Tag: Financial Planning
Overcoming Obstacles With Grit, Endurance & Family Support (Ep. 66)

Overcoming Obstacles With Grit, Endurance & Family Support (Ep. 66)

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Are you ready to hear a story about grit, teamwork, and the unexpected turns that can define your journey, whether it’s a race or your retirement plan?

In this episode, Josh recounts his recent journey of conquering the Leadville MTB 100 in the Colorado Rockies, with the invaluable support of his wife Yana Leonard, CIA, MBA, Director of Finance. Alongside tales of determination and grit, Josh and Yana emphasize the remarkable role family support played in achieving this monumental feat. Packed with real-world lessons, hear how Josh navigated unexpected hurdles and triumphed with one crucial lesson – preparation and a reliable support system can make all the difference. From unexpected flat tires to quick solutions, learn how this endurance race teaches vital lessons for retirement planning and navigating life’s unpredictability. 

Josh and Yana talk about:

  • How Josh overcame unexpected challenges during the race with the help of his wife and community
  • The quick, practical solutions that helped Josh complete the race – a lesson in planning for the unpredictable
  • The crucial role of support systems in achieving big goals, both in sports and financial planning
  • How disciplined training and strategic planning in sports can translate to successful retirement strategies
  • And more

 

Resources:

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Connect with Yana Leonard:

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Planning for an Early and Intentional Retirement (Ep. 65)

Planning for an Early and Intentional Retirement (Ep. 65)

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What if you could retire earlier than you think?

In this episode, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro dive into the concept of early retirement with the FIRE (Financially Independent, Retire Early) movement, a lifestyle choice emphasizing extreme savings and smart investments. They provide information about how adopting frugality and strategic financial planning can help set you on a path to early retirement. Josh and Pete cover practical tips on extreme savings, smart investing, and the importance of a frugal yet fulfilling lifestyle.

Josh and Pete discuss: 

  • Overview of the FIRE movement and its focus on extreme savings and lifestyle choices
  • Challenges and strategies for those aiming to retire in their 30s or 40s versus traditional retirement age
  • Tips for managing finances, including healthcare and penalty-free withdrawals, for those considering early retirement
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Josh Leonard: 

Connect with Pete Belcastro: 

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Estate Planning Essentials (Ep. 64)

Estate Planning Essentials (Ep. 64)

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You can protect your loved ones and legacy as you transition into retirement by estate planning.

Today on Relax, It’s Retirement, host Josh Leonard, and Pete Belcastro dive into the often overlooked but crucial aspect of retirement planning: estate planning. They talk about how to effectively prepare your essential estate documents, avoid the drawbacks of probate, leverage trusts for tax planning, and ensure your loved ones are protected. Tune in for some practical tips and advice around estate planning that can give you peace of mind as you plan for your golden years.

Josh and Pete discuss: 

  • Why regularly updating your will and legal documents is important
  • The role of Power of Attorney in managing assets during incapacitation
  • How to use trusts to protect assets and control distributions
  • How you can minimize the impact of estate taxes
  • And more

Resources:

Connect with Josh Leonard: 

Connect with Pete Belcastro: 

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How to Choose the Best State for Your Retirement (Ep. 63)

How to Choose the Best State for Your Retirement (Ep. 63)

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Where should you retire? Your perfect place could be closer than you think.

Let’s take a look at some factors that could make or break your retirement decision.

Today on Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro talk about what truly makes a state great for retirement. They dissect a recent study listing the top states for retirement, unpacking factors such as the cost of living, weather, healthcare, and why personal preferences can completely change the ideal location for retirement. 

Tune in to learn how to weigh these factors with your personal priorities and hear insightful anecdotes from Josh’s years of experience.

Josh and Pete discuss: 

  • The top factors that determine the best states to retire in
  • How different states compare
  • The impact of state and local taxes on retirement planning
  • The importance of balancing the cost of living with lifestyle and proximity to family
  • And more

Resources:

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Connect with Pete Belcastro: 

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Navigating RMD Changes for Your Retirement Plan (Ep. 62)

Navigating RMD Changes for Your Retirement Plan (Ep. 62)

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Why does the government force you to take money out of your retirement accounts, even if you don’t need it?

In this episode or Relax, It’s Retirement, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro dive  into the intricacies of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and explain why they are a crucial aspect of retirement planning. Together, they cover recent changes in RMD rules, including the impact of the Secure Act and the importance of understanding how these changes affect your retirement and tax planning. 

You’ll learn about the different types of beneficiaries and the rules surrounding inherited IRAs, making this a must-listen for anyone approaching or navigating retirement.

Josh and Pete discuss: 

  • Understanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and their recent rule changes
  • The implications of inheriting an IRA and the different types of beneficiaries
  • How the Secure Act has changed the way RMDs are calculated and distributed
  • How to navigate these complex rules and avoid potential penalties
  • And more

Resources:

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Connect with Pete Belcastro: 

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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

 

Resources:

 

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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

 

Resources:

 

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Connect with Pete Belcastro: 

 

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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:

 

Connect with Josh Leonard: 

 

Connect with Pete Belcastro: 

 

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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

 

Resources:

 

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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

Resources:

Connect with Josh Leonard: 

Connect with Tami Fauver:

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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