Retirement Planning – The Financial Puzzle Playbook

The Tax Control Triangle (Ep. 46)

By The Financial Puzzle Playbook | May 20, 2026

Many people think tax planning happens once a year when they file their return. Jim Sumpter believes the real planning starts after tax season ends.

In this episode, Jim introduces what he calls the “Tax Control Triangle,” a simple way to think about where your money lives, how it’s taxed, and why flexibility matters when it comes time to use it. Jim walks through the differences between taxable accounts, tax-deferred retirement accounts, and tax-free strategies like Roth IRAs. He also explains why having money spread across all three “corners” of the triangle may help create more options later in life, especially as tax laws, income needs, and life circumstances change over time.

Jim Sumpter, CFP®, discusses:

(00:04:00) The three corners of the Tax Control Triangle and how each type of account is taxed
(00:08:00) Why many retirees unintentionally limit their options by relying on only one or two tax buckets
(00:14:00) How Roth conversions may help create more future tax flexibility
(00:20:00) Why financial planning should evolve as life changes, tax laws shift, and new goals emerge
(00:31:00) How newer strategies, like Roth 401(k)s and updated 529 rules, are changing retirement planning conversations
And more!

Resources:

Tax Planning Resources: https://tax.cmcfp.com
The Tax Control Triangle for Retirement

Connect with Jim Sumpter:

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Understanding the Psychology of Money with Brendan Frazier – Part 2 (Ep. 18)

By The Financial Puzzle Playbook | January 22, 2025

What if money could buy happiness?

In this episode, Jim Sumpter, CFP®, and Brendan Frazier, Chief Behavioral Officer at RFG Advisory, continue their conversation about understanding the psychology of money with a focus on whether money can buy happiness. They unpack this fascinating question by diving into the often-overlooked connection between financial planning and happiness. A personal journey through the emotions and psychology of money, they explore how intentional spending can bring joy and fulfillment.

Jim and Brendan discuss:

(02:00) Understanding the real value of money
(10:00) How life events reshape your financial mindset
(22:00) The impact of intentional spending on happiness
(29:00) Behaviors around investing and how to navigate uncertainty
And more

Tune in to discover how organizing your financial puzzle with a focus on cash flow and intentionality can lead to a more meaningful, happier life. Whether you’re a rookie in financial planning or a seasoned pro, this conversation will resonate with anyone looking to make smarter financial choices.

Connect with Jim Sumpter:

Connect with Brendan Frazier:

About our Guest:

Brendan Frazier is the Chief Behavioral Officer at RFG Advisory.

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Maximize Your Retirement Savings: Tips on 401(k) and Roth 401(k) (Ep. 11)

By The Financial Puzzle Playbook | October 2, 2024

Are you making the most of your company’s benefits? Dive in to uncover how to maximize your 401(k), 403(b), and other investment options within your employee benefits package.

In this episode of The Financial Puzzle Playbook, Jim Sumpter dives into the intricacies of 401(k) and 403(b) plans, comparing Roth and traditional options. He discusses the importance of employer matching and shares tips on navigating investment choices, ensuring you get the most out of your benefits. Discover the intricacies of traditional and Roth 401(k) plans, learn the impact of employer matches, and gain insight into how vesting schedules work. Jim also explores vesting, the importance of matching contributions, and tips for choosing investment options that align with your retirement goals.

Jim Sumpter, CFP®, discusses:

A breakdown of the difference between traditional vs. Roth 401(k) options and their tax implications
Why you should always contribute at least enough to get the full employer match
Tips on selecting investment choices within 401(k) plans, including target date funds
Rebalancing your investment portfolio to align with your financial goals
And more