Retire Smarter with Kevin Kroskey, CFP® & Tyler Emrick, CFA® CFP®

Get your customized planning started by scheduling a no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Congress passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — the biggest tax overhaul since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act — and it could change the way you plan for retirement. From a brand‑new $6,000 senior deduction to new rules for charitable giving and major shifts in healthcare subsidies before Medicare, the law creates both new opportunities and new pitfalls for retirees and pre‑retirees. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, unpacks what the changes really mean for you. We’ll explore how to take advantage of the charitable giving rules before new floors kick in, how to manage Roth conversions to maximize the senior deduction, and what to watch for as ACA subsidies become less generous starting in 2026. Whether you’re five years from retirement or already living it, this episode will help you understand the risks, the opportunities, and how to keep your plan on track under the new law. Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 20-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 💸 Above-the-line charitable deduction coming in 2026 📦 SALT cap expanded = more families itemizing again 📉 New ACA subsidy cliff could cost early retirees $10K+ 🔁 Roth conversions just got trickier, but they’re still powerful Our website:  https://www.truewealthdesign.com/  Phone: 855.TWD.PLAN Schedule your no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth  Check out our other no-cost financial resources here: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/financial-resources/  Watch the show now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjENBHOti-IEJFqeydZm_Fg?sub_confirmation=1

Get your customized planning started by scheduling a no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is over 800 pages long and packed with tax changes that impact retirees, individuals, and small business owners. From expanded standard deductions and new senior tax breaks to permanent small business deductions and the end of many green energy credits, this bill reshapes key parts of the tax code — at least for the next few years. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down what’s actually in the bill and what it means for your planning. You’ll learn: How the standard deduction and senior deduction are changing (and why it matters for Social Security taxation) The permanent extension of reduced tax rates from the 2017 tax law New above-the-line deductions for tips, overtime, and car loan interest Changes to SALT deductions and charitable contributions What small business owners need to know about the permanent QBI deduction and phaseouts Whether you’re already retired or planning ahead for your business and family, this episode will help you understand the real implications — without having to read 800 pages of tax law yourself. Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 20-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth   Watch the show now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjENBHOti-IEJFqeydZm_Fg?sub_confirmation=1

Get your customized planning started by scheduling a no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Retirees are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals — and the scams are getting more sophisticated. From fake emails and stolen phones to account takeovers and SIM card fraud, even cautious investors can be at risk. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, shares a real story of an attempted security breach involving a True Wealth Design client — and what made the firm catch it before damage was done. You’ll learn the most common cybersecurity threats facing retirees, how to secure your financial accounts, and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed. Plus, we cover smart strategies like using a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication, freezing your credit, and why every retiree should have a Trusted Contact on file. If you’ve worked hard to build a secure retirement, this episode will help you protect it. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🔐 $3.4 billion lost to scams in 2023—just from retirees 📞 How a client’s phone was hijacked and nearly cost them big 🎣 Phishing, fake tech support, romance scams & more 🔁 Best practices: strong passwords, 2FA, credit freezes, and identity monitoring 🛡️ New safety features: trusted contacts and “safe words” for financial accounts   Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 20-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Some retirement mistakes are obvious. Others are silent — slowly eroding your plan year after year without setting off alarms. From investing the same old way to ignoring tax planning and claiming Social Security without a strategy, these missteps can cost you more than you think. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, walks through five of the most common — and avoidable — financial mistakes people make in and near retirement. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to strengthen your plan, avoid missteps, and make more confident decisions as you approach — and live in — retirement. Whether you're five years from retirement or already in it, this episode will help you spot hidden risks and take smarter action today. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Mistake #1: Investing the same way you always have 💰 Mistake #2: Taking too much risk trying to “catch up” 📊 Mistake #3: Not measuring progress against your plan 🧾 Mistake #4: Ignoring tax planning opportunities 🕰️ Mistake #5: Claiming Social Security without a clear strategy   Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth   Check out our other no-cost financial resources here: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/financial-resources/   We're now on YouTube! Subscribe so you don't miss a show: https://bit.ly/3SNWIkg 

Warren Buffett announced his retirement as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at the company’s 2025 annual meeting — marking the end of one of the most legendary investing careers in history. But his lessons aren’t just for billionaires or portfolio managers. They’re surprisingly relevant for anyone approaching retirement or looking to live more intentionally with their wealth.   In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores the timeless wisdom behind Buffett’s philosophy—from staying invested through downturns to making confident decisions when fear is high. We also discuss how a strong financial plan helps you make purposeful choices: knowing when to spend, when to give, and how to align your wealth with the life you want to live—now and in the future.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📈 What 90% of Buffett’s wealth after 65 teaches us about patience 🧠 "Be greedy when others are fearful" — and how to actually do it 📉 What to do when market fear clouds good decision-making 🌱 Giving while living — and planning to do it with confidence 🔧 Why your financial plan is your most powerful tool   Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

When you're 12 months away from retirement, everything starts to feel real. From hard deadlines like pension elections and Medicare sign-ups to emotional shifts around identity and purpose, this final year before retirement can feel like a perfect storm.   In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores the unique challenges clients face in this transition — and how the financial planning process needs to evolve accordingly. You'll hear how True Wealth Design helps clients navigate not just the dollars and cents, but also their lifestyle risk, time horizons, and the often-overlooked emotional aspects of leaving a long career behind.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📆 Why the last 12 months before retirement matter so much. 💸 The truth about lumpy spending and how to plan around it. 💑 Pension decisions, Social Security timing, and survivor benefits. 🧠 How to navigate identity shifts and relationship changes. 📊 Why advisors should be more than number crunchers.   Resources Our website:  https://www.truewealthdesign.com/ Phone: 855.TWD.PLAN Contact our team: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/contact-a-financial-advisor/ Schedule your no-cost discovery call: http://bit.ly/calltruewealth Check out our other no-cost financial resources here: https://www.truewealthdesign.com/financial-resources/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrueWealthDesign/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/true-wealth-design/ X: https://x.com/truewealthdesgn

Not all Roth dollars are created equal—especially during times of market volatility. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, unpacks when Roth contributions, conversions, or pretax savings make the most sense, and how recent market declines may present timely Roth conversion opportunities. You'll learn how to be strategic with what assets you convert, when conversions might come with risks, and how tools like the mega backdoor Roth can help high earners build tax-free wealth. Whether you're retiring early or just looking for more tax-efficient growth, this episode offers practical guidance for getting Roth right. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🔄 Roth IRA vs. Roth 401(k) vs. Mega Backdoor Roth 📉 How market drops create conversion opportunities 💡 Using Roths strategically before Medicare or RMD age 🧾 Why tax bracket awareness is essential 🧠 Advanced strategies like asset location and timing   Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Markets have been shaken by a sharp selloff, with the S&P 500 down around 15% and the Nasdaq nearly 20% year-to-date. Much of the recent volatility is being driven by escalating trade tensions and a new round of tariffs that took effect on April 9. In this episode, Kevin Kroskey, CFP®, and Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, unpack what’s driving the recent market moves — from global supply chain disruptions to shifting investor sentiment and international dynamics. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Why the market hates uncertainty—and how that’s showing up now ⚖️ Risk vs. uncertainty: what’s the difference and why it matters 🔁 How “Runway” helps retirees avoid emotional investment decisions 🧰 Strategies we’re using: rebalancing, dry powder, diversification 🧠 What to do (and not do) when tempted to time the market   Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

