed positive growth (5%) for Q2.
                      • Economic Indicators:
                        • Unemployment remains low, below 4% for 30 consecutive months, but showed a slight increase to 4.1% in June.
                        • GDP continues to grow, signaling a robust economy.
                        • Inflation shows signs of easing, with core goods experiencing price drops.
                        • Stock Earnings:
                          • The top ten S&P 500 stocks continue to deliver strong earnings.
                          • Nvidia’s performance remains strong, defying expectations.
                          • Consumer Behavior:
                          • Some concerns over elevated credit card and auto loan delinquencies.
                          • Possible depletion of extra consumer savings from COVID-19 relief programs.
                          • Positive Market Signals
                            • Low unemployment rates.
                            • Continued GDP growth.
                            • Easing inflation rates.
                            • Strong earnings from top stocks.
                            • Areas of Concern
                              • Potential cracks in consumer spending and elevated debt levels.
                              • Inflation is still above the Fed’s long-term target of 2%.
                              • Conclusion and Outlook

                                While the market has shown remarkable resilience and growth in 2024, the dominance of a small number of tech stocks and potential consumer debt issues warrant cautious optimism. Inflation trends and unemployment rates will be key areas to watch as we move into Q3.

                                Call to Action

                                Stay informed and make data-driven financial decisions. Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates and deeper insights into the market trends.

                                Feedback

                                We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Drop us a comment or email us at [email protected].

                                Follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways to invest right now.

                                If you have questions about this or any other topic, please email us at [email protected].

                                23 min
                              • S3E24 – Four Principles of Retirement Investments

                                In this insightful episode, we explore the four fundamental principles to consider when planning your retirement investments. We break down the essential steps to ensure your financial security and peace of mind as you approach retirement. You can survive when the market twists and turns and throws you loose and you think that things are coming apart.

                                Watch on YouTube HERE

                                Key Highlights
                                1. Expect a Balance Between Extremes
                                • Key Point: The worst-case and best-case scenarios are equally unlikely.
                                • Discussion: It’s important to remember that the truth will typically fall somewhere in the middle. Both the world and the markets have faced and survived numerous challenges. Pausing and reflecting on this can help mitigate fear and anxiety about future investments.
                                • 2. Tune Out the Noise
                                  • Key Point: Focus on your long-term plan and ignore short-term market fluctuations.
                                  • Discussion: When you hear negative news and feel emotional, it’s crucial to have a solid foundation of safe investments. This allows you to stay calm and collected about your long-term retirement account despite current events.
                                  • 3.  Growth Periods Always Outweighed The Bad Times
                                    • Key Point: Essentially, the average bear market runs about 14 months with 36 % declines, but the average bull market runs almost six years with a cumulative return of almost 200%.
                                    • Discussion: There are going to be bad times, but also there are some really good times. So don’t forget about those because that’s what drives the growth.
                                    • 4. You Can’t Avoid Investment Risk and Expect Higher Returns
                                      • Key Point: The more risk you take with your portfolio the higher we expect your return to be over time.
                                      • Discussion: You can reduce your risk, you can hold more in cash, and you can mix more bonds into your portfolio, but you’ve got to expect then that your return will be lower over time.
                                      • Listener Feedback

                                        We encourage our listeners to reach out and share their experiences or questions about retirement investments. Email us at [email protected].

                                        Conclusion

                                        Planning for retirement can be daunting, but by adhering to these four principles, you’ll be well on your way to building a secure financial future. Stay informed, stay calm, and always keep a long-term perspective.

                                        Thank you for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more expert advice and insights on retirement planning.

                                        18 min
                                      • S3E23 – Special Guest Diane Brewer – Director of MET

                                        Maximizing College Savings with Diane Brewer of Michigan Education Trust

                                        Episode Summary

                                        In this episode, we sit down with Diane Brewer, the Executive Director of the Michigan Education Trust (MET), to discuss the ins and outs of Michigan’s prepaid 529 college savings plan. Diane shares her invaluable insights from over two decades of experience helping families prepare for the financial challenges of higher education. From understanding the benefits of MET and MESP to exploring how these plans can work together, this episode is packed with practical advice for parents, grandparents, and students alike.

