The Atomic Retirement Podcast

Latest Episodes:

38. Your Downmarket Playbook: Six Things Smart Investors Do When Markets Crash Apr 12, 2025

Show notes

The market is falling—again. So what should you actually do when things get rocky?

In this episode, you'll hear a simple, practical playbook for staying calm, staying invested, and making smart moves during market downturns. Backed by 150+ years of market history and real investor behavior, you’ll learn why crashes aren’t as rare (or as scary) as they seem—and six proactive things you can do to come out stronger on the other side.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Should I be doing something right now?”—this episode is for you.

Episode Resources

What We've Learned From 150 Years of Stock Market Crashes

Fear & Greed Index

S&P 500 Price Return and Dividends Since 1960

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37. Is Your IRA an IOU to the IRS? Mar 15, 2025

Show notes

Most people think they've done everything right by saving in a traditional IRA or 401(k). But what if I told you that a big portion of your retirement savings actually belongs to the IRS?

In this episode, we'll break down a recent CNBC article featuring insights from IRA expert Ed Slott, who calls traditional IRAs "the worst possible asset" for retirement.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

✔️ Why your IRA is an IOU to the IRS
✔️ How Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) can push you into higher tax brackets
✔️ When a Roth conversion makes sense
✔️ The importance of building tax diversification with Roth accounts and brokerage accounts

If you want to keep more of your hard-earned wealth and pay less in taxes in retirement, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.

Episode Resources

CNBC Article

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36. 10 Tax Myths That Could Be Costing You Thousands Mar 08, 2025

Show notes

Think you know how taxes work? Some of the most common tax "facts" people believe are actually costing them money.

In this episode, we’re diving into 10 of the biggest tax myths to set the record straight. We’ll cover:

✅ Why being in a higher tax bracket doesn’t mean all your income is taxed at that rate
✅ The reason many retirees end up paying more in taxes than expected
✅ The truth about Social Security taxes, inheritance taxes, and tax refunds
✅ How simple tax misunderstandings can lead to big penalties and missed savings
✅ What you can do right now to avoid common tax traps

If you want to keep more of your hard-earned money and avoid unnecessary tax surprises, this episode is for you.

Episode Resources

10 Common Tax Myths Debunked

Better Business Bureau

Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers

How to Detect and Block Spam Callers on an iPhone

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35. Collecting Over $2 Million in Social Security Benefits (And How to Calculate Yours) Mar 01, 2025

Show notes

Most retirees don’t realize just how valuable Social Security can be—or how much strategy goes into maximizing those benefits.

In this episode, we break down a real-life case study of a couple I work with, let's call them James and Elizabeth. Thanks to a smart claiming strategy, they’re projected to collect over $2.4 million in lifetime Social Security benefits. We’ll walk through:

✔️ Why the higher-earning spouse should consider delaying benefits
✔️ How spousal and survivor benefits can significantly boost lifetime income
✔️ The impact of cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) on long-term benefits
✔️ How to check your Social Security statement and calculate your own benefits

Are you making the most of your Social Security? Learn how to run your own numbers and avoid leaving money on the table.

Episode Resources

Social Security Administration

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Tax Return Review
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Retirement Income Analysis

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34. Why You Should Freeze Your Credit Today (And How To Do It In 15 Minutes) Feb 15, 2025

Show notes

Freezing your credit is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft, and the best part? It’s free and only takes 15 minutes.

In this episode of The Atomic Retirement Podcast, you'll learn:

✅ What a credit freeze is and how it helps protect you from fraud

✅ Step-by-step instructions on how to freeze your credit at all three major bureaus

✅ Additional ways to protect yourself from fraud, scams, and data breaches

With data breaches happening daily and identity theft on the rise, taking a few minutes today can save you months or years of financial headaches.

Episode Resources

Experian Credit Freeze

Experian's number (888) 397-3742

Equifax Credit Freeze

Equifax's number (888) 298-0045

TransUnion Credit Freeze

TransUnion's number (800) 916-8800

Identify Theft Resource Center's 2024 Annual Data Breach Report

AnnualCreditReport.com

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33. 7 Reasons Why a Roth Conversion Might Be a Bad Idea Feb 08, 2025

Show notes

Roth conversions are often touted as a smart tax move—but are they always the right choice? Not necessarily. In this episode, we’re breaking down 7 situations where a Roth conversion might actually cost you more in taxes than it saves you.

You’ll learn:
✅ Why a partial Roth conversion is probably smarter than going all in
✅ How your income two years ago impacts your Medicare premiums
✅ Why you might regret converting if you plan to donate to charity
✅ How future medical and long-term care expenses could make keeping IRA dollars more tax-efficient
✅ The tax trap of converting before moving to a no-tax state

Before you convert your IRA, make sure you’re not making a costly mistake. Tune in to find out how to make the best decision for your retirement.

Episode Resources

When Roth Conversions Make No Sense

Form SSA-44, Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjusted Amount Life-Changing Events

Tax Return Review
Investment Check-Up
Retirement Income Analysis

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32. Warren Buffett’s Estate Plan: 10 Lessons You Need to Know Feb 01, 2025

Show notes

Warren Buffett has spent a lifetime building wealth—but his greatest financial lesson isn’t about investing. It’s about what happens after you’re gone.

In a recent letter, Buffett revealed key details about his estate plan, why he’s giving most of his fortune to charity, and the steps he’s taken to prevent confusion and conflict for his family. His biggest lesson? Estate planning isn’t just about money—it’s about protecting the people you love.

In this episode, we break down 10 estate planning lessons from Buffett’s letter, including:
✔ Why your will should never be a surprise to your family
✔ The importance of naming a successor trustee to avoid legal headaches
✔ How Buffett’s “unanimous vote” rule protects his heirs from pressure and bad decisions
✔ Why trying to control your wealth from the grave can backfire
✔ How to create an estate plan that strengthens family bonds instead of tearing them apart

Whether you have millions to pass down or just want to avoid family stress, this episode will help you take action and create a plan that works.

Tune in to learn how to protect your legacy—and your loved ones.

Episode Resources

Warren Buffett's Gifting Letter to Shareholders

Tax Return Review
Investment Check-Up
Retirement Income Analysis

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31. Should You Claim Social Security Early to Invest It? Jan 25, 2025

Show notes

Should you claim Social Security early and invest the money, or wait for a higher monthly benefit? What about using annuities to supplement your income? In this episode, we break down the numbers, risks, and real-life considerations to help you make the best decision for your retirement.

Plus, learn about an exciting new Social Security change that benefits millions of Americans—especially retirees like firefighters, teachers, and police officers.

What You’ll Learn:

The pros and cons of claiming Social Security early.
How to decide if waiting for a higher benefit is worth it.
Why annuities might (or might not) be part of your strategy.

If you’re planning for retirement, this episode is packed with practical tips and actionable advice you won’t want to miss.

Episode Resources
Delay Social Security, Invest More or Buy an Annuity: What's Best for Retirement Income?
Breakeven Returns For Delayed Social Security Claiming
Social Security Fairness Act Signed Into Law by Biden, Enhancing Retirement Benefits for Millions
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Tax Return Review
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Enjoyed this episode? Please leave a review and share it with someone who's planning for retirement!

30. 6 Tax Breaks After 50 That Could Save You Thousands Jan 18, 2025

Show notes

Did you know taxes could be your largest retirement expense? If you’re over 50, you’re in a prime position to take advantage of powerful tax breaks that can save you thousands—but many people miss these opportunities and end up overpaying.

In this episode, we’ll uncover 6 key tax strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money, including:

Catch-Up Contributions: Maximize your retirement savings.
Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): Support causes you care about while lowering your tax bill.
And more proven ways to reduce taxes in retirement.

If you’re nearing retirement, this episode is packed with must-know tips to help you minimize taxes and maximize your wealth.

Episode Resources
6 Tax Breaks After 50 You Can't Afford to Miss
Don't Miss Out: Smart Retirement Savers Read Atomic Ideas
Want weekly tips to make smarter financial decisions? Subscribe to Atomic Ideas, a free newsletter packed with timely market insights, helpful visuals, and proven retirement strategies.
Get Atomic Ideas
Ready to Create Your Atomic Retirement?
Take the next step! Schedule your FREE 20-minute Atomic Retirement Roadmap appointment today. What's included?

Tax Return Review
Investment Check-Up
Retirement Income Analysis

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Enjoyed this episode? Please leave a review and share it with someone who's planning for retirement!

29. Financial Regrets and Wisdom from Americans Over 80 Jan 11, 2025

Show notes

Ever wonder what people in their 80s and 90s wish they’d done differently with their money? In this episode, we explore their financial wisdom and regrets—from outliving their savings to navigating unexpected life changes like divorce and career shifts. These heartfelt stories highlight the importance of planning for the unexpected and making the most of your wealth while you can.

You’ll gain:

Practical tips to avoid common financial mistakes.
Insights on how to prepare for life’s surprises.
Strategies to create a retirement plan you won’t regret.

It’s never too late—or too early—to learn from those who’ve been there.
Episode Resources
The Financial Regrets and Wisdom of Americans Over 80
Average Car Payment and Auto Loan Statistics
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Sign Up for Free
Ready to Create Your Atomic Retirement?
Take the next step! Schedule your FREE 20-minute Atomic Retirement Roadmap appointment today. What's included?

Tax Return Review
Investment Check-Up
Retirement Income Analysis

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Share Your Thoughts
Enjoyed this episode? Please leave a review and share it with someone who's planning for retirement!

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