What transforms a chance meeting into a partnership that reshapes your professional future?

How do you build a financial planning practice that truly puts clients at the center of everything you do?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey interviews Craig Clements, CLF®, LPL Financial Advisor, about his journey from aspiring medical student to financial planning leader. Craig shares how a mentor's focus on leadership over numbers shaped his career philosophy, his experience training over a thousand advisors, and the comprehensive seasonal service model he developed. They discuss the importance of building a team approach to financial planning and how chance meetings can transform your path.

Craig discusses:

• His transition from pre-med to financial services and how a mentor taught him planning is about leadership

• Training over a thousand advisors and observing what makes financial planning practices deliver great value

• The seasonal client service model addressing planning, portfolio management, tax strategies, and protection

• Building a team-based approach where relationship managers coordinate subject matter experts for clients

• Creating ongoing accountability relationships that help clients avoid emotional financial decisions

• And more!

What do you do when the roles reverse, and your parents need your support?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey shares emotional moments of caregiving, navigating difficult decisions for aging parents, and the complex transition from child to caregiver.

Joined by Christine Ramsey, Dean Mourfield, and Stephanie Inlow, each at different stages of caregiving, this conversation explores the practical, emotional, and financial challenges of supporting loved ones.

Key Points:

The emotional moment Brett’s grandmother entrusted him to make care decisions for her future, highlighting early promises and later realities

• The transition from sympathy to empathy in caregiving, and the shock of how quickly independence can disappear

• The logistics and emotional toll of long-distance caregiving, balancing children, careers, and elderly parents

• The pain and practicality of moving loved ones into care facilities and making end-of-life decisions

• The importance of community, flexibility, and preparation in managing the caregiving journey for both emotional and financial well-being

• And more!

 Connect with Brett Ramsey:

• LinkedIn: Brett Ramsey
• Facebook: Brett Ramsey
• Artisan Wealth Strategies

Connect with Jay Wyckoff: 

• LinkedIn: Jay Wyckoff
• Website: Blue Owl Capital

  Connect with Stephanie Inlow: 

• LinkedIn: Stephanie Inlow

• stephanie@artisanwealthstrategies.com

What if the smartest investors aren’t just picking the right stocks, but accessing an entirely different part of the investing universe? 

Most people have never heard of private markets, but they might be the missing ingredient in a truly resilient retirement plan.

In this episode, Brett Ramsey sits down with Jay Wyckoff of Blue Owl Capital to explore how private market investments can strengthen retirement portfolios by offering alternative sources of income, reduced volatility, and access to a broader range of companies and opportunities.

Jay discusses:

• How private markets differ from public markets and why they are becoming essential in portfolio construction
• The three primary areas of private markets: private equity, real estate (including triple net lease structures), and private credit (like direct lending)
• How liquidity works in private investments, including quarterly redemption structures and semi-liquid investment vehicles
• The role of private investments in creating consistent income and seeking to reducing risk for retirees
• And more!

 Connect with Brett Ramsey:

• LinkedIn: Brett Ramsey
• Facebook: Brett Ramsey
• Artisan Wealth Strategies

Connect with Jay Wyckoff: 

• LinkedIn: Jay Wyckoff
• Website: Blue Owl Capital

What do a disrupted lacrosse schedule and retirement planning have in common? 

Flexibility.

In this episode of Handcrafting Your Retirement, Brett Ramsey discusses the art of adapting retirement plans with Ken and Tami Maynard, long-time clients who've been on the journey to retirement with Brett's guidance. The conversation provides listeners with insights into why having a personalized, adaptable plan is crucial as life throws its curveballs.

Brett chats with Ken, a dedicated family physician, and Tami, a vibrant stay-at-home mom involved in community activities. They unpack the complexities of retirement planning, including how Ken's multiple work engagements and their age difference pose unique challenges.

They discuss:

• A travel story from New Jersey and how it highlights planning flexibility
• Ken and Tami's story of adapting retirement plans
• Navigating complex decisions like Medicare and Social Security
• The importance of a methodical and personalized approach to retirement planning
• And more!
   Connect with Brett Ramsey:

LinkedIn: Brett Ramsey
Facebook: Brett Ramsey
Artisan Wealth Strategies

The transition to assisted living is often a difficult and emotional journey, but with the right guidance, it can also lead to a better quality of life.

How do you prepare for the challenges of finding the right community for your loved one? What are the key considerations to ensure they receive the best care while maintaining independence?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey speaks with Dave Holder, owner of Assisted Living Locators of North Indianapolis, about the critical factors families should consider when transitioning a loved one to assisted living. They discuss how to plan ahead, avoid common mistakes, and ensure a smooth transition that improves the well-being of aging family members.

Dave discusses:

• The emotional and financial challenges families face when transitioning a loved one to assisted living
• How to recognize the right time to begin exploring assisted living options and what factors to consider
• The different levels of care available, from independent living to memory care, and what each entails
• Common mistakes families make when choosing a facility and how to avoid costly missteps
• The unexpected benefits of assisted living, including increased social engagement and improved quality of life
• And more!

What changes can you make today to ensure you're active and thriving at 80?

In this episode of Handcrafting Your Retirement, Brett Ramsey opens up about the important connection between health and retirement planning. Buckle up as Brett shares his personal journey on recognizing the need to adapt both mindset and activities as we age.

Listen in as he also delves into how regular health assessments and setting realistic goals can help you enjoy the activities you love without pain.

Brett discusses:

• The importance of establishing a health baseline
• Lessons learned from overcoming recurring injuries
• How to align your diet and activities with long-term goals
• Tips on understanding personal limits and working with them
• And more!
   

Planning your financial future requires resilience and adaptability, especially in today’s uncertain market conditions.

How do you balance short-term changes with long-term goals? What strategies can help safeguard your investments from unexpected shifts?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey sits down with Joyce Huang, a seasoned fixed-income portfolio manager, to discuss how navigating financial markets can be a lot like a road trip—sometimes you run out of gas when you least expect it.

They dive into how to avoid "running out of gas" in your retirement portfolio, especially in the wake of the recent elections and economic shifts. Joyce shares her journey from Wall Street to helping everyday investors, highlighting simple yet effective strategies for staying on course during uncertain times.

Joyce discusses:

• The impact of recent elections on financial markets
• Why staying invested is more crucial than trying to time the market
• How interest rates and inflation could influence your investment strategy
• Her personal advice for navigating investment risks in the current climate
• And more!
   

Handling the transition of financial responsibilities can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ease this burden for your loved ones.

In this episode, Brett Ramsey sits down with Shari Ferris to discuss the nuances of estate planning and the emotional journey of organizing one's financial affairs.

Shari shares her personal experiences as she goes through estate planning both for herself and her mother, offering insight into the practical ways to prepare and support family members through these transitions.

By tuning in, you’ll learn the importance of communication, the significance of preparation, and the tools necessary to make the process smooth and effective.

They discuss:

• The emotional challenges and strategies involved in estate planning with family
• How an organized approach can simplify estate planning tasks, like managing passwords and account access
• Practical advice on maintaining a family's legacy through an effective estate plan
• How the Family Love Letter can assist with preparing and documenting essential estate information
• And more!

Unlock the 'Charles Ramsey method' for tax planning and learn how it can help you avoid the number one wealth killer: taxes.

Brett Ramsey welcomes his father, Charles Ramsey, to share vital lessons in tax and financial planning. Charles Ramsey, a retired president of the Commercial Tire division and a seasoned CPA, offers a treasure trove of wisdom that applies to anyone planning for retirement.

Key episode discussions include:

• Why having a margin in your financial life is crucial and how small extras can add up
• Why taxes are the number one wealth killer and how to manage them effectively to retain more of your earnings
• The importance of liquidity in your retirement accounts to avoid selling assets at unfavorable times
• Practical steps on how to use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and other tax strategies to help optimize your financial health

Did you know that individuals with early memory loss are about three times more likely to face financial exploitation? How can you protect your retirement plan?

