Check Your Balances explores the world of personal finance, investing, and business through the lens of two financial planners that help people navigate some of life's most impactful financial decisions.
Ross Anderson, CFP® and Daniel Messeca, CFP®
The Check Your Balances podcast is a fantastic show hosted by Ross and Dan that I have been a fan of since day one. With their smart and thoughtful discussions, they cover relevant finance topics while imparting education in an engaging and fun-filled broadcast. I genuinely enjoy hanging out with them once a week as they provide valuable insights into the world of finance and business.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the chemistry between Ross and Dan. They make a great team and their rapport shines through in every episode. Their interactions are filled with witty quips and each response complements the next, making for an entertaining yet informative listening experience. Their ability to present complex financial concepts in straightforward language is commendable, making it easier for listeners to grasp and apply these principles to their own lives.
I also appreciate how The Check Your Balances podcast does not waste anyone's time. Ross and Dan get straight to the point, ensuring that every minute of the show is packed with valuable content. There is no unnecessary banter or filler material, allowing listeners to dive right into the heart of each discussion. This deliberate approach sets them apart from other podcasts in the same genre.
While it's difficult to find any significant downsides to The Check Your Balances podcast, if there was one aspect that could be improved upon, it would be the frequency of episodes. As a dedicated listener, I often find myself eagerly waiting for new episodes each week. It would be great if Ross and Dan could consider increasing their release schedule or providing additional bonus content between regular episodes.
In conclusion, The Check Your Balances podcast is a well-rounded approach to all things finance and business. Ross and Dan's expertise combined with their engaging style make for an enjoyable listening experience. Whether you are new to finance or have some knowledge in the field, this podcast provides valuable insights into how money intersects with our lives, delivered in a concise and entertaining manner. I highly recommend adding The Check Your Balances podcast to your weekly listening lineup.
This week we're diving into the big questions we think you should be asking. We break down the latest rumblings around SALT deduction changes and what they could mean for your tax bill. Then, we pivot to the ever-shifting housing market, and whether you should bite off a bigger purchase for better schools. And finally, is a recession really on the horizon? We analyze the economic tea leaves and offer insights to help you prepare. Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
What do you do when the numbers tell a different story than your gut? This episode tackles a common planner's dilemma: how to help clients truly believe their financial plan when the data clearly shows they'll be okay. We'll explore if it's about our planning approach, or the deeper issue of trusting the data itself.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Want a fun and engaging way to talk about money with your partner? This episode of Check Your Balances explores how "Would You Rather...?" style finance questions can be a fantastic tool for uncovering each other's financial values and perspectives. We'll show you how these playful scenarios can lead to richer, more meaningful conversations and ultimately strengthen your financial understanding as a couple.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
On this episode of Check Your Balances, we're putting replacement ratios in the hot seat! Is this financial fortune-telling or just lazy math? We'll ask the tough questions: Are they the ultimate shortcut to a comfy retirement, or a recipe for financial disaster served up with a side of wishful thinking? Get ready for a lively debate as we uncover the truth behind these so-called rules of thumb and explore whether they're genius or just plain... well, sloppy. Tune in for a dose of financial reality with a twist of fun – because planning your future shouldn't be a snooze fest!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Stop wondering what to do with that extra paycheck, bonus, or side hustle income! "Save vs. Splurge" empowers you to make confident financial decisions that align with your values and goals. We explore the art of balancing saving for a secure future with enjoying the present moment. Learn how to make your extra cash work harder for you, whether it's paying down debt, investing wisely, or indulging in something you truly value.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Have you ever wondered why you'd use a money market or a CD instead of a high yield savings account? Are you concerned about battling it out with a sibling over an inheritance? If so, this week's mailbag episode is for you!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Should you even try to hedge a single position inside an index fund? What happens when you spot a single stock within your broad market index that looks seriously overvalued? We'll weigh the costs, complexities, and potential benefits against simpler, more effective risk management approaches for index fund investors.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
The headlines are screaming about tariffs and trade wars, but what does it all mean for your wallet? In this episode of Check Your Balances, we break down the "Tariff Tantrum" and explore how these international trade spats could impact business and ultimately your portfolio.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
It's Round Two of Money March Madness, and the financial face-off is ON! We're throwing down with the biggest money moves, pitting budgeting against heavy hitters like the Roth IRA and the Debt Snowball. Who's gonna slam dunk their way to the top? Will your favorite strategy get the buzzer-beater win? Tune in to witness the ultimate showdown and find out which financial champion will be crowned! Don't miss the madness!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
It's March Madness, but make it money! This week, we're pitting the biggest personal finance debates against each other in a head-to-head bracket showdown. From "Debt Snowball vs. Avalanche" to "Roth vs. Traditional IRA," which financial strategies will reign supreme? Tune in for the ultimate financial face-off and level up your money game!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
What if you had access to capital, but it cost you some of the upside value of your home? This week Ross and Dan explore a product that they were recently introduced to and look at what situations it makes sense for. Like most exotic lending options, this one can be really dangerous if not used correctly!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Listener Mailbag: We're tackling your real-world financial dilemmas. From the tax implications of lending money to family, to the growing concern of losing faith in the financial system, we've got you covered. Tune in for our candid financial planning takes on your personal finance questions!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Ever wonder if all those market buzzwords—overvalued, undervalued, fear, greed—are just dressed-up ways to say "time the market"? In a world where it's easy to get spooked by the news and want to sit on the sidelines, let's get real about market timing. Let's break down the concept of market timing and discuss how to navigate the market with clarity.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZV-tF62eB_QSend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Warren Buffett's annual letter is a must-read for investors. Join us as we break down the key takeaways from his 2024 missive, exploring his insights on the economy, Berkshire Hathaway's performance, and of course, his enduring love for equities. Is his wisdom still relevant in today's market? We'll discuss that and more on this episode.Find us on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VVCCeGuH5RASend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week's Mailbag episode has great listener questions about whether rolling money back into a 401(K) is worth it for backdoor Roth IRA contributions, how to withhold taxes for a small business, and whether you can actually have too much money in your 401(K) plan. Send us your questions to be featured on an upcoming mailbag episode!Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week we welcome back a great friend to the show, and a voice that has been missed in the podcast world. We are thrilled to have Chris Hill join us to discuss his new show Money Unplugged that has just debuted for your listening pleasure!Check out Money Unplugged here: https://www.moneyunpluggedpodcast.com/Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Are your RSUs a golden ticket to financial freedom or just a confusing piece of your compensation package? This week, we demystify Restricted Stock Units and show you how to turn them into a powerful wealth-building tool. Learn how to navigate vesting schedules, understand the tax implications, and develop a smart strategy for managing your RSUs. Don't leave money on the table – tune in and unlock the potential of your equity compensation.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KfX1rEcPwGsSend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
In a world where everyone from the car finance office to an insurance salesperson calls themselves a "Financial Advisor" what can advisors actually provide? Do you have to have your money managed, or can they simply act as a consultant? Tune int his week for Ross and Dan's take on a listener question about what advisors can actually offer.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Your money personality plays a bigger role in your financial success than you might think. In this episode, Ross and Dan introduce a framework of four distinct money personalities. Learn how to identify your own archetype and understand how it impacts your saving, investing, and overall financial well-being. We'll also discuss strategies for leveraging your strengths and mitigating your weaknesses to achieve your financial goals.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/94wRwj_f1RMSend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week Jesse Cramer of the Best Interest Blog and Podcast joins the show to talk about how different advisors can approach the same decision of getting to where we need to go. Join us for a fun conversation about Jesse's journey and how we all approach the vehicle decisions.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pShIUwiYJTMSend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Have you dreamed about what you'd buy if you won the lottery? You certainly wouldn't be alone there. But how about thinking about how you'd handle and invest all of that money. This week we touch on that and other listener questions for a mailbag episode!This show is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ba7JmDZrEkISend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
We kick off 2025 with an update on a few of the key things you might want to update heading into the new year and then move into a discussion about asset location. Are your growth assets in the right buckets? Are your safe assets in the right buckets? We give our current thoughts on how to think about it.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
If you had the money to buy a home outright, would you still take a mortgage at our current rates? This week's episode dives into the pros and cons of whether it makes sense to borrow money or invest based on the current landscape.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This time of year we think a lot about gift giving. But what about the gifts you truly don't want? We don't mean a bad neck tie or macaroni art, but maybe one that costs you thousands of dollars just to maintain... tune in this week for our discussion about how to avoid inheriting a timeshare.Send us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This month's mailbag episode is a super-sized catch-up! We're diving deep into your burning questions about personal finance. From the ins and outs of taxes on gifts to strategies for supercharging your retirement savings, we've got you covered. Tune in to hear our expert insights and practical advice.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Atb7blHB7wYSend us a textSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Confused about capital gains tax and whether you should be selling stocks before the end of the year? In this episode, we break down the basics of capital gains tax and discuss the factors to consider when deciding whether to sell your stocks before year end. This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/c5ME5uG-Ny0Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week Ross and Dan celebrate their 200th episode of Check Your Balances with a lighthearted reflective episode of the journey up to this point. We appreciate each and every one of you, whether you've listened to a single segment or every single episode of the show up to this point. Happy Thanksgiving!Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
