Great Decisions, Incredible Lives

John Creekmur

Welcome to the "Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention Podcast. Join host John Creekmur, CFP®, Founder and President at Creekmur Wealth Advisors, as he guides you through a transformative journey towards a retirement beyond financial wealth. Explore the three pillars of the True Wealth Process—Dream It, Build It, Live It—to unlock your true potential, make significant decisions, and live an incredible life in retirement. We have carefully curated a diverse group of experts, visionaries, and retirees who will share their wisdom and experiences to inspire you on your retirement journey. Subscribe now and embark on this empowering path toward a retirement that fulfills your dreams. Compliance disclaimer: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ read less
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Ep16: From Grief to Growth: Empowering Widows to Thrive featuring Pam Bates
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Ep16: From Grief to Growth: Empowering Widows to Thrive featuring Pam Bates
How do our core values guide our decision-making in life? In this episode of "Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire with Intention," host John Creekmur emphasizes the importance of living with intention. He introduces guest Pam Bates, a retired dental professional, who shares her experiences as a widow and her career in the dental field. Pam also discusses her book, "The Most Amazing Harvest," which details her journey. Additionally, she highlights her online book study, "The Most Amazing You," and her support group, Braving Widowhood. The episode sheds light on widows' emotional and financial challenges and offers advice on overcoming them through resilience and support.   📌 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Living with intention is crucial for a fulfilling retirement. 2️⃣ Pam Bates, a retired dental professional, shares her experiences as a widow. 3️⃣ Pam's book, "The Most Amazing Harvest," chronicles her journey. 4️⃣ "The Most Amazing You" is an online book study by Pam Bates. 5️⃣ Braving Widowhood is a support group founded by Pam Bates. 6️⃣ Widows face emotional and financial challenges. 7️⃣ Overcoming challenges requires resilience and support.   Pam Bates, 00:15:29, "I think becoming a widow makes you realize you have to be brave and there's a saying that my sister and I heard one time, it was in a crazy silly movie, but it said, 'Tens of bravery can change your life or someone else's.' And if you really think about that, it's like, just do the thing.It's tens of bravery can, you know, it will change your life. You'll say the thing or do the thing, you know, that could change somebody's life. And that was the whole behind the book and all the things that we do. If we have made an impact on one person, you know, we feel like we've succeeded. So that's kind of where we where that brave came from."  More information about Pam: Pam lived in Galva her whole life until recently moving closer to her children and 7 grandchildren. She was married to Carl for 34 years and they farmed just outside of Galva. She worked at the Dental office in Galva from 1979 until 2022 when she retired after 43 years! She was the office manager for most of the years and then became general manager when they expanded to 7 office locations. When Carl passed away in 2015 she and her twin sister were led by God to "tell his story". The Most Amazing Harvest - The Man Behind the Story" was published in 2021. They then created Braving Widowhood a non-profit ministry to help widows find strength through faith and connection. Visit website: Bravetwin.com https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 008: Comprehensive Planning For Retirement Bliss Featuring Michelle Kooi
Hace 2 días
Episode 008: Comprehensive Planning For Retirement Bliss Featuring Michelle Kooi
Ever wondered what the secret is to making decisions that align with your essence and lead to a fulfilling life? Today’s guest on Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention podcast is Michelle Kooi, who reveals transformative insights in this unmissable episode. John Creekmur welcomes Michelle Kooi, the accomplished founder of Confluence Coaching and Consulting. In this episode, they delve into the art and science of decision-making, exploring how it shapes the trajectories of our lives. Discover the essence of trusting oneself, the significance of understanding one's core values, and the tools to align decisions with personal truths. Key Takeaways: ➡️ Connecting with Core Values: Trusting oneself and connecting with personal core values is central to effective decision-making. By understanding and adhering to these values, decisions become more transparent and resonate more closely with our true selves. ➡️ Pandemic's Mental Toll: The recent global challenges have escalated anxiety and burnout, underscoring the need for effective coping tools such as self-care, boundary setting, and seeking timely