Kitchen Table Finance: Recent Episodes

David Shotwell CFP(r) and Nick Nauta CFP(r)

Grab a cup of coffee and join Certified Financial Planner Professionals ™ David Shotwell and Nick Nauta as they discuss personal finance, retirement planning, portfolios, and how the news of the day might affect your financial plans.

When do RMDs start, how are they calculated and which retirement accounts are affected? Dave and Nick explain required minimum distribution rules, taxes, Roth conversions, QCDs and planning considerations for State of Michigan retirees.

The second quarter of 2026 saw a return to new market highs with global stock market returns bouncing back after a mostly negative first quarter. But it has been a year of contradictions: as markets push to new highs, consumer sentiment has fallen to record lows. And while the focus of market conversation has been around the record size of the SpaceX IPO and the competition among large AI companies, small companies and emerging markets have been the market leaders, each posting returns above 40% for the last twelve months.

Get the full report from East Bay HERE.

Summary:* Stock and bond markets gained ground around the world during Q2. * Emerging markets and U.S small-cap stocks have led the way this quarter. * Geopolitical and macroeconomic forces continue to provide uncertainty.

Glass half-full:* Stocks were up around the world in Q2 and continued to touch new all-time highs. * Bonds of most credit and maturity types also gained during the quarter. * Unemployment remains historically low. * The U.S. economy continues to grow.

Glass half-empty:* The war in Iran is ongoing. * Inflation has begun to re-accelerate, and markets now expect the Fed to hike rates rather than cut rates by year’s end. * U.S. consumer sentiment is near all-time lows. * Investment markets continue to be volatile around the world.

Follow this link for a recording of Eastbay’s video presentation.

Get our Outlook from Quarter 1 2026 HERE.

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Retirement is the perfect time to start checking destinations off your bucket list, but planning memorable travel takes more than choosing a location. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Nick Nauta sits down with travel advisor Kim Barber of My Globetrotter Travel to discuss how retirees can make the most of their travel years.

Kim shares practical advice on planning bucket-list vacations, budgeting for travel during retirement, avoiding common mistakes, and deciding when to take those once-in-a-lifetime trips. They also discuss cruises, travel insurance, international destinations, group travel, and the technology that makes traveling easier than ever.

Whether you’re dreaming of an African safari, an Alaskan cruise, or simply looking for ways to stretch your travel budget, this conversation offers practical insights to help you travel with confidence.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why retirement is often the ideal time for bucket list travel
How to create a realistic retirement travel budget
Why traveling during shoulder season can save money and improve your experience
Common mistakes retirees make when planning major trips
The benefits of cruises for retirees and first-time cruisers
Why travel insurance is worth considering for international travel
Tips for planning multi-generational family vacations
The best destinations for first-time international travelers
Helpful travel apps that simplify international travel
Why waiting too long to take your dream trip can limit your options

Connect with Kim BarberWebsite: https://myglobetrottertravel.com

Facebook

Instagram: @myglobetrottertravel

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

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How do you know when you’re financially ready to retire? Should you delay Social Security? How much should you expect healthcare to cost? These are some of the most common questions we hear from clients and podcast listeners, and in this episode, we’re answering them around the kitchen table.

David Shotwell and Nick Nauta walk through the retirement planning topics that matter most as you prepare for retirement. They discuss practical ways to estimate retirement income needs, strategies for creating reliable retirement paychecks, Roth conversion considerations, healthcare planning, and how to prepare your portfolio for market volatility.

You’ll also hear why there is no magic retirement number, why every retirement plan should reflect your personal goals, and how thoughtful planning can help you make confident financial decisions before and throughout retirement.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to estimate whether you can afford to retire
What factors should influence your Social Security claiming decision
What healthcare costs may look like before and after Medicare
How to create retirement income from your savings
When Roth conversions may make sense
How to prepare your retirement plan for a market downturn
Why flexibility is one of the most valuable retirement planning tools

Whether retirement is just around the corner or still several years away, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you build a retirement plan that fits your goals and your lifestyle.

ResourcesSpecialized financial planning for MSU faculty and staff navigating the transition from campus to retirement.
https://srbadvisors.com/michigan-state-university-faculty/

Specialized financial planning for State of Michigan employees who want to make the most of their benefits and retire with confidence.
https://srbadvisors.com/state-of-michigan-employees/

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

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Health insurance is one of the biggest retirement planning questions for State of Michigan employees. The rules can be complicated, especially when you are trying to understand retiree coverage, Medicare, premium subsidies, and how your decisions affect your spouse or dependents.

In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave Shotwell and Nick Nauta walk through the major health insurance decisions State of Michigan employees face before and after retirement. They explain the different retiree health care options, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and share the key questions you should have answered before making retirement decisions.

Whether you are several years from retirement or preparing to leave state service soon, this conversation will help you understand the planning process and identify the information you need before making important choices.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

The difference between pre-Medicare and Medicare health insurance planning
How State of Michigan retiree health insurance works
Understanding premium subsidies versus the Personal Healthcare Fund
How years of service can affect your health insurance costs
What happens when Medicare becomes your primary coverage
Questions to ask before choosing your retirement date
How your health insurance decisions may affect your spouse or dependents
Why survivor benefit elections may impact retiree health coverage
When it makes sense to compare ORS coverage with other insurance options
Why working directly with ORS is an important part of retirement planning

Resources

Check out our FREE ebook about specialized financial planning for State of Michigan employees who want to make the most of their benefits and retire with confidence.
https://srbadvisors.com/state-of-michigan-employees/

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

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Retirement planning is about more than investments, savings targets, and account balances. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Nick Nauta sits down with Cole Williams to discuss the Kinder Institute approach to financial life planning.

Cole shares insights from his Registered Life Planner training and explains how financial planning can help people connect their money to the life they truly want to live. Together, they walk through George Kinder’s three powerful life planning questions and discuss how these conversations help uncover priorities, values, and what really matters most.

Topics covered include:

What financial life planning is and why it matters
George Kinder’s influence on modern life planning
The importance of active listening in financial planning
Why retirement planning should begin with your vision for life
The three Kinder questions and how they uncover your priorities
The difference between return on investment and return on life
How to identify your “enough.”
Why clarity often matters more than financial complexity
How the SRB process helps clients connect their goals with their finances
The role of accountability and support in creating meaningful change

Whether you are approaching retirement or simply want greater clarity around your financial future, this episode offers a practical framework for aligning your money with what matters most.

Mentioned in this episode:

George Kinder
Registered Life Planner (RLP) Program
LifePlanningForYou.com

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

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Retirement planning does not stop when you reach your savings goal. The next challenge is figuring out how to turn those savings into dependable retirement income.

In this episode, David Shotwell and Nick Nauta discuss retirement income planning for Michigan State University employees, including how to estimate spending needs, structure withdrawals, evaluate Social Security timing, and think about taxes in retirement.

Topics covered:

Determining retirement spending needs
Understanding income sources in retirement
Creating withdrawal strategies from retirement accounts
Evaluating Social Security timing decisions
TIAA Traditional income considerations
Tax planning around retirement withdrawals
Common mistakes retirees make

Helpful resources:

Retirement Spending Worksheet

Related episodes:

Tax Planning Episode:
S4E18 – What to Know About Taxes in Retirement

Social Security Planning:
Ep 116: Getting Real About Social Security

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips: https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

The post S5E11 – How to Calculate Your Retirement Income appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

Tax planning is not something that should only happen during tax season. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave and Nick discuss some of the most common retirement tax mistakes and why proactive planning can make a significant difference throughout retirement.

The discussion focuses on how retirement income sources are taxed, how Roth conversions fit into a retirement strategy, and why understanding required minimum distributions and Medicare IRMAA rules is critical for retirees.

The episode also highlights how withdrawal strategies, Social Security taxation, and capital gains planning can impact long-term retirement outcomes.

Topics Discussed:

Why tax planning should happen year-round
The importance of tax diversification
Understanding Roth conversion opportunities
Planning for required minimum distributions
Social Security taxation strategies
Capital gains and tax loss harvesting
Medicare IRMAA considerations
Michigan retirement tax planning
Coordinating tax planning with your CPA and advisor

Related EpisodesS4E19 – Does your Retirement Plan Need a ROTH?

Understanding IRMAA: S4E18 – What to Know About Taxes in Retirement

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

The post S5E10 – Top Tax Mistakes Pre-Retirees Make appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

In this quarterly market update, we take a step back and look at what really happened during the first quarter of 2026 and what it means for your financial plan.

We have been partnering with East Bay Investment Services since 2021 to help guide our investment models. Each quarter, they provide a balanced view of the economy, including both opportunities and risks. One consistent theme over the years has been the presence of global conflict as part of the overall investment landscape.

In the first quarter of 2026, that risk moved from the background to the forefront. The conflict with Iran pushed oil prices higher and created volatility across both stocks and bonds. Despite that, the bigger story may be how resilient the U.S. economy and markets have been through this period.

Economic growth has continued to move forward, while inflation outside of energy and unemployment has remained relatively stable. While headlines may suggest otherwise, the underlying data tells a more balanced story.

Here is a quick summary of what we saw during the quarter:

8% is the average one-year total return for the U.S. stock market following the onset of geopolitical events. Investors who choose to “do something” by selling stock in response to such events tend to miss out on the market’s recovery and future growth.
20% represents the amount of the world’s oil supply that passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is a critical shipping lane that was effectively closed during the war in Iran. Oil prices surged in Q1 as a result, but the price of oil and its long-term effect on stock market returns have not shown a strong causal relationship historically.
8 is the number of well-known, large, tech-related companies that underperformed the S&P 500 index in Q1. The collection of stocks is widely known as the “Magnificent 7” and welcomed a new member to the group, now known by some as the “Hateful 8.”
-1.9% ia the YTD return of a portfolio comprised of 60% MSCI ACWI and 40% Bloomberg Global Aggregate (hedged USD). In other words, despite the unnerving headlines during the year and increased market volatility, a globally balanced portfolio comprised of both stocks and bonds is down just slightly this year.

When we break things down further, we continue to look at the economy through a glass-half-full and glass-half-empty lens.

On the positive side:

These factors help explain why many portfolios have held up better than expected, even with increased volatility.

On the other side of the equation:

As always, the full picture is more nuanced than any list of bullet points. Markets are influenced by many moving parts, and short-term events often feel more significant than they are over time.

That is why we continue to focus on long-term planning, diversification, and avoiding emotional decisions during periods of uncertainty.

If you would like to take a deeper dive into the data, you can watch the full East Bay quarterly presentation or review the complete report.

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

Check out the full video here: https://youtu.be/d8rF9KFNr8U

The post S5E9 – 2026 Quarter One Market Review and Outlook appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance. Today’s conversation brings a fresh perspective from the next generation of financial planners.

We sit down with Aditya “Adi” Chaturvedi, a Michigan State University junior and SRB intern, to talk about his journey from Mumbai to East Lansing and what led him into financial planning. Adi shares how his background in math, exposure to finance through family, and early career exploration shaped his path toward wealth management.

Throughout the conversation, Adi offers a candid look at what it is like to step into real client meetings during uncertain markets. He reflects on seeing both strong market performance and periods of volatility, and how clients react in each environment. These experiences highlight an important truth. Financial planning is not just about numbers. It is about helping people navigate emotions, uncertainty, and long-term decisions.

We also discuss the importance of being proactive in college, why early planning matters, and how small decisions can create meaningful opportunities later. Adi shares practical advice for students considering financial planning and explains how the right program can open doors toward a CFP designation.

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is Adi’s evolving perspective on money. He explains why financial success is not about chasing the highest returns, but about using money as a tool to support a meaningful life filled with experiences and strong relationships.

If you are early in your career, guiding a student, or simply reflecting on your own financial journey, this episode offers practical insights and a grounded perspective on what really matters.

Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer

Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/Gn-h-niQAcs

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Life Planning, Retirement, and Why It Is “Never About the Money”

In this episode, Dave flips the script and interviews Nick about how life planning has become a core part of the SRB client process. Nick shares how training with George Kinder and the EVOKE model shaped the way SRB helps clients think through retirement, not just from a numbers standpoint, but from the perspective of values, priorities, and real life goals.

They walk through how the EVOKE structure fits into SRB’s retirement planning work, what actually happens in those conversations, and the kinds of insights clients discover when they finally slow down and think about what they want the next phase of life to look like. Nick also explains why most client “dreams” are less about big, flashy goals and more about time, family, and reducing worry.

You will hear:

How SRB discovered life planning through George Kinder’s work
A plain language overview of the EVOKE process and how SRB uses it with new retirement clients
Why the first three stages focus on widening the conversation beyond money
Real outcomes from clients who learned they were either not ready to retire or more than ready
Why many clients already have “enough” and what to do with that knowledge
How life planning shifts decisions about Roth conversions, gifting to kids, and travel
The link between clear life goals and better follow through on investment and tax strategies
How life planning helps advisors avoid assumptions about what clients value
Why the plan on paper will always change, and why that is expected
Nick’s experience being life planned himself, and why he keeps going back to the process
How SRB is expanding life planning capacity by training Cole as a Registered Life Planner

If you are approaching retirement, feel like you might have “enough” but are not sure what comes next, or want your financial plan to reflect your real life priorities, this conversation will give you a feel for how life planning works at SRB and why it might be the missing piece in your retirement planning.

Ready to talk about your own life plan?
Start with a relaxed fit meeting to see if SRB is a good match for your needs.

Visit: srbadvisors.com

Contact: info@srbadvisors.com

Subscribe to Kitchen Table Finance for more conversations about retirement, investing, and planning for the future.

https://youtu.be/1xbJ_Uhvpfg

A lot of people plan for retirement financially. Fewer people plan for it physically. On this episode, Nick talks with Julie Wilde, a former global business leader who reinvented her career as a health coach. Julie works with busy professionals, couples, and retirees to help them build energy, reduce stress, and feel better in their daily lives as they transition toward retirement.

Watch on YouTube HERE

In this conversation, Nick and Julie dig into:

• Why your health is one of the most valuable assets you have in retirement
• Why prevention and daily habits matter more than quick fixes
• How small changes can lower risk for expensive health problems later
• What it really means to build a strong foundation for healthy aging
• Why health is emotional, just like money
• Why it is so easy to set health goals and still not follow through
• The mindset shift that helps people finally commit and get results

Julie also walks through a simple first step for anyone who is five years or less from retiring. She explains how to assess where you are, what is working, and where you may want to improve. She calls this gaining clarity. You can download her Health Clarity Review HERE.

Key ideas from this episodeYour health is an investment, not an afterthought.
Julie makes the case that your health is something that compounds over time, just like retirement savings. Most of us would spend any amount of money to get our health back once we lose it. So it makes sense to protect it now instead of waiting.

Give your health a place at the front of the line.
For many people in their 50s and 60s, work, kids, grandkids, and obligations tend to crowd out basic self care. Julie suggests one simple shift. Move health from the bottom of the list to the top. When you make that mental change, your habits begin to follow.

Build your foundation before you retire.
Good sleep, steady movement, stress management, and food choices that actually fuel your body are not complicated ideas. The challenge is making them consistent. Julie explains why this foundation can help you stay active longer, delay or reduce medical costs, and enjoy what you saved for.

Track how you feel, not just a number on the scale.
Nick and Julie talk about how easy it is to let a number define success. Body weight. Step count. Sleep score. Those tools can help, but they are not the whole story. Julie recommends paying attention to signals from your body and even keeping short notes about energy, sleep quality, and mood over time.

Why people struggle to follow through.
Most people have good intentions. The problem is commitment. Julie explains why being fully in matters. When your goals and your daily habits are not aligned, you get stuck in repeat mode. When they line up, change finally happens.

Getting StartedJulie shares a simple exercise you can do in about five minutes:

Write down why your health matters to you in this stage of life.
Rate yourself in areas like sleep, energy, movement, stress, and eating habits.
Note one small action for each area. That becomes the start of your personal plan.

Resources mentioned in this episodeHealth Clarity Review download

Connect with Julie Wilde
Website
LinkedIn

About Julie WildeJulie Wilde is the founder of Transformed With Wellness. She works with professionals, couples, and groups through a whole person approach she calls 10 Weeks to Transformation. Her focus is simple. Help people build energy, feel better, and stay capable in the years leading up to retirement and beyond.

About Kitchen Table FinanceKitchen Table Finance is hosted by Nick Nauta and Dave Shotwell of Shotwell Rutter Baer. We help clients plan for retirement with clarity and confidence. If you would like to start the retirement planning conversation, visit srbadvisors.com to schedule a fit meeting.

info@srbadvisors.com

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

In this quarter-end chat, Dave Shotwell and Nick Nauta unpack what actually happened in Q3 2025 and why portfolios held up despite a steady stream of gloomy headlines. They cover broad market strength, the first Fed rate cut in September, what a government shutdown usually means for markets, and how to think about AI spending without trying to pick winners.

Our portfolio advisors at East Bay Investment Solutions provide the following summary, and as always, they try to take a balanced approach between reasons for optimism and pessimism. You can read their full report HERE or watch Mario’s video presentation HERE.

https://youtu.be/yoM8rETe5FI

Highlights* Broad gains: Most major stock and bond categories finished Q3 positive, while U.S. REITs lagged. * 60/40 perspective: A diversified mix of global stocks and high-quality bonds continued to post solid results with less day-to-day swings than a pure stock approach. * Fed update: After a September cut, the policy rate sits in a middle range, giving room to adjust up or down as data changes. * AI reality check: Corporate spending tied to AI is robust, but future revenues remain uncertain. Diversification helps you own the eventual winners without betting the farm. * Shutdown noise: Historically, market returns during federal shutdowns have been mixed and often muted. Time in the market still matters more than headline timing. * Planning first: Your financial plan is built for many markets, not just the current one.

By the Numbers * Fed funds target range: 4% to 4.25% * Cumulative AI spend (through last year): about $211 billion * Average S&P 500 return during shutdowns: about 0.11% * Year-to-date result cited for a 60/40 portfolio: 12.6%

Resources and next steps* Learn more or schedule a fit meeting: srbadvisors.com * Email: info@srbadvisors.com

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for all the latest videos.

Guest: Kevin Skarritt (pronounced “scare it”)

Kevin shares a real-world look at retiring in stages, shifting identity after work, and building a life that feels meaningful day to day. From an early career on the trading desk to web development, branding, and agency ownership, Kevin eventually traded deadlines for woodworking, stained glass, music, and time on the water in Ludington, Michigan. He talks candidly about timing a move, budgeting with a spouse, the value of a trusted financial planner, and adapting when health surprises change the plan.

https://youtu.be/ilmQXiLMTT4

What We Cover From markets to makerspace: Kevin’s path from Series 7 stockbroker to web and branding agency owner, then into retired life filled with creative projects. * The 2008 reset: How losing key clients forced hard choices and a cross-country move, with college costs on the horizon. * Planning the pivot: Talking through retirement years in advance, right-sizing lifestyle, and using a financial plan to set boundaries that still allow for joy. * Retire to something: Why it helps to list hobbies, volunteer ideas, and part-time interests before you leave work. * When plans change: Health events that limited some outdoor goals, and how Kevin built a deep bench of interests so he never feels stuck. * Home base by the lake: Why Ludington checked the boxes for nature, trails, and a strong arts community. * Money talk as a team: Budgeting styles in marriage, aligning on priorities, and the simple rule they use now: if it brings real joy and fits the plan, it’s worth it. * Time apart matters:* Practical advice for couples who suddenly spend every hour together after retirement.

Kevin’s Practical Tips* Start retirement talks early and revisit them regularly. * Work with a financial advisor to set spending guardrails you can trust. * List at least three activities you can do if your first choice becomes tough. * Build structure in your week even without a traditional schedule. * Plan for healthy space as a couple.

Listener Takeaways Retirement works best when you know what you are going to*, not only what you are leaving. * A clear plan gives you confidence to spend on what matters. * Flexibility is a skill; practice it before you need it.

Timestamps* 00:00 Intro and guest welcome * 02:10 Kevin’s winding path through finance, science, and the web * 10:45 Agency downturn, relocation, and college bills * 17:40 Early retirement talks and the role of planning * 23:20 “Retire to something” and building a bench of interests * 28:30 Health surprises and staying adaptable * 33:10 Why Ludington and the pull of the arts community * 38:00 Budgeting together and spending for joy * 43:10 Time apart for couples in retirement * 46:30 Final thoughts and contact info

Connect With UsHave questions about your own retirement timeline? Start with a Fit Meeting at srbadvisors.com or email info@srbadvisors.com.

The Fed has been everywhere in the headlines. In our latest Kitchen Table Finance episode, we explain what the Federal Reserve is, why its independence matters, and how a rate-cutting cycle may ripple through cash yields, bonds, and mortgages. If you’re 6–18 months from retirement, we also share level-headed steps to keep your plan on track.

https://youtu.be/thvg8Gti424

What we cover: Fed 101: Why the Fed was created, how it’s structured, and its main goals: price stability and maximum employment. * Independence matters: How keeping the Fed insulated from short-term politics supports confidence in the dollar and long-term stability. * Goldilocks problem: Balancing a cooling labor market with inflation risks, tariffs, and growth. * Portfolio takeaways: Why “don’t fight the Fed” is a useful reminder, and why we don’t overhaul portfolios based on predictions. * Cash, CDs, and bonds: What a falling-rate environment can mean for yields, existing bonds, and locking CDs. * Mortgages & refi: Practical thresholds for when to explore refinancing and why you shouldn’t buy a home assuming a quick refi. * Pre-retiree checklist:* How to think about cash buffers, bond exposure, and staying invested if retirement is 6–18 months away.

Practical tips: Keep enough cash for near-term needs; avoid parking excess cash for long stretches if yields are sliding. * Bonds may benefit as rates fall; new issues price lower yields, supporting existing bond values. * CDs can help smooth falling yields, but remember reinvestment risk when they mature. * Refinancing: Start running numbers when rates are roughly 1 percentage point below your current mortgage rate. * Stay the course:* Markets look ahead. Rate cuts often follow softness that has already been priced in.

ResourcesThinking about retiring soon or adjusting your plan? Schedule a relaxed “fit” conversation at SRBadvisors.com and let’s make a plan that fits your life.

Email us at SRBadvisors.com to connect with our team.
Learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint which is our process for building a financial plan that works for your future.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for helpful conversations and practical retirement planning tips.

Health insurance in retirement does not have to be confusing. In this episode, Nick talks with Justine Bell of BeneGuides about marketplace coverage before 65, Medicare at 65, and how to compare real-world costs based on your doctors, prescriptions, and budget. We cover timing, penalties, and why an annual re-enrollment check can keep you from paying more than you need to.

https://youtu.be/z-SnGX-qR88

What we cover* Why working with a health insurance specialist costs you nothing and often saves time and trouble * The five questions BeneGuides asks for marketplace plans: county and ZIP, ages, who is on the tax return, doctors and prescriptions, and expected MAGI * How to think about “average year” costs vs “worst-case” out-of-pocket risk * When bronze plans make sense and when to step up for drug coverage * Medicare 101: Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap basics * How to time your Medicare enrollment, including the first-of-the-month birthday quirk * Why BeneGuides re-enrolls every client each year and stays on top of formularies and plan changes * What may change in 2026 and why this open enrollment deserves a careful review * Key open enrollment windows to mark on your calendar

Dates to know* Medicare plan review starts October 1 * Medicare enrollment runs October 15 through December 7 * Marketplace open enrollment runs November 1 through December 15

Contact BeneGuides

Email: health@beneguides.com
Phone: 517-939-1981
Team: Lauren and Kylie (Medicare), Liz and Andrea (Marketplace), Daniel (Group coverage)

Resources mentioned* Medicare 101 webinar from BeneGuides

Listen to the full episode for the complete conversation and practical next steps.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerAt Shotwell Rutter Baer, we believe retirement planning should feel simple and personal. As independent, fee-only financial advisors, our priority is you. We are not paid by commissions or product sales. Instead, our advice is focused on helping you make clear decisions about your money, your retirement, and your future.

We are proud to serve individuals and families who want practical guidance, a reliable strategy, and a trusted partner for every stage of life. Whether you are just beginning to think about retirement or you want to fine tune your income plan, we are here with straightforward advice and a plan that reflects your goals.

Resources* Email us at SRBadvisors.com to connect with our team. * Learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint which is our process for building a financial plan that works for your future. * Subscribe to our YouTube channel for helpful conversations and practical retirement planning tips.

Taxes aren’t usually described as “big and beautiful,” but the new tax bill brings plenty of changes worth understanding. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Nick sits down with Matt Cooper, CPA and owner of Matthew Accounting in DeWitt, Michigan, to unpack what these updates mean for individuals and small business owners.

https://youtu.be/MTJXctr_nf8

Together, they cover what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what opportunities you may have to better plan for your financial future.

Highlights from the Conversation: Tax Brackets & Standard Deduction: Both remain permanent, with inflation adjustments built in. * Charitable Contributions: Above-the-line deductions return—up to $2,000 for joint filers—even if you don’t itemize. * State and Local Taxes (SALT): Deduction cap temporarily increases from $10,000 to $40,000. * Car Loan Interest: Interest on new vehicles assembled in the U.S. is now deductible up to $10,000. * Social Security Benefits: Still taxable, but seniors get an additional deduction ($6,000 single / $12,000 joint). * Tips & Overtime Pay: Both receive new, limited tax carve-outs. * EV & Clean Energy Credits:* Phasing out by late 2025—home improvement credits end sooner.

Takeaway: Tax laws will continue to change, but now is the time to take advantage of the opportunities available. Proactive planning with your financial advisor and tax professional can make a real difference.

Resources:* Contact SRB Advisors: info@srbadvisors.com | srbadvisors.com * Connect with Matt Cooper: Matthew Accounting – DeWitt, MI

Website: matthew-accounting.comEmail: info@matthew-accounting.comPhone: (517) 668-9000Main Office: 124 E Washington St, Suite H, DeWitt, MI 48820 (Matthew Accounting, Matthew Accounting)They also have a presence in Lansing, MI, with a contact number of (517) 258-1424. (Matthew Accounting)If you’re interested in their services, you can schedule a no-obligation consultation through their Contact Us page.Don’t forget to subscribe to the Kitchen Table Finance podcast and YouTube channel so you never miss an update on your money and retirement planning.

Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance, the podcast where we serve up bite-sized financial advice to simplify your money and your life. Pull up a chair with hosts Dave Shotwell and Nick Nauta as they dive into the latest retirement and financial planning headlines from June and July.

You can also check out this episode on our YouTube Channel.

This episode is packed with insights drawn from real articles, client questions, and timely topics that matter for anyone preparing for or living in retirement.

What We Cover in This Episode Why family conversations matter
Lessons from a Wall Street Journal piece on talking about death, money, and estate planning before it’s too late. * Investment basics worth repeating
A New York Times interview with Charlie Ellis reminds us that time—not timing—is the most powerful factor in investment success. * Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
Should you take them monthly or as a lump sum? We share the pros, cons, and common client approaches. * The housing conundrum
With today’s higher interest rates, is it wise to move, refinance, or rent in retirement? * Long-term care concerns
How facility bankruptcies and changes in ownership can affect your planning—and why evaluating stability is just as important as cost. * Turning savings into income
Exploring strategies beyond the “4% rule,” including how lifestyle, taxes, and inflation affect your drawdown plan. * Helping adult children
What happens if you want—or feel you need—to provide financial help to your kids, and how to plan for it without derailing your own retirement. * Rethinking homeownership in retirement
Why renting is becoming more common among retirees, and how flexibility can be a hidden benefit. * What to ask a financial advisor
From fiduciary status to technology, a fresh look at the questions you should ask before choosing an advisor. * Top retirement fears
Healthcare costs, inflation, market downturns, and recession worries—what surveys are showing and how planning can reduce stress. * The long-term care insurance puzzle*
Christine Benz of Morningstar shares when it might make sense, and how peace of mind often factors into the decision.

Key TakeawayFrom family conversations to navigating market fears, the headlines this summer remind us of one truth: a thoughtful plan brings confidence. The best step you can take is to prepare ahead and make sure your strategy is tailored to your life and goals.

If you come across an article you’d like us to review, send it our way at info@srbadvisors.com.

Let’s Talk
At Shotwell Rutter Baer, trust is the foundation of what we do. Whether you’re planning for retirement, managing investments, or building a financial strategy for your future, we’d love to see if we’re the right fit for you. Visit srbadvisors.com to learn more.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform—and on YouTube—to keep up with every new conversation.

https://youtu.be/Ga6XssMhozY

When a grandchild arrives, it’s more than a joyful addition to the family — it can also bring new considerations for your retirement plan. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave shares his own recent experience becoming a grandfather and how it’s shifted his financial focus.

Nick and Dave talk through Grandparents’ Retirement Plans:* Why Dave moved from contributing to his adult children’s Roth IRAs to funding a 529 college savings plan for his granddaughter. * The pros and cons of grandparents owning the 529 versus letting parents manage it. * How to avoid “overfunding” a college plan when multiple family members are contributing. * Why the Michigan 529 plan ranks among the top in the country — and how residents get an extra tax perk. * How 529 plan rules have evolved, making funds more flexible for K–12, trade schools, and even Roth IRA rollovers. * Balancing helping family with making sure your own retirement savings are on track first.

Dave also shares some lessons learned from starting his own kids’ 529 plans back in 2001 — and how even small, consistent contributions can add up over time thanks to compounding.

Whether you’re a new grandparent or just starting to think about how you want to help the next generation, this episode will give you practical, real-world insights you can put into action.

Subscribe to Kitchen Table FinanceDon’t miss an episode — subscribe to our YouTube channel for more friendly, down-to-earth financial advice: YouTube.com/@KitchenTableFinance

https://youtu.be/KGnNPiD_gf0

Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance with hosts Dave Shotwell and Nick Nonna! In this quarterly market update, Dave and Nick walk through the rollercoaster that was Q2 2025. From unexpected returns to ongoing uncertainty, this episode offers a grounded, no-nonsense take on what’s happening in the markets—and what it might mean for your financial plans.

