Retirement Pathfinder with Barbara Lane & Phil Guske
138 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 days ago -Financial and retirement planning guidance from Rockford’s Barbara Lane & Phil Guske of Pathfinder Wealth Management.
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Episodes
Practical Strategies for Protecting Retirees Against Scams & Fraud
April 18, 2024 09:00 - 21 minutes - 19.5 MBAs much as any other threat, recognizing and avoiding scams has become a necessary skill for today’s retirees to develop. Join us as we explore crucial steps you can take to safeguard your financial well-being against the growing tide of scams and identity theft. Learn from real-life stories and gain practical advice to keep your finances secure in this digital era, all from the perspective of a seasoned financial professional. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathf...
Best of Mailbag Questions (Part 2)
April 04, 2024 09:00 - 16 minutes - 15.6 MBWe're back with another special edition of the podcast for you today! We've pulled more of our favorite mailbag questions from prior episodes and compiled them into one conversation for you. In this week's show, Barbara and Phil talk about making financial decisions after a real estate sale, long-term care coverage, and ethical considerations in investing. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.c...
Best of Mailbag Questions
March 21, 2024 09:00 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MBWe've got a special edition of the podcast for you today! We've pulled some of our favorite mailbag questions from prior episodes and compiled them into one conversation for you. Stay tuned as Barbara and Phil discuss tax laws, pensions for federal employees, traveling in retirement, and more. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from real-life financial planning scenarios! Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http:/...
Mailbag: Gifting Money, Financial Indecision, Retirement Spending, and More!
March 07, 2024 10:00 - 17 minutes - 15.9 MBWelcome back to the Retirement Pathfinder. We've got some mailbag questions for you to enjoy today! Dorothy wishes to financially support her daughter and grandchild, who are facing challenges due to the newborn's extended hospital stay, but isn't sure about the tax implications and feasibility. Charles has been pinching pennies for 10 years in retirement and wonders whether he should start spending more liberally and travel more often. Click the play button to see what you can learn! Im...
How One Overlooked Issue Can Sink Your Retirement
February 22, 2024 10:00 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MBImagine your retirement plan as a ship sailing toward a horizon of rest and relaxation. But what if one leak could sink it all? In today’s episode, we spotlight some of the single oversights that could send your dreams to the bottom. We'll share key strategies to plug the gaps, ensuring your financial ship stays buoyant and on course. Tune in to protect your future from the one mistake that could derail everything. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory...
Are Your Good Money Habits Holding You Back?
February 01, 2024 10:00 - 24 minutes - 22.8 MBThis episode might be a bit counterintuitive. We’re going to question the real impact of common financial habits. Are the strategies you consider beneficial actually working in your favor? We explore the pros and cons of practices like ignoring account statements and strict budgeting. Join us for a practical discussion, as we uncover the unexpected effects of everyday money decisions. Are your good money habits holding you back? Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://path...
With Higher Interest Rates, Is “Lazy Money” Still A Concern In 2024?
January 18, 2024 10:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MBIs 'Lazy Money' still a concern in 2024's higher interest rate landscape? In this episode, we explore this question, examining how the recent rise in interest rates affects the money sitting in savings accounts, CDs, and conservative investments. We'll discuss the new dynamics of managing your funds in a world where traditional saving methods are seeing better returns. Are these options now a viable part of a savvy investment strategy, or are there still better ways to make your money work h...
Mailbag: Are Year-End Charitable Donations Still Tax-Beneficial?
January 04, 2024 10:00 - 20 minutes - 18.9 MBIn this week's mailbag episode, Dan asks whether the changes in tax laws in recent years have affected the tax benefits of his charitable donations. Amy asks if her approach of not rushing to pay off debt, utilizing a Home Equity Line for major expenses, and prioritizing retirement savings is advisable. Listen in as Barbara and Phil tackle these questions (and a few more) in today's show! Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute...
Patience Pays: The Power of Delayed Gratification
December 21, 2023 10:00 - 25 minutes - 23.3 MBSometimes it’s hard to make financial sacrifices when the reward might not be seen until several years in the future. Today we’ll talk about some of the situations where you might be inclined to take the immediate benefit, when you should really consider the delayed rewards. Plus, Barbara and Phil will provide an update on interest rates and what we might expect to see in the new year. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Co...
Mailbag: I’ve Maxed Out My 401(K)- Where Should I Invest Additional Money?
December 07, 2023 10:00 - 18 minutes - 17.2 MBJoin us for a great mailbag episode today! This is your chance to gain valuable insights from the financial questions of our listeners. In today's show, Chris asks where to invest additional money for retirement since he is already maxing out his 401(k). Tony asks if he needs a will, trust, or both to evenly split two rental properties between his sons after he passes. Tune in to see how Barbara and Phil answer these questions and more. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: htt...
Retirement Planning’s “Hidden” Questions
November 16, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MBThe retirement planning world is filled with plenty of advice and suggestions, but there are critical questions lurking in the shadows – the unasked, the overlooked. These are the questions that can help define the comfort and security of your retirement future. On this episode, we unearth and tackle these hidden, but essential questions about retirement. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
Best Of Year End Planning Tips
November 02, 2023 13:38 - 19 minutes - 18.3 MBAs we approach the end of the year, there's a lot to look forward to. This is also the perfect time of year to share some year-end planning tips. Join us as we take a look at what items and opportunities you need to be paying attention to before we turn the page to 2024. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
Best Of Mailbag Questions
October 26, 2023 09:00 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MBWe have a special edition of the show for you today! We thought it would be helpful to pull some of our favorite mailbag questions from the past and compile them into one episode. Tune in as we talk about life insurance, divorce, retirement, passing assets along to your kids, and much more. Stay tuned to see what you can learn! Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
Dissecting Dave Ramsey’s Tik Tok Advice
October 05, 2023 09:00 - 26 minutes - 61.1 MBDave Ramsey is well known for his no-nonsense approach to personal finance, particularly in the areas of budgeting, debt management, and wealth-building. He has gained a significant following through various media platforms, including books, radio shows, podcasts, live events, and more recently, Tik Tok. Tune in as we peel back the layers of Dave’s bite sized Tik Tok advice and share our thoughts beyond the clips. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory....
AI vs a Real Advisor - Who Wins?
September 21, 2023 09:00 - 19 minutes - 17.5 MBThe article we will discuss today has a fun breakdown of someone trying to plan for retirement with the help of AI and a real advisor. The author asks them the same questions and reveals the results. Would be a fun one to recap on your show and break down the nuances of planning that a robot just can’t understand (at least not yet). Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
Building An Estate Plan With No Regrets
September 07, 2023 09:00 - 27 minutes - 37.6 MBThere are some people who don’t care at all about leaving a financial legacy, but for those who do, it’s important to eliminate some of the common estate planning mistakes. In this episode, we cover topics ranging from poor expense planning to outdated beneficiary designations and family conflict triggers. We also shed light on some misconceptions about transferring real estate and explain the impact of tax implications on your estate. If you want to leave a legacy without regret or legal tu...
When It’s Time To Change Financial Advisors
August 17, 2023 11:53 - 25 minutes - 23.4 MBIn this episode, we delve into the complex and often emotionally charged process of changing financial advisors. We'll discuss the telltale signs that it's time to consider a switch, the questions to ask your current advisor, and what to look for in a new one. Join us as we demystify the transition process and equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about who is best suited to guide your financial future. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pat...
Mailbag: I Fear A Recession - Should I Stop Contributing To My 401(k)?
August 03, 2023 16:41 - 20 minutes - 27.8 MBWe've got some great listener mailbag questions lined up for today's show! Bruce says that he fears a recession and wonders if he should stop contributing to his 401(k) for a while. Andy asks whether he should continue paying extra on his house to have it paid off by retirement, considering the advice he's received about needing a mortgage for a tax deduction during retirement. Tune in and see what you can learn from these mailbag questions! Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management...
Spotting Problematic Personalities of Rogue Advisors
July 20, 2023 09:00 - 22 minutes - 20.6 MBFinding a trustworthy and competent financial advisor is essential for securing your financial future. After all, they play a vital role in helping you make informed decisions about your money, investments, and long-term financial goals. But how can you separate the wheat from the chaff? How can you identify problematic personalities that might indicate an advisor isn't the right fit for you? We’ll find out in today’s episode as we explore how to identify “The Ghost," “The Jargon Juggler," “...
Mailbag: Is My Account Too Small For My Advisor To Worry About?
June 29, 2023 09:00 - 20 minutes - 28 MBWe're back with another mailbag episode this week. We've got some great listener questions lined up for today's show. Kate asks how to stop financially supporting her 27-year-old son without setting him up for failure. Laura asks if her account is too small for her financial advisor to worry about. Tune in and see what you can learn from these mailbag questions! Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://Pathfinde...
Biggest Money Mistakes In Retirement Planning
June 15, 2023 09:00 - 26 minutes - 23.8 MBIn the complex world of retirement planning, there are countless pitfalls one could fall into. In this episode, we've distilled it down to what we believe are the top 4 mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these crucial missteps can have a significant impact on the success of your retirement plan. Join us as we delve into these key issues and learn how to navigate them effectively when it's your turn to plan for retirement. But before we dive in, Barbara and Phil will reflect on the current f...
Are You Making These Common Retirement Excuses?
May 25, 2023 09:00 - 26 minutes - 24.2 MBIn today's episode, we're diving into the 4 common excuses that people often use to keep from retiring. Taking the leap and deciding to retire can be daunting. Whether you love your career, are afraid of being bored after you leave the workforce, or are simply afraid that you can't retire, Barbara and Phil will help you get over that hurdle so that you can move on to the next chapter of your life with ease. Join us as we discuss the importance of having a clear retirement plan that you can f...
How Age & Wisdom Impact Financial Planning
May 04, 2023 09:00 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MBToday, we're diving into a topic that affects everyone, regardless of age or financial status: How Age & Wisdom Impact Financial Planning. No matter where you are in life, your financial goals and priorities will change over time, and it's important to have a plan that reflects your unique needs. In this episode, we'll explore the ways in which age and wisdom impact financial planning strategies and provide practical tips and insights to help you make informed decisions about your finances. ...
A Comprehensive Dismantling Of 2023’s Top Social Security Myths
April 20, 2023 16:14 - 25 minutes - 23.8 MBHave you ever wondered if the Social Security system will run out of money before you retire? Or if claiming benefits as soon as you're eligible is the best decision for your financial future? In this episode, we'll be debunking common myths about Social Security and answering the questions you've been curious about. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Should I Push My Retirement Date Back?
April 06, 2023 09:00 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MBWe will be answering some mailbag questions on today's show. This time around we be discussing if you should cancel your life insurance policy, if it's wise to push back the date you want to retire, and how conservative your retirement portfolio should be. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
Retirement Savings Basics & What to Know About Silicon Valley Bank
March 16, 2023 09:00 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MBAre you aware that not all retirement accounts are created equal? It's crucial to understand the purpose and advantages of each type of account to make the best choice for your future. In this episode, we'll delve into the different types of retirement accounts, including 401(k)s, IRAs, Roths, and several other examples. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each and give you insights into the purposes they serve so that you can make an informed decision. Join us and discover why underst...
Mailbag: What To Know About Inheriting An IRA
March 02, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 20.3 MBWe will be answering mailbag questions that came in on today's show. We will be discussing if it's wise to do Roth conversions, what to know about inheriting an IRA, and how your tax picture changes in retirement. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A 15 Minute Consult: http://PathfinderChat.com
What’s Your Biggest Financial Fear?
