The Life Planning 101 Podcast

In this episode, Angela discusses the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" and its implications for individuals, business owners, farmers, and ranchers. She provides an overview of the bill, focusing on key aspects such as permanence and stability in the tax code, student and child-focused provisions, charitable gifting, state and local taxes, and new tax legislation. Key Takeaways

In this episode of Life Planning 101's Black and White Market Minute, Cade Sparger is joined by Aaron Kennedy and Sam Barker to discuss the current state of the market and potential future trends. They analyze recent market performance, the impact of economic news, and the psychological factors influencing investor behavior. The speakers also delve into the implications of the recent "big, beautiful bill" and offer advice on personal finance strategies, including Roth conversions and disciplined spending.

In this episode, Aaron Kennedy and Sam Barker discuss portfolio management, specifically focusing on individual stock portfolios and the quality growth portfolio. They explore the decision-making processes involved in managing these portfolios, the impact of timing on returns, and the importance of diversification. The conversation also delves into the potential risks and opportunities presented by autonomous vehicles and their impact on the automotive and insurance industries.

In this episode, Angela discusses the implications of the SECURE Act and its amendments on retirement accounts, particularly when trusts are named as beneficiaries. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing trusts written before July 2024 to ensure compliance with the IRS's final RMD regulations and to avoid unintended tax consequences. The episode aims to educate listeners on the complexities of tax laws and the need for professional guidance in estate planning. Key Takeaways

In this episode, Aaron, Sam, and Kade discuss the impact of politics and tariffs on the market, the psychology of investing, and strategies for long-term financial success. They emphasize the importance of ignoring short-term political noise and focusing on long-term investment goals.

Here's the reality: financial literacy should be a required class in school—but for most people, it never was. And because of that gap, many of us are fumbling through adulthood, reacting to financial crises instead of preparing for them. This week we discuss 10 questions to jumpstart your financial literacy.

In this episode of Life Planning 101, Sam and Aaron discuss the market's reaction to recent geopolitical events, including the Iran-Israel conflict and China tariff deal. They also touch on the surprising rise of gold on national balance sheets and the potential impact of increased oil prices. At the conclusion of the episode, they share their outlook on the summer months and the overall health of the market.

In this episode, Angela addresses 18-year-olds and their parents about essential financial and legal considerations as they transition into adulthood. She emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and proactive planning to secure a stable future. The discussion covers medical and financial powers of attorney, building excellent credit, planning for the future, and investing in oneself through financial education. Key Takeaways

In this episode, Sam Barker and Aaron Kennedy discuss the recent market trends, focusing on the impact of news and emotional reactions on stock prices. They also touch on employment numbers and the shift in market drivers from traditional consumer-based indicators to technology-driven factors. It's important to stay calm and not make emotional decisions based on media influence.

In this episode Angela discusses the importance of having family meetings, especially as children grow older and move out. She emphasizes the need for proactive communication within families to address important life decisions, end-of-life wishes, and potential conflicts that may arise after a parent's passing. She also encourages families to have open and honest conversations to ensure continued harmony and support. Key Takeaways

This week Aaron and Sam discuss the current state of the market, inflation, interest rates, and potential impacts of government policies. They analyze recent economic data and offer insights into investment strategies for navigating the current financial landscape. They also touch on the national debt and potential future economic scenarios.

In this episode, Angela discusses the concept of "money scripts" and how our beliefs about money, often formed in childhood, can significantly impact our financial and overall health. Drawing from the work of Dr. Brad Klontz, a psychologist and certified financial planner, the episode explores four common money scripts and offers advice on how to identify and break free from negative patterns to achieve a healthier relationship with money. Key Takeaways

This week we discuss how to identify the root cause of stress in life and business. Think about your thinking and identify the one thing that, if changed, would significantly reduce your stress and improve your overall well-being. Key Takeaways

This week Angela discusses the complexities and risks involved in gifting significant assets to children, such as land or businesses. She emphasizes the importance of proper planning and professional advice to avoid costly tax consequences and unintended liabilities. The episode focuses particularly on the tax implications of gifting versus inheriting assets and the importance of understanding cost basis. Key Takeaways

This week Angela discusses the importance of intentional retirement planning compared to the time people spend planning vacations. She highlights the irony that people often invest far more time planning short vacations than their entire retirement, emphasizing the need for early and purposeful retirement preparation beyond just finances. Key Takeaways

This week we discuss essential life planning advice for parents and graduates facing the transition after high school or college. The episode covers practical financial knowledge, legal considerations, and ongoing parental support to help young adults successfully launch and sustain their independence.

This episode we discuss recent financial market trends, we focus on interest rates, market rebounds, and international trade dynamics. We analyze the implications of fluctuating interest rates on investments and consumer behavior, the role of Bitcoin and gold in global finance, and the ongoing trade negotiations with China. We also touch on the impact of tariffs, consumer spending power, and the importance of staying active in volatile markets.

This week, Angela discusses the current financial market volatility in April 2025, emphasizing the theme 'Faith Over Fear.' She explores how investors can navigate uncertainty by understanding the nature of investing, the composition of financial markets, and the importance of having a solid financial plan. Key Takeaways

About the Podcast

The water in life gets rough from time to time. When we take our eyes off of the horizon, we tend to suffer. And like being sea sick, you may feel that you probably aren't going to recover until your feet hit dry land. This week we share some tips to help you find peace during turbulent times.

Got a few minutes? This week Aaron, Sam, Brent, and Henry talk about what's going on in the market, tariffs, interest rates, and more.

This episode focuses on estate and legacy planning. Angela discusses the challenges of estate planning, including procrastination and complexity, and provides actionable steps to simplify the process using a structured approach. Key Takeaways

This episode delves into financial topics such as market volatility, private investments, and portfolio diversification. Aaron, Sam, Brent, and Henry discuss current market conditions, inflation, private equity, and debt, offering insights into investment strategies and opportunities in private markets. Key Takeaways

Like the title of a James Bond movie, we live in a day and age where it can seem like there is no time to die. There seems to be so many obligations that need our attention. Do you care about your family? Then you don't want to miss this week's episode of Life Planning 101.

Aaron Kennedy is joined by Sam Barker, Brent Bible, and Henry Knowles this week to talk about interest rates, market performance, international investments, and investment strategies. The team provides insights into current market conditions, the importance of diversification, and lessons from past investment decisions. Key Takeaways

This episode features Rich Hall, a certified exit planning advisor, discussing the importance of preparing businesses for sale. The conversation focuses on the challenges business owners face when selling their companies, the need for proper exit planning, and strategies to ensure a successful transition while aligning with personal and financial goals. Key Takeaways

Aaron Kennedy is joined by Sam Barker, Brent Bible, and Henry Knowles this week to talk a little about the markets, interest rates, what they're looking at right now, and more. You don't want to miss this. Do you have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Feel free to reach out to us at: www.kennedy-financial.com.

This week, Angela discusses key financial and legislative updates, including the Corporate Transparency Act, Social Security Fairness Act, Secure Act 2.0, the impact of executive orders on financial markets, and more.   Key Takeaways

Recently I was speaking with a client about how important it is to take preventative measures in regard to health - eating right, exercising, and taking the right supplements. It is just as important that we take preventative measures in regard to our finances - planning for the worst-case and best-case scenarios, exercising good financial habits, and revisiting your plan on a regular basis to make necessary changes.

Aaron Kennedy is joined by Sam Barker, Brent Bible, and Henry Knowles this week to talk a little about interest rates, international markets, and more. You don't want to miss this. Do you have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Feel free to reach out to us at: www.kennedy-financial.com.

Sam Barker and Aaron Kennedy join us this week to talk a little about what's going on in the world when it comes to currencies, interest rates, and more. You don't want to miss this. Do you have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Feel free to reach out to us at: www.kennedy-financial.com.

You have great power over the destiny of your family. In fact, you have the ability save your family… or destroy it. Too many of us make all the excuses in the world to not work on our estate plan or just throw darts at an attorney, get documents in place, and say we have one. Neither of these add up to a Family Disaster Plan.

Getting in financial shape is tough. The problem with getting in financial shape is that most people don't really give it a go until the pain is bad enough. Here's a news flash…this is not good!   About the Podcast

There is an ongoing disconnect between generations and the way they think about a lot of things, including money. This is evident in any family, so the good news is that you are not alone.   About the Podcast

More than just lyrics to a song, these words really hit home. The only way our country and our world will get better is by each of us starting in our own homes and own communities. It starts with us. There are people and things that you hold very dear to your heart. Take some time this week to write them down and share them with your family. This week we revisit our most downloaded podcast of all time.   About the Podcast

What is it about our minds that make us more impatient the closer we get to our goal? We all want to get where we are going “yesterday.” The problem sometimes develops that we become so focused on “getting there,” that we forget to be a human being in the midst of it. We become a human doing instead.     About the Podcast

Updating your estate plan may be hard. Scratch that. It will be hard. Family dynamics aren't always easy. And when you add money to the equation, well...it can change everything and not always for the better.   About the Episode

Your money should help you pursue your objective. That purpose may be different for everyone, but how your money relates to it should be the same. Your plan should include well-defined core values, a written statement of financial purpose, and a purposeful financial plan.

Your core values should serve as the foundation for your entire life. Instead of just living on a whim, or going through the motions, or doing things simply because the world tells you that's what you should be doing, your core values should sit firmly in the driver's seat of your life.

As our wisdom grows so does our passionate desire to impart this wisdom on our loved ones. After all, I think most of our wisdom was gained by some hard knocks with good stories behind them. If we are sitting here one year from today, reflecting on the last twelve months, what did you do different over that time period? What were the outcomes? Can you say you lived Life on purpose?

If you are successful, there is a good chance you fight every year to lower your taxes. What can you be doing to accomplish this goal, give your favorite cause(s) a little more, and perhaps even keep a little more in your own pocket? Charitable planning is on purpose and by design. It isn't for everyone, but it is something you should ask about if you want to replace Uncle Sam in your financial plan.

Sam Barker and Aaron Kennedy join us this week to talk a little about inflation, interest rates, and more. You don't want to miss this. Do you have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Feel free to reach out to us at: www.kennedy-financial.com.

Using an efficient, tax-smart approach to maximize the impact of your charitable giving has never been more important. This week we give you 12 ways to increase your giving power while potentially reducing your taxable income this year and beyond.

Sam Barker joins Aaron Kennedy this week to talk a little bit about interest rates and some Bitcoin strategies. You don't want to miss this.

Did you know 70% of adults age 65 will need long-term care in their lifetime. 20% will require LTC for more than 5 years. Roger Cantu with OneAmerica join us this week as our special guest to share some shocking statistics about Long-Term Care and offers some creative solutions.

Sam Barker and Aaron Kennedy join us this week to bring us a post-election podcast. They touch on government spending, regulations, Bitcoin, oil & gas, and more. You don't want to miss this.

The loss of a loved one can be a difficult time for someone. And not knowing the details associated with their loved one's digital legacy can make an already challenging time potentially more difficult and more expensive. Kate Hufnagel, The Digital Wrangler, joins us this week to share some tips.

Have you ever thought about what it could mean for your family if you needed care? What decisions would need to be made? Who would make them? How would things look? What impact would this have on your spouse and kids? Let us help you walk through the Quality-of-Life Planning Process™ to develop a true long-term healthcare plan. It is a gift beyond any measure of value for those you love the most! 

In the spirit of Estate Planning Awareness Month, you need to be aware of the implications of your retirement dollars when you die. And…if you don't like it, there still may be time to do something about it. Just don't wait until it's too late.

We were honored to have tax attorney Kyle Post join us this week as our guest. Kyle discusses some of the changes we may have coming our way after the election in regards to your estate and taxes. You don't want to miss this.

Sam Barker and Aaron Kennedy join us this week to take a look at what's going on internationally and talk a little about currencies and the job report that came out. You don't want to miss this. If you have questions or comments, you can reach out to us at: www.kennedy-financial.com.