Charleston's Retirement Coach
210 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratingsWelcome to "Charleston's Retirement Coach," hosted by Brandon Bowen, seasoned financial advisor and founder of Bowen Wealth, LLC. Each week, join Brandon as he unpacks the complexities of planning for retirement with straightforward, actionable insights tailored specifically to help you achieve financial peace of mind.
In Charleston and beyond, retirement planning can seem daunting. Brandon brings over two decades of experience directly to you, covering everything from investment strategies and estate planning to tax considerations and insurance options. Whether you're an early-career professional beginning to save, or you're nearing retirement age and need to refine your plans, this show has something valuable for you.
Brandon's down-to-earth approach makes financial concepts accessible to all, no matter your level of financial knowledge. "Charleston's Retirement Coach" strives to equip listeners with the knowledge they need to navigate their retirement journey confidently. Tune in to transform how you think about retirement.
Secure your future with Brandon Bowen, and take the first step towards a retirement filled with freedom and stability. Subscribe now to never miss an episode of Charleston's Retirement Coach.
Like what you hear? Get a second opinion today 👉 https://bit.ly/3WoNJZT
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Brandon's Calling & The Reality of the Unexpected
September 24, 2020 16:59 - 11 minutes - 10.6 MBAfter Brandon passes along a brief checklist of what to consider before trying to pull off a forced or voluntary early retirement… You may need a tissue. He shares how he recently helped one couple address a very common worry: Running out of money. When you hear their story and why that fear became so urgent for them, you’ll better understand why Brandon takes so much care, concern and pride in helping people like you retire as confidently as possible. See omnystudio.com/listener for privac...
Higher Taxes Are Coming! Here's How to Protect Yourself
September 14, 2020 18:04 - 11 minutes - 10.6 MBWhat would you sacrifice to be able to retire early? Your mind will be blown when you find out what 8% of Americans said they would give up to stop working 10 years sooner than planned! Plus, we’re all focused on how the candidates plan to address taxes and our deficit. Either way the election falls, it’s likely that Uncle Sam is going to take a MUCH bigger bite out of our money for taxes in the future. Brandon simplifies how you can plan in advance to be more efficient when that day comes. ...
2020 Election - Taxes & Your Money
August 28, 2020 12:54 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBLawmakers in California are not only trying to increase their income tax rates; they’re also proposing what could be a first-in-the-nation wealth tax! If they get away with it, other states will likely attempt the same. With such a heated election pending in November, Brandon discusses how the outcome could directly impact your wallet… but doesn’t have to. Listen to find out the numbers you CAN control… and how to NOT let politics dictate your financial future. See omnystudio.com/listener f...
Keeping Your Paycheck & Losing Your COVID-19 Weight
August 19, 2020 20:30 - 11 minutes - 10.9 MBAfter passing along a simple way to back down our COVID-19 weight gain, we focus on how the virus is impacting the paychecks of many American workers. Unfortunately, October is expected to be tough for businesses that have been hit hard during the pandemic. That’s when some of the payroll protection provisions under the CARES Act expire, which means a new wave of layoffs are coming. Brandon passes along proactive steps for those near retirement to take who are concerned their job could be in...
Finding The GOOD During The Ups & Downs Of Life
August 05, 2020 13:40 - 12 minutes - 11.4 MBSince the U.S. economy recently experienced its worst drop on record, Brandon highlights how and why you need to create your own income plan. Find out how to take back control of your hard-earned money, and make sure your personal economy is moving in the right direction… so that you can pay yourself when you stop working! Plus, a recent survey found that Americans haven’t been this unhappy in about 50 years… but have no fear, Captain Positive Brandon Bowen is here with some good news! See ...
Planning Your Wedding vs. Your Financial Future
August 03, 2020 21:28 - 13 minutes - 12.2 MBAfter hearing the romantic and thoughtful story of how Brandon popped the question, and how prepared his wife was for their beautiful wedding 16 years ago… We contrast that with the amount of time we should planning our financial future. Brandon also explains how retirees can avoid some of Uncle Sam’s “tax traps” and be efficient. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Taking Advantage of the "Sale" on National & Local Taxes
July 16, 2020 17:11 - 9 minutes - 8.3 MBWe all realize that Washington will probably raise taxes eventually to pay for all of the stimulus spending. However, many of us may have forgotten that our state and local governments are hurting for money too. Lockdown orders and layoffs deprived many states and cities of 2 valuable sources of revenue: Income taxes & sales taxes. While addressing recent concerns some clients had, Brandon breaks down what you can do TODAY to be as tax efficient as possible with your portfolio. See omnystud...
Baseball & Why You Need Income In Your Bullpen
July 09, 2020 19:57 - 10 minutes - 10 MBGreat news sports fans! Yes, it’s a shorter season… but MLB is here! If you’re a fan, you may remember that Bobby Bonilla hasn't played professionally in about 20 years. Since 2011 the Mets have been cutting him a yearly check for over $1 million and will until 2035. Bonilla brilliantly put off immediate satisfaction and opted to defer his contract buy out. Therefore, he has more than sufficient income during his retirement. Brandon explains how to use the money YOU’VE put away to create an ...
Preparing For Hurricane Uncle Sam
June 19, 2020 14:25 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MBIt’s hurricane season, and if you live in the Lowcountry… It’s no secret that a direct hit from a hurricane can ruin what you’ve worked so hard for. When you’re in or near retirement, taxes are pretty much a category 5 threat to your portfolio all year. Brandon talks about why taxes will likely go up when you stop working, and how you can take advantage of the limited time we have to prepare now! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Getting Through A Layoff Or Buyout In 3 Steps
June 11, 2020 14:52 - 9 minutes - 8.64 MBCharleston thrives on hospitality and tourism. From Boeing to hotels, restaurants and airlines… the entire travel industry has been hit particularly hard from the economic downturn. Unfortunately, this has resulted in layoffs and early retirement packages for millions. Brandon explains how to deal with this tough situation, and how to plan in advance for the “what ifs” of life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Climb & Conquer the "What If" Mountain
June 04, 2020 12:29 - 7 minutes - 6.54 MBWith 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 MBCapitalism 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 MBWhen 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 - 10 MBAfter 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.
Are You Missing A Key Ingredient In Your Portfolio
May 06, 2020 17:08 - 10 minutes - 15 MBAfter 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.
How To Survive An Early Retirement Buyout of Layoff
April 30, 2020 13:27 - 10 minutes - 9.38 MBIf 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 MBAfter 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 MB50 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 MBTaking 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 MBEmbrace 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 MBThe 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 MBThe 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 MBThe 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 MBThere 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 MBA 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 MBSince 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 MBMost 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 MBA 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 MBThe 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 MBCongress 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 MBWhen 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 MBYou’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 MBHard 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 MB2019 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 MBUnderstanding 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 MBA 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 MBWith 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 MBCurrently, 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 MBThe 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 MBSeptember 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 MBDuring 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 MBRecently 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 MBMonopoly 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 MBIf 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 MBWhat 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 MBWe 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 MBWhat 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 MBThe 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 MBFidelity 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 MBBrandon 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.