Q2 Surprises: Despite a rocky start in April, markets closed the quarter on a strong note. A 60/40 portfolio returned an impressive 6.5% for the quarter.

https://youtu.be/Uf9SXXxUO0k

Glass Half Full:* Large-cap U.S. stocks bounced back, with big names driving growth * Bonds held strong, even as the U.S. debt was downgraded * Inflation declined to 2.4% by May, despite tariff pressures * Labor and macroeconomic data remained solid

Glass Half Empty:* Trade policy and tariffs continue to create uncertainty * The U.S. credit downgrade in May raises long-term concerns * Ongoing geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine * Unclear full impact of tariffs on prices and inflation

Special Insights: The S&P 500 hit 9 all-time highs in the first half of 2025 * A 9.5% single-day increase in April proves timing the market is nearly impossible * Real-world example: Dave shares how a small business passed along a 10% tariff on a product from Italy—and what that means for consumers and small businesses alike * Inflation uptick in June to 2.67%* might signal future pressures

Key TakeawayEven with market noise, surprises, and headlines, long-term planning remains the cornerstone of financial success. This episode reinforces why staying disciplined and focused on your plan is more important than reacting to short-term news.

Looking for guidance through the ups and downs of the market? It all starts with a Fit Meeting—a relaxed, no-pressure conversation to see if we’re the right financial partner for you.

Contact us at info@srbadvisors.com or visit srbadvisors.com

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more updates and episodes!

With Michigan State University announcing potential layoffs and buyouts, financial anxiety is growing—not just in East Lansing, but across many university communities. In this episode, Dave and Nick share practical, down-to-earth advice for those facing employment uncertainty.

This isn’t just for MSU employees—anyone experiencing a rocky job outlook can benefit from the financial strategies shared in today’s conversation.

https://youtu.be/CSGaoVsvG-4

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The #1 thing to have in place before a job loss: a well-funded emergency fund
How to cut discretionary spending and increase your financial “runway”
Why now is a good time to review your retirement readiness—even if you don’t plan to retire yet
Health insurance options if you lose employer coverage (COBRA, ACA Marketplace, Medicare)
Smart moves around debt, 403(b) loans, and accessing retirement accounts
How to avoid emotional decision-making in uncertain times
Strategic ideas like home equity lines of credit or Roth conversions in low-income years
Why a financial check-in helps—even if layoffs never happen

Resources Mentioned:
A helpful checklist so you can review and act on these tips in your own time. Download HERE

Need Help Planning?
If you’re feeling uneasy about your financial future, we’re here to help. Contact SRB for a no-pressure conversation at info@srbadvisors.com or visit srbadvisors.com to schedule a chat.

Subscribe for More:
Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to the Kitchen Table Finance YouTube channel and wherever you get your podcasts.

When the kids move out and the house gets quieter, life—and your finances—enter a whole new chapter. In this episode, Dave and Nick talk about the often-overlooked financial opportunities (and pitfalls) that come with becoming an empty nester. From downsizing and budgeting to increasing retirement contributions or finally testing the snowbird lifestyle, this is your chance to reimagine the next stage of life.

https://youtu.be/4nZfHhDv_kA

What You’ll Learn How becoming an empty nester creates new financial flexibility * Tips for reevaluating your budget, savings goals, and mortgage * Why this is a prime time* to ramp up your retirement planning * The emotional (and financial) difference between “empty nester” and “off the payroll” * Why having honest conversations with your adult kids is more important than ever * How grandkids and geography might play into your future plans * Real stories from Dave and Nick’s own families

Listener TakeawayWhether you’re already in the empty nest phase or you see it on the horizon, use this time intentionally. Make a plan. Talk to your spouse. Talk to your kids. And most of all—know how your choices today will shape your retirement tomorrow.

📞 Ready to Reassess?At Shotwell Rutter Baer, it all starts with a no-pressure fit meeting. Visit srbadvisors.com or email us at info@srbadvisors.com to take the first step.

In this episode, Dave and Nick (back from vacation) tackle a wide mix of financial headlines so you don’t have to. From stock market shifts to Social Security panic, long-term care planning, and yes—even pet insurance—this episode covers the real-life stuff affecting your money and your future.

https://youtu.be/Pst2wmkjOC8

Here’s what we dig into:

Mistakes in Today’s Stock Market
What Jason Zweig says about growth vs. value stocks, and why diversification and rebalancing are more important than ever.

Social Security: Fear vs. Facts
We break down recent updates, insolvency projections, and why panic may not be the smartest plan.

Retirement Medical Costs You Might Not See Coming
Drug coverage, isolation, concierge care—the hidden costs that can sneak up on retirees.

Wall Street Journal: The Underestimated Cost of Healthcare in Retirement

Annuities: Are They Right for You?
Christine Benz offers a balanced view, and we chime in with when annuities can actually be a smart move.

Financial Advice: Who’s Selling You Candy?
Not all free financial advice is created equal. We explain how to spot the difference between helpful insights and someone trying to sell you something.

Pet Insurance: Necessary or Nonsense?
We unpack the rising cost of pet ownership and whether those monthly premiums really make sense.

The True Cost of Owning a Dog

Long-Term Care Planning in Michigan
A recent study shows most older Michiganders aren’t prepared. We walk through five important steps everyone should consider.

Retire Now or Wait It Out?
Is delaying retirement a smart move, or just headline-induced anxiety? We explain how to evaluate your real readiness.

Side Hustles, Late-Night Logins, and the Evolving Workforce
The post-pandemic work world is shifting fast. We talk about how remote work, second jobs, and burnout are changing retirement planning—and what that means for you.

Americans are Sidehustling Like We Are In a Recession

Pull Up a Chair
This episode is full of down-to-earth discussion, financial clarity, and a few laughs along the way. As always, we’re here to make your retirement and financial planning a little less overwhelming.

Have an article you’d like us to cover? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com
Want to see Nick’s vacation shirt in all its glory? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Ready to get serious about your finances?
Schedule your fit meeting today at srbadvisors.com

Riding the Market Roller Coaster: Lessons from a Wild SpringIt’s been a bumpy ride in the markets this spring, and in this episode, Dave and Cole (filling in for Nick) sit down to talk through what happened, what it means for investors, and how to move forward with confidence.

https://youtu.be/OlXVM0GV66M

From steep drops to quick rebounds, the market has kept everyone on their toes. They break it all down in plain language and share their thoughts on:

What actually happened in March and April—and why it felt so extreme
The difference between risk tolerance and risk perception (and why you might feel differently now than you did a few months ago)
Why doing nothing might have been the smartest move
How diversification helped soften the blow for many investors
The importance of keeping short-term savings and goals top of mind

Whether you stayed calm, felt anxious, or made some changes to your portfolio, there are lessons to take from all of it. They offer practical advice for what to do next, how to think about your investments going forward, and why focusing on your long-term goals is still the best approach.

This is a great episode for anyone wondering: Did I handle that market swing the right way?

🎧 Listen now to hear why market timing is a trap, what to do if you bailed, and how financial advisors really invest their own money (hint: it’s simpler than you think).

🔗 Visit SRBAdvisors.com for more resources or to schedule a chat with one of our advisors.

📺 Subscribe to the Kitchen Table Finance podcast on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, Dave and Nick dive into one of the most overlooked—but absolutely essential—parts of retirement planning: how to actually enjoy it.

You’ve spent decades saving, investing, and working hard. But have you really thought about what your ideal retirement looks like? Spoiler alert: it’s not just endless rounds of golf and sunsets on a beach. It’s about purpose, lifestyle, relationships, and flexibility.

https://youtu.be/ddfIokXyRUg

Dave and Nick walk you through:

Why setting realistic expectations is the foundation of retirement planning
The surprising importance of part-time work, volunteering, or staying engaged
Top retirement concerns like healthcare costs, investment losses, and losing that steady paycheck
How to run tradeoff scenarios—like “What if I work just one more year?”
The idea of a “practice retirement” (hint: mini-retirements, RV rentals, and snowbird test runs)
Why flexibility is king, and how the best retirement plans are the ones that evolve

This episode is packed with relatable stories, expert advice, and just the right dose of humor to help you think differently about your future.

💡 Key Takeaways:

Retirement should be designed around your lifestyle and values, not just your finances.
“Practicing” retirement before you commit can save money and stress.
It’s okay to change your mind—retirement should be flexible and fulfilling, not rigid and stressful.
Planning ahead for healthcare, housing, and income strategy is just as important as your travel dreams.

📞 Ready to start planning?
It all starts with a no-pressure Fit Meeting at Shotwell Rutter Baer.
Let’s find out if we’re the right financial planning partner for your next chapter.

📧 Contact us at info@srbadvisors.com
🌐 Visit srbadvisors.com

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe!
Join us each week for practical, real-world financial advice from two guys who’ve helped hundreds of people plan smarter retirements.

Subscribe to the Kitchen Table Finance Podcast HERE

Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance, where we serve up bite-sized financial wisdom with a side of common sense. In this episode, Dave and Nick tackle one of the biggest financial questions for retirees: Should you buy a house in retirement—or just stay put?

Here’s what’s on the table:

Why timing the housing market is just as tricky as timing the stock market
The emotional side of downsizing—yes, those red velvet ropes for the kids’ old rooms count!
Why small homes are in big demand—and what that means for prices
Mortgages in retirement: fact vs. fiction (Hint: You can get one)
The pros and cons of paying off your mortgage vs. keeping your investments liquid
Real-life scenarios showing the costs of “downsizing” and whether it actually saves you money
Alternatives like renting, reverse mortgages, and bridge loans
The surprising truth about homeownership and wealth-building

https://youtu.be/P5JAiS8dDuY

The big takeaway?It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about your goals, lifestyle, and peace of mind. Whether you’re dreaming of a maintenance-free condo or a cozy ranch to age in place, there are lots of options to make it work.

Need help sorting through the details of your own housing plan? Let’s chat. Start with a free, no-pressure Fit Meeting to see how we can help you build a retirement that fits you.

👉 Visit srbadvisors.com or email us at info@srbadvisors.com to get started.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Kitchen Table Finance!

Roth Conversions: Worth It or Not?

Welcome back to the Kitchen Table! In today’s episode, Dave and Nick take a deeper dive into the world of Roth conversions—what they are, how they work, and whether or not they make sense for your retirement plan.

This isn’t your average tax talk. We’re serving up a practical, no-pressure conversation about a tool that gets a lot of hype—and a lot of confusion. From “backdoor” and “mega backdoor” conversions to tax brackets, timing, and even state-by-state considerations, we break it down so you can decide if a Roth conversion fits into your financial picture.

https://youtu.be/1R9DGmRya_Q

In This Episode:* What is a Roth conversion and how does it work? * The pros, cons, and “it depends” of using this strategy * How tax brackets and future income impact your decision * Real-life scenarios: early retirement, variable income, and legacy planning * Roth conversions and their effect on RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) * When it’s better to wait—and when it might pay to act now

TakeawayRoth conversions can be a smart move, but they’re not for everyone. As always, your financial goals, current tax situation, and long-term plans matter most. Don’t follow the crowd—make a choice that fits YOU.

💬 Have questions or want to nerd out with us?
Email us at info@srbadvisors.com or visit SRBAdvisors.com to schedule a friendly, no-pressure fit meeting.

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—and let’s keep simplifying your money and your life.

☕ Until next time, keep the coffee hot and your questions coming.

Hosts: Nick and guest advisor Cole Williams
Special Guest Absence: Dave is off living his best life in Bozeman, Montana (hopefully catching trout and not taxes).

In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, we take a deep dive into one of retirement’s least sexy—but most critical—topics: taxes. Whether you’ve just filed and are ready to forget about them until next year (don’t), or you’re actively planning your golden years, this episode is packed with straight talk and strategies to help you keep more of what you’ve worked so hard for.

https://youtu.be/1XkZhAKdR-A

What You’ll Learn: How taxes work in retirement – Spoiler: it’s not like your working years. * Three ways to pay your taxes once the paycheck stops – Withholding, estimated payments, or via pensions/social security. * Which accounts to draw from and when – Taxable, pre-tax, or Roth? The order matters more than you think. * What RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) mean for your tax bill – Plus, when they start depending on your birth year. * Tax traps to avoid – Including Medicare surcharges (IRMAA), net investment income tax, and surprise Social Security taxation. * When Roth conversions make sense – Hint: it’s not one-size-fits-all. * Giving back smartly – How Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) can keep your heart warm and your taxes low. * Special account strategies – HSA withdrawals, leftover 529 plans, and even employer stock gains through Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA). * What if the tax laws change?* – Because, well… they will.

Nick and Cole don’t just dump info—they break it down so you can understand how to apply it, avoid common missteps, and stay ahead of Uncle Sam without losing sleep.

Related: How to Adjust Your Retirement Income

Resources Mentioned:* Flowcharts and planning tools available upon request * Income Lab software insights for long-term planning * A healthy dose of common sense and humor (yes, about taxes)

Ready to get a grip on your retirement tax strategy?
Start with a Fit Meeting—no pressure, just a chat. Visit srbadvisors.com or email us at info@srbadvisors.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more down-to-earth finance guidance.

Welcome back, friends!
Today, Dave and Nick roll up their sleeves and dive into the wild and wonderful world of retirement headlines from March and April. Think of it as your financial cliff notes — so you can sound smarter than your neighbor without actually having to read all the boring articles yourself. Get the February Retirement Headlines HERE.

https://youtu.be/SfyJRISwYIw

Here’s what we served up on the Kitchen TablePrivate Equity in Your 401(k)?Hold up — private equity is trying to sneak into your retirement plan! Dave and Nick explain why this might not be the fabulous idea it sounds like at first. Liquidity issues, risk, and fine print galore.

Learn more about Private Equity in Retirement Plans (WSJ)

Polarization and Your Economic BeliefsHow our brain tricks us into believing whatever fits our narrative — and how that’s totally wrecking how we all read the news.

The Economics of Polarization (WSJ)

Retirement Happiness = Planning Your TimeSpoiler alert: you won’t be happy just binge-watching “The Office” reruns for four hours a day. (Although, honestly, tempting.) Plan your time intentionally for a fulfilling retirement.

How You Spend Time in Retirement Matters (WSJ)

The Bucket Strategy for Retirement IncomeBuckets: not just for cleaning or gardening! Divide your cash into short-term, mid-term, and long-term “buckets” so you’re not freaking out every time the stock market sneezes.

Bucket Investing for Retirement (Morningstar)

Is 2025 a Bad Year to Retire?Spoiler: If you’ve done your homework (hello, diversified cash reserves!), you’re fine. If you haven’t…well, maybe work a tiny bit longer.

Is This a Bad Year to Retire? (Kiplinger)

How to Avoid Outliving Your Retirement SavingsSequence of return risk = fancy finance speak for “don’t pull out money when your investments are down.” Simple? Nope. Important? You betcha.

Avoiding Outliving Your Savings (Morningstar)

Tax Tips for Retirees (Because Taxes Never Sleep) Medical home improvements: can you actually deduct that new Jacuzzi? Maybe, but tread lightly. * Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): don’t get caught by surprise. * Social Security is (sometimes) taxable — shocker, we know. * State taxes, Medicare premium cliffs, and more fun things no one told you about. * 10 Tax Topics Every Retiree Should Know (Kiplinger) * Tax-Deductible Home Improvements (Kiplinger)*

Connect With UsGot questions? Need a second opinion on your retirement plan?
📞 Call us at 517-321-4832
📧 Email info@srbadvisors.com

👉 And don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel!

In this episode, Nick and Dave take a seat at the kitchen table to unpack the highs and lows of the first quarter of 2025. From global diversification wins to U.S. economic uncertainty, they break down what investors need to know—and what they don’t need to stress over.

https://youtu.be/iXrCvNCGtO0

Glass Half Full Diversification Pays Off: International stocks outperformed U.S. markets in Q1, offering a little sunshine in an otherwise cloudy domestic market. * Strong Labor Market: Unemployment remains low, with a resilient workforce keeping things steady despite headline doom and gloom. * Inflation Easing:* February inflation reading at 2.8% shows a softening trend, starting Q2 on a hopeful note.

Glass Half Empty Tariff Uncertainty: Global trade tensions and tariff talks are creating ripple effects in consumer sentiment and investor confidence. * Fed Rate Cut Expectations Dwindle: Initial optimism about multiple rate cuts is fading fast amid inflationary pressures and policy wait-and-see approaches. * Consumer Confidence Dips:* Despite spending holding strong, consumers are increasingly cautious about what’s ahead.

Long-Term LensNick and Dave remind listeners that short-term dips and economic jitters are nothing new. They share a powerful chart (linked below!) showing that even with frequent downturns, the market trends upward over time. It’s a comforting nudge to stay the course, breathe, and trust the process.

Tune in to hear* Why international markets are leading the pack in 2025 * What tariffs might mean for your portfolio and your wallet * Why the Fed’s holding steady—and what that means for you * How to keep your cool amid market noise

Need help making sense of it all?Schedule a chat with the team at Shotwell Rutter Baer—they’re always happy to help you cut through the clutter and make smart financial decisions for your future.
👉 Visit SRB’s website to schedule your appointment.

Don’t miss a moment at the kitchen table!
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for full episodes, quick tips, and more updates straight from Nick and Dave.

💬 As always, thanks for listening. Keep your heads up and your long-term goals in sight—because this too shall pass.

*Welcome to Kitchen Table Finance!Join hosts Nick and Dave as they dig into one of the most important aspects of financial planning for retirees: when and how to adjust your retirement income. Whether you’re navigating market volatility, planning for worst-case scenarios, or wondering if you can spend more* than you thought, this episode is packed with actionable insights for retirees and those planning their next chapter.

https://youtu.be/f8NIi_CfYw8

*What You’ll Learn in This Episode: *Why planning ahead is key*

Learn how defining your income rules early on helps reduce emotional decision-making later.

*The two sides of retirement spending*

Understand the differences between necessary expenses (like bills) and discretionary spending (like travel), and how these categories play into market ups and downs. Check out our episode on HOW to Adjust Your Retirement Income.

*Adapting to market changes*

Discover techniques for adjusting your spending in bear markets to keep your long-term plan on track, including tips on finding a sustainable withdrawal rate.

*Opportunities for increased spending*

Why many retirees may be underspending and how to recognize when it’s safe to increase your discretionary budget.

*Using history as a guide*

Dive into historical scenarios like the Great Financial Crisis and stagflation to see what they teach us about retirement income adjustments.

*Tools to manage retirement income*

From Monte Carlo simulations to strategies for creating fixed income sources, Nick and Dave break it down step-by-step.

Resources Mentioned:

Monte Carlo Simulations for retirement income planning
Tools for determining sustainable withdrawal rates
SRB Advisors YouTube Channel – Keep an eye out for a new video demonstrating how to visualize market scenarios using advanced software!

*Why This Episode Matters*Market downturns happen, but you don’t need to panic. This episode will give you the confidence and tools to stick to your financial principles, make informed adjustments, and sustain your retirement income for the long run.

*Contact Shotwell Rutter Baer*Got questions or want help with your retirement income plan?

Visit our website at srbadvisors.com
Email us at info@srbadvisors.com

Thank you for tuning in! Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode, and join us next time for more insights at the intersection of finances and retirement at *Kitchen Table Finance*!

In this heartfelt and timely episode, Dave and Nick step away from charts and market trends to focus on something just as important—the emotions behind the numbers. If you’re retired or nearing retirement, you’ve likely felt the weight of recent market turbulence. Maybe you’re wondering if your plan is still on track or feeling that itch to “do something” in response to all the headlines.

Don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Related: How to Put Together a Retirement Income Strategy

https://youtu.be/HmFVuNyDiCw

What’s Covered in This Episode Why fear and uncertainty are natural (and even expected) during volatile markets * The importance of emotional awareness and knowing your personal reaction style * Why “just staying the course” isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a lifesaver * Powerful insights from financial legends like Warren Buffett, Carl Richards, Morgan Housel, and Dr. Daniel Crosby * Practical ways to cope: from revisiting your risk tolerance to knowing when it’s OK to delay purchases * The value of talking it out early*—with your advisor, your partner, or your financial planning team

💬 Key Takeaway:
Before making any big moves, it’s crucial to acknowledge your emotions, take a deep breath, and revisit your plan—not your panic. And remember: if your plan was built to weather storms (and it should be), odds are it’s more durable than you think.

Don’t Go It AloneThis episode is your reminder to reach out to your financial advisor. We’re here for the hard conversations before sleepless nights set in. Sometimes all you need is a listening ear, a calming voice—and a little reassurance that your financial ship is still on course.

🔗 Mentioned in This Episode:

Carl Richards’ podcasts on emotions and investing
Warren Buffett’s timeless wisdom
Morgan Housel’s The Psychology of Money
Dr. Daniel Crosby’s tips on emotional discipline
Dave’s article on Life Boat Drills

Take Action* Tune out the fear-mongering news * Check in with your plan * Focus on what you can control * Reach out and talk it through

Ready to talk?Visit us at srbadvisors.com or email us at info@srbadvisors.com to schedule a no-pressure chat. Let’s make sure you feel secure, no matter what the market is doing.

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation that matters.

Join us for another engaging episode of Kitchen Table Finance! This week, Nick sits down with Nathan Gardner, an SRB intern and aspiring financial planner, to learn more about his background, experiences, and passion for financial planning. Nathan shares his transition from a small-town upbringing to Michigan State University, his involvement in the university’s Wealth Management Program, and how it shaped his career aspirations.

https://youtu.be/F72HlrqhqD8

Discover how Nathan became inspired by the life planning process and why he’s passionate about making a meaningful impact through financial planning. You’ll also hear his thoughts on navigating market volatility as an intern, the importance of connecting meaning to money, and the future of the financial planning profession.

This episode offers valuable insights for both aspiring professionals and seasoned planners alike!

*What You’ll Learn in This Episode** Nathan’s path from a small-town school to Michigan State University * How the Wealth Management Program prepares students for the CFP exam * The impact of the Wealth Management Association on professional growth * Lessons learned from handling market corrections and client emotions * Why life planning connects money with meaning in a client’s life * Advice for students entering the financial planning industry

*Connect with Us*👉 Want to learn more about how financial life planning can make a difference? Visit srbadvisors.com.

👉 Have a question or need assistance? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com or call (517)-321-4832.

*Subscribe and ShareDid you enjoy the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Kitchen Table Finance* and share it with anyone interested in personal finance, financial planning careers, or retirement strategies.

Thanks for listening! See you next time at Kitchen Table Finance.

Retirement planning isn’t just about getting to retirement—it’s about making sure your income lasts through retirement. In this episode, Dave and Cole break down how to adjust your retirement income to fit your lifestyle, changing expenses, and market conditions.

They keep it real with practical tips and a down-to-earth discussion on how to create flexibility in your financial plan, avoid common pitfalls, and make your money work for you in retirement.

Related: WHEN to Adjust Your Retirement Income

https://youtu.be/IDiHtKAKZdk

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why a static income plan doesn’t work for most retirees
✔️ How to manage withdrawals based on market performance
✔️ The role of annuities, pensions, and Social Security in your income mix
✔️ Strategies for adjusting spending while keeping financial security
✔️ How to prepare for unexpected expenses and rising costs

Key Takeaways:🔹 Know your income sources: A mix of guaranteed income (like Social Security) and investments can help create stability.
🔹 Stay flexible: Your retirement income plan should adapt to changes in the market and your expenses.
🔹 Be mindful of taxes: Strategic withdrawals can help you minimize taxes and keep more of your money.
🔹 Plan for healthcare costs: Medical expenses can rise over time, so budgeting for them is key.

Questions or Need Guidance? Contact us at info@srbadvisors.com or visit srbadvisors.com.

Subscribe & Stay Updated! Don’t miss future episodes—click HERE to subscribe and join us at the Kitchen Table for more financial insights!

🎙️ Hosts: David Shotwell & Nick Nauta

Episode OverviewIn this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, David and Nick break down the essential steps for creating a solid retirement income strategy. They discuss different income sources, withdrawal strategies, and key decisions that impact financial security in retirement. If you’re planning for retirement or are already there, this episode will help you piece together your financial puzzle.

https://youtu.be/VUvn3YXI-wE

Key Topics Covered✅ Identifying Your Income Sources

Social Security: How to estimate your benefits and when to start collecting
Pensions: Understanding your options and survivor benefits
Retirement Savings: Pre-tax vs. Roth accounts and how they fit into your plan
Other Income Sources: Real estate, annuities, side gigs, or part-time work
The Role of Bank Savings and Investments

✅ Deciding When to Take Social Security

The impact of delaying benefits vs. taking them early
How Social Security claiming strategies affect long-term financial security
Considerations for working while taking Social Security

✅ Withdrawal Strategies for Retirement Savings

The 4% Rule: A useful guideline, but not a one-size-fits-all solution
How to balance withdrawals from taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts
The impact of required minimum distributions (RMDs)
Roth conversions and tax planning considerations

✅ Personalized Retirement Planning

Life expectancy and family history as factors in financial decisions
The emotional side of retirement spending—how to transition from a saver to a spender
How different strategies fit different personalities and risk tolerances

Final ThoughtsPlanning your retirement income strategy isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about your lifestyle, goals, and peace of mind. David and Nick emphasize the importance of making informed, personalized decisions to create a financial plan that works for you.

📩 Questions or Need Guidance? Contact us at info@srbadvisors.com or visit srbadvisors.com.

🔔 Subscribe & Stay Updated! Don’t miss future episodes—click HERE to subscribe and join us at the Kitchen Table for more financial insights!

In this special episode, Nick and Cole put artificial intelligence to the test in a fun and insightful financial planning battle—CFP vs. ChatGPT! They tackle some of the most common retirement and estate planning questions, comparing Nick’s expert advice to ChatGPT’s AI-generated insights. Who gives the better answers? You decide!

https://youtu.be/89elFdanuIU

Topics Covered:✔️ Have I Saved Enough for Retirement?

Importance of budgeting and projecting income
Social Security, pensions, annuities, and investment returns
Using Monte Carlo simulations to stress-test retirement plans
AI’s reliance on rules of thumb like the 4% rule

✔️ How Do I Avoid Running Out of Money in Retirement?

The power of adaptability in financial planning
Running regular projections and reviewing income sources
Emergency funds and cash reserves in retirement

✔️ Planning for Healthcare & Long-Term Care Costs

Pre- and post-65 healthcare planning (Marketplace vs. Medicare)
Estimating rising healthcare costs
The role of HSAs (Health Savings Accounts) in retirement

✔️ How to Reduce Tax Exposure in Retirement

Strategic Roth conversions and tax-efficient withdrawals
Understanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
State tax considerations and charitable giving strategies

✔️ How to Plan for Inflation in Retirement

Investing in assets that outpace inflation (stocks, real estate, TIPS)
The “retirement spending smile” and adjusting spending over time
Diversification and balancing risk for long-term financial security

Key Takeaways:🔹 AI provides broad financial insights but lacks the personal, strategic, and emotional guidance a CFP offers.
🔹 Financial planning is not just about numbers—it’s about adapting to life changes.
🔹 ChatGPT is a great tool for learning financial concepts, but expert advice is crucial for making well-rounded decisions.

Listener Poll:Who won the CFP vs. ChatGPT battle? Let us know! Email us at info@srbadvisors.com or connect with us on our website.

🎧 Subscribe & Follow
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Episode SummaryIn this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Nick and Dave dive into the biggest retirement-related headlines from February 2025. They discuss essential financial planning topics, including tax strategies, healthcare costs, tariffs, retirement savings habits, and key conversations to have before retiring.

https://youtu.be/wUBQ_6HWRHo

Key Topics & Takeaways1. Tax Planning & Healthcare in Retirement (Kiplinger)* The importance of integrating tax and healthcare planning into your retirement strategy. * Key questions to consider: + Have you explored Roth conversions and tax-free investment options? + Are you optimizing your AGI to reduce taxes and Medicare premiums? + Do you have a plan for long-term care costs? + Does your plan consider legacy goals and potential tax burdens?

2. The Impact of Tariffs on Prices (WSJ)* A breakdown of how tariffs affect different types of goods. * Competitive commodities may see little price increase, while niche products and expensive items may experience higher costs. * The unexpected ways tariffs could impact American businesses and consumers.

3. Boosting Your Retirement Savings by Thinking About Future You (WSJ)* Many people struggle to prioritize retirement savings because it feels far away. * A study shows that individuals who visualize their future selves are more likely to save. * Tip: Use AI to generate an image of your older self to create a stronger connection to your financial future.

4. Who Should You Talk to Before Retiring? Two articles take different perspectives on this: + WSJ Perspective (WSJ): Spouse, adult children, doctor, HR chief, siblings, financial advisor, trusted colleague, and yourself. + Kiplinger Perspective* (Kiplinger): Financial planner, tax specialist, estate planning attorney, insurance advisor, senior living advisor, and Social Security advisor.

5. The “Golden Window” Tax Strategy (Kiplinger)* The “Golden Window” is the period after retirement but before Social Security and required minimum distributions (RMDs) when taxes are often lower. * Strategies for using this time: + Roth conversions. + Lowering lifetime taxes. + Hedging against future tax rate increases. * Important considerations: Medicare IRMAA, capital gains tax, and marketplace insurance subsidies.

6. DIY Retirement Planning: Smart or Risky? (Kiplinger)* Pros: Saves money, and flexibility. * Cons: Risk of costly mistakes, staying up-to-date on tax and investment rules, and long-term planning concerns. * It is important to have a plan in place for when a spouse or financial planner is no longer available.

7. Four Things You Lose in Retirement (Kiplinger)* Financial security. * Employee benefits. * Social network. * Sense of purpose. * The importance of planning ahead to maintain fulfillment and stability.

