Federal Employee Financial Planning Podcast

Are you ready to make informed decisions about your federal benefits and financial future? In this episode, Tommy, John and Ben explore the current market landscape and what the start of 2025 could mean for investors, especially those navigating the complexities of federal benefits. They discuss the importance of staying focused on long-term growth despite market volatility and share actionable tips on building a financial plan for the new year, balancing personal goals, tax considerations, and investment strategies. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Ben Raikes: Website Mason & Associates YouTube Channel Best Days to Retire as a Federal Employee   Don’t Close TSP  Don’t Max Your TSP Do NOT Decline Survivor Benefits

How will upcoming changes to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) impact your retirement strategy? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben explore the evolving landscape of TSP, focusing on new contribution limits and, coming in 2026, in-plan Roth conversions. They emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach to financial planning, avoiding groupthink, and tailoring strategies to each client’s unique needs. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Ben Raikes: Website Dave Ramsey Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Michael Kitces

What happens when Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy take the reins of government efficiency? In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben dive into the bold initiatives of Trump 2.0's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Musk and Ramaswamy. With plans to slash $2 trillion in federal spending and eliminate entire agencies, this duo's vision could ripple through the federal and state systems, impacting employees, communities, and businesses alike. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Know The Score Key Retirement Options and Benefits for Federal Employees

Are you concerned about the future of Social Security? ith proposed changes to taxation and potential expansion of who is eligible for benefits, it's more important than ever to understand how these changes could impact your retirement.  In this episode, John, Tommy, and Ben, explain the complexities of Social Security. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

Are you a federal employee curious about the best mortgage strategies in today’s market? In this episode, John and Tommy are joined by James Anderson, Regional Market Manager at CapCenter, to explore how inflation, interest rates, and economic resilience impact federal employees looking to buy or refinance. Learn how income is defined for mortgage purposes, why interest rates might improve over time, how to navigate today’s market without waiting for rates to drop, and how federal retirees can downsize smartly.  Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

Are you still relying on traditional tax preparation methods or software? In this episode, John, Tommy, and special guest Rachel Meredith from Banks Mountain Financial dive into the crucial difference between tax planning and simple tax preparation. They explain why a proactive, year-round tax strategy is key to long-term financial success, as well as how their seamless collaboration helps clients navigate tax challenges with a forward-thinking approach. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC  

Are you paying the right price for financial advice? Join Ben, Michael, John, and Tommy as they break down the complexities of financial advisor fees and the real value behind them. They’ll reveal the “all-in” costs clients face and explain why fees aren’t always comparable, shedding light on what makes a financial advisor worth their price. Through this episode, you’ll learn to assess the true worth of specialized advisors and why experience, like that of a seasoned CFP or CPA, might demand a higher price tag. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

What happens when emotions mix with investments? In this episode, we dive into the intersection of politics, markets, and personal finance. John and Tommy share insights on how to design a portfolio that minimizes unknowns, regardless of political changes. You’ll learn why staying the course is crucial—even when market predictions seem tempting—and how a solid, long-term strategy can help you avoid emotional pitfalls. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

Are you a federal employee planning for retirement but feeling overwhelmed by your options? In this episode, Michael, Ben, Tommy, and John break down the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS), explaining key retirement benefits and strategies to maximize your pension. From the differences between immediate retirements to the role of sick leave and survivor benefits, this episode covers what you need to know. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC

What happens to your estate planning documents when you move between states? In this episode, Megan Ingram and Julie Steinbacher from Steinbacher, Goodall & Yurchak share expert advice on the legal implications of relocating and how it affects your estate plan. You'll learn about the importance of keeping your documents updated, especially after major life changes or moves, and how laws like the Uniform Trust Act help estate documents travel across state lines. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC