Federal Employee Financial Planning Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

What’s the best way to maximize your Social Security benefits? In this episode, Tommy and John dive into this critical topic with expert Elaine Floyd, CFP®, who shares insights from her extensive experience in retirement and life planning. Elaine explains the intricacies of Social Security, emphasizing that your benefit and retirement strategy should be tailored to your unique situation, rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

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Is it the right time to hire a financial planner? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Michael dive into the intricacies of financial planning and highlight the importance of expert guidance. They discuss the pitfalls of trying to manage your finances alone, the risks of bad advice, and why getting professional help early on can make all the difference. 

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Is your financial planner as knowledgeable as they say they are? Do they have all the experience needed to guide you? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, Ben, and John dive deep into the common misconceptions surrounding financial planning. They challenge the notion that anyone can be a financial planner and stress the importance of transparency in the industry. Listen in as they shed light on topics like estate planning for everyone, why financial planning extends beyond insurance sales or investment management, and more.

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Have you ever wondered how your financial planner gets paid? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, John, and Ben tackle this question head-on, shedding light on the various compensation methods in the financial planning industry. They cut through the jargon to explain the surge in annual meetings and the strategic importance of mapping out financial goals at the beginning of the year. From explaining fee-only versus commission-based models to the significance of transparency in understanding your planner's payment structure, they will equip you with the knowledge you need to hire the right advisor.

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Did you know that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has far-reaching implications up until 2025—with impending changes set to unfold in 2026? Today Michael, John, and Ben discuss the complexities of this legislation, from the sudden shifts in withholdings to the surprising revelations during tax season in April 2019. They also explain how seemingly minor adjustments can lead to significant financial outcomes. Listen in to hear about the current tax landscape, as well as its impact on individuals and businesses alike. 

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Are you taking advantage of all that is available to you as a federal employee? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, Ben, and John discuss the "Rich Men North of Richmond" parody of federal employees, dissecting its jokes. From the unique benefits like inflation-adjusted pensions and cost of living adjustments (COLA), they cover what sets federal employees apart. 

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How do baseball and financial planning intersect? In this episode, Michael, Tommy, John and Ben break down the game of financial planning. From end-of-year tax strategies to building your financial 'team,' they explain what can help you win big.

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What exactly does a Roth account allow you to do? John, Michael, Tommy, and Ben dive into the intricacies of Roth accounts in this episode and discuss everything from Roth TSPs and conversions to the nuanced distinctions between Roth and traditional IRAs. 

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In this year-end reflection, Michael, Tommy, Ben, and John dissect the financial landscape of 2023, sharing the surprises and lessons learned along the way. They explain the critical importance of discerning financial information sources, urging listeners to rely on professional advice over sensationalized media information. 

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Small steps, big leaps. In this episode, Michael, John and Ben explain the power of initiating modest changes in your financial plan, drawing parallels to the similarly slow approach required in physical fitness. Tune in to discover why waiting for the future to pursue your dreams can be a costly delay.

Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC