The Retirement Power Hour

Hosted by Joe Allaria

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Latest episode

Feb 2026

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About the show

Helping listeners within 5 years of retirement invest wiser and retire better, as we discuss key financial topics like investing, retirement planning, behavioral finance, taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and more.

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42 recent

February 12, 2026Episode 4215 min

2026 Contribution Limits

How much can you contribute to your 401(k), IRA, Roth IRA, HSA, or SIMPLE IRA in 2026? In this episode of the Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, breaks down the latest retirement contribution limits, catch-up rules, income phase-outs, tax deduction changes, and key updates from recent legislation so you can make smarter decisions about saving for retirement. If you’re wondering whether you’re contributing enough or where your money should be going this episode will help you understand the numbers and stay on track toward your retirement goals. Submit Your Questions To submit a listener question, visit our website, https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcas..., and enter the details of your question.Leave a Review Visit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcas... to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Resources IRA/Roth IRA contribution limitsTax BracketsStandard DeductionsSimple IRADisclaimer: All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/ Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

February 9, 2026Episode 4122 min

2026 Stock Market Predictions

The new year always brings a wave of stock market forecasts… but how accurate are they really?In this episode of the Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, and Jay Waters break down the biggest 2026 market predictions from major financial institutions and review how accurate their predictions were in 2025. The results may surprise you.This annual episode isn’t about telling you where the market is going… it’s about showing why building your financial plan around predictions is risky and why a personalized investment strategy matters more than headlines.Submit Your Questions To submit a listener question, visit our website, The Retirement Power Hour, and enter the details of your question.Leave a Review Visit The Retirement Power Hour to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. 2026 Predictions Resources1. 2025 Stock Market Predictions 2. Will 2026 Be a High-Wire Act for Markets? 3. Will Mortgage Rates Go Down in 2026?4. J.P. Morgan: The Inflation Outlook5. The Global Economy Is Forecast to Post 'Sturdy' Growth of 2.8% in 20266. 5 Predictions for the Stock Market in 2026- And Which Stocks Will Soar the Most If They're Right 7. Top 5 Market Predictions for 2026 8. The 2026 Bear Market Nobody Sees Coming (Except This Wall Street Veteran)9. Why US Stocks Will Outperform International in 2026, Says Fidelity's Chisholm Disclaimer: All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/

November 26, 2025Episode 4014 min

Roth vs Traditional 401(k): Pros, Cons, and How to Choose

In this episode of the Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, breaks down the key differences between Roth and Traditional retirement accounts so you can make smarter, more tax-efficient decisions with your savings. We’ll cover: 🔹 The real tax advantages of each account 🔹 Who should choose Roth vs who should choose Traditional 🔹 How your income level and future tax bracket affect your decision 🔹 Why some people benefit from using BOTH 🔹 What the Backdoor Roth IRA is and when it makes sense This is Episode 2 in our 401(k) Series. If you missed Episode 1 "How Much Should You Contribute to Your 401(k)?", and Episode 2, "How Should I Invest My 401(k)?" be sure to check them out first!Submit Your Questions To submit a listener question, visit our website, https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcas..., and enter the details of your question.Leave a Review Visit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcas... to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Disclaimer: All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/ Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

October 16, 2025Episode 3924 min

How Should I Invest my 401(k)?

According to a 2023 SurveyMonkey study, 46% of 401(k) investors don’t know what they’re actually invested in. If that’s you — don’t worry, you’re not alone.In this episode of The Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, breaks down the most common 401(k) investment options and helps you answer one of the most important retirement questions: "How should I invest my 401(k)?"We’ll cover:✔️ Target date funds: pros, cons, and how to adjust✔️ DIY investing: building your mix of large cap, small cap, international, and bond funds✔️ The truth about high-yield (“junk”) bond funds✔️ Passive vs. active management inside your 401(k)✔️ What managed account services really offer✔️ Hidden fees to watch out for✔️ When to consider a self-directed brokerage account✔️ Whether an in-service rollover to an IRA makes sense for youThis is Episode 2 in our 401(k) Series. If you missed Episode 1 "How Much Should You Contribute to Your 401(k)?", be sure to check it out first! Resources Mentioned in the Show:The Evolution of Qualified Default Investment AlternativesGo Global for Diversification that Travels WellSubmit Your Questions To submit a listener question, visit our website, https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcas..., and enter the details of your question.Leave a Review Visit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcas... to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Disclaimer: All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/ Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

September 15, 2025Episode 3816 min

How Much Should I Contribute To My 401(k)?

According to the 2025 Intuit Prosperity Index, 68% of Americans aren’t confident they’ll ever be able to retire. One big reason? Most people don’t know how much they should contribute to their 401(k).In this episode of The Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, breaks down exactly how much you should be contributing to your 401(k)—based on your age, income, and personal situation. You’ll learn:-Why getting your employer match is non-negotiable-The “rules of thumb” for 401(k) contribution percentages at different ages-How to know if you’re on track with your retirement savings-Simple strategies to increase your contributions (even if you feel behind)Resources Mentioned in this Episode: 1. Nearly Half of American Households Have No Retirement Savings2. How Much Do I Need To Save To Retire?3. Are You On Track?4. Retirement Insecurity 2024: Americans' View of RetirementSubmit Your QuestionsTo submit a listener question, visit our website, and enter the details of your question.Leave a ReviewVisit our website to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Disclaimer:All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

February 28, 202518 min

What Are Tariffs, and Will They Affect Me?

Are tariffs about to hit your wallet and your investment portfolio? In this episode of Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, breaks down exactly what tariffs are, how they work, and most importantly—what they mean for your retirement savings and day-to-day expenses.From the latest moves by the U.S., China, Canada, and Mexico to expert opinions from PIMCO, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and more, we’re giving you a balanced look at what’s happening and what it could mean for your financial future. Check out our article on this topic: How Tariffs Could Impact Your Investments, Retirement, and Everyday ExpensesIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out our podcast 2025 Stock Market Predictions https://youtu.be/S39zw8sMUqIResources Mentioned in this Episode: -Trump suspends tariffs on small packages from China -Trump agrees to pause tariffs on Canada and Mexico but not on China -China's tit-for-tat tariffs on US take effect -What the U.S. Tariffs Mean for Investors-How Will Tariffs Affect Your Investments?-How investors looking for good returns can navigate Trump tariffs -Tariffs rattle stock markets, but what’s the long-term impact?-Tariffs on the rise: Implications for your portfolio -Trump tariffs will cost U.S. households $830 a year, study says-Trump's tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China would cost the typical US household over $1,200 a year-What are tariffs and why is Trump using them?If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out our podcast 2025 Stock Market PredictionsSubmit Your QuestionsTo submit a listener question, visit our website, and enter the details of your question.Leave a ReviewVisit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcast.com/ to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Disclaimer:All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria & Jay Waters are Investment Adviser Representatives of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealt

January 31, 2025Episode 3626 min

2025 Stock Market Predictions

In this new episode of the Retirement Power Hour, Joe Allaria, CFP®, & Jay Waters break down how financial "experts" consistently make incorrect market predictions. They highlight key misses from 2024, including false recession calls, incorrect volatility forecasts, and failed AI bubble predictions. The takeaway? Ignore the noise, focus on a strategy built around your personal financial plan, and invest wisely for the long term.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out our podcast 2025 Contribution Limits Submit Your QuestionsTo submit a listener question, visit our website, and enter the details of your question.Leave a ReviewVisit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcast.com/ to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Disclaimer:All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss, and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria & Jay Waters are Investment Adviser Representatives of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. The information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

December 24, 2024Episode 3511 min

2025 Contribution Limits

Welcome to the Retirement Power Hour with Joe Allaria, CFP®. In episode 35, we break down the 2025 retirement contribution limits and key tax changes you need to know. Learn about updates to IRAs, Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, SIMPLE IRAs, and more—including the new provisions introduced by Secure Act 2.0.Key Topics Discussed: IRA and Roth IRA contribution limits and phase-outsNew 401(k) and SIMPLE IRA catch-up provisionsChanges to tax brackets, standard deductions, and Social Security wage baseHSA contribution updates for 2025If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out our podcast Whole Life Vs. Term LifeSubmit Your QuestionsTo submit a listener question, visit our website, and enter the details of your question.Leave a ReviewVisit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcast.com/ to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Disclaimer:All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. Information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

November 27, 2024Episode 3417 min

Whole Life vs. Term Life

In this episode, Joe Allaria, CFP®, and Jay Waters dive deep into the pros and cons of two popular types of life insurance: Term Life and Whole Life. While both offer unique benefits, choosing the right policy depends on your individual financial goals.Key Terms Discussed:-Term Life Insurance-Whole Life Insurance-The Cash Value Debate-Guaranteed Dividends-Buy Term, Invest the RestWhether you’re new to life insurance or reassessing your coverage, this episode will help you understand the key differences between these two policies and give you the tools to make an informed decision.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out our podcast How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?Submit Your QuestionsTo submit a listener question, visit our website, and enter the details of your question. Leave a ReviewVisit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcast.com/ to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Disclaimer:All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. Information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/Invest Wiser & Retire Better!

October 3, 2024Episode 3317 min

How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?

Welcome to Retirement Power Hour! In Episode 33, host Joe Allaria, CFP®, discusses the key factors in determining how much life insurance you need. He covers important considerations like paying off mortgages, covering future expenses for children, and replacing income for a spouse, along with strategies for wealth transfer and estate tax planning. Joe also explains the difference between term and permanent life insurance, helping you decide what best suits your needs. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out our podcast Can I Retire with $1M at age 60? Submit Your QuestionsTo submit a listener question, visit our website, and enter the details of your question. Leave a ReviewVisit https://www.retirementpowerhourpodcast.com/ to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Disclaimer:All material discussed on this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as individual tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing involves risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Joe Allaria is an Investment Adviser Representative of CarsonAllaria Wealth Management, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisory firm. Information discussed on this podcast may be derived from third parties that are believed to be reliable, but CarsonAllaria Wealth Management does not control or guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and disclaims all liability for damages resulting from such sources. Any references to third parties are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.Learn more about CarsonAllaria Wealth Management at https://carsonallaria.com/Invest Wiser & Retire Better!