Retire Well

In this episode of the "Own Your Retirement Show," hosts Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl, President of FSR Wealth Strategies, delve into the intricacies of retirement planning and the impact of taxation.Josh shares personal anecdotes about family trips and sledding adventures, highlighting the importance of creating lasting memories.They discuss the implications of potential changes to the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and how these changes could affect retirees, emphasizing the importance of tax planning in ensuring a secure financial future.The episode sheds light on various tax strategies, such as the benefits of Roth conversions during market downturns, rebalancing portfolios, and blending income sources to minimize taxes.Listeners are encouraged to take a proactive approach to their retirement planning, considering both the growth and preservation of their investments.Josh offers practical advice on how to navigate the complex world of retirement savings, ensuring that listeners can achieve their retirement goals and enjoy the fruits of their labor without unnecessary financial stress.

In this episode of the Own Your Retirement Show, hosts Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl, the president of FSR Wealth Strategies, dive into the complexities of retirement planning.They address a host of foundational questions, such as "Can I retire?" and "Will my money last as long as I need it to?" They emphasize the importance of understanding your financial status and outline the steps you need to take to secure a stress-free retirement.Interwoven with financial insights, Josh shares a heartfelt personal story about his daughter's passion for gymnastics, highlighting the significance of supporting the dreams and hobbies of loved ones.This narrative ties into the broader theme of the episode, illustrating the importance of planning for a fulfilling retirement—one that allows you to enjoy life's pleasures and family moments without financial worries.The episode also scrutinizes the challenges current and future retirees might face, considering potential changes in economic policies and their impact on retirement income.The episode also dives into retirement for women and past facts on social security with a trivia game.

In this episode of the Own Your Retirement Show, Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl, President of FSR Wealth Strategies, dive into the intricacies of retirement planning.They address common concerns like whether you can afford to retire, how to ensure your money lasts, and when the right time to retire might be.Listeners are treated to Josh's light-hearted family stories, including a memorable tradition of celebrating "National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day," which serves as a delightful segue into a thought-provoking discussion on the joys and freedoms retirement can offer.The episode then takes a more serious turn as Josh and Mark analyze the impact of Washington and Wall Street on your retirement.They discuss the significance of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and how upcoming legislative decisions could affect retirees.Josh offers expert insights on managing 401(k)s, the importance of strategic income planning, and the differences between various retirement accounts.Filled with practical advice and personal anecdotes, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to gain clarity and confidence in their retirement planning journey.

The "Own Your Retirement Show" hosted by Josh Bretl, president of FSR Wealth Strategies, and Mark Elliott provides valuable insights into retirement planning.This episode centered on understanding key retirement concerns, from managing income, investments, taxes, and healthcare to addressing emotional aspects and practical challenges retirees face.Josh opened up about a personal experience of single parenting during his wife’s short getaway, which gave him a new perspective on empathy and the importance of walking in someone else's shoes—a principle he relates back to FSR Wealth’s client-first approach.The team strives to deeply understand each client’s unique needs, emphasizing the importance of customized, empathetic planning.The show also highlighted common retirement regrets, such as not saving enough, starting Social Security too early, and carrying debt into retirement.Josh explained how FSR’s “Own Your Retirement” process helps mitigate these concerns by offering tailored strategies and guidance.Practical advice included planning future income, understanding tax implications, and avoiding hasty decisions driven by market or tax changes.Engaging conversations, relatable experiences, and actionable tips made this episode both insightful and empowering for anyone navigating the complexities of retirement planning.Callers were encouraged to consult FSR Wealth Strategies for personalized financial guidance.

The latest episode of the Own Your Retirement Show with hosts Josh Bretl and Mark Elliott takes listeners on an insightful exploration of retirement planning, focusing on key unknowns and avoiding common regrets. The episode begins with Josh sharing a heartfelt personal story about celebrating his 20th wedding anniversary, skillfully tying it into the discussion of life’s significant transitions—marriage, parenthood, and, ultimately, retirement. Josh emphasizes that retirement brings the most significant lifestyle change, not only financially (as income shifts to rely on Social Security, savings, and pensions) but also mentally and emotionally. The duo then dives into retirees' common regrets, such as wishing they had saved more or delaying Social Security benefits, and explore actionable strategies to address these concerns through proper planning.Additionally, the show tackles four big unknowns retirees face: longevity, healthcare costs, market performance, and future taxes. Josh shares practical insights on how to address these uncertainties, such as planning for extended lifespans, managing healthcare and long-term care costs, and minimizing the impact of market volatility and tax liabilities. The episode also includes critical advice on protecting against scams and highlights the importance of building a comprehensive retirement plan. With a blend of personal anecdotes, expert guidance, and actionable tips, this episode provides valuable advice for listeners preparing for or navigating retirement, urging them to seek professional planning assistance to secure their financial and emotional well-being.

The "Own Your Retirement Show," hosted by Josh Bretl and Mark Elliott, dives deep into financial planning strategies designed to help individuals prepare for a successful retirement. This episode kicks off with the hosts catching up on memorable holiday experiences, including Josh's exciting family trip to a Chicago Bulls game. While reminiscing about the past and the joy of sharing new experiences with his children, Josh creates a relatable bridge to the importance of making thoughtful choices and planning for the future.The show transitions into valuable discussions on financial topics, such as recent updates to Social Security laws and their impact on retirees, effective tax management strategies, and the crucial role of inflation in retirement planning. Sharing actionable insights, Josh highlights the importance of creating a well-rounded retirement plan tailored to individual needs. With some New Year reflections woven in, the episode emphasizes setting realistic goals, the value of professional guidance, and how working with FSR Wealth Strategies can help secure a retirement lifestyle that’s both rewarding and resilient.

This episode of “The Own Your Retirement Show” hosted by Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl of FSR Wealth Strategies dives into crucial aspects of retirement planning, with a focus on creating a comprehensive strategy for income, taxes, healthcare, and legacy.The hosts discuss the importance of proactive year-end tax planning, especially with upcoming changes to tax rates in 2026, and emphasize strategies like Roth conversions, tax loss harvesting, and maximizing tax brackets to minimize future financial burdens.Through relatable anecdotes, they shed light on planning for unplanned retirements, managing required minimum distributions (RMDs), and balancing financial decisions like funding education versus securing retirement savings.The show balances practical advice with personal reflections, such as the magic of Christmas through Josh’s children’s eyes, and underscores gratitude for professionals like teachers and CPAs.It invites listeners to engage with retirement planning steps tailored to unique circumstances while offering resources like the FSR Wealth website for in-depth insights.Whether tackling retirement fears or fine-tuning tax strategies, the episode emphasizes making informed decisions today to secure financial stability and peace of mind for tomorrow.

The "Own Your Retirement" radio show, hosted by Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl of FSR Wealth Strategies, offers listeners insightful discussions and actionable advice on retirement planning. This episode highlights the challenges modern retirees face, like the lack of pensions compared to past generations and the increasing cost of living.Mark and Josh discuss practical solutions, focusing on saving strategies like using IRAs and Roth IRAs, along with the importance of diversification and tax planning to combat risks like longevity, inflation, and unpreparedness.They also touch on creating personalized retirement strategies through their "Vision Visit" process, ensuring retirees have tailored plans for their unique goals and needs.The episode begins with Josh sharing a personal Christmas tradition of visiting Chicago's Walnut Room with his family, connecting the importance of creating nostalgic, meaningful memories to how people think about enjoying retirement. Later, the discussion turns to the AARP’s study about a retirement savings crisis, with 57 million private sector workers lacking employer-sponsored retirement plans, and strategies to address this gap. The hosts offer valuable guidance on financial readiness, diversification, and spending wisely in retirement, aiming to alleviate fears like outliving one’s money while encouraging thoughtful planning.

Any time is a good time to break a bad habit. Whether you want to make improvements in your routine at home, your job performance at work, with your physical health or your financial health, the time to make a positive change for your future … is right now. Josh Bretl and Mark Elliott discuss avoiding complacency and other bad habits in retirement that prevent us from making adjustments to our portfolio. Additionally, the pair of hosts talk about a Fidelity report that the average 65-year-old couple is estimated to spend more than $300,000 (after tax) on health care in retirement as well as the four big questions in retirement. They finish off going over questions about moving abroad, the impact of government spending and more on retirement planning.

This "Own Your Retirement Show" episode covers a wide range of financial and retirement planning topics, with hosts Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl, President of FSR Wealth Strategies, leading the discussion. The duo kicked off the show with a lighthearted conversation about Josh's family's trip to see the musical Annie, tying themes of optimism from the show’s music to the challenges faced by retirees in navigating market volatility and changing financial landscapes. They transitioned into the complexities of cryptocurrency investments, like Bitcoin, and explored the risks and rewards for retirees, stressing the importance of diversification and caution when incorporating high-risk assets into financial portfolios.The discussion shifts to broader financial themes such as legislative risk, market dynamics, and retirement income planning. Josh emphasized the importance of long-term strategies that prioritize stability over reactionary moves influenced by market or political volatility. Topics range from tax considerations, Social Security, and Medicare to tariffs and corporate tax policies. With their wealth of expertise, the hosts underscored the significance of personalization and strategic diversification in retirement planning, wrapping up with a call to action for listeners to work with professionals to ensure their financial plans remain solid regardless of external shifts.