February 16, 2023 10:00 - 19 minutes - 18.1 MBWe took an informal poll of listeners to find out what their biggest financial fears are. On this episode, we’ll explore the most common fears and talk about how they should be addressed in a retirement plan. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Should I Use Two Advisors To Plan My Retirement?
February 02, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 20.4 MBIt's another mailbag edition of the show. This time around we will discuss investing an inheritance, if it's wise to have two financial advisors, and what strategies you might be able to put in place for your family to make sure their income needs are met once you pass away. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
2023 Edition: Checklist For Retirement Preparedness
January 19, 2023 10:00 - 19 minutes - 17.6 MBAnother year is upon us and it’s a great time to ask yourself some key questions questions to assess how ready you are for retirement to kick off 2023. If you’re retiring this year, it’s essential to have some concrete answers to these questions. If you’re still a few years from the milestone, tune in so you can start thinking about these critical conversations. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Do I Need Life Insurance?
January 05, 2023 10:00 - 19 minutes - 17.8 MBWe will be answering some listener questions on this episode. We will talk about some annuity considerations, how to know if life insurance is a good fit for your plan, and why social security planning is crucial for your retirement. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
The Top 5 401(k) Mistakes You Need To Avoid
December 15, 2022 10:00 - 25 minutes - 23.2 MBSaving in your 401(k) can be an easy and painless way to build your retirement savings. But because it’s so easy and painless, it can also be easy to ignore for long periods of time, which often leads to mistakes. We’ll cover at least the top 5 mistakes people make in their 401(k)s. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Paying Off Rental Mortgages, Retirement Vs College Funding, And More
December 01, 2022 10:00 - 21 minutes - 29.4 MBIn this episode, we will answer some listener questions that will help you gauge the best way to spend extra cash when you have options available. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Making Smart Decisions During Major Life Events
November 17, 2022 10:00 - 27 minutes - 25 MBLet’s explore some of the things you should be thinking about to make smart financial decisions when you encounter some of the most significant events in your life. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: When Should I Get More Conservative With My Portfolio?
November 03, 2022 09:00 - 23 minutes - 22 MBOn this mailbag show, we will be discussing at what age should you get more conservative in your retirement portfolio, early retirement considerations, and if life insurance is a good strategy in your retirement plan. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Most Common Retirement Planning Questions About Taxes
October 20, 2022 09:00 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MBAs we approach the end of the year, saving money on taxes becomes a bigger focus for many people. But let’s broaden the scope out for this particular episode and focus on some of the most common retirement planning questions about taxes. We’ll talk about mistakes to avoid and how a proper plan can make a significant difference in someone’s tax savings. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Should I Be Considering Roth Conversions?
October 06, 2022 09:00 - 19 minutes - 17.7 MBWe will be opening up the mailbag on today's show to answer some listener questions. We will be discussing if it's wise to start taking social security to pay off your house, some considerations when thinking about doing a Roth conversion, and some things you can do with an inheritance. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Please Read The Fine Print
September 22, 2022 08:00 - 24 minutes - 22.5 MBIt’s been said that “the sales brochure giveth and the fine print taketh away.” In this episode, we’ll talk about some of the things we hear from people when they don’t pay enough attention to the fine print. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Should I Pay Off My Mortgage Before Investing In Rental Properties?
September 08, 2022 08:00 - 23 minutes - 21.4 MBIt's another mailbag edition of the show. This time around we will discuss contributing to your retirement account with commissions, if it's wise to pay off your own mortgage before investing in rental properties, and some considerations when looking at investment returns. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
How Procrastination Dooms Your Financial Future
August 25, 2022 08:00 - 25 minutes - 22.9 MBPeople have many reasons for procrastinating when it comes to putting a retirement plan together. Let’s explore some of those excuses and why they can be dangerous, and talk about how to overcome them. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Mailbag: Is Now The Time To Buy Stocks?
