Podcast
The Retirement Planning Podcast
Hosted by Darrin McComas · EN
Welcome! Our podcast offers a streamlined approach to holistic wealth management, combining tax, investment, and advisory services under one roof. We understand that with more wealth comes the need for smarter decisions, not just for now but for the future. Our expertise covers a broad spectrum, including investment management, tax optimization, and retirement planning utilizing The Bucket Plan financial system. Financial planning and investment advisory services offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors, an SEC registered investment advisor. PCA does not provide tax or legal advice. Information and strategies from this message should not be viewed as investment advice. Financial planning and investment advisory services offered through Prosperity Capital Advisors (PCA) an SEC registered investment advisor. For more information, please visit www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The 3 Seasons of Retirement & How to Plan For Them
3d ago00:22:20Tap to summarizeEpisode DescriptionAre you assuming your retirement spending will be a flat line every year? For most retirees, spending actually looks like a "Retirement Smile" that moves through three distinct phases: the Go-Go, Slow-Go, and No-Go years. In this episode, host Darrin McComas breaks down how your spending habits change throughout retirement and how to align your assets using the Bucket Plan Framework and Tax-Efficient Funnels. Learn how to protect your money from market volatility, self-fund potential healthcare costs, and strategically time Roth conversions to avoid tax traps like IRMAA. Key Takeaways1. The 3 Seasons of RetirementThe Go-Go Years (Ages ~60–70): Maximum discretionary spending for travel, hobbies, cruises, and active lifestyle goals. The Slow-Go Years (Mid to Late 70s): A slower pace focused on routines, family, and localized travel, resulting in lower overall discretionary spending. The No-Go Years (Ages 80+): Spending shifts from lifestyle to healthcare, prescriptions, and support services. 2. The "Retirement Smile" CurveTraditional planning often assumes a flat annual spending line, which doesn't reflect reality. Spending is typically higher in early retirement, drops during the slow-go years, and rises again late in life due to medical/caregiving costs. 3. The Bucket Plan FrameworkNow Bucket (0–12 Months): Safe, liquid assets designed to cover immediate lifestyle expenses and planned events without worrying about market downturns. Soon Bucket (5–10 Years): Conservative investments meant to replenish the "Now" bucket and buffer against sequence-of-returns risk. Later Bucket (10+ Years): Growth-focused assets designed for long-term inflation protection, legacy, and self-funding healthcare or long-term care. 4. Tax Funnels & Roth Conversion TimingBalancing assets across pre-tax, post-tax, and tax-advantaged (Roth) funnels prevents unintended tax bracket jumps, Social Security taxation, or IRMAA surcharges. Roth Conversion Tip: Executing Roth conversions during the Slow-Go years (when spending and income drop) can allow you to convert IRA funds at lower tax rates. ⏱️ Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Vacation Recap 00:50 – The 3 Seasons of Retirement: Go-Go, Slow-Go, & No-Go Years 03:40 – Why Flat-Line Assumptions Fail: The "Retirement Smile" 05:10 – Applying the Bucket Plan System (Now, Soon, & Later Buckets) 10:15 – Balancing Risk: Short-Term Safety vs. Long-Term Inflation Risk 13:20 – The 3 Tax Funnels & Avoiding IRMAA Tax Traps 16:15 – When is the Best Time for a Roth Conversion? 18:30 – How to Connect with Evergreen Wealth Advisors & Wrap Up Resources & LinksSchedule a Free Consultation: ewadvisors.com Subscribe: Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more retirement strategies! Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as individual financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions.
Transcribe →Lost in Retirement: Navigating the Psychological Transition into Retirement
Jun 400:30:11Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Retirement Planning Podcast, hosts Darren McComas and Jason Fox shift their focus from the technical side of retirement to the essential "return on life." They discuss the psychological shifts that occur when leaving a career, the "Peak 65" wave, and practical strategies to build a meaningful, purposeful life after work.1Key Takeaways:The "Monday Morning Void": Discussing the loss of identity, social connection, routine, and purpose that many face after leaving the workforce.1The Four Phases of Retirement: Insights into the Vacation/Honeymoon phase, the Loss & Slump phase, Trial & Error, and ultimate Reinvention.1Mitigating the "Dip": Strategies for managing the emotional slump that typically occurs one to three years into retirement.1Actionable Strategies for a Successful Rewire:Micro-volunteering: Testing new commitments in areas you are passionate about without immediate long-term pressure.1Identity Audit: Identifying five traits you value about yourself that are independent of your previous job title.1Social Anchors: Scheduling recurring weekly social events (e.g., meeting friends for coffee or the gym) to maintain connection.1Physical Momentum: Prioritizing daily movement to stabilize mental health and cognitive function.1The Financial Foundation: Why the "Bucket Plan" system—maintaining a "Now" (12-month reserve), "Soon" (10-year horizon), and "Long-term" bucket—is the critical framework that provides the peace of mind necessary to focus on your psychological well-being.1Connect with Evergreen Wealth Advisors:Website: ewadvisors.comPhone: 509-740-4183
Transcribe →Season 2 Episode 2 - Sequence of Returns Risk in Retirement
Apr 600:27:26Tap to summarizeThe Hidden Danger of Sequence of Returns RiskThe Retirement Planning Podcast | Season 2, Episode 2Hosts: Darrin McComas & Jason FoxIn this episode, Darrin and Jason tackle the "roller coaster" volatility currently hitting the markets in early 2026. With the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow all seeing significant pullbacks due to geopolitical uncertainty and inflation, the hosts explain why your "retirement math" changes the moment you stop saving and start spending. They dive deep into Sequence of Returns Risk—the danger of a market downturn occurring early in retirement—and how the Bucket Plan system acts as a shield for your nest egg.Key Topics & HighlightsThe 2026 Market Landscape: A review of the "sea of red" across major indices and the impact of the conflict in Iran on oil and manufacturing costs.Stagflation and "Quad 3": Using the Hedgeye framework to explain why the current environment of high inflation and slowing growth creates a "choppy" market that drives investors nuts.The Math of Sequence Risk: A side-by-side comparison of "Mrs. Happy" and "Mr. Unhappy". Despite both averaging a 6% return over 10 years, the order of those returns results in a wealth gap of over $1.1 million.The RMD Trap: Why being forced to take Required Minimum Distributions at age 73 or 75 can permanently "lock in" losses if you haven't planned for market dips.Strategic Defense: The Bucket Plan SystemTo mitigate Sequence of Returns Risk, the hosts break down the three-bucket approach:The NOW Bucket: Safe, liquid money (cash, CDs, money markets) to cover emergencies and planned expenses for the first year or two so you don't have to sell stocks when they are down.The SOON Bucket: Conservatively invested assets (using tools like buffered ETFs or fixed indexed annuities) designed to bridge the gap for years 2 through 10.The LATER Bucket: Assets held for long-term growth (10+ years) that can afford to ride the market's "roller coaster" because they aren't needed for immediate income.Connect with Evergreen Wealth AdvisorsWebsite: EWAdvisors.comComplimentary Strategy Session: Book a call to evaluate your specific risk tolerance and tax profile.Expert Insight: "It’s not a matter of if volatility shows up during your retirement; it’s when. Are you in a good position before it happens, or are you on your heels trying to react?" — Darrin McComasSources & Tools Citedhttps://www.google.com/search?q=Hedgeye.com: Source for the Quad Map economic forecasting tool.IRS Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Tables: For updated ages (73 and 75) based on birth year.Historical Market Benchmarks: Analysis of the 2008 financial crisis and the "Lost Decade" (2000–2010).
Transcribe →2026 Retirement Strategies - Moving Beyond Cookie-Cutter Portfolios Like the 60/40
Jan 1800:34:25Tap to summarizeS2E1: 2026 Retirement Strategies - Moving Beyond Cookie-Cutter PortfoliosEpisode OverviewAs we head into 2026, the financial landscape is shifting. With market pundits split between "Dow 60,000" and "market crash" predictions, the "set it and forget it" strategies of the past are being put to the test. In this season premiere, Darrin and Jason discuss why traditional portfolio models—like the classic 60/40—may no longer be sufficient for those entering or currently in retirement.The team dives into recent industry shifts, including a major Vanguard report suggesting a flip to a more conservative 40/60 model for retirees. They also break down the Bucket Plan® philosophy—a strategy designed to manage sequence of returns risk and provide peace of mind regardless of market volatility.Key Discussion PointsThe Vanguard Shift: Why Vanguard's head of portfolio construction is moving toward a 40% stock / 60% bond weighting for specific retirement scenarios.Sequence of Returns Risk: How market volatility in the early years of retirement can devastate a portfolio when you are forced to sell assets in a down market.The Bucket Plan® System: A deep dive into segmenting assets by time horizon:Now Bucket: Safe, liquid cash for the next 12 months of income and emergencies.Soon Bucket: Conservative growth for years 1–10, accounting for RMDs and taxes.Later Bucket: Long-term growth assets (10+ year horizon) to outpace inflation.The Three Tax Funnels: Understanding the critical difference between Pre-Tax (IRA/401k), Post-Tax (Brokerage), and Tax-Advantaged (Roth/HSA) accounts.The "Trinity" of Investing: Why no single product can simultaneously provide high returns, full liquidity, and zero risk.00:00 – 2026 Retirement Outlook: Market Highs & Volatility01:51 – Why the Traditional 60/40 Portfolio is Shifting03:45 – Understanding Sequence of Returns Risk in Retirement06:00 – The Bucket Plan®: A Strategic Framework for Income07:13 – The "Now" Bucket: Liquid Cash & Emergency Funds07:44 – The "Soon" Bucket: Planning for RMDs and Taxes10:04 – The "Later" Bucket: Long-Term Growth & Market Recovery12:15 – Vanguard’s New 40/60 Call for Retirees14:02 – The Hidden Danger of Bond Market Declines17:42 – Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) Strategies19:25 – Is Your 401(k) Target Date Fund Actually De-risking?23:45 – The Investment Trinity: Risk, Return, and Liquidity26:45 – The Three Tax Funnels: Optimizing Your Net Income28:30 – Holistic Wealth Management vs. "Winging It"Featured ResourcesVanguard Article: Vanguard - Why we are underweight in stocksThe Bucket Plan®: Download our free white paper, The Bucket Plan Philosophy, to learn how we structure assets for a worry-free retirement.Prosperity Capital Advisors: Learn more about our partnership with Prosperity Capital Advisors, which provides us with national-scale resources and the Bucket Plan methodology.Take the Next StepIf you are entering 2026 without a proactive income or tax plan, don't "wing it." Schedule a complimentary strategy session with our Spokane-based team to see if our holistic approach is right for you.Visit us at: www.ewadvisors.comCall our office: 509-740-4183
Transcribe →Episode 18: Debunking the Myths About Long Term Care with Kirsten Schlumbohm
Dec 500:30:33Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Retirement Planning Podcast, hosts Darrin McComas and Jason Fox are joined by Kirsten Schlumbohm from C2P, to discuss the pressing topic of long-term care insurance. The conversation covers the high likelihood of needing long-term care, the evolution of insurance policies to provide better options than in the past, and the importance of planning and protecting oneself and family from the financial and emotional burden of long-term care. Kirsten shares personal stories and statistics, emphasizing the necessity of having a plan in place and debunking common myths, such as the misconception that Medicare will cover long-term care costs. The episode highlights the value of holistic wealth management and the importance of addressing long-term care as part of a comprehensive retirement plan.00:00 Welcome to the Retirement Planning Podcast00:46 Introduction of Hosts and Special Guest01:19 Debunking Myths About Long-Term Care04:16 The Evolution of Long-Term Care Policies07:55 The Financial Burden of Long-Term Care13:13 Medicare and Medicaid Misconceptions18:19 The Importance of Planning Ahead22:22 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts29:05 Podcast Outro and DisclaimersSources:https://www.consumeraffairs.com/health/long-term-care-statistics.html#increased-demandhttps://www.consumeraffairs.com/health/long-term-care-statistics.html#cost-of-long-term-carehttps://www.consumeraffairs.com/health/long-term-care-statistics.htmlhttps://acl.gov/ltc/basic-needs/how-much-care-will-you-needhttps://investor.genworth.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/1030/long-term-care-costs-increase-in-washington-exceeding
Transcribe →Episode 17: The One Big Beautiful Bill Deep Dive Part 2 - Capital Gains Opportunities
Oct 2200:20:12Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Retirement Planning Podcast, host Darrin McComas, along with Jason Fox, explores crucial aspects of retirement planning with a focus on capital gains tax opportunities introduced by 'The One Big Beautiful Bill.' They discuss various tax funnels, emphasizing the benefits of Roth conversions and strategic portfolio liquidation. The episode includes detailed examples, explaining how retirees can leverage current tax laws to maximize their financial gains. Listeners are provided with actionable insights on how to utilize available deductions and opportunities to minimize their tax liabilities effectively. The hosts also offer free resources and consultations to help the audience better navigate their financial planning. To download your free guide to the One Big Beautiful Bill please go to our website: www.ewadvisors.com/guides00:00 Welcome to the Retirement Planning Podcast00:47 Introduction to Today's Episode00:58 Understanding Capital Gains Tax Opportunities01:34 Exploring Tax Funnels02:52 Deep Dive into the Post-Tax Funnel04:48 Capital Gains Harvesting Example09:07 Strategic Portfolio Liquidation Example13:12 The Importance of Proactive Tax Planning16:37 Free Resources and Final Thoughts18:44 Podcast Disclaimer and Legal Information
Transcribe →Episode 16: Protecting Your Blindside with Stoyan Petev
Sep 2500:41:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Retirement Planning Podcast, hosts Darrin McComas and Jason Fox celebrate Life Insurance Awareness Month by discussing the vital aspects of life insurance with Stoyan Petev, VP of Advanced Markets at C2P. The episode delves into the differences between term and cash value life insurance, alongside detailed explanations of living benefits, tax advantages, and effective financial planning tools. Real-world case studies are examined to highlight the applications and benefits of integrating life insurance into a holistic financial plan. This episode is packed with thoughtful insights, practical tips, and strategies designed to help listeners build and preserve wealth while ensuring their loved ones are protected financially.00:00 Welcome to the Retirement Planning Podcast00:47 Introduction of Hosts and Special Guests02:24 Understanding Life Insurance: Term vs. Cash Value05:42 Tax Benefits and Living Benefits of Life Insurance09:17 Holistic Financial Planning and Life Insurance14:48 Case Studies: Real-Life Applications of Life Insurance15:06 Myths and Misconceptions About Life Insurance38:03 Final Thoughts and ConclusionThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for individualized financial, legal, or tax advice. Investing involves risks. Guest opinions are their own. Consult a professional before making financial decisions.
