The Confident Retirement

The information we provide is our opinion and not necessarily that of our firm or this platform. We provide general information on the podcast, not any customized investment advice. Nothing should be construed as financial, tax, or legal advice. You should consult with your own professionals about your personal situation
In this episode, Kris Flammang is joined by guest host Colin Habig to break down the new 401(k) catch-up contribution rules under SECURE Act 2.0—and how they specifically impact high earners and plan sponsors.
Starting in 2026, individuals making over $145,000 annually will see big changes in how they can contribute catch-up dollars—and Roth contributions may be the only option. Whether you’re a high-income employee or a business owner running a retirement plan, this is your heads-up episode.
➤ What You’ll Learn

→ The key 401(k) changes coming for earners above $145K
→ How Roth-only catch-up rules will affect retirement strategies
→ What small business owners and plan sponsors need to do NOW
→ Compliance and automation strategies to avoid mistakes
→ The timeline for plan amendments and why 2026 matters
🎯 Bottom Line:
Catch-up contributions aren’t going away—but they are changing fast. Tune in to get ahead of the curve and protect your retirement strategy.
📌 Resources & Contact

→ Learn more: https://www.lpfadvisors.com
→ Connect with Kris: LinkedIn
→ Connect with Colin: LinkedIn
→ Subscribe to the podcast for more smart money strategies for HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet)New boost

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DISCLAIMER:
The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform. I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax or legal advice or recommendations.
🎙️ This Week on The Confident Retirement Podcast
Kris Flammang is back for Part II of his Jerry Maguire-style perspective on the financial services industry — and this time, he’s getting real about transparency, client care, and why the best advisors should act more like agents than salespeople.
Kris shares how today’s wealth advisors must go beyond investments and build true relationships rooted in trust, planning, and purpose. He also discusses how regulatory shifts and growing complexity demand a more holistic approach to wealth, and why clients deserve advice that’s always in their best interest — no compromises.
💬 Quote to Remember:
“A wealth advisor is not a salesperson. They’re your advocate. Someone who walks beside you through life’s financial decisions, big and small.”
➤ Hear why Kris believes clients should expect more — and how the industry is finally catching up.
👉 Connect with LPF Advisors:
Website ➝ https://www.lpfadvisors.com/

👉 Connect with Kris Flammang:
LinkedIn ➝ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/

📅 Schedule a Consultation:
Take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy with Kris and the LPF team.
🎧 Subscribe for More:
Never miss an episode filled with smart money strategies for HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet).New boost

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DISCLAIMER:
The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform. I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax or legal advice or recommendations.

🎙️ This Week on The Confident Retirement Podcast
Kris Flammang is back for Part II of his Jerry Maguire-style perspective on the financial services industry — and this time, he’s getting real about transparency, client care, and why the best advisors should act more like agents than salespeople.

Kris shares how today’s wealth advisors must go beyond investments and build true relationships rooted in trust, planning, and purpose. He also discusses how regulatory shifts and growing complexity demand a more holistic approach to wealth, and why clients deserve advice that’s always in their best interest — no compromises.

💬 Quote to Remember:
“A wealth advisor is not a salesperson. They’re your advocate. Someone who walks beside you through life’s financial decisions, big and small.”

➤ Hear why Kris believes clients should expect more — and how the industry is finally catching up.

👉 Connect with LPF Advisors:
Website ➝ https://www.lpfadvisors.com/

👉 Connect with Kris Flammang:
LinkedIn ➝ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/

📅 Schedule a Consultation:
Take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy with Kris and the LPF team.
🎧 Subscribe for More:
Never miss an episode filled with smart money strategies for HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet).

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

📌 The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform. I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor, or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax, or legal advice or recommendations.

🎙️ This week on The Confident Retirement Podcast, Kris Flammang goes solo for a powerful and personal episode inspired by his chapter from a post-recession finance book. Using lessons from the 2008 financial crisis, the pandemic, and his own near-death experience, Kris unpacks the cultural and behavioral mindsets that have shaped our view of money, wealth, and success. It’s part motivational manifesto, part financial wake-up call — and totally unforgettable.

➤ Why Kris compares this episode to Jerry Maguire’s “mission statement moment”

➤ The six dangerous mindsets that led to the Great Recession (and still exist today)

➤ A redefined, simplified definition of wealth that moves beyond income and appearances

➤ The difference between income and accumulated wealth

➤ A reflection on purpose, happiness, and how to spend your next 1,500 weeks

➤ Why we can’t control when the next crisis comes — but we can control how we prepare for it

💬 Featured Quote:

“Wealth is what one accumulates that allows them to independently enjoy what is most important to them in life.”

— Kris Flammang

📲 Connect with LPF Advisors:

➤ Website: https://www.lpfadvisors.com/

➤ Connect with Kris Flammang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/

➤ Schedule a consultation to take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy

➤ Subscribe to the podcast for more Smart Money strategies for HENRYs

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

📌 The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform. I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor, or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax, or legal advice or recommendations.

This week on The Confident Retirement Podcast, Kris Flammang is joined by Colin Habig and Armando Faucy-Smith to walk through the five (and a half!) foundational money habits every young accumulator needs to build long-term wealth.

If you’re in your 20s or 30s and ready to make smarter money decisions, this episode is your starting line.
➤ What’s an emergency fund — and why it shouldn’t be in your checking account
➤ The critical difference between good debt and bad debt
➤ Why automating your savings could be the best financial habit you build
➤ Pre-tax vs. post-tax contributions: which is right for you?
➤ The must-have estate documents most people overlook
➤ Bonus: the protective power of insurance, even early in your career

Whether you’re building your first budget or maxing out a 401(k), this episode simplifies the most important steps to secure your financial future.

📲 Connect with LPF Advisors:
➤ Website: https://www.lpfadvisors.com/
➤ Connect with Kris Flammang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/
➤ Connect with Collin Habig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinhabig/
➤ Connect with Armando Faucy-Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-faucy-smith/

➤ Schedule a consultation to take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy

➤ Subscribe to the podcast for more Smart Money strategies for HENRYs

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

📌 The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform. I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor, or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax, or legal advice or recommendations.

 In this timely episode of The Confident Retirement, Kris Flammang and Collin Habig unpack the new “One Big Beautiful Bill” — a major piece of tax legislation that could shake up your financial plans. From higher estate tax exemptions to new deductions for tips and overtime, this episode breaks down what really matters for retirees, HENRYs, and high-net-worth families.
 ➤ The Trump-era tax cuts are now permanent, locking in lower income tax rates for many earners.
 ➤ Estate tax exemption increases to $15 million per person — or $30 million for married couples — providing more flexibility for wealth transfer and legacy planning.
 ➤ The SALT deduction cap rises to $40,000 for married filers and $20,000 for individuals, offering big tax savings for high-tax states like NY, CA, MA, and NJ — but only through 2029.
 ➤ A new Senior Deduction gives retirees an extra $6,000 (single) or $12,000 (married) in deductions, shielding more Social Security income from taxes.
 ➤ Tip-based and overtime workers can now deduct significant amounts — up to $25,000 in tips and $12,500 (or $25,000 for couples) in OT — giving working families rare tax relief.
 ➤ “Trump Accounts” for minors allow parents to save early for kids born between 2025 and 2028, with government seed money and tax rules similar to traditional IRAs.
If you live in a high-tax state, are approaching retirement, or simply want to optimize your 2025 financial strategy, this episode is full of actionable insights. It’s all about smart planning before year-end deadlines hit.
📲 Connect with LPF Advisors:
➤ Website: https://www.lpfadvisors.com/
➤ Connect with Kris Flammang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/
➤ Connect with Collin Habig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinhabig/
➤ Connect with Armando Faucy-Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-faucy-smith/

➤ Schedule a consultation to take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy
➤ Subscribe to the podcast for more Smart Money strategies for HENRYs

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What are the smartest ways for HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet) to save for their child’s future college expenses—and what are the pros and cons of each option?

In this episode of The Confident Retirement Podcast, host Kris Flammang and LPF Advisors’ Armando Faucy-Smith and Collin Habig take a deep dive into college planning for HENRYs. They break down the three most popular ways to save for your child’s education—529 plans, custodial accounts, and parent-owned brokerage accounts. The team explains how each account works, key differences in flexibility, tax treatment, and financial aid impact, plus common mistakes to avoid when choosing the right college savings path.
5 Key Takeaways
→ A 529 plan offers tax advantages for education expenses and is generally the most “financial aid friendly” option for parents.
 → Custodial accounts (UGMA/UTMA) offer more flexibility but come with fewer tax benefits and count more heavily against financial aid eligibility.
 → Parent-owned brokerage accounts provide the most control and flexibility but lack tax perks for education and count as parental assets for financial aid.
 → Tax treatment, account ownership, and how funds are used (or not used for college) can have a huge impact on long-term savings outcomes.
 → It’s essential to understand your goals, your state’s rules, and to work with a financial advisor to tailor the right strategy for your family.

Best Quotes from the Episode

1. “The 529, of all the plans we’re going to talk about today, is probably the broadest one in terms of defining higher education.”
2. “People often underestimate how limited the flexibility is in a 529, and overestimate how free custodial money is—once your kid turns 18 or 21, that account is their money.”

• LPF Advisors Website: lpfadvisors.com
• Kris Flammang (LinkedIn): Kristopher Flammang
• Collin Habig (LinkedIn): Collin Habig
• Armando Faucy-Smith (LinkedIn): Armando Faucy-Smith
• Schedule a Consultation: Take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy.
• Subscribe: Follow the podcast for more Smart Money strategies for HENRYs.

Connect with the Advisors

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How can HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet) start building a lasting financial legacy, even before reaching traditional “wealthy” status?

In this episode of The Confident Retirement Podcast, host Kris Flammang is joined by LPF Advisors’ Armando Faucy-Smith and Collin Habig for the next installment in their special series tailored to HENRYs. They break down practical, actionable steps for high earners still on their journey to building true wealth, covering everything from foundational planning to mindset, investing, and preparing for life’s significant milestones.
5 Key Takeaways

→ Understand the importance of starting legacy planning before you feel “wealthy.”
 → Learn how to align your financial strategies with your values and long-term goals.
 → Discover common mistakes HENRYs make—and how to avoid them.
 → Get actionable tips for optimizing savings, investments, and tax strategies.
 → See why working with the right advisor makes a difference in your financial journey.
Best Quotes from the Episode

1. “Building a legacy isn’t just about money—it’s about intention, impact, and the life you want to create.”
2. “Even if you’re not ‘rich yet,’ you have the power to make smart decisions today that set up a stronger tomorrow.”

• LPF Advisors Website: lpfadvisors.com
• Kris Flammang (LinkedIn): Kristopher Flammang
• Collin Habig (LinkedIn): Collin Habig
  
• Armando Faucy-Smith (LinkedIn): Armando Faucy-Smith
  
• Schedule a Consultation: Take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy.
• Subscribe: Follow the podcast for more Smart Money strategies for HENRYs.

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Are you earning more but saving the same? How to avoid the lifestyle inflation trap that keeps HENRYs from building real wealth.

In this episode of The Confident Retirement Podcast, host Kris Flammang and advisors Armando Faucy-Smith and Collin Habig from LPF Advisors continue their special series designed for HENRYs (High Earners, Not Rich Yet). They break down why so many professionals who make excellent money still struggle to build wealth, and provide actionable strategies to reverse this common pattern.
Key Takeaways:→ Lifestyle inflation is the gradual habit of spending more as you earn more, causing your savings rate to remain flat even as income increases→ HENRYs are particularly vulnerable to lifestyle creep, especially in professions like medicine, law, and tech where income can double in short periods→ Take your “money temperature” regularly by asking: Have fixed expenses increased recently? Are you upgrading just because you can? Would a 20% income drop cause financial trouble? Are you saving a higher percentage than last year?→ Automate your savings first (aim for 20-30% of gross income) and then enjoy spending what remains without guilt→ Focus on controlling the “big rocks” of spending (housing, cars, travel) rather than stressing about small purchases like coffee or takeout

Quotes from the Episode:

“You can afford almost anything if you’re in that high-income bracket—you just can’t afford everything at once.” – Collin Habig, Financial Advisor
 “Take your money temperature, get a clear picture of your priorities, and upgrade intentionally, not automatically.” – Armando Faucy-Smith, Financial Advisor 
Connect with LPF Advisors:

• Website: https://www.lpfadvisors.com/
• Connect with Kris Flammang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/
• Connect with Collin Habig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinhabig/
• Connect with Armando Faucy-Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armando-faucy-smith/
• Schedule a consultation to take your “money temperature” and create a personalized wealth-building strategy
• Subscribe to the podcast for more Smart Money strategies for HENRYs

New boost

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform. I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor, or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax or legal advice or recommendations.

Are you a high earner who hasn’t built wealth yet? Here’s how to strategically invest and grow your money.

In this episode of the Confident Retirement Podcast, host Kris Flammang and advisors Armando and Colin continue their HENRY series (High Earner, Not Rich Yet). They tackle the common challenge that many high-income professionals face: having the capacity to invest more but lacking knowledge about where and how to do it effectively. The team explains the three-bucket approach to organizing financial goals based on time horizons, discusses which investment vehicles are appropriate for different goals, and explores the benefits of retirement accounts, including employer-sponsored plans.

Key Takeaways:

→ Understanding your risk tolerance is essential to developing a sound investment strategy that aligns with your financial goals and time horizon.

→ The “three bucket approach” categorizes your financial goals into short-term (3-5 years), intermediate (5-10 years), and long-term (10+ years) buckets, with appropriate investment vehicles for each.

→ For short-term goals, focus on principal-protected vehicles like high-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit, or Treasury bills to ensure your money is available when needed.

→ Long-term investments (10+ years) can include growth-oriented options like ETFs, mutual funds, and individual stocks since you have time to weather market fluctuations.

→ Maximize employer-sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s, especially when matching contributions are available, as they offer higher contribution limits than IRAs and potential tax advantages.

Connect with LPF Advisors

https://www.lpfadvisors.com/

Connect with Kris Flammang

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/

Connect with Collin Habig

https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinhabig/

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