Secure Your Retirement

Latest Episodes:

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What It Means for Your SALT Deductions Sep 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss the latest developments around the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and how it may impact your ability to claim a SALT deduction in 2025. From understanding the SALT cap to weighing the benefits of standard vs itemized deduction, they break down what these tax changes could mean for your retirement planning strategy. Taxes are complex, but this conversation aims to simplify what you need to know so you can plan for retirement with confidence.

Listen in to learn about how state and local taxes, the property tax deduction, and the mortgage interest deduction might shift under new legislation. You’ll also hear strategies that combine charitable giving strategy, donor advised funds, HSA contributions, and 401k contributions to optimize your plan. Whether you’re exploring high income tax strategies or building your personal retirement checklist, this episode helps you position yourself to retire comfortably and secure your retirement.

In this episode, find out:

· What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could mean for the SALT deduction 2025.

· The differences between standard vs itemized deduction in today’s environment.

· How the SALT cap impacts state and local taxes, and why it matters for retirees.

· Ways to leverage a charitable giving strategy or donor advised fund for tax efficiency.

· How retirement tax planning integrates with 401k contributions, HSA contributions, and other tools to help you plan for retirement.

Tweetable Quotes:

· “When it comes to taxes, the goal isn’t just to reduce today’s bill—it’s to create a strategy that works for your entire retirement.” – Radon Stancil

· “Understanding the SALT cap and knowing when to use itemized deductions versus the standard deduction can make a huge difference in your long-term retirement planning.” – Murs Tariq

Resources:

If you are in or nearing retirement and you want to gain clarity on what questions you should be asking, learn what the biggest retirement myths are, and identify what you can do to achieve peace of mind for your retirement, get started today by requesting our complimentary video course, Four Steps to Secure Your Retirement!

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.

Medicare Advantage Brokers and You – Staying Safe & Asking Smart Questions Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon Stancil and Murs Tariq sit down with Medicare specialist Shawn Southard to unpack the recent developments around Medicare Advantage brokers, broker compensation, and the impact of a federal court ruling on CMS Medicare rules. With Medicare open enrollment and aggressive Medicare marketing campaigns happening every year, understanding how brokers get paid and how it may influence the advice you receive has never been more important.

Shawn explains how the recent court decision effects Medicare plan comparison, Medicare star ratings, and the role of brokers in guiding retirees. If you're planning retirement or reviewing your options during Medicare open enrollment, this episode provides practical insights and unbiased Medicare advice to help you make informed choices.

Listen in to learn about:

How Medicare broker compensation structures may impact your coverage decisions and what questions you need to ask to protect yourself from Medicare scams. Whether you're seeking SHIP counseling, comparing plans, or building your retirement checklist, this discussion will help you confidently navigate your Medicare options and secure your retirement.

In this episode, find out:

The details behind the CMS rule, the court ruling, and what it means for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries.
How broker compensation can influence recommendations and why questions to ask brokers are critical.
Why aggressive Medicare marketing and commercials may increase — and how to stay vigilant.
How to leverage Medicare plan comparison tools and SHIP counseling for unbiased Medicare advice.
Steps you can take today to make smart, confident decisions for retiring comfortably.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Understanding how Medicare brokers are compensated empowers you to make better decisions and avoid being swayed by marketing tactics.”

— Radon Stancil

“Medicare open enrollment is your opportunity to make informed choices — but only if you ask the right questions and focus on what’s best for you, not the broker.”

— Murs Tariq

Resources:

If you are in or nearing retirement and you want to gain clarity on what questions you should be asking, learn what the biggest retirement myths are, and identify what you can do to achieve peace of mind for your retirement, get started today by requesting our complimentary video course, Four Steps to Secure Your Retirement!

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.

The One More Year Trap – Knowing When It's Time to Retire Sep 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss the “One More Year Trap” and why so many people struggle with knowing when it’s time to retire. For many, the decision to retire is not just about money—it’s about mindset, emotions, and confidence. They explore the common reasons people delay retirement, from financial incentives like bonuses and stock vesting schedules to the emotional ties that come from decades spent in a career. If you’ve ever wondered how to know when to retire or felt uncertain about stepping away from work, this conversation provides valuable insights and strategies to help you make an informed and confident decision.

Listen in to learn about retirement readiness, the importance of a personalized financial plan, and how to prepare both financially and emotionally for this life-changing transition. Radon and Murs break down the role of retirement strategies, retirement income planning, and the retirement mindset needed to confidently step into your next chapter. By focusing on your retirement goals and creating a clear roadmap, you can avoid the trap of delaying retirement year after year and instead secure your financial future.

In this episode, find out:

How the “one more year trap” keeps people delaying retirement without realizing it.
Why creating a personalized retirement plan builds retirement confidence and clarity.
The emotional challenges of leaving a career and redefining your retirement mindset.
How retirement income planning and Social Security strategies affect your decision.
The value of the Peace of Mind Pathway in helping you plan for retirement and retire comfortably.

Tweetable Quotes:

“When you have a plan in place, the nervousness around retirement fades, and the one more year trap starts to disappear.” — Murs Tariq

“The trap isn’t about money; it’s about clarity. Once you see your retirement roadmap, you gain the confidence to step into the next phase of life.” — Radon Stancil

Resources:

If you are in or nearing retirement and you want to gain clarity on what questions you should be asking, learn what the biggest retirement myths are, and identify what you can do to achieve peace of mind for your retirement, get started today by requesting our complimentary video course, Four Steps to Secure Your Retirement!

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.

The Big, Beautiful Bill – The Standard Deduction Expansion Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss the newly passed tax legislation known as the Big, Beautiful Bill and its significant impact on retirement tax planning. They are joined by Taylor Wolverton, a Certified Financial Planner and Enrolled Agent, who breaks down how the standard deduction 2025 increase and new senior tax deductions can help retirees save thousands in taxes. If you’ve been wondering how the new tax bill 2025 affects your retirement income strategy, this episode delivers clarity, practical examples, and actionable tax planning strategies to help you make informed decisions.

Listen in to learn about how these 2025 tax law changes may influence your retirement planning. Taylor walks through a real client case study showing how the standard deduction increase and a special $12,000 senior deduction can dramatically reduce taxable income and create more retirement tax savings. Whether you want to plan for retirement, update your retirement checklist, or make adjustments to secure a better financial future, this episode will help you optimize your income tax planning and avoid leaving money on the table.

In this episode, find out:

· How the Big Beautiful Bill changes the IRS standard deduction 2025 and what it means for retirees.

· Details about the new $12,000 senior tax deduction and who qualifies for it.

· How these federal tax deductions can reduce your taxable income and save thousands.

· Why your tax strategy for retirement must consider these 2025 tax law changes.

· Practical steps for using these updates to maximize retirement tax savings and plan for retiring comfortably.

Tweetable Quotes:

“An increase in the standard deduction is an increase in tax-free income — meaning less taxes paid for the year.”

— Taylor Wolverton

“Good tax planning is all about control. The more you understand the rules, the better your chances of securing your retirement.”

— Murs Tariq

Resources

If you are in or nearing retirement and you want to gain clarity on what questions you should be asking, learn what the biggest retirement myths are, and identify what you can do to achieve peace of mind for your retirement, get started today by requesting our complimentary video course, Four Steps to Secure Your Retirement!

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.

Investing Before Versus During Retirement Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss the crucial differences between investing before retirement and investing during retirement, and how your approach to risk, growth, and income changes as you move from the accumulation years to the de-accumulation phase. They break down why the strategies that work in your 30s, 40s, and 50s often need to be adjusted once you reach retirement, especially when protecting retirement savings and managing withdrawal needs.

Listen in to learn about how to adapt your retirement investment strategy using tools like the Three Bucket Strategy and strategic asset allocation in retirement. You’ll also hear why retirement income planning and retirement withdrawal strategy are essential for retiring comfortably while maintaining a growth mindset. Whether you’re 10 years from retirement or already there, this episode will help you refine your retirement savings strategy and create a plan to secure your retirement.

