SK Wealth's Solutions & Knowledge podcast

Rising interest rates aren't all bad news, especially when it comes to estate planning. In this episode, Jason and Mac discuss three powerful strategies that thrive in a high-rate environment: QPRTs, CRATs, and GRITs. These aren't your everyday tools, but they could help you pass on wealth more efficiently, reduce taxes, and preserve your legacy. If you're serious about intentional wealth transfer, this one's for you.  

What if financial independence isn't a finish line, but a mindset? In this episode, Jason and Mac unpack the question: How much is enough? Learn how to define your personal “enough,” align your wealth with your values, and stop chasing more just for the sake of it. Sometimes, freedom starts with  more clarity, not more money.  

This week, Jason and Mac discuss the challenging journey of financial planning after divorce or losing a spouse. They share insights on managing the overwhelming feelings that come with major life transitions and offer practical steps to regain financial clarity. Rebuilding your financial life isn't just about the numbers. It's about aligning your resources with what matters most to you now. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!  

This week, Mac and Jason discuss how dynasty trusts can be used as powerful estate planning tools for preserving family wealth across generations. They explain how these specialized trusts can minimize taxes and protect your assets long-term. Dynasty trusts can have significant benefits, but they may not be for everyone. Tune in to learn all about the pros and cons. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!  

Wealth transfer planning is more than writing a will. It's a way to make sure your money serves your values and supports the people you care about. This week, Jason and Mac break down how to navigate the complexities of wealth transfer, minimize tax burdens, and prepare the next generation for financial responsibility. The guys also share how clear communication and thoughtful estate planning can prevent family conflicts before they start.  

This week, Mac and Andrew discuss the key differences between term and whole life insurance. They share how each type of policy works, the advantages and limitations of both, and who might benefit most from each option. Learning about the difference between term and whole life insurance can help you determine which option will work better for you. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team! Resources mentioned in this podcast:  The Supreme Court Blows Up a Popular Small-Business Succession Plan - WSJ

Running your own business means taking charge of your retirement planning too. This week, Mac and Jason discuss the retirement options available for self-employed individuals. They break down the features and benefits of Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, and traditional/Roth IRAs. You'll learn how to select the right plan based on your business structure, income patterns, and long-term goals. The guys also share insights on diversification, tax planning, and healthcare considerations for a comprehensive retirement strategy. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!

After decades of smart financial decisions, many people find themselves with more wealth than they anticipated. This brings new questions about preservation and legacy planning. This week, Mac and Jason discuss generational wealth planning and how to approach these decisions thoughtfully. You'll learn about different account structures, tax considerations, and strategies for maintaining wealth across generations. The guys also share insights about family communication and financial education that can help prevent common pitfalls. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!  

What's the best way to replace your regular paycheck with retirement income? This week, Mac and Jason tackle one of the most common questions they receive from clients transitioning to retirement. They break down different income sources, explain tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, and share practical tips for setting up systematic withdrawals that help maintain the familiar feeling of a regular paycheck. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!  

Alternative investments such as real estate, crypto, and commodities like gold can take time to understand, but many investors successfully use them to diversify their portfolios and protect their wealth. This week, our chief investment officer, Matt Neyland, explores the world of alternative investments and what role they might play in your financial strategy. The guys break down different types of alternative investments, their benefits and risks, and what to consider before adding them to your portfolio. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!

Structuring an estate plan that efficiently transfers your wealth to your loved ones while minimizing tax exposure can feel overwhelming. Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs) may seem complex, but if you understand how to leverage this powerful tool, it may save you and your family a lot of money when it matters the most. This week, Mac and Jason discuss GRATs and how you can use them as a strategy for minimizing taxes while passing on your financial legacy to the next generation. You'll learn how GRATs work and what the key elements are. They also share the benefits and potential risks of this estate planning tool, and why careful consideration of your broader financial goals is essential. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!

This week, Mac and Jason discuss tax-efficient investing strategies. They break down the difference between taxable and tax-advantaged accounts, and share what you need to know about managing your portfolio with taxes in mind. It's important to remember that while tax-efficiency can make a big difference in your investments, it's only one piece of a comprehensive financial plan. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!   Resources mentioned in this episode: SLATs – Episode 75, Annuities – Episode 69

A Spousal Lifetime Access Trust is an irrevocable trust for high-wealth couples that helps increase tax efficiency in your estate and gives your partner a financial safety net. If you think a SLAT could be the right choice for you, now is the time to act. SLATs can help you take advantage of current tax laws expiring in 2025. Jason and Mac explain how to use SLATs to reduce estate taxes, maintain access to assets, and protect wealth for your heirs. They discuss the importance of early planning and avoiding IRS issues using real-life examples of clients who've saved using smart SLAT strategies. Don't forget to subscribe for more expert insights from the planning team!

This week, Jason and Mac discuss what you need to know if you're ready to sell your residential investment property. Maybe managing your rental property has lost its charm, or you rarely visit your vacation property. Or you could be enticed by current attractive market values. Learn about rental property depreciation, investment options, how to manage taxes efficiently with strategies like the 1031 exchange. Get insights into working with property management companies. There's great value in making decisions in the context of your comprehensive financial plan versus focusing solely on minimizing taxes. Don't forget to subscribe for more practical advice from the SK team!

Social Security may not be the focus of your retirement plan, but there's a lot of value in maximizing your benefit. In this episode, Andrew discusses how to time your claim, survivor benefits, and post-retirement work considerations. Learn how Social Security fits into your broader financial picture and how to efficiently manage taxes associated with Social Security. Don't miss this episode, and subscribe for more expert guidance on how to align your retirement and wealth management plans with your goals. Resources mentioned in this episode: Social Security Administration Benefits Calculator Social Security Basics - Episode 72   Tax Loss Harvesting - Episode 45

How does Social Security even work anyway? In this episode, Andrew covers what it is, how it's funded, and the basics of benefit timing and age calculations. He'll discuss strategies for both singles and married couples, as well as the effect of claiming early versus delaying your benefits. Learn how to tailor your Social Security strategy based on health, financial needs, and long-term goals. Subscribe now for more about Social Security in the near future!  

Think commercial real estate is out of reach? Matt shows you how REITs let you invest in real estate without becoming a property manager. Learn how REITs can generate income, offer portfolio diversification, protect against inflation, and keep your investments flexible. Tune in to explore the types of REITs, how they work, and why they could be your next strategic move. Subscribe for more insights from the SK team that could change your investment game!  

When evaluating your investment risk profile, you could be missing half the picture. Risk tolerance and risk capacity assess distinctly different aspects of your life to determine your risk profile. In this week's episode, Andrew explains the differences between the two and shows you how they work together to help guide your investment strategy. Tune in to learn about the two-dimensional approach to risk tolerance and some real-life examples that illustrate why this approach is a smart one. Don't miss out—subscribe for more expert financial guidance!

Annuities often spark debate – are they a valuable investment or a financial misstep? This week, Mac strips away the hype and confusion and provides a clear, unbiased look at annuities. In this episode, get to know the different types of annuities – immediate, fixed, indexed, and variable – and the unique benefits and potential pitfalls of each. Through real-life examples and expert insights, you'll learn when annuities are a wise choice and how to integrate them into your financial plan. Tune in to gain a working understanding of annuities so you can make informed decisions about your financial future. Subscribe now and visit skwealth.com for more resources!

No matter the circumstance, divorce is hard, especially when considering your children's current and future wellbeing. This week, we look closely at estate planning strategies to protect your legacy and the inheritance you intend for your children. Mac and Jason discuss how to update vital documents, and ways to leverage irrevocable trusts to keep your assets from ending up in unintended hands. Hear real-life examples and practical advice to keep your hard-earned wealth within the family. Hit subscribe to stay informed on how to protect what matters most.

