Gimme Some Truth

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we dive deep into alternative investments—exploring everything from private equity and private debt to real estate, commodities, crypto, and hedge funds. Nate Condon and Clint Walkner from Walkner Condon Financial Advisors explain how access to these investment options has evolved and what individual investors should know before diving in.Whether you're a high-net-worth investor or someone exploring portfolio diversification beyond stocks and bonds, this episode delivers clear explanations and real-world examples to help you understand risks, rewards, and opportunities in today's alternatives landscape.

Thinking about buying your first home or upgrading to a new one?

Tax Day might be over, but smart financial planning never stops!

Are market fluctuations stressing you out? You're not alone. In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, financial advisors, Nate Condon and Andrew Klein, discuss how to manage fear during uncertain markets, drawing on lessons from the past and offering clear strategies for the present.

Are you making costly tax mistakes without even knowing it? In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, tax pros from WC Tax Services reveal common personal and business tax errors—from filing misconceptions to missed deductions, backdoor Roth mishaps, and LLC misclassifications. Learn how to protect your wallet, avoid IRS penalties, and streamline your tax filing strategy.

Explore the world of bonds with Mitch and Evan in this episode of Gimme Some Truth. Learn the key differences between bonds and stocks, how yield curves influence the market, and what recent market trends mean for investors. Discover how interest rates impact bond prices, the risks and rewards of long-term Treasuries, and practical strategies to navigate today's fixed-income market.

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, hosts Nate Condon and Clint Walkner sit down with special guest Ryan Smith from Guild Mortgage to discuss the challenges of buying a home in 2025. With rising interest rates, low housing inventory, and a competitive market, homebuyers need to be strategic to secure the best deals.What You'll Learn:✅ How rising mortgage rates impact home affordability✅ The housing supply shortage and its effect on buyers✅ Smart mortgage strategies to win in a competitive market✅ Creative financing options to improve your loan approval chances✅ The importance of pre-approval and how to strengthen your offer

n this episode of Gimme Some Truth, financial advisor, Alicia Vande Ven, CFP® and estate planning attorney, Notesong Srisopark-Thompson, break down the key differences between wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations. Learn why probate is best avoided, when to transition from a will to a trust, and the importance of funding your trust properly. We also explore how financial planners and estate attorneys collaborate to protect your legacy.Whether you're just starting or revisiting your estate plan, this episode offers valuable tips to secure your family's future. Don't miss it!Featured Guest:Notesong Srisopark-Thompson Senior Associate at Laffey, Sebranek, Auby & Ristau, S.C. https://www.lsar.law/notesong-thompson Topics Covered:Wills vs. Trusts: What's the difference?Why beneficiary designations override your will.Probate court explained and how to avoid it.When to upgrade your estate plan with a trust.Cost considerations for estate planning.Introduction: Alicia and Notesong introduce the continuation of their estate planning discussion. (00:00:05)Key Differences: Will, Trust, and Beneficiary Designation: Explanation of how these estate planning tools differ and their specific purposes. (00:00:35)Understanding Probate and Why to Avoid It: Discussion on what probate is and its implications for estate planning. (00:01:37)The Role of a Will in Estate Planning: Explanation of the importance of wills and their limitations. (00:03:11)Trusts as a Tool to Avoid Probate: Introduction to revocable living trusts and their benefits. (00:03:41)When to Transition from a Will to a Trust: Identifying life stages or financial circumstances when creating a trust is advisable. (00:07:53)The Importance of Funding a Trust: Explanation of why updating account beneficiaries and funding a trust is crucial. (00:12:06)Beneficiary Designations vs. Wills: How beneficiary designations on accounts override wills. (00:04:12)Cost Implications of Estate Planning: Discussion on the financial impact of working with an estate planning attorney versus the potential costs of not planning. (00:08:55)The Collaborative Role of Financial Planners and Estate Attorneys: How financial planners and attorneys work together to ensure seamless estate and financial planning. (00:14:11)

Learn the fundamentals of estate planning in this informative episode of Gimme Some Truth, featuring guest estate planning attorney, Notesong Srisopark-Thompson. Discover why creating a will or trust is essential for protecting your family and assets. This episode addresses common challenges, including overcoming the cost barrier, choosing guardians, and aligning your estate plan with financial goals. Whether you're starting out or updating existing documents, this episode provides actionable advice to help you plan for the future with confidence. Perfect for families, parents, and anyone seeking clarity on estate planning! Featured Guest: Notesong Srisopark-Thompson Senior Associate at Laffey, Sebranek, Auby & Ristau, S.C. https://www.lsar.law/notesong-thompson Introduction to Estate Planning: Hosts introduce the episode and guest estate planning attorney. (00:00:05) Why Estate Planning Matters: Discussion on the importance of having a will and how it impacts your family. (00:00:36) Barriers to Creating an Estate Plan: Common reasons people avoid estate planning, including cost and emotional discomfort. (00:03:44) Consequences of Not Having a Will: How the state decides for you if no legally binding will exists. (00:04:47) Estate Planning for Parents: Why guardianship and financial management are critical for families with children. (00:06:20) Trusts and Financial Safeguards: The role of trusts in protecting assets and ensuring proper financial management. (00:06:51) Deciding Key Roles in an Estate Plan: How to choose guardians and financial decision-makers. (00:07:53) Updating Your Estate Plan: The importance of reviewing and revising your estate documents as life changes. (00:10:58) Pitfalls of Online Will Services: Limitations of online templates and why working with an attorney is beneficial. (00:14:09) Coordinating Estate and Financial Planning: How financial and estate planning work together to protect your legacy. (00:19:23)

Discover the latest 2025 financial market trends, AI breakthroughs, and tax policy changes that could shape your investments. This episode of Gimme Some Truth covers Deep Seek AI's impact on tech stocks, market overvaluation risks, S&P 500 concentration issues, and upcoming tax reforms. Learn how to navigate potential market corrections, portfolio diversification strategies, and political uncertainties that may influence global trade and economic stability. Stay ahead of market trends and make informed financial decisions in 2025!

Join us in this episode of Gimme Some Truth as we welcome Ian Beardsley to the Walkner Condon Financial Advisors team! Ian shares his inspiring journey from public accounting to financial advising, highlighting his passion for helping individuals and families. Discover how his global experiences, corporate expertise, and collaborative approach are making a difference in the world of financial planning. Don't miss this engaging introduction to one of our newest team members!

Join Syl and Clint in this in-depth market recap, exploring the 2025 economic outlook, investment strategies, and key trends such as AI's transformative impact and bond market dynamics. Learn how the Federal Reserve's policies influence interest rates, the implications of inflation, and the future of equities. Gain valuable insights into navigating a momentum-driven market and preparing for potential corrections. Perfect for investors, financial advisors, and anyone keen on understanding market shifts in the coming years. 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Market Recap: Overview of the 2025 Market Outlook. 00:38 - Market Momentum Overview: Discussion on momentum-driven markets. 02:12 - Bond Market and Interest Rates: Changes in long-term interest rates and yield curve dynamics. 04:19 - Normalization of Interest Rates: The shift from low to more normal interest rates. 07:27 - AI: Bubble or Game Changer?: Insights on the adoption of AI and its market implications. 12:40 - Self-Driving Technology Progress: Discussion on advancements in autonomous vehicles. 13:10 - Creative Destruction from AI: Impact of AI on jobs and industries. 17:52 - Market Skewness Towards Large-Cap Stocks: Analysis of current market breadth and risks. 19:57 - High Consumer Optimism in Markets: Examination of consumer confidence survey results. 21:02 - Closing Thoughts & Call to Action: Final remarks and recommendations to check out the Market Outlook.

This episode of Gimme Some Truth is an introduction into a series exploring how people can reframe conversations about money to focus on goals, purpose, and empowerment. Financial advisors Polly Price and Alicia Vande Ven, CFP® address societal taboos, financial education gaps, and the importance of shifting discussions from numbers to achieving life goals like retirement, education, and travel. Gain insights on asking better financial questions and building confidence in managing money. #WomenAndFinance #FinancialEmpowerment #MoneyWithPurpose #FinancialConfidence #MoneyManagement

In this episode, Nate and Clint explore the challenges and benefits of embracing change, discussing why people often resist it and how to overcome it. Covering essential topics like adapting to retirement, managing life transitions, and building resilience, they share practical strategies for turning change into an opportunity for growth. Discover how to handle change in both personal and professional life, improve your mindset, and tackle daily challenges with confidence. Ideal for those preparing for retirement, facing life changes, or seeking ways to improve adaptability, this episode provides actionable insights for managing life's big shifts. Tune in now to learn how to embrace change and use it to your advantage!

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we explore essential retirement planning strategies specifically designed for employees of the University of Wisconsin (UW) System and the State of Wisconsin. Discover how to maximize your 403(b) and 457(b) plans, understand the benefits of the state pension system, and make the most of your investment options with providers like TIAA and Fidelity. Check out our blog for additional insights: Our Guide to the UW System Supplemental Retirement Program - https://walknercondon.com/blog/our-guidance-on-the-uw-system-supplemental-retirement-program/ We break down: * Key Differences Between 403(b) and 457(b) Plans: Learn which plan fits your retirement goals, including tax benefits and early withdrawal options. * Maximizing Contributions: Find out how UW and state employees can contribute to multiple retirement accounts, potentially doubling tax-advantaged savings for households. * Investment Choices with TIAA and Fidelity: Explore the advantages of these standardized plans, including low-cost options and diversified portfolios. * Catch-Up Provisions and Early Access: Understand how catch-up contributions and penalty-free withdrawals in 457(b) plans can benefit high-income earners and those nearing retirement. Whether you're early in your career, nearing retirement, or managing dual incomes in a household, this guide will help you understand your retirement planning options. Make the most of the powerful benefits available to UW System and State of Wisconsin employees to secure a financially stable future. Watch now to start planning for a better retirement! #RetirementPlanning #WisconsinEmployees #UWSystem #StateOfWisconsin #403b #457b #TIAA #Fidelity #FinancialPlanning #TaxBenefits

In this video, we break down strategies to make Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) less overwhelming and more tax-efficient. If you're approaching retirement or already retired, understanding RMD rules, age requirements, and the impact on your tax bracket is essential. We cover everything from the basics of RMDs to advanced strategies for minimizing tax implications and preserving wealth. Here's what you'll learn: *What Are RMDs and Why They Matter: Get a clear understanding of Required Minimum Distributions and why they're mandated. *Current RMD Age Requirements: Learn how the Secure Act 2.0 has updated RMD ages, including options for reducing taxable income through strategies like Roth conversions. *Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): How to donate your RMD directly to charity, avoiding taxes and supporting causes you care about. *The Tax Implications of RMDs: Understand how large RMDs can push you into higher tax brackets and how to plan for it. *Tax Diversification and Asset Location: Why balancing tax-deferred, taxable, and Roth accounts can make a big difference in your retirement plan. Whether you're nearing RMD age or planning for the future, these insights will help you create a more tax-efficient retirement strategy. Don't miss these expert tips on maximizing your retirement savings! Here are key timestamps from the video "How to Make Navigating RMDs Less Taxing," giving you direct access to specific discussions: Introduction to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) - 00:00 Definition and Importance of RMDs - 00:00:32 Age Requirement for RMDs (Currently 73) - 00:01:04 Changes Under Secure Act 2.0 - 00:02:07 Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) Explained - 00:02:38 Roth Conversions as a Strategy - 00:04:10 Impacts of Large RMDs on Tax Brackets - 00:04:43 Key Milestones for Retirement Accounts (Age 55, 59½, etc.) - 00:05:13 Importance of Tax Diversification - 00:09:05 Managing Capital Gains and Asset Location - 00:09:52

As 2024 comes to a close, it's time to get your financial ducks in a row for the new year. Reviewing essential areas now can help you maximize tax efficiency, protect assets, and set up for a successful 2025. Here's your year-end checklist to keep everything on track: Maximize Retirement Contributions – Ensure you're making the most of 401(k), IRA, and HSA contributions. If you're over 50, don't forget those catch-up contributions! Review Tax and Estate Planning – Consider year-end strategies like Roth conversions, charitable donations, and estate updates to reduce taxable income. Evaluate Insurance Coverage – Double-check that your life, disability, and long-term care insurance meets your needs. Reviewing beneficiaries now can avoid future headaches. Manage Debt and Optimize Interest Rates – Look at mortgage rates, high-yield savings, and credit lines to make sure you're getting the best rates before the new year. Update Investment Allocation – Rebalance your portfolio to align with your financial goals and take advantage of market opportunities. Get your financial ducks in a row before 2025, and start the new year feeling secure and prepared! #YearEndChecklist #FinancialPlanning #GetYourDucksInARow #TaxSavings

In this episode, Nate and Clint spend some time diving into some crowdsourced questions, as we amend "Ask Me Anything (AMA)" to "Ask Us Anything (AUA)". We spend some time discussing things we have learned from our spouses, how Walkner Condon was named, and why Nate strong dislikes jeans in the office. We welcome questions for future episodes. send them along!

When the Fed cuts rates, what does it say about the economy? Does it mean we are on the cusp of a recession, or might it be a bullish signal? Nate, Clint, and Syl sit down to speak about the most recent Fed rate cut in September 2024 and also what it means in the context of prior rate cuts.

Discover more about the world of index investing in our video podcast. We dive into the history of index funds, starting with the creation of the S&P 500 and the revolutionary move by Vanguard in 1976. Learn the differences between major indexes like the Dow Jones and Russell 2000, and explore the rise of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), which offer tax efficiency, intraday trading, and accessibility for smaller investors. We also break down key index construction methods, such as market-cap-weighted vs. equal-weighted indexes, and discuss how different approaches impact portfolio performance. Additionally, gain insights into factor indexing strategies and how modern investing has evolved beyond passive approaches, utilizing factors like size, momentum, and quality to enhance returns. This video is for anyone wanting to understand: The history and benefits of index investing How ETFs differ from mutual funds Why factor-based strategies are gaining popularity. The key differences in index construction across major funds Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this comprehensive overview will help you navigate the ever-expanding world of index investing. Don't miss out—subscribe for more insights on personal finance and investment strategies! #IndexInvesting #ETF #S&P500 #MutualFunds #FactorInvesting #Vanguard #Russell2000 #InvestingBasics #FinancialEducation

Polly, Clint, and Nate discuss some important factors around HSA accounts - did you know you can invest the proceeds into stocks, bonds, and funds? We discuss how HSAs have some similar properties to Roth IRAs and then an added benefit of being tax deductible on top of tax free if used for medical expenses. We also caution people how to appropriately look at HSAs in regards to balancing investments with timeframe and expected distributions.

In this episode we get to know Andrew Klein, our newest financial advisor that recently joined us at Walkner Condon. Andrew is a career changer - very briefly considered a career in education, and worked at ESPN in Madison. After pivoting to financial services, he began his career at MassMutual and focused on helping his clients with retirement income and tax planning. In his spare time he loves Wisconsin sports, playing golf, and is also a fitness instructor and fitness enthusiast.

Mitch & Alicia are in the booth discussing all things Roth: Roth IRAs, Roth 401(k)s, and Roth Conversions. They provide some background on why Roth money can be a powerful tax-advantaged tool and how it can be part of a “tax-diversified” strategy. Mitch & Alicia discuss when it makes sense for Roth retirement contributions vs. tax-deferred contributions, as well as opportunistic times when someone could consider Roth as part of their plan, whether it is a young investor, pre-retiree, or those in retirement. Not only do people use Roth strategies in their own game of tax arbitrage, but Roth is also something to consider when it comes to legacy planning for the next generation! Lastly, there are things to watch out for when making a Roth vs. tax-deferred or a Roth Conversion strategy. Take a listen to find out more.

Clint and Stan share practical advice on navigating the financial complexities of a blended family in our newest podcast episode. #BlendedFamilyTips #finance --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Syl Michelin and Nate Condon host an exciting economic commentary with feature guest Andrew Opdyke. Andrew is a CFA and economist for First Trust Portfolios and frequently speaks on macroeconomic topics and the current state of the markets. In this podcast, we discuss inflation and its impact on debt, the housing market, and the current health of multinational corporations. We hope that this podcast will help to provide some insight on the current state of the economy and how the Fed may navigate the remainder of 2024. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Polly shares her journey of selling a home to finding and buying the ideal place with Nate. This story covers the emotional rollercoaster and the complex steps of their housing journey. #RealEstateJourney --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Nate and Clint dive deeper into the strategies and future plans for Walkner Condon Financial Advisors. This behind-the-scenes discussion unveils what lies ahead for the upcoming year. #WalknerCondon --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Tune in with Nate and Mitch as they dive into picking the perfect brokerage for your money path. #finance #investing --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

On this podcast meet the newest member of Walkner Condon, Evan Waltz. Hear about his journey here and what it took. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

In our latest podcast episode, Polly engages in a discussion with Anna January, who serves as the Director of Charitable Giving at Wisconsin Watch. Tune in as they explore the present and upcoming landscape of charitable contributions. Read the 2024 Market Report here: https://walknercondon.com/2024-market-outlook-2/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Mitch and Alicia talk about Alicias article covering timing the market and why it can be the wrong choice. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Clint and Nate sit down to talk about their articles for the 2024 Market Report. They cover the housing market and the low consumer sentiment surrounding the markets. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Mitch and Keith are talking about their articles for our 2024 Market Report. Keith talks about his piece on bonds and Mitch talks about piece on the possibility of a soft landing. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Stan and Syl continue our discussions about the articles in our 2024 Market Report. They discuss Stans article covering Recency Bias and its influence on the market. Read the article here: --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

This is our first podcast talking about our 2024 Market Outlook. Clint and Syl discuss Syl's article titled "What Year Is It?", a global macro piece. Read the Walkner Condon 2024 Market Outlook here: ⁠https://walknercondon.com/2024-market-outlook-2/⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Clint and Nate talk about their traditions surrounding the holidays and family. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Nate and Clint run through the list of financial topics to get on top of before the end of the year. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Clint and Keith chat about the disconnect between Consumer Sentiments negative trends and the actual market data that shows an upswing. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Nate Condon chats with Megan Jerabek about the NIL Rule changes and the Supreme Courts decision regarding student athletes --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Mitch DeWitt and Nate Condon talk about the HOT TOPIC that piqued everyone's interest this year. Times have changed, and getting a 3% APR on a loan feels like a long lost dream. Where are we at today with #interestrates, and when might they fall? #financialnews #usinterestrates #finances #heloc #loans #financialadvice #financialplanning --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Alicia and Polly are back to discuss talking to your kids about money. It sounds so simple, yet can be a complicated topic. Listen to these two #womeninfinance discuss how they talk to their own kids about money, and why it is important. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Our expat team sat down with Tina Adatia from her London office. Ms. Adatia is an executive vice president and product strategist, focusing on global fixed income and ESG strategies at Pimco. PIMCO is a global leader in active fixed income with deep expertise across public and private markets. Our extensive resources, global presence and time-tested investment process are designed to help provide our clients with an edge as they pursue their long-term goals. #globalbondmarket #bonds #pimco #fixedincome #expatlife #expats #investing #investingtips #movingabroad --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

The commercials will show you people walking on the beach hand-in-hand, gardening with a smile, even taking on high risk adventures. Eventually, the retirement luster can wear off. It is important to have a plan, figure out how you will spend your days. We see this all of the time with clients. The reality of retirement can be different than the dream. It is important to have a plan so that you can maximize your retirement satisfaction. #retirement #retiring #seniorcitizens #retirementsavings #financialadvice --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

#luxurytravel becomes an attainable goal with this helpful information from Scott Poniewaz, Head of EXEC. EXEC is a highly curated hotel, travel, lifestyle, and business benefits program providing access to exceptional brands and experiences. It powers the benefits and perks programs of some of the world's leading associations and organizations. https://www.joinexec.com #privatejets #financialadvice #expatlife #travel #travelabroad --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Job loss is one of the toughest things you can experience in your career. Hopefully it leads to greener pastures for most, but recovery from the shock is a jarring task. We wanted to make it easier for you. Here is a run-down of the financial checklist you should consider if you find yourself in this difficult situation. Pensions, health insurance, life insurance...the list goes on. We hope this list helps keep you organized in those first few weeks. #jobloss #healthinsurance #financialadvice #financialplanning #lifeinsurance --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Job loss is one of the toughest things you can experience in your career. Hopefully it leads to greener pastures for most, but recovery from the shock is a jarring task. We wanted to make it easier for you. Here is a run-down of the financial checklist you should consider if you find yourself in this difficult situation. Pensions, health insurance, life insurance...the list goes on. We hope this list helps keep you organized in those first few weeks. #jobloss #healthinsurance #financialadvice #financialplanning #lifeinsurance --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Clint Walkner and Jonathan Jordan go over the business valuation process and how it fits into your financial planning. Also, Luke Combs #fastcar is quite the hit...who sang it better, him or Tracy Chapman? Debate away! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

On this week's episode of Gimme Some Truth Syl Michelin, Stan Farmer, and Nate Condon talk about Direct Indexing. What is it? How does it work? What should you know about it? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

On this week's episode of Gimme Some Truth Syl Michelin, Stan Farmer, and Nate Condon talk about Direct Indexing. What is it? How does it work? What should you know about it? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message

Polly Price and Alicia Vande Ven sit down to discuss how they made the career switch to finance. Hear about what obstacles they faced and what their favorite parts about finance are. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/walkner-condon/message