This week we focus on the benefits of bond ladders over bond funds for financial planning, particularly in retirement. We discuss three main reasons we prefer bond ladders: 1. Guaranteed Cash Flow: Bond ladders provide predictable cash flow by using individual bonds that mature at different times, ensuring cash availability when needed, especially in retirement. 2. Peace of Mind: Bond ladders give clients confidence that they will have access to guaranteed income, especia

In today’s episode, we discuss the five factors that have a greater impact on your financial success than investment returns. While investment returns are important, focusing on these other key elements can have a far more significant effect on your long-term financial health. First, saving is critical. The amount you save—both in retirement accounts and through daily spending decisions—matters. It’s not just about contributing to your 401(k) or setting aside money for a rai

Separating politics from your portfolio: what to know about the stock market and economy post-election. In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, join John and Bridget as they discuss how the stock market and economy are impacted by the outcome of the recent presidential election. While political changes can create short-term market fluctuations, over the long haul, the stock market operates largely based on broader economic factors, not just who holds political of

Inheriting an IRA can be overwhelming, especially with the recent changes in tax laws. In this episode, Bridget and John break down the four essential things you need to know about inheriting an IRA. From understanding the new 10-year rule to tax-saving strategies, we cover it all. Make sure to watch until the end for valuable insights and tips! Resources: - Alliance of Comprehensive Planners: https://www.acplanners.org Follow Us: - John Scheer’s Practice: https://www.trinf

John thinks saving for college is stupid. That's going to be our topic today on Friends Talk Financial Planning. Join Bridget Sullivan Mermel and John Scherer as they dive deep into the controversial topic of college savings. Is it really necessary to save for your child's college education, or are there better ways to manage these costs? Watch this episode to find out! 📌 Links Mentioned: - USDA Study on Cost of Raising a Child: https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/archive/t

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, Bridget and John dive into a fascinating survey conducted by Northwestern Mutual, highlighting the top obstacles to financial security. From inflation and the economy to personal debt and savings, they offer insightful perspectives on how we can rethink these challenges and focus on actionable steps to achieve financial stability. Don’t miss their practical advice that can help you control your financial future! Link to the

With the presidential election approaching, there's a lot of speculation on how it might impact the stock market and your investment portfolio. Join John and Bridget as they delve into the historical data, analyze patterns, and provide insights on what (if anything) you should do with your portfolio during these uncertain times. Make sure to subscribe, as we aim to reach 1,000 subscribers and bring you more valuable financial planning insights! #FinancialPlanning #StockMarke

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, Bridget Sullivan Mermel and John Scherer discuss a recent survey by Northwestern Mutual that claims Americans think they need $1.46 million to retire. Bridget and John argue that people might be thinking about this all wrong. Instead of focusing on a specific savings number, the key question should be: How much do you want to spend in retirement? Tune in as they break down the survey results, discuss the anxiety around retir

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, John and Bridget delve into the topic of net worth by age. They discuss the importance of understanding what net worth entails and share data on the median and 90th percentile net worth figures across different age groups. Join them as they break down the numbers and explore what it takes to be in the top 10% and even the top 1% of net worth in the U.S. Read the source article for the net worth data: https://ofdollarsandda

Join Bridget and John in this insightful episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, where they delve into the ongoing implications of inflation on investment portfolios. Whether you're feeling the pinch or just planning for the future, understand how today's economic climate could affect your financial decisions. Don't forget to subscribe for more valuable insights! Alliance of Comprehensive Planners: https://www.acplanners.org John's firm website: https://www.trinfin.com.

In this week's episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, John Scherer and Bridget Sullivan Mermel discuss the pros and cons of investing 100% in stocks. They address why it may not always be the best approach, despite stocks having high expected returns. Join the conversation as they analyze historical data and share insights on long-term investment strategies. Article with the 7 Reasons Not to Use a 100% Stock Portfolio: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/100-stock-portfo

In this video, Bridget and John discuss the process of finding the 1099-INT for selling I bonds in 2023. They walk through the steps of navigating the I Bond site to locate the necessary tax form. Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the world of I Bonds, this guide will help you understand the process. John's firm website: https://www.trinfin.com The Alliance for Comprenhensive Planners: acplanners.org Don't forget to subscribe to Friends Talk Financial Planning

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, John and Bridget dig into the world of fixed annuities. They discuss the components of a fixed annuity, how it works, and why it differs from a variable annuity. If you're curious about whether buying a fixed annuity is a good idea, this video will provide valuable insights. John's firm website: https://www.trinfin.com Don't forget to subscribe to Friends Talk Financial Planning for more insightful discussions on financi

In this episode, Bridget and John share six important questions to ask when hiring a financial advisor or financial planner. They discuss the significance of credentials, fiduciary responsibilities, tax advice, comprehensive financial planning, advisor experience, and transparent fee structures. (1). "Are you a CFP or certified financial planner?" (2). "Are you a fiduciary?" (3). "Will you give specific tax advice or will it be, I need to talk to my tax person about those th

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, John Scherer and Bridget Sullivan Mermel dive into the intricate balance between making financially sound decisions and honoring our emotions and personal values. They discuss the scenario of paying off a mortgage early, the importance of liquidity and emergency funds, the emotional attachment to concentrated stock positions, and the significance of being intentional with financial choices. As they share their insights, they

In this episode, John and Bridget discuss all things Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and how to decide which strategy to use when making charitable contributions. They break down the highlights and mechanics of each option and provide insightful tips on making the best choice based on your specific situation. Check out our previous episodes on DAFs! Basics about Donor-Advised Funds: https://youtu.be/g7jbhnLcNDw How to maximize your

In this episode of FTFP, John and Bridget dive into the advanced strategies of using donor-advised funds for charitable giving and tax planning. They discuss the concept of "bunching" charitable contributions, controlling future investments, simplifying tax situations, and promoting the feeling of giving back. They also explore the benefits of involving family members in charitable decisions and the flexibility of donor-advised funds in supporting various causes. Join John an

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, John and Bridget dive into the basics of Donor-Advised Funds. They discuss how these funds allow individuals to maximize tax deductions while retaining control over their donations. They explain the concept of a donor-advised fund, its benefits, and when it might be advantageous for someone to use. Additionally, they touch on the implications for individuals who do not itemize their taxes and the potential strategies for co

In this engaging episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, hosts John and Bridget delve into the intricacies of selling I bonds, providing listeners with valuable insights and practical tips to navigate this financial terrain. With a dynamic and conversational approach, they make the complex world of I bonds accessible to both seasoned investors and those new to financial planning. The hosts kick off the episode by breaking down the current rates of I bonds, offering a co

In this episode of Friends Talk Financial Planning, John and Bridget discuss the new rates for I bonds that changed on November 1. They dive into the components of the I bond rates and explain how the fixed rate is currently at 1.3%. They also discuss the benefits of I bonds as part of your investment portfolio and how they can be used for emergency funds or retirement savings. John and Bridget also touch on the complexity of buying I bonds and how it requires engagement with