When it comes to retirement planning, many people focus on investments, income strategies, and estate planning—but tax planning is one of the biggest factors that can impact your financial future. Without a proactive approach, taxes can take a bigger bite out of your retirement savings than you might expect.

In this episode, Derek Gregoire and Matthew Peck are joined by Peter Roache, a tax expert and longtime partner of SHP Financial. Peter shares important insights on how taxes affect retirement planning, the impact of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), and how smart tax strategies—like Roth conversions and tax-loss harvesting—can help you keep more of your hard-earned wealth.

We’ll also discuss how tax laws are evolving, why planning around IRMAA is key, and how to minimize taxes for your heirs when passing down assets. If you’re nearing retirement or already retired, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you optimize your tax situation.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• Why tax planning is one of the most overlooked aspects of retirement.
• How RMDs can push retirees into higher tax brackets.
• Why Roth conversions can be a powerful tool to reduce long-term tax burdens.
• How IRMAA can increase your Medicare premiums and what you can do to avoid it.
• How inherited IRAs are taxed and why proper planning is essential for your beneficiaries.
• The benefits of tax-loss harvesting and how to use it to offset capital gains.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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Estate planning isn’t just about protecting your wealth and passing it on to your beneficiaries—it’s about ensuring a seamless transition for your loved ones while minimizing taxes and legal complications. With tax laws constantly evolving and real estate values climbing, many families could face significant estate tax liabilities. And yet, most people often save their estate planning needs for another day.

In this episode, Derek Gregoire and Keith Ellis, Jr. are joined by Keith McManus, a seasoned estate planning attorney with nearly 30 years of experience helping families protect their assets. As the founder of McManus Estate Planning, Keith specializes in trusts, tax-efficient strategies, and probate avoidance. His firm has been a trusted resource for families and business owners looking to optimize their estate plans, and he has been a great partner for us for many years.

In our conversation, we’ll break down the most common estate planning mistakes, why Massachusetts residents need to be aware of the $2M estate tax threshold, and how to avoid probate headaches. You’ll also learn how small adjustments—like updating trusts, reviewing beneficiaries, and structuring assets properly can have a massive financial impact on your legacy.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• Why the Massachusetts’ estate tax could kick in sooner than you think.
• Estate plans are only effective if they’re up-to-date with current information.
• How poor planning can lead to probate, delays, and extra costs.
• How married couples can double exemptions with proper planning.
• Why real estate values may eventually push estates into taxable territory.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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Bitcoin and digital assets are among the most debated, complex, and controversial asset classes on the market today. Despite being a polarizing topic, nobody can deny their growing importance in global finance and even in Trump's administration in the White House.

That's why we're thrilled to have Ryan Lessard, a Digital Asset Strategist from Fidelity, on the podcast today. Ryan shares his expertise in this emerging asset class to unpack Bitcoin's unique characteristics, including its capped supply of 21 million coins, the blockchain technology behind it, and how it compares to traditional assets like gold.

In our conversation, we discussed why Bitcoin has primarily appealed to younger investors and is particularly relevant in countries with economic instability and hyperinflation. We also explored Bitcoin's potential to diversify portfolios while addressing the challenges, the rapid pace of technological advancements, and the importance of staying curious and continually learning about this evolving space.

Disclaimer: The information included in this material is for informational purposes only. SHP will not be held responsible for any detrimental reliance you place on this information. It is agreed that use of this information shall be on an "as is" basis and entirely at your own risk.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• How Bitcoin combines decentralization and blockchain technology.
• How a capped supply ensures Bitcoin’s scarcity and ultimately, its value.
• Why younger investors are more likely to invest in digital assets.
• How Bitcoin offers stability in volatile economies.
• Crypto investing requires knowledge and caution and regulation is key for trust and growth.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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It’s a new year, and what better way to kick things off in 2025 than by revisiting your financial plan or creating your first one. We’ve seen huge fluctuations in inflation, interest rates, and market swings in recent years, and having a plan is the best way to be prepared for when things change.

