Friends Talk Money

If you're like a lot of people nearing retirement, your 401(k) or 403(b) is probably the biggest part of your savings. But do you actually know how it's invested—or how much risk in stocks you're taking on without realizing it? In this episode of Friends Talk Money, we're going to look more closely. Ron Surz, a long-time retirement investing expert and president of Target Date Solutions joins us—and he's not afraid to call out where he thinks popular target date funds are falling short. He'll walk us through what he believes is a better way to structure retirement portfolios, especially for people in their 50s, 60s, and those already retired. We'll talk about: What's really under the hood in your retirement plan The real risks inside target date funds—and how they're built What Ron recommends instead, and why What to think about before you roll over your retirement savings The most common mistakes people make late in the game—and how to avoid them. Whether you're in your 50s, 60s, or already retired, this conversation will give you actionable steps to take control of your retirement savings today. Terry Savage: What's in YOUR retirement plan? (Chicago Tribune) Baby Boomer Investing Show Ron Surz, Target Date Solutions (401k Specialist) 4 Things You Can Control in Retirement (Pam Krueger)

Is your financial advisor truly working in your best interest — or theirs? In this eye-opening episode, the Friends Talk Money team turns the mic toward their own co-host, Pam Krueger, as she reveals the personal story behind Wealthramp, the platform she created to connect investors with trustworthy, vetted financial advisors. Pam shares the shocking truths she uncovered about conflicts of interest in the financial industry and why too many investors unknowingly work with advisors who don't prioritize their clients' financial well-being. Learn how Wealthramp is disrupting the traditional advisor model by putting integrity, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility front and center. If you've ever wondered how to find a financial advisor you can actually trust — this conversation is a must-watch.    

In this episode of Friends Talk Money, we're joined by Phil Moeller, renowned journalist and co-author of Get What's Yours: The Secrets to Maxing Out Your Social Security. Phil dives into all things Social Security—unpacking the latest changes, what they mean for you, and how to make smart decisions that can boost your retirement benefits. Topics we cover: Key Social Security changes for 2025 and beyond How these updates may affect your benefits Strategies to optimize your Social Security claiming decisions Common mistakes to avoid when planning for retirement Whether you're nearing retirement, already collecting benefits, or helping a loved one make financial decisions, this episode is packed with practical advice and essential information you won't want to miss.

Ready to explore the world without breaking the bank? The Friends Talk Money crew sat down  with Barbara Talisman from Talisman Travel Tribe, who shares her top tips for traveling the world on a shoestring budget! From finding cheap flights to scoring affordable accommodations, Barbara's got you covered. What's your go-to tip for saving money while traveling?

Looking for help this tax season? The Friends Talk Money team welcomes IRS spokesperson Eric Smith to discuss important tax changes and tax planning strategies. As a trusted tax accountant for the IRS, Eric breaks down the difference between tax credits and deductions, and shares valuable insights into new tools ‘direct file' and ‘free file' and other crucial matters that could affect your finances. Listen for more informative tips on how you should navigate the complex world of taxes!

Rebuilding your finances after a disaster can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The Friends Talk Money crew sits down to learn more from Wealthramp-network advisor Mitchell Freedman, CPA/PFS, who's lived through this before himself. His personal and practical tips on preparing for and recovering from financial crises are invaluable. Mitch highlights how working with a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor can help those affected by a disaster recover financially. Listen to learn more!

Worried whether the stock market is too risky for your retirement money? You're not alone! We're going to help you decide how to sleep at night and still invest so you're money's working for you. Tune in as the Friends Talk Money team chats with Jim Stack from InvesTech Research to uncover smart strategies for navigating your retirement journey.

Thinking about a Roth conversion but not sure if it's the right move? The Friends Talk Money team breaks down six key things you need to know before making a decision! From tax implications to future benefits, we've got you covered. Curious about how a Roth conversion could impact your financial future?

The Friends Talk Money team is here to help you start 2025 off right! From organizing your important documents to aligning your investments with your goals, we've got the tools and tips you need for a successful financial year! What financial goals are you going to cross off your list this year?

Debra Whitman Chief Public Policy Officer, AARP joins the Friends Talk Money crew to give us a glimpse into her latest book, ‘The Second Fifty'. Dive into the conversation as Richard, Pam, and Terry discuss the big questions about health, wealth, and longevity in midlife and beyond. What's the biggest question you have about navigating this new chapter? Listen to learn more!

