Advertise on podcast: The Secure Retirement Method Podcast

Retirement can feel like a confusing maze—especially when the stakes are high, and the choices are permanent… What if you could transform your retirement planning from overwhelming to effortless? In this episode, April Schoen walks FRS members through the most important decisions and strategies for making retirement planning easy, secure, and tailored to your life. You’ll discover… The 4 freedoms you must consider before choosing your retirement dateA shocking pension option detail most retirees missHow timing your DROP payout could save you thousands in taxesThe Social Security strategy that may boost your lifetime incomeTwo costly pitfalls that can trip up even the most prepared retirees

Most retirees are shocked by how much of their hard-earned savings goes straight to taxes—are you prepared? Discover the strategies that can help you keep more of your money in retirement and avoid the most common tax pitfalls. In this episode, April Schoen reveals how smart tax planning can dramatically impact your future income and financial freedom after you stop working. You’ll discover… Why many retirees end up in higher tax brackets than they ever expectedThe “three buckets” framework for easily understanding your tax exposureHow your mix of assets can make or break your income in retirementThe hidden risk of required minimum distributions—and how to prepare for themA simple shift that could save you thousands in taxes and Medicare premiums

Navigating Social Security can feel like running through an airport for a connecting flight—one wrong move could cost you thousands. Ready to make sure you don’t miss out on the benefits you’ve worked for all your life? In this episode, April Schoen breaks down the crucial Social Security decisions every retiree faces—and reveals the game-changing strategies to maximize your benefits. You’ll discover… Why your Social Security “full retirement age” is more important than you thinkThe surprising trade-offs between claiming benefits at 62, 67, and 70How working in retirement could shrink—or boost—your Social Security checksOverlooked spousal and survivor benefits that could change your income storyWhat looming Social Security changes in 2034 could mean for your retirement

You’ve worked hard and checked every financial box—so why doesn’t it feel like enough? If you ever find yourself celebrating one moment and stressing over your bank account the next, you’re not alone. Discover the subtle signs that it’s finally time for your financial glow-up. In this episode, April Schoen, financial advisor at Curry Schoen Financial, unpacks the five signs that you’re ready for the next step in your financial journey—and reveals how mindset shifts, clear strategies, and intentional planning can help you enjoy the wealth you’re building. You’ll discover… The one habit that quietly erodes your financial progress even as your income risesWhy saving more doesn’t always mean moving closer to your goalsThe surprising reason you still feel financially “behind” despite doing everything rightHow to banish decision fatigue in a world overflowing with financial adviceThe single question that changes everything about your money strategy

Storm clouds can form on your financial horizon at any time—are you truly prepared to weather the next crisis? Discover the secrets to resilience, clarity, and action when financial uncertainty strikes—without feeling overwhelmed or lost. In this episode, April Schoen walks you through the essential steps to weather any financial storm, blending real-world advice, proven frameworks, and a calming approach—even when life throws unexpected curveballs. You’ll discover… Why “financial storms” aren’t just market crashes—and how to spot their earliest warning signsThe real reason most people struggle financially (it’s not bad decisions)How to build an emergency fund that works for your unique situation—not just a generic rule of thumbWhen sticking to your investment strategy is the right move—and when it’s time to make tweaksThe step-by-step financial “hurricane prep kit” you need before a crisis ever hits

What if your retirement feels more like a question mark than a dream come true? Most people think they’re prepared—until the freedom finally arrives, and with it, uncertainty. Have you forgotten to plan for what really matters after the alarm clock stops? In this episode, April Schoen helps you design a roadmap for the life you want—with clarity, confidence, and purpose—so your retirement isn’t just financially sound, but genuinely fulfilling. You’ll discover… Why financial security alone won’t guarantee a happy retirementThe one mistake that leaves many retirees feeling lost, even with a solid nest eggHow to uncover your hidden vision for life after work (and why it might surprise you)What most people get wrong about post-retirement spending—and the three phases you must considerThe proven framework to align your money with your dream lifestyle (and avoid regret)

Retirement planning should feel empowering—not overwhelming. But what happens when you’re faced with a maze of options, perplexing pension choices, and high-stakes decisions that keep you up at night? In this episode, John and April unravel the complexities of retirement planning for Florida Retirement System (FRS) members—making it clearer, simpler, and surprisingly fun. You’ll discover… The story of two retirement decisions in one family—and how one choice changed everything for decades.Why DROP and pension options aren’t as “set and forget” as most people think.The shockingly common mistake that could cost retirees thousands in unnecessary taxes.How timing your Social Security and coordinating benefits could radically increase your income for life.The overlooked risk of forced withdrawals and how to keep your retirement savings working for you.

Think you’ll pay less in taxes when you retire? Think again. Discover why tax diversification might be the secret to keeping more of your money in retirement—and why most people get it wrong. In this episode, April Schoen unravels the surprisingly complex world of taxes in retirement and reveals actionable strategies for tax-efficient retirement planning. You’ll discover… A common retirement tax mistake that could cost you thousandsWhy your retirement income might be higher—and more taxable—than you expectThree critical types of investment accounts and how they each impact your future tax billThe power of Roth IRAs and cash value life insurance as overlooked tax planning toolsWhat one simple analogy can teach you about planning for a tax-smart retirement

Navigating the intricacies of Social Security can feel like deciphering a complex puzzle... But what if you had expert guides to help secure your financial future? In this episode, John Curry and April Schoen explore the vital aspects of Social Security retirement benefits, offering insights on how to maximize them for a secure retirement amidst the backdrop of economic uncertainties. In this episode, you’ll discover… The impact of demographic shifts on the sustainability of Social SecurityStrategies to maximize your Social Security benefits based on timing and work historyHow to navigate spousal and survivor benefits effectivelyThe realistic concerns around the future of Social Security fundingEssential factors to consider when planning your retirement income strategy

Life insurance might not be the most exciting topic, but what if it was the secret ingredient to securing your financial future and living your best life? In this episode, John Curry and April Schoen dive deep into the transformative power of whole life insurance and reveal how it can be an essential financial tool for building and safeguarding wealth. You’ll discover… Why most people, including sellers, misunderstand life insurance.The surprising ways whole life insurance can benefit you while you're living.How life insurance can provide a “permission slip” to spend your savings.Insights on leveraging whole life insurance for asset protection and financial planning.Real-life examples of life insurance transforming retirement strategies.

Retirement is not without its challenges... What are the key financial risks and how can you safeguard your future? In this episode, hosts April Schoen and John Curry unravel the top five financial risks in retirement, and share insights on how to effectively manage and reduce them for a secure future. You’ll discover: The surprising impact longevity can have on your financial security.Why traditional financial planning may not be enough for your retirement.How market volatility could be a hidden danger in your golden years.The role of taxes in your retirement income and how to plan wisely.Essential questions to ask yourself as you prepare for retirement.

Retirement is a time for relaxation and enjoyment, but what happens when life's unexpected events disrupt your plans? In this episode, April Schoen guides you through crucial strategies to financially prepare for unexpected retirement events. In this episode, you’ll discover: The real-life impact of health-related surprises and how to plan for them.Why diversifying income sources is essential for retirement stability.How to leverage whole life insurance for financial flexibility.Strategies to handle family and life changes without derailing your financial plans.The importance of estate planning in securing your financial future.

Taxes might be daunting, but mastering them can mean thousands more for your golden years! In this essential episode, April Schoen dives deep into tax strategies specifically designed for Florida Retirement System (FRS) members. Discover how expert tax planning could unlock more wealth and flexibility than you ever imagined for your retirement. You’ll discover: Why tax planning is the key to more after-tax income in your retirement.How different types of accounts—tax-deferred, taxable, and tax-free—impact your taxes.Real-life case studies showing the transformative power of Roth conversions.The surprising impact of Medicare premiums and how your income influences them.Secrets to leveraging cash value life insurance for tax-free withdrawals and loans.

In this episode, April Schoen dives deep into the secrets of setting meaningful financial goals for the new year to guide you towards a secure and prosperous 2025. In this episode, you’ll discover… The pivotal role of the SMART framework in financial planningUnique strategies for building a robust emergency fundMethods to maximize your retirement contributions effectivelyInsights into tackling high-interest debt with precisionPractical tips for creating a balanced investment portfolio

How can a simple program supercharge your retirement income strategy? In this episode, April Schoen breaks down the intricacies of DROP, The Deferred Retirement Option Program, and its latest updates impacting your financial future. In this episode, you’ll discover… The enticing benefits that make the DROP program a game-changer.Key eligibility changes in 2023 that could affect your retirement timeline.Various pension options within DROP and how they cater to different retirement goals.The significant pros and cons that you'll need to weigh before opting for DROP.Strategic ways to manage your DROP payout to maximize retirement benefits and minimize taxes.