The Retirement Engineer with Jim Kruzan - Your Path to a Bigger, Bolder Retirement

What do tariffs mean for your retirement savings and investments? Is it still okay to retire right now?

In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, tackles the often-overlooked world of tariffs and their unexpected impact on your financial future. Whether you’re decades away from retirement or just around the corner, understanding these global financial levers can be crucial.

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How can artificial intelligence threaten your retirement savings? 

In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, welcomes former FBI Special Agent Jeff Lanza, an expert in cybercrime and fraud prevention, to discuss how AI-driven scams could affect your financial security. 

Jeff shares eye-opening insights on various AI-driven scams, including phishing emails, romance scams, and the rise of deep fakes. They discuss how these scams exploit seniors and take advantage of technological naivety. 

Learn valuable tips on how to safeguard yourself and your loved ones as this episode highlights:

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About  Jeff Lanza: 

Jeff Lanza has been described as the “# 1 FBI Agent Keynote Speaker” and “A Phenomenal Presenter.” He was an FBI agent for over 20 years and is a cybersecurity and identity theft expert. Jeff has provided hundreds of presentations to financial advisors and their clients on cyber security and identity theft prevention. They have been a great hit with clients! His presentation on body language is similarly a hit with financial advisors and others.

Jeff was an FBI Special Agent for over 20 years. He investigated cybercrime, fraud, organized crime, human trafficking, and terrorism. He appears regularly on CNBC’s Closing Bell and Power Lunch, the Fox News Channel, and has appeared on Larry King Live, the Today Show, and Good Morning America. He has lectured at Princeton University and at Harvard University. He is a published author of two critically acclaimed books and he consulted for Oscar-winning movie director Ang Lee. Jeff has presented around the globe and in 49 U.S. States.

How does your savings strategy impact your financial future, particularly with tax season looming and new contribution limits set for 2025?

Jim KruzanCFP®, CRPC® and guest Dylan Stewart, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Public Accountant, unravel the concept of tax-efficient waterfall funding—an approach crafted to maximize your savings efficiency while minimizing tax burdens. Together, they provide insights into how this process not only benefits savers but also retirees by reversing strategies to efficiently tap into accumulated funds.

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About our Guest: 

Dylan Stewart, CFP®, CPA, serves as a Wealth Advisor at Kaydan Wealth Management, offering comprehensive wealth management and guiding clients through the Evolutionary Wealth Process. As a member of the Investment Policy Committee and collaborator with Senior Wealth Advisors, he plays a pivotal role in shaping and maintaining client financial strategies.

Starting the year with financial resolutions is common, but making them stick is the real challenge. 

How can you ensure your goals turn into lasting habits?

In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, explores strategies to set realistic financial resolutions and sustain them. He provides actionable insights on how to turn resolutions into habits, prioritize effectively, and build accountability systems for long-term success.

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It’s time to reflect on the invaluable insights from the very best episodes throughout the year, featuring top experts who simplify financial complexities and share actionable strategies.

Join Jim Kruzan as he delves into unforgettable conversations and key takeaways from guests like Becky Eisen on aging with dignity, Dr. Jacqueline B. James on life well-lived beyond retirement, and cybersecurity expert Jeff Lanza on safeguarding your assets in the digital age.

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How have markets historically reacted to a change in U.S. presidency, and what can you do to safeguard your future investments?  

With Donald Trump’s return to the White House, understanding the market dynamics and economic policies becomes critical—let’s delve into what this means for your financial strategy.

As markets show mixed reactions to the news of Trump’s re-election, it’s crucial to explore what these changes mean for both your investments and the economy at large. Throughout this episode, we delve into historical patterns, current market trends, and outline key strategies to help you prepare for potential shifts. 

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Divorce can be a financial earthquake, especially when it comes to retirement planning. 

The emotional toll is high, but the financial stakes are even higher—splitting assets like 401(k)s, pensions, and real estate can leave your retirement plans hanging in the balance. With divorce rates continuing to climb, knowing how to navigate these turbulent waters is essential.

Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, Senior Wealth Advisor at Kaydan Wealth Management, teams up with Julia Black, a top family law attorney, to unpack the critical steps you need to take to help protect your financial future. 

From navigating prenuptial and postnuptial agreements to understanding how recent changes in alimony laws impact your tax situation, this conversation covers the key strategies that will help you avoid common financial pitfalls during divorce.

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About Our Guest: 

Julia grew up in Oakland County and has always served clients in Genesee County and throughout Michigan. She graduated with honors from the University of Michigan, double majoring in economics and psychology, before earning her law degree from the University of Iowa, where she also completed a master’s in business specializing in industrial and labor relations. 

Julia was a partner at a law firm in Flint Township before founding J. Black & Associates in 2004. For the past 20 years, her firm has focused on domestic relations law and civil litigation, particularly for small businesses. Julia is widely recognized for her work on qualified domestic relations orders, assisting clients and other lawyers with the division of retirement funds. 

She has been recognized in Super Lawyers Magazine for the past eight years, placing her among the top 5% of lawyers in Michigan. Julia’s extensive experience in domestic relations law makes her the ideal guest to explore today’s topic on the impact of divorce on retirement plans.

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Please note, the content in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or tax advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, this episode does not substitute for personalized guidance. We recommend consulting a qualified professional for advice regarding your individual circumstances. Neither the podcast hosts nor our guest today are liable for any actions taken based on this information. Listening to this episode does not establish an attorney-client relationship with our guest or any law firm.

What if you could save for both your child’s education and your retirement — without feeling torn? 

Join us for this episode of The Retirement Engineer as Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, Senior Wealth Advisor and Founder of Kaydan Wealth Management, along with Darren Brennan, Wealth Manager and CFP®, break down the strategies you need to successfully balance these competing financial priorities.

Learn how you can prioritize retirement while still setting aside funds for your child’s education without jeopardizing your financial future.

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About our Guest: 

Darren Brennan, CFP®, CRPC® is responsible for delivering the full spectrum of wealth management to our clients. Darren is a key member of Kaydan Wealth Management’s Investment Policy Committee and also supports the Senior Wealth Advisor with the creation and maintenance of client’s financial plans.

“My goal is to help our clients build and preserve their wealth. I want them to feel confident in the work we do for them so they can enjoy their retirement.”

Have you ever wished you could predict your tax bill before it arrives?

Tax pro formas could help you do just that.

Join Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, and returning guest Dylan Stewart, CFP®, CPA, for an enlightening discussion about the often overlooked strategy of using tax pro formas in financial planning. Learn how to anticipate tax liabilities, make informed decisions, and optimize your financial strategy to build upon your wealth and create the retirement you desire.

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About Our Guest: 

Dylan Stewart, CFP®, CPA, serves as a Wealth Advisor at Kaydan Wealth Management, offering comprehensive wealth management and guiding clients through the Evolutionary Wealth Process. As a member of the Investment Policy Committee and collaborator with Senior Wealth Advisors, he plays a pivotal role in shaping and maintaining client financial strategies.

“I love helping clients feel safe and secure by helping them achieve their financial goals and dreams.”

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to be happy and fulfilled in retirement beyond just having a solid financial plan?

Retirement isn’t just about financial stability – it’s about designing a life that’s fulfilling and joyful.

In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, sits down with Dr. Jacquelyn B. James, the Founding Director of the Sloan Research Network on Aging & Work to explore the emotional, social, and psychological aspects of retirement that are just as crucial as the financial aspect. 

Tune in as Jackie talks about the importance of emotional and social preparations and the long-lasting impact these factors can have on your overall retirement satisfaction!

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About Our Guest: 

Dr. Jacquelyn B. James (Jackie) is the founding director of the Sloan Research Network on Aging & Work and past co-director of the Center on Aging & Work at Boston College. She has dedicated her career to studying the intersection of aging, work, and retirement, and she brings a wealth of knowledge on how individuals can prepare psychologically and socially for this significant life transition.