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.

In this episode, "What’s the Best Way to Create a Personalized Retirement Strategy?" we explore how to build a tailored retirement plan that aligns with your unique goals, lifestyle, and values. Tailoring your retirement strategy is crucial for late-career professionals who seek peace of mind regarding their financial future.

A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't work when it comes to retirement, and this episode dives into key areas of personalization. Learn how to strategize income planning that suits your desired retirement lifestyle, taking into account inflation and healthcare costs. We also discuss the importance of balancing your investment portfolio as you transition into retirement, with a focus on tax-efficient strategies.

Gain insights into how to plan for potential healthcare needs, long-term care, and legacy planning, while ensuring your retirement income lasts. Practical tips are shared, including how to track your spending, create a lifestyle budget, and review your investments as part of your personalized retirement map. We also highlight the value of consulting with a financial advisor to stay on track and adjust as needed. Whether you’re navigating complex financial decisions or seeking guidance for a confident retirement, this episode equips you with the tools to create a strategy that's built just for you. Tune in for actionable insights and expert advice.

#RetirementPlanning #RetirementStrategy #FinancialAdvisor #InvestmentTips #TaxPlanning

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 a late-career professional or pre-retiree wondering about the best withdrawal strategy for your retirement accounts? In “What’s the Best Strategy for Taking Money Out of My Retirement Accounts?,” we explore how to optimize your withdrawals across taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts. The right approach can help you minimize taxes, prolong your nest egg, and protect your financial future. We’ll talk about why many retirees benefit from tapping into taxable accounts first, leaving tax-deferred accounts like Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s for later, and saving Roth IRAs or other tax-free vehicles for last. Additionally, we’ll address the importance of understanding required minimum distributions (RMDs), Social Security timing, and potential changes to tax laws. Our goal is to help you navigate these complex rules to create a strategy that aligns with your retirement timeline and long-term goals. Whether you’re aiming to reduce your tax burden, preserve principal, or ensure an inheritance for future generations, this episode offers valuable insights for building a cohesive retirement plan. Tune in for practical advice and discover how a thoughtful withdrawal strategy can help you sustain your lifestyle while preserving your savings for years to come. Gain clarity on distribution sequences and increase your retirement confidence.

#RetirementPlanning #TaxEfficientWithdrawals #TaxBuckets #MoneyManagement #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 age and wondering how to adjust your investment portfolio for optimal security? In this video, we explore some essential considerations for balancing stocks, bonds, and cash reserves as you approach retirement. We’ll delve into the importance of aligning your portfolio with your evolving risk tolerance, analyzing how inflation, market volatility, and potential healthcare costs can impact your nest egg. Our discussion also covers why diversification is crucial in safeguarding your retirement savings, offering insights into preserving capital while still seeking growth where appropriate. Whether you’re a late-career professional refining your investment mix or a pre-retiree looking to safeguard a lifetime of savings, this overview provides straightforward guidance for transitioning your focus from accumulation to income generation.

Learn how to consider the correct asset allocation to meet your financial needs, minimize unnecessary risk, and stay on track for a sustainable retirement. We address the nuanced decision-making process behind whether to favor equities or lean toward more conservative holdings like bonds and cash. If you want to strengthen your approach to retirement planning, this video will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and maintain a balanced, adaptable portfolio. It’s time to fine-tune your strategy for long-term financial stability.

#RetirementPlanning #InvestmentStrategy #RetirementAdvice #PersonalFinance #RetirementInvesting #FinancialGuidance

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.