Retire at New Heights with Johnnie Roberts

This episode dives into contribution limits for retirement accounts and how to use them effectively. Shelly Cioppa explains the annual limits for Roth IRAs, traditional IRAs, and 401(k)s, while Johnnie Roberts discusses how to combine employer matches with personal contributions for optimal growth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of intentional planning—rather than defaulting to employer plans—to build long-term wealth more efficiently.

In this episode, Johnnie Roberts and Shelly Cioppa break down the truth behind tax refunds. While many people celebrate large refunds, Shelly explains that they often represent an interest-free loan to the government. The discussion explores when over-withholding can be helpful—especially for those who struggle to save—and when it may be smarter to keep more money throughout the year. They also highlight how adjusting withholdings and using refunds strategically can support better financial outcomes.

In this episode, Johnnie explains how retirees can use annual gifting rules as a powerful tax-planning tool. The discussion highlights how this strategy can help retirees transfer wealth to children or grandchildren during their lifetime, support education or major expenses, and reduce future estate burdens while preserving flexibility. The episode positions the “$19,000 tax axe” as a practical way to create meaningful impact for family members while maintaining tax efficiency in retirement planning.

In this episode, Johhnie explores optimal withdrawal sequencing across taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts. Shelly explains why taxable accounts are often used first during early retirement and how current tax deductions influence that strategy. The conversation also highlights required minimum distributions and the importance of proactive planning to avoid large tax burdens later in life.

In this episode, Johnnie explores tax law changes introduced in the “Big Beautiful Bill,” including additional deductions for retirees and adjustments impacting overtime, tips, and standard deductions. Shelly explains how these changes can reduce taxable income, potentially decrease Social Security taxation, and create opportunities for more flexible withdrawal strategies. The conversation also highlights how middle-income retirees may see the greatest benefits from these provisions.

In this episode, Johnnie Roberts introduces tax professional Shelly Cioppa and kicks off a mini-series focused on retirement tax planning. The conversation highlights the importance of having a coordinated team approach, where financial advisors and tax professionals collaborate to help retirees reduce taxes, simplify decision-making, and create a smoother retirement income strategy. The hosts emphasize that without a tax plan, retirees risk paying more than necessary and undermining long-term financial security.

In this episode, Johnnie and Michael discuss how life insurance can create “power of zero” outcomes—especially through tax-free death benefits and (for certain permanent policies) tax-advantaged cash value access. They compare term vs. permanent concepts, explain how policy loans can offer flexibility before traditional retirement ages, and describe how some structures allow money to keep earning as if it was never withdrawn. They also address the controversy: some financial voices dismiss permanent insurance, while others highlight its role in long-term wealth strategy.

In this episode, Johnnie introduces the “Power of Zero” mindset: building parts of your plan so you can pay zero taxes on key income streams and avoid losses during market downturns. He explains how taxes can change dramatically for a surviving spouse (from married filing jointly to single), why that can make the same dollar amount “worth less,” and how protecting against market drops becomes more important as your time horizon shrinks.

In this episode, Johnnie explains that “income” isn’t the real number—after-tax income is. He walks through how traditional retirement withdrawals, Roth conversions, and tax brackets interact, then shares a client example where Roth conversion amounts had to be reduced to preserve health insurance subsidies before Medicare. The conversation reinforces that retirement planning is fluid and should be reviewed every year as life changes.

In this episode, Johnnie breaks down what a Roth IRA is, why tax-free growth matters, and how you can still make a prior-year Roth contribution up to the tax-filing deadline. He explains the difference between contributing vs. converting, highlights annual contribution limits, and shares how real-life variables (like income levels and health insurance subsidies) can change the “best move” for someone.

In this episode, Johnnie explains why retirement planning isn’t just about expected milestones, but also about preparing for unexpected events. Using sports analogies, he highlights the importance of preseason-style preparation—addressing healthcare costs, taxes, income timing, and long-term care before they become urgent problems.

