Charleston's Retirement Coach artwork

Charleston's Retirement Coach

200 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratings

Financial advisor, Brandon Bowen, offers client-focused solutions and unbiased guidance to show what's possible for your financial future. Visit BowenWealth.com.

Investing Business Education charleston retirement financialservices investmentadvisor retirementplanning
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Episodes

Climb & Conquer the "What If" Mountain

June 04, 2020 12:29 - 7 minutes - 6.54 MB

With all of the unrest in our current day to day lives, many claim they’re too busy to worry about issues such as their investments. Brandon reminds us that if we don’t prepare for the “what ifs” of life (health issues, forced early retirement, economic downturns and etc), our future is at risk of being derailed. Being the positive guy he is, Brandon explains how a personal journey he went through is a great reminder of how a good coach and a prudent plan can make what feels overwhelming and...

Taxes: How False Confidence Can Cost You BIG Time

May 27, 2020 16:56 - 7 minutes - 6.65 MB

Capitalism is the greatest engine for prosperity and innovation! However, considering the coronavirus pandemic and the stimulus packages that followed… capitalism is probably going to change in our great country moving forward. The national debt is soaring, and Uncle Sam doesn’t typically spend less to fix that. We’ll be paying higher taxes in the future to cover it all. On this episode Brandon explains what you can do TODAY with your investment accounts to start being as efficient as possib...

3 Facts You MUST Know About Social Security

May 14, 2020 14:54 - 9 minutes - 9.04 MB

When it comes to Social Security, figuring out some the acronyms and terminology can be confusing. On this episode we make understanding the phrases we hear most often a little fun. Brandon gives a very simple explanation of each term, and the reveals the 3 facts you must know about Social Security and your money! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are You Missing A Key Ingredient In Your Portfolio

May 06, 2020 17:08 - 10 minutes - 15 MB

After discussing how we’re all cooking and baking more with this time at home, Brandon addresses how many “experts” say the economic downturn is a buying opportunity for stocks. He explains how that’s not necessarily true for Baby Boomers, and how to make sure you aren’t missing what should be the main ingredient of your portfolio.

Are You Missing A Key Ingredient In Your Portfolio?

May 06, 2020 17:08 - 10 minutes - 10 MB

After discussing how we’re all cooking and baking more with this time at home, Brandon addresses how many “experts” say the economic downturn is a buying opportunity for stocks. He explains how that’s not necessarily true for Baby Boomers, and how to make sure you aren’t missing what should be the main ingredient of your portfolio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How To Survive An Early Retirement Buyout of Layoff

April 30, 2020 13:27 - 10 minutes - 9.38 MB

If you’ve been offered an early retirement buyout from Boeing or another great company, you’re facing with some tough decisions. Yes… Your financial future could be much different than you expected, but not necessarily. On this episode Brandon encourages you to NOT rush into a decision that will impact you and your family for the rest of your life and explains how to step back and weigh your options. Plus, if you’re mourning the loss of your sports, you’ll enjoy finding out about a new sport...

Your Money & Your Advisor

April 23, 2020 15:10 - 17 minutes - 16.1 MB

After Brandon & Kristen discuss making the best out of life at the moment and what we’re spending more money on, we spotlight how important it is that your communication style matches your financial advisor. Plus, if you’re judging the performance of your portfolio solely based on the rate of return, Brandon explains that you’re missing the boat if you’re not also considering the fees you’re paying! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reflecting On History: "Houston We Have A Problem!"

April 16, 2020 16:07 - 12 minutes - 11.2 MB

50 years ago, during the Apollo 13 mission we first heard the infamous quote: “Houston we have a problem.”  People often repeat that saying when dealing with a sudden or dramatic dilemma. Just as the crew of the Apollo 13 mission did, Brandon discusses why we need to be calm, responsive, and realistic yet optimistic as our lifestyle and economy changes due to the pandemic… And how to stay on course! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The "Essentials" of Life & Not Procrastinating

April 08, 2020 21:07 - 11 minutes - 10.2 MB

Taking a much-needed break from the news, Brandon discusses some of the fun “essential needs” during this time at home with family. And since he completed his honey-do list, he confesses what he finally took care of in his personal life that we all need to create or update:  An estate plan! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good News & Your Stimulus Money

April 01, 2020 20:00 - 10 minutes - 9.75 MB

Embrace this break from the headlines as Brandon shares some exciting news about one of our neighbors here in the Lowcountry! Plus, he explains the GOOD NEWS about how the stimulus package impacts you… And if you don’t need the money right now, find out the new options that are only available during 2020 for your retirement accounts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Don't Socially Distance From Wall Street Yet!