Transcribe →Episode 15: OBBB and Minimizing Taxes in Retirement
Sep 200:27:17Tap to summarizeOBBB: Maximizing Tax Efficiency for Retirement with Roth Conversions and MoreIn this episode of the Retirement Planning Podcast, hosts Darrin McComas and Jason Fox offer expert insights into optimizing retirement planning with a focus on Roth conversion strategies. They discuss important concepts like the different tax treatment of various income sources and illustrate how Roth conversions can preserve wealth while minimizing tax burdens. Real-life examples highlight the impact of tax-efficient strategies, including bracket-topping and aggressive Roth conversion sprints, as well as the benefits of using life insurance as an IRA replacement. They also emphasize the importance of proactive tax planning to protect both oneself and one's spouse from significant tax liabilities in retirement. Join the conversation to explore actionable tips for a secure financial future.00:00 Welcome to the Retirement Planning Podcast00:46 Introduction to Today's Episode01:10 Understanding Roth Conversion Strategies02:06 Tax Funnels Explained05:39 The Importance of Tax Efficiency in Retirement06:36 Proactive Tax Planning13:59 Roth Conversion Examples22:25 Life Insurance as an IRA Replacement25:03 Conclusion and Contact Information
Transcribe →Episode 14: Optimizing Social Security with Heather Schreiber
Aug 1500:42:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Retirement Planning Podcast, hosts Darrin McComas and Jason Fox are joined by social security expert Heather Schreiber (IRMAACP™, RICP®, NSSA®). They discuss the complexities of retirement planning, including investment strategies, risk management, and maximizing social security benefits. Heather shares insights on changes in social security laws, common misconceptions, and the importance of optimizing benefits rather than simply maximizing them. The episode also covers key considerations for spousal and survivor benefits, tax implications of early social security claiming, and the impact of legislative changes on retirement planning. Heather emphasizes the need for personalized financial advice and the risks associated with relying solely on social security for retirement income.00:00 Welcome to the Retirement Planning Podcast00:47 Meet Your Hosts and Special Guest01:16 Heather Schreiber's Expertise in Retirement Income Planning03:33 Understanding Social Security Benefits07:23 Common Mistakes in Social Security Planning12:32 Claiming Strategies for Near-Retirees17:27 The Tax Implications of Social Security21:06 Understanding the Senior Deduction and Provisional Income23:49 Impact of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) on Taxes26:11 Navigating Spousal and Survivor Benefits34:08 Addressing Social Security Insolvency Concerns39:59 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for individualized financial, legal, or tax advice. Investing involves risks. Guest opinions are their own. Consult a professional before making financial decisions.
Transcribe →Episode 13: The Bucket Plan explained with Jason L. Smith
Aug 400:31:00Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Retirement Planning Podcast, hosts Darrin McComas and Jason Fox welcome Jason Smith, CEO of Prosperity Capital Advisors and author of 'The Bucket Plan'. Jason shares his journey of founding Prosperity Capital Advisors and developing the Bucket Plan, a holistic wealth management process. He discusses the significance of integrating financial, tax, legal, and insurance planning into a comprehensive retirement strategy. Jason elaborates on the three-phase money cycle of accumulation, preservation, and distribution, and emphasizes the importance of 'bucketing' assets to manage risks such as market and sequence of returns risk. He also highlights the critical role of tax planning and the tax trilogy in preserving wealth. Jason shares a poignant story about how proper planning can provide peace of mind and financial security, particularly for surviving spouses. The episode underscores the necessity of a coordinated, holistic approach to ensure a secure and well-planned retirement.00:00 Welcome to the Retirement Planning Podcast00:52 Introducing Our Special Guest: Jason Smith01:16 The Birth of Prosperity Capital Advisors04:50 The Bucket Plan: Simplifying Financial Planning10:31 Understanding Financial Risks and the Preservation Phase17:41 The Importance of Holistic Wealth Management20:44 The Tax Trilogy: A Comprehensive Approach27:11 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways29:32 Closing Remarks and DisclaimersThis podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for individualized financial, legal, or tax advice. Investing involves risks. Guest opinions are their own. Consult a professional before making financial decisions.
Transcribe →