Perfect Game Retirement

Graduation season is an exciting milestone, not just for the grads, but for parents and grandparents who have supported them along the way. Today, Ryan wants to share practical ways you can help your graduate make smart financial decisions early, along with actions that could have a lasting impact on their future. Join us as we discuss ways families can pass on more than just good wishes. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

A little hope is good for the soul, but when it comes to retirement planning, wishful thinking can lead to serious financial mistakes. Today, Ryan walks through five common examples of wishful thinking that can quietly damage your retirement and how you can build a plan that protects your future instead of relying on luck. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

Today we're talking about Type A personalities. If you're driven, competitive, and goal-oriented, then you're part of the club that often struggles during difficult markets. When things get tough, your instinct is to work harder, push more, and fix the problem. But in investing, that instinct can sometimes backfire. In this episode, Ryan explores how Type A investors can unintentionally sabotage their own success by overreacting to market swings. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

Most people believe financial success comes down to numbers, but the truth is your emotions and mindset may play an even bigger role than any spreadsheet ever could. In this episode, Ryan unpacks key lessons from Morgan Housel's best-selling book The Psychology of Money, revealing how behavior, beliefs, and background shape our financial choices. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

Ever wonder what other people talk about with their financial advisors? A new survey of nearly 400 experienced advisors reveals the biggest concerns, challenges, and financial goals their clients are facing today. From retirement planning to working longer than expected, Ryan's breaking down the key takeaways and how they compare to what he sees in his own client conversations. We'll also uncover the #1 concern advisors have, a surprisingly overlooked issue that deserves far more attention. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

Got an old 401(k) collecting dust after a job change? You're not alone, and what you do with that account might have a big impact on your long-term financial health. In this episode, Ryan answers a listener's question about whether it's okay to leave your 401(k) where it is, or if you're better off rolling it over. Spoiler alert: the answer isn't one-size-fits-all, but there are some key pros and cons you need to know. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

When it comes to retirement planning, it's often the threats you don't see coming that do the most damage. In this episode, Ryan uncovers five silent "assassins" that can quietly erode your financial future, including market crashes, inflation and some surprises along the way! More importantly, he explains how proper planning can defend your wealth against these hidden risks. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

The headlines are loud, the markets are messy, and your gut might be telling you to do something - anything -right now. But what should you actually do when your portfolio takes a hit? In this episode, Ryan walks through the four key questions every investor should ask during a downturn, offering clear and practical steps to block out the noise and get some clarity on today's market situation.    Here's what we discuss in this episode:

The Masters is a beautiful reminder of just how much strategy, patience, and long-term focus goes into a great round of golf. Turns out, retirement works a lot like the game. Today, Ryan is teeing up a few key lessons from the course and how they translate into smarter planning for your financial future. Here's what we discuss in this episode: ⛳ Why chasing a “hole-in-one” rarely pays off

Tax season is here, but filing your 2024 return is just one piece of the puzzle. Now is also the perfect time to take advantage of new tax rules for 2025 before the year gets away from you. With higher standard deductions, increased retirement contribution limits, and updated HSA rules, there are plenty of opportunities to potentially lower your tax bill and boost your savings. In this episode, we'll break down the key changes and how you can start planning now to make the most of them. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

In this episode, Ryan unpacks a listener question that's becoming increasingly common: What should I do about my RMDs if I'm still working at 74 and contributing to my 401(k)? Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and the tax penalties for missing them, can catch even the most financially prepared retirees off guard, especially those still working into their 70s. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

April Fool's Day is all about jokes and pranks, but when it comes to retirement planning, getting fooled can cost you real money. Today, we're unpacking five retirement myths that often trick retirees into making decisions based on fear or flawed assumptions. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

Valentine's season is all about love, but let's be honest, money plays a huge role in any relationship. Whether you've been together for decades or just starting out, financial stress can put a strain on even the strongest partnerships. So, how do you talk about money without killing the romance? In today's episode, looking at the questions every couple should ask about finances and retirement. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

You've built a successful business, but now the big question is, how do you turn that into a retirement plan? If you're like many entrepreneurs, you've spent years reinvesting in your business, but what happens when it's time to step away? Can you sell it? Can you create passive income from it? Or should you start saving in other ways right now? In this episode, we're breaking down strategies for business owners who need to turn years of hard work into long-term financial security. Here are some of the highlights in this episode:

If you've successfully managed your own investments for years, do you really need a financial advisor? Many DIY investors see it as an unnecessary expense, but as you approach retirement, it might be time to enlist the help of someone to help you with the other areas of retirement? Today we'll tackle this common question and explains how advisors add value beyond investment returns. Here are some of the things we discuss:

The Super Bowl may be over, but there's still a lot to learn from one of the best coaches in the game, Andy Reid. Whether you're planning the perfect play on the field or preparing for retirement, success comes down to strategy, discipline, and knowing when to adjust. Today, we're breaking down some of Coach Reid's best quotes and how they apply to building a winning retirement plan. As a former professional athlete and teacher, this is a topic that hits close to home. The conversation covers how focusing on the "next play" instead of getting distracted by daily market fluctuations can help create a more strategic financial plan. They also discuss the idea that setbacks, whether in sports or finance, provide valuable learning experiences, and that making adjustments to your strategy is key to long-term success. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:21 – Ryan's memorable coach 2:52 – Quote 1 5:56 – Quote 2 8:07 – Quote 3 10:36 – Quote 4 12:40 – How we coach our clients   Schedule a call with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ Get your tax-free retirement toolkit: https://bit.ly/3PMjKqc Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

There's a real mindset shift when someone gets to retirement and has to start taking money out of their accounts after saving for years. It gets even more difficult to figure out where to pull your money from when you have multiple types of accounts with different tax considerations. So which should you pull from first and does it really matter the order you choose? That's the question we're tackling today and it's an important one because income planning is the foundation of a retirement plan. Join us to discover how to navigate your 401k, IRA, Roth IRA, and individual accounts to create a sustainable income plan that minimizes tax liabilities and enhances your financial legacy. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:30 – Today's question 0:48 – Mindset shift in retirement 2:05 – Which account first? 5:05 – Does the order truly matter? 7:13 – When to start income planning   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Phone: (470) 508-0508 Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Schedule a call with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ Get your tax-free retirement toolkit: https://bit.ly/3PMjKqc Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

A recent article on Fortune highlights a growing trend among baby boomers: continuing to work well into their 60s and 70s, not out of necessity, but for the mental stimulation, social connections, and fulfillment that work provides. With nearly 20% of Americans over 65 still employed, this shift is challenging traditional views of retirement and sparking important conversations about what it means to truly retire. Join Ryan as we discuss the reasons behind this phenomenon, from the desire for social interaction to the fulfillment of staying engaged in meaningful work. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 3:29 – Finding fulfillment 5:48 – Financial impact in retirement 8:06 – How it changes long-term planning 9:55 – Are younger generations different? Read the Fortune story here: https://fortune.com/article/the-new-retirement-is-no-retirement-baby-boomers-are-keeping-jobs-well-into-their-sixties-and-seventies-because-they-like-going-to-work/   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Phone: (470) 508-0508 Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Schedule a call with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ Get your tax-free retirement toolkit: https://bit.ly/3PMjKqc Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

In recent years, inflation has become a significant concern for many individuals, especially those planning for retirement. While rates have returned to more normal levels, Americans still can't ignore the profound impact it can have on your financial future. Today's show will discuss ways to inflation-proof your retirement, particularly looking ahead to 2025 and beyond. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:03 – How high inflation changes planning 5:37 – What rate do we typically use? 6:54 – Strategies to outpace inflation 9:02 – Client story   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Phone: (470) 508-0508 Schedule a call with Ryan: https://speakwithryan.com/ Get your tax-free retirement toolkit: https://bit.ly/3PMjKqc Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Financial mistakes can happen at any age, but they can have a particularly significant impact in your 60s. This episode offers five common financial blunders to avoid during this pivotal decade. As you approach retirement, it's essential to navigate these pitfalls to secure your financial future. We'll be discussing the importance of retirement planning, managing healthcare costs, protecting your assets, understanding longevity, and the necessity of having an estate plan. All of these items are part of our planning process at Black Oak Asset Management and we want to make sure they're a priority for you as well. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:44 – Retirement planning 3:26 – Healthcare costs 6:47 – Protecting assets 8:08 – Longevity 9:43 – Estate planning   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

It's the beginning of a new year – a time when many of us make resolutions to improve our lives. But how often do we resolve to improve the way we feel about our finances? Today, we're talking about spending with confidence, a surprising challenge for many retirees.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Today, we're unveiling the 2025 Method to transform your money mindset in just 30 days. Whether you're overwhelmed by debt, stuck in a savings rut, or simply stressed about money, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you think differently and achieve financial comfort.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Imagine you could read your financial advisor's mind before you even walked through the door for the first time. What would they want you to know? In this episode, we bring you the game-changing insights financial pros wish every saver and investor understood.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Are you making decisions about your money with a clear mind? Or are you financially ‘impaired'? December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, so we're exploring the surprising parallels between dangerous driving habits and risky financial choices. In this episode, learn how to stay financially ‘sober,' avoid costly mistakes, and keep your money on the road to success.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

We're diving into the mailbag today on the show. Tune in as Ryan answers a variety of financial and retirement planning questions. Ruth asks if her husband should get more involved in managing their household finances as retirement approaches. Rachel wonders what investment options make the most sense for someone in her high-income position. Let's jump in!   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Social Security is the backbone of retirement for millions of Americans, but big changes may be coming. On this episode, we dive into the recently released proposal to raise the full retirement age to 69 and what it means for your benefits, your future, and your financial security.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

With National Financial Planning Month upon us, we're sitting down with Ryan to uncover the strategies and steps that go into building a personalized financial plan. From that first phone call to implementing a strategy that aligns with your goals, this discussion will offer valuable insights for anyone looking to understand what it looks like to go through the planning process with a real financial advisor.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

In this episode, we're exploring some of the world's most unique and quirky fears—and believe it or not, they have a lot more in common with your financial life than you might think. From the fear of long words to the fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of your mouth, we'll explore how these anxieties mirror some of the biggest concerns in financial and retirement planning.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. Today, we're digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Imagine your retirement plan as a sports jersey, customized just for you. Today, we're exploring how every detail from numbers to names can define your financial future.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Paying for college has become increasingly harder with rising costs. Starting early for your child's or grandchild's education can make a big difference and reduce the need for excessive borrowing later. In this episode, we'll cover the key aspects of college financial planning from both the parent and grandparent perspective. Join us as we discuss saving strategies, the importance of starting early, and answer your pressing questions.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

We get a lot of questions about 401ks, and we know they can be tricky to navigate. That's why we're tackling your top questions in one comprehensive episode.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Ever heard the saying, ‘Always plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark'? Well, today we're diving into that very concept. How did Noah's forward-thinking approach help him survive the flood, and what can it teach us about preparing for retirement? Tune in as we unpack the ancient wisdom of Noah's Ark and its modern-day implications for ensuring your retirement is secure, no matter what storms might be on the horizon.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

In this episode, we're diving into some famous words by the one and only Yogi Berra. You might know him for his legendary baseball career, but Yogi was also a goldmine of wisdom. We'll spin some of his classic quotes into financial advice. It's all about viewing things through the right lens—so let's see what financial insights we can uncover from Yogi's memorable sayings!   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Next up: uncover the critical mistakes many make when choosing a financial advisor. We're cutting through the noise to highlight what often goes wrong—from misplaced trust in big names to overlooking the fine print. This episode is your essential guide to avoiding those pitfalls and making informed decisions that align with your financial goals.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Retirement planning doesn't have to be overwhelmingly complicated. It certainly doesn't have to be as complicated as some people make it. In our next episode, we unravel the unnecessary complexities often woven into the fabric of retirement advice. We'll debunk some myths, simplify strategies, and uncover the beauty of simplicity and straightforward retirement planning.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Just like an annual checkup is important for maintaining good health, performing regular financial checkups is an essential part of planning for a healthy and successful retirement. By regularly assessing your budget, goals, and progress, you can make informed decisions to keep your finances on track. Although financial wellness is going to look different for everyone, we'll share some areas you should be paying attention to in today's episode.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Psychologists have determined that retirement is one of the most stressful events that some people will experience in life. In this episode, we'll look at the ways to proactively deal with the stress surrounding the retirement process.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Each generation is currently navigating a unique part of the retirement planning experience. With many baby boomers preparing for the transition into retirement and the early half of Generation Z taking their initial steps into the career field, these major life events come with a handful of financial planning questions. In today's episode, we'll share insights into the unique concerns that echo across different age groups. These are the retirement questions that every generation is asking.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

As much as any other threat, recognizing and avoiding scams has become a necessary skill for today's retirees to develop. Join us as we explore crucial steps you can take to safeguard your financial well-being against the growing tide of scams and identity theft. Learn from real-life stories and gain practical advice to keep your finances secure in this digital era, all from the perspective of a seasoned financial professional.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

