Social Security: True or False

Special Guest: Lisa Gomez Big changes are coming to your 401(k) and workplace retirement plans in 2025 — are you ready for them? In this new episode, the Friends Talk Money team sits down with retirement policy expert Lisa Gomez (former Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employee Benefits Security) to unpack what’s changing and how it could affect your money. We’re covering: How catch-up contributions are getting a big boost for people aged 60-63 Why Roth 401(k)s are becoming a bigger deal — especially for higher earners The growing trend of adding private market and crypto investments inside retirement plans (should you be excited or concerned?) New guaranteed lifetime income options and what they mean for your future paychecks in retirement Lisa Gomez, who oversaw over 800,000 workplace retirement plans as head of the Employee Benefits Security Administration, shares expert insights on how these changes impact your retirement readiness, the pros and cons of more investment choices, and the crucial role of professional advice.If you're saving for retirement, planning your exit, or already retired, this conversation is for you. Listen now to learn: How to make the most of new catch-up contribution rules What “Rothification” means for your taxes and withdrawals The pros and cons of adding alternative investments to your 401(k) Smart questions to ask your employer or financial advisor

If you’re like a lot of people nearing retirement, your 401(k) or 403(b) is probably the biggest part of your savings. But do you actually know how it’s invested—or how much risk in stocks you’re taking on without realizing it? In this episode of Friends Talk Money, we’re going to look more closely. Ron Surz, a long-time retirement investing expert and president of Target Date Solutions joins us—and he’s not afraid to call out where he thinks popular target date funds are falling short. He’ll walk us through what he believes is a better way to structure retirement portfolios, especially for people in their 50s, 60s, and those already retired. We’ll talk about: What’s really under the hood in your retirement plan The real risks inside target date funds—and how they’re built What Ron recommends instead, and why What to think about before you roll over your retirement savings The most common mistakes people make late in the game—and how to avoid them. Whether you’re in your 50s, 60s, or already retired, this conversation will give you actionable steps to take control of your retirement savings today. Terry Savage: What's in YOUR retirement plan? (Chicago Tribune) Baby Boomer Investing Show Ron Surz, Target Date Solutions (401k Specialist) 4 Things You Can Control in Retirement (Pam Krueger)

Is your financial advisor truly working in your best interest — or theirs? In this eye-opening episode, the Friends Talk Money team turns the mic toward their own co-host, Pam Krueger, as she reveals the personal story behind Wealthramp, the platform she created to connect investors with trustworthy, vetted financial advisors. Pam shares the shocking truths she uncovered about conflicts of interest in the financial industry and why too many investors unknowingly work with advisors who don’t prioritize their clients' financial well-being. Learn how Wealthramp is disrupting the traditional advisor model by putting integrity, transparency, and fiduciary responsibility front and center. If you’ve ever wondered how to find a financial advisor you can actually trust — this conversation is a must-watch.    

In this episode of Friends Talk Money, we're joined by Phil Moeller, renowned journalist and co-author of Get What’s Yours: The Secrets to Maxing Out Your Social Security. Phil dives into all things Social Security—unpacking the latest changes, what they mean for you, and how to make smart decisions that can boost your retirement benefits. Topics we cover: Key Social Security changes for 2025 and beyond How these updates may affect your benefits Strategies to optimize your Social Security claiming decisions Common mistakes to avoid when planning for retirement Whether you're nearing retirement, already collecting benefits, or helping a loved one make financial decisions, this episode is packed with practical advice and essential information you won't want to miss.

Ready to explore the world without breaking the bank? The Friends Talk Money crew sat down  with Barbara Talisman from Talisman Travel Tribe, who shares her top tips for traveling the world on a shoestring budget! From finding cheap flights to scoring affordable accommodations, Barbara's got you covered. What's your go-to tip for saving money while traveling?

Looking for help this tax season? The Friends Talk Money team welcomes IRS spokesperson Eric Smith to discuss important tax changes and tax planning strategies. As a trusted tax accountant for the IRS, Eric breaks down the difference between tax credits and deductions, and shares valuable insights into new tools ‘direct file’ and ‘free file’ and other crucial matters that could affect your finances. Listen for more informative tips on how you should navigate the complex world of taxes!

Rebuilding your finances after a disaster can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The Friends Talk Money crew sits down to learn more from Wealthramp-network advisor Mitchell Freedman, CPA/PFS, who’s lived through this before himself. His personal and practical tips on preparing for and recovering from financial crises are invaluable. Mitch highlights how working with a fee-only fiduciary financial advisor can help those affected by a disaster recover financially. Listen to learn more!

Worried whether the stock market is too risky for your retirement money? You’re not alone! We’re going to help you decide how to sleep at night and still invest so you’re money’s working for you. Tune in as the Friends Talk Money team chats with Jim Stack from InvesTech Research to uncover smart strategies for navigating your retirement journey.

Thinking about a Roth conversion but not sure if it's the right move? The Friends Talk Money team breaks down six key things you need to know before making a decision! From tax implications to future benefits, we've got you covered. Curious about how a Roth conversion could impact your financial future?

The Friends Talk Money team is here to help you start 2025 off right! From organizing your important documents to aligning your investments with your goals, we've got the tools and tips you need for a successful financial year! What financial goals are you going to cross off your list this year?