If the recent market drop has you feeling uneasy, you’re not alone — but sharp swings are regularities you need to navigate. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq have both taken hits this year, but history shows that intra-year declines like these are common and something long-term investors have weathered time and again. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down recent market moves, highlights where diversification is working, and shares how tax strategies and disciplined rebalancing can help keep your investment strategy running smoothing and financial plan on track. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Market pullbacks are normal—even healthy 📊 Diversification is your protection in volatile times 🔁 Rebalancing can improve long-term returns 💸 Tax-loss harvesting can create future tax benefits 🧠 Discipline beats emotion when markets get rocky   Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Big tax changes could be coming soon! On February 25, the House passed a budget resolution setting a $4.5 trillion cap for a new tax bill that could replace the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) before it expires at the end of 2025. But what will the new law look like, and how will it impact your financial plan? In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, breaks down the key debates in Congress, what changes might be coming, and how you can prepare now to optimize your tax strategy. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 📉 TCJA Expiration in 2026 – What happens when the current tax cuts expire? ⚖️ New Tax Bill Proposals – The biggest changes lawmakers are considering 💰 How to Prepare – What you should do now before changes take effect ⏳ Why Timing Matters – Waiting too long could cost you thousands 📊 Tax Planning for Retirement – Strategies to minimize your tax burden   Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Are you leaving money on the table? For families weighing their options when choosing a financial advisor, Vanguard’s Advisor Alpha study has long been the go-to guide—and now, fresh research from SmartAsset echoes the sentiment that the right advisor could boost your net returns by over 2% annually. In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, reveals why many advisors miss that extra edge and how True Wealth Design’s holistic approach—integrating smart investments, proactive tax strategies, and comprehensive financial planning—ensures you capture every opportunity. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: New study puts annual financial advisor value premium at more than 2%. The idea that your advisor should be both offensive and defensive in their approach to planning. What differentiates ourselves when someone decides to get serious about managing some aspect of their financial life. The four areas that most families come to us for help. What happens when someone reaches out to us and how does the process begin?   Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Retirement isn’t just about your savings—it’s also about where you choose to live.   In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores WalletHub’s 46-factor framework for ranking states for retirees, examining everything from tax rates and cost of living to leisure opportunities and healthcare access. We also unpack the key financial and personal considerations, such as state taxes on Social Security and the importance of staying close to loved ones. Tune in for practical insights to help you pick the retirement destination that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The 46 different factors related to well-being in retirement and how they can help you pick a state to live. Moving to a lower-tax state doesn’t always result in lower taxes on deferred income.  Weighing all the different financial factors that will directly impact your retirement. The soft factors that could make the difference when it comes to enjoying retirement. Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

Can money really buy a longer, healthier life? In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, dives into the surprising connection between wealth and longevity, uncovering how financial freedom can unlock better health, reduced stress, and more fulfilling retirement years. We also tackle the challenges of cognitive decline, exploring its impact on financial decision-making and how a trusted financial advisor can help safeguard your investments and create a solid aging plan to spend smarter, plan better, and protect your legacy as you age.     Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Wealth can unlock many benefits for retired clients. The four components of an ‘aging plan’ to help people as they experience cognitive decline. Aging and the impact of cognitive decline on investment decisions. What studies tell us about the value of financial advisors as people age. Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

The Social Security Fairness Act is shaking up the retirement landscape, eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) for millions of retirees. These long-standing provisions have impacted Social Security benefits for public sector workers like teachers, firefighters, and police officers—until now. In this episode, hear Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP® dive into what the changes mean, how retirees can expect retroactive payments, and the broader impact on the Social Security system. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Background on the Social Security Fairness Act that was signed into law on January 5. The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offsets (GPO) reduce regular Social Security benefits. Affected retirees stand to gain significant financial relief. The benefits come with a cost so what it does it mean for the long-term solvency? Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth

In this episode, Tyler Emrick, CFA®, CFP®, explores the key financial and psychological factors driving early Social Security claims. Discover how a well-optimized strategy could boost your lifetime spending by more than 10%. Your Social Security decision isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s a critical piece of your retirement puzzle. Join us to learn how to sidestep common pitfalls, maximize your benefits, and secure a more confident, fulfilling retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What research and stats tell us about the benefits that get left on the table. What’s the motivation behind the decision to claim early. Will Social Security still be around when it’s time for you to claim? What if President Trump stops taxes on Social Security? The benefits of waiting to take it later in life. Have questions? Need help making sure your investments and retirement plan are on track? Click to schedule a free 15-minute call with one of True Wealth's CFP® Professionals. http://bit.ly/calltruewealth