Upticks: A Financial Planning & Investment Podcast
Upticks is a financial planning and investment podcast hosted by Jake Falcon and Cory Bittner, both CRPCs. The show explores the philosophy of wealth management, covering tailored retirement plans, tax strategies, and timely market topics. Episodes aim to make financial concepts understandable and help listeners improve their financial literacy. The podcast also includes a disclaimer that securities are offered through HighTower Securities, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC, while HighTower Advisors, LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser.
Episodes
5% Treasuries, Higher Rates, and Is Your Home Really an Investment?
The 10-year Treasury yield is above 5%. Does that mean retirees should reduce stock exposure and rely more heavily on bonds? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory discuss why an attractive Treasury yield does not automatically eliminate the need for diversification. They examine liquidity, interest-rate risk, bond ladders, long-term growth, and the different purposes served by stocks, bonds, a
How Much Should Your Adult Kids Know About Your Money?
How much information should parents share with their adult children about money, estate plans, accounts, and a possible inheritance? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory discuss how to prepare family members to step in without revealing every dollar or encouraging someone to depend on a future inheritance. They explore what a spouse or adult child should know, what may reasonably remain priva
The Fed Raised Rates. Should You Change Your Financial Plan?
What should someone approaching retirement do after the Federal Reserve raises interest rates? Jake and Cory agree that a single Fed decision should not automatically cause someone to abandon a thoughtfully constructed financial plan. They disagree, however, about how much influence monetary policy has over inflation, consumer behavior, housing prices, and broader financial conditions. In this epi
529 Plans, Trump Accounts, and Why the Financial System Feels Rigged
How can parents and grandparents give the next generation a stronger financial starting point? Is the financial system truly rigged—or does it simply reward people who already own assets? And should investors take extraordinary cryptocurrency and national-debt predictions seriously? In this episode of Upticks, Jake shares what he learned from opening a 529 plan and Trump Account for his newborn so
Socialism, the Fed, and the Hidden Costs of Real Estate Investing
Can the economics of socialism be discussed without becoming partisan? Should the Federal Reserve hold interest rates steady? And does residential real estate offer the returns many investors assume? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory discuss why affordability has made simple political promises more appealing, how monetary policy and consumer behavior interact, and why real estate returns s
401(k) Rollovers, Private Equity, and Roth Conversions
What should you do with a 401(k) after leaving an employer? Should private equity be included in workplace retirement plans? And when does a Roth conversion deserve consideration? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory discuss three financial decisions that are often treated as automatic answers. They explain why each choice should instead be evaluated within the context of an individual financ
Leverage, Concentrated Stock, and Is Early Retirement Overrated?
What happens when leverage, confidence, and speculation collide? Jake and Cory begin this episode by discussing a highly leveraged hedge fund and the risks of investing with borrowed money. They also explain how options strategies may help executives manage concentrated company stock before turning to a deeper question: Is retiring as early as possible really the right goal? The conversation explo
20 Years of Retirement Planning Taught Me These 5 Things
What separates a successful retirement plan from one that's simply invested? In this solo episode of Upticks, Jake shares five practical lessons he's learned from more than 20 years of helping clients prepare for retirement. He explains why financial organization, tax planning, flexibility, and aligning your investments with your personal goals often matter more than chasing market performance. Wh
When Money Stops Changing Your Life
In this episode, Jake and Cory begin by revisiting the growing conversation around private investments inside 401(k) plans and why they remain skeptical of the trend. They also discuss the rise of index investing and understanding what you own. They debate whether high earners should own vacation homes, when renting may make more sense than buying, and ways lifestyle decisions can have a bigger im
What Can Really Put Retirement at Risk?
