In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the intricacies of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and their tax implications, emphasizing the importance of order in IRA withdrawals, particularly when dealing with Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Roth IRA conversions. He provides practical advice on how to effectively manage these financial tools to maximize tax benefits and ensure compliance with IRS rules.

In this episode, Dave Zaegel emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, especially as one transitions into retirement. He discusses how learning should not stop at any age and highlights various ways to keep the mind active, such as learning a new instrument, gardening, or exploring new cultures. The conversation underscores the idea that the brain, like any muscle, needs constant exercise to stay sharp and healthy.

In this episode of Retire with Peace, I break down what the Federal Reserve actually does, what it doesn't control, and why relying on headlines instead of strategy can put your retirement income at risk.

In this episode, Dave Zaegel discusses the expectations for 2026, emphasizing the likelihood of unexpected events impacting the market. He highlights the importance of planning for market fluctuations and preparing mentally for potential downturns. The conversation stresses the need for financial resilience, advocating for having a safety net of income outside the stock market.

In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel emphasizes the critical importance of accounting for business owners. He argues that spending 1% of revenue on accounting services is a worthwhile investment that can prevent costly mistakes and improve financial decision-making. Zaegel discusses the operational benefits of having accurate financial records and the implications for selling a business, highlighting how poor accounting can diminish its value. He stresses the need for business owners to prioritize their financial health to ensure a successful retirement.

In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the critical differences between tax preparation and tax planning. He emphasizes that while tax preparation can be seen as a cost, it can also serve as an investment if it leads to significant tax savings. Conversely, tax planning is framed as a long-term investment strategy that focuses on future tax liabilities rather than immediate savings. Zaegel warns against the pitfalls of short-term tax strategies that may sacrifice future financial stability and encourages listeners to adopt a long-term perspective in their tax planning efforts.

In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel delves into the concept of tax harvesting, particularly focusing on tax loss harvesting. He explains the mechanics of how gains and losses on investments affect taxes, emphasizing the importance of understanding non-qualified accounts. Zaegel discusses the potential benefits of both harvesting losses and gains, and the implications of automated tax harvesting systems. He cautions listeners about the limitations of automated systems and the necessity of personalized tax strategies for effective financial planning.

In this episode of the Retire with Peace podcast, host Dave Zaegel discusses the advantages of Roth IRAs, particularly in the context of tax planning and health insurance costs. He emphasizes the flexibility that Roth IRAs provide, especially for clients who are retiring before Medicare eligibility. Zaegel explains how strategic Roth IRA conversions can lead to significant savings on health insurance premiums, particularly as subsidies change. He encourages listeners to take advantage of lower tax rates now to maximize their financial flexibility in the future.