The Fit Financial Podcast: Investments, Retirement & Tax Strategies

Amanda Hanquist
  • 4.8 (12)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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Welcome to The Fit Financial Podcast, where retirement planning, investing, and tax strategy meet real-life decisions. I’m Amanda Hanquist, financial planner and behavioral finance specialist, and I help high earners and retirees navigate life’s biggest financial transitions with clarity and confidence. Each week, we’ll break down practical strategies on everything from 401(k) rollovers, Roth conversions, and investment planning to the emotional side of money, because lasting financial success isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about making smart decisions that fit your life. Whether you’re preparing for retirement, managing an inheritance, navigating divorce, or simply wanting to know if you’re on track for the future, this podcast is designed for you. Subscribe today, and let’s make sure your wealth is working as hard as you are, so you can enjoy the freedom, security, and purpose you’ve been building toward.

  1. 150. Tax Strategy vs. Tax Preparation Explained

    5D AGO

    150. Tax Strategy vs. Tax Preparation Explained

    Tax Strategy vs. Tax Preparation Explained  In This Episode  We’re breaking down the difference between tax strategy and tax preparation — and why that difference could mean six figures in savings over your lifetime.  Many people think they “have a tax plan” because they have a CPA.   But here’s the truth:  Tax preparation is what happens in the spring — you hand over last year’s numbers, and your accountant tells you what you owe.  Tax strategy happens throughout the year — it’s proactive, not reactive — and it gives you control over what you’ll owe next year.  Think of it this way:  Your CPA is the scorekeeper, but your tax strategist? That’s your coach.  At Fit Wealth  This is Shawn Hanquist’s zone of genius — not in a “find the loopholes” way, but in a structured, legal, strategic way that helps high earners minimize taxes and build sustainable wealth.  He teaches clients to stop playing defense and start playing offense with their taxes by using tools like:  Maximizing Retirement Contributions with Cash Balance or Defined Benefit Plans to save well beyond standard 401(k) limits.  Optimizing Your S-Corp Salary and QBI Deduction to strike the right balance between W-2 income and distributions for maximum tax efficiency.  Leveraging Bonus Depreciation to write off qualifying business equipment and vehicles before year-end.  Using Charitable Giving through donor-advised funds or foundations to reduce taxable income while supporting causes you care about.  Taking Advantage of Energy Credits for solar, EV purchases, and home or business efficiency upgrades.  Exploring Oil and Gas Investments for advanced deductions and upfront tax advantages available to accredited investors.  Using Tax Loss Harvesting and Capital Gains Timing to offset investment gains and manage taxes strategically across your portfolio.  For high earners, the difference between planning this way and not?  Sometimes it’s hundreds of thousands — every single year.  Why Most People Overpay  High earners are busy. They’re building and scaling— and they assume their accountant “handles it.”  But when we take a closer look, we often find massive, missed opportunities. Not because anyone did anything wrong, but because no one’s sitting down proactively to say:  “Hey, before December, let’s look at your income, deductions, and investments — and design a plan.”  That’s the real secret of the wealthy:  They don’t wait until April.  They decide in the fall what April will look like.  Coming Up Next  Over the next few weeks, we’re walking through seven key tax strategies we use with our high-income and accredited investor clients — the same ones Shawn and I use ourselves.  Here’s a sneak peek:   Maximizing Retirement Contributions- beyond the 401(k)  Optimize Your S-Corp Salary and QBI Deduction  Leverage Bonus Depreciation for Qualifying Business Purchases  Use Charitable Giving to Reduce Taxable Income  Energy Credits, Solar, EV, Efficiency Upgrades  Oil and Gas Investments for Advanced Deductions  Tax Loss Harvesting & Capital Gains Timing  Each builds on the other — and by the end of this series, you’ll understand how the wealthy design tax-efficient systems, not one-time fixes.  Free Guide  Want to follow along?  Download our free guide: “7 Year-End Tax Strategies for High Earners.”  It’s short, simple, and includes actionable steps to help reduce your tax liability— not by cutting corners, but by thinking ahead.  👉 Grab it at fitwealthadvisors.com/taxguide or through the link in the show notes.  Biggest Takeaway  If you only think about taxes when it’s time to file them, you’re already too late.   But when you start planning ahead, you shift from just paying taxes to being tax efficient.  Next week, Shawn and I are diving into the first strategy — how to use retirement plans as your tax-saving powerhouse, even if you’ve already maxed out your 401(k).  Thanks for tuning in — we’ll catch you in the next one!    The Fit Wealth Show is brought to you by Plan Group Financial, Inc. (PGF) d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors. PGF d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

    23 min
  2. 149. Why Gold is Shining Again, and When it Makes Sense to Own It

    OCT 21

    149. Why Gold is Shining Again, and When it Makes Sense to Own It

    Why Gold Is Shining Again — and When It Actually Makes Sense to Own It  Episode Summary  Gold is glimmering again — hitting all-time highs and grabbing investors’ attention. But what’s really driving it? And should you jump in?  In this episode, Amanda talks with Shawn on breaking down:  Why gold prices are soaring right now  When investors typically buy gold  How much gold makes sense to hold in your portfolio  And why gold isn’t about getting rich   If you’ve ever wondered whether you should buy gold when the headlines heat up, this episode will give you a clearer answer.  What You’ll Learn  Why gold moves: How uncertainty, inflation, and interest rates drive prices.  When investors turn to gold: The emotional and economic triggers behind the “rush to safety.”  The right allocation: How much of your portfolio should actually be in gold (and why more isn’t always better).  Smart strategy: How to think about gold as part of your broader, diversified plan — not a panic purchase.  Key Takeaways  Gold tends to rise when investors feel uncertain — it’s a safety play, not a growth play.  Historically, a 5–10% allocation in gold or precious metals provides stability without sacrificing growth potential.  Chasing gold because “everyone’s buying it” usually means you’re late to the party.  Use gold as a diversifier, not a replacement for real investments that compound over time  Our Hot Take  “Gold’s value isn’t in its shine — it’s in its stability. It won’t build your wealth, but it can help protect it when the world feels shaky.”  🎧 Listen in if You’re:  Wondering if gold is a smart buy right now  Feeling nervous about the economy or stock market  Looking to better understand how diversification works  Building a long-term financial plan that balances growth and safety  🔗 Connect with Fit Wealth  Instagram: @_fitwealth  Website: www.fitwealthadvisors.com  Podcast: The Fit Financial Podcast — subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts    The Fit Wealth Show is brought to you by Plan Group Financial, Inc. (PGF) d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors. PGF d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

    24 min
  3. 148. The Silent Fear: Will I Run Out of Money?

    SEP 16

    148. The Silent Fear: Will I Run Out of Money?

    The Silent Fear: Will I Run Out of Money?  You’ve built wealth, worked hard, and invested wisely—so why does the quiet fear of running out of money still creep in? In this episode of The Fit Financial Podcast, Amanda and Shawn Hanquist unpack one of the most common (but rarely talked about) worries: whether your money will last as long as you do.  What we talk about:  Why even successful people fear running out of money  The science of sustainable withdrawals (and why the “4% rule” might not be enough)  How sequence-of-returns risk can derail a retirement plan if you’re not prepared  Why tax strategy and cash-flow planning are essential for peace of mind  Practical steps you can take now to feel confident about your long-term plan  Whether you’re an entrepreneur or pre-retiree thinking about your financial freedom number, this episode will help you understand the strategies that turn worry into clarity.  Key Takeaways  Running out of money is often less about the math and more about mindset.  A withdrawal strategy should be flexible, not one-size-fits-all.  Smart tax planning—like Roth conversions and asset location—can add years of confidence to your plan.  Peace of mind comes from knowing your cash flow, not just your account balance.  Who This Episode is For   If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “What if I outlive my money?”—this conversation will give you both the reassurance and the strategy to move forward with confidence.  👉 Tune in, take notes, and discover how to turn retirement into a work-optional lifestyle.    The Fit Wealth Show is brought to you by Plan Group Financial, Inc. (PGF) d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors. PGF d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

    29 min
  4. 147. 5 Smart Tax Moves to Make Before Year-End

    SEP 9

    147. 5 Smart Tax Moves to Make Before Year-End

    5 Smart Tax Moves to Make Before Year-End  The end of the year isn’t just about holidays and celebrations — it’s also the deadline for some of the most important tax planning opportunities. And if you’re between the ages of 45 and 65, the choices you make now can set you up for more income, more flexibility, and fewer tax headaches in retirement.  In this episode, we’re unpacking five simple but powerful tax strategies to consider before December 31st:  💰 Max out your retirement contributions — including catch-up provisions after age 50.  🔄 Roth conversions — why this might be your biggest tax-saving window.  🏥 Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) — the triple-tax-advantaged account most people underutilize.  ❤️ Charitable giving strategies — smarter ways to give that can also save on taxes.  📊 Withholding & retirement income planning — how to avoid surprises when Social Security and Medicare come into play.  Whether you’re still working in your peak earning years or preparing to transition into retirement, these strategies can help you finish the year strong — and start the next one with confidence.  👉 Tune in to learn how to keep more of what you’ve earned and make smarter decisions with your money before the year ends.    Have more questions?   If you’re wondering which of these strategies make the most sense for your situation, reach out to schedule a clarity call with us at Fit Wealth Advisors. We’ll help you create a tax and retirement income plan that actually fits your life.    The Fit Wealth Show is brought to you by Plan Group Financial, Inc. (PGF) d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors. PGF d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

    34 min
  5. 146. Your Financial Freedom Number Isn’t a Retirement Age

    SEP 2

    146. Your Financial Freedom Number Isn’t a Retirement Age

    Episode Show Notes: What Is Your Real Financial Freedom Number?  Have you ever wondered: “Am I actually doing enough with my money to feel secure?”  You might be saving, investing, and checking all the right boxes — but that nagging question still lingers: What’s my number?  In this episode of The Fit Financial Podcast, Amanda Hanquist breaks down the concept of your Financial Freedom Number — the amount you really need to live a work-optional life with confidence.  We’ll cover:  ✅ Why “enough” looks different for everyone (and why it’s not about hitting some magic retirement age).  ✅ How to calculate your financial freedom number in simple terms.  ✅ The hidden factors most people miss — like taxes, inflation, and lifestyle choices.  ✅ Why knowing your number creates emotional peace of mind (instead of leaving you guessing).  If you’re ready to stop wondering whether you’ll run out of money and start living with clarity, this episode will show you how to define your number — and why it might be closer than you think.  💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode  How to align your financial plan with your values, lifestyle, and long-term goals.  The difference between being disciplined with money and being intentional with it.  Practical steps to estimate your own freedom number — and how it changes over time.  Why year-end tax planning is critical for protecting and stretching that number.  🔑 Resources & Next Steps  Ready to find your financial freedom number? Book a strategy session the Fit Wealth team: fitwealthadvisors.com/contact   🎧 Tune In If…  You’re someone who:  Wants clarity around your financial future.  Dreams of a work-optional lifestyle.  Is doing “all the right things” but still wonders if it’s truly enough.    The Fit Wealth Show is brought to you by Plan Group Financial, Inc. (PGF) d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors. PGF d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

    24 min
  6. 145. Asset Allocation vs. Asset Location: The Retirement Planning Strategy Most Investors Miss

    AUG 26

    145. Asset Allocation vs. Asset Location: The Retirement Planning Strategy Most Investors Miss

    Episode Title: Asset Allocation vs. Asset Location: The Retirement Planning Strategy Most Investors Miss  Episode Summary  Most people have heard of asset allocation — the mix of stocks, bonds, and investments in a portfolio. But almost no one talks about asset location — where those investments are held (taxable, tax-deferred, or tax-free accounts).  Here’s the truth: You can have the perfect allocation, but if your location strategy is wrong, you could lose tens of thousands of dollars to taxes in retirement.  In this episode of The Fit Financial Podcast, we’re unpacking the difference between allocation and location, the costly mistakes most investors make, and how you can design a more tax-efficient portfolio that keeps more money in your pocket.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode  ✅ Asset allocation vs. asset location explained in plain language  ✅ Why focusing only on allocation leaves money on the table  ✅ The best types of assets to hold in taxable, traditional IRA, and Roth IRA accounts  ✅ Common mistakes people make that lead to higher RMDs and unnecessary taxes  ✅ How asset location fits into your retirement withdrawal strategy  ✅ Practical steps to start optimizing your own portfolio today  Key Takeaways  Allocation is the “what.” It’s the mix of investments that matches your risk tolerance and goals.  Location is the “where.” It’s choosing which accounts hold which investments to maximize tax efficiency.  Getting both right is what separates basic investing from a real fiduciary retirement plan.  Resources & Links  📞 Book a Retirement Readiness Call → fitwealthadvisors.com/contact      The Fit Wealth Show is brought to you by Plan Group Financial, Inc. (PGF) d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors. PGF d/b/a Fit Wealth Advisors is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. This presentation has been provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security or strategy. The investment strategy and themes discussed herein may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial situation. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

    24 min
  7. 144. Are You On Track for Retirement? Benchmarks, Rules of Thumb, and Your Real Number

    AUG 19

    144. Are You On Track for Retirement? Benchmarks, Rules of Thumb, and Your Real Number

    Episode Title: Are You On Track for Retirement? Benchmarks, Rules of Thumb, and Your Real Number  Episode Summary  If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, you’ve probably wondered: “Am I saving enough for retirement?” Maybe you’ve even Googled it and seen benchmarks like 3× your salary saved by 40, 6× by 50, or 10× by 60. But what do those numbers really mean — and do they apply to your life?  In this episode of The Fit Financial Podcast, we’re breaking down retirement readiness benchmarks, why common rules of thumb like the 4% Rule can be misleading, and how to create a retirement strategy that actually fits your lifestyle and goals.    What You’ll Learn in This Episode  ✅ The most common retirement savings benchmarks (3× by 40, 6× by 50, 8–11× by 60) and what they really tell you.  ✅ Why rules of thumb like the 4% Rule or the “Rule of $1,000” oversimplify retirement planning.  ✅ A dynamic approach to withdrawals (Guyton-Klinger Guardrails) that adjusts with your portfolio.  ✅ How asset allocation and “buckets of money” can protect your retirement income.  ✅ Why your retirement number is unique — and how lifestyle, debt, healthcare, longevity, and income sources change everything.  ✅ A step-by-step way to calculate your personal retirement target and stress-test it against inflation, market downturns, and longer lifespans.    Links Mentioned  📞 Book a Retirement Readiness Call with me → fitwealthadvisors.com/contact    Wrap-Up  Benchmarks are a helpful starting point — but your retirement plan has to be customized to you. This episode will help you understand the numbers, the pitfalls of relying only on rules of thumb, and the steps you can take now to feel confident about your financial future.

    30 min
  8. 143. How Much Should I Have in Real Estate vs. Investments?

    AUG 12

    143. How Much Should I Have in Real Estate vs. Investments?

    How Much Should I Have in Real Estate vs. Investments?  Episode Description:  Real estate or stock market?  It’s one of the biggest debates in the world of wealth building — and everyone’s got an opinion.  In this episode, we break down the real conversation high-income earners should be having:  What’s the right balance between real estate and traditional investments — for your goals, cash flow, and lifestyle?  You’ll hear:   ✅ The pros and cons of both real estate and market investments   ✅ When real estate actually becomes passive income   ✅ How to use real estate for tax strategy (without over-leveraging)   ✅ Why liquid investments still matter — even if you love tangible assets   ✅ The decision-making framework we use with clients to strike the right balance  Whether you own rental properties, investments, or are trying to decide if real estate is your next move — this episode will give you the clarity to align your asset mix with your long-term plan.    📌 Links & Resources:  Ready to build a wealth plan that blends real estate and investments?   👉 Book a Clarity Call  Got questions about your current portfolio mix?   👉 DM me on Instagram @thefitfinancial_    🔁 Share This Episode:  Know someone who’s all-in on real estate… or hasn’t touched it yet?  Send them this episode for a balanced take on building sustainable wealth.

    32 min
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4.8
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Fit Financial Podcast, where retirement planning, investing, and tax strategy meet real-life decisions. I’m Amanda Hanquist, financial planner and behavioral finance specialist, and I help high earners and retirees navigate life’s biggest financial transitions with clarity and confidence. Each week, we’ll break down practical strategies on everything from 401(k) rollovers, Roth conversions, and investment planning to the emotional side of money, because lasting financial success isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about making smart decisions that fit your life. Whether you’re preparing for retirement, managing an inheritance, navigating divorce, or simply wanting to know if you’re on track for the future, this podcast is designed for you. Subscribe today, and let’s make sure your wealth is working as hard as you are, so you can enjoy the freedom, security, and purpose you’ve been building toward.

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