The "Own Your Retirement" show, hosted by Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl of FSR Wealth Strategies, focuses on guiding listeners through the complexities of planning for retirement. This episode covers key topics like financial planning, retirement stages, and the importance of understanding the value and purpose of money. Josh shares engaging stories about Thanksgiving traditions and client success stories, tying them to life lessons such as financial education and intentional spending. The duo discusses how retirement phases, from the active "go-go" years to the slower "no-go" years, influence spending habits and planning priorities.Listeners are reminded of the critical role financial planning plays in achieving a comfortable and meaningful retirement. Josh emphasizes the need to align retirement goals with financial realities, adapt plans over time, and even consider how activities like travel or legacy planning fit into overall financial strategies. With actionable advice and relatable anecdotes, the show provides a blend of expertise and approachability, encouraging clients to connect with FSR Wealth Strategies for personalized retirement guidance.

The "Own Your Retirement Show," hosted by Josh Bretl and Mark Elliott, tackles a variety of important financial topics to help retirees and pre-retirees take control of their financial futures. The show kicks off with a personal and heartwarming story from Josh about a father-daughter camping weekend, demonstrating the value of building meaningful memories amidst life’s busy moments. From there, the discussion moved into pressing financial matters, including year-end retirement planning priorities. Key topics include managing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), exploring Medicare enrollment changes, and maximizing Roth conversions for tax efficiency.The conversation also emphasized taking responsibility for financial planning, particularly in the face of rising national debt, potential tax increases, and evolving Social Security challenges. Josh highlights strategies for debt management, the importance of a retirement income plan, and the psychology of financial decisions, such as whether to pay off a mortgage or delay Social Security benefits. Throughout the program, listeners were encouraged to take a proactive approach to their financial health by seeking expert guidance. For those wanting personalized advice, the show offered complimentary consultations through FSR Wealth Strategies, providing an opportunity to plan for taxes, investments, healthcare, and legacy needs effectively.

The "Own Your Retirement Show," hosted by Josh Bretl, President of FSR Wealth Strategies, and Mark Elliott, focuses on guiding listeners through the complexities of retirement planning.The episode discusses the importance of taking control over your retirement by planning for income, investments, taxes, healthcare, and legacy management.Josh emphasizes that transitioning to retirement is a significant life change, often more profound than expected, due to the loss of regular income and the need to make crucial financial decisions.Josh shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how retirement planning can often lead to 'analysis paralysis,' where individuals are overwhelmed by the numerous decisions they need to make.The show stresses the value of creating a customized retirement plan that addresses each individual's needs and goals, offering peace of mind and control over one's financial future.Listeners are encouraged to contact FSR Wealth Strategies for a complimentary consultation to explore the "Own Your Retirement Planning Process," which helps retirees take ownership of their financial future by understanding their current standing and mapping out their path to a secure retirement.The episode also highlights FSR's unique family-oriented approach, combining tax planning with investment and insurance strategies to provide comprehensive retirement solutions.

The "Own Your Retirement Show" hosted by Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl, President of FSR Wealth Strategies, focuses on providing insights into retirement planning. The episode discusses the impact of political changes, like Trump's election victory, on financial portfolios and tax strategies. The hosts emphasize the importance of adapting to potential changes in tax legislation and maintaining a personalized approach to retirement planning.Key topics include the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Roth conversions, and the significance of rebalancing investment portfolios. Becky Swansburg, a former White House staffer, offers expert insights on tax planning and the implications of rising national debt on future tax rates. The conversation also touches on the importance of taking a long-term view of retirement planning, advocating for strategic decisions that are not swayed by political fluctuations.Listeners are encouraged to consult with FSR Wealth Strategies for personalized retirement planning, especially in light of potential future tax increases and economic changes. The show promotes a proactive approach to financial planning, urging individuals to take control of their retirement strategies and make informed decisions about their financial future.

The "Own Your Retirement Show" offers valuable insights for retirees and pre-retirees navigating the complexities of retirement planning. Hosted by Josh Bretl, President of FSR Wealth Strategies, and Mark Elliott, the show provides expert advice on transitioning from the accumulation phase to the spending phase of retirement. It covers essential topics such as tax strategies, investment planning, Social Security, and legacy planning, emphasizing the importance of taking control of one's financial situation. With a focus on the unique challenges faced by retirees today, the show aims to enlighten and empower its audience to make informed decisions that benefit their long-term financial health.One of the key themes is the significance of tax planning in retirement. The hosts discuss how strategic tax decisions can impact overall financial well-being, highlighting the differences between taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts. This information is crucial for retirees whose largest assets often lie in tax-deferred accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. By understanding these tax implications, retirees can better manage their assets and potentially reduce their tax burden, ensuring they retain more of their hard-earned savings. The show also addresses the emotional aspects of retirement, encouraging listeners to envision their ideal post-retirement life and align their financial plans accordingly. For those seeking a personalized approach, the program extends an invitation to engage with FSR Wealth Strategies for a comprehensive review and tailored retirement planning assistance.

The "Own Your Retirement Show," hosted by Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl, offers invaluable insights for pre-retirees navigating the complexities of retirement planning. In the latest episode, the hosts discuss crucial topics such as rolling over 401(k) plans into IRAs and emphasizing common mistakes that could result in significant financial losses. Josh, a seasoned CPA and President of FSR Wealth Strategies, shares his expertise on tax planning, highlighting the importance of reinvesting rolled-over funds to avoid the pitfalls of low-earning cash reserves. Listeners are guided through the nuances of retirement account management, ensuring they maximize their returns and avoid costly errors.Beyond financial advice, Josh recounts his first camping trip with his children, drawing parallels between the lessons learned from trying new activities and the challenges of retirement planning. Pre-retirees seeking to secure their financial futures will find this show both informative and inspiring, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to make sound retirement decisions.

Preparing for retirement and relying on a 401(k) means it's essential to preserve and optimize these funds for income, and how to handle them and taxes in retirement and more.

Changes and other things to keep note of ahead of the end of 2024 and the start of 2025. Optimizing your social security in retirement and a flashback to 1990 in the time machine and what it can teach with past lessons.

Interest rates are on the move again, with the Fed’s recent vote to cut rates. We've all experienced a series of unprecedented events in recent years, so we discuss what YOU can be doing RIGHT NOW to help take back control of your financial future.Bonus: Mailbag questions on retirement.

There can be regret with not saving enough for retirement or actions in retirement. We discuss how to handle that, in addition to some keys to know with retirement planning for women and couples. Plus, trivia on taxes and tax history.

How to help your retirement money last after lots of savings and efforts to get it there. Plus, flashback to 2008 and what the time machine can teach us.

No matter what your retirement plan looks like, if you’re like most people, it’s very likely that Social Security is an important part of it – but do you feel confident about Social Security going into retirement? Do you think you’ll be able to rely on it? According to a new survey, most Americans don’t. What risks do you need to be careful of retirement? And what scams should you watch out for with your finances?

Four key questions in retirement to have you prepared, plus timeless historical advice that can help you with your finances and retirement.

Talking about retirement for the baby boomer generation as well as the upcoming Gen X who is right around the corner in planning for their retirement. Plus mailbag questions about financials and more.

A retirement surge with 65-year-olds is coming. Plus the secure act 2.0 and what it means for your retirement. And timeless advice through the years that can help you in your financial and retirement dreams.

If you have market investments as part of your financial plan, then some of the recent financial headlines have undoubtedly caught your attention and how it could affect your retirement of financial plan.Plus, the five financial stages in life leading to retirement and questions from listeners.

2025 is right around the corner and plenty of financial decisions are ahead, including what the cost-of-living adjustments will be for social security. How to make your money work for you with savings in retirement. Trivia on social security.Plus, what you'd do differently if you could go back and hole-in-ones!

What are some reasons to look for a new financial advisor and get rid of your old one, and what's the best way to go about the process?Plus, the top five questions facing you in retirement planning.

There are several big risks to your money that could have a negative impact on you in retirement as you plan for your financial future.

As we grind closer to Election Day 2024, how do we sort through the campaign promises and political rhetoric and how it impacts your finances and retirement?Planning for the taxes and everything that goes with retiring to a large IRA.And what the Olympics can teach us about retirement and finances ahead of Paris 2024.

Most people are worried about becoming a burden on their family or being unable to afford nursing home care later in life. Are you one of them? Plus, discussing financial risk and our behavior as retirees and the top five things to avoid doing when your retire.

Today’s higher interest rates won’t last forever. So what money moves have you made to capitalize on them? And planning for the worst expenses in retirement like long-term care versus hoping for the best.

Retirement can mean the freedom to do what you want to do when you want to do it for as long as you can. How does that impact your finances and how is it dependent on which of the three stages of retirement you are in from the go-go, slow-go to the no-go years.

Josh Bretl discusses uncertainty and nervousness ahead of retirement, as well as preserving your retirement savings from taxes. Plus, the top five taboo topics of retirement to discuss.

You probably know what you should plan to spend on housing, vacations and groceries in retirement. But are you ready for all the unplanned costs in retirement? Plus, preserving those retirement savings with taxes and the ever-changing economic climate. Finishing the show off with the Top 5 Taboo Topics in retirement.

When you build your financial house, where do you start and what makes up the essential parts of a house? How does it all work together in creating your retirement and financial plan?

The "Own Your Retirement" show, hosted by Mark Elliott and Josh Bretl of FSR Wealth Strategies, focuses on guiding listeners through the complexities of planning for retirement. Enjoy the trailer, and be sure to subscribe to our show!