                                        About Diane Brewer

                                        Executive Director, Michigan Education Trust

                                        With over 20 years of dedicated service, Diane Brewer has been pivotal in guiding Michigan families through the complexities of college savings. Starting as a presenter and outreach specialist, Diane has helped countless parents and grandparents secure a brighter future for their students with minimal student debt.

                                        Key Points and Highlights
                                        • Understanding MET and MESP:
                                          • MET is specific to tuition, providing a prepaid option for college tuition.
                                          • MESP is broader, covering tuition, room and board, books, lab fees, and other college-related expenses.
                                          • In an ideal scenario, a student would benefit from both MET for tuition and MESP for additional costs.
                                          • Listen to Diane explain the tax advantages of using Michigan’s 529 plans.
                                          • Scholarship Exceptions:
                                            • MET funds can be used for purposes other than tuition in the case of a scholarship.
                                            • Flexibility and Choice:
                                              • Families have the freedom to choose between MET and MESP based on their budget and preferences.
                                              • Both MET and MESP offer the same tax benefits, making them valuable tools for college savings.
                                              • Resources and Support:
                                                • Access logos and information for MET, MESP, and MAP on their respective websites.
                                                • Schedule one-on-one meetings with MET and MESP staff for personalized guidance.
                                                • Most processes can be completed online for convenience.
                                                • Diane emphasizes the ease of accessing these resources and the importance of staying informed.
                                                • Call-to-Action

                                                  Ready to take the next step in securing your child’s educational future? Visit the Michigan Education Trust website to learn more about MET, MESP, and MAP. Book a one-on-one meeting with our experts and get started on your college savings journey today!

                                                  Bookmark the MET and MESP websites to stay up-to-date with the latest resources and updates.

                                                  Connect with Us
                                                  • Follow us on Facebook and YouTube for the latest updates.
                                                  • Join our community of empowered parents and students navigating the path to college savings together.
                                                  • —

                                                    Stay tuned for more dynamic and empowering episodes that make navigating the complexities of college savings a breeze!

                                                    31 min
                                                  • S3E22 – How to Create an Income Stream in Retirement

                                                    In this episode, we explore various strategies to create a steady income stream in retirement, tailored to your unique financial situation and goals. We discuss when to take Social Security and dive into investment strategies that can help you maintain financial stability during your retirement years.

                                                    Watch on YouTube HERE

                                                    Key Points
                                                    Social Security Timing
                                                    • Varied Advice: There is widespread advice online suggesting taking Social Security at 62, but this isn’t always the best strategy.
                                                    • Advisor Perspectives: Many advisors recommend waiting longer, often until 70, to maximize benefits.
                                                    • Personal Factors: The decision should consider personal goals, longevity outlook, and risk tolerance.
                                                    • Investment Strategy
                                                      • Asset Allocation: Determine an asset allocation that fits your risk tolerance and generates adequate returns over time.
                                                      • Automated Distributions: Set up automated distributions from retirement funds to cover monthly income gaps.
                                                      • Portfolio Management:
                                                        • Break the portfolio into a dozen or so funds, each with an assigned percentage.
                                                        • Monthly assessments determine which funds are overweighted and should be sold first to generate necessary cash.
                                                        • Contributions from interest and dividends also help create the cash needed for distributions.
                                                        • Highlights
                                                          • Nuanced Decisions: The right timing for Social Security is nuanced and should be personalized.
                                                          • Holistic Planning: Effective retirement planning involves balancing risk with returns and ensuring regular income.
                                                          • Tactical Adjustments: Regularly adjust your portfolio to maintain balance and meet income needs.
                                                          • Ready to secure your financial future in retirement? Explore your personalized investment plan today.

