Talking Cents

Paying off debt sounds smart, but what if investing could get you further ahead? That's the question Alec and I are looking at this week on Talking Cents. Neither is a bad idea, but we're taking a look at the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision for YOUR personal circumstances. And if you're just getting started, we've got a free tool available for you to check out at https://sparkmywealth.com/

In today's episode of Talking Cents, I'm focusing on advice for those of you in your 20s and 30s. Some key areas we'll be looking at: building an emergency fund, maximizing employer-matched contributions, paying off non-mortgage debt, starting a Roth IRA, and monitoring credit scores. And remember - small actions today can significantly impact your future financial well-being! As mentioned, if you want to see if who you're working with is properly licensed, visit  https://brokercheck.finra.org/ (FINRA Broker Check) And if you're just getting started, check out our free tool at https://sparkmywealth.com/

When the markets are rocky and we're in uncertain times, like right now, people often ask, "Should I pull out of the market?" The short answer is no! And Chad Roller is joining me this week as we take a look at how volatility is a normal part of investing AND a key factor in achieving long-term growth! And if you're just getting started, we've got a free tool available for you to check out at https://sparkmywealth.com/

Discover the power of the Roth IRA! In this episode, Alec Daril and I are looking at the rules of a Roth IRA, how to start one, and how this simple investing tool can be one of the most powerful ways to build tax-free wealth in retirement! And if you're looking for more resources to help you get started, we've got a free tool available to you at https://sparkmywealth.com

There was recently a sensational headline from Bloomberg claiming the 401(k) will disappear in 10 years! Chad Roller, my partner in the Conway office, is joining me as we look at what's actually happening here and what this could mean for your retirement savings. And if you're looking for more guidance, check out our “6 Keys To True Financial Independence” https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

Breaking up with a financial advisor can be tough! But sometimes it's necessary for your financial success. Join me and Alec as we go through identifying red flags, navigating the breakup process, and keeping you on the path to true financial independence.  And if you're looking for more resources, check out our guide “6 Keys To True Financial Independence” https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

If you're being laid off from your job, your employer might offer you a severance package. But what does that mean, exactly? Chad Roller is joining me in this episode as we take a look at: considerations when offered a severance package, possible areas of negotiation, taxes, and some gaps that you might need to fill between jobs.  And if you're looking for more resources on your financial journey, check out our guide “6 Keys To True Financial Independence” https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

We've got a very special guest in this episode of Talking Cents: Kassidy Cook! Kassidy is an Olympic diver, winning a silver medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics with her diving partner, Sarah Bacon, in the 3-meter synchronized springboard. We'll be talking about her journey to the Olympics and how some of the same principles and habits she learned along the way have also helped in her financial journey. This is one you don't want to miss! And if you're interested more in Kassidy's journey, you can check her out on social media @kassidycook13!

If your family's growing, that can be exciting! It's also more expensive! Chad Roller's joining me this week as we look at ways to make sure you have a solid financial foundation so you can enjoy this time and focus on what really matters. And if you're looking for more guidance, check out “6 Keys To True Financial Independence” https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

Do you only think about taxes once a year when it's time to pay the piper? But what if you took the time to think about taxes more often? I've got Chad Roller with me this week as we try to help with some tax tips so you can take control and, hopefully, keep more money in your pocket! And if you're looking for more resources, check out our guide “6 Keys To True Financial Independence” https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

More knowledge with less complexity? Alec's joining me in this episode as we look at three metrics you need to know and how they can help you on your financial journey! And if you need help unlocking that path to true financial independence, download our guide “6 Keys to True Financial Independence” now by visiting https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

Get ready to give your savings a boost in this episode of Talking Cents! Alec and I are bringing you some practical ways to enhance your financial well-being. With determination and a little discipline, these small steps can add up quickly! Start your journey with our FREE download: 6 Keys To True Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys

If you're just starting out, investing can be complex! But the important thing is to get started! Chad Roller is joining me in this episode as we go over 12 quick tips to help give your savings a boost. 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Are you wanting to boost your New Year resolutions? Or kick-starting a new goal? Maybe you're just looking to make progress on goals you've had for a while. Alec Daril's joining me in this episode as we look at ways you be more effective with your finances and make your money work for you! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

In this episode, Chad Roller joins me as we debunk common myths about financial advisors, like being only for the ultra-wealthy or just stock brokers. We're looking at the true value they provide, from personalized financial plans to behavioral coaching. Whether you're starting out or nearing retirement, learn how a financial advisor can help you on your journey to true financial independence! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Money can be unpredictable, especially when emergencies strike or prices fluctuate. But guess what? We can still take charge of our financial situation. Join us in this episode of Talking Cents as we dive into practical strategies to empower you to focus on what you can control! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

We've got a special guest joining us today, Roman Greathouse! He's our Video and Live Event Production Specialist here at GenWealth, but he's also going to share some of his thoughts on financial advisors before he joined our team, what he's learned since, and how he's been working on his own path to true financial independence! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

If you're thinking about your 401(k) plan, you might have heard of Target Date Funds (TDFs). In this episode, we're going to break down everything you need to know about TDFs. We'll cover what they are, why they might be a good fit for you, and what to keep in mind before making a decision. 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Your first million is the hardest. On this episode of Talking Cents, we're talking all about the race to building your first million dollars and why things seem to get easier the further along you are. Spoilers: compound interest is your friend! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Fix your roof when the sun is shining. Well, it's been pretty sunny with the stock market lately! And we don't know when, but a recession will come. In this episode, we're looking at ways you can prepare so that when there's a downturn in THE economy, there doesn't have to be a downturn in YOUR economy. 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your finances or unsure about where you stand? Understanding your financial picture is the first step toward achieving clarity and confidence in your financial life. In this episode, we'll break down what a financial picture truly is, the key components you need to consider, and how to assess your own situation effectively. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your financial strategy, this episode is packed with insights to help you take control of your financial future. 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Let's face it – there are certain rules of thumb that most people should follow, but the best advice is specific to YOU! In this episode, Alec and I are fueling the fire as we tackle some controversial advice so you can get a leg up on true financial independence! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

We get a lot of questions about IRAs: what's the difference between Traditional and Roth? How do they work? Which one is better? In this episode, Alec and I are breaking down the differences so you can make an educated decision in choosing which IRA might be right for you! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

A new study from Primerica shows that women are still facing challenges in financial confidence and representation. Even when they're taking a lead role in their family's financial welfare! In this episode, we're bringing tips for you on how to boost your financial confidence so you can meet your financial goals! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

We all have good and bad habits. When it comes to money, some habits can set you up for success, and others can derail your financial future! In this episode, we've got a list of healthy habits, unhealthy habits, and some practical tips to keep you on the road to true financial independence. 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

Millennials faced several challenges and setbacks early on. But new data suggests a surprising turn! Alec and Teresa are looking into how a generation has improved their financial health and how YOU can take some action steps toward a better financial future! 6 Keys to Financial Independence https://getreadyforthefuture.com/keys/

This is the last of a three-part series with Katie Caruthers (@badwitch1126 on TikTok), who built quite a following as she has shared her journey with loss and the things that come with losing a loved one. Katie and I both experienced losing a parent who didn't have an estate plan in place and we're hoping some of our experience can encourage you to get organized and/or help your parents get organized to avoid the chaos we have experienced.

Dealing with loss is hard enough on its own. But then there are the tasks, the seemingly endless list of items that nobody tells you about! Katie Caruthers (@badwitch1126 on TikTok) is with me again to help make a checklist so that if this is something you have to go through, you can be better prepared than we were.

Losing a loved one can be hard. And it's so much harder if, amid grief, you're trying to take care of an estate that's in disarray! This is the first episode in a three-part series about dealing with loss and the complications that can come from a lack of planning. To help me out, I've got a special guest, Katie Caruthers, who's gained a following on TikTok (@badwitch1126) sharing her raw experience in dealing with the loss of her mother.

Non-negotiables, uncompromising rules or habits people set for themselves or others, have gained popularity recently, from TV to TikTok. Alec's joining me in this episode as we look at how, in a world of overwhelming choices, some of us find comfort in these self-imposed mandates, especially in the world of finances. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

Brian Helms is with me in this episode as we look at how to have the "money talk" between generations. We're taking a look at how to discuss financial matters with aging parents, like retirement and estate planning, as well as financial principles with kids, like saving money and part-time jobs. And it can be awkward at first! But it gets easier over time. 6 Keys to Financial Independence

Do it yourself or hire a professional? That's the question we're asking in this episode! If, like me, you don't know a lot about cars, there's no shame in taking it to a mechanic! The same goes for your finances. Alec's joining me as we look at which aspects of financial planning you can DIY and which ones you probably want to get some professional help with. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

We're not quite as exciting as what you might have seen in the show MythBusters, but the myths we're busting can keep you from reaching true financial independence! Brandon Barber is with me in this episode as we look at common myths surrounding credit cards, renting, and more. And how busting these myths in your own life can help you make better financial decisions! 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

In part two of our discussion on what to do if you're in a divorce, Brian Helms is joining me. We're taking a look at several items you'll want to address like beneficiaries, your estate plan, and changes to retirement and investment strategies. And we'd be remiss if we didn't also talk about taking some time to refocus and heal. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

In this episode, we're wrapping up a three-part series on banking with Lori Melton from First Community Bank. Divorce is hard and navigating the financial challenges that can arise make it even harder. We'll be looking at some action steps you can take with your personal finances. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

I've got special guest Lori Melton with First Community Bank back for part two of our series on banking. Just like financial advice isn't one size fits all, neither are banks! In this episode, we're taking a look at different aspects of banks - services, amenities, culture - so you can decide if you're in the bank that's right for you and give you some things to consider if you're looking to switch. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

With credit and bank cards being so common, all of us are likely to experience fraud at some point. I'm kicking off a three-part series about banking with special guest Lori Melton of First Community Bank. And in this episode, she's bringing her years of experience in the banking world to help you protect yourself against fraud and what to do if you're the victim of fraudulent charges. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

If you're living life solo, this is the episode for you. Financial planning can be a bit different for singles! Brian Helms is with me in this episode to give you some tips for navigating your financial journey without a significant other. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

You can't run from inflation! It's something we all have to deal with and, frankly, it can be scary. But there are ways you can be prepared for rising prices. I've got Brandon Barber with me as we look at understanding inflation and how investing is key to fighting rising costs. Plus, we're watching a video our team sent us where a financial advisor reacts to inflation in his own life! 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

It's a question we hear a lot: am I saving enough for retirement? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to that! But Alec's joining me in this episode as we take a look at three things that can help you determine the answer: your goals, the resources you have/need, and how to get a realistic estimate if you're on track.

There can be a lot of financial considerations when starting a new job. Brian Helms is joining me as we take a look at some ways to slow down and make practical decisions that can have a BIG impact on your future!

Everyone loves an underdog story. But you don't want to BE the underdog. Alec Daril is joining me in this episode as we look at how to prepare, stick to the playbook, and run the play that will give you the highest chance of success on your road to financial independence.

In the last episode (159), Chad and I discussed getting started with credit. It's best if you can save and pay cash, but if you need to finance, you'll want good credit! Chad's back as we look at tips to build and maintain good credit. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

Debt isn't ideal, but it's often necessary. And your rates depend on your credit score. Chad's with me in this episode as we look at how to get started in establishing and building credit responsibly. We're starting with the basics and in the next episode, we'll go into more detail! 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

Friends and clients sometimes ask about an investment idea and I'll ask, "Is it a speculative investment?" Most don't know what that means! Brandon's on board in this episode as we clarify what speculative investment means, and when they might be okay for you. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

Have you ever heard an "old wives' tale" or urban legend and thought to yourself: I can't believe people actually think that's true! In the financial planning world, we've got some myths that Brian and I are going to dispel in this episode. And you won't have to worry about running into bigfoot on the path to true financial independence! 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

Vacations are meant to help you reset and recharge, taking a break from the day-to-day. So what about a financial vacation? Chad's joining me in this episode as we look at ways to take a step back in order to bring your financial independence into focus. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

I don't know about you, but I'm super pale and if I'm not prepared, the sun will burn me to a crisp. And if you get burned bad enough, you're certainly hesitant to repeat the process. We frequently hear stories from people who have been burned financially. Fortunately, Brandon brought the sunscreen and beach umbrella this week as we learned that while we can't avoid risk in the market, there are ways to manage that risk. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

It's been a "hot minute" since I graduated college and entered the workforce, so that's why I've got Alec with me today! We're looking at ways you can set yourself up for financial independence even though you're just getting started. 6 Keys to Financial Independence 

Teresa. Chad. Ask us anything! We've your questions on deck for this episode: Should I start my 401k in a Roth or pre-tax if my employer offers both? If I'm investing in my 401k and HSA, what am I missing by skipping the IRA? How should a 21-year-old who's starting to invest manage risk? If you've got questions of your own, send them to me at show@getreadyforthefuture.com! And don't forget to check out 6 Keys to Financial Independence! 

Which is better: dollar cost averaging or lump sum investing? It depends! Brandon, a paraplanner in our West Little office, is joining me as we look at the pros and cons of these options and which one might be right for you. 6 Keys to Financial Independence