In this episode, Jake and Cory react to a listener-submitted article about proposed 401(k) changes that could make private equity and other alternative investments more accessible. They explain why they believe retirement plans should stay simple and discuss the risks of adding complexity to long-term investing. The conversation then turns to retirement planning, including a debate on the biggest
Smart People Can Make Terrible Investment Decisions
In this episode, Jake and Cory dig into reasons smart, successful people still make bad investment decisions. Pointing to recency bias, overconfidence, and financial media that markets fear and greed instead of sound strategy. They break down their belief of compound interest (not stock picking) being a better path to retirement, and ways "save first, spend second" can solve more money problems t
Reasons People Can Go Broke Trying to Look Rich
What does financial freedom really look like? Are we chasing wealth or just the appearance of it? In this episode, Jake and Cory dive into the psychology behind money decisions, from homeownership and lifestyle inflation to raising financially independent children and resisting the urge to keep up with the Joneses. The conversation also tackles a question many parents wrestle with: when does help
Does Spending Drop in Retirement? Here's What We Found
Are Roth conversions a smart tax strategy or one of the most overhyped ideas in retirement planning? Should retirees stay invested aggressively? Do most people really need an annuity? And when is the right time to claim Social Security? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory tackle some of the biggest debates in retirement and financial planning. Drawing from decades of combined experience work
SpaceX, OpenAI, Anthropic: Will They Crash the Market?
In this milestone 400th episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory celebrate how far the show has come and dive straight into what matters most: answering listener-driven questions shaping today's financial landscape. This episode is packed with sharp insights on one of the biggest themes in investing right now: the surge of AI-related IPOs. With companies like SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anthropic dominating head
Teach a Man to Fish
Teach a man to fish… or give him everything? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory tackle one of the most misunderstood truths in financial planning: there's no one "right" answer—only better questions. We break down the real trade-offs behind major financial decisions, including: • Is real estate better than stocks—or just more work? • How much international exposure could your portfoli
7 Popular Investment Strategies Put to the Test
Most people follow "common sense" financial advice… But what if some of those rules are actually costing you money? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down some of the most popular financial questions and strategies—and challenge whether they make sense. --------------- 📘 Get Jake's bestselling book — Retiring Right https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_sou
Retirement Planning Myths Some Smart People Still Believe
Are smart, successful professionals unknowingly making retirement planning mistakes? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down some of the most common retirement myths. Even the ones high earners and financially savvy individuals may still believe. From assuming your expenses will drop in retirement to relying on outdated rules of thumb, these misconceptions can quietly derail your long
The $2M Retirement Gap for Corporate Executives
Are you a corporate executive or high earner wondering if your nest egg is truly enough for retirement? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory dive deep into the "$2 Million Retirement Gap" The hidden risks and blind spots that can derail even the most well-funded retirement plans. Discover reasons net worth isn't the whole story, ways income structure and tax efficiency shape your financial fu
Caring for Aging Parents with Don and Elaine Minter
Caring for aging parents can be overwhelming—especially when families are forced to make big decisions during moments of crisis. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory sit down with Don and Elaine Minter of Senior Care Authority to unpack the real challenges families face when navigating senior care, assisted living, memory care, and long-term planning. 👉 Want help or resources for your family?
Our Biggest Money Mistakes
What if learning to build wealth didn't start with perfect decisions—but with real mistakes? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory pull back the curtain and share the biggest personal financial mistakes they've made—from early career missteps to hard‑earned lessons about investing, debt, and money mindset. --------------- 📘 Get Jake's bestselling book — Retiring Right https://falconwealthadvis
Could a $10M Net Worth Leave You Broke in Retirement?
Most people chase net worth—but few stop to ask whether it might actually pay them in retirement. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down a mistake they see all the time: confusing a big balance sheet with sustainable retirement income. Using real‑world examples (and an unexpected stroller analogy), they explain why a high net worth might not automatically mean financial freedom—and h
Reasons Financially Secure People May Be Afraid to Retire Anyway
Many people assume that once you're financially secure, retirement should feel easy. In reality, some of the most financially prepared people struggle the most with the decision to retire. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down the real psychological reasons financially secure individuals might be afraid to retire—even when the numbers say they're ready. --------------- 📘 Get Jake's
Reasons Volatility Feels Different Once Withdrawals Begin
Market drops feel very different once you retire—and that fear is real. If you're no longer contributing to your portfolio and instead relying on it for income, volatility doesn't just feel uncomfortable… it feels threatening. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down reasons market swings hit harder in retirement and what can help retirees regain confidence during uncertain markets. --
The Hidden Tax Bill No One Plans For
Most retirees focus on how much they've saved but overlook the hidden tax bill that can quietly drain their income for decades. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down reasons two people with the same net worth can have wildly different retirements, all because of how, and when, they pay taxes. From required minimum distributions (RMDs) and Social Security taxation to Medicare IRMAA s
When (Not if) the Market Falls—Ways Smart Investors Stay Standing
We believe the market will fall again (someday) — the real question is whether your plan is built to survive it. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down reasons trying to predict market crashes is a losing game and what can truly separate investors who panic from those who stay standing. They discuss reasons timing the market doesn't work, ways portfolio construction and cash flow pla
Why We Built Falcon Wealth Advisors (And What Makes Us Different)
Why would two advisors walk away from big firms, turn down large offers, and start over from scratch? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory share the real story behind Falcon Wealth Advisors — where they came from, why they built the firm the way they did, and how their philosophy puts long‑term client relationships first. This conversation goes beyond credentials and performance. ------------
Performance Mindset Under Pressure with Jon McGraw
High performers don't break under pressure—they adapt. In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory sit down with former NFL athlete Jon McGraw to unpack what it really takes to perform when the stakes are highest. From elite sports to investing, Jon shares how the brain and body respond under pressure—and why mindset alone isn't enough. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://f
The Stock Market Feels Great—Many Americans Feel Broke
The stock market is near all‑time highs—but consumer confidence is near historic lows. So, what's really going on? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down the growing disconnect between Wall Street and Main Street—and reasons booming markets don't necessarily mean households feel financially secure. If you've ever wondered why the market is up but your confidence feels down, this epis
Will Your Retirement Paycheck Last…?
What if one of your biggest retirement risks isn't the market… but how you take income from your portfolio? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down the retirement paycheck stress test—a smarter way to turn your nest egg into a reliable income stream without relying on guesswork, outdated rules, or flashy products. --------------- 📘 Get Jake's bestselling book — Retiring Right https://
What Can Happen When You Delay Retirement?
Most people focus on retiring as soon as possible — but what if waiting could improve your life and your financial plan? In this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory break down the often-overlooked benefits and drawbacks of delaying retirement. From compounding returns and higher Social Security benefits to burnout, health uncertainty, and lost "go‑go" years. --------------- 📘 Get Jake's bestselling
How to Buy Bitcoin, Gold, and Silver
Bitcoin has crashed. Gold and silver are surging. Headlines are loud—but what actually matters for long-term investors? Jake and Cory break down what's happening with Bitcoin, gold, and silver—and why chasing hype can quietly derail a solid financial plan. We talk about: • Why Bitcoin has no intrinsic value (and why that matters) • What's really driving the surge in gold and silver prices •
Beyond Hot Tips—The Rules We Use to Invest Your Money
We believe hot tips fade, but rules can endure. In this episode, Jake and Cory share principles that can actually drive results: how our analysts read earnings, how we construct portfolios (and ways diversification wins), what can really put markets at risk, and how policy headlines fit into the plan. If you want a durable, rules‑based way to invest, start here. --------------- 📘 Get Jake's bestse
Mortgage Rates Aren't the Problem—Indecision Is
Most people in today's housing market are asking the wrong question and it could be costing them thousands. Jake and Cory break down the real math behind mortgages, refinancing, downsizing, renting out homes, and reasons your cash flow—not interest rates—should drive big housing decisions. If you've ever wondered: • Should I wait for mortgage rates to fall? • Does refinancing actually save m
Is Gen Z Giving Up on Money?
In this episode, Jake and Cory discuss the concept of financial nihilism, particularly among Gen Z, who feel disillusioned with traditional economic systems. They explore the psychology behind gambling behaviors in younger generations, the impact of student debt, and the importance of investing versus gambling. The conversation emphasizes the need for financial literacy and the power of compoundin
5 Important Tax Changes for 2025/2026 with Todd Laytham
Discover the 5 major tax changes hitting in 2025/2026—and what they could mean for your money. Todd Laytham, CPA joins us to break down new deductions, side‑hustle rules, retirement updates, and important IRS changes. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=content&utm_campaign=rr_ebook ----
7 Habits of the Quietly Wealthy Retiree
Discover the 7 habits that quietly wealthy retirees use to help build lasting financial confidence—without flashy spending or stress. Jake and Cory cover practical strategies for living below your means, prioritizing health, staying invested, giving thoughtfully, and planning for longevity. "Organize Your Retirement in 30 Days—Actionable Steps" https://youtu.be/AaSQ6qITr0s --------------- Compli
Is Inflation Cooling? The Data, Caveats and Next Moves
Explore this inflation debate with Jake and Cory as they break down CPI, personal cost-of-living realities, Fed policy, and market consolidation. Discover what "cooling" inflation really means—plus listener questions on future Fed leadership and more. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=co
5 Year Retirement Runway
Ready for retirement in five years? Jake and Cory break down the essential steps for your "5 Year Retirement Runway"—from choosing the right advisor and planning major purchases to building your professional team and organizing your finances. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=content&utm
Organize Your Retirement in 30 Days—Actionable Steps
Unlock a step-by-step plan to organize your retirement in just 30 days! Jake and Cory reveal actionable strategies for gathering documents, building your master list, consolidating accounts, and setting up systems that can keep you on track. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=content&utm
Retire Without Losing Your Social Life
Discover tips to retire without losing your social life! Jake and Cory cover strategies to maintain purpose, connection, and community after leaving the workforce. Learn ways to build a balanced social portfolio, avoid isolation, and create a more fulfilling retirement lifestyle. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?ut
Sports and Money with Chase Hanna
Have you ever wondered how the business side of pro golf works? Explore honest financial realities, career transitions, and personal insights from a touring professional, Chase Hanna. Learn ways planning, discipline, and a strong support network help shape success on and off the course. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.h
The Net Worth Reality: Where Do 50–60‑Year‑Olds Stand?
What are the real net worth benchmarks for Americans in their 50s and 60s? Learn why averages can be misleading, how lifestyle impacts financial health, and actionable steps to improve your retirement outlook. Explore key personas, planning tips, and the importance of liquidity in building lasting wealth. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-f
5 Retirement Myths That Could Be Costing You Clarity
Discover the truth behind five common retirement myths with Jake and Cory. Learn why Social Security, Medicare, taxes, investment strategies, and estate planning may not be what you expect—and ways to plan for more clarity and confidence in retirement. Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=content&utm_camp
Charitable Giving Tax Changes in 2026 (And Things To Do Before Year-End)
Explore the 2026 charitable giving changes with Jake and Cory: the new 0.5% AGI floor, the 35% deduction cap, the universal deduction for non itemizers, and when to use donor advised funds or QCDs. Learn smart 2025 moves—accelerate gifts, bunch with appreciated stock, and avoid common ROI mistakes—so your generosity can go further in retirement. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook
Scared to Retire Next Year? Watch This
Discover actionable retirement planning strategies and learn ways to overcome retirement fears with Jake and Cory from Falcon Wealth Advisors. They unpack the emotional and financial challenges of leaving the workforce, discuss retirement income planning, portfolio diversification, 401(k) catch-up contribution changes, and share tips for adapting along the way. --------------- Complimentary 'Reti
9 Financial Accounts Every Adult Should Master
Mastering your finances starts with understanding the key accounts that help support your financial health. In this video, Jake breaks down 9 financial accounts—from checking and savings to retirement and investment accounts. Whether you're just starting out or refining your financial plan, this guide will help you build a strong foundation for long-term success. --------------- Complimentary 'Ret
How This Wealth Advisor Invests His Own Money
Ever wondered how a wealth advisor invests their own money? In this episode, Jake Falcon pulls back the curtain on his personal investment strategies—covering financial planning, cash flow, retirement accounts, and more. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=content&utm_campaign=rr_ebook
Ways the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) Impacts Retirement, Taxes and Estate Planning
Check out the latest insights on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and its impact on retirement planning, taxes, estate strategies, and market trends. Presented by Falcon Wealth Advisors, this educational event covers key provisions of OBBBA, including tax bracket changes, new deductions for seniors, Trump Accounts for children, estate planning updates, charitable giving opportunities, and in
Big Moves in Government, Real Estate, and Tech—Are You Ready?
