Explore every episode of the podcast Federal Employee Financial Planning Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Episode 130: What Should Federal Employees Expect When Hiring a Financial Planner? | 09 Nov 2026 | 00:48:00 | |
A better financial planning experience shouldn't mean more meetings, more paperwork or months of waiting to get started. In 2026, Mason & Associates has changed its new client process to make it faster, more flexible and more focused on what prospective clients actually need. In this episode, John, Tommy and Ben explain how the updated process works, why the firm has removed its upfront $3,000 financial planning fee and how it aims to move new clients from an initial conversation to an ongoing relationship in around 60 days. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 129: What Should I Do After I Retire From Federal Service? | 26 Oct 2026 | 01:05:41 | |
What happens when you've saved enough money to retire but haven't figured out what comes next? Tony Hixon, author of Retirement Stepping Stones: Find Meaning, Live with Purpose, and Leave a Legacy, shares the personal experience that changed the way he thinks about retirement planning. After his mother retired with financial security but struggled to find purpose in her new life, Tony realized that preparing for retirement requires much more than getting the numbers right. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 128: How Do I Choose a Financial Planner? | 12 Oct 2026 | 00:56:42 | |
How can you tell whether a financial planner is genuinely credible, or whether you're being pushed into a decision you may regret? In this episode, we explore two sides of financial planning that can have a big impact on how confidently you use your money and choose professional advice. We start by looking at how our memories of the past can influence today's spending decisions, why we can become anchored to what things used to cost, and how putting expenses into the context of your current income can change your perspective. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Episode 127: License to Shop, Not to Drop: An Honest Look at Insurance with Broc Buckles | 28 Sep 2026 | 01:05:15 | |
Insurance is one of those parts of financial planning that most people would rather not think about, but getting it wrong can have a much bigger impact than choosing the wrong investment. It's not particularly exciting, and ideally you'll never need to use it, but the right coverage can provide the foundation that allows the rest of a financial plan to work as intended. In today's episode, we're dissecting the role insurance plays in financial planning with Broc Buckles, co-founder of BC Brokerage. Listen in to learn how umbrella liability coverage works, why disability insurance costs vary based on occupation and risk, how underwriting can differ for military and other higher-risk professions, and how the long-term care insurance market has changed. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 126: When Should I Start Taking Social Security? | 14 Sep 2026 | 00:32:50 | |
When should you claim Social Security, and how do you know if the "optimal" strategy actually fits your retirement plan? In this episode, we react to a White Coat Investor article exploring whether Social Security should be claimed early and invested or delayed for a larger guaranteed benefit. You'll learn why Social Security optimization is about more than a simple break-even calculation, how delaying one spouse's benefit to age 70 can create higher lifetime and survivor income, and why federal employees may have more flexibility because of their pensions and other guaranteed income sources. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 125: Retirement Intelligence: Preparing Federal Employees for the Emotional Side of Retirement with Bob Laura | 31 Aug 2026 | 00:57:12 | |
What if being financially ready for retirement is only half of the equation? In this episode, we sit down with Bob Laura, financial planner, speaker, author of Retirement Intelligence, and pioneer in the psychology and social science of retirement and legacy planning. He joins us to share how to prepare for the transition beyond the numbers and create a meaningful retirement before you leave the workforce. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 124: Retirement Readiness | 17 Aug 2026 | 01:01:46 | |
How do you know if you're truly on track for retirement? And what should you be doing differently at 30, 40, 50… or just six months from leaving federal service? In this episode, John and Tommy break down retirement readiness by life stage, exploring the financial, tax, investment, insurance, and estate planning decisions that matter at different points in your career. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Episode 123: Mailbag Part Two: Questions from Federal Employees | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:45:04 | |
Could a single dollar cost you hundreds more in Medicare premiums? In this mailbag episode, we answer some of the most common retirement planning questions from listeners, beginning with how to avoid IRMAA surcharges and why Medicare planning really starts at age 63. You'll learn how strategies like Roth conversions, bracket-topping, and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) work and why every strategy should be tailored to your individual financial plan. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Episode 122: Mailbag Part One: Questions from Federal Employees | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:49:00 | |
What questions do federal employees need answered before making major retirement decisions? In this mailbag episode, John and Tommy tackle listener questions about the FERS annuity supplement, Social Security taxes, Social Security claiming strategies, and retirement income planning. You'll learn how returning to work after retirement can impact your supplement, how to manage Social Security tax withholding, and why retirement decisions require more than a simple one-size-fits-all answer. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Episode 121: The Questions Federal Employees Are Asking in 2026 | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:56:32 | |
What really happens behind the scenes after 350+ client meetings in just six weeks—and what do those conversations reveal about how people are thinking about money, life, and the future? John and Tommy wrapped up their 2026 Strategic Planning Meeting season earlier this quarter, and in this episode, they are going over some of the top questions their federal employee clients asked. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Episode 120: TSP Withdrawal Mistakes That Nobody Warned You About | 22 Jun 2026 | 00:48:16 | |
Saving for retirement is only half the battle; knowing how to get your money out without getting burned by taxes or rigid rules is where things get complicated. In this episode, John and Tommy dive deep into the specific Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) mistakes that are rarely talked about but can cost federal employees thousands. From the operational headaches of unfair tax withholdings to the danger of default account selections, they share exactly how to maintain control of your wealth. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: | |||
| Episode 119: Avoiding the Common Financial Planning Mistakes Made by Federal Employees | 08 Jun 2026 | 01:23:24 | |
Are you maximizing the true value of your federal benefits, or are you unintentionally leaving money on the table? In this special episode, John and Tommy present an updated version of a classic seminar originally created by the firm's founders in the 1990s—now made current for 2026. They break down the unique complexities of the FERS system and expose the critical blind spots that often lead federal employees to make major, irreversible retirement mistakes. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 118: Think Fastball, Then Adjust: How Federal Employees Navigate Curveballs with a Financial Planner | 25 May 2026 | 00:52:59 | |
What happens when the financial plan you created five years ago no longer matches the life you're living today? In this episode, John and Tommy explore why great financial planning is never static and how the best plans evolve alongside career changes, unexpected opportunities, market shifts, retirement decisions, and personal goals. Through real-life client stories, they break down how ongoing financial planning relationships help people confidently navigate uncertainty, major career transitions, and complex financial decisions.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 117: FEGLI vs. Term Life: When to Replace Your Federal Employee Life Insurance | 11 May 2026 | 00:51:19 | |
What should federal employees actually do with their life insurance, and when does FEGLI stop making sense? In this episode, John and Tommy break down everything you need to know about Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), including Basic coverage, Options A, B, and C, and how these choices evolve throughout your career and into retirement. You'll learn how FEGLI pricing really works, why Option B becomes expensive over time, and when it might make sense to explore term life insurance instead.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 116: Life After DRP: What We Learned from Federal Employees Who Took the Offer | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:31:33 | |
What really happens after you accept a Deferred Resignation Program (DRP) offer—and how do you know if it was the right move? In this episode, you'll learn what federal employees experienced on the other side of DRP, from emotional uncertainty to financial outcomes, and why preparation made all the difference. The conversation breaks down how DRP worked, who it benefited most, and what to expect if similar opportunities arise in the future.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 115: Let's Talk Taxes: Trump Accounts, Virginia Tax Changes & NIIT for Federal Employees | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:56:50 | |
Do you actually understand how recent tax changes could impact your financial plan? In this episode, we break down several important tax topics, including Trump accounts, Virginia tax changes, Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT), and estimated tax payments. Tax laws are constantly changing, and what seems permanent today may change with the next administration, which is why tax planning should always be part of a long-term financial strategy.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 114: When Should Federal Employees Claim Social Security? | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:46:33 | |
Is claiming Social Security early really the smartest move, or could it cost you more in the long run? In this episode, you'll learn how financial planners actually think about claiming strategies beyond the headlines and viral YouTube advice. We break down the real factors that matter and why there's no "one-size-fits-all" answer when it comes to turning on your benefits.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 113: Your FERS Retirement: Back to the Basics | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:56:40 | |
Are federal employees sitting on far more wealth than they realize? In this episode, financial planners Tommy Blackburn and John Mason break down the fundamentals of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and explain why your pension is only one piece of a much larger financial picture. You'll learn how the FERS pension formula works, what your "high-three" salary actually means, and how factors like minimum retirement age, years of service, and turning 62 can impact your retirement income. The conversation also covers how employee contributions have changed over time, how the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) match works, and why understanding these core pieces is essential when planning your financial future.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 112: Medicare in 2026 Part 2: No One Size Fits All for Federal Retirees | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:42:50 | |
Are you choosing your Medicare plan based purely on math or on what truly fits your life? In Part 2 of our Medicare 2026 series, Bryan Gay, owner of Boomer Insurance and seasoned Medicare expert, returns to expand your understanding of the options available, especially if you're a federal employee or enrolled in TRICARE for Life. You'll learn why Medicare decisions aren't just about premiums and deductibles, why there's no one-size-fits-all solution, and how to evaluate whether switching plans actually makes sense for your situation.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 111: Medicare in 2026: What Changed and What It Means for Federal Retirees | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:51:25 | |
Is your Medicare plan still working for you, or are you just hoping it is? In this episode, we're joined by Bryan Gay, owner of Boomer Insurance and a seasoned Medicare expert, fresh off another busy Annual Enrollment Period. Bryan breaks down how Medicare enrollment really works, what changed this past year, and why a "one-size-fits-all" approach often leaves people underinsured or overpaying.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 110: The Mason & Associates New Client Experience for Federal Employees | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:53:26 | |
Ever wondered what actually happens after you book an intro call with Mason & Associates? In this updated episode, we walk you through our new client experience from start to finish, including how our process works, what our fees look like, and what it's really like to work with us long term. Even if you're not ready to become a client, this episode gives you a clear picture of what to expect so you can make informed decisions, whether you hire us or someone else.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 109: 10 Things You Can Do Outside of an Open Season | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:20:25 | |
Think you have to wait for Open Season to make meaningful financial decisions as a federal employee? This episode breaks that myth wide open. John, Ben, and Tommy walk through the most impactful moves federal employees can make any time of year, from optimizing your TSP and HSA to updating insurance, beneficiaries, and retirement strategies. Whether you're early in your federal career, nearing retirement, or already retired, this episode gives you a practical checklist to help you avoid costly mistakes, spot overlooked opportunities, and make more confident decisions year-round.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 108: Good Financial Hygiene: Cybersecurity, Addressing Scams, and Staying Financially Protected | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:46:04 | |
What if getting hacked isn't a question of if, but when? In this episode, Tommy Blackburn and John Mason break down the real-world cybersecurity risks they're seeing—not in theory, but from personal experience. After being compromised multiple times in a single year, John shares why even people with strong security habits can still be targeted, as well as what that means for retirees, business owners, and anyone managing meaningful assets.
Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 107: Should Federal Employees Do Roth Conversions? Do They Help Or Hurt? | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:54:30 | |
Do Roth conversions make sense for everyone? In this episode, we unpack the rules, strategies, and potential pitfalls of Roth conversions, as well as the role of taxes, spending, and charitable goals. You'll learn why it's not always wise to "just convert everything now" and why flexibility is a crucial part of any financial strategy. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 106: Money Muscles and Financial Reps: Developing Spending, Saving, and Giving Habits That Last | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:48:44 | |
What would your life look like if you actually used the money you spent years saving? In this episode, Tommy and John break down the idea of "flexing your money muscles" and why those muscles can mean tightening your spending or giving yourself permission to enjoy more. You'll learn how habits, confidence, and values shape our decisions, and why many people struggle to spend even when they can afford to. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 105: Life After Death: Essential Estate Planning Thoughts for Every Federal Employee | 24 Nov 2025 | 01:01:07 | |
What really happens after someone passes away—and why are so many families blindsided even when they think everything was "set up correctly"? In this episode, John and Tommy pull back the curtain on the messy, emotional, and often confusing reality of settling an estate. You'll learn why wills and trusts don't operate the way most people assume, as well as the true challenges in modern estate planning. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 104: Federal Employee Health Benefit Considerations & TRICARE | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:52:25 | |
Are you making the most of your federal health benefits this open season? Whether you're an active federal employee or retired, this time of year can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options can save you thousands and help you plan smarter for the future. You'll learn how to evaluate your current plan, balance premiums and out-of-pocket costs, and make confident, informed decisions before open season ends. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 103: What Every Federal Employee Should Know About Their TSP | 27 Oct 2025 | 01:02:56 | |
What role should the G Fund really play in your TSP strategy? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Ben tackle one of the biggest questions federal employees ask during uncertain markets. You'll learn what to consider before making changes, how to rebalance your TSP effectively, and why trying to "time the market" often does more harm than good. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 102: Federal Employee Retirement in 2025 | 13 Oct 2025 | 01:06:31 | |
What's really changing for federal employees retiring in 2025? In this episode, Tommy and John break down the new retirement process, including survivor benefits, electronic filing, and the realities of interest rates, refinancing, and investment risks. You'll hear clear guidance on how to navigate these updates, what to watch out for in "no closing cost" mortgage offers, and how to make confident financial choices during this pivotal transition. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 101: Year-End Tax Planning for Federal Employees | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:59:05 | |
What's the difference between reacting to taxes and truly planning for them? In this episode, Tommy and John break down the latest year-end financial planning and tax strategies every federal employee needs to know. With recent tax law changes and shifting financial dynamics, they tackle big questions like how the enhanced senior deduction works, when a Roth conversion makes sense, and why timing matters when harvesting capital gains. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 100: One Big Beautiful Bill Part 2 | 15 Sep 2025 | 01:01:55 | |
What does the One Big Beautiful Bill mean for everyday taxpayers? And how will it shape the financial future of federal employees across the country? In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the bill with Stephen Kimberlin of Forvis Mazars US, breaking down what it really means for people. Listen in as Stephen explains the nuances, clarifies common misconceptions, and provides practical insights to help you navigate this new tax landscape with confidence. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 99: One Big Beautiful Bill Part 1 | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:47:55 | |
What does the new One Big Beautiful Bill really mean for federal employees nearing retirement? Passed on July 4th, 2025, this sweeping tax legislation has stirred conversations across the country, but today we're zeroing in on how it impacts federal employees with significant investable assets. While business owners and high-income earners also feel the effects, our focus is on helping you understand what this bill means for your retirement planning, your tax strategy, and your financial future. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 98: Why Federal Employees Can't Afford to Ignore Insurance with Broc Buckles | 18 Aug 2025 | 01:00:48 | |
What if the biggest threat to your financial plan isn't the stock market or taxes, but being underinsured? In this episode, Tommy and John sit down with Broc Buckles, co-founder of BC Brokerage, to talk about why insurance is a critical cornerstone of any financial strategy. Listen in to learn how to avoid overpaying, why working with a broker can uncover better coverage and rates than sticking with a single provider, and why the right insurance coverage could save you thousands while giving you peace of mind. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 97: Federal Employee Listener Mail - Survivor Benefits, IRA Rollovers, and Small Pensions | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:30:53 | |
What if your federal pension is small and you're not relying on it—should you still elect survivor benefits? In this episode, John and Tommy respond to a listener's detailed YouTube question about pensions, TSP, and survivor benefits when service time is short and other retirement savings are strong. They break down the real value of keeping survivor benefits, even when your pension isn't your main income stream. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 96: A Financial Planner's Guide to Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and Cash | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:31:34 | |
Are credit cards still worth using with all the fees being passed on to consumers? In this episode, Tommy and John dive into a hot topic on their minds lately: the real pros and cons of credit cards, debit cards, and cash. They share their personal credit card habits, how many cards they each use, and the strategy behind maximizing rewards without falling into the trap of overspending. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| EP 95: Investing Principles for Federal Employees: ETFs, Mutual Funds, and More | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:58:10 | |
What's the difference between active and passive investing, and when should you use mutual funds versus ETFs? In this episode, John and Tommy break down essential investing concepts that federal employees need to know, covering everything from the fundamentals of stocks and bonds to practical cash management strategies. You'll learn about active versus passive investing philosophies, the mechanics and tax implications of mutual funds and ETFs, and why dollar-cost averaging can help overcome emotional barriers in investing. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| EP 94: An Inside Look at Strategic Planning Season: Real Conversations, Real Impact | 23 Jun 2025 | 01:02:06 | |
What does it really look like to work with a financial planning team that knows your federal benefits inside and out—and shows up for you year after year? In this episode, John and Tommy take you behind the scenes of Mason & Associates' Strategic Planning Meeting Season (SPM), where they conduct over 400 client meetings in just six weeks. They share real conversations, real actions, and the process that makes it all work. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 93: Inside the Strategy Room: Growing with Purpose at Mason & Associates | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:29:35 | |
What does it take to grow a financial advisory firm the right way, without sacrificing client experience? In this episode, John and Tommy pull back the curtain on the strategic direction of Mason & Associates, sharing how they're enhancing services, refining internal systems, and ensuring their clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you're already a client or someone searching for the right financial advisor, this episode offers valuable insights into the kind of care and intentionality you should expect from your advisor. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 92: It's Not Even Close: The 30–50% Gap and Why Federal Benefits Crush the Competition | 26 May 2025 | 00:51:05 | |
Federal salaries don't always tell the whole story. In this episode, John and Tommy take a closer look at the true value of federal employment, highlighting how benefits like pensions, FEHB health coverage, TSP matching, and survivor options stack up against the private sector. You'll learn why it could take a 30-50% higher salary elsewhere to match the federal total compensation package, and why those numbers matter when making career decisions. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 91: Taxes Is a Year-Round Sport: Planning Smarter for Federal Employees | 12 May 2025 | 00:40:27 | |
Is reviewing your tax return enough or are you missing the bigger picture? In this episode, Tommy and John break down why simply looking at last year's return doesn't cut it, and how projection-based planning connects directly to key financial decisions like Roth conversions, mortgage deductions, and retirement income strategy. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 90: More than TSP: Real Financial Planning for Real Federal Employees | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:45:56 | |
What does a real financial planner actually do—and how do you know if you've hired one? In this episode, Michael, Tommy and John break down the most common misconceptions about financial planning and explain why it's about much more than just investment management. You'll learn why financial planning is especially crucial for federal employees, how fiduciary standards impact the advice you receive, and what red flags to look for in a planner. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 89: Beyond the 6-Month Rule: Rethinking Emergency Funds for Federal Employees | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:43:57 | |
What if your six-month emergency fund isn't enough? In this episode, John, Michael, and Tommy tackle the shifting financial landscape for federal employees in 2025. As government changes create uncertainty—think early retirements and layoffs—they share smart, strategic ways to prepare. You'll learn how to build a tiered emergency plan, optimize your liquidity, and adapt your lifestyle budget in case your income suddenly takes a hit. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 88: Retiring in Uncertain Times? Avoid This Survivor Benefit Mistake | 31 Mar 2025 | 01:04:04 | |
Should you elect full survivor benefits when retiring as a federal employee? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Mike discuss one of the most critical decisions for federal retirees. They explore the costs, benefits, and long-term financial implications of survivor benefits, urging retirees to carefully consider their options. They also emphasize the importance of full survivor benefits for ensuring continued income for spouses after retirement, providing real-life examples to show how these benefits can impact financial security, tax advantages, and peace of mind. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 87: Medicare Masterclass on Enrollment, Costs, and the Inflation Reduction Act with Bryan Gay | 17 Mar 2025 | 01:06:18 | |
Medicare decisions can be overwhelming, and with rising costs and policy changes, making the right choice is more important than ever. In this episode, Bryan Gay, owner of Boomer Insurance Group, shares his insights from helping over 20,000 clients navigate Medicare enrollment, insurance options, and the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act. He explains why working with his team can be a game-changer and how choosing the wrong plan could cost you in the long run. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 86: Fork in the Road: Understanding Your Federal Retirement Options & Staying Prepared | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:42:56 | |
Is the Deferred Resignation Program an opportunity or a risk for federal employees? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Michael break down what this program means, how it's impacting federal employees, and why having a solid financial plan in place is more important than ever. They'll discuss why you can't rely on every media headline, the importance of working with a knowledgeable team, and how to position yourself for financial stability—no matter how secure your job may seem. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 85: Social Security Shake-Up Part 2: Big Changes Are Here–WEP and GPO Eliminated | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:46:50 | |
Did you know that the recent passage of the Social Security Fairness Act could significantly increase retirement income for many Americans? In this episode, John and Tommy break down the elimination of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), explaining how these changes impact public sector employees and their Social Security benefits. They discuss how financial advisors can help clients navigate these shifts, optimize their benefits, and prepare for potential tax implications. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC
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| Episode 84: Federal Employee YouTube Favorites: Best Retirement Days, TSP Mistakes, and Survivor Tips | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:51:05 | |
Are you ready to make informed decisions about your federal benefits and financial future? In this episode, Tommy, John and Ben explore the current market landscape and what the start of 2025 could mean for investors, especially those navigating the complexities of federal benefits. They discuss the importance of staying focused on long-term growth despite market volatility and share actionable tips on building a financial plan for the new year, balancing personal goals, tax considerations, and investment strategies. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 83: Thrift Savings Plan Options: Super-Catch Up and Roth Conversions | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:43:04 | |
How will upcoming changes to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) impact your retirement strategy? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben explore the evolving landscape of TSP, focusing on new contribution limits and, coming in 2026, in-plan Roth conversions. They emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach to financial planning, avoiding groupthink, and tailoring strategies to each client's unique needs. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned:
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| Episode 82: Federal Employees: Are You Ready to Retire? DOGE Might Make the Choice for You | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:40:43 | |
What happens when Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy take the reins of government efficiency? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben dive into the bold initiatives of Trump 2.0's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Musk and Ramaswamy. With plans to slash $2 trillion in federal spending and eliminate entire agencies, this duo's vision could ripple through the federal and state systems, impacting employees, communities, and businesses alike. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC | |||
| Episode 81: Social Security Shake-Up: What Proposed Changes Mean for Federal Employees | 23 Dec 2024 | 00:58:39 | |
Are you concerned about the future of Social Security? ith proposed changes to taxation and potential expansion of who is eligible for benefits, it's more important than ever to understand how these changes could impact your retirement. In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben, explain the complexities of Social Security. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC | |||