Episodes

Retirement planning goes beyond numbers—it’s about building a future that aligns with your values. This week on Ideas by Mike, Mike Milligan, CFP®, and Jim Fisher unveils the value of developing a retirement income plan that remains adaptable and reliable. They cover the transition from growth to income strategies and how the Forecaster tool provides clear insights into managing potential risks, like the “retirement dead zone.” So, tune in as they explore the essentials of tax planning, income d...

Taxes may be inevitable, but they don’t have to drain your wealth. Here’s how to turn them into a powerful tool for financial growth Mike Milligan, CFP® teams up with Ben Birkin from Holistiplan to reveal how this powerful software is transforming tax planning from a headache into a strategic advantage. It’s not just about lowering tax bills—it’s about turning tax strategies into a key driver of long-term wealth. Holistiplan cuts through the complexity, giving financial advisors the tools to del...

Imagine a financial plan that not only builds your wealth but also enriches your life. This week, Mike reflects on the values he learned from his grandmother’s sandwich shop — values that now shape his approach to financial planning. For Mike, wealth is more than money. It’s about aligning your finances with what matters most, like a secure retirement, supporting loved ones, or giving back. So, his takeaway? Start early, focus on what’s important, and partner with someone who understands that tr...

Legacy planning is more than just dividing up financial assets; it’s about preserving the values, traditions, and harmony within a family. This week on Ideas by Mike, Mike Milligan, CFP®, highlights the importance of this often-overlooked step in his unique financial planning approach. By incorporating SNUG — a powerful platform designed to streamline the organization of essential documents, final wishes, and family legacies — Mike empowers families to face the emotional and practical challenges...

Did you know that over 70% of people aged 65 and older will need some form of long-term care services in their lifetime? This week, Mike Milligan, CFP®, dives into the world of long-term care planning, highlighting the difference it can make in our lives. Follow along to explore HALO, an innovative tool designed to simplify and enhance the planning process. Learn about its features, benefits, and practical applications so that you are empowered with the knowledge you need to secure a better futu...

Investing is an important piece of retirement planning, but there is much more to it than just picking “the right” stocks. This week on Ideas by Mike, Mike Milligan, CFP®, breaks down the third step in his one-of-a-kind financial planning processes, investment management. Mike explains the importance of setting specific goals and developing strategies to achieve those goals through investments. But that’s not everything! He also emphasizes the need for diversification and risk assessment in inve...

Paychecks do not need to stop in retirement… With the right financial plan, it’s entirely possible to keep those “paychecks” coming, even after you stop working. This week on Ideas by Mike, Mike Milligan, CFP®, dives into the second critical element of the Ideas by Mike one-of-a-kind financial planning process, retirement income. Highlighting personal experiences and historical insights, Mike unveils actionable steps to help secure your financial future without fear of running out of money. Mike...

Did you know that over 56% of Americans now feel they pay more than their fair share in taxes? This frustration is only growing. So, let’s dive into how you can approach tax planning to keep more of your hard-earned money! Join Mike Milligan, CFP®, as he unpacks the history of taxes in the United States, the impact of tax planning on your financial future, and practical steps to take control of your tax liabilities. Follow along to hear about the partnership Ideas by Mike has to help you navigat...

Your financial journey is as unique as you are. So, in order to plan for a bright future you first need to ask yourself one simple question: Why is money important to you? This week on Ideas by Mike, Mike Milligan, CFP® brings on a few members of his dynamic team, including Kaitlan Costner, Marcus Washington, Nicole Stam, and Liz Mundey, to dive into this fundamental question they ask all their clients. Tune in and explore the team’s unique roles and hear different perspectives on financial prio...

Having a financial plan could help bring your dreams to life! But no ordinary plan will do. You need one as unique as you are. Join Mike Milligan, CFP® to hear about how he and his firm, Ideas by Mike approach the world of financial planning. Mike shares his experiences crafting custom financial strategies for a diverse range of clients, from federal employees to the quietly affluent hidden in plain sight. So, listen in as Mike uncovers the transformative journey clients embark upon working alon...

Have you ever wondered what makes a financial planning firm truly dynamic and impactful? In this week’s episode, Mike Milligan, CFP® dives into the heart of Ideas by Mike by showcasing his valued team. Tune in and get the inside scoop with unique insights into the firm’s mission, values, and the innovative approach they bring to the financial planning industry. Whether it’s about making an impact on the community or creating personalized financial strategies, this conversation unveils the essenc...

Are you ready to redefine your idea of financial planning to reflect your one-of-a-kind life? Welcome to the inaugural episode of Ideas by Mike with Mike Milligan, CFP®, a seasoned Certified Financial Planner® and the visionary behind Ideas by Mike. This week, Mike shares stories of crafting a unique financial advisory business that resonates with your personal goals and dreams. In this discussion, you will discover not just the nuts and bolts of financial management but the very heart and soul ...

Welcome to Ideas by Mike — The Podcast with Mike Milligan, CFP®, where you will find one-of-a-kind financial planning advice for your one-of-a-kind life. With over 22 years of experience as a Certified Financial Planner®, Mike shares experiences and advice on crafting simple, easy-to-understand financial plans based on your values and priorities. He believes that taking a personalized approach is the best way to prepare for the future and gives meaning to your finances. So, follow along as Mike ...