Podcast appearances and mentions of Edward Jones

Getting married is a major decision that comes with a financial to-do list that's arguably more important than choosing a venue or a cake. Talking openly about money can help set you and your partner up for a stronger future.

A couple had done everything right — dual income, debt-free, millions saved in tax-deferred accounts — and they were on track to hand $10 million to the IRS. Not because they made bad decisions, but because nobody had ever shown them what "doing everything right" actually costs without proactive planning.In this episode, Gabe sits down with Rob Bedinghaus, Ph.D., CFP® — founder of Bedinghaus Wealth Planning and author of Beyond the Numbers — to dig into the retirement planning conversations most advisors never have. Rob brings a teacher's instinct to every client meeting, and this episode reflects that: clear frameworks, real scenarios, and a perspective on legacy that goes well beyond the balance sheet.Listeners will walk away with a clearer picture of the income gaps retirees face, a practical mental model for surviving market volatility, and a compelling case for why tax planning and retirement planning are the same conversation.About Rob BedinghausRob Bedinghaus, Ph.D., CFP® is the founder of Bedinghaus Wealth Planning, an independent practice in Lebanon, Ohio affiliated with Raymond James. A second-generation financial advisor, Rob spent six years in higher education at Indiana University before joining his father's practice in 2015. He has worked with hundreds of families navigating retirement transitions, previously overseeing more than $130 million in client assets at Edward Jones before building his own independent firm. He is the author of Beyond the Numbers: Your Smart Guide to Retirement Income, Tax Efficiency, and Lasting Legacy.What We CoverWhy the shift from saving to spending is harder than most retirees expect — and how Rob helps clients break a 30-year saving mindsetThe bucket framework: how organizing money by time horizon keeps clients from panic-selling during market downturnsHow one couple's disciplined 401(k) savings had them on track for $700,000 in annual required minimum distributions and a projected $10 million lifetime tax billThe Roth conversion strategy that cut one couple's projected tax bill from $10 million to $2 millionWhat "living a legacy" means: giving while you're alive, seeing the impact, and passing values alongside wealthWhy qualified charitable distributions are one of the most underused tax tools for charitably-minded retireesResources MentionedBeyond the Numbers: Your Smart Guide to Retirement Income, Tax Efficiency, and Lasting Legacy by Rob Bedinghaus, Ph.D., CFP® — free e-copy available at beyondnumbersbook.comConnect withWebsite: bedinghauswealth.comBook website: beyondnumbersbook.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robbedinghausSupport the show

Most Americans are far less prepared for retirement than many assume. Don and Tom discuss new Federal Reserve data showing that only about half of Americans have retirement accounts, the median retirement balance is just $200,000, and only a tiny percentage of retirees have more than $1 million saved. They explain why starting early, saving consistently, and avoiding speculative investing matter far more than chasing hot stocks or market trends. The episode also covers Social Security misconceptions, the challenges of retiring on limited income, concerns about Schwab's Teen Investor Account, and the importance of teaching young people disciplined long-term investing habits.0:11 How many Americans actually have enough saved for retirement?2:08 Federal Reserve data on retirement account ownership3:18 The surprisingly low median retirement balance4:47 Why advisors chase million-dollar clients5:07 Income, education, and retirement savings disparities7:06 Homeownership and wealth accumulation8:25 The importance of simply getting started9:41 Why Fidelity says it takes roughly 27 years to reach $1 million10:56 Saving versus investing and the dangers of speculation12:03 Leaving retirement money alone during market and life crises14:08 Bellevue, Nebraska caller asks about Social Security earnings limits15:11 Social Security taxation and claiming considerations16:32 Discussion of Edward Jones and advisor relationships19:29 Can a 76-year-old buy a home with $400 monthly payments?21:44 Schwab Teen Investor Account review22:39 Why Don dislikes stock-picking education for teenagers25:12 How custodians profit from trading activity26:35 Better ways to teach young people about investing27:31 Free advisor meetings and listener resourcesQuestions? Comments? Click!

Walter Sterling dives into the growing UFO disclosure fight, questioning why the government is releasing some files while possibly holding back the biggest evidence. Walter features Ross Coulthart and Congressman Tim Burchett on secret servers, deep state resistance, Apollo sightings, JFK questions, and whether the public will ever see the most important UFO videos. He also covers the discovery of missing Los Alamos worker Melissa Cassius, the mystery surrounding nuclear-linked disappearances, Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and the latest from Edward Jones on the Middle East. Plus, Walter talks with Gino Young about the collapse of education, COVID learning damage, illiteracy, special needs students, and school failures, before Michelle Gibson joins to discuss mud floods, hidden energy grids, bricked-up buildings, giant bones, alternate history, and what may have been erased from the official record. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Make A Difference Minute, I have Andy Esser with Edward Jones sharing why 529 education savings plans can be a valuable tool for families planning for future education expenses. While many people associate 529 plans with college savings, today's plans offer more flexibility than ever before. Funds can be used for qualified educational expenses ranging from K-12 programs and trade schools to community colleges and traditional universities. Andy also discusses an important challenge facing families today. While many parents could benefit from a 529 plan, relatively few are taking advantage of the opportunity. Understanding the options available and starting early can help ease the financial burden of future educational costs. Whether a child dreams of attending college, learning a skilled trade, or pursuing another educational path, planning ahead can make those goals more attainable. This MADM is brought to you by, Athens Bible School, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Tonight, we're bringing you two conversations centered on investing in the future, whether that's through education planning or meeting practical needs within our schools and communities. In the first segment, I'm joined by Andy Esser with Edward Jones, for a national conversation tied to 529 Day, which took place last Friday. We'll discuss new research showing many families are concerned about rising education costs, why education remains a top financial priority for parents and grandparents, and how 529 plans can help families prepare for future educational opportunities. This interview focuses on national trends and educational information that can help families begin thinking about their long-term goals and savings strategies. In the second segment, we're headed to Ardmore, Alabama, for the dedication of Connie's Cabinets at Johnson Elementary School (Athens, AL) and Cedar Hill Elementary School. Joining me are Johnson PTO Vice President and Parent Liaison Natosha Parker, Johnson Counselor Dr. Elizabeth “Lizzie” Russell, Cameron Williams, son of Connie Ridgeway, and Cedar Hill Elementary Principal Nona Adams. We'll talk about what these cabinets mean to students and families, the spirit of service behind Connie's legacy, and how communities come together to meet needs one person at a time. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Edward Jones describes amateur radio as a global social network that predates the digital age, utilizing high-frequency shortwave signals to bypass the internet entirely. By bouncing waves off the ionosphere, operators can achieve a worldwide reach, participating in a competitive "radio sport" where the goal is to log as many international contacts as possible within a limited timeframe. Jones highlights that while the hobby can range from modest apartment setups to massive suburban towers, its true appeal lies in the unpredictable nature of radio and the technical challenge of making distant connections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As your new graduate prepares to step into the next chapter of life – whether that's more education or starting a career – one of the best things you can do is help them understand how to use credit cards, debit cards and prepaid cards wisely. They can be powerful financial tools, but without some basic knowledge, they can also lead to trouble.

Americans are living longer—but not necessarily better. A new concept gaining traction called “peakspan,” is changing the conversation from how long we live to how long we feel strong, energized, and mentally sharp.The reality is concerning: we're not just aging, we're aging with more disease. According to a recent study in Frontiers in Public Health, the number of Americans over 50 with at least one chronic condition is expected to nearly double by 2050, reaching more than 142 million.For many Americans, this isn't abstract, it's personal: rising anxiety about aging and retirement, chronic pain, poor sleep, and low energy becoming the new normal, all while the cost of staying healthy continues to add stress instead of relief.Available for Interview:Edward Jones is a longevity expert and natural health pioneer, bringing more than 40 years of real-world experience helping people take control of their health—without extreme biohacking or expensive routines.At 68, he's in peak physical condition, competes in bodybuilding competitions, and has built a 95K following on TikTok by sharing practical, no-nonsense wellness strategies. What makes his story compelling is that he's lived the decline many Americans fear—chronic pain, fatigue, and mobility issues (being reliant on a walker to get around)—and reversed it after the age of 50 through consistent, natural, healthy habits.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Parents: are you planning and saving for your children's educational futures? If not, you're not alone. In fact, new research shows that 59% of adults in the U.S. say they're not saving enough for educational expenses. And many say they have no idea where to even start. In honor of today being 5/29, Inside Sources takes some time to discuss the 529 Plans with Edward Jones financial advisor Andy Esser, who says these plans are a great way to save for your kids' future education.

In hour 1, Walter Sterling highlights the spiritual and emotional burdens of war through the eyes of Father Jim Ducker, a veteran chaplain who provided sacramental support to troops during Operation Desert Storm and now ministers to the wounded. The conversation then shifts to contemporary geopolitical tensions, as Edward Jones, a former Marine and intelligence expert, provides a detailed analysis of the apprehension and tactical readiness of American forces currently stationed in the Middle East near Iran. Woven throughout these expert segments are poignant listener anecdotes that preserve the legacy of World War II veterans, emphasizing the selfless sacrifices made for American freedom and the enduring importance of military service organizations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Walter Sterling interviews Edward Jones, a Marine veteran and intelligence expert, to dissect the escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The conversation centers on the psychological and operational state of U.S. Marines stationed in the Gulf, contrasted against the complex, stalled negotiations with the Iranian regime. Jones provides a strategic breakdown of the small percentage of actual combat troops compared to total personnel, while also highlighting the internal political pressures and psychological warfare tactics, such as propaganda memes, used by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard to exploit American domestic divisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A 529 education savings plan might sound like something only families with college-bound kids need. But the versatility of a 529 account may surprise you, whether your child heads to a four-year university, a trade school or elsewhere.

What happens when a former police officer turns his life experience into a mission to help others build financial freedom and peace of mind?In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Paul Applegate, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, to talk about budgeting, retirement planning, investing, emergency funds, and the emotional side of money. Paul shares his deeply personal journey from law enforcement and PTSD to helping families, first responders, veterans, and business owners take control of their financial future.This episode goes far beyond stocks and retirement accounts. It's about creating options, reducing stress, and building a life where you're no longer financially trapped.In this episode, you'll learn: Why emergency funds are critical  The biggest financial mistakes people make  How compound interest really works  Why budgeting still matters  How to stay calm during market volatility Connect with Paul Applegate: Phone: 410-939-5270 Email: Paul.Applegate@EdwardJones.comSpecial thanks to Freedom Federal Credit Union for sponsoring this episode.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from this conversation.Send us Fan MailCelebrate the Magic of Words in Bel Air, Maryland!https://bookfairatbelair.org/Paul ApplegatePaul offers No Cost No Obligation Retirement Check Ups and Consultations.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email

Hour 2 opens with a heated breakdown of the proposed “anti-weaponization” compensation fund, framed as a broader argument over political targeting, legal precedent, and whether government actions against Trump and January 6 defendants justify a payout structure. The conversation escalates into a pointed critique of political figures and federal agencies, setting a combative tone for the hour. The focus then shifts to St. Louis in the Morning Brief, where the long-delayed Millennium Hotel demolition and proposed riverfront redevelopment spark a larger debate over downtown revitalization, public funding, safety, and whether private investment will ever realistically return without structural change to city conditions. A sharp turn follows into a corporate lawsuit involving Edward Jones, with strong disagreement over claims of racial discrimination tied to compensation structures and recruiting practices in financial services. The discussion leans heavily into industry experience, attrition rates, and how advisory firms actually build new talent pipelines. Nicole Murray joins for the news block, covering markets, healthcare expansion in St. Louis, Waymo testing despite regulatory setbacks, a major Google data center investment in Missouri, rising mortgage rates, a paused federal AI executive order, and a viral reaction to Hooters attempting a “family-friendly” rebrand, which triggers a broader culture discussion. The hour closes with “In Other News,” ranging from the disappearance of the name “Vance” from baby name rankings, a landlord caught on hidden camera in a compromising situation, a live frog found in grocery lettuce, a breakdown of dinosaur anatomy theory around T-Rex arms, and media reaction to Stephen Colbert's final show featuring Paul McCartney. Guests: Nicole Murray Hashtags: #Politics #StLouis #Economy #LegalNews #Markets #Media #CultureWar #BusinessNews #NationalSecurity

Hour 1 opens with Mark Cox returning from a bourbon barrel pick trip to Missouri's Ben Holladay Distillery before quickly pivoting into a heated breakdown of Missouri's looming ballot fight over Amendment 3 and initiative petition reform, warning about outside money, abortion politics, and constitutional changes driven by billionaire-backed campaigns. The hour's Shortlist segment tackles Trump joking about Cuba becoming the “51st state,” Byron Donalds blaming Iran for gas prices, Bill Maher struggling to book Democrats, and a sharp conservative backlash against Candace Owens after her Hunter Biden interview. Kim on a Whim centers on a Colorado middle school student allegedly blocked from reading a pro-life poem in class, sparking a larger conversation about public school political bias, private school migration during COVID, censorship, and classroom double standards. The hour closes with discussion surrounding NASCAR star Kyle Busch, reflections on mortality after his final public comments, and Mark's firsthand reaction to a discrimination lawsuit targeting Edward Jones over compensation practices. Guests: None Hashtags: #CandaceOwens #HunterBiden #Amendment3 #MissouriPolitics #ProLife #ColoradoSchools #KimOnaWhim #ByronDonalds #BillMaher #KyleBusch #EdwardJones #MarkCoxMorningShow

Truly Significant honors Cody Williams, Texas Aggie Class of 2010 and President of the Capital City Aggies Club and Financial Advisor for Edward Jones. Born in Boerne, Texas, his family moved to Montgomery, Texas when he was 16. Cody's Dad graduated in 1977. Hear about the legacy of Dad and also his heroic brother, honored with the Medal of Honor for bravery. (ONLY THE 9TH AGGIE honored with the Medal of Honor)Learn about unique, time honored Texas Aggie traditions and some of the odd ones you may never had heard. Cody riffs about core values and how he is guided as a man, husband, and business leader. Cody reminds us of the quote from Marcus Aurelius.... "stop talking about being a good man, and just be one!" Contact Cody at cody.m.williams@edwardjones.org. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/success-made-to-last-legends--4302039/support.

Walter Sterling digs into the next wave of UFO file releases and why he believes the government's acknowledgment of UAP records is one of the biggest stories of our time. Walter talks with Megan Medic about MK Ultra, mind control, Project Stargate, remote viewing, AI, social media algorithms, and whether today's technology is becoming the new version of psychological manipulation. He also speaks with Edward Jones about Iran, enriched uranium, the IRGC, the fragile ceasefire, and what could come next in the Middle East. Plus, Walter takes calls from the Midnight Misfits on Roswell, Operation Paperclip, Roundup, surveillance, old school memories, and the hidden stories that still have not been fully exposed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Walter Sterling and Edward Jones discusses Iran's tense political climate, focusing on the nuclear threat posed by its enriched uranium stockpile and the shadow influence of the IRGC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever wonder if you are wasting money on your marketing efforts? Or how do you navigate today's big changes in paid marketing? Our guest today is Jeff Greenfield, and he shares with us his marketing insights and the changing paid advertising landscape. TODAY'S WIN-WIN: Aspire to be less wrong today than you were yesterday as there is no right answer to measurement. LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:Schedule your free franchise consultation with Big Sky Franchise Team: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/. You can visit our guest's website:      www.getprovalytics.com.Attend our Franchise Sales Training Workshop:  https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/franchisesalestraining/Connect with our guests on social:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield/ABOUT OUR GUEST:Jeff Greenfield is an entrepreneur, advisor, and disruptor with more than three decades of leadership in strategy, growth, and marketing. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of Provalytics, an AI-driven, cookie-less attribution and measurement platform that helps marketers prove the impact of upper funnel channels such as CTV and podcasts to drive smarter budget decisions. Previously, Jeff was the COO and Co-Founder of C3 Metrics, a leading multi-touch attribution platform serving brands such as JP Morgan, US Bank, Hertz, Nestlé, Carhartt, Edward Jones, Fender, and Peapod. Widely known as the “Cookie Monster,” Jeff is a recognized expert on cookies and their impact on the digital advertising ecosystem.Jeff has spoken at hundreds of industry conferences and his thought leadership has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, ABC, CBS, and Investor's Business Daily.This episode is powered by Big Sky Franchise Team. Big Sky Franchise Team is consistently recognized as one of the best franchise consulting firms in the United States, helping entrepreneurs franchise their businesses through a proven 3-Step franchise process rooted in ethical principles, hands-on guidance, and customized deliverables.  If you are ready to talk about franchising your business you can schedule your free, no-obligation, franchise consultation online at: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/. The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any business decisions. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Big Sky Franchise Team, or our affiliates. Additionally, this podcast may feature sponsors or advertisers, but any mention of products or services does not constitute an endorsement. Please do your own research before making any purchasing or business decisions.

