Michigan's Retirement Coach Podcast With Mike Douglas

What if retirement wasn’t the end—but the beginning of something more meaningful? In this episode, Mike Douglas explores how to retire with purpose, not just a portfolio. From mental and physical wellness to community, service, and faith, he outlines five key areas to help you thrive in your next chapter. It’s not just about money—it’s about living with intention.

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Think doing your own taxes in retirement is no big deal? It could be a six-figure mistake. In this episode, Mike Douglas breaks down the difference between tax prep and tax planning—and why the latter is critical as you shift from saving to spending. From Roth conversions to RMDs and business write-offs, Mike shares real-life strategies that can help reduce your lifetime tax bill and protect your nest egg. If you’re ent...

We all dream about retirement—but are we actually planning for it? In this episode, Mike Douglas shares four powerful steps to help you turn your retirement dreams into reality. From front-loading your early retirement years to creating a “living inheritance” and protecting your legacy, Mike explains how to align your financial plan with your life goals. It’s not just about saving—it’s about spen...

Mariah Carey may not believe in birthdays, but the IRS sure does. In this episode, Mike Douglas breaks down the five key ages that shape your retirement tax strategy—and why ignoring them could cost you. From catch-up contributions at 50 to required distributions at 73, Mike explains how each milestone opens (or closes) a window of opportunity. Whether you're planning withdrawals, considering Roth conversions, or just trying ...

What if you lived to 120—would your retirement plan survive? In this episode, Mike Douglas tackles the growing reality of extreme longevity and what it means for your financial future. From shifting retirement age expectations to the impact of medical breakthroughs, Mike explores how to build a plan that supports not just a long life, but a fulfilling one. Whether you're retiring at 59 or 69, this conversation will challenge ...

What do roller coasters and retirement have in common? In this episode, Mike Douglas draws a vivid parallel between thrill rides and market volatility, offering practical strategies to help you step off the financial roller coaster. From segmenting your income and managing risk to understanding the real impact of 401(k) limitations, Mike breaks down how to build a retirement plan that fits your life—not the financial industry...

What if your dream retirement trip could be wiped out by a market dip? In this episode, Mike Douglas explains how to protect your retirement lifestyle from volatility using a segmented investment strategy. From front-loading your “must-go” years to navigating 401(k) setbacks and milestone ages, Mike shares real stories and practical insights to help you retire with confidence, not fear.

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Is filing for Social Security early a smart move—or a fear-based reaction? Mike Douglas breaks down the real math behind early claims, income limits, tax traps, and survivorship strategies. From misunderstood stats to outdated loopholes, he explores what retirees might be missing when they rush to collect benefits. Whether you're planning for age 62 or 70, this conversation helps you think critically about timing and trade-of...

Retirement is often a maze of financial decisions, but are you building the right safeguards for your future? Mike Douglas goes through the impact of tariffs, market timing, and the shifting taxation landscape affecting retirees. Highlighting strategies to preserve wealth and segment financial plans, listeners gain insights into managing their "old money" and planning for generational transitions amidst ever-changing economic chall...

Are you retiring to something or just stepping away from work? Mike Douglas dives into the heart of retirement planning, exploring how purpose, legacy, and life goals shape your post-work years. Inspired by the story of Anne Schroeder, a 94-year-old who worked for 75 years, Mike highlights the importance of aligning your financial plans with what truly fulfills you. Learn about embracing change, finding purpose beyond a paycheck, a...

With retirement around the corner, it's time to rethink outdated financial rules. In today's world, applying strategies from 1995 to your retirement could leave you unprepared and vulnerable. Mike Douglas emphasizes the importance of personalized retirement planning, considering your unique needs, risk tolerance, and goals. Key actions include determining your net after-tax income, identifying any gaps, and finding low-risk solutio...

Are you ready to roll over your 401k without falling into tax pitfalls? Mike Douglas goes through the complexities of 401k rollovers. He explores essential questions to ask, such as understanding the type of money in your account and evaluating fees. He also discusses whether it’s better to leave some money behind for early access and how identifying the right fiduciary can impact your retirement strategy.

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Retirement can be full of surprises, and not all of them are welcome. Certified Financial Planner Mike Douglas discusses the importance of planning for the curveballs that life may throw at you after you retire. From market volatility to health care costs, he explores how to build a solid financial plan that anticipates both the expected and the unexpected. Discover how to preserve your financial future so you can enjoy your retire...

Ever wondered how retirement planning is like picking the perfect avocado? Certified Financial Planner Mike Douglas explores the balance between enjoying life now and saving for the future. It emphasizes the importance of making the most out of healthy years and not delaying gratification too much, while also ensuring financial security for later years. Mike discusses how to plan a fulfilling retirement and avoid common pitfalls li...

Are you emotionally and financially ready to retire? Certified Financial Planner Mike Douglas explores the crucial emotional and logical checklists needed for retirement. He discusses the importance of having a clear purpose after leaving work, managing depleting accounts, and communicating with your spouse about retirement plans. He also emphasizes the necessity of a well-thought-out financial strategy, including income planning, ...

Retirement planning doesn't have to be intimidating. Certified Financial Planner Mike Douglas explains how to protect your savings from market volatility and ensure a steady income throughout your retirement. By focusing on securing monthly income first and safeguarding future money, Mike emphasizes that retirees should aim for stability no matter what the market does. He highlights the importance of understanding your unique finan...

Mike Douglas gives an objective overview of Trump’s tariff strategy and how the United States got into the trade deficits it’s currently in. He sheds light on how China and other countries have put themselves in advantageous positions regarding trade. Mike also provides historical context of where Nancy Pelosi once stood on trade imbalance with China back in the 90s and how much it was costing the American workforce.

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Trump’s retaliatory tariffs have taken effect, and the markets have significantly dropped. So, what does this mean for your portfolio? Certified Financial Planner Mike Douglas shares 5 actionable things we need to do to keep our emotions in check amid market volatility:

1. Stay focused on the long-term plan
2. Review Your Withdraw Strategies
3. Assess Your Risk Exposure
4. Diversifying The Right Way for Now
5. Avoid Panic Selling &...

Retirement planning can be a maze, and navigating Roth conversions is a crucial part of it. In this episode, Certified Financial Planner Mike Douglas dives into the complexities of Roth IRAs, discussing deadlines for contributions and conversions, and the impact on taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. Mike explains how to time your conversions to avoid pitfalls, especially for retirees who need to manage unpredictable expenses.

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