Financial Flight Plan Podcast

Cue the mixtape of Nirvana, Madonna, and Prince… Gen X, it’s your turn to get ready for retirement. And the stakes are high. You were the first 401(k) generation, hit by two major market crashes, and now you’re entering retirement with more financial uncertainty than the Boomers before you. But you also have something else: resilience. If you're in between your mid-40s and early 60s, it’s time to get serious about what retirement w...

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about what your investment strategy should look like, especially in today’s rapidly changing economic landscape, you are absolutely not alone. One of the most common questions Brie hears from clients is: “Should I just invest in index funds and ride it out?” or “Should someone be adjusting my portfolio as the market shifts?” Today’s episode is going to help you answer that question.

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It's been a volatile month. And if you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. But how we respond in moments like this often has roots in the crashes we’ve lived through before. In this episode, we look at how past market meltdowns shaped investor psychology, how today’s chaos might be leaving its own mark, and what lessons we can take with us to navigate what’s next.

Important Links:

Website: https://www.estesfinancial.net/

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Lately, headlines have been filled with news about federal employees- layoffs, uncertainty, and growing concerns, especially for those nearing retirement. If you’re feeling anxious about what’s ahead, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into what’s happening, what you need to be aware of, and how you can prepare. Brie and the team at Estes Financial specialize in working with federal employees, and they’re here to offer...

In this episode, we welcome back a familiar voice, Tim Estes, CEO of Estes Financial and former American Airlines Captain. It's been a difficult year for the American Airlines community, and today, Tim shares his perspective on the challenges facing the aviation industry in 2025. From tragic losses to financial uncertainty and industry-wide furloughs, this episode will provide essential advice for aviation employees and their famil...

Did you know most Americans retire earlier than planned, often due to unexpected health issues, job changes, or financial surprises? These challenges can force people out of work early, leaving them unprepared for decades of retirement. In this episode, we’ll explore recent research highlighting the importance of planning for early retirement, even if it’s not in your current plans.

Important Links:

Website: https://www.estesfina...

Are you and your spouse on the same page when it comes to what retirement is going to look like? If not, it’s time to talk. Listen to this episode where we'll explore why it’s so important for couples to have detailed conversations about their finances and retirement futures. We’ll cover exactly what you need to discuss, and how to handle any disagreements.

This episode was recorded on 9/11, a day that holds deep meaning for many...

Imagine retiring comfortably on just $42 per month—sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s exactly the assertion you might have seen in the headline of a recent article online. So today, we’ll dive into the sensational claim and uncover what it really takes to build your retirement nest egg.

Article:

https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/buying-stocks/articles/you-can-retire-on-4167-a-month-if-you-do-these-2-things/

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One of the more exciting parts of the retirement planning process is dreaming about the lifestyle you want to enjoy. For many retirees, travel is a big part of that vision. However, budgeting for trips in retirement isn't quite the same as when you're working and can count on regular paychecks to replenish your bank account. So, how do we factor in your dream vacations when crafting a retirement plan? We’ll “pack” all that great in...

While you dream about the leisurely days ahead of you in retirement, it’s also important to think about some of the less glamorous items, including insurance. In this new season of life, your old policies may no longer suit your needs or may come to an end. So, what types of coverage should you be considering for your golden years? What do you need to keep in mind as you prep for the transition? We’re going to walk you through the ...

As much as any other threat, recognizing and avoiding scams has become a necessary skill for today’s retirees to develop. Join us as we explore crucial steps you can take to safeguard your financial well-being against the growing tide of scams and identity theft. Learn from real-life stories and gain practical advice to keep your finances secure in this digital era, all from the perspective of a seasoned financial professional.

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401(k)s have changed a lot since the beginning of the game and many of them have a powerful tool that not many people know about. Join us in today's episode as we shed light on this often-overlooked feature within the 401(k) community and explore its potential benefits. And make sure to stick around until the end, where Brie helps a listener think about his retirement options!

Important Links:

Website: https://www.estesfinancial....