                                                            Conclusion

                                                            Creating a reliable income stream in retirement involves more than just following generic advice. By understanding your individual needs and making informed decisions about Social Security timing and investment strategies, you can achieve financial stability and peace of mind in your golden years. Tune in to this episode for expert insights and practical tips to help you on your retirement planning journey.

                                                            517-321-4832
                                                            32 min
                                                          • S3E21 – Retirement Planning Headlines – May 2024

                                                            Welcome back to our much-anticipated May 2024 edition of “Retirement Planning Headlines,” where we save you the hassle of combing through endless financial articles. This month, we’ve even had listeners chime in with topics for our deep-dive discussions.

                                                            Watch on YouTube HERE

                                                            Articles Discussed in this Episode
                                                            How Much Should You Spend on Vacation?
                                                            • 5-10% of take-home pay on Vacations
                                                            • Never go into debt to pay for vacation
                                                            • Beware of luxury creep and entitlement creep
                                                            • Don’t get caught up in Instagram vacations
                                                            • Don’t be a vacation scrooge
                                                            • Is planning for age 95 longevity overkill?
                                                              • How long should you plan to live in retirement?
                                                              • The industry practice of planning to 95 but a new report shows most people won’t reach this age
                                                                • The report notes that “for the almost 30 percent of the 65-plus population with diabetes, there is less than a one percent chance they will reach 95
                                                                • a typical 65-year-old man with no chronic conditions, there is only a 19.3 percent chance of living to 95. A 65-year-old with high blood pressure has slimmer odds, with a 17.5 percent chance of living for another 30 years.
                                                                • Plan to 95 and live to 86 could potentially spend an additional $447,000
                                                                • How to think about planning to 95
                                                                  • Family health history
                                                                  • Your health condition
                                                                  • Making adjustments along the way
                                                                  • Risk profile
                                                                  • Legacy goals
                                                                  • Retiring Early Is Your Dream. 7 Steps to Make It Come True.