Most people spend their working years grinding, saving, and looking forward to their retirement date. But when the moment actually arrives, many of them wind up feeling unprepared for what they’ll do with all the extra time and financial freedom.

In this episode, SHP Financial’s Matthew Peck and Keith Ellis Jr. dive into the one resolution every retiree (or pre-retiree) needs to make this year: Start asking yourself questions now and paint a picture of your dream retirement. The SHP team is here to help answer those questions and give you the “why” behind our recommendations so you have confidence and know what’s possible in retirement.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• Why so many retirees struggle with "What’s next?" once they stop working.
• The biggest mistakes people make when transitioning from a paycheck to financial independence.
• How to create a flexible retirement plan that lets you enjoy your money instead of worrying if it’s enough.
• The most overlooked financial factors that determines whether you’re truly free in retirement
• How comprehensive financial planning allows you to dream bigger with confidence.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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Join SHP Co-founder Matthew C. Peck, CFP® CIMA® and Lead Advisor Laura Russo as they speak about what's happening in the markets in 2025!

Healthcare costs are one of the biggest financial challenges for retirees and pre-retirees. Many people work until they’re 65 just to transition into retirement with Medicare. And with healthcare costs so expensive, it’s easy to understand why. But what if your financial plan had those costs built into it so you could retire early?

To explore this complex topic, we’re thrilled to have Scott Hokanson, Founder and President of Brabo Benefits, back on the podcast. We’ve worked with Scott for over 20 years and are grateful to share his expertise, insights, and strategies for helping retirees manage healthcare costs before and after age 65.

In our conversation, we discuss the benefits of Medicare Advantage and Supplement Plans, how to navigate the tough decisions surrounding bridging employer plans and Medicare plans, and why healthcare planning is such a critical component of a comprehensive financial plan.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• The shocking truth about Medicare costs and how to avoid surprises.
• Strategies for bridging your healthcare coverage before turning 65.
• Scott’s advice on purchasing dental and vision coverage with your insurance.
• Why Roth conversions can impact Medicare premiums—and when they make sense.
• The differences and benefits of Medicare Advantage vs. Supplement plans.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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In recent years, there has been plenty of talk about the burden of paying for a college education, and student loan forgiveness has been a hot topic. If it’s in the news, then weighing on the minds of our clients.

That’s why we’re so grateful to have Mark Kenney, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER and CERTIFIED TAX SPECIALIST here at SHP Financial. With college tuition soaring, preparing for your children’s or grandchildren’s education is more important than ever.

In our conversation, you’ll learn some shocking truths about how much student loan debt is being carried in the US, which assets are included in FAFSA’s (Federal Application for Student Aid) calculations, and which aren’t, and 529 accounts are a great way to save for college education.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• Why most of the $1.75 trillion in student loan debt is being carried by people over 60 years of age.
• How to differentiate between the assets that are included and excluded in FAFSA applications.
• Some of the myths about 529 accounts and why they’re an important part of a college education plan.
• The eligibility requirements, interest rates and repayment terms of Parent PLUS loans.
• Mark’s advice on how to decide between helping to pay for college education vs leaving a legacy with your investments.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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Now that the 2024 Election is in the books, we know that a new and yet familiar President-elect will take control of the Whitehouse in 2025. So, what does that mean for your investments and finances?

To help answer that question, Matthew Peck highlights some of the economic factors that SHP Financial will be keeping a close eye on that will impact the markets. While inflation and taxes have been hot topics for some time now, many people are undoubtedly concerned about what the next administration will do to address these issues.

In this episode, Matthew breaks down the state of the U.S. economy, how tariffs impact the cost of consumer goods, and how new corporate tax cuts could negatively impact inflation.

In this podcast interview, you’ll learn:

• The state of our economy in terms of GDP, inflation, and jobs in late 2024–and how this will influence policy in the years to come.
• How Trump’s proposed tariffs could dramatically drive up prices for American consumers.
• Possible loopholes to be created by new tax codes.
• How difficult it is to cut taxes while still addressing inflation and the national debt.
• How mass deportations, if they happen, will massively reshape America’s labor industry.

Want the Full Show Notes?

To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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