Big Picture Retirement

In today's episode, we examine the recent IRS Chief Counsel Memorandum, which introduces significant changes to one of the cornerstone strategies in estate planning. We explore how these new guidelines impact assets placed in trusts like intentionally defective grantor trusts (IDGTs) and spousal lifetime access trusts (SLATs). These trusts have traditionally been used to 'freeze' asset values for estate tax purposes while benefiting from more favorable individual income tax rates. But there’s a core piece of this that is going to look different moving forward. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new c

Lots of investors use the S&P 500 index as a key part of their investment plan, thinking it spreads their money out well among America's biggest companies. But in this episode, we're going to question that idea by looking at the risks of having too much money in just a few of the index's top companies. Even though the index includes 500 stocks, a big chunk of its value comes from just a few big names like Microsoft. We'll explore how this uneven distribution can bring more risk than you might expect, and talk about what happens when too much of your investment is tied up in just a few places If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, fo

Roth IRA conversions can be a powerful tool for retirement planning, offering tax-free growth and withdrawals. However, there's a fine line between optimizing and overdoing it. In this episode, we talk about the dangers of over-converting to a Roth IRA. We'll explore how converting too much can lead to higher taxes in retirement and cause missed opportunities later.  If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and look f

  Are there lessons we should learn from the comparison of the Rockefellers and the Vanderbilts? In this episode, we look at the contrasting estate planning tactics of two of America's wealthiest dynasties. While both families amassed incredible fortunes, their legacies diverged significantly due to their different approaches to wealth management and succession planning. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and lo

  Retirement has five distinct phases and each of them have their own unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding these distinct phases is important for anyone who is approaching retirement or has retired within the past year or two. If you know what to expect on the road ahead, it should lead to a much smoother and more fulfilling transition into this new part of your life. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.

In this episode, we dive into the concept of investment location—a tactical approach in asset allocation across various accounts like IRAs and joint accounts, which can significantly influence your tax liabilities.  If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and look for the tab on the right side that says “Send A Voicemail.”  Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage D

In today's episode, we discuss the landmark $418 million settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and its potential implications for the real estate industry. As retirees and others look to buy or sell homes, they're facing a big shift in how real estate services will be priced and delivered. Danny Devito video-https://www.americanrhetoric.com/MovieSpeeches/moviespeechotherpeoplesmoneydevito.html If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just

Flat-fee financial advisors aren’t for everyone. In fact, there are three types of investors who should steer clear of flat-fee financial advisors. In today’s episode, we’ll talk about who should avoid hiring a flat fee advisor and either do it on their own or hire a traditional % of AUM advisor. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and look for the tab on the right side that says “Send A Voicemail.”  Although thi

Could the solution to saving Social Security be so glaringly obvious that it has been overlooked, or perhaps even ignored, due to political power dynamics? The concern about the insolvency of the Social Security trust fund looms large as the program faces financial instability, raising fear of increased taxes or reduced benefits for future beneficiaries. However, there is a glimmer of hope. This system can be fixed without resorting to raising taxes or slashing benefits. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow

Description: In todays episode, we talk about the unexpected turns retirement can take, particularly when individuals find themselves in the role of raising a grandchild. This shift in family dynamics can significantly alter one’s retirement experience, extending far beyond the obvious impact on travel plans. We'll explore the various aspects that come into play, including the financial ramifications and the adjustments needed in estate planning If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or

In today's episode, we'll dive into the intriguing phenomenon of Grey Divorce, which refers to divorces occurring among individuals aged 50 and above. Surprisingly, while the overall divorce rate is on the decline, Grey Divorce is on the rise. Join us as we explore the reasons behind this trend and provide a few thoughts on how to proactively prevent it from happening or protect yourself if it does. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.big

In this episode, we explore an unrefined, yet accurate, approach to determining your risk tolerance.  Beyond traditional risk tolerance questionnaires that often fluctuate with market conditions, we introduce two key criteria: Freak Out Number - Discover how to assess your decline tolerance in dollar terms, examining at what point you'd feel the need to make significant changes to your portfolio. We address the impact of market fluctuations on risk perception and why it's essential to cut the 'freak out number' in half during turbulent times.  Required Growth as Dictated by Your Financial Plan - Understand the importance of aligning your portfolio's risk level with your retirement income plan. Find out why a well-funded plan might allow for a lower-risk approach, while a distribution-heavy plan may require a different strategy. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confi

Ever dreamed about retiring to a sunny beach or quaint village in another country? How about living a life of luxury for less than $3,000 per month? In today's episode, we're debunking common myths and discussing the challenges of living abroad, while also highlighting the top destinations to consider moving to in 2024. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and look for the tab on the right side that says “Send A V

We’ve heard this hundreds of time... 'I wish someone had warned me about this when I retired.' More often than not, they're referring to one of five key challenges that catch many retirees by surprise. In today's episode, we're diving into each of these five areas. If you're on the cusp of retirement, this is crucial viewing to help you steer clear of unexpected hurdles and enter this new phase of life with confidence. Pay particular attention to the last point–it's the most frequently mentioned and the most impactful. Being unprepared for this could have significant consequences, so make sure you are ready for this.  If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you have

In today's episode, Devin reveals a significant transformation in his professional approach — the transition to a flat fee structure. After a period of subtle hints, the change is now official and marks a new chapter for his firm. Join Devin and John as they discuss the motivations behind this decision, the considerable reduction in firm revenue to make the shift, and the reasons behind the growing popularity of this business model. They'll also dive into why consumers should seriously contemplate opting for a flat fee financial advisor, highlighting the advantages this could bring to their financial planning and management. If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if y

Taxing the richest's unearned income—why should it matter to you? This episode peels back the complexities of the proposed legislation targeting billionaires' unrealized capital gains to examine its broader consequences. We get into how this potential tax shift could create waves that may lap at the financial foundations of everyday investors.  If you’re thinking "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We’re adding new content every week and if you’re not following there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and look for the tab on the right

The calculation the IRS uses to determine how you pay taxes on retirement income creates this danger zone where taxes can be SIGNIFICANTLY amplified. And if you fall into this danger zone, you could pay a MUCH higher tax rate on some of your retirement income. In this encore episode, we talk about how you can avoid the pitfall of paying way too much in taxes on that income. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.  Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/  Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/  

How about this for a New Year's resolution - PROTECT YOUR ASSETS! In today's show, we bring back one of our most downloaded episodes where John covered the details on what to do with your personal property that could be exposed to creditors and ambulance-chasing attorneys.  Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.  Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/  Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/  

In today's encore episode, we're talking about how to avoid the six most common Social Security mistakes. Some of these mistakes can be easily corrected. However, others can result in long-term or even permanent damage.  In today's episode, John and I talk about: Small missteps that cause overpayment notices Miscalculating spousal and survivor benefits Avoidable earning’s record errors The Social Security tax bomb Relying on the SSA for your advice Using software to make decisions  Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/ Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/

Another special encore episode just in time for year end. Managing taxes in retirement may have a greater impact than any other single cost-saving measure you take. Today, we're replaying our epsiode with Andy Panko for a discussion into tax loss harvesting, and one that doesn't get a lot of attention...tax GAIN harvesting.  Visit Andy's Facebook group Taxes In Retirement https://www.facebook.com/groups/495122561395942  Listen to Andy's podcast Retirement Planning Education at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-planning-education-with-andy-panko/id1605251516  Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.  Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/  Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/