Built for people asking the real question
- Pre-retirees and retirees, roughly age 50–65
- Generally $500,000 or more in investable assets — this evening aims to address what early retirement actually takes, not a beginner's overview
- Weighing whether to retire early, or leave a career for something else — a second career, part-time work, or a passion project
We lead with the decision, not the strategy
Most retirement seminars open with strategy. This one opens with the decision itself — then shows how the pieces fall into place once you know where you actually stand.
- The four risks that quietly hold people back from pulling the trigger: running out of money, losing buying power, taxes at death, and health coverage before Medicare
- A simple way to check whether your savings can support the retirement you want
- How to build an investment approach around your goals — not just the market's mood
- What to know about RMDs, Roth conversions, and getting your beneficiaries set up correctly
- Your bridge options for health coverage before Medicare eligibility
This event is educational. It's designed to help you think clearly about your own situation — nothing is sold from the stage.
Who's in the room
Ken spent 27 years in corporate risk management and internal audit before founding his advisory practice in 2023. He works with pre-retirees and retirees across central Iowa on financial planning, investments, and insurance.
Derek has more than 33 years of investment experience and chairs ZEGA's Investment Committee. Before ZEGA, he was Director of National Education at TD Ameritrade, training advisors nationwide, and began his career at Charles Schwab. He's the author of two books, including Broken Pie Chart, hosts the Broken Pie Chart Podcast, and teaches graduate-level finance and economics as an adjunct university instructor. Outside the markets, he's completed four full Ironman triathlons.
Questions people ask before they reserve
Is this a sales pitch?
No — nothing is sold from the stage. The evening is education: you'll leave with a clearer picture of where you stand. If it looks like a complimentary follow-up conversation would help you apply it to your own numbers, we'll invite you to schedule one before you leave.
Is there a cost to attend?
No, this event is free, dinner included.
What should I bring?
Just yourself, and any questions about your own retirement timeline. This is general education, not personalized advice — for specific recommendations, we'll set up a one-on-one conversation afterward if you'd like one.
Can I bring my spouse or partner?
Yes — retirement decisions usually involve two people, and seating for both of you is welcome. Just select 2 tickets when you reserve your seat.
Reserve your seat for Nov 11
Wednesday, November 11 · 6:00–8:00 PM · Johnny's Italian Steakhouse at The Rewind Hotel, West Des Moines. Reservations are handled through Eventbrite.
We'll call the week of the event to confirm you're all set.