8. Once You Hit 55, Is the Stock Market Still Your Best Bet? (Kiplinger)* The article raises valid points about risk tolerance but oversimplifies the decision. * Key takeaways: + You should reduce risk but maintain enough growth to outpace inflation. + It’s not an all-or-nothing decision—balance is key.

9. The 2025 Retirement Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities (U.S. News)* Key concerns: + Inflation remains a challenge. + Market uncertainty continues. + The importance of balancing risk and return in 2025. + Social Security will see a 2.5% increase—but is it enough?

Final ThoughtsNick and Dave emphasize the importance of ongoing financial planning. Markets, tax laws, and personal goals evolve, making it essential to revisit your financial strategy regularly.

Resources & Links Schedule a Fit Meeting with Shotwell Rutter Baer * Contact: info@srbadvisors.com * Subscribe & Follow: The kitchen Table Finance Podcast* on your favorite podcast platform.

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we welcome Kim Barber from Globetrotter Travel to discuss planning and budgeting for travel in retirement. Travel is a top priority for many retirees, but navigating costs, destinations, and logistics can be overwhelming. Kim shares expert advice on how to make the most of your travel budget, plan bucket-list trips, and find options for solo travelers.

https://youtu.be/mB6wTNI16BM

Key Takeaways: Start Planning Early – Booking in advance can help secure better pricing and spread out payments. * Budgeting for Travel – A $10,000 annual travel budget can cover one big European trip or multiple smaller trips. * Solo Travel Options – Group tours, women-only trips, and cruises can be great ways for solo travelers to explore safely. * Bucket-List Trips – Destinations like African safaris, Antarctica, and Australia/New Zealand are popular among retirees. * Health & Safety Considerations – Travel insurance is crucial, especially for medical coverage and emergency evacuations. * Tourism Trends & Challenges – Some destinations are experiencing pushback from locals due to over-tourism and short-term rentals. * Best Travel Advice:* Be flexible and don’t wait too long to take your dream trips—you never know what the future holds!

Rapid Fire Questions with Kim: Best Beach Destination for Retirees? Hawaii * Most Underrated Destination? Mexico * Best City for Food Lovers? Seattle * Best Budget-Friendly Country? Portugal, Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic * Favorite Hidden Gem? African safari * Best Cruise Destination? Mediterranean * Best Place for History Buffs?* Europe

Connect with Kim Barber & Globetrotter Travel:🌍 Website: myglobetrottertravel.com
📧 Email: kimbarber@myglobetrottertravel.com
📞 Phone: 517-920-0465

Connect with Shotwell Rutter Baer💼 Website: srbadvisors.com
📧 Email: info@srbadvisors.com

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert insights on retirement and finance!

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Dave and Nick discuss George Kinder’s Financial Life Planning Process and how it applies to retirement savings. They explore how financial planning goes beyond numbers and investments—it’s about aligning financial decisions with what truly matters to you. They also break down Kinder’s famous three questions that help individuals clarify their financial and life priorities.

https://youtu.be/Yvdb-nCmaZQ

Key Topics Covered Who is George Kinder?*

+ Known as the “Father of Financial Life Planning.”
+ His approach prioritizes personal fulfillment over just growing wealth.

The Shift from Spender to Saver in Retirement
- Why transitioning from saving to spending can be difficult.
- Overcoming the fear of outliving your money.
- Kinder’s Three Life Planning Questions
- Imagine you are financially secure. What would you do differently?
- You have 5-10 years left to live. What changes would you make?
- You have 24 hours left to live. What regrets do you have?
- How These Questions Guide Retirement Planning
- Identifying what truly brings happiness and fulfillment.
- Adjusting financial plans to support a meaningful life.
- Addressing obstacles that prevent financial and personal goals.
- The Value of a Financial Life Planner
- Why working with a professional makes a difference.
- The emotional component of financial decisions.
- How planners help clients overcome limiting beliefs about money.

Resources Mentioned George Kinder’s Website – Learn more about life planning. * Find a Registered Life Planner* in your area. * Shotwell Rutter Baer Advisors: SRBAdvisors.com

Connect with Us📧 Email: info@srbadvisors.com
🌎 Website: SRBAdvisors.com

🔔 Subscribe to Kitchen Table Finance for more insights on financial planning and retirement strategies.

Episode SummaryRetirement isn’t just a financial transition—it’s a psychological one too. After years of saving and accumulating wealth, shifting to spending in retirement can feel unnatural or even scary. In this episode, Dave and Nick discuss how retirees can successfully make this transition by aligning their spending with their values, understanding their financial resources, and maintaining flexibility in their plans.

https://youtu.be/N7Pn8bGPBW4

Key Takeaways1. Align Your Values with Your Money

* Many people spend years saving but give little thought to how they will actually spend in retirement.
* A helpful exercise is to identify what matters most—family, travel, philanthropy, or hobbies—and plan spending around those priorities.
* *Resource Mentioned:* Life Planning for You by George Kinder

Understand Where Your Money Goes
- Instead of focusing on replacing your paycheck, identify what spending truly brings you fulfillment.
- Reviewing your budget can help determine which expenses are essential and which are flexible.
- Know Your Retirement Resources
- Consider Social Security timing, investment income, and other sources of cash flow.
- Balance guaranteed income with withdrawals from your portfolio to maintain financial stability.
- Have an Investment Philosophy and Stick With It
- Retirement investing should be intentional, focusing on long-term sustainability.
- Market downturns feel different when you’re no longer earning a paycheck, so having a solid plan in place helps prevent panic.
- Be Flexible
- Life changes, and so should your financial plan.
- Revisiting your goals annually ensures that your retirement plan aligns with your evolving needs and desires.

Final ThoughtsMaking the shift from saving to spending requires intentionality and a mindset shift. By planning ahead and understanding your financial picture, you can enjoy a fulfilling and stress-free retirement.

Resources & Contact📖 Book Recommendation: Life Planning for You by George Kinder
📧 Have questions? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com
🌐 Visit us at srbadvisors.com
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to Kitchen Table Finance for more insights!

Welcome to another episode of Kitchen Table Finance! Join hosts David Shotwell and Nick Nauta as they break down the biggest financial headlines from January, so you don’t have to.

https://youtu.be/QVMJFh-cNik

Articles Covered in This Episode:1. How to Launch a Successful Consulting Business in Retirement Insights from a Wall Street Journal* article on transitioning from a professional career to part-time consulting. * Key takeaways: + Plan ahead and obtain the necessary certifications. + Treat consulting like a real business. + Consider working with your former employer as a client. + Charge based on your experience, not your time

2. How Seniors Can Donate More to Charity and Pay Less in Taxes* Discussion on qualified charitable distributions, donor-advised funds, and tax-efficient ways to give. * Why writing checks to charities might not be the best strategy.

3. Retirees Will Pay Twice as Much as They Think for Healthcare Breakdown of a Fidelity* study: the average retiree spends $165,000 on healthcare—more than twice what most people expect. * Why it’s crucial to factor healthcare costs into retirement planning.

4. 100% stocks for retirement? A new study says dump the 60/40 portfolio and target-date funds. MarketWatch* report suggesting all-equity portfolios for retirees. * Pros and cons of higher stock allocations and why diversification still matters. * In their study, Anarkulova and her co-authors looked at what drives financial success in retirement by focusing on four key outcomes: how much wealth people have when they retire, the income they can generate during retirement, how well they preserve their savings, and the amount they can leave behind as an inheritance. * On average, the optimal portfolio, which is rebalanced monthly, produces 50% more retirement wealth than a balanced fund and 39% more than a TDF. And this extra wealth translates into higher retirement income for those who follow the all-stock strategy, according to Anarkulova.

5. A One-Hour Exercise That Can Save You Thousands in 2025* Conduct spending inventory! – Take 1 hour to review and make a plan * Plug leaks (subscriptions, etc.) * Unsubscribe from advertising emails/texts * Review last year’s numbers (write them down!) + Spending Post-Mortem - Why did I spend money in this category? - How can I budget for this category in 2025 - How/should I cut on this category in 2025 * Remove payment information * 24-hour waiting period * Fiscal fast for one month in category

6. How Will My Grandchildren Remember Me? These Seven Objects May Tell Them My Story.* Thoughtful discussion on passing down meaningful items rather than just financial wealth. * Downsizing with purpose while preserving family stories.

7. The Rise of Private Equity ETFs – Buyer Beware* The push to include private equity in 401(k) plans and why it’s important to assess liquidity and risk factors. * There are reasons access has been limited in the past * Be wary of liquidity and safety concerns * Just because you can buy it doesn’t mean that you should

8. What Economists Could Learn from George Costanza A New York Times* article exploring why doing the opposite of economic forecasts might not be the worst idea.

9. Even Rich Retirees Fear Outliving Their Money* Studies show those who spend more report greater retirement satisfaction, yet older Americans live below their means + Retirement consumption puzzle + 2.1% vs 4% rule + Fear making them miss out - Running out of money - Market downturn - LTC/health need + Give yourself permission to spend (or get permission from a professional!)

10. Biggest Regrets in Retirement* Not starting to save and plan earlier * Starting SS too early * Retiring with too much debt * No transition planning + Preparing emotionally * The good news? 4-10 experience increased happiness

11. Secure Your Retirement Paycheck: The Power of Three Buckets* 3 bucket approach to retirement asset allocation + Cash Bucket + Protected income/medium-term bucket - 15 years to provide guaranteed income - After 15 years refill with Long term bucket - The author suggests fixed index annuity + Stocks/growth/long-term

12. Should I Choose My Retirement Location Based on Where My Children Live?* The emotional and financial factors of moving near family. * How to balance independence with family ties.

13. Best & Worst States to Retire in 2025* Florida tops the list again, followed by Minnesota, Colorado, Wyoming, and South Dakota. * Michigan ranks at #25.

14. How Couples Can Manage Different Retirement Timelines* 25% of people say they expect to retire with their spouse and only 11% of currently retired couples retired at the same time + Considerations: - Spending in the go-go years and a sense of security that leads to overspending (how do you reign it in when you both retire?) - Health insurance – what happens when you both retire before 65? - Social Security – does working help one or both partners delay? - Do you like each other enough? Rise of the Gray divorce

Resources & Contact Info:🔗 Have an article you’d like us to review? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com
🔗 Visit srbadvisors.com for more financial planning insights.

📌 Subscribe & Stay Informed – Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button so you never miss an episode!

In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave Shotwell and guest co-host Cole Williams take a deep dive into financial crises—focusing on the Great Recession of 2007–2009. They explore its impact on financial planning, investor psychology, and how those experiences shape decisions even today.

https://youtu.be/iw3NV9gkARg

What You’ll Learn:* How the Great Recession shaped financial attitudes across generations * The emotional and psychological effects of financial downturns * Lessons from history: Comparing 2008 to the Great Depression and other crises * How financial advisors help clients navigate uncertainty and market volatility * Why market timing is nearly impossible and long-term strategies win * The role of behavioral finance in decision-making during downturns * How financial resilience and adaptability can shape retirement planning

Key Takeaways:🔹 History Repeats Itself – Financial crises, while painful, follow patterns, and understanding past downturns can help prepare for the future.
🔹 Behavioral Finance Matters – Panic-selling and market timing can lead to poor financial decisions. Understanding biases like recency bias and action bias can help investors stay disciplined.
🔹 Resilience is Key – Individuals and institutions have shown time and time again that they can recover from financial disasters.
🔹 Planning for the Worst – Financial advisors use historical downturns to stress-test portfolios and help clients prepare for future crises.
🔹 The Importance of Liquidity – Having an emergency fund or access to cash prevents the need to sell investments at the worst possible time.

Memorable Moments:🗣️ “There was no all-clear signal that the market had hit bottom—it just slowly started to come back.”
🗣️ “If we sell now, you’re never going to make your money back. But let’s find actions that feel proactive without hurting your portfolio.”
🗣️ “The system is extremely resilient, and people are adaptable. That’s the biggest lesson from the Great Recession.”

Resources & Links:📌 Shotwell Rutter Baer Financial Planning
📌 Get in touch: info@srbadvisors.com

🎙️ Subscribe & Stay Connected
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Kitchen Table Finance on your favorite podcast platform!

Episode Summary
In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave and Nick dive into the importance of financial “lifeboat drills”—preparing for market downturns before they happen. They discuss why good times in the market don’t last forever and how you can set yourself up for success when the waters get rough. From diversification and rebalancing to cash reserves and Roth conversions, they break down practical strategies to help you stay on course, no matter what the market throws your way.

Check out Dave’s article on Life Boat Drills HERE (also published in TheStreet.com)

https://youtu.be/hXvANzt5nXM

Key Takeaways

Market corrections are inevitable – Planning ahead prevents emotional, knee-jerk reactions.
Diversification matters – A balanced portfolio helps you weather market ups and downs.
Rebalancing is key – Regularly adjusting your investments can keep your risk in check.
Cash reserves provide stability – Keeping some cash on hand can ease stress during downturns.
Opportunistic moves – Roth conversions and tax-loss harvesting can turn a market dip into an advantage.
Mindset is everything – Mentally preparing for tough times makes them easier to navigate.

Resources & Next Steps
Want to make sure your financial lifeboat is ready? Connect with the team at SRB Advisors for a relaxed, no-pressure fit meeting to see if we’re the right financial partner for you. Visit srbadvisors.com or email us at info@srbadvisors.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more insights on smart investing and financial planning!

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review. Until next time, stay prepared and keep your financial future on course!

Today, we’re conducting our Q4 2024 market review and upcoming market outlook. We’ll examine what happened last year and what may lie ahead to help listeners set realistic expectations.

https://youtu.be/pKRvkkmKZ9M

2024 Market Highlights S&P 500 Performance: 2024 closed with another year of +20% returns. * Q4 Results: Large-cap tech stocks rose 7%, while large-cap value stocks declined slightly. International and emerging markets underperformed, but most asset classes saw positive annual returns. * Market Resilience*: Despite challenges, the market largely shrugged off concerns, including inflation, Federal Reserve actions, and geopolitical events.

Labor Market Overview Strength and Stability: The labor market remains resilient with low unemployment, despite significant interest rate hikes in 2022 and 2023. * Sector Variability*: Growth is concentrated in healthcare and government sectors, while tech lags. Overall, the labor market is robust, supporting strong consumer spending.

Interest Rates and Yield Curve Rates and Inflation: Interest rates have stayed higher than expected, with the Federal Reserve lowering short-term rates in late 2024. However, long-term yields have risen, signaling a return to a normal yield curve. * Implications*: A normal yield curve is a positive economic indicator, even if it frustrates those seeking lower mortgage rates. Elevated yields provide better returns for fixed-income investors.

Glass Half Full: Positive Economic Indicators1. Resilient Economy: Strong labor markets and steady consumer spending support GDP growth. 2. Higher Yields: Safer investments now offer real returns, benefiting income-focused investors. 3. Policy Outlook: Growth-focused policies and deregulation could provide short-term economic stimulus.

Glass Half Empty: Potential Challenges1. Inflationary Risks: Policies like tariffs and reduced immigration may drive inflation by increasing costs for labor and goods. 2. Housing Market: High mortgage rates and limited affordable housing construction remain obstacles. 3. Market Valuations: Two consecutive years of +20% returns may not be sustainable without corresponding earnings growth.

Key Takeaways for Financial Planning Timing the Market: Just as timing the stock market is difficult, waiting for the “perfect” time to buy a house is unrealistic. Focus on personal priorities and long-term plans. * Valuation Concerns*: High market valuations require strong earnings growth to sustain current levels. Monitor earnings reports closely for alignment with market expectations.

At Shotwell-Rudder Bear, our approach starts with a fit meeting to see if we’re the right match for your financial needs. Trust is the foundation of our relationships, and we’re here to help you create a tailored plan. Visit srbadvisors.com to get started today.

You can also reach out by calling us at 517-321-4832 or info@srbadvisors.com.

Don’t miss an episode of Kitchen Table Finance by subscribing to our YouTube Channel.

Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance for Season 4! In this highly anticipated episode, Dave and Nick dive into their annual predictions for 2025, reflecting on their 2024 forecasts and offering insights into what might be ahead for the markets, economy, and more.

https://youtu.be/DEeoSfGVgDM

Highlights from the EpisodeRecap of 2024 Predictions: + The S&P 500 outperformed expectations, closing the year with a 23.3% gain—well above the historical average of 12.3%. + Notable forecasts from major firms: - Oppenheimer was the closest, predicting a modest 7–10% gain. - J.P. Morgan missed the mark, predicting a 10% loss. + Nick’s Prediction*: A near-perfect call of 22%, though humorously tied to the Detroit Lions winning the Super Bowl.

2024 Lessons Learned:* + Predictions are inherently uncertain; most are based on long-term trends, not short-term market moods. + Despite global concerns like elections, geopolitical tensions, and inflation, the market climbed steadily, exemplifying the “wall of worry” phenomenon.

Predictions for 2025:1. * S&P 500 Growth: + Dave predicts a modest gain to 6,000, citing mean reversion after two stellar years. + Nick forecasts a slightly higher target of 6,161, agreeing on modest growth. * Small-Cap and International Stocks: Both agree these sectors are overdue for a resurgence, with valuations suggesting potential gains. * AI and Tech Companies: The duo expects growth in AI-driven stocks to moderate, with broader market sectors stepping into the spotlight. 2. Key Themes for 2025: * Economic Growth: Optimism remains high, with no signs of recession and strong job numbers supporting market momentum. * Inflation and Interest Rates: Stabilizing rates and controlled inflation are expected to shape economic trends. * Policy Uncertainty: Potential changes in tariffs, taxes, and energy policies could introduce volatility.

Advice for Investors:* + Stay diversified and invested for the long term. + Avoid making drastic portfolio changes based on short-term predictions. + Prepare mentally for market corrections, as unforeseen events (like COVID-19) often drive significant disruptions.

Fun Predictions:* + Nick predicts this could finally be the Detroit Lions’ year to win it all! + Dave remains hopeful for a playoff return for the Detroit Red Wings.

Additional Resources: Check out Dave’s blog post on Lifeboat Drills* for preparing your portfolio for market downturns. * Stay tuned for future episodes where Dave and Nick dive deeper into strategies for navigating unpredictable markets.

Tune in to hear Dave and Nick’s full discussion, packed with humor, insights, and actionable advice for 2025! Subscribe NOW!

Identity theft and fraud can pose significant risks to retirees, especially as scammers adapt their methods to exploit those aged 60 and above. This episode addresses how identity theft impacts retirees, the common scams targeting them, and actionable steps to safeguard your financial security in retirement. With insights drawn from the Federal Trade Commission’s latest findings and real-life scenarios from our clients, we uncover red flags, preventative measures, and the importance of staying vigilant.

https://youtu.be/vnURdPNK-sY

Key Topics Covered*Who Scammers Target*

Surprising stats reveal the two age groups most commonly targeted by fraudsters, with retirees in the 60+ demographic at high risk due to tech support scams, fake prize schemes, and impersonation fraud.

*Biggest Frauds for Retirees*:

Tech support scams posing as antivirus or Geek Squad representatives.
Social Security and Medicare fraud often prompt victims to “verify” personal data via fake links or calls.
High-pressure sales tactics at seemingly legitimate investor dinners.

*What the Statistics Show*:

Average financial loss increases significantly with age, reaching $1,500 per scam for those aged 80+.
Scams come from various channels, including phone (24%), online (21%), and even social media (15%).

*Steps to Protect Yourself*:

Always verify legitimacy by conducting independent research on any unsolicited offers.
Never reveal your Social Security number in public or carry your card unnecessarily.
Monitor your benefits and secure your accounts through trusted cybersecurity measures.
Be wary of offers promising high, risk-free returns, and take time to make investment decisions.

Resources Mentioned1. *Federal Trade Commission Fraud Data * + Learn about common scams and tips on how to avoid fraud at ftc.gov. 2. Investor.gov * + Check out this trustworthy resource for avoiding retirement and investment scams. 3. ssa.gov Security Features* * + Protect your Social Security with tools and resources on the official website at ssa.gov.

Key Takeaways1. Fraudsters often exploit retirees due to perceived vulnerabilities—stay skeptical, especially of unsolicited calls or emails. 2. Scams targeting tech support, Social Security, and investment funds are common; question high-pressure sales tactics and ensure legitimacy. 3. Always investigate the credibility of “offers” and rely on licensed professionals or verified government agencies when engaging with your financial details.

*Stay Connected:*Subscribe for updates and new episodes every week!

Got a question? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com

*Don’t Forget to Share the Love!*If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or share it with your friends. The best conversations happen around the table—yours or ours!

If you’re worried about keeping your retirement savings secure, or you’ve encountered a questionable offer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Shotwell Rutter Baer. We’re here to help you protect what you’ve worked hard for. Get in touch with us or visit our website to schedule a consultation at *srbadvisors.com*.**

We read the news so you don’t have to!

Welcome to The Kitchen Table Finance Podcast, the show where we explore the big questions, trends, and stories shaping our lives.

Today, we’re diving into the key retirement headlines from November. Retirement isn’t just about money—it’s a major life transition, and this month’s stories highlight the emotional, social, and financial challenges that come with it.

We’ll cover:

The identity shift of leaving work behind—Who will you be without your job? Americans are deeply tied to their work identities, and we’ll explore strategies like “identity bridging” to navigate this transition.
The pitfalls of poor planning—From underestimating healthcare costs to taking Social Security too early, we’ll review common mistakes retirees make and how to avoid them.
Long-term care fears—With only a fraction of retirees covered by LTC insurance, we’ll discuss innovative solutions like the “4th bucket” strategy and what to do if you’re unprepared.
Finding purpose after retirement—Whether it’s hobbies, social connections, or even continuing to work, we’ll look at how to stay fulfilled and avoid the dreaded mid-retirement slump.

And of course, we’ll dig into a cautionary tale of retirees falling for high-risk investments, showing why financial literacy is more important than ever.

Retirement is about more than leaving work—it’s about reimagining your life. Let’s dive into these stories and uncover what it takes to retire without regrets.

https://youtu.be/wvhLx5FNQFE

The Headlines We Discuss in This EpisodeHarvard prof who spent 10 years studying retirees: How to ensure a ‘smooth transition into a satisfying retirement life’* Important to ask yourself Who will I be without my work? + Americans tend to identify closely with their work * What to do if you can’t fully answer the question + Ask yourself, Would I be more likely to say that my work is what I do or my work is who I am?” + List core self-identities as they are currently and how you want them to be “identity bridging”

This retiree accepted an investment broker’s invite for dinner at Ruth’s Chris — the decision cost him $158K* A story as old as time? * While investors like Wilson earned a whopping 9% monthly return, brokers were earning up to 8% in commissions from GWG.

Planning Your Retirement: What Not To Do* Underestimating health care costs – LTC * Overspending * Taking Social Security benefits too early * Miscalculating your RMD

Worried About Long-Term-Care Expenses? Let’s Do Something About It.* Worrying about a potential LTC need keeps retirees from maximizing spending or making gifts to loved ones or charities + 59% say they are concerned about running out of money to pay for LTC – AARP + #2 on the list of retirement worries according to the Society of Actuaries + Only $7Mil out of 75 mil over age 60 are covered by LTC Insurance + 4th bucket as a strategy to solve LTC - How much to put in – Genworth LTC study, age of needing care average (81) - What types of investments to use: based on the age of likely use as a starting point - Where to hold the funds (IRA, ROTH, after-tax) + Back-up plan - Reverse mortgage

Retire Without Regrets* Huge life transition * Irene age 64 technical writer shifted easily and wished she’d left earlier * Lawrence struggled after a few months and ended up in rehab + Retirement is a transition that involves several key phases: making the decision to stop working; detaching from work; experimenting with new relationships, activities, and social groups; and establishing a new, reasonably stable life structure + Research found satisfied retirees demonstrate four key behaviors through the phases of the four A’s - Alignment between self and life structure * your central identities, needs, values, preferences, motivations, personality dispositions, and even health - Awareness of the interplay between the two - Agency in making changes in the self or life structure - Adaptability in the face of events out of their control + Use the three other A’s to find alignment between self and life structure - Awareness – getting a clear view of your self and life structure * We use the ideal day/week/year - Agency – take control * Ask yourself these two questions: + What minor tweaks or major changes can I make in my life structure to have better alignment + Is there anything I want to change about my current self to improve alignment – getting healthier to be able to try more things - Adaptability * Accept, adjust & adapt + List two events (one good one bad) that might alter your life structure and think about how you would solve them. What resources do you have, etc?

How To Have A Happy Retirement: 4 Secrets From Research* In year 1 of retirement healthy retirees rate overall quality of life higher than those still working * Between 1 and 2 we see retirees hit a low point with dropping quality-of-life ratings * Retirement is new and poorly defined 1. Have a plan beyond finances – how will you invest your time? 2. You may want to keep working – Just because everyone retires at 65 doesn’t mean you have too 3. Get a hobby – Find something you are passionate about 4. Get social – replace your coworker’s social group. Have friends and see them often

*Stay Connected:*Subscribe for updates and new episodes every week!

Got a question? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com

*Don’t Forget to Share the Love!*If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or share it with your friends. The best conversations happen around the table—yours or ours!

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

*Welcome to the Kitchen Table Finance Podcast!*

Get ready to tackle 2025 with confidence! This episode dives deep into five key insights every retirement investor must know to stay ahead of the curve. From understanding market trends to making sense of rate cuts and stock valuations, we arm you with the knowledge you need to make smarter investment decisions. Join us as we recap the surprises of 2024 and use data-driven strategies to forecast what 2025 might hold for investors like you.

https://youtu.be/aHu7sQs7yFA

*What You’ll Learn in This Episode:*

*The Recap of 2024:* Analyzing last year’s surprising economic performance and how it helped steer clear of the predicted “hard landing” recession.
*The Power of Diversification:* Why being selective with your investments matters in a market driven by expensive valuations.
*Fed Rate Cuts & Inflation Insights:* What does the easing of rates in 2025 mean for bondholders, and how should this influence your strategy?
*Political Policies & Market Dynamics:* How a pro-growth government post-election may affect the investment landscape.
*Long-Term Return Strategies:* Understanding price-to-earnings ratios and how to prepare for moderated but positive returns.

*Quotable Moments:*

“Excessive worry can lead retirees to make poor decisions that don’t serve their long-term interests.”
“The stock market’s successful years are exciting, but they come with essential lessons about evaluation and future returns.”
“Being diversified isn’t just about the upside—it also protects you on the downside.”

*Call to Action:*

If you’re ready to start planning your retirement investments for 2025 or simply want to learn how to fine-tune your portfolio, don’t miss this insightful episode! Tune in now to stay enlightened and empowered—and don’t forget to subscribe for future updates and episodes!

We’d love to hear from YOU! Leave a comment or share your thoughts on how you’re preparing for 2025. Looking for financial guidance? Contact us anytime—we’re here to help you make every dollar count.

Visit us at Shotwell Rutter Baer to learn more about our straightforward, practical financial planning services! Whether you’re years away from retiring or about to cut that cake at the office, we’re here to help you build your dream future.

*Stay Connected:*

Subscribe for updates and new episodes every week!

Got a question? Email us at info@srbadvisors.com

*Don’t Forget to Share the Love!*

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review or share it with your friends. The best conversations happen around the table—yours or ours!

Shotwell Rutter Baer | Financial Advice for Real Life | Your fiduciary partner in retirement success.

This Thanksgiving-themed episode dives into the powerful role gratitude plays in retirement planning. Hosts Nick Nauta and Cole Williams discuss everything from practicing gratitude in financial planning to historical perspectives on retirement. Plus, hear their personal stories of thankfulness and why focusing on the positives can shape a healthier, more intentional retirement.

https://youtu.be/EVtiTnnkNtQ

*Key Topics Covered:*

*The Power of Gratitude:*
Research-backed benefits of gratitude practices, include improved well-being, sleep, lower cortisol levels, and reduced envy and resentment.
How gratitude ties into mental health and financial stress, which affects 72% of Americans according to the APA.
*Applying Gratitude to Retirement Planning:*
Noticing positives in your retirement savings, such as investment gains and financial milestones achieved.
Acknowledging the privilege of planning for retirement, a concept that didn’t widely exist 100 years ago.
*Shifting Focus to What Really Matters:*
Tailoring plans to reflect personal values and priorities rather than comparing your retirement lifestyle to others.
Reducing the tendency to compare yourself to others—what you want may not align with someone else’s lifestyle, and social media often misrepresents reality.
*Living in the Present:*
Using gratitude as a tool to encourage “being in the moment” rather than worrying excessively about future market volatility or hypothetical risks.
Enjoying the process of retirement planning as a reflection of your biggest life priorities.
*Personal Stories of Gratitude:*
Hosts share what they’re thankful for this year, including good health, healing injuries, and family.
The reminder that even small things—like returning to a beloved activity like snowboarding—can foster gratitude.

*Quotes from the Episode:*

“Gratitude doesn’t just change your perspective—it changes your financial health. It helps you focus on what really matters rather than obsessing over what could go wrong.”
“Retirement planning is, at its core, not just about dollars and cents—it’s about figuring out what YOU value and designing your future around that.”
“We live in a time and place where you can save enough to take the last 30 years of your life off from work. That’s a privilege almost unheard of in history.”

*Studies Mentioned:*

A 2003 study from Psychological Science shows gratitude improves well-being and sleep quality, and reduces negative emotions like envy.
A 2009 study showing gratitude reduces cortisol levels, helping with stress and anxiety.

*Takeaways & Action Items:*

Start incorporating a gratitude practice into your retirement planning. Focus on the positives in your financial achievements and avoid falling into the comparison trap.
Be thankful for every small milestone in your financial plan and design it around what genuinely matters to you.
Speak to a financial planner for guidance in aligning your goals with your values while practicing gratitude.

*Call to Action:*

Have gratitude—or questions—about your retirement plan? Reach out to us today to learn how we can make your retirement planning process more rewarding.

What does Warren Buffett’s latest financial move mean for your retirement portfolio?

This week, we’re unpacking the headlines surrounding Buffett’s portfolio adjustments. With $365 billion in cash at Berkshire Hathaway’s disposal, Buffett’s strategy has sparked speculation. Is he gearing up for a financial crisis, or simply staying true to his principles as a value investor?

We’ll explore Buffett’s recent stock sales (including major holdings like Apple and Bank of America), his cautious approach to the current high market valuations, and the role of bonds in his portfolio. Most importantly, we’ll answer what it all means for everyday investors managing their own portfolios, especially those nearing or in retirement.

This insightful episode will help you put Buffett’s moves into perspective and guide you on how to approach your own portfolio allocation with confidence.

The article we reference from The Wall Street Journal: Does Warren Buffett Know Something That We Don’t?

https://youtu.be/sAoPeC_CJ34

*What You’ll Learn in This Episode** Why Warren Buffett keeps increasing cash reserves in Berkshire Hathaway and what it signals. * How high market valuations and rising interest rates impact his decision-making. * The difference between Buffett’s strategies and what works for individual retiree portfolios. * Factors like age, market psychology, and tax considerations that may influence Buffett’s moves. * How bonds fit into Warren Buffett’s and everyday investors’ strategies. * What valuable lessons we can (and can’t) take from Buffett’s playbook?

*Key Takeaways*1. Buffett’s cash-heavy position may not indicate an impending financial crisis but rather a lack of undervalued opportunities in today’s high-priced market. 2. Individuals shouldn’t model their retirement strategy directly after Buffett—he’s playing on a different field without personal income needs. 3. Bonds are becoming a more attractive option for conservative investors in a rising interest rate environment. 4. Managing your expectations for market performance in the next few years is crucial, especially as valuations remain high.

*Quotes from the Episode “If you’re sitting on $365 billion in cash, that’s not just caution—it’s strategy in action.” * “Buffett’s moves may look like a macroeconomic signal, but for individuals, it’s about remembering your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance.” * “At 94, Buffett’s approach includes more than valuation—it reflects life stage and legacy planning, factors every retiree should consider in their own way.”**

*Want to Learn More?*If you’re wondering how to adjust your portfolio without the stress of second-guessing market moves, we’re here to help. Schedule a free consultation with one of our advisors today to create a strategy tailored to you and your unique goals.

Click here to book your free consultation now!

*Connect with Us*Have a question? Call us at 517-321-4832 or email info@srbadvisors.com.

Subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Your feedback helps us bring more insightful content to listeners like you!

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

In this episode, we explore the potential impact of recent political developments on retirement planning and market trends over the next four years. With Dave on vacation, Cole Williams, our associate advisor, steps in to discuss the implications of the presidential election and the upcoming sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We also touch on tariffs and their potential economic ramifications.

https://youtu.be/GGUpKS18eOs

Key Topics Covered*Impact of the Presidential Election** The role of the election in determining tax policies. * Analysis of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, set to sunset in 2026. * Examination of political gridlock and its implications for tax legislation.

*The SALT Cap and Tax Deductions** Explanation of the $10,000 SALT cap and its effects on taxpayers. * Discussion of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and its relevance. * The implications of the higher standard deduction introduced in 2017.

*Market Reactions and Economic Consequences** Positive market response following the election results. * Discussion on corporate tax rates and the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction for small businesses.

ConclusionWe encourage our listeners to contact us if they wish to explore the political aspects discussed further. If you have any questions about your retirement planning or investments, please contact Shotwell Rutter Baer.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Subscribe and follow us to stay informed about changes and updates regarding tax legislation and market trends to better plan your financial future.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

We read the news so you don’t have to!

Welcome to your October roundup of retirement headlines—a month bursting with insights and strategies that could redefine your retirement planning. Whether you’re a retiree navigating the nuances of financial security, or an investor seeking to fortify your portfolio against market fluctuations, this month’s compilation offers a wealth of information. We’ve meticulously curated topics ranging from savvy investment options like ETFs to essential cost-of-living adjustments and innovative estate planning strategies. Our goal? To provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and bolster your financial well-being in retirement. Let’s explore how October’s biggest headlines might just be your key to a more secure future.

https://youtu.be/VrMpMIACxLk

Articles Discussed in this EpisodeIs This ETF Your Knight in Shining Armor?* There is no free lunch * Consider opportunity costs

Cost-Of-Living Adjustments* 2024 – 2.5 + Looking at historical COLA this is actually good.

Why Anybody Over 18 Should Have an Estate Plan* Estate planning can be important at any age

Why Everyone Needs a ‘Digital Death-Cleaning’ Plan* Create a plan for your digital assets + Label your files + Leave a guide - And a farewell? + Consider an AI alter ego? + Digitize physical memories

How Undiagnosed Cognitive Decline Eats Into Seniors’ Retirement Savings* Since current retirees are living longer than previous generations, they are more likely to suffer memory loss * Typically unaware of memory loss * Those who experienced a severe memory-loss event over the prior two-year period and were unaware of it saw their wealth decrease by about $31,000 on average. * Those who were aware of their memory loss likely avoided large financial hits by delegating decisions to family members or financial advisers or by choosing safer investments, the researchers said. * A large percentage of the losses that we measure are coming from stocks,” Peracchi says. “People participating in the stock market often start with high cognitive abilities, so after losing some memory, they may be overconfident in their abilities. They’re not aware that they’ve lost memory, so they’re more susceptible to financial losses.”

In Retirement, It’s Time to Put Our Costs Under the Microscope* Update from the Yoders + Decided to review credit card transactions and bank debits of the past year + Surprised by how many things they found that weren’t needed + Good idea to start looking at your budget a year before retirement

How to find lost or forgotten pensions, 401(k)s, and retirement money* One estimate indicates that about 29 million 401(k) accounts remained forgotten in 2023, amounting to nearly $1.65 trillion in unclaimed retirement benefits nationwide, according to a report by Capitalize, * How to search + US Department of Labor – Abandoned plan search – https://www.askebsa.dol.gov/AbandonedPlanSearch/ + Unclaimed property search by state – MI https://unclaimedproperty.michigan.gov/ + Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp – find unclaimed pension benefits – https://www.pbgc.gov/wr/find-unclaimed-retirement-benefits + Pension Rights Center – Nonprofit – www.pensionhelp.org

Washington State Voters Keep Public Long-Term Care Insurance* Washington State’s Public LTC was on the ballot and easily voted to reject a ballot initiative that would have killed the law + First of its kind of law that provides $36,500 in LTC benefits to all residents funded through a payroll tax surcharge of .58. Other states are looking at similar laws - California, Illinois, Minnesota & Massachusetts

5 Financial To-Dos Before the End of 2024* Rebalance * Take RMD * Contribute to employer plans * Review insurance * Consider charitable donations

ConclusionOctober’s retirement headlines have underscored the evolving landscape of financial planning, offering both challenges and opportunities. From the importance of estate planning at any age to the necessity of cost-of-living adjustments and the impact of cognitive decline on savings, these insights are crucial for shaping a resilient retirement strategy. As we conclude, consider taking actionable steps—like updating your financial plans or exploring new investment opportunities—to harness these insights effectively. Stay proactive, stay informed, and join our community of retirees and investors as we continue to explore the paths to financial stability. For more personalized guidance, feel free to reach out and connect with our experts. Remember, informed decisions today pave the way for a secure tomorrow.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Shane Topping, a senior at Michigan State University and an intern at Shotwell Rutter Baer (SRB). In this episode, we explore the unique experience of interning at a financial advisory firm, the lessons learned from working in a smaller team environment, and the importance of adaptability and innovation in financial services.

https://youtu.be/IqmAv4PBTdg

Key Discussion Points Internship Experience: + Shane shares how he discovered the internship opportunity at SRB. + The benefits of interning at a smaller firm, such as the ability to pivot quickly and be involved in decision-making processes. * Financial Advice for Young Professionals: + Discussion on financial planning post-graduation. + Shane’s insights on the power of compounding and starting investments early. + Balancing investment with life goals like buying a house or further education. * Technological Advancements in Finance*: + The advantage of smaller firms in adopting new technologies. + Shane has experience with AI and tech discussions at industry events.

Guest Spotlight Shane Topping*: + Background in finance and wealth management. + Plans to continue growing in the financial advisory field post-internship.

Conclusion Takeaways*: + The importance of being adaptable and open to new technologies. + Encouragement for young professionals to find a balance between immediate life goals and long-term financial planning.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review!

Connect with us on social media for more insights and behind-the-scenes content.

Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends real-world financial insights with personal growth and career development tips for aspiring financial professionals.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the intriguing concept laid out in Bill Perkins’ book “Die With Zero,” which challenges traditional notions of retirement savings and spending. Join us as we discuss whether you should aim to spend your money before you die, and the mindset shift required to turn your savings into lifelong enjoyment.

https://youtu.be/HiUaq15G_XE

Key Topics Discussed: Mindset Shift: We examine the prevalent industry focus on accumulating a large retirement fund and the challenges retirees face in spending that money to truly enjoy life. * Advisors’ Dilemma: Discover why Perkins’ book resonates with financial advisors who often encounter clients more concerned with spending their savings than making them last. * Experiences Over Savings: Delve into the book’s argument that memorable experiences early in life offer greater value, akin to investments paying dividends over time. * Addressing Common Objections: Explore concerns about outliving your money and providing for your children or charities, and how Perkins suggests balancing prudence with enjoyment. * Knowing Yourself*: It is important to understand your financial motivations, whether it’s giving money to children or supporting charities.

Memorable Quotes:* “What makes you a good saver and planner might make you a lousy retiree.” * “Your life is the sum total of your memories.”

Call to Action:If you’re pondering the balance between saving and spending in retirement or considering how to make the most of your wealth, this episode is for you! Listen in to redefine your approach to money and make informed decisions about your retirement lifestyle.

Please share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments or leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life

In this episode, we dive into the key developments in the markets during the third quarter of 2024, along with an update on the current economic environment. Join us as we discuss how stocks surged across the globe, inflation continues to cool, and the Federal Reserve’s pivotal decision to lower interest rates in September. Despite a slightly weaker labor market, overall economic indicators remain positive.

https://youtu.be/Y2W3rAD7ZD4

Key Takeaways:

Stocks have shown strong performance across all major indices, continuing a year-long rally.
In response to a cooling labor market and declining inflation, the Fed cut interest rates by 50 basis points in September.
Inflation dropped to 2.6% in August, aligning more closely with the Fed’s 2% target.
While unemployment ticked up slightly to 4.2%, recessionary signals remain muted.
Election season and geopolitical uncertainty are causing some investor anxiety.

What’s Next:

Will China’s stimulus package be enough to stabilize its economy and bolster confidence in the property market?
With parts of the yield curve normalizing, bond investors are starting to see better compensation for long-term risk.
As we approach the U.S. election in November, how will political developments influence the markets?

For the details and a full explanation of what happened in the third quarter and where the economy sits now, you can read East Bay’s full Quarterly Investment Commentary HERE or watch Mario’s recorded presentation.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

In this enlightening episode, we take a deep dive into Dr. Peter Attia’s compelling book, Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity. Join us as we explore the intersection of healthspan and lifespan, unpack Attia’s vision of Medicine 2.0 and 3.0, and discuss the four horsemen of chronic disease. All of this ties seamlessly into retirement planning, highlighting how crucial it is to not just live longer, but to live well.

https://youtu.be/Bn3dwClgpgw

Key Points Covered1. *Understanding Healthspan vs. Lifespan*

Dr. Attia challenges the traditional focus on lifespan and argues for a shift towards optimizing healthspan. Learn why the balance between these two is critical for living a fulfilling life.

*Medicine 2.0 vs. Medicine 3.0*

Discover the limitations of our current reactive healthcare model (Medicine 2.0) and explore Attia’s proactive approach with Medicine 3.0 which emphasizes prevention over cure.

*The Four Horsemen of Chronic Disease*

We break down the four major threats to healthspan—coronary disease, diabetes, cancer, and cognitive decline—and discuss strategies to combat them before they become a reality.

*The Centenarian Decathlon*

Inspired by Attia’s Centenarian Decathlon, we discuss setting long-term health goals that align with your retirement dreams. This segment covers how to remain physically active and independent throughout your golden years.

*Practical Longevity Strategies*

Find out how diet, exercise, sleep, and mental well-being form the pillars of Attia’s longevity strategy. We provide actionable insights you can implement no matter where you are on your health journey.

Call to ActionCurious about optimizing your own healthspan? Ready to make proactive changes today for a healthier tomorrow? Grab your copy of Outlive and start taking control of your future. And remember, your health and financial plan are inseparable. Contact us to integrate wellness into your retirement strategy.

Additional Resources Link to David’s review of Outlive* * Book a consultation with our experts on retirement planning and health optimization.517-321-4832info@srbadvisors.com

Connect with UsDon’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode helpful! Follow us on social media for more insights and updates.

Thank you for tuning in, and here’s to living not just longer, but better!

We’re back with another round of retirement planning headline news reviews. As we like to say, we read the news so you don’t have to. Although, maybe you will want to after you hear us talk about them. Our goal is to at least help point you to what we think matters.

Below is a list of the articles we discuss in this episode, along with our notes and thoughts about each one.

https://youtu.be/40PJLUUJc64

When Interest Rates Go Down, the Hucksters Spring Up* Jason Zweig at WSJ runs down a scam * These things are out there, people prey on vulnerable folks with misleading info

Six Rules for Traveling in Retirement1. Travel offseason (cheaper, less crowded, less stressful) 2. Choose secondary destinations – same, slower pace, etc. 3. Talk to strangers 4. Focus on a few things 5. Stay at least three nights in each place 6. Be ready to improvise

A recession could upend plans for people approaching retirement. Taking these steps can help, experts say1. Review allocation – risk level correct 2. Consider your sources of income and their security

The Crushing Financial Burden of Aging at Home1. The cost of in-home care is surging 2. In-home workers are hard to find 3. Implications on freedom for spouses etc.

A ‘ticking time bomb’ could decimate your retirement savings, tax expert says* Ed Slot book * The single greatest threat to retirement dreams is future taxes * Large pre-tax accounts and RMDs * Great way to get clicks and sell books, but I wouldn’t call it a bomb * Is something you should think about and plan for * Many advisors take this too far, mostly because it allows them to sell you things.

Solving the Mystery of an Investment That’s Too Good to Be True* Too good to be true, then it probably is * Despite regulation, there are still a lot of bad actors and misleading claims

The Keys to Aging at Home? Frank Conversations and Financial Planning* Surveys show 77% of current retirees want to stay in their homes * Making sure that will work requires planning * Frank conversations about money and things like inheritance * Prepare the home ahead of time * Smart home features, lighting, stairs vs. ramps, etc. * Financial planning around how to get it done is key

5 Critical Financial Steps to Take Before You Retire1. What role will work play 2. Social Security Planning 3. Retirement Income Style 1. Stability vs Variability 4. Practice spending before retiring 1. Spendthrift vs Tightwad 5. The last step is to structure your portfolio for retirement 1. Strategic Derisking 2. Cash buckets

We dreamed of spending our retirement on epic road trips. After buying an RV backfired, we made a better plan.* A couple who went out and bought a Van for road trips. They ended up hating it and now travel on cheap hotel/AirBnbs * The moral of the story is rent and try before you buy.

Worried about outliving your savings? How to plan your retirement withdrawal strategy in 4 smart steps* Rule of thumbs for withdrawals + Take your RMDs + Withdrawal from taxable accounts + Tap into your tax-deferred savings + Use your ROTH accounts * Factors to consider + Current and future tax brackets + Retirement goals + Market Volatility

Don’t forget to check out the articles David Shotwell has written for The Street. Find them HERE

ConclusionThanks for tuning in to this episode of Retirement Headlines! Have thoughts or questions about what we discussed? We’d love to hear from you.

Send an email to info@srbadvisors.com or call 517-321-4832

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more insights and personalized advice. Book a call with one of our retirement advisors today to ensure you’re on the right track for a secure and enjoyable retirement.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

In this episode we explore the latest developments in retirement planning, focusing on the implications of recent Federal Reserve actions and how they affect cash strategies for retirees. Join us as we break down the key points and provide practical advice for navigating these changes.

https://youtu.be/u6EUjgp20tM

Key Points CoveredInterest Rate Changes Federal Reserve Rate Cut: + The Federal Reserve has reduced interest rates by half a percent, marking a significant shift after a prolonged period of no rate changes. + Understanding the impact of this rate cut on the economy and individual financial strategies is crucial. * Market Reactions*: + The stock market responded positively to the rate cut, indicating investor confidence in the Fed’s approach to stimulating the economy. + The Fed’s intention is to avoid triggering a recession by lowering rates, even at the risk of reigniting inflation.

Cash Management Strategies Long-Term Strategy: + Despite the rate cut, it’s essential not to change your long-term cash strategy based solely on short-term interest rate fluctuations. + Cash should be allocated based on spending needs, not temporary interest rate changes. * Cash Allocation: + Determine the amount of cash you need based on immediate and near-term spending requirements. + Maintain an emergency fund and allocate money for any expenses anticipated in the next one to two years. * Avoiding Common Pitfalls*: + Don’t chase marginally higher interest rates by frequently moving cash between savings accounts or CDs. + Be cautious of reaching for yield and understand the risks associated with higher-yield investments.

Economic Insights Neutral Rate: + The concept of the neutral rate, where interest rates neither stimulate nor slow down the economy, remains elusive and subject to change. + The Federal Reserve’s actions are data-dependent, and future rate adjustments will be based on economic indicators. * Historical Perspective*: + Interest rate changes are part of the normal economic cycle, and it’s important not to overreact to short-term fluctuations. + Historical context helps in understanding current market dynamics and making informed decisions.

Practical Advice Investment Caution: + Avoid making impulsive investment decisions based on short-term market movements. + Maintain a balanced approach to investing, keeping in mind your long-term financial goals and risk tolerance. * Emergency Funds*: + Preserve your emergency fund for unexpected expenses and avoid using it for speculative investments.

ConclusionNavigating the complexities of retirement planning and interest rate changes requires a steady hand and a long-term perspective. Always base your financial decisions on solid strategies rather than reacting to market hype.

For personalized advice and deeper insights, consider consulting with a financial advisor who can help tailor your retirement plan to your specific needs.

Call to ActionDon’t miss out on future episodes—subscribe to Kitchen Table Finance now to stay updated on the latest financial insights and strategies. For more in-depth guidance, book a consultation with our expert advisors today.

Feel free to shoot us an email at info@srbadvisors.com

In this episode, we tackle the alarming rise of investment fraud targeting retirees. Cole Willams joins us again to discuss the increasing prevalence of scams, driven by economic hardships and advanced AI technologies, and offer practical advice on protecting your finances from fraudulent schemes.

https://youtu.be/YYx4DuWWkBg

Key Points CoveredIntroduction to Investment Fraud* The Internet age has brought numerous types of scams and fraud. * Retirees are targeted more frequently than other demographics. * The importance of discussing these issues to prevent financial loss.

Common types of fraud include:

Cryptocurrency
Foreign exchange
Guaranteed buyback
Precious metals
Commodities trading
Real estate

Current Fraud Statistics* A recent Federal Trade Commission report shows 2.6 million fraud reports with $10 billion in reported losses in 2023. * Economic hardships and advancements in AI contribute to the rise in fraud cases.

AI’s Role in Modern Scams* AI tools like ChatGPT can generate convincing scam scripts, eliminating the telltale signs of broken English. * AI can also create realistic fake voices, making phone scams more convincing. * Example of Google AI’s ability to conduct natural conversations, highlighting the new risks.

Political Donation Fraud* Scammers use AI to impersonate well-known political figures, such as President Trump, to solicit donations. * Tips to avoid fraud: verify legitimacy by calling official numbers or donating through trusted channels.

General Scammer Tactics* Pressure tactics: creating a sense of urgency to act immediately. * Emotional manipulation to get victims to act against their better judgment. * Importance of recognizing these tactics to avoid falling victim.

Identifying Common Scams* Scams often involve threats of legal trouble or promises of prizes that require immediate action. * Legitimate organizations will never pressure you to act within a short timeframe.

The Scale of Modern Scamming* Scamming has evolved into a multi-billion dollar global industry, with organized call centers and advanced technology. * Understanding the organized nature of these operations can help potential victims stay vigilant.

Why Retirees are Targeted* Older individuals are often seen as easier targets due to cognitive decline and greater wealth. * Younger people are also falling victim, indicating that fraud is a risk for all age groups.

Tips for Protecting Yourself* Be cautious of unsolicited calls and emails. * Verify information by calling official numbers. * Avoid sharing personal information with unknown callers or online sources. * Check credentials + Brokercheck.finra.org + Adviserinfo.sec.gov * Look for transparency * Take your time * Get a reality check * Know your limitations

Resources5 Ways to Prevent Elder Financial Exploitation

Americans Reported Losing a Record $10 Billion to Scams and Fraud in 2023

Thinking Ahead Roadmap OrganizationAARP Scam Map

ConclusionInvestment fraud is a growing concern, especially for retirees. By understanding the tactics used by scammers and staying vigilant, you can protect your hard-earned savings. For more detailed advice and personalized guidance, consider consulting with a financial planner.

Stay informed and protect your investments. Subscribe to our podcast for more tips on safeguarding your financial future. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts.

517-321-4832info@srbadvisors.comThank You for Listening!Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and provide valuable information to protect your financial well-being. Check out our YouTube Channel HERE

In this episode, we tackle the complex world of student loans and how to help your kids make informed decisions about their educational financing. From the intricacies of different loan types to the pressing issue of loan forgiveness, join us as we break down what every parent and student should know. Cole Williams, our newest associate advisor joins Nick to lend his unique perspective.

https://youtu.be/zBYZcoSJ2D4

Introduction Newsworthy Topic: + Student loans have been a hot topic due to discussions around loan forgiveness. + The Supreme Court’s involvement has added a layer of complexity. * Relevance to Financial Planning*: + Many parents juggle retirement planning with their children’s education expenses. + Student loans are a significant part of financial planning for families.

Types of Student Loans Subsidized Loans: Interest payments are covered while the student is in school if certain criteria are met (GPA, credits). * Unsubsidized Loans: Interest accrues while the student is in school, making them less favorable. * Parent PLUS Loans: Parents are the primary party responsible for repayment—not just co-signers. * Private Loans*: Options like SOFI, often used for graduate school, but come with different terms and interest rates.

Student Loan Strategy Debt-to-Income Ratio: Aim for student loan debt to be less than or equal to the average starting salary of the chosen career field. * Long-Term Implications*: + Consider future income and career stability when taking out loans. + Be cautious of accumulating too much debt, as it may not be sustainable over a long period.

Loan Forgiveness and Repayment Plans Income-Driven Repayment Plans: Payments based on income, with potential for forgiveness after 20-25 years of consistent payments. * Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Forgiveness after 10 years (120 qualifying payments) for those working in public service or non-profits. * SAVE Plan*: A newer plan in the news, based on paying 5% of income, with remaining debt forgiven after 10 years if under specified repayment thresholds.

The Reality of Loan Forgiveness Uncertainty: Legal and political factors can affect eligibility and timelines for loan forgiveness programs. * Commitment*: Importance of a solid plan for consistent payments and understanding the long-term commitment.

Practical Advice for Parents and Students Early Planning: Discuss financial implications before committing to loans. + Aim to keep debt manageable relative to expected income. * Avoid Bankruptcy Misconceptions: Student loans are generally not dischargeable through bankruptcy. * Refinancing Options*: Refinancing can offer better rates but comes with different terms and conditions.

ConclusionUnderstanding student loans is crucial for both parents and students. With the right information and planning, you can make informed decisions that won’t burden you financially in the long run. Stay tuned for more insights and expert advice on managing your finances.

Contact Us!Are you looking for solid retirement planning advice? Reach out to Dave and Nick, hosts of the Kitchen Table Finance Podcast and certified financial advisors. They specialize in navigating unique benefit plans and can help you capitalize on all opportunities available through your investments. Find out if you’re getting everything you could be with your financial plan.

info@srbadvisors.com or call 517-321-4832

Feel free to share this episode with anyone who might benefit from our discussion. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Kitchen Table Finance Podcast for more tips and strategies on financial planning!

Thank you for tuning in!

Welcome back to another installment of Retirement Headlines with your hosts, Dave and Nick! In this episode, we provide an overview of the articles we’ve been reading, offering insights to help listeners understand what’s happening in the retirement landscape.

https://youtu.be/YD9N_G8JGos

*Wall Street Journal Article on Umbrella Insurance*Overview**: Insurance coverage is changing, particularly with umbrella insurance.

*Key Points*:

Umbrella insurance is personal liability insurance that covers beyond your auto and home insurance.
Inflation has increased the size of claims, making umbrella insurance more necessary.
Premiums for umbrella policies are rising due to increased claims.
Example discussed: $250,000 liability coverage on auto insurance is often insufficient.
*Yoters’ Series on Retirement Health*Overview**: The Yoters, former financial writers, are documenting their retirement.

*Key Points*:

Focus on maintaining health during retirement.
Discussion about the book “Outlive” by Peter Attia.
Importance of preventing long-term health issues to enjoy retirement.
The concept of “The Lost Decade” where health issues can diminish the quality of life.
*Retirement Savings Rule Changes*Overview**: Changes to retirement savings rules as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

*Key Points*:

New rules affecting Roth contributions and required minimum distributions (RMDs).
Penalties for missed RMDs will be reduced from 50% to 10%.
Discussion on whether this change will lead to stricter enforcement of penalties.
*The Resurgence of the 60/40 Portfolio*Overview**: According to Morningstar, the 60/40 portfolio is making a comeback.

*Key Points*:

Despite market fluctuations, the balanced 60/40 portfolio (60% stocks, 40% bonds) remains effective.
Historical context and recent performance validating the portfolio strategy.
Importance of sticking to tried-and-true investment principles.
*60/40 Portfolio and the 4% Withdrawal Rate*Overview**: Examination of the sustainability of the 60/40 portfolio with a 4% withdrawal rate.

*Key Points*:

Wall Street Journal article discusses potential risks.
Discussion on market conditions and investor behavior.
Importance of flexibility and adaptability in retirement planning.

Additional Articles Discussed in this EpisodeWhy Retirees and Investors Approaching Retirement Should Reduce Risk TodayShopping for a used car? Why now may be the time to buy.How to Plan for Retirement if You’re Behind on Saving in Middle AgeHow to Predict a RecessionWhy Investors Missed Out on 15% of Total Fund ReturnsA Time-Honored Strategy Puts Your Retirement at Risk of Financial RuinConclusionThanks for tuning in to this episode of Retirement Headlines! Have thoughts or questions about what we discussed? We’d love to hear from you.

Send an email to info@srbadvisors.com or call 517-321-4832

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more insights and personalized advice. Book a call with one of our retirement advisors today to ensure you’re on the right track for a secure and enjoyable retirement.

IntroductionWelcome to another episode of the Kitchen Table Finance Podcast! In this episode, Dave and Nick are joined by our newest associate advisor, Cole Williams. Today, we’re diving deep into making smart housing decisions during retirement—a topic that’s crucial for anyone looking to secure their financial future.

https://youtu.be/xOidCd80wm4

Key Points Covered:1. *Current and Historical Housing Market Overview** Comparison of current interest rates with those from the 70s and 80s. * Analysis of consumer sentiment on whether it’s a good time to buy a house, contrasting the 1980s and today. * Discussion on the affordability and availability of homes now versus the past.

*Interest Rates and Inventory Issues** Examination of why current higher interest rates still fall within historical norms.
The significant inventory problem today is due to fewer new builds and low homeowner mobility.
*Economic Impact on Retirement** How the Baby Boomer generation’s housing decisions have influenced personal finances.
The ongoing debate on whether owning a home remains the bedrock of wealth.
*Renting vs. Buying in the Current Market** Comparison of average costs between renting and buying.
The hidden costs of homeownership versus renting.
The potential financial advantages of renting and reallocating savings.
*Market Dynamics and Investment Trends** The rise of short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO.
Impact of large investment banks and hedge funds entering the real estate market.
Political and economic factors influencing housing market trends.
*Advice for Retirees** Practical advice for retirees considering downsizing or relocating.
How to capitalize on the current market to maximize financial gains from homeownership.

ConclusionMaking informed housing decisions in retirement can significantly impact your financial health. Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or renting, understanding the market dynamics and economic factors at play is essential.

Call to ActionDo you work for Michigan State University? Are you looking for solid retirement planning advice? Reach out to Dave and Nick, hosts of the Kitchen Table Finance podcast and certified financial advisors. They specialize in the unique benefit plans offered by MSU and how to capitalize on all you have available to you through your investments. Contact Shotwell Rutter Bear Financial Planners at SRBAdvisors.com, or simply search for the Kitchen Table Finance Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts.

Stay tuned for more insightful discussions, and don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for future episodes!

Episode Resources:* National Association of Realtors * Redfin Housing Market Data * Bankrate Mortgage Rates

Welcome to another episode of Kitchen Table Finance! Today, we have a very special guest, Scott de Varona, Division Director at MiABLE 529(a) Disability Savings Program & Student Loan Repayment Division. We discuss the groundbreaking MiABLE 529 disability savings program. If you’re curious about how this program can help individuals with disabilities achieve a better life experience, you’re in for a treat.

Key Points Covered What is ABLE?

ABLE stands for Achieving a Better Life Experience
Modeled after the 529 education savings program but focused on disability savings

According to their website, “ABLE is about Connecting People with Disabilities, their families, and those who support them to information about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act and ABLE accounts. Our mission is to educate, promote, and support the positive impact ABLE can make on the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities and their families.”

Check out Michigan plan information here.

https://youtu.be/K2KnCTw_mRw

Scott’s Journey:* Background in Medicaid and how it led him to ABLE * Initial challenges and steps in setting up the ABLE program

The Importance of AwarenessCommon Misconceptions:

Lack of awareness in the disability community
Challenges in marketing to this unique population

Building Trust:

Partnering with service organizations and advocacy groups
Joint presentations with ISDs and other credible sources

Stephen Beck Jr. and the Origin of ABLE Accounts

Personal Story

Stephen Beck Jr.’s advocacy for his daughter with Down syndrome
Creation of the ABLE account to allow savings without losing benefits

Functionality and Benefits of ABLE Accounts

Ease of Setup: Simple online setup via https://www.ablenrc.org/

Key Advantages:

Savings not counting against the $2,000 asset limit for benefit eligibility
Various allowable expenses, from housing to transportation

Contribution Limits: Up to $18,000 per year (subject to IRS changes)

Wide Range of Uses: Education, housing, transportation, medical expenses, and more

Why ABLE Accounts Matter

Empowerment: Providing financial independence to individuals with disabilities and encouraging smart financial decisions without penalty

ConclusionThis episode sheds light on how ABLE is revolutionizing financial planning for individuals with disabilities. Scott de Varona’s insights make it clear that ABLE accounts are a game-changer, offering a better life experience through financial empowerment.

Ready to learn more? Visit ABLE to explore how you or a loved one can benefit from an ABLE account. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights and inspiring stories!

Connect with Us* Follow Kitchen Table Finance on YouTube * Email us your questions and feedback at info@srbadvisors.com

Guest InformationScott de Varona, Executive Director at ABLE

Mission: Encourage and assist the saving of private funds to help persons with disabilities cover costs that support their health, independence, and quality of life.

Website
LinkedIn
Michigan plan information is here: https://savewithable.com/mi/home.html

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your network.

Join Dave and Nick as they explore strategies to manage market volatility during retirement. Drawing on behavioral finance principles, they provide practical advice to help you stay the course in turbulent times.

Key Topics Discussed Market Volatility: The episode begins by discussing recent shifts in market sentiment, highlighting a 6.5% drop in the S&P 500. The hosts explain how quickly investor attitudes can change and the role media plays in amplifying these emotions. * Retirement Preparedness: Understanding how to cope with market fluctuations is crucial for those approaching or in retirement. Dave and Nick discuss the importance of long-term planning and keeping a focused eye on retirement goals despite short-term market movements. * Behavioral Finance*: Behavioral finance offers insights into why we react emotionally to market changes. The hosts recommend “The Hour Between Wolf and Dog,” a book exploring the science behind our physiological responses.

Episode Highlights Coping with Volatility: Volatility is an unavoidable part of financial markets, akin to birthday celebrations—they happen regularly. Dave and Nick stress the importance of preparing for emotional responses during market downturns. * The Role of the Media: The hosts caution against overreacting to sensationalized news headlines, which often focus on worst-case scenarios. Instead, they advise taking a step back to assess the bigger picture and maintain a long-term investment mindset. * Reality Testing and Diversification: By revisiting financial plans and maintaining diverse portfolios, investors can better manage anxiety and avoid panic-driven decisions. Dave and Nick remind listeners that not all investments are affected equally by market changes. * Economic Perspectives*: The episode concludes with a discussion on broader economic impacts, reminding listeners that financial markets are rarely zero-sum games. Even in times of uncertainty, there are always opportunities to be found.

ResourcesThe Hour Between Dog and Wolf: How Risk Taking Transforms Us, Body and Mind by John Coates

The Power of Investing During Down Markets by David Shotwell

Market Volatility Survival Guide

Do you have investment or retirement questions? We’d love to chat with you. Please send an email to info@srbadvisors.com or call 517-321-4832.

Do you work for MSU?Are you affiliated with Michigan State University and seeking expert retirement planning advice? Reach out to Dave and Nick, your hosts and certified financial advisors. They specialize in benefit plans tailored to your unique situation.

For more insights and practical advice on navigating retirement with confidence, subscribe to the Kitchen Table Finance podcast and join our community of informed investors!

The Hour Between Dog and Wolf: How Risk Taking Transforms Us, Body and Mind

Welcome back to our much-anticipated June 2024 edition of “Retirement Planning Headlines,” where we save you the hassle of combing through endless financial articles. Sometimes even our listeners chime in with topics for our deep-dive discussions.

https://youtu.be/v182Ah4aRPA

Articles Discussed in this EpisodeLessons From Another ‘Faux-tirement’* Christine Benz on using her sabbatical six weeks to see what retirement might be like

The Money Habits I Learned From My Parents—for Better or Worse* Learning by watching * Unlearning some lessons * “Money Scripts” – Klontz

Quiet Compounding* Stories of a country bumpkin with no education and a low-wage job to save tens of millions + Their entire financial universe was contained to the walls of their home, which allowed them to play their own game and be guided by nothing other than their own goals. That was their superpower. It was their only financial skill, but it’s the most powerful one of all. * People become so nervous about what other people think of their lifestyle and investing decisions that they end up doing two things: Performing for others and copying a strategy that might work for someone else but isn’t right for you. + Two ways to use money. - Tool to live a better life - The yardstick of success is to measure yourself against other people * What does quit compounding mean? + Emphasis on internal vs. external benchmarks + Acceptance of how different people are, and a realization that what works for me might not work for you and vice versa + A focus on independence over social dunking + Focus on long-term endurance over short-term comparison

Don’t Be a Victim: Financial Abuse of Seniors – How to Spot Scams & Protect Yourself* From Sandy Adams, whom we know from Michigan FPA * Good guidelines for seniors

A Bucket List for Our Retirement? No Thanks* I Would rather revisit places I have already been and reconnect with people I knew long ago

Will You Need Permission to Spend in Retirement?* Consider an annuity

Research from David Blanchett and Michael Finke suggests that retirees who hold a higher percentage of their wealth in guaranteed income spend more than retirees whose wealth consists of non annuitized assets

Tilt portfolio toward current income production
Tie portfolio withdrawals to portfolio performance
Plan for spending to trend down
Ask an Advisor to Dole it Out

Tightwads and spendthrifts: An interdisciplinary review* Everyone experiences the pain of paying * People who don’t experience enough pain- Spendthrifts * People who experience too much pain – tightwads + Neither are happy with how they handle money

Here’s the deflation breakdown for June 2024 — in one chartConclusionHave you come across any articles you have questions about or would like to hear us discuss? Send them our way at info@srbadvisors.com

Remember to subscribe and follow our podcast for monthly updates packed with practical advice to guide you through your financial future with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned and stay informed!

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of target date funds—a topic we’ve touched on before but never explored in-depth. Inspired by a recent article that sparked some frustration, we discuss the pros and cons of these investment tools.

https://youtu.be/SY1rkeJxeK0

Here are the main points we cover:

*Overview of Target Date Funds*:

Target date funds are investment tools designed to optimize your retirement savings by automatically adjusting the asset allocation as you approach your retirement date.

What Makes Target Date Funds Special? Personal Choices and Understanding: Just like any other investment, target date funds can be beneficial if used correctly. It’s crucial to understand what you’re investing in to make the most of these funds. * A One-Fund Solution*: These funds are designed to be a singular solution for retirement savings, adjusting risk levels as you near retirement.

Practical Use Case Real-Life Examples*: We discuss how people often choose the wrong target date fund due to misunderstandings about their retirement timeline.

The Pros of Target Date Funds Simplicity: One of the standout benefits is the simplicity they offer. You don’t have to worry about asset allocation—the fund managers do it for you. * Diversification: These funds tend to be highly diversified, covering various asset classes, which can often include assets unavailable in standard 401(k) plans. * Cost-Effective: Many target date funds are inexpensive, especially those based on index funds. * Automatic Rebalancing*: The fund managers take care of rebalancing, ensuring your portfolio remains aligned with your retirement goals.

The Cons of Target Date Funds One-Size-Fits-All Approach*: While these funds simplify investing, they also operate on a one-size-fits-all basis, which may not suit everyone’s individual financial situation.

ConclusionWhile target date funds offer numerous benefits, they are not without their drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about your retirement planning.

Additional ResourcesFor more insights into target date funds and how they can fit into your retirement plan, check out this Vanguard guide on target date funds.

Feeling overwhelmed with retirement planning? Don’t worry, the right target date fund can simplify your path to a comfortable retirement. Tune in to our episode and learn how to make the most out of your investments. And if you liked this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review us on YouTube

Tune in to this episode for expert insights and practical tips to help you on your retirement planning journey.

517-321-4832info@srbadvisors.com

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the market trends and economic indicators of Q2 2024, along with our outlook for Q3. We discuss the overall market performance, the impact of tech stocks, bond market stability, and the intriguing dynamics of the international stock market. Additionally, we explore the implications of unemployment rates, inflation, and consumer behavior on the economy.

Key Points Discussed Market Overview: + The overall market has shown strong performance in 2024 so far. + The Russell All Cap Index increased by 3.2% for Q2 and 13.5% for the year. + The S&P 500 grew by 4.3% for the year, driven predominantly by tech stocks. + Large-cap growth index (tech stocks) surged by 8.3% for Q2 and over 20% for the year. * Tech Stocks Dominance: + A small subset of tech stocks significantly contributed to market gains. + Considerations for diversified portfolios and potential risks if these stocks lose momentum. * Bond Market: + Aggregate bond index showed slight growth (0.1%) for Q2. + Intermediate-term municipal bonds were the only negatively performing segment. + Positive yield curve trends signal a more normalized economic outlook. * International Stocks: + Developed market stocks (mainly European) slightly declined due to a strong dollar. + Emerging market stocks showed positive growth (5%) for Q2. * Economic Indicators: + Unemployment remains low, below 4% for 30 consecutive months, but showed a slight increase to 4.1% in June. + GDP continues to grow, signaling a robust economy. + Inflation shows signs of easing, with core goods experiencing price drops. * Stock Earnings: + The top ten S&P 500 stocks continue to deliver strong earnings. + Nvidia’s performance remains strong, defying expectations. + Consumer Behavior*: + Some concerns over elevated credit card and auto loan delinquencies. + Possible depletion of extra consumer savings from COVID-19 relief programs.

Positive Market Signals* Low unemployment rates. * Continued GDP growth. * Easing inflation rates. * Strong earnings from top stocks.

Areas of Concern* Potential cracks in consumer spending and elevated debt levels. * Inflation is still above the Fed’s long-term target of 2%.

Conclusion and OutlookWhile the market has shown remarkable resilience and growth in 2024, the dominance of a small number of tech stocks and potential consumer debt issues warrant cautious optimism. Inflation trends and unemployment rates will be key areas to watch as we move into Q3.

Call to ActionStay informed and make data-driven financial decisions. Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates and deeper insights into the market trends.

FeedbackWe’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Drop us a comment or email us at nfo@srbadvisors.com.

Follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways to invest right now.

If you have questions about this or any other topic, please email us at info@srbadvisors.com.

In this insightful episode, we explore the four fundamental principles to consider when planning your retirement investments. We break down the essential steps to ensure your financial security and peace of mind as you approach retirement. You can survive when the market twists and turns and throws you loose and you think that things are coming apart.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Key Highlights1. Expect a Balance Between Extremes Key Point: The worst-case and best-case scenarios are equally unlikely. * Discussion*: It’s important to remember that the truth will typically fall somewhere in the middle. Both the world and the markets have faced and survived numerous challenges. Pausing and reflecting on this can help mitigate fear and anxiety about future investments.

Tune Out the Noise Key Point*: Focus on your long-term plan and ignore short-term market fluctuations.
*Discussion*: When you hear negative news and feel emotional, it’s crucial to have a solid foundation of safe investments. This allows you to stay calm and collected about your long-term retirement account despite current events.
Growth Periods Always Outweighed The Bad Times Key Point:* Essentially, the average bear market runs about 14 months with 36 % declines, but the average bull market runs almost six years with a cumulative return of almost 200%.
Discussion: There are going to be bad times, but also there are some really good times. So don’t forget about those because that’s what drives the growth.
You Can’t Avoid Investment Risk and Expect Higher Returns Key Point*: The more risk you take with your portfolio the higher we expect your return to be over time.
*Discussion*: You can reduce your risk, you can hold more in cash, and you can mix more bonds into your portfolio, but you’ve got to expect then that your return will be lower over time.

Listener FeedbackWe encourage our listeners to reach out and share their experiences or questions about retirement investments. Email us at info@srbadvisors.com.

ConclusionPlanning for retirement can be daunting, but by adhering to these four principles, you’ll be well on your way to building a secure financial future. Stay informed, stay calm, and always keep a long-term perspective.

Thank you for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more expert advice and insights on retirement planning.

Maximizing College Savings with Diane Brewer of Michigan Education Trust

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we sit down with Diane Brewer, the Executive Director of the Michigan Education Trust (MET), to discuss the ins and outs of Michigan’s prepaid 529 college savings plan. Diane shares her invaluable insights from over two decades of experience helping families prepare for the financial challenges of higher education. From understanding the benefits of MET and MESP to exploring how these plans can work together, this episode is packed with practical advice for parents, grandparents, and students alike.

About *Diane Brewer*Executive Director, Michigan Education Trust

With over 20 years of dedicated service, Diane Brewer has been pivotal in guiding Michigan families through the complexities of college savings. Starting as a presenter and outreach specialist, Diane has helped countless parents and grandparents secure a brighter future for their students with minimal student debt.

Key Points and Highlights Understanding MET and MESP: + MET is specific to tuition, providing a prepaid option for college tuition. + MESP is broader, covering tuition, room and board, books, lab fees, and other college-related expenses. + In an ideal scenario, a student would benefit from both MET for tuition and MESP for additional costs. * Listen to Diane explain the tax advantages of using Michigan’s 529 plans. * Scholarship Exceptions: + MET funds can be used for purposes other than tuition in the case of a scholarship. * Flexibility and Choice: + Families have the freedom to choose between MET and MESP based on their budget and preferences. + Both MET and MESP offer the same tax benefits, making them valuable tools for college savings. * Resources and Support*: + Access logos and information for MET, MESP, and MAP on their respective websites. + Schedule one-on-one meetings with MET and MESP staff for personalized guidance. + Most processes can be completed online for convenience. * Diane emphasizes the ease of accessing these resources and the importance of staying informed.

Call-to-ActionReady to take the next step in securing your child’s educational future? Visit the Michigan Education Trust website to learn more about MET, MESP, and MAP. Book a one-on-one meeting with our experts and get started on your college savings journey today!

Bookmark the MET and MESP websites to stay up-to-date with the latest resources and updates.

Connect with Us* Follow us on Facebook and YouTube for the latest updates. * Join our community of empowered parents and students navigating the path to college savings together.

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Stay tuned for more dynamic and empowering episodes that make navigating the complexities of college savings a breeze!

In this episode, we explore various strategies to create a steady income stream in retirement, tailored to your unique financial situation and goals. We discuss when to take Social Security and dive into investment strategies that can help you maintain financial stability during your retirement years.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Key PointsSocial Security Timing Varied Advice: There is widespread advice online suggesting taking Social Security at 62, but this isn’t always the best strategy. * Advisor Perspectives: Many advisors recommend waiting longer, often until 70, to maximize benefits. * Personal Factors*: The decision should consider personal goals, longevity outlook, and risk tolerance.

Investment Strategy Asset Allocation: Determine an asset allocation that fits your risk tolerance and generates adequate returns over time. * Automated Distributions: Set up automated distributions from retirement funds to cover monthly income gaps. * Portfolio Management*: + Break the portfolio into a dozen or so funds, each with an assigned percentage. + Monthly assessments determine which funds are overweighted and should be sold first to generate necessary cash. + Contributions from interest and dividends also help create the cash needed for distributions.

Highlights Nuanced Decisions: The right timing for Social Security is nuanced and should be personalized. * Holistic Planning: Effective retirement planning involves balancing risk with returns and ensuring regular income. * Tactical Adjustments*: Regularly adjust your portfolio to maintain balance and meet income needs.

Ready to secure your financial future in retirement? Explore your personalized investment plan today.

ConclusionCreating a reliable income stream in retirement involves more than just following generic advice. By understanding your individual needs and making informed decisions about Social Security timing and investment strategies, you can achieve financial stability and peace of mind in your golden years. Tune in to this episode for expert insights and practical tips to help you on your retirement planning journey.

517-321-4832info@srbadvisors.com

Welcome back to our much-anticipated May 2024 edition of “Retirement Planning Headlines,” where we save you the hassle of combing through endless financial articles. This month, we’ve even had listeners chime in with topics for our deep-dive discussions.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Articles Discussed in this EpisodeHow Much Should You Spend on Vacation?* 5-10% of take-home pay on Vacations * Never go into debt to pay for vacation * Beware of luxury creep and entitlement creep * Don’t get caught up in Instagram vacations * Don’t be a vacation scrooge

Is planning for age 95 longevity overkill?* How long should you plan to live in retirement? * The industry practice of planning to 95 but a new report shows most people won’t reach this age + The report notes that “for the almost 30 percent of the 65-plus population with diabetes, there is less than a one percent chance they will reach 95 + a typical 65-year-old man with no chronic conditions, there is only a 19.3 percent chance of living to 95. A 65-year-old with high blood pressure has slimmer odds, with a 17.5 percent chance of living for another 30 years. + Plan to 95 and live to 86 could potentially spend an additional $447,000 * How to think about planning to 95 + Family health history + Your health condition + Making adjustments along the way + Risk profile + Legacy goals

Retiring Early Is Your Dream. 7 Steps to Make It Come True.Steps to Weigh Early Retirement Decisions

Understand the why
Play devils advocate
Crunch the numbers
Plan ahead
Social security considerations
Factor in healthcare costs
Consider part-time work

‘What Was I Thinking?’ The Big-Ticket Items People Regret* Rolex * Vacation home on land not owned * RVs * Clothing salesman with a $1,800 cover-up

The Downside of Delayed Gratification* Research shows that if we decide not to use something (delayed gratification) the possession will feel more special * Can lead to us not using at all or delaying too long instead of embracing the moment. * The big takeaway is that delayed gratification isn’t always the answer * The kids with the marshmallows! (shout out to Daniel Kahneman!) + All the kids that were able to delay gratification DID SOMETHING to distract themselves

How Much Happiness Can Your Salary Buy? Researchers Can’t Agree* Money buys happiness. With diminishing returns. And no magic number + Money buys happiness - Money matters for happiness, but not enormously - It isn’t what money buys, but the choices it affords + Diminishing returns - As income increases, each dollar makes less of a difference in happiness - More about % change than $ amount + Magic number - There is no magic number ($75,000 or $110,000 in today’s dollars) * Not a refutation of the underlying premise, but it does bring up nuances to the argument ($75k is an oversimplification)

Ugh. Do I Really Need a New Roof Right Now?* Interesting for the topic, but also the philosophy + Roofs can last longer than conventional wisdom, but the range is huge and depends on the environment, how it was installed, etc. * The columnist had a roof leak + Paid a roof inspector -and was told $2500 for a repair + Also got an opinion from a roofing contractor – $18,000 * Paying for the inspection was well worth it

$2 Million Is Nothing’ Suze Orman Warns Don’t Retire If You Don’t Have At Least $5 Million Or $10 Million Saved* What she got wrong + Dollar amounts apply differently to different people * What she got right + Longer retirements mean more things will change so proceed with caution

HOW MUCH IS A MEMORY WORTH?* How do we value our memories? Can we value them? * With the benefit of hindsight, how much would I pay for that same trip knowing how much I value the memories? * Memories of experiences tend to increase in value over time – even if the experience doesn’t last long. A concert, for example, may only last a few hours. * Physical “Stuff” tends to last longer (gadgets, jewelry, toys), but the value usually decreases over time. * EVEN NEGATIVE EXPERIENCES CAN HAVE VALUE * Experiences are shared, and things are compared * Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, and Duke University professor, recommends some variety and doing something to make the memory more intense. + For example, add adventure into a relaxing beach vacation – Kiteboarding + The takeaway: If we want to consciously create a lasting memory, choose a unique (variety), exciting (intense) event that you already have an understanding or interest in.

Stock Investors Have Already Won the Election* John Rekenthaler @ Morning Star * Regardless of the election outcome, “Stock investors have already won” * Notes that neither party nor candidate is inclined to really alter the economic system, which has been good for stocks * Much concern coming out of the financial crisis (anti-capitalist sentiment from both sides, more regulation, Occupy Wall Street) but largely faded * Both sides talk about change + Democrats – regulation, redistribution + Republicans – antiregulation, free markets * Neither does much to really alter the landscape * “In short, there are plenty of reasons to sweat the upcoming election.” + Social issues, immigration, foreign policy, etc. + The stock market is not one of them

Remember to subscribe and follow our podcast for monthly updates packed with practical advice to guide you through your financial future with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned and stay informed!

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we tackle the pressing issue of rising insurance rates with our special guest, Ben Rathbun. Ben is the President and CEO of Rathbun Insurance Agency, an independent agency with over 68 years of history. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help us understand what’s happening in the insurance market and why rates are going up.

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Key Discussion Points* Introduction to Ben Rathbun and the Rathbun Agency * Understanding the current insurance market landscape * Key factors driving up insurance rates * The role of risk management in insurance * Practical tips on how to manage and mitigate insurance costs * The importance of educating customers about their insurance policies

Guest SpeakerBen RathbunBen Rathbun is the President and CEO of Rathbun Insurance Agency. With a legacy that spans over six decades, Rathbun Insurance prides itself on being an education-centric company that helps clients understand and manage their insurance needs.

Quotes from the Episode1. “Everyone has to buy insurance, but who do people buy insurance from? People they like and people who educate them.” 2. “We consider ourselves very much an education company that happens to sell insurance.” 3. “It’s not my job just to sell you a policy. It’s also to help you understand your exposure and how to protect yourself.”

Call to ActionIf you’re looking for advice on managing your insurance in these challenging times, don’t miss this episode with Ben Rathbun. Listen now and gain valuable insights on how to protect yourself and your assets.

Subscribe to our podcast for more expert insights on managing your finances and staying ahead in the market.

Connect with Us Website * Instagram: @shotwell_rutter_baer * Facebook: @SRBAdvisors * LinkedIn * YouTube: @shotwellrutterbaer*

Connect with Ben Rathbun Website * LinkedIn*

Don’t forget to leave us a review and share this episode with anyone who might find it helpful. Thank you for listening!

Welcome to another episode of Kitchen Table Finance, where we dive deep into financial strategies to help you make the most out of your retirement. In today’s episode, we’re tackling a common question: “Should I put everything into CDs or bonds when I retire?”

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Episode Highlights*The Common Misconception*

Many retirees think, “I’m retiring, so I should put everything in CDs or bonds to avoid risk.”
While CDs and bonds are safer investments, there’s a more strategic way to use them in your retirement plan.

*Proper Use of CDs and Bonds*

CDs and bonds are indeed useful for retirement, but they should be part of a larger, diversified strategy.
We discuss how to balance these safe investments with other asset classes to optimize your retirement portfolio.

*Understanding Cash Investments*

Despite being considered straightforward, many people struggle with understanding how CDs, money markets, and cash investments fit into their overall financial picture.
We explore how the current high-yield environment for cash investments is an anomaly and how to navigate it.

*Historical Context*

Reflecting on how discussions around cash investments have evolved over the past decade.
Current opportunities: High-yield savings accounts offering 5% returns and how they impact your decisions.

*Practical Advice*

Cash is ideal for contingency funds or planned expenses within the next 12-36 months.
Just because you hit retirement doesn’t mean you should put all your money into low-risk investments.
Long-term retirement income should include a mix of assets to ensure growth and sustainability over 20-30 years or more.

*Interesting Tidbits*

Did you know there’s a bank offering a 100-year CD? What does that mean for you?

Key Takeaways* Diversification remains crucial even in retirement; don’t put all your eggs in one basket. * Utilize CDs and bonds as part of a broader strategy to balance safety and growth. * Stay informed about the current market environment and adjust your investments accordingly.

Call to ActionEnjoying our insights? Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for more valuable tips on managing your finances. Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Leave a comment or reach out to us directly—we’d love to hear from you!

Connect With UsFollow us on social media to stay updated with our latest episodes and exclusive content. Don’t forget to share this episode with friends and family who might find it useful!

Tune in next week as we continue to explore effective strategies for a secure and prosperous retirement!

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Kitchen Table Finance podcast! In this episode, Dave and Nick dive deep into the intricate world of relocating during retirement, examining how recent economic shifts have impacted this significant life decision.

Key Discussion Points:1. *Changing Landscape of Real Estate: * Nick and Dave discuss how the real estate market has evolved post-pandemic. While interest rates were historically low, they have since risen, creating a unique set of challenges and opportunities for retirees considering relocation. * The unexpected resilience of the property market despite rising interest rates, and how this affects decisions around selling and buying homes. 2. Interest Rates and Their Impact: * Insights into why some homeowners are hesitant to sell their properties with low-interest mortgages, seeing them as valuable financial assets in the current economic climate. * The Wall Street Journal’s perspective on low-interest mortgages as strong-performing financial assets. 3. Traditional vs. Modern Retirement Housing Trends: * How the conventional approach to retirement—selling a larger family home and downsizing—has become less straightforward in today’s economy. * The scarcity of smaller, single-story homes suitable for retirees compared to the abundance of large-family homes built over the past two decades. 4. The Double Squeeze: * Analysis of the dual pressure on the market for smaller homes: retirees looking to downsize and millennials seeking starter homes. This has led to increased competition and higher prices for such properties. * The interplay between an aging population’s housing needs and the influx of younger buyers into the market. 5. Financial and Emotional Considerations: * Relocating during retirement is not just a financial decision but also an emotional and practical one. The challenges include navigating the housing market and dealing with the stress and logistical aspects of moving. * Dave’s observation: If relocating during retirement were purely a financial calculus, the decision might often be to stay put. However, the reality involves more nuanced personal and emotional factors. 6. Practical Tips for Prospective Retirees*: * Nick and Dave share practical advice for those considering relocation in retirement, including how to evaluate the pros and cons, plan for the financial implications, and manage the emotional aspects of such a significant life change.

ConclusionIf you found this episode valuable and want to explore more about managing your finances during retirement, don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast! For personalized advice and insights, join our community by signing up for our newsletter at srbadvisors.com.

Stay Connected:Thank you for tuning into the “Kitchen Table Finance” podcast. We’re here to help you navigate your journey toward a financially secure and fulfilling retirement. Until next time, stay informed and stay empowered!

Welcome back to our much-anticipated April 2024 edition of “Retirement Planning Headlines,” where we save you the hassle of combing through endless financial articles. This month, we’ve even had listeners chime in with topics for our deep-dive discussions.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Articles Discussed in this Episode5 Investing Mistakes Anyone Can Make | Morningstar

“Do as I say Not as I do” by Christine Benz
Where she falls short of following the advice she knows and often gives
- Too much cash, too few bonds, slow to make contributions, too much employer stock

The New Math of Driving Your Car Till The Wheels Fall Off

With the cost of car ownership going up the case for driving a car until the wheels fall off has grown stronger
US vehicle average hit a record high of 12.5 years in 2023 – increasing for the sixth straight year
Newer models have become expensive to repair
Unloading your vehicle when repair costs 10% more than what you would pay for a new one.

Americans can’t stop ‘spaving’ — here’s how to avoid this financial trap

Spending more to save more – Spaving
- This can lead to excessive spending
  - Examples:
    - Limited time deal
    - Buy one get one free
    - Free shipping after spending a certain amount
- Spaving is us justifying our desire to buy more – Klontz
  - Teams of scientists have figured out how to extract more money from you
Ways to Avoid
- Quiet the noise – delete shopping apps and unsubscribe from newsletters
- Pay with Cash – Less likely to part with dollars
- Do the math –
- Steer clear of temptation –
  - order online instead of browsing in-store.
  - Don’t go to the grocery store hungry
- Create shopping “hurdles”
  - Delete payment details to make purchasing harder
  - Don’t create accounts buy as a guest
- Set time rules
  - 24-hour rules

DWS – Lots of bad math, too… retailers just re-word how they are pricing to make it seem like a deal

Managing Health Care Costs in Retirement

Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Boost your retirement savings
Utilize a Health Savings Account
Consider your retirement age
1. 62 vs 65
Live like you are already retired

DWS – Charlie Munger:

“Nobody survives open heart surgery better than the guy who didn’t need the procedure in the first place.”

Men Who Are Truly Happy In Their Retirement Usually Adopt These Daily Habits

As author Ethan Sterling puts it:

You see, happiness in retirement isn’t about having a bulging bank account or an endless holiday. It’s about how you live your everyday life. Here’s what he found in men who successfully retired

Embrace routine
Stay active
Keep Learning
Stay socially connected
Practice mindfulness
Cherish their relationships
Make time for self-care
Embrace change
Live with gratitude

Retirement Age 65, Most Workers Retire at 62

Most Americans believe they will work until age 65
Research shows that the majority step back from work far earlier, and not by choice
- The median age is 62
- 7-10 stopped working before 65
- 1/3 cited health issues or disability
- Only 2 in 5 did so because they could afford it

Where to Stash Your Cash

Consider liquidity, convenience, safety

4 Finacial Worries to Cross Off Your List

Take things that might happen but are remote possibilities off the list of things you worry about:
- Estate tax
- Gift tax
- That you’ll need hard assets to buy things (economic death spiral)
- That the government will start taxing Roth IRAs
General takeaway: if it requires everything to go badly at once, or (like tax changes) political willpower to hurt the bulk of the American middle class, take it off the list. Also if it requires extreme irreversible actions (like fancy trust to avoid estate tax or buying physical gold)

Remember to subscribe and follow our podcast for monthly updates packed with practical advice to guide you through your financial future with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned and stay informed!

Join Nick and Dave as they discuss concerns around geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, inflation, corporate earnings, and other issues that have led to a market decline, pushing the VIX index of stock market volatility to its highest level in six months.