When financial decisions matter most, you need strong arguments to consider. This week episode brings you a lighthearted debate on 5 financial topics:- How relevant is net worth as a metric? - Should I just invest in the S&P 500 and stop overthinking it?- Do you really need an emergency fund before investing?- Is the FIRE movement good for personal finance?- Should you have a side hustle to accelerate your progress?Tune in this week to hear us battle it out!This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W5_yW6JimE0Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
As we celebrate our Veterans this week, we got a great listener questions about what unique benefits our Veterans have access to. We also answer questions about whether high earners should consider a 529 for themselves to gain access to a Roth IRA. Our apologies for the late post, we were having technical difficulties!This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IP_b-5Ea5VYSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Elections can be a rollercoaster of emotions, and it's easy to get caught up in the hype and fear-mongering. But as investors, it's crucial to stay calm and focused on our long-term financial goals. In this episode, we'll discuss how to avoid making big mistakes with your investing regardless of the election outcome.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-YTCVeVV_70Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
In this episode, we dissect the iconic personal finance book, "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" at the request of our listeners. We'll delve into the core principles, analyze their effectiveness, and challenge some of the controversial claims. While acknowledging the book's influence on millions, we'll explore its limitations and discuss why a more nuanced approach to wealth building is often necessary. Join us as we separate fact from fiction and provide practical advice to help you achieve your financial goals.This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hpc-FNweaJ0Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Ever wondered how the couples on Love is Blind discuss their finances? Join us for a look into the financial decisions made by the contestants, and how we might treat the same questions. We'll analyze their choices through a financial lens and discuss how their financial literacy (or lack thereof) could impact their relationships and future. Will their love stand the test of money? This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xeYk37KxFYcSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Ever wondered how your taxes change after you retire? In this episode, we'll break down the key tax implications of retirement, and what sources you can still have withholding versus the ones where you'll have to take care of it yourself.Find this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WFBaNImVUpMSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Join us for the October edition of our personal finance mailbag podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into listener questions and provide insights on:Safe Withdrawal Rate: How much can you safely withdraw from your retirement savings without depleting your funds? Can you safely adjust up after a good year?Investing $500K: Do your portfolio options need to change as your capital grows?Find this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SqAtc11kLswWe'reSend your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com @checkyourbalances on Instagram
The final chapter (we hope) in the Ross' house saga. Drew McKenzie from Long and Foster joins the show to talk about what it's like trying to give advice to a guy that gives advice for a living. Find this episode on YouTube (to see the inside of the actual home): https://youtu.be/GpjBZlu_r68We're @checkyourbalances on InstagramSend us questions you want answered about your finances to checkyourbalances@outlook.com
It finally happened, the Fed has cut rates... so now what? We talk about the impact of the new interest rate environment and what it means for you.Send your questions for the show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com!This episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vLpQz4b6y0kWe're @checkyourbalances on Instagram
Prominent financial pundits and, like Robert Kiyosaki, will tell you the 401(k) is a 'Horrible' retirement plan. Why is that the case, and are they really right? Tune in this week for our take.Send your personal finance questions to checkyourbalances@outlook.comThis episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J0wkYS_MBsY@checkyourbalances on Instagram
Mortgage rates have already have already dropped more than a full percent from their recent highs. Is it too soon to talk about refinancing your mortgage? Why don't financial podcasters talk about the real costs associated with a refinance? Tune in this week to hear our take.Send your questions for the show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com!We're @checkyourbalanes on InstagramThis show is on YouTube
Perhaps not the most romantic reason, but does it make sense to get married for the tax benfits? Also how do you invest if you've got a windfall of cash to deal with? That and more in this week's mailbag episode.Send your questions to checkyourbalances@outlook.com to be featured on an upcoming show!We're @checkyourbalances on InstagramThis episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-Iy271i2XY8
We commonly talk with people that underestimate the impact of Social Security (and pensions) and how big of a deal it can for building their retirement plan. This week we have a philosophical question about how to think about it and how it relates to your own plans.Find this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5NcTxmt0Xf4 We're @checkyourbalances on InstagramEmail checkyourbalances@outlook.com to send questions to the show!
