Guarding Your Nest Egg

An unexpected item has made its way into Costco

As we approach retirement, financial decisions become increasingly crucial. One is whether to convert your traditional IRA or 401(k) into a Roth IRA. Based on a recent live event attendee's question, Mike and Kristen discuss the complexities of Roth conversions and help you understand whether it's the right choice for your unique financial situation.    ➡️ The Allure of Tax-Free Retirement Income: Roth IRA conversions have gained popularity due to the promise of tax-free income during retirement. The concept is enticing: you pay taxes upfront when you convert your traditional retirement accounts, and then your withdrawals in retirement are entirely tax-free. Who wouldn't want that? However, the decision to convert isn't one-size-fits-all, and there are crucial factors to consider.  ➡️ Understanding Roth Conversions: Roth conversions involve transferring money from a pre-tax retirement account to a Roth IRA. While this may sound straightforward, it's essential to grasp the tax implications. When you convert, the amount transferred is treated as ordinary income, subject to your current income tax rate. Therefore, your tax bracket plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process.  ➡️ Tax Bracket Considerations: Your tax bracket impacts the cost of conversion. If you're already in a high-income tax bracket, converting may mean paying a significant amount in taxes upfront, potentially diminishing the benefits of a Roth IRA. Conversely, if you're in a lower tax bracket, a conversion could be more tax-efficient.  ➡️ Timing Matters: Timing is crucial when considering a Roth conversion. It might make more sense to convert when you expect to be in a lower tax bracket, such as after retirement or during years with reduced income. Assess your future income projections to determine the most tax-advantageous time for conversion. Is a Roth IRA conversion right for you? The answer depends on your individual circumstances. It's crucial to gather information, assess your financial goals, and consult with experts who can help you make an informed decision. Reach out to professionals who can guide you on this journey and ensure that your retirement strategy aligns with your unique needs and aspirations.    ===================== 

Did you know that writing out your goals makes you 42% more likely to achieve them?

It's no secret that mortgage rates have surged to the highest levels they've been in more than 20 years. Mike explains the impact this could have on soon-to-be and current retirees AND the role a financial advisor should play in your life if you're thinking about taking out a loan for a new

This week Mike explains the transition from receiving a regular paycheck from your job to begin tapping into your retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions when you stop working. Listen to find out how money flows from these accounts to your bank, what role taxes play, and if you can pull it off as a DIY investor…

If you're paying a financial advisor a fee to manage your money, what else should they be able to help you with? Mike shares his ✅-list based on the countless questions he's been asked about investing and retirement in general during the last 2-plus decades as an advisor.

After Mike straightens Kristen out on a “fun fact” that he thinks is a “false fact” about the summer heat ☀️, we discuss a concern many Americans ponder:  ❓How do we make sure we're not going to be taken advantage of when it comes to our money for retirement?  After Bernie Madoff became a household name in 2008, stories of investment advisors NOT being good stewards of their client's assets have heightened that concern. After discussing a recent ruling against a major bank, Mike shares actionable steps investors can take to help verify if they can feel comfortable working with a fiduciary financial advisor they choose... Because with so much retirement planning advertising, sometimes it's tough to know where to turn for help with 401(k) accounts, IRAs, and other assets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Mike's degree in economics from

Regardless of the tax bracket, many Americans seek ways to save money and not pay full price. Made-up marketing holidays such as Amazon Prime Day

After a reasonably strong first half of the year on wall street and decent economic data... Does this mean "Bidenomics" is a real thing and working?  Mike shares his summer ☀️ outlook. And even though each situation is different, you'll hear an idea to consider for your portfolio if you don't think the market will be up more than 5% between now and next year.

Your workplace retirement plan may look pretty decent right now, and that's wonderful news! But if you (like Mike) feel the market is likely to not perform as well in the future, listen to find out what options you might possibly have for your 401(k), 403(b), or TSP accounts. This week Mike also shares his opinion of why a recession COULD be helpful for inflation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The American economy has many perplexed.

☎  A listener left a voicemail asking if gold and silver coins are a good idea to buy during concerning economic times. Mike gives a very direct answer, along with what he believes investors should consider if they do want to include precious metals as part of their portfolio. Then he accidentally shows how much he doesn't know about football

Unfortunately, corporate layoffs are ramping up beyond the tech sector. Obviously, this impacts the livelihoods of many Americans, but it's also making investing more difficult to navigate. Mike passes along ideas to consider, especially if your upside isn't over 4% and your money is at risk (depending on the day & institution). Then…  Is President Biden to blame for retirement accounts and wall street being down? You might be surprised by Mike's insight. ⛳️ Plus, we celebrate the Master's wrapping up by finding out what golf can possibly teach us about investing!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike & Kristen revisit the “be, kind rewind” movie era and the different experiences they had. However, they agree that 

This week Mike shares a question he hasn't been asked about money since 2008, along with the personal risks and planning investors should consider during this troubling time for the banking sector. We also dive into new data from Fidelity that shows the number of 401(k) millionaires have fallen. Listen to find out how much that group NOW feels they need to retire comfortably, and what Mike believes they should focus on for their portfolio instead.   And since Mike is a fee-only fiduciary, Kristen asks for his opinion on the various advertisements that claim converting retirement accounts into physical gold & silver is a good idea.

March has been mind-boggling when it comes to economic updates!

Mike starts this week by sharing how a fish fell out of the sky at his home.

Are you trying to navigate what's best for your portfolio during the crazy volatility of the stock market, AND looking back on the losses of 2022? Are you an investor near or in retirement wondering if you should ride this volatility out, or move to cash, a money market account, or an alternative investment?  If so, this episode is a must-listen! After Mike shares some of his ideas, he and Kristen discuss how those who spend money on experiences rather than “stuff” tend to be happier.  Plus, about 10 minutes into the episode you'll find out just how good Mike is at Math!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After sharing a sweet story about one of Talon's clients and Mike's youngest child, we dial in on the latest financial news and what it means for your portfolio. In fact, a new survey revealed that 4 in 10 Americans are putting retirement off due to challenging economic conditions, and part of that reason is inflation. He addresses these concerns along with how many retirees are still having to fill an income gap despite the historic 8.7% cost-of-living adjustment from social security. Plus, Mike makes fun of Kristen and the way she's currently reducing stress. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike and Kristen discuss the influx of discount grocery shopping as consumers search for ways to save money in this inflated economy. Then Mike examines if we already experienced a recession last year AND if another is soon approaching, plus how to best prepare for a possible market pullback. He also talks about forgotten 401(k)s, inverse options, and other strategies (NOT annuities) he and the other Talon fiduciaries are eying for the right situations. Also, Mike points out that Kristen accidentally offended the citizens of the United Kingdom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thankfully wall street closed out January with a stellar start! We'll find out from Mike if this is a signal that we can let our guard down a little regarding our retirement accounts. He also explains the hot-button investment rule change that just happened under the Biden administration called ESG investment priorities, how it could impact your 401(k), and why YOUR investment goals should be the focus of any fiduciary financial advisor you work with. Plus, we share a relatable story about mom coming home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial planning is about a lot more than money. This week Mike shares how he's helped a few clients create personalized financial plans based on their goal of retiring out of the country as an ex-pat for whatever reason.

Mike “Silverling” Lester will help us find the positives in all things financial this week:  Inflation is sloooowwwly lowering from its 40-year high while many investors found their portfolios were down about 20% for 2022. And to truly bring inflation down, Jerome Powell says they may have to take some “unpopular measures." Mike explains the disconnect between the stock market, the Fed, and our economy. Plus, he passes along tips to help you know when it may be time to start interviewing for a new advisor. Tip 1 ➡ Make sure your financial advisor is a fiduciary!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recession fears are growing, and new layoff announcements and Wall Street's volatility aren't helping ease the angst of investors. Mike's shares his perspective on various alternative investments you may want to learn more about.  And if you've listened before, you're likely aware that Mike isn't a big fan of annuities. Since he's been working in the investing world for over 20 years, Kristen asks him what could be an awkward question: Has Mike EVER suggested or sold an annuity to someone⁉️See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike takes a look back at Wall Street in 2022 and shares what he's eying for clients this year considering recession concerns. If you aren't familiar with I Bonds, you'll hear the pros and cons of how they could possibly be a helpful option to help fight inflation… But NOT annuities.  Kristen also shares an interesting travel stat that spotlights Talon's ability and passion for helping clients with active portfolio management across the country. Plus, we discuss the details of the $1.7 trillion spending bill (Secure 2.0) that Congress passed in late December, including 2 significant changes to required distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts that could impact your retirement accounts this year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate this Christmas season, we learn about the Elf on the Shelf in Mike's home along with his youngest son losing his 2 front teeth at the perfect time. Plus, Kristen tries to stump Mike with some fun Christmas trivia later in the show!  But since the Fed ticked up interest rates again, we'll also unpack the optimistic earnings forecast many economic analysts have for 2023. Mike answers the questions many are wondering: Does this mean a recession isn't as likely and a soft landing could be on the way next year? And is cash king at the moment? Subscribe and listen to hear ideas that may be helpful for your retirement portfolio.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we embrace the holiday season, we'll remind you to save a place at the Thanksgiving table for someone you may not have been planning for… Inflation gobbling up part of your budget!  Mike goes through the numbers and explains how this isn't simply annoying. It impacts the big picture of our economy (including future taxes), all thanks to the Fed and their interest rates antics. With most Americans looking for ways to save a few bucks where they can, we share tips that might help reduce your fresh produce expenses. Mike offers an interesting one about pantyhose and onions.

