Ever wondered how to embrace the holiday season with more joy and less stress?

In this episode of the Women's Money Wisdom Podcast, Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® dives into the pressures of holiday obligations and the transformative power of letting go of perfection. Drawing from her own holiday experiences, including cherished traditions at Greenfield Village, Melissa shares how prioritizing joy can create a more fulfilling season.

We explore how social media and personal standards fuel comparison, often leading to stress, and how shifting focus to what truly matters can change both your holidays and your financial mindset. The conversation highlights how women, in particular, can navigate added holiday expectations with grace and confidence.

Beyond holiday traditions, we tackle how comparison impacts financial decisions and overall well-being. By embracing imperfection, you can not only manage holiday pressures but also apply these lessons to everyday life, including how you approach money and lifestyle choices.

Listen and Learn:

• Finding Joy in Imperfection: Let go of comparison and embrace your unique journey.
• Prioritizing What Matters: How small changes can create a more meaningful holiday season.
• Navigating Financial Pressures: Insights on how comparison impacts financial decisions.
• Everyday Lessons from Holiday Experiences: Apply these strategies year-round to enhance well-being.

Join us as we celebrate the beauty of imperfection and discover ways to make the holiday season—and life—a more joyful and fulfilling experience. Tune in today!

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only. No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https://pearlplan.com/

Ever wondered how to navigate retirement planning with both financial security and personal fulfillment in mind?

In this episode of the Women's Money Wisdom Podcast, Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® sits down with Christine Benz, Director of Personal Finance and Retirement Planning at Morningstar and author of How to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement. Christine shares her approach to retirement planning, highlighting strategies like annuities, cash flow management, and balancing time-tested methods with innovative ideas. Gain insights into navigating retirement complexities with an open mind and a strategic outlook.

We delve into managing retirement finances, including equity compensation, tax strategies, and post-retirement financial decisions. Christine provides actionable tips on handling restricted stock units (RSUs), Roth conversions, and optimizing portfolios based on risk tolerance and long-term goals. Generational lessons and past market experiences add valuable perspective.

Christine also emphasizes balancing financial planning with personal fulfillment. Inspired by real-life stories, we discuss aligning work with passions, transitioning gradually into retirement, and making intentional choices for a meaningful future.

Listen and Learn:

• Holistic Retirement Planning: Key strategies like annuities and cash flow management for financial stability.
• Smart Tax and Investment Moves: Tips on RSUs, Roth conversions, and portfolio optimization.
• Generational Insights: Lessons from past market downturns and diverse viewpoints.
• Purposeful Living: Align financial plans with personal passions for a fulfilling retirement.

Join us for practical advice and inspiration to help you create a secure and meaningful retirement. Tune in today!

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only. No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https://pearlplan.com/

What Financial Moves Should Women Prioritize as 2024 Comes to a Close?

As the year winds down and the political landscape shifts under the anticipated policies of President Trump, Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA®, unpacks the key financial strategies women should focus on to optimize their year-end planning. With potential changes to tax policies—including adjustments to the standard deduction and estate tax limits—Melissa offers expert insights to help you navigate the complexities and prepare for a prosperous 2025.

This episode dives into actionable tactics, from maximizing retirement contributions to making strategic property tax decisions, all aimed at setting a strong financial foundation. Additionally, Melissa explores innovative ways to maximize your charitable giving, leverage tax advantages, and celebrate your financial achievements during this reflective season.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating Potential Tax Changes: Understand how upcoming shifts in tax policies, including the standard deduction and estate tax limits, might impact your financial plans and what steps you can take now to stay ahead.
• Year-End Tax Optimization Tactics: Learn how to maximize your retirement contributions, make strategic decisions about property tax payments, and take advantage of key deductions before the year ends.
• Smart Charitable Giving Strategies:
  • Explore the benefits of donor-advised funds and Qualified Charitable Distributions for retirees over 70½.
  • Discover how to utilize the $17,000 annual gift tax exclusion to benefit loved ones.
  • Consider gifting appreciated stock to reduce capital gains taxes while making a meaningful impact.
• Reflecting on Wins and Giving Back: Celebrate your financial achievements in 2024 and explore heartfelt ways to give during the holiday season that align with your values and goals.

Whether you’re preparing for changes in tax laws, planning your charitable contributions, or reflecting on your financial journey, this episode is filled with actionable tips to help you end the year strong and step into 2025 with confidence.

The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only. No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING’s investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING’s current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https://pearlplan.com/