In Episode 140 of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Arrin Wray reveal the critical distinction between accumulation and distribution strategies—and why using the same approach in both phases of life can be financially devastating in retirement. They unpack: Why traditional pie chart portfolios are not retirement plans The danger of using the 4% rule without accounting for sequence of returns risk How a distribution-first strategy helps ensure reliable income—even in volatile or flat markets Why Decker Retirement Planning uses laddered principal-guaranteed accounts instead of bond funds How momentum and dividend strategies provide growth potential in flat or declining markets Real tax strategies to reduce future liabilities, enhance Roth conversion efficiency, and preserve more of your wealth You’ll also learn how Decker’s math-based planning integrates real returns, tax minimization, and fee transparency to help you retire with clarity—not guesswork. 📞 Have questions about your own retirement income plan? Call 833-707-3030 or visit 👉 DeckerRetirementPlanning.com

In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Mark Knauss, CFP(R) walk through five essential strategies to help protect your retirement income from inflation—without exposing your portfolio to unnecessary risk. From laddered income accounts to hard assets and tactical stock exposure, they outline a disciplined approach built for today’s uncertain environment. You’ll also learn: Why COLAs (Cost of Living Adjustments) must be handled carefully in retirement income planning How traditional bond funds are vulnerable in a rising rate world What “real returns” mean—and why they matter more than nominal performance How Decker’s Two-Sided Model uses momentum and stop-loss rules to reduce risk in volatile or flat markets If inflation and future market returns are keeping you up at night, this episode gives you the education—and the options—you need. 📞 Ready to build a retirement plan that actually adjusts for inflation? Call 833-707-3030 or visit DeckerRetirementPlanning.com

What really happens when one spouse passes away? In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Arrin Wray break down one of retirement’s most difficult—but essential—topics: preparing financially and legally for the loss of a spouse. You’ll learn: - The must-have estate documents (wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives) - The “pour-over” provision that helps families avoid probate nightmares - How Social Security, pensions, and taxes change for a surviving spouse - Why compensation clauses and unclear distribution instructions can tear families apart - Steps to protect income, minimize taxes, and create a smooth transition Planning ahead means your spouse and children are cared for—and your legacy is preserved without unnecessary stress or conflict. 👉 Listen now and discover how math-based planning can give you and your loved ones peace of mind. Learn more at https://deckerretirementplanning.com/ We are financial advisors, not attorneys. Always speak to a qualified attorney for legal advice.

As the Fed flirts with rate cuts, many retirees face shrinking savings and money-market yields. In this episode, Brian Decker and Brad Geddes, CFP(R) break down DRP’s Cash Plus portfolio—built for 0–5 year dollars that need liquidity and low volatility, yet can aim higher than plain cash. They also cover how AI is changing principal-guaranteed indexes and the timing inside momentum models, plus a simple checklist for a rock-solid retirement plan. What you’ll learn Why falling rates can punish “safe” cash—and what to do about it How a diversified cash sleeve (short-term Treasuries, market-neutral, dividend equities) targets steadier yield with 100% liquidity “Upside/Downside capture”: keeping more of the good, less of the bad Where AI already fits: principal-guaranteed index designs and trade-timing in momentum strategies Six keys to a resilient retirement plan (taxes, risk control, income optimization, fees, and more) Call us: 833-707-3030 More resources: DeckerRetirementPlanning.com → Safer Retirement Education (free downloads)

In this week’s episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Bradley Geddes, CFP(R) break down one of the most overlooked threats to retirement success—sequence of returns risk. What happens if you retire right before a market downturn? What if your portfolio strategy doesn’t account for market flatness or volatility? You’ll learn: Why traditional 60/40 portfolios fall short in today’s environment How drawing from laddered principal-guaranteed accounts can help stabilize income What Monte Carlo simulations get wrong—and how to avoid becoming a statistic Strategic updates from the new One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), including major tax credits for retirees Don't let bad timing derail decades of hard work. Tune in to hear how a math-based distribution plan can help you retire with confidence—regardless of what the market does next. 🎧 Listen now and take control of your retirement strategy.

Join Brian J. Decker and Marc Knauss, CFP(R) on this week’s episode of Safer Retirement Radio as they uncover why your traditional IRA might be a tax “loan” to the IRS—and how smart Roth conversion planning can turn the tables in your favor. From real-world illustrations of IRA tax bills topping $1.4 million to step-by-step guidance on: IRA Inefficiency: How deferral becomes a hefty tax liability for you —and your heirs Roth Conversions: Why paying taxes now can yield tax-free growth and a far larger legacy Medicare IRMAA: How distributions affect your Medicare premiums (and how to avoid spikes) Advanced Strategies: QDRO “happy divorces,” donor-advised funds, dynasty trusts, cost-segregation for real estate, and more Whether you’re retired or close to retirement, the right tax plan can boost your retirement income, protect against future rate hikes, and maximize what you pass on. Tune in and discover: Real numbers: $1 million IRA → $1.4 million paid to the IRS vs. $319 000 with a Roth plan When and how to convert for maximum impact Estate-planning moves to shelter assets from both income and estate taxes 🔗 Resources & Links: • Download “The Decker Approach to Retirement Planning”: https://deckerretirementplanning.com/ • Safer Retirement Education: https://deckerretirementplanning.com/education • Schedule a no-cost tax analysis: 833-707-3030

Join Brian Decker and Arrin Wray as they unpack the three “compounding risks” that can threaten your nest egg—and show you how to turn them into advantages: Why delaying taxes in a traditional IRA could cost you (and your heirs) over $1 million, and how proactive Roth conversions lock in today’s rates. Five proven inflation hedges—from planned cost-of-living adjustments to strategic home-equity moves—to keep your spending power intact. The hidden danger of sequence-of-return risk and why distribution strategies with laddered, principal-protected accounts are your best defense. Download free checklists, a sample income plan, and “The Decker Approach” book at DeckerRetirementPlanning.com → Safer Retirement Education. Schedule your no-cost retirement review today: 833-707-3030.

In Episode 133 of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian J. Decker and Marc Knauss, CFP(R) explore a suite of advanced estate planning strategies designed to help you protect, preserve, and pass on your wealth efficiently: State & Federal Estate Tax Planning: Using AB trusts, portability, and lifetime gifting exemptions to minimize state and federal estate taxes. Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs): Prepay potential tax liabilities and avoid fire-sale scenarios by holding life insurance outside your taxable estate. Qualified Personal Residence Trusts (QPRTs): Shift your home’s value outside your estate over time while retaining the right to live there. Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs): Freeze today’s value on highly appreciated assets and transfer future growth to the next generation. Dynasty Trusts & Generation-Skipping Transfer: Sidestep the 48% generation-skipping tax and incent responsible behavior across multiple generations. QDROs & Intra-Family Loans: Leverage qualified domestic relations orders and structured loans for tax-efficient wealth transfers. Up-Gifting Techniques: Use step-up in basis by gifting appreciated assets “up” the generational line. Roth IRA Conversions: Compare tax-deferred vs. tax-free growth scenarios and unlock one of the most powerful strategies to reduce lifetime taxes. 📥 Download Free Safer Retirement Education Tools (checklists, the Decker Approach book, Social Security guides, and more): https://deckerretirementplanning.com 📞 Schedule a No-Cost Review with Brian and the team at Decker Retirement Planning: 833-707-3030 Disclosure: Investment advisory and insurance services offered through Decker Retirement Planning, Inc., a registered investment advisor. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always consult a qualified tax advisor before implementing estate planning or tax strategies.

Is the 4% rule still safe in a flat or volatile market? In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Arrin Wray explain why traditional income strategies—like the 4% rule or “living off the interest”—may no longer work in today’s retirement landscape. You’ll learn: ✅ How to build a laddered income plan using principal-guaranteed accounts ✅ The critical mistakes retirees make when taking Social Security ✅ Why Roth conversions may save hundreds of thousands in taxes ✅ How Decker Retirement Planning helps reduce fees and improve income consistency ✅ What smart legacy planning looks like with donor-advised funds and dynasty trusts If you're preparing for retirement—or already retired—this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate income, taxes, and risk with greater confidence. 📞 Schedule a free strategy session at 833-707-3030 or visit DeckerRetirementPlanning.com

In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Marc Knauss, CFP(R) break down the myths and mistakes of traditional retirement strategies—and show you what to do instead. You’ll learn: Why the 4% rule often fails in flat or volatile markets How sequence of return risk can derail your income The three key ways Decker Retirement Planning reduces risk How momentum strategies protect your investments during downturns Why Roth conversions and smart tax placement can save you six figures in retirement taxes Whether you’re already retired or planning to retire in the next 5–10 years, this episode gives you actionable insights to protect your nest egg and retire with confidence. 👉 Learn more or schedule your free visit: https://deckerretirementplanning.com 📞 Call today: 833-707-3030

Think you'll be in a lower tax bracket when you retire? Think again. In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Brad Geddes, CFP(R) dismantle the myth and walk you through real-life tax planning strategies that can help you save hundreds of thousands—or even millions—in retirement taxes. From strategic Roth conversions to dynasty trusts, donor-advised funds, real estate tax planning, and more, this is a masterclass in building a smarter, safer financial future. 🎯 Learn how proactive planning today can help protect your income tomorrow and preserve more wealth for your heirs.

In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Arrin Wray challenge one of the most commonly used retirement strategies: the 4% rule. They explain how flat or volatile markets can quickly derail portfolios relying on this outdated approach and introduce laddered principal-guaranteed accounts as a safer, more reliable alternative. The duo also unpacks the risks of dividend chasing and indexing in today’s market environment and highlights the need for a mathematically sound, risk-conscious income plan. If you’re nearing retirement or recently retired, this episode is a must-listen to help protect your nest egg and find how to plan on consistent income, regardless of market swings. 🔗 Learn more at https://deckerretirementplanning.com/ 📞 Call 833-707-3030 for your complimentary retirement assessment.

In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker breaks down how retirees can confidently navigate turbulent markets without sacrificing their retirement goals. Learn the essential strategies that protect your principal, generate reliable income, and minimize taxes—regardless of economic conditions. Brian also dives into real-world examples showing how proper planning can reduce unnecessary fees and risk, all while preserving liquidity and flexibility. If you're within 5–10 years of retirement or recently retired, this episode is a must-listen.

In this powerful episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Arrin Wray uncover advanced tax strategies designed to help retirees keep more of what they’ve earned. From Roth conversions that could save you over $1 million in taxes, to estate planning tools that preserve your legacy, this episode is packed with real examples and actionable advice. You'll learn: ✔️ How Roth conversions can reduce future tax liabilities ✔️ The power of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) ✔️ Ways to mitigate estate taxes with Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs) ✔️ How to freeze business value to pass future growth tax-free ✔️ The role of AB Trusts in estate planning ✔️ Accelerated depreciation for rental income savings ✔️ Tools to avoid capital gains on high-value assets 📞 Ready to see how these strategies apply to your plan? Call Decker Retirement Planning for a free consultation at (833) 707-3030 or visit https://deckerretirementplanning.com/

🎙️ In This Episode: Market volatility is a reality—so how do you protect your retirement savings while still growing your wealth? In Episode 126 of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Marc Knauss break down the latest market trends and reveal strategies to help retirees reduce risk while ensuring a stable income. 📉 Key Topics Discussed: ✅ The impact of the S&P 500 crossing its 200-day moving average ✅ The concentration risk of the "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks ✅ Why traditional buy-and-hold strategies may not work in retirement ✅ How principal-guaranteed accounts and sector rotation strategies can enhance your portfolio ✅ Interest rate risks and how to manage them effectively 🔍 Whether you're recently retired or within 5-10 years of retirement, this episode will provide actionable insights to help you secure your financial future. 💡 Want More? Download Brian Decker’s book The Decker Approach, explore the Three Principles of Retirement, and access free retirement planning resources at https://deckerretirementplanning.com/ 📞 Get Personalized Retirement Guidance Call 833-707-3030 for a complimentary consultation with one of our expert advisors. 🔊 Listen now and take control of your retirement future!

In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, host Brian Decker and co-host Arrin Wray break down the financial and geopolitical risks that could impact your retirement. From market volatility and inflation to global conflicts and economic uncertainty, we discuss the key challenges retirees face today—and how you can navigate them with confidence. 💡 What you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Why traditional stock-and-bond portfolios no longer provide stability in retirement ✅ The dangers of relying on interest rate-sensitive investments ✅ How a structured distribution plan can create consistent, reliable income ✅ Strategies to reduce risk, optimize income, and minimize taxes 🔊 Listen now to take control of your financial future!

In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker of Decker Retirement Planning explores six key pillars essential for a secure and fulfilling retirement. This episode covers: ✅ How to structure a retirement distribution plan for stable income ✅ Tax minimization strategies to keep more of your wealth ✅ Risk-reduction techniques to protect your investments in any market ✅ Optimizing income and portfolio performance ✅ The role of principal-guaranteed accounts and momentum strategies ✅ Estate planning essentials to secure your legacy Gain valuable insights to build a retirement strategy that helps ensure financial security and peace of mind. 🎧 Tune in now!

Is the government taking away your Social Security benefits? 🤔 In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker and Mark Knauss break down the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO)—two rules that reduce Social Security benefits for teachers, government employees, and those with mixed earnings. 🚨 The Social Security Fairness Act could change the rules, but what does that mean for your retirement? Tune in to learn how these policies affect your income and what you can do to protect yourself!

🎙️ In this episode of Safer Retirement Radio, Brian Decker dives into the impact of Trump's tariffs on retirement portfolios. Discover how these tariffs serve as negotiating tools and explore their effects on trade with China, Canada, Mexico, and the EU. 📊 Brian explains his comprehensive three-part approach to retirement planning: cash, safe money, and risk allocations. Learn about effective distribution plans to secure sustainable income and tax strategies like Roth conversions to minimize future tax liabilities. 📈 Brian also discusses the benefits of equity-indexed accounts and AI-enhanced allocations for principal-guaranteed investments. Don’t miss out on insights designed to navigate market uncertainties and optimize your retirement portfolio. 🔍 Tune in for expert guidance on: Analyzing the impact of tariffs across different market conditions Generating income and growth with laddered principal-guaranteed and equity-indexed accounts Implementing tax planning strategies to reduce liabilities 📅 Gain the knowledge to ensure your retirement is secure and well-planned. Visit https://deckerretirementplanning.com/ to learn more. The information provided is for educational purposes only. Always validate/verify the information with your legal or compliance representation.

Gain valuable insights into retirement planning with Brian Decker as he reflects on 2024 market trends and shares strategies to navigate the financial landscape of 2025. Discover how Fed rate cuts impact markets, bond fund risks in a low-interest-rate environment, and why small caps and banks stand to benefit. Learn actionable tips on tax minimization, Roth IRA conversions, and portfolio updates to optimize your retirement plan. Brian also addresses geopolitical risks, supply chain challenges, and the importance of a diversified, risk-managed portfolio. Take charge of your financial future with advice tailored to help you maximize after-tax income and find peace of mind. Schedule your complimentary consultation with Decker Retirement Planning today!