Johnnie explains IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) and how it increases Medicare Part B and Part D premiums for higher-income retirees. He walks through how one-time income spikes—such as large withdrawals or Roth conversions—can raise Medicare costs for two full years, and how strategic planning can help minimize or avoid those increases.

This episode focuses on the “rules of the game” in retirement. Johnnie explains how different rules apply at different ages and income levels, and how breaking them—intentionally or not—can result in financial penalties. He shares why working with a retirement specialist helps people avoid mistakes that quietly erode income and increase taxes.

In this episode, Johnnie breaks down the most common “misses” people make as they approach retirement. He explains why focusing only on account balances and investment returns can leave major gaps, especially around taxes, long-term care, and lifetime income. Johnnie emphasizes the mindset shift required when moving from accumulation to preservation and distribution.

In this episode, Johnnie walks through what really happens when heirs inherit IRAs and other taxable accounts—and why that can lead to big tax bills. He contrasts inherited IRAs and the 10-year rule with life insurance benefits that pass income-tax-free, and explores using RMDs or other dollars to fund policies designed for a legacy. He also broadens the discussion beyond college, showing how life insurance can help fund down payments, family stability, and multi-generation opportunity, often directed through a trust.

In this episode, Johnnie walks through what really happens when heirs inherit IRAs and other taxable accounts—and why that can lead to big tax bills. He contrasts inherited IRAs and the 10-year rule with life insurance benefits that pass income-tax-free, and explores using RMDs or other dollars to fund policies designed for a legacy. He also broadens the discussion beyond college, showing how life insurance can help fund down payments, family stability, and multi-generation opportunity, often directed through a trust.

In this episode, Johnnie explains how life insurance fits alongside market accounts and Roth money. He shows how death benefits can replace a lost Social Security check or income for a surviving spouse, and how cash value can be tapped tax-free for one-time needs or ongoing income. He also compares fixed and indexed life insurance options that offer guarantees and stability when markets are unpredictable.

In this episode, Johnnie breaks down how permanent life insurance can act like “equity in your financial house.” He explains how policy loans from properly structured policies can provide tax-free retirement income that doesn’t count as Social Security income, and how concepts like “infinite banking” let you earn interest on money even while you’re using it. He also shows how retirees can redirect unwanted RMDs into life insurance to create more leverage and a legacy.

In this episode, Johnnie shows how single-premium policies can turn earmarked cash (e.g., grandkids’ gifts) into a larger, tax-free legacy. He also covers accelerated benefit riders that transform death benefit into living benefits for chronic/critical illness—an alternative to costly, scarce LTC insurance. Listen to this episode and learn more about how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, Johnnie dives into max-funding IUL within MEC limits, positioning it alongside 401(k)s and Roths. They outline turning on a stream of policy loans in retirement and preview why tax-free income can reduce friction with Social Security taxation. Listen to this episode and learn more about how you can Retire at New Heights.