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After a historically strong start to the year, markets have now pulled back 2.5% to begin the second quarter. In times of market stress, investors need to maintain perspective on critical issues and not overreact to headlines. How can investors understand and weather this period of market volatility?

Rising geopolitical tensions add to market uncertaintyFirst, tensions escalated in the Middle East due to an attack by Iran on Israel, the first time a direct strike has occurred between the two nations. The attack involved hundreds of drones and missiles launched from Iran and appears to have been designed to allow ample time for Israel and its allies to deploy countermeasures, resulting in minimal damage. While it’s uncertain how Israel might respond to this shot across its bow, many hope that both nations will show restraint and avoid an overt conflict.

These latest developments only add to geopolitical concerns around the world. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas only a year and a half later have already destabilized Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Without diminishing the tragic loss of life and destruction from these conflicts, investors must weigh how such events might impact the global economy, markets, and their portfolios.

Geopolitical headlines can be alarming to investors since they are unlike the typical flow of business and market news. These events are difficult to analyze and their outcomes are challenging to predict since they depend on the actions of individuals and groups with complex histories and motivations.

However, history shows that while geopolitics can impact markets, the effects are typically short-lived. The accompanying chart highlights market returns following major geopolitical events this century. Some events, such as 9/11, changed the world order and had long-lasting effects, even though it was primarily the dot-com bust that led to poor market performance. Other events, such as the war in Ukraine, resulted in higher oil prices which affected inflation and monetary policy. Most of these events did not have long-lasting effects on markets once the situation stabilized.

While today’s conflicts will be closely watched, investors ought to avoid passing judgment with their portfolios. In the long run, markets tend to recover and perform well primarily because business cycles are what matter over years and decades, despite the events that take place over weeks and months.

Stubborn inflation has markets rethinking the number of rate cutsSecond, many measures of inflation have proven to be more stubborn than economists had hoped. The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for March showed that headline inflation remained hotter than anticipated at 3.5% year-over-year, while core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, rose 3.8%. Rising shelter costs, i.e., the cost of renting and owning a home, are a large reason inflation has not cooled as quickly.

Combined with stronger-than-expected recent job market data, many investors now anticipate that the Fed may cut rates more slowly this year – or not at all. The Fed’s economic projections have suggested all along that it might cut rates three times this year. Market expectations, however, have swung 180 degrees since the start of the year when some believed the Fed could begin cutting rates in March or earlier. Today, markets only expect 2 or 3 rate cuts in 2024.

As always, it’s important for investors to keep these expectations in perspective. What matters for long-term investing is the direction of policy and not the exact timing or magnitude of rate cuts. There are still risks to the Fed’s outlook and the monthly inflation numbers, especially if oil prices rise further due to geopolitical conflicts. However, even if this were to occur, inflation is far more manageable today and no longer requires an emergency monetary response.

Investors should always be prepared for market volatilityFinally, investors should keep the level of market volatility in perspective as well. While the recent 2.5% market decline is the largest since the start of the year, this follows a 10.6% total return in the first quarter. Since last October when the market began to rally, the S&P 500 has gained 28% including dividends. Since the bear market bottom in 2022, the market has gained over 50%.

The accompanying chart shows that the average year experiences significant pullbacks and that this year’s has been small by comparison. Despite these short-term challenges, markets tend to recover and often end on positive notes. This is why maintaining a diversified portfolio can help minimize short-term risk and increase the odds of financial success over time, regardless of whether markets are volatile due to the economy, the Fed, geopolitics, or other factors.

The bottom line? Markets have struggled at the start of the second quarter due to changing expectations around the Fed and escalating geopolitical tensions. Staying level-headed and keeping these events in perspective are still the best ways to achieve long-term financial goals.

Copyright (c) 2024 Clearnomics, Inc. All rights reserved.

In this episode, we kick off with a warm welcome and jump straight into our Q1 quarterly review followed by the Q2 outlook. Despite entering the year on a shaky start, Q1 turned out exceptionally well, building on the achievements of a strong 2023.

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Q1 Highlights:* The beginning of January began forgettable, raising concerns given the adage “as January goes in the market, so goes the year.” However, the market quickly rebounded, defying early gloom. * Major indices including the S&P 500, NASDAQ, Europe’s stocks 600, and the Japanese Nikkei hit new record highs, some repeatedly, showcasing strong market performance despite the lack of significant positive economic news. * The all-cap world index reported an 8.2% increase, signaling solid market health.

Key Observations and Concerns:* Fed’s interest rates and inflation remain primary focuses. With interest rates peaking in July 2023 and the Fed pausing rate hikes without initiating cuts, market watchers are on high alert. * Recent CPI reports show a slight uptick in the six-month mark, hinting at persistent inflationary pressures, especially in the service sectors, which continue to experience wage pressure and other inflationary concerns.

Insights and Expectations:* The challenges of managing inflation resemble the struggles of weight loss, where initial successes are followed by harder-to-achieve continued progress, indicative of a potential economic plateau. * The manufacturing versus services sector dichotomy, with inflation seemingly under control in the former but unabated in the latter, suggests two diverging economic narratives.

The Inflection Point:* The current economic stance is seen as an inflection point, with uncertainty about whether the market will continue to rise or begin to correct, reflecting both opportunities and challenges ahead.

In summary, Q1 showcased unexpected market resilience with exceptional highs across various indices, despite looming concerns over Fed rates and inflation. Looking ahead, navigating the nuanced dynamics between manufacturing and services sectors, alongside managing inflationary pressures, will be crucial for sustaining growth and stability in Q2 and beyond.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Welcome to our latest episode where we explore the complexities and considerations behind diversification of investment portfolios, particularly during retirement. In this in-depth discussion, we lay out compelling market analyses, historical comparisons, and thought-provoking strategies for investors looking to optimize their financial planning.

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Whether you’re just starting to think about retirement or are actively re-balancing your portfolio, this episode is packed with insights that tackle a crucial question: Should you diversify your portfolio in retirement?

Highlights* Examining the past decade’s stock market trends and their implications for portfolio diversification. * Understanding how international and emerging market stocks compare to US large company stocks. * Insights from behavioral finance and market valuations that could shape your investment strategy. * Discussing the ‘lost decade’ and what it can teach us about asset allocation.

Key Points* US large company stocks have seen enormous growth compared to developed and emerging markets since 2009. * Experts suggest a diminishing effect of diversification due to globalization but highlight its continued relevance. * The early 2000s saw much lower returns on US stocks, emphasizing the benefit of a diversified portfolio during downturns. * Valuations play a critical role in expected market returns, with current trends hinting at better prospects for international markets going forward.

Market Analysis* A detailed analysis of the performance of different market sectors over a decade. * Discussion on stock market valuations and investment strategies. * The role of valuations in long-term market predictions and the balance between US and global market performance.

Wrapping UpRemember, the path to smart investing in retirement lies in understanding diversification, historical performance, and staying true to a disciplined strategy. While recent performances may favor certain markets, long-term success often results from a balanced and diversified approach that can weather a variety of economic climates.

We want to thank you for tuning in, and if you’re seeking more insights or need assistance in your investment strategy, consider reaching out to Shotwell Rutter Baer.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Welcome to this episode of Kitchen Table Finance where we’re joined by our energetic and insightful spring 2024 intern, Cole Williams. With a few weeks under his belt, Cole shares his experience and lessons learned while working with our very own David. And surprise, Cole – today’s chat is doubling as your extended interview for the rest of the spring season!

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In This Episode Cole’s Journey: Discover how a political science background led Cole to a passion for financial planning. * A Day in the Life: What does an intern do at Shotwell Rutter Baer? Cole gives us the day-to-day rundown. * The Career Pivot: Cole talks about his transition from working for the state government to pursuing a future where he can truly make an impact on people’s financial wellness. * Local Roots, Global Mindset: From St. John’s to MSU, Cole discusses how his local upbringing fuels his drive to contribute to the community through financial advice. * Behind the Scenes: Learn what life at Michigan State University’s financial planning and wealth management program is really like, and hear about how Cole is preparing for his next steps post-graduation. * Straight Talk: Cole provides his candid take on the financial services industry and what it means to have the best interests of clients at heart. * Family Ties & Financial Goals*: An HVAC family and how Cole aims to be the financial pillar in his community.

Featured Guest*Cole Williams*, Spring Intern at Shotwell Rutter Baer

Master’s student specializing in Financial Planning and Wealth Management at MSU
Experienced legislative aid at the state capitol
Believer in impactful financial advice for everyday people

We also tackle some critical questions:

How does government experience influence financial planning beliefs?
What can new insiders share about the reality of financial advising?
Why might financial planning be the blue-collar contribution to tomorrow’s world?

*Tune in* as we explore Cole’s unique story, draw on actionable insights from his experiences, and discuss how past roles shape future ambitions in the financial industry. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and join us at the kitchen table for a fresh brew of finance, advice, and friendly banter.

Connect with Us* Visit our website for more financial resources * Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for updates and tips * Connect with us on LinkedIn * Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

We appreciate your ears and your desire to grow financially savvy. If you enjoyed this episode or want to hear more about specific financial topics, please leave us a review!

*Listen, learn, and laugh along – because when finance meets kitchen table talk, there’s nothing we can’t tackle.*

In today’s episode, we dissect the often-debated topic of whether you need an annuity for retirement. With a straightforward approach, we explore annuities with both a small “a” and a capital “A”, debunking common misconceptions and laying bare the good, the bad, and the frequently misunderstood facets of these financial products.

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*Main Topics Discussed Annuities and Retirement: Discussing the need and implications of annuities as part of a retirement plan. * The Good and Bad of Annuities: The conversation brings to light our biases against the abusive sales and usage of annuities rather than the product class itself. * Understanding Annuity Functions: A detailed explanation of what an annuity is intended to provide – guaranteed lifetime income. * Cost vs Benefit Analysis: Every decision, especially in finance, comes with its own set of pros and cons; annuities are no different and we discuss what people give up in exchange for guaranteed income. * The Concept of Annuity: We discuss the foundational ideas behind annuities and their original purpose of mitigating longevity risks within a group. * The Reverse Life Insurance Policy: An interesting analogy that compares annuities to life insurance, but in reverse. * Lump Sum Investments for Guaranteed Payouts: How paying a lump sum to an insurance company can translate into lifelong monthly checks. * Deferred Annuities and Guarantees**: Delving into where annuities can get complicated—understanding the lead-up to the payout phase and how companies offer certain guarantees.

*Episode Highlights Lifetime Income Guarantees: The importance of understanding what you’re trading in exchange for the certainty of income. * Insurance Chassis: How annuities operate on the insurance principle of diffusing risk across a large group of people. * Payout and Deferred Phases: An explanation of the two critical phases of annuities and the issues that often arise. * Market Guarantees and Real Returns**: A critical look at what insurance companies promise versus what they deliver, particularly when it comes to market investments and returns.

Remember to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful discussions on finance and retirement planning. If you have any questions or personal experiences with annuities, reach out to us. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this complex but vital topic.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Episode OverviewIn this pivotal episode of the “Kitchen Table Finance” podcast, Dave and Nick explore the concept of a “Strategic Reliable Blueprint” and how to effectively identify and tackle obstacles in planning. The episode uncovers the importance of recognizing unseen solutions, re-envisioning goals to surmount challenges, and the crucial steps taken behind the scenes to prepare for strategic meetings.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Key Takeaways The Power of Possibility: At [21:04], the conversation illuminates how casting problems and challenges out to the universe can bring forward solutions that were previously hidden in the subconscious. * Recreating Vision: Around [21:16], it’s stressed that by identifying obstacles and searching for pathways around them, new and viable solutions emerge, reshaping the strategic vision. * Behind-the-Scenes Organization: Starting at [21:44], the significance of organization between meetings is emphasized. The team’s work, guided by the paraplanner, is to gather the necessary information and resources to pave the way for productive strategy sessions. * Upcoming Focus: The next episode promises a deeper insight into the organization process at [22:39], revealing why it’s essential and how it takes shape with Amy’s expertise. * Continuing the Journey: At [22:51], listeners are encouraged to revisit previous episodes to fully grasp each step of the process, building towards a comprehensive plan complete with actionable implementation steps. * New Perspectives:* Dave and Nick wrap at [23:13] by teasing the excitement of upcoming discussions which will continue to blend practical financial advice with real-world experiences.

Resources & Links* Visit SRB Advisors’ website for more practical advice: srbadvisors.com * For those new to the series, consider going back to listen to the initial steps covered in earlier episodes to get a full understanding of the blueprint process. + Fit Meeting Process + Step Two – The Foundation Meeting + Step Three – Vision + Step Four – Obstacles + Step Five – Organization + Step Six – Strategy + Step Seven – Build * Reach out for personal planning via email: info@srbadvisors.com

ConclusionJoin Dave and Nick as they guide you through the methodology of building a strong and reliable financial plan. Whether you’re facing obstacles or looking for strategic direction, the “Kitchen Table Finance” podcast can offer the guidance and insights needed for financial empowerment. Stay tuned for the next episode on organization and plan with confidence.

Welcome back to our much-anticipated March 2024 edition of “Retirement Planning Headlines,” where we save you the hassle of combing through endless financial articles. This month, we’ve even had listeners chime in with topics for our deep-dive discussions.

Watch on YouTube HERE

*Key Takeaways from this episode:** The financial terrain is constantly shifting, and this episode explores the provocative outlook of Robert Kiyosaki, author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad.” He warns listeners about potential downturns in the S&P 500 and suggests alternative investment strategies beyond the traditional 401(k), such as gold, silver, and cryptocurrencies. * Mr. Kiyosaki’s predictions are met with a grain of salt as we acknowledge that market corrections are inevitable. However, the true question remains whether these dips lead to permanent damage or just temporary setbacks. Our hosts debate the validity of such doomsday financial forecasts. * We also examine the philosophy of financial experts like Dave Ramsey and the importance of not being hyperbolic or experiential with financial advice. The emphasis is on providing balanced, sound financial perspectives without sensationalism. * The conversation takes a turn into the world of cars and their role as status symbols. We dissect advice suggesting that always opting for the cheapest vehicle could lead to perpetual poverty. Instead, the hosts offer a more nuanced view of financial decisions around car ownership and the true implications for one’s wealth. * To wrap things up, we scrutinize the sensationalist tone often found in financial advice media. The hosts ponder the necessity of extreme angles to captivate an audience. Can valuable advice stand out without the extreme clickbait headlines?

Join us for an enlightening discussion on these headlines and more, and discover how to read between the lines of financial advice. We aim to educate and empower our listeners to make informed decisions about their retirement planning. Don’t miss out on our insightful analysis and subscribe for more updates.

Remember to subscribe and follow our podcast for monthly updates packed with practical advice to guide you through your financial future with clarity and confidence. Stay tuned and stay informed!

Today we’re braving the waters of politics and markets—a conversation that’s becoming more pressing as we advance into March.

Watch on YouTube HERE

*Main Points of Discussion: The Premature Arrival of Election Talks: It feels like we just talked about elections, but here we are, already in the thick of it, even in client meetings since last fall. * A Non-Political Look at a Political Event: Steering clear of political biases, this episode focuses on the impact the presidential elections may have on the markets. * The Divisiveness in Politics and its Market Impact: Discussing how the current political climate could influence market behaviors and investor sentiments. * Historical Contentious Debates: A historical look back at past presidential elections to provide context to today’s political climate. Remembering that our country’s history has weathered severe divisiveness, even to the point of a nation split. * The Human Brain and Recency Bias: Understanding how our minds emphasize forthcoming challenges more critically than those we’ve already experienced. * What to Pay Attention to and What Not to: Advice on differentiating between election noise and genuinely impactful information concerning the stock market. * Investment Strategies During Election Cycles**: Encouraging listeners not to invest based on political fears but on historical market trends.

*Key Takeaways: Elections matter but remember to make investment decisions based on data and trends, not political fervor. * Stock market performance has shown strong returns under various political administrations. * Historically, the market tends to continue its upward trajectory despite the ruling party. * “Vote with your ballot, not your savings.” Analysis shows that major policy shifts between administrations, like the Obama and Trump eras, demonstrate market resilience. * Optimism for Economic Growth**: No matter the federal regulations or policies, the economy finds a way to advance.

*Companion Article:*

To complement our discussion, we have an article with detailed charts showing stock market performance from the Great Depression era to the present day under different administrations. Notice the upward progression despite political shifts—mirroring our resilient and growing economy.

ConclusionRemember, as investors, it’s essential to look beyond the immediacy of political campaigns and focus on the long-term trends that historically have favored growth despite who’s in office. Join us again for more insights that demystify the intersection of politics and markets.

*Don’t forget to subscribe, and share your thoughts with us after the episode!*

The podcast episode focuses on practical strategies for retirees to protect their credit from fraud and identity theft.

Watch on YouTube HERE

*Episode Highlights:*

Dave and Nic kick off the episode by emphasizing the significance of credit protection, especially during retirement.
It is common for retirees to neglect their credit standing which can increase their vulnerability to credit fraud.
There’s a clear need for ongoing conversations about the necessity of credit in retirement and how it can be used responsibly.
The hosts discuss the prevalence of scams targeting the elderly, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant with credit reports and scores.
A critical topic addressed in this episode is the concept of a credit freeze. A credit freeze is described as a preventative measure to shield retirees’ credit from unauthorized inquiries and potential fraud.
The episode does not specifically review credit monitoring services but notes their varying degrees of usefulness.

*Key Takeaways:*

Maintaining a good credit score is just as important in retirement as it is during the working years.
Retirees are less likely to monitor their credit actively, thus becoming easier targets for credit-related frauds.
The conversation shifts to strategies to combat diminished attention to credit reports and potential susceptibility to scams.
Credit freezes are recommended as an effective way to prevent unauthorized access to credit files.
Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive steps in protecting their financial identities as they enjoy their retirement.

Gather around and follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money, retirement planning, and simple ways you can invest right now.

You can find more practical advice at srbadvisors.com and contact the team for personal planning by emailing info@srbadvisors.com.

Hey there! Curious about the latest buzz in retirement, planning, and news? Let’s dive in and break it down for you.

Watch it on YouTube HERE

As we kick off the year, we’re seeing a flood of self-help articles on fixing your life. It’s a good time to check them out, especially when it comes to health and finances – two big topics for January, right?

One interesting piece from The New York Times caught our eye. It delves into longevity and financial planning, shedding light on how to live well for longer. Spoiler alert: prioritizing relationships play a key role in living a longer, happier life post-retirement.

Speaking of retirement, did you know that maintaining social connections after leaving the workforce is crucial? It’s easy to overlook how much our work relationships impact our overall well-being. So, it’s important to proactively cultivate new communities during retirement.

And let’s not forget about the financial side of things. Ever heard of the myth that skipping your daily coffee can make you a millionaire? Well, one expert crunched the numbers and found that while it may not turn you into an instant millionaire, investing those savings can set you on a path to financial freedom.

So remember, making small lifestyle changes in retirement can have a big impact on your health, happiness, and bottom line. Stay tuned for more tips and insights to help you navigate this exciting chapter of life.

The Articles We DiscussNew York Times: The 7 Keys to Longevity

Morningstar: Skipping Your Morning Coffee Won’t Make You a Millionaire

David Booth (DFA) in Kiplingers: Life Lessons that Also Apply to Investing

CNBC: How to Protect Yourself from Tax Identity Theft This Season

Think Advisor: More Than Half of Americans Want to Retire Gradually

Collab Fund: Frugal vs. Independent

That is what we have for January and February headlines. If our listeners stumble across something here in March, send it to us. Maybe it’ll show up on the next headline review. You can send those to us at info@srbadvisors.com.

Gather around and follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways you can invest right now.
You can find more practical advice at srbadvisors.com and contact the team by emailing info@srbadvisors .com.

Join Dave and Nick as they discuss an article at DFA Dimensional Fund Advisors about some ETFs, some exchange-traded funds that were created and didn’t fare very well.

When a fund company creates a new exchange-traded fund or mutual fund, they’re responding to what they expect the market is going to do. They’re trying to be creative and find things that they think are going to attract attention. So they tend to be thematic, having to do with things people are excited about right now.

There were some funny ones and our friends at DFA put together this list. However, there are also some lessons here. These aren’t necessarily investments. It’s more of a marketing machine to get people interested.

Tune in to hear our take on this, and gain some insight into investing EFTs for your retirement planning. And learn what a tendie is!

Gather around and follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways you can invest right now.

You can find more practical advice at srbadvisors.com and contact the team for personal planning by emailing info@srbadvisors.com.

Join Dave and Nick as they discuss the important question of when should you make changes to your retirement portfolio. Or should you? Do you need to? How do you think about your retirement portfolio?

Watch on YouTube HEREOn this podcast, we’ve talked a lot about our investment philosophy of being long-term investors, not market timing, but are there times or reasons that you should be changing your portfolio?

This is timely for us too. Just this week with the help of Mario and Eric at East Bay, our portfolio consultants, we made an allocation change. That’s rare for us.

We’ve changed the individual funds that we use to implement our allocation. We’ve made a few changes over the last year or so, but it’s been a while since we said, “Okay, we want to change the allocations a little bit.”

Fund Changes Versus Allocation ChangeWhy are we changing a fund? What’s the purpose behind that? Think about portfolio analysis on two levels.

Allocation: That’s how much you have in stocks versus bonds. Or the subclasses of different types of bonds, different types of stocks, emerging markets versus US small cap stocks.
Funds: What’s the best fund for emerging markets and internal stocks?

What we’re talking about today is the first level, the asset allocation, not the implementation of which fund to choose.

Short & Intermediate Term BondsWhat we changed this week is how much we have in short-term bonds relative to intermediate-term bonds.

We’ve kept more money in short-term bonds over the last few years because interest rates were really low and only had one direction they could go until last year.

When interest rates are low and they can only go up, rising interest rates are bad for bond prices and push them down. And the longer the bonds are in term, how far into the future they’ve matured, the more they’re affected by that.

Short-term bonds don’t move down as much when interest rates go up.
Intermediate-term bonds, (usually range 3-10) move a little more than short-term bonds, but they also pay you more interest while you hold them.

Now that interest rates are higher we’re back to a more normal interest rate environment where interest rates could go down from here. Everybody’s expecting them to, which pushes bond prices up, and intermediate-term bonds respond to that more than short-term bonds. Also, intermediate-term bonds are now paying a reasonable amount of interest to hold them. So we took half of our extra weight in short-term bonds and moved that back to intermediate bonds.

How is this different from our philosophy against market timing?On the surface, it sounds like we’re timing the market and we’re trying to make a decision based on what’s happening now. However, what we’re looking at here is a long-term structural change in the market. Interest rates were low for a very long time. Now they’re back to a more normal state.

Timing the market would be, “Okay, we think the Fed is going to lower rates substantially by next January, so we’re going to push a whole bunch of extra money into intermediate-term or longer-term bonds to take advantage of that, and then we’re going to shift back.” That’s market timing.

The stock market corollary would be, “We think that small company stocks are going to be the next hot spot in the market, so we’re going to put the extra weight there temporarily to take advantage of that.” That’s market timing.

Instead, what we are doing is looking at a big structural change in the market, not trying to guess what the Fed is going to do today, tomorrow, next month, next quarter, or next year. It can move either way now and the structure of the market has fundamentally changed the risk-reward relationship.

It’s always about what’s going to happen long-term because that’s why we’re investing.

Tune in to the full episode to hear Dave and Nick’s thoughts on this strategy.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

We’ve talked about this topic before, but it keeps rearing its head. It’s Bitcoin and it’s back in the news. The SEC has now decided that Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies are going to be saved. There are a handful of them that took them up on that offer.

Watch on YouTube HERE.

Previously, to buy Bitcoin, you had to go to an exchange and open an account that handled cryptocurrencies. Now, what’s changed in January is any investment account where you can hold stocks. bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds, you can now buy an exchange-traded fund that will track the price of Bitcoin. As of this recording, you can buy 11 different exchange-traded funds.

We don’t even like to call them currencies, which we get into in this episode.

Allowing investors to bypass the electronic wallets does provide more access. But remember, just because the SEC approved this, does not necessarily make it a wise thing to invest in.

Do cryptocurrencies and Bitcoin belong in your retirement portfolio?Morningstar’s article, Is Even a Little Bitcoin Too Much for Your Portfolio? looked into this with a lot of research and modeling for us.
There are a lot of different ways to think about it. Some of the proponents of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency tout the potential diversifying factors. This article looked at whether or not they do help you with diversity. Is it reducing your risk or are they not doing anything for you, or making it worse?

Historically, Bitcoin ran up like climbing a mountain in terms of its price and then it dropped and showed huge volatility in either direction.

Anytime we’re adding something to a retirement portfolio, we’re doing it to diversify the portfolio.

Listen to the full episode to hear Dave and Nick’s take on this.

So here’s a hypothetical. Let’s say one of our clients calls us on Friday and says, “Hey, I know how you feel about this. I know it doesn’t fit with your investment philosophy, but I really want to own some Bitcoin. I want to be part of this.”

We’ve got clients who buy lottery tickets, a client who loves collectible cars, some who like to go to the casino, and others who spend money on things that have some value, but they’re probably not going to change their retirement. It comes down to more of a budgeting question than an investment question. Can you afford to go to the casino once a quarter and spend $1,000 hoping you make a half million?

If that doesn’t hurt you and it’s valuable to you, go do it. If buying Bitcoin in your retirement account isn’t going to change the trajectory of your retirement, it is super meaningful to you to participate in that for whatever reason. To me, then at that point, it’s no different than somebody who says, “Hey, my cousin’s involved with this company, and it sounds great. And I’d like 100 shares of that company just so I can say I’m part of what he’s working on.” There’s nothing wrong with that.

Hopefully, we’ve answered some questions about Bitcoin and how it relates to your retirement portfolio. If you have questions, please shoot us an email at info@srbadvisors.com.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

This episode is part of our series of retirement planning headlines and what they may or may not mean for your upcoming retirement. Our little roundup of things we’ve read over the last couple of weeks that are out there in the media.

Watch it on YouTube HERE

Today we are reviewing some of the headlines from December and January highlighting some of the better things we’ve seen out there for consumer financial planning. If you listen here, you don’t have to read all of these articles, we do it for you and provide the highlights!

Here are the articles:

6 Questions New Donors Should Ask Themselves About Charitable Giving

How to learn about Charities
- Charity Navigator
- Candid
- Local Community Foundation
How to give
- Time, talent, and treasures
Taxes
- 501c3
- Up to 60% of AGI if you itemize
- Doner advised funds, batching QCDs

How Much Do We Give to Charities Now That We’re Retired?

Part of a series that follows newly retired Wall Street Journal Bureau chief Stephen Yoder and his wife Karen
An insightful first-hand account of the decisions they are making and obstacles they face as new retirees

What’s Your Why?

Madeline Hume, CFA writing for Morningstar
A CFA reflects on how / why she became a Chartered Financial Analyst
About figuring out the “why” of market movements, but also her “why” in terms of what she’s doing
Interesting stuff about formative experiences with money
- Money scripts – insights into how we consider and act, the stories we tell ourselves

Your 401(k) Is Up. Don’t Let It Go to Your Head

“Don’t let your self-worth balloon along with your net worth”
The overconfidence that comes with big gains causes people to make mistakes (just like they do with big losses)

What’s Changing for Retirement in 2024?

Higher tax thresholds
No RMD for Roth 401k, so may not be as important to roll those over

How Much House Can I Afford?

This great piece explains how to figure out a housing budget
Ratios for affordable payments
- 28% – DTI before mortgage
- 36% – DTI with mortgage
3 x salary method
- Doesn’t take into account existing debt, so do both ways
Interest rates and how they affect what you can afford

How Retirement Spending Works in the Real World

Retirees naturally reduce their spending over time
Which would you prefer:
- Hold back early in retirement worrying about what you’ll need
- Balanced spending may not be entirely sustainable, but in your late 70’s we’re having a difficult conversation about cutting some costs because you’ve done a bunch of cool stuff and now need to be a bit more careful (noting that you’ll likely not want to do more stuff at that point anyway?)

Retirement Planning Is More Than Financial Planning

Finances are crucial, but when you only consider finances, it becomes a hub around which your life revolves. Instead, focus on building your life around being the best version of yourself.
Money is a tool, not the end all be all of retirement planning
The mathematical approach isn’t always the best

Gov. Whitmer Launches “MI Vehicle Rebate” Plan to Lower Vehicle Prices, Boost Sales in Michigan

$2,500 on a new battery electric or hybrid vehicle manufactured in a facility where the workers are represented by an automotive union.
$2,000 on a new battery electric or hybrid vehicle.
$1,500 on a new internal combustion vehicle in a facility where the workers are represented by an automotive union.
$1,000 on all other new internal combustion vehicles.
- The rebate will continue until Michiganders realize all savings in the $25 million program.

Here are the links Nick mentions for tax incentives for an electric car purchase:

Tax Credit Information
Plug-in Hybrid Options

Don’t get fooled again: 3 ways investors are tricked, and 6 ways to protect yourself

It’s easy to get fooled when it comes to investments
- Fooled by history/facts
  - Timeframes and how statistics are presented
  - For instance, what do terms like long-term mean? Are you speaking the same language?
- Fooled by ourselves
  - We often only hear what we want to hear
  - Fill in gaps in knowledge with what we hope
- Fooled by Marketing
  - We hear about an investment based on its recent performance after it has moved up
  - Mutual fund statistics only show the survivors
  - Performance usually leaves out sales charges/commissions
What to do:
- Stick to investing basics
- Dollar-cost average into a diversified portfolio
- Don’t worry about short-term performance

Well, there you have it. The good articles we found in December and early January. If you have an article you want us to take a look at, feel free to shoot it over to us at info @srbadvisors .com.

