Episodes

Retirement planning doesn’t exist in a vacuum, especially when tax laws are shifting. Dan Reese and guest Brent Oliver, Senior Wealth Advisor at Avery Wealth, break down the latest tax legislation and what it means for your future income, charitable giving, and estate plans. From the extension of lower tax brackets to the expanded standard deduction and SALT cap increase, Dan and Brent cut through the noise to highlight some impactful changes for retirees and pre-retirees. They also explain how ...

Many people feel confident about Social Security until it’s time to file. That’s when the conflicting advice from neighbors, social media, and self-proclaimed experts can make a complex decision even harder. In this episode, Dan Reese, CFP®, breaks down the most common Social Security myths and explains how decisions around claiming, spousal benefits, and timing can affect your broader retirement strategy. Whether you’re married, divorced, or filing solo, Dan shares key considerations that may h...

Retirement isn’t just about stopping work; it’s about starting something new. What happens after the celebration, the rest, and the first few months off? In this episode, Dan Reese, CFP®, shares how creating a rhythm, not a rigid routine, can bring meaning, fulfillment, and balance to your retirement years. He also explains how tools, planning, and a little structure may help retirees feel more confident about how they spend their time. Dan discusses: The psychological shift from a structured w...

What are the highs and lows of early retirement? We’re exploring whether it’s everything it’s cracked up to be and the steps needed to make it work for you. Join Dan Reese from Avery Wealth as he delves into the pros and cons of early retirement. They discuss the allure of having more control over your time and the potential pitfalls that can trip you up. From understanding longevity risks to healthcare gaps and tax implications, this episode aims to provide a balanced perspective on retiring ah...

What drives your investment decisions—logic or emotion? In this episode of Ramp Up Your Retirement, Dan Reese of Avery Wealth explores how political emotions can influence investor behavior and market perceptions. From election-year anxiety to partisan-driven reactions, Dan unpacks why it’s essential to stay grounded and stick to a long-term plan, regardless of who’s in office. Dan discusses: How emotions play into investment decisions. (00:01:36) The rational behavior of markets in the long te...

What does it take to help ensure your wealth supports your family and favorite causes even after you’re gone? In this episode, Dan Reese CFP® discusses the critical aspects of estate planning, focusing on inheritance and the importance of communication. Discover why talking about money with family isn’t as taboo as you might think and learn ways you can make these conversations more frequent and meaningful. Dan walks through traditional practices and innovative solutions, like family meetings an...

Are you wondering about the top pitfalls to avoid as you plan for retirement? Why do so many retirees end up facing unexpected financial challenges? Tune in to this episode, where Dan Reese, host of “Ramp Up To Retirement,” invites Senior Wealth Advisor Brent Oliver to discuss eight critical retirement blunders you should avoid. Together, they shed light on common mistakes like underestimating the true cost of health care, overlooking future tax liabilities, and relying too heavily on Social Sec...

What can a well-thought-out tax strategy do for your retirement? In this episode, Dan Reese delves into the crucial topic of tax planning, a subject that can significantly impact your financial future. Dan guides listeners through key strategies to help optimize tax outcomes, from tax loss harvesting to the advantages of 529 plans and health savings accounts. He sheds light on Roth conversions and charitable giving, offering practical advice for effective tax management. Dan brings clarity to co...

What does “back to basics” mean for your financial planning? In this episode, Dan Reese sits down with Senior Wealth Planner Brent Oliver to explore the foundational aspects of financial planning in their “Back to Basics” series. They discuss practical, actionable tips that help simplify the wealth management process, especially in today’s overwhelming financial world. Tune in to learn how to better identify your financial goals, prioritize budgeting at every life stage, and understand the power...

What does a financially healthy year look like month by month? In this episode, Dan Reese unpacks a whole year’s worth of strategic financial tips to help you navigate 2025 with confidence. From setting clear goals in January to analyzing your health insurance in October, Dan walks you through a manageable monthly game plan for boosting your financial well-being. Whether you’re tackling taxes or reevaluating your subscriptions, there’s a practical step for everyone looking to build a solid finan...

What are the biggest financial blunders to dodge as you approach retirement? In this episode, Dan Reese walks us through some key financial missteps that retirees often encounter and shares tips on how to steer clear of them. From budgeting and unexpected expenses to managing taxes and understanding the nuances of Social Security, Dan lays a foundation for avoiding these pitfalls. You’ll also learn about the importance of incorporating healthcare costs and planning for longevity into your retire...

Making sound financial decisions requires a solid foundation. One of the pillars of that foundation is choosing the right financial advisor. Selecting the ideal advisor for your unique financial goals and philosophies can change your financial future in the best way possible. But how can we know who is the correct one? What questions can we ask? In this episode, Dan Reese provides insights into the questions clients can ask, both before and after partnering with a financial advisor, as open and ...

Did you know that starting your retirement planning five to ten years in advance could make a substantial difference in your financial stability? In this episode, Dan Reese sits down with Brent Oliver, Senior Wealth Advisor at Avery Wealth, to dive into the importance of starting retirement planning early, the value of understanding your personal goals, and the impact of a fiduciary relationship. Brent shares his unique path into the industry and underscores the importance of personal values in ...

Are you within five to seven years of retirement and feeling uncertain about the future? Avery Wealth, led by Dan Reese, helps individuals like you redefine retirement and discover new passions. Today on Ramp Up to Retirement, Dan Reese talks about the origins of Avery Wealth and their focus on guiding clients through personalized retirement planning. He shares heartwarming stories of clients who found newfound enthusiasm in retirement by exploring their passions. Tune in to learn how a professi...

Are you ready to elevate your financial planning as you approach retirement? Embark on a journey with Dan Reese of Avery Wealth to transform your financial planning into a pathway for pursuing a fulfilling retirement. In this inaugural episode of Ramp Up to Retirement, Dan Reese introduces himself, shares his journey from a curious college student to a certified financial planner with a passion for guiding individuals toward a fulfilling retirement, and talks about why a Certified Financial Plan...

You’re nearing your Ramp Up to Retirement, where work will be optional. How do you make the best decisions to set yourself up for success? Tune in to hear from Dan Reese about the decisions and subtle changes you can make to ensure your retirement is successful!