Coasting in Retirement – Episode 73
Happy New Year, Gulf Coast friends! Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches and sunset cruises, road-tripping adventures, or just more quality time with grandkids, the start of 2026 is the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and set yourself up for a worry-free retirement.
Josh Null (the host of Coasting in Retirement and owner of GF Coast Financial Advisors) and his longtime co-host Jay Stubs (from Providence Partners) recently sat down to unpack what we learned from the wild ride of 2025 and share practical steps to make this year your strongest yet. From market volatility and global headlines to personal growth in their businesses, here’s what stood out… and how you can apply it right now.
What 2025 Taught Us About Staying Focused in Uncertain Times
2025 was no walk in the park. Tariffs, global tensions (from pirate ships in the news to ongoing Middle East issues), and plenty of market ups and downs left a lot of folks just trying to “survive ’25.” But Josh and Jay came out stronger, and their big lesson? Hyper-focus wins.
Josh shared how doubling down on core services, financial planning and investment management, at GF Coast Financial Advisors led to happier clients and serious business growth. No more trying to be everything to everyone. Instead, they laser-focused on what they do best and built a rock-solid “A-Team” of trusted partners for the rest.
Jay echoed this with his own journey into business ownership after years as a W-2 employee. More flexibility for family time (four kids in sports and activities!), but also the reality that entrepreneurship means some 4 a.m. wake-ups and less sleep than planned.
The takeaway? Know your strengths, build your team, and don’t spread yourself too thin. In retirement planning, that means working with specialists who truly understand your life stage, whether you’re in your 50s building wealth or your 70s protecting it.
Top Recommendations to Start 2026 Right
With the new year here, Josh and Jay laid out actionable steps anyone can take. These aren’t overwhelming; they’re smart, timely moves to protect what you’ve built.
1. Audit Your Insurance: Life, Disability, and Beyond
- Right after open enrollment and before tax season is prime time for a review. Jay stressed: Check your life insurance beneficiaries (especially after life changes like divorce or loss), make sure coverage matches your debts, income replacement needs, and family goals. Don’t get caught off-guard by a term policy expiring and premiums jumping!
- Disability insurance is huge too. It’s protecting your biggest asset: your future earnings. If your income has grown since you bought the policy, you might have a gap. Layer in extras if you have side gigs, bonuses, or commissions. A quick review can close those gaps and give real peace of mind.
- Quick action: Pull out your policies this week and do a fast beneficiary sweep. Not sure where to start? A quick call can help.
2. Get Ahead on Tax Planning (It’s Not Too Late!)
- Even if 2025 contributions to retirement plans are closed, tax planning is wide open. If you’re self-employed, a sole proprietor, or running a business with solid revenue, now’s the time to talk strategy.
- Don’t just have a preparer file your return, get proactive with deductions, deferrals, and more. The right conversation early can save big.
- Quick Action: Ask yourself, “Am I just getting my taxes done, or am I planning ahead?” If the answer is the first, reach out for a strategy chat early in the year.
3. Plant the Seed for Long-Term Care Planning
- This one hits home for so many: No one wants to be a burden on family. With the “silver tsunami” of aging Baby Boomers, Jay and Josh see stories every week of folks facing care costs after a stroke, fall, or health shift, often too late to plan affordably.
- The good news? New 2026 rules make it easier. You can now take limited penalty-free distributions (up to about $2,600, depending on your plan) from certain employer retirement accounts (like 401(k)s) to pay long-term care insurance premiums, even if you’re under 59 1⁄2 (still taxable as income, and plan-dependent). Plus, tax deductions for premiums rise with age (up to $6,200 for those 70+ if you itemize).
- Quick action: Ask yourself: “Does the idea of needing care worry me?” If yes, it’s worth a no-pressure conversation.
4. Check Your Investments: Interest Rates, Risk, and Reality
- Rates are trending down (think annuities and fixed-income options), so review if you’re positioned right. More importantly, does your portfolio’s risk level still match your tolerance and timeline? Many folks drift off-track over time. A fresh look ensures you’re not overexposed (or too conservative) as markets shift.
- Quick Action: Pull up your statements and ask: “Am I comfortable with this level of risk?” A fresh look can bring everything back into alignment.
Wrapping Up: Build Your Own A-Team for the Road Ahead
Josh and Jay aren’t just talking theory, they’re living it, with growing businesses, strong partnerships, and a commitment to helping Gulf Coast folks retire on their terms. If any of this resonates, reach out. A no-obligation chat (phone, Zoom, or in-person at Fairhope, Orange Beach, or Mobile) can make a real difference.
Here’s to thriving in 2026! May your year be full of adventure, family, and financial confidence. You’ve worked too hard to worry now.
Let’s Talk About Your Retirement Plan
If you’re reading this and thinking about your own retirement goals, your investments, or whether your plan is positioned for the years ahead, we would love to talk.
You can reach us at 251-327-2124, or visit gulfcoastfa.com and click the blue button in the upper right-hand corner to schedule a meeting. We offer:
- 15-minute introductory calls
- 30-minute Zoom meetings
- In-person meetings at our offices in Fairhope, Orange Beach, or Mobile
No pressure. No obligation. Just a clear, honest conversation. Here’s to a strong 2026, with a retirement plan that actually delivers real results and peace of mind on the Gulf Coast.
This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.