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Protect & Grow

Tim Stearns

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S2026 · E808
Yesterday · 16 min
Understanding Your 401(k): Pros, Cons, and Maximizing Your Retirement Growth 💰📈
Is your 401(k) working as hard for your future as you are? In this episode of Protect and Grow Chicagoland Retirement, certified financial planning professional Tim Stearns, CFP (founder at TJ Stearns, Inc.) joins host Peter to dive deep into one of the most powerful—yet often misunderstood—tools for retirement planning. While a 401(k) is often a person's largest single asset outside of their home, it is not a complete retirement plan on its own. Tune in as Tim breaks down how to optimize this account during your working years and how to properly transition it when you're ready to retire! What You'll Learn in This Episode: 💡 The Power of Automation: Why setting your contributions on "autopilot" and automating annual increases builds long-term wealth. 💵 Free Money on the Table: How to ensure you're capturing your full employer match so you never leave money behind. 📊 2026 Contribution Limits & Catch-Ups: What you need to know about the latest IRS limits, including standard contributions, catch-up limits for those 50+, and special SECURE Act provisions for ages 60–63. 🔄 Traditional vs. Roth 401(k): How to evaluate whether taking tax deductions now or enjoying tax-free growth later aligns with your retirement timeline. 🎯 Smart Investment Allocation: Tips for avoiding over-concentration in company stock, aligning risk tolerance with your age, and reviewing investments annually. 🚪 When & Why to Exit Your 401(k): Why a 401(k) is built for accumulation, but may be an imperfect tool for distribution—plus how to utilize in-service distributions at age 59½ or the Rule of 55. ⚠️ Top 401(k) Mistakes: Common pitfalls to avoid, from unnecessary loans to failing to update beneficiaries or delaying income planning.
S2026 · E919
September 19 · 14 min
The Hidden Reality of Healthcare Costs in Retirement
Many pre-retirees assume that Medicare will seamlessly cover all their medical needs in retirement. In this episode of Protect and Grow, Certified Financial Planner™ Tim Stearns busts common healthcare misconceptions and breaks down the true, out-of-pocket costs retirees face. From Medicare premiums, deductibles, and IRMAA surcharges to coverage gaps like vision, dental, and long-term care, Tim explains why healthcare planning and tax planning must go hand-in-hand. Tune in to learn actionable strategies—including hybrid insurance policies and HSAs—to help shield your retirement savings from unexpected medical expenses. For more updates on when Tim Stearns uploads a new video follow these social medias Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TJStearnsInc/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel If you prefer to listen to the videos they will be posted in audio form on this page. https://protectandgrow.libsyn.com/site?_ga=2.261998026.658482677.1678457675-23497610.1666730944 DISLCAIMER: Securities offered through Crown Capital Securities, L.P. Member FINRA / SIPC OSJ
S2026 · E912
September 12 · 13 min
Don't Hit Snooze on Your Retirement Wake-Up Call
Are you relying too heavily on Social Security, ignoring long-term care costs, or underestimating the tax hit on your nest egg? In this episode of Protect and Grow Chicagoland Retirement, host Tim Stearns, CFP, and Peter break down the most critical financial wake-up calls every future retiree needs to address before it's too late. Together, they dive deep into: The Social Security Myth: Why Social Security was only designed to cover up to 40% of your retirement income. Hidden Healthcare & Long-Term Care Costs: Navigating out-of-pocket expenses that Medicare doesn't cover and why 70% of retirees will need long-term care. Sequence of Returns Risk: Protecting your portfolio from market volatility during the crucial early years of retirement. The Tax Trap: Why taxes—not healthcare—are often a retiree's single biggest expense, and how RMDs can trigger unwanted surcharges. For more updates on when Tim Stearns uploads a new video follow these social medias Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TJStearnsInc/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel If you prefer to listen to the videos they will be posted in audio form on this page. https://protectandgrow.libsyn.com/site?_ga=2.261998026.658482677.1678457675-23497610.1666730944 DISLCAIMER: Securities offered through Crown Capital Securities, L.P. Member FINRA / SIPC OSJ
S2026 · E901
September 5 · 22 min
Counting the Costs of Retirement: How to Avoid Financial Surprises
Retirement isn't expensive because of one big bill—it's the accumulation of all the small, ongoing expenses that continue even after your paycheck stops. In this episode of Protect and Grow, certified financial planning professional Tim Stearns, CFP (founder of TJ Stearns, Inc.), breaks down the true cost of retirement and how to prepare for a 30+ year income plan. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Housing & Maintenance: Why a paid-off home isn't free (taxes, HOA, repairs, and insurance). Food & Utilities: How everyday inflation and lifestyle choices compound over decades. Transportation: Budgeting for vehicle replacements and ongoing upkeep. The 3 Biggest Retirement Expenses: Taxes, healthcare (Medicare, long-term care), and the "silent thief"—inflation. Emergency Reserves: Why you need a contingency plan for life's unexpected surprises. For more updates on when Tim Stearns uploads a new video follow these social medias Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TJStearnsInc/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel If you prefer to listen to the videos they will be posted in audio form on this page. https://protectandgrow.libsyn.com/site?_ga=2.261998026.658482677.1678457675-23497610.1666730944 DISLCAIMER: Securities offered through Crown Capital Securities, L.P. Member FINRA / SIPC OSJ
S2026 · E829
August 29 · 14 min
The Hidden Connection Between Your 401(k) and Social Security
Are your 401(k) withdrawals silently increasing the taxes on your Social Security benefits? Many retirees view Social Security and tax-deferred accounts (like 401(k)s and traditional IRAs) as completely separate systems, but decisions made in one directly impact the other. In this episode of Protect and Grow Chicagoland Retirement, host Peter talks with Tim Stearns, CFP®, founder of TJ Stearns, Inc., to discuss how to coordinate your retirement income streams, minimize taxation, and build a lasting financial blueprint. Key Topics Covered: Earnings Baseline: Why pre-tax 401(k) contributions during your career do not reduce your Social Security earnings credits. Business Owner Trap: How business deductions differ from 401(k) contributions and can unintentionally lower future Social Security payouts. The Retirement Tax Surprise: How drawing taxable income from a 401(k) can trigger taxes on up to 85% of your Social Security benefits and push you into higher Medicare (IRMAA) brackets. Roth Strategies & RMDs: How leveraging Roth accounts and strategic withdrawal sequencing helps protect survivor benefits and gives you long-term tax control. Single vs. Married Tax Brackets: Preparing for the "widow tax penalty" when a surviving spouse inherits accounts with narrower tax brackets. Get Your Written Retirement Blueprint Planning for retirement requires coordinating all pieces of your financial picture—from investments to taxes and Social Security claiming strategies 📞 Call TJ Stearns, Inc. Today: 847-749-2295
S2026 · E822
August 22 · 11 min
The Retirement Blueprint: Structuring Your Success 📐💰
successful retirement doesn't happen by accident—it takes a solid structure. 🏗️ Whether you're nearing retirement or already enjoying your golden years, host Tim Stearns breaks down the essential strategies needed to build, protect, and optimize your financial foundation. 🛡️ From organizing income streams and tax-efficient strategies to risk management and estate planning, we share actionable insights so you can retire with confidence and complete peace of mind. 📈🏖️ 📲 Hit subscribe to start structuring your path to lifelong financial independence today! 🎯📊
S2026 · E815
August 15 · 11 min
Retirement & Fixed Income Insights 💼📊
Planning for retirement isn't just about saving—it's about building a predictable, dependable stream of income that lasts a lifetime. 🏖️ Overwhelmed by interest rates, bond yields, annuities, and market volatility? We're here to cut through the financial jargon. Join us for actionable, easy-to-understand strategies on retirement fixed income, wealth preservation, and smart risk management. 📲 Subscribe now to start building a stable, worry-free financial future! 🎯📊
S2026 · E801
August 1 · 15 min
Stress Test Your Portfolio
Markets don't move in a straight line — so how would your portfolio actually hold up if things got rocky? In this episode of Protect & Grow, Tim Stearns, CFP®, walks through what it means to stress test your investment portfolio: looking at risk exposure, volatility, and how prepared your money really is for a downturn. Rather than reacting after a market drop, this episode is about proactively identifying where your portfolio may be vulnerable — so you can make adjustments on your terms, not the market's. 📌 In this episode: What it means to "stress test" a portfolio How to identify hidden risk and overexposure The role diversification plays in weathering volatility Questions to ask to know if your portfolio matches your risk tolerance This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Please consult a licensed professional regarding your specific situation before making financial decisions. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com
July 25 · 12 min
The Great Wealth Transfer
Retirement brings a new chapter in how people think about money and what comes next. This video explores some of the ways money is managed after working years are over, and how people consider what happens to their finances down the road. There are no promises or specific advice here—just an overview of common themes around money, legacy, and planning for the future. If you're interested in understanding more about this stage of life and the choices involved, this video may offer some useful perspectives. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com
S2026 · E718
July 18 · 10 min
Mid Year Financial Tips
In this episode, Tim Stearns shares a set of mid-year financial check-in tips to help listeners see where they stand before the year winds down. He covers reviewing budgets and spending patterns, checking progress on savings and retirement contributions, and looking at tax withholding or estimated payments to avoid surprises in the spring. The episode also touches on reassessing investment allocations after the first half of the year's market moves. It's meant as a practical mid-year checkpoint rather than a full financial overhaul. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E711
July 11 · 11 min
Financial Freedom & Independence
What does financial freedom and independence mean to you? In this video, we explore the concepts of financial freedom and financial independence, along with the habits and planning considerations that can support your long-term financial goals. We'll discuss topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, managing debt, and preparing for retirement, while highlighting how these elements can work together as part of an overall financial plan. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E702
July 4 · 27 min
The Great Wealth Transfer
Retirement brings a new chapter in how people think about money and what comes next. This video explores some of the ways money is managed after working years are over, and how people consider what happens to their finances down the road. There are no promises or specific advice here—just an overview of common themes around money, legacy, and planning for the future. If you're interested in understanding more about this stage of life and the choices involved, this video may offer some useful perspectives. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E627
June 27 · 13 min
Annuity Misconceptions & Mistakes
Many people have heard strong opinions about annuities, but not all of them are accurate. In this video, we discuss some of the most common misconceptions and mistakes people encounter when evaluating annuities, including how they work, potential benefits, limitations, fees, liquidity considerations, and the role they may play in a broader retirement strategy. Understanding these topics can help you ask informed questions and make more confident financial decisions based on your own goals and circumstances. This video is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Every individual's situation is unique, and whether an annuity is appropriate depends on personal objectives, risk tolerance, financial circumstances, and other factors. Be sure to consult with qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. If you found this video helpful, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing it with someone who may benefit from learning more about retirement planning and financial education. the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E620
June 20 · 14 min
Roth Strategies
Roth accounts can play an important role in retirement planning, but the right approach depends on your individual financial situation. In this video, we discuss a variety of Roth tactics, strategies, and planning considerations, including Roth IRAs, Roth conversions, tax diversification, and factors that may influence when these strategies are appropriate. The goal is to provide educational information to help you better understand how Roth accounts fit into a broader retirement plan. This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult a qualified professional before making financial decision. This video is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E613
June 13 · 12 min
Annuity Education
In this video, we provide a straightforward overview of annuities and the role they can play in financial planning. We cover basic annuity concepts, common terminology, and key considerations to help viewers better understand how these products work. Whether you're new to the topic or looking to expand your knowledge, this educational content is designed to offer general information in a clear and accessible format. This video is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E606
June 6 · 17 min
What Happens If Markets Crash?
What happens if the market crashes during retirement? In this episode, we explore how a significant market decline can affect retirees who are relying on their investment portfolios for income. We discuss sequence of returns risk, the challenges of withdrawing money during down markets, and some of the factors that can influence how a retirement plan responds to market volatility. Along the way, we look at concepts such as diversification, cash reserves, spending flexibility, and long-term investing perspectives. If you're interested in understanding the potential impact of market downturns on retirement income, this conversation provides context and considerations to help inform your thinking. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E526
May 30 · 14 min
Taxes In Retirement
Taxes can remain an important consideration during retirement. This video looks at how different sources of retirement income such as retirement accounts, Social Security, and investment withdrawals may be taxed. It also touches on how withdrawal timing, tax rules, and other factors can influence how retirement income is structured over time. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E523
May 23 · 14 min
De-Risking Your Portfolio
This episode looks at practical ways to reduce unnecessary risk in an investment portfolio while still supporting long term growth. It explains how diversification and asset allocation help manage volatility and why relying too heavily on a single sector or asset can increase exposure to losses. It also discusses common investor mistakes during market swings such as emotional decision making and overreacting to short term moves. The episode highlights different types of risk including concentration risk and liquidity risk and how they can build up over time. It ends with simple habits that help keep a portfolio aligned with long term financial goals especially in uncertain markets. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E509
May 9 · 15 min
Retirement What If's
Retirement comes with plenty of unknowns, and having a plan in place can make it easier to navigate changes along the way. In this episode, we talk about preparing for the "what ifs" that can impact retirement, including market changes, healthcare expenses, inflation, and shifts in income needs over time. We also discuss ways people approach protecting their savings, creating income, and staying financially organized as retirement approaches. Whether you are planning for retirement or already living in it, this episode offers insight into the importance of thinking ahead and staying prepared for the unexpected. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.
S2026 · E504
May 1 · 20 min
Medicare & Social Security Planning
In this episode, we talk through some of the basics of Medicare and Social Security planning. We cover when people typically enroll in Medicare, how different coverage options work, and what factors can affect Social Security benefits over time. It's a general discussion meant to help you better understand how these programs fit into retirement planning. For more information contact Tim Stearns, CFP® and his team at TjStearns at (800) 640-2256 and visit the website at www.tjstearns.com/.

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