The Retirement Solution

Think taxes end with April 15th? Think again. In this episode, Jon Hicks unpacks the difference between tax prep and tax planning—especially in retirement. He breaks down the latest updates from the OBBA (One Big Beautiful Bill Act), how Social Security taxation has evolved, and why most retirees face more complex tax situations than they expect. From income stream strategy to lifetime tax reduction, this episode explores how...

What happens when the U.S. debt soars and fewer countries want to buy our bonds? In this episode, Jon Hicks breaks down how rising national debt, failing bond auctions, and inflation could impact your retirement portfolio. From the risks of traditional bonds to the potential of private credit and annuities, Jon explores alternatives to the classic 60/40 model—and why now might be the time to rethink your fixed income strategy...

If it costs two cents to make a penny, what else in your financial life doesn’t make sense? In this episode, Jon Hicks breaks down outdated investment strategies that could be quietly draining your retirement savings. From tax-inefficient mutual funds and high-fee variable annuities to underperforming insurance policies, Jon explains how to spot financial dead weight and what to do about it. It’s not about panic—i...

Is buying the dip the same as a Roth conversion? Not quite—but there’s a smart way to connect the two. In this episode, Jon Hicks breaks down how market downturns can create tax-savvy opportunities—if executed correctly. From risk arbitrage to asset location, Jon explains why good ideas often fail without the right strategy. Whether you're eyeing a Roth conversion or just trying to avoid costly tax mistakes, this ...

What if the secret to retirement confidence is as simple as three buckets? In this episode, Jon Hicks of J. Hagan Capital breaks down his “Now, Soon, and Later” strategy for managing retirement income through market volatility. With insights on liquidity, income generation, and long-term growth, Jon explains how to structure your assets to weather downturns without panic. From emergency funds to annuities and investment...

One wrong move can ruin a vacation—and your retirement. In this episode, Jon Hicks draws a sharp comparison between travel mishaps and financial missteps, revealing the top three mistakes that can derail your retirement: claiming Social Security at the wrong time, failing to shift to a conservative investment strategy, and overspending without a plan. Learn how to avoid these pitfalls and build a retirement that lasts.

What happens at age 59½ that could change your retirement strategy? Financial advisor Jon Hicks breaks down the key age milestones that shape your retirement decisions—from in-service withdrawals and Social Security timing to Medicare enrollment and required minimum distributions. Learn how each age unlocks new financial choices and why getting a second opinion might be worth it. Whether you're DIY-ing your plan or wor...

Are you ready to navigate the emotional and financial maze of retirement? Jon Hicks goes through the evolving roles of financial coaching and advising, focusing on the transition into retirement and how to structure exit strategies for business owners. Learn how to align your goals with your financial plan, explore the balance between lifestyle and savings, and uncover the hidden challenges of leaving a business behind. Whether you...

What does Warren Buffett’s investment wisdom have to do with your retirement? Jon Hicks dives into his core principles—stick to a plan, avoid emotional decisions, and don’t lose what you can’t afford to lose—and reimagines them for today’s retirees. From “bucket strategies” that ensure financial stability to balancing traditional investment approaches with emerging opportunities like ...

A financial legacy can be complicated and overwhelming, especially without proper planning. Jon Hicks discusses the importance of legacy planning and how failing to do so can lead to costly legal battles and hefty tax bills. Celebrity examples like James Gandolfini, Kobe Bryant, and Aaron Carter illustrate the consequences of not having updated estate plans. Jon emphasizes the need for a will, particularly for those over 45 or with...

Retiring in uncertain economic times can be daunting, but a well-structured plan can help you navigate these challenges. Jon Hicks goes through the impacts of recession fears on retirement plans. Discover how a well-thought-out strategy can help you navigate market uncertainties and ensure a sustainable income during retirement. Learn about the five key pillars of a successful retirement plan and how to implement them to protect yo...

Retirement planning can be daunting, especially when considering tariffs and economic fluctuations. Jon Hicks explores how retirees and soon-to-be retirees can assess their financial position, understand their income sources, and ensure their financial stability. John Hicks and his team delve into what it means to be 'positioned well' and share insights on spending wisely, protecting your income, and making thoughtful decisions abo...

Have you considered how the outdated 4% rule could impact your retirement? Jon Hicks delves into the revised 4.7% rule by William Benjamin, emphasizing the risks of relying solely on market returns averaging 9%. He scrutinizes the sequence of returns risk, explaining how early losses can drastically reduce retirement savings. Jon also discusses the need for realistic financial planning and the pitfalls of blanket advice, urging lis...

Are you truly ready for retirement? Jon Hicks dives into the emotional and financial aspects of retiring, emphasizing four crucial elements: emotional preparedness, sufficient savings, managing portfolio depletion, and discussing plans with your significant other. These factors are vital in determining whether you can retire now or need to wait. Planning for retirement involves understanding both financial stability and personal re...

Retirement planning can be simplified using a three-bucket approach:

1. Immediate Income
2. Short-term Income
3. Long-term Growth.

Jon Hicks explains how these 3 buckets work together to navigate market fluctuations and economic uncertainties, providing a structured plan for financial stability.

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The market’s up… the market’s down… back up… then back down… and tariff policy is constantly changing. Is stability possible during nonstop turbulence? Jon Hicks dives into the essentials of setting up a secure retirement plan amidst economic uncertainties and ever-changing policies. He explains how to balance risk and safety with clear strategies that could ensure steady income while safegua...

What investments are dragging down your portfolio? Jon Hicks explains how to clean out your investments and eliminate underperformers such as TDFs to maximize gains. He discusses the option of rolling over your 401k into a self-directed IRA at 59 and a half to gain more control of the assets to invest in. Jon also touches on other investments to avoid, such as high-dividend ETFs that pose more risk than people may realize.

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Retirement can be unpredictable, especially when faced with unexpected layoffs and economic shifts. Jon Hicks explores the emotional and financial impact of forced early retirement and offers practical strategies for navigating these challenges. From calculating buyout packages to adjusting retirement plans, Jon covers essential steps that could lead to a secure and stable future during your golden years.

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Is stagflation a possibility? Is a recession looming? How will these impact your retirement? Jon Hicks explains that with economic uncertainty and market fluctuations, retirees and those nearing retirement need to prepare for potential financial challenges. He explores the impact of market downturns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining income streams during such periods and mitigating taxes through proper planning.

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