On this episode of the Retirement Matters Podcast, we discuss key moves to consider as you head into 2026, along with common mistakes to be mindful of along the way. We share practical takeaways you can think through and apply as you work toward building a well-rounded retirement plan.

We also address an important reality of retirement planning: it's about much more than just having a strong investment strategy. Decisions around Medicare, Social Security, taxes, pensions, and investing all play a role, and many of them don't come with second chances.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

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Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters podcast, we answer real questions from listeners in one of our most popular Questions From Listeners shows. This episode covers four key areas of retirement planning: investments, income, taxes, and healthcare, with discussion of how these strategies can also impact your long-term legacy.

These listener-driven episodes give us the opportunity to address the topics you're most curious about and explore how the different pieces of a retirement plan work together.

If you have a question or topic you'd like considered for a future episode, email contact@rdswealth.com.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters Podcast, we dive into the first episode of the Retirement Matters Radio Show for 2026 and discuss why building confidence in your retirement plan is essential. With market opportunities and uncertainty, having a plan that helps you navigate different scenarios is key, whether you're retired or approaching retirement age.

We explore strategies for structuring your portfolio to help support income needs and prepare for changes in the market. By focusing on planning, you can make informed decisions and feel more confident in your approach to retirement.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters podcast, we wrap up 2025 by sharing several encouraging stories and discussing recent developments related to retirement planning and the financial landscape. We also spend time discussing the 4% rule, including how it is commonly referenced in retirement planning conversations and why it continues to be a topic of interest when thinking about withdrawal strategies.

As we close out the year, we reflect on key themes from 2025 and look ahead to continuing the conversation in 2026. If you have questions about retirement planning or would like to schedule a conversation to discuss your personal situation, we invite you to reach out to us at a time that is convenient for you. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to sharing more educational discussions in future episodes.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters Podcast, we wrap up the year by discussing important end-of-year retirement planning moves and what to consider as we prepare for 2026. We break down current market conditions, recent trends, and why January and February often help set the tone for the year ahead.

We also explain the difference between the growth phase and income phase of retirement planning, why understanding which phase you're in matters, and how proper positioning can help manage market volatility. As we head into a new year, we discuss how uncertainty can lead to market overreactions and what that means for long-term retirement strategies.

Whether you're approaching retirement or already planning for income, this episode provides practical insights to help you think through opportunity, risk management, and preparation as we move toward 2026.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters Podcast, we discuss how artificial intelligence is shaping today's investment landscape and why AI-related stocks may present both opportunity and volatility for long-term investors, while also exploring lessons from the "Lost Decade" of 2000–2010 and what historical market cycles may teach us about navigating today's technology-driven markets. We also cover the role of tax-loss harvesting, particularly as the year comes to a close, and how market volatility can impact individual stocks throughout the year.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters podcast, we talk about the two guiding rules that can help create a more structured approach to retirement planning, especially for those considering an earlier transition. We discuss how emotions often show up in financial decision-making, why it's important to stay grounded during periods of uncertainty, and how adopting the right mindset can support clearer, more intentional planning.

Our team is here to help you retire the way you have always imagined! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 270.600.PLAN!

Schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

On this episode of the Retirement Matters Podcast, we break down the key differences between MYGAs (Multi-Year Guarantee Annuities) and CDs, how each option works, and what factors to consider when deciding which may fit your situation.

We also discuss why understanding your personal retirement goals such as income needs, lifestyle expectations, Social Security choices, taxes, and legacy intentions is essential as you move from the growth phase into the income phase of retirement.

Have any questions about your retirement journey? Our team is here to help!

Give us a call at 270.600.PLAN or schedule a time that works best for you here: https://rdsmotherswealth.com/contact/

If you found today's episode helpful or enjoyable, we'd really appreciate it if you could leave us a star rating and a quick review. Your feedback means a lot to us and helps others discover the show. Thank you for tuning in to the Retirement Matters Show!

Join Our Newsletter: here!

Visit Our Website: here!

Learn More Information: here!

Subscribe to our YouTube: here!

Always remember to Save Money, Plan Well, and Live Happy in Retirement™

DISCLOSURE: R.D. Smothers Wealth Management is a state-registered investment adviser under the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through RDS Insurance Group. R.D. Smothers Wealth Management and RDS Insurance Group are affiliated but separate entities. The oral and written communications of an adviser provide you with information about which you determine to hire or retain an adviser. For more information please visit: https://adviserinfo.sec.gov and search for our firm name. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Information obtained from third-party sources is believed to be reliable though its accuracy is not guaranteed. Opinions expressed in this commentary reflect subjective judgments of the author based on conditions at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.