Investor Coaching Show – Paul Winkler, Inc

Bitcoin drops 40%, but proponents try to claim that volatility is decreasing. Paul and Evan discuss the fundamental issue with trading a commodity that lacks a practical application in the world and competes with one of the most stable forces globally: the U.S. dollar. Listen along as these two advisors share a CNBC interview that's working hard to spin some sort of upside to this investment. Later in the episode, Paul talks about how investments get priced and how this affects Bitcoin's limited supply.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Most diversified portfolios are not just even amounts of U.S. and international holdings. It's more nuanced than that. Over the last few months, we've seen pundits who for years have encouraged investors to only own large U.S. companies but are now pushing international stocks because they have been outperforming the U.S. for a while. Paul and Evan remind you that confident investors don't rely on past performance and news cycles to make investing decisions. Later in the episode, Paul talks about an investor who called the office this week to ask about a specific financial product.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Paul chatted with a curious young investor this week who was eager to share what he was investing in and ask for some constructive feedback. Listen along as Paul and Evan talk about showing investors the funds that have overlapping stocks and don't offer more diversification. Paul and Evan share how this young investor was trying to follow the fundamentals of investing, but some of the most popular products in the industry aren't designed to follow them. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan discuss markets and the economic effects of tariffs following this week's Supreme Court ruling on the Trump tariffs.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Many fund companies love to tout the strength of their technical analysis. They claim to have market experts poring over company books to see what should be in your portfolio and what should be out. Today, Paul shares a clip of a technical analyst really showing their lack of basic investment knowledge. Paul encourages you not to tie up your retirement with people who claim to be experts at market timing but ignore the basic rules of investing. Later in the episode, Paul discusses how younger people are being taught to view investing as entertainment, as predatory companies target the most active investors, encourage people to engage in “predictive markets” (aka gambling), and turn earnings reports into NFL-like post-game interviews.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Imagine your house falling apart before your mortgage is even up. Unfortunately, this could become a reality for many homeowners. Homes are being built faster, bigger, and with lower-quality materials than they were 50 years ago. Today, Paul shares the devastating consequences when builders cut corners using materials and methods that aren't built to last and homeowners don't do their due diligence. Later in the episode, Paul does the work for you and looks through the disclosures Yrefy hides at the end of their TV ad. The disclosures clearly state that the investments are high-risk and untradeable, and liquidity is not guaranteed — even though the ad says otherwise. Paul warns, “Read the fine print yourself.” You won't regret it.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

This week, we're walking through some investing myths. It's super easy for people to get pulled into these myths because they appeal to our instincts and our emotions. Our instincts tell us to go toward pleasure and away from pain. Listen along as Paul walks you through some of the stickiest traps in the industry and shares guiding principles that should inform your investment decisions.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

This week, we're walking through some investing myths. It's super easy for people to get pulled into these myths because they appeal to our instincts and our emotions. Our instincts tell us to go toward pleasure and go away from pain. Listen along as Paul walks you through some of the stickiest traps in the industry and shares guiding principles that should inform your investment decisions.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Today, Evan shares research about what keeps people from saving for retirement. The list was long and included daily expenses, paying off debt, and caring for aging parents or children. The same research also concluded that people were starting major milestones later, but still felt confident about their retirement income. Listen along as Paul and Evan talk about how to know if you're on track and how to overcome some of the practical and mental barriers to reaching your goals.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Today, Paul shares an interview with the Edward Jones head of investment strategy, where she's pressed about the lackluster performance of the area of the market most of their investors are in: large U.S. companies. She finally admits that they are still “feeling good” about the U.S. economy, but now might be a good time to consider diversifying in smaller companies and international companies. Paul and Evan are pretty shocked that a Harvard Business School graduate, who helps millions of investors, would so blatantly tell investors to buy based on past performance and then call it diversification.     Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Today, Paul and Evan answer a listener's questions about Trump Accounts and how the investments get managed. Listen along as the two advisors cover the restrictions on investments, the low contribution limits, and the tax implications of using one of these accounts to invest for minors. Then they pivot to a question about a possible rule change to the order in which you can make retirement and catch-up contributions. After the break, Paul discusses how adding private equity investments to your portfolio puts your future in the hands of companies that don't have to provide basic reports about the health of their business.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Today, Paul and Evan talk about the catastrophic drop in Bitcoin's value and why Bitcoin traders keep digging their heels in, hoping for a brighter future. Listen along as these two advisors share how personal bias and financial news spin keep this risky digital commodity that few people understand alive through hectic bouts of demands and sell-offs. Later in the episode, Paul discusses a refinancing company called Yrefy that is paying media personalities to push a product that sounds nice, but the numbers don't add up. Paul cautions that if it sounds too good to be true, it is.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

This week, Paul has been methodically taking you through the basic principles of building a portfolio that will help you reach your goals. We've looked at how cash, bonds, and stocks work together to minimize risk and talked about why picking high-yield bonds and individual stocks opens you up to non-systematic risk (aka risk you wouldn't get compensated for). Today, Paul discusses the final step in building a portfolio: letting your time horizon be the determining factor in where you allocate the money in your investments.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

When we discuss investing in the stock market, most people think of investing in individual stocks. Paul shares that the returns with this approach are problematic. Listen along as Paul and Arlene talk about a different approach called asset class investing and explain the difference between picking individual stocks and investing in commingled investment vehicles.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

A diversified portfolio contains a mixture of cash, bonds, and stock investments. Not knowing how these assets work together leads to some of the most common and harmful investing traps. Today, Paul invites Arlene Brown onto the show to explain how cash holdings, bonds, and stocks can work together to limit your risk of short-term market fluctuations and long-term inflation. Listen along as these advisors go into detail about the strengths and pitfalls of having investments in each category.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

A diversified portfolio contains a mixture of cash, bonds, and stock investments. Not knowing how these assets work together leads to some of the most common and harmful investing traps. Today, Paul invites Arlene Brown onto the show to explain how cash holdings, bonds, and stocks can work together to limit your risk of short-term market fluctuations and long-term inflation. Listen along as these advisors go into detail about the strengths and pitfalls of having investments in each category.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Paul shares a clip this morning that shows just how low the standard is for what financial media views as “credible” investing information. Listen along to hear an interview with Cathie Wood, CEO of Ark Invest, where she discusses the mistakes she learned from in 2025, which cost investors millions, and tries to get airtime to spin the 35% drop in Bitcoin as a victory in this market. Then, Paul addresses a listener who works a very physically demanding job and is in a tricky position, where long-term disability insurance is very expensive, and it's possible that they won't remain employed until retirement age. Paul shares some options for supplementing your income if you are not yet at the normal Social Security age.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

When most people buy a car, they take on a substantial car payment. But how long does the high of having a nice new ride really last? Today, Paul discusses why government intervention in making cars easier to buy has historically led to chaotic markets and other economic issues. Listen along as Paul explains why it's difficult to really meaningfully change your level of happiness through things like new car purchases and how you can start to chart a course forward where the things in your life support your sense of purpose, instead of you spending your time and money working off things that don't bring you joy. Later in the episode, Paul addresses a listener who is curious about when you should start building up assets in a non-qualified account instead of a pre-tax account.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Today, Paul brings in a WSJ article that provides a list of potential events this year that could weaken the dollar against other world currencies. Paul wants confident investors to remember that you shouldn't change your plan based on what may or may not happen in the future. Then, Paul explains why a weaker dollar isn't always a bad thing for the U.S. economy, and why investors who follow the industry are more likely to be hurt by a weakening dollar. Later in the episode, would it be helpful for people to tap their 401(k) for a down payment on a home? Paul covers an article about a Trump administration plan to borrow from yourself to buy a house, and discusses the unseen risks of removing money that is making compound interest for something you need now.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

When Paul first started this show, indexing and target-date funds were not very popular at all, as the world experienced a decade where large U.S. companies struggled to generate any returns for investors. Fast forward another decade, and indexing and target date funds are now all the rage as investors believe that “indexing” is synonymous with great returns, low fees, and wealth in retirement. Indexing may sound like diversification, but Paul explains what really happens when millions of investors choose this path for their portfolios. Later in the episode, Paul shares where fund companies make the biggest mistakes with indexing and provides a blueprint for capturing market returns that won't leave you overweight in a few companies.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Paul runs into an annuity salesperson on Facebook who reveals that he made $300,000 in income in his first month and wasn't remotely interested in helping people, but in showing off his skills to his peers. So, where does caring for clients fit into most of these sales? Paul shares the four steps people use to sell these products that you can look out for, and why it's just not possible to trust high-commission products salespeople to look out for you when their companies are pushing them to produce sales.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Evan talks about a celebration of life service he attended earlier in the day and reflects on how you never know how long life will be and how having a strong sense of purpose changes your perspective about money. Listen along as these two advisors describe why investing just to be good at investing and have a lot of wealth is what sucks you into get-rich-quick schemes and marketing trends.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Paul and Evan get into a conversation about a common question for homeowners: Is it a better investment to put extra money in my house or in my portfolio? Paul talks about why you shouldn't view your home as an investment unless you plan on selling it and moving into a tent. Listen along as these two advisors explain the importance of paying off or improving your home without viewing it as an investing decision. Later in the episode, Paul discusses how Trump is cracking down on corporate ownership of residential housing.     Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

We often discuss being a confident investor on the show, but confidence is only helpful if it's combined with a disciplined, evidence-based approach rather than behaviors such as market timing or individual stock selection. Today, Paul shares an ad for Jim Cramer's investing club that he saw on CNBC, where a client claims she is confident and finally “in control” of her investments. The ad reveals that Jim teaches people to “win at investing” through market timing and stock picking. Paul and Evan explain why you shouldn't follow someone who offers club memberships and provides stock-picking advice. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan answer a listener's question about the number of publicly traded companies in the stock market and how a diversified portfolio can be constructed. Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.   This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All financial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualified professionals before acting on this information. Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Paul and Jim talk about a pundit who told investors which funds to own in 2025, and those funds had a return of over 14%. Paul admits that most investors who saw this increase in their portfolio would probably think they did pretty well last year. The problem is that without benchmarking, they wouldn't realize that the funds did worse than the S&P 500 and underperformed the market's leading sector by 35%. Listen along as these advisors break down what is wrong with these investments and why benchmarking is the only way to know how your investments are doing.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Every investment company is working to sell you on the idea that they can help you build wealth through cutting-edge technology and financial expertise, but the reality is that many of these companies, like Robinhood, are making money off you through activating your emotions and trying to cultivate a dopamine addiction around the gamification of gambling. Listen along as Paul and Jim talk about some of the strategies Robinhood uses to mislead investors and take your money while claiming to help you earn big bucks. Later in the episode, Paul brings up a couple who moved to Ecuador and are living off of their social security benefits and discusses why this kind of behaviour may be enticing for people who didn't make a plan, but could actually be quite dangerous.     Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

No one likes to think about the day when they will no longer be here and their spouse or children will have to take on more responsibility in managing the family's finances. Today, Paul brings an article about the different approaches people take to preparing important information — such as your primary doctor, accountant, or attorney, as well as passwords and automated payments — as well as retirement accounts and their management. Listen along as Paul shares about PWI's “love letter,” a document template that will help your family transition after you're gone without adding stress to an already difficult time. Later in the episode, Tesla is betting their future on a completely automated workforce, but we still don't have the 20-hour workweek we were promised a few decades ago.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Paul talks about the news of America's capture of the Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro, and how this will lead to uneducated investors making one of the most painful money mistakes. Listen along as Paul talks about why responding to the news with either fear or greed comes from the basic misconception that investing is really just gambling or that knowing what will happen in the future gives you an edge in investing. Paul dispels these investing myths and encourages you to stay the course. Later in the episode, Paul shares a market prediction from Fidelity about 2025 that could have hurt your portfolio had you listened to one of the largest investment managers in the world.  Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Today, Paul shares some research that shows over 80% of investors near retirement have portfolios that lack diversification and that most investors equate large U.S. companies and cash with safety. The problem is that portfolios like these can be very difficult to take an income from and leave you vulnerable to market fluctuations. Listen along as Paul explains why a financial advisor can help teach the academic principles behind building a portfolio and why most fund companies don't even sell funds that help investors make sure they are capturing market returns and minimizing risk.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

A new year provides a new opportunity to change your life for the better by reflecting and setting new goals. Today, Paul talks about why understanding yourself helps you actually reach your goals, instead of setting them and getting stuck in the same old patterns. Listen along to hear how you can work with your brain to overcome old patterns and have a better year in 2026. Later in the episode, Paul shares why sharing your goals with someone you trust can open new doors, bring meaningful insight, and increase your chances of success in the new year.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Last year should have been a great year for crypto investors. The digital assets received favorable treatment from a pro-crypto government, and the financial industry plugged the investment at every turn. Unfortunately, that didn't make a positive difference in market prices. Listen along as Paul shares why this year brought more losses for people who have been swept up in the crypto craze and why it doesn't look like the currencies will become better investments anytime soon. Later in the episode, Paul and Nik talk about a future of driverless cars and why changes in technology often lead to fear or greed.  Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Today, Paul explains that fund companies that offer your 401(k) plans are choosing investments that seem safe and popular. These low-cost funds focus heavily on large U.S. companies and keep your money out of the highest-performing markets of 2025. Paul explains how these fund companies have ditched academic research, forcing them to make it up as they go along. Later in the episode, Paul discusses the disillusionment of the youngest generation of investors and what might lead them to find purpose and success in their work and investing.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

This year, private company funds made their way into 401(k) plans around the country. While Paul doesn't think these funds adequately pay for your risk, there is another problem that makes these products even worse. Listen along as Paul and Evan explain why many investors will get sucked into a product where companies don't have to disclose important information about their finances, which public companies are required to disclose.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Money is a tool to help you express what is most meaningful to you. People who have a good relationship with money typically have a deep sense of purpose. Today, Paul and Evan have a conversation about how younger Americans report feeling a lower sense of purpose, how to get on the right track about what's most important to you, and how you can use money to help you live a meaningful life. Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Since 401(k)s are full of hidden fees, poorly diversified funds, stock picking, and market timing, how can you make the most of your employer-matched retirement option? Today, Paul and Evan explain why 401(k)s are designed to be confusing and misleading and how you can work with an advisor to learn what your options are and be a more confident investor. Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Paul and Evan discuss the holiday season and how most investors have a large U.S. rally on their Christmas wish list this year. Listen along to hear the two advisors share why putting your hope in the industry and large U.S. companies usually leads to watching markets and having your emotions pulled around by things you can't control. Later in the episode, Paul brings up how loyalty used to be meaningful to your insurance company and why it is important to occasionally shop around to see if there is a better deal.  Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Everyone will eventually reach a point where they can't or no longer want to work. Paul and Jim discuss U.S. doctors who earn the highest wages in the world but dislike their jobs. Listen along to hear how purpose, work, and finances can either create a nightmare for you in the future or allow you to be flexible and choose what is best for you in any season. Later in the episode, Paul talks about Robinhood's ADV and why it is crucial to look at ADVs before you give your money to trading platforms or fund companies.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Paul and Jim cover an article and an interview that spreads misinformation about 60/40 portfolios and exposes the industry's problem with them: They never set them up or manage them correctly, and then complain about the results. Listen along to learn about why the industry wants to push you in other directions when taking retirement income and what the Nobel Prize-winning research says instead.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Today, Paul and Jim discuss an article that claims the math proves the optimal age to take Social Security is 70. Listen along as these advisors talk about why each plan is unique and some reasons it may be a bad choice to take it at that age. Confident investors know that taking benefits at a mathematically perfect age can be a trap, but learning about your own plan and goals can help you discover the right age for you to start taking benefits.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Paul and Jim open the episode by discussing a challenge that often sneaks up on newly retired investors: trusting the process and letting their money work for them. The two advisors then acknowledge the difficulty of becoming a homeowner in 2025 and share a few different opinions about why the average age of a first-time homeowner is now 40. Listen along as they break down these takes and add their experience to the conversation.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Getting investors to recognize the limitations of stock picking has always been a problem. Now, it is even more difficult because Robinhood has changed the investing culture for the next generation. Today, Paul, Evan, and Jim talk about how Robinhood has exploded by blurring the lines between investing, which requires patience and a long-term outlook, and betting, which focuses on entertainment and short-term results.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Today, Paul, Evan, and Jim discuss why steady population growth is an important factor in an economy's health and prosperity. The problem is that population growth is difficult to affect through policy. Listen along as these advisors discuss how the U.S. government has worked to incentivize marriage and family, whether the Trump accounts are a similar tactic, and how policies that slow immigration also exacerbate the issue of population growth.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Paul, Jim, and Evan bring up a lawsuit between NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and Pacific Life. Busch was sold a life insurance policy that would allow him to pull out $800,000/year after he turned 52. After many attempts to talk with his agent, it seems his money is gone. Listen along to hear why insurance products that claim to be “safe” are even too risky for someone who drives race cars professionally. Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Evan and Jim join Paul on the show today to talk about how easy it is to start heading in the wrong direction with your finances. The industry is designed to confuse you and wear you down, and people's instincts lead them to what feels exciting or safe. Paul shares an honest clip about NFTs and how millions were lost in the craze. Listen along as these advisors share why living with purpose and knowing your plan puts you in the driver's seat of your finances and helps you relax about money.   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Marketers work hard to manipulate your opinion of health and prosperity largely because of a man named Edward Bernays. Today, Paul shares a video about Edward Bernays, Sigmund Freud's nephew, who worked hard after WWII to sell products to American consumers through manipulation and psychology. Listen along to hear how Bernays' propaganda principles have shaped advertising and modern life in the United States for the last 80 years. Later in the episode, Paul shares that most of the companies and cryptocurrencies closely associated with President Trump are in a huge slump, which illustrates why you can't use politics to predict the future and make a profit.  Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Americans for decades have learned about investing in school through a game that puts gambling at the center of the process. Fast forward a few generations, and companies like Robinhood have taken over the industry, offering both investing and sports betting on the same platform. Listen along as Paul explains that when you truly invest, you should be able to look at market benchmarks to measure your success, but when you gamble, you are stuck comparing the odds on different games at the casino, where the house always wins.  Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Each time we seem to be on the brink of a technological paradigm shift, investors flock to bet on the companies that are vying to win the technological race. Today, Paul reminds investors what happens when you try to bet on winners and losers and let greed enter the investing process. Listen along as Paul explains why AI has the potential to make all investors profit, but could really hurt the few investors who forget that none of the top 30 tech companies in 2000 made it to 2025 in the same position.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Paul shares that people who experience the most stress in life tend to focus more on the outcomes than on the process. Today, Paul talks about why happiness is more difficult to achieve the more you chase it. Listen along to hear why Paul believes that controlling what is in your control and focusing your attention on daily tasks and pleasures turns your brain from a place of anxiety to a place of confidence. Later in the episode, Paul talks about the most powerful parts of your brain and how you can use them to start taking small steps that will make your life better. Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Who wants to pay more taxes than they should to the government? No one. Today, Evan and Paul talk about taxes and why companies use your desire to pay less in taxes to push you into investment vehicles that might actually cost you more in the long run.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Evan shares an ad from a company that features a concerned investor trying to determine if they need a fiduciary for their investments. Paul and Evan break the illusion by sharing just how easy it is for the industry to lure people in with the term fiduciary and then hide behind loopholes and confusing disclosures. Fiduciary is supposed to mean someone who acts in your best interest, but the standard is not high enough.    Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Today, Paul and Evan continue a conversation about what makes gold valuable and why so many investors believe it's a strong investment. The two advisors then expand on the idea to discuss currencies, real estate, and stocks. How does the market decide what something is worth, and why does Paul exclude some popular commodities from his portfolio?   Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

Today, Paul and Evan share some commentary on the U.S. Federal Reserve and why its job is to create a stable currency, not a zero inflation economy. Listen along to learn about the history of the Federal Reserve and about how inflation can actually be a useful tool in the U.S. economy. Later in the episode, Paul shares why he doesn't include gold as an investment in any investment portfolio. Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.