Retirement Matters with Michael Stewart

The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let's be honest, it's always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We're starting a financial book club where a couple of times a year, we'll discuss a book in the financial realm to see what we can learn…or what we might disagree with. Today, we'll look at a few concepts from Morgan Housel's book, The Psychology of Money…   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Are you saving so much for retirement that it's squeezing your life today? In this episode, we're answering a smart viewer question about finding the right balance between preparing for the future and living fully in the present.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

It's been a volatile month. And if you're feeling the pressure, you're not alone. But how we respond in moments like this often has roots in the crashes we've lived through before. In this episode, we look at how past market meltdowns shaped investor psychology, how today's chaos might be leaving its own mark, and what lessons we can take with us to navigate what's next.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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 are 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, we're looking at the questions every couple should ask about finances and retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

For years, $1 million was considered the gold standard for retirement savings. But is it really enough? A new analysis shows that depending on where you live, that million could last a lifetime… or barely 15 years.  In this episode, we break down the shocking cost-of-living differences across states and see if $1 million saved is enough or too little for your retirement plan.    Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Dolly Parton isn't just a music icon—she's a source of timeless wisdom. In this episode, we explore her most inspiring quotes and how they can guide your financial decisions, from saving to dreaming big. Let Dolly's advice help you build a life, and wallet, worth singing about!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092    

Inflation has been a hot topic in recent years, and its impact on retirement planning is arguably bigger than ever. In this episode, we'll explore how to adjust your strategy for 2025.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

It's almost 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.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Did you know most Americans retire earlier than planned, often due to unexpected health issues, job changes, or financial surprises? These challenges can force people out of work early, leaving them unprepared for decades of retirement. In this episode, we'll explore recent research highlighting the importance of planning for early retirement, even if it's not in your current plans.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

You wouldn't necessarily expect Mike Tyson, Kim Kardashian, and Lindsay Lohan to dispense valuable insights about financial planning matters. In fact, you'd probably expect the opposite. But with a little bit of creativity, we can get some financial planning pearls of wisdom from even the most unlikely of sources.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

The financial landscape is changing rapidly, and if you're focused on retirement, these shifts can't be ignored. In today's episode, we break down the trends that will define the rest of 2024 and what they mean for your retirement plan.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

A random, retired YouTuber did a simple video exploring the top 5 regrets from other retirees he interviewed (all in their 70s). It blew up to almost half a million views (and counting). Let's see what regrets made the list and, more importantly, explore what proactive steps you can take to avoid having the same regrets when you retire.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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?   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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. In this two-part episode, we're digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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. In this two-part episode, we're digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We hear a lot of half-truths in the financial world, not necessarily because people try to make misleading statements, but because sometimes a simple statement just doesn't quite tell the whole story. On this episode, we'll discuss a few examples...   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Very often, we see people who know that the financial decisions that they're making aren't the best decisions, but they try to create excuses or explanations for why they're doing what they're doing. Let's talk about why these excuses usually don't hold water.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Some people just need a reality check when it comes to understanding their retirement. Today, we'll explore why a realistic approach to retirement, inclusive of financial planning and the potential for unexpected challenges, is crucial.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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. Join us as we talk about them in today's episode!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Imagine your retirement plan as a ship sailing toward a horizon of rest and relaxation. But what if one leak could sink it all? In today's episode, we spotlight some of the single oversights that could send your dreams to the bottom. We'll share key strategies to plug the gaps, ensuring your financial ship stays buoyant and on course. Tune in to protect your future from the one mistake that could derail everything.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We've all heard the apocalyptic predictions about Social Security, the national debt and other major issues that are supposed to sink the economy. Do any of these predictions have merit in the years ahead? On this episode, we'll try to separate sensationalism from reality.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Everyone wants to know. Will the economy boom or bust in 2024? Join us as we explore a range of expert predictions, from the shifting trends in housing prices to the looming question of a potential recession or stock market crash. We'll balance our discussion with both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives from an array of sources to give you a comprehensive view. Tune in to navigate the uncertainties and opportunities of 2024's economic landscape and equip yourself with knowledge for the year ahead.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Just like building a snowman in the crisp winter air, creating a structurally sound retirement strategy requires careful consideration and planning. From establishing a solid base to adding protective layers, we're here to ensure your financial landscape remains cool and collected. Tune in and learn how to build a financial snowman that stands the test of time. So, bundle up and let's get rolling!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Get ready to rock to the rhythms of retirement wisdom in this week's episode! We've put together the ultimate retirement planning playlist, featuring timeless lyrics that reflect various stages of the planning journey. From setting financial goals to finding purpose in your golden years, this playlist sets the stage for important discussions about crafting your dream retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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. Together, we'll navigate through essential topics like managing RMDs, exploring tax-saving opportunities, and even touching on the often-overlooked emotional aspects of this pivotal life transition.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

"Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself.” – Eleanor Roosevelt… 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.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

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.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Are you over 55 and pondering retirement? Dive into the world of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) with us. In this episode, we demystify the reasons behind mandatory withdrawals from your retirement savings. Discover strategies to potentially avoid them and understand the risks of not preparing in advance. And for those fortunate to not rely on RMDs for income, we'll explore impactful ways to utilize those funds.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092  

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. We explore actionable strategies to address these problems, such as the importance of life insurance and the ins and outs of spousal pension continuation. This is the episode for you if you're concerned with ensuring the financial well-being of your remaining family members and safeguarding your financial future and legacy in the face of loss.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092  

In today's episode, we'll explore the sensitive and significant process of transitioning from one financial advisor to another. We'll cover how to recognize when your current advisor may no longer be serving your financial needs effectively, the right questions to ask, and crucial factors to consider when searching for a new financial partner.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092  

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the gritty side of personal finance. In this episode, we reveal how everyday household tasks can serve as reminders of the principles that lead to financial success. From taking out the trash in your investment portfolio to cleaning out the fridge of outdated financial strategies, we'll explore how to declutter your financial life.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

In this episode, we'll explore many of the expenses in your life that might drastically change (one way or another) in retirement. We'll break those expenses down further to see which ones are the top priorities and analyze some of the other factors that impact your cash flow in retirement.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Picture this: You're at your retirement party, finally ready to enjoy your golden years, but worries caused by some bad money habits have robbed you of fully enjoying the sweetness of the day. It happens to more people than you think, which is unfortunate because with just a little bit of modification, you can rid some of the worst money habits from your life and set yourself up for retirement success. Tune in to this episode and develop healthy financial habits that pave the way for a secure future!   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths about Social Security out there. In this episode, we'll debunk these common myths and answer the Social Security questions you've been curious about. This is part 2 of our Social Security conversation, where we will break down the remaining 5 Social Security myths.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Have you ever wondered if the Social Security system will run out of money before you retire? Or if claiming benefits as soon as you're eligible is the best decision for your financial future? In this episode, we'll be debunking common myths about Social Security and answering the questions you've been curious about.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We will continue our discussion from last episode on if an advisor should tailor a plan to fit your personality and exploring the different aspects of this subject.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Are you tired of one-size-fits-all financial advice that doesn't quite fit your unique needs and goals? In this episode, we'll tackle the question of whether an advisor should tailor a plan to fit your personality. We'll discuss the pros and cons of different approaches and explore how understanding your financial personality can help you make more informed decisions.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Retirement can come with a lot of tax questions and concerns. From understanding the tax implications of withdrawing from your retirement accounts to minimizing taxes on investment income, it can be overwhelming. On today's episode, we'll break down the top ten tax questions retirees are asking in 2023. Before you file your 2022 taxes and plan ahead for the rest of the year, make sure to listen to this episode as we'll discuss some important tax questions that retirees should ask themselves to ensure they're making the most of their retirement savings and minimizing their tax burden.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

We took an informal poll of listeners to find out what their biggest financial fears are. On this episode, we'll explore the most common fears and talk about how they should be addressed in a retirement plan.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

It's been said that if you don't have an income plan, you don't really have a retirement plan. We'll tackle that mentality on this episode to see if it's true and further explore why so many retirees and pre-retirees don't understand the importance of an income plan, nor how to properly construct one. This is a foundational topic for anyone preparing for retirement, so make sure you hear this one.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

With the new year here, we thought it would be a good idea to cover our top 10 checklist for New Year planning. Break out the notepad, you won't want to miss out on any of these tips.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Market volatility became the norm in 2022. Are we in for more of the same in 2023? We'll talk about the market outlook for the next 12 months, plus share tips on how you can best prepare for potential future volatility.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

As we celebrate Thanksgiving and the holiday season, have you found yourself expressing thanks for those who provide financial leadership in your life? If not, perhaps it's time to explore why and whether you're getting enough value from your relationship with your financial advisor or other advice-givers. On this episode, we'll explore some of the top reasons you should be thanking your financial advisor.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

Sometimes you need to find a new financial advisor. Other times, you might think you need a new advisor, but really, you're just guilty of thinking that the grass is greener on the other side. Let's discuss some common scenarios and whether they're legitimate reasons for leaving your advisor.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092

In this episode, we will discuss some of the more common questions about taxes during retirement planning.   Contact Info: Website: https://crystallaketax.com/ Phone Number: 815-526-3092