March 27, 2020 13:39 - 9 minutes - 9.04 MB

The market has been so erratic that many of us would prefer to keep our distance if we could. On certain days, many have been wondering if they should make big moves like going to cash. Before you do anything, take a deep breath… and listen to why Brandon feels it’s not time to panic… But it is the perfect time to realize what you can control and be doing NOW to prepare for what’s to come. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating Economic & Health Concerns

March 21, 2020 16:29 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MB

The closing numbers of the Dow and NASDAQ on Friday wrapped up U.S. markets’ worst week since the 2008 financial crisis. Brandon explains what soon to be and current retirees need to be focused, and shares some good news we all need to hear! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating Economic & Health Concerns

March 21, 2020 16:29 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MB

The closing numbers of the Dow and NASDAQ on Friday wrapped up U.S. markets’ worst week since the 2008 financial crisis. Brandon explains what soon to be and current retirees need to be focused, and shares some good news we all need to hear!

Losing Money on Wall Street Means Losing Time

March 12, 2020 14:34 - 9 minutes - 8.46 MB

There was a major market nosedive this past week in reaction to the Coronavirus, and Wall Street hit the brakes. Brandon discusses the concern we all have: Could this global pandemic cause a recession and harm our financial future? – And more importantly, how you have more control of the economy inside the 4 walls of your home than you may realize. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street's Coronavirus Panic & How To React

March 02, 2020 08:00 - 7 minutes - 7.27 MB

A significant rise in Coronavirus cases triggered an economic fallout on Monday February 24th, sending the Dow Jones industrial average down 1,000-plus points… the third-largest single-day drop in market history! If you’re like many investors, you reacted by checking your investments and 401(k)s. On this episode Brandon discuss how you should react to events like this, and how to plan around these unexpected things possibly draining your portfolio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy in...

Weathering The "Tax Storm" of Investing

February 17, 2020 08:00 - 6 minutes - 6.31 MB

Since we aren’t CPA’s (and find other matters more enjoyable), most of us don’t have a lot of knowledge about tax laws… Especially since they seem to change frequently! Using down to earth language, Brandon explains how taxes can affect the future of your investments, and how the SECURE ACT impacts not only your retirement money… But perhaps your kids too! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Name Brand vs. Generic & Your Wallet

February 10, 2020 08:00 - 9 minutes - 8.76 MB

Most of us are loyal to a few name brands instead of opting for the less expensive generic options. It could be cereal, coffee or even a specific brand of shoes? On this episode, Brandon tackles a much pricier and dangerous dilemma: Can generic rule-of-thumb advice damage your financial future? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 5 Steps To Retirement

February 03, 2020 08:00 - 9 minutes - 8.8 MB

A recent national study revealed that when the paychecks stop, $1 million should fund a 22 to 23-year retirement in Charleston, SC. Brandon has been a financial advisor in the low country for many years, and on this episode he explains why this study isn’t necessarily true, and defines the 5 steps to retirement you should be focused on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Controlling Fees & Your Future

January 27, 2020 08:00 - 9 minutes - 8.52 MB

The travel industry is notorious for “nickel-and-diming” customers, and on this episode, Brandon explains how that’s often true of many 401(k) accounts too. Plus, with Bosch recently announcing they’ll be eliminating hundreds of jobs in Charleston over the next year, some are concerned about a forced early retirement. Brandon tells the story of how one employee is proudly taking more control of his future!   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How Congress Changed Your Retirement

January 20, 2020 08:00 - 6 minutes - 6.31 MB

Congress passed, and President Trump signed the SECURE Act into law at the close of 2019. It will eventually affect most retirement savers in some way. Is this good or bad for your retirement? Brandon reveals what the changes in the required minimum distribution (RMD) age and inherited IRAs mean for you and your family. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Financial Resolutions For 2020 & Beyond

December 23, 2019 08:00 - 12 minutes - 11.4 MB

When it comes to resolutions, we all approach the New Year from a different perspective… but we share the common goal of doing something better in 2020. On this episode, Brandon addresses why it’s vital that you resolve to be more focused on what’s really happening with your portfolio all year long, especially when it comes to taxes! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas & Giving Yourself Permission to Give

December 16, 2019 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

You’ll enjoy getting into the Christmas spirit by hearing Brandon’s daughters talk about what this season means to them. Brandon discusses the joy of giving… and the honor he has of telling many of his clients that they often budgeted to give more to themselves to create special memories with loved ones in retirement.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retirement Income - "The Gift That Keeps on Giving Clark"

December 09, 2019 08:00 - 11 minutes - 11 MB

Hard to believe that we’ve been enjoying Christmas with the Griswold’s for over 30 years… but will we have enough money to enjoy 30 years of retirement? On this episode Brandon explains that with the right planning, you can create an income plan that allows you to enjoy those 20 or 30 years of retirement with confidence… And not with cousin Eddie! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Year-End Tax Assessment

