Planning for the future doesn't stop once your estate documents are signed. As laws change, family dynamics evolve, and asset values grow, outdated estate plans can create unintended consequences.

In this episode, Keith Ellis Jr. is joined by estate planning attorney Keith McManus to discuss current estate planning trends, common misconceptions, and the real risks families face when plans aren't properly reviewed. With over 30 years of experience, Keith McManus explains why estate planning is never a one-and-done decision and why proactive updates matter more than most people realize.

Together, they explore how blended families, beneficiary designations, and state-specific tax laws can dramatically impact outcomes, along with why trusts don't all work the same way. Keith also addresses the growing trend of DIY and AI-generated estate plans and the costly mistakes that often follow.

In this podcast interview, you'll learn:

• The importance of reviewing estate plans every three to four years.
• How blended families create unique estate planning challenges.
• What the Massachusetts estate tax exemption means for retirees.
• How beneficiary designations can override trusts.
• Why long-term care planning should be factored into your estate planning.
• Reasons why DIY and AI-generated estate plans can create serious risks.

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To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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Mentally preparing for retirement often generates more questions than answers. From wondering if you've saved enough to figuring out when you can finally stop working, many pre-retirees feel uncertain about what comes next. And then you add concerns around taxes, healthcare, Social Security, and market volatility, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed without a clear plan in place.

In this episode, Keith Ellis Jr. is joined by SHP Financial Advisor Mike Guthrie to tackle the most common questions they've heard from clients over the years. With decades of combined experience, Keith and Mike walk through real-world scenarios and explain why there's rarely a one-size-fits-all answer—but there's always a better, more informed way to make decisions.

They discuss how to determine whether you truly have enough to retire, how income planning provides clarity and confidence, and why understanding where your money comes from—and where it goes—is critical in retirement. You'll also hear how concepts like the 4% rule and income buckets help retirees move from uncertainty to control.

Ultimately, Keith and Mike emphasize the importance of proactive planning—especially around taxes and withdrawal strategies—so retirees can protect their lifestyle, reduce unnecessary risk, and enjoy the years they've worked so hard for.

In this podcast interview, you'll learn:

• How to determine whether you truly have enough money to retire.
• Why income planning is the foundation of a confident retirement.
• When it may—or may not—make sense to retire earlier than expected.
• How to think about cash reserves, income buckets, and long-term growth.
• What to consider when deciding when to claim Social Security.
• Why proactive tax planning can significantly impact retirement success.

Want the Full Show Notes?

To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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As we kick things off in 2026, it's a natural time to reflect on how quickly time passes and how important it is to have a plan that evolves as life, markets, and priorities change. Volatility, political uncertainty, and shifting tax laws continue to remind investors that retirement isn't just about accumulating money; it's about knowing how to manage it so you can spend it with confidence.

In this episode, SHP Financial co-founders Matthew Peck, Derek Gregoire, and Keith Ellis, Jr. got the band together in the studio to look back on the past year and reflect on how the firm—and the financial planning industry as a whole—has evolved since they first started SHP Financial over two decades ago.

In their conversation they discussed what's changed, what hasn't, and why comprehensive planning matters more today than ever before. Ultimately, this episode reinforces a simple but powerful message: while markets and policies will always change, proactive planning, clear communication, and a strong support team provide the stability retirees need to focus on what truly matters in the years ahead.

In this podcast interview, you'll learn:

• Why having a comprehensive retirement plan matters even more during volatile markets.
• How SHP evolved from a small startup into a fully integrated planning firm.
• The five key areas every successful retirement plan needs to address.
• Why market downturns are easier to manage when you have a clear plan in place.
• How tax planning, estate planning, and investment strategy work best when aligned.
• Why specialization and client service are critical as retirement needs become more complex.

Want the Full Show Notes?

To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast

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