In this episode, find out:

The key differences in financial planning for retirement during the accumulation and de-accumulation phases.
How market downturns affect post-retirement investing compared to pre-retirement.
Why the Three Bucket Strategy helps balance growth and safety for your retirement income planning.
How asset allocation in retirement can help preserve wealth while still allowing for growth.
The importance of retirement withdrawal strategy and tax-efficient income planning.

Tweetable Quotes:

Radon Stancil: "When you lose 50% of your money in retirement, you don’t have decades to make it back—protecting your retirement savings becomes priority number one."
Murs Tariq: "The goal isn’t to stop growing your money in retirement, it’s to grow within reason so you can retire comfortably without unnecessary stress."

Resources:

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.

Should I Take My Pension as an Annuity or Lump Sum? Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

In this Episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss one of the most common and important financial decisions in pension and retirement planning—whether to take a pension annuity or lump sum. They explain how this decision can impact your overall retirement income planning, legacy goals, tax strategy, and long-term financial flexibility. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, and they dive into the detailed considerations that retirees should think through.

Listen in to learn about the pros and cons of pension payout options, such as taking a monthly pension annuity with survivor benefits or opting for a lump sum pension that can be rolled into an IRA. You’ll also hear real-life examples of clients who made different decisions based on their financial situations, including tax strategies like Roth conversions and opportunities for guaranteed retirement income outside of the company plan. If you’re asking, "Should I take a pension lump sum or income stream?" this episode is essential to retiring comfortably.

In this episode, find out:

Key differences between a pension annuity and a lump sum.
How to leverage a pension rollover to IRA for flexibility and tax advantages.
The role of spousal coverage and legacy planning in pension decisions.
Risk and reward considerations for managing pension in retirement.
How to evaluate which option supports your personalized retirement checklist.

Tweetable Quotes:

"There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pensions—your decision must be based on your entire retirement picture." – Murs Tariq

"Pension choices affect your income, taxes, and legacy—we help people analyze their options to secure their retirement." – Radon Stancil

Resources:

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.

NUA 101 – Understanding Net Unrealized Appreciation in Your 401K Aug 04, 2025

Show notes

In this Episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss a powerful and often overlooked tax strategy: Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA). Joined by their in-house tax and financial strategist Taylor Wolverton, they break down NUA explained in a simple and clear way, helping you understand how company stock inside your 401(k) could lead to significant tax savings in retirement. Whether you're currently working and approaching an in-service rollover 401k, or planning your 401k distribution strategy post-retirement, this episode provides critical insight for your financial decision-making.

Listen in to learn about how to leverage Net Unrealized Appreciation 401K rules to potentially pay lower capital gains tax instead of higher ordinary income tax, depending on how your 401(k)-company stock is handled. Radon, Murs, and Taylor walk through real-life examples of 401k retirement scenarios, helping you understand how the NUA strategy compares to traditional retirement account rollover plans such as moving funds into an IRA. If you’ve ever wondered about the tax difference between an IRA vs brokerage account, this episode helps you clarify your options.

In this episode, find out:

· What Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) is and how it works.

· Who qualifies for the NUA tax strategy and how to evaluate eligibility.

· The tax differences between Capital gains vs ordinary income on company stock.

· When to consider splitting assets between an IRA and brokerage account.

· How NUA impacts your broader retirement tax strategy and required minimum distributions.

Tweetable Quotes:

“NUA lets you convert high-tax ordinary income into lower-tax capital gains—if you qualify, it could be a game changer.” – Radon Stancil

“Understanding your cost basis and when to use Net Unrealized Appreciation is key to smart 401(k) distribution planning.” – Murs Tariq

Resources:

To access the course, simply visit: POMWealth.net/podcast

I’m 55 and Saved $2 Million – Here’s What Retirement Really Looks Like Jul 28, 2025

Show notes

In this Episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss a real-life retirement planning case study featuring a fictitious couple, John and Jane, who are 55 and aiming to retire at 62. With $2 million in savings, they’re asking the question so many do: Can I retire early and still live comfortably? Using advanced financial planning tools, they break down how income, Social Security timing, healthcare, taxes, and investment decisions work together to determine the answer. Whether you're dreaming of early retirement or refining your retirement strategy, this episode walks you through how to analyze your own plan.

