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Messy Family Podcast : Catholic conversations on marriage and family
Summary Have you ever felt distant from your spouse, like you're simply coexisting in the same house or experiencing dryness in your marriage? Every marriage goes through natural cycles of romance and disillusionment, but without intentional actions, indifference can creep in. How do you break out of that indifference and reconnect? In this re-release of Episode 089, we give simple and practical advice for couples to escape indifference and rebuild a happy, healthy marriage. Key Takeaways Love is a decision, not a feeling. When we recommit ourselves to our relationship things can start to improve. "In losing your life, you will save it" - Give yourself away. You can't control your spouse, but you can take action and start to love unconditionally. Pursue your spouse through affirmation, physical love, and by praying for them. Do it now - immediately. Delaying only makes things worse. The sooner you can reorient yourselves towards each other, the easier it wll be. Couple Discussion Questions How much quality time do we actually spend together each week? Do we talk mostly about logistics, or do we share our hearts? What types of affection make each of us feel most connected? What would be a simple way to start praying together more consistently? Resources MFP Episode 015: Five Love Languages MFP Episode 054: Vulnerability in Marriage MFP Blog: Disillusionment: What to do and how to fight it https://messyfamilyproject.org/blog/disillusionment-what-to-do-and-how-to-fight-it/ MFP Resource: Communication in Marriage https://messyfamilyproject.org/guide/communication/
1036. Is Social Security in trouble, or is it just a lot of political noise? Laura answers a listener's question about what the changes to the retirement fund mean for your financial future. You'll learn the new tax caps that employees and the self-employed must pay and how to protect your retirement safety net.Key takeawaysAccording to the latest 2026 Trustees Report, the Social Security retirement fund is now projected to face a shortfall by 2032, sooner than previous estimates.The Social Security wage base has increased to $184,500 for 2026. High earners will pay a maximum of $11,439 as employees, while the self-employed face a maximum cap of $22,878.Retirement benefits for Social Security participants are based on your highest 35 years of earnings.While you can claim benefits as early as age 62, doing so permanently reduces your benefits by about 30%. Delaying benefits past your Full Retirement Age (FRA) pays 8% more per year until age 70.Social Security benefits may be taxable if your "combined income" (AGI + tax-exempt interest + 50% of benefits) exceeds modest thresholds.Discover more from Money Girl!FacebookNewsletterTranscripts available at QuickandDirtyTips.com.Email: Laura@LauraDAdams.com or leave a voicemail: (302) 364-0308. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues discussing the third protective fence of teshuvah: developing self-control by moderating physical pleasures. The Orchot Tzaddikim teaches that holiness is not achieved through deprivation, but through balance and restraint. Rabbi Wolbe explains that Judaism does not advocate excessive fasting or denying ourselves life's legitimate pleasures. Rather, it encourages us to enjoy Hashem's blessings responsibly while resisting the urge to indulge every desire. Whether it is food, drink, comfort, or entertainment, learning to leave "a little on the table" strengthens our ability to control ourselves when faced with greater spiritual challenges. A central theme of the episode is that the Yetzer Hara rarely begins with outright sin. Instead, it first encourages a person to overindulge in what is completely permissible, gradually weakening self-discipline until forbidden behavior no longer feels so distant. Rabbi Wolbe illustrates this principle through contemporary examples of overeating, unhealthy lifestyles, internet temptations, and financial dishonesty. The evil inclination succeeds incrementally, never demanding major wrongdoing at first, but slowly blurring the line between moderation and excess. The antidote is cultivating restraint in the areas that are permitted, because a person who can master legitimate desires is far better equipped to resist prohibited ones. The lesson concludes with a practical exercise in building the muscle of self-control. Rabbi Wolbe recalls his grandfather's advice to overcome one's impulses several times each day—even in completely permissible matters. Delaying a sip of tea, taking one less bite of dessert, or resisting the urge to react immediately helps train the soul to remain in control rather than being controlled by impulse. This discipline extends far beyond eating; it strengthens a person's ability to control anger, desire, speech, and every other area of life. Rabbi Wolbe beautifully concludes by reminding listeners that Torah is unlike any material possession: when we share Torah, nothing is lost. Like one candle lighting another, the light only multiplies. Our mission is not merely to acquire Torah, but to illuminate the world by sharing it with others. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on November 24, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on July 17, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva ★ Support this podcast ★
In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues discussing the third protective fence of teshuvah: developing self-control by moderating physical pleasures. The Orchot Tzaddikim teaches that holiness is not achieved through deprivation, but through balance and restraint. Rabbi Wolbe explains that Judaism does not advocate excessive fasting or denying ourselves life's legitimate pleasures. Rather, it encourages us to enjoy Hashem's blessings responsibly while resisting the urge to indulge every desire. Whether it is food, drink, comfort, or entertainment, learning to leave "a little on the table" strengthens our ability to control ourselves when faced with greater spiritual challenges. A central theme of the episode is that the Yetzer Hara rarely begins with outright sin. Instead, it first encourages a person to overindulge in what is completely permissible, gradually weakening self-discipline until forbidden behavior no longer feels so distant. Rabbi Wolbe illustrates this principle through contemporary examples of overeating, unhealthy lifestyles, internet temptations, and financial dishonesty. The evil inclination succeeds incrementally, never demanding major wrongdoing at first, but slowly blurring the line between moderation and excess. The antidote is cultivating restraint in the areas that are permitted, because a person who can master legitimate desires is far better equipped to resist prohibited ones. The lesson concludes with a practical exercise in building the muscle of self-control. Rabbi Wolbe recalls his grandfather's advice to overcome one's impulses several times each day—even in completely permissible matters. Delaying a sip of tea, taking one less bite of dessert, or resisting the urge to react immediately helps train the soul to remain in control rather than being controlled by impulse. This discipline extends far beyond eating; it strengthens a person's ability to control anger, desire, speech, and every other area of life. Rabbi Wolbe beautifully concludes by reminding listeners that Torah is unlike any material possession: when we share Torah, nothing is lost. Like one candle lighting another, the light only multiplies. Our mission is not merely to acquire Torah, but to illuminate the world by sharing it with others._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on December 1, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on July 17, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva ★ Support this podcast ★
Unfortunately, many laws to reduce public harm gather dust after drafting, delayed for years before being finally tabled for debate by elected representatives.With only 14 bills enacted in the first year of this Government, such a low legislative output impacts on public health protection.Delays in enacting legislation have real-world consequences as a known hazard continues unchecked, damaging people's lives and consuming precious health resources, so writes Dr Suzanne Crowe, Consultant in Paediatric Intensive Care, in the Irish Independent.She joins Ciara to discuss.
This week on Facing the Future, Veronique de Rugy and Jason Fichtner explain why Social Security reform is not only a retirement policy imperative but also a fiscal and market-stability imperative. They are the co-authors of a George Mason University Mercatus Center paper titled, "Social Security's Fiscal Gap and the Risk of Bond Market Strain."
Too busy to read the Lens? Listen to our weekly summary here! In this week's episode, we discuss:Long-term, repeated intravitreal anti-VEGF injections were associated with a significantly increased risk of cataract surgery in the treated eye, with risk increasing in a dose-dependent manner.Prespecified OCT interpretation rules, particularly assessment of the TSNIT curve, accurately distinguished glaucomatous damage from myopic structural changes with high sensitivity and specificity.Delaying the initial retinopathy of prematurity screening examination until 34 weeks postmenstrual age in selected medium-risk infants safely reduced unnecessary examinations without missing treatment-requiring ROP.Subretinal AAV8-mediated PD-L1 gene therapy reduced retinal inflammation and preserved retinal structure and function in a rat model of autoimmune uveitis, suggesting a potential future immune-modulating treatment strategy.
THE Leadership Japan Series by Dale Carnegie Training Tokyo, Japan
Leadership success is usually measured through revenue, market share, promotions, productivity and team performance. Those indicators matter, but they do not tell us whether a leader is succeeding in life. A leader can deliver excellent corporate results while gradually damaging their marriage, weakening their relationship with their children, neglecting their health, mishandling their finances and losing touch with their friends. That is not genuine success. It is professional achievement purchased at an unnecessarily high personal price. This risk is especially relevant in Japan, where long working hours, loyalty to the organisation and the demands placed on player-managers can make work the dominant force in a leader's life. The Wheel of Life provides a useful way to examine whether leaders are achieving balanced and sustainable success. Why do Japanese leaders struggle with work-life balance? Many Japanese leaders still operate within a deeply established culture that rewards commitment, endurance and long working hours. Even when official working practices change, the expectation of total dedication can remain. Japan's post-war economic recovery was driven partly by extraordinary levels of personal sacrifice. During the rapid-growth era, many fathers spent most of their waking hours working, commuting or socialising with colleagues. Mothers frequently carried most of the responsibility for raising children and managing the household. Conditions have changed. Most schools and companies no longer operate every Saturday, dual-income households are increasingly common and younger employees often expect more control over their personal lives. However, the old attitudes have not completely disappeared. Middle-management positions have been reduced in many organisations, technology has transferred administrative work back to managers and leaders are often expected to manage teams while delivering their own individual results. These player-managers may supervise people, handle clients, prepare reports and complete routine administration themselves. Do now: Examine whether your working hours reflect genuine strategic necessity or simply an inherited organisational habit. What is the Wheel of Life for leaders? The Wheel of Life is a self-assessment tool that helps leaders evaluate several important areas of life rather than judging success through career achievement alone. The tool is normally presented as a circle divided into categories. The centre represents a score of zero and the outer edge represents ten. Leaders score their level of satisfaction in areas such as career, finances, family, health, friendships, community, personal interests and spirituality or personal meaning. When the points are connected, the resulting shape shows whether life is relatively balanced or heavily distorted. A leader may score nine in career but only three in health, two in family relationships and one in social life. That person may look successful in the office while experiencing a personal life that is increasingly difficult to sustain. The objective is not to achieve a perfect ten in every category. That is unrealistic. The purpose is to identify serious imbalances before they become crises. Do now: Score each area honestly from zero to ten and identify the two categories that require your immediate attention. Can career success damage a leader's family life? Yes. When work consistently receives the leader's best time, energy and attention, the family may be left with whatever is remaining. Over time, this can create distance, resentment and damaged relationships. Many leaders say they are working hard for their families. The intention may be genuine, but the outcome does not always match the explanation. A leader may provide financial security while rarely being emotionally or physically available. For male leaders in Japan, the traditional model of the absent salaryman father can still influence behaviour. He leaves early, returns late and assumes that providing income is his main family responsibility. However, spouses and children may need time, conversation, support and shared experiences more than another late-night meeting or client dinner. As more women develop independent careers and incomes, they may also be less willing to tolerate relationships in which responsibility and emotional connection are consistently one-sided. Working for the family while gradually losing the family does not make sense. Do now: Schedule protected family time with the same seriousness you apply to an executive meeting or major client appointment. Why should leaders take more responsibility for their finances? High income does not automatically create long-term financial security. Leaders still need to manage savings, investment, retirement planning, insurance and household risk. Many people in Japan have traditionally held a large proportion of their wealth in bank deposits. During long periods of deflation and low inflation, holding cash appeared relatively safe. In a more inflationary environment, however, cash can gradually lose purchasing power. Busy leaders often delay financial planning because it does not feel urgent. Retirement seems distant, investment appears complicated and the company pension may seem sufficient. The problem is that financial preparation benefits enormously from time. Delaying ten or twenty years can make the eventual task considerably harder. Japan's ageing population also places continuing pressure on public pension and social security systems. Leaders should not assume that future government benefits alone will provide the lifestyle they expect. This does not mean making reckless investments. It means becoming financially literate, seeking qualified advice where appropriate and preparing rather than hoping. Do now: Review your savings, investments, retirement plan, insurance and household obligations at least once each year. Why do busy leaders lose their friends? Friendships weaken when leaders repeatedly sacrifice social relationships to work. Connection requires time, effort and genuine interest, not occasional promises to catch up later. Social life is often one of the first casualties of overtime. Leaders postpone dinners, cancel weekend plans and stop calling people because the next deadline always seems more important. Remote and hybrid work have also blurred the boundary between professional and personal life. Without a physical commute to mark the end of the day, some leaders continue responding to emails, checking reports and attending online meetings well into the evening. Corporate entertaining should not be confused with friendship. Taking reluctant junior staff out for drinks or attending obligatory client functions may fill the calendar, but it does not necessarily create meaningful social support. Strong relationships are a form of wealth. Friends provide perspective, humour, honesty and support that cannot be replaced by job titles or business contacts. Do now: Contact one person you value but have neglected and arrange a specific time to meet rather than saying, "We should catch up sometime." Why do leaders need interests outside work? Hobbies and personal interests protect leaders from allowing their job to become their entire identity. They provide creativity, renewal and a sense of progress that is independent of corporate performance. Some leaders view personal interests as indulgent or unproductive. They believe every available hour should be used to advance the business. That approach may produce short-term output, but it can also make life increasingly narrow. Personal pursuits can include music, writing, painting, gardening, travel, sport, reading, cooking or learning a language. The activity does not need to generate income, improve a résumé or create a new business opportunity. For me, writing and recording articles on Saturdays can look like another form of work. In practice, writing also serves as a creative outlet. I cannot play a musical instrument, paint or draw particularly well, so writing gives me a way to create something and explore ideas beyond operational business tasks. Leaders need something they enjoy simply because it makes life richer. Do now: Protect regular time for one activity that has no connection to your targets, clients or corporate status. Why is health a leadership responsibility? Health is not separate from leadership performance. Energy, concentration, emotional control and decision-making all become harder when leaders neglect exercise, sleep, nutrition and medical care. Leaders often say they are too busy to exercise, but many of the same people can find time for long client dinners, alcohol and late-night work. The issue is usually not a complete absence of time. It is the priority assigned to health. Weight gain can happen gradually through business meals, entertaining and inactivity. I experienced this myself while working in Nagoya. After attending a work-related geisha party, someone gave me a commemorative photograph. The side-profile image revealed how much weight I had gained. It was an uncomfortable but useful moment of recognition. Losing weight and improving fitness require sustained lifestyle changes, not a few weeks of enthusiasm with a personal trainer. Leaders need systems they can maintain, including realistic exercise routines, better food choices and limits around alcohol. Do now: Choose one measurable health behaviour to improve for the next ninety days and track it consistently. Why should leaders contribute to their communities? Community involvement helps leaders develop perspective, strengthen relationships and contribute beyond the boundaries of their company. It also prevents professional status from becoming their only source of identity. Japan has a strong tradition of community responsibility shaped by cooperation, shared spaces and collective expectations. This could be seen during the pandemic, when many people voluntarily changed their behaviour to reduce risk to others. However, senior leaders can become disconnected from the communities around them. Work absorbs their attention and they spend most of their time with colleagues, clients and people from similar professional backgrounds. Communities need people who can organise, mentor, listen and solve problems. Leaders have useful experience that can support schools, local groups, professional associations, charities and younger generations. Community activity also benefits the leader. It exposes them to different experiences and reminds them that the world is larger than the company's latest spreadsheet, quarterly target or restructuring plan. Do now: Select one community, educational or professional group where your experience could make a practical contribution. What role does reflection or spirituality play in leadership? Leaders need time to consider who they are, what they value and what they intend to do with their lives. Without reflection, they may become highly efficient at pursuing goals they have never consciously chosen. Spirituality is deeply personal and does not need to refer to a particular religion. It can involve faith, philosophy, meditation, service, nature or simply quiet reflection. The underlying questions are universal. Why am I here? What kind of person am I becoming? What will matter when my career is over? What impact am I having on other people? Busy leaders often avoid these questions because financial reports, customer issues and operational problems feel more immediate. Yet a life filled only with targets, meetings and performance reviews can eventually feel empty, regardless of professional success. Reflection helps leaders reconnect daily actions with personal values. It can also expose uncomfortable contradictions between what they say matters and where they actually spend their time. Do now: Create a regular period without screens, meetings or work and use it to reflect on how you are investing your life. Conclusion Leaders have many roles. They are executives, managers, parents, spouses, friends, community members and individuals with physical, emotional and financial needs. Work is one important part of life, but it is not the whole of life. The Wheel of Life is useful because it reveals where professional ambition has created unhealthy imbalance. A leader who produces revenue while losing their family, health, friendships and financial security should not automatically be considered successful. Sustainable leadership means producing strong organisational outcomes without destroying the other areas that give life meaning. As a friend of mine says, "Time is life." The real question for every leader is simple: what are you doing with yours? Author Bio Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" in 2018 and 2021 and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2012. As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver leadership, communication, sales and presentation programmes globally, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three bestsellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō(ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin(プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō(トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう)and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā(現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). Greg also publishes daily business insights on LinkedIn, Facebook and X and hosts six weekly podcasts. On YouTube, he produces The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery and Japan's Top Business Interviews, which are widely followed by executives seeking practical strategies for succeeding in Japan.
Angela discusses five major blunders retirees and pre-retirees often make. She emphasizes the importance of planning for retirement beyond just finances, including having a purpose and managing taxes and social security. Key Takeaways
This week on Facing the Future, Veronique de Rugy and Jason Fichtner explain why Social Security reform is not only a retirement policy imperative but also a fiscal and market-stability imperative. They are the co-authors of a George Mason University Mercatus Center paper titled, "Social Security's Fiscal Gap and the Risk of Bond Market Strain."
https://teachhoops.com/ Every single coach in the country is sitting on one. One conversion they know they absolutely need to have, but continue to push off. A player who needs a heavy dose of the truth regarding their body language. An assistant coach who is quietly slipping below the program's operational standard. A parent whose unrealistic expectations need an immediate, firm boundary reset. A team leader who has quietly drifted away from the collective vision. And yet, the conversation waits. Tomorrow becomes next week, next week becomes next month, and a minor operational leak slowly turns into an unmanageable crisis. In this episode, we step directly into the "Truth Room" to confront the psychology of delayed candor. We pull back the curtain on why coaches avoid these high-friction moments. It isn't a communication problem; it is a fear problem. We unpack how hiding from discomfort under the guise of "protecting the relationship" is actually an act of self-preservation that destroys your culture. Discover how to balance personal care with direct challenge, and learn why unspoken truth quietly becomes accepted behavior inside a level 4 championship program. True, transformational program building requires a leader to navigate the tight space between supporting an individual and demanding adherence to the program's unyielding Standard of Tolerance. The Fallout: When you prioritize an athlete's short-term comfort or fear their defensive reaction, you choose silence. This passive avoidance creates a massive cultural drift. Your silence actively teaches the rest of the roster that your stated standard is flexible when the confrontation becomes uncomfortable. The Execution: The absolute best coaches do not look at a difficult conversation as an act of criticism; they view it as an investment of Trust Capital and an act of absolute belief. If you challenge an assistant or a player through the exhaust, it is because you care too much about their long-term growth to let them settle for mediocrity. When you step into the room to address a boundary line that has been crossed, bypass emotional lectures and utilize this high-signal, socratic framework to maintain absolute control of the environment: Step 1: State the Objective Observation ───► "I see this specific behavior occurring on the floor..." Step 2: Define the Functional Impact ───► "It is actively hurting your development and stalling our team's Next Play Speed..." Step 3: Mandate the Explicit Correction ───► "This is the exact structural adjustment that needs to change immediately..." Step 4: Reaffirm Unshakable Belief ───► "I am holding you to this line because I know you are capable of leading this program." Coach's Note: "Delayed candor always increases the cost. Every single day you choose to look the other way because a conversation feels too heavy or uncomfortable, you are actively training your gym to accept a lower standard. Stop letting fear manage your program's ceiling. Step up, look them in the eye, care personally, but challenge directly. Speak the truth through the exhaust, and let your culture carry the weight." Title Ideas: Are You Delaying the Conversation Your Basketball Team Needs Most? Why Avoiding Hard Conversations is Silently Destroying Your Culture How Elite Basketball Coaches Deliver Honest Feedback Without Losing the Team The Hidden Danger of Delayed Candor in a Basketball Program Primary Keywords: Handling difficult conversations in basketball, building a basketball program culture, TeachHoops, Coach Collins, basketball coaching staff communication, standard of tolerance, coach-player accountability workflows. Secondary Keywords: Next play speed resilience, own the room coaching language, active density practice scripts, Types of Coaches (3).pdf, effective field goal percentage focus, decision IQ constraints, socratic coaching method, player-led team autonomy. Description Snippet: "Are you holding back from having a difficult, honest conversation with a shifting player, a passive assistant, or an overreaching parent? In this podcast episode, Coach Collins breaks down why avoiding tough feedback is a fear problem, not a communication problem. Discover how unspoken truth quickly becomes accepted behavior inside a gym, and learn a simple 4-step candor framework to challenge your roster directly while building unshakeable trust capital." Suggested Tags:#BasketballCoaching #TeachHoops #CoachCollins #CoachingPhilosophy #LeadershipTips #TeamCulture #SportsLeadership #HighSchoolBasketball #CoachingCommunication Are you preparing to have this critical candor conversation with a key varsity player whose poor body language has been creating an environmental leak during your July tournament workouts, or are you looking to realign your assistant coaching staff before your official pre-season onboarding schedule begins this fall? Show NotesThe Leadership Balance: Care vs. Candor [HIGH CHALLENGE] │ │ Championship Standard Harsh & Abrasive │ (Care Personally + (Truth Without │ Challenge Directly) Care) │ │ ───────────────────────┼─────────────────────── [HIGH CARE] │ Passive Avoidance │ Weak Compliance (The Fear Trap) │ (Care Without │ Truth) │ 1. The Danger of Care Without Truth (The Compliance Leak)2. The Power of Truth Delivered with Care (The Championship Standard)The 4-Step Candor FrameworkThe Candor Audit: Delayed Fear vs. Immediate StandardLeadership VariableThe Delayed Fear Trap (Level 2 Leak)The Immediate Candor Standard (Level 4)Primary MotivationProtecting yourself from temporary relational discomfortProtecting the long-term integrity of the program's brandCultural ResultUnspoken truth quietly becomes accepted behaviorAccountability forces a rapid Next Play Speed resetStaff AlignmentAllowing an assistant's low edge to slide; passive frictionAddressing slipping metrics early to maintain a unified staffLocker Room VibeCoach-Fed frustration; athletes sensing a double standardPlayer-Led clarity; the roster knows exactly where it standsYouTube SEO Strategy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Howie Kurtz on the sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham and the conspiracy theories surrounding his death, a federal judge's rejection of a multi-billion dollar fund for January 6th convicts, and a multi-state lawsuit aiming to block Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jonathan Peterlin and Nick Wilson analyze the lingering uncertainty surrounding LeBron James' free agency and whether he is intentionally extending the process to maintain his spotlight. They also evaluate recent comments from Kenny Atkinson regarding the Cavaliers' pursuit of greatness and discuss the logistics of James' upcoming live podcast recordings. 01:00 - LeBron's Final Career Chapter 08:00 - NBA Executives Chase LeBron 10:27 - James' Live Media Schedule
In this episode of 'Retire with Style', Alex Murguia and Wade Pfau dive into tax planning strategies, focusing on Roth conversions, effective marginal tax rates, and withdrawal strategies for retirement. They discuss the implications of current tax rates, the importance of blending techniques in tax planning, and the necessity of tax diversification for a successful retirement. The conversation is driven by listener questions, providing practical insights for navigating complex tax scenarios in retirement. The conversation dives into various aspects of retirement planning, focusing on Roth IRAs, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and annuities. They discuss the rules surrounding Roth IRAs, particularly the five-year requirement for qualified distributions. The conversation shifts to HSAs, highlighting their tax benefits and strategies for spending versus saving. Finally, they explore the complexities of managing annuities in relation to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), emphasizing the importance of understanding contract values and the implications of delaying income streams from annuities. Listen to now to learn more! Takeaways Roth conversions can be beneficial for legacy planning. You need to work through the math of conversions. Tax rates are at a historical low right now. Blending techniques can optimize your tax strategy. You can't just solve it mathematically. It's complicated; we need better software. What's my tax rate today versus in the future? Forty percent might be reasonable for Roth conversions. You want to always be blending your distributions. Tax diversification is crucial for retirement planning. You need to have had a Roth IRA open for at least five years. Inheriting HSAs can lead to tax implications for beneficiaries. HSAs provide tax-free distributions for qualified medical expenses. It's important to keep receipts for HSA distributions. Using HSAs strategically can aid in tax planning during retirement. RMDs must be taken from both IRAs and annuities. Delaying income from annuities may not be the best strategy. Spending down annuity contract value can maximize benefits. Understanding contract value is crucial for annuity holders. RMDs from annuities can be complex and require careful planning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and World Cup Banter 01:49 Tax Planning Questions Begin 02:29 Roth Conversions and Tax Brackets 07:18 Analyzing Effective Marginal Tax Rates 11:23 Historical Tax Rates and Future Predictions 13:39 Withdrawal Strategies for Retirement 15:08 Blending Techniques in Tax Planning 21:08 The Importance of Tax Diversification 21:54 Understanding Roth IRA Rules 23:20 Navigating Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) 27:14 Tax Benefits of HSAs Explained 29:52 Strategies for Managing Annuities and RMDs Links
In Episode 211 of the SLI Online Esthetician School Podcast, Stephanie Laynes shares her perspective on one of the most common questions asked by beauty professionals: Do you need a supportive partner or a supportive family to become a successful esthetician and entrepreneur? Stephanie's answer may surprise you. While having encouragement from family is wonderful, she explains why having a supportive partner can make a greater difference when you're building a business and creating a life together. In This Episode You'll Learn Why emotional support matters when building an esthetics business. How a supportive partner can positively impact your entrepreneurial journey. Why family members may not always understand your vision. How to handle criticism from friends and family while staying focused on your goals. The importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your success. Healthy ways to communicate with your spouse or partner about the demands of running a beauty business. How to protect your mindset during the early stages of entrepreneurship. Why Support Matters for Estheticians Many licensed estheticians dream of opening their own spa, growing a skincare brand, becoming a solo esthetician, or creating financial freedom through entrepreneurship. However, building a successful beauty business often requires sacrifices that others may not immediately understand. You may experience: Working evenings and weekends. Reinvesting profits back into your business. Spending hours creating social media content. Investing in continuing education. Delaying vacations or major purchases. Managing uncertainty while your business grows. Having someone at home who understands these challenges can provide stability, encouragement, and confidence during difficult seasons. Family Support vs. Partner Support Every family dynamic is different, and many entrepreneurs receive incredible encouragement from parents, siblings, and relatives. In this episode, Stephanie discusses why a supportive life partner often has a greater day-to-day influence because they typically share your household, finances, responsibilities, and long-term goals. When you and your partner communicate well and work as a team, it can make navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship much easier. At the same time, if family members don't fully understand your vision, it doesn't necessarily mean you can't succeed. Many successful entrepreneurs have built thriving businesses while earning support gradually through consistent action and results. Key Takeaway You don't need everyone's approval to build a successful esthetics business. You do need people in your life who respect your goals, encourage your growth, and support the work required to achieve your vision. A supportive partner can be an important part of that foundation, while a strong network of mentors, business friends, and fellow estheticians can provide additional encouragement along the way. About the SLI Online Esthetician School Podcast The SLI Online Esthetician School Podcast helps licensed estheticians, solo estheticians, spa owners, skincare professionals, and beauty entrepreneurs grow profitable businesses through practical education and real-world business strategies. Each episode covers topics including: How to grow an esthetics business Esthetician marketing strategies Client attraction Beauty business coaching Retail skincare sales Social media marketing for estheticians Business mindset Spa management Entrepreneurship Leadership and personal growth Whether you're opening your first treatment room or scaling a six-figure beauty business, you'll find actionable advice to help you grow with confidence. Subscribe, Review & Share If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the SLI Online Esthetician School Podcast so you never miss a new episode focused on helping estheticians build successful businesses and rewarding careers. If this conversation resonated with you, please leave a review and share this episode with another esthetician or beauty entrepreneur who could benefit from hearing it. SEO Keywords: supportive partner for entrepreneurs, supportive spouse, entrepreneur relationships, esthetician business, beauty entrepreneur, solo esthetician, esthetician mindset, esthetician success, beauty business coach, entrepreneur marriage, work-life balance for estheticians, spa owner tips, skincare business, women in business, esthetician podcast, online esthetician school, SLI Online Esthetician School, Stephanie Laynes. Stephanie, a seasoned professional in the beauty industry, brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront, sharing valuable insights, tips, and trends that every esthetician can use in their business. Click here to take my FREE Communication Masterclass Join my IG Broadcast Group HERE Enroll in the SLI Online Esthetician School for only $30 a month that includes the MONEY PODCAST, advanced esthetic education, business tips & more! Click here: Cost Per Service Worksheet from Angela Green, join the app to get access & pay! ***Stephanie's Favorite Things:*** Payroll App Esthetician Insurance Esthetician Gameplan: Pay Myself Workbook Smooth Skin Supply LLC Wholesale Website Follow Stephanie Laynes on socials: Instagram Facebook Tik Tok Youtube
The situation surrounding the Epstein files has become increasingly tangled inside the Trump-era Justice Department, with conflicting signals creating more confusion than clarity. After former attorney general Pam Bondi failed to comply with a congressional subpoena over her handling of the files, lawmakers began threatening contempt proceedings, arguing that her departure from the role does not absolve her of the obligation to testify. At the same time, her replacement, Todd Blanche—who has close ties to Donald Trump—has tried to strike two different tones: publicly suggesting support for transparency and victim hearings, while also downplaying missed deadlines and inconsistencies tied to the release of documents under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.That contradiction has fueled growing skepticism from legal experts, victims' advocates, and members of Congress, who argue that the Justice Department's approach looks less like disorganization and more like strategic ambiguity. Survivors' attorneys have emphasized that accountability hinges on enforcing subpoenas and fully releasing records, while critics question whether Blanche's position and past relationship with Trump compromise the likelihood of meaningful action. The broader picture is one of mounting frustration, with bipartisan pressure building for enforcement and transparency, even as victims and their representatives warn that the process risks becoming yet another instance of delayed or incomplete justice.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:What's next in the Jeffrey Epstein saga? Trump's justice department sends mixed messages | Jeffrey Epstein | The GuardianBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.
