What The Wealth

We unpack a strategy to transform an inherited IRA into tax-free retirement wealth through a strategic Roth conversion. A client recently inherited $52,000 from his mother and was taking RMDs without a clear plan until we implemented this approach.What you'll learn:• Inherited IRAs become "beneficiary IRAs" when passed down to non-spouses• Beneficiary IRAs must be fully depleted within 10 years• RMDs are calculated based on prior year account value and IRS tables• Taking RMDs without a strategy can miss major tax planning opportunities

Market uncertainty triggers two distinctly opposite responses from investors. We see some frantically call ready to cash out, while others eagerly seek opportunities to deploy additional capital.The CNN Fear and Greed Index currently sits around 20 (out of 100), indicating fear among investors. For investors wrestling with uncertainty, several critical points deserve consideration. Let's remember, successful investing requires adherence to long-term planning rather than emotional reactions. Market timing demands being right twice – when selling and when buying back in – a challenge that defeats most investors who typically wait until markets "feel good" again, missing substantial portions of the recovery. 

Market volatility triggers panic, but historical data reveals why staying calm and sticking to your financial strategy is the smartest approach during turbulent times.• Every time CNBC has aired a "Markets in Turmoil" special since 2010, the S&P 500 was higher one year later by an average of 40%• Market fluctuations are natural and expected parts of long-term investing• Panic selling locks in losses and typically causes investors to miss the subsequent rebounds• Market value is fundamentally driven by corporate earnings, but short-term movements are heavily influenced by fear and greed• A "war chest" or "bond buffer" with five years of fixed income can provide both income and psychological reassurance during downturns• Market declines represent buying opportunities, especially when quality investments have been indiscriminately sold offIf you haven't already subscribed to the podcast, please do so. It really helps us. If you're looking for a second opinion or want help, or even if you have a question, send it to info@ParadigmWP.com.

Are you confident that your home insurance will cover you in times of crisis? When disaster strikes, many homeowners discover they lack sufficient protection. In this episode, I dive into the world of property and casualty insurance, especially as it relates to rising

The recent sell-off in NVIDIA's stock highlights the fears surrounding market volatility. Past events quickly emphasizes the importance of maintaining a robust financial plan and understanding emotional market reactions.On this episode:• The emotional impact of market headlines • Significance of NVIDIA's decline in the context of market stability • Historical perspectives on market downturns and recoveries • The necessity of a diversified investment portfolio • Importance of financial planning in overcoming fears • Strategies to weather economic storms with confidence 

This episode focuses on healthcare options for early retirees, highlighting the Affordable Care Act and its accessibility. I share insights into navigating healthcare.gov, addressing chronic health issues, and making informed decisions without the need to remain in the workforce solely for insurance. • Discussion of a couple's specific healthcare concerns • Explanation of the Affordable Care Act and its benefits • Step-by-step guide to using healthcare.gov for plan comparison • Importance of evaluating chronic health conditions in plan selection • Strategies for early retirement without sacrificing health coverage • Encouragement for taking proactive steps in healthcare planning 

Retirement is not just a distant dream; it's an achievable destination that requires strategic navigation. The What the Wealth Retirement Podcast unravels the complexities of planning for your golden years. As I shift the focus of our discussions, I'm excited to provide content that directly speaks to the retirement goals of our diverse audience. Whether you're dreaming of retiring at 50 or planning to stay active until you're 90, I've got the expertise to guide you through. 

I look back on 100 episodes of What the Wealth with gratitude and pride. It's been a fun pursuit and your support has made it that much more rewarding.As we go forward, I am thrilled about the promise of more consistent episodes filled with fresh, empowering content. Whether you're a loyal follower or tuning in for the first time, there's always something new to learn and grow from. Here's to the next 100 episodes and being confident in our financial endeavors. Thank you for being an essential part of What the Wealth, and let's continue to inspire each other.

What happens when financial stability suddenly feels distant? Temporary cash flow challenges can feel overwhelming but they don't have to derail your long-term financial goals. In this episode I explore strategies to keep your head above water without compromising your future, such as adjusting savings contributions for a bit of breathing room. This episode is for anyone grappling with financial decision-making during uncertainty. Whether it's planning for a child's college education or managing the impact of rising interest rates on your home payments, the key is maintaining flexibility and patience. I'll guide you through real-life scenarios, offering insights to help you make informed choices that align with your financial objectives.

The AI revolution is upon us and it's reshaping industries, work-life, and investment landscapes. On this episode I discuss the world of artificial intelligence, and together, we'll explore AI's unique ability to "think" and the duality of its impact—where it stands as both a creator and disruptor of jobs. Let's confront the challenges of industries hesitant to embrace automation and understand how adaptation not only ensures survival but paves the way for new opportunities.

How does the Federal Reserve's latest rate decision influence your financial future? With inflation taking a roller-coaster ride from 9% to a more manageable 3%, we explore the Fed's motivations for this rate cut and its broader implications for your portfolio. Reflecting on the history of inflation—from the days of 10-cent Cokes to today's prices—we consider what the future holds for consumers and investors alike. As we dissect the market's response, we'll also touch on recent job reports and the Fed's commitment to steering the economy through these choppy waters. Whether you're planning for retirement or evaluating your next big investment, this conversation provides insights to guide your financial decisions.

We're all curious as to what the Fed's going to do with rates. On this episode we attempt to tackle this burning question. We start by retracing the economic journey since 2021, exploring how post-COVID inflation surged to 9% and prompted the Fed to raise interest rates aggressively. Despite these higher borrowing costs impacting mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards, our economy has shown remarkable resilience, thanks to a strong labor market and hefty savings. Now, with inflation reduced to around 3.4%, we evaluate whether the Fed's measures have been effective and consider the potential benefits and risks of a rate cut.Join us for a dive into the Federal Reserve's potential strategies amid recent economic trends. 

Are you prepared to navigate the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany a relentless bull market, from the dizzying heights of confidence to the potential perils of complacency? Lets cut through the noise and discuss practical wisdom for staying grounded amidst the market's unpredictable ups and downs. How will the disruptive force of AI innovation reshape the economic landscape, if at all?  This conversation will help equip you with strategies to build a resilient portfolio and confident frame of mind designed to withstand the market's inevitable ebbs and flows. 

When my cousin casually mentioned he didn't have life insurance for his non-working spouse, it sparked an important conversation. This episode is a must for anyone that underestimates the economic value of a stay-at-home partner. Don't let the absence of a salary fool you into thinking there's an absence of value; we break down the cost of replacing those day-to-day tasks and why ensuring both partners are insured is a cornerstone of prudent financial planning. We discuss practical methods to calculate life insurance needs without overlooking the irreplaceable role of the partner at home. 

Signal Mountain Road in Chattanooga is getting ready to host it's newest tenant:  Paradigm Wealth Partners is officially moving in! As my family and I plant our roots even deeper in Chattanooga, this expansion isn't just business growth; it's a personal celebration of community and connection.Stay connected with our new office location progress and future ribbon cutting. 

Imagine navigating the delicate balance between nurturing a generous heart and managing newfound wealth. That's exactly the journey we embarked on with a client who, after receiving a significant inheritance, grappled with how much they could give to their community without risking financial security. As a dedicated Financial Planner, I'm thrilled to share the story of this client's inspiring path towards sustainable philanthropy. Through their eyes, we explore not only the joy of giving but also the strategic planning that allows for impactful, community-focused donations.This episode of What the Wealth podcast is an illuminating session on integrating charitable giving with financial stability. We unravel the practical methods employed to maximize our client's desire to contribute, ensuring their generosity doesn't compromise their own fiscal health. It's a narrative filled with heart and numbers, showcasing the profound satisfaction that comes from meaningful giving. Join us as we reveal the steps to creating a giving plan that aligns with personal values and the sheer happiness that blossoms from supporting others.

A quick recap of the timeless investment wisdom of the late Charlie Munger, Berkshire Hathaway's renowned Vice Chairman, as we reflect on his teachings about the virtue of patience. Can sitting tight with your investment portfolio truly outperform the frantic dance of buying and selling in today's market? 

Who could have predicted the ironclad resilience of the stock market amidst the tumultuous events of 2023? In this episode I peel back the curtain on a year where, against all odds, the market leaped in the face of dire predictions, rate hikes, and global instability. A few of my thoughts on the reasons behind this defiance of expectations, along with historical patterns that challenge the myth of boom-and-bust cycles. Plus, get a clear understanding of why holding steady in your investments might just be your ticket to financial success.Navigating the sea of financial advice can be as perplexing as the markets themselves, but I'm here to guide you through the fog. Remember, the wisdom shared in this journey is for broad strokes—when it's your personal portfolio on the line, nothing compares to the expertise of a Certified Financial Professional®. Tune in and arm yourself with the knowledge to sail confidently through the ever-shifting tides of the financial world.

What if there was a way to navigate the uncertainties of long-term retirement investments using past trends of the S&P 500 index? Don't let short-term market fluctuations deter you. The truth is, investing for retirement requires a marathoner's perspective, not a sprinter's. Join us as we unpack the weighted 30-year rolling average of the S&P 500, demonstrating why it's crucial to keep your eyes on the long-term prize. You'll be heartened to learn that historically, there have been more years of market ascent than descent.We're also lifting the veil on the importance of informed decision-making and professional advice for securing a prosperous financial future. Learn about the range of services offered by firms like LPL Financial and how a licensed professional can make all the difference in steering your financial future. We're here to empower you with the knowledge to make informed choices and the confidence to face your financial future without fear. Tune in, and let's tackle the complexities of retirement investment together.

Are you tired of the daily grind and looking for ways to diversify your income? Ready to ditch the misconceptions about 'easy' passive income strategies? In this episode I take you on an enlightening journey into the world of passive income. We'll bust some myths, such as the idea that real estate investing or becoming a social media influencer is entirely passive. Instead, I'll introduce you to the potential of dividend growth investing. This strategy doesn't require a heavy-duty capital infusion or a hefty loan from a bank, and it allows you the flexibility to pause and restart at your convenience.Our conversation doesn't stop at passive income; we also delve deep into wealth creation and financial decision-making. I'll underline the importance of consulting with qualified professionals and making informed decisions based on individual circumstances. We'll address the potential risks involved in investing and discuss different strategies to protect your portfolio. With insights from my real-life client conversations and practical advice, this episode aims to guide you on your path to financial independence. Whether you're setting out on your financial journey or looking to diversify your income, this episode promises to arm you with the insights and strategies you need.

Ever wondered how to make your money work better for you by leveraging the power of Roth conversions? Join me, Jonathan Bednar, co-owner of Paradigm Wealth Partners, as we journey through the complexities and benefits of this financial strategy. As a certified financial planner, I shed light on the essentials of liquidity, tax implications, conversion methods, and the best timing for conversions. We debunk the myth of income limitations and examine the impact of required minimum distributions (RMDs) on this strategy.Dare to venture further with us as we untangle the implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 on the aspects of Roth conversions. We'll also delve into the long-term tax benefits of a Roth IRA and take a closer look at the potential future of tax brackets and their influence on the conversion decision. We'll expose the real costs and fees associated with Roth conversions, providing a complete lowdown on this financial strategy. So, if you're looking to make smarter and more effective wealth management decisions, then this episode is your perfect guide. Tune in!

In the conversation about real estate investments, a lot of people are for it and many are against it. Investment philosophy can be very personal. For me, real estate is something I like to invest in, but it's important to understand all the factors that come into play, such as interest rates, inflation, borrowing costs, affordability, and more. So, in this episode, I will talk about the impact these kinds of investments can have on your financial future and retirement.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3YaBFKN

Have you ever felt like your future self is a stranger? Or that some future goals are a bit too far away to understand? That's because, scientifically, our brains struggle to connect with the future version of us. Join me as I unpack some fascinating research from UCLA's professor Hal Hershfield, and unravel the implications it has on our ability to pursue long-term goals. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here:  https://bit.ly/3r60Y3V

A lot of people talk about bonds as a way to generate income “safely” in retirement and say that all you need is to own a bunch of bonds and you'll be safe, but I don't necessarily agree with that. There are ways to use bonds for retirement income but it needs to be done in a way that is specific to your unique retirement needs. In this episode, I'll share the most important information you need to know in order to build a retirement portfolio that allows you to fulfill your retirement goals. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/462qBTh

How much should you have saved for retirement? Are you on track? I get questions like these often from people—and for good reason. Retirement is lasting longer for some people and there are many people who want to retire early so, really, you probably need to be saving more. But how much more should you be saving? There are a lot of variables that come into play, so in this episode, I'll discuss a few of the most important things to keep in mind. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/43yOekh

How can we plan for the rest of the year? What should we be looking out for financially as we move into the second part of 2023? There have been lots of questions and concerns about where the market has been and the last 18 months where interest rates, inflation, and market changes have been difficult. In this episode, I will share what we see coming in the short-intermediate term and discuss some important things to think about when it comes to the markets in the final half of this year.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: http://bit.ly/436ARaK

Many people who reach their 80s and 90s want to start transferring their assets to their kids early rather than wait for it to be inheritance—but this may not always be the best way to do it. In today's episode, I'm going to be sharing important insight into passing assets on to your beneficiaries. You will hear about common mistakes that parents make when trying to gift assets to their children, as well as how you can make the process easier and less of a financial burden on your beneficiaries.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3oUFE0r

One of the biggest risks in your retirement is taxes. So today, I'll be talking about how you can avoid a big tax bomb and how you can start making key decisions now that will help you navigate and plan for tax time next year. There's a lot we can learn from our past year or so of filing, so I'll also share how you can put that information to work for you to help you make the most of your money.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3H2FI4q

Are you ready for the twists and turns of life? Unexpected events happen all the time, and as I watch the aftermath of the tornado damage near Little Rock, Arkansas, it's a big reminder about the importance of having a plan. This is a show about finances and financial planning, but in this episode, you'll be hearing about a different kind of planning.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/40CI7u9

Today, I'm going to be addressing the most recent banking crisis that has been creating a lot of buzz lately. You will get to hear my analysis of the current crisis compared to other similar ones we have seen throughout history, as well as a few different things you can watch out for when it comes to situations like this.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3FFzZ3A

The last 15 months have been very tumultuous as a long-term equity investor. As rates have ticked up to help fight inflation, we've seen the bumps on the chin taken by our equity portfolios. Over time, the constant beat-down of the market and the financial media coverage can really weigh on the investor's psyche, so today we're going to talk about a big question I've been getting frequently: “Should I take my money out of the market?”You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3mx9ZAY

Where do we sit now with the debt ceiling—and what does it all mean for the U.S.? We've had some questions about what the debt ceiling is and why it's important, so in this podcast, I'll be answering these questions and more. You will hear how it got started, the historic patterns of debt in the U.S., where things look like they're going, and how all this may affect you.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3SiACoV

Today, we're going to dive into a replay of a webinar I hosted on January 27th called "2023 Market Outlook." I'm joined by financial planner Katie Kavehrad and my father, Jon Bednar, to talk about a few different market pieces that we're internalizing and giving advice and guidance to our clients on in the coming year. Listen in as we discuss the debt ceiling increase, S&P 500 valuation measures, consumer confidence surveys, and more.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3YtEtBB

In this episode, I'll be covering just a portion of the SECURE Act 2.0 – specifically pertaining to required minimum distributions (RMDs). If you are retired or getting close to your retirement, understanding the changes that are going on with RMDs is the first step to keeping up-to-date and ensuring you're utilizing and optimizing your retirement funds in the best way possible.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3QZuD7W

In today's episode, I'll be addressing a few questions that I've been getting from my clients regarding the economy, the market, and my predictions for the future. This is such an important thing to talk about right now, so I will share my thoughts on this, as well as four essential investment principles that you need to understand as we enter 2023.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3GR0owh

It can be hard to focus amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, but there is a trick that I've found works well to help with that. In this episode, I share a sketch from personal finance thought leader Karl Richards that makes things a bit simpler, as well as a reminder to take time to think about and focus on what's important.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3YChNje

“I have $100,000 to invest, but I don't want to lose money.” Someone said this to me recently, and it inspired me to sit down and chat with you about this topic today. You will get to hear a bit about the mindset that lies behind a statement like this and why it can actually end up hurting your financial health.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3uidITy

In order to fully understand qualified charitable distributions, you'll want to know what required minimum distributions are and how they work. Today we have Katie Kavehrad back on the show to discuss the inner workings of RMDs and QCDs. If you're retired or approaching retirement age and you want help building your tax planning strategy, the tools talked about in this episode are for you!You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3USOmqy

It's important to know as much as you reasonably can about the financial tools you have in your tool bag. Katie Kavehrad joins me again today to talk about Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) and how this particular tool can be used for charitable giving, investing strategies, financial planning, and more. In this episode, you will get a better understanding of the different roles DAFs can play in your finances and giving opportunities. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3U5aWf7

Today Katy Kavehrad, a financial planner at Paradigm Wealth Planners, joins the show for the first time! We're covering how she helps clients achieve their goals, as well as key things that are happening in financial news and markets. You'll hear good news, insight into what to watch carefully, and more.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3CWn3Fy

Today I want to answer some questions that have come up lately in light of the recent market turbulence and volatility. There are a lot of “what if?” questions floating around people's heads, and today I will provide some clarity and answers that will offer a bit more relief or a sense of preparedness. By clearly defining things like risk and volatility, as well as understanding the other fear factors out there right now, you can find a better way to make smart decisions around money.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3SQx50i

A stable retirement portfolio is something that we are all seeking and working to ensure. In this episode, I'll share how bond laddering can be used as a strategy when investing to reduce risk and increase stability. You will get some quick and easy insight into what a bond is, the types of bonds out there, and how laddering can be used to reduce a variety of risks.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3qU5TBO

Just a short time ago, on August 16th, The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law. So, can we expect inflation to go down? Will this affect your finances in any specific areas? Listen in to hear the most important things you need to know about and how to properly navigate the changes this bill may bring.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3AW6ac4

Playing it safe to avoid losing your money can seem like the only rational strategy. However, in the past, we have seen repeated patterns of a market downturn that send the world into a panic. Despite these crises, the market has always been resilient and eventually bounced back, stronger than before. So, in this episode, I will be explaining why long-term investors who don't sell in a panic or lose sight of their financial goals are generally rewarded. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3dTVVgx 

A few weeks ago, a client mentioned to me that they had an old Roth IRA from years ago that they had lost track of. This reminded me that there is a search that you can do for lost property. So, if you or someone you know ever find yourself in the position of needing to find some kind of property or resource that you lost, this is the episode for you.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3vO4Mqc

We often spend so much time chasing the next thing, moving to the next task, and completing the checklist that we don't take the time to stop and ‘smell the roses.' In this episode, I share a moment in a conversation where a colleague reminded me how important it is to truly celebrate our wins in life. You will also hear about some of the recent wins I have been encouraging clients to celebrate.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3AJgm99

It's really important to build perspective around the bear market we're currently in, the talk about recession, the anxiety, and more. Now is the time to really look at the stats so that we can have a better understanding of what's going on and what happens next. In this episode, I'll be covering some important stats, as well as listener questions that all go hand-in-hand.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3AJgm99

Thought-leader in the world of personal finance Carl Richards said, “We all know that no matter how worried, scared or excited we're feeling, 2+2 always equals 4. But when it comes to money, money equals feelings.” This is a great way to see how money is very much related to emotions, and that is what I'll be addressing in this episode. Join me as I unpack the risks of emotional decisions and clouded judgment, as well as how to get one step ahead of yourself in this area.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3AdiohA

Cybercrime continues to evolve, and with new threats surfacing every year, it is more important than ever to ensure you are secure. Taking some basic precautions, as well as learning how to recognize cybercrime, are crucial first steps to take to help protect yourself and your data. So, how do you know what to look out for? Jonathan Addington, President of JM Addington Technology Solutions, will be joining the show today to share what you need to know to keep your information safe and secure.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3zsoudC 

It is clear to see that the current market is pretty volatile, but how bad is it really? According to recent statistics that have been released, this is one of the worst first 100 days of the year that we have seen in over a century. So, what exactly does this mean—and how can we navigate this market downturn moving forward? In this episode, I will be explaining two timely strategies that can be used in crazy market volatility.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3a956I8  

There is a question that comes up routinely with clients: what is an I bond and why should I invest in them? In this episode, I'm sharing why you may want to consider this high-rate investment in your financial portfolio.You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3waj03R