After highlighting one of our Talon Wealth team members' skills, we share how one listener recently reached out for a second opinion because he's concerned about his portfolio being down lower than he'd like. But he's conflicted about what to do because he really likes who his advisor is. Mike talks about what to consider when faced with the tough decision of hiring or firing an advisor. Then we shift the conversation to Social Security. Most of us have heard we should wait as long as we can to draw benefits so that we ultimately bring in more money during retirement. However, could there be good reasons to start receiving benefits as soon as you can? Every situation is different, but Mike points out what to watch out for. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fed continues increasing rates to fight inflation, but the latest CPI data shows that we're not much better off than we were in March when the aggressive monetary tightening began. Listen to hear Mike's opinion as to what he believes the central bank's goal is now that ISN'T being talked about, and how it could impact your retirement money in the future. He also explains how Talon Wealth is working to help clients protect and hopefully make money in a down market with a bear market portfolio, when appropriate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you frustrated with the performance (or lack thereof) of your investment accounts? This is unfortunately more common than you may realize. That doesn't mean you should accept being told to just “hang in there.” Plus, we discuss one of the wealthiest men in the world, Jeff Bezos saying it's time to “batten down the hatches” economically. Mike also simplifies the pros and cons of a trendy option many have been researching to combat inflation in retirement… I bonds. Especially now that the Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates again this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fed has obviously been very aggressive with interest rate hikes, and many are concerned about the short & long-term impact this will have on our economy and individual retirement accounts. Mike shares his opinion about the recent wall street swings and the pain the Fed is inflicting with their goal of reducing inflation. Also, if you're feeling overwhelmed by the number of calls and commercials regarding Medicare open enrollment (now through December 7th), Mike explains how you can possibly simplify your approach to finding the best option for you, and NOT get overwhelmed by the marketing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After checking in with a few kids about their Halloween costume plans, we focus on how this fall has been a spooky time for the market. With stocks down an average of 20% and bonds down about 14% for the year, many are unfortunately finding out their portfolio isn't as diversified as they thought for their retirement timeline. Plus, Mike discusses Jamie Dimon's latest comments about a recession looming and possible future S&P 500 drops. Most importantly Mike shares what you should consider if your advisor keeps telling you to hang in there with a cookie-cutter diversified portfolio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mortgage rates recently reached their highest level since July of 2007. Instead of focusing on a 2008 flashback, Mike explains why it's more important for you (or you and your advisor) to focus on where the economy is likely to go and how the stock market might react. He also dives into how Fed's inflation plan is not only impacting household expenses… but the performance of your retirement accounts. If you're tired of “hanging in there,” this episode is for you.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Federal Reserve made history by approving its 3rd consecutive 75-basis-point interest rate hike on September 21st, and wall street didn't take the news well… Neither did many 401(k)'s. Mike talks about why these fluctuating numbers shouldn't change your lifestyle, especially if you have a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor actively managing your investment accounts. If you're part of the growing trend of Americans feeling you might need to postpone your retirement, Mike simplifies how to figure out if you need to delay… or if you're on track and just don't realize it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historically, September is a rough month on wall street. With recent stock market pullbacks, investors close to and already in retirement have valid concerns about protecting their portfolios. This week Mike spotlights some of the inverse options for income and growth that Talon's fiduciaries are explaining to listeners like you. Every situation is different, but this could possibly be a good option for your family if you explored all of the details. So, if you're looking for a more conservative approach to your retirement accounts, this episode is for you! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With so much heightened economic news on the agenda, Kristen starts this episode with a little fun by revealing the latest endeavor by Snoop Dogg the entrepreneur. Then it's back to Biden and his latest proposal. This time for his student loan forgiveness program. Mike explains how this adds to the instability of our economy, the stock market, and the likelihood of higher taxes in the future. He also points out what options to be aware of that are being promoted as solutions for uncertain times that may not be a great fit for your retirement plan. Every situation is different, but Mike wants you to be aware of all of your options during this volatile period while the Fed gets ready to raise rates again.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a fun discussion about renting goats to maintain some property, we dial in on what many Americans are concerned about: After a good July, what's to come for wall street, inflation, interest rates, and our overall economy? Mike weighs in on the Fed's rate decision, the recession debate, and the paralysis many are feeling about making changes to their retirement accounts. We also discuss target date funds and if they are leading baby boomers to the right target these days, and if iBonds are a good option for those seeking fixed income for retirement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After discussing how inflation is impacting some of the spending behavior of higher-income Americans, Mike walks us through his analysis of President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act and how it could impact your family. Also, despite July being a good month on wall street, he explains why he believes we are still technically in a recession and why it could get worse. And if you saw the movie “The Big Short,” you'll want to hear why the guy who (in real life) bet on the collapse of subprime mortgages ahead of the 2008 financial crisis is worried about the economy again. Mike is always an optimistic person, but as a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor he shares his insight as to if we should make adjustments to our investment portfolio based on Michael Burry's latest forecast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After chatting about someone breaking the world record for holes-in-one for a good cause, we flashback to when Mike first forecasted that we were already in a recession on his weekly radio show on May 7th of 2022. He also discusses the politicization of redefining the word “recession,” and why not focusing on the actual numbers could negatively impact your retirement portfolio. He explains how he and the other Talon Wealth fiduciary financial advisors are looking into inverse options along with other alternatives to help their clients (when appropriate) through bear market times, and why he believes when the 3rd quarter numbers could be even worse. This isn't a gloom and doom episode, but an important one to hear if you're concerned about the economy impacting your bottom line.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Homebuilders are tapping the brakes and consumer confidence is down overall. Plus, with the administration trying to change the definition of a recession, confidence is declining even further for many. Mike explains why he thinks it is possible that we could have another pullback, and what you can do to better protect your investments for retirement during the recession debate... regardless of the definition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we discuss the fun way a new retiree is spending her time on screen, and how Mike can ironically relate! Plus, he explains how the significant 2nd quarter drop of copper should be taken into consideration when it comes to your retirement accounts. And with inflation up to 9.1%, the average American family is spending almost $500 a month more than this time last year. Find out how all of this is impacting spending behavior, but how it doesn't necessarily have to change yours… If you have a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor helping you plan and navigate your financial life in retirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With wall street down and inflation up 9.1% from last year, we'll discuss why consumers are now likely driving the recession many are predicting. We'll also reveal what a new survey says about how millionaires are preparing for the possibility of more downturns, and what proactive steps Mike took for his clients in January and in March to help protect his client's portfolios. Plus, we'll embrace rock ‘n' roll and entrepreneurs making money in interesting ways!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's no secret that the market has been down for the first 6 months of 2022. As we wait on 2nd quarter GDP numbers to confirm if we're in a recession or not, listen to find out the consumer behaviors that gives Mike reason to believe we may already be in a recession. He also discusses interest rates and the Fed's hope of a “soft landing” in this economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market is volatile, and energy prices and interest rates are on the rise. Mike explains why he believes economic issues like this will create a slowdown in our economy. He also addresses a common question we're hearing from listeners:  Is going to cash now a good idea in our current climate? Or is it too late? -Plus, if you planned to retire this year and are now wondering if you can still pull it off, Mike shares a key perspective for you to consider. If you're feeling overwhelmed that your portfolio may now not be enough for your entire retirement, this episode is for you. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street remains rocky, and many near and  in retirement are seeking more conservative investment options. Mike explains how he and his team of fiduciaries have been proactively helping their clients navigate this unsettled time by going to cash months ago (depending on the client's situation). Plus, he explains why an annuity doesn't make sense for most people… despite being heavily promoted in our current economic environment.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After discussing Top Gun: Maverick, Mike explains why now more than ever investors near and in retirement should embrace being a maverick by NOT giving in to generic "hang in there" advice, especially with the most recent stock market plunge. We'll also discuss how bell-bottom jeans, 70's style stagflation and oil prices are back, and what you and your family can do to combat these economic obstacles. If you're feeling paralyzed by the fear of what could happen next on wall street and with our economy, this episode is a must listen.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we heading into a recession? For the first time in over 2 years, the S&P 500 recently entered bear-market territory, and inflation isn't slowing down. Mike simplifies why he believes we may already be in a recession. He also explains what people near and in retirement need to take into account regarding their 401(k)s and other investments earmarked for their future. He also discusses inverse investments, COLA (cost of living adjustments), and how the economic uncertainty is impacting small business owners. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike and Kristen start out discussing the different ways high prices are impacting their personal spending habits. With high inflation and interest rates rising, some strategists are suggesting that investing in bonds is a good idea. However, Mike points out why that may not be the case for you. As a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor, he explains why he's looking into alternative investments for some of his clients… if it makes sense for them. Plus, you'll hear a relatable story of someone finding out the hard way that their money isn't being actively managed.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.