Ready to make 2025 your best financial year yet? The Friends Talk Money team is here to help! Join Terry, Rich, and Pam as they break down 9 essential tips to set yourself up for financial success in the new year. Unlock Your Financial Future - Begin by consolidating all your year-end IRA statements and harness the power of an online RMD calculator to determine your 2025 minimum distributions. This crucial step ensures you're setting aside the right amount for a secure future. Refresh Your Records - Keep your IRA beneficiaries up-to-date to safeguard your legacy. Optimize Your Portfolio - Align your investment allocations with your 2025 goals by reviewing your retirement portfolio. Explore Secure Investments - Consider securing a 4% CD, available online, to bolster your financial safety net. Seek Expert Insight - Gain a fresh perspective on your financial strategies by consulting a trusted professional. Enhance Your Security - Use a password manager to protect your personal information and investments. Guard Against SIM Fraud - Contact your phone provider (AT&T, Verizon, etc.) to establish a password-protected process, shielding your SIM from fraudsters. Prepare for Tax Season - With potential tax changes on the horizon, start organizing now to navigate the upcoming tax season smoothly. Reimagine Retirement - As retirement landscapes evolve, envision your future with flexibility, considering the trend of working into later years.

It's that time of year again! The Friends Talk Money team dives into charitable giving. There are many benefits to contributing to your favorite charity. The conversation is about the tax and personal benefits of giving. But  how do you choose the right charities, align donations with your values, and maximize tax savings? Terry, Rich, and Pam share tips on vetting charities and questions to ask your financial advisor. Tune in and join the conversation!

Ready to unlock the secrets to a fulfilling retirement? It's the most talked-about retirement book in decades! Join the Friends Talk Money team as they chat with retirement expert and best-selling author, Christine Benz! Christine shares some insights on what truly makes retirees happy, how to navigate healthcare choices and the impact of social security on your budget. Plus, you'll hear what Christine says about getting a second pair of eyes from a qualified financial advisor can provide you peace of mind throughout your retirement. Learn more in this week's episode and be sure to check out Christine's new book, How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement.

Medicare open enrollment is here, and this year things could get a little tricky! The Friends Talk Money team is joined by Medicare expert Philip Moeller who breaks down everything you need to know about this year's medicare open enrollment season and offers some helpful tips to avoid costly mistakes. Have you reviewed your plan options yet?

A growing number of people 55+ are searching for a deeper meaning and purpose in your life, and heading back to college to find it. And many prestigious colleges and universities are offering specialized programs designed just for those new ‘senior students'. These midlife and later-life reinvention courses are flourishing nationwide, with exciting new opportunities launching soon at Yale, the University of Southern California, and Boston College. Tune in to this week's episode as the Friends Talk Money team delves into this transformative journey, exploring what's included, all costs involved, and how these programs can help you achieve a fulfilling and enriching new life in retirement.

Your home is more than just a roof over your head; it's a treasure trove of memories and emotions. As you consider your estate planning, it's essential to think about how to pass this cherished asset on to your heirs. The Friends Talk Money team dives into the heart of estate planning and explores all your options for your most emotional asset—your home. Whether you want to keep it in the family, sell it, or create a trust, we're here to guide you through those tough decisions.

As more retirees seek to reenter the workforce, it is crucial to know how to position yourself for success in today's competitive job market. In this episode, the Friends Talk Money team shares valuable insights on updating your resume effectively. With years of experience in your industry, focus on maintaining a concise and impactful resume. Highlight your achievements with quantifiable metrics and incorporate relevant keywords to make your resume stand out to potential employers. Listen to learn more!

On the latest episode of Friends Talk Money, the crew sits down with IRA and Tax Guru Ed Slott to dive deep into all things retirement savings.

Expert Brian Gordon explains how a recent law created a clever new way to pay for premiums in case you ever need long-term care.

Taking care of loved one's with special needs can be incredibly overwhelming, especially if you're going at it alone. That's why it's so important to know where to turn for help. Mary Anne Ehlert, founder of Protected Tomorrows, recently joined the Friends Talk Money team to share her personal experience as a caregiver to her own sister with special needs. Mary Anne shed light on the complexities and amount of work required to financially care for someone who cannot earn an income of their own.  She also described what motivated her to start Protected Tomorrows and help families to access the vital resources and professional support they need.

The Friends Talk Money team is joined by Alexandra Armstrong, CFP®, CRPC® who is the chairman and founder of Armstrong, Fleming & Moore, Inc. Alex has worked in the investment field for more than 40 years and back in 1977, was the first person to earn the Certified Financial Planner™ certification in Washington, DC. On this episode, Alex discusses her book On Your Own, a widows guide to emotional and financial well-being and offers useful advice to those who are struggling with becoming a widow.

Our next special guest has undeniably made the most significant impact on your retirement savings strategy. In this episode, the Friends Talk Money team sits down with Ted Benna, the father of the 401(k) plan. Ted shares the fascinating story of how he conceived this groundbreaking idea, navigated the IRS approval process, and gives us a glimpse into his current projects.

New Social Security Commissioner Cuts Clawbacks!

There's nothing more painful than losing your job when you're older and not being able to get a new one. Research says there's a stigma about "older unemployment" - especially when it drags on for more than a year! Meet Ben who is going through that right now. He remains optimistic, but details the hazards -- even for those in technology -- when a job disappears. Some helpful perspective for you - or someone you might know and love.

The price of prescription drugs can be enormous when you're on Medicare, so in this Friends Talk Money episode, we offer advice on how to pay the least for your medications. With help from expert Diane Archer of JustCareUsa, we discuss when to use your Medicare Part D plan, what to know about prescription discount cards and programs from drug companies and states that can lower your prescription costs.

You're probably familiar with financial literacy, which entails having the skills, knowledge and behaviors to make decisions about money. But how's your longevity literacy? Not sure what we're talking about? In this episode Pam, Terry and Richard break down longevity literacy, and explain the impact, especially when it comes to your retirement readiness. Guest expert, Surya Kolluri, who is the head of the TIAA Institute joins the Friends Talk Money crew to uncover the importance behind longevity literacy and why he believes more Americans should focus on improving theirs.

In this episode Pam, Terry and Richard talk about what's like to be the most important financial decision you'll ever make… what to do with your 401k money when you're ready to retire? The Department of Labor says any retirement advice you get a work should always be in your best interest. The question is… is it? Pam leads the discussion about the DOL's new proposed Fiduciary Rule and includes special guest Kevin Walsh of Groom Law Group and break down why the DOL's so worried.

Advice on lowering your debt load and credit card rates, plus pros and cons of filing bankruptcy. With Bruce McClary, Senior Vice President of Media Relations & Membership at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.  

Retiring abroad can be appealing, with lower costs and great weather. But here are some things you also need to consider before making a move.

In this episode, the Friends Talk Money team discusses how you can help set up your grandchildren for financial success beyond the traditional 529 college saving plans. Tune in as Pam, Richard and Terry share helpful tips and savvy money strategies that they've learned from their own personal experiences.

The rules for RMDs have changed and you will want to know how much you must take out of your retirement plans and when. We explain it all on this episode of Friends Talk Money, including year-end advice. 

The Friends Talk Money podcasts talk about why many of us aren't bestowing inheritances to heirs the right way and not helping our parents make inheritances properly. We also talk about how financial advisers could be more helpful to families so they handle inheritances wisely.

Social Security is clawing back $21 billion in mistaken overpayments — impacting retirees and the disabled. Terry Savage and Larry Kotlikoff have written a new book —Social Security Horror Stories— revealing the shocking abuse. Last weekend they were featured on CBS - Sixty Minutes speaking with Anderson Cooper about this issue. In this episode, Larry joins Terry, Pam and Richard to take a deeper dive into problem and what you should do to ensure you get what's rightfully yours.

What to know about Medicare Open Enrollment for 2024. What's new and how to shop wisely for coverage.

Not everyone looks at their personal financial future through rose colored glasses. In fact a recent Gallup poll shows Americans not yet retired are more worried than anytime in the past ten years. Discouraged savers who see the glass-half-empty may actually need different financial strategies just based on their outlook. We give you solid financial planning tips that can make your outlook.

Learn how to lower your repayments and cut years off your loan payments w attorney and expert Rae Kaplan.   Student Loan Sticker Shock By Terry Savage Federal Student Loan Debt Relief    

Roger AKA, "The Retirement Answer Man” and author of “Rock Retirement: A Simple Guide to Help You Take Control and Be More Optimistic About the Future,". Roger has been a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional for more than 25 years. He's sharing how he's now helping people live well today in retirement without sacrificing tomorrow.

In this episode, Friends Talk Money co-hosts Pam Krueger, Richard Eisenberg and Terry Savage discuss what Medicare does and doesn't cover when it comes to treatments for Alzheimer's Disease and drugs for weight loss. A recent FDA decision means Medicare will be covering a new, game-changing Alzheimer's drug for many people 65 and older, but there are some strings attached. By contrast, Medicare currently won't pay for drugs to lower weight, although it will pay for weight-loss surgery in some cases. An act of Congress, however, could change the rules about Medicare and weight-loss drugs.

In this Friends Talk Money episode, college financing expert Mark Kantrowitz talks with our hosts Terry Savage, Pam Krueger and Richard Eisenberg on how grandparents can use 529 plans to save for their grandchildren's' college tuition bills. 

A guide to who should consider buying a long-term care insurance policy, what these policies do and don't cover, what age to consider buying it and the newer versions known as hybrid policies and 10-Pay policies. Our guest: Brian Gordon, a long-term care insurance policy expert with Gordon Associates in Bannockburn, Ill.