Let's say you dream of spending your retirement mornings on a warm beach, coffee in hand, waves rolling in. To get there, you had a simple plan: save $1 million and buy the beach house you always wanted.

Walter Sterling dives into some of America's biggest unsolved mysteries and conspiracy theories, including the JonBenét Ramsey case, the JFK assassination, and reports of JFK files being taken from Tulsi Gabbard's office. Walter takes listener calls on psychics, fortune-telling, crime, judges, and vigilante justice, while also breaking down theories surrounding Savannah Guthrie's mother, Jeffrey Epstein, Bitcoin, and organized crime. The episode also features Edward Jones discussing President Trump's meeting with President Xi, China's push for global power, Taiwan, rare earth minerals, fentanyl, Iran, and what a successful U.S.-China meeting could look like. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Walter Sterling takes listeners through a wild overnight mix of mystery, conspiracy, history, and caller-driven radio. Walter opens with late-night relationship talk, the Mr. Softy app, Israel's Red Alert app, and listener calls before diving into UFO disclosure, government secrecy, and the unanswered questions surrounding America's newly released UFO files. Eddie Aragon joins the show to discuss Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, allegations of blackmail, hidden records, and disturbing claims about what may have happened on the property. Walter also explores JFK files reportedly being taken from Tulsi Gabbard's office, theories surrounding the Kennedy assassination, the JonBenét Ramsey case, fortune tellers, psychics, Savannah Guthrie's mother, Bitcoin, organized crime, and why Americans cannot let go of unsolved mysteries. Michelle Gibson joins to discuss alternative history, the Great Chicago Fire, other fires of 1871, lost trolley systems, free energy, and the powerful interests she believes reshaped America. The episode also features Vic Ferrari on an NYPD chief accused of stealing time, Florida Stories with James Parker, Edward Jones breaking down Trump's meeting with Xi Jinping, China, Taiwan, rare earth minerals, Iran, and listener calls on crime, vigilante justice, fraud, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Ricky Smith—Founder & Managing Partner, Inspired Wealth Planning Overview Jason Diamond speaks with Ricky Smith of Inspired Wealth Planning about leaving Edward Jones after 30 years, evaluating 12 firms, and building an independent business that grew to $1.25B in assets under care in less than three years. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/cobAfEl0_To About this episode… What happens when you stop thinking like a renter and start thinking like an owner? Not just in theory, but in how you run your business, make decisions, and show up for clients. For Ricky Smith, that question didn't come at the beginning of his career. It came 30 years later, after building a highly successful practice at Edward Jones and beginning to see the business through a different lens. Today, Ricky is the founder and managing partner of Inspired Wealth Planning, the independent firm he built with Kestra Private Wealth Services. Since launching in March 2023, the firm has grown to over $1.25B in assets under its care across seven locations. What makes this story interesting isn't just the move—it's how intentional it was. Ricky didn't rush into independence. He spent a year evaluating 12 different firms and paths, clarifying what mattered most, and ultimately making a decision based on people and alignment, not just economics. Ricky shares his journey with Jason Diamond, including: His approach to due diligence—and why he dove deeper into the weeds before he was satisfied with his next steps. Reconsidering the wirehouse model—and why he felt independence was the best path forward. The “ownership mindset”—and how that drives his values and processes. The early phase of independence—and why it's less about growth and more about getting the structure right. Growing by 50%—and what “breakthroughs” he had in less than three years. Ricky offers the perspective that making the leap to independence may be “short-term hard,” but you're working toward building a business that's designed to be “long-term easy.” And there's another broader idea worth paying attention to: Most advisors don't lack options; they hesitate to act on them. Listen in for sage advice from an advisor who has lived in the wirehouse world and is now independent—and has realized the value of ownership. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Diamond Consultants Edward Jones Advisor Transition Report 2025This “firm-focused report” seeks to look under the hood at movement to and from Edward Jones from January to June of 2025. The Cost of Clarity: What Advisors Stand to Gain and Lose When Their Firm Shows Its HandWhen firms become explicit about who and what they value, it's time for advisors to read those signals and respond. The Advisor Transition Playbook: The Latest on Due Diligence, the Move, and Everything In Between – Part 2Jason and Mindy Diamond revisit the transition playbook, this time focused on how advisor priorities are shifting. From AI and enterprise value to stability and flexibility, they unpack what's changing in due diligence and what it means for advisors evaluating their next move. Ricky SmithManaging Partner Ricky Smith is the founder and Managing Partner of Inspired Wealth Planning. Inspired Wealth Planning is group of like minded veteran financial advisors who serve their clients and local communities across Georgia and now even Ohio. Before founding Inspired, Ricky worked as a financial advisor for 39 years. Primarily as an employee of a nationwide financial firm. Wanting to have more control over the outcomes for clients, his team and his own career, he left the employee model to join an independent firm – Kestra Private Wealth Services. After opening the Kestra based office, other advisors inquired about joining Inspired. Within the first 36 months, Inspired grew to 7 locations, 10 advisors, 14 support staff and over $1.2 billion in assets under care. In February 2026, Inspired was selected as the Outstanding Business of the Year for Kestra Financial (the parent company of Kestra Private Wealth). This was the first time that any firm from Kestra Private Wealth had ever been selected for that award. In early April the firm was on the cover of Advisor Hub magazine and in mid-April, Ricky was selected for the Forbes/Shook Best in State Wealth Advisors for the state of Georgia. An Honor that he has received 3 times in the past 5 years. Ricky lives in Cordele Georgia with his wife, Patti and their tuxedo cat Oreo. They have a daughter, Brooke, who lives in Maryland. Ricky has been a loyal member and participant with the local Chamber of Commerce for 42 years, serving as chairman in 1999. He and Patti are long-time members of Cordele First Church and supporters of the local chapter of Celebrate Recovery.

AI, Nutrition, Longevity and the Future of Health — this edition of Late Night Health delivers two fascinating conversations that challenge conventional thinking about wellness and technology.In the first half of the program, Mark Alyn sits down with nutrition expert Edward Jones, founder and publisher of Nutrition World, for a passionate discussion about aging, muscle health, protein intake, supplements and why so many Americans are struggling with chronic health issues. Jones shares his own surprising health journey, including how a hidden dietary issue may have contributed to needing double hip replacement surgery despite decades of healthy living and exercise.The conversation dives into everything from the dangers of processed foods and inflammation to the importance of strength training as we age. Jones explains why muscle may be the “organ of longevity,” discusses his controversial views on red meat and protein, and offers practical ways people can take greater control of their health. His enthusiasm for wellness, discipline and lifelong learning makes this an engaging and thought-provoking interview for anyone interested in aging well and staying active. Check Edward out at: https://www.theholisticnavigator.com  https://nutritionw.com/In the second half of the show, the focus shifts to artificial intelligence and healthcare with Dr. Omi Ogbru, founder and CEO of AI Engines. Dr. Ogbru explains how AI is being used to help doctors, pharmaceutical companies and researchers process enormous amounts of medical information faster and more efficiently. The discussion explores whether AI should frighten people, how it may assist — but not replace — healthcare professionals, and why human judgment still matters.Mark and Dr. Ogbru also tackle larger questions surrounding the future of AI, self-driving technology, medicine and how rapidly changing technology may reshape everyday life. The conversation is informative, accessible and filled with real-world examples that help listeners understand where AI stands today — and where it may be heading tomorrow.From nutrition and fitness to AI and healthcare innovation, this episode of Late Night Health is packed with insights, energy and ideas that could change the way you think about your health and your future.Check AINgens out at:https://aingens.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/late-night-health-radio--2804369/support.

AI, Nutrition, Longevity and the Future of Health — this edition of Late Night Health delivers two fascinating conversations that challenge conventional thinking about wellness and technology.In the first half of the program, Mark Alyn sits down with nutrition expert Edward Jones, founder and publisher of Nutrition World, for a passionate discussion about aging, muscle health, protein intake, supplements and why so many Americans are struggling with chronic health issues. Jones shares his own surprising health journey, including how a hidden dietary issue may have contributed to needing double hip replacement surgery despite decades of healthy living and exercise.The conversation dives into everything from the dangers of processed foods and inflammation to the importance of strength training as we age. Jones explains why muscle may be the “organ of longevity,” discusses his controversial views on red meat and protein, and offers practical ways people can take greater control of their health. His enthusiasm for wellness, discipline and lifelong learning makes this an engaging and thought-provoking interview for anyone interested in aging well and staying active. Check Edward out at: https://www.theholisticnavigator.com  https://nutritionw.com/In the second half of the show, the focus shifts to artificial intelligence and healthcare with Dr. Omi Ogbru, founder and CEO of AI Engines. Dr. Ogbru explains how AI is being used to help doctors, pharmaceutical companies and researchers process enormous amounts of medical information faster and more efficiently. The discussion explores whether AI should frighten people, how it may assist — but not replace — healthcare professionals, and why human judgment still matters.Mark and Dr. Ogbru also tackle larger questions surrounding the future of AI, self-driving technology, medicine and how rapidly changing technology may reshape everyday life. The conversation is informative, accessible and filled with real-world examples that help listeners understand where AI stands today — and where it may be heading tomorrow.From nutrition and fitness to AI and healthcare innovation, this episode of Late Night Health is packed with insights, energy and ideas that could change the way you think about your health and your future.Check AINgens out at:https://aingens.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/late-night-health-radio--2804369/support.