Johnnie explains borrowing against cash value (infinite-banking style) and how indexed universal life (IUL) credits growth with downside protection via a 0% floor. Michael shares practical examples—financing big expenses from your policy while cash value keeps compounding. Listen to this episode and learn more about how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, Johnnie frames life insurance as a planning tool—not a bill—and breaks down whole life (permanent guarantees and cash value), term (low-cost, time-bound protection), and universal life (flexible, hybrid designs). Michael underscores using the “right tool for the job” inside a broader retirement strategy. Listen to this episode and learn more about how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares from the Bible how we can leave a legacy to your children's children (Proverbs 13). There are many ways to do this that you'll learn as you listen to this episode. Then reach out to Johnnie to talk about how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares how a Fixed Indexed Annuity can provide you with growth when the markets go up as well as protection when the market goes down. This is one of the best benefits of a well-structured retirement plan. Listen to this episode and learn more about how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares how to make sure your income during retirement will keep up with inflation. Getting a pay raise in retirement is possible. Listen to this episode and learn how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares how you can pay for long-term healthcare with a rider on an annuity. By planning properly you'll be able to Retire at new heights. Listen to this episode and then reach out to Johnnie to discuss your future.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares about how an annuity pays you an income every money for the rest of your life. Many annuities have a "rider" that allows you to benefit in multiple ways. Listen to this episode and you'll have a better understanding of how you can create guaranteed income for life. Be sure to get a copy of Johnnie's bestselling book, then schedule a time to meet with him to plan your retirement.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares the inside scoop on annuities. As you listen to this episode, you'll gain a much better understanding of how Fixed and Fixed-Indexed Annuities function and the benefits you can derive from them.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares about one of the best vehicles you can use to create guaranteed income for life. Every situation is different, and Johnnie helps you understand the upside and downside of choosing the proper vehicle for your situation.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares about the importance of having a guaranteed income in retirement. Many people head into retirement with concerns about the market. Listen to this episode and you'll be better informed about how you can create Guaranteed Income in Retirement.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares what you can do to make sure your spouse has enough income after ou pass away. This is a must-listen to episode that will help you take care of your spouse and Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares the rules and guidelines and principles you need to know to protect your heirs from paying too much in taxes on inherited money. This is an important topic and insightful episode that will help your family Retire at new Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares even more about OBBBA and how it impacts your retirement plan. The 2017 Tax Bill was extended, and this can be a huge win if you have a solid retirement plan. Listen to what Johnnie shares and you'll be better informed on how you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares some helpful insights on the OBBBA and how it may affect your retirement. The Social Security aspect of the OBBBA is very important, and in this episode, Johnny explains the changes that have occurred and what this means to you.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts dives deeper into Medicare for Retirement with Medicare expert, Steve Ahonen. This episode explores Part C and Part D. After listening to this episode, you'll understand the penalties that are waiting for you if you miss this.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts discusses the Alphabet Soup of Medicare with Medicare expert Steve Ahonen. Medicare is loaded with letters -Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. There are also Medicare Supplements that impact your coverage. This is a very interesting episode that brings more clarity to a very confusing topic. After listening to this episode, schedule a conversation with Johnny to learn more about Mediarae for Retirement.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts talks with Medicare expert Steve Ahonen about when the right time is to enroll for Medicare. Steve shares with you the #1 question that trips many people up when enrolling and how you can avoid this trap. There's more to know than you may think, so listen to what Steve shares and how it can help you Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts brings a friend to the show. Medicare expert Steve Ahonen is part of Johnnie's team and understands the ins and outs of Medicare for retirement planning. Medicare is vital as you plan for retirement, so be sure to listen to this episode, and you'll be in much better shape to make a great decision for you and your family.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares why it is vital to protect your money so that you KEEP more of it. Regardless of how much you SAVE, you need to have a plan to KEEP as much of it as you can.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares why the number on your quarterly statement is not a proper retirement plan. You should have a purpose for your money in retirement, and that is more than just a number on a statement. After listening to this episode you'll be prepared to make a statement with your money so you can Retire at new Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares how building wealth is like flying a plane. You start off full throttle, hit cruising speed, then slow down as you come in for a landing. Make sure you have a safe landing so you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares why it's important to have both an offensive and defensive strategy. Winning in retirement is something you can plan for. Listen to this episode so you can Retire at New Heights.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares how retirement planning needs to address these three potential storms. Like Dorothy in Oz, you need to have the right direction and people you can trust.

In this episode, retirement planning expert Johnnie Roberts shares how roller coasters impact your retirement. There are many new ways to accelerate your retirement without the concern of taking a massive dip. Your season of life dictates how aggresive your "ride" should be.

When the storms of life come, you need to ensure your money is protected. In this episode, Johnnie Roberts shares how to create a lifeboat to protect your future and make your money last the rest of your life.

Craftsman® tools came with a Guaranteed Lifetime replacement policy. Your retirement plan should have a guaranteed income replacement policy. In this episode, Johnnie unpacks how you can create a guaranteed lifetime income stream that brings you peace of mind and security. There's no reason to worry about money in retirement when you can have the peace of mind that comes with guaranteed income for life.