Charleston's Retirement Coach

What happens when you reach retirement with millions saved—but realize you never learned how to enjoy it? Brandon Bowen explores the surprising regrets of over‑savers and why unspent wealth often reflects fear, habit, or lack of planning. Through real client stories—including retirees who waited too long to travel and those finally learning to loosen their grip—he highlights how purpose, memories, and intentional ...

What if the real challenge of retirement isn’t saving your money—but knowing how to use it? In this episode, Brandon Bowen unpacks why relying solely on investment income can be more complex than it sounds and explores what retirees should consider when balancing growth, risk, and steady income needs. Through real client examples and practical insights, he explains how shifting from a growth‑first mindset to an income‑f...

Is Social Security really a gift, or just a confusing benefit you’ve paid for your whole life? Brandon Bowen unpacks the myths and realities of claiming Social Security, exploring how timing, personal circumstances, and lesser-known options like survivor benefits can shape your retirement income. Learn why a personalized approach matters when integrating Social Security into your overall plan.

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Could microscopic fees be eating away at your retirement savings? Brandon Bowen exposes the hidden costs lurking in investment portfolios and explains why transparency, risk management, and a clear income plan are essential for financial confidence. Learn how a portfolio “X-ray” can reveal what’s really happening behind the scenes and empower you to make informed decisions about your future.

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Is your financial advisor still the right coach for your retirement? Brandon Bowen breaks down the warning signs that it’s time for a second opinion, from outdated strategies to poor communication. Learn how to spot red flags, ask the right questions, and make sure your retirement plan is truly working for you.

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What if your retirement expenses doubled—would your plan survive? Brandon Bowen explores the paradox of time, inflation, and lifestyle expectations in retirement. Discover why comparing yourself to others can sabotage your financial confidence and learn how a customized playbook can help you plan for rising costs, debt reduction, and steady income. This episode breaks down real-life scenarios and practical strategies to help ...

What happens when layoffs or retirement loom and your financial future feels uncertain? Brandon Bowen discusses how to hit pause, reassess your plan, and navigate the emotional and practical shifts that come with leaving the workforce. From managing income and healthcare to redefining purpose and building a customized retirement playbook, this episode explores real stories and strategies for making the transition with confidence an...

What should you do with your 401(k) when you retire—and how do you turn that nest egg into reliable income? This episode explores the crucial decisions facing new retirees, from rolling over your 401(k) to an IRA, to consolidating accounts, and analyzing payout options. Brandon Bowen shares real stories of clients who found confidence and freedom by making smart choices, streamlining their finances, and maximizing their requi...

What happens when raising parents becomes life’s toughest challenge? Brandon Bowen explores the realities of caregiving for aging loved ones, from unexpected expenses and emotional stress to the impact on your own retirement plans. Hear real stories, practical strategies, and why putting your financial mask on first is essential for supporting those you love without sacrificing your future.

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Is your retirement plan a tangled web of accounts, tax statuses, and unanswered questions? Brandon Bowen breaks down the complexity of modern retirement, from consolidating old 401(k)s and IRAs to tackling tax strategies and portfolio risk. Discover why a customized blueprint is essential and how thoughtful planning can help you navigate the financial maze with confidence.

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Are retirement fears keeping you up at night—even with a healthy nest egg? This episode explores why Gen Xers and others worry about outliving their savings, market crashes, and income gaps. Brandon Bowen breaks down the power of asset allocation, the difference between passive and active management, and how a portfolio “X-ray” can reveal hidden risks and costs. Discover strategies to align your investments with y...

Could a new tax law change your retirement strategy? Brandon Bowen explores the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, revealing how new deductions, Roth conversions, and charitable moves can reshape your nest egg. Learn why timing matters, how income thresholds affect your benefits, and why Social Security filing is more complex than you think. Get practical insights on maximizing opportunities before they disappear, and discov...

Feeling like time is flying by and you’re behind on retirement planning? In this episode, Brandon Bowen shares why it’s never too late to take action, even as the year winds down. Discover why most people retire earlier than planned, how proactive planning can help you retire on your terms, and why your retirement deserves as much attention as your biggest vacation. Hear real client stories about building income plans, ...

How do you turn your savings into a steady paycheck after work ends? Charleston’s retirement coach Brandon Bowen explains the shift from traditional pensions to DIY retirement, sharing strategies for creating protected income and balancing risk. Discover why knowing your monthly number and dialing in the right mix of guarantees and growth is the key to spending confidently and enjoying your next chapter.

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Are bonds really the answer for every portfolio—or is it time to rethink your strategy? Brandon Bowen tackles conflicting financial advice, challenges blanket statements from gurus like Tony Robbins, and shares a powerful story of rebuilding after a devastating 401(k) loss. Discover why customized planning, trust, and exploring new investment options can help you reduce risk and unlock greater growth potential as you approach...

Tired of the market roller coaster? Discover how consistent income streams can bring peace of mind in retirement. Brandon Bowen explains why annuities—especially fixed index annuities—are gaining popularity, and how smart planning can help you avoid “rocking chair regrets.” Hear real-life stories of retirees who travel, support family, and enjoy life without stressing over market swings. Learn how an income ...

Ready to get off the market roller coaster? This episode explores how “boring” income strategies—like Social Security timing and fixed indexed annuities—can bring steady cash flow in retirement. Brandon Bowen shares real-life stories, debunks annuity myths, and explains why predictable income is the key to enjoying life, traveling, and reducing stress. Discover how an income inspection can help you avoid reg...

Is your retirement income plan built to last? In this episode, Brandon Bowen breaks down the pros and cons of annuities and explains why guaranteed income is the cornerstone of a successful retirement strategy. From fixed indexed annuities to income riders, Brandon shares how to protect your principal, avoid high fees, and create a reliable cash flow—even if the market takes a hit. If you’re 50+ and have saved $500K or ...

Is your retirement portfolio riding too heavily on the “Magnificent Seven”? In this episode, Charleston’s Retirement Coach Brandon Bowen breaks down the risks of overconcentration in today’s tech-heavy market and explains how to rebalance for long-term retirement success. From Morningstar risk assessments to rules-based investing with Market Guard, Brandon shares how to spot hidden vulnerabilities and build ...