In this second installment of our two-part series on workplace retirement plans, host Neeka Miremadi helps academics navigate the next step after choosing between plan types—evaluating the investments within those plans. Whether you’re comparing 403(b) and 457 plans or just want to make better use of your current retirement account, this episode walks you through how to assess fund quality, fees, and provider options like a PhD (without making a 10-page report like Inga did).

Neeka breaks down key concepts like expense ratios, target date funds, and asset class diversification, and shares real-world examples of how investment menus can vary widely across providers—even when the funds appear similar. She also touches on how to supplement weaker plans with IRAs and why provider reputation and fee transparency really matter.

If you’re making retirement plan decisions at work—or reviewing the ones you’ve already made—this episode gives you a clear, practical framework for evaluating your options with confidence.