Apple AirTags are (sort of) helping to fight crime, and artificial intelligence is creating A LOT of hype and concerns, even in the entertainment industry. However, could AI be a helpful tool when creating a plan for retirement? Greg and Kristin share their unique perspective along with a very personal story that relates. They also examine the Fed’s latest interest rate hike to fight inflation... Why Greg thinks this could mean more bad news for bonds, and what tool they're sometimes suggesting for clients that have been rattled by the banking chaos but are seeking some safety. 

🍔 BIG changes are coming to one of the most popular burger spots, and thanks to President Biden and his administration, BIG changes have been implemented for all home buyers whether you have good or bad credit! 🏠  And with so many different opinions about the economy, inflation, and what the Fed may or may not do… We’ll dig into why the pundits aren't saying much about the stock market, and why wall street has been fairly flat lately. Plus, Kristin adds perspective to what one financial website says are the 5 big money purchases you’ll likely regret in retirement. Remember, everyone’s retirement is unique… so what’s ideal for your family may not be for others. 

To help retain losses, some online retailers are hoping to persuade consumers to make fewer returns. 📦 In fact, Amazon will begin charging a $1 fee for one return method but is still offering free returns in other ways. This gets Greg’s fiduciary brain focused on how we easily get fixated on the small ways we feel we’re losing value. However, when it comes to investments for retirement, we often don’t think about the fees we’re paying for some options in our portfolio, and if there’s true VALUE in that fee or not.  📚 We also embrace April being National Financial Literacy Month by  Greg & Kristin passing along financial tips! And when it comes to you’re 401(k), are you on track compared to the rest? 

🌎 There’s a new wealthiest person on the planet, but most middle-class Americans aren’t phased by that since we’re concerned about our own livelihood… Especially now that cutbacks are coming from non-tech companies due to concerns about a slowing economy. Find out Greg & Kristin'slogical yet positive outlook,and how you can hopefully financially best prepare for… whatever happens next. Then we address a question prompted by one of our listeners:  If my retirement accounts are down, does the blame fall on Biden? Greg & Kristin give their unobjective opinion how our nation got into this precarious economic position. 

With various global and political concerns along with inflation… For many, things just don’t feel right. Greg calmly reminds us that we need to be careful about what we watch and listen to, and make sure we’re able to discern what's real versus media hype. He also explains how to evaluate if it’s time for you to button up your portfolio based on your situation. 🤴 Plus, the King of England will soon be crowned, but we’ll find out if CASH IS KING in America since interest rates on some savings and money market accounts are looking pretty good these days. 

For many pessimism is growing due to global concerns, the banking chaos, AND the Fed following through with the 9th interest rate hike within a year! This week Greg & Kristin share ideas that could help calm some uneasiness, and hopefully better control what happens to the future of YOUR personal economy, portfolio, and retirement lifestyle. 🌷 Plus, they pass along financial spring cleaning ideas that might be helpful to you and your family! 🧹

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank is the 2nd largest shutdown of a bank in U.S. history, and investors have felt mixed reactions from wall street. With many having 2008 flashbacks and general anxieties about the current economy, Greg & Kristin point out that panicking doesn’t help… But the right planning can! 🏀 Then we embrace the fun and pain March brings for college basketball fans! However, if you’re paying more attention to your NCAA bracket than you do your tax bracket, Greg & Kristin explain how that could add up to a larger and longer-term problem if you and your advisor don’t have a game plan for FUTURE taxes on your retirement accounts. 

Small businesses are a LARGE part of the American dream, but certainly not an easy path to put food on the table. Entrepreneurs are always looking for ways to improve the fiscal health of their companies. One strategy Greg & Kristin recently came across is called the Employee Retention Credit. It's a grant that became available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, but it allows businesses negatively affected by Covid to possibly receive a monetary benefit from the IRS for retaining employees during the difficult times of 2020 and 2021. As business owners themselves, Greg & Kristin share how you can explore this resource along with what to watch out for. Listen for tips on how ERC could potentially help you now, and maybe even help you grow by reinvesting in your business. 