Jake and Cory break down surging home sales, Disney's streaming price hike, the $100K H-1B visa debate, Amazon's FTC battle, Pfizer's obesity drug deal, and T-Mobile's CEO shakeup. Discover ways these developments could impact your financial plan. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=conten
Fed Cuts Rates Again: What Could Be Next for Your Money?
Explore the latest financial headlines with Jake and Cory as they break down Fed rate cuts, a mortgage refinancing boom, resilient retail sales, TikTok's uncertain future, Apple's U.S. manufacturing push, and a major shift in corporate reporting. What could these changes mean for your financial plan? --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon
Mortgage Rates Drop and Tariff Turmoil: What You Should Know
Mortgage rate drops, the widening gender wage gap, a $50B mining merger, labor market surprises, tariff turmoil, and a major tech whistleblower case. Discover how these shifts could impact your investments, retirement, and financial plan. Don't miss these insights and actionable takeaways for more clarity in today's market. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealt
Job Market Jitters and Corporate Shakeups—Are You Prepared?
Explore the latest financial headlines with Jake and Cory as they unpack job market jitters, Google's antitrust ruling, Kraft Heinz's brand breakup, rising Treasury yields, Nestlé's CEO scandal, and surging gold prices. Learn how these developments could impact your portfolio and retirement strategy. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon
Tariffs, Tech Trouble and The Great Stay – What You Should Know
Explore how tariffs, tech volatility, and shifting job trends are reshaping financial plans. Jake and Cory break down the Magnificent Seven's momentum loss, Cracker Barrel's branding reversal, and Meta's AR leap—plus what it could mean for your money. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=co
Rate Rumble, Ozempic's Price Plunge, & Retail Rift: What It Means for Your Money
Fed tensions, Ozempic's price drop, and Target's retail shakeup—what do they mean for your money? Jake and Cory unpack the latest headlines, including the U.S. credit rating outlook, Google's AI-powered Pixel 10, and the CME–FanDuel betting partnership. Discover how these shifts could impact your financial plan. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com
This Week in Finance: Debt Surge, Rate Cut Rumors and Streaming Shakeups
Explore the latest financial headlines with Jake and Cory as they break down the U.S. debt surge, inflation trends, potential Fed rate cuts, and major shifts in streaming and EV markets. Learn how these developments could impact your retirement planning and investment strategy. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.html?utm_s
Reasons to Retire in Your 50s (Before It's Too Late)
Thinking about retiring in your 50s? Jake and Cory break down ways it could be the best decision for you. From burnout and health risks to purpose-driven living, they share real stories, practical strategies, and a five-question framework to help you make your early retirement decision. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/jake-falcon-book-signup.
5 Things to Sell Before You Retire
What should you sell before you retire—and why does it matter? From employer stock and rental properties to unused vehicles and old 401(k)s, Jake and Cory break down five key assets that could be dragging down your retirement plan. With practical examples, emotional insights, and a clear framework, they help you rethink what you're holding onto and how selling strategically could simplify your ret
What Should You Do with Your 401k When You Retire?