support. ➡️ Change as a Growth Catalyst: Rather than resisting change, view it as a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Embracing change, understanding its nuances, and navigating it with poise can lead to unforeseen opportunities and personal betterment. ➡️ Importance of Communication: Transparency and open dialogue, especially in financial decisions within relationships, are vital in minimizing conflicts and ensuring smooth transitions. Connect with Michelle Kooi: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekooiwomensbusinesscoach/ Website: https://www.confluencecoaching.life/ Email: mkooicc@confluencecoaching.life Disclosure: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ep15: Transform Health into Retirement Wealth featuring Nancy Schwartz
29-11-2023
Ep15: Transform Health into Retirement Wealth featuring Nancy Schwartz
How can we redefine retirement to be more than just financial security? Discover the insights of Nancy Schwartz, a former corporate executive turned retirement visionary. In this enlightening episode of "Great Decisions, Incredible Lives Retire with Intention," we are joined by Nancy Schwartz, a seasoned corporate executive with over four decades in executive search. Nancy shares her transformative journey over the past five years, exploring the intricate connection between retirement, health, and wellness. She challenges the traditional views of retirement, advocating for a holistic approach that combines financial planning with personal well-being and fulfillment. Join us as we delve into Nancy's vision of retirement, a time to design life with intention, increase knowledge, and find daily contentment, joy, and fulfillment. Key Takeaways 🔑 Holistic Retirement Approach: Retirement is more than financial planning; it's about living with intention and finding joy and fulfillment. Health and Longevity: Emphasize the importance of health and advancements in science and technology for a better quality of life in retirement. Empowerment and Authenticity: Take 150% responsibility for your journey, own your authenticity, and live a life true to yourself. Redefining Retirement Goals: Understand the crucial role of tax and estate planning in aligning financial and personal goals. Conscious Living and Leadership: Learn to tap into your potential, challenge limiting beliefs, and navigate life changes fearlessly. Connect with Nancy: Website: www.envisionhealthyretirement.com   Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/nmschwartz/ Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/EnvisionHealthyRetirement LinkedIn:      https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-schwartz-envisionhealthyretirement/ You Tube:     https://www.youtube.com/@nancyschwartz7645     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ep14: Gratitude Can Increase Happiness featuring John and Stacy
22-11-2023
Ep14: Gratitude Can Increase Happiness featuring John and Stacy
In this insightful episode, host John Creekmur and Stacy Creekmur discuss living an incredible life marked by intentionality and gratitude. The conversation, tailored for the Thanksgiving season, delves into the psychology of gratitude and its impact on happiness, personal resilience in adversity, the importance of defining core values and setting goals, and the perspective of viewing money as a tool rather than an end goal. 🎯 Key Takeaways: The Power of Gratitude (00:02:41): Discusses how gratitude significantly impacts happiness, suggesting a daily practice of noting things to be thankful for to increase happiness by 25%. Defining Core Values and Setting Goals (00:08:13 & 00:08:37): Emphasizes the importance of identifying and living according to one's core values and how this aids in setting and achieving life goals. Viewing Money as a Tool (00:09:43): Stresses the concept of money as a means to fulfill goals aligned with personal values, not as the ultimate objective. The Significance of Life Beyond Numbers (00:10:18): Touches on the importance of good health and its relationship with achieving life goals. Personal Anecdote: Stacy shares a personal story to illustrate the power of a positive outlook, highlighting the resilience and recovery of their son after a serious car accident. Final Thoughts: The episode concludes with a call to embrace gratitude, especially during the Thanksgiving season, and a reminder of the joy and fulfillment it brings into our lives.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ep013: Do You Need a Holistic Approach to Financial Planning & Client Management? featuring Steven Harp
15-11-2023
Ep013: Do You Need a Holistic Approach to Financial Planning & Client Management? featuring Steven Harp
