Tag: Financial Independence

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Finding Strength Through Uncertainty and Rebuilding After Divorce (Ep. 102)

Finding Strength Through Uncertainty and Rebuilding After Divorce (Ep. 102)

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Facing major life changes can feel overwhelming, especially when the future is unclear and the stakes are high.

How do you move forward when fear, finances, and identity are all shifting at once?

In this episode, I chat with Claudia Porter, CFP®, CDFA®, Wealth Advisor at RFG Advisory, about navigating divorce, financial uncertainty, and rebuilding life with purpose. She shares her personal journey from feeling financially powerless to taking control, the mindset shifts that helped her move forward, and how small steps can create momentum. 

Claudia also explores the importance of support systems, journaling for clarity, and empowering women to take an active role in their financial lives.

Key takeaways:

  • How financial control in relationships can limit independence and decision-making during major life transitions
  • Why taking one step at a time can help reduce overwhelm and build confidence in uncertain situations
  • The role of journaling in creating clarity, distance, and better decision-making during emotional periods
  • How building a trusted support team can provide guidance, perspective, and accountability when it matters most
  • Why participating in financial conversations early can help avoid stress and uncertainty later in life
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

Connect with Claudia Porter:

About our Guest: 

Claudia was born and raised in West Germany.

She is a Certified Financial Planner® and has been in the financial industry for 11 years and partnered with RFG Advisory in March, 2025 to go independent.

She has a Master’s Degree in Teaching English and French from the University of Göttingen and a Ph.D. in Linguistics from Braunschweig Technical University. In 2014, she left academia to return to her earlier passion for financial planning and wealth management to make a more significant impact in people’s lives. For Claudia, “Success is not what you get, but the positive impact you make in other people’s lives.”

She is the author of 2 books, “Women, Wealth, and Winning” and “On The Other Side: A Woman’s Guide to Rediscovering Strength and Success Beyond Adversity”.

Claudia has 4 boys, 3 of whom are in college, 1 is still in high school.

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When Work Becomes Optional: Redefining Retirement with Bernadette Joy (Ep. 101)

When Work Becomes Optional: Redefining Retirement with Bernadette Joy (Ep. 101)

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What happens when retirement stops being a finish line and starts being a choice?

What if the biggest barrier between you and financial freedom isn’t the math, it’s the mindset?

In this episode, I sit down with Bernadette Joy, author and CEO of CRUSH Your Money Goals®, for a candid conversation about what it really takes to take control of your finances, redefine what retirement means to you, and finally stop waiting for the “right” time to live the life you actually want.

We talk about the moment Bernadette discovered she had $72,000 in student loan debt she didn’t know was growing, how she paid off $300,000 in debt and reached financial independence, and why she believes financial fluency matters far more than financial literacy. This conversation will challenge how you think about money, work, and what retirement could actually look like for you.

Key takeaways:

  • How a shocking student loan balance became the turning point that led Bernadette to pay off $300,000 in debt
  • Why learning finances is more like learning a language than solving a math problem, and what that means for women approaching retirement
  • How the loss of a client changed Bernadette’s perspective on waiting for the “right time” to retire
  • What financial independence actually looks like when work becomes optional, not obligatory
  • Why women advocating for themselves in financial conversations is not just empowering, it is essential
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

Connect with Bernadette Joy: 

About our Guest: 

Bernadette isn’t your typical financial expert—she’s a powerhouse with real-world experience. With two business degrees and a background in psychology, Bernadette knows how to blend academic knowledge with street smarts. As a first-generation Filipino American and former corporate employee, she intimately understands the stress of financial uncertainty, even when the paycheck looks promising.

She’s a featured money expert on CNBC, CNET, Forbes, MarketWatch, Yahoo Finance and has taken the stage at FinCon, SXSW, NASDAQ and TEDxHouston (just like Brene Brown!)

But here’s where Bernadette truly shines: she’s walked the walk. In just three years, she obliterated $300,000 of debt. And by her thirties, she achieved a net worth of over $2 million—all while working part-time hours. That’s right—she clocks in just 20 hours a week.

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Rebuilding After Abuse: Finding Strength with Dr. Brooke Jones (Ep. 76)

Rebuilding After Abuse: Finding Strength with Dr. Brooke Jones (Ep. 76)

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What if your most painful experiences could become the foundation for new strength and hope?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Brooke Jones, Founder of Stronger Women, to talk about her journey of survival, recovery, and empowerment. She shares her story of leaving abuse, the challenges women face when trying to rebuild their lives, and the importance of financial independence. Together, we uncover how resilience, faith, and hope can transform even the darkest moments into a brighter future.

Dr. Brooke Jones discusses:

  • Her personal journey from surviving abuse to founding Stronger Women
  • How isolation and dependency often mark the beginning of abusive relationships
  • Why leaving abuse often means giving up nearly everything, including financial stability
  • How the science of hope helps women move from surviving to thriving
  • The ripple effects of domestic violence on families, children, and communities
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

Connect with Dr. Brooke Jones: 

About Stronger Women

Survivors often move on, but are left overwhelmed by shame, fear, low self-esteem and powerlessness. Because LOVE has always come with a promise – and then pain – survivors; feel disconnected and even pain when they hear the word Love, especially the notion, “God loves you.”

Every Stronger session is written for survivors by survivors. This insight an integral piece to understanding the survivors’ journey from hurt to healing through restorative and prevention programs.

The Stronger healing model combines proven curriculum, the power of small groups, and ongoing development of practical tools to restore survivors.

Stronger focuses on exponential growth by equipping certified facilitators to launch restorative healing groups in their local community, church and organization.

As survivors tell their stories, they begin to heal from trauma in a safe and supportive setting. Participants gain: Increased self-awareness, renewed thought patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, build resilience, improved self-esteem, establish healthy boundaries, improve family and parenting skills, improved communication skills, and healthier relationships.

We believe it is critical to provide practical tools so everyone can walk alongside these survivors in their healing journey with respect and dignity.

About Dr. Brooke Jones:

Dr. Brooke Jones is a national and international speaker on topics of global oppression of women, domestic & gender based violence and human trafficking. Brooke is wife to Rick, mom of two young kids, and is a two-decade survivor of domestic violence and aggravated stalking.

Brooke earned her Bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship, her Master’s degree in Education and in 2016 received an Honorary Doctorate degree in Theology to recognize her contribution and impact through the Stronger Women programs.

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Gray Divorce and Retirement: How Collaborative Divorce May Protect Your Financial Future with Jill Lowe (Ep. 62)

Gray Divorce and Retirement: How Collaborative Divorce May Protect Your Financial Future with Jill Lowe (Ep. 62)

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Gray divorce can significantly impact your retirement plans and emotional well-being.

How do you protect your financial future when love fades later in life? What pitfalls should you avoid to stay financially sound?

In this episode, I sit down with Jill Lowe, Collaborative Divorce Attorney at J Lowe Law, LLC, to discuss the financial and emotional layers of gray divorce. Together, we explore why more women are choosing divorce later in life and how preparation and informed decisions can lead to financial confidence.

Jill discusses:

  • How education becomes a crucial tool for women considering or going through divorce
  • The growing trend of gray divorce and why more women are initiating the split
  • The danger of letting emotions drive decisions around keeping the marital home
  • How collaborative divorce offers a less combative, more goal-focused approach
  • The essential role financial planners play in mapping out a stable future post-divorce
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

Connect with Jill Lowe: 

About our Guest:

Jill Lowe is a Collaborative Divorce Attorney and founder of J Lowe Law, LLC. With over 20 years of legal experience—18 of those focused exclusively on family law—Jill brings a unique combination of legal expertise and personal insight to her work.

She is licensed to practice law in both Texas and Florida and has been representing clients in collaborative divorces for more than 15 years. She’s also a trained collaborative professional in both states and has spent the past three years speaking publicly on the collaborative process.

Jill’s commitment to peaceful resolution stems from her own experience as a child of divorced parents and her decision—after facing serious health challenges—to step away from litigation in favor of helping families resolve conflict with compassion. She believes divorce doesn’t have to be a battle, and her work focuses on healing and collaboration instead of confrontation.

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What Will You Do with Your 1,000 Hours a Year in Retirement? (Ep. 56)

What Will You Do with Your 1,000 Hours a Year in Retirement? (Ep. 56)

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Retirement is about more than finances. How will you spend your time?

How do you transition from a life dictated by schedules to one filled with purpose and joy? What steps can you take now to prepare for a fulfilling retirement lifestyle?

In this episode, I explore “The Rule of 1000 Hours” in retirement, explaining how to balance freedom with intention. I offer strategies to avoid aimlessness and craft a life filled with meaningful activities.

Points discussed:

  • “The Rule of a Thousand Hours” and how it can shape your retirement schedule
  • Common problems, like excessive TV watching, and how to avoid them
  • Strategies for identifying energizing activities that align with your passions
  • The value of experimenting with hobbies and creating a flexible retirement plan
  • The importance of practicing retirement to test your financial and time management strategies before the big transition
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

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Empowering Financial Confidence for Women with Savvy Ladies (Ep. 55)

Empowering Financial Confidence for Women with Savvy Ladies (Ep. 55)

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Financial empowerment transforms lives, especially when women have access to tailored resources and support.

In this episode, I explore the incredible work of Savvy Ladies, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping women with financial knowledge and confidence. Alongside Judy Herbst, Executive Director, and Lisa Zeiderman, Board Chair, we discuss their mission, their groundbreaking helpline, and how their resources are helping women make informed financial decisions.

Lisa and Judy discuss:

  • The inspiring story behind Savvy Ladies’ creation and its mission to aid women
  • How Savvy Ladies utilizes technology to provide free financial guidance
  • The unique, free helpline connecting women with financial experts
  • Overcoming challenges in retirement and gaining financial independence
  • The role of Savvy Ladies in forthcoming wealth transfers and women’s financial empowerment
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

Connect with Lisa Zeiderman: 

Connect with Judy Herbst: 

About Lisa Zeiderman: 

Lisa Zeiderman is a Managing Partner of the law firm Miller Zeiderman LLP., who focuses her law practice solely in matrimonial and family law. As both an attorney and a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, she has a wealth of experience, understanding, negotiating and litigating high net worth and/or complex financial matters. She has been lead trial counsel in matters of custody, modification of custody, equitable distribution of assets, child support, alimony, contempt hearings and relocation matters. Lisa obtained her law degree at Fordham University School of Law and then went on to become a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst. She now sits on the Advisory Board of the American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators, and is a member of the Legislative Committee of the Family Law Section for the New York State Bar Association and on the executive board of the Justice Brandeis Law Society. She is also a member of the New York State Bar Association, the New York Women’s Bar Association and the Westchester Women’s Bar Association.

About Judy Herbst: 

Judy Herbst is the Executive Director of Savvy Ladies. She comes to Savvy Ladies with vast knowledge & experience working with women throughout her career. With over 20+ years of relationship-building experience working for the iconic brands’ Tiffany & Co, American Girl, and Worthy.com, Judy creates programs and campaigns that educate and speak to critical issues targeting women, parents, and families.

In March 2021, Savvy Ladies welcomed Judy to spearhead initiates designed to expand Savvy Ladies reach focusing on technology & scalability to serve more women, championing women’s empowerment through financial knowledge.

Judy brings her business acumen and creative, marketing & client relationship savviness along with her proven success record in developing, driving and executing scalable business growth initiatives. She is innovative and a passionate thought leader with success in sales, project and event management, managing teams, hiring, start-ups, coaching, writing, and community building.

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I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes (Ep. 52)

I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes (Ep. 52)

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Inheriting an IRA can feel like stepping into a financial minefield — but with the right guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your legacy.

How do you know which rules apply? What if you miss a critical tax deadline? What should you do first?

In this episode, I break down the five essential steps every woman should take after inheriting an IRA. I explain how the Secure Act changed the rules, when required distributions apply, and how to think about taxes and investment strategy.

Topics covered:

  • How to determine if you’re a spousal or non-spousal beneficiary
  • The importance of knowing your IRA type: Traditional vs. Roth
  • Required distributions and understanding the fine print of the 10-year rule
  • Tailoring investment strategies to your individual needs post-inheritance
  • Tips for tax-efficient distribution strategies, including qualified charitable distributions
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

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Women Will Soon Control the Financial Landscape – But Is the Financial Services Industry Ready? (Ep. 50)

Women Will Soon Control the Financial Landscape – But Is the Financial Services Industry Ready? (Ep. 50)

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The financial services industry is facing a significant shift as women are positioned to control an increasing share of wealth. This shift requires financial advisors to adapt their strategies to better serve women’s specific needs and priorities. 

Are firms ready to change their long-held practices to meet the needs of this growing client base?

In this milestone 50th episode, I explore the increasing control of wealth by women and the financial industry’s reaction to this change. I emphasize the necessity for advisors to change their methods to effectively serve women. Additionally, we share client stories that illustrate the specific concerns and needs of women in financial planning.

Key points:

  • The reasons behind financial advisors’ current concerns
  • Why women are poised to control a significant portion of U.S. wealth
  • The transition of financial responsibility that women experience post-divorce or widowhood
  • How understanding emotional connections to money impacts financial decisions
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

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How to Pay Taxes in Retirement: What You Need to Know (Ep. 48)

How to Pay Taxes in Retirement: What You Need to Know (Ep. 48)

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What happens when you retire and no longer receive a paycheck? How do you pay your taxes in retirement? 

This week on The Simply Retirement Podcast, I dive into this common concern among retirees. With the tax season freshly behind us, now’s a great time to address how you’ll handle taxes in your golden years.

Key topics:

  • Navigating IRS expectations for tax payments without a regular paycheck
  • Options for tax withholding from Social Security, pensions, and IRAs
  • Understanding marginal versus average tax rates in retirement
  • The advantages of estimated quarterly tax payments 
  • The rule of mandatory 20% tax withholding from company retirement plans
  • The importance of consulting a knowledgeable financial advisor or tax professional 
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

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Three Game-Changing Social Security Strategies (Ep. 47)

Three Game-Changing Social Security Strategies (Ep. 47)

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Your Social Security decisions can significantly impact your financial future. How can you make the most of these benefits while avoiding common pitfalls?

In this episode, I explore three lesser-known Social Security strategies that could transform your retirement income plan. From timing benefits to maximizing survivor payouts, I give practical advice to help you make informed decisions for a stronger financial future.

Episode Highlights:

  • Withdrawing Social Security applications to correct early filing decisions, including the repayment process and impact on benefits
  • Suspending benefits at full retirement age to increase future payouts or enhance survivor benefits for a spouse
  • Claiming six months of retroactive benefits for flexibility in tax and income planning
  • The tax implications of Social Security strategies, highlighting scenarios where planning minimizes lifetime tax liability
  • The importance of consulting financial advisors who specialize in retirement to tailor strategies to individual circumstances
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

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