What should you do with your 401(k) when you retire—and what should you avoid? From tax traps and Roth conversions to income planning and investment flexibility, they walk through a four-step framework to help you make smarter, more confident 401k retirement decisions. With real-world examples and practical insights, this episode helps you protect your hard-earned nest egg. --------------- Complim
Maximize Your Roth IRA: When Should You Spend Your Roth Money in Retirement?
When should you tap into your Roth IRA—and when should you not? Jake and Cory discuss one of retirement's most misunderstood questions: Roth IRA timing. From tax brackets and Medicare premiums to estate planning and emotional decision-making, they unpack the real-world impact of getting it right (or wrong). With practical examples and a three-phase framework, we hope this episode provides insights
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What it Could Mean for Your Money and Future
A sweeping new tax law is here—and it's packed with changes that could reshape your financial plan. Jake and Cory break down the most impactful updates from the 870-page "One Big Beautiful Bill," including tax bracket changes, new deductions, retirement perks, and even a government-funded account for newborns. They cover what matters most with practical insights, smart planning tips, and a few opi
4 Things to Know If You're Retiring with a Pension
Think pensions are simple? Think again. Jake and Cory break down four important things to know before making your pension decision. They cover payout options, tax implications, survivorship benefits, and ways to align your pension with your overall financial plan. They break it all down with real stories, smart strategies, and a few laughs. --------------- Complimentary 'Retiring Right' ebook: htt
What Your Wealth Might Say About You
What can you learn from your wealth? Jake and Cory reveal how your financial decisions reflect your values, fears, and ambitions—and ways to help make sure your money is aligned with what matters most. Learn ways to identify blind spots, avoid emotional spending, and use a simple framework to help bring clarity to your financial life. Real stories, practical strategies, and a mindset shift to help
What to Know About the Retirement Tax "Time Bomb"
Think your taxes will drop in retirement? Not always. Jake and Cory reveal how Required Minimum Distributions, taxes on Social Security, and IRMAA can trigger a retirement tax time bomb. Help defuse it by learning about Roth conversions, smart withdrawals, and tax-efficient planning. Real stories, practical tips, and a clear framework to help you retire with more of your money. --------------- Com
RSUs, ESPPs & Options: Keep, Sell, or Convert?
Sitting on a pile of company stock and not sure what to do with it? Jake and Cory unpack the four biggest pitfalls employees face with RSUs, ESPPs, and stock options—from tax confusion to emotional attachment—and share a simple framework to help you make more informed decisions. With real-life stories, practical strategies, and a dose of myth-busting, this episode will help you turn your equity co
4 Signs You're Saving Too Much for Retirement
Are you saving too much for retirement? Jake and Cory break down four signs that your financial habits might be costing you more than you think. From working longer than necessary to missing out on meaningful experiences, they explore how to bring more balance to your plan. With real-life stories and practical insights, this episode helps you rethink how your money supports your life—now and in th
Ways to Optimize Your 401(k)
Your 401(k) might be working—but is it working for you? Jake and Cory explore five thoughtful strategies to help you get more out of your 401(k). They cover tax diversification, employer matches, common misconceptions, the risks of borrowing from your 401(k), and more. Whether you're just starting or refining your approach, this episode offers practical insights to help you make more informed, con
6 Retirement Surprises After 6 Months
Retirement might be the goal—but what happens after you get there? Jake and Cory unpack six surprising truths that often surface in the first six months of retirement. From emotional curveballs to unexpected spending and shifting routines, they cover what most don't tell you about life after the paycheck. Whether you're nearing retirement or already there, this episode can help you prepare for wha
Powerful Tax-Free Retirement Tools
Think tax-free retirement sounds too good to be true? Think again. Jake and Cory break down the most powerful tools that could help you keep more of your money—legally and strategically. From the mysterious-sounding Mega Backdoor Roth to the triple-tax-advantaged HSA, they're covering the heavy hitters. Ever heard of tax-free municipal bonds? What about using life insurance to offset taxes for you