The reality of becoming suddenly single can be overwhelming, but you're not alone. In this episode, Jason and Mac discuss the unique financial challenges and opportunities that arise after the loss of a partner, whether through uncoupling, divorce, or death. In this episode, we cover increased living costs, managing fixed expenses, and understanding increased costs-of-living. Tune in for real-life stories of clients who successfully navigated this transition and gain practical advice on building your own comprehensive financial plan.

Empower yourself and take charge of your financial future with Jason and Mac as your guides. This week, they discuss the financial hurdles single women face, and offer proven strategies for achieving financial independence. Drawing from years of experience, they discuss essential topics like wage gaps, retirement planning, and preparing for time away from the workforce. Gain practical tips on budgeting, maximizing income, and developing an estate plan. This episode is your ticket to financial empowerment and living life on your terms, tomorrow and today. Hit that subscribe button so you don't miss the next episode!

Learn about popular Target Date Funds for your retirement account and how they can fit into your financial strategy. Join Matt as he explains what target date funds are, why they've become popular in 401(k)s and other retirement accounts, and how to evaluate them as an investment choice for both retirement and non-retirement portfolios. Learn about the benefits of diversification, simplicity, and automatic rebalancing, and consider key factors like fees and risk tolerance. Tune in for actionable advice for establishing investments that are well-managed and aligned with your long-term financial goals. Remember to tap that subscribe button for upcoming Season 4 SK insights.

Combine your commitment to intentional living and pioneering investment strategies with ESG investing. Matt unpacks the current state of ESG investing, the rise and challenges of ESG metrics, the impact of market shifts, and the political and regulatory challenges that have shaped its evolution. This episode explores how to utilize ESG data effectively to align investment strategies with your values. Learn about the impact of ESG on both risk management and long-term performance, and strategies for incorporating ESG principles into your investment approach to make a positive impact. And don't forget to subscribe!  

Divorce is painful and daunting, but a supportive financial team helps handle the details so you can care for yourself. In this episode, Mac and Andrew offer strategies for navigating the financial aspects of divorce. They take you through organizing your financial documents, understanding asset division, and planning for post-divorce financial independence. This episode equips you with practical insights to approach divorce proceedings with clarity and foresight. Tune in for expert guidance tailored to empower your financial decisions, and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss any of season 4!

When business owners decide to retire, they face challenges traditionally employed people do not. Succession planning, replacing your income, and figuring out what to do next are all factors to consider as you approach retirement. Whether you're looking forward to retirement with relief, excitement, fear, or a combination, Mac and Andrew offer advice for transitioning to life beyond business leadership. Tune in to hear about common challenges for entrepreneurs stepping down, and some strategies that will help you plan for a happy, fulfilling retirement. If you haven't already, hit that subscribe button. You don't want to miss any helpful insights from this dedicated team.   Resources mentioned in this episode:  From Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks  

Ready to sell your business? Join Mac and Jason as they discuss essential steps of planning the sale of your company. They look closely at key factors like emotional readiness, financial implications, and employee impact. Learn how to navigate offers from private equity firms and how to set yourself up for a smooth transition. Whether you're aiming for a seamless retirement or gearing up for the next big venture, we've got you covered. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button so you don't miss out on the final episode in this series!   Resources mentioned in this episode:  Episode 59 – Succession Planning 101 Episode 60 – Succession Planning Timing

Safeguard the future of your business with strategic succession planning. Learn how to pick a successor, when to start planning, and what milestones to hit along the way. Mac and Jason offer expert insights and actionable tips to give you the confidence and clarity needed to initiate this essential aspect of business ownership. Tune in to ensure your company's long-term success and seamless leadership transition. Remember to subscribe because we have more succession planning to come!

You've given your all to your thriving business. Now it's time to plan for its future and yours. Succession planning is vital to safeguarding your company's legacy after you retire. In this episode, Mac and Jason discuss the essentials of succession planning, like choosing and training a successor, and how to make the transition as smooth as possible for everyone. Learn about the risks of not planning, especially for family-owned businesses. We offer practical tips on identifying successors, balancing stakeholder interests, and addressing legal and tax concerns. Tune in for expert insights on and don't forget to click that subscribe button because we'll be talking about succession planning all month! Resources mentioned in this episode:  Episode 56 – Transferring Business Ownership to a Family Member Business Smart Toolkit    

Crafting a legacy of giving through charitable donations is fulfilling and strategic when aligned with your financial plan. This week, Andrew and Mac talk about the taxes related to charitable giving and the various donation strategies available to maximize your philanthropic impact and tax relief. From the simplicity of cash donations to the foresight of directly transferring appreciated assets, we simplify the benefits and strategic philanthropic tax planning. Hit the subscribe button so you don't miss our next episode! Resources mentioned in this episode:  Episode 57 – Non-Traditional and Political Giving  

Combine your generosity of spirit with your track record of smart investing to make a real difference in the world. Join Jason and Mac this week to learn innovative approaches to blending financial strategy with social change through non-traditional charitable and political giving. In this episode, we'll discuss impact investing, program-related investments, and crowdfunding. Gain actionable insights to boost your philanthropic impact. Tune in to learn how strategic giving can shape a legacy of generosity. And don't forget to subscribe!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 57 — Impact Investing

As a successful business owner, how and when to transfer your business to your kids is a significant, complex decision. This week, the guys talk about how to transition ownership to your family. Whether selling or gifting your company, Mac and Jason look closely at pros and cons of each approach through the lens of family dynamics and your retirement goals. They'll guide you through the preservation of your legacy and the steps to achieving a seamless transfer of business ownership. Tune in for expert insights and practical guidance for successful entrepreneurs like you as you move on to the next phase of your life's adventure. Tap that subscribe button because there's no telling what we have in store for you in May! Resources mentioned in this episode: Phantom Stock Plans Explained

Juggling life, kids, and money makes planning for college feel overwhelming, but it's super easy to start and maintain! It's totally normal to feel the weight of tuition prices and unsure about how to give your children the best opportunity to succeed. Mac and Andrew are here to walk you through getting started, and how to keep it going through all of life's changes. Tune in to these young parents moonlighting as finance pros as they offer insights on taxes, tips on where to stash your cash, and how to prioritize your child's financial future without risking your own. There are more great podcasts coming, so go ahead and tap that subscribe button!

Raising financially savvy kids is hard, especially with so much flashy marketing competing for their attention and cash. Financial literacy is essential, but it's largely neglected in school so you're left to fill the void. In this episode, Mac and Andrew offer practical strategies for teaching your kids about budgeting, banking, saving, taxes, and debt. They also discuss the importance of transparent discussions and real-world experiences to empower your children to lead by example and facilitate open dialogue. Tap that subscribe button so you don't miss the next installment in our series about children and money! Resources mentioned in this episode: Charles Schwab Financial Calculators The Opposite of Spoiled: Raising Kids Who Are Grounded, Generous, and Smart About Money by Ron Lieber  

As a first-time homebuyer, your kid may have limited resources. You'd like to be able to help, but what's the right way? This week, Mac and Andrew dig into the different strategies to help your child buy their first home, exploring IRS thresholds for cash gifts or the tax benefits of becoming your kid's landlord. They'll guide you through the emotional decision-making process and how to determine the smartest ways to help your child without putting your own financial stability on the line. Click the subscribe button for upcoming episodes about helping your children become financially secure.

Teaching your kids about saving and investing now will help them make the smart decisions to thrive in the future. And they're never too young to start. In this episode, Mac and Andrew discuss how to create a language around money and financial concepts from a very early age that leads to open communication and collaboration as they grow. They talk about some fun ways to get your youngsters engaged, how to teach the value of a dollar, and some savings strategies for their future. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button – there are more episodes about kids and money on the way! by Morgan Housel Resources mentioned in this episode: The Psychology of Money  by Morgan Housel

If your RSUs are about to vest, you know the tax implications can be complicated. How you decide to act is so important. Andrew and Mac are here to help you feel more confident in your next steps so you can get the most out of what you've worked so hard to earn. In this episode, the guys will talk about how and when RSUs are taxed, what types of tax treatments are used, and under what circumstances. Don't worry if it already sounds a little complicated. This episode will help simplify things so you can make your best financial choices. Tap that subscribe button so you don't miss out on more great guidance like this!   Resources mentioned in the episode: Restricted Stock Units  

Giving to charities and nonprofits feels great, and with the right philanthropic strategy, you can create a legacy of giving. Today, we talk about the art of aligning donation strategies with your financial plan. Learn about the simplicity of cash donations, the benefits of bequests through wills or trusts, and other examples of strategic philanthropic planning. If you haven't hit that subscribe button yet, what are you waiting for? We have so much more to come from the financial experts at SK Wealth!

Moving into the executive suite is exciting, as is the compensation you'll be receiving for the extra responsibility you're taking on. Executive compensation plans are constructed to make sure you're well taken care of, but they can be complicated. It's up to you to understand the details in order to make the most out of these new compensation insturments and benefits. This week, Andrew and Mac look into the ways long-term executive compensation plans protect your reputation and financial well-being while explaining the more detailed tax issues so you can make sound decisions about your financial future. Remember to subscribe for more weekly insights from the pros over at SK Wealth!

You've set out on a new career adventure and have received a few job offers, so how do you decide? Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode equips you with the knowledge to seize the right opportunities and propel your career to new heights. This week, Andrew and Mac are with you to discuss salary structures, health care and family benefits, and some perks you may not have heard about. Tune in to empower youself to make informed decisions about your professional future. And if you haven't hit that subscribe button yet, what are you waiting for? Don't miss out on the further adventures of the dedicated team at SK Wealth!

What happens to your stock-based compensation if you leave your job? Whether leaving a job voluntarily or involuntarily, tune in to learn how to approach your stock-based compensation after you move on. Andrew simplifies the complexities of layoffs, handling stock options, RSUs, and ESPPs while discussing the risks, offering practical advice to help you make timely decisions around your vested options. Learn about negotiation strategies for severance packages linked to stock plans, and the importance of professional guidance to safeguard your financial interests. And don't forget to subscribe for more real-world advice from the team at SK Wealth!  

“Can my investment strategy align with my values while creating positive social and environmental change?” In this episode, learn about the implementation of impact strategies into your portfolio, influencing corporate behavior, and how you can turn your investment dollars into a powerful force for change. Learn how to identify your impact goals, engage in proxy voting, and work with the experts to develop a portfolio that reflects both your financial objectives and personal ethics. Discover the potential of impact investing in areas like food insecurity, cybercrime, environmental issues, and more. And don't forget to hit the subscribe button for more from the dynamic team at SK Wealth!

In today's episode, SK Wealth's CIO, Matt Neyland, discusses tax loss harvesting, the practice of strategically selling securities at a loss to offset gains from other investments. Join Matt as he explains the benefits of tax loss harvesting like accelerated portfolio growth, maintaining year-round market exposure, and increased tax efficiency. Find out how to make market volatility work for you in this fascinating episode. Don't miss out on future insights! Hit the subscribe button for more financial strategies from the seasoned wealth management professionals at SK Wealth!

In our latest episode, we discuss how to seek professional financial guidance when managing your wealth becomes complex. And we know -- the options can be overwhelming. That's why we're here to talk you through the process of finding a financial planner who understands and respects your needs, goals, and values. From transparency in portfolio management and clear, easily accessible communication to questions about fiduciary responsibilities, credentials, and fee structures, this episode will help you simplify the vetting process so you can find the right advisor for you. Click the subscribe button for more from SK Wealth about living with intention, tomorrow and today! Resources mentioned in this episode: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's Investor.gov website.

This week, join Matt and Andrew as they discuss how to choose your next financial advisor. Aligning your investment strategy with values is key, and a qualified financial advisor can make a real difference in your financial future. In this episode, we'll look at why clear, consistent communication and a financial strategy adapted to your specific needs is important. Ultimately, trust, proactive communication, and your peace of mind are paramount in choosing the right financial advisor. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button so you don't miss all the wisdom from the team at SK Wealth!

  Welcome to our latest episode! Today Mac and Jason discuss developing compensation plans for your business. Your team is vital to your success and making sure they are compensated fairly and offered attractive benefits that meet their needs as well your business goals is important. But offering competitive compensation without jeopardizing your bottom line can be a delicate balance. In this episode we'll go over the components of effective compensation packages, take you through a series of steps to help simplify the process, and offer some advice to keep in mind as you begin to construct your plans. Tune in to learn how to make your team feel valued while aligning with your company's growth and profitability goals. And don't forget to hit that subscribe button for more business solutions from the pros at SK Wealth! Resources mentioned in this episode: How to Create a Desirable Compensation Plan from Business News Daily.  

  In today's Solutions and Knowledge podcast, Certified Financial Planners® Mac and Jason discuss how to approach integrating your bonus or other windfall into your regular spending. From identifying your current financial standing and future goals to avoiding common mistakes like emotional decision-making, you'll learn strategies to help you make thoughtful decisions that align with your needs and values. Whether you're a spender or saver, we'll help you strike a balance between planning for tomorrow and enjoying today. Be sure to hit that subscribe button for more pearls of wisdom from SK Wealth! Resources mentioned in this episode: Die with Zero: Getting All You Can From Your Money and Your Life by Bill Perkins.

In today's episode, Jason and Mac discuss phantom stock plans, a type of deferred compensation that offers employees a financial stake in the company without diluting ownership. Learn the purpose of these virtual units, how they operate, and their benefits and risks. Phantom stocks are a great way to attract and incentivize key talent without the red tape of voting rights or controlling stake in the company. For resources mentioned in this episode, check out our recent podcast Creating a Bonus Plan for Employees as well as the National Center for Employee Ownership.  

Join Jason and Mac as they simplify the complexities of employee bonus programs. From navigating the risks of unrealistic expectations to addressing potential disengagement, this episode provides insights into fair and equitable bonus structures. Emphasizing clarity, measurability, and strategic alignment, the discussion offers actionable advice for successful bonus programs. Whether you're a business leader or HR professional, tune in for valuable perspectives on fostering engagement and achieving business success through well-crafted bonus initiatives.  

As a business owner, retirement planning often takes a backseat to running your company. In this episode of the SK Wealth Podcast, we explore why retirement plans are vital and how to select the right one. Rebecca and Andrew discuss attracting talent, increasing engagement, and tax savings as key benefits of retirement plans for business owners. You'll learn about various plan options, including SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, Individual 401(k)s, and more, and the importance of consulting with professionals to make informed decisions. Listen for a client success story and insights on investment options within these plans.

Welcome to the latest episode of the SK Wealth Solutions and Knowledge podcast. Join Rebecca Allen and Andrew Cayer, Certified Financial Planners at SK Wealth Management, as they explore Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation plans. They'll discuss the ins and outs of these plans, draw from real-life experiences, and provide savvy strategies to reduce your tax liabilities and enhance your retirement savings. Additionally, they'll shed light on methods to safeguard your financial future from employer bankruptcies through the use of insurance policies. If you're a high earner or seeking intelligent retirement planning, this episode is tailor-made for you. Be sure to hit that subscribe button for more pearls of wisdom from SK Wealth