How do the taxes actually work on a non-Roth IRA? Should you prioritize Long-Term Care Insurance or Disability Insurance? If you're like our listeners, these questions may be on your mind too. Send your financial planning questions to checkyourbalances@outlook.com to be featured on upcoming episodes!You can also find us @checkyourbalances on InstagramThis episode is on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vXb4sU4R1lM
The past couple of weeks have shown an interruption in what has otherwise been a very comfy ride in the markets so far in 2024. With some major investors unloading big chunks of stock we look at the recent volatility and talk about whether it should affect positioning moving forward.Send your questions for the show to checkyourbalances@outlook.comFind each episode on YouTubeWe're @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week we are joined by Meredith Hill, the founder and principal attorney, of the Hill Law Group. Meredith joins the show to discuss who needs estate plans and the pitfalls that families can fall into without having the proper documents in place.Send your questions for the show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com to be featured on upcoming mailbag episodes!Find this episode on YouTubeWe're also on Instagram @checkyourbalances!
This week we celebrate that the IRS has finally clarified guidance for Inherited IRA Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) rules. And also an update on the ongoing housing drama for Ross.Send your questions for an upcoming mailbag to checkyourbalances@outlook.comThis, and all new episodes, are on YouTubeFind us @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week Ross and Dan welcome tax attorney and expert, Jasmine DiLucci to the show to talk about how you can use the tax code to your advantage, and avoid silly scams that originate online.Send your questions to the show to checkyourbalances@outlook.comFind this episode on YouTubeWe're also @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week Ross and Dan break down what they look for when evaluating a clients' 401(k) plan and whether it's actually any good. Some a great, and some not be the best home for your funds. Tune in this week to find out!Email checkyourbalances@outlook.com to submit questions to the show!This episode is on YouTube!We're also on Instagram!
This week Ross and Dan dive into the mailbag to find what books they missed, whether recasting a mortgage is worth it (debate style) and how to calculate an RMD. Want your question on the show? Email us at checkyourbalances@outlook.com!Find this episode on YouTubeOr find us on Instagram @checkyourbalances
What has been on the recent reading list for Ross and Dan, and should you considering adding it to your beach reads? We'll give you our take so you can decide if you should give it your time.Send your questions for Check Your Balances to checkyourbalances@outlook.com to be featured on the show!This episode is on YouTubeWe're also on Instagram: @checkyourbalances
This week Ross and Dan dive into a deal that Bobby Bonilla made in 1999 that will continue to pay him a reported $1.19 million per year until 2035. Why would the Mets make that deal, and who was the big winner? Tune in to find out!Send questions to the show at checkyourbalances@outlook.com.Find this episode on YouTubeWe're @checkyourbalances on Instagram
This week Ross and Dan unleash the fury on unnecessary products being sold to people that simply don't need them. Tune in to make sure you think about the right considerations when an annuity salesman turns their sights on you.Send questions for the show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com to have them featured on upcoming episodes!This episode is on YouTubeWe're also on Instagram
This week Ross and Dan tackle listener questions about how Inherited IRAs are taxed, who needs a trust and why, as well as whether financial planning could be a part time venture. All that, and Dan's pool getting opened in this week's mailbag!Sned your questions checkyourbalances@outlook.com to be featured on an upcoming episode!This episode is on YouTubeFind us on Instagram
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