How Money Works

We live in a world where truth, half-truths, and lies are seemingly getting harder and harder to distinguish in our day-to-day lives. Whether you’re scrolling a social media feed or watching a financial show, what’s fully true and what isn’t can seem to be all over the place. Today we’re going to help provide context to those half-truths so that you can understand why these financial statements don’t paint the full picture. We’ll share insights into managing investments at different life stages, the role of diversification, and the impact of fees on your portfolio. Plus, we’ll explore the emotional versus mathematical aspects of paying off a mortgage and the role of bonds in reducing portfolio risk. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The market always goes up in the long run, but that may not be helpful depending on what stage of life you are in.  Understanding what fees are in your portfolio and knowing what you’re getting for those fees. The question of whether you should pay off the house early or use the money to invest instead when interest is low. Diversification is a key to a strong portfolio but is it THE key? Do bonds significantly reduce the risk in your portfolio? Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin 

Retirement can be more stressful than it seems. After working your entire adult life, the lifestyle changes that come with retiring can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, your “dream retirement” isn’t quite what you expected. Today, Craig and Jennifer will cover some unique challenges that come with retirement and share strategies to manage the stress that comes with it. They’ll discuss setting meaningful goals, finding a new sense of purpose, and more. If you're feeling anxious or uncertain about retirement, this episode is a great way to get on the right track! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The challenges that come with this massive change of pace Setting goals and making the most out of every day Not everything is going to go exactly as expected, so be flexible How retirement has changed in more recent years Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin   

Retirement doesn’t always turn out like you see in commercials and movies. We’d love to be laid back on a tropical island, but we want to manage expectations. It's essential to have a realistic view of your financial capabilities and lifestyle desires. Today, Craig and Jennifer discuss the importance of managing retirement expectations, adjusting to changing expenses, and the necessity of a comprehensive financial plan. Discover why it's vital to plan for both essential and lifestyle expenses, and learn how to navigate the complexities of taxes, inflation, and investment strategies in retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Sticking to your budget and making sure the math works. Making sure to account for changing expenses in retirement. The need to be able to be flexible and be able to pivot. Finding new things to do in retirement if you’re no longer working. Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin   

As we journey through life, certain questions about retirement and financial planning often go unasked until it's too late. On this episode, Craig is joined by Cameron Moser to shed light on these critical issues, offering perspective on the financial challenges that come with aging. The discussion will cover the realities of downsizing, tax implications after the loss of a spouse, and the importance of planning for long-term care. With insights from over 35 years of experience, Craig shares personal anecdotes and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning. Join us for a conversation that highlights the importance of preparing for the unexpected. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Downsizing and decluttering in life, from your home to your finances. Tax and other financial considerations when one spouse passes away. The reduction in Social Security income after one spouse dies and how to plan for that. Turning your savings into something that produces income. Making sure that your kids are on board with your long-term care plans. Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin   

Planning for retirement now is not what it used to be. Gone are the days when a pension, Social Security, and personal savings—the three-legged stool—were enough to secure a comfortable retirement. Today, individuals must navigate the intricacies of 401(k)s, IRAs, and other investment accounts that lack the guaranteed income of traditional pensions. While retirement success might be falling more and more on each individual to plan effectively, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible to accomplish. Craig and Jennifer will dive into the complexities retirees face today and the biggest challenges you’ll need to address within your plan. Learn about the impact of market volatility, the importance of creating a reliable income stream, and how to navigate the challenges of longer life expectancies and rising healthcare costs. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: When pensions were common, retirement planning used to be a lot easier. The hardest question to answer is often ‘what are your retirement goals?’ People are living much longer into their retirement. The sandwich generation faces a huge strain on their finances. Anxiety around the future of Social Security. Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin 

Financial planning is much more than investing and constructing a portfolio. You have to take your entire picture into account, which isn’t easy to do on your own. That’s why you want to surround yourself with a trusted group of professionals who can guide you through each aspect of planning.    In this episode, we’re going to talk about the best approach to building an advisory team. We’ll discuss the importance of a fiduciary standard, the nuances of investment fees, and the significance of a tailored investment philosophy. Discover how to build a trusted advisor network with your CPA, attorney, and financial advisor to ensure your financial health. Plus, learn how to ask the right questions when meeting with an advisor for the first time. There’s a lot to cover in this episode of How Money Works and you don’t want to miss any of it, so tune in and hear from Craig and Jennifer. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What makes an advisor a fiduciary? Knowing what services you are getting for the fees you are paying. How we help create a trusted advisor network for you. Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin 

When it comes to investing for your retirement, there are some simple mistakes to avoid that can help make you look like a true financial wizard. The benefit of working with a financial advisor is tapping into the experience they have to identify those missteps before they happen. Let’s talk about what it takes to navigate the complexities of financial planning and set yourself up for long-term success. From the pitfalls of premature IRA withdrawals to the importance of maximizing employer matches and health savings accounts, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Learn how to avoid common mistakes like spending too much during your peak earning years and retiring too early. Plus, discover smarter ways to approach college tuition and the benefits of Roth IRAs. Join Craig and Jennifer as they break down these financial choices and explain what they could mean for you. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Why you should avoid withdrawing from an IRA early. The risks with overspending in your peak earning years. The changing approaches to college funding. The problems with retiring too early. Why Roths could be appealing.   Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin 

As you approach retirement, it’s important to ask the right questions. That's why we're taking some time today to answer questions you might not have considered. Do you still need life insurance in retirement? What additional medical coverage should you have beyond Medicare? Craig and Jennifer are here to guide you through these important topics. Tune in as they break down the big questions and explain what you need to know to prepare for them on this episode of How Money Works! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: What will my tax-deferred savings cost me in taxes? How much can I withdraw from my accounts each year? Should I maintain a life insurance policy during my retirement? How will I cover my medical expenses?   Get additional financial resources: https://maestrowealth.com/how-money-works-podcast/  Schedule a meeting: https://timetoseemaestrowealth.as.me/ReadytoBegin   

There are a few common retirement planning mistakes that can happen and set you back as you work to get to and through retirement. With more than 30 years of experience, Craig and Jennifer Moser have seen it all, and in this episode, offer up their best advice to avoid some common retirement planning mistakes. For example, as you approach your retirement years, there needs to be a shift from merely chasing high returns to ensuring you have a steady income. You also want to consider strategies to limit your tax liability. What about when you should start taking your Social Security benefits? There are a lot of questions and common mistakes that can come with retirement planning, and it’s always helpful to have an experienced and qualified advisor on your side. Tune in to this episode of How Money Works for practical tips to ensure your retirement plan stays on track!   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: Some of the unknowns of retirement planning. Limiting your tax liability. When to start taking Social Security benefits. Focusing on returns versus focusing on income. Making sure that you are getting advice from the right places.   Contact Maestro Wealth: Web: https://maestrowealth.com/ Email: info@maestrowealth.com Phone: 336-448-1086

As we begin to move into the final months of the year, there’s plenty to keep an eye on as it relates to our money and retirement. In this episode, Craig and Jennifer discuss the current financial trends as we approach Labor Day and what they mean to planning. We’ll give our thoughts on the volatility in the market, touching on the all-time high of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the shift in leading sectors, and the implications of the Federal Reserve's potential interest rate adjustments. The conversation also covers alarming statistics on household debt, credit card delinquencies, and the rising cost of living. Join us for a comprehensive overview of the economic landscape and what it could mean for the future.   Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: The panic/euphoria model and what that’s looking like right now. What the recent jobs report revision might mean. Most common debts people are in right now. How presidential elections impact the market.   Contact Maestro Wealth: Web: https://maestrowealth.com/ Email: info@maestrowealth.com Phone: 336-448-1086