Your Retirement Planning Simplified

In this quick but powerful episode of  Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe Curry explains what every small business owner needs to know before selling a business, especially if retirement is getting close. Joe breaks down two important terms you always hear: EBITDA — used for bigger companies with management teams. SDE (Seller's Discretionary Earnings) — used for most owner-operated businesses under $5 million in revenue. You'll learn what buyers really look for, how to tell which number fits your business, and why it matters so much for your selling price. Joe also shares the 8 big things that can increase your multiple — like having a good team, clear financial records, steady growth, happy customers, and not being too dependent on you as the owner. What You'll Learn: ✔️ What EBITDA and SDE mean (00:01) ✔️ Which one fits your business (01:20) ✔️ 8 ways to boost your value before you sell (02:27) —------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT JOE  CURRY Joe Curry is the host of Business and Exit Planning Simplified and the owner and lead financial planner at Matthews + Associates in Peterborough, Ontario. A Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, Joe is passionate about helping business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and find purpose beyond their business. His mission is to ensure clients retire with confidence—financially secure and personally fulfilled. You can reach out to Joe through: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe Website: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/   https://www.facebook.com/RetirementPlanningSimplified/                https://matthewsandassociates.ca/    ABOUT BUSINESS AND EXIT PLANNING SIMPLIFIED The Business and Exit Planning Simplified podcast offers clear, actionable guidance to help business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and achieve financial freedom. Hosted by Joe Curry, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, each episode delivers expert insights, real-life case studies, and practical strategies tailored for service-based entrepreneurs approaching retirement. The podcast empowers listeners to transition with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.  —------------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are those of Joseph Curry, a registrant of Aligned Capital Partners Inc. (ACPI), and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. This video is for informational purposes only and not intended to be personalized investment advice. The views expressed are opinions of Joseph Curry and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. Content is prepared for general circulation and information contained does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any investment fund, security or other product or service.  

In this episode of Retirement Plan Simplified, Joe Curry sits down with Andrea McGinty, founder of It's Just Lunch and 33000Dates.com, to explore how to find love later in life — whether you're divorced, widowed, or simply ready for new companionship. Andrea shares her journey from building one of North America's biggest matchmaking services to coaching thousands of people in their 50s, 60s, and beyond to date online with confidence. She covers the real truths about dating apps, staying safe, building a strong dating “brand,” and why finding a partner later in life can actually boost your health and happiness. Check out the show notes for EP149 HERE

Are you a business owner approaching retirement or just starting to think about a future sale? In this episode of Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe sits down with Matt Holmes, partner at Homes Riseleys CPA, to uncover the biggest mistakes business owners make when it comes to succession planning and selling their business and how to avoid them. He explains new tax rules for 2024 and how they can affect business sales, including updates to the capital gains exemption, AMT, and anti-avoidance legislation.  Matt brings decades of tax and structuring experience to this conversation covering everything from tax-saving strategies to real-life horror stories of owners who waited too long to plan.  Here's what you're in for: 00:00 Common Mistakes in Business Value Creation 04:26 Importance of Planning for Unexpected Sales 07:28 Successful Business Transitions 11:07 Structuring and Tax Advisory for Business Owners 20:34 Nuances of Selling to Family vs. Third Parties 25:30 New Rules and Legislation for 2024 32:48 Conclusion   ABOUT MATT HOLMES Matt Holmes is a seasoned tax advisor with over 25 years of experience helping small to medium-sized business owners achieve their goals through tailored business, tax, and accounting strategies. A Chartered Accountant and graduate of Ryerson University, Matt specializes in corporate reorganizations, estate planning, and succession strategies for owner-managed businesses across industries like healthcare, real estate, and tech. His expertise lies in tax minimization and wealth maximization, particularly during business transitions, sales, and generational transfers. You can reach out to Matt through: LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-holmes-15294b14 Website: https://www.holmescpa.ca (Company)   ABOUT JOE  CURRY Joe Curry is the host of Business and Exit Planning Simplified and the owner and lead financial planner at Matthews + Associates in Peterborough, Ontario. A Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, Joe is passionate about helping business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and find purpose beyond their business. His mission is to ensure clients retire with confidence—financially secure and personally fulfilled. You can reach out to Joe through: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe Website: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/   https://www.facebook.com/RetirementPlanningSimplified/                https://matthewsandassociates.ca/    ABOUT BUSINESS AND EXIT PLANNING SIMPLIFIED The Business and Exit Planning Simplified podcast offers clear, actionable guidance to help business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and achieve financial freedom. Hosted by Joe Curry, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, each episode delivers expert insights, real-life case studies, and practical strategies tailored for service-based entrepreneurs approaching retirement. The podcast empowers listeners to transition with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. —------------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are those of Joseph Curry, a registrant of Aligned Capital Partners Inc. (ACPI), and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. This video is for informational purposes only and not intended to be personalized investment advice. The views expressed are opinions of Joseph Curry and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. Content is prepared for general circulation and information contained does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any investment fund, security or other product or service.  

In this episode, Joe Curry breaks down smart, simple, and tax-efficient strategies to pass on your wealth in Canada—so your legacy goes to your loved ones, not the CRA. Whether you've built your nest egg through saving, investing, or selling a business, this episode is packed with insights you can use. Check out the show notes for EP148 HERE

Shownotes Thinking about selling your business? In this pilot episode, Joe Curry explains why many Canadian business owners struggle to sell—and how understanding the four main types of buyers can help you plan a smoother, more successful exit. Joe breaks down the key differences between individual buyers, strategic buyers, financial buyers, and internal buyers (like family or employees). Each type of buyer comes with their own goals, expectations, and ways of doing deals.  Whether you're planning to retire soon or just thinking ahead, this episode will help you understand who your ideal buyer might be and how to prepare your business to sell for the best possible price. Here's what you're in for: 00:49 – Why many businesses don't sell 01:07 – The 4 types of business buyers 01:57 – Individual buyers: pros & cons 04:21 – Strategic buyers: pros & cons 07:32 – Financial buyers: pros & cons 10:04 – Internal buyers: pros & cons 13:11 – Why it's important to know your buyer 14:16 – Wrap-up and next steps —------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT JOE  CURRY Joe Curry is the host of Business and Exit Planning Simplified and the owner and lead financial planner at Matthews + Associates in Peterborough, Ontario. A Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, Joe is passionate about helping business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and find purpose beyond their business. His mission is to ensure clients retire with confidence—financially secure and personally fulfilled. You can reach out to Joe through: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe Website: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/               https://www.facebook.com/RetirementPlanningSimplified/               https://matthewsandassociates.ca/    ABOUT BUSINESS AND EXIT PLANNING SIMPLIFIED The Business and Exit Planning Simplified podcast offers clear, actionable guidance to help business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and achieve financial freedom. Hosted by Joe Curry, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, each episode delivers expert insights, real-life case studies, and practical strategies tailored for service-based entrepreneurs approaching retirement. The podcast empowers listeners to transition with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. —------------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are those of Joseph Curry, a registrant of Aligned Capital Partners Inc. (ACPI), and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. This video is for informational purposes only and not intended to be personalized investment advice. The views expressed are opinions of Joseph Curry and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. Content is prepared for general circulation and information contained does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any investment fund, security or other product or service.  

In this episode of Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe Curry talks with Ashton Applewhite—TED speaker, author of This Chair Rocks, and a leading voice against ageism (discrimination based on age). Ashton explains how our culture gives us the wrong ideas about aging and why those beliefs can hold us back—especially in retirement. Check out the show notes for EP147 HERE

  In this episode, Joe Curry welcomes retirement coach and author Nancy Collamer to share how retirees can find meaning and purpose after leaving their careers. Nancy explains her shift from corporate HR to helping people build fulfilling second acts in retirement.   They explore what a second act career looks like, ways to discover new interests, and why some people feel lost after they stop working. Nancy gives practical tips for self-reflection, encourages trying new things, and suggests treating your first year of retirement like a “gap year” to explore what's next. Check out the show notes for EP 146 HERE

Need Cash in Retirement? Here's How to Stay Flexible. In this episode, Joe Curry and Lindsay Wilson talk about how to get the cash you need in retirement. They explain the best ways to prepare for surprise expenses, like using emergency funds, HELOCs (home equity lines of credit), and smart RSP withdrawals. They also talk about why it's important to plan ahead, so your money stays flexible when you need it most. This episode is also a special one—Lindsay shares a goodbye message, as it's her last time co-hosting the show. Check out the show notes for EP 145 HERE

In this episode of Your Retirement Plan Simplified, Joe Curry interviews Laura Lynn Morrissey, founder of Silver Savvy, about how to plan for aging wisely and enjoy a healthy, independent retirement. With her background in finance and healthcare, Laura shares expert strategies to help you age in place, stay socially connected, and integrate financial planning with health and lifestyle goals. Whether you're planning for your own retirement or helping aging parents, you'll learn practical tips for aging at home, choosing the right home care providers, and having essential conversations about estate planning and long-term care. Check out the show notes for EP 144 HERE  

What if you could test-drive retirement before diving in? In this episode of Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe sits down with Jillian Johnsrud, financial independence expert and author of Retire Often, to explore how mini retirements can help you design a meaningful, purpose-driven life before and during retirement. From saving aggressively in her 20s to taking over a dozen mini-retirements by age 42, Jillian shares her journey and practical tools to help you: ✅ Live intentionally ✅ Manage time in retirement ✅ Balance financial security with everyday joy Whether you're approaching retirement or coaching the next generation, this episode is packed with insights on building a life aligned with your values. Check out the show notes for EP 143 HERE

Retirement isn't just about your finances—it's about designing a life you love.  In this episode, Joe Curry and Lindsay Wilson break down the 7 key pillars of a fulfilling retirement, with a focus on the three most essential: your financial foundation, your health, and your lifestyle. This is your practical guide to planning retirement with purpose—so you don't just coast through retirement, but thrive in it. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why financial planning is the foundation of retirement freedom ✅ How to protect and extend your health span, not just your lifespan ✅ How to design a lifestyle aligned with your values and goals Check out the show notes for EP 142 HERE

What if retirement wasn't the end of your story—but the beginning of your legacy? In this episode, Joe chats with Dr. Deborah Heiser, a developmental psychologist and founder of The Mentor Project, about how retirees can find purpose, connection, and fulfillment through mentorship, movement, and mindset. They explore the concept of generativity—our natural drive to give back—as a key to emotional well-being in midlife and retirement. Deborah shares how mentoring others boosts both health and happiness, why reframing retirement as an opportunity (not a decline) is essential, and how small daily habits like walking and social connection can greatly improve quality of life. Check out the show notes for EP 141 HERE  

In this episode, Joe Curry sits down with financial expert Russ Thornton to reveal why women face unique hurdles in retirement—and how to overcome them. From longer life expectancies to career breaks for caregiving, Russ shares real-world strategies to build confidence, plan smart, and avoid costly mistakes. They break down what women need to know about Social Security, investing, and balancing today's needs with tomorrow's dreams. If you want to take control of your financial future, this conversation is a must-listen. Check out the show notes for EP 140 HERE

In this episode, Joe sits down with Dr. Corinne Auman, a developmental psychologist who specializes in adulthood and aging, to talk about how our perspectives on aging and retirement are evolving. She explores common myths about getting older, how to find purpose after retirement, and the power of staying socially connected. Dr. Auman also shares advice for business owners on how to support older workers and build age-friendly workplaces. Plus, they discuss how to prepare for caregiving roles and why honest family conversations about aging are so important. Check out the show notes for EP 139 HERE.  

Joe chats with guest Esther Avant, a health industry expert, who emphasizes the critical role of prioritizing health for a fulfilling retirement. Esther highlights actionable strategies to kickstart a healthy lifestyle, regardless of where someone stands in their health journey. The episode explores the misconceptions about aging and health, practical steps for incorporating physical activity and wellness routines, and the importance of nutrition and sleep. This conversation underscores how consistent, small efforts contribute significantly to long-term well-being.   Check out the show notes for Ep 138 HERE.

Joe welcomes Amy Friesen, senior living expert. They highlight the challenges and solutions for aging individuals and their families. They examine various aspects of elder care, including planning for home modifications, navigating retirement homes, and understanding long-term care options. They emphasize the importance of planning, open family communication, and understanding the real costs involved in care options. Amy also provides insights into caregiver burnout and the importance of balancing life commitments with caregiving responsibilities. Read Ep # 137 Show Notes Here.

The podcast episode delves into the nuances of financial therapy and its importance in retirement planning. John Hankins, a financial therapist, joins host Joe Curry to explain the intersection of emotional well-being and financial planning. They explore how financial therapy can help individuals and couples navigate anxiety and issues related to money, particularly when transitioning to retirement. The conversation forms a bridge between understanding one's relationship with money and making informed, value-driven financial decisions in one's later years. Read Ep # 136 Show Notes Here.

Joe sits down with Roger Whitney, the Retirement Answer Man, to discuss agile retirement planning, financial confidence, and redefining retirement beyond just money. Roger shares insights on why retirement is not a math problem, how to invest in your life and passions, and the importance of social engagement and community in retirement. They also explore how the Rock Retirement Club helps retirees navigate financial and lifestyle transitions, avoid common pitfalls, and build a fulfilling future. Tune in for expert strategies on retirement income planning, financial freedom, and creating a confident retirement mindset.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 135 Show Notes

In this episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, we dive into smart tax strategies for retirement, and common mistakes to avoid when drawing income. We cover essential topics like income splitting, RRSP vs. RRIF withdrawals, TFSA strategies, and how to minimize OAS clawback. You'll learn how to optimize your withdrawal order, take advantage of tax credits for retirees, and avoid costly errors that could increase your tax bill. Whether you're approaching retirement or already retired, this episode will help you create a tax-efficient retirement income plan that keeps more money in your pocket.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 134 Show Notes

Ever wonder how retirement income is taxed in Canada? We look at tax brackets, RRSPs, RRIFs, TFSAs, CPP, OAS, and pension income is crucial for optimizing your retirement tax strategy. They explain marginal vs. average tax rates, the impact of dividends and capital gains, and how to minimize OAS clawbacks. Tune in to learn how to reduce your lifetime tax bill and keep more of your savings working for you.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 133 Show Notes

Joe speaks with journalist and economist Chris Farrell to challenge traditional retirement thinking. They examine working in retirement, the purpose and paycheque balance, and why staying engaged later in life is about more than just financial security. Chris shares insights from his books, including how entrepreneurship after 50 is thriving, how employers are adapting to an aging workforce, and the myths about retirement and happiness. Whether you're considering part-time work, consulting, or a second act career, this episode explores how retirees can create a fulfilling, financially secure future.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 132 Show Notes

We dive into the essential topic of pension types for Canadian employees, covering defined benefit pensions, defined contribution pensions, and group RRSPs. We explain how each works, their pros and cons, and how they fit into a comprehensive retirement income plan. Whether you're planning for retirement or optimizing your benefits, this episode provides valuable insights to help you navigate your pension options in Canada.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 131 Show Notes  

We unpack the power of Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) as a game-changing tool for retirement income planning. Discover how TFSAs provide tax-free growth, flexible withdrawal management, and significant estate planning benefits. Learn why integrating TFSAs with RRIFs, CPP, OAS, and other income sources can minimize taxes, avoid OAS clawbacks, and optimize your retirement strategy. Tune in for actionable insights and real-life examples to maximize your TFSA and achieve tax-efficient retirement income!  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 130 Show Notes

Discover essential retirement planning updates for 2025! Joe and Lindsay break down new RRSP and TFSA contribution limits, updates to CPP and OAS benefits, inflation adjustments, key tax changes, and capital gains rules. Learn how to maximize your retirement savings, minimize taxes, and stay invested for long-term success. With practical tips on budgeting, income planning, and key deadlines like the RRSP contribution deadline and tax filing date, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help Canadians optimize planning for retirement.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 129 Show Notes

Joe and Lindsay answer the most common questions about the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). They explain what CPP is, who qualifies, how to apply, and how to estimate your benefits. You'll learn about the maximum and average payouts, survivor benefits, tax implications, and whether to take CPP early, at 65, or delay to age 70. With insights on integrating CPP into retirement income planning, this episode is a must-listen for Canadians preparing for a secure and comfortable retirement.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 128 Show Notes  

We discuss planning for cognitive decline in retirement and how early financial preparation can protect you and your loved ones. We cover the importance of trusted contacts, power of attorney, estate planning, and financial consolidation to minimize risk and simplify asset management. We also touch on common scams targeting seniors, how to prevent financial fraud, and why working with a trusted financial advisor can ensure long-term security.   Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 22 Show Notes

Joe interviews David Warren, a retiree with decades of experience in business and personal finance, about his journey through retirement. David shares insights from his phased transition into retirement, emphasizing the importance of staying active, maintaining relationships, and adapting to life's unexpected challenges, including significant health issues. He reflects on the financial lessons he learned, such as saving early and avoiding debt, and highlights the value of maintaining a balanced approach to work and leisure. With candid anecdotes and practical advice, David offers listeners a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of retirement and finding fulfillment in later life.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 127 Show Notes  

Joe sits down with Michael Finke, PhD, from the American College of Financial Services, to explore how retirees can shift their mindset from saving to spending and embrace a fulfilling retirement. They discuss the importance of guaranteed income, social connections, and maintaining health as key pillars of retirement happiness. Michael shares actionable strategies for overcoming emotional barriers to spending, planning for cognitive decline, and creating goal-based retirement plans that maximize enjoyment.   Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 126 Show Notes

Joe interviews Benjamin Brandt, CFP, the retirement expert behind Retirement Starts Today. Together they explore the non-financial aspects of retirement planning. Topics range from shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, retiring to something rather than from something, and embracing creativity to design a fulfilling post-career life. Key topics include overcoming spending anxiety, identifying passions, building social connections, and planning purposefully for a no-regrets retirement. With actionable insights and a focus on mindset, this episode is perfect for those looking to simplify and enrich their retirement journey.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 125 Show Notes

Joe answers the most common questions about Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) to demystify how they work and their role in retirement planning. He explains the differences between RRSPs and RRIFs, minimum withdrawal rules, tax implications, beneficiary designations, and strategies to minimize taxes while maximizing retirement income. With practical tips on income splitting, leveraging the pension tax credit, and aligning your RRIF investments with your retirement income style, this episode provides actionable insights for anyone preparing for or navigating retirement. Learn how RRIFs fit into a comprehensive retirement plan and discover how to make the most of your retirement savings.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 124 Show Notes

Joe gives advanced strategies to optimize your Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) withdrawals, focusing on minimizing taxes, avoiding OAS claw backs, and aligning withdrawals with your broader retirement income plan. Discover actionable tips on pension income splitting, using TFSAs to shelter withdrawals, and making early or strategic withdrawals to maximize tax efficiency. Joe also emphasizes the importance of aligning your RRIF strategy with personal goals, enjoying retirement savings, and adapting your plan over time for sustainable income and estate planning success. Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 123 Show Notes

Joe and Regan examine the essentials of long-term care planning in retirement. They emphasize the importance of proactive strategies to manage future healthcare expenses. They look at the "retirement expense smile," covering the go-go, slow-go, and no-go years, and explore options like funding care through investments, leveraging home equity, or using long-term care insurance. They highlight the critical role of accessible home modifications, clear communication with family, and securing essential estate planning documents such as wills and powers of attorney. The episode also touches on preserving legacy goals with life insurance strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone focused on comprehensive retirement and financial planning.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: FF EP 21 Show Notes

Start 2025 with Confidence in Your Retirement Plan. On this episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe and Lindsay share inspiring client stories that highlight the power of clear, actionable retirement plans. Learn how addressing gaps, aligning goals, and working with a professional can transform uncertainty into confidence.  Discover how their Strategy Session offers tailored insights for those seeking clarity or a second opinion on their retirement. Start your journey to a secure retirement—visit retirementplanningsimplified.ca today!  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 122 Show Notes

In this special year-end episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe and Lindsay reflect on the most popular episodes of 2024, covering essential retirement planning insights and strategies. From avoiding critical retirement mistakes—both financial and non-financial—to optimizing tax strategies, calculating your retirement number, and understanding TFSA rules, this roundup delivers actionable advice for pre-retirees and retirees. The duo also highlights inspiring guest appearances, including Wade Pfau on the RISA framework, Bill Bengen on the 4% rule, and Hal Hershfield on connecting with your future self. Tune in to discover top retirement tips, expert perspectives, and practical strategies to confidently plan a fulfilling retirement in 2025.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 121 Show Notes

Joe tackles the psychology of retirement spending, offering actionable strategies to overcome the common fear of depleting savings. Joe discusses how retirees can transition from saving to spending confidently by addressing loss aversion, leveraging tools like retirement income guardrails, and aligning spending with their financial goals. Listeners will discover tips for managing cash flow, understanding their retirement income style, and creating a spending plan that ensures a fulfilling retirement without financial stress.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 120 Show Notes

In this episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe uncovers the hidden costs of retirement that often catch retirees off guard, leading to financial stress. From healthcare expenses, long-term care, and inflation to home maintenance, travel, and family support, Joe dives deep into overlooked budget items and offers actionable tips to prepare for them. Learn how strategic planning, such as building an emergency fund, accounting for inflation, and managing estate costs, can help you achieve financial confidence and enjoy a secure, stress-free retirement.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 119 Show Notes

This week we explore the critical topic of inflation and its long-term impact on retirement planning. We define inflation, distinguish it from deflation and disinflation, and explain why prices continue to rise even when inflation rates decrease. We examine how rising costs, particularly in healthcare, can erode purchasing power over time, and why retirees need a plan that accounts for inflation-adjusted spending. Joe shares strategies to mitigate inflation risks, such as investing in globally diversified portfolios and creating short- and long-term income buckets, ensuring sustainable income throughout retirement.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 118 Show Notes

Joe and Regan share their journeys in the financial planning industry, highlighting key transitions to independent wealth management. They discuss the challenges of starting in a sales-driven culture, the benefits of prioritizing client-centric retirement planning, and the importance of independence in offering customized financial solutions. Joe shares a compelling story about poor client service at a big bank, emphasizing the value of personalized, responsive financial advice. Explore how independence and mentorship create a better experience for clients and new advisors in the financial services industry.   Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 20 Show Notes

In this episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe Curry and Lindsay Wilson explore why good portfolio management can't compensate for bad financial planning, drawing insights from FP Canada's Financial Planning Conference and Benjamin Felix's investment lessons. They emphasize the importance of goal-oriented financial planning over stock-picking, highlighting Warren Buffett's advocacy for index investing as evidence. Key topics include tax-efficient strategies, retirement income styles, account optimization (RRSPs, TFSAs, CPP, OAS), and estate planning. Learn actionable steps to align your portfolio with your retirement goals and discover the RISA framework to better understand your income style.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 117 Show Notes    

In this episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Lindsay welcomes Red Keating, a supportive care counselor at Hospice Peterborough and co-host of the What Now? podcast, to discuss the profound importance of hospice and palliative care in Ontario. Highlighting the compassionate, holistic approach to end-of-life support, Red shares insights on caregiver support, emotional and spiritual guidance, and the significance of being present during a loved one's final days. Listeners gain valuable knowledge on the structure and services of hospice care, the benefits of community involvement, and the variety of support groups offered for patients and their families.    Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 115 Show Notes

Joe sits down with Lois Tuffin from Volunteer Peterborough to explore the transformative benefits of volunteering for retirees. Lois shares inspiring stories of retirees who have found renewed purpose and fulfillment through volunteer roles in organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Elder Dog, and the Peterborough Folk Festival. Covering a range of opportunities—like meal delivery for seniors, assisting at local festivals, and even working with animal shelters—Lois highlights how retirees can combat loneliness, build community connections, and make a positive impact. Listeners are encouraged to visit Volunteer Peterborough or Volunteer Canada to discover local opportunities and make a difference in their retirement journey. Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 115 Show Notes

Joe and Lindsay conclude their RISA framework series with a look at the final quadrant: time segmentation. It is also known as the "bucket strategy" in retirement planning. Joe explains how this approach divides retirement assets into short-term, mid-term, and long-term buckets, allowing for a balanced retirement income strategy. Retirees can reduce anxiety from market fluctuations by segmenting assets while still achieving growth over time. Joe and Lindsay also discuss the pros and cons of the bucket strategy compared to the total return approach and suggest listeners take the RISA assessment to determine their best retirement income style.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 114 Show Notes

Does this sound familiar? Your advisor tells you not to worry, that you're in a good position for retirement. However, you still feel uncertain and lost about where you stand financially. The struggle to get clear answers and guidance on retirement planning can leave you feeling anxious and overwhelmed. If this resonates with you, it's time to take a different approach to retirement planning and seek the clarity you genuinely deserve.  Dive into a candid conversation between Joe Curry and Regan Schiller, two seasoned retirement planners as they unravel the unspoken complexities of retirement planning.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 19 Show Notes

Joe and Lindsay continue their exploration of the RISA. This week we examine the Risk Wrap quadrant, focusing on balancing growth potential with income protection in retirement. We explain how Guaranteed Minimum Withdrawal Benefits (GMWB) work, allowing retirees to invest in the market with the security of a guaranteed income floor. Topics covered include variable annuities, investment strategies, and the pros and cons of GMWBs. Listeners can learn more about retirement income styles and access their personalized RISA assessment for better retirement planning.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 113 Show Notes

In this episode of Your Retirement Planning Simplified, Joe and Lindsay examine the Income Protection Quadrant of the RISA framework, focusing on strategies to secure guaranteed income in retirement.   They discuss the benefits of annuities, defined benefit pensions, Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and Old Age Security (OAS) to create an income floor that covers essential expenses. For retirees who prioritize safety over growth, this approach minimizes uncertainty, making it ideal for those seeking financial security in volatile markets. Learn how to implement this strategy and optimize your retirement income plan for peace of mind.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 112 Show Notes

Joe and Lindsay explore the Total Return quadrant of the RISA framework, emphasizing the importance of understanding retirement income styles. They discuss the Total Return strategy, which focuses on maintaining a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds, enabling retirees to rely on market growth for sustainable income. We highlight key characteristics of Total Return investors, along with the strategy's pros and cons, providing actionable insights for listeners to assess their retirement planning approaches.   Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 111 Show Notes

Only 48% of Canadians have a will in place.   It's probably been on your to-do list for a long time and you're not alone. In fact, of the people who have a will, only 35% of them are up to date.   If you're feeling the stress of not having your estate planning in order, you are not alone! The stories shared by Ellie Muir, Team Lead of Partner Relations at Clear Estate, highlight the real-life consequences of not revisiting your estate plan and the strain it can put on family relationships. It's time to ensure your legacy is protected and your family is set up for success.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 110 Show Notes

If you're feeling uncertain about your retirement finances and making decisions based on guesswork, then you are not alone! Many individuals nearing retirement age find themselves in a similar situation, relying on rules of thumb or hearsay rather than having a concrete plan in place. This lack of clarity can lead to stress, anxiety, and potential financial missteps, leaving you feeling unsure about your retirement future.  Joe and Regan discuss the top 10 reasons to create a sold retirement plan so that you can navigate this critical phase of life with confidence.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 18 Show Notes

Joe and Lindsay discuss the importance of transparency in financial planning by sharing a recent client story. A couple came to them frustrated by their previous advisor's lack of clarity, unsure whether they could reach their retirement goals. Through our process—beginning with a strategy session and followed by a comprehensive plan—the couple clearly understood their situation, even though the news wasn't exactly what they wanted to hear. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that honest, actionable advice empowers clients to make informed decisions and stay on track toward their goals.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: EP 109 Show Notes  

We answer a listener's question about balancing RRSP and RIF withdrawals in retirement while minimizing taxes. We highlight the importance of personalized planning, discussing when it makes sense to defer withdrawals for tax-deferred growth and when early withdrawals could help reduce future tax liabilities like OAS clawbacks.   Joe emphasizes that strategies like delaying CPP or OAS or adjusting withdrawal timing depend on individual goals, income sources, and estate considerations, stressing that no single approach fits all situations.   Read the full show notes and find more information here:  Ep 108 Show Notes

Worried about making financial mistakes with your retirement portfolio?  Robin Powell, founder of The Evidence-Based Investor, joins Joe Curry, retirement advisor, to explore the transformative power of evidence-based investing. Robin shares his journey from journalism to becoming an advocate for passive investing, highlighting key moments such as meeting Vanguard founder Jack Bogle and uncovering the overwhelming evidence supporting long-term, low-cost strategies for portfolio management. Together, they discuss the misconceptions surrounding traditional investment advice, the importance of staying patient, and the actual value that financial advisors provide beyond stock-picking—focusing on personal goals, estate, and tax planning.  Read the full show notes and find more information here: Ep 107 Show Notes