How can you ensure that your retirement plan is as comprehensive as it is comforting? In the latest episode of Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention, host John Creekmur welcomes Steven Harp, the accomplished founder of the Colorado Wealth Group. With his extensive 15-year tenure in financial planning, Steven champions a holistic approach that encompasses every facet of personal finance, from cash flow and investments to holistic life satisfaction.   The discussion unfurls how a well-rounded financial plan can provide a reassuring sense of security and clarity for retirement. They shed light on the mental and emotional benefits of such planning, revealing how it can offer clients a profound peace of mind.   Key insights include: The strategic advantages of a holistic financial plan that comprehensively addresses all aspects of financial health. The significant psychological comfort from knowing your financial bases are fully covered. The critical role of collaboration among financial professionals is to craft a plan that's both broad in scope and detailed in execution. The essential use of technology in financial planning, which provides clear visuals and helps clients understand their financial standing. The importance of adaptability in financial planning, ensuring that as clients’ life circumstances and goals evolve, their financial strategies evolve too.   Listen to this insightful episode with John Creekmur and Steven Harp to discover how you can retire with intention and peace of mind, knowing your financial plan is holistic, current, and comprehensive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 0012: Understand Risks in Fixed Income Markets Featuring David Roosevelt
08-11-2023
Episode 0012: Understand Risks in Fixed Income Markets Featuring David Roosevelt
In episode 12 of the Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire with Intention podcast host John Creekmur speaks with guest David Roosevelt, a seasoned investment manager who sheds light on the intricacies of the financial world, discussing GIPS compliance, understanding financial concepts, and aligning investment strategies with chosen asset class characteristics. His experience, particularly during the 2008 financial crisis, offers listeners invaluable lessons about financial stability, adaptability, and forward-thinking strategies. ✅ Key Takeaways: ✅ GIPS Compliance: The Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS) set by the CFA Institute ensures accurate return calculations. David's firm, Roosevelt Capital Management, has achieved this gold standard in transparency and accountability. ✅ Financial Concepts Mastery: Knowledge of financial concepts, particularly in fixed income, is vital. Concepts such as duration, yield, default risk, and more are cornerstones of informed investment strategies. ✅ 2008 Financial Crisis Insights: David's hands-on experience managing his family's liquidity during this tumultuous period underscores the importance of preparedness and adaptability in financial planning. ✅ Risks in Fixed Income Markets: Considerations must include interest rate risk, default risk, complexity risk, and liquidity risk. The interconnectedness of these risks can greatly influence investment decisions. ✅ Uncertainty of the Future: David emphasizes caution when relying on expert forecasts, advising a focus on long-standing investment principles and understanding risk-reward dynamics in various asset classes. ✅ Investment Principles: Aligning capital objectives with asset class characteristics and recognizing the performance potential in different sectors is crucial. Diversification remains a paramount strategy. Connect with David on the website: https://www.rooseveltcapitalmanagement.com/ #InvestmentStrategies, #DavidRoosevelt, #RetireWithIntention, #GIPSCompliance, #FixedIncome #IntentionalRetirement #CreekmurPodcast #RetirementBlueprint #LifeDecisionsInsights #GoldenYearsWisdom #PurposefulRetirement #RetireWithJohnCreekmur #RetirementStrategies #LifeAfterWorkTips #MasteringRetirement https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episdoe 0011: Align Core Values for Fulfilling Life Featuring Brian Gareau
31-10-2023
Episdoe 0011: Align Core Values for Fulfilling Life Featuring Brian Gareau
How can aligning core values not only shape our daily decisions but also steer the entire course of our lives toward fulfillment and purpose? In this enlightening episode, John Creekmur sits down with Brian Gareau, a renowned expert in organizational culture and employee engagement. Brian unpacks his journey, highlighting milestones from his impactful career at Caterpillar to his writing endeavors.  Anchoring insights from his book "Slice of Life," Brian underscores the pivotal role of values, especially when navigating challenging crossroads. Brian also dives into the intriguing concept of 'return on culture', exploring its resonance in corporate settings and family dynamics. As the conversation unfolds, Brian offers a tangible blueprint to ensure values align perfectly, leaving listeners both enriched and eager for more. ✅ Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ The foundational importance of defining values in the decision-making process. 2️⃣ Embrace core values as the compass for a fulfilling life of purpose. 3️⃣ The groundbreaking implications of 'return on culture' in shaping organizational and familial harmony. 🌐 Connect with Brian Gareau: https://www.briangareauinc.com To learn more about working with Brian please visit: BrianGareau.com. Books: Delve deeper with "Slice of Life" available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Slice-Life-Benefits-Personal-Engagement/dp/0966909941 Tune into Brian’s podcast: https://magellanexecutivepartners.com/latitude-podcast/  Magellan Executive Partners is pleased to bring you the Latitude podcast about navigating business culture. Your hosts, Rod Beeler and Brian Gareau, will share strategic, tactical, and practical ways to ensure your business culture doesn’t blend in with the crowd. Their wisdom in this area comes frommagellanexecutivepartners.com Disclosure: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 0010: Future-Proof Your Retirement: Tackle Income Uncertainties Featruing Brian Colvert
25-10-2023
Episode 0010: Future-Proof Your Retirement: Tackle Income Uncertainties Featruing Brian Colvert
💡 What is your perspective on longevity and retirement planning? In this episode of Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention, John Creekmur interviews Brian Colvert, a certified financial planner from Bonfire Financial. They discuss retirement planning and the changing dynamics of retirement. Brian shares his background and experience in the financial industry, as well as what sets Bonfire Financial apart from other advisory firms. They delve into understanding clients' expectations and reshaping retirement plans to align with their goals. They also touch on topics such as long-term care expenses, risk in retirement planning, retirement income strategies, and the importance of trust in the advisor-client relationship. 🗝 Key Takeaways: ➡️ Understanding clients' expectations: Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding clients' expectations regarding retirement planning. Financial advisors can help ensure a more fulfilling retirement experience by aligning retirement plans with clients' goals. ➡️ Reshaping retirement plans: The dynamics of retirement are changing, and it's crucial to adapt them accordingly. Brian discusses the need to consider longer life expectancies, rising healthcare costs, and changing economic conditions when creating retirement strategies. ➡️ Long-term care expenses: Long-term care expenses can significantly impact retirement plans. Brian highlights the importance of factoring in potential long-term care costs and exploring insurance options to protect retirement savings. ➡️ Managing risk in retirement planning: Retirement planning involves managing various risks, such as market volatility and inflation. Brian discusses strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure a more secure retirement. ➡️ Trust in the advisor-client relationship: Trust is a vital component of the advisor-client relationship. Brian emphasizes the importance of building trust with clients through transparency, open communication, and delivering on promises. Trust allows for a more collaborative and successful retirement planning process. Connect with Brian:  P: (719) 394.3900 | (844) 295.0069 Brian@bonfirefinancial.com Disclosure: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 009: Unleash the Power of Financial Planning featuring Kristian Mtetwa
18-10-2023
Episode 009: Unleash the Power of Financial Planning featuring Kristian Mtetwa
In this episode of Great Decisions. Incredible Lives: Retire with Intention, host John Creekmur sits down with Kristian Mtetwa, a highly regarded financial advisor. Kristian shares his inspiring journey into finance and how his passion for helping others led him to pursue a career in this field. He emphasizes building personal connections and relatability in the financial services industry.  Kristian delves into his firm's unique approach to financial planning, which revolves around understanding clients' core values and assisting them in making informed decisions. Additionally, he sheds light on the specific challenges first-generation wealthy individuals face and highlights the importance of fostering a supportive community. Kristian also mentions an upcoming event called "The Summit," which aims to empower and educate ultra-affluent minorities. 📝 Key Takeaways: ✅ Building personal connections and being relatable is crucial in the financial services industry. ✅ Kristian's firm focuses on understanding clients' values to provide tailored financial planning. ✅ First-generation wealthy individuals face unique challenges that require specialized support. ✅ Creating a supportive community is essential for the success and well-being of ultra-affluent minorities. ✅ "The Summit" event aims to empower and educate ultra-affluent minorities. Remember to tune in to this insightful episode to gain valuable financial insights from Kristian Mtetwa, a renowned financial advisor. To Connect With Kristian: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristianmtetwa/ Podcast disclosure: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 007: Achieving Financial Goals: A Journey of Intention and Purpose Featuring Donnie LaGrange
