Retirement Strategies Radio

Financial Literacy: It’s so easy, even kids can do it! At least these kids can anyway… On this episode we introduce you to a brother–sister duo who likely know a lot more about finance than you do. Darrell uses this example to point out the common lack of financial knowledge many of us suffer to further emphasize the importance of seeking professional advice for your retirement plan. Plus, what does it actually mean to say that someone is “rich?” Get to work improving your financial-retirement knowledge with the team at www.DBryantRetirementStrategies.com.

Good news, bad news: Covid is no longer the top investor concern, but this problem has now replaced it. Darrell talks about ways to manage these and other concerns. Plus, less than 20% of retirees have enough income to maintain the same standard of living they had when they were still working.  What can you do now to ensure your retirement is better than that? Learn more at www.DBryantRetirementStrategies.com.

None of us want to be a burden on our families, but the cost of long-term care insurance has spiraled out of control. However, there are new options available that you need to know about. Darrell explains how the insurance industry has changed, and talks about some of the different options available that you might not know exist. Want to learn more about the various options available for your medical and income plans after you leave your job? Visit www.DBryantRetirementStrategies.com

Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, is warning that retirees are facing what he calls “a bleak future.” Darrell works to explain the theory while offering ideas on what you can do to better position yourself. Plus, it feels like everyone’s using a robo-advisor, yet several surveys show that people who work with human advisors are more confident about their financial future. So, what’s the difference?

Thanks to the internet, those “32 volumes” that used to be an information advantage are now outdated. On this episode, Darrell talks about 3 big retirement rules, once taken as gospel, but have now also passed their expiration dates.

The average fridge has at least five things that should probably be thrown out. Turns out your retirement portfolio could also benefit from a little reorganizing, but that kind of cleaning out process is much more difficult. Darrell talks about ways he and the team can work to simplify this process for you and the benefits of “cleaning out” your accounts.

We hear a lot of confusing, and often incorrect, information about annuities. In this episode, Darrell uses a specific example of this kind of language to offer clarity while continuing to emphasize the importance of a diversified and balanced plan.

Governments collect $17.5 Billion in cellular taxes, fees, and surcharges every year. Darrell talks about what you can control when it comes to future tax obligations. Plus, how reverting to your 20-Something mindset could help in planning our retirement.

As the list of those expecting a tax hike under the new White House administration continues to grow, Darrell continues to share ideas on ways to help reduce your future tax liabilities. Plus, making sense of all the mixed messages we’re getting on our market investments.

A survey says the average worker expects to withdraw about 10% of their savings each year in retirement. Darrell does the math to show why this expectation might be far too optimistic for most of us.

On this episode, Darrell shares a personal story of his attempt to cut his own hair and it serves as a great reminder that some jobs are simply NOT meant for do-it-yourselfers…But what about planning for retirement? Darrell explains reasons why even the most intelligent and affluent savers can get tripped up when trying to create their own plan. 

After what felt like the longest election season ever, the political ads are finally done and we’re winding down the year. With all of the distractions, you probably don’t know about the new legislation proposed in Congress and what bearing it could have on your retirement. On this episode, Darrell sheds light on the “Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2020” and how it could impact your investments and RMD (required minimum distribution) strategy. Plus, he reveals the financial check list you should go through to be prepared for 2021.

Election day is fast approaching, and it’s clear Donald Trump and Joe Biden have dramatically different philosophies on many things, especially taxes. So, how does that impact us? How will the market respond to the election results? Do we need to keep a close eye on wall street over the coming weeks? And why is it that the middle-class has to work exceptionally hard to set aside $1 million or more, but politicians seem to become millionaires fast? Darrell tackles these issues and explains what you and your family need to keep top of mind regarding your investments as we wrap up 2020. 

Recently Darrell spoke with a couple that brought out his protective big brother side… and fired him up a little. Not because of anything they did, but considering their age, he was concerned about how another advisor set up their portfolio. Hear the full story to find out what you may want to watch out for when it comes to your money and having income in retirement. Don’t forget, your financial future is about much more than saving and investing well.

One of the BIGGEST news headlines has been the claim that President Trump paid little or no taxes over the past 10 years. It’s common knowledge that affluent Americans have legal ways of lowering the amount of taxes they pay. As part of the middle class, we’re all wondering what we can do to be more tax efficient too. Darrell breaks down what all of this REALLY means, and how to find out if you’re able to legally lower taxes when it comes to your portfolio.   

As if 2020 wasn’t already chaotic, the 1st presidential debate left many Americans with mixed feelings about the two “Grumpy Old Men” on the ballot for November 3rd. As a financial advisor, Darrell is solely focused on how each candidate could impact your personal economy. On this episode, he breaks down the economic and tax plans of Trump and Biden and how they can impact your family. Find out how to proactively prepare your portfolio for efficiency… no matter of who’s president.

In every aspect of life, newer isn’t always better. Darrell and the team have a fun conversation about how this applies to music, money and everything in between! Yes, technology has greatly improved our lives. However, gadgets and algorithms can’t replace an advisor who gets to know YOU, YOUR goals, and can help you work through unexpected changes in your financial life. Computers focus on numbers, but you’re more than a number. Find out why baby boomers should seek financial insight from a retirement specialist… not a website or average advisor.

We miss a lot of things during this strange time. However, we don’t even get a chance to miss all of the political ads and election talk. Yes, we’re focused on how each candidate plans to address taxes... Because it will directly affect our wallet! Whether the election lands on the right or left in November, it’s likely that greedy ole Uncle Sam will demand a BIGGER chunk of our money at some point. This week, Darrell breaks down how the middle-class can plan for that in advance and be as efficient as possible with taxes and our portfolio.

What’s the difference in being “rich” and being “wealthy?” Darrell explains how it’s about basic financial freedom!  You’ll also find out why including fun money items in a long-term financial plan is a priority, and how that relates to your portfolio.

A recent survey found that for many reasons Americans haven’t been this unhappy in about 50 years, but Darrell shares a positive perspective and some GOOD NEWS to focus on. Plus, find out how to take back control of your hard-earned money so that you can pay yourself when you stop working!

From ice cream to deodorant, the economy continues to change during the pandemic. In recent weeks the Census Bureau said our economy is slowly picking up in some areas, then the Bureau of Economic Analysis revealed that the economy contracted almost 33% between April and June, its worst drop on record! Darrell breaks down what’s REALLY happening, and how to make sure your personal economy is moving in the right direction, despite the wavering headlines.

We seldom talk about is life insurance... mainly because it isn’t all that fun! But during your career you likely had some through your employer, or maybe a term policy while raising the family. Now you’re about to enter retirement - or maybe you’re already there. You have to decide whether to take out a new policy or retire uninsured. On this episode, Darrell breaks down some overlooked reasons you may want to take advantage of certain types of life insurance. 

A little normalcy is returning in the world of sports with a 60-game baseball season. Bobby Bonilla hasn't played MLB in nearly 20 years, but since 2011 the Mets have been paying him over $1 million a year and will until 2035. He made a very smart move by opting to defer his contract buy out and putting off immediate financial gratification to have plenty of income rolling in during retirement. Darrell talks about how you can also create your own income plan with the money you’ve worked hard to save and invest… to pay yourself when you stop working!

While celebrating dear ole Dad, Darrell reminisces about his father and how the advice he passed along many years ago still applies to Darrell today… Especially as a financial advisor. It’s all about the basics we easily lose sight of: Less is more. Be grateful and have a plan in place so we’re empowered to embrace the wonderful moments of life!

The U.S. entered into a recession in February for the first time since 2009, and economists say the shortest recession in American history ended days ago in May. Those of us on main street are wondering if the worst is over on wall street and with the economy. In simple terms, Darrell breaks down how to approach the economic uncertainty you may be feeling about your portfolio and future. 

On this episode, we start by pulling back the curtain and introducing a vital (and cute) member of the D. Bryant Retirement Strategies team. Then we spotlight on a common concern for baby boomers: What percentage of our money should we risk on Wall Street?  Darrell addresses that, and exposes the other major risks people often overlook.

Many Americans say they’re just too busy right now to worry about things like their investments. Without saying the worn-out “C” word… Darrell & Kristen discuss how we react (or don’t react) to the economic downturn following the virus could have a serious impact on your retirement. He spotlights why this is the perfect time to get organized and plan for your future! Plus, interesting insight about how now more than ever, transparency is vital when it comes to fees in every part of your life… especially your portfolio!

Congressional Democrats are working on another stimulus package that would add an additional $3 trillion to the deficit. Yes, a lot of people need financial help during this crisis, but we’ll eventually have to pay for all of this… and likely in the form of higher taxes. Darrell explains how to efficiently guard your portfolio against these future tax hikes. Plus, if you’ve accumulated large IRA’s that you don’t really need – Darrell clarifies why you might want to think about converting that IRA to a Roth account.

Would it surprise you to learn that there’s one financial area where Baby Boomers know less than Gen Xers and Millennials?  A Magnify Money survey found that – of those 3 generations – Boomers are the most likely to be naive about the fees being charged on investments and retirement accounts. Darrell discusses why, and how all generations can uncover what they’re paying, and how to make sure there’s value within those fees.

Even though life is a little different these days, nothing will stop us from celebrating mom this Mother’s Day! After we stroll down memory lane, we discuss how some of us have a few regrets… especially when it comes to money. Darrell explains how to avoid the heartache of taking too much risk, and instead take the right kind of action to avoid financial heartaches.

For some Americans the financial downturn has their investment accounts down anywhere from 25% to 45%, depending on how their portfolio is positioned. If you are hoping to retire in the next couple of years, you’re probably questioning if you need to keep working until the chaos passes. It’s a BIG question without an easy answer, but Darrell explains how he walks his clients through “doing the math.” Plus, if you’ve been offered an early retirement buyout, don’t rush into a decision. Darrell discusses how to step back… and properly weigh your options.

After Darrell & Kristen discuss making the best out of our current lifestyle, some friends chime in on an interesting topic: If they’d known the financial part of this crisis was coming, what would they have done differently with their money? Plus, if you’re judging the performance of your portfolio solely based on the rate of return, Darrell explains that you’re missing the boat if you’re not also considering what you’re paying in fees!

After some interesting consumer spending insight… Darrell & Kristen embrace the 50th anniversary the Apollo 13 mission, and the first time we heard of one of the most famous quotes in history: “Houston we have a problem.”  Just as the crew of the Apollo 13 mission did, Darrell discusses why we need to be calm, responsive, and realistic yet optimistic as our lifestyle and economy continues to change due to the pandemic… And how you can financially stay on course!

With about 17 million American workers filing for unemployment in just the last 3 weeks, Kristen asks what many of us are wondering: Why doesn’t main street’s economy match what’s happening on Wall Street?  Darrell not only breaks that down in simple terms… He also explains how you can possibly fill the income gaps within your personal economy when you stop working by using something that’s been around since Roman times!

We’ve had enough of the news, so on this episode we’re taking the time to introduce you to every member of the D Bryant Retirement Strategies team! We’ll hear fun insights of how their “physically distanced working from home” life is going with their families. Plus, Darrell explains the GOOD NEWS about how the stimulus package impacts you. He shares ideas of how to use your money if you don’t need it at this moment, and the new options that are only available during 2020 for your retirement accounts.

When Wall Street is in turmoil, many investors are tempted to go to cash and wait for the dust to settle before getting back in. Is that what you should do? Darrell discusses how those of us over age of 55 should be looking at the current market… and more importantly, controlling the future of our personal economy.

The Dow and NASDAQ’s closing numbers Friday ended U.S. markets’ worst week since the financial crisis of 2008. Darrell breaks down what soon to be and current retirees need to keep in mind given the latest financial information. 

