Hosted by: Craig Wear

Guest: Daniel Jandro, CFP®, Rothologist at Q3 Advisors

🔍 Episode Summary:

In this episode, Craig Wear sits down with Daniel Jandro—aka “The Professor”—to unpack one of the biggest myths in Roth conversion planning: the belief that common financial software gets it right.

If you’re using tools like eMoney, RightCapital, or even DIY spreadsheets to manage your Roth conversions, this episode is a wake-up call. Craig and Daniel walk through the limitations of major platforms, why one-size-fits-all strategies fall short for IRA millionaires, and how Q3’s proprietary methodology is helping clients avoid billions in unnecessary taxes.

They also reveal why most advisors and tools fail to optimize—and why specialized planning is essential when your pre-tax retirement accounts top seven figures.

Try the calculator featured in this episode:

👉 https://q3.link/rmd-calculator-podcast

⏱️ Chapter Markers:

• 00:00 – Introduction & Overview

• 01:20 – Who Really Needs Roth Conversions?

• 03:45 – Introducing the RMD Calculator

• 06:00 – Sample Case Walkthrough

• 09:00 – Lifetime Tax Exposure & Heir Consequences

• 10:45 – What Makes This Calculator Different

• 12:00 – Paradigms That Get in the Way

• 14:00 – The Experience Gap for DIYers

• 16:45 – The Problem with Excel and Traditional Tools

• 19:45 – Review of Major Planning Software

• 24:30 – Hidden Risks in Off-the-Shelf Optimizers

• 26:40 – Why Specialization Matters

• 28:45 – What Mastery Looks Like

• 31:00 – Q3’s Real-World Experience

• 33:00 – Closing Thoughts & Invitation

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Why standard financial software often miscalculates Roth conversion outcomes

• The million-dollar threshold: Why IRA millionaires need a totally different strategy

• How Q3’s RMD Calculator can open your eyes to tax consequences for both you and your heirs

• The #1 reason smart people still get Roth conversions wrong—and how to fix it

• Real-world case studies and tax savings data from 1,200+ client scenarios

• The problem with software like eMoney, RightCapital, MaxiFi, and NewRetirement when it comes to advanced tax optimization

• The importance of working with a Roth conversion specialist instead of a generalist

💬 Quotes:

“If you’re not doing accelerated conversions and you’re an IRA millionaire, you’re leaving money on the table.” – Craig Wear

“When one variable is wrong, the compounding tax impact can last generations.” – Daniel Jandro

👥 Work with Q3:

Learn more about Q3’s planning services, their money-back refund offer, and how to work directly with a CFP® from their team:

🔗 Schedule a Call now

Summary: In this episode of What's Next in Retirement, Craig Wear welcomes Medicare expert Emily Gang to unpack the intricacies of Medicare open enrollment. Whether you’re already enrolled or gearing up for your first enrollment, Emily shares essential insights on the choices available and critical considerations for 2024. From big changes to Medicare Part D, including a new $2,000 cap on medication copays, to the nuanced pros and cons of Medicare Advantage plans, this episode is packed with practical advice to help listeners make informed decisions that align with their unique healthcare needs. Craig and Emily also discuss why it’s crucial to get Medicare right the first time to avoid costly errors down the road.

Tune in as they dive into strategies to save on premiums, avoid common pitfalls, and leverage Medicare’s evolving landscape to protect your healthcare and finances in retirement.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01] - Introduction to Medicare open enrollment and why it matters now.
• [02:33] - Key updates for 2024, including the impact of the $2,000 cap on prescription copays.
• [03:55] - How failing to review Part D plans could leave money on the table.
• [08:00] - Medicare Part B premiums and expected changes for high-income earners.
• [11:50] - Risks associated with Medicare Advantage plans and network limitations.
• [16:17] - Action steps for Medicare recipients before December 7th to optimize coverage and costs.
• [18:30] - Importance of choosing a reliable Medicare provider to avoid future complications.
• [20:59] - Closing advice: Be proactive in understanding Medicare rules to make the best decisions.

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Emily Gang, “The Medicare Coach,” for personalized Medicare consultation: https://q3adv.com/services/financial-planning/
• Medicare.gov for plan comparisons and to check network status.
• GoodRx, SingleCare, and Cost Plus for medication coupons and additional savings.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share What's Next in Retirement! Don’t forget to check the show notes for a free consultation link with Emily to explore your best Medicare options.

Summary

In this conversation, Craig Wear and Glenn Block discuss essential financial strategies for IRA millionaires, focusing on tax implications and the importance of financial education. They emphasize the potential tax savings and the benefits of informed financial planning, aiming to simplify the financial lives of their clients.

Takeaways

Understanding tax implications is crucial for IRA millionaires.
Proper financial strategies can save millions in taxes.
Financial education is key to making informed decisions.
Simplifying financial life can lead to better outcomes.
Medicare premiums can significantly impact retirement finances.
Staying updated on tax code changes is important.
Collaboration with financial experts can enhance knowledge.
Subscribing to financial resources can provide valuable insights.
Planning ahead can prevent future financial burdens.
Engaging with educational content can improve financial literacy.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Capital Gains and Roth Conversions
10:58 Leveraging Charitable Contributions for Tax Benefits