After discussing the latest chicken choice and how it may not live up to all it’s cracked up to be 🤭  We discuss how one investment strategist is predicting more economic chaos, calling March a “high-risk month for the bear market to resume.” Greg & Kristin are here to be a voice of reason by simplifying how you CAN control your personal economy by planning and not giving into the fear and greed the pundits pontificate.  And with every penny counting (especially these days), we address the pink elephant in the room about future taxes on retirement accounts. Is a Retirement Tax Analysis and the planning that goes along with it mainly beneficial for those who’ve saved $1 million or more? Or can it also help those who worked diligently to accumulate a more modest nest egg? Greg shares a story illustrating why the answer is YES, depending on the individual situation. 

If you’re nearing retirement, are you aware of how BIG of a factor healthcare costs can be? Medicare isn’t always as simple as it seems, especially for couples planning retirement dates. Listen to find out why Greg has nicknamed this a “hidden tax” for retirees, and how you can be more efficient with your overall taxes in retirement.  Plus, with economic concerns increasing, Greg & Kristin explain how understanding what and how you’re invested can often help ease some anxiety about the stock market, along with knowing your true comfort level with risk versus return. We also spotlight how the talking heads are changing their opinions fairly quickly these days. 

Did you know more than half of Americans feel they have unofficially assigned seats throughout their home? We start this week by discussing how that works at the Taylor house! Then Greg & Kristin pull back the curtain and tell us how their Portfolio X-Ray process works, AND how long it takes for you to find out where you stand since many are being asked to make retirement decisions at work quickly. Plus, a key discussion as to if we experienced a recession last year and if another is on the way in 2023. 

With another rate hike from the Fed, we discuss how inflation has changed many of our habits, including going to the movies. Greg & Kristin talk about how they are helping their clients maintain their lifestyles despite inflationary times by planning for their specific needs and goals. Also, did you know politics regarding the environment and other hot-button issues could become part of your 401(k)? Environmental, social, and governance investment priorities (also called ESG) went into effect recently. Greg & Kristin spotlight how this allows asset managers to include socially conscious stocks in 401(k) plans. That doesn’t mean it’s happening to yours now, but listen to find out how this could impact the future of your retirement, but doesn’t have to.  

Many are looking at their 401(k)s and other retirement accounts and noticing their balance is lower than when 2022 began, but inflation is still here in 2023. Greg & Kristin discuss what those who are wondering if they can still pull off their own retirement when they’re ready should focus on. They also explain how market volatility is ALWAYS present in some way, and that’s why their team of fiduciaries focuses on planning as efficiently as possible for the unexpected. 

Sunday will be here before you know it, and it should be an intense game between the Eagles and Chiefs as they both eye the trophy! No doubt there will be a few penalties during the gridiron action. That’s why this week Greg and Kristin are sharing financial penalties and rules those near and in retirement should keep top of mind so that you don’t lose too much of your retirement money to Uncle Sam… but still pay your fair share of taxes in retirement. Listen to find out if you need to consider changing your personal game plan for retirement. 

We’ll reveal the latest inflation hit announced, this time from the postal service. Then we'll travel down memory lane to when we used to collect green stamps/trading stamps from grocery stores and save them for something special! Greg & Kristin then share their opinion about what investors need to consider regarding their retirement accounts as we continue into 2023. Plus, we discuss what the French government is doing to change the course of their citizens' futures by increasing the retirement age to help tackle their pension funding deficit. Greg and Kristin explain how they help their clients handle pension decisions, and create a true plan for retirement.  

Doesn't matter how small or large the fib is, we all hate being lied to under any circumstance. There have been quite a few headline-grabbing stories over the years about investors feeling or worse, being misled about their money. Greg and Kristin share the questions that may feel awkward to ask your current or potential new financial advisor... but that you NEED to in order to make sure your best interest is their top priority. We'll go ahead and give you the first tip now: Make sure they are a Fiduciary!

We’re doing things a little differently on this episode. Since Greg is busy with dad duty, Kristin invited Glenn Harper, CPA & Owner of Harper & Company CPAs along with Practice Manager Julie Smith to shed a different light on our financial conversation. If you’re an entrepreneur and could use insight about planning for your own retirement, along with a heads-up on mishaps small business owners should avoid, this episode is for you!  Plus, we’ll share the latest changes that could impact your RMDs (required minimum distributions) and the future of your taxes in retirement.

To start the New Year, Greg and Kristin spotlight their new no-charge online tool: TestMyRetirement.com. It’s a resource for those of you near and in retirement to gain more insight regarding your possible future tax obligations after you stop working... And to see if you could potentially be more efficient by making some adjustments. We'll share a story of a lady in her 70s who decided to try this new resource. Fortunately (and unfortunately) it made her realize her current advisor has never talked to her about having an efficient plan for her tax-deferred money. Greg and Kristin also share tips on what to keep in mind if it’s your goal to retire in 2023! And yes, the B-word… Budgeting is key to pulling it off successfully! 

Interest rate hikes are no longer just a burden on home buyers and consumer debt. Greg and Kristin reveal how much the federal government has made in interest payments on America's debt during 2022 alone. It’s another unfortunate reminder of why we need to stay on top of taxes when it comes to our retirement accounts. Then we flashback to the era of shopping “blue light specials” at Kmart and find out if there are any sales on Wall Street considering the recent market dips that investors may want to consider taking advantage of. Greg explains who should probably pay the most attention when it comes to taking advantage of those dips, and who should be more focused on the big picture of their retirement. 

Artificial intelligence has changed our lives in tremendous ways. Listen to find out one of the latest ways it’s changing the way Americans drive-thru for fast food. Greg and Kristin then discuss the pros and cons of how technology has changed retirement planning and investing, and what components they believe can’t be replaced by AI, and why.  

2022 has been a tough year financially with bear markets, rate hikes, and intense inflation. Greg & Kristin share some money-saving hacks that could possibly help reduce your grocery bill. Then Greg applies a similar mindset to investing and explains why the most convenient option isn’t always the most efficient for the long term. (If you have target date funds inside of your portfolio, this episode could be particularly helpful for you.) We’ll also discuss why inflation and longevity might shrink the well-known 4% rule down to the 1.9% retirement rule, but doesn’t necessarily have to with the right planning. 

With midterms fast approaching, we reminisce about political figures we wish were still around. Then discuss the acting career of Ronald Reagan and why he eventually decided to only be in about two movies a year during part of his career in Hollywood. Why? Because of TAXES! Greg spotlights the tax cuts that are set to expire in 2026, and what you can do to possibly be more efficient regarding taxes and your retirement accounts. Plus, a key discussion regarding what to consider when it comes to pension decisions.  

After discussing the latest trend in wedding gifts, Greg & Kristin share insight on the latest dips and drops in the market. If you’re hoping to find a magic bullet to make it all easier, this is NOT the podcast for you because that doesn’t exist. However, there may be some alternative options and strategies you aren’t aware of that could possibly serve your retirement accounts better depending on your situation. Greg also explains what to keep in mind if you’re considering a Roth conversion as a way to possibly minimize some of your losses in 2022. 

With early deals for the holiday shopping season already underway, Greg and Kristin share why they believe Amazon and other major retailers could possibly be shooting themselves in the foot by trying to combat projection concerns too early, and why these deal days could potentially damage parts of the economy. Then they shift the focus to the Fed’s 3rd sequential 75-basis-point interest rate hike attempting to fight inflation, and why the markets and many retirement accounts reacted negatively. They explain how to deal with these varying numbers in a way that hopefully doesn’t change your lifestyle when in or ner retirement. 

We start this week with some fun by embracing the yummy food of Fall, then turn our focus to the major financial topics impacting your bottom line. With the Fed making headlines along with a few companies announcing downsizing, markets were rattled in mid-September, which is often a rough month for the market. Greg and Kristin spotlight some alternative options those in and near retirement might want to consider during this time instead of simply stocks bonds and mutual funds... if you’re seeking more stability along with income in retirement. 

After revealing Americans have $21 billion in unused gift cards, Kristin shares a very helpful tip to make sure you don’t lose the value you have loaded up on any gift cards at home! And now that Fed Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has confirmed the central bank will continue raising interest rates until inflation is under control, Greg and Kristin explain how to deal with the uncertainty that investors in retirement or close to it are feeling. Plus, they discuss the impact of President Biden’s student loan forgiveness program on inflation, taxes, and your bottom line. 

First, you’ll find out who on the podcast is now the GOAT… sorta kinda not really. 😉 Then we focus on what’s truly important: Inflation. What will the Fed likely do with interest rate hikes? Are we in a recession or not? Greg & Kristin share a shopping story that reveals the true consumer sentiment we’re all feeling. We'll also hear about a couple that did very well as DIY investors and find out if they even need the help of a fiduciary financial advisor for retirement. Plus, what to watch out for when it comes to the volatility of wall street!

After discussing a recent international pizza fail, Greg & Kristin dive head first into inflation and how political its become with midterms right around the corner and President Biden signing the Inflation Reduction Act into law. They drill down on how this legislation impacts Americans, especially the middle class. If the volatility of wall street, inflation, and the likelihood that taxes will increase are a concern to you, give this episode a listen!

After sharing what many travel insiders believe will happen to domestic airfare in the fall, we dig into the recession debate. The textbook definition of a recession is back-to-back quarters of negative economic growth… A definition that seems to be changing depending on who’s delivering the message. Either way, the man who forecasted the 2008 crash is now saying things will likely only get worse in the 3rd quarter economically. Instead of panicking, Greg spotlights why investors near and in retirement should tune out the noise, and instead, dial in their personal risk capacity within their portfolio. Listen to find out why taking more risk doesn’t always mean more of a return. We’ll also discuss why some say they’re delaying retirement because of inflation, and how you can take a step back and remove some emotions from that decision. 

Walk Street ended the 2nd quarter in the red, but July clocked the best month for the S&P 500 since November of 2020. So, this week Greg and Kristin are helping us better understand if the market sell-off is over or not. You’ll also hear about a couple that has lost roughly 20% of their portfolio since January, and how Greg was able to discover that by using the right strategies and planning, they'll still be able to still retireon their terms... without just going to cash. Everyone's story is different, but hearing this example of how having a fiduciary financial advisor to help you develop a true retirement plan could change your outlook on the future. 

We’ll start with some fun by revealing what brand from our childhood is changing its name. Then Greg & Kristin discuss how to best deal with the anxiety many are feeling about inflation being over 9% and wall street’s volatility, especially since we’ve just experienced the worst first 6 months to a year for the S&P 500 since 1970. Plus, they explain how there might be a silver lining to this bear market when it comes to Roth conversions... depending on your situation. 

There’s been a change in the mindset of many consumers, especially now that Americans are spending hundreds of dollars per month more due to inflation. With interest rates rising in a bear market, Greg & Kristin discuss the various pieces of the puzzle that are impacting the economy and the bottom line of your budget and investment portfolio… And what control you can take. Plus, they discuss what some say are the 3 retirement income mistakes to avoid. 

We’ll reminisce about an American road trip staple from the 60s & 70s, then shift our focus to why Greg feels we're in the perfect financial storm: The stock market is off to its worst start to the year since 1939, interest rates are rising and inflation is getting worse everyday. He explains why younger investors may want to buy now while the market is “on sale,” and why those near and in retirement need to view things differently. We also explore the pros and cons of spending your retirement years as an expat.  

The S&P 500 recently entered bear-market territory for the first time in more than 2 years. With so many concerned about a recession impacting our day to day lives… Greg clarifies what those near and in retirement should consider moving forward regarding their investments and over all financial life. You’ll also hear the story of one family who, possibly like you, is feeling paralyzed by the ever changing economic news.   

You won’t believe the world record that was recently set for the longest time working for the same company! Greg & Kristin reveal the details, and discuss what Americans should keep in mind when it comes to workplace retirement accounts when nearing or in retirement… especially with 401(k)’s!

After some lighthearted chat about eating healthier, we simplify what’s happening with the market and economy. With the current volatility and many considering sitting on the sidelines in cash, Greg and Kristin discuss the importance of not making investment decisions based on fear. Find out why it’s helpful to know your Risk Score and have a well thought out personalized plan put together for your future. They also explain how they’re approaching the interest rate hikes for their clients, along with inflation as it continues to soar.  

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve likely felt inflation swelling at the fastest pace since the early 80s, up 8.5% in March from a year ago. Find out why Greg not only helps people prepare for inflation in general... but why he also includes what he calls the inflation of retirement in his planning. Plus, we discuss how the change in American workplace culture has impacted soon-to-be and current retirees, and why a work-life balance has always been a priority at Legacy Retirement Group. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some investors are considering soon adjusting allocations based on the longstanding “sell in May and go away” investment strategy. Greg and Kristin explain why the midterm election season, politics in general, and the current economic climate could throw a wrench in that wall street tactic. They discuss the importance of not being sold when it comes to retirement planning and clear up a key issue that’s making retirement planning more difficult for some that are hoping to retire soon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After exploring how much we’re spending on the furry members of our family, Greg and Kristin explain how the retirement reform plan known as Secure 2.0 could change the way Americans save and access their investments. Not only could it impact the taxes on your portfolio and RMD’s, but it may help some Americans find lost retirement accounts. Plus, with such an influx of economic news, they pass along tips for keeping as much of your savings in your pocket as you can. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Traditionally we’ve turned to bonds when looking to de-risk our portfolios, but with the Fed raising interest rates in an effort to lower inflation, Greg and Kristin discuss various ideas to consider if you’re seeking less Wall Street volatility during this unique economic time. This conversation is especially timely if you’re an investor who's wondering if the Fed’s plan will work without pushing us into recession.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mortgage rates are on the rise while inflation is at a 40-year high of 7.9%, and many are concerned that a recession could be on the way. Instead of focusing on fear, Greg and Kristin explain how to put together a plan that you not only understand... but also provides more confidence. Plus, they reveal what could be the upside of a down market when it comes to your retirement accounts and Roth conversions, and how they helped one couple recently accomplish that.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We need to be aware of what’s unfolding with the war in Ukraine, but Greg and Kristin bring up an important question: Are you too focused on the news?  If so, it could overwhelm you and your financial decisions… Especially with concerns of a potential recession top of mind due to inflation, interest rates, and other factors. They illustrate why this intense time reminds us that your retirement plan should include a detailed strategy. Not just focus on the growth of your 401(k)’s, IRA’s, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s been a lot of market volatility in reaction to the Fed and Russia invading Ukraine. On this episode, Greg and Kristin review what to soon-to-be and current retirees need to consider when it comes to their investments today and in the future. Plus, times such as this remind us how thankful we are to be Americans, and for many their American dream is being an entrepreneur. The Taylor’s uncover what small business owners should keep in mind when it comes to their own retirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we start by chatting about the results of a new study regarding the Mediterranean diet possibly adding longevity to our lives, and Greg and Kristin validate how important it is that our retirement savings last as long we need them. That’s certainly become more of a concern with inflation at a 40-year high, the unknown impact of future interest rate hikes and supply chain issues. Then add in the Ukraine crisis and how that could all impact our investment accounts. They share the 5 areas we should focus on (and what we can control) when it comes to the long-term success of our retirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg explains how he found out about a costly leak at home you may identify with as a homeowner... But have you ever thought about what would happen if your 401(k) sprung a leak? He explains what retirement account “leakages” can add up for investors, and how to identify these leaks and prevent them from draining your savings. And since it’s tax season, Greg shares his favorite strategies for helping people steer clear of leaks when it comes to their future taxes in retirement.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation and supply chain challenges are abundant, and we’ll discuss how they might also interrupt your workout routine if Peloton is your bike of choice! And after such a volatile January, Greg & Kristin realize many investors are concerned more volatility could be coming in 2022, especially with the tension between Russia and Ukraine. Find out how you can plan for the unknowns when it comes to your 401(k), 403(B), and other retirement accounts.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for a feel-good conversation along with some serious information you can use? Then this episode is for you! After a lighthearted cookie debate regarding Oreo’s 110th birthday and Girl Scout Cookie season, we discuss how imperative it is to work with an advisor that’s in tune with your needs. In fact, we discuss one couple that recently reached out to us because they feel their advisor isn’t retirement focused. Greg & Kristin clarify that you might have the right tools for retirement, but you may need help using those tools to create a true a plan when you’re near or in retirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Americans are keeping a close eye on what develops with the Build Back Better Act, but many have forgotten about the Securing a Strong Retirement Act (Secure 2.0). Since it has more bipartisan support and is more likely to be passed, Greg and Kristin explain how it could alter some rules regarding your IRAs, RMDs and more. Listen to find out if this bill on capitol hill would be a benefit or a blow to your tax-deferred accounts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lately, Wall Street has seen all-time highs while also taking some dips. If this volatility along with inflation and the ongoing interest rate chatter has you wondering if you should put some cash on the sidelines, this episode has insight for you. Greg and Kristin discuss what families should consider NOW for both the short and long-term plan of your portfolio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 401(k) was introduced about 40 years ago, and it’s a great way to save and invest for the future. On this episode, Greg and Kristin reveal how the 401(k) has inadvertently become a plan for retirement for some simply because of required minimum distributions from Uncle Sam. They explain why that can be problematic and the importance of using 401(k) accounts along with other investments to create a true plan for retirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.