Blog and Podcast

Ep 42: This Is Not 2008

We’re in a crisis … different from 2008. The pandemic and prudent, social-distancing response is causing fear, uncertainty, and now panic in financial markets. Listen to Kevin explain the current state of the markets and how this crisis is currently materially different from 2008. Be sure to pay attention to why — from a financial perspective — our country is better positioned to navigate through these troubled times by dusting off 2008’s playbook, and what you need to do to keep your plan on track. Continue reading

Ep 41: Coronavirus & Your Investment Strategy Part 2 – Why Market Timing Doesn’t Work

Timing the market sounds great, especially during times of market distress like that caused by Cornovirus (COVID-19) concerns. Who wouldn’t want to participate only in the ups while avoiding the downs!? Sadly, the only way market timing will work is for you to get lucky, which is no way to invest your life savings. Learn why and what to do instead. Continue reading

COVID-19 & Your Investment Strategy

As I write this on March 5, 2020, COVID-19 is causing waves in global economies and markets. Over the last eight trading days, the S&P 500 sold off by more than 3% on four days but also bounced back sharply, … Continue reading

Ep 39: IRA Owners: 3 Key Changes By The SECURE Act

Congress has agreed on something! Your retirement accounts are not estate planning vehicles. (Sigh.) Provisions in the SECURE Act are now law as of 2020 and impact all IRA owners.

Listen to Kevin simplify the laws and unpack the 3 key changes. The good news is that if you’re doing proper planning, you are likely less at risk than conventional media headlines and other financial advisors are reporting.

And be sure to pay listen at the end, when Kevin describes what premortem and postmortem strategies could help you and your family keep more of your hard-earned money. Continue reading

What Should Investors Do About The Coronavirus?

The financial markets are taking a big dip this week over fears about the spreading coronavirus, erasing gains from earlier this year. You may understandably be nervous about your money and your family’s health. Below are a few key items … Continue reading

How IRA Owners Are Impacted By The SECURE Act

We wrote in July 2019 that a bill known as The SECURE Act was likely to become law since it is one of the only things Congress had bipartisan support for these days. This legislation has become law as of … Continue reading

Ep 38: Pension Lump Sum or Monthly Payment?

Pension lump sums are higher in 2020 than 2019. But which should you prefer? Listen to Kevin discuss how to financially evaluate the decision as well as what research shows retirees prefer.

Whether you have a pension from your company or not, you’ll benefit from this episode. Why? Anyone can invest money with an insurance company and receive a lifetime income in the form of annuity payments. So these considerations are universal in crafting your retirement plan.

Company pension plans specifically discussed include Akron Children’s Hospital, FirstEnergy, Goodyear, Mercy Health, and Rockwell Automation. Continue reading

Ep 37: The Story of Sue

Sue is a recent widow and has gone through significant life and money transitions. Listen to Sue’s unique story and learn why her financial concerns are likely the same as yours. And be sure to listen to why Sue refused to shake hands at the end of our initial meeting and what she did instead. Continue reading