The Age Wave research and consulting firm and the Edward Jones financial services firm just published a survey of Americans' views and actions regarding cannonballs and curveballs in retirement. In today's episode we talk with Lena Haas of Edward Jones about the findings.

Some retirees run into trouble receiving their promised pensions. Others aren't sure if they're eligible to receive pensions. Here's where to go to get help to ensure you get any pension you're due and to see whether there may bea pension waiting for you.

Netflix released a new docuseries that reveals how Madoff got away with stealing $36 Billion from wealthy investors and charities. It's been 15 years since the biggest criminal on Wall Street, Bernie Madoff pulled off the largest Ponzi scheme in history. Bernie Madoff may be dead, but there are still plenty of con artists and investment scams and new lessons to learn from this story.

The clock is ticking towards Tax Day, April 18. Here are some timely tips for tax form procrastinators.

Mention the word “annuity” and most investors recoil. There seem to be so many hidden secrets and costs.  And high pressure sales tactics along with "free dinners." In today's podcast we unravel those mysteries – with the one man who has consistently worked to educate the public to the ins and outs of annuities – as well as some of the better uses of these insurance company contracts.  Stan Haithcock's website – www.StantheAnnuityMan.com -- is a great resource for free basic information and good advice on annuities.  And Stan is one of the most entertaining financial speakers you'll ever meet. So, sit back and enjoy our podcast.  We devote special attention to Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs), now yielding over 5.5%.  They're the insurance industry's version of a bank CD, without the FDIC backing.  And they are a great way to improve yields either inside or outside your IRA. To read more about MYGAs, here's a link to Terry's column on the subject:  https://www.terrysavage.com/an-annuity-that-works-for-you-myga And if you'd like to listen to more of Stan's terrific approach to financial markets, both Terry and Pam have recently joined him on HIS podcast.  You'll find the links to these conversations here: Terry Savage: The Savage Financial Truth in 2023 https://www.stantheannuityman.com/fwa-terry-savage-january-2023   Pam Krueger: Your Wealthramp to Fiduciary Advice https://www.stantheannuityman.com/fwa-pam-krueger-february-2023

Have you given some thought to where and how you'd like to live in your retirement years?  Many insist on staying in the family home – without thinking about logistics of stairs and navigating the bathroom in later years.  Maybe you'll just downsize to a smaller home.  Others decide to move into a senior community, making new friends in these settings with like-minded and active adults.  The latest enticing option is Continuing Care Retirement Communities, which offer initial living in townhomes or condos, while guaranteeing acceptance for one or both spouses into assisted living or even memory care as the need might arise. This is a financial, as well as logistical and emotional decision, as many of these CCRCs require a large up-front deposit, typically funded by the sale of the family home.  Guarantees are involved, but you need to read the fine print.  You'll find an explanation and details in Terry's recent column. On this podcast, we will speak with Dana Smith, Chief Marketing Officer for Lifespace Communities (https://www.lifespacecommunities.com/), a non-profit  company that has 18 communities in seven states, ranging from Florida to Texas, and Illinois to Kansas.  As you'll hear in this podcast, Dana has the answers to so many questions, ranging from how to get that deposit back to what happens if you run out of money.   And she has tips on what to look for and what questions to ask if you are considering moving to a Continuing Care Retirement Community.

Millions of Americans are feeling financially insecure about retirement, but "Retirement Reboot" author and journalist Mark Miller has some practical suggestions. In this "Friends Talk Money" episode, he shares insights and recommendations on: saving and investing for retirement, Social Security strategies, enrolling in Medicare and more.

Congress just passed a bill with the biggest changes for retirement in 15 years. The legislation, called Secure 2.0, has new ways to save for retirement and take money out of savings for emergencies, as well as new rules on how much you'll be required to take out of your retirement accounts and how the government will provide money to match retirement savings for some people. In this Friends Talk Money episode, we tell you what the new law means for you.

Many people worry about running out of money in retirement. But Jim Mahaney, a retirement advisor in New Jersey, says you can lessen that worry by creating what he calls a "resilient retirement income plan." He just wrote a whole book about it — "How to Craft a Resilient Retirement Income Plan" and in this episode, Friends Talk Money podcast co-hosts Richard Eisenberg, Pam Krueger and Terry Savage talk about how, and why, to do just that.

The holiday shopping season is officially underway, and like many grandparents and parents, you're probablysearching for gifts that will make a lasting impression on young people–rather than being quicklyoutgrownor broken. So we have gathered some of our best holiday money gifts for kids of all ages—gifts that will keep on giving for years to come.