                                                                    Steps to Weigh Early Retirement Decisions

                                                                    • Understand the why
                                                                    • Play devils advocate
                                                                    • Crunch the numbers
                                                                    • Plan ahead
                                                                    • Social security considerations
                                                                    • Factor in healthcare costs
                                                                    • Consider part-time work
                                                                    • ‘What Was I Thinking?’ The Big-Ticket Items People Regret
                                                                      • Rolex
                                                                      • Vacation home on land not owned
                                                                      • RVs
                                                                      • Clothing salesman with a $1,800 cover-up
                                                                      • The Downside of Delayed Gratification
                                                                        • Research shows that if we decide not to use something (delayed gratification) the possession will feel more special
                                                                        • Can lead to us not using at all or delaying too long instead of embracing the moment.
                                                                        • The big takeaway is that delayed gratification isn’t always the answer
                                                                        • The kids with the marshmallows! (shout out to Daniel Kahneman!)
                                                                          • All the kids that were able to delay gratification DID SOMETHING to distract themselves
                                                                          • How Much Happiness Can Your Salary Buy? Researchers Can’t Agree
                                                                            • Money buys happiness. With diminishing returns. And no magic number
                                                                              • Money buys happiness
                                                                                • Money matters for happiness, but not enormously
                                                                                • It isn’t what money buys, but the choices it affords
                                                                                • Diminishing returns
                                                                                  • As income increases, each dollar makes less of a difference in happiness
                                                                                  • More about % change than $ amount
                                                                                  • Magic number
                                                                                    • There is no magic number ($75,000 or $110,000 in today’s dollars)
                                                                                    • Not a refutation of the underlying premise, but it does bring up nuances to the argument ($75k is an oversimplification)
                                                                                    • Ugh. Do I Really Need a New Roof Right Now?
                                                                                      • Interesting for the topic, but also the philosophy
                                                                                        • Roofs can last longer than conventional wisdom, but the range is huge and depends on the environment, how it was installed, etc.
                                                                                        • The columnist had a roof leak
                                                                                          • Paid a roof inspector -and was told $2500 for a repair
                                                                                          • Also got an opinion from a roofing contractor – $18,000
                                                                                          • Paying for the inspection was well worth it
                                                                                          • $2 Million Is Nothing’ Suze Orman Warns Don’t Retire If You Don’t Have At Least $5 Million Or $10 Million Saved
                                                                                            • What she got wrong
                                                                                              • Dollar amounts apply differently to different people
                                                                                              • What she got right
                                                                                                • Longer retirements mean more things will change so proceed with caution
                                                                                                • HOW MUCH IS A MEMORY WORTH?
                                                                                                  • How do we value our memories? Can we value them?
                                                                                                  • With the benefit of hindsight, how much would I pay for that same trip knowing how much I value the memories?
                                                                                                  • Memories of experiences tend to increase in value over time – even if the experience doesn’t last long. A concert, for example, may only last a few hours.
                                                                                                  • Physical “Stuff” tends to last longer (gadgets, jewelry, toys), but the value usually decreases over time.
                                                                                                  • EVEN NEGATIVE EXPERIENCES CAN HAVE VALUE
                                                                                                  • Experiences are shared, and things are compared
                                                                                                  • Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, and Duke University professor, recommends some variety and doing something to make the memory more intense.
                                                                                                    • For example, add adventure into a relaxing beach vacation – Kiteboarding
                                                                                                    • The takeaway: If we want to consciously create a lasting memory, choose a unique (variety), exciting (intense) event that you already have an understanding or interest in.
                                                                                                    • Stock Investors Have Already Won the Election
                                                                                                      • John Rekenthaler @ Morning Star
                                                                                                      • Regardless of the election outcome, “Stock investors have already won”
                                                                                                      • Notes that neither party nor candidate is inclined to really alter the economic system, which has been good for stocks
                                                                                                      • Much concern coming out of the financial crisis (anti-capitalist sentiment from both sides, more regulation, Occupy Wall Street) but largely faded
                                                                                                      • Both sides talk about change
                                                                                                        • Democrats – regulation, redistribution
                                                                                                        • Republicans – antiregulation, free markets
                                                                                                        • Neither does much to really alter the landscape
                                                                                                        • “In short, there are plenty of reasons to sweat the upcoming election.”
                                                                                                          • Social issues, immigration, foreign policy, etc.
                                                                                                          • The stock market is not one of them
                                                                                                          • Remember to subscribe and follow our podcast for monthly updates packed with practical advice to guide you through your financial future with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned and stay informed!

                                                                                                            32 min
                                                                                                          • S3E20 – Dealing With Increasing Insurance Rates
                                                                                                            Episode Summary

                                                                                                            In this episode, we tackle the pressing issue of rising insurance rates with our special guest, Ben Rathbun. Ben is the President and CEO of Rathbun Insurance Agency, an independent agency with over 68 years of history. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help us understand what’s happening in the insurance market and why rates are going up.

                                                                                                            Watch on YouTube HERE

                                                                                                            Key Discussion Points
                                                                                                            • Introduction to Ben Rathbun and the Rathbun Agency
                                                                                                            • Understanding the current insurance market landscape
                                                                                                            • Key factors driving up insurance rates
                                                                                                            • The role of risk management in insurance
                                                                                                            • Practical tips on how to manage and mitigate insurance costs
                                                                                                            • The importance of educating customers about their insurance policies
                                                                                                            • Guest Speaker
                                                                                                              Ben Rathbun

                                                                                                              Ben Rathbun is the President and CEO of Rathbun Insurance Agency. With a legacy that spans over six decades, Rathbun Insurance prides itself on being an education-centric company that helps clients understand and manage their insurance needs.

                                                                                                              Quotes from the Episode
                                                                                                              1. “Everyone has to buy insurance, but who do people buy insurance from? People they like and people who educate them.”
                                                                                                              2. “We consider ourselves very much an education company that happens to sell insurance.”
                                                                                                              3. “It’s not my job just to sell you a policy. It’s also to help you understand your exposure and how to protect yourself.”
                                                                                                              4. Call to Action

                                                                                                                If you’re looking for advice on managing your insurance in these challenging times, don’t miss this episode with Ben Rathbun. Listen now and gain valuable insights on how to protect yourself and your assets.

