The Art And Science Of Retirement

Grant Ellis

Retirement isn't just a number. It's a phase of life that comes with big questions, evolving goals, and a need for real clarity. Welcome to The Art and Science of Retirement — a weekly podcast for people who want to make smart financial decisions and live fully in every stage of life. Hosted by Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, this show blends two decades of financial expertise with practical, down-to-earth conversations about money, planning, and purpose. Each week, we'll unpack real-life scenarios, answer the questions you've been too afraid to ask, and help you think through what retirement — and financial independence — could look like for you. What to expect: → Retirement planning without the jargon → Candid insights from 20+ years in the advisory business → Case studies and stories from real clients (anonymized, of course) → Clear steps for building a life you don't want to retire from Whether you're 15 years out or already retired, there's something here for you. Learn more at ellisretirement.com or email us at ellisteam@lpl.com to ask a question or suggest a topic.

  1. Jun 1

    How Retirees Pay Zero Tax on Capital Gains and Social Security

    Did you know there's a window in the tax code where you can sell appreciated investments, collect Social Security, and owe the IRS nothing? In this episode I walk you through exactly how to coordinate your capital gains and Social Security income to land in the zero percent tax bracket legally, intentionally, and repeatedly. We cover the zero percent long-term capital gains rate and what the 2026 income thresholds actually mean for you, how to calculate your harvesting room using the standard deduction, which assets to sell and in what order, how to sequence withdrawals during the bridge years before Social Security, why Roth conversions and gain harvesting need to happen in separate years, and a simple annual checklist to keep you in the zero percent zone year after year. If you missed our last episode on the Tax Torpedo, go listen to that one first. It is the foundation for everything we cover here. This is the kind of planning my team and I do every day with people who are retired or getting close to it. If you want to talk through what this looks like for your specific situation, grab a complimentary Zoom consultation through the link below. No pressure, just a real conversation.

  2. Apr 7

    Most People Don't Know What Advisors Do…Here's the Truth

    Work with Grant: https://oncehub.com/GrantEllisMeetings30 What does a financial advisor actually do? Most people hear terms like financial planner, wealth manager, advisor, and assume they all mean the same thing… they don't. In this episode, I break down what financial advisors really do in plain English, without the industry jargon. We cover: The 3 core things advisors actually do Why "financial advisor" means nothing legally The truth about investments, products, and planning When tools like insurance and annuities make sense (and when they don't) How to know if an advisor is actually acting in your best interest The #1 way to vet an advisor before hiring them If you've ever wondered what you're actually paying for—or if you even need an advisor—this will give you clarity.

  3. Jan 29

    401(k) to IRA Before Retirement? The Pros, Cons, and Mistakes to Avoid

    401(k) to IRA Before Retirement? The Pros /Cons/ and Mistakes to Avoid Work with me: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/ In this episode, I want to clear up one of the biggest misconceptions I hear from people who are in the pre-retirement stage. If you're over 59½ and still working, you may have been told, or assumed, that you're stuck in your 401(k) until you officially retire. I hear this all the time, and the truth is: that's not always the case. In this video, I walk through what's called an in-service distribution, an IRS rule that may allow you to move part or even all of your 401(k) into an IRA without triggering taxes or penalties, as long as your plan allows it. Here's what I cover: - What an in-service distribution actually is - Who qualifies and why age 59½ matters - How to find out if your 401(k) plan allows in-service distributions - Why flexibility and customization become more important as you get closer to retirement - The difference between managing money inside a 401(k) versus an IRA - Investment and tax-planning strategies that may be available inside an IRA - What you should consider before making a move, including fees and costs This isn't a strategy for everyone. I don't believe there's a single "right" answer that applies to all people. The goal here is to understand your options, weigh the benefits and considerations, and decide what actually makes sense for your situation. If you're getting closer to retirement and feeling limited by the investment options or flexibility inside your 401(k), this conversation may help you think differently about what's possible. 👉 If this feels overwhelming or you're not sure whether this applies to you, I'd be happy to talk it through. You can click the link above, answer a few quick questions, and book time directly on my calendar. No pressure, no sales tactics, just a conversation to see if it makes sense to go deeper. 👍 If you found this helpful, feel free to share it with a friend 🔔 Subscribe for more retirement planning insights 🌐 Learn more about us at ellisretirement.com 401k to IRA rollover, IRA vs 401k, retirement account rollover, pre-retirement financial planning, 401k rollover strategy, IRA benefits and risks, retirement savings options, tax efficient rollover, retirement planning mistakes, 401k management tips, IRA pros and cons, financial advisor advice, retirement account transfer, retirement investment strategy, 401k vs IRA comparison, retirement tax planning, retirement savings strategy, avoid rollover mistakes, retirement portfolio planning, wealth management #401k #IRA #RetirementPlanning #401kRollover #FinancialPlanning #RetirementSavings #TaxPlanning #RolloverStrategy #MoneyManagement #FinancialAdvisor #WealthManagement #RetirementTips #Investing #SmartInvesting #RetirementStrategy #RetirementAccount #PreRetirementPlanning #FinanceEducation #AvoidMistakes #InvestmentStrategy #RetirementMoney #RetirementFinance #RetirementAdvice #FinanceTips #MoneyTips

  4. 12/19/2025

    5 Things You MUST Do Before You Retire

    Work with me: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/ If you're between 50 and 65 and starting to think seriously about retirement, you've probably realized something: it's overwhelming. I hear it from people every single day. There are so many moving parts, investments, estate planning, taxes, and income planning, that it's hard to even know where to begin. In this episode, I'm walking you through the 5 key pieces of your financial planning puzzle (plus a bonus 6th piece specifically for retirees). This is the exact framework I use with families across the country as they prepare for, enter, and live in retirement. Instead of trying to analyze hundreds of details, this framework helps you focus on what actually matters. And if you're at the point where it all feels like too much, that's usually the best time to start working with a financial advisor. I'd love to meet you, hear your story, and see if we're a good fit. 🔗 Work With Ellis Retirement Advisors We help people across the U.S. prepare for, enter, and live in retirement, both in person and virtually.  Learn more: ellisretirement.com  Schedule a call: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/ 👍 If you found this valuable: • Subscribe for more retirement planning content • Share this with a friend or family member nearing retirement • Leave a comment with your biggest retirement question

  5. 12/15/2025

    My 5-Step Financial Planning Process You Need to Know

    If you want help building a plan tailored to your goals, you can book a call with me here: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/, so we can walk through your situation together. Today I'm breaking down the exact 5-step financial planning process I use with my clients so you know what real financial planning looks like and how to make smarter decisions for your money, retirement, investments, and long-term goals. In this episode, I'll walk you through the core stages of a complete financial plan: 1. Organize and Dream   We gather every detail of your financial life, investments, retirement accounts, insurance, cash flow, estate documents, assets, and debt, and we talk about your goals, dreams, and vision for retirement.  2. Analyze   We examine your investment portfolio, insurance and protection strategies, tax planning opportunities, estate plan, retirement income needs, and financial risks so we understand the full picture.  3. Present Your Financial Plan   I show you personalized recommendations based on your goals. Not a one-time binder… but a living, adaptable financial plan built to evolve with your life.  4. Implement   We help you execute each step, from investment adjustments to insurance updates to tax optimization and estate planning coordination.  5. Adjust Over Time   Life changes quickly. Your retirement plan, tax strategy, investment strategy, and income needs will shift. Ongoing financial planning is where the real long-term value and peace of mind come from. My goal is simple: to give you the information and clarity you need so you can make confident decisions based on your goals and your future. 👉 If you want to find out what it looks like to work together, book a call with me here: https://ellisretirement.com/get-started/ And if this helps, don't forget to subscribe and share it with a friend.

    My 5-Step Financial Planning Process You Need to Know

  6. 12/08/2025

    Roth or Pre-Tax? My Simple Guide to Making the Right Choice

    Choosing between Roth vs. Pre-Tax contributions is one of the questions I get asked the most at Ellis Retirement Services. And I completely understand why it can feel confusing, and there's a lot of misinformation online. In this video, I break down the difference between Roth and Pre-Tax accounts in the simplest way possible so you can finally understand what they mean, how they work, and which one might make the most sense for your situation. 👉 Here's what I'll walk you through: ✔ What "pre-tax" actually means ✔ What a "Roth" account really is (and what it isn't) ✔ Why neither option is always "better" ✔ How your income, tax bracket, and timeline affect your choice ✔ Why some people benefit most from using both ✔ How having multiple tax buckets creates more flexibility in retirement My goal is to remove the confusion, clear up the myths, and help you make informed decisions that support your long-term financial goals, not what the internet tells you to do. If you're saving for retirement and want clarity on Roth vs. Pre-Tax, this video will help you understand your options and take the next step confidently.     📅 Want to work with me? You can schedule a Zoom call with me here: ➡️ ellisretirement.com 📧 Have questions? Feel free to send me an email or connect with me on social media. If this video helped you, please share it with someone who might benefit too. It helps more people take control of their retirement planning.

  7. 12/01/2025

    Investment Accounts Explained: The Simple Breakdown Everyone Needs

    I simplify the confusing world of investment accounts, custodians, and tax rules so you can make better financial decisions and feel confident about your retirement plan. If you're feeling overwhelmed and want personalized guidance, you can schedule a FREE call with me at 👉 ellisretirement.com I'll help you map out your financial puzzle, from taxes, investments, and estate planning, all the way to your long-term retirement goals. 📌 Why This Matters - Your investment account structure affects: - Your tax burden - How money transfers to your beneficiaries - How you withdraw funds in retirement - Your overall financial strategy Understanding your accounts is one of the most powerful steps toward a secure retirement. ------------------------------------ 🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode: - The two major categories of investment accounts  → Retirement vs. Non-Retirement Accounts - Why account titling matters (ownership, control, beneficiaries) - What custodians are and how they affect your accounts - How investment accounts impact your taxes now and in retirement - When to consider working with a financial advisor or family wealth planner. ------------------------------ 💬 Have Questions? Drop them in the comments! I love hearing your stories and helping you get the answers you need.

  8. 11/28/2025

    End-of-Year Tax Tips to Save You Money (5 Essential Checkups)

    The end of the year is quickly approaching, and if you haven't started thinking about your taxes yet, now's the time to act! Taxes play a crucial role in your overall wealth management and retirement plan. In this episode, Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, breaks down 5 important tax checkups you should review before the year ends. Whether you're planning for retirement or just managing your finances, these tips can help you avoid unnecessary tax penalties and optimize your financial situation for the next year. Topics covered include: Retirement Account Contributions – How to confirm your 401(k) and IRA contributions, ensure you don't exceed the limits, and avoid penalties. Tax Withholdings – Ensure your withholdings are accurate so you're not over- or underpaying taxes. Capital Gains & Losses – Learn how to handle capital gains taxes and what to do with any losses you've incurred this year. Charitable Contributions – Maximize deductions by understanding the impact of your charitable donations. Income Checkup – Understand your total income sources and how to avoid accidentally moving into a higher tax bracket. Don't let tax season sneak up on you. Make sure you're fully prepared by following these 5 essential steps. Whether you're an employee, business owner, or retiree, these strategies will help you keep your tax bill in check and make smarter financial decisions for next year. If you want personalized advice or have any questions about taxes, wealth management, or retirement, book a FREE Zoom consultation with Grant Ellis directly on our website. Let's talk about how we can help you build a solid financial future. 👉ellisretirement.com Subscribe to the channel for more valuable tips on retirement, taxes, and wealth management. Don't forget to like, comment, and share this video with anyone who could benefit from these insights!

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About

Retirement isn't just a number. It's a phase of life that comes with big questions, evolving goals, and a need for real clarity. Welcome to The Art and Science of Retirement — a weekly podcast for people who want to make smart financial decisions and live fully in every stage of life. Hosted by Grant Ellis, founder of Ellis Retirement Services, this show blends two decades of financial expertise with practical, down-to-earth conversations about money, planning, and purpose. Each week, we'll unpack real-life scenarios, answer the questions you've been too afraid to ask, and help you think through what retirement — and financial independence — could look like for you. What to expect: → Retirement planning without the jargon → Candid insights from 20+ years in the advisory business → Case studies and stories from real clients (anonymized, of course) → Clear steps for building a life you don't want to retire from Whether you're 15 years out or already retired, there's something here for you. Learn more at ellisretirement.com or email us at ellisteam@lpl.com to ask a question or suggest a topic.

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