What are the real financial strategies retirees need to know to make their retirement successful? Join Stephen H. Nelson, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) charterholder, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional, and President of Birchwood Capit
The Real Retirement Podcast is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of personal finance and retirement planning. Hosted by Stephen, this podcast offers valuable insights and advice that can help listeners make informed decisions about their financial future. Stephen has a unique ability to condense difficult financial topics into digestible sessions, making it easier for listeners to understand and gain confidence in their own financial knowledge.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is Stephen's expertise and ability to explain complicated financial concepts in a way that is easy to understand. Whether he is discussing retirement planning strategies or investment philosophies, Stephen consistently provides clear and concise information that listeners can easily apply to their own lives. His sessions are well-structured and organized, allowing listeners to follow along without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, the content is always relevant and up-to-date, ensuring that listeners receive accurate information that reflects the current financial landscape.
Another standout aspect of The Real Retirement Podcast is Stephen's trustworthiness as a host. He has earned the trust and respect of his audience through his extensive knowledge and experience in personal finance. Listeners can rely on Stephen's advice knowing that he is a trusted expert in the field. This sense of trust creates a comfortable environment for learning and allows listeners to feel confident in implementing his recommendations.
While there are many great aspects of The Real Retirement Podcast, one potential downside is that the episodes may not be as engaging or entertaining as some other podcasts in the genre. This may be due to the nature of the content, which focuses on educational material rather than entertainment value. However, for those seeking informative and practical advice on retirement planning, this slight lack in entertainment value is easily overlooked.
In conclusion, The Real Retirement Podcast is an exceptional resource for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of personal finance and retirement planning. Stephen's ability to explain complex financial topics in a clear and concise manner makes this podcast accessible to all listeners, regardless of their prior knowledge or experience in the field. With his expertise and trustworthiness, Stephen has created a valuable platform that consistently delivers relevant and up-to-date information. Whether you are just starting your retirement planning journey or looking to enhance your financial knowledge, The Real Retirement Podcast is definitely worth adding to your playlist.
Most folks need to make car purchases over the course of their retirement. If stepping onto a dealer lot makes your palms sweat or you find yourself agreeing to paying big dealer mark-ups, then buckle up because I think I can help you save some money off your next car purchase by knowing a few strategies. To learn more, visit: https://birchwoodcapital.com/
Today, let me share what a real retirement portfolio looks like. Yes, actually! This is what I use at my firm for my clients. Referenced WSJ article: https://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/stock-market-craziness-alternative-funds-7df17b9c Learn more about Birchwood: https://birchwoodcapital.com/
If you've saved, invested, and achieved some level of wealth through hard work and luck, you might still feel a bit weird for having more money than most. How should we deal with this? Read more at: https://birchwoodcapital.com/writings/
In this month's episode, we discuss how we can actually achieve the goals that we want: saving for retirement college wedding building friendships traveling, being a generous person Learn more at https://birchwoodcapital.com/writings/
Today's episode we chat through the Social Security Fairness Act and the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO). If you worked in the private and public sector (teacher, police officer, fire fighter), then perk your ears up. This is HUGE! Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Today we discuss Roth Conversions vs. Roth Contributions. You'll be able to tell the difference between the two and when to implement each one. Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Last episode in our back-to-basics series. Today, it's all about how to invest. Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Back-to-basics serious continues! Today, it's all about fees. I share a story highlighting the effects of fees on an investment portfolio.
We're continuing our back-to-basics series with this second episode. Today, we're talking about Why Money Makes Us Anxious Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
We're continuing our back-to-basics series with this second episode. Today, we're talking about "savings." Where to do it How much to save How to become a saver And how to knock 7 years off your mortgage Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Today we're kicking off our back to basics series. Where I'm going through different personal finance topics. Things like: net worth, budgeting, debt, savings, and investing. You might think that you're beyond these and maybe so, but in putting this together even I found some great reminders about the basics. So let this be a reinforcement of what you believe or an opportunity to share it with someone else. Maybe a son, daughter, grandkid or family friend. Today, we're talking about wealth, budgets and spending plans. Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Today we discuss how to earn tax-free income from your bond and money market funds. You may be familiar with Treasury or Municipal bonds, but you might not be getting the tax credit that you are owed. This is especially important in places like California! Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Today, we discuss the main issues you need to have nailed down before you retire. Cash Flow Healthcare Investment issues Tax issues Long-term planning issue Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
On today's episode, we're talking about what happens to your investments if a brokerage firm like Charles Schwab or Fidelity failed? Is there something we need to do in case this should happen? What protections are in place to help me not lose my money? Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
Today, I share how we currently absorb financial news is detrimental to our long-term strategies. And I offer a better way! Resources: JP Morgan: Guide to the Markets JP Morgan: Long-term Capital Market Assumptions How to read financial news - Robert Martorana, CFA
If you've done a good job preparing the assets for the family (completed an estate plan), how's it going preparing the family for the assets? We'll discuss a huge unstoppable hurdle that's coming for us all as we age. And we'll lay out 2 easy steps to get started with answering this question. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings
If we are going to have a chance at building wealth and making our money last through retirement, then we'd darn well better know what it means to actually be an investor. How most people define what an investor is could put your retirement in jeopardy. After this episode, you'll know how to be real investors because that's what will put you in the best position to achieve your retirement goals. Be the first to know about how you can retire more confidently by heading over to: www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
We discuss an article from the WSJ about tax moves retirees need to consider now before 2026.
Today we'll be discussing the differences between owning individual bonds or a bond fund. Is one better than the other?
Today we'll be discussing gifting. How much can you gift? Will it be taxable? Will it affect my IRMAA premiums? To learn more, head on over to birchwoodcapital.com.
On today's episode, we discuss tax estimates. Should you pay them? When do you pay them? How much should you pay? Learn more at birchwoodcapital.com
On this episode, I share how I structure my client and guest meetings. If you've never worked with an advisor before, this might alleviate some hesitation due to wondering what actually takes place in a meeting.
Today, I'll be sharing with you the Roth IRA 5-Year Rules. Yes, there's 2 of them. One for contributions and one for conversions. As you approach retirement you need to make sure you are not running afoul of these rules or else your earnings could be taxable along with a 10% penalty. That completely washes out the benefits of doing a Roth IRA in the first place! Making this episode made me realize how confusing this part of Roth's can be. Now at least you'll know to watch out! Read more: https://birchwoodcapital.com Sources: Two 5-Year Rules for Roth IRAs
2 Part of the series on one of my favorite books: The Millionaire Next Door. Today it's all about how millionaires: Buy cars Help their children to become productive and wealth-builders of their own Part 1 covers: Building wealth. See episode 36 Part 2 covering: Buying cars & gifts to children in episode 47
Over the next two episodes, we're talking about one of my favorite books: The Millionaire Next Door If you've ever wondered - how do people become wealthy? Or how do I become a millionaire? And... After I am wealthy how do I help my children to become productive and wealth-builders of their own? Part 1 covers: Building wealth Check out Part 2 covering: Buying cars & gifts to children in episode 47
Today, I'm going to share with you the problems of ESG - or Environmental , Social, & Governance funds. The case for ESG makes sense: we want to put our money into companies that share our values. The issue is this: Wall Street likes to say that you can do this AND earn a good return or even a higher return! I review 3 problems with ESG investing and some ideas for what we can do. Read more: https://birchwoodcapital.com
Today, I give an argument for contributing to a Roth IRA vs. a Traditional IRA. Read more: https://birchwoodcapital.com
Today, we learn a lesson from musical composer: Beethoven. And we're answering listener questions! "If one has surplus income, is it advisable to put that towards paying down a mortgage to increase home equity, or rather just invest it instead and keep your mortgage as is?" Email questions to: Stephen@birchwoodcapital.com Read more: https://birchwoodcapital.com/
Today, we answer the question: should you ever stop saving for retirement in your traditional IRA or traditional 401k? And we're answering listener questions! Can combining investments with your spouse increase your returns? What are the pros/cons of contributing beyond your employer's match in your 401k versus putting the excess in a taxable account? Email questions to: Stephen@birchwoodcapital.com Read more: https://birchwoodcapital.com/
Today, we're talking about how Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD's) can save you taxes. Also, I'll share the proper mechanics of doing one so you don't get double taxed!
Today, we'll be working to answer this question. I provide a way to frame it which may make the solution a no-brainer and provide pros and cons for paying/not paying off your home
Today's episode, we're talking about what travel bucket lists and Silicon Valley Bank has to do with creating satisfying retirements. To learn more, head over to: https://birchwoodcapital.com/ Show notes: Shred the bucket list ‘Is this it?' When Success isn't satisfying A son's story about his father's retirement
Today, we'll determine how much life insurance you need and only slightly make fun of whole-life policies. Show notes: https://clark.com/insurance/life-insurance/term-life-insurance-how-to-buy/ https://www.policygenius.com/
Today we're talking about FDIC insurance. What it covers and how much of it you can actually get at your current bank beyond $250K. You might be surprised!
Today, if you're growing in your career and wondering how much you should be saving for retirement. This episode is for you. I walk you through 2 ways on how to determine if you're saving enough. Show notes: JP Morgan Guide to Retirement
If you have a traditional retirement account, you have a built-in tax liability to the government. Essentially, the government "owns" a piece of that account. As the account grows, so too does this liability to Uncle Sam. What if there was a way to reduce Uncle Sam's take? There absolutely is. Today, we're talking about how to properly take advantage of a Roth conversion. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com.
If you're planning on buying a second home, we'll be talking about if you should buy it before you retire or after you retire?
On today's episode, I offer my thoughts on a recent article in the Wall Street Journal about re-allocating portfolios from the traditional 60% stocks 40% bond portfolios to a more bond-heavy weighting. If bonds are yielding much higher returns how should we adjust our portfolios? ALSO: Are Long-Term Care policies worth it? And when should I get one?
Today is the day you became a better investor. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com.
Today's episode focuses on doing a Backdoor Roth IRA the CORRECT way. There are many hazards in this quest to overcome the income limitations of a normal Roth IRA contribution. For you higher earners, this is an episode for you. I'll walk you through the steps so you don't make a big mistake. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
What I'm learning from Howard Marks Memos: '01-'05. My hope is this episode is a resource for you to develop your own competence with retirement, investing and taxes. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
On today's episode, I help you determine if you can afford to live off of your savings and be financially independent. Easy enough! Joking aside, this is one of the burning questions in the back of most people's minds. Hopefully this episode either relieves some stress or gets you to kick it into gear! For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
What I'm learning from Howard Marks Memos: '96-'00. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
On today's episode, we discuss if you should help your children with a home purchase and what things you need to know before you do. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
What I'm learning from Howard Marks Memos: '09-'95. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings.
On today's episode we'll be talking about how inflation will affect your retirement and what we can do about them We'll also discuss what the biggest risks to any portfolio are. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings. Further Reading: Why are my inflation hedges not working? Don't buy your advisor a house!
On today's episode, we discuss the amazing tax and gifting benefits of using a Donor Advised Fund (DAF). Many people have not heard of this incredible strategy. A DAF opens the door to avoiding capital gains (yes, that's not a typo), increasing your charitable contributions without costing you more out of pocket, taking advantage of itemizing your deductions and getting credit for your donations - among much more. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings. Show Notes: Further Reading: Don't buy your advisor a house! Did you know a traditional advisor could cost you $1.8 million in fees? Q2 2022 Market Overview Will Inflation Ruin My Retirement?
On today's episode, we'll talk about how to invest a large chunk of money. I'll walk you through what your options are and explain how I approach this situation at Birchwood. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings Show Notes: Every Step of the Birchwood Investment Process How to invest a lump sum of money Even God Couldn't Beat Dollar-Cost Averaging Why Buying the Dip is a Terrible Investment Strategy
On today's episode, we do an in-depth guide through Social Security. We discuss the rules surrounding Social Security, the monthly worker and spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and we talk about delaying Social Security or not. We also discuss the solvency of the system. Will it survive? For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings Show Notes: Summary of provisions for solvency problem "Social Security: The Inside Story" - Andy Landis
On today's episode, we discuss this question: Why would I invest in the market when I feel like the market will collapse or we'll have a recession? We confront the behavioral biases that interfere with our ability to invest for the long-term. We explain Birchwood's principles of investing, and why one would continue to invest even in this market. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings Show Notes: Meet Bob: The world's worst market timer (A Wealth of Common Sense) Could the stock market crash for real? Here's how to prepare (Kiplinger)
If you've done a good job preparing the assets for the family (completed an estate plan), how's it going preparing the family for the assets? We'll discuss a huge unstoppable hurdle that's coming for us all as we age. And we'll lay out 2 easy steps to get started with answering this question. For more content on how to retire confidently, head over to www.birchwoodcapital.com/writings
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