04-10-2023
Episode 007: Achieving Financial Goals: A Journey of Intention and Purpose Featuring Donnie LaGrange
Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention Podcast with Host John Creekmur welcomes retired Lieutenant Colonel Donald J. LaGrange, a seasoned financial advisor with a unique military leadership and human performance optimization background. They delve into the intersection of the military and financial advisory roles, emphasizing the importance of understanding human behavior in economic decision-making.   Donnie highlights the role of advisors in helping clients achieve their goals and make informed choices. He also sheds light on the non-financial aspects of retirement, such as finding fulfillment and purpose, and how they impact both happiness and finances.     Key Takeaways:        ➡️ Importance of understanding human behavior in financial decision-making,        ➡️ Example of how past experiences can impact financial decisions.        ➡️ Value of financial planning and the role of an advisor in helping clients prioritize goals and values.        ➡️ Importance of creating a space for meaningful conversations about financial planning.        ➡️ Need for a robust advisor-client relationship and finding the right fit.        ➡️ Challenges of reintegration into civilian life after retirement from the military.        ➡️ Non-financial aspects of retirement and the importance of finding fulfillment and purpose.          www.murphysylvest.com Disclosure: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/  #IntentionalRetirement #CreekmurPodcast #RetirementBlueprint #LifeDecisionsInsights #GoldenYearsWisdom #PurposefulRetirement #RetireWithJohnCreekmur #RetirementStrategies #LifeAfterWorkTips #MasteringRetirement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Eoisode 006: Comprehensive Planning For Retirement Bliss Featuring Lorie Jones
27-09-2023
Eoisode 006: Comprehensive Planning For Retirement Bliss Featuring Lorie Jones
Are you prepared to navigate the shift from saving for retirement to spending in retirement? Discover financial expert Lorie Jones's strategies to ensure flexibility and success in every phase of your financial journey on episode 5 of Great Decisions Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention podcast. They discuss the importance of comprehensive financial planning, transitioning from saving for retirement to spending during retirement, and the need for diversified tax strategies to optimize income flexibility. Key Takeaways: ✅ Comprehensive financial planning involves considering all aspects of a client's financial life, aligning their goals with appropriate strategies, and providing peace of mind for retirement. ✅ Clients often transition from an accumulation phase (saving) to a spending phase (retirement), requiring a shift in mindset and planning for a steady income stream during retirement. ✅ Diversifying tax strategy is essential, using different types of accounts (pre-tax, Roth, after-tax) to increase flexibility and optimize income during retirement. ✅ Setting goals with different time ranges, such as one year, five years, 10 years, and beyond, allows for a flexible and practical approach to financial planning. ✅ Regularly reviewing goals and making adjustments as life changes are crucial to staying on track for a successful financial future. Guest Information: Lorie Jones: Highly experienced financial services professional with a technology, operations, and client services background. Holds securities licenses and various insurance licenses in Colorado. Completed the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation and actively participated in professional development through the Financial Planning Association (FPA). https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 005: How Cash Can Power Your Financial Plan
20-09-2023
Episode 005: How Cash Can Power Your Financial Plan
💡Question: Is your cash truly working for you or just lying idle?  🎙️Podcast Alert! On Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire with Intention 👥 Host: John Creekmur sits with guest Morgan Ludovico from Stone Castle. Morgan Ludovico, Senior Vice President of Intermediary Sales at StoneCastle Cash Management, LLC, specializes in building relationships with RIAs and wealth managers, guiding them toward enhanced cash management solutions. Leveraging market insights, Morgan aids in capturing held-away cash, increasing AUM, and elevating advisor profitability. 🎯Highlights: ✅ Understanding Cash Management: The changing landscape of interest rates and asset protection needs. ✅ Demystifying FDIC Insurance: How much of your cash is insured? ✅ Stone Castle - A Unique Banking Experience: Offering FDIC insurance up to $100 million across a vast network of banks. ✅ Simplified Banking: Experience a digital and transparent banking journey with next-day liquidity. ✅ Maximizing Your Cash's Potential: Why Stone Castle is a game-changer for high net worth individuals. Dive deeper into this conversation and unlock the potential of your cash! 