Shotwell Rutter Baer

Shotwell Rutter Baer
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Investing
  • Updated Semimonthly

Pull up a chair with David and Nick for warm, real conversations about money, purpose, and building the life you truly want. Focused on clarity and confidence, they help you move from uncertainty to a plan rooted in your values. Whether you’re a lifelong educator, public service professional, or someone preparing for a meaningful retirement, this podcast meets you where you are. But planning is never just about what is going on in the headlines or the markets—it’s about using your resources to live a life with meaning and intention. This show is about financial advice, but so much more than 403(b)’s, pensions, taxes, and retirement. Expect thoughtful conversations, practical strategies, and a welcoming space to reflect on your goals, values, and the kind of legacy you want to create. We want you to stay focused on what matters most: living well and protecting what you’ve built.

Episodes

  1. 23h ago

    Retirement Questions Everyone Asks Before Leaving Work

    How do you know when you’re financially ready to retire? Should you delay Social Security? How much should you expect healthcare to cost? These are some of the most common questions we hear from clients and podcast listeners, and in this episode, we’re answering them around the kitchen table. David Shotwell and Nick Nauta walk through the retirement planning topics that matter most as you prepare for retirement. They discuss practical ways to estimate retirement income needs, strategies for creating reliable retirement paychecks, Roth conversion considerations, healthcare planning, and how to prepare your portfolio for market volatility. You’ll also hear why there is no magic retirement number, why every retirement plan should reflect your personal goals, and how thoughtful planning can help you make confident financial decisions before and throughout retirement. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to estimate whether you can afford to retire What factors should influence your Social Security claiming decision What healthcare costs may look like before and after Medicare How to create retirement income from your savings When Roth conversions may make sense How to prepare your retirement plan for a market downturn Why flexibility is one of the most valuable retirement planning tools Whether retirement is just around the corner or still several years away, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you build a retirement plan that fits your goals and your lifestyle. Resources Specialized financial planning for MSU faculty and staff navigating the transition from campus to retirement. https://srbadvisors.com/michigan-state-university-faculty/ Specialized financial planning for State of Michigan employees who want to make the most of their benefits and retire with confidence. https://srbadvisors.com/state-of-michigan-employees/ Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E14 – Retirement Questions Everyone Asks Before Leaving Work appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    30 min

  2. Jun 16

    Health Insurance in Retirement for State of Michigan Employees

    Health insurance is one of the biggest retirement planning questions for State of Michigan employees. The rules can be complicated, especially when you are trying to understand retiree coverage, Medicare, premium subsidies, and how your decisions affect your spouse or dependents. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave Shotwell and Nick Nauta walk through the major health insurance decisions State of Michigan employees face before and after retirement. They explain the different retiree health care options, highlight common mistakes to avoid, and share the key questions you should have answered before making retirement decisions. Whether you are several years from retirement or preparing to leave state service soon, this conversation will help you understand the planning process and identify the information you need before making important choices. What you’ll learn in this episode: The difference between pre-Medicare and Medicare health insurance planning How State of Michigan retiree health insurance works Understanding premium subsidies versus the Personal Healthcare Fund How years of service can affect your health insurance costs What happens when Medicare becomes your primary coverage Questions to ask before choosing your retirement date How your health insurance decisions may affect your spouse or dependents Why survivor benefit elections may impact retiree health coverage When it makes sense to compare ORS coverage with other insurance options Why working directly with ORS is an important part of retirement planning Resources Check out our FREE ebook about specialized financial planning for State of Michigan employees who want to make the most of their benefits and retire with confidence. https://srbadvisors.com/state-of-michigan-employees/ Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E13 – Health Insurance in Retirement for State of Michigan Employees appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    28 min

  3. Jun 9

    Financial Life Planning: Finding Purpose Beyond the Numbers

    Retirement planning is about more than investments, savings targets, and account balances. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Nick Nauta sits down with Cole Williams to discuss the Kinder Institute approach to financial life planning. Cole shares insights from his Registered Life Planner training and explains how financial planning can help people connect their money to the life they truly want to live. Together, they walk through George Kinder’s three powerful life planning questions and discuss how these conversations help uncover priorities, values, and what really matters most. Topics covered include: What financial life planning is and why it matters George Kinder’s influence on modern life planning The importance of active listening in financial planning Why retirement planning should begin with your vision for life The three Kinder questions and how they uncover your priorities The difference between return on investment and return on life How to identify your “enough.” Why clarity often matters more than financial complexity How the SRB process helps clients connect their goals with their finances The role of accountability and support in creating meaningful change Whether you are approaching retirement or simply want greater clarity around your financial future, this episode offers a practical framework for aligning your money with what matters most. Mentioned in this episode: George Kinder Registered Life Planner (RLP) Program LifePlanningForYou.com Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E12 – Financial Life Planning: Finding Purpose Beyond the Numbers appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    25 min

  4. May 26

    How to Calculate Your Retirement Income

    Retirement planning does not stop when you reach your savings goal. The next challenge is figuring out how to turn those savings into dependable retirement income. In this episode, David Shotwell and Nick Nauta discuss retirement income planning for Michigan State University employees, including how to estimate spending needs, structure withdrawals, evaluate Social Security timing, and think about taxes in retirement. Topics covered: Determining retirement spending needs Understanding income sources in retirement Creating withdrawal strategies from retirement accounts Evaluating Social Security timing decisions TIAA Traditional income considerations Tax planning around retirement withdrawals Common mistakes retirees make Helpful resources: Retirement Spending Worksheet Related episodes: Tax Planning Episode: S4E18 – What to Know About Taxes in Retirement Social Security Planning: Ep 116: Getting Real About Social Security Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips: https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E11 – How to Calculate Your Retirement Income appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    31 min

  5. May 12

    Top Tax Mistakes Pre-Retirees Make

    Tax planning is not something that should only happen during tax season. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave and Nick discuss some of the most common retirement tax mistakes and why proactive planning can make a significant difference throughout retirement. The discussion focuses on how retirement income sources are taxed, how Roth conversions fit into a retirement strategy, and why understanding required minimum distributions and Medicare IRMAA rules is critical for retirees. The episode also highlights how withdrawal strategies, Social Security taxation, and capital gains planning can impact long-term retirement outcomes. Topics Discussed: Why tax planning should happen year-round The importance of tax diversification Understanding Roth conversion opportunities Planning for required minimum distributions Social Security taxation strategies Capital gains and tax loss harvesting Medicare IRMAA considerations Michigan retirement tax planning Coordinating tax planning with your CPA and advisor Related Episodes S4E19 – Does your Retirement Plan Need a ROTH? Understanding IRMAA: S4E18 – What to Know About Taxes in Retirement Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer   The post S5E10 – Top Tax Mistakes Pre-Retirees Make appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    34 min

  6. May 4

    2026 Quarter One Market Review and Outlook

    In this quarterly market update, we take a step back and look at what really happened during the first quarter of 2026 and what it means for your financial plan. We have been partnering with East Bay Investment Services since 2021 to help guide our investment models. Each quarter, they provide a balanced view of the economy, including both opportunities and risks. One consistent theme over the years has been the presence of global conflict as part of the overall investment landscape. In the first quarter of 2026, that risk moved from the background to the forefront. The conflict with Iran pushed oil prices higher and created volatility across both stocks and bonds. Despite that, the bigger story may be how resilient the U.S. economy and markets have been through this period. Economic growth has continued to move forward, while inflation outside of energy and unemployment has remained relatively stable. While headlines may suggest otherwise, the underlying data tells a more balanced story. Here is a quick summary of what we saw during the quarter: 8% is the average one-year total return for the U.S. stock market following the onset of geopolitical events. Investors who choose to “do something” by selling stock in response to such events tend to miss out on the market’s recovery and future growth. 20% represents the amount of the world’s oil supply that passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is a critical shipping lane that was effectively closed during the war in Iran. Oil prices surged in Q1 as a result, but the price of oil and its long-term effect on stock market returns have not shown a strong causal relationship historically. 8 is the number of well-known, large, tech-related companies that underperformed the S&P 500 index in Q1. The collection of stocks is widely known as the “Magnificent 7” and welcomed a new member to the group, now known by some as the “Hateful 8.” -1.9% ia the YTD return of a portfolio comprised of 60% MSCI ACWI and 40% Bloomberg Global Aggregate (hedged USD). In other words, despite the unnerving headlines during the year and increased market volatility, a globally balanced portfolio comprised of both stocks and bonds is down just slightly this year. When we break things down further, we continue to look at the economy through a glass-half-full and glass-half-empty lens. On the positive side: These factors help explain why many portfolios have held up better than expected, even with increased volatility. On the other side of the equation: As always, the full picture is more nuanced than any list of bullet points. Markets are influenced by many moving parts, and short-term events often feel more significant than they are over time. That is why we continue to focus on long-term planning, diversification, and avoiding emotional decisions during periods of uncertainty. If you would like to take a deeper dive into the data, you can watch the full East Bay quarterly presentation or review the complete report. Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer Check out the full video here: https://youtu.be/d8rF9KFNr8U The post S5E9 – 2026 Quarter One Market Review and Outlook appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

  7. Apr 21

    Intern Aditya Chaturvedi Joins the Show

    Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance. Today’s conversation brings a fresh perspective from the next generation of financial planners. We sit down with Aditya “Adi” Chaturvedi, a Michigan State University junior and SRB intern, to talk about his journey from Mumbai to East Lansing and what led him into financial planning. Adi shares how his background in math, exposure to finance through family, and early career exploration shaped his path toward wealth management. Throughout the conversation, Adi offers a candid look at what it is like to step into real client meetings during uncertain markets. He reflects on seeing both strong market performance and periods of volatility, and how clients react in each environment. These experiences highlight an important truth. Financial planning is not just about numbers. It is about helping people navigate emotions, uncertainty, and long-term decisions. We also discuss the importance of being proactive in college, why early planning matters, and how small decisions can create meaningful opportunities later. Adi shares practical advice for students considering financial planning and explains how the right program can open doors toward a CFP designation. One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is Adi’s evolving perspective on money. He explains why financial success is not about chasing the highest returns, but about using money as a tool to support a meaningful life filled with experiences and strong relationships. If you are early in your career, guiding a student, or simply reflecting on your own financial journey, this episode offers practical insights and a grounded perspective on what really matters. Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/Gn-h-niQAcs   The post S5E8 – Intern Aditya Chaturvedi Joins the Show appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    24 min

  8. Apr 6

    Minimum Distrubution Requirements for MSU Employee Retirement Plans

    Required Minimum Distributions are one of the most important, and often misunderstood, parts of retirement planning. For Michigan State University employees, the rules can be even more complex due to the different types of retirement plans available. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave and Nick take a practical, straightforward approach to help you understand how RMDs actually work and what you should be thinking about as you approach retirement. What is a required Minimum Distribution & Why Is It Required? We start with the basics by explaining what a Required Minimum Distribution is and why the IRS requires you to take money out of your retirement accounts. Since these accounts were funded with pre-tax dollars, the government eventually wants its share. Once you reach age 73, you are required to begin taking distributions based on your account balance and life expectancy. How RMDs Are Calculated From there, we walk through how RMDs are calculated, including how your prior year-end balance and IRS life expectancy tables determine the amount you must withdraw. We also discuss how these distributions typically grow over time and why they may not be as overwhelming as many people expect. Unique Considerations for MSU Employees For MSU employees, there are some unique considerations. We cover how RMDs apply to 403b and 457 plans, how Roth contributions are treated differently, and when you may be able to delay RMDs if you are still working. We also explain aggregation rules and how having multiple accounts can impact where and how you take your distributions. Taxes and RMDs Taxes are a major part of the RMD conversation, so we spend time discussing how these withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and how they can affect your overall tax picture. This includes potential impacts on Social Security taxation and Medicare premiums. Understanding how these pieces fit together can help you avoid surprises later in retirement. Planning opportunities are a key focus of this episode. We talk through strategies you can consider before RMDs begin, including Roth conversions and how they can help smooth out your tax situation over time. We also discuss the importance of balancing tax planning with actually enjoying retirement and using your money in a way that supports your lifestyle. Once RMDs begin, there are still ways to manage the tax impact. One of our favorite strategies is the qualified charitable distribution, which allows you to give directly to charity from your IRA while reducing your taxable income. This can be a powerful tool for those who are already charitably inclined. Common Mistakes and Misconceptions about RMDs We also highlight common mistakes and misconceptions, such as misunderstanding deadlines, thinking RMDs are a maximum instead of a minimum, or assuming you cannot take money from your accounts before RMD age. Avoiding these pitfalls can make your retirement income strategy much smoother. Key Takeaway The key takeaway from this episode is that RMDs are not just a rule you have to follow. They are an opportunity to plan ahead and make thoughtful decisions about your income, taxes, and long-term financial goals. The earlier you start thinking about these decisions, the more flexibility you will have. If you are nearing retirement or already there, this episode will help you understand what to expect and how to plan ahead with confidence. Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer   The post S5E7 – Minimum Distrubution Requirements for MSU Employee Retirement Plans appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    38 min

  9. Mar 24

    Life Planning Versus Financial Planning

    In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, Dave and Nick break down the difference between traditional financial planning and life planning, and why that distinction matters more than most people realize. Traditional financial planning focuses on numbers, projections, and optimization. It answers questions like: when you can retire how to minimize taxes how to allocate investments These are important pieces of the puzzle, and they are part of every solid financial plan. But the bigger question is often overlooked. What is all of this for? Life planning starts with that question. It focuses on your values, your priorities, and what you want your life to look like in the years ahead. Instead of leading with spreadsheets, it begins with clarity around what truly matters to you. Dave and Nick walk through how strategy and tactics work together, why many people end up chasing goals that are not actually their own, and how aligning your money with your values can lead to a more fulfilling life both now and in retirement. They also share practical ways to start thinking about your own life plan, including simple questions you can ask yourself to begin the process. If you have ever wondered whether you are saving and planning for the right reasons, this episode will help you take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E6 – Life Planning vs. Traditional Financial Planning appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    20 min

  10. Mar 10

    MSU Retiree Health Insurance Guide

    Health insurance is one of the most confusing parts of retirement planning, especially for Michigan State University employees approaching retirement. In this episode of Kitchen Table Finance, David Shotwell and Nick Nauta walk through the basics of how retiree health insurance works for MSU employees. They explain what happens if you retire before age 65, how Medicare fits into your plan, and the options available through the MSU retiree health plan. They also discuss marketplace insurance, COBRA coverage, Medicare enrollment, and the planning opportunities that come with Roth conversions and Health Savings Accounts. The goal is simple. Help you understand the moving parts so you can make informed decisions when retirement approaches. If you are an MSU employee planning retirement within the next few years, this episode will help you understand the major decision points and what steps to take next. Key Topics About MSU Retiree Health Insurance Discussed How retiring before age 65 impacts your health insurance options How the MSU retiree health plan works before Medicare COBRA and marketplace insurance as temporary coverage options The role Medicare plays at age 65 How Medicare Advantage plans coordinate with MSU retiree coverage IRMA and how your income can increase Medicare premiums How Roth conversions can affect Medicare and insurance costs Using Health Savings Accounts to help cover medical expenses in retirement A simple planning checklist for MSU employees approaching retirement Action Steps for MSU Employees Approaching Retirement Confirm eligibility for retiree health benefits with MSU Human Resources Request a benefits estimate from HR to understand your premium responsibility Compare MSU retiree coverage with marketplace insurance options Plan ahead for Medicare enrollment to avoid penalties Review income strategies and tax projections to avoid surprises with IRMA or insurance subsidies Links Mentioned MSU Retiree Health Benefits Policy Medicare Webinar with Justine from Benny Guides Conclusion of MSU Retiree Health Insurance Retirement planning includes more than investments. Healthcare costs are one of the most important pieces of the plan. Taking time to understand your options today can remove a lot of uncertainty later. Contact SRB today at 517-321-4832 or email us at info@srbadvisors.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more bite-sized financial and retirement tips. https://www.youtube.com/@shotwellrutterbaer The post S5E5 – MSU Retiree Health Insurance Guide appeared first on Shotwell Rutter Baer.

    29 min
  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Pull up a chair with David and Nick for warm, real conversations about money, purpose, and building the life you truly want. Focused on clarity and confidence, they help you move from uncertainty to a plan rooted in your values. Whether you’re a lifelong educator, public service professional, or someone preparing for a meaningful retirement, this podcast meets you where you are. But planning is never just about what is going on in the headlines or the markets—it’s about using your resources to live a life with meaning and intention. This show is about financial advice, but so much more than 403(b)’s, pensions, taxes, and retirement. Expect thoughtful conversations, practical strategies, and a welcoming space to reflect on your goals, values, and the kind of legacy you want to create. We want you to stay focused on what matters most: living well and protecting what you’ve built.

Information

  • Creator
    Shotwell Rutter Baer
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Shotwell Rutter Baer