Are spiraling healthcare bills, a sudden market crash, or a nasty tax bite keeping you up at night? In Episode 16 of The Perfect Retirement Plan? podcast, Phillip Smith, CFP® (Oregon‑based wealth manager, Marine veteran, and host) dissects the five biggest retirement fears: outliving your savings, skyrocketing medical costs, portfolio‑crushing bear markets, loss of identity after work, and stealthy retirement taxes. Packed with statistics (current as of 2024), real client stories, and and a little humor, this deep‑dive delivers actionable tactics late‑career professionals can use right now. Discover sustainable withdrawal guardrails, Roth conversion timing, bucket strategies, Medicare & Medigap cost planning, tax‑efficient IRA and 401(k) rollover moves, and a simple “purpose portfolio” approach that keeps life meaningful long after the paycheck stops. If you’re 55–65 and wondering, “Will I run out of money in retirement?”, hit play, and then sleep a little easier knowing you’ve got a roadmap.

#RetirementPlanning #RetirementFears #RetirementAdvice #FinancialAdvice

🎧 Listen now, share with a friend, and smash Subscribe (plus the notification bell) so you never miss future episodes on retirement income planning, tax efficiency, investment strategy, Social Security optimization, and legacy building. Visit TidepoolWealth.com for more resources. ​

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Curious whether Medicare alone will cover all your healthcare expenses in retirement? In this episode, Phillip addresses the pressing questions late-career professionals (ages 55–65) have about Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. Uncover the biggest coverage gaps - like dental, vision, hearing, and out-of-country healthcare - and learn how Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies can help shield you from crippling out-of-pocket costs.

Phillip also explores the pros and cons of Medicare Advantage plans and why network restrictions, changing benefits, and possible out-of-pocket surprises could impact your retirement strategy. Plus, discover why long-term care expenses aren’t covered under Medicare and how you might plan or budget for nursing home and in-home care. With an emphasis on Oregon-based retirees but helpful to anyone seeking clarity, this episode breaks down the choices you must make to protect your future. Ready to maintain your lifestyle and minimize the risk of unforeseen medical bills? Tune in now, and learn how well-informed Medicare decisions can keep your retirement plan on track!

Episode Chapters with Timestamps

• (0:00) Introduction
• (0:25) Medicare Basics: Parts A, B, C, and D
• (2:21) Gaps & Surprises: What Medicare Doesn’t Cover
• (5:25) Medigap Plans: How to Fill Coverage Gaps
• (7:17) Medicare Advantage: Pros & Cons
• (8:36) Long-Term Care Considerations
• (9:31) Action Steps
• (10:24) Closing

#Medicare #RetirementAdvice #RetirementPlanning #GettingReadytoRetire

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Discover how to avoid one of retirement’s biggest threats: the dreaded “tax bomb.” Phillip unpacks the hidden triggers that can derail your financial future. Learn why Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), Social Security timing, Medicare IRMAA surcharges, “Widow Bomb” tax brackets, and delayed Roth conversions can all converge to raise your tax bill unexpectedly. Phillip also explains why a proactive strategy is vital to minimize the lifetime tax burden on your 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement accounts. If you’re approaching retirement (age 55–65) and want guidance on tax planning, estate planning, or portfolio management, this episode offers practical tips on defusing high taxes before they strike. You’ll walk away with insights into the best time for Roth conversions, managing withdrawals to keep your bracket in check, and strategic Social Security decisions that can save you thousands. Don’t let hidden tax traps ruin your retirement. Tune in for a clear roadmap on how to preserve more of your hard-earned savings.

Episode Chapters

1. Introduction
2. Roadmap for the Episode
3. What Is a Tax Bomb & Why It Happens
4. Retirement Tax Bomb Triggers (RMDs, Social Security, Widow Bomb, IRMAA)
5. Strategies to Defuse the Bomb
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
7. Action Steps
8. Closing

#TaxPlanning #RetirementAdvice #RetirementPlanning #RMDs #FinancialAdvice

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Are you among the millions of Americans who’ve left an old 401(k) behind with a former employer? In this episode, Philip Smith, a financial planner at Tidepool Wealth Strategies in Oregon, explores the crucial steps late-career professionals (ages 55–65) should consider before ignoring a potentially major part of their retirement savings. Learn why these “forgotten” accounts can potentially sabotage your long-term goals through unnecessary fees, poor investment choices, and lost growth opportunities. Discover the four key options (leaving your 401(k) in place, rolling it into a new employer’s plan, transferring it into an IRA, or cashing it out) and why the last choice can be especially costly in terms of taxes and penalties. Philip also covers 403(b)s, 457(b)s, and other retirement plans, offering insights on risk management, tax planning, and portfolio management for professionals looking to optimize their future cash flow. If you’ve ever wondered how to locate old accounts or combine multiple retirement plans for simplicity and reduced fees, this episode provides the answers. Tune in for valuable, actionable advice on consolidating your nest egg and keeping your retirement strategy on track.

#401k #403b #retirementplanning #retirementadvice

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Are you nearing retirement and wondering whether you’re truly ready to leave the workforce? In this episode titled “How Do I Know if I’m Ready to Retire? 5 Benchmarks You Shouldn’t Ignore,” Phillip offers professional guidance to help late-career professionals (ages 55-65) assess their retirement readiness.

This essential episode covers five critical benchmarks, from savings milestones and budgeting considerations to debt management, emergency funds, and emotional preparedness. Learn how to test-drive your retirement budget, explore dynamic withdrawal strategies, and minimize tax exposure with effective risk and portfolio management. If you’re looking for clarity on retirement timelines, estate planning, or cash flow optimization, this episode provides actionable insights to help you better prepare to retire with confidence.

Episode Chapters
• Introduction (0:00)
• Savings Milestones (1:36)
• Budget & Cash Flow (3:38)
• Debt Management (4:51)
• Emergency Fund (6:29)
• Emotional Preparedness (8:20)
• Action Steps (9:43)

Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss future episodes packed with tailored advice for people nearing retirement across the U.S., primarily focused on serving Oregon residents.

Tune in and begin to cultivate a resilient retirement plan.

#RetirementPlanning #RetirementHelp #RetirementSavings #FinancialPlanning #Retirees

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Curious whether you should pull all your money out of the market during turbulent times? In this episode, financial planner Phillip Smith of Tidepool Wealth Strategies (Oregon) provides clarity for late-career professionals (ages 55–65) who may be feeling uneasy about market volatility.

Discover why knee-jerk reactions, like selling off your stocks and going to cash, often do more harm than good, and how history shows that patient investors typically fare better in the long run. Phillip breaks down the hidden costs of sitting on the sidelines, including lost potential gains and the eroding effects of inflation.

When things are volatile, people often wonder if it is better to move investments to cash when the market is unstable, or find themselves asking, "What should I do with my 401(k) during a market crash?"

Learn how a well-crafted retirement plan that incorporates diversification, risk management, and defined “guardrails” can help you stay steady and protect your financial future. If you’re concerned about sustaining your cash flow, aligning your portfolio with tax and estate planning, and safeguarding your long-term goals, this podcast episode offers practical insights you can immediately put into action. Don’t let fear guide your decisions. Tune in to understand why remaining invested, with a thoughtful approach, could be the key to lasting financial confidence.

Episode Chapters

1. Introduction
2. Roadmap of the Episode
3. Why Current Market Volatility Feels Scarier Than Ever
4. What History Says About Cashing Out During Crises
5. The Cost of Sitting on the Sidelines
6. How a Thoughtful Plan Can Keep You Steady
7. Action Items
8. Closing

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Wondering if you should retire early or keep working longer? In this episode of “The Perfect Retirement Plan?”, Phillip explores both options. Uncover hidden costs like health care gaps and potentially reduced Social Security benefits, and learn how working longer can boost financial security. Phillip also shares tips on maintaining purpose and community through passion projects, social connections, and meaningful pursuits beyond your career.

Discover how to align your retirement timeline with personal values like freedom, fulfillment, and security. Whether you crave morning coffees in your bathrobe or a few more years of professional growth, this conversation helps you decide. Phillip’s insights cover compounding growth, Social Security strategies, health care considerations, and designing a vibrant post-work life. If you find value here, subscribe and turn on notifications to stay connected! Let’s see if early retirement is truly worth it—or if extending your career could open doors to higher benefits, stronger finances, and deeper purpose.

Each scenario carries financial risks and lifestyle rewards—what matters is finding the balance that fits you best. Phillip helps you weigh your unique goals and budget. Tune in for a fresh perspective on a retirement plan that resonates with your vision.

#retirementplanning #financialadvice #retirementadvice #financialplanning #whentoretire #retireearly #retirewithpurpose #retirementaccounts #PERS #pension

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Join financial planner Phillip Smith in this episode of "The Perfect Retirement Plan?" as he dives into the crucial topic of retirement income sources. Whether you're a late-career professional nearing retirement or just planning ahead, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.

Discover various income streams that could support you in retirement, including Social Security, pensions, rental income, annuities, and personal retirement savings accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. Phillip breaks down the pros and cons of each source and shares strategies for combining them to create a stable and fulfilling financial future.

Learn from real-life stories of retirees who have successfully navigated their post-work income and listen in as Phillip explores how income diversification can enhance your financial security. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand where their retirement income will come from and how to plan effectively.

Don't miss the action steps provided at the end of the episode, designed to help you assess and plan your own retirement income strategy. Subscribe to our channel for more expert advice on making your retirement as rewarding as your career.

#Retirementplanning #retirementincome #SocialSecurity #pensions #PERS #annuities #financialplanning

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Perfect Retirement Plan, and remember: it's not about having the smartest financial advisor, the most money saved, or the highest probability of retirement success. The perfect retirement plan, for you – is the one you act on.

Phillip Smith, CRPC AIF | Financial Planner
Tidepool Wealth Strategies
450 Country Club Road, Suite 350 | Eugene, OR | 97401

____________________________________________________________________________________________
Additional Disclosures:
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but Cetera Advisor Networks LLC cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete.
All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.