Episodes

Have you ever looked at the stock market and wondered why it seems to tell a completely different story than your own finances? When headlines point to economic strength but everyday expenses keep rising, it’s natural to question which picture reflects reality. In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, explains why economic data and personal financial experience don’t always move together. He explores how inflation, interest rates, corporate profits, consumer confidence, and market behavior each...

Have you ever wondered why your taxes or Medicare costs seem to increase even when tax rates haven’t changed? Small planning decisions can have a much bigger financial impact than many retirees realize. In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, explains five often overlooked tax rules that can quietly increase retirement costs over time. He breaks down Medicare premium surcharges, Social Security taxation, payroll taxes, home sale capital gains, and the hidden impact of income thresholds that ha...

Many people are saving consistently, yet still feel uncertain about their future. What if the issue is not how much you’ve saved, but how well everything works together? In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, introduces a Retirement Readiness Report developed by his team at Kaydan Wealth Management, designed to bring all the moving pieces of a financial plan into one clear view. He explains why clarity matters more than accumulation alone, and how disconnected accounts, tax exposure, and with...

Retirement is rarely one long, predictable stretch. Spending, priorities, and daily life can shift more than many people expect, which is why a more realistic framework can make planning feel less stressful. What if the real challenge is not just having enough money, but knowing when and how to use it well? In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, explains why retirement should be viewed in three chapters instead of one flat timeline. He breaks down the go-go, go-slow, and later years, showing ...

What’s the real cost of education when your retirement is on the line? In part two of this series, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, breaks down the financial tradeoffs hidden in today’s education planning landscape from brand-new Trump Savings Accounts to long-term student loan debt, and how poorly timed withdrawals could sabotage your retirement timeline. With decades of experience guiding families through these complex intersections, Jim offers clear insight into what to prioritize, how to help protec...

For many families, education and retirement happen on the same financial timeline. The dollars that help a child chase their dreams can just as easily be the dollars that shape your future. That’s why recent education reforms deserve your attention, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or planning for your own education journey. In part one of this special two-part series, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, explores how the new “One Big Beautiful Bill” reshapes education funding and why it matters for yo...

You can do everything right, save consistently, invest wisely, build a retirement plan, and still be one accident away from financial devastation. Why? Because many of us unknowingly overlook one critical piece of protection: uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). In this episode of The Retirement Engineer, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, sits down with Mike Kane, a Personal Injury Attorney and Former U.S. Marine, to break down how this often-skipped coverage works, who it helps protect...

A sweeping new financial law dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill” is changing the rules for retirees and those nearing retirement. From tax deductions on Social Security to estate planning thresholds, Roth account changes, healthcare cost shifts, and updates to 529 plans, the legislation is reshaping the financial landscape. In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, breaks down the details and explores how these changes may impact your retirement strategy. You’ll learn what’s staying the same, wh...

When markets drop, most people freeze or flee. But what if the smartest move isn’t to retreat, but to go on offense? In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, unpacks why volatile markets can be a gift to strategic investors who know how to capitalize on short-term fear for long-term gain. Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, walks listeners through how understanding market patterns, managing risk, and applying proactive investment tactics can turn turbulence into opportunity. Whether you’re accumulating we...

What are the clear signs it’s time to stop DIYing your retirement planning? Here are the five indicators that call for professional guidance. Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, unravels the complexities of retirement planning. With his wealth of experience, he explores when it’s best to transition from self-management to professional advice. This episode offers universal insights for anyone considering a DIY approach to retirement planning. Key discussion points include: The complexities of growing incom...

What do tariffs mean for your retirement savings and investments? Is it still okay to retire right now? In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, tackles the often-overlooked world of tariffs and their unexpected impact on your financial future. Whether you’re decades away from retirement or just around the corner, understanding these global financial levers can be crucial. Key conversations in this release include: What tariffs are and why governments use them [00:01:39] The historical and eco...

How can artificial intelligence threaten your retirement savings? In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, welcomes former FBI Special Agent Jeff Lanza, an expert in cybercrime and fraud prevention, to discuss how AI-driven scams could affect your financial security. Jeff shares eye-opening insights on various AI-driven scams, including phishing emails, romance scams, and the rise of deep fakes. They discuss how these scams exploit seniors and take advantage of technological naivety. Learn valu...

How does your savings strategy impact your financial future, particularly with tax season looming and new contribution limits set for 2025? Jim KruzanCFP®, CRPC® and guest Dylan Stewart, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Public Accountant, unravel the concept of tax-efficient waterfall funding—an approach crafted to maximize your savings efficiency while minimizing tax burdens. Together, they provide insights into how this process not only benefits savers but also retirees by reversing...

