Unwrapping Social Security: When Should You Claim?

Is Social Security really a gift, or just a confusing benefit you’ve paid for your whole life? Brandon Bowen unpacks the myths and realities of claiming Social Security, exploring how timing, personal circumstances, and lesser-known options like survivor benefits can shape your retirement income. L…

Microscopic Fees: What’s Eating Your Retirement Savings?

Could microscopic fees be eating away at your retirement savings? Brandon Bowen exposes the hidden costs lurking in investment portfolios and explains why transparency, risk management, and a clear income plan are essential for financial confidence. Learn how a portfolio “X-ray” can reveal what’s r…

Is It Time to Fire Your Financial Coach? Spotting the Red Flags

Is your financial advisor still the right coach for your retirement? Brandon Bowen breaks down the warning signs that it’s time for a second opinion, from outdated strategies to poor communication. Learn how to spot red flags, ask the right questions, and make sure your retirement plan is truly wor…

Retirement Math: Are You Ready for the Real Cost?

What if your retirement expenses doubled—would your plan survive? Brandon Bowen explores the paradox of time, inflation, and lifestyle expectations in retirement. Discover why comparing yourself to others can sabotage your financial confidence and learn how a customized playbook can help you plan f…

Layoffs, Retirement, and the Power of Hitting Pause

What happens when layoffs or retirement loom and your financial future feels uncertain? Brandon Bowen discusses how to hit pause, reassess your plan, and navigate the emotional and practical shifts that come with leaving the workforce. From managing income and healthcare to redefining purpose and b…

Retired—Now What? Making Your 401(k) Work for You

What should you do with your 401(k) when you retire—and how do you turn that nest egg into reliable income? This episode explores the crucial decisions facing new retirees, from rolling over your 401(k) to an IRA, to consolidating accounts, and analyzing payout options. Brandon Bowen shares real st…

Raising Parents: The New Retirement Reality

What happens when raising parents becomes life’s toughest challenge? Brandon Bowen explores the realities of caregiving for aging loved ones, from unexpected expenses and emotional stress to the impact on your own retirement plans. Hear real stories, practical strategies, and why putting your finan…

Retirement Unraveled: Are Your Accounts Working Together?

Is your retirement plan a tangled web of accounts, tax statuses, and unanswered questions? Brandon Bowen breaks down the complexity of modern retirement, from consolidating old 401(k)s and IRAs to tackling tax strategies and portfolio risk. Discover why a customized blueprint is essential and how t…

Retirement Fears: Are You Taking Too Much Risk?

Are retirement fears keeping you up at night—even with a healthy nest egg? This episode explores why Gen Xers and others worry about outliving their savings, market crashes, and income gaps. Brandon Bowen breaks down the power of asset allocation, the difference between passive and active managemen…

The Big Beautiful Bill: How New Tax Rules Could Transform Your Retirement

Could a new tax law change your retirement strategy? Brandon Bowen explores the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, revealing how new deductions, Roth conversions, and charitable moves can reshape your nest egg. Learn why timing matters, how income thresholds affect your benefits, and why Soc…