The Secure Retirement Method Podcast

How to Structure Retirement Income for Lower Taxes and More Flexibility

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 expected * The “three buckets” framework for easily understanding your tax exposure * How your mix of assets can make or break your income in retirement * The hidden risk of required minimum distributions—and how to prepare for them * A simple shift that could save you thousands in taxes and Medicare premiums

Top Factors to Consider Before Starting Your Social Security Benefits

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 think * The surprising trade-offs between claiming benefits at 62, 67, and 70 * How working in retirement could shrink—or boost—your Social Security checks * Overlooked spousal and survivor benefits that could change your income story * What looming Social Security changes in 2034 could mean for your retirement

5 Signs You're Ready for a Financial Glow-up

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 rises * Why saving more doesn’t always mean moving closer to your goals * The surprising reason you still feel financially “behind” despite doing everything right * How to banish decision fatigue in a world overflowing with financial advice * The single question that changes everything about your money strategy

How to Weather a Financial Storm

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 signs * The 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 thumb * When sticking to your investment strategy is the right move—and when it’s time to make tweaks * The step-by-step financial “hurricane prep kit” you need before a crisis ever hits

Avoid These Three Mistakes With Your Retirement Plans

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 retirement * The one mistake that leaves many retirees feeling lost, even with a solid nest egg * How 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 consider * The proven framework to align your money with your dream lifestyle (and avoid regret)