Category: Education
Healthcare Costs in Retirement: Strategies to Manage Your Expenses (Ep. 61)

Healthcare Costs in Retirement: Strategies to Manage Your Expenses (Ep. 61)

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Are you struggling to navigate the maze of Medicare and healthcare costs in retirement?

In this episode, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro delve into the complexities of healthcare planning for retirees. They discuss understanding Medicare, evaluating different health plans, and the critical steps to prevent unexpected medical expenses. Josh and Pete share valuable insights into Medicare’s parts, long-term care options, and the magical benefits of a Health Savings Account (HSA).

Josh and Pete discuss: 

  • Understanding the intricacies of Medicare parts A, B, C, and D
  • Evaluating long-term care options and associated costs
  • Strategies for shopping around for prescription drug plans annually
  • The advantages of contributing to and using a Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • And more

 

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Breaking Financial Rules (Ep. 60)

Breaking Financial Rules (Ep. 60)

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Are you ready to break some financial rules to optimize your retirement planning?

Today, we’re challenging the rules of retirement planning to see when breaking them might actually be in your best interest.

In this episode, Josh Leonard and his partner in crime, Pete Belcastro dive into five conventional financial rules that many believe are set in stone but might be worth reconsidering to better fit individual needs. They discuss why paying off your mortgage before retirement, avoiding credit cards, and rigidly maintaining a budget might not always be the best advice. Instead, they offer nuanced views and actionable insights on when to break these rules to suit individual financial needs and goals better. Join their discussion as they talk about how to achieve a more nuanced and personalized approach to financial planning, ensuring a more robust and flexible retirement strategy for listeners.

Josh and Pete discuss:

  • The true impact of paying off your mortgage before retirement
  • The benefits and drawbacks of using credit cards in retirement
  • How to maintain a realistic budget without sacrificing quality of life
  • The importance of re-evaluating the “100 minus your age” rule in investment strategies
  • And more

 

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Longevity in Retirement: Planning for the Long Haul (Ep. 59)

Longevity in Retirement: Planning for the Long Haul (Ep. 59)

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Are you ready to make your retirement last for the long haul?

In this episode of Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro discuss the importance of longevity in retirement. They cover strategies for structuring your assets to ensure they last, the importance of tax planning, and tips for maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle throughout your retirement years. Learn about the three-bucket strategy for managing your funds, the importance of tax-efficient planning, and how staying active and socially engaged can enhance your quality of life. 

This episode is packed with valuable tips and real-world examples to help you navigate your golden years with confidence.

Josh and Pete explain: 

  • How to allocate your retirement savings into short-term, income, and growth buckets for long-term stability
  • Why being tax-efficient now can save you more in the future and ensure your money lasts longer
  • The importance of staying physically active and socially engaged to improve your quality of life in retirement
  • How maintaining a routine and engaging in activities can enhance your happiness and longevity
  • And more

By focusing on longevity, tax efficiency, and staying active in this episode, we want to empower you to make smart decisions for a secure and enjoyable retirement. Listen now and take the first step toward a well-planned future!

 

Resources:

 

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From Farm Life to Financial Freedom: A Retirement Story with Chuck Glenz (Ep. 58)

From Farm Life to Financial Freedom: A Retirement Story with Chuck Glenz (Ep. 58)

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Have you ever found yourself curious about how some folks manage to live their retirement years to the fullest?

This week on Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh sits down with Chuck Glenz, a long-term client and family friend, to discuss Chuck’s unique and insightful journey through life and retirement. You’ll learn practical advice on retirement planning, the importance of saving early, the significance of staying active and engaged, and tips on managing finances to ensure a comfortable retirement.

Chuck discusses: 

  • His early life experiences and career journey
  • The importance of staying active and finding purpose in retirement
  • Practical tips on budgeting and saving for retirement
  • Benefits of relocating to places with better climates for retirement well-being
  • And more

 

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Connecting Community and Retirement Through Art with Tami Fauver (Ep. 57)

Connecting Community and Retirement Through Art with Tami Fauver (Ep. 57)

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Art isn’t just for galleries – it’s a powerful tool for enriching your retirement experience. Have you ever thought about how art could transform your retirement? 

Today on Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh introduces Tami Fauver, the Executive Chief and Curator at Krasl Art Center. They explore the dynamic intersection of the arts and retirement and discuss how Krasl Arts Center has become a cornerstone for both aspiring artists and retirees looking to give back and stay engaged. Learn how art fairs, community engagement, and creative expressions can shape a fulfilling retirement. Tami and Josh converse about the unique opportunities for volunteering, contributing to local arts, and enriching your golden years with creativity and excitement. From volunteering opportunities to the benefits of charitable giving, this episode provides valuable insights to help you make the most of your golden years.

Josh and Tami discuss: 

  • The history and significance of the Crassel Art Fair on the Bluff
  • The role of art in fostering community connections and personal well-being
  • Unique art classes and programs available for all ages at the Krasl Art Center
  • How art can be a therapeutic and fulfilling activity for retirees
  • The welcoming and supportive environment the Krasl Art Center provides for individuals to explore their creativity
  • Opportunities for community involvement and charitable giving to support local arts
  • And more

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About our Guest: 

As the Executive Chief and Curator at Krasl Art Center in St. Joseph, Michigan, Tami Fauver is a museum professional committed to excellence and creativity. Tami is a collaborative trust builder, working to empower others, complete integral projects, retain organizational values, support the careers of artists, and transcend boundaries. She strongly values working with artists and creatives on special projects and new initiatives.

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FOMO in Retirement Planning, Explained (Ep. 56)

FOMO in Retirement Planning, Explained (Ep. 56)

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Are your financial decisions driven by a fear of missing out (FOMO)?

Get ready to conquer your retirement planning with confidence and ease.

Today on Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro discuss retirement planning with a focus on overcoming the fear of missing out (FOMO) and making informed decisions for a secure financial future. They explain why staying true to your disciplined investment strategy is crucial, especially in the face of trending financial fads like meme stocks and cryptocurrency.

Josh and Pete talk about: 

  • FOMO’s impact on retirement planning and investment decisions
  • The dangers of letting FOMO guide your investment decisions
  • The allure and risks of jumping onto hot investment trends, including meme stocks
  • How setting realistic expectations and goals is the foundation of sound retirement planning
  • Why diversification and discipline are key to navigating market unpredictability
  • The importance of setting realistic goals and expectations for retirement savings and investments
  • And more

Remember, it’s not just about financial planning; it’s about building the future you’ve always envisioned. Tune in to learn why a steady and informed approach is your ally in achieving a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Resources:

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Retirement Planning: Preparation, Adaptability & Doing Hard Things (Ep. 55)

Retirement Planning: Preparation, Adaptability & Doing Hard Things (Ep. 55)

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What does it take to truly conquer life’s toughest challenges and apply those lessons to your retirement?

This week on Relax It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro dive into the topic of “doing hard things” and how taking on challenges can prepare you mentally and emotionally for retirement. Josh shares an inspiring anecdote about a grueling bike ride up Maui’s Haleakala volcano, and they explore parallels between physical endurance and financial preparedness. They discuss why staying active and engaged matters even after retirement, offering insights on setting goals, planning effectively, and remaining adaptable.

Josh and Pete discuss: 

  • The significance of preparation and planning ahead for a successful retirement, just like planning a challenging bike ride
  • Why retirement doesn’t mean stopping; it means finding new and fulfilling challenges
  • Being ready to adjust your plans, just as you might need to adapt during a physically demanding activity
  • How building a support system around your retirement plan is as crucial as having a team backing your adventures
  • Balancing risk and reward while navigating the complexities of retirement
  • And more

 

Resources:

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How to Save for Retirement 101 (Ep. 54)

How to Save for Retirement 101 (Ep. 54)

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Ever wondered how to effectively save for retirement without missing out on the joys of life today?

Today on Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard shares invaluable tips about optimizing your savings strategy during the accumulation phase of your finances. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your approach, this episode demystifies the order of saving money, and ensuring a balanced lifestyle while preparing for a secure future. He navigates through practical advice on emergency funds, the power of employer matches in retirement accounts, and the strategic use of HSAs and IRAs for long-term benefits.

Josh discusses: 

  • Why starting with an emergency fund is crucial for financial stability
  • Maximize employer retirement plan contributions for compound growth
  • Navigating high-interest debt and the impact on your savings journey
  • The long-term benefits of diversifying savings beyond traditional retirement accounts
  • And more

Tune in to grasp how to craft a retirement savings plan that aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals, ensuring a smooth transition to your golden years.

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Is Social Media Misleading You on Finance? (Ep. 53)

Is Social Media Misleading You on Finance? (Ep. 53)

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Are you being hoodwinked by financial advice on social media?

In today’s episode of Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard delves into the murky waters of financial advice on social media platforms. With special attention on the credibility of so-called financial influencers, or ‘finfluencers,’ Josh unpacks the allure of simplicity in managing finances that social media tends to promise. He explores how the ease and accessibility of social media content can often misguide individuals when making crucial financial decisions. 

Josh discusses: 

  • The impact of social media on financial decisions
  • Distinguishing credible financial advice from sensational content
  • Understanding the risks associated with following financial influencers without due diligence
  • Practical tips for verifying the credibility of financial advice encountered online
  • And more

Tune in to learn about navigating the complex landscape of online financial advice with a critical eye.

Resources:

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Are You Ready to Retire? (Ep. 52)

Are You Ready to Retire? (Ep. 52)

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Are you ready for retirement? How much money do you need to ensure your golden years are truly golden?

Today on Relax It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro address essential considerations for anyone nearing retirement. From understanding the right time to retire to strategically managing retirement income, this conversation aims to equip you with the knowledge to navigate financial decisions with confidence. Whether it’s determining if your savings are sufficient, dealing with market fluctuations, or making smart investment choices, this episode covers the groundwork for a fulfilling retirement journey.

Josh and Pete discuss:

  • Understanding when you’re ready to retire and ensuring you have enough saved
  • The intricacies of the 4% rule and how it applies to your retirement savings
  • The importance of planning for healthcare and long-term care expenses
  • Strategies for generating stable retirement income, including social security, pensions, and rental properties
  • And more

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