Listen in to learn about how a structured, tax-efficient financial plan can help you retire early—even with market volatility and rising healthcare costs. Through this case study, Radon and Murs reveal the strategic decisions behind a successful transition into retirement, including Roth conversion strategies, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and how to manage income during Social Security gaps.

In this episode, find out:

· How to retire at 55 with 2 million and what that lifestyle really looks like

· Why the retirement planning at 55 stage is crucial for tax and investment decisions

· The role of Social Security timing and how it impacts your portfolio withdrawals

· How to use a Roth conversion strategy during low-income years to reduce long-term taxes

· Why healthcare costs and Medicare planning must be part of your early retirement plan

Tweetable Quotes:

“The question is never just ‘Can I retire?’—it's ‘Can I retire and still live the way I want to?’” — Murs Tariq

“Tax strategy in retirement isn't optional—it's essential if you want to keep more of what you've saved.” — Radon Stancil

Resources:

To access the course, simply visit: POMWealth.net/podcast

Patient Advocacy for Retirees and Caregivers Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss the critical role of patient advocacy with Dr. Elizabeth Mizelle, founder of Palm Wellness. Drawing on her extensive background as a family medicine physician, Dr. Mizelle now serves as a health advocate for seniors and their caregivers, helping them navigate the complex world of senior healthcare. Whether it’s understanding a new diagnosis, coordinating follow-up care, or finding the right resources for aging in place, her approach offers clarity and compassionate support for individuals and families alike.

Listen in to learn about how a patient consultant can provide peace of mind by helping with healthcare decisions, coordinating communication with providers, and creating safe, functional home environments for aging loved ones. This episode is especially useful for those involved in retirement healthcare planning, acting as advocates for elderly parents, or seeking caregiver resources. Dr. Mizelle explains the unique difference between clinical care and advocacy, and how she supports people looking to stay home longer or adapt to life-changing diagnoses with confidence.

In this episode, find out:

· What patient advocacy is and how it differs from traditional clinical care

· How a health advocate for seniors helps families manage new diagnoses and medical complexity

· Real-life examples of how advocacy can ease transitions after hospitalization

· The process of aging in place and how to safely adapt a home for long-term care

· How to connect with Palm Wellness for personalized healthcare support

Tweetable Quotes:

“Patient advocacy helps you slow things down, understand what’s happening, and make better-informed healthcare decisions.” – Radon Stancil

“It’s not just about treating the illness—it's about creating an environment where people can heal, live, and thrive.” – Murs Tariq

Resources:

To access the course, simply visit: POMWealth.net/podcast

Mid - Year Economic Update Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

In this Episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss the current state of the 2025 economy with returning guest and economist Tom Siomades. Together, they examine the volatility of the first half of the year and the macroeconomic shifts influencing retirement portfolios. From policy shifts to global uncertainty, this episode offers a comprehensive mid-year economic update designed to help listeners plan for retirement amid ongoing changes.

Listen in to learn about the Market Outlook 2025, including how tariffs, interest rates, and the “Big Beautiful Bill” are shaping economic trends. Tom shares insight on how the Federal Reserve may act, what to expect from financial market volatility, and the overall impact of global policies. Whether you’re watching the Federal Reserve update or simply seeking stability in your portfolio, this discussion will help you make informed decisions as you secure your retirement.

In this episode, find out:

What’s driving the volatility in the US economy 2025.
Why the “Big Beautiful Bill” matters and how its passage (or failure) could reshape policy.
The likely direction of interest rates and how it could impact retirees.
How tariffs are affecting the markets and the economy globally.
Strategies to stay calm and focused through financial market volatility.

Tweetable Quotes:

“Volatility won’t vanish—it’s how you respond that determines your financial peace of mind.” – Radon Stancil

“Don’t let the day-to-day headlines derail your plan. Secure your retirement starts with clarity, not chaos.” – Murs Tariq

Resources:

To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.