https://teachhoops.com/ Are you delaying the conversation your team needs most? In this episode, Coach Collins breaks down why difficult conversations in coaching are usually not communication problems. They are fear problems. This episode explores why coaches delay honest feedback, what fear is usually hiding underneath that delay, and how avoiding candor slowly hurts both relationships and performance. Coach Collins also talks about why truth, delivered with care, is not criticism but belief, and why unspoken truth often becomes accepted behavior inside a program. If you want to lead better with players, staff, and parents, this episode is a reminder that leadership is not just about caring. It is about caring enough to tell the truth. Are You Delaying the Conversation Your Team Needs Most? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Podcast: Industrial Cybersecurity InsiderEpisode: The Real Cost of Delaying OT Cybersecurity InvestmentPub date: 2026-07-07Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationCraig and Jim revisit one of their most practical conversations: how to build a compelling business case for OT cybersecurity budget. They break down the IT/OT ownership gap that leaves manufacturers exposed, explain how to frame liability, physical risk, and financial impact in language executives actually care about, and walk through the options every organization faces.From doing nothing to running a proof-of-concept pilot site that generates real, quantifiable data. They also tackle the role of cybersecurity insurance, why every company needs OT on its risk register, and how the concept of technology debt can finally help leadership understand the cost of decades of deferred OT security investment. Whether you're approaching this from the IT side, the OT side, or somewhere in between, this episode gives you the framework to start the budget conversation before a breach forces it.Chapters:(00:00:00) - Introduction: The High Stakes of OT Cybersecurity(00:01:00) - Why Budgeting for OT Security Is So Difficult(00:04:00) - How to Get Executives to Actually Listen(00:06:00) - Liability: Speaking the Language of Leadership(00:11:00) - Building Your OT Cybersecurity Business Case(00:13:00) - Ownership and Visibility: The First Questions to Ask(00:17:00) - Proof of Concept: Using Real Data to Drive Decisions(00:20:00) - Cybersecurity Insurance and the Third Leg of the Stool(00:26:00) - Risk Management, Roadmaps, and Playing the Long Game(00:31:00) - Technology Debt and Final TakeawaysLinks And Resources:Want to Sponsor an episode or be a Guest? Reach out here.Industrial Cybersecurity Insider on LinkedInCybersecurity & Digital Safety on LinkedInBW Design Group CybersecurityDino Busalachi on LinkedInCraig Duckworth on LinkedInJim Cook on LinkedInThanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Industrial Cybersecurity Insider? Have some feedback you'd like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to leave us a review!The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Industrial Cybersecurity Insider, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.
Your sales team may be creating revenue patterns your business cannot afford. The wrong compensation structure can turn growth into a profitability problem. Revenue does not always equal value. The quality of the revenue, the timing of deals, and the behaviors rewarded inside the sales organization determine whether growth strengthens or weakens the business. A compensation plan is a signal to your sales team about what matters most. When incentives and company economics are disconnected, CEOs can see unexpected deal timing, lower-value revenue priorities, and pressure on profitability. The challenge is that these issues often remain hidden until leadership examines margins, cash flow, or the long-term value of the company. Mike Brunnick from Valor Advisors shares the hard-earned lessons behind aligning sales incentives with profitable growth, including why compensation plans influence behavior long before CEOs see the financial impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us Fan MailIf delayed claiming of Social Security benefits is such a great deal, why do only about 4% to 9% of Americans actually wait until age 70 to collect Social Security? Are the other 91% of Americans ignorant of this strategy, or is there some better process?Here's the podcast for the 91% of Americans who don't wait until age 70 and are shamed by the media for their decision.If you'd like to be a part of a free online retirement community, join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/399117455706255/?ref=share
Have you noticed how wedding countdowns seem a little longer these days? The culprit? The high cost of wedding!But here is my gentle FQ reminder: Do not let the cost of the weddingbe the main reason you delay your marriage. When the timing is right for your love to grow, don't let a heavy price tag steal the show!In my latest column, we're breaking down how to make your Makatwirang Mak (rational side) and Emotional Emong (emotionalside) finally agree on your big day. We'll look at what guests actually remember (hint: it's your brain's limbic system at work!) and how to ruthlessly cut the clutter so you can focus on what really matters to you.Listen and pass it on to someone in this interesting stage before “I do.”
If you've been telling yourself you'll start running Facebook and Instagram ads once your website is perfect, your product range is bigger, your content is stronger or your budget feels more comfortable, this episode is for you. Because while waiting can feel safe, it can also quietly cost your business sales, traffic, data and momentum. In this episode, I'm unpacking why delaying your Meta Ads journey can keep your e-commerce brand stuck for longer than necessary, and why starting small, learning the numbers and building confidence now can put you in a much stronger position later. This isn't about throwing money at ads before you're ready. It's about understanding that Meta Ads are a skill, a traffic source and a growth lever. And the sooner you begin learning how they work in your business, the sooner you can make smarter decisions about what to test, improve and scale. What we cover in this episode: Why waiting until everything feels “ready” can hold your business back The hidden cost of missing out on traffic, sales and customer data Why Meta Ads become easier to improve once you have real numbers to work with How starting small helps you build confidence without overspending Why ads are not just about instant sales, but also learning what your customers respond to The danger of relying only on organic marketing while your competitors are investing in paid traffic Why your first ads don't need to be perfect, they just need to give you useful data How learning Meta Ads now can help you make better decisions as your business grows The biggest takeaway? You don't need to wait until you have a huge budget or the perfect campaign. You need a clear strategy, a willingness to test and the confidence to understand what your numbers are telling you. If you're ready to stop putting it off and finally learn how to run Meta Ads with support, eComm Ads Academy is now open for enrolment. When you enrol, you'll get instant access to the curriculum so you can start learning and implementing straight away. The live coaching round begins on 27 July, with weekly group calls, live ad account reviews and small-group support to help you build, manage and improve your ads with confidence. Learn more and enrol here: https://www.jodieminto.com/eaa
Local government's delays in fixing their leaky pipes, or damaged roads are costing ratepayers even more in the long run.