August 04, 2022 08:00 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MBOn today's show, we will be answering some mailbag questions that have come into the show. We will discuss some TSP strategies, buying stocks in a down market, and when you should hire a financial advisor. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
What They’re Saying: Analyzing Advice On Surviving A Bear Market
July 21, 2022 08:00 - 21 minutes - 19.6 MBIt’s no secret the stock market is in turmoil. We’re in a bear market and the R-word (recession) is getting thrown around daily. So, what can you do to survive bear markets like the one we’re in now? We’ve collected advice from various commentators and “experts” from across the country. You might have even heard some of this advice yourself. But should you follow it or proceed with caution? We’ll breakdown the guidance to provide some important context and perspective. Important Links: ...
Why Retirement Planning Ain’t What It Used To Be
July 07, 2022 08:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MBIn some ways, retirement planning was easier for past generations. Let’s explore how a good financial advisor helps people overcome the additional challenges of today. Our parents and grandparents may not have had to face these things, so just relying on the experiences of family members might not be enough to help us achieve our own financial success. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Investor Beware: Spotting Red Flags When Picking An Advisor
June 16, 2022 16:45 - 24 minutes - 22.1 MBDo you know what red flags, but also some good signs, to be on the lookout for when you’re searching for an advisor to work with as you prepare for retirement? On this episode, we’ll give you some red flags to be aware of, teach you how to spot them, and illustrate the difference between an advisor who does the bare minimum versus one who goes above and beyond to work in your best interests. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meetin...
What You Need to Know About Reverse Mortgages
June 02, 2022 08:00 - 24 minutes - 22.4 MBOn this episode, we bring on our special guest Larry McArnarney from Reverse Mortgage Funding. Larry has been in the business since 1999 and has done reverse mortgages for many unique situations over the years. Larry will talk about some of the basics of reverse mortgages, common misconceptions, and when it could be a fit in someone’s financial plan. https://www.reversefunding.com/ Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http:...
Is It Time to Panic?
May 19, 2022 08:00 - 21 minutes - 19.4 MBInflation is up. Supply chain issues continue. The market is down. Military conflicts continue. Pretty much anywhere you look you'll find unsettling news. Is it finally time to panic? Let Barbara and Phil ease your nerves and tell you why this time is like all the others. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
Reasons You SHOULD Get Life Insurance
May 05, 2022 08:00 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MBSure, life insurance is one of the more boring topics to cover on a podcast. And a lot of what you hear is going to warn you why you should NOT get various types of life insurance. But our goal on this episode is to focus on the positive and analyze the reasons why you should get life insurance, or at least consider it. Many people think that once the kids are out of the house, you don’t need insurance anymore. But there are some other reasons why life insurance can be a useful part of y...
Common Housing Questions From Retirees
April 21, 2022 08:00 - 18 minutes - 17.3 MBHousing is a really important topic for a lot of retirees because, for many of us, it’s the biggest asset we’ll ever own or manage. We want to get that part of our financial equation correct, so it’s no surprise it takes up a nice slice of the retirement planning conversation. On this episode, we’ll cover some common housing questions from retirees and hopefully hit on an issue that might also be on your mind. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/...
Mailbag: How Much Diversification Do I Need In My IRA?
April 07, 2022 08:00 - 18 minutes - 16.5 MBIt's another mailbag edition of the podcast! This time around we will discuss variables that determine how much retirement income you may need, diversification in an IRA, and reducing the risk in your portfolio. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com
How to Recognize Your Own Greed and Fight Against It
March 17, 2022 08:00 - 21 minutes - 19.3 MBWhen it comes to your money, you might have several different voices in your head—maybe the voice of greed, or the voice of fear, and sometimes the voice of wisdom. Let’s look at some things we might hear from the voice of greed so you know how to recognize it when you hear it. Important Links: Pathfinder Wealth Management: http://pathfinderadvisory.com/ Schedule A Meeting: http://PathfinderChat.com