The markets have tumbled in reaction to the coronavirus, and Wall Street responded by halting trades TWICE this week! Something that hasn’t occurred since 2008. Darrell breaks down the impact this volatility has on those over age 55, how to relieve some panic, and why the stock market shouldn’t dictate your retirement.

When there’s volatility in the stock market, it’s normal for you to feel a bit uneasy… But that doesn’t mean you should react instantly based on that emotion. Darrell explains how to navigate your 401(k) and other investments during volatile times when you’re 55 or older.   

To celebrate The Doobie Brothers being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and their 50th anniversary tour, we’re revisiting a conversation Darrell had with Patrick Simmons and Michael McDonald a while back. 

Because we’re living longer, some argue that Boomers should be investing like Millennials to accumulate more money. Darrell disagrees and explains how there’s nothing wrong with those over 55 having some money in equities, but how and why it needs to be properly balanced with an efficient, and consistent income plan for the future.

As Baby Boomers, we have a lot to learn from Millennials when it comes to technology and social media. Does that mean it’s a good idea to invest like a Millennial too? Greg & Kristin explain that when you’re over 55 there's nothing wrong with having some money in growth stocks, but how it should be balanced with an efficient and consistent income plan for the future.  

According to CreditCards.com, over a quarter of adults feel “financial infidelity” is worse than an affair! Darrell explains why it’s vitally important that spouses be on the same page about all aspects of money. He also points out that many of us don’t realize what fees we’re truly paying for some of our investments, and more importantly how to uncover that for yourself.

According to GoBankingRates.com, if you’ve been saving consistently since your early 20’s… Nebraskan’s can reasonably expect to retire at age 54, with a nest egg of $758,320. Darrell has been a financial advisor for over 30 years, and he gladly and quickly explains why this study isn’t true for Nebraska or any other state.

From The Red Rocker’s home studio in California, Darrell sits down with Sammy Hagar… A rock n’ roll hall of famer who’s enjoyed successful careers as a solo artist and as a member of several bands, most notably as Van Halen’s front man from 1985 – 1996. They talk about music, his various thriving businesses, and how Sammy feels “retirement” is a bad word. Plus, you’ll never believe the live jam session that happens at the end!

Darrell sits down with the iconic Dolly Parton in Nashville, TN. They discuss how she has the energy to work as hard as she does in her 70’s, her passion for helping others, and her Imagination Library. Since Dolly has been a trendsetter since the 60’s, Darrell asks her advice for how folks should approach their time and energy during their retirement years.

What happens when the water heater goes, the dog has an expensive vet visit, or you’ve got a leaky roof? If you’re like most Nebraskans, you just tap into your emergency fund. On this episode Darrell answers the questions many soon to be and current retirees want to know: What type of account should I put my emergency fund in?

Tim Tebow is a two-time college football national champion, first-round NFL draft pick, Heisman trophy winner, professional baseball player and sports commentator. His testimony has inspired millions, and that continues with his latest book “This Is The Day.” On this episode Tim talks with Darrell about his approach to goals and how he works hard to personally avoid regret, and what he feels is his most important work is helping others through his Tim Tebow foundation. He also gives his LSU verses Clemson prediction for the national championship this week!

When it comes to resolutions, we each approach the New Year from our own perspective… but we share the common goal of doing something better in the new year. On this episode, Darrell addresses why it’s vital that you resolve to be more focused on what’s really happening with your portfolio all year long, especially when it comes to taxes!

Whether you have $500,000 or $5 million saved, Darrell explains that most people share the same top concern about retirement… and how you can to resolve that anxiety. Plus, he debunks a few “retirement rules” that could derail up your financial future.

If you watch Fox & Friends, you’re familiar with co-host Brian Kilmeade. On this episode, Darrell sits down with Brian for some insight about President Trump, addressing generational differences, and to discuss Kilmeade’s latest book “Sam Houston and the Alamo Avengers: The Texas Victory That Changed American History.”