5 Things to Buy Before You Retire… Or Do You?
They aren't what you think. Well, at least some of them aren't. Have you considered buying your health? You can't really do that directly, but it's important to think about before you retire! What about setting up a home office or hiring the right professionals to help you? Then there's the most popular question, should you pay off your mortgage before you retire? Jake and Cory spend the next thir
Calculating the Age to Claim Social Security
When should you turn on Social Security? There may be more variables at play than you think. Jake and Cory discuss the complexities of Social Security, discussing strategies to help optimize your benefits and the impact of longevity, health, and working longer. Curious about how your financial plan and tax situation play into this decision? Tune in for insights to help you make more informed choic
Reasons Retirement Plans Fail and Ways to Avoid Them
Ever wondered why some retirement plans just don't work out? Jake and Cory are here to break down some reasons behind these failures. From underestimating expenses to dealing with market ups and downs, they share practical tips to help keep your retirement on track. Curious about how to avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your savings? Tune in for insights to help you avoid some retirement
4 Retirement Income Strategies
In our experience, it takes some retirees over a year to get comfortable spending their retirement savings. These four retirement income strategies can help change your thinking around spending money in retirement. By aligning your spending with specific goals, you can feel better about using your hard-earned savings. Understanding how your savings continue to work for you in retirement is importa
Tariffs…What They Could Mean for Your Retirement
Tariffs have seemingly taken over every headline imaginable. Let's take a step forward and try to understand the bigger picture of our emotional connection with money and what all of these headlines could mean for your retirement future. What can we control and what can we not control? What can history tell us? How are financial advisors feeling right now? Does this compare to previous market cris
Ready or Not It's Time to Retire
You endlessly think your way out of retirement. You don't want to regret your decision. You don't want to run out of money. Sound about right? Retiring is a big life decision, but it doesn't need to be a stressful one. Jake discusses a recent conversation he had with a client considering retirement and practical ideas to help you approach retirement from a fresh perspective. --------------- Subsc
Can You Retire with $1,000,000?
Can you retire with a million dollars? Yes! Kind of… While $1,000,000 isn't what it used to be, it's important to understand what it means to you. Jake and Cory discuss cash flow in retirement and how different income sources contribute to your financial plan. Honesty and self-reflection are arguably as important as the dollars in your accounts. Tune in for scenarios and client stories from Jake a
Good News! Retired Living Can Be Cheaper
Retirement goals change over time, and so does spending. Jake and Cory dive into the go-go, slow-go, and no-go years, revealing how spending evolves throughout retirement. Discover why many retirees underestimate their initial expenses and overestimate later ones. Learn how some manage spending through each phase of retirement. Understand the importance of investing in your health and relationship
Simple Ways to Invest Your Money After You Retire
After retirement, investing may seem daunting. Especially if your account values start decreasing after years of increase. Jake and Cory explore simple ways to invest your money post-retirement by understanding the importance of risk tolerance, common pitfalls, and straightforward strategies. Learn the role of cash flow and how to weather market volatility. Investing in retirement might just be ea
Time to Get Bearish?
Before you sell, watch this. Bearish and bullish investing are not strategies. Market downturns often trigger panic among investors. But if we know the market is volatile, why does this panic happen? Jake and Cory discuss ways to remedy this panic through market psychology, true stories from clients, and intelligent investing strategies. Stay tuned until the end for a quick tip from Jake. --------
Is Looking Poor Important?
Looking poor may be as bad as looking rich. Jake argues that both behaviors stem from a desire to impress others or avoid judgment. Jake and Cory talk about the psychology of money and share personal insights on authenticity and human emotions. Is it possible to align your spending with your values, avoid societal pressures, and build a healthy relationship with money? --------------- ⭐️ Subscr
Why Retirement Planning is NOT One-Size-Fits-All
Are you tired of cookie-cutter retirement advice that doesn't fit your life? Us too! Jake and Cory share real client stories to illustrate why retirement planning is a deeply personal process. Your portfolio, nest egg, retirement age, and more should never be compared to someone else's. You are your own person with your own goals and needs, and we believe your retirement planning should reflect th
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