Gather around and follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways you can invest right now. You can find more practical advice at srbadvisors.com and contact the team for personal planning by emailing info@srbadvisors .com.

Join Dave and Nick as they review 2023’s fourth-quarter economy and give a current market update.

We do this once a quarter to go through and see what happened last quarter and talk about what that potentially means for the future.

Watch on YouTube HERE

How Did We Do the 4th Quarter?The fourth quarter was pretty darn good. The Wall Street Journal called it The Everything Rally in late December.
Every subclass of stocks was positive, and every bond category in the U.S. was positive. It was quite the fourth quarter.

It’s a good time to be a financial advisor. People think we look really smart in the fourth quarter, even though we did absolutely nothing.

This is especially amazing when you consider where we came from and what people thought was going to happen last year. The forecasts for 2023 were so gloomy. It was really hard to be positive about anything last January, and that’s just not how it played out. This just underlines that you can’t predict with any reliability.

We are measuring a good market return instead of the recession that was expected. It looks like the Fed may have pulled off the soft landing scenario, which is where they were able to raise interest rates drastically and bring inflation down drastically, and yet still we have strong economic numbers in terms of unemployment and consumer spending.

“This Too Shall Pass”We use this phrase a lot when the markets are down, but it also is important to remember when the economy and the markets are good.
One of the things we love to do on these market updates is give three positive signals and three reasons for concern.

The Positives1. It was a very strong year for investor returns, even with all of the noise. If we look at the numbers for 2023, there were zero recessions in 2023, despite all the talking heads on Wall Street saying we would have one. 2. Inflation fell from 9% in the Fall of 2022 to 3.1% by November of 2023. The Fed’s target is 2%. But definitely, the trend was better than expected and in the right direction. 3. One of the biggest outcomes of all this is now there is income and fixed income again. Just getting back to a normal relationship between cash and bonds and stocks, the interest component of bonds is an important part of that.

The closer you get to retirement, the more you want to be a little bit more conservative, which means you’re holding more bonds. And now it will pay you, which is extremely beneficial when you put together portfolios. Either way, holding bonds is a positive component of portfolios.

The Concerns1. Large company stocks have been driven by an exceedingly small number of participants. We’re calling them the Magnificent Seven now. Apple in 2023 was up 48.9%, Microsoft 58%, Alphabet Google 58.3%, Amazon 80.9%, Meta 194%, and Tesla 101%. Your money doubled in Tesla stock last year. The average stock in the S&P 500 didn’t do a heck of a lot last year while these seven companies drove the markets.

What’s the problem there? A rally based on a narrow handful of companies all pretty much playing in the same industry is potentially fragile. So, to feel good about it, we want to see a broad rally where all of the stocks are up a little bit instead of a few stocks up in a huge way.
It’s just a little bit magnified right now. Anything that can go up 200% in a year can also go back down at a staggeringly fast pace.

So when you think about something scary like that, it’s good to think about balanced investments.

If the soft landing scenario plays out, we don’t have a serious recession, we have a slowdown. Another potential outcome of this is we see those seven stocks run in place for a little while, while the rest of the market perks up. And so we can get to the point where this is a healthy rally. This doesn’t necessarily mean a bad outcome, it’s just something to be concerned about as a potential problem.

We’ve seen a lot of geopolitical risk over the last 12 months. The Ukraine conflict continues. We saw increased intensity in the Middle East. There is always potential that these issues are going to widen and become bigger conflicts. As they get bigger, the more distorted they become for the economy.

There is also good old American politics in the mix. As we’re listening to debates about government shutdowns and wondering how we are going to keep paying our bills. You can’t escape the fact that we’ve got a fairly attention-grabbing election coming up this fall.

We’ll be talking about American politics and presidential elections and the effects those can have on the economy.

Spoiler alert: It’s pretty unpredictable and not nearly as cut and dry or as fantastic as people assume it’s going to be. Every four years we have the same political discussion about presidential elections. We’re going to pull out all the old stuff, dust it off, and change the dates.

It’s still possible that inflation can increase. We’ve seen this nice steady downtick, but the economy is a fickle beast and we could see a return to inflation. If we see continued unrest in the Middle East, it will impact oil prices. Oil prices can impact inflation in the United States.

So that’s where we sit right now and it feels a lot different than last year. We wouldn’t say we are brimming with optimism, but at least we’re not coming out of a deep hole where it just seems like it’s going to get deeper. We do this quarterly because if we didn’t, it would seem like we were asleep at the switch, but you don’t want to think about your investments in three-month chunks. You want to think about them in 10-year chunks if you can.

If you haven’t checked out our prediction podcast, be sure to check that one out as well. We have 12 months to be right. – The future will be surprising.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

About Shotwell Rutter Baer

Shotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick as they close out Season 2 of Kitchen Table Finance. They discuss setting realistic market expectations, especially in retirement.

What is a realistic market expectation?Well, there’s a lot of research out there that shows that particularly in bull markets, a general investor has an inflated expectation of what the markets should do for them and how much money they should be making.

And there’s that old cliche we’ve all heard – “the formula for happiness is happiness equals reality minus expectations.”

When it comes to how we think about our investments in our portfolios, there does seem to be some truth to that. Disappointment is the biggest hindrance to happiness when it comes to how your money does. Yeah, when things are good people think they should be better. And when things are bad, they expect those bad times are going to continue. Either way is a losing proposition. Especially when you’re thinking about how to set expectations and what are you going to base some of your projections on for retirement.

Market corrections are as regular as your birthday or Christmas, yet every time we have one, it feels like the end of the world and things will never be the same again. The opposite of that is when things are going good people believe that it’s going to continue. And they’re going to get better.
Our philosophy is if things have been too bad or too good for too long they’re going to revert to the mean at some point.

Tune in for some very important information on how to think about things, how to set up your expectations, and the importance of how you think about investments and retirement planning.

You can find more practical advice on our website and contact the team for personal plans. by emailing info@rbadvisors .com.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Congratulations! You made it to retirement. You’ve worked hard, planned hard, saved, and are now enjoying your time. And then, the market dives. What do you do?

Watch on YouTube HERE

How do you deal with your first market downturn in retirement?Common advice is to invest for the long term and stay put in the short term. The markets are volatile in the long term and the averages typically work out. Well, how does that work when you’re in that transition mode?

When you’re in your 20s and 30s it’s easy to follow this rule because you have a lot of time. However, that starts to change as you transition into retirement. Our perception changes. Indeed, you don’t have more time today than you had yesterday, but how we think about it is probably more important.

There’s a flip that seems to switch once you turn on retirement and stop putting more money in. Now you’re taking it out. All of a sudden, this mythical pot of money you’ve been building and growing for the last 30 years has to turn into enough for you to survive on for the next 30 years of retirement. It’s a big psychological shift for sure.

Join Dave and Nick as they walk you through this transition and shift in thinking.

Stock Market Downturns are a Fact of LifeThere’s no way around that. There have been between 80 and 90 corrections since World War II. Over the last 80+ years, there has been on average one major stock market correction every year. We define a correction as a drop of 10% or more from the high.

We’re talking a range of between a positive 38% and a minus 39% since 1980, yet the historical average since 1980 is 9%. So, if you stay invested in the S&P 500, your average since 1980 has been nine percent. But in any given year, it’s likely to see a movement in that range of at least a 10% downside.

That’s a hard thing to wrap your mind around as an investor. If you are told your average returns are going to be 9%, you assume that you’re gonna be somewhere in the ballpark every year. In reality, you’re never going to get a 9% rate of return. Psychologically, that’s hard. Furthermore, as you’re getting closer to retirement, some of the things that made you feel better about it when you were 30 no longer apply.

If you’re working with a financial planner, they’re not going to set you up in a situation where if those things happen, all of a sudden, your plan’s no good. However, the first time it happens as a new retiree it is still difficult.

Tons of research from psychology shows the more that we’re exposed to a concept, the less scary it becomes. So definitely trust and test your plan. Make sure that your asset allocation is appropriate for your new circumstances. That changes over time. What’s right for a 65-year-old heading into retirement is not the same portfolio that was right when they were 30.

Many People Heading into Retirement are Drawn to Products That Offer GuaranteesThose can have their place too, just recognize that there’s no silver bullet out there. Some salespeople know exactly what your emotions will be and they will turn it into something that benefits them. It’s something that you have to be careful of. Just know that they have a cost and try to quantify that cost before you’re paying something you didn’t want to pay.

How do you build a mindset around a market correction?How do you strengthen your mental acuity in a situation like this? You can follow some techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, but the first step is acceptance. The markets are going to be volatile and there are going to be times when you’re going to feel emotionally distressed because of your portfolio. If you’re going to be invested, that’s part of the price you pay.

Step two is to educate yourself. Have a plan and remind yourself that market corrections are part of the plan. You have to know, in general, how much risk you’re taking and remind yourself that corrections are part of that plan too.

Step three is to habituate yourself by thinking about when times are good and reminding yourself that it is common. Don’t forget that this will happen again.

Gather around and follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways you can invest right now.
You can find more practical advice at srbadvisors.com and contact the team for personal planning by emailing info@srbadvisors .com.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

A lot of people might think it is the Christmas season, but as investors for the past twenty or so years, it also means that there are some different opinions on the market during this time of year.

Watch on YouTube HERE

We’re talking about market patterns and our pre-programmed human need to look for patterns.

An example of this is the stars in the night sky. When anybody looks at them they search for common shapes. Whether it’s the Big Dipper, Orion, or you make up your own, that’s as old as human civilization and history.

Articles in The Wall Street Journal, Investor’s Business Daily, and some others are reporting that we are going to get a Santa Claus rally this year.

The Santa Claus rally is a historical little bump that has been observed in the markets at the end of the year. One thought has been that consumers are out spending their money which is good for companies, which is also good for the stock market. But this historical bumper on Christmas isn’t our focus for today.

You can typically find a pattern if you look hard enough. Analysts will switch the dates on you, where one year it is before Christmas and another year it is after Christmas. Before you know it, it gets to the point where it’s almost meaningless.

Perceived Patterns to the MarketThere have been perceived patterns in the market such as The January Effect, which is a little more pronounced rally effect in the stock market. If you look at the statistics from 1929 to 1999 for large company stock, the average return in January was a positive 1.7% average over that period.

For small company stocks it was 2.9, so historically that’s a pretty sizable jump.

From 1999 to the present, it’s reversed in that the average for large companies is now actually a slight negative three-tenths of a percent. For small companies, it’s still positive but it’s tiny, like a tenth of a percent.

So, we’ve seen this historical outperformance in January that then over the last twenty-five years or so has dissipated.

Has Something Changed About January?There is something about the markets or the economy that used to happen in January that doesn’t happen now. Another thing to keep in mind with these seasonal patterns is that you get a few years of something happening in a particular month one way or the other and a random event skews the numbers. October and September have historically been the worst months of the year for the market. There are a few bad outliers that happened in October or September that skew those numbers Nine Eleven being one of them.

Keeping all of this in mind, you can conclude that it is just randomness and coincidence that’s creating these skews one way or the other. If you’ve got a pattern that is real and observable, the chances are it’s going to go away over time because people are going to try to take advantage of it and the mere act of taking advantage of it mutes it.

These patterns may or may not exist. They may just be the effect of randomness and certain events occurring at certain times. And they’re probably going to go away on their own.

At the end of the day, this boils down to the long-term averages that matter. To be in the market and be resilient you invest and don’t worry about the seasonality because you’re not worried about twelve months you’re worried about the next two decades.

To our listeners: If you have any questions on this topic or any other topics feel free to email us at info@srbadvisors.com. We would love to hear from you.

This is episode two in our series of retirement planning headlines and what they may or may not mean for your upcoming retirement. Our little round roundup of things we’ve read over the last couple of weeks that are out there in the media.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Charlie MungerOur lead story is an interview with Mr. Charlie Munger, who sadly passed away just a few days ago on November 28. He was 99. Charlie Munger is best known as Warren Buffett’s right-hand man at Berkshire Hathaway. He was considered a brilliant investor in his own right and just a real down-to-earth, cool guy.

There are many books of his wit and witticism out there. He gave a very interesting interview before he passed away published in the Wall Street Journal, which has made our list here.

An interesting fact about Charlie Munger is that he has a dorm named after him which has no windows. He designed it so that people or students would go out and mingle with each other because they liked sunlight. One of his responses from the interview a few weeks ago when asked about picking stock prices, he said, “Why should I try to pick my own stocks if I’m an individual investor? I don’t design my own electric motors or my own egg beaters.”

It is also interesting that Munger and Warran Buffett, two of the wealthiest men in the world, both lived in the same houses for decades. They drove modest cars and neither had private jets.

There was also a quote in this article where Munger says one of the reasons he was economically successful in life is because he read so much his whole life starting when he was about six. He also talks a lot about how it’s not necessarily about being the smartest, it’s about the person who continues to learn and continues to get better and improve. He and Buffett were both that way in terms of echoing the old cliche “Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.”

Wall Street Journal: How to Know When It’s Time to Retire.Interesting statistic: The average retirement age was 62 this year 2023, which is up from the age of 57 in 1991.

So, in about 22 years, the retirement age has increased by about five years. We are curious if that tracks with like how much life expectancy has increased in that time.

If you wait too long you might regret the extra years you gave to work. However, if you leave too early, you could feel lost in your new life, which is a real thing as far as people retiring early and not quite sure what to do or where to go from there.

We do see that quite often. There’s a lot more to decide about retiring than just whether are you financially able to. The people who retire successfully are the ones who are retiring to something, not from something.

If you’re leaving the workforce and not ready to replace that, you might be floundering a little bit. We have a worksheet we use as a part of our process regarding our ideal day, week, and year. You fill it out as if you didn’t have to worry about anything this would be your ideal way to spend a day, a week, and a year. Then you compare that to your current and it helps a lot of people think through the changes they need to make right now to help them get to that ideal scenario in retirement.

3 big reasons exchange-traded funds went ‘mainstream’ with investorsOn the investment side of things, it’s a little more technical but it applies to a lot of individual investors out there.
In a nutshell, exchange-traded funds are portfolios of stocks or bonds that trade on an exchange like stocks rather than the way mutual funds traditionally trade. They are generally more tax efficient, track an index, and are lower cost than actively managed mutual funds.

A lot of individual investors see exchange-traded funds as being tax-efficient with passive investing. We would add the fact that most major discount brokerages, Schwab, E-Trade, and Fidelity, will now let you trade most exchange-traded funds with no trading costs. So they can be an effective tool. They’re building blocks like any other tool you might use to build a portfolio.

We have all these online brokerage firms now, where in the past you had to call a broker to make a trade. So they would, for lack of a
better word, sell you a mutual fund. Now you can find things on your own. Passive investing has a strong story right now if you compare it to active investing.

We’re starting to see those track records come through and it turns out it’s hard to consistently beat the market. In our portfolio models, we use a lot of exchange-traded funds and we use traditional mutual funds depending on the best fit. They are all just tools. But this article makes a good intro point for people who are interested in learning more about exchange-traded funds and why they’re seen as the best.

Click on Detroit: Michigan ranks as one of the best places to retire in USMichigan, our lovely home state, ranks as one of the best places to retire in the U.S., This is based on a U.S. news study where they polled seniors in retirement, looking at different aspects of quality of life. Lo and behold, we’ve got Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Kalamazoo, all ranking in the top 100 in the country.

Our initial reaction was surprise to see Detroit on there. Most people don’t think of Detroit as a good place to retire but it can depend on the criteria. The cost of living has a big impact on a survey like this and if nothing else the cost of living in Michigan tends to be pretty good.

Look at the questions that they asked these people and how people responded and ask yourself, “Are those the things that are important to you?”

You may get very different results if you find that the things that bump Dan Arbor to the top of the list aren’t as important to you as some of the things that might be drawbacks from your plan. Like winter.

Where do you want to be? Why would you want to be there? What’s important to you?

Wall Street Journal: The Pay Raise People Say They Need to Be HappyOur favorite thing here was they quoted one of our favorite writers on the topic, Elizabeth Dunn, whose book, Happy Money. informs a lot of our day-to-day conversations with people. The basic idea is once you get beyond a certain living income, the value of money. in terms of happiness, flat lines.

This article is a good intro to that idea and puts in perspective the fact that the more money you make, the more money you think you need to make for happiness. However, the actual results don’t compare. The general point is every time you make more money you just raise the bar. The hedonistic treadmill is the fancy word for it.

Wall Street Journal: How to Avoid Being Boring at 60This is about a guy who, as he turned 60, realized that his friends didn’t want to keep hearing the same stories over and over. So he needed to go out and find some new stuff to talk about. We thought his thought process was cool. This is not a bucket list in the normal sense. The man made some rules and one was no stereotypical stuff, like jumping out of an airplane. But also nothing so dangerous that he might not be able to do the other 59 things on his list. Bullfighting was out. Nothing went on the list that was just a matter of spending money.

If it was just a matter of saying, “I’m going to go buy this experience,” it didn’t count. Then he eliminated anything too simple or easy to do and things that were too complex.

He went on a police ride-along, attended a mega-church because he had never, and bid on art at an auction and then had to sweat it out that he was going to win the auction. His goal was to not come home with a piece of art but he had to bid on something.

These are just a few examples of his 60, but each one made him think about the world a little bit differently and each one turned out a little different than he had envisioned. We spend a lot of time talking about retirement goals, and things you want to do, and we get a lot of stereotypical answers. So we thought this was a cool way to think about different ways to liven your life up.

Wall Street Journal: Why It’s a Terrible Time to Spend MoneyI guess the question is, “Is there a good time to spend money?” It’s all relative, right?

It’s always a bad time to spend money you don’t have. Being financially responsible right now is more important than ever. Which is extremely difficult considering the pressure of the holidays and the advertisers out in full force. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and all the deals.

CNBC: Nearly half of investors believe 2024 elections will have bigger impact on their portfolios than market performance, survey findsThere’s always going to be plenty to worry about, and you can always count on Washington making a crisis out of everything that they possibly can. We don’t want to dismiss people’s concerns over the election in markets, but if you step back and look at the facts behind the market impact of a president, whether it’s a Democratic or a Republican president, there’s not a big difference one way or the other.

However, this article states that a poll cites that 68% of Republican voters and 57 % of Democratic voters expect that the election outcome will impact the stock market and the economy. And so that perception and that reality are not the same.

Just like every election year, you’re going to see an uptick in volatility, the market going up and down. But once we have a conclusion,
it will go back to a more normal cycle.

Gather around and follow the Kitchen Table Finance podcast to learn about money and simple ways you can invest right now.
You can find more practical advice at srbadvisors.com and contact the team for personal planning by emailing info @srbadvisors .com.

When it comes to retirement planning, what are your key numbers? How often should you review them?

Watch on YouTube HERE

In today’s world, there’s a lot of different numbers out there. There are a lot of different things that you can stress about. So we are going to talk today about what numbers are actually important to think about when it comes to retirement.

It might surprise you. It is probably not what you think. We are also going to discuss how often you should look at your numbers.

Do you need to be reviewing these things daily? No. We talk about best practices for not driving yourself crazy.

We have mentioned a few times on our show that you shouldn’t be obsessing over your portfolio. You don’t need to check it constantly. We’ve talked about the statistics about how people tend to actually do worse the more often they check on things because they make emotional decisions.

What should we look at and how often should we be looking?No matter how many times you look at the market, there’s nothing you can control or change. So, by focusing on the things and the behaviors that you should be doing, you can actually drive meaningful change, especially over a longer period of time.

The number one driver of building wealth is your savings rate.

The number one number that everybody should know as you’re gearing up to retire is how much are you saving. What’s that percentage of income that is going into long-term savings?

The market will take care of itself and if you are just consistently doing the right thing and putting money away, you’ll reach your goal.

We have a general range that we usually want people to be in. It’s general because it’s different for different goals. If you want to retire at 50 you’re going to have a higher savings rate than somebody that wants to retire at 67.

Join us, Nick and Dave, as we take a closer look at the two main questions when it comes to retirement planning:

How much should I be saving and how?
How often should I review my plan?

If you would like more information on retirement planning and would like to talk further, please contact us at 517-321-4832 or email info@srbadvisors.com.

We look forward to hearing from you.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick for a special Thanksgiving Episode where they talk about what they are thankful for, the Markets, what’s good for retirees, and financial planning.

We’ve got a lot to be thankful for as investors and financial planners this year despite the fact that it often seems like there’s a lot more bad news going on this year than there was last year. However, it’s kind of the reverse when you look at the numbers. As of this recording the day before Thanksgiving, the Standard and Poor’s 500 -the basic measure of the US stock market – is positive 19% for the year. The Nasdaq, which is focused on tech stocks and over-the-counter stocks, is positive 36% for the year.

If we put these numbers into perspective, really what we’ve done is made up for last year’s losses with some growth. But if you measure that against where people were afraid we were heading going into this year, it’s an astounding difference.

If you would have said in January, Oh no, the stock market is going to be looking much better by November and inflation’s going to come down and you guys that are all worried about recessions just need to dial it back a bit,” you would have just sounded like a naive fool. But here we are.

CommoditiesSo far this year commodities are the only major asset class showing negative returns. Commodities do well in times of worry and inflation.

Some general examples of commodities include, from the Commodity Index, everything from grain futures, energy futures, precious metals, industrial metals, and all the basic inputs that go into creating the economy.

So obviously the markets are having a good year. How does that relate to the economy as a whole?

Well, instead of a recession, third-quarter GDP growth was an annualized 4.9 which is one of the fastest growth rates we’ve seen in decades. Nobody’s expecting it to stay that high, but a recession is thought of as two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth. Instead, at a time when it was predicted we would definitely be in a recession by now, we’re seeing record growth.

Macroeconomics is very much still an art, not a science.

Listen to the entire episode as Nick and Dave talk about what investors can be thankful for, and plan for the future.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick as they try something new today on the show.

Watch on YouTube HERE

We hope this catches on and we can continue to do this on a regular basis. Both of us do a fair amount of reading when it comes to retirement planning and personal finance information. However, if you are in the habit of digesting news by just reading the headlines, this can be dangerous when it comes to controversial topics or topics that require a much deeper dive.

We are the weirdos who actually click on these articles and think about what they’re saying and why it may or may not be right. Our goal is to go beyond the headline for our listeners to let them know what these articles are saying, why they may or may not be important to you, and how you think about things.

So, here is our curated, bespoke list of the topics we’ve seen in personal finance blog post sections of major newspapers over the last couple of weeks.

1. Washington Post: Why you should swap your bucket list with a chuck-it list

It’s not necessarily so much about creating a bucket list but about some life goals that maybe you should let go of. We live in a society that is all about setting and achieving goals. However, you’re going to change and things are going to change and it’s okay to let go of some of those.

2. Why You Need ‘Flexible Goals’ for Success & Happiness by Darius Peru

This article discusses how to not fixate on the specifics of a goal so much as the idea of it. A great example he gives is the difference between, “I want to earn $100000 versus I want to earn more than last year.”

3. Wall Street Journal: Couples Embrace the Least Romantic Date Ever: The Money Date

The least romantic date night is the financial date night. If you’re actually going to do this and be intentional about it, you can still have fun with it. Money is one of the leading causes of divorce. So with the date night, the main goal is to have these conversations with your partner, The more open you are and communicate together the better your money life will be. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be sitting in front of a computer. You can have fun with it and actually have a money date where you dress up, go to a nice restaurant, have a nice bottle of wine, and have conversations about how you’re spending money and why and what you need to do to be successful.

4. Wall Street Journal: It’s Getting Too Expensive to Have Fun

We can’t go through an entire month without talking about inflation in one way or another. There’s this idea that’s come out of the summer spending spree called funflation. The Wall Street Journal wrote an article that you know things like live event prices have increased significantly.

5. Wall Street Journal: Never Mind the 1%. Mini-Millionaires Are Where Wealth Is Growing Fastest

Never mind the 1 % million mini millionaires are where wealth is growing fastest. I don’t love the title of the article but it was an interesting idea. Looking at the rise in inflation and generally strong investment markets over the last several years and the recent history notwithstanding, we’re seeing a definite rise in the term mini millionaires. The middle class and upper middle class in America have done a lot better than most people would guess in terms of growing their balance sheets and wealth.

6. Wall Street Journal: There’s Never Been a Worse Time to Buy Instead of Rent

Essentially, their estimate is on average it’s 52% more expensive to buy a home than to rent one right now because of mortgage rates and property value increases.

ConclusionWe hope you have enjoyed this new review. If you have an article that you are reading and want to pass along we would love to take a look at it. You can email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Tune in next month when we review what we’ve been up to and what we’ve been reading in November.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick as they chat with Dr. Darla Bishop, the author of the upcoming book, How to Afford Everything.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Her book is available for pre-order until December 12, 2023, and then it will be available to the public. You can use the code KTF on her website for 20% off her book for a limited time.

Order here: https://darlabishop.com/

Check out her Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@my_finansis

You can also find her on most social media channels under @my_finanSIS.

About Dr. Darla BishopDr. Bishop lives and works in the Lansing area. Her expertise in financial literacy and ability to connect with young people on a personal level makes her the ultimate FinanSis for anyone looking to improve their financial situation and take control of their future.

Have you ever wished for a big sister who can teach you about money? Someone who can guide you, laugh with you, and also be firm when you have to set goals or need a reality check? Dr. Darla is it!

When Darla was in college, budgeting and learning about money, she started to read financial books and realized that not one of them offered a decision tree or step-by-step guide that helped her where she was in her particular situation. She has since read over 100 financial books and still didn’t find what she thought would be most helpful – so she wrote it.

That is what How to Afford Everything is all about. It includes many worksheets and thought-provoking questions and exercises to help you where you are right now.

Who is This Book For?The target audience for this book is people who are under 40, may (or may not) come from a disadvantaged background, now have a good job and money coming in, and want to take their money management to the next level. People who are managing lots of things. Managing careers and sometimes the salary negotiations that come along with that. Thinking about their parents as they get older. Raising children and trying to think about whether they will go to college and what we want to contribute to that. Maybe paying off student loans.

Q&ANick: “What advice do you give to people when you have multiple competing conflicting things for your resources? How do you help walk people through figuring out which one makes the most sense for them because it’s not always black and white plain vanilla right?

Darla: “What I figure out when I’ve talked to multiple people who’ve been in that situation is because it’s been so stressful over some period of time. Maybe a few weeks, a few months, or even a few years. They haven’t taken the time and probably because they haven’t had the energy or the guts to truly look at their financial situation, right? They just kind of feel like they’re swimming tread in water and and haven’t asked for help.

Until this point because they thought maybe someone was going tell them they needed to budget more and spend less money and they can’t imagine even how they would do that. So the approach I take is to first write down every cent that you owe to anyone whether it’s a traditional debt a credit card, a loan student loan, your mom, your cousin, or your coworker who loans you $10 for gas money. We’re going to write everything down and it’s gonna hurt a little bit at first. But once we put it on paper we take away its power because now we can do something about it.

So we got to get over that first hurdle and then we’re going write down every piece of money, every cent, that comes through your door, and if there is a difference between the money that goes out and the money that comes in we have to figure out where we can cut or my personal favorite where we can increase.”

Listen to the full episode to hear more about Dr. Bishop’s journey to writing a book and for more advice.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Nick and Dave as they discuss how the all-encompassing world of artificial intelligence may affect your investment portfolio.

Watch on YouTube HERE

This definitely isn’t a podcast about how it’s going to change our industry but we think of it in terms of how will it make us more efficient so we can help more people.

It doesn’t seem like, in our lifetime, there has ever been a type of technology that set people on edge quite so much.

When the internet was new you could type something in and come up with information. It was mostly positive. However, you didn’t think about the fact that E-commerce is putting Main Street out of business. Those kinds of things came along a little later after the technology had been around for a while.

Artificial Intelligence definitely raises questions about what it means to be an artist, or even what it means to be human.

We’re seeing a lot of it in the headlines because it is a change, right? The biggest question is, “Is AI going to replace me?”

So we were wondering if our clients are thinking, “Are we going to need financial advisors anymore? We can just go to ChatGTP and ask it what we want and then we’ll have the solution.”

This is somewhat interesting to us because a lot of investment and money management information is already out there and people already know a lot of it. However, they just can’t seem to follow it or don’t feel confident enough to do it themselves. We don’t know if that’s changing because it’s easier to get access to that information or not.

When you look at it this way in terms of your job and my job it’s no different than Google. You can ask ChatGTP if you should do a raw conversion or you can Google it.

AI Is Changing ThingsIt’s going to change things for sure, but mostly in making people more efficient because they don’t have to do some of that manual stuff that artificial intelligence can do for them when it comes to sourcing information.

While history is never a perfect guide in these situations it does offer ways to think about AI and context. The markets and the economy have always run in what some people call hype cycles. We had the.com bubble, we had blockchain, self-driving cars. Etc

They capture people’s attention and get people really excited about investment opportunities and disruption to the economy. Each one promises big change but economist Roy Amara wrote, “People tend to overestimate the impact of technology in the short run while they underestimate its effect in the long run.”

Listen to the entire episode to hear our take on AI and the investment industry.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Nick and Dave as they address some questions they have received recently about interest rates and CDs.

Interest rates are looking pretty good, especially when you start driving around town and seeing billboards for 6 % twelve-month CDs. So part of the questions have been, “Why don’t we just put everything in CDs and earn 6% and be happy and go on our merry way?”

When you look at the stock market this year the S&P500 is up over 10 percent so far year to date. It can be in the eye of the beholder if you think you should stop investing in this vehicle that’s done over ten percent this year so you can get 5%.

There’s always an element when it comes to investing that is about the future but also applies to this cash conversation.

Essentially if you invest in cash over the long term, while it’s attractive right now, your long-term real return is actually negative. Over time cash investments aren’t going to keep up with inflation.

The key to this conversation and thinking about CDs versus stocks is your long-term investments should be invested into a portfolio that makes sense for your long-term and you should definitely have short-term cash available to weather the storm. The good news is that cash is getting much better interest rates than it used to.

Listen to the entire episode for more on this discussion.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Nick and Dave for their 3rd Quarter 2023 Economic and Market Update.

Watch this episode on YouTube HERE

You can read the in-depth blog article HERE

Our portfolio managers at East Bay Investment Solutions provide us every quarter with what they consider the positives and negatives of our current economic situation, as well as in-depth commentary on the past quarter’s markets. You can download their full report here, as well as watch the video of their recorded presentation.

As Mario notes in the video, he was putting the commentary together before and during the attacks on Israel by Hamas, so that did not make it onto the list as a reason for concern. However, it is a development to monitor. So far, the economic and market impacts of the unrest in the Middle East have been muted.

While we feel it is important for our clients to understand their portfolios and what is going on in the markets and the economy, as always, we remind everyone that the key to success is remaining invested for the long term.

Please click here for the full report from our partners at Eastbay Investment Solutions.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick as they discuss a few of their favorite movies about money. Do you have any to add to the list? Drop them in the comments.

Watch on YouTube Here

Here is a list of the movies discussed in this episode1. Wallstreet – this is what everybody in our generation thought being a stockbroker was all about. 2. Glengarry Glen Ross – the story about four days in the lives of these guys who are working for a real estate investment firm doing developments 3. *The Big Short – this movie does a really good job of explaining some really complex baloney that was going on at the time with collateralized default options and different mortgage back security structures. 4. Boiler Room – a kid who dropped out of college and gets a job working as a stockbroker and finds out that the brokerage firm he’s working for is basically scamming people by running what we call a pump-and-dump scheme. 5. Moneyball – is one of the best investing Allegory movies we’ve ever seen. 6. Pursuit of Happiness – real-life salesman Chris Gardner lives in San Francisco in 1981 and is selling a medical machine. It’s not going very well. His wife’s very upset with him about his decision to spend their life savings on like 10 of these machines. 7. Dumb Money –* based on the true story of the GameStop stock.

Check out the episode we did on that topic: The Game Stop Problem.

If you have any movies that you think we should throw on the list or that we miss, we’d love to hear about it. Shoot us an email at info@srbadvisors.com or hit us up on socials. We’re on Facebook and Instagram so you can find us there.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick for another helpful MSU Case study. This time they review retirement options for a retired couple with more than enough for retirement.

Watch on YouTube HERE

Check out our past case studies and you might find one that fits your situation, or close to it.

Ep 114: Retirement Planning Case Study for an MSU Employee

Ep 120: New MSU Professor Retirement Planning

Ep 128 – MSU Case Study – Couple Near RetirementMany of our clients are current or former MSU employees, and this case study is a very common occurrence. Through a confluence of things, lifestyle, an excellent university retirement program, and good communication about enrolling and committing to saving early.

As we were creating the outline for this episode, we realized it may seem kind of funny to talk about people who other listeners may not think have problems. We’ve got to admit, that these are fun problems to solve, but there are still things to solve for. It’s an interesting dynamic because if you have more than enough for retirement do you really need a financial planner?

Our answer is “YES”, and we are here to explain why.

There’s a lot of value that a financial planner can add, not to mention peace of mind. You don’t get to retirement with more than enough without worrying about it.

Case Study CoupleOur potential clients are Ron and Julie. Ron is 71 and Julie is 70. They worked hard and saved well throughout their working years. They chose to stay in the Lansing area after retiring from Michigan State University. Their house is paid off and their kids are out of college and starting families of their own.

Their oldest son and his wife just welcomed their first child last year. Their daughter is expecting grandchild number two later this year.

Ron and Julie have always been frugal between their social security benefits and a modest draw from their retirement portfolio. They feel they have enough money to do all the things they want to do as they enter their early 70s.

They’re concerned about the required minimum distributions from their portfolio and what they will mean for their taxes. They also worry about being forced to take from their accounts now and that they won’t have enough for down the road.

They would like to help their new grandchildren with educational expenses. Their daughter and her husband would like to buy a house and they may need help with the down payment.

Ron and Judy want to help but Ron worries this would be unfair to their son and he is concerned with taxes as he heard their rules about gifts.

And so so now what?

We start with life planning with all of our clients. We help you figure out and prioritize what’s most important to you. Since Ron and Julie are in their 70s, you might think that life planning wouldn’t be very useful at this stage of the game. However, it’s almost more useful as you go into retirement.

The average life expectancy for a couple in their 70s is probably in the 90s at this point. They likely have about another 20 years, and they’ve done such a marvelous job of saving all this money. How do they maximize those 20 years? How do they get the most enjoyment out of it?

Is it more important to help the kids now or to give them a big inheritance later?

There is a lot of stuff that will come out of the life planning meeting including creating a vision that will be truly impactful for them so they can prioritize what they should be doing.

The next step is to start defining goals and coming up with numbers on how to put it all into action. That’s the fun part, particularly with people in this situation who have the ability to do most of the things they could possibly think of.

That statement of financial purpose, as Mr. Carl Richards would call it, is really important because it’s the basis for all the financial decisions that we make.

Join Dave and Nick as they go through different scenarios for Ron and Julie as they figure out when and how to invest in their children, their grandchildren, and themselves.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick as they walk you through how to decipher and decode all the information that comes at us in the media regarding finances.

Watch on YouTube HERE

This is something we both talk about with our clients on a regular basis. Sometimes this is good stuff to remind ourselves as well,

It’s all kinds of stuff that get you and me riled up in the market and the financial media about the markets. It’s natural.

We are here to help you take the emotions out of it in order to see what is really going on

We’ve borrowed the process from Dr. Daniel Crosby’s book The Behavioral Investor. This book takes a lot of the concepts of behavioral finance and teaches how to apply them to how you think about your portfolio and where we usually screw up.

We did a book review of Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman a couple of weeks ago. Think of that book and this book as both good foundations for how to think about your finances.

One section of this book talks about how the financial media plays a role in our thinking, and it’s not the role that most people assume. The overarching premise here is that the financial media is not there to help you be a better investor. They’re there to get eyes and viewers and listeners and readers and none of that rarely has anything to do with making you a better investor,

Listen to the full episode to hear all 4 steps and become better at deciphering what the news is really trying to tell you.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Dave and Nick on today’s topic, which is an extension of an earlier podcast they did on the book review of The Soul of Money.

An underlying topic is how to make yourself heard with the voice of money. What we mean by that is we all make conscious or unconscious decisions on how we spend our money. Put another way, where we purchase things from and what we do with our excess discretionary money.

Watch on YouTube HERE

If your goal is to make sure that your money is going to things that you support, join us for some tips on how to think about this and execute it.

Budgeting and ValuesWe reiterate something we’ve said before, which is looking at your budget. You can really see what your priorities are by the way you spend your money. In this day and age, everything is so easy and accessible. It is rare for us to just stop and take a second to think about where I am purchasing this from.

“What are my dollars doing here and is that important to me and for some people”

Tune in to this episode for a couple of different strategies for this. Whatever doesn’t match your values you know and you get to choose. That’s the unique thing about this.

Everybody’s values are different and everybody prioritizes them differently so these are just some interesting ways to get stuff done and feel better about the use of your money. You are the only one who can make that decision.

Donating to CausesDo you consider yourself financially generous? Giving money away can come in a lot of different forms including charitable contributions.

There are a couple of different financial ways to do this. However, before you do, it is important to do your research and figure out where your money is going if it going to be used in the way you want it to.

There is a website called Charity Navigator that will give you detailed information on organizations. It scores all the major national charitable organizations and lists how they utilize their money.

Don’t forget to look toward your own community as well, before deciding on a national organization. You and your money may be able to make a bigger impact closer to home. And you can be involved and directly see the difference you are helping to make.

Qualified Charitable DistributionsJoin us as discuss the tax advantages of giving, and how to set that up properly. This can come down to itemized deductions and donations.

Donor Advised FundsThe last topic we cover in this episode is donor-advised funds.

Scenario:

You are donating money into an account that is under the auspices of a foundation (typically a 5013C).

You still control the account and control the investments and make a contribution of $25000 in one year. You take the deduction for that and then you make grants from it over your lifetime to charities. You don’t deduct them at the time you give the money to the charities but instead deduct the money at the time you put it in the fund. It’s essentially the same strategy as batching.

This allows you to spread your money out how you see fit over time but also get the best tax deduction.

Do you have questions about your charitable giving or how to set it up to maximize your tax benefits?

Give us a call at 517-321-4832.

About Shotwell Rutter BaerShotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products. Our only motivation is to help you achieve financial freedom and peace of mind. By structuring our business this way we believe that many of the conflicts of interest that plague the financial services industry are eliminated. We work for our clients, period.

Click here to learn about the Strategic Reliable Blueprint, our financial plan process for your future.

Call us at 517-321-4832 for financial and retirement investing advice.

Join Nick and Dave as they discuss the interesting topic of what to do when your “Too Hard” pile gets too big. This is inspired by the article My ‘Too Hard’ Pile Is Pretty Big by Christine Benz in the Morningstar publication about personal finances. The term “Too Hard Pile” was coined by Charlie Munger to describe investments that just aren’t worth the effort because they fall outside of the...

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Join Nick and Dave as they talk about money scripts and how they might be affecting your financial plan. They also cover things that you can do to kind of recognize and move forward. The guys also reminisce about their first memories of money. Dave’s first memories involve the tooth fairy and separately, his grandfather. […]

Join Nick and Dave as they discuss MiAble Accounts. You may have seen the billboards around town and wondered what they are all about. What are they? Who are they for? Should you get one? Watch on YouTube HERE A MiAble account can be established for an individual with disabilities where they can actually create […]

Join Dave and Nick as they review the book, Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman. Thinking, Fast and Slow concerns a few major questions: how do we make decisions? And in what ways do we make decisions poorly? The book covers three areas of Daniel Kahneman’s research: cognitive biases, prospect theory, and happiness. Here is […]

Join Dave and Ashley (Nick is on vacation) as they talk about Student Loan Repayment Plans, which have been in the news because they’ve just rolled out the details of a new plan. The plan is called the SAVE Plan, which is short for Saving on a Valuable Education. It’s going to be replacing the repayment […]

Join Dave and Nick as they talk about different that require insurance and other things that may be an option. Learn some tips on how you may be able to save money on things you might over-insuring. Dave got a glossy flyer in the mail recently selling appliance repair insurance that came with a whole […]

Dave and Nick have another MSU case study for you. This one is a very common scenario that comes up often – couples who are nearing retirement and seeking help from a financial advisor. They know they want to retire and they are looking for someone to help them put all the pieces together. They […]

Join Dave and Nick as they discuss an amalgamation of things that Dave has read over the last year or so and has been learning things from. Dave’s wife got him a book for Christmas on stoic philosophy that was a general overview. He read different parts every day with explanations of what stoic philosophy […]

Join Dave and Nick as they talk about cyber security and keeping yourself safe. They go over some of the steps that they take for their clients to make sure that they maintain safety. As you age, there is a real threat of being targeted for different kinds of risks, scams, and abuses out there […]

We have a special guest back for the second week in a row. Our intern, Cade Campbell comes back to talk about the project he’s been working on this summer for us. Cade was tasked with breaking down the tangible quantifiable return that a client receives from a financial advisor. There are quite a few […]

Join Nick as he chats with the SRB summer intern, Cade Cambell, while Dave is on vacation. Cade is a senior at Michigan State studying finance and minoring in insurance and risk management with a second minor in financial planning and wealth management. He grew up in a little town in the middle of Wyoming […]

Join Dave and Nick as Dave reveals one of the best and worst money decisions he’s made over the years. Don’t worry, you will hear from Nick soon, as he reveals his own trials with money as well. People often assume that because we are financial planners and have lots of experience we never screwed […]

Join Dave and Nick as they discuss the book, The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist. Lynne Twist is a global activist and founded The Soul of Money Institute and you can find many of her works on her website there, including her book. This is a great read for people who want to examine their relationship with money and how it affects their lives. We’ve had a lot of conversations on this podcast before...

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Welcome back to another episode, and another MSU case study. Last time we discussed a married couple who are both MSU professors and have two teenage children. You can find that episode here: Ep 114: Retirement Planning Case Study for an MSU Employee. This time, we are discussing the scenario of a young professor in his late twenties with his first full-time college teaching position.

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Join Nick and Dave as they discuss some of their favorite resources for financial planning and why they like them. You can find links to the resources below. Shotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — not from commissions by selling financial products.

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Twelve months ago, I bonds were the security to purchase. As a refresher, I Bond rates get set at six-month intervals. Basically May to November and then November to the following May or April. A year ago at this time as inflation was raging, the treasury announced the rate on I bonds would be a 9.4% annualized rate of return, and of course that got everybody’s attention. Join us as we discuss how...

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In today’s episode, we discuss what is your ideal retirement age. We take a look at retirement in the United States and how it’s shifting. Join us as we take a dive back to where it came from and how we got here. We borrowed a lot of this from an article in The New York Times last week titled What Age Should You Retire? What Health Experts Say We take a look at some of the non-financial issues...

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We are going to talk about getting real about social security. This has been an ongoing discussion with clients, particularly younger clients for a while but it seems to becoming more prominent. There are more headlines around social security and its future. Join us as we try to set your mind at ease as to what is really going on with social security, what you should pay attention to...

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2nd Quarter 2023 Economic Update and Market Review The first quarter of 2023 was largely positive for the markets, but not positive enough to make up for the frustrating previous 12 months. While inflation still appears to be slowing, there is plenty of uncertainty around interest rates and the Federal Reserve’s ability to slow the economy just enough but not too much. As always...

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In today’s episode, Dave and Nick have an interesting case study of a couple of MSU professors. Join us as we take a look at some of the common scenarios that come up in a case like this when we’re helping people create their financial plans. This is a composite of several clients we’ve met with over the last couple of years to help people get a general feel for how we look at things and how we...

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We’ve been getting a lot of questions about the housing market. We’ve seen the Fed basically increase interest rates at an accelerated pace over the last year. And they are looking to still continue to do a couple more rate increases. So what do you think about that and how do you think about the different housing choices knowing that we’re in this rising interest rate environment? And we don’t...

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Last Week Silicon Valley Bank collapsed. Nuveen’s asset managers noted it was the fastest bank failure in history, the result of management missteps, a challenging interest rate environment, a narrow client base whose businesses were also sensitive to the interest rate environment, and customers who talk amongst themselves. While none of this is great, the good news is that none of this seems to...

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Join Dave and Nick as they discuss Secure Act 2.0 and how it make affect you personally. We cherry-picked the most important points that we felt would impact our listeners the most. Secure Act 2.0 stands for Job Security. Secure Act One made changes to the American retirement system overall. It move the required minimum distribution age out from seventy and a half to 72 for people that hadn’t...

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We have a very special episode for your today. Join us as Nick interviews Ashley Sajor and discover out why she became a financial planner. Ashley is one of the newest members of our team and started off as an intern while she was still attending MSU. Besides starring in our podcast from time to time, Ashley has also started writing blogs for our website. Michigan First-Time Home Buyer Savings...

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Take OUR QUIZ to assess your own risk tolerance. Join Dave and Nick as they discuss the all-important risk tolerance. This is a big subject and comes up all the time when we’re working with clients. How much of a risk do you feel comfortable taking in your investment strategy? When you look at a statement or look at your account online and call me up and say, “I can’t take this anymore.

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Dave and Nick are joined by Ashley Sajor, Associate Financial Planner here at Shotwell Rutter Baer. Ashley started her career at SRB as an intern and after graduating from MSU became a full-time employee. Check out Ashley’s previous visit to our show in the episode titled, Helping Your College Student Budget. Today, we are exploring the concept of a first-time home buyer savings account for the...

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Join Nick and Dave as Nick interviews Dave as to the “why” and the “how” of his journey to becoming a financial planner. Dave, “I started basically looking for a job and did not have a true career path. I happened to meet the right people at the right time who were in the industry and needed help. They told me I was pretty much a nerd and I should be a nerd about this stuff.

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Nick and Dave discuss the difference between, “I want to be financially responsible” versus “I’m going to try to keep a budget this year.” If you’re starting from the standpoint of already being a financially responsible person, then budgeting is just part of that. Or you are becoming that person and you may not be that person yet. There’s a lot of pressure in the world to spend money.

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The debt ceiling debate has been front and center lately, so we thought we’d share this article from our partners at Clearnomics discussing this issue and how it may impact markets. Over the past week, there has been nonstop news coverage of the federal government hitting the $31.4 trillion borrowing limit known as the debt ceiling. This once again puts Washington drama on center stage as the...

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Well, we can all agree that the stock market was not pretty in 2022. What is in store for 2023? Check out the Quarterly Investment Commentary – Q4 2022 from Eastbay Investment Solutions. We received a couple of email questions recently about the debt ceiling struggle. Mario echoed this the other day on our webinar for clients. Check that out here. The overall consensus is that this is not likely...

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This is a pretty common question for our clients t ask in December and January. We’re in an industry where everybody loves to make bold predictions and there’s not a lot of accountability around what happens. Well, we need to be careful with that. If nothing else we are at least filling that void of saying, “Hey you know we put these ideas out there a year ago so let’s see how we did.

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Nick was asked recently why he liked being a financial planner. He and Dave both agree that this is an important question to ask your financial planner or anyone who is going to help you with your money. Nick tells a story about how he first started thinking about money and saving and how that shaped the career path that he followed. Listen along and learn more about Nick and how he landed a job...

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Michigan is an auto-centric state and people from the East and West coast don’t understand why we still driving the same Subaru we bought in the nineteen eighties. Nonetheless, a very popular question we get asked a lot is whether you should buy or lease a car. A car is a major expense and a big budget item and is usually still a necessity for most of our clients. Ultimately...

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This is our 100th Episode! Thanks for listening over the past 2 years! Join Nick and Dave as they talk about a topic they bring up with their clients on a regular basis. It’s never too early to start saving for retirement. Financial advisers regularly check it with clients to ensure they are saving enough for their retirement goals. This often corresponds with saving more and spending less.

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You might have to dig a little deep in 2022 but we found some things outside of football and nice fall weather to be thankful for. Saying it’s been kind of a rough year might be the understatement of the century. It has been a rough year in the markets. But there are a couple of things we can focus on, and it seems we’ve started to see things come back a little. In a year when we’ve been fighting...

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Join Dave and Nick as they discuss an Aol Finance article titled Hidden Fees To Watch Out for in Retirement. As fee-only financial planners, we always operate as fiduciaries. This means that we are legally obligated to provide advice that is in your best interest. That is, we don’t profit by selling you a particular product or investment. Many people believe that all financial advisors are...

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Dave and Nick offer tips on how to check that your financial plan is on track to provide the goals you have for your future and retirement. Your plan should include resources for things that may come up that you are not planning for. Such as: What if I need to go into a nursing […]

Dave and Nick review the book, The Investment Answer by Daniel C. Goldie and Gordon S. Murray This is a favorite of both of theirs for investing information, especially for those just getting into the investing game. From Amazon: “The good news is that people today expect to live longer, healthier lives. The bad news is that many […]

Dave and Nick discuss current headlines and guidelines on how much the average American “needs” for retirement. Find out if they agree. Are the numbers accurate? How can you calculate what you actually need? Listen to the full episode to learn the Kitchen Table Finance philosophy on retirement. CNBC Article: Americans think you need $1.7 […]

Join Nick and Dave as they discuss some positive things going on in the markets and what you can do with your investments to keep some peace of mind. Things they cover in this episode include: Fixed income yields are the highest they have been in years CPI headline inflation in September (8.2%) has fallen […]

Join Nick and Dave as they talk about what investors can do during a down market, like the one we are experiencing now. The best thing to do is to do nothing, but here are a couple of things that you could consider: Increase savings if possible Swap investments to capture losses. Use captured losses […]

What is a marketing timing strategy for investing and does it work? Join Nick and Dave as they talk about marketing timing and their thoughts on it. People often ask us if they should sell their stock investments and “wait until the market is better.” Market timing as a strategy does not work. You can […]

Join Dave and Nick as they review the Student Debt Relief Plan and go over some options. Here are the main points from this episode: $10,000 of student loan forgiveness for Federal student loan borrowers (and $20,000 for borrowers who received a Pell Grant for college) with income levels under $125,000 for single borrowers and […]

Join Dave and Nick as they chat with Khadijah H. Mutakabbir, a Certified Financial Counselor and the owner of Step By Step Financial Wellness. Step By Step Financial Wellness (SBS) is a financial counseling company that specializes in credit improvement, money management, & saving. They strive to help Michigan Millennials establish a solid foundation so […]

It’s an often–repeated cliché about the markets: Stocks are the only thing Americans do not like to buy on sale. When the markets fall, people cut back on contributions to retirement accounts and repeatedly miss out on a golden opportunity to buy shares at low prices. The concept is simple: If you are buying a […]

The guys are back! Get ready for Part 4 of Ask Ask A Financial Advisor Anything – Part 4a Financial Advisor Anything! Check out our listener questions below and listen to the episode to hear the answers. Got a question? Send it to info@SRBadvisors.com and they will get back to you and possibly feature your […]

Join Nick and Dave for another round of listener questions. Our listeners have submitted some very compelling questions that are probably things you are also wondering about. Check it out! Here are the questions: #1. I lost almost half of my retirement in the stock market and I have stopped making buys. Is that the […]

We’re halfway through the year and inflation and interest rates continue to drive the markets and the headlines. Our friends at East Bay Investment Solutions recently published their Quarterly Investment Commentary for the second quarter of 2022 outlining where we are now and where markets may be headed. East Bay likes to summarize the economic […]

Join us for Part Two of discussing financial concerns for an 18-year-old, including important financial documents. We have a special guest, Molly Petitjean, a Lansing area attorney, who joins us to answer questions about preparing an 18-year-old for their financial future. This episode sparked from the fact that Nick’s daughter, Cameron who is almost 18, […]

We have a special guest today, Camryn Nauta. She is Nick’s daughter who is a recent high school grad and is seventeen. She graduated with very high honors and will be attending Michigan State University in the Fall. Camryn is our special guest and is about to turn 18 there are many things an 18-year-old […]

Join Dave and Nick as they discuss the 60-40 portfolio. To clarify for people wondering what a 60-40 portfolio is, it is an industry-standard portfolio that contains 60% stocks and 40% bonds. This was considered the Goldilocks portfolio. This is approximately the allocation we use for many of our clients because it fits a lot […]

Join Nick and Dave as they discuss the increasingly high inflation rate. Here are some other resources for you: Worsening Inflation, Consumer Sentiment, and the Markets Bull and Bear Market Cycles About Shotwell Rutter Baer Shotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are […]

Part Two of answering financial questions from our listeners. More of your burning questions are answered here. Click HERE for Part One. In Part Two of Ask A Financial Advisor Anything, these questions are answered: Can you set up a retirement fund for a child and if so how? Can you pull money out of […]

Dava and Nick asked people in their network to throw their burning questions about money and finances at them. There were so many great questions and answers, we broke it into two podcast episodes. In Part One of Ask A Financial Advisor Anything, these questions are answered: What is the bare minimum I should be […]

Join Dave and Nick as they explore the world of Tik Tok and the recent money challenges that have been going around the popular social media platform. The Wall Street Journal published an article on May 26, 2022 titled, How Hoarding Cash Became a TikTok Meme, and it is now all the rage. David admits […]

Join Dave and Nick as they review another helpful book about financial planning. The New Retirementality by Mitch Anthony. You can save yourself the time of reading the book by listening to this episode instead – or it may spark your interest enough to pick up your own copy. Main Theme: Americans need to re-think […]

An I Bond is a savings bond issued by the US Treasury much like EE Savings bonds, but the interest paid by an I Bond is linked to current inflation. They grabbed headlines at the beginning of May when it was announced that the rate on new I Bonds would be a whopping 9.62%. That […]

There are a lot of folks out there right now on financial cable channels, on the internet news outlets, social media, and even print media talking about the markets, the economy, and where things are headed. Most of them are making exciting predictions of some sort and often they’ll produce charts and graphs that are […]

Join us as we talk with guest Ian Richardson, who is a partner at Richardson and Richardson Consulting and the CEO of Doberman Technologies. We talk about emerging technologies and things to be aware of with worldwide information. Ian has been on our show before talking about cybersecurity. Ian is our first repeat guest and […]

It’s hard to believe we are already a quarter of the way through 2022 and what a quarter it has been. Last week our friends at East Bay Investment Solutions published their investment commentary for the first quarter of 2022. They note that the global economy is being impacted by several items including the continuation […]

We don’t love the term either, because it is hard to figure out what it means. But we do stand by being fee-only advisors. Simply put, our clients pay us a fee for financial planning and investment advice. We do not make any commission from the investments that our clients make. Here is a bit […]

Have you read The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel? Join Nick and Dave as they recap a book they both have read and resonated with both of them. The book covers a lot of practical advice when it comes to managing your personal finances. So, it is easy to see why the Kitchen Table […]

Join Dave and Nick as they review the important things you should consider when reviewing your 2021 Tax Returns. They conveniently break the information down for those who are working and those who are retired. So, this information applies to everyone with a tax return. As a tip, it might be helpful to have your […]

Should You Hire a Financial Advisor? YES (maybe) When? Now (or later) Join Dave and Nick as they talk about who should hire a financial planner and when. The need for a financial advisor will vary throughout your life. Financial planners are key when you are at a certain financial place. If you go to […]

Are you starting a new job? Do you have a 401K to roll over? This is the podcast episode for you. About Shotwell Rutter Baer Shotwell Rutter Baer is proud to be an independent, fee-only registered investment advisory firm. This means that we are only compensated by our clients for our knowledge and guidance — […]

As I’m writing this in early March, the stock market, as measured by the Standard and Poor’s 500, is down just shy of 9% for the year. Russian forces are prosecuting an ugly invasion of Ukraine, adding economic uncertainty and more inflationary pressure to the markets. However, downturns caused by geopolitical events like this one […]

Join Dave and Nick around the Kitchen Table to talk about Inflation. Inflation hasn’t been a real issue in American lives for about 30 years. But just like everything financial, it is cyclical. So, what is going on with inflation in 2022? Find out what types of things are affecting inflation, and what this means […]

Dave and Nick talk about Shotwell Rutter Baer’s investment philosophy. They also introduce their new partnership with East Bay Investment Solutions. East Bay is an investment consulting firm providing services such as portfolio oversight, investment due diligence, and wealth management guidance tailored to meet the needs of Shotwell Rutter Baer clients. In addition, East Bay […]

Join Dave and Nick as they review all the things you need to consider for your taxes for 2021. They provide information on different tax forms, distributions, tax withholdings, and all of your accounts. For additional information, please read our recent blog Tax Documents for 2021. The guys review things like: Retirements accounts (IRAs, 401K, etc) Distributions – 1099R forms Non-deductible IRAs...

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Join Dave and Nick as they talk about what the market did overall for 2021, what is going on right now, and what is predicted for 2022. The world is becoming more vaccinated; even with the omicron variant, the rate of death is down Equity markets were generally pretty strong during 2021 The 3-year return for the S&P 500 is an astounding 26.1% Unemployment fell to 3.9% as of 12/31/

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Have you set your financial goals for 2022? Dave and Nick go over many things that you should be thinking about this month to set yourself up for a great financial year in 2022. Even if you do have goals, you might find some gems in this episode that you didn’t think of. Saving money, investment strategies, tax considerations, and more. Please share this episode with someone you know who could...

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Happy New Year! Season Two is starting! Join us, Dave and Nick, as we talk about our 2022 Financial Predictions, and other market predictions to try and make sense of it all. What is going to happen this year in the finance world? Should you be optimistic? Should you be concerned? Since we are in this industry, our inboxes get bombarded with predictions from other financial and market experts as...

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Join Dave and Nick as they recap the SRB financial planning process and list out the key elements they look at with each client as they walk them through their personalized financial planning goals. Some of the nitty-gritty decision-making things that make a successful financial plan and lifelong terms to create the life that you want. Retirement – Existing savings like 401k, Roth IRA, etc.

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A recent article in the New York Times, The True Cost of Upgrading Your iPhone, discusses the opportunity cost of spending money on things versus investing that money. Join Nick and Dave as they discuss this way of looking at spending and purchases. They both reveal some of their own personal spending habits that fall into this category. Dave has a monthly TV streaming service to watch a couple of...

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It’s that time again – let’s take a look at where our economy is at the end of the year and what we can expect for next quarter. The stock market is up 24.8% (S&P) from last year. A bull market climbs a wall of worry and there are many things in the media to make us worry – but the market keeps chugging along. Interest rates are also really low, so there has been a boom in home buying and...

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The end of the year is 6 weeks away. When it comes to your financials, there are some important things to consider this time of year. Take stock now and be sure you don’t miss any important deadlines. Listen to the entire episode for tips and instructions on what you should be doing to set yourself up for 2022 and beyond. RMD Calculator The financial advisors at Shotwell Rutter Baer work with many...

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This is the truly exciting step in your financial plan – You start to build your processes and portfolio to support your dreams and overcome your obstacles. This is when the action starts to happen. Join Dave and Nick as they discuss Step Six of the Strategic Reliable Blueprint for your financial success. The build – the action – to make it all happen. If you are just joining us for the first time...

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Join Dave and Nick as they explain the Strategy step of the Strategic Reliable Blueprint process for your financial success This is the step where we actually start to build solutions and recommendations for the client. This isn’t us making recommendations from on high, this is really about a give and take with the client and working through the obstacles that they identified. If you are just...

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Amy Gauden joins Nick and Dave to review the Organization step in our Stratetic Reliable Blueprint process. If you are just joining us now, please go back and listen to the first 4 steps so you are all caught up. Our FIT Meeting Process Step Two – The Foundation Meeting Step Three – Vision Step Four – Discovering Obstacles Amy has been working in the financial field for over 21 years.

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