Retirement Elevated Podcast with Sean Lee

A little hope is good for the soul, but when it comes to retirement planning, wishful thinking can lead to serious financial mistakes. Today, Sean's walking 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:

Are you saving so much for retirement that it's squeezing your life today? In this episode, Sean answers a viewer question about finding the right balance between preparing for the future and living fully in the present. Can you save too much? Are you over-saving at the expense of living now? Sean addresses the listener's concern that he's maxing out multiple accounts but still feels like he's living paycheck to paycheck. It raises an important point: Is it possible to be too focused on the future and miss out on the present?   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 healthcare costs to working longer than expected, we're breaking down the key takeaways and how they compare to what we see in our own client conversations. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

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 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:

Do you really need a financial advisor, or can you handle your investments on your own? We received a question from someone who has been a successful investor and is wondering whether they would get value out of a financial advisor. Let's dive into the pros and cons of DIY investing and explain how working with an advisor can actually save you money, time, and stress. Here's what we discuss in this episode:

It's been a tumultuous start to 2025 in the job market as layoffs are happening across a number of different sectors. No matter how you feel about the state of things, it's important to take the necessary steps to prepare if you're worried about that possibility. We're going to pull insights from the book Upgrade Your Path by Melissa Ceballos, PHR, SHRM-CP. She's a great member of our team and a former HR professional, and this book is about navigating a career transition, elevating your professional trajectory, and financial success. We discuss the importance of self-assessment, networking, and understanding your financial situation, offering you a roadmap to take control of your careers and futures. If you want to get your own copy of this book, we have a free giveaway offer available now: https://keap.page/vs490/upgrade-your-path-linkedin.html   Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:22 – Career transitioning 3:58 – Federal employees 5:07 – What options do you have? 7:49 – First step after a layoff 11:55 – How jobs are changing   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/ Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

As winter approaches, many retirees are looking for ways to escape the cold, and snowbirding has become a popular solution. But what does it really entail? In this episode, Sean shares insights on the top destinations for snowbirds, including the sunny shores of Florida and the warm deserts of Arizona. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:49 – Top destinations 3:05 – Having two homes 4:37 – The RV/remote lifestyle 6:54 – Planning for this 10:46 – Sean's thoughts on snowbirding   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/  

Baseball and retirement planning might have more in common than you think. Just as a solid batting average leads to a successful career, a steady financial plan can pave the way for a winning retirement. While it may be tempting to aim for high returns, a strategy focused on steady, incremental growth is often the key to lasting success. In this episode, Sean explains why having a clear, well-defined plan is so crucial. By applying the principles of baseball analytics to retirement planning, you can build a balanced strategy that helps you stay on track and achieve your goals. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:00 – Your financial batting average 6:00 – Stability and consistency in retirement 9:05 – Building a winning portfolio 11:21 – Having a clear plan   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/   Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

Retirement doesn't have to break the bank, but with the rising costs of living, it can be tough to stay within your budget. It's essential to find affordable ways to live life so if you're looking to cut back on expenses, we have four budget-friendly activities that will keep you entertained without breaking the bank.   In this episode, we'll discuss options like free fun in nature, making new friends through clubs and volunteering, creative pursuits, and staying healthy and active. All of these things can improve your happiness and well-being, and help lead to a more fulfilling life in retirement. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:07 – Free fun in nature 4:21 – Finding community and purpose 6:58 – Creative pursuits 10:21 – Staying healthy and active overall   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/   Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

Everyone wants to know how to maximize their Social Security benefits. It's a question that comes up nearly every time we meet with someone. While the simple answer is to wait as long as possible to get the largest monthly benefit, the strategy that you should choose needs to take your entire financial picture into account. In this episode, we're going to share a Social Security case study where a couple we worked with wanted to retire at 63 and 62 but originally planned to claim Social Security at full retirement age of 67. We're going to break down the details of their financial situation and explain why the math eventually told them to take their benefits as soon as they retire. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:47 – Case study details 6:14 – Taking Social Security immediately 12:20 – Social Security Fairness Act 16:08 – Final takeaway   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/

How confident are you in your financial strategy? Are you feeling strong enough to rate it an 8, 9, or 10? This week, we're going to dive into what it takes to gain that confidence by sharing the five areas to help you improve your financial success. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:20 – You know where your money is going to come from 4:28 – You know what your risk score is 6:23 – You have strategies in place to reduce your tax liability 7:51 – Healthcare considerations 9:46 – Legacy   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/ Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

People nearing retirement often fall under one of the three Cs. Those are concerned, seeking clarity, or confident. In this episode, Sean breaks down these three mindsets, exploring the unique questions and needs that come with each. Let's see which best describes you!   Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:08 – Concerned 3:15 – The blurred line with clarity 6:30 – Seeking clarity 11:13 – Confident   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/   Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

There's been a growing buzz around Roth conversions, but what do they actually entail? This popular strategy makes a lot of sense within a financial plan, but like all tools, it's not for everyone. In this episode, we dig into this complex subject with real-world examples that illustrate the potential benefits and pitfalls of this strategy. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:45 – Roth conversions are situational 6:13 – Determining how much to convert 9:50 – Staying under IRMAA limits 13:05 – Age factors with Roth conversions   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/   Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

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. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 3:10 – The proposal 5:42 – Report details 8:53 – Lower benefits at age 62 11:00 – Will this improve Social Security? 13:38 – What changes will be made? 15:15 – What should you do now?   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/ Contact us: (801) 639-0095

When it comes to creating a successful retirement plan, the financial metrics are going to be a big part of achieving your goals. In order to enjoy your retirement, you need to have the ability to fund your lifestyle and not run out of money. But money isn't the only measurement of success. Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:23 – What does success look like beyond the financial numbers? 1:43 – How retirement looks can change 4:45 – Creating stability in income 8:03 – Shift happens!   Schedule a 15-minute consultation:  https://calendly.com/erg-slc/15minutediscoverycall Get your free copy of "Rounding Third:"  http://rounding-third.elevatemyretirement.com/   Contact us: (801) 639-0095 slee@erg-slc.com

Dividend investing has long been a popular choice for retirees looking to generate a steady income but is living off dividends still a viable strategy? Today we'll talk more about the ways to generate income and the strategies we use to help ensure our clients have enough to live comfortably.   Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:24 – Spring Training baseball 3:08 – Ways to generate income 5:38 – Incidental income 7:04 – Diversification 9:32 – Taxes   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/   Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xte1rK7_IFY 

Remember the thrill of shaking a Magic 8 Ball to get answers to your childhood questions? Would we ace that math test? Would we be famous someday? Well, today, we're bringing a bit of that magic back. But instead of asking about pop quizzes and playground crushes, we're turning to the Magic 8 Ball for advice on something much more important: your retirement planning! What would the Magic 8 Ball have to say about these common retirement questions if it had the wisdom of a financial advisor?   Here's what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:00 – Never too early to start saving 5:12 – Is 1 million enough? 8:15 – Can I rely on Social Security? 10:24 – Multiple sources of retirement income 11:48 – Fewer retirement expenses? 14:58 – Future tax laws   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/   Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EMwDg_zQhmg 

Planning for retirement involves many crucial decisions, one of which is determining the best order to withdraw from your retirement accounts. Traditional advice often suggests a sequential approach- pulling money out of one type of account completely before moving to the next. But is this really the best strategy for everyone? Tune in as Sean shares some key factors to consider when deciding the best approach for your retirement planning.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Why Sean doesn't believe a sequential withdrawal approach is best How different withdrawal strategies can affect your tax liabilities and Medicare premiums What does it mean to simultaneously pull money out of your accounts? Working with a professional to customize your withdrawal strategy   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/   

No one hits a home run every time! While home runs are an exciting part of any baseball game, the end result of who wins the game has a lot more to do with how the rest of the game is played. Drawing from his extensive experience both on the field and in finance, Sean provides valuable insights into how the principles of baseball can be applied to crafting a successful retirement strategy.    Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: The plan has to work. How the game is really won. What five things are needed in a retirement plan.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Investing can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the game. In this podcast, Sean shares his expertise on common rookie investing mistakes and how to avoid them. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, Sean emphasizes the importance of knowing what each investment is for. Just like players on a baseball team, each investment should have a specific job to do.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Rookie mistakes happen, whether it's in baseball or finances. Every investment should have a purpose. Understand the risk each investment carries. Be careful about letting your emotions take over your financial decisions. Use caution with “hot tips” you hear.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/   

Who are the people who have the highest satisfaction in retirement? And how can you be one of them? It begins with understanding your retirement needs. Sean outlines the importance of clarity and confidence in your financial situation. He stresses that knowing the math problem- what you'll need versus what you'll have- is the first step toward a robust retirement plan.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: What does “peace of mind” mean in retirement? The three ways to create income from your investments. Having and keeping financial independence in retirement.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Have you ever wondered about the decisions in life that you can't take back? Today, we deep dive into the irreversible choices that can shape your financial future, especially when it comes to retirement.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: When you start taking Social Security matters. Choose wisely regarding your pension benefits. You can't get life insurance once it's too late and your family needs it. How to know what the right retirement date is for you.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/     

What kinds of financial mistakes do people make amidst a divorce? If you find yourself facing a divorce, there are some financial things you will want to be aware of as you move forward. From how to divvy up assets in a way that is financially sound to dealing with your emotions, there's a lot to keep in mind.    Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Choosing the house over other financial assets. Don't ignore tax implications of retirement funds. Rolling a spouse's retirement account directly into an IRA. Your emotions can cloud your decision-making. How does an advisor help a couple getting a divorce?   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Movie villains are usually pretty easy to identify with their ominous music, masks, and often dark clothing. In the financial world, some of the villains can be a bit harder to spot. We talk about some of the most infamous movie villains and share what they have in common with some of the dark and scary things financially speaking. From the Wicked Witch of the West and her flying monkeys to the hardships that inflation can cause, which of these villains are you ready to face head-on?   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Inflation shows up with a vengeance. Overly fixating on one issue or financial product can be risky. Individualized plans can make a difference.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

What are the milestone moments you face in retirement as you age? Today, we talk about some of the ages to keep in mind and why they are important as you reach each one. Whether you are a few years off or if you are right in the middle of these, thinking through what you should be doing with the money can make a huge impact in your financial life.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: The unofficial kickoff of retirement is age 50. Age 55 is when you need to think about your 401(k) options. When you turn 59 and a half, you have access to your funds. Under current law, age 62 allows you to withdraw from Social Security. At 73 (currently) you have to start taking money out of your retirement accounts.  What's the most important age?   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

What are your portfolio expectations? Are they too high? Today we talk through an article that shares investor expectations on their portfolio and why, in many cases, they are higher than they should be. We discuss some of the differences in expectations across the globe. More than that, we consider what the meaning of those returns are and how much we should place value on them. What does your lifestyle require? How can you create more clarity with your finances?   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Investment return expectations for investors vs. financial advisors. How do we manage expectations? What do I need to make my lifestyle possible? Should we plan for a recession?   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Let's play a game of fill in the blank with Sean to see how he would finish off these financial statements. What will the market do to you? What's the best way to set yourself up for success in retirement? What's the biggest financial mistake retirees make?   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: The best way to be sure you don't run out of money in retirement. The stock market has the ability to do what? Run the other way when a financial advisor does what? The most common mistake retirees make.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Ever wish you could learn about financial planning from a funny cartoon character? Today, we take some lessons from Homer Simpson to see what kind of financial wisdom we can learn. From what we are teaching our kids about money to facing uncertainty about our retirement savings, you'll want to have some healthy financial habits. You also likely have a number of goals you want to achieve. Having a financial plan in place will give you the strategy and action steps needed to get there.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: “Kids are great…with the internet now, they practically raise themselves.” “People can come up with statistics to prove anything!” “Let's not panic, I'll make the money by selling one of my livers.” “All my life, I've had one dream —to achieve my many, many goals.”   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Before we reach the end of the year, what financial goals can you easily cross off your list? As a continuation of this two-part series, we discuss five more easy wins you can make when it comes to your financial life. If you didn't hear part one, go back and listen to hear what other simple financial steps you can take.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Analyze tax efficiency of your investments. Make sure your beneficiary designations are up-to-date. Rebalance your portfolio. Have a proper emergency fund in place. Automate your savings.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

From having the right amount of money in the bank to consolidating your accounts, there are simple ways you can improve your finances. On this two-part series, we discuss some of the easy wins you can make when it comes to your financial life. These things can add up to make a big difference, so stay tuned!   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode: Having the right amount in cash. Finding the life insurance policy for you. Consolidating your 401(k) accounts. Considering your mutual funds. Replacing your funds as needed.   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Dave Ramsey is known for doling out financial advice, but a lot of it is broad and general. Some of it is sound advice and some of it might be more for the benefit of building up likes and views on social media. Today, we talk through what's what and see what Sean thinks as a financial advisor. Make sure your financial strategy is customized to your unique needs and goals.   Here is the financial advice we discuss to see if it rings true:   “Don't invest in anything if you can't tell me how it works.” “Don't invest in something if you're excited. If your pulse rate goes up too high, maybe you're getting conned.” “Do not jump in and out of investments based on what you hear on the news.” “If you're not careful, you make short-term decisions which keep you in a short-term solution. “People that retire wealthy, well it wasn't an accident.”   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

The pandemic brought some long-lasting changes, including remote meetings. In fact, Sean says about half of their financial advising meetings are still virtual. How does this benefit the client?   Here's what we talk about on today's show: With the change in technology, virtual meetings are more common. Convenience can come from meeting online. If you prefer meeting in person, how can you get the same experience? What should you ask a potential advisor about working together remotely? How can you be sure the information is secure?   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

While Sean didn't set out to write a baseball book, his love of both baseball and financial planning just came together here and his two worlds collided. On today's podcast we talk about his book, Rounding Third: Preparing for Your Finances for the Home Stretch to Retirement. This short and straightforward read has a lot of easy-to-understand financial lessons. You can learn a lot from the game of baseball. These lessons and analogy carry a lot of meaning for Sean as he relates it to what you need to know when preparing for retirement. Here's what we talk about on today's show: How did this book come to be? (1:01) How did baseball and financial planning come together? (2:09) Who is this book for and how can you get it? (6:03) What chapter of the book is Sean's favorite? (9:22)   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/     

We all hear sayings and information that may or may not be true. Are you basing your financial plan on things you heard through the grapevine without finding out if it rings true for you? Instead of going off of what you've heard, ask yourself: “What do I want my life to look like?” Join us as we discuss these common ideas and share some questions that will help you make a plan that aligns with your personal goals.    Here are the things people “hear” all the time and what Sean has to say about them: I heard…you have to have a million dollars to retire. (1:56) I heard…you should start taking Social Security ASAP. (6:43) I heard…I should go to gold. (9:48) I heard…the market is going to crash soon. (13:21)    For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/     

Not everyone has a financial advisor they know and trust. It can be scary to trust a financial advisor, especially when it comes to your nest egg. Sean talks about how he builds trust with clients and what it takes to find the right fit. You want to find someone who can create a financial plan that you are willing to follow and feel confident about.   Here are the reasons people don't visit an advisor that we talk about on today's show: Some people struggle to trust advisors. (2:13) The perceived cost gets in the way. (7:09) Some think they can just do DIY. (9:54) People misunderstand an advisor's role. (12:43)   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/   

After a busy spring, we look toward summer and all that is ahead! There's exciting news in the office of Elevated Retirement Group as they prepare to move locations.   Here are the updates Sean shares on today's show: What's the latest with Sean, his family, and his business? (0:17) The office is moving after five years. (2:24) A new book is coming! (4:08) There's always something happening, so a strategy is key. (7:35)   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

If hindsight is 20/20, what do you wish you knew before now? Instead of wishing you could remake the financial decisions of your past, we talk about the ways you can be more proactive and prepared for financial decisions now and in the future.   Here's what we'll talk about today: Market volatility can cause uncertainty. (1:04) Not understanding your risk until it's too late. (5:37) Taking Social Security without understanding the strategy. (7:48) Wishing you put more money into tax-beneficial options. (10:31) Retiring too early and having no choice but to go back to work. (12:51) For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

After saving and waiting for so many years, no one wants to make a big mistake that ruins retirement! Making certain assumptions about what retirement will be like may lead to disappointment. On today's show, we dive into the realities of retirement and some easy ways you could ruin it, drawing on Sean's insightful conversations with clients as they navigate this new chapter in their lives.   Here are the ways you can easily ruin your retirement: Treating retirement as a destination instead of a journey. (2:14) Believing that retirement will solve everything. (4:20) Assuming your monthly spending habits will be the same. (6:01) Investing like you're 35 years old when you're 65. (8:59) Stop being active. (11:55)  For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Following the wisdom and quotes of Yogi Berra, we compare some lessons in financial planning with what we've heard from this famous professional baseball player. From assessing past financial decisions you've made to planning for your financial future, there's a lot of takeaways we can learn from Yogi Berra.   Here are the quotes we discuss on today's show: “I never said most of the things I've said.” (2:18) “A nickel ain't worth a dime anymore.” (4:20) “If you don't know where you're going, you might end up someplace else.” (5:40) “When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” (7:10) “The future ain't what it used to be.” (9:34) “It's like déjà vu all over again.” (10:40)   For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

In this episode, Marc and Sean will discuss a recent CNBC article about a man who ‘un-retired' at 67 because he was bored and restless. What are the biggest issues people face when they don't have a plan for retirement? We'll tell you what we've seen and talk about what you can do to avoid that feeling. Here's a little of what we discuss in this episode: The issues people usually have with trying to have things to do in retirement. (1:38) The regret category where people miss what they were doing. (3:12) Being active is important for mental health. (4:50) Feeling like you've lost your identity. (6:45) Using a Venn Diagram to help you organize what's most important.  (7:59)   Read the CNBC article: https://www.cnbc.com/2022/06/15/67-year-old-who-unretired-at-62-shares-the-biggest-retirement-challenge-that-no-one-talks-about.html    For more, visit us online at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

The Secure Act 2.0 was recently passed, so we talk about some of the key takeaways that might impact your financial plan on today's episode. Some changes are for the better and some changes might take some time to get used to. Which of these might benefit your financial plan the most? Listen to find out.   Here's what you'll learn about on today's show: The RMD age was pushed back. (1:53) How does this change with a Roth 401(k)? (4:02) Automatic enrollment is being implemented. (7:27) Student loan debt payments can be matched. (9:23) Changes to 529 plans. (11:43) Company matches can be in a Roth account. (13:55)   Get in touch with Sean and the team at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

In honor of our 100th episode, we have a special guest on the show! Sean's son, Michael, joins us and shares about his experience having his dad as a coach. From exercises to tournaments, there's a lot that goes into it. While Sean coaches Michael in baseball, he also coaches several people throughout the week when it comes to retirement. Do you need a coach when it comes to retirement planning? Here's what Michael shares in today's show: What kind of drills do they work in at baseball? (1:40) Sean shares about his two favorite things to talk about. (4:10) What does Michael like? (4:29) Where does Michael want to go to college? (5:36) What's Michael's favorite baseball team? (6:13)   Get in touch with Sean and the team at https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

Some people dream about retiring and it can't come soon enough. For others, maybe it's something they are putting off. We talk through the varying degrees of interest and readiness in retirement and how to plan accordingly. Here are the reasons you wonder about getting a new advisor: I love what I do. (1:30) I could retire, but my job is still a good situation. (3:37) I have no idea if I can retire or not. (5:46) Retirement should be soon. (8:04) I hate my job and can't wait to get out. (9:49) Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

As the saying goes, the grass is always greener on the other side. When is the grass greener with another financial advisor? We talk about a number of reasons someone might consider looking at leaving their current advisor for another one. Sean shares why some of these reasons might be worthwhile and why some of these reasons don't have to be dealbreakers. Here are the reasons you wonder about getting a new advisor: Making a mistake that costs you money. (1:28) The business has gotten too big. (4:09) A dinner seminar has some appeal. (6:47) I'm moving across the country. (9:48) The market has been volatile. (13:35) Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

In honor of Thanksgiving, we share some of what we're thankful for and what we look forward to with the holidays. When it comes to working with a financial advisor, what is there to be thankful for? We discuss five reasons you might be thankful for your advisor (and what to do if this doesn't describe your relationship with an advisor).    Reasons to be thankful for the financial advisor in your life: For providing a comprehensive plan to build and protect your wealth. (2:28) Finding clarity and good expectations in the relationship. (4:56) Working with a fiduciary. (6:36) Having a trustworthy advisor. (9:02) Being able to have conversations and regular communication (11:11) Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

What are your three biggest assets when it comes to saving for your retirement and your future? For most people, this is your 401(k), your house, and Social Security. We talk today about how to best leverage these assets and manage them properly. It can make all the difference in retirement. Timestamps: What kind of strategy went into picking the fund for your 401(k)? (1:23) What happens with that 401(k) when you're ready to retire? (2:42) Is your home an asset you'll want to use later? (4:31) Social Security is much bigger than you realize. (7:41)   Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

When it comes to the media, sensational headlines sell, but they might cause you to panic with your finances. Are the angst and fear around the markets or interest rates logical or a little overdramatic? We talk about how to know if the advice and information is a helpful resource to follow. Timestamps: Don't make knee-jerk reactions to short-term issues. (2:04) Recognize which stories are real and which ones are paid advertisements. (4:43) Determine whether you are the intended audience or not. (6:48) Find the person who is the right fit for you. (11:17)   Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

When it comes to your investments and your financial plan, the last thing you want to do is mess it up. We talk through a few ways this can happen and how to avoid them.   Timestamps: 0:51 - Don't make any sudden decisions. 5:02 - Don't jump into investments you don't understand. 8:07 - Work with a professional. 9:36 - The plan is more than the investment. 11:22 - Do you want to DIY?   Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

On Today's Episode: What can we learn from Aesop's fables when it comes to gaining financial wisdom? Sean shares how each of these fables relate to our own financial decisions.   Timestamps: 0:28 - Time for back to school! 1:52 - What can we learn from the miser and his gold? 6:38 - The tortoise and the hare shows us that slow and steady wins the race. 10:29 - What about the dog and his shadow?    More About Today's Episode:  There are a few fables that teach us about life and money. Today, we'll go through some fables and find out what they teach us financially. In the miser and his gold, a miser digs up his gold to look at it but then it got stolen. Instead of using it, he would only look. Wealth not realized and used isn't wealth. While we might be programmed to save and accumulate, don't forget to use it. Sometimes Sean has to convince clients to spend their money. Having financial safety and security is good, but learn how you can use that money to your advantage while you're still around. The tortoise and the hare is a well-known story of the overconfident hare who doesn't plan ahead while the slow and steady tortoise comes out ahead. Rushing to make money quick isn't the answer you want. The slow and steady approach to accumulating wealth is often what works best. Building consistent habits over time will lead to financial success. Lastly, the dog and the shadow is about a dog with a piece of meat walking home. When crossing a stream, the dog sees its reflection and tries to grab the piece of meat in the reflection and ends up losing the meat in his mouth. In the financial world, if you don't have a clear plan, you might try to jump towards something else too soon.   Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

When we're not outside playing baseball, it's fun to play a few games that challenge our minds. Trivia TV show Jeopardy inspired today's podcast as we quiz Sean on a financial round of questions.   Key topics on this episode:  0:39 - Ready to play Jeopardy? 1:55 - High fees and broken promises with market risk.   3:25 - What requires a financial professional to put the client's interests first? 5:01 - What financial phenomenon always returns? 7:39 - This forces retirees to drain their retirement accounts. 10:17 - What defined benefit retirement program is becoming scarce?   Get additional financial resources online: https://retirementelevatedpodcast.com/ 

What do you need to mark off your to-do list in the ten years before retirement? On today's episode, we'll explain a few of the big items you want to consider in this retirement planning time period.   Key topics on this show:  1:10 – What do you want out of retirement? 2:54 – Knowing your numbers 4:34 – Get a strong understanding of your needs 5:48 – Get a handle on your healthcare 7:42 – Things are going to change   For more financial resources, visit us online: http://retirementelevatedpodcast.com