Macon Money Podcast

In a world filled with so much uncertainty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what you can’t control. Volatile markets, shifting tax laws, and political noise don’t seem to be going away anytime soon. But when it comes to retirement planning, there are things you can control, and they’re far more powerful than most people realize. In this episode, Lee walks through the four key areas retirees should focus on to build clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. He shares how his “financial house” model helps retirees decide how much risk they’re comfortable with, and why flexibility is the key to effective income planning. You’ll also hear why it’s worth paying attention to future tax exposure and how to plan around Social Security instead of depending on it. Rather than obsessing over political gridlock or looming program changes, Lee shows how to reduce reliance on government promises and build a retirement plan that stands strong regardless of what’s happening in Washington or on Wall Street.   Here’s what we di

The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let’s be honest, it’s always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision? In this episode, Lee explores the deeper reality behind this rule change and why your withdrawal rate should depend on more than just a headline number. While a higher number might feel like a green light to spend more, Lee emphasizes that real retirement planning requires a personalized approach, not just a rule of thumb. From sequence-of-returns risk to changing needs over time, this conversation helps unpack why no single rule fits everyone.   Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

You’ve always been told to save for retirement, but can you go too far? Is it actually possible to over-save for the future? In this insightful episode, Lee answers a compelling listener question about what happens when saving becomes so aggressive that it starts to limit your lifestyle today. He dives into the emotional and practical downsides of over-saving, the dangers of comparing yourself to others, and how to strike a balance for long-term fulfillment. If you’re maxing out your retirement accounts and feel like you’re living paycheck to paycheck, this conversation is for you. Lee offers practical insights for building a financial plan that includes your bucket list, not just your retirement date. Financial security isn’t just about having enough money later, it’s also about making the most of your life now. Life is short. Let’s make sure your plan reflects that truth.   Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

Graduation season isn’t just a time for caps, gowns, and celebrations, it’s a pivotal financial crossroads for many young adults stepping into independence. As they leave the classroom behind and enter the workforce, the financial decisions they make now can quietly shape the next 40 years of their lives. Today, Lee talks about why it’s so important for parents, grandparents, and mentors to help them lay a solid foundation, not just with money, but with mindset. Listen in as Lee shares practical ways to equip recent graduates for long-term success. From starting an emergency fund to making early Roth IRA contributions, he outlines the key conversations and habits that matter most. He also reflects on real stories, including his own, and offers creative gift ideas for families who want to offer more than just a check. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

The headlines are loud, the markets are messy, and your gut might be telling you to do something — anything — right now. If recent volatility has you feeling uneasy, you're not alone, but reacting the wrong way can cost you far more than a bumpy month in the markets. In this episode, Lee breaks down how tariffs and trade tensions are fueling market swings and what that really means for your retirement plans. He also shares practical steps to stay calm, stay invested, and keep your financial house in order. You'll learn why short-term chaos often clouds long-term fundamentals, why diversification is more critical now than ever, and how emotional decisions derail otherwise solid strategies. Plus, you'll hear how past crises hold key lessons for investors today. Tune in to learn more about how to navigate times of market volatility and hold onto peace even when the headlines are telling you it’s time to panic.   Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

Reinvention can be exciting, but is it risky when retirement is on the horizon? In this episode, Lee answers a question from a listener who wants to shift from corporate life to a new career in real estate at age 53, using IRA withdrawals to stay afloat during the transition. He also breaks down why early withdrawals can be financially dangerous and how commission-based careers may not offer the stability needed in this phase of life. Beyond the technical advice, Lee explores the emotional side of starting over, how to balance passion with practicality, and what questions to ask before making a leap. He shares a practical framework for pursuing your passion without jeopardizing your long-term goals: get clarity, know your value, and make sure someone is willing to pay for the problems you solve.   Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

Many people approach retirement age asking the question, “Have I done enough?”  It’s a common worry, but are they really focusing on the right things?  Based on a survey of nearly 400 experienced advisors, Lee explores the gap between what clients fear and what he believes truly deserves their focus when planning for retirement. He unpacks why concerns like outliving your money and market crashes dominate our minds and the two key factors he believes matter more. Retirement is often seen as a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but it can also be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. Understanding the common worries can help individuals better prepare for this important phase of life, even in the wake of rising costs and increasing life expectancies. Tune in for tips on how to feel more confident about your financial future! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

March Madness is here, and just like filling out a bracket, picking individual stocks can feel like a thrilling gamble. But the odds of winning big are slim. In fact, history shows that most stock picks, like most brackets, end up busted. Many investors can’t resist chasing big wins, even though diversification is a smarter play. One economist, Hendrik Bessembinder, analyzed the returns of nearly a century of stock performance. Let’s compare what he found to March Madness history and uncover what March Madness can teach us about investing! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

For years, $1 million was considered the gold standard for retirement savings. But is it really enough? In this episode, Lee and Ben explore just how far that million-dollar nest egg can take you in retirement, depending on where you live. Recent studies reveal a stark reality: in some states, $1 million could last a lifetime, while in others, it may barely cover 15 years. But geography isn’t the only factor. Spending habits, debt, and lifestyle choices all play a crucial role in determining whether your savings will truly sustain you. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show:

If you’ve spent years successfully managing your own investments, do you really need a financial advisor? That’s the question Bob, one of our listeners, sent in. He’s got an MBA, knows the markets well, and has always handled his portfolio solo. So, is working with an advisor just an extra expense, or could it actually add real value? In this episode, we break down when and why even experienced investors might benefit from professional guidance and when they’re probably fine on their own. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Beyond just investments, where do financial advisors typically provide value that DIY investors might not consider? What are some common financial blind spots or mistakes that smart DIY investors tend to overlook? How should experienced investors plan for a future where they may not want (or be able) to actively manage their portfolio? What Lee would say to investors who are skeptical that an advisor could improve their financial situation Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us h

This week, Lee and Keith dive into Carl Richard’s timeless article, Pretending To Be An Investor Is Dangerous, and discuss how to avoid the common mistakes many people make when managing their investments, particularly as they approach retirement. They explore what it means to be a "pretend investor" and break down the six key behaviors that can derail your financial security- from obsessing over short-time market fluctuations to chasing the latest hot stock. Tune in for a great discussion on how to focus on what truly matters- your financial health- while avoiding the distractions and fears created by the news cycle and peer pressure. You’ll learn why sometimes, ignoring the chatter is the smartest move you can make with your retirement funds. Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Staying committed to your long-term investment strategy instead of reacting to headlines Not letting daily market fluctuations sway your decisions Focusing on your personal financial goals rather than global economic events Avoi

A recent article on Fortune highlights a growing trend among baby boomers: continuing to work well into their 60s and 70s. Surprisingly, this is not out of necessity, but for the mental stimulation, social connections, and fulfillment that work provides. With nearly 20% of Americans over 65 still employed, this shift is challenging traditional views of retirement and sparking important conversations about what it means to truly retire. Join us as we explore this growing trend on today’s show. Lee has witnessed firsthand how retirement goals have shifted in recent years and is having more frequent conversations with clients about the evolving landscape of retirement. Is staying in the workforce the right choice for you? Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: How Lee is seeing this trend in his own practice Lee's advice for those struggling with a loss of purpose or loneliness after leaving the workforce Financial considerations for those thinking about part-time or contracting work How working longer impacts

As we step into 2025, many of us set New Year’s resolutions—whether it’s eating healthier, exercising more, or cutting back on a vice. But what if we also focused on improving our attitude toward money? The New Year is a great time for a reset and to adjust our attitudes when it comes to finances, and in this episode, Lee will break down what some of those financial attitude shifts could be. From being more mindful of the long-term financial impact of today's decisions to taking that first step toward building a retirement plan, there’s always room for improvement when it comes to managing money. Let’s kick off 2025 on the right financial foot! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Consider your future when making financial decisions Finding the balance between saving and spending Knowing what you have and where it is Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

In this episode of My Retirement Clarity, Lee sits down with a long-time client and friend, Joey Kinard, to discuss how he and his wife are making the most of their retirement years. From traveling to new places to embracing an active lifestyle, Joey shares what’s been working for them as they enjoy this exciting chapter of life. Joey’s early retirement was filled with memorable RV adventures. These days, he and his wife enjoy exploring state parks, visiting local farmers markets and festivals, and spending time at their favorite getaway- Alligator Point, Florida. Joey offers great insights on checking off bucket list items, staying active and maintaining a sense of community in retirement. Along the way, we’ll talk about financial freedom, the importance of knowing your spending habits, and why time is your most valuable resource in retirement. Tune in as we explore what it means to retire with intention and enjoy the journey!   Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Renting a house in Alligator Point and

At JL Perkins Wealth Management, we receive all sorts of questions about financial and retirement planning, but some themes come up more often than others. In today's mailbag edition of the show, we'll tackle some of the most common questions we answer on a daily basis. Lori wonders whether it’s advisable to help her aging parents financially, especially with potential long-term care needs. Matt asks if he should resume his 401(k) contributions after pausing them due to the election. If you’re listening to this episode, you’ve likely had questions about one or two of these items, so stick with us! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: "Since I've had my annuity long enough to withdraw without penalty, should I take it all out now?" "My husband is nine years older than me, and we have a large life insurance policy on him. What happens if the insurance company goes bankrupt and can't pay the death benefit?" "My parents didn’t save much for retirement, so I’m worried about covering long-term care costs. Is it

When it comes to retirement planning, it’s critical that you and your spouse are on the same page. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll agree on every little detail, but it does mean that compromise and honest conversations are a big part of navigating the process together. Join Lee as he dives into why aligning with your spouse is so important, where disagreements tend to arise, and the key topics you should be discussing. Plus, he’ll share how financial advisors can help couples find financial common ground.  Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Getting on the same page financially with your spouse What Lee often sees the first time he meets with a couple The most important things to discuss with your spouse when it comes to retirement What areas cause the most disagreement How Lee helps folks find a financial common ground   Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

Remember the thrill of shaking a Magic 8 Ball to get answers to your childhood questions? Would we ace that math test? Would we be famous someday? Well, today, we're bringing a bit of that magic back. But instead of asking about pop quizzes and playground crushes, we’re turning to the Magic 8 Ball for advice on something much more important: your retirement planning! What would the Magic 8 Ball have to say about these common retirement questions if it had the wisdom of a financial advisor? Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: Is a million dollars enough to retire? Can I rely on Social Security for retirement? Should I be reviewing my retirement plan annually? Will my retirement plan be affected by future changes in tax laws? Should I focus on paying off debt before increasing my retirement contributions?   Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at http://myretirementclarity.com

National Financial Planning Month is here! In this episode, we’ll do a little bit of celebrating as we look at what financial planning truly means, as well as what drew Lee into the field! We’ll break down what it means to be a fiduciary, how JL Perkins is different from other wealth advisory firms, and what the standard process looks like with us. Lee also shares a key tip to help you avoid starting your financial plan on the wrong foot, along with insights into the work he did before becoming a financial planner. You don’t want to miss what we have coming today, so pull up a chair and listen in! Here’s what we discuss in today’s show: How Lee got into financial planning, and what he was doing before he started How Lee defines financial planning What you should have ready when you meet with an advisor for the first time What’s different about JL Perkins? Not relying on the internet for your retirement advice Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education

A random, retired YouTuber did a simple video exploring the top 5 regrets from other retirees he interviewed (all in their 70s). It blew up to almost half a million views (and counting). Let’s see what regrets made the list and, more importantly, explore what proactive steps you can take to avoid having the same regrets when you retire. Planning and working with an advisor can make all the difference in addressing these regrets. A financial advisor can help you create a personalized retirement plan that balances your financial goals with your desire for a fulfilling lifestyle. Tune in for some valuable insights to ensure your retirement is everything you hope for!   Here are the regrets we discuss in today’s show: They wish they had retired earlier They wish they had spent more when they first retired They wish they took better care of their health They wish they had taken up a hobby They wish they had traveled more   Retiree regrets video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNUSJ3juAbA   Want to set up a meetin

Remember when you were a kid, always asking 'How do you know?' about everything, like why the sky is blue or where the sun goes at night? That curiosity doesn't go away as we get older; it just turns into different questions, like the ones we face when planning for retirement. Today, we’re digging into the 'How Do You Knows' of retirement planning. How do you know how much income you’re going to need when you retire? How do you know if your retirement plan is tax-efficient? Stay tuned as Lee sheds light on these questions and more! Here’s some of the how-do-you-knows we discuss in today’s show: How do you know how much income you’re going to need when you retire? How do you know how much money you should have in your savings account? How do you know when you're financially ready to retire? How do you know if an advisor is a good fit for you or not? How do you know if your retirement plan is tax-efficient?   Want to set up a meeting with us? Visit us here: http://talkwithjp.com Get more financial education at