Estate Planning

The 6 Retirement Mistakes To Avoid (Ep. 177)

By Retirement Unlocked | June 4, 2025

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The market is unpredictable; your retirement plan shouldn’t be.

In this episode of Retirement Unlocked, host Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, breaks down six of the most common (and costly) mistakes people make when planning for retirement. From underestimating how much you can spend to failing to optimize your Social Security benefits, Larry shares why these pitfalls occur and how a process-based retirement plan can help you avoid them.

Whether you’re approaching retirement or already there, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you invest wisely, reduce emotional decision-making, and stay aligned with your long-term financial goals.

Key conversations in this week’s release include:

The importance of knowing how much you can truly spend in retirement [00:00:47]
Why creating a total return strategy beats relying solely on income [00:03:20]
The pitfalls of being too conservative with your investment portfolio [00:07:02]
When to start withdrawing from your retirement accounts—not just when RMDs kick in [00:10:32]
How to optimize Social Security for the best possible outcome [00:13:17]
The critical need for a comprehensive estate plan [00:15:51]
And more

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Breaking the Health Insurance Mold: The New Health Plan Playbook with Louis Bernardi [Ep. 176]

By Retirement Unlocked | May 21, 2025

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Health insurance is one of the largest expenses for many businesses, but are you getting what you’re paying for?

In this eye-opening episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, speaks with Louis Bernardi of BrightPath Benefit Advisors about the outdated and opaque nature of most employer-sponsored health insurance plans. Louis reveals how major carriers prioritize shareholder profits over actual care and explains how his PLAN system and data-driven strategies are helping employers cut costs while providing better healthcare options for employees.

From skyrocketing pharmacy costs to hidden MRI fees, Lou unpacks the waste baked into the system and provides actionable strategies to fix it. This is a behind-the-scenes look at an advanced strategy most employers haven’t even heard of.

Key discussions in this release include:

Why traditional health insurance models are broken
The hidden data behind skyrocketing healthcare costs
How Lou’s PLAN system (Prioritize, Leverage, Align, Navigate) helps optimize benefit design
Real-world savings on pharmacy and imaging costs
Options for companies of all sizes
And more!

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Connect with Larry Heller:

About Our Guest:

Louis Bernardi is the Founder & Benefit Optimization Officer of BritePath. Lou is the innovator behind BritePath, the benefit strategy that flattens the curve on health insurance costs. BritePath helps benefit decision makers reset their expectations with advanced analytics & insights that make them and their members more informed health care consumers capable of changing the trajectory of the cost and quality of their employer-sponsored health insurance plan. Pay More, Get Less is replaced by a High-Performance Health Care Plan that allows them to finally start winning.

Lou is proud to be among the first 150 advisors accepted into Health Rosetta; an eco-system of forward-thinking advisors and solution partners that share his passion for helping people and businesses customize health plans that enhance benefits, improve outcomes and reduce costs.

Lou is also involved with Aspirational Healthcare, Free Market Medical and is a Forbes Business Council member.

5 Tax Gotchas That High-Net-Worth Individuals Overlook [Ep.173]

By Retirement Unlocked | April 2, 2025

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What tax traps could derail your retirement plans?

In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, breaks down five major tax “gotchas” that high-net-worth retirees must navigate to protect their wealth and retirement security.

From the impact of required minimum distributions to the looming expiration of the 2017 tax cuts, Larry sheds light on often-overlooked tax challenges. He also explores strategic solutions like Roth conversions and income planning to help retirees minimize surprises and maximize financial confidence.

Key episode discussions include:

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and their tax impact [03:09]
Expiration of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act [04:04]
The “Widow Penalty” and implications for single retirees [07:37]
Gifting strategies and estate planning considerations [10:03]
The consequences of leaving large IRAs to children [11:05]
And more!

Connect with Larry Heller:

Mastering Retirement Withdrawals: Expert Tips for Smart Distribution Planning [Ep. 169]

By Retirement Unlocked | January 15, 2025

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Do you know the smartest way to manage your withdrawals in retirement?

In this episode of the Life Unlimited podcast, host Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, shares expert strategies for managing retirement withdrawals to ensure financial stability and tax efficiency.

Larry covers essential steps for building a smart distribution plan, emphasizing pre-retirement planning and proactive wealth management. The episode explores the benefits of Roth conversions, the impact of the Secure 2.0 Act, and critical topics such as the widow penalty, annuities, and estate planning, all supported by real client insights.

Whether you’re approaching retirement or already retired, this episode offers practical tips to help you minimize taxes, optimize withdrawals, and protect your wealth and legacy. Don’t miss this valuable guide to mastering your retirement finances!

Key episode discussions include:

Strategic tax planning to minimize taxes before the distribution phase
Understanding different income streams like Social Security, pensions, and retirement accounts
Real client scenarios illustrating the impact of effective and missed strategies
The effects of federal and state estate taxes, plus planning for longevity
Integrating attorneys and other professionals for a holistic financial plan
And more!

Resources:

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7 Costly Financial Planning Mistakes You’re Making (And How to Avoid Them!) [Ep. 167]

By Retirement Unlocked | December 18, 2024

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How well do you truly know your tax bracket? Did you know that not knowing enough could cost you thousands?

Get ready to learn some critical financial planning mistakes that might secretly derail your financial security.

This week on the Life Unlimited podcast, Larry Heller identifies the seven most common financial mistakes people make and how to avoid them—such as lacking knowledge about their tax bracket and neglecting estate planning updates.

Key conversations include:

Understanding Your Tax Bracket: Learn why knowing your tax bracket is essential for maximizing opportunities like Roth conversions and minimizing overpayments.
Zero Capital Gain Brackets: Discover how to take advantage of tax-free gains to grow your wealth.
Investment Pitfalls: Avoid the dangers of chasing past investment performance and align your strategy with your goals.
Estate Planning Essentials: Ensure your estate planning documents are up to date and reflect life’s changes.
Liability Insurance: Protect yourself and your family with adequate coverage, including an umbrella policy for uninsured motorist protection.
Heir and Spouse Preparedness: Steps to prepare your loved ones, including non-financial spouses, for managing wealth.
Spending and Withdrawal Strategies in Retirement: Avoid overspending while ensuring your savings last throughout your lifetime.

Actionable Takeaway: Through practical examples and insightful advice, Larry highlights the importance of staying informed and proactive with your finances.

Connect with Larry Heller:

Beyond Accumulation: Mastering Your Retirement Distribution Strategy [Ep. 164]

By Retirement Unlocked | November 20, 2024

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Retirement isn’t just about accumulating wealth – it’s about making sure it lasts.

In this episode, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, explores the essential elements of a well-rounded distribution strategy for retirement, including guiding you through five key areas every retiree should prioritize: income vs. total return, tax management, investment allocation, longevity, and estate planning.

Larry dives deep into the shift from accumulation to distribution, revealing strategies to help retirees sustain income, reduce taxes, and cover health expenses—all while preparing a meaningful legacy. With a focus on turning retirement into a financially secure and fulfilling stage of life, this episode provides actionable advice on balancing your immediate needs with a long-term vision.

Whether you’re entering retirement or aiming to enhance your financial strategy, this episode will equip you with the tools and mindset to enjoy a confident and comfortable retirement.

Key Points Covered:

Combining income sources like Social Security, pensions, and investments to balance retirement income and comfort
Reducing tax burdens through Roth conversions and managing required minimum distributions (RMDs) under the latest Secure Act changes
Using the “reservoir strategy” to balance cash, bonds, and equities for steady income and minimized risk
Addressing healthcare and long-term care costs to protect assets and maintain financial stability
Aligning estate plans with tax strategies to maximize inheritance for heirs
And much more!

Actionable Takeaway: Review your retirement plan to ensure it supports your lifestyle, reduces tax impacts, and aligns with your legacy goals. Consult a financial planner to tailor it to your unique needs for a fulfilling retirement.

Resources:

Connect with Larry Heller:

Corporate Benefits to Cash Management Plans: A Deep Dive Into How We Work with Business Owners (Ep. 156)

By Retirement Unlocked | July 10, 2024

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How can business owners keep their financial strategies effective for long-term success?

In this informative episode of Life Unlimited, host Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, reveals the intricacies of corporate benefits and cash management tailored for business owners. Learn how regularly updating 401k plans, optimizing cash reserves, and leveraging professional networks can alter your business. Obtain actionable insights on attracting and retaining employees, maximizing tax advantages, and implementing successful financial planning strategies.

Key Points Covered:

Enhancing employee retention and tax benefits by updating 401k plans
Ensuring a robust, tax-advantaged retirement plan to provide the business significant savings while attracting and retaining top talent
Simplifying employee investment decisions with model portfolios
Optimizing cash management and utilizing high-yield strategies for better returns
Saving additional funds through strategic cash balance plans
Leveraging a network of experts for comprehensive business support
Larry’s hands-on experience and credible advice for business owners
And More!

Tune in to transform your business’s financial strategy and achieve long-term success.

Resources:

► Services Triangle

► Our Approach

Connect with Larry Heller:

From Planning to Investments: A Deep Dive Into Our Services (Ep. 154)

By Retirement Unlocked | May 31, 2024

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Beyond managing your investments and portfolio, have you ever wondered what else financial advisors do?

Understanding the full scope of financial advisory services is essential to maximizing the benefits of your financial plan.

In this enlightening episode of Life Unlimited, host Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA® explores the multifaceted role of financial advisors. He addresses common misconceptions and emphasizes that effective financial advising extends well beyond investment decisions.This episode provides a deep dive into how we create personalized financial plans for clients, addressing all aspects of their financial lives to ensure future preparedness. Tune in to learn how we can help you achieve financial security and peace of mind through our comprehensive financial planning and detailed strategies.

Key Points Covered:

Larry’s dedication to educating clients and alleviating financial anxieties
Clarifying the comprehensive role of financial advisors beyond just investments
The critical importance of financial planning before making investment decisions
Detailed financial planning processes: goals, time horizons, and financial needs
Components of financial planning: cash flow analysis, risk management, tax planning, investment management, estate planning, and retirement planning
Differentiating traditional investments (stocks, bonds, mutual funds) from alternative investments (private equity, private credit)
The importance of regular financial monitoring to adapt to life changes
Addressing client concerns: inheritances, safe retirement strategies, and account consolidation
Highlighting the transparency of fee structures and the importance of fiduciary duty
And More!

Resources:

► Services Triangle: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:cfe5a4d5-2384-4a62-b76a-2921735e4cbf

► Our Approach: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Qp3B-6EQsTptfRZT5792CIVvvo9yrXKrwBVLFZvJBj8/edit?usp=sharing

► Is Your Portfolio Missing Out? With Alona Gornick [Ep. 143]: https://hellerwealthmanagement.com/is-your-portfolio-missing-out-the-rise-of-private-credit-with-alona-gornick-ep-143/

Connect with Larry Heller:

00:00 Introduction to Life Unlimited Podcast

00:20 Reflecting on 150 Episodes

00:33 Understanding Financial Advisory Services

01:59 The Importance of Financial Planning

03:18 Diving into Investment Strategies

13:13 Exploring Alternative Investments

16:23 Who We Work With and Our Fee Structure

20:35 The Fiduciary Standard Explained

22:06 Conclusion and Contact Information

The Great Wealth Transfer, Part 2: Bridging Generations (Ep. 142)

By Retirement Unlocked | December 13, 2023

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As we delve deeper into the transformative phenomenon of the Great Wealth Transfer, Part 2 of our series further explores the staggering $68 to $74 trillion destined to cascade down over the next decade.

In “The Great Wealth Transfer, Part 2,” Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, guides us through the intricate dynamics of this wealth transition, offering crucial insights for aging parents and their millennial heirs. Larry sheds light on key aspects, empowering millennials to navigate challenging conversations with their Boomer parents and ensuring a seamless, secure transfer of wealth. This episode is a must-listen for those aiming to redefine their financial legacy in the face of this monumental wealth shift.

Key discussion points include:

Strategies for smooth talks about inheritance between the Boomer generation and the Millennial Generation
How advisors navigate the emotional and practical sides of wealth transfer
Insights into fair wealth sharing in complex family dynamics
Essential advice to keep everyone safe from fraud
Understanding the importance of Medicaid and trusts in financial plans & estate planning
A look at the bigger picture of estate planning beyond finances
The uncomfortable but necessary “end-of-life planning” conversation between children and parents
How staying organized can improve estate planning
And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Larry Heller:

The Great Wealth Transfer, Part 1: From Boomers to Millennials (Ep. 141)

By Retirement Unlocked | November 21, 2023

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Ever heard of the Great Wealth Transfer? It’s about to change everything you thought you knew about money.

Imagine a staggering $68 to $74 trillion cascading down over the next decade or so. Could this make millennials the richest age group the U.S. has ever seen?

In this two-part series, Larry Heller, CFP®, CDFA®, offers a glimpse into the psyche of the baby boomers as they navigate this monumental transition of wealth to the millennials. Learn how you can prepare as Larry covers such topics as taxes, Roth conversions, estate planning, and the benefits of being diligent with your record-keeping.

Part 1 of this Great Wealth Transfer series highlights:

The intricacies of taxes associated with this massive wealth movement
A review of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Roth conversions
How to engage in family tax planning, including the importance of candid conversations
Eyebrow-raising tales like the Miami Dolphins’ sale driven by unforeseen tax burdens
The often overshadowed aspects of estate planning, such as safeguarding assets and diligent record-keeping
And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Larry Heller: