In this episode of The Ascent, Alec Walker from Crestmont Private Wealth explains everything you need to know about Roth conversions. He covers what a Roth conversion is, when and why it makes sense, key rules and deadlines, tax implications, and how to determine if a Roth conversion is right for you. Alec also discusses the impact on Medicare premiums, estate planning, and strategies for optimizing your conversions. If you’re considering a Roth conversion or want to understand the benefits and potential pitfalls, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert insights.

00:00 – Introduction: Alec Walker and the topic of Roth conversions

00:14 – What is a Roth conversion?

00:56 – Roth conversion deadlines and why timing matters

01:47 – Why do Roth conversions in the fall?

02:07 – How much should you convert? Tax bracket considerations

02:49 – When does a Roth conversion make sense?

03:19 – Roth conversions and retirement years

03:59 – Roth conversions for large required minimum distributions (RMDs)

04:49 – The “gap years” and tax planning

05:14 – Importance of after-tax investment accounts

05:22 – Estate planning: Secure Act and inherited IRAs

05:49 – Hedging against future tax rate increases

06:14 – Reducing lifetime taxes with Roth conversions

06:39 – Five main reasons for Roth conversions

07:04 – Key rules and “gotchas” (deadlines, no takebacks, five-year clock)

07:51 – Five-year rule explained

08:24 – Tax brackets and Medicare premium considerations

08:45 – How Medicare premiums are calculated

09:04 – Impact on Affordable Care Act and insurance premiums

09:49 – Estimated taxes and making tax payments

10:19 – Withholding taxes vs. paying with outside funds

10:47 – Working with CPAs and tax professionals

11:12 – How to determine if a Roth conversion is right for you

11:30 – Analyzing your tax return and projecting income

11:50 – Annual vs. one-time Roth conversions

12:13 – The power of partial, annual conversions

12:36 – Long-term impact of annual conversions

13:01 – How to get in touch for a Roth conversion analysis

13:26 – Outro and contact

Original Air Date: September 20, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Contact: www.crestmontpw.com

Alec Walker in Houston: 831-280-5288

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898 information

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Sam McGee from Crestmont Private Wealth as he interviews Laura Anderson, president of the 100 Club of Kendall County. Laura shares her background as a law enforcement officer, the mission of the 100 Club, and the importance of supporting first responders and their families. The episode covers the annual "Tug the Truck" event, mental health challenges for first responders, stories of community support, and ways to get involved. Recorded on September 11th, the conversation also honors the sacrifices of first responders and highlights the club’s commitment to local impact.

00:00 – Introduction: Meet Sam McGee & Laura Anderson

00:45 – Laura’s Law Enforcement Background

01:28 – The Risks and Sacrifices of First Responders

02:30 – Mental Health Challenges in Law Enforcement

03:00 – How Laura Got Involved with the 100 Club

03:40 – What the 100 Club of Kendall County Does

04:30 – "Tug the Truck" Event Overview

05:15 – Event Activities: Fire Truck Tug, Police Car Push, Awards

06:00 – Community Involvement & Sponsors

07:00 – Honoring 9/11 and Fallen First Responders

08:00 – Stories of Support: Mental Health & Financial Aid

09:00 – Scholarships and Training Grants

10:00 – The Importance of Mental Health Support

11:00 – Other Annual Events: Boots for the Badges Bash

12:00 – How Donations Are Used Locally

13:00 – How to Get Involved & Wishlist

14:00 – Closing Thoughts: Community, Patriotism, and Contact Info

15:44 – End of Episode

Original Air Date: September 13, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

https://www.100clubkendallcounty.org/

Contact: www.crestmontpw.com

Alec Walker in Houston: 831-280-5288

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Ascent! In this episode, Sam McGee from Crestmont Private Wealth discusses the often-overlooked mental and emotional aspects of preparing for retirement. While financial planning is crucial, Sam emphasizes the importance of addressing identity, purpose, routines, social connections, and mental health as you transition into retirement. Learn practical strategies to maintain fulfillment, manage financial anxiety, and ensure a smooth, meaningful shift into this new chapter of life.

Timeline / Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction & About Crestmont Private Wealth

00:50 – The Emotional Side of Retirement

01:55 – Loss of Identity & Finding New Purpose

02:37 – Planning New Routines and Hobbies

03:18 – Maintaining Social Connections

04:52 – Lifestyle Changes in Retirement

05:37 – Financial Planning & Setting Expectations

06:43 – Managing Financial Anxiety

08:12 – The Importance of an Income Plan

09:02 – Ongoing Financial Maintenance

09:25 – Seeking Support: Therapy & Coaching

10:48 – Finding Purpose & Fulfillment

11:39 – The Impact of Losing Purpose

12:00 – The Value of a Retirement Coach

12:31 – Final Thoughts & Resources

Original Air Date: August 30, 2025 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Contact: www.crestmontpw.com

Alec Walker in Houston: 831-280-5288

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.