                                                                                                                Subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights on managing your finances and staying ahead in the market.

                                                                                                                Connect with Us
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                                                                                                                • Facebook: @SRBAdvisors
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                                                                                                                • YouTube: @shotwellrutterbaer
                                                                                                                • Connect with Ben Rathbun
                                                                                                                  • Website
                                                                                                                  • LinkedIn
                                                                                                                  • Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode with anyone who might find it helpful. Thank you for listening!

                                                                                                                    35 min
                                                                                                                  • S3E19 – Using CDs and Bonds in Retirement

                                                                                                                    Welcome to another episode of Kitchen Table Finance, where we dive deep into financial strategies to help you make the most out of your retirement. In today’s episode, we’re tackling a common question: “Should I put everything into CDs or bonds when I retire?”

                                                                                                                    Watch on YouTube

                                                                                                                    Episode Highlights

                                                                                                                    The Common Misconception

                                                                                                                    • Many retirees think, “I’m retiring, so I should put everything in CDs or bonds to avoid risk.”
                                                                                                                    • While CDs and bonds are safer investments, there’s a more strategic way to use them in your retirement plan.
                                                                                                                    • Proper Use of CDs and Bonds

                                                                                                                      • CDs and bonds are indeed useful for retirement, but they should be part of a larger, diversified strategy.
                                                                                                                      • We discuss how to balance these safe investments with other asset classes to optimize your retirement portfolio.
                                                                                                                      • Understanding Cash Investments

                                                                                                                        • Despite being considered straightforward, many people struggle with understanding how CDs, money markets, and cash investments fit into their overall financial picture.
                                                                                                                        • We explore how the current high-yield environment for cash investments is an anomaly and how to navigate it.
                                                                                                                        • Historical Context

                                                                                                                          • Reflecting on how discussions around cash investments have evolved over the past decade.
                                                                                                                          • Current opportunities: High-yield savings accounts offering 5% returns and how they impact your decisions.
                                                                                                                          • Practical Advice

                                                                                                                            • Cash is ideal for contingency funds or planned expenses within the next 12-36 months.
                                                                                                                            • Just because you hit retirement doesn’t mean you should put all your money into low-risk investments.
                                                                                                                            • Long-term retirement income should include a mix of assets to ensure growth and sustainability over 20-30 years or more.
                                                                                                                            • Interesting Tidbits

                                                                                                                              • Did you know there’s a bank offering a 100-year CD? What does that mean for you?
                                                                                                                              • Key Takeaways
                                                                                                                                • Diversification remains crucial even in retirement; don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
                                                                                                                                • Utilize CDs and bonds as part of a broader strategy to balance safety and growth.
                                                                                                                                • Stay informed about the current market environment and adjust your investments accordingly.
                                                                                                                                • Call to Action

                                                                                                                                  Enjoying our insights? Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for more valuable tips on managing your finances. Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Leave a comment or reach out to us directly—we’d love to hear from you!

                                                                                                                                  Connect With Us

                                                                                                                                  Follow us on social media to stay updated with our latest episodes and exclusive content. Don’t forget to share this episode with friends and family who might find it useful!

                                                                                                                                  Tune in next week as we continue to explore effective strategies for a secure and prosperous retirement!

                                                                                                                                  0 min
                                                                                                                                • S3E18 – Relocating During Retirement

                                                                                                                                  Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Kitchen Table Finance podcast! In this episode, Dave and Nick dive deep into the intricate world of relocating during retirement, examining how recent economic shifts have impacted this significant life decision.

                                                                                                                                  Key Discussion Points:
                                                                                                                                  1. Changing Landscape of Real Estate:
                                                                                                                                    • Nick and Dave discuss how the real estate market has evolved post-pandemic. While interest rates were historically low, they have since risen, creating a unique set of challenges and opportunities for retirees considering relocation.
                                                                                                                                    • The unexpected resilience of the property market despite rising interest rates, and how this affects decisions around selling and buying homes.
                                                                                                                                      1. Interest Rates and Their Impact:
                                                                                                                                        • Insights into why some homeowners are hesitant to sell their properties with low-interest mortgages, seeing them as valuable financial assets in the current economic climate.
                                                                                                                                        • The Wall Street Journal’s perspective on low-interest mortgages as strong-performing financial assets.
                                                                                                                                          1. Traditional vs. Modern Retirement Housing Trends:
                                                                                                                                            • How the conventional approach to retirement—selling a larger family home and downsizing—has become less straightforward in today’s economy.
                                                                                                                                            • The scarcity of smaller, single-story homes suitable for retirees compared to the abundance of large-family homes built over the past two decades.
                                                                                                                                              1. The Double Squeeze:
                                                                                                                                                • Analysis of the dual pressure on the market for smaller homes: retirees looking to downsize and millennials seeking starter homes. This has led to increased competition and higher prices for such properties.
                                                                                                                                                • The interplay between an aging population’s housing needs and the influx of younger buyers into the market.
                                                                                                                                                  1. Financial and Emotional Considerations:
                                                                                                                                                    • Relocating during retirement is not just a financial decision but also an emotional and practical one. The challenges include navigating the housing market and dealing with the stress and logistical aspects of moving.
                                                                                                                                                    • Dave’s observation: If relocating during retirement were purely a financial calculus, the decision might often be to stay put. However, the reality involves more nuanced personal and emotional factors.
                                                                                                                                                      1. Practical Tips for Prospective Retirees:
                                                                                                                                                        • Nick and Dave share practical advice for those considering relocation in retirement, including how to evaluate the pros and cons, plan for the financial implications, and manage the emotional aspects of such a significant life change.
                                                                                                                                                        • Conclusion

                                                                                                                                                          If you found this episode valuable and want to explore more about managing your finances during retirement, don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast! For personalized advice and insights, join our community by signing up for our newsletter at srbadvisors.com.

                                                                                                                                                          Stay Connected:

                                                                                                                                                          Thank you for tuning into the “Kitchen Table Finance” podcast. We’re here to help you navigate your journey toward a financially secure and fulfilling retirement. Until next time, stay informed and stay empowered!

                                                                                                                                                          26 min
                                                                                                                                                        • S3E17 – Retirement Planning Headlines – April 2024

                                                                                                                                                          Welcome back to our much-anticipated April 2024 edition of “Retirement Planning Headlines,” where we save you the hassle of combing through endless financial articles. This month, we’ve even had listeners chime in with topics for our deep-dive discussions.

                                                                                                                                                          Watch on YouTube HERE

                                                                                                                                                          Articles Discussed in this Episode

                                                                                                                                                          5 Investing Mistakes Anyone Can Make | Morningstar

                                                                                                                                                          • “Do as I say Not as I do” by Christine Benz
                                                                                                                                                          • Where she falls short of following the advice she knows and often gives
                                                                                                                                                            • Too much cash, too few bonds, slow to make contributions, too much employer stock
                                                                                                                                                            • The New Math of Driving Your Car Till The Wheels Fall Off

                                                                                                                                                              • With the cost of car ownership going up the case for driving a car until the wheels fall off has grown stronger
                                                                                                                                                              • US vehicle average hit a record high of 12.5 years in 2023 – increasing for the sixth straight year
                                                                                                                                                              • Newer models have become expensive to repair
                                                                                                                                                              • Unloading your vehicle when repair costs 10% more than what you would pay for a new one.
                                                                                                                                                              • Americans can’t stop ‘spaving’ — here’s how to avoid this financial trap

                                                                                                                                                                • Spending more to save more – Spaving
                                                                                                                                                                  • This can lead to excessive spending
                                                                                                                                                                    • Examples:
                                                                                                                                                                      • Limited time deal
                                                                                                                                                                      • Buy one get one free
                                                                                                                                                                      • Free shipping after spending a certain amount
                                                                                                                                                                      • Spaving is us justifying our desire to buy more – Klontz
                                                                                                                                                                        • Teams of scientists have figured out how to extract more money from you
                                                                                                                                                                        • Ways to Avoid
                                                                                                                                                                          • Quiet the noise – delete shopping apps and unsubscribe from newsletters
                                                                                                                                                                          • Pay with Cash – Less likely to part with dollars
                                                                                                                                                                          • Do the math –
                                                                                                                                                                          • Steer clear of temptation –
                                                                                                                                                                            • order online instead of browsing in-store.
                                                                                                                                                                            • Don’t go to the grocery store hungry
                                                                                                                                                                            • Create shopping “hurdles”
                                                                                                                                                                              • Delete payment details to make purchasing harder
                                                                                                                                                                              • Don’t create accounts buy as a guest
                                                                                                                                                                              • Set time rules
                                                                                                                                                                                • 24-hour rules
                                                                                                                                                                                • DWS – Lots of bad math, too… retailers just re-word how they are pricing to make it seem like a deal

                                                                                                                                                                                  Managing Health Care Costs in Retirement

                                                                                                                                                                                  1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
                                                                                                                                                                                  2. Boost your retirement savings
                                                                                                                                                                                  3. Utilize a Health Savings Account
                                                                                                                                                                                  4. Consider your retirement age
                                                                                                                                                                                    1. 62 vs 65
                                                                                                                                                                                      1. Live like you are already retired
                                                                                                                                                                                      2. DWS – Charlie Munger:

                                                                                                                                                                                         “Nobody survives open heart surgery better than the guy who didn’t need the procedure in the first place.”

                                                                                                                                                                                        Men Who Are Truly Happy In Their Retirement Usually Adopt These Daily Habits

                                                                                                                                                                                        As author Ethan Sterling puts it:

                                                                                                                                                                                        You see, happiness in retirement isn’t about having a bulging bank account or an endless holiday. It’s about how you live your everyday life. Here’s what he found in men who successfully retired

                                                                                                                                                                                        1. Embrace routine
                                                                                                                                                                                        2. Stay active
                                                                                                                                                                                        3. Keep Learning
                                                                                                                                                                                        4. Stay socially connected
                                                                                                                                                                                        5. Practice mindfulness
                                                                                                                                                                                        6. Cherish their relationships
                                                                                                                                                                                        7. Make time for self-care
                                                                                                                                                                                        8. Embrace change
                                                                                                                                                                                        9. Live with gratitude
                                                                                                                                                                                        10. Retirement Age 65, Most Workers Retire at 62

                                                                                                                                                                                          • Most Americans believe they will work until age 65
                                                                                                                                                                                          • Research shows that the majority step back from work far earlier, and not by choice
                                                                                                                                                                                            • The median age is 62
                                                                                                                                                                                            • 7-10 stopped working before 65
                                                                                                                                                                                            • 1/3 cited health issues or disability
                                                                                                                                                                                            • Only 2 in 5 did so because they could afford it
                                                                                                                                                                                            • Where to Stash Your Cash

                                                                                                                                                                                              • Consider liquidity, convenience, safety
                                                                                                                                                                                              • 4 Finacial Worries to Cross Off Your List

                                                                                                                                                                                                • Take things that might happen but are remote possibilities off the list of things you worry about:
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • Estate tax
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • Gift tax
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • That you’ll need hard assets to buy things (economic death spiral)
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • That the government will start taxing Roth IRAs
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • General takeaway: if it requires everything to go badly at once, or (like tax changes) political willpower to hurt the bulk of the American middle class, take it off the list. Also if it requires extreme irreversible actions (like fancy trust to avoid estate tax or buying physical gold)
                                                                                                                                                                                                  • Remember to subscribe and follow our podcast for monthly updates packed with practical advice to guide you through your financial future with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned and stay informed!

                                                                                                                                                                                                    32 min