November 25, 2019 08:00 - 8 minutes - 7.56 MB

2019 is coming to a close, and it's a great time to review your tax situation and possibly make strategic changes to your retirement. Since we only have a few weeks to make sure you don't get hit with a tax penalty, Brandon explains how to make these weeks count. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Southern Goodbye to Wasteful Fees

November 04, 2019 08:00 - 7 minutes - 6.73 MB

Understanding what you're paying for your investment accounts is the first step to making the most of your retirement savings. Brandon brings this reality to light by explaining how he helped a widowed client reduce her investment fees by about $25,000 a year, and how she now has the freedom to spend that money on purpose! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Giving Yourself Permission to Spend

October 21, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 8.18 MB

A couple Brandon recently sat down with is facing a common dilemma many relate to: They’re in their early 60’s, they’ve worked hard, saved and invested well, got rid of all of their debt… But out of fear, they’re putting off treating themselves to a few reasonable rewards. Brandon reminds us that we only have a few weeks left in this decade, and with the right planning, we need to make the most of every moment moving forward. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retirement Tax Efficiencies for 2020 & Beyond

October 14, 2019 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.75 MB

With another year flying by, Brandon address what you need to be doing now to be tax efficient with your retirement in 2020… and beyond. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice, Except Wall Street

October 07, 2019 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.64 MB

Currently, many of us are obsessed with fall and the pumpkin spice life that comes along with it! And the news media is absolutely obsessed with the idea that another recession may be on the way. Today, Brandon explains what all of this chatter truly means for your money, and what you really need to be watching out for concerning your portfolio and the future of your retirement. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Interest Rates & Retirement Risk

September 23, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.82 MB

The Federal Reserve’s decision to cut interest rates is a double-edged sword. Lower rates do mean cheaper loan options, but today Brandon explains how this cut can negatively impact the future retirement of soon to be and retirees. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lessons From The 2008 Financial Collapse

September 16, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.86 MB

September of 2008 was an especially scary time for investors. Thankfully 11 years later, our portfolios are doing pretty well! But could something like that ever happen again? Brandon certainly isn’t a doomsayer, but the answer is YES! The bigger question is… how will your portfolio handle the next crash? Today Brandon explains why it’s vital to make sure your investments are properly diversified. Remember: “Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” See omnystudio.com/li...

Weathering Hurricanes & Wall Street

September 09, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.6 MB

During hurricane season, the Lowcountry keeps a watchful eye on what the tropics could bring ashore. Thankfully we have advanced weather predicting technology, but we all know the forecast can change in an instant. Keeping your family safe and protecting your home requires focus and preparation. This week, Brandon explains how similar provisions should be made to your portfolio to help protect your retirement from the unpredictable forecast of wall street. See omnystudio.com/listener for pr...

Conquering Mount Everest & Your Assets

September 02, 2019 07:00 - 12 minutes - 11.9 MB

Recently Brandon took part in an epic endurance challenge that was physical, mental and spiritual. He attempted to climb the equivalent of Mt. Everest. Although he was just shy of conquering Everest, this challenge inspired him in ways he never imagined. Without the coaching he received along the way, he wouldn’t have been able to achieve what he did… Reminding us all that we need a good coach to help us win in retirement! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taxes: The Worst Part of the Game

August 19, 2019 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.38 MB

Monopoly is a very competitive board game. Almost every family breaks out the box once or twice a year, but it can cause some minor arguments. Then there’s that other family member, “Uncle Sam,” who wants his share from all of us (on & off the Monopoly board). Today, Brandon explores the lessons we can take away from Monopoly and how to help minimize the taxes you pay on your real money!   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social Security Consumer Alert

August 12, 2019 07:00 - 6 minutes - 5.77 MB

If your response is YES to either of these sentences, you need to listen to this episode: - Are you or someone you know age 66 - 70 and have NOT started Social Security yet?  - Are you or someone you know turning age 66 in 2019?    If YES was the answer to either question, Brandon explains why you or a loved one could be missing out on some major retirement income you’re entitled to… and how to avoid that mistake.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alleviating Economic Anxiety

August 05, 2019 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.53 MB

What makes you nervous or anxious? Maybe public speaking or heights? A recent survey finds that 60% of Americans feel anxious when they think about investing in the market… and they’re reluctant to invest because they worry about a potential crash. Brandon explains how you can remedy some of your investment fears and tackle other common retirement concerns. And you’ll never believe what Brandon has an irrational fear of! Here’s a hint: It isn’t financial… but it is funny and embarrassing! S...

Is It Time to Bubble Wrap Your Portfolio?