In this series on the six human needs, we've already explored certainty, variety, and significance.Today, we're looking at the fourth human need:Love and connection. At first glance, this need seems harmless.Who doesn't want love?Who doesn't want meaningful relationships, belonging, and connection?The challenge is not the need itself.The challenge is what happens when our need for connection becomes stronger than our willingness to be truthful.What Is the Need for Love and Connection?The need for love and connection is the desire to feel close to others.To belong.To be included.To feel connected to family, partners, colleagues, teams, and communities.People with a strong need for connection often thrive in collaborative environments.They enjoy working with teams.They build deep relationships and bring people together.They care deeply about harmony.These are beautiful qualities.But like every human need, this one has a shadow.And the shadow often appears in leadership.When Connection Becomes DependencyThe shadow side of love and connection is not love.It is dependency, over-giving.It is people-pleasing.It is sacrificing your truth to preserve harmony.The fear underneath is simple:If I disrupt the connection, I may lose it.This fear shows up everywhere.A leader keeps an underperforming team member because they don't want to hurt their feelings.A founder avoids difficult conversations with a business partner because they want to stay friends.A coach overextends themselves to keep clients happy.A person remains in an unhealthy relationship because leaving feels more painful than staying.In all these situations, connection becomes more important than authenticity.And eventually, that comes at a cost.The Hidden Cost of Keeping the PeaceMany leaders don't recognize themselves as people-pleasers.The behavior often looks different at senior levels.It may appear as:* Avoiding difficult conversations* Delaying necessary decisions* Keeping partnerships that are no longer aligned* Over-accommodating others* Struggling to set boundaries* Carrying emotional burdens that aren't theirsFrom the outside, it can look like kindness.Inside, it often feels like exhaustion.Because maintaining harmony requires energy.And when harmony is maintained at the expense of truth, the cost is usually paid by the person carrying the burden: You.Where Does This Pattern Come From?For me, this pattern has roots in my upbringing.Growing up in an Asian family, I learned very early that harmony mattered.The harmony of the group mattered.Keeping peace within the family was associated with safety.Breaking harmony felt dangerous.Being excluded felt unsafe.Of course, as children, these adaptations make sense.Belonging has always been tied to survival.Our nervous system still carries traces of that evolutionary reality.The challenge is that many of us continue operating from those old assumptions long after the original circumstances have passed.We act as if disagreement will lead to abandonment.As if honesty and boundaries will destroy connection.But is that actually true?The Leadership Practice: BoundariesThe practice is not to love less.The practice is to love differently.To learn that connection does not require self-sacrifice.To learn that boundaries do not destroy relationships.In fact, healthy boundaries often strengthen them.A question worth exploring is:Can you feel connected without giving everything away?Can you maintain a relationship while saying no?Can you disagree without withdrawing?Many people discover something surprising:The relationship survives.And sometimes it becomes stronger.Because authentic connection requires truth.Not performance.What Happens When Love Isn't Reciprocated?This is another place where people struggle.Some people naturally give love very freely.They are generous, open-hearted and supportive.But not everyone knows how to receive love.And not everyone expresses it in the same way.When love isn't returned in the way we expect, we often make it personal.We assume:“They don't appreciate me = They don't love me.”But reality is often more nuanced.People simply express love differently.The Five Languages of LoveOne framework that has been helpful for understanding this is the concept of the Five Love Languages (Resource)People tend to express and receive love through different channels:* Acts of Service* Quality Time* Gifts* Physical Touch* Words of AffirmationProblems arise when we expect others to love us in our preferred language.For example:You may need words of affirmation.Your partner may express love through acts of service.You may need quality time.Your colleague may show appreciation through practical support.The love is present, but the language is different.Recognizing this can soften resentment and create more understanding in both leadership and personal relationships.The Deeper PracticeUltimately, the practice is not about getting more love from others.It is about cultivating enough love within yourself that connection becomes a choice rather than a necessity.Can you feel worthy even when someone disagrees with you?Can you stay connected to yourself when a relationship changes?Can you remain open-hearted without abandoning your boundaries?These are the questions that transform the need for connection from a dependency into inter-dependency.A Personal ReflectionThis need has been very present throughout my life.But what has changed is how I relate to it.I've learned that sometimes love requires difficult conversations.Sometimes it requires saying no.Sometimes it requires risking disappointment.And paradoxically, those moments often deepen connection rather than destroy it.Because authentic relationships are not built on agreement.They are built on truth.Reflection QuestionsTake a moment to reflect:* Where are you sacrificing your truth to preserve harmony?* What relationship are you afraid to challenge?* Where are you over-giving in the hope of receiving connection?* What would happen if you trusted that real connection could survive disagreement?Closing ReflectionThe need for love and connection is one of our most beautiful human needs.It reminds us that we are not meant to navigate life alone.The invitation is not to need less connection.The invitation is to create healthier connection.Connection rooted in truth, supported by boundaries.Connection that allows both closeness and individuality.Because real love does not require you to abandon yourself in order to belong
A new immunotherapy drug doesn't cure type 1 diabetes, but for people identified in the very earliest stage of the disease, it can delay the need for insulin by an average of almost three years. Does overpraising kids create more harm than good? How's your netiquette? Yes, internet etiquette. And university acceptance rates are falling, but why?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this message, Pastor JT shares a powerful lesson on obedience, spiritual growth, and the blessing that often waits on the other side of a simple yes to God. Through biblical teaching, personal testimony, and practical application, you'll discover how the Holy Spirit leads believers through wisdom, faith, and everyday acts of obedience. If you've ever wondered why you feel stuck spiritually or what it takes to go deeper with God, this message will challenge and encourage you to take your next step.- - -Want to accept Jesus and have Him change your life? Pray the Prayer of Salvation here: https://youtu.be/WqO4Ok43NH4- - -DISCIPLESHIP COURSE FOR NEW CHRISTIANS: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvtOxUmP46cy1xzLz2rzXbmnleMloQ--h- - -• New Here? https://fwcchurches.com/FamilyForm• Give Online: https://fwcchurches.com/givecola• Mobile Giving: Text GIVE to (888) 635-2110• Cash App: $FWCColumbia• Mail your gift to: Family Worship Center550 Clemson Rd.Columbia, SC 29229-- Thank you for your generosity! God bless you!Stay Connected:• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fwccolumbia• Instagram.com/fwccolumbia • Facebook.com/fwccolumbia • Twitter/X: @fwccolumbia - - -Music licensed through SoundstripeWant to accept Jesus? Click here: https://youtu.be/WqO4Ok43NH4Give Online: https://fwcchurches.com/givecolaThis sermon was recorded at Family Worship Center in Columbia, SC on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
News we didn't expect on a Saturday afternoon, Marc Stein and Jake Fischer at The Stein Line report that Nikola Jokic is "considering" delaying signing his extension. Hooooo boy. Lots to unpack here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Do you know whether your retirement plan is on track, or are you simply hoping it is? Whether retirement is years away or just around the corner, it's wise to pause and take a closer look at your plan today. A retirement checkup can help you know where you stand, identify potential gaps, and make adjustments before small issues become major problems. Many people know they should be saving, but they're less certain whether they're saving enough. That's where a thoughtful review can bring clarity—not just about the numbers, but about faithful stewardship in the season ahead. Know Your Retirement Savings Target No single rule of thumb fits everyone. Your retirement goal depends on many factors, including when you retire, how long you live, your lifestyle, your health, your generosity goals, and whether you'll have income from Social Security, a pension, rental property, or part-time work. Still, benchmarks can be helpful. As a starting point, one common guideline is to aim for about 10-12 times your income by age 67. The point isn't to become discouraged if you're behind. The point is to know where you stand. Once you have a clearer picture, you can make wise adjustments. Know Your Retirement Spending Number Your spending number may be even more important than your savings balance. A million dollars can be plenty for one household and not nearly enough for another because spending determines how much income your portfolio must produce. Start with your current budget, then consider what may change in retirement. Will your mortgage be paid off? Will travel increase? Will transportation costs go down? Will you support adult children or aging parents? Will you downsize, relocate, or stay where you are? Those questions help you see not only what retirement may cost, but also what kind of stewardship this next season may require. Have a Withdrawal Plan It's also important to think carefully about how much you'll withdraw from your savings each year. A common guideline has been the 4% rule, first developed by financial planner William Bengen. He has since updated his research, suggesting the number may be closer to 4.7% with a more diversified portfolio. Fidelity describes it more broadly as a 4%-5% sustainable withdrawal range. So, if you retire with $500,000, you might begin by withdrawing around $20,000 to $25,000 in the first year, then adjust over time. Of course, this is not a guarantee, and it does not mean you'll never touch the principal. Your actual withdrawal rate should depend on your age, health, investment mix, inflation, market conditions, and whether your essential expenses are covered by guaranteed income. The danger is assuming you can withdraw 8%, 10%, or even 12% from your portfolio every year without consequences. For most retirees, that's not a plan. It's a countdown. Prepare for Health Care Costs Medicare is a blessing, but it doesn't cover everything. Retirees may still face premiums, deductibles, co-pays, prescription costs, dental care, vision care, hearing expenses, and more. Long-term care is a separate issue altogether. Recent estimates suggest that a 65-year-old retiring today may need well over $170,000 for health care costs throughout retirement—and that does not include long-term care. For a married couple, health care becomes a major planning item. That's why it's important to prepare in advance and not assume Medicare will cover every need. Understand Social Security For many retirees, Social Security will be one of the largest sources of guaranteed income. You can claim benefits as early as age 62, but doing so can permanently reduce your monthly benefit by as much as 30%. Delaying past full retirement age until age 70 can increase your benefit by 8% for each full year you wait—up to 24% if your full retirement age is 67. Of course, delaying is not always the right answer. Health, family history, income needs, marital status, and work plans all matter. But because this is often a permanent decision, it's worth looking carefully before you claim. Review Your Investment Allocation As you approach retirement, your portfolio may need to become more conservative. But that doesn't mean moving everything to cash. Retirement may last 20 or 30 years, and inflation can quietly erode your purchasing power over time. A wise allocation should balance the need for stability with the need for continued growth. This is one area where trusted counsel can be especially helpful. A Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) can help you think through your investments, income needs, and long-term stewardship goals through a biblical lens. Retirement Is Not the End of Stewardship Finally, remember that retirement is not the end of stewardship. Psalm 92 says of the righteous, “They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green” (Psalm 92:14). That's a richer vision than simply withdrawing from work and responsibility. Retirement is not about drifting. It's about faithfulness in a new season. So yes, check the numbers. Know your savings target. Build a realistic spending plan. Prepare for health care. Understand Social Security. Review your investments. But also ask, “Lord, what fruit do You want to grow in this season of my life?” If you'd like help reviewing your retirement plan with an advisor who shares your biblical values, visit FindACKA.com to connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®). On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I've worked at qualifying universities for nearly 10 years under Public Service Loan Forgiveness, but deferments and forbearances kept me from reaching 120 qualifying payments. I now qualify for the buyback program and could pay for about 15–17 missed months to reach forgiveness sooner. Should I do the buyback now or keep making regular payments until I reach 120? I have a home equity loan at 6% with a $32,000 balance and eight years left, and a car loan at 6.09% with a $35,000 balance and six years left. Which should I focus on paying off first? My job is ending soon, and I have only a small amount saved for retirement. I'm about to receive a $16,000 settlement. Given my situation, how should I use or invest that money? I've been with my local bank since 1996, but it's been bought out three times. How do I know when it's time to switch banks, and what should I look for in a new one? I'm turning 73 this August and will need to begin taking RMDs from my IRA based on the end-of-year 2025 balance. I'd like to use Qualified Charitable Distributions to reduce taxable income. When should I make the QCDs so they count toward my RMD? I'm trying to understand fixed indexed annuities. Are they a good option, and what should I consider before using one as an investment? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Christian Credit Counselors Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
For years, I thought my work was about confidence.I built programs around it. I coached women through it. I spoke on stages about it. And over and over again, I found myself returning to the same question:Why do so many brilliant, accomplished women still struggle to believe they're enough?But during my time in Goldman Sachs' Black Women in Business program, something unexpected happened.As I was pushed to get clearer about my business, my differentiation, and the problem I was actually solving, I began looking back across six years of coaching hundreds of leaders, facilitating workshops, and listening to countless stories.And I realized something profound:Confidence was never the throughline.Decision-making was.Again and again, I saw the same patterns emerge. Leaders hesitating. Waiting for more certainty. Seeking more consensus. Delaying action. Revisiting decisions that had already been made. Not because they lacked capability, but because they didn't fully trust themselves.In this deeply personal episode, I share the journey that led to the creation of the Decision Velocity Index™ (DVI) and the surprising insight that changed how I think about leadership, confidence, and growth.Because what if confidence isn't the thing we're actually after?What if confidence is simply the byproduct of trusting ourselves enough to make a decision and act?In this episode, we'll explore:The unexpected insight that emerged during Goldman Sachs' Black Women in Business programWhy decision-making - not confidence - may be the hidden challenge for many leadersThe relationship between self-trust, action, and leadership effectivenessHow hesitation quietly impacts our lives, careers, and organizationsWhy your next level of confidence may be hiding inside a decision you've been avoidingThis episode marks the beginning of a new conversation - one that I believe has the power to fundamentally change how we think about leadership.Because confidence isn't something you wait to feel.It's what happens when you trust yourself enough to move.***********If this conversation resonates, and you're curious about how these patterns might be showing up in your own leadership or organization, we'd love to hear from you. The Decision Velocity Index™ was built to help uncover the hidden decision-making patterns that influence how we lead, act, and execute under pressure. This is just the beginning of the conversation.Learn more here https://decision-velocity-index.lovable.appand if you want to bring the DVI to your team, send us an email at hello@enoughlabs.com
Alex Coffey ends the trading week with insight on the Fed's lasting impacts in corners of Wall Street beyond treasuries. A hawkish tilt from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh hit gold and Bitcoin in ways that Alex says hit traders in those markets harder than expected. It all comes as the AI memory trade gains speed following Micron's (MU) earnings as supply sees a long-term crunch. Alex attributes memory as a new commodity. Elsewhere in tech, he explains why ON Semiconductor (ON) is acquiring Synaptics (SYNA), and reports of OpenAI pushing back its IPO timeline. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about
Bloomberg, citing the New York Times, reports that OpenAI is leaning toward waiting until 2027 to go public. The company has not filed an S-1 and may choose to remain private while scaling products and partnerships. Delaying a listing could allow OpenAI to stabilize revenue, improve unit economics, and navigate regulatory scrutiny. Remaining private preserves financing options such as structured rounds, strategic investments, and secondary tenders for employee liquidity. The timing affects valuation benchmarks for AI startups and influences partnership, procurement, and hiring decisions across the ecosystem.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
With the fiscal year mostly over, hundreds of millions of dollars in health-related grants approved by Congress still have not reached their designated recipients, with the Trump administration again delaying distribution. Meanwhile, on the fourth anniversary of the Supreme Court decision that allowed states to ban abortion, the number of abortions in the U.S. is actually rising. Maya Goldman of Axios, Joanne Kenen of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Politico Magazine, and Rachana Pradhan of KFF Health News join KFF Health News' Julie Rovner to discuss these stories and more. Plus, for “extra credit” the panelists suggest health policy stories they read this week that they think you should read, too: Julie Rovner: The Washington Post's “Tennessee To Restrict Medical Aid for Critically Ill Undocumented Children,” by Silvia Foster-Frau. Maya Goldman: Stat's “Trump Administration Targets Disability Integration Mandate in DOJ Memo,” by O. Rose Broderick. Rachana Pradhan: KFF Health News' “Arrests of Immigrant Parents Create Mental Health Crisis for Children,” by Claudia Boyd-Barrett. Joanne Kenen: The Washington Post's “Why Trump's Algae Problem Is Much Bigger Than the Reflecting Pool,” by Sarah Kaplan.
Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website****Most advice for retirees suggests to delay SocialSecurity as long as possible. But is that always the right move?In this episode, we'll discuss five real-world situations where claiming Social Security earlier may actually be the better decision.You'll learn:✔️ How longevity impacts yourclaiming strategy✔️ Why Social Security break-evencalculators may be incomplete✔️ The hidden impact claimingdecisions can have on your investment portfolio✔️ How Social Security affectslegacy planning and leaving money to your children✔️ Spousal and survivor benefitconsiderations✔️ Why many retirees strugglepsychologically with spending their nest egg✔️ How claiming benefits earlycan help manage sequence of returns risk during market downturnsThe reality is that Social Security claiming decisionsshould never be made in isolation. They should be coordinated with your retirement income plan, tax strategy, investment portfolio, legacy and lifestyle goals.If you're approaching retirement and wondering whether toclaim Social Security at 62, Full Retirement Age, or 70, this episode will help you understand the tradeoffs and make a more informed decision. Hope it helps.-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollowthe podcastJoinMy Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.
The Rebbe addresses whether to delay giving a get until another match is found and emphasizes the importance of not prolonging a woman's agunah status. He advises attempting reconciliation if possible, but if there is no hope, not to delay the get unnecessarily. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/017/009/6342
In this episode, Alex Pardo brings back returning guest and Storage Wins fan-favorite Dan Wentzel for an honest, unfiltered look at what two years of grinding toward his first self-storage deal has actually taught him. With lines in the water, offers made, and hard-won perspective to share, Dan sits down to answer the question every aspiring storage investor eventually has to face: if you could go back to day one with everything you know now, what would you do differently? This is not a highlight reel. It's a raw breakdown of the mistakes that slowed Dan down (chief among them, analysis paralysis) and the mindset shifts that have him closer than ever to closing his first storage facility. If you've been studying, underwriting, and preparing but still haven't made your move, this episode is the push you've been waiting for. You'll Learn How To: Break the analysis paralysis cycle that's keeping you from making offers on storage facilities Underwrite a self-storage deal with confidence in 30 minutes or less Use the LMAO Method (List, Meaningful Conversations, Analyze, Offers) to structure your entire acquisition process Make verbal offers without waiting for every detail to be perfect Build real momentum through cold calls with storage owners, even when you don't feel ready Stop falling into the "I should be further along" trap and start taking radical ownership of your journey Take massive imperfect action and collect tiny wins that compound over time What You'll Learn in This Episode [0:00] Dan delivers the episode's thesis before the intro even starts: perfect action doesn't exist, and waiting for it is the only thing that guarantees you stay stuck [0:33] Alex sets up the central question: if Dan kept all his experience but woke up tomorrow at day one, what would change? [1:01] Why hindsight and perspective are the two assets Dan has now that no spreadsheet could have given him [1:32] Alex runs the "Men in Black" scenario: erasing two years but keeping every lesson, and what it reveals about where Dan actually is [2:18] Alex reveals on-air that Dan has built a loyal fan base of Storage Wins listeners following his journey throughout season two [2:55] Dan's honest answer to what took longer than it should have: closing a deal, and why he still knows it's coming [3:50] Alex breaks down the "I should be further along" trap and why every entrepreneur who falls into it guarantees they stay exactly where they are [4:34] Dan takes full accountability for his timeline, no blame, no excuses, and explains what that shift in ownership has unlocked [5:25] Dan names his biggest mistake: analysis paralysis, and walks through the spreadsheet rabbit hole that had him second-guessing a deal he'd already underwritten correctly from day one [7:16] The gut-punch moment: two experienced mentors reviewed Dan's deal in 30 minutes and landed on the exact same number he'd spent weeks agonizing over [9:05] Alex's boat analogy: analysis paralysis is a current pulling you out to sea, and taking action shifts the current and brings you to shore [11:14] The flip side: what activities actually built momentum for Dan, and why doing more of what works is just simple math [11:39] What today's Dan would tell day-one Dan: don't overthink it, pick up the phone, and learn from every call you make [13:35] Alex reveals the LMAO Method (List, Meaningful Conversations, Analyze, Offers) and shows how Dan's own three-step answer was the framework all along [15:24] Dan's final word on massive imperfect action: collect tiny wins, make verbal offers, move to the next owner, and do it again Who This Episode Is For: Aspiring storage investors who keep underwriting deals but haven't submitted an offer yet People who freeze up at the thought of cold-calling storage facility owners Anyone who has been told to "just make offers" but doesn't know where to start Investors tying their self-worth to whether a deal closes on a specific timeline Entrepreneurs who know the technical side of self-storage but keep getting stuck in their own heads Anyone who has consumed all the content and just needs someone to tell them to pick up the phone Why You Should Listen: Season two of Storage Wins was supposed to end with Dan closing his first self-storage deal. And while that close is still coming (and both Alex and Dan know it), this episode makes the case that the most important thing Dan built over 38 episodes wasn't a portfolio. It was a version of himself capable of building one. Two years ago, the thought of calling a storage owner cold terrified him. Today, he can underwrite a facility, have a meaningful conversation with a seller, and submit an offer without breaking a sweat. That's not a small thing. What makes this conversation hit differently is the specificity of the mistakes. Dan doesn't give you vague lessons about "staying consistent." He walks you through the exact deal he over-analyzed: the spreadsheets, the second-guessing, the mentors who looked at it for 30 minutes and landed on the same number he'd spent weeks circling. That's the kind of honesty you can actually use. And when Alex's boat analogy lands, the current of analysis paralysis pulling you out to sea versus the current of action bringing you to shore, you'll feel it. If you've been sitting on a deal, a call, or even just the decision to get started, this episode gives you no more runway to hide behind. The LMO Method is simple. The Owner's Code is downloadable below. The blue ocean of 50,000-plus storage facilities is real. The only thing left is the action, and Dan's story is proof that imperfect action taken consistently will get you there. Follow Alex Pardo here: Website: https://storagewins.com Schedule a call: https://storagewins.com/call Facebook Group: Storage Wins Community Instagram: @alexpardo25 YouTube: Storage Wins Podcast If this episode lit a fire under you, the best next step is the simplest one: pick up the phone and start talking to storage owners. Download the Owner's Code seller conversation framework linked below so you know exactly what to say, and book a free 10 to 15 minute discovery call with Alex at https://storagewins.com/call when you're ready to go deeper. If you're just finding the show, go back to the beginning of season two and follow Dan's full journey from episode one. You won't regret it.
Year of Parables – Episode 25: In a challenging illustration, Jesus shares how we should not seek honor, but instead intentionally humble ourselves and let other people lift us up. Discover how this describes Jesus’ life, and how Jesus has called us to live this type of life as well! Listen to this episode and/or subscribe on ReflectiveBibleStudy.com...
Most men think erectile dysfunction only affects the bedroom, but the truth may surprise you.Hidden beneath the surface, ED can influence your confidence, relationships, mental well-being, and even your long-term health. In this episode, discover the unexpected ways erectile dysfunction may be affecting your life and why waiting to address it could come at a higher cost than you realize. Learn why ED is often considered an early warning sign for deeper health concerns and what steps can help you regain control.Tune in now to uncover the hidden impact of erectile dysfunction and learn why taking action today could change your future.--------------Key TakeawaysED affects more than sexual performance.Erectile dysfunction can strain relationships.ED may lower self-confidence and identity.Performance anxiety can worsen ED symptoms.ED is linked to cardiovascular health risks.Early treatment can improve long-term outcomes.Lifestyle changes may support erectile function.Comprehensive treatment often works best.Delaying treatment can lead to tissue changes.Addressing ED can improve overall quality of life.--------------Resources mentioned:Modern Man CribMediterranean DietGood Morning Wood SmoothieRenew with Dr. Anne--------------Curious about how you can boost your bedroom game and build lasting confidence? Check out the course at getwoodnow.com and start your journey to feeling like yourself again!--------------If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more and get more tips, subscribe to The Modern Man newsletter for exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox! https://dranne.co/themodernman--------------Follow Me On:InstagramTwitterFacebookTikTokYouTube--------------For all links and resources mentioned on the show and where to subscribe to the podcast, please visit https://truongrehab.com/erectile-dysfunction-hidden-effects-men-health--------------Want to regain control of your sex life? It's time to reverse the effects of ED on your life. Join the Modern Man Club and embark on your journey to complete recovery and community.--------------Reveal the FREE treatment most men ignore that solves thousands of erectile dysfunction cases every year, plus the 5 biggest mistakes you must avoid if you want to say goodbye to your ED. Uncover it all in my free eBook, available to download now.https://dranne.co/ebook
The US president warns Iran that it will be ‘hit hard again’ after the two sides exchanged fresh strikes. Then: how effective will Europe’s new Russia sanctions be? And: are tourists being ripped off this holiday season?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More than half of Gen Z have delayed major life decisions due to their financial situation. That's according to a new survey by Deloitte out this morning that shows how the housing and cost of living crises are shaping the lives of Irish young people. Newstalk's Sarah Madden has been looking into this research.
THE TOM DUPREE SHOW | PODCAST SHOW NOTES I’m 55 and Behind on Retirement — Here’s What You Can Actually Do About It The Tom Dupree Show | Dupree Financial Group | dupreefinancial.com | 859-233-0400 Episode Description Turning 55 can trigger some hard questions about retirement — not regrets about the past, but real concerns about the present. Tom Dupree and Lead Advisor Mike Johnson tackle one of the most common questions they hear from new clients: What do you actually do when you feel behind? This episode lays out a practical, honest framework for evaluating where you stand, calculating how much income your portfolio needs to produce, and identifying the specific actions that can still make a real difference in the next ten years. The conversation covers the math behind 401(k) catch-up contributions, the income gap calculation that determines whether your retirement plan actually works, why your expenses matter more than your portfolio balance, and the critical difference between volatility as a friend during accumulation versus a threat during withdrawals. Real client examples ground the discussion — including retirees who thrived on $400,000 and others who struggled with far more. The episode closes with a clear message for anyone in their mid-50s who has been putting off this conversation: the opportunity is still real, the tools are available, and it starts with one step. At 55, you might feel like you’re late getting started — but you still have a lot of opportunity to build real wealth and retire the way that you want. Topics Covered The income gap: How to calculate the difference between your fixed income sources and what you’ll actually need to spend in retirement 401(k) catch-up contributions: The 2026 limits for savers over 50, including the super catch-up provision for ages 60–63 Real accumulation scenarios: What maxing out a 401(k) at a 6% return actually produces over 10 years — for one earner and two Expenses as the key variable: Why what you spend in retirement matters more than how much you’ve saved Wealth vs. riches: Why clients with $400,000 sometimes retire better than those with $2 million Sequence-of-returns risk: How early losses in retirement can permanently damage a portfolio — and why income investing helps avoid that trap The wealth paradox: Why taking on more risk when you’re close to your target number can do more harm than good Social Security strategy: Age 62 vs. full retirement age vs. 70 — and how to think about spousal benefits and break-even timing In-service rollovers: How to start building an income-producing portfolio while you’re still working and contributing How to prepare for your first meeting: What to bring, what to expect, and how the planning conversation actually works Key Takeaways Your expenses determine everything. The question isn’t how much you’ve saved — it’s whether what you have can cover the gap between your fixed income and your actual spending. Get clear on your expenses before anything else. Age 55 is still a strong position. You’re likely near peak earnings, kids may be off the payroll, and 401(k) catch-up rules let you contribute up to $32,500 a year — or $35,750 between ages 60 and 63. Ten years of disciplined saving can still produce meaningful income. Don’t ignore the employer match. Contributing at least enough to capture your employer’s match is a 100% guaranteed return from day one. There is no simpler, more powerful first move. Volatility is your friend while you’re accumulating — not when you’re withdrawing. During your working years, market swings let you buy more at lower prices. In retirement, a bad year early can force you to sell assets at the worst possible time. That’s the sequence-of-returns risk that ends retirement plans. Income portfolios solve a problem, growth portfolios don’t. When your portfolio pays you dividends and income, you don’t have to sell holdings to fund your lifestyle during down markets. That changes the entire risk equation. The wealth paradox: more isn’t always better if it requires more risk. If you already have the number that funds the retirement you want, adding risk for more upside isn’t rational — the downside threatens the entire plan, while the upside is just gravy. Social Security is a strategic asset, not just a check. Delaying from 62 to 70 can dramatically increase your lifetime benefit. The break-even point is roughly age 82, and a spousal benefit strategy can add another layer of optimization. You can start building income while you’re still working. An in-service rollover at age 59½ lets you move funds from your 401(k) into an IRA where they can be invested for income — so the income engine is already running when you retire. About The Tom Dupree Show The Tom Dupree Show is hosted by Tom Dupree, founder of Dupree Financial Group and a 47-year veteran of the investment business. Each episode covers the financial topics that matter most to retirees and those approaching retirement — in plain English, without the Wall Street spin. Dupree Financial Group is a fee-only, fiduciary Registered Investment Advisory firm based in Lexington, Kentucky. The firm manages separately managed accounts focused on income-generating, dividend-paying portfolios — no products sold, no commissions, no conflicts of interest. Past episodes are available at dupreefinancial.com under the Radio tab. Schedule a Complimentary Portfolio Review If you’re not sure whether your current savings and investments can actually close the gap between what you’ll have and what you’ll need in retirement, we’ll take a look. No charge. No pressure. Just an honest conversation about what you own and whether it’s working for you. Call: 859-233-0400 | Visit: dupreefinancial.com REGULATORY DISCLAIMER Dupree Financial Group is a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. The information presented on this program is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a solicitation, or an offer to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Listeners should consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions. The post I’m 55 and Behind on Retirement — Here’s What You Can Actually Do About It appeared first on Dupree Financial.
Making a change on your team can feel emotionally brutal, especially when hope, doubt, and logistics collide. Listen to this short episode to explore the hidden costs of hesitation and why choosing a direction helps me lead with more clarity.Key topics discussed in this episode:• The emotional energy drain of waffling back and forth• Why performance often improves when you start questioning fit• How indecision creates irritation, rumination, and stalled focus• How workarounds, overchecking, and reluctance to delegate slow growth• Choosing between two hard options rather than waiting for certaintyFollow Elite Achievement for more conversations on leadership and high-level execution. About Kristin BurkeKristin Burke works with financial advisors and leaders in financial services who are building and scaling firms. She helps them lead more effectively, develop their team, and execute consistently on the priorities that drive growth.Work with KristinIf you are building a firm and want a strategic partner to help you think through leadership, team development, and execution, you can learn more about working with Kristin here:WebsiteConnect on LinkedInLinkedIn
WBBM political editor Geoff Buchholz reports on Gov. J.B. Pritzker's ideas for easing higher gas prices in Illinois.
For most of your working life, the financial question is straightforward: earn more, save more, invest wisely. Then retirement arrives, and the question flips entirely. How do you turn decades of saving into a reliable paycheck that lasts as long as you do?In this episode of Financial Commute, Morton Wealth advisors Chris Galeski and Mike sit down to tackle the retirement income questions clients ask most: the 4% rule, Social Security timing, sequence of returns risk, and the three-bucket strategy that can protect your lifestyle through any market cycle.Questions This Episode AnswersThese are the questions people approaching and entering retirement are genuinely asking. We've addressed them directly below, and the full conversation is available as a transcript further down the page.What questions should I be asking my advisor that I'm not?The most important question isn't about a number — it's about the framework: what decisions today will have the biggest impact 10–20 years from now, and what am I not asking that I should be? The right advisor helps you find those blind spots before they become costly gaps.Does the 4% rule still work today?A useful starting point, but not a strategy. The 4% rule was designed for simplicity, not sophistication. A real plan accounts for your full picture — Social Security, pensions, annuities, taxable and tax-deferred accounts, real estate — each with different tax treatment. Think of 4% as a floor, not a ceiling, and not a substitute for personalized planning.When should I take Social Security?There's no universal right answer — and regret runs both ways. Timing depends on your health, savings, and other income. Delaying to 70 maximizes your benefit, but if you've saved enough to invest early payments and grow them, taking it sooner can make mathematical sense. Run projections across multiple scenarios with your advisor and make the best decision with today's information.What is the three-bucket strategy, and why does it matter in retirement?The bucket approach organizes assets by time horizon rather than treating everything as one pool. Bucket one is your safety net (2+ years of living expenses in low-volatility assets). Bucket two holds income-generating bonds for the medium term. Bucket three is long-term growth — equities you can leave alone through market cycles. When a recession hits, you draw from bucket one, never forced to sell growth assets at the worst possible time.What is sequence of returns risk, and how does it affect retirement income?The danger of major market losses early in retirement — right when you start drawing down. If your portfolio drops 30% in year one and you're selling shares to cover expenses, you lock in losses and permanently reduce future growth potential. The bucket strategy protects against this: draw from your stable bucket in downturns and leave growth assets untouched until they recover.Which account should I draw from first in retirement?Order matters enormously for tax efficiency. Assess your account types (taxable brokerage, traditional IRA/401(k), Roth), your current bracket, and expected Social Security income — then “fill” each bracket optimally. Some years that means pulling extra from an IRA; others it means realizing long-term capital gains from a taxable account. There's no single right answer — revisit it every year.How often should I update my retirement financial plan?At minimum, once a year — and after any major life change. Tax laws shift, markets move, and family situations evolve. An annual check-in lets you ask: does last year's plan still fit this year's life? Most years you won't need dramatic changes, but small course corrections prevent big drift over time.
Are you getting your full entitlement, spousal Social Security, or—like one of my recent clients—missing out on hundreds, even thousands, of dollars each year? This week, I discuss how spousal benefits work, what the eligibility requirements are, and the critical steps you need to take to ensure you aren't leaving money on the table. If you or your spouse are nearing retirement or already collecting benefits, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to maximize your Social Security income and avoid common mistakes. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] Spousal social security benefits [01:56] Criteria for receiving spousal benefit [02:25] Calculation of spousal social security benefit [07:26] Confusion when both spouses are eligible for their own and spousal benefits [09:46] Sue's social security increase [11:24] Misconception that adjustments are automatic Understanding Spousal Social Security Benefits If you are married (or divorced after a marriage of at least 10 years), you may qualify for spousal Social Security benefits. For those with limited earning histories or lower primary insurance amounts (PIA), this benefit is especially valuable. At your full retirement age (FRA)—which is 67 if you were born in 1960 or later—you can collect up to 50% of your spouse's full retirement benefit, so long as your own benefit is less than half of theirs. If your own benefit exceeds half your spouse's, you'll receive your own larger benefit. Social Security will always pay the higher of the two benefits, but not both combined. This makes it vital to understand where you fall before claiming. How Early Claiming Reduces Your Benefit Timing is critical. Claiming spousal benefits before your FRA means your payments will be permanently reduced. The reductions work as follows: For the first 36 months before your FRA, your benefit is reduced by 25/36 of 1% for every month claimed early. Additional months over 36 are reduced by 5/12 of 1% per month. For example, if a spousal benefit of $800 is claimed 36 months early, the amount drops to $600, a 25% reduction. If claimed 60 months early (at age 62), the benefit falls by roughly 35% to $520. Key Rules of Spousal Benefit Eligibility To receive a spousal benefit, several conditions must be met: Your spouse must be collecting their Social Security benefit (unless you're claiming divorced benefits, in which case your ex only needs to be eligible). You must be at least age 62 (or have a qualifying child under 16 or with a disability in your care). Generally, you need to be married for at least one year before applying, though this rule doesn't apply if you're the parent of your spouse's child. If divorced, you must have been married for at least 10 years. Spousal benefits do not increase if you wait past your full retirement age to claim. The maximum is always 50% of your spouse's PIA. Delaying only increases benefits on your own work record, not on a spousal claim. Spousal Benefits Are Not Automatic One major pitfall couples face is assuming that spousal benefits "switch on" automatically when their higher-earning spouse starts collecting their benefit. In reality, the Social Security Administration often needs to be contacted directly to initiate the higher spousal benefit. I share a case where a client (Sue) was entitled to a much larger benefit once her husband began taking Social Security at age 70, yet her benefit wasn't increased until she contacted Social Security, resulting in a missed $900/month for six months. Social Security would only issue six months of retroactive pay, meaning the client lost out on another six months of increased income. Don't assume the system will identify and correct missed benefits for you—it's up to you (and your advisor) to ensure you're receiving everything you've earned. Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE Social Security Fairness Act Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact Subscribe to Retire With Ryan
Howie discusses President Trump's recent delay in restarting bombing raids on Iran. Callers express their feelings to Howie; some simply urge him to hurry up and end the IRGC. Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.
This week's show covers how to delay filing Social Security, Small Cap Value stocks, a simple portfolio construction framework, and lots of email questions!
Don and Tom explore one of retirement's biggest emotional and financial questions: where should you actually live once work winds down? They discuss the hidden realities behind “low-tax” retirement states, including insurance costs, healthcare expenses, weather extremes, and the importance of family and community. The episode also features listener questions on retirement cash management, why annuities often create more problems than solutions, retirement savings strategies for LLC owners, and the ultra-wealthy “buy, borrow, die” strategy using securities-backed lines of credit.0:05 Retirement dreams and deciding where to live1:49 The myth of “low-tax” retirement states3:18 Washington taxes, Jeff Bezos, and Wyoming winters4:27 Florida's hidden costs and brutal summers6:04 Insurance shocks, pension taxes, and state tax surprises8:04 Property taxes, sales taxes, and healthcare costs10:12 Why family and community matter more than taxes11:38 Florida thunderstorms and surviving the humidity12:40 Comparing total living costs before relocating13:52 Aging in place and the rising demand for one-story homes15:34 Listener question: What to do with $192,000 sitting in checking18:52 Why liquid savings may beat annuities near retirement22:15 Delaying 401(k) withdrawals and retirement flexibility24:47 LLC profits and retirement contribution limitations28:06 “Buy, borrow, die” and securities-backed lines of credit33:19 The risks of borrowing against investments34:05 Free fiduciary advice versus commissioned sales pitchesQuestions? Comments? Click!
Most people think deciding when to take Social Security is a math problem. Run the numbers. Find the breakeven age. Pick 62, 67, or 70. Done.But that approach misses the point. This is not a math decision. It is a risk decision.In this episode, James reframes how to think about Social Security timing by focusing on what each choice actually protects you from. Claim early and you protect against the risk of a shorter life. Delay and you protect against the risk of living longer than expected. Choose the middle and you split the difference, but still carry exposure on both sides.The complication is that this decision never exists in isolation. Delaying benefits might increase lifetime income, but it can also put pressure on your portfolio in the early years of retirement. A market downturn during that window can change the outcome far more than a simple breakeven analysis ever shows.There are also second order effects that rarely get discussed. How the decision impacts a surviving spouse. How taxes evolve depending on where income is coming from. How the combination of Social Security and portfolio withdrawals ultimately shapes your long term plan.The takeaway is simple. Social Security is not about picking the perfect age. It is about understanding which risks matter most to you and building a plan that accounts for them.Because in the end, Social Security is just a tool. The goal is not maximizing a benefit. The goal is creating a retirement that works no matter what happens next.Learn the tips & strategies to get the most out of life with your money.--Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️Get Started Here.Join the new Root Collective HERE!
Are you always trying to be perfect? Every day we face thousands of decisions that can either help us break free or tie us in knots. Today, we look at the sometimes overwhelming decision process that can affect triathletes in training, racing, and life. We get into premature optimization, how you should build your cake (base), and eventually ask if it's "decision" fatigue or "precision" fatigue. We talk about the idea of always feeling judged and graded and how that can wear out our love for the sport. We look at the differences between inside riding and outside. We talk about dealing with the elements without a second thought. We also look at how to get to the top and spoiler alert, it's not by skipping steps. When we boil it down, it all comes back to honoring the intent of your workouts. Also, if you're thinking of doing one of these GREAT MIDWEST races, Ironman 70.3 Rockford, Ironman 70.3 Muncie, Ironman Wisconsin, or Ironman 70.3 Omaha, please use this link to sign up so we get a little credit from the boss: https://go.ironman.com/crushingiron Topics: Tornadoes and biking in the dark Old Man Talk Micro decision making and fatigue Online training plans Premature optimization Over exposure to tips, tricks, and hacks Noise and marketing Compounding negative effects Precision making fatigue Intervals or consistent riding? Trainer fatigue Go for the INTENT of the workout Precision Fatigue Get outside Inside bike position vs Outside position Feeling judged and graded all the time F-bomb settings The cake is the intent, the icing is precision We don't need more weight on our backs Delaying getting back into things Intent is relative to the day, week, month This is for you Taking the stairs to get to the top Moving is the momentum Maximize your intent Make your wins possible RIP Uncle Butch Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com