Episode 23 – Master Your 401k:  Matches, Roth vs. Traditional and the Power of Starting Now

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this episode, Ray discusses essential strategies for securing personal data with expert Kenneth Washington, who is the Chief Information Officer at the Tampa Port Authority. They cover a range of topics that are a little more “TECH” related to the Up Your Assets Podcast… including the importance of regular software updates, creating strong passwords, the necessity of multi-factor authentication, and securing home and office networks. The conversation also delves into the use of public Wi-Fi, the role of antivirus software, identifying malicious emails, and the importance of data backup. Additionally, they explore home security technology and the considerations surrounding firearms for personal safety…don’t miss the boat on this one, listen today!

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this episode of the Up Your Assets podcast, Ray and James A. Combs, Jr. , the President and CEO of National Advisors Trust Company discuss the intricacies of legacy planning and the role of trust companies in estate planning. They explore the advantages of using a corporate trustee, the benefits of the directed trust model and the importance of professional expertise in managing trusts. Jim shares insights on the unique offerings of National Advisors Trust and their approach to asset management. The conversation also touches on current trends in estate planning, the significance of trusts for asset protection, and the growth opportunities for financial advisors in integrating trust services into their practices.  Make sure to tune in!

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this episode of the Up Your Assets podcast, Ray Ferrara is joined by estate planning attorney Nick Grimaudo!  The two discuss recent changes in estate planning, which made estate tax rules permanent…  Ever wondered what $15 million per person means for you? Or how the new laws actually help you keep more of your wealth? Here’s the truth: with the One Big Beautiful Bill, your estate exemption is now permanent at $15 million, which is an enormous difference from the sunset cliffhanger we faced earlier. However, what about protecting your assets before and after death? From proper asset titling to the strategic use of trusts, there’s more than one way to slash probate costs, guard against creditors, and shape your legacy. Even if you’re below the exemption threshold, there are income tax benefits and planning tactics that could save you big. Are you taking the right steps now? Or leaving your future to chance? This session is definitely worth a listen!

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this episode, Ray Ferrara shares his predictions for 2026 and reflects on how difficult it is to forecast the future in such an unpredictable world. He looks at several major market themes, including a possible surge in IPO activity with nearly 500 companies potentially going public and raising over 100 billion dollars, helped by the expected passage of the Invest Act. Ray also talks about the growing pressure on private markets, pointing to liquidity issues and rising negative publicity that could reduce investor interest. The conversation wraps up with his outlook on early year economic volatility and how a widening “K economy” may continue to separate people who benefit financially from those who fall behind.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this “Part 2” episode with guest Jon Brethauer  CFP®, AIF®, CPFA, MBA and Ray go further into the intricacies of managing retirement plans from a participant’s perspective. They cover essential topics such as understanding eligibility, maximizing employer contributions and the differences between traditional and Roth contributions.  The conversation emphasizes the significance of financial planning and the need for participants to engage actively with their retirement savings to ensure a secure financial future.  Ray and Jon also share the importance of early savings, the power of compound interest and how the role of target date funds can be a useful tool in ones plan.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this episode of Up Your Assets, host Ray Ferrara CFP® and guest Jon Brethauer CFP®, AIF®, CPFA, MBA discuss the complexities of being a retirement plan sponsor. This is part 1 of a 2 part series, where they delve into fiduciary responsibilities, the importance of hiring fiduciary advisors, and the various types of fiduciaries. The conversation also covers investment performance, hidden costs in retirement plans, the necessity of benchmarking, and tax considerations for new plans. Additionally, they explore strategies for business owners to catch up on retirement savings and emphasize the importance of seeking professional advice for plan improvement.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this podcast episode, Ray Ferrara and Jonathan Ainsley discuss the implications of increased longevity on financial planning and lifestyle. They explore how living longer requires a shift in mindset, financial strategies, and the importance of reframing aging perspectives. Jonathan introduces the Flourishing Longevity Scorecard and discusses the three revolutions affecting longevity: the revolution of longevity itself, the impact of technology, and the evolution of relationships. They also address the role of AI in supporting aging individuals and the need for financial professionals to adapt their strategies to accommodate longer lifespans.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

This episode is a unique conversation with Sandy Risgaard, CFP ® and Ray Ferarra, CFP® where they discuss essential information regarding Social Security and retirement, including how to access benefits, the importance of having a strategy, tax implications and recent updates in the Social Security system. This great discussion emphasizes the complexity of Social Security and the need for personalized financial planning.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this episode of Up Your Assets, host Ray Ferrara and insurance expert Bill Askins delve into the complexities of Medicare, discussing its various parts (A, B, C, and D), the importance of understanding enrollment periods, and the differences between Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans. They emphasize the need for personalized advice and the potential pitfalls of late enrollment penalties, providing listeners with essential insights to navigate their Medicare options effectively.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

In this unique episode Ray, provides great perspective on the major tax law changes that are here! During this educational session, he describes how the Big Beautiful Bill could have a significant impact on your retirement, investments, and estate planning.  The One Big Beautiful Bill Act brings sweeping changes to the tax code that could directly impact your income, retirement, and estate plans for years to come. Understanding these changes now is essential to making informed decisions that protect your wealth and take advantage of new opportunities.  This episode will give you the clarity and actionable insights you need to adapt your plan with confidence.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

There are several complexities that factor into retirement, adding to the conundrum is how to factor in the potential of “living longer” and what that might entail.  In this episode, Ray sits down with longtime friend and fellow CFP® Rick Kahler to contemplate these challenges and biases that affect retiring.  Over his enduring career, Rick has accumulated a vast knowledge base, professional credentials and accolades…during the podcast it is quite evident the wealth of information between these two colleagues.  What is also clear, the genuine heartfelt calling they both have for their craft,  clients and family… we hope this podcasts message will educate and inspire those who listen.

Acknowledgements and Important Disclosures

Congratulations! You have made it to the conclusion of the amazing three-part series on understanding Social Security, with Ray Ferrara CFP ® and award winning author / journalist and Social Security expert Mary Beth Franklin. During Part 3, Ray and Mary Beth take a look down the road on what the future of Social Security may look like given that it is projected to run out of money in 2032…

A must watch for anyone who wishes to learn more about the complex system that will affect all of us as Americans.

Welcome to part two of this superb three-part series with Ray Ferrara CFP ® and award-winning author / journalist and Social Security expert Mary Beth Franklin. During this exciting and informative session, Ray and Mary Beth give some well thought out tips on how to navigate the sometimes-overwhelming process when claiming your Social Security Benefits. A must watch for anyone who wishes to learn more about the complex system that will affect all of us as Americans.

In this amazing three part series, Ray Ferrara CFP ® speaks to award winning author / journalist and Social Security expert Mary Beth Franklin. During this exciting and informative session, Ray and Mary Beth roll up their sleeves and have a detailed discussion about all things Social Security! A must watch for anyone who wishes to learn more about the complex system that will affect all of us as Americans.

You won’t want to miss the insightful conversation with Dr. Barb Provost on how to help current and future generations control the “Purse Strings”.

Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Cary Carbonaro, CFP®, MBA, Managing Wealth Advisor and Women in Wealth Ambassador for Ashton Thomas, to tackle the financial services industry’s gender problem.

Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Alex Chamberlain, CMC, CSA, owner of EasyLiving, Inc, to tackle the realities of long-term care planning.

Looking to make a lasting charitable impact? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, is joined by Katrina Mason, President and CEO of Morton Plant Mease Healthcare Organization, and Patricia Wang, Executive Director of Development and Gift Planning at the University of Maryland College Park Foundation, to unravel the concept of deferred giving.

Is there more to retirement than just financial planning? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Robert Laura, founder of the Retirement Coaches Association and seven-time bestselling author, to challenge the status quo of retirement planning.

Thinking about selling your business? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Emery Ellinger, founder of Aberdeen Advisors, Inc., to unpack the complex world of mergers and acquisitions. Together, they explore how to prepare your company before selling, obtain accurate business valuations, avoid common pitfalls that can derail a deal, and so much more. Whether you’re years from selling or actively planning your exit, this episode delivers crucial wisdom for maximizing your business’s value.

Ever wondered if your life insurance policy could be worth more than you think? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with Boyd Crisler, founder of Boyd Settlements, to discuss life settlements. Together, they explore this often-overlooked third option for policy holders, diving into everything from eligibility requirements to tax implications. Through real-world cases and knowledgeable insights, discover how selling your life insurance policy could potentially put more cash in your pocket today. 

Want to know what sets financial advisors apart? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, and Kevin R. Keller, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of the CFP Board, cut through the alphabet soup of financial designations and reveal why the CFP® mark stands as the gold standard of financial planning. Together, they also share insider tips on choosing the right financial planner and explore why the next generation should consider this rewarding profession.

What could the next presidential term mean for your wealth? Join Ray Ferrara, CFP®, as he unpacks the potential implications of upcoming policy changes under President Trump. From tax reforms and tariffs to Social Security considerations and the national debt landscape, understand how possible policy shifts could impact your financial strategy.

How does your health impact your financial plan? On today’s episode, Ray Ferrara, CFP®, is joined by Carolyn McClanahan, M.D., CFP®, founder of Life Planning Partners, Inc., for an eye-opening discussion on the critical intersection of healthcare and financial planning. Together, they explore how to integrate health considerations into your financial plan, tackle longevity planning, and navigate the complex landscape of healthcare costs.

What’s it like covering the ever-evolving world of personal finance? Ray Ferrara, CFP®, sits down with veteran financial journalist John Waggoner to explore his journey through decades of market coverage, the changing landscape of digital media, and the advice he would give to his younger self.

Does the market care who’s president? On today’s episode, Ray Ferrara, CFP®, is joined by Dr. Dave Yeske, CFP®, Founder of Yeske Buie, and Yusuf Abugideiri, CFP®, CIO of Yeske Buie, as they explore the market’s reaction to past elections and the impact (or lack thereof) that past presidents have had on the overall market.

Today’s topic is all about health insurance! Ray Ferrara, CFP®, is joined by Christine Simone, CEO and Founder of Caribou, a company that sits at the intersection of healthcare and finance. Ray and Christine discuss important topics surrounding Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.