🌟 🎧 Listen now on [link to the podcast episode] Since 2009, StoneCastle Cash Management has helped hundreds of institutions and advisors protect billions of deposits through a growing network of 950+ banks/financial institutions. StoneCastle’s federally insured cash solution, FICA For Advisors, offers a combined value of high levels of FDIC insurance, competitive APY, and overnight liquidity to give advisors a best-in-class insured cash solution that helps clients of all sizes protect, save, and earn more on their cash.  For questions or a FICA For Advisors portal demo, please contact Morgan Ludovico at mludovico@stonecastle.com or intermediaries@stonecastle.com. You can also contact us at 833-342-2274. #FinancialLiteracy #CashManagement #RetireWithIntention #GreatDecisionsIncredibleLives #StoneCastle #FDICInsurance #WealthManagement Remember, your financial choices today shape your tomorrow. Stay informed, and stay intentional. 💰🌟🔍 https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 004: Overcome The Fear Of Outliving Retirement
13-09-2023
Episode 004: Overcome The Fear Of Outliving Retirement
"What if you could confidently navigate retirement, knowing your income would last a lifetime? In this episode of Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire With Intention, host John Creekmur dives deep with Justin Fitzpatrick, Co-Founder and CIO of Income Lab, to uncover the secrets to successful retirement planning." Justin has over 15 years of experience in financial services, leading teams in advanced financial planning, portfolio strategy, and financial technology tools. In this episode, John and Justin discuss various retirement planning aspects and dynamic tools' importance. They explore the fear of outliving income and how retirement is now seen as a journey rather than a fixed endpoint. The conversation highlights the significance of making wise decisions in retirement and how Income Lab's tools can help individuals achieve their desired lifestyle. They delve into spending capacity in retirement, customization and adjustments in planning, and the interconnectedness of taxes and social security. Key Takeaways: ✅ Retirement is no longer seen as a fixed endpoint but as a journey that requires careful planning and decision-making. ✅ The fear of outliving income is a common concern in retirement planning, emphasizing the need for dynamic tools. ✅ Income Lab's tools provide valuable assistance in making wise decisions and achieving desired lifestyle goals in retirement. ✅ Understanding spending capacity in retirement is crucial for effective planning and maintaining financial stability. ✅ Customization and adjustments in retirement planning are essential to adapt to changing circumstances and goals. ✅ Taxes and social security are interconnected factors that should be considered in retirement planning. ✅ A case study demonstrates the importance of knowledge and informed decision-making in retirement planning. Connect with Justin: Website: https://incomelaboratory.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-m-fitzpatrick/ https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 003: Navigating State Pension Plans
05-09-2023
Episode 003: Navigating State Pension Plans
On this episode of Great Decision, Incredible Lives, Retire With Intention podcast with host John Creekmur, the guest is Jeff Houch - An expert with over 15 years of experience in the administrative and financial dynamics of retirement plans governed by the Illinois Pension Code. Jeff currently serves as the Associate Executive Secretary for the State Retirement Systems, managing the retirement plans of three of the five State-funded systems: the State Employees Retirement System (SERS), the Judges' Retirement System (JRS), and the General Assembly Retirement System (GARS). Jeff Houch, an expert in Illinois state retirement systems, sheds light on the complexities and benefits of the retirement plans governed by the Illinois Pension Code. Jeff shares insights on the various retirement options available to state employees, the importance of retirement counselors in the planning process, and how factors like sick leave and vacation time can impact pension calculations. Additionally, he discusses survivor benefits, divorce-related scenarios, and the stability of state retirement systems. Jeff emphasizes seeking guidance from qualified financial advisors for sound retirement planning. Key Takeaways: ✔ The Illinois State Retirement Systems offer retirement options such as annuities and lump sum payments. ✔ Retirement counselors provide valuable assistance, especially for employees nearing retirement. ✔ Sick leave and vacation time can influence pension calculations and should be carefully considered. ✔ Survivor benefits typically amount to 50% of the member's pension and may be affected by Social Security benefits. ✔ Despite challenges, Illinois state pension systems are managed prudently, offering stability for retirees. Seeking advice from licensed financial advisors is essential for proper retirement planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 002: Tax Savings Strategies for Building Wealth
30-08-2023
Episode 002: Tax Savings Strategies for Building Wealth
Are you looking for ways to reduce your 💵 tax bill and build wealth? Welcome to Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire with Intention, podcast with host John Creekmur. In this episode, the special guest is Jeff Badu, a seasoned CPA, entrepreneur, and wealth multiplier, who shares invaluable insights on how to keep more money in your pocket and pave the way to financial prosperity. Jeff has built an impressive track record in finance, particularly in real estate and tax optimization. He'll shed light on various strategies to incorporate real estate into your investment portfolio, creating 💵 wealth and generating income. 💵 Key Takeaways: Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Jeff emphasizes the power of HSAs, which allow tax-free savings for medical expenses, providing an instant return on investment based on your tax bracket. Real Estate Tax Deductions: Discover the significant tax deductions real estate offers, primarily through depreciation. Jeff explains how forming an LLC or corporation can further optimize tax benefits. Tax Services: Understand the difference between tax preparation, tax planning, and representation services, and learn how they can help you maximize your savings. Maximizing Opportunities: Take advantage of potential savings! Jeff reveals how to amend tax returns and employ long-term planning strategies for substantial benefits. The Augusta Rule: Learn about this valuable tax deduction, which allows you to rent your home to your business for up to 14 days a year tax-free. Jeff Badu is the founder and CEO of Badu Enterprises, LLC, a multinational conglomerate that owns several vital companies. His marquee company is Badu Tax Services LLC, a CPA firm specializing in tax preparation, tax planning, and tax representation for individuals and businesses.  Another critical company is Badu Investments LLC, a real estate investment company that acquires residential and commercial properties in areas such as the South Side of Chicago to restore traditionally underserved areas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode  001: Unlocking True Wealth: The Five Key Principles for an Incredible Life
23-08-2023
Episode 001: Unlocking True Wealth: The Five Key Principles for an Incredible Life
💡 In this episode, hosts John and his wife, Stacey Creekmur, will guide you through the fundamental principles of living an incredible life and retiring with intention. They'll help you understand the importance of defining what an incredible life means to you and how to achieve it. So, let's jump right in! 💰 Define Your Core Values 🌿 To live an incredible life, it's crucial to identify your core values. These values are the foundation for your decision-making process and guide you toward a fulfilling retirement. You'll find greater satisfaction and purpose in your everyday life by aligning your actions with your values. 💰 Set Goals Based on Your Values 🎯 Once you've identified your core values, it's time to set goals that harmonize with them. Setting meaningful goals allows you to create a roadmap for your retirement journey. Whether traveling the world, starting a new business, or spending quality time with loved ones, your goals will shape the direction of your incredible life. 💰 Seek Wise Counsel 🗣️ Making great decisions requires seeking advice from those who have walked the path before you. Surround yourself with mentors, financial advisors, and experts who can provide valuable insights and guidance. Their wisdom will help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning and ensure you make informed choices. 💰 Manage Finances Wisely 💵 Financial stability is crucial to retiring with intention. By managing your finances wisely, you can secure a comfortable retirement and pursue your dreams without unnecessary stress. From budgeting to investing, understanding the financial landscape will empower you to make sound decisions and achieve true wealth. 💰 Prioritize Health and Well-being 🌟 Your health is your most valuable asset. Prioritizing physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential for living an incredible life and enjoying retirement to the fullest. Adopting healthy habits, staying active, and nurturing relationships create a solid foundation for a fulfilling retirement journey. Stay tuned for future episodes of "Great Decisions, Incredible Lives: Retire with Intention," where we'll feature inspiring guests who embody these principles. Their stories and insights will inspire you on your retirement journey. Subscribe now and embark on this empowering path toward a retirement that fulfills your dreams. Podcast Disclosure: https://creekmurwealth.com/podcast-disclosure/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices