Send us a Text Message.Neither Freedom Financial Group nor AEWM are affiliated with Bryant Driggers or One Brother. One Sister. ONE Mission.In today’s episode, Tad and Toni reconnect with an old friend, Byrant “Breyer” Driggers. Breyer has a story that many in their late fifties and early sixties can relate to, working hard to become debt-free and create a secure future for himself and his family. We’re excited to have him on the show this week to share what’s on his mind as he approaches his retirement years. Throughout this conversation, Breyer will also share his passion for community service. Through his charity, One Brother. One Sister. ONE Mission., he’s been serving the homeless community in Birmingham for the last 30 years. Stay tuned to learn more about the incredible work he and his team are doing and how you can help this mission. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Tad and Bryant’s background + how the nickname “Breyer” came to beWhere Breyers is in his retirement planning journeyThe concerns and goals Breyers has for his retirement yearsBreyer’s involvement and passion for community serviceLearn more about One Brother. One Sister. ONE Mission.https://www.facebook.com/staywarmbham/Key Takeaway“As long as you start at some point is better than not starting at all.” Bryant DriggersWe can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Neither Freedom Financial Group nor AEWM are affiliated with Carolyn Potter or The WellHouse. We love to feature local charities that we work here on the podcast. So, in today’s episode, we're honored to welcome a very special guest, Carolyn Potter- CEO of The WellHouse. She’s here to give us a look at the inspiring work of this incredible organization, dedicated to the recovery of female survivors of human trafficking, offering them a chance at healing and a hopeful future. We discuss the extensive process of creating a safe haven for these survivors, the importance of community involvement, and the various ways you can contribute to its mission. Whether it's through volunteering, financial support, or simply spreading the word, every action makes a difference in the lives of those affected by human trafficking.Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:How Tad and Toni became involved with various charities, including The WellHouseThe mission of The WellHouse and the services it provides The process and dedication involved in opening a home for young survivors The significance of community support and volunteerismHow to connect with The WellHouse to offer help or donationsLearn more about the WellHousehttps://www.the-wellhouse.org/Key Takeaway“We invest in every area of their lives. Recently, one of our graduates spoke at our board meeting…she said, ‘there wasn't anything that I needed that you all didn't offer and didn't provide for me.’” – Carolyn PotterWe can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, Tad and Toni share a few important questions you need to ask yourself as you prepare for retirement. They discuss common misconceptions about downsizing your home, the realities of retirement expenses, and the importance of having a solid income plan before you step into this new season of life.For example, if you’re thinking about moving into a smaller home in retirement, have you ever considered the actual value of your home and the cost of downsizing? Many people overestimate the amount they'll get from selling their house and underestimate the cost of their new, smaller residence. Many people also assume that they’ll end up spending less in retirement. But, the Hills point out that most people end up spending as much, if not more, than they did while they were working. With more free time and the desire to travel or pursue hobbies, expenses can rack up quickly. This is why a detailed lifestyle analysis is such an important part of the retirement planning process. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:The myths vs. the reality of downsizing your home for retirementThe misconception that spending will be less in retirementThe importance of a detailed lifestyle analysis in planningListener Question: Is there anything better I could be doing with my emergency fund?Key Takeaway"Most people think ‘I know what we're going to need to spend in retirement.’ And then we go through our lifestyle analysis and we find out that on average, they're off by 30%. "We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Are you getting a tailored retirement plan or just a sales pitch? In today’s episode, you’ll learn how to recognize whether a financial advisor is looking out for your best interests or merely trying to sell you products. Stay tuned as we share some client stories, give you some red flags to look out for, and caution that credentials alone don’t guarantee quality advice. Remember, retirement isn't just about selecting the right investments. It’s about crafting a holistic plan that addresses all aspects of your financial life and sets you up to reach your goals. Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all approach- join us as we chat about the importance of a well-rounded retirement strategy. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Beware of advisors who jump straight into product or portfolio recommendationsDon't rely solely on an advisor's credentialsUnderstand how financial products and decisions align with your retirement goalsWorking with someone who can help you with the whole pictureKey Takeaway“It's important to be able to recognize the difference between an advisor who is actually doing retirement planning and has a process for that, and one who's just doing sales pitches all day.” We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.When it comes to retirement planning, many people believe they've got it all figured out. "I'm averaging 7-8% on my investments," they say, for example, confident that this will carry them through their golden years. But is this confidence misplaced?Stay tuned as we explore some of the flawed calculations that many retirees make regarding their financial future. We’ll debunk some common misconceptions about investment returns, withdrawal rates, and the dangers of overspending in retirement. Are you basing your retirement dreams on “fuzzy math?”  Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:The impact that market volatility can have on retirement savingsSetting realistic expectations and understanding risk in retirement planningOverspending in your early retirement yearsOutdated rules of thumb for retirement withdrawals Key Takeaway"This is the thing that people really, really are fuzzy on. It doesn't even take a market correction to derail your lifestyle."We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Creating a customized retirement plan for someone often means addressing unique challenges along the way. Whether you face a health problem, a job loss, or a roof leak, life has a way of throwing unexpected hurdles at us. In today’s episode of Retire With Freedom, Tad and Toni discuss some of the unique challenges they’ve helped clients with throughout the years.Many people avoid seeking financial advice out of fear of what they might discover. However, addressing your financial concerns proactively can help you protect yourself from unexpected bumps in the road. Stay tuned to learn how working with a knowledgeable advisor can lead to greater peace of mind and financial security in the long run.Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Early retirement due to unexpected circumstances + planning for fluctuations in expenses and lifestyle changesThe importance of addressing potential retirement challenges early in the processHelping couples in their second marriage navigate retirement planning with separate financesKey Takeaway"It’s not that we can keep things from happening, but we can plan for them so that they don’t hurt you when they happen."We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.A retirement plan isn’t something that you create once and put on a shelf to gather dust. You want to make sure it’s working to support your retirement dreams with growth and preservation. Join Tad and Toni as they explore the importance of crafting and adjusting your personalized financial plan.From handling market ups and downs to dealing with unexpected life changes, they highlight the advantages of having a robust plan that not only preserves your money but also aligns with your lifestyle aspirations. They also highlight the benefits of working with a trusted advisor to keep your money working for you and warn against the danger of one-size-fits-all advice. Tune in to learn what it looks like to build a retirement strategy that works for you! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Regularly revisiting and adjusting your retirement strategyThoughtful retirement planning that’s tailored to your individual needs and has strategies for growth and preservationUnderstanding the risk level in your portfolio so you can make informed decisionsEnsuring you’re aligned with your goals in the retirement red zoneThe danger of one-size-fits-all adviceKey Takeaway"It’s never too late to get a second opinion. It's never too late to see if you're on the right path."We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Crafting a written financial plan for retirement is critical, yet shockingly, only 43% of Americans have one. Just like a football coach wouldn't step onto the field without a game plan, your financial future shouldn’t be left to chance without a solid strategy in place. In today's episode, we're focusing on why having a well-crafted financial plan is so essential.One of the biggest challenges retirees face is converting their savings into sustainable income. Far too often, retirees spend their money too quickly or find themselves hesitating to spend their money, fearing they might outlive their savings. Listen in as Tad and Toni talk about the importance of having a clear plan and professional guidance to navigate this chapter with confidence, so you can enjoy your golden years to the fullest.  Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Establishing a written strategy and revisiting it throughout your planning journeyWhat the Retire with Freedom process looks likeThe transition from a steady paycheck to retirement + sustaining your lifestyleAchieving spending confidence with the help of a financial professionalKey Takeaway“In our experience, the best retirement outcomes tend to be those where the person follows a process.”We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Many people consider or plan to work part-time in retirement. Maybe you’re thinking about pursuing a passion or leveraging a skill set for some additional income. While the idea of working part-time in retirement is appealing, it’s important to recognize that these plans don’t always unfold as expected. Unfortunately, the nature of post-retirement employment is unpredictable. Some industries may not support part-time roles, unexpected health issues can arise, or you might simply have a change of heart once you enter your retirement years. Listen in as Tad and Toni share the importance of having a solid plan in place that includes reliable income sources while also incorporating a robust fallback strategy in case your part-time endeavor doesn’t pan out as expected. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:The unpredictable nature of part-time work in retirement  Building a retirement plan that accounts for plan A and plan BDiversifying your income sources and reducing pressure on your retirement nest eggThe story of Don and Debbie + sustaining your current lifestyle in retirementKey Takeaway"If you're going to work part-time, can we count on that income? …Really we need to have a strong plan B. "We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Crafting the right retirement nest egg recipe for you requires a unique blend of financial ingredients. Like cooking, where each dish benefits from a thoughtful combination of flavors, retirement planning is about finding the perfect balance that suits your tastes and goals. And with this, it’s important to avoid any mixes that could be toxic to your financial health. While many think that having a diversified portfolio will set you up for success in your retirement years, there's more to this than meets the eye. Think of a diversified portfolio as an assortment of ingredients – necessary, but insufficient alone. The real challenge lies in transforming these financial elements into a well-prepared dish, carefully considering the unique flavors and roles each one brings to the table.  Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:The right mix for one person might not be the right mix for youRelying on Social Security or pensions may not be sufficient to support your desired lifestyle in retirementThe retirement landscape has evolved from previous generations and requires you to adapt your strategiesRetirement planning involves more than just a diversified portfolio of stocks and bondsWe can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Every successful financial story begins with a clear understanding of where you want to go and how you’re going to get there. Think of it like taking a road trip, where you need gas in the tank, air in the tires, and a GPS to help you stay on track. Without a proper plan, it can be easy to lose your way.While many people try to take the DIY approach to financial planning or think that diversification alone will put them on the right track for retirement, there’s much more that goes into turning your nest egg into a sustainable lifestyle. Stay tuned as we share some dangers to look out for and cover the key signs that indicate you need the help of a retirement planner. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Should retirement planning be a do-it-yourself kind of job?The importance of knowing where you are on your retirement journeyHaving a concrete income plan + optimizing your investmentsThe dangers of not having your portfolio analyzed by a retirement plannerSome signs that you need to meet with a financial professional Key Takeaway"If you don't have a clear strategy for what you want your retirement to look like, it can be easy to lose your way."We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Navigating retirement planning is no easy feat, and today's middle-aged adults, typically in their 40s and 50s, find themselves in what's known as the "sandwich generation." Juggling the financial support of both elderly parents and their own children, this dual responsibility often slips under the radar when planning for retirement but is very important to consider. In today’s episode, we’ll focus on the common struggles faced by individuals in the sandwich generation, backed by studies from the Pew Research Center and real-life client stories. We unpack just how widespread and often underestimated this financial burden is and shed light on the potential strain it can place on your retirement plan if not addressed proactively. Join us as we chat about the importance of strategically accounting for these complex financial dynamics in your retirement plan.Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:Financial challenges faced by the sandwich generation + findings from the Pew Research CenterThe burden on families dealing with the financial, time, and emotional aspects of supporting multiple generations, especially when planning for retirementAccounting for unexpected challenges and familial responsibilities in your retirement planKey Takeaway"The sandwich generation is what you would think… we've got aging parents that may need a lot of attention, maybe even some financial help. And we’ve still got children that we are helping financially."We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.In today's volatile market environment, having a solid financial strategy is essential. But despite what some financial professionals might try and tell you, this process isn't just about balancing stocks and bonds. Join us in this episode as we talk about the importance of crafting a financial roadmap tailored to your life. We dive into the intricacies of retirement planning, addressing not only investment allocation but also the significance of understanding personal goals, family dynamics, and risk tolerance in financial planning. From assessing savings gaps to navigating the complexities of different investment vehicles like annuities and REITs, we provide insights into creating a comprehensive financial plan that aligns with your unique circumstances and goals. Here what’s we discuss in today’s show:Creating a customized roadmap for your retirement dreams that addresses market volatility, asset allocations, and your lifestyle goalsThe importance of matching investments with your individual needs and risk toleranceThe behavior of different investments, including stocks, bonds, and REITsOur diversified investment approach, tailored to individual needs and risk tolerancesKey Takeaway"If you get upset because your stocks are volatile, that's like getting upset with your dog because it barks."We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.The stock market can be unpredictable, taking your hard-earned money on quite the thrill ride. In this episode, we explore the challenges many face when navigating the highs and lows of the market and discuss strategies to ensure a smoother ride for your nest egg. Throughout this conversation, we discuss why a good retirement plan goes hand-in-hand with a trusted advisor who understands the intricacies of generating income during retirement. We also highlight some common misconceptions about portfolio yield and talk about the importance of understanding the tools in your financial toolbox.Join us for a great conversation on having a financial plan that prepares you for the long haul. Here's what we discuss in this episode:The danger of getting caught up in short-term fluctuations and making impulsive decisions based on current events, such as electionsThe importance of having a trustworthy advisor and a well-thought-out strategy when navigating market swingsThe need for a comprehensive retirement plan that focuses on generating retirement income + common misconceptions about portfolio yieldEducating clients about their existing investment tools and strategiesKey Takeaway“If you're trying to plan a retirement, you need a retirement planner.” We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Join us as we answer some listener questions in today’s episode. These episodes are a great way for you to learn from real-life financial planning questions. One listener is considering retirement at the age of 55 and wants to know if it's a bad idea. Another listener asks Tad and Toni what their thoughts are on investing in foreign currencies. Stick around until the end for a fun segment where Tad and Toni reveal universally loved movies they surprisingly haven't seen.Here are the questions we tackle in today’s episode:I want to retire in 5 years when I turn 55. Is that a bad idea?My aunt died and left me a rental property that I wasn’t expecting. I’ve never been interested in owning real estate, but she wanted me to have it. What should I do?What’s your opinion of investing in foreign currencies?Getting to know Tad and Toni: What’s the most universally beloved movie that you’ve never actually seen?Key Takeaway“There's nothing wrong with most investments. It's just…maybe it's not the appropriate one for you at this time in your life.”We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.In today’s episode, we’re going to challenge conventional wisdom surrounding retirement planning. For example, is a mortgage always considered “good” debt for everyone? Or is changing investments when they're not performing well the right solution?Stay tuned as we chat about some of these commonly held beliefs and the importance of having a well-rounded retirement plan. As Tad and Toni share their insights, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of why questioning conventional wisdom is essential for achieving true financial freedom in retirement. Don't miss out on this conversation that might just reshape your perspective on planning for the retirement you dream of!Here’s some of what we discuss in today’s episode:Conventional wisdom suggests that a mortgage is “good debt,” but the decision to carry that debt into retirement should be based on individual circumstances A lack of a comprehensive retirement plan often leads to impulsive decision-making and overspendingTrue relaxation in retirement is challenging without a well-defined plan that considers activities, hobbies, and goalsThe abundance of information available, coupled with the fear of making wrong decisions, often leads to analysis paralysis in retirement planningKey Takeaway“I find that the biggest impediment to people's retirement plans going well is not that they're making bad decisions, but that they're not making decisions.”We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.The question ‘When can I retire?’ is one we get quite often. Rather than viewing retirement as a fixed dollar amount or an age milestone, it's a complex question that requires careful analysis. Unfortunately, many investment brokers and media personalities offer generic advice without understanding individual circumstances. But your retirement date cannot be determined by a one-size-fits-all approach. Listen in as we discuss the role of careful planning when it comes to determining your retirement readiness. We’ll also talk about some common fears and misconceptions surrounding various financial tools and the importance of actively participating in your financial planning process with the help of a financial professional.  Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:The decision to retire involves two key aspects- determining when you can retire and being truly ready for retirement with a well-thought-out planRetirement planning should be highly individualized, taking into account factors such as lifestyle, Social Security, pensions, and investmentsThe importance of diversification and risk management in a well-balanced portfolioEven if one spouse takes the lead in financial matters, both partners should actively participate and have a basic understanding of their financial situationKey Takeaway:“There is no best thing to do that is generalized…it has to be planned individually, or you're not doing the best thing for you.” We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.In today’s episode, we’re talking about some undeniable retirement planning truths: people are living longer, involuntary retirement is becoming more common, healthcare costs are rising, and the stock market remains unpredictable. Preparing for retirement looks vastly different than it did just a decade ago, and it’s more important than ever to have the right plan in place to navigate whatever uncertainties the future might bring. Listen in as we talk about the difference that a well-structured and comprehensive retirement plan can make in your financial journey. We’ll share some client stories along the way and guide you on taking a more informed and strategic approach to your finances in today’s evolving landscape. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:People are living longer, and you need to plan for that Job insecurity and layoffs are becoming increasingly more commonWhy having a secure income plan in today’s world is essentialSeeking professional advice early and not waiting for the “perfect” financial situation to get startedBeing aware of your true risk tolerance and aligning your investments accordinglyKey Takeaway:“You've got to plan like you're gonna die tomorrow and like you're gonna live forever.”We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.If you’re in the market for a financial advisor, it’s important to make sure you’re working with the right team. But for those new to the world of financial planning, distinguishing the right advisor from a potentially poor fit can be challenging. In today’s episode, we explore key indicators and red flags to help you navigate this decision and share why a personalized approach in financial planning is so crucial. Remember, if an advisor is only focusing on the positives of a certain strategy without addressing limitations, costs, and risks, you’re likely getting caught in a sales pitch. A good advisor will prioritize transparency- openly discussing the pros and cons of investment choices, explaining their compensation structure, and diligently gathering comprehensive information about your unique situation.Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:If a financial advisor only brings up the benefits of a certain financial strategy and won’t discuss the risks or drawbacks, consider that a red flagIs your advisor showing you different options for tackling problems?How many questions is your advisor asking about your situation and how much data are they gathering?Many believe they have a solid financial plan, only to find out that they have partial answersKey Takeaway:"The data for retirement planning has to be a lot broader and deeper than just ‘how much risk are you willing to take?’ and ‘how do we want to allocate your assets?’"We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio

Send us a Text Message.Do you think it’s possible that we could see another financial crisis in your lifetime? When we ask prospective clients this question, most of them answer with “yes.” Do you know how much your portfolio would be down in the event of another 2008? If you aren’t sure, shouldn’t you be?In today’s episode, we’re going to talk about a disconnect that we commonly see in the financial landscape- what many think their risk tolerance is versus what it actually is. We believe that it is absolutely crucial for investors to understand the potential gains and losses of their investment choices. Let’s chat about why understanding risk tolerance is so important for making informed investment choices… Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:The common discrepancy between perceived and actual risk toleranceVague risk assessments used by many advisors + why clear definitions are essential for effective planningIt’s not unusual for investors to be taking twice as much risk as they comfortable with Risk tolerance tends to change significantly the closer you get to retirement, which requires different investment strategiesKey Takeaway“What people think they have in terms of the amount of downside risk they're taking, and the amount of downside risk they are actually taking is usually a huge disconnect.” We can assist you on your journey to financial freedom:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/ 205.988.0006Listen to more content:https://www.askfreedomfinancial.com/in-the-media/#radio