March Madness is upon us, and as you fill out your bracket and watch the NCAA Tournament this year, there are a few retirement planning lessons that you can learn along the way…   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Every generation likes to talk about how much harder things used to be when they were kids. Like all of the people who used to have to walk five miles to school, in the snow, uphill both ways. But they had at least one thing that was EASIER…and that was retirement planning. Let's talk about why on today's episode.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

In this episode, we'll be answering some mailbag questions from listeners like you. One listener asks whether they should start receiving their Social Security benefits now, despite not planning to retire soon, or if they should wait. Another asks whether it's acceptable to have the majority of their 401(k) invested in their current company's stock. These conversations are a great way for you to learn from real-life financial planning questions and scenarios, so tune in to see what you can learn!   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

This episode might be a bit counterintuitive. We're going to question the real impact of common financial habits. Are the strategies you consider beneficial actually working in your favor? We explore the pros and cons of practices like ignoring account statements and strict budgeting. Join us for a practical discussion, as we uncover the unexpected effects of everyday money decisions. Are your good money habits holding you back?   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI  

Have you ever wondered what questions to ask your financial advisor, or why those questions are crucial? In today's episode, we're tackling exactly that. We're discussing the vital questions that bring transparency and depth to your financial advisory relationship. It's about getting clarity on how advisors work, what they specialize in, and how they align with your financial goals. These are the questions you MUST ask your financial advisor.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Sometimes it's hard to make financial sacrifices when the reward might not be seen until several years in the future. Today we'll talk about some of the situations where you might be inclined to take the immediate benefit when you should really consider the delayed rewards…   The Psychology of Money: https://www.amazon.com/Psychology-Money-Timeless-lessons-happiness/dp/0857197681   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Ever thought that minor tweaks in your financial plan could lead to major wins? In this episode, we're exploring the surprisingly powerful world of simple financial adjustments. From overlooked savings tricks to smarter insurance choices, we're unpacking those seemingly small steps that can bring about big, positive ripples in your financial life.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Keeping the right amount in cash and getting the most out of money you aren't using. Why you want to consider cleaning up old insurance policies and consolidating old 401Ks. Looking at areas that might have higher fees/expenses like managed accounts and mutual funds. Analyzing the tax-efficiency of your investments. Why you need to check your beneficiary designations.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Join us for a thoughtful episode where we unpack our 2023 edition of key year-end planning strategies for those nearing or embracing their retirement years. We'll explore the nuances of optimizing your investment portfolio, safeguarding your assets, and ensuring a stable, rewarding lifestyle in the years to come.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: An update on Ryan's CFP test. The importance of rebalancing your portfolio and managing investing risk. The tax strategies to consider that could save you money next April. Why we need to look at budget, income, Social Security and other areas that determine financial health. Tax considerations with gifting but the other considerations to make for giving to heirs or charities.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Ever wish you could foresee financial missteps before they happen? On today's episode explore some real-life stories of regret and arm yourself with the essential dos and don'ts to ensure your money works for you, not against you.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: What can go wrong when you withdraw money from your IRA early. Don't let lifestyle creep set in and keep you from saving more during your peak earning years. A general savings tip that Ryan gives people. What are your funding options for college tuition so that your own retirement isn't ruined? Are you putting enough money into a Roth right now?   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

The retirement planning world is filled with plenty of advice and suggestions, but there are critical questions lurking in the shadows – the unasked, the overlooked. These are the questions that can help define the comfort and security of your retirement future. On this episode, we unearth and tackle these hidden, but essential questions about retirement.   Here are the questions we're going to address in this episode: How much are my tax-deferred savings going to cost me in taxes? How much can I withdraw from my savings each year? Should I still have life insurance when I'm retired? What kind of medical coverage will I need over and above Medicare? How will inflation impact me? Should I be planning for the costs of caring for elderly parents?   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI

Losing a spouse is an unimaginably tough life event, but the financial implications can add another layer of stress to the grieving process. In this episode, we delve deep into the most common financial issues faced by widows and widowers, from dealing with income gaps to navigating tax changes as a single filer.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Two of the most common challenges widows face are the income gap and changes in tax filing. What are your Social Security and pension options when you lose your spouse? There are strategies and planning steps you can take now to help cover that loss of income. The common mistakes we see when it comes to taking care of the kids and grandkids. Ryan shares his opinion of a trust and the benefits for having it.   Visit us online: https://blackoakam.com/ Get in touch with the Black Oak team: https://blackoakam.com/contact-us/ Get more financial education on our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/45kJlwI