The Financial Lab
Creating a solid retirement requires more than an idea. It can take a lot of trial and error to tell the difference between just a hypothesis and the real-world truths. That’s why you need a source that puts the data to the test and discovers the results only years of experience can bring to the table. There’s everyone else, and then there’s The Financial Lab with Travis Shepherd! Each week Travis brings his unique angle to the financial news of the day and looks through the headlines to break down the real data you want for your retirement. Whether you’re experimenting with the market or just need to make sense of the hard numbers, The Financial Lab makes sure you get the research you need. Shepherd Wealth Solutions
Episodes
Inflation may be quietly rewriting the rules of retirement planning. In this episode, Travis digs into why the classic 60/40 portfolio may no longer behave the way retirees expect and what modern tools may offer more stability. He explores how inflation, interest rate cycles, and changing market dynamics affect bonds, and why strategies like fixed index annuities, dividend portfolios, and covered-call income can help fill toda...
Ever wondered why Required Minimum Distributions feel like a financial Rubik’s Cube? In this episode of The Financial Lab, Travis Shepard breaks down the complexities of RMDs, tax brackets, and strategies that can turn a perceived penalty into a powerful planning tool. From Roth conversions to charitable giving, discover how every move in retirement planning ripples through your financial future. Real-world examples show how ...
Is your retirement plan leaking purchasing power without you realizing it? In this episode Travis Shepard breaks down the real impact of Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustment, rising Medicare premiums, and hidden costs that eat away at your income. Plus, they dive into gold’s record highs, why FOMO isn’t a strategy, and how to build a plan that grows with you—no matter what the market throws your way.
Is your retirement plan stuck in the past? This episode of The Financial Lab busts outdated rules and exposes how Federal Reserve headlines can mislead retirees. Financial advisor Travis Shepard reveals why one-size-fits-all advice—like the 4% rule or retiring at 65—doesn’t work, and how tailoring your strategy to your lifestyle, cash flow, and comfort is key. Tune in for candid insights, practical examples, and a...
Are you letting fear dictate your retirement spending? In this episode of The Financial Lab, financial advisor Travis Shepard break down the complexities of Medicare open enrollment and reveal how to conquer the anxiety of spending your savings. Discover practical tips for choosing the right Medicare plan, planning for healthcare costs, and building a guaranteed income floor so you can enjoy retirement with confidence. Tune in for ...
What does Warren Buffett’s $344 billion cash move reveal about retirement strategy? In this episode of The Financial Lab, financial advisor Travis Shepard breaks down Buffett’s shift, explaining how de-risking and strategic asset segmentation can protect your retirement. Plus, discover why tax planning isn’t just an April 15th event—it’s a lifelong strategy. From small business tax hacks to building a ...
What if your biggest tax-saving opportunity is hiding in a financial “valley”? In this episode of The Financial Lab, Travis Shepard dives into the strategy behind Roth conversions—when to do them, how to spot ideal timing windows, and why “valleys” like income dips or market downturns can be golden opportunities. From tax bracket control to legacy planning and even creating tax-free income streams...
What if paying taxes now could save you thousands later? In this episode of The Financial Lab, Kacey Biddy and financial advisor Travis Shepard unpack the often-misunderstood world of Roth conversions. From tax flexibility to avoiding costly Medicare surprises, they break down why converting your traditional retirement accounts might be a smart move—and when it might not be. Whether you're a high earner, nearing retireme...
On this episode of The Financial Lab Podcast, Travis delves into the intricacies of tax deferral and tax mitigation strategies, emphasizing the importance of proactive tax planning for retirement. He discusses common mistakes individuals make when managing their taxes, effective strategies for tax deferral, and share real-life success stories that highlight the benefits of professional guidance in navigating tax complexities. The c...
On this episode of The Financial Lab Podcast, Travis discusses critical financial red flags that retirees should be aware of. Hr explores the importance of capital preservation, the dangers of overspending, and the risks associated with overly conservative investment strategies. Additionally, he highlights the prevalence of investment scams targeting retirees and provide insights on how to avoid falling victim to these schemes. The...
On this episode of The Financial Lab Podcast, Travis delves into the various types of investment accounts, focusing on the differences between IRAs and regular investment accounts, as well as the significance of 401(k)s and employer-sponsored accounts. They emphasize the importance of understanding tax implications and personalized financial planning to maximize wealth-building opportunities.
On this episode of The Financial Lab Podcast, Travis dive into the fundamentals of investing, covering essential topics such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs. They emphasize the importance of understanding the purpose behind investing and debunk common myths, particularly around diversification. The conversation aims to equip listeners with the knowledge and confidence to take control of their financial future.
In this episode of The Financial Lab Podcast, Travis delves into the complexities of taxes in retirement. He discusses how various income sources, including Social Security, pensions, and IRAs, are taxed and the importance of planning for these taxes to avoid unexpected financial burdens. The conversation also covers the implications of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and how they can impact tax strategies. Additionally, Trav...
In this episode of The Financial Lab Podcast, Travis delves into the topic of tariffs, explaining their definition, significance, and impact on the economy. He discusses how tariffs function as taxes on imports, leading to increased prices for consumers and potential inflation. The conversation highlights the broader economic implications, including the effects on corporate profits, consumer spending, and GDP. Travis emphasizes the...
In this episode, Travis Shepard discusses the importance of asset protection and common mistakes individuals and business owners make in safeguarding their wealth. Travis emphasizes the need for a risk management strategy to navigate market fluctuations and shares a success story of a client who benefited from proactive asset management.
The conversation highlights the significance of being aware of market risks and the necessity o...
In this episode, Travis Shepherd discusses the importance of guaranteed income in retirement planning. He explores various sources of guaranteed income, including Social Security and annuities, and emphasize the need for a solid financial foundation to ensure a secure retirement. Through a case study of a client named Betty, they illustrate how strategic planning can enhance income while minimizing tax burdens.
The conversation hig...
In this episode of The Financial Lab, Travis Shepard discusses the complexities of financial planning for aging parents. He explores the importance of initiating difficult conversations about financial situations, the significance of estate planning, and the role of powers of attorney and trusts in ensuring a smooth transition of wealth.
The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive planning to maintain independence and prepar...
In this episode, Travis discusses the intricacies of Social Security, including its origins, common misconceptions, and the importance of tax planning in retirement. He emphasizes that Social Security is not just a safety net but a complex system that requires careful consideration in financial planning.
The conversation highlights the need for individuals to understand the tax implications of their Social Security benefits and to ...
In this episode, Travis Shepard discusses the complexities of retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding personal spending needs and the qualitative aspects of retirement beyond just financial numbers. He explores how to approach retirement planning by considering both financial and time factors, encouraging listeners to think about their desired lifestyle in retirement and how to start living those dreams now...
In this episode of The Financial Lab, Travis Shepherd discusses significant tax changes that occurred during Trump's presidency and what potential changes may come in the future. He explores how these tax changes impact individuals and businesses, emphasizing the importance of adapting financial strategies to remain tax-efficient.
The conversation also highlights the need for proactive planning and regular communication with financ...
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