July 22, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 8.08 MB

We use bubble wrap to protect fragile items, and occasionally pop for fun! Wall street is on a 10-year bull run, but it hasn’t always been straight up. We’ve experienced volatility that has some investors wondering if it’s time to bubble wrap their investment portfolio. Brandon explains why you may want to consider making some changes and diversifying your portfolio for the long-term.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winning In Retirement, Without The Lottery

July 01, 2019 07:00 - 10 minutes - 9.41 MB

What if you could figure out how to strategically boost your chances of winning the lottery? On this episode you’ll find out about a couple who did just that, but more importantly Brandon will explain how you can improve your odds of succeeding when it comes to creating your own winning retirement!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to Navigate Disney World & Wall Street

June 24, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.66 MB

The most magical place on earth is also one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world. Seasoned visitors, such as Brandon and his family, know how to work their way around crowds with a few simple hacks. Navigating your way through your investments can be equally frustrating, if not more. To make your life a little easier, Brandon shares Disney and retirement planning hacks that can possibly ease some of your frustrations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do We Really Need a Written Retirement Plan?

June 10, 2019 07:00 - 6 minutes - 6.41 MB

Fidelity says fewer than 1-in-5 Americans have a written plan for retirement. By telling the story of a couple he recently worked with, Brandon explains why this planning can be overwhelming for both the middle class AND multi-millionaires. Find out how having a clear written plan is vitally important to accomplish your personal goals, and to resolve those overwhelming feelings. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budgeting For Home Renovations & Risk

May 20, 2019 07:00 - 10 minutes - 9.27 MB

Brandon answers and email question, one that’s very common in his office: Where should we pull money from for home improvements? Considering the market reaction to trade tensions with China, Brandon explains what that means for you and his clients. Plus, an uplifting story of a single woman who put off making portfolio changes until months ago, but now feels confident she can retire in a few weeks! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family Life & Avoiding Risk

May 06, 2019 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.85 MB

We’ve been told that inflation, taxes, and healthcare can diminish our portfolio fast. Brandon will explain why market risk is the biggest threat to your wealth when you’re over 55, and how he helped one couple plan for that “what if.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lack of Understanding & Leaking Fees

April 29, 2019 07:00 - 7 minutes - 6.77 MB

Brandon breaks down the basic 3 things you need to pay attention to when it comes to your portfolio. Plus, the Center for American Progress says a 1.3% fee on your 401(k) could cost you as much as $100-thousand over the course of your career. Brandon explains the reality of that stat by describing how he helped a client uncover over $8,000 a year in fees she was unknowingly paying on an old account, and how she now has the freedom to spend that money on purpose! See omnystudio.com/listener ...

Guarding Against Shocking Fees

April 22, 2019 07:00 - 6 minutes - 6.14 MB

Brandon shares a shocking story of how he uncovered over $100,000 in fees a couple unknowingly paid during their first year with their old advisor, and how you can guard against that bombshell within your own portfolio. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retirement Mistakes to Avoid

April 15, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 8.1 MB

We all make mistakes, but what are the most damaging retirement planning mistakes you need to (and can) avoid? Brandon will point out the top 3 mistakes, and how you can guard your portfolio against them.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wrong Assumptions About Taxes & Social SEcurity

April 08, 2019 07:00 - 10 minutes - 9.79 MB

Did you know there are a number of factors that can either lower – or increase – your tax obligations when you stop working? Brandon will divulge the details, and relay a client story that serves as a good reminder of how important it is to know your options with Social Security. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Investing Ads & Estates

March 25, 2019 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.83 MB

The ads you see and hear might make investing seem rather easy. Brandon will dive into some of the key issues the commercials don’t always spotlight. He’ll also explain the difference in a will and a trust, and why an estate plan isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Basketball Brackets & Your Retirement

March 18, 2019 07:00 - 10 minutes - 9.33 MB

It’s basketball bracket time, and Brandon is breaking down the 4 major retirement match ups that are vital when creating your own winning retirement! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is $1 Million Enough To Be Comfortable & Give

March 11, 2019 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.53 MB

Brandon will answer a popular question: Is $1 million enough to retire comfortably? Plus insight from a Heisman trophy winner about the importance of giving. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fill the Age Gap With Income

March 04, 2019 08:00 - 10 minutes - 9.99 MB

It’s common for couples to have an age gap, but Brandon will reveal how to fill the income gap between those years. Surprisingly it can often happen by uncovering fees you may not be aware of. Plus, why it’s important to get your financial life in order and fully embrace spending time on what’s important to YOU! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tax Time & Fees All The Time

February 20, 2019 15:59 - 11 minutes - 10.7 MB

It’s tax time, but Brandon will tell a powerful story that reminds us how significant the relationship is between taxes and our investments all year long. Plus, he’ll share a recent experience that validates how imperative it is to know how much you’re paying in fees. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.