Brett Ramsey is joined by neuropsychologist Dr. Peter Lichtenberg to discuss the intricate relationship between brain health and financial decision-making. Drawing from Brett's personal experiences and Dr. Lichtenberg's professional insights, you'll learn about identifying early cognitive changes, using baseline assessments, and protecting your financial well-being as you age.

Dr. Lichtenberg discusses:

• Differences between mild cognitive impairment and dementia
• Importance of baseline cognitive testing for older adults
• Tools and surveys to assess financial decision-making capacity
• Strategies to protect against financial exploitation
  
• And more

Are you prepared for the financial decisions that come with aging? How will you preserve your money as mental faculties decline?

Brett Ramsey and his guest Dean Moorefield, owner of Artisan Wealth Strategies, dive into some of the toughest conversations surrounding the transition from making your own financial decisions to needing assistance from loved ones. Drawing from heartfelt client experiences, Brett and Dean discuss strategies to preserve your finances when your mental capacity may begin to change.

Dean discusses:

• Strategies to avoid falling victim to financial scams targeting seniors
• The importance and process of establishing a trusted contact on accounts
• Understanding the role and activation of a power of attorney
• The use of cognitive baseline tests to monitor changes over time
• And more

Many retirees believe that a one-size-fits-all approach works for everyone. However, generic wealth management may be limiting your financial future.

Brett Ramsey introduces us to Dean Mourfield, the owner of Artisan Wealth Strategies with a journey as unique as his approach to retirement planning. Dive into Dean’s captivating stories and expertise as he shares lessons from his unexpected career path, the importance of personalized client relationships, and the evolution of financial advising through memorable client experiences.

Brett and Dean discuss:

• How Dean transitioned from a flight attendant to a financial advisor
• Key moments that shaped his approach to client relationships and financial planning
• Real-life stories of clients who pursued their retirement goals
• The importance of customizing financial strategies to suit individual needs
• And more

Imagine a world where the younger generation is not only savvy with technology but also with their finances.

Dive into an engaging conversation as Brett Ramsey and his two insightful daughters, Caroline and Maryrose, pull back the curtain on the crucial world of financial literacy for the youth. In this episode, they navigate their personal tales of money management, college adventures, and career journeys, painting a vivid picture of how finance intertwines with life's pivotal decisions.

Together, Brett, Caroline, and Maryrose unravel:

• The pivotal role finances played in their college and career trajectories.
• The undeniable significance of arming oneself with the right financial knowledge
• Proactive strategies for preretirees to usher in a new generation with a profound grasp of money's value
• ...and a treasure trove of more financial gems

When it comes to financial and retirement planning, it can be easy to talk about the best strategies in the best scenarios. But what do the financial planning decisions look like from a client’s perspective? How do their everyday actions and family goals change their financial needs?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey speaks with Randy and Margo Wheeler as they share their plans for their family’s future. They reveal how their financial goals have shifted as their children grew older, covering college expenses, budgeting, teaching financial values to children, managing unexpected inheritances, and preparing for retirement.

Randy and Margo discuss:

• The importance of seeking financial advice and planning for retirement
• Why is budgeting and prioritizing expenses important
• How can one prepare for emotional extremes and sudden wealth
• What should be considered when envisioning the future in retirement
• And more

Retirement means planning for a lot of things. Having enough money, planning what you will do during retirement and how your money will be spent. Along with that comes planning for something you haven’t experienced before. Why not learn from someone who has that experience?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey is joined by Jennifer Clapp, a retiree who shares her experience of suddenly leaving a 30-year career for retirement and how she planned the transition. She explores key habits for financial success, such as having "pocket money" for discretionary spending and investing in retirement savings, along with planning for unexpected bumps along the way.

Brett and Jennifer discuss:

• How she transitioned out of her company and into retirement
• Why her husband insisted on her enrolling in the company 401(k) plan
• How she made the best of an unexpected decision to buy a new house
• The importance of financial education and mentorship for the next generation
• Her experience going back to work after entering retirement and after Covid
•   And more

Have you ever had the feeling that unexpected events disrupt your well-planned routine? What role do family dynamics play in your retirement planning decisions?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey speaks with Kim Cox, a nurse practitioner and soon-to-be retiree, about her experience in planning for retirement and how she gained confidence in the plan she made. They emphasize the significance of planning, communication, and seeking expertise in financial decisions.

Brett and Kim discuss:

• How unexpected events can derail retirement planning
• The benefits of attending retirement classes and educating oneself about retirement
• Kim's story of transitioning to part-time work and being a parent and grandparent
• The importance of open communication with financial advisors to gain confidence in retirement planning
•   And more

Retirement planning is a crucial aspect of our financial well-being that often goes overlooked until it becomes a pressing reality.

Therefore, It is crucial to listen and learn from experiences to enjoy this life phase in a relaxed and stress-free manner.

In this episode, Brett Ramsey is joined by Davida Hutson, a retiree who shares her story of unexpected widowhood and the importance of retirement planning. They emphasize the need for organizing your finances, the challenges of estate planning, and the importance of diversification. Additionally, Brett and Davida touch on the importance of taking the first step toward retirement planning and seeking professional advice.

They discuss:

• A personal story of Brett moving his daughter's couch into her apartment and how it relates to retirement planning
• Davida's story of unexpected widowhood and how it led her to attend Brett's retirement class
• Davida's experience of inheriting a diverse portfolio of assets from her parents and the challenges she faced in organizing and distributing them fairly
• The importance of organizing financial documents and creating a family love letter to ensure that assets are distributed according to the wishes of the deceased
• The importance of diversification and not getting stuck on one asset
• Davida's new hobbies and activities to fill her time during retirement
• And more!

Join us as we unravel the remarkable story of John and Mary, two individuals who defied retirement uncertainties and crafted a successful roadmap for their future.

In this episode, John and Mary, who initially found themselves uncertain about their retirement plans, shed light on their experiences and how they overcame unexpected hurdles. 

Here's what you can expect from this episode:

• Practical strategies for adapting to changing retirement benefits and how to take control of your financial future
• The importance of consolidating and managing retirement funds from various sources effectively
• Valuable tips on navigating complex estate settlements and optimizing your inherited assets
• The significance of diversification in retirement planning and how it can lead to long-term financial stability
• And more!

Do you feel lost when it comes to securing your retirement income amidst an unpredictable market?

In this episode, Brett Ramsey and Jason Bloom, Senior Director of Global ETF Strategy at Invesco US introduces the powerful solution of bond laddering as a risk management technique that aims to deliver consistent income throughout ones retirement years. Listen in as they dive into strategies and guidance in navigating your financial future and addressing your retirement income with confidence.

Here's a sneak peek of what you can expect to learn:

• How bond laddering can potentially provide you with a roadmap for managing risk in changing interest rate environments
• Ways to take advantage of staggered bond maturities to better position your investment returns
• How bond laddering seeks to avoid making large bets on interest rate movements
• What happens when you align bond laddering with your specific retirement objectives
• And more

As someone approaches retirement, you may be worried about how to make your savings last for the long haul.

It's a common concern, but fortunately, there's a tool that can help: The Income Conductor.

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into retirement income planning and how The Income Conductor can help you make the most of your golden years.

We understand that everyone's retirement goals and financial situations are unique, so we'll guide you through mapping out a personalized plan for your retirement.

Using The Income Conductor, you can visualize each year of your retirement and split your money into different time segments. This will help you create a plan that ensures you won't run out of money and can continue enjoying your retirement to the fullest.

Do you remember playing Tic Tac Toe? What if that same classic game could help revolutionize your retirement financial decisions?

Whether in 1-5 years, 6-10 years, or 11+ years, this game can help you determine how much money you need for each goal on the board and where to invest it.   

Listen to Brett simplify the financial decision-making process in retirement by asking key questions such as "When do I need my money? " "How much do I need?" and "Where should I invest?"

Brett discusses: 

• Using Tic Tac Toe to simplify retirement planning
• Categorizing your retirement money and determining how much you need for each goal
• Understanding the tax status of your retirement accounts and investing accordingly
• Maximizing the benefits of tax-free accounts for tax-free growth
• Building confidence in your retirement financial decisions

Investing inevitably entails risk, but having the knowledge of how to handle and mitigate that risk can significantly impact your success.

Our latest episode features Jeremy Deering, an accomplished portfolio director, who provides a comprehensive understanding of risk management in investing and offers valuable insights on effectively navigating it.

In this episode, Jeremy shares his expertise on managing risk within a portfolio, explains the concept of diversification, and provides crucial information on the price-to-earnings ratio and other related topics.

Navigating the probate process can be daunting and emotionally challenging for anyone dealing with losing a loved one. As an executor, heir, or interested party, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the legal process involved in probate and the critical role that an estate executor and attorneys can play in facilitating the proceedings.

In this episode, attorney Corbin King shares his insights and experiences to help listeners understand the probate process and navigate it successfully.

Through his discussion, King highlights the importance of having an estate executor who can help facilitate the probate process and avoid disputes among heirs. He also touches on the critical role that attorneys can play in navigating the complexities of probate and ensuring that the wishes of the deceased are respected.

Although often overlooked, estate planning is a crucial component of comprehensive financial planning, and neglecting to address it can have significant consequences.

In this episode, Cheri Brooks, CPA and Managing Director of Neuberger Berman Advisor Institute, discusses financial advisors' crucial role as "quarterbacks" in guiding families through estate planning after losing a loved one.

Cheri also emphasizes the importance of having a comprehensive estate plan and introduces The Family Love Letter™ a planning tool to help families navigate the complexities of this critical task.

Get ready for an insightful podcast episode that delves into the world of financial advising and the crucial role of tax planning.

You'll discover how a software company is revolutionizing how advisors offer financial planning to their clients and hear from our special guest Roger Pine, CFA, CFP®, and Co-Founder of Holistiplan as he shares his journey from a former financial advisor turned entrepreneur.

In this episode, Roger shares his experience creating tools to help financial advisors optimize tax planning for their clients.

Listeners will learn that tax planning is integral to financial planning and that financial advisors must include it in their client discussions.

*This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.

Join us on this episode as we chat with tax guru Mark Crooks, who demystifies the complex world of tax preparation and planning. Mark dispels common myths about taxes and provides valuable insights on how to effectively plan for tax season, regardless of your income sources or tax deductions. Don't miss this opportunity to optimize your financial strategy and take control of your taxes. Tune in now!

Are you feeling uncertain about when to retire? What could you do to make more informed decisions about your Social Security benefits? Are you curious about how Social Security could impact your retirement income?

Tune in to this episode for helpful tips on how to make informed decisions about your benefits. Join Brett Ramsey as he unpacks everything you need to know about better positioning your retirement income with Social Security. Don't miss out on critical takeaways that could impact your Social Security benefits - start listening now!

Are you worried about having enough income to live comfortably in retirement? You're not alone. But what if you had access to a platform that could empower you to make better-informed decisions around social security and create a customized, time-segmented income plan that can be easily managed throughout retirement?

Join Sheryl O’Connor and Phil Lubinski, experts in the retirement marketplace, as they unveil IncomeConductor®, a revolutionary platform that helps retirees and advisors plan for the future with confidence. Don't miss this opportunity to take control of your retirement income and preserve your financial future.

Retirement planning often involves considering how to make your savings last as long as possible, which is known as a longevity plan. In this episode, we discuss ways to influence your longevity and improve your quality of life during retirement.

What do your finances and health have in common? It’s something we don’t often think about. While financial literacy is essential, our health impacts how we plan our finances.

Donor-advised funds are an amazing part of the nonprofit landscape, but they can also be hard to understand. As the market is changing, charitable giving can be a way to remain resilient, keep more of your taxes and do good at the same time.