Starting the year with financial resolutions is common, but making them stick is the real challenge. How can you ensure your goals turn into lasting habits? In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, explores strategies to set realistic financial resolutions and sustain them. He provides actionable insights on how to turn resolutions into habits, prioritize effectively, and build accountability systems for long-term success. Jim discusses: Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevan...

It’s time to reflect on the invaluable insights from the very best episodes throughout the year, featuring top experts who simplify financial complexities and share actionable strategies. Join Jim Kruzan as he delves into unforgettable conversations and key takeaways from guests like Becky Eisen on aging with dignity, Dr. Jacqueline B. James on life well-lived beyond retirement, and cybersecurity expert Jeff Lanza on safeguarding your assets in the digital age. Key conversations include: The ea...

How have markets historically reacted to a change in U.S. presidency, and what can you do to safeguard your future investments? With Donald Trump’s return to the White House, understanding the market dynamics and economic policies becomes critical—let’s delve into what this means for your financial strategy. As markets show mixed reactions to the news of Trump’s re-election, it’s crucial to explore what these changes mean for both your investments and the economy at large. Throughout this episod...

Divorce can be a financial earthquake, especially when it comes to retirement planning. The emotional toll is high, but the financial stakes are even higher—splitting assets like 401(k)s, pensions, and real estate can leave your retirement plans hanging in the balance. With divorce rates continuing to climb, knowing how to navigate these turbulent waters is essential. Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, Senior Wealth Advisor at Kaydan Wealth Management, teams up with Julia Black, a top family law attorney,...

What if you could save for both your child’s education and your retirement — without feeling torn? Join us for this episode of The Retirement Engineer as Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, Senior Wealth Advisor and Founder of Kaydan Wealth Management, along with Darren Brennan, Wealth Manager and CFP®, break down the strategies you need to successfully balance these competing financial priorities. Learn how you can prioritize retirement while still setting aside funds for your child’s education without je...

Have you ever wished you could predict your tax bill before it arrives? Tax pro formas could help you do just that. Join Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, and returning guest Dylan Stewart, CFP®, CPA, for an enlightening discussion about the often overlooked strategy of using tax pro formas in financial planning. Learn how to anticipate tax liabilities, make informed decisions, and optimize your financial strategy to build upon your wealth and create the retirement you desire. Talking points include: Ho...

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to be happy and fulfilled in retirement beyond just having a solid financial plan? Retirement isn’t just about financial stability – it’s about designing a life that’s fulfilling and joyful. In this episode, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, sits down with Dr. Jacquelyn B. James, the Founding Director of the Sloan Research Network on Aging & Work to explore the emotional, social, and psychological aspects of retirement that are just as crucial as the financial a...

Are you making common investment mistakes without even realizing it? They could end up costing you your dream retirement… Join Jim Kruzan CFP®, CRPC® as he jumps into the top six investment mistakes that could be sabotaging your financial future. Learn about the essential knowledge and understanding needed before making investment decisions, the consequences of chasing hot markets, the importance of asset location, and the risks of making decisions based on fear or greed. Jim discusses: Underst...

Did you know that major financial institutions like Raymond James detect and repel around 300 million cyber threats a day? Join Jim Kruzan CFP®, CRPC®, as he speaks with Jessica Rice, Business Information Security Lead at Raymond James, to dive into the intricacies of cybersecurity from a corporate perspective. With her expertise in liaising between information technology and the private client group, Jessica sheds light on how investment firms safeguard your personal data and financial assets. ...

Did you know that today, a couple aged 65 is expected to spend about $315,000 on healthcare costs throughout retirement? That is a lot of money! Have you taken the time to plan for these expenses? This week on The Retirement Engineer, Jim Kruzan is joined by Darren Brennan, Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor at Kaydan Wealth Management to unravel the complexities of planning for healthcare costs in retirement. Jim and Darren’s conversation covers the critical...

Need clarity around required minimum distributions (RMDs) and their impact on your retirement cash flow? This week, Jim Kruzan, CFP®, CRPC®, is joined by Dylan Stewart, CFP®, CPA, Wealth Advisor at Kaydan Wealth Management, to unpack the intricacies of RMDs and their critical role in retirement planning. Learn about the mechanics, tax planning aspects, long-term financial strategies, and implications of RMDs and how they can influence your financial landscape. Whether you’re approaching retireme...