Mason Street Retirement Insights

What if the biggest threat to your retirement isn’t market volatility—but taxes? In this episode, Sean Mason unpacks the complexities of Roth conversions and why timing and strategy matter more than guesswork. From RMDs and widow tax penalties to legislative risk and legacy planning, Sean explains how tax diversification can safeguard your lifestyle and protect your heirs. Plus, discover how fear of spending can sabotag...

Could today’s AI-driven market be echoing the chaos of 1929? Financial advisor Sean Mason dives into the parallels between historic crashes and today’s investment climate, offering insight into how retirees can balance growth and safety. From asset allocation to Social Security strategies, this episode explores how to avoid costly missteps and stay focused all the way to the retirement goal line.

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Retiring early sounds ideal—until it’s forced upon you. In this episode, Sean Mason breaks down how unexpected health issues, layoffs, and caregiving responsibilities often derail retirement timelines. Learn how to build a flexible, longevity-focused retirement plan that can absorb financial shocks and adapt to life’s curveballs. From Roth conversions to tax-loss harvesting and early retirement incentives, Sean sh...

Interest rates are shifting—and so should your retirement strategy. In this episode, Sean Mason breaks down how the Fed’s rate cuts are impacting CDs, annuities, and fixed income products, and why locking in favorable yields now could be crucial. From spending volatility in early retirement to the risks of relying solely on Social Security and pensions, Sean shares real-life planning scenarios and behavioral insights th...

Is your retirement strategy missing out on thousands? This episode dives into Roth conversion season, revealing how timing and expert advice can make or break your financial future. Learn why private equity is shaking up 401(k)s, and discover the red flags that signal it’s time to put your financial advisor in the hot seat. Real-life stories and actionable insights from Sean Mason help you navigate the complexities of retirem...

Are you worried it’s too late to secure your retirement? Discover why planning beats guessing as Paul and Travis Ivanoff tackle the biggest myths and anxieties facing retirees today. From overcoming the fear of starting late to navigating Medicare changes and breaking outdated retirement “rules,” this episode delivers practical strategies for building confidence and clarity in your financial future. Tune in for re...

What happens when your “guaranteed” retirement income isn’t as secure as you think? In this episode, Sean Mason explores the realities behind Medicare changes, income strategies, and the risks of relying on pensions and annuities. Learn why understanding the fine print and planning for uncertainty are essential for protecting your retirement lifestyle and peace of mind.

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Is the bull market here to stay, or is a financial fire lurking in your retirement plan? Join Sean Mason, president of Mason Street Wealth Management, as he unpacks the latest market trends, reveals strategies to balance growth and protection, and explains how to build a retirement plan that lets you choose your future. From risk tolerance to portfolio “flight risks,” discover how intentional planning can turn uncertain...

Is your retirement plan ready for the next headline? This episode dives into how Social Security pairs with other income streams, real-life stories of retirees balancing lifestyle and certainty, and the political risks that could reshape your financial future. Discover actionable insights and strategies to help you navigate market volatility, legislative changes, and the unknowns of retirement.

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Think a 1% fee won’t impact your retirement? Discover how hidden costs and overlooked fees can slash your savings—and why understanding your financial team matters as much as your investments. Sean Mason explains the real value of financial advice, shares strategies for monitoring fees, and explores the emotional side of retirement, including finding purpose and community after leaving the workplace.

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Is Warren Buffett’s move to billions in cash a warning for your retirement strategy? On this episode, Sean Mason breaks down what Buffett’s actions mean for everyday investors, reveals how tax bracket management can save you thousands, and exposes the hidden dangers of required minimum distributions. Plus, practical tips to keep more of your retirement income and avoid costly surprises.

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What does your risk tolerance really say about your retirement plan? In this episode, Sean Mason breaks down how emotions and pragmatism shape your investment strategy—and why revisiting risk tolerance regularly is essential. Plus, we explore the new “Trump accounts” and how they compare to 529 plans for saving toward your grandkids’ future. Whether you're decades away or already retired, Sean shares practic...

What do outdated school lessons and retirement planning myths have in common? More than you think. In this episode of Mason Street Retirement Insights, Sean Mason breaks down the retirement “rules” that no longer serve today’s retirees—or maybe never did. From the 4% withdrawal myth to the misunderstood Rule of 100, Sean explains why personalized strategy beats one-size-fits-all advice. Plus, a deep dive int...

Is “boring” the new smart when it comes to retirement planning? In this episode of Mason Street Retirement Insights, Sean Mason breaks down how rising interest rates, annuity strategies, and recession risks are reshaping retirement decisions. From leveraging today’s rate environment to tailoring risk by time horizon, Sean shares real client stories and practical insights to help listeners rethink their financ...

What if the biggest threat to your retirement isn’t market volatility—but taxes? In this episode, Sean Mason breaks down the complexities of Roth conversions and why timing and strategy matter more than common sense. From RMDs and widow tax penalties to legislative risk and legacy planning, Sean explains how tax diversification can protect your lifestyle and your heirs. Plus, hear how fear of spending can sabotage retir...

What happens when retirement dreams meet real-life fears? In this episode, Sean Mason shares the emotional story that led him into financial advising and how it shaped his mission to help others retire with clarity and confidence. From income planning to long-term care concerns, Sean dives into the realities of retirement and how to prepare for the unexpected. Whether you're five years out or already retired, this episode offers in...

Sean Mason talks about 3 Doors Down lead singer Brad Arnold’s lack of fear with his cancer diagnosis. Then they relate that to why people are so anxious about unexpected events in their lives. Sean shares some tools and tips on how to plan for those…and the important question to ask first. And Sean shares his love of nature in Yosemite and the start of waterfall season.

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Sean Mason discusses how going broke is a main concern of so many people. Then he expresses a major misconception people have about retirement: money saved vs. future income. Sean gives a general rule of thumb to help people determine what they need annually, describes different retirement income tools, and shares how inflation and taxes need to be in the equation. Sean also describes his “Retirement 101” classes and hi...

Sean Mason talks about annuities and explains how they work and why they often are a key ingredient in retirement income. He also shares the negative perception that annuities have but how fixed annuities and their preserved principals often remedy that. Sean also talks about hiking in California and the longest hike he has ever taken.

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