Small business owners often overlook the massive financial advantages of workplace retirement plans, assuming they are only for corporate giants. Lee Colvin, an Edward Jones

The Ultimate Guide for Americans Moving to Spain: Visas, Taxes, and Cross-Border Financial Planning By AIO Financial — Fee-Only Fiduciary Financial Planners Spain has quietly become one of the most popular destinations for Americans relocating abroad. The lifestyle is compelling — long lunches, walkable cities, world-class healthcare, sunshine, and a cost of living that, in many regions, runs 20–30% below comparable U.S. cities. But behind that lifestyle is a tax and regulatory system that can blindside Americans who move without proper planning. We work with U.S. expats every week at AIO Financial, and the same patterns keep showing up. People sell investments at exactly the wrong moment. They convert Roth IRAs and trigger Spanish tax bills they didn’t know existed. They open European brokerage accounts and accidentally buy PFICs. They miss the six-month window for the Beckham Law and lose six figures of potential tax savings. None of this is necessary. Almost every cross-border financial mistake we see is preventable with planning that starts twelve to eighteen months before the move — not after the boxes are unpacked in Valencia. This guide walks through what we believe every American family should understand before moving to Spain: the visa landscape after the Golden Visa was eliminated, how Spain actually taxes Americans (including the surprising treatment of Roth IRAs), what to do with your investments before you become a Spanish tax resident, and how to think about banking, currency, and cash transfers across borders. None of this is legal or tax advice for your specific situation, but it should give you a real working framework before you sit down with a cross-border specialist. Why Americans Are Moving to Spain Right Now The reasons people give us are remarkably consistent. They want better work-life balance. They want their kids to grow up bilingual. They’ve watched U.S. healthcare costs spiral and want a system that just works. They’re approaching retirement and the math on living in coastal Spain versus coastal Florida is hard to argue with. A few are motivated by political concerns; many simply want to live somewhere that feels less hurried. What makes Spain particularly attractive compared to other European destinations is the combination of a well-functioning Digital Nomad Visa, a meaningful (if imperfect) tax treaty with the United States, and a cost-of-living advantage that still holds up despite recent inflation. A single person can live comfortably in mid-sized Spanish cities like Valencia, Granada, or Málaga on roughly €1,600–€1,900 per month. Madrid and Barcelona cost more, but still less than San Francisco, Boston, or Seattle. The catch — and this is the part most relocation guides skip — is that Spain has a wealth tax, taxes worldwide income for residents, does not respect the U.S. tax-free status of Roth IRAs, and uses a fiscal-year structure that can leave new arrivals exposed to a full calendar year of Spanish taxation if they cross the 183-day threshold without realizing it. Done well, moving to Spain can be one of the best financial and lifestyle decisions a family makes. Done poorly, it can be a multi-year tax mess. Visa Pathways: What’s Available in 2026 Before any tax planning matters, you need legal residency. Spain offers several pathways for non-EU citizens, and the right one depends on whether you’re working, retired, or have substantial passive income. The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) The Digital Nomad Visa, introduced under Spain’s 2023 Startup Act, has become the most popular route for working-age Americans. It allows non-EU remote workers — both employees of foreign companies and self-employed freelancers — to live legally in Spain while working for non-Spanish employers or clients. As of 2026, the income threshold is set at 200% of Spain’s Minimum Interprofessional Salary, which works out to approximately €2,850 per month, or roughly €34,200 per year. Most Spanish consulates recommend showing at least €3,000 monthly to account for currency fluctuations. If you’re applying with family, the income requirement increases. You’ll need to demonstrate an additional 75% of the SMI (about €1,035 per month) for your first dependent — typically a spouse — and 25% for each additional family member. A family of four moving together generally needs to show somewhere around €4,400 per month in qualifying income. The DNV initially issues a residence authorization valid for up to three years if applied for from within Spain, or a one-year visa if applied for through a Spanish consulate abroad. It can be renewed for additional periods, allowing total stays of up to five years, after which permanent residency becomes available. Citizenship is generally available after ten years of legal residency for U.S. nationals (two years for citizens of Latin American countries, the Philippines, Andorra, and a handful of others). Other key requirements include having worked with your current employer or clients for at least three months before applying, holding either a relevant university degree or three years of professional experience in your field, working for a company that has been in operation for at least one year, and earning no more than 20% of your income from Spanish sources. The application process typically takes four to five months. One important wrinkle for Americans: the U.S.–Spain Totalization Agreement does not currently cover remote work in the way that some other bilateral agreements do, so the U.S. Social Security Administration rarely issues Certificates of Coverage for DNV applicants. Most U.S. W-2 employees need to either get their employer to set up a Spanish “shadow payroll” arrangement, switch to 1099 contractor status and register as an autónomo (self-employed) in Spain, or accept that they’ll be paying into the Spanish social security system. This is a frequent friction point and is best resolved before the move, not after. The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) The Non-Lucrative Visa is the traditional retiree route — and increasingly used by Americans of any age with sufficient passive income. It explicitly does not permit working in Spain or remotely for any employer, which is its main limitation. As of 2026, applicants need to show approximately €2,400 per month (around €28,800 per year) in passive income or savings, with additional financial requirements for dependents. For genuinely retired Americans drawing Social Security, pension income, or living off investment portfolios, this is often the cleanest path. It comes with one substantial caveat that we’ll return to in the tax section: NLV holders are not eligible for the Beckham Law, so they pay full progressive Spanish tax rates on worldwide income from day one. The Golden Visa Is Gone If you’ve been planning around Spain’s Golden Visa — the residency-by-investment program that previously offered residency in exchange for a €500,000 real estate investment — that program ended in April 2025 as part of housing market reforms. New applications are no longer accepted. Existing Golden Visa holders retain their residency, but anyone considering this route now needs to look at alternative visas, or alternative countries (Portugal and Greece still operate similar programs, though Portugal’s no longer accepts real estate). The Highly Qualified Professional Visa For Americans being recruited by Spanish companies for skilled positions, the Highly Qualified Professional (HQP) Visa provides a path tied to a specific job offer. It’s typically valid for two years and renewable, and it qualifies the holder for the Beckham Law tax regime. This is less common for traditional relocation but matters for executives and engineers being hired into Spanish operations. Choosing Among Them In practice, most Americans we work with end up on either the DNV (if working remotely) or the NLV (if retired or financially independent). The choice has significant tax implications down the line, particularly around eligibility for the Beckham Law, which we’ll cover next. The Spanish Tax System: What Americans Actually Pay This is where most pre-move planning gets serious. Spain taxes its tax residents on worldwide income — meaning your U.S. dividends, your rental income from a property in Texas, your capital gains from selling Apple stock, all of it can be subject to Spanish tax. The U.S.–Spain tax treaty and the Foreign Tax Credit prevent most cases of literal double taxation, but the interaction between the two systems creates real planning challenges. When You Become a Tax Resident Spain considers you a tax resident if any one of three things is true: you spend more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year, your “center of economic interests” is in Spain (meaning your primary income or main assets are there), or your spouse and minor children habitually live in Spain (a rebuttable presumption). The 183-day rule is the most common trigger, and importantly, sporadic absences count toward the total unless you can prove tax residency in another country. This matters because Spanish tax residency is binary and applies to the full calendar year. If you arrive in Spain on July 1 and stay through year-end, you’ve spent 184 days there and you’re a tax resident for the entire year — including January through June, when you were still living in the U.S. Smart timing of the move can save substantial tax. We often recommend arriving after July 2 in a given year, which keeps you under the 183-day threshold for that year and pushes Spanish tax residency to year two. Income Tax Brackets Spanish income tax (IRPF) is progressive and combines a national portion with a regional portion that varies by autonomous community. For 2026, the combined general rates run roughly: Up to €12,450: about 19% €12,451 to €20,200: about 24% €20,201 to €35,200: about 30% €35,201 to €60,000: about 37% €60,001 to €300,000: about 45% Over €300,000: about 47% Investment income — dividends, interest, capital gains, and rental income from investments — is taxed on a separate “savings” schedule: Up to €6,000: 19% €6,001 to €50,000: 21% €50,001 to €200,000: 23% €200,001 to €300,000: 27% Over €300,000: 30% For most American expats earning between €40,000 and €80,000 per year, the effective Spanish tax rate is about 25–33%, which is comparable to or slightly lower than combined U.S. federal and state taxes for the same income. The pain points aren’t usually the standard rates — they’re the wealth tax, the lack of Roth recognition, and Modelo 720 reporting. The Beckham Law: A Major Opportunity Spain’s “Beckham Law” — named for the soccer player who was its early high-profile beneficiary — allows qualifying newcomers to be taxed as non-residents for up to six years, despite physically living in Spain. Under this regime, you pay a flat 24% on Spanish-source employment income up to €600,000 per year (47% on amounts above that), and your foreign income is generally exempt from Spanish taxation. For an American earning €100,000 per year on a Digital Nomad Visa with an employment contract, the Beckham Law saves roughly €10,000 annually compared to standard progressive rates — and the savings grow rapidly at higher income levels. For someone earning €250,000, the savings can exceed €40,000 per year. The Beckham Law has strict requirements. You generally must not have been a Spanish tax resident in the previous five years, you must move to Spain because of an employment contract or to take on a directorship, and — critically — you must elect into the regime within six months of registering with Spanish Social Security. Miss that six-month window and you cannot opt in later. We’ve seen this mistake destroy tens of thousands of euros of potential tax savings. The regime is available to W-2 employees and DNV holders with employment contracts. It is not available to self-employed autónomos in most circumstances, nor to Non-Lucrative Visa holders. This is why your visa choice has such significant tax implications. The Wealth Tax This is the tax that most surprises Americans. Spain’s wealth tax (Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio) is an annual levy on net worth as of December 31 each year. Spanish tax residents pay on their worldwide assets; non-residents only pay on Spanish-located assets. The structure includes a national tax-free allowance of €700,000 per person (which means €1.4 million for a married couple holding assets jointly), plus an additional €300,000 exemption for your primary residence in Spain. Above those thresholds, rates run progressively from 0.2% to 3.5%, depending on total assets and the autonomous community where you reside. Regional variation matters enormously here. Madrid and Andalucía effectively eliminate the wealth tax through 100% regional bonifications, though the national-level Solidarity Tax on Large Fortunes still applies above €3 million in those regions. Catalonia, by contrast, applies the tax in full. If wealth tax exposure is a serious concern for your situation, the autonomous community you choose to live in becomes a meaningful planning variable. There’s also a Solidarity Tax on Large Fortunes, introduced in 2023, that applies to net wealth above €3 million and adds an additional 1.7% to 3.5% on assets above that threshold. It coordinates with regional wealth tax relief to provide a national floor, so even residents of Madrid pay it on assets above €3 million. Roth IRAs in Spain: A Critical Issue Here is one of the most important things for Americans to understand before moving: Spain does not respect the tax-free status of Roth IRAs. Under U.S. law, qualified Roth IRA distributions are entirely tax-free, since contributions were made with after-tax dollars. Spain doesn’t see it that way. The Spanish tax authority (Hacienda) classifies Roth IRA distributions as investment income — specifically, as income from movable capital — and taxes them at savings rates. The taxable portion is generally the gain (the increase in value over your contributions), not the entire distribution, but this still represents a substantial loss of the Roth’s core benefit. A 2022 binding consultation (V1291-22) clarified this treatment, and the same ruling generally requires Roth IRAs to be reported on Modelo 720 and included in wealth tax calculations. The strategic implications are significant. If you have a large Roth IRA and you’re moving to Spain, you may want to consider taking distributions before establishing Spanish tax residency, while distributions are still tax-free in both countries. After becoming a tax resident, every Roth IRA distribution will likely face Spanish tax on the embedded gains. The same applies to any Roth conversions you might be considering — generally you want these completed before the move, not after. Traditional 401(k) and IRA distributions are treated more conventionally as pension or general income in Spain, and they’re taxable in both countries with foreign tax credits relieving most of the double taxation. The U.S.–Spain treaty was updated by a protocol that entered into force in November 2019, and it improves the treatment of cross-border pensions in several ways, though it does not solve the Roth issue. Capital Gains and Investment Income For Spanish tax residents, capital gains on the sale of most U.S. securities (like stocks held in a brokerage account) are taxable in Spain at savings rates of 19% to 30%. Under the U.S.–Spain treaty, gains on the sale of shares are generally taxed only in the country of residence, with limited exceptions for real estate and substantial shareholdings, so the planning here is relatively clean: if you sell while a U.S. resident, you owe U.S. tax; if you sell while a Spanish resident, you owe Spanish tax. This creates a major pre-move planning opportunity. If you have substantial unrealized gains in your taxable investment accounts, the year before your move is a powerful window. You can harvest gains at U.S. long-term capital gains rates — which top out at 23.8% including the Net Investment Income Tax — rather than at Spanish savings tax rates that run as high as 30% above €300,000 in gains. For a portfolio with $500,000 in unrealized long-term gains, the difference can be tens of thousands of dollars. This is one of the most common planning moves we recommend for clients moving to Spain with appreciated portfolios. The strategy isn’t always to harvest. If you’re moving to a non-Beckham regime and your overall income will push you into Spain’s higher capital gains brackets later, harvesting now may be valuable. If you have low income in Spain and modest gains, the Spanish tax may actually be lower than your U.S. rate. The right answer depends on your specific numbers — which is exactly the kind of cross-border modeling a fee-only planner is well-positioned to do without bias. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and Foreign Tax Credit U.S. citizens are taxed on worldwide income regardless of where they live, so you’ll continue filing U.S. returns from Spain. Two main mechanisms prevent literal double taxation. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), claimed on Form 2555, allows you to exclude up to $130,000 of foreign earned income from U.S. taxation for the 2025 tax year (the limit adjusts for inflation each year). Qualifying requires either the bona fide residence test or the physical presence test (330 full days outside the U.S. in any 12-month period). Importantly, the FEIE only covers earned income — wages and self-employment income — not investment income. The Foreign Tax Credit (FTC), claimed on Form 1116, gives you a dollar-for-dollar credit against U.S. taxes for income taxes paid to Spain. Because Spanish rates often exceed U.S. rates at higher income levels, most expats earning above the FEIE threshold find the FTC works better. Excess credits can be carried back one year and forward ten years. The choice between FEIE and FTC has secondary effects worth understanding. The FEIE can disqualify you from making Roth IRA contributions if it pushes your taxable U.S. income low enough. The FTC preserves earned income for IRA contribution purposes. For families with college-age children, the FEIE can also affect the calculation of education credits. Reporting Obligations: Modelo 720 and FBAR Spanish tax residents must file Modelo 720 each year, declaring foreign accounts, securities, and real estate that exceed €50,000 in any of three categories. The form is informational, not a tax return, but penalties for non-filing have historically been severe (though the European Court of Justice forced Spain to substantially soften them in 2022). The filing window is January 1 through March 31 each year for the prior year’s data. On the U.S. side, you’ll continue to file: FBAR (FinCEN Form 114): required when total foreign accounts exceed $10,000 at any point during the year. Form 8938 (FATCA): required when foreign financial assets exceed $200,000 at year-end or $300,000 at any point during the year for single filers living abroad ($400,000/$600,000 for married filing jointly). Form 8621: required for any PFIC holdings — more on this below. Form 8833: to disclose treaty positions. The reporting load is real but manageable with the right preparer. What gets people in trouble isn’t usually the difficulty of any single form — it’s not knowing the forms exist. Investments: What to Do Before You Become a Spanish Tax Resident This is the single most consequential financial planning area for Americans moving to Spain, and the area where pre-move action matters most. Once you’re a Spanish tax resident, your options narrow considerably. The window before that happens is when most of the high-leverage decisions get made. The Brokerage Account Problem A wave of U.S. brokerage firms — including Vanguard, Fidelity, Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, Edward Jones, Ameriprise, TIAA, USAA, and others — have been restricting or closing accounts of U.S. citizens who update their address to a foreign country. The pace accelerated sharply in 2024 and 2025 as firms tightened compliance with anti-money-laundering and FATCA-related requirements. Some firms close accounts outright; others restrict trading to liquidating positions only; some allow continued holdings but block new purchases. The practical implications for someone planning to move to Spain are: Don’t update your address until you have a plan. Once your firm sees a Spanish address, you may have 30 to 60 days to make decisions under significant time pressure. Identify expat-friendly custodians in advance. Charles Schwab International and Interactive Brokers continue to serve U.S. expats in Spain with relatively few restrictions, and a handful of independent advisory firms maintain relationships with custodians who will hold accounts for U.S. citizens abroad — typically when those accounts are managed by the advisory firm rather than self-directed. Transfer assets in-kind, don’t liquidate. If you’re forced to move accounts, transferring securities directly between custodians avoids creating a tax event. Liquidating into cash can trigger massive unintended capital gains. We spend considerable time at AIO Financial helping clients structure their accounts to remain compliant and accessible from abroad. The best time to do this work is before the move. Why Local European Brokerages Are a Trap for Americans The natural instinct, once you’ve moved to Spain, is to open a Spanish or European brokerage account and invest locally. For non-Americans, this is fine. For U.S. citizens, it’s a tax catastrophe — because of the Passive Foreign Investment Company (PFIC) rules. Under U.S. tax law, virtually any non-U.S. pooled investment vehicle — every European mutual fund, every UCITS ETF, every European-domiciled index fund — is classified as a PFIC. The IRS designed PFIC rules to discourage Americans from investing in foreign funds that the IRS cannot easily audit, and the punishment is severe: PFICs are taxed at the highest ordinary income rates (currently up to 37%) on gains, with interest charges layered on top, and require an annual Form 8621 filing that can take a tax preparer several hours per fund to complete. There’s a Qualified Electing Fund (QEF) election that can avoid the worst of these rules, but it requires the foreign fund to provide an annual PFIC statement with very specific information. Almost no European fund managers produce these for retail investors, so QEF elections are theoretically available but practically impossible. The bottom line is straightforward: as a U.S. citizen living in Spain, you generally need to invest through a U.S. brokerage in U.S.-domiciled funds and ETFs. Buying European funds — even excellent, low-cost European index funds — turns a clean financial picture into a tax disaster. There’s a complicating wrinkle: EU MiFID II regulations restrict EU-resident investors from buying many U.S.-domiciled ETFs, because U.S. fund providers haven’t produced the EU-required Key Information Documents. Most U.S. expats in Europe end up holding individual stocks, ETFs purchased through expat-friendly U.S. brokerages, and pre-existing fund positions. Some use options strategies or structured workarounds. Working with a cross-border advisor who understands which products remain accessible matters here. Pre-Move Investment Moves to Consider Twelve to eighteen months before your move, the following are typically worth analyzing: Harvesting long-term capital gains. As discussed above, U.S. long-term gains rates often beat Spanish savings rates, and once you’re a Spanish resident, every sale potentially triggers Spanish tax. Strategically selling and rebuying appreciated positions in your final U.S. year can lock in U.S. tax treatment. Roth conversions. If you have meaningful traditional IRA balances and you’re not in a high U.S. tax bracket, completing Roth conversions before the move means the conversion is taxed at U.S. rates only. After the move, conversions get more complicated (and the resulting Roth doesn’t get U.S.-style tax-free treatment in Spain anyway). Roth distributions. For older clients with substantial Roth balances who plan to draw on them in retirement, taking distributions before becoming a Spanish tax resident captures the full Roth benefit. Once in Spain, the gain portion of every distribution is taxable. HSA decisions. Health Savings Accounts are not recognized by Spain. The income inside them is potentially taxable annually for Spanish tax residents. Some clients draw down HSAs before the move; others maintain them with the understanding that ongoing reporting and tax will apply. 529 plans. Similar issues. 529 plans aren’t recognized as tax-advantaged in Spain, and depending on the structure, may create ongoing Spanish tax liability. Drawing down 529s for U.S. educational use before the move, or restructuring them, is often part of the plan. Real estate decisions. Selling a U.S. primary residence before the move keeps the Section 121 exclusion ($250,000 single / $500,000 married) cleanly available under U.S. rules. Selling after the move adds Spanish tax considerations and can complicate the exclusion. Renting out the U.S. home while abroad creates ongoing reporting in both countries but can be the right answer for those who plan to return. Trust and estate review. U.S. revocable living trusts are not recognized as transparent in Spain — Spanish tax authorities may treat them as opaque foreign entities, which can create unexpected tax consequences. Estate plans drafted under U.S. assumptions often need substantial revision before a move. Should You Keep Investments in the U.S. or Move Them Abroad? For almost every American citizen moving to Spain, the answer is: keep your investments in the U.S. The combination of PFIC rules, EU MiFID II restrictions on U.S. ETFs, and the comparatively higher costs and lower transparency of European retail investing means that a U.S.-domiciled portfolio held at an expat-friendly U.S. brokerage is almost always the right structure. The exception is if you renounce U.S. citizenship — but that’s a separate, much larger conversation. What changes is what you hold and how you manage it. U.S.-domiciled ETFs and individual stocks remain the foundation. You may need to adjust around currency exposure (more on this below), tax-efficiency rules that differ between the two countries, and the loss of access to certain U.S. mutual funds that don’t allow non-resident purchases. Asset location — what you hold in Roth versus traditional versus taxable accounts — also looks different through a cross-border lens. Currency Considerations One question we get often: should you convert to euros once you move? The honest answer is “it depends on your time horizon and liabilities.” Most retirees and long-term residents in Spain end up with euro-denominated living expenses but dollar-denominated investments. Over time, this creates currency exposure: a 10% drop in the dollar means your investment portfolio buys 10% less in Spain. There are a few approaches we use with clients: Hold a euro cash reserve sufficient to cover 1–2 years of living expenses. This protects against short-term currency movements forcing investment sales at bad prices. Don’t try to time currency markets. Strategic currency hedging at the portfolio level is rarely worth the cost for individual investors. For larger portfolios, consider modest direct euro exposure through ETFs that hold European equities or international developed-market funds. Don’t overdo it — global diversification is good; concentrated currency bets are not. Moving Cash: How to Actually Get Money to Spain Getting funds across the Atlantic has gotten easier in recent years but still has friction points worth understanding. Wire Transfers vs. Money Service Providers Traditional bank wires from a U.S. bank to a Spanish bank work but are typically expensive — fees commonly run $25–$50 per outbound wire from the U.S. side, plus a poor exchange rate that often costs another 1–3% of the amount transferred. For a $100,000 transfer, that’s potentially $3,000+ in spread costs. Specialized providers like Wise (formerly TransferWise), OFX, and Revolut typically offer mid-market exchange rates with much lower fees, often under 0.5% all-in. For larger transfers, a foreign exchange broker can negotiate even better rates, sometimes with a forward contract that locks in the exchange rate for a specific future date — useful when you’re closing on a Spanish property and want to know exactly how many dollars the euro purchase price will cost. For most cross-Atlantic transfers under $250,000, Wise is the simplest and lowest-cost option. Above that, dedicated FX brokers start to make sense. Spanish Bank Accounts You’ll need a Spanish bank account for daily living. The traditional banks (CaixaBank, BBVA, Santander) all offer non-resident accounts you can open before establishing residency, though increasingly they want to see your NIE (Spanish foreigner identification number) or your visa. Newer digital banks like N26 and Revolut are popular with expats for their lower fees and English-language interfaces, though some Spanish landlords and employers still prefer traditional banks. A common approach: open a basic non-resident account at a major Spanish bank for housing transactions and government payments, plus a Wise multicurrency account for receiving USD income and converting to EUR efficiently. Reporting Large Transfers Both U.S. and Spanish authorities track large cross-border transfers. On the U.S. side, transfers over $10,000 are reported automatically by your bank to FinCEN. On the Spanish side, banks report incoming international transfers to the Banco de España and tax authorities. None of this is illegal or problematic — but if you’re moving $400,000 to buy a house in Valencia, expect both sides to know, and don’t structure transfers in ways that look like you’re trying to avoid reporting (which is itself a U.S. federal crime). Cash Buffer for the First Year We typically recommend clients have at least six months — preferably twelve months — of Spanish living expenses available in liquid form before the move, in addition to their long-term investment portfolio. The first year in Spain comes with surprise costs: temporary housing, deposits, immigration fees, legal and tax advisor fees, furniture, car purchases, healthcare deposits. Having a cash buffer means none of this requires selling investments at a bad time or running up debt at unfavorable rates. Healthcare, Insurance, and Social Security Spain has one of the better healthcare systems in the developed world, but accessing it as a new arrival requires planning. Most visa categories require private health insurance during the application process and typically through the first year of residency. Standard policies from companies like Adeslas, Sanitas, and Asisa run €60–€150 per month per person depending on age and coverage level. After establishing residency and (for those working in Spain) contributing to Spanish Social Security, you become eligible for the public system, which is generally excellent. For Americans on Medicare, Medicare does not cover care received in Spain. Some retirees maintain Medicare and pay the Part B premiums in case they return to the U.S.; others let it lapse. Reactivation comes with late-enrollment penalties, so this decision deserves careful thought before it’s made. U.S. Social Security retirement benefits continue to be paid to U.S. citizens living in Spain, and the U.S.–Spain Totalization Agreement helps prevent dual social security taxation for many work situations. Working in Spain also generates Spanish social security credits that may eventually qualify you for Spanish retirement benefits, though qualification typically requires fifteen or more years of contributions. Estate Planning Across Borders This is the area most often deferred — and most often regretted. U.S. estate plans drafted assuming U.S. residence rarely work cleanly in Spain. Spain has its own inheritance and gift tax (Impuesto sobre Sucesiones y Donaciones) that applies to Spanish residents and to inheritances of Spanish-located assets. National rates run from 7.65% to 34%, with multipliers based on the relationship between the deceased and the beneficiary. Autonomous communities have wide latitude to set their own rates and bonifications, so effective rates vary enormously: in Madrid, Andalucía, and several other regions, close family members pay almost nothing; in others, rates approach the national maximum. Spanish forced heirship rules also differ from U.S. rules. Spain reserves a legitimate portion of an estate for certain heirs (typically children), which can override testamentary wishes expressed in a U.S. will. EU Regulation 650/2012 allows you to elect U.S. (or your nationality’s) law to govern your succession, but this election generally must be made explicitly in your will and is not automatic. Revocable living trusts, the workhorse of U.S. estate planning, are not transparent in Spain. The Spanish tax authority may treat the trust as a separate opaque entity, which can create unexpected income tax during life and complicate inheritance treatment at death. Many cross-border families need to revise or replace their trust structure before the move. Practical recommendations: consult a Spanish abogado experienced in cross-border estate planning before the move. Have a Spanish will (separate from your U.S. will) covering Spanish-located assets. Make explicit choice-of-law elections under EU Regulation 650/2012. Review beneficiary designations on all U.S. accounts to ensure they still make sense. Lifestyle Costs: What Spain Actually Costs in 2026 A rough framework for Spanish living costs in 2026, by region: Mid-sized cities (Valencia, Granada, Málaga, Seville, Zaragoza): A comfortable lifestyle for a single person runs €1,800–€2,500 per month including rent for a one-bedroom in a desirable neighborhood. A couple typically lives well on €3,000–€4,500 per month. Madrid and Barcelona: Add 30–50% to the above. A nice one-bedroom in central Madrid runs €1,400–€2,000 per month; in Barcelona, €1,500–€2,200. Total monthly costs for a single person comfortably range €2,800–€4,000. Coastal premium areas (Marbella, Ibiza, parts of Mallorca): Closer to U.S. coastal city costs, especially in summer months. Expect €4,000+ monthly for comfortable single living, often €6,000+ for couples. Rural and smaller towns: Substantially lower. Many Americans report living comfortably in Spanish villages or small cities for €1,500–€2,000 monthly per person, including rent. These figures cover housing, food, utilities, transport, basic entertainment, and private health insurance. They don’t include big-ticket items like a car purchase, international travel, or major medical events. A Practical Pre-Move Timeline For a hypothetical move twelve to eighteen months in the future, here’s the timeline we generally recommend: T-18 to T-12 months: Strategic planning. Engage a U.S.-side cross-border financial planner and a Spanish abogado/tax specialist. Decide on visa pathway. Begin tax-projection modeling. Identify which U.S. accounts will move and which custodians can serve you abroad. Begin Spanish language study if you haven’t already. T-12 to T-9 months: Big financial moves. If indicated, complete Roth conversions. Begin strategic gain harvesting in taxable accounts. Review 529 and HSA balances for pre-move decisions. Decide on U.S. real estate (sell, rent, or hold). Update estate documents. T-9 to T-6 months: Visa application. Gather documents, get FBI background check apostilled, prepare income documentation, file the visa application. (Application processing typically takes 4–5 months.) T-6 to T-3 months: Logistics. Arrange international moving company. Begin planning what to ship versus sell versus store. Open expat-friendly U.S. brokerage account if needed. Open Spanish non-resident bank account if possible. Identify Spanish housing for the first 3–6 months. T-3 months to move date: Execution. Final tax planning moves. Cancel U.S. utilities, services, insurance. Notify employer if working remotely. Confirm all Spanish appointments (NIE, padrón, visa pickup). Time the actual move date for tax efficiency — generally after July 2 in any given calendar year if circumstances permit. T-0 to T+6 months in Spain: Settling in. Register with local padrón. Apply for Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero (TIE). Set up Spanish utilities, internet, healthcare. Critically: file Beckham Law election within 6 months of Social Security registration if eligible. Begin Spanish tax registration with AEAT. T+12 months: First Spanish tax return. File first IRPF return for the partial year (if applicable). Review and adjust ongoing tax strategy based on actual income realized. How AIO Financial Works With Cross-Border Clients At AIO Financial, our work with Americans moving to Spain is fundamentally about reducing the cost of bad surprises. We are a fee-only fiduciary firm — meaning we receive no commissions, no kickbacks, no revenue from any product we recommend. Our clients pay us directly, and we work only for them. That structure matters especially for international moves, where the financial services industry’s commission-based incentives often push expats into expensive insurance products and PFIC-laden offshore structures that primarily benefit the salesperson. Our typical engagement with a Spain-bound client involves an initial deep planning phase eight to twelve months before the move, then transition support during the move itself, then ongoing investment management and annual planning review once settled. We coordinate with Spanish tax counsel and U.S. expat tax preparers — we don’t replace them, but we make sure all the pieces fit together. We help clients maintain compliant U.S. brokerage relationships from abroad through our institutional arrangements. We don’t claim to be everything. We’re not Spanish lawyers or accountants. We don’t handle Spanish tax filings ourselves. Spain’s gestores and Spanish tax advisors handle that side of the picture. Our role is the U.S.-side planning and the cross-border coordination — making sure the two systems work together rather than against each other for our clients. The Bottom Line Moving to Spain can be one of the best financial and lifestyle decisions an American family makes. It can also be one of the most expensive, depending on how the planning goes. The difference is rarely about how much money you have — it’s about how much advance planning you do. The tax rates aren’t usually the killer. Spain isn’t dramatically more expensive than the U.S. on income tax for most middle-income families. What costs people money is the avoidable mistakes: missing the Beckham Law deadline, holding the wrong type of investments, triggering U.S. capital gains in Spain when they could have been harvested at home, getting blindsided by Modelo 720 reporting, ending up in a high-wealth-tax region without realizing it. Almost all of these are preventable. The work to prevent them mostly happens twelve to eighteen months before the plane takes off, not after. If you’re seriously considering Spain, the time to start the financial planning conversation is now. AIO Financial is a fee-only fiduciary financial planning firm registered with the SEC, headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, and serving clients virtually across the United States and abroad. We specialize in expat financial planning, sustainable and impact investing, retirement planning, and tax-aware investment management. We earn no commissions, sell no products, and are compensated only by our clients. To discuss your situation, visit aiofinancial.com or contact us at 520-325-0769. This guide is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Tax laws and visa rules change frequently. The figures, thresholds, and rates cited reflect our understanding as of early 2026 and are subject to change. Please consult qualified U.S. and Spanish professionals about your specific situation before making cross-border financial or relocation decisions.

Walter Sterling bypasses official spokespeople to get the real scoop on the Iran ceasefire from Marine veteran and rare Manhattan ham radio operator, Edward Jones. They unpack the complex geopolitics of the Middle East, discussing the strategic rebranding of "Epic Fury" to "Operation Freedom" to stall War Powers Act maneuvers, the critical importance of keeping international shipping lanes open, and how back-channel diplomacy is preventing further escalation. Tune in for a blunt critique of the mainstream media's annoying demand for conflict "end dates," a breakdown of the messages being sent to China, and a surprising detour into the exclusive, three-person world of New York City ham operators. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most advisors say they want to exit. What they actually want is to stop doing the parts they hate. Scott Danner has had this conversation more times than he can count. The advisor says they want to sell. Then the deal falls apart. Not because the numbers were wrong but because nobody asked the right question at the start. Scott is the Executive Vice President and Head of Legacy at Steward Partners. He founded Freedom Street Partners in 2016, built it to nearly $3.5 billion in AUM, and sold it to Steward Partners in late 2023. He started at Edward Jones with zero clients and cold called his way into the industry. That background gives him a credibility in this conversation that most people talking about M&A simply do not have. In this episode, Frank and Scott break down what is actually happening inside succession deals when they collapse, why M&A is the mechanism quietly solving the industry's age and talent problem and how the sell, stay and grow model gives advisors a way to monetize without disappearing. Scott also shares how Freedom Street Partners built a career ladder that next generation advisors could actually follow, what independence with infrastructure means at Steward Partners and why he believes advisors who dismiss a W2 model immediately are thinking too small.   Questions answered in this episode include: Why do sell and exit deals keep failing? What does M&A actually do for the long-term health of the financial advisory industry? What is the sell, stay and grow model and how does it work? How do you build a career ladder that next generation advisors will actually believe in? What does independence with infrastructure mean at Steward Partners? How can an advisor keep their brand and their clients while still monetizing their practice? Why should advisors think twice before ruling out a W2 model?   Chapters: 00:00 Intro and Scott Danner Background 02:53 Building From Scratch at Edward Jones 07:19 Why M&A is Saving the Industry 09:29 The Sell Stay and Grow Model 13:55 Building a Ladder for Next Gen Advisors 17:22 Independence With Infrastructure 26:11 Rethinking the W2 Model   Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Elite Wealth Management Insights Report https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/insight-report Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

How will artificial intelligence transform the most human parts of wealth management? In this episode, we explore where technology meets empathy, and what the future looks like for financial professionals and their clients as AI adoption accelerates across the industry. Our guest, Carrie Nelson, is the founder of Atlas Point and a veteran leader with experience at Ernst & Young, Experian, and Edward Jones. Carrie shares her journey from big-firm consulting to building a platform that empowers advisors to navigate a rapidly changing landscape, with a focus on the coming great wealth transfer and the next generation of clients. Together, we discuss why human connection is still essential—even as AI creates new efficiencies—and how Atlas Point blends behavioral science and smart tools to bridge the gap. For anyone interested in the future of finance, entrepreneurship, or the emotional side of money, this is a must-listen episode filled with real-world stories and actionable insights.   To get the latest from Carrie Nelson, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-nelson-5377864/ https://www.theatlaspoint.com/   Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Do Good While Doing Well Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

Tune in to the eccentric and unpredictable world of late-night talk radio with Walter Sterling on "The Other Side of Midnight". This episode delivers a wild mix of topics, starting with military veteran and intelligence expert Edward Jones unpacking Secret Service security blunders, the White House Correspondents' Dinner "nerd prom," and international affairs. Next, psychologist Dr. Deborah Mandel joins to debate Walter's controversial theories on why half of all marriages fail, tackling everything from Walter's belief that husbands have no say in their own homes to the disastrous effects of pre-wedding strippers. Cap it off with a gritty true-crime tale from retired NYPD detective Vic Ferrari about a juvenile robbery with a tragic ending, and Walter's candid, humorous reflections on parenting his 21-year-old daughter during "lesbian acceptance week". If you want late-night complaining and mansplaining, your dial is set to the perfect place. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join host Walter Sterling as he sits down with Marine Corps combat veteran and intelligence expert Edward Jones to unpack the shocking, yet surprisingly absurd, security breach at the recent Washington Correspondents' Dinner. They dissect how an armed would-be assassin casually commuted via an Amtrak train to the event, exploiting a shockingly lax ticketing system where unverified JPEG images were simply swapped for nameless paper tickets. Amidst the serious security analysis, Sterling and Jones share hilarious behind-the-scenes observations from the chaos—including elite guests refusing to abandon their free salads and a Ukrainian ambassador famously swiping a bottle of champagne on her way out. To wrap up, Jones delivers a rapid-fire intelligence update on the current geopolitical standstill in Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bryan Barrett talks with Edward Jones financial advisor Lee Colvin about the two questions you should ask before buying a home.

Join host Walter Sterling as he sits down with security and international affairs expert Edward Jones to break down the week's most intense domestic and global events. In this episode, Edward provides a gripping professional assessment of the shocking shooting attempt by a "copycat" at a Washington D.C. press dinner. He analyzes the Secret Service's 14-second "elegant security ballet" that successfully evacuated the President, Melania, and JD Vance, including the quick actions of agents jumping over tables to provide cover. The conversation then pivots to the Middle East, unpacking the current political confusion within Iran's IRGC, their new foreign minister's scramble to Moscow regarding uranium, and Trump's bold negotiating tactics. It's a high-stakes episode translating complex security situations into plain English.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of The Other Side of Midnight, host Walter Sterling and expert Edward Jones break down the chaotic leadership void currently plaguing Iran. Did this show actually scoop the New York Times? Walter certainly thinks so. Edward provides an inside look into the recent assassinations of top Iranian diplomatic officials, the mounting paranoia and infiltration fears within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and how a thinned-out regime is struggling to communicate with the outside world. Plus, they touch on Trump's extended ceasefire and the reality of Hezbollah's missing paychecks. Tune in for a fast-paced geopolitical update on a regime just trying to survive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buckle up for a mind-bending journey on The Other Side of Midnight. Walter Sterling sits down with Dave Scott to discuss the latest in UFO disclosure, metallic flying orbs buzzing airports, and missing scientists mysteriously afflicted with Havana Syndrome. We then plunge into the "Mud Flood" and the lost empire of Tartaria, exploring the theory that massive 1800s insane asylums were built to silence people who remembered a world of free electricity and giant humans. Walter also exposes the naked reality of elite secret societies at the Bohemian Grove, shares ruthless career advice on why your resume is useless and why you have no friends at work, and unpacks Middle Eastern geopolitics with military savant Edward Jones. Plus, learn the Italian insult of the week (Mamaluke) and head south for a wild edition of "Florida Stories" featuring HOA butterfly outlaws, lethal hammocks, and un-closeable murder bars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, military expert Edward Jones breaks down the complex geopolitical realities of the Strait of Hormuz with host Walter Sterling. They explore the surprising strategic role of Larak, a tiny island acting as a mere channel marker for ships navigating the Gulf. Edward untangles the web of Iranian leadership, explaining how the extremist IRGC and its Quds Force are truly pulling the strings behind regional proxy groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. Finally, they dive into why Iran's grand ambitions for Middle Eastern dominance are rapidly crumbling due to US blockades, halted oil production, and a severe lack of funds, leaving the regime with perhaps only "two months" to survive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carlsbad's own Colten McKibben is officially headed to the next level.   In this episode of the All Sports Best Podcast, we sit down with the four-star linebacker out of Carlsbad High School to break down his commitment to UCLA and everything that went into the decision. Colten opens up about the recruiting process, what separated UCLA from the rest, and the moment he knew it was the right fit.   We also dive into his mindset heading into his senior season, the goals he's set for himself and his team, and why he's choosing to enroll early to get a head start at the next level.   This is a must-watch conversation with one of New Mexico's top athletes as he prepares to take the national stage.   Presented by Nick Walker of Edward Jones  

U.S. airline executives say higher fares due to the Iran war have not dampened demand for tickets yet—but analysts say that could change with a protracted conflict in the Middle East. Key Facts Looking at ticket sales for the six largest U.S. airlines, the average transaction grew by 2% (American Airlines) to 16% (Delta Air Lines) for the week ending March 8 compared to the previous week, according to new data from Consumer Edge, a provider of consumer spending data. Speaking Tuesday at a J.P. Morgan investor conference, executives of major U.S. airlines agreed travel demand remained robust enough to offset much of the huge spike in jet fuel prices caused by the war in Iran.  Several executives suggested travelers are locking in summer airfares now before rates climb further. Jet fuel, which typically accounts for one fifth to one quarter of airlines' operating expenses, was $3.93 a gallon Tuesday on the Argus U.S. Jet Fuel Index—up 57% since the U.S. and Israel began airstrikes on Iran 18 days ago.  How Robust Is Travel Demand? The strong demand airlines are seeing now may be short-lived, as some of this strength “may reflect consumers booking trips ahead of potential fare increases tied to rising jet fuel costs,” Jeff Windau, senior analyst at Edward Jones, wrote in a note to investors, adding “tax refunds are likely to provide a short-term boost to discretionary travel spending.” A protracted war could make Americans less willing to spend on higher airfares. “If oil prices remain elevated for an extended period, travel demand could soften as inflation further constrains consumers' disposable income,” Windau wrote. One big factor that could dampen travel demand would be a drop in the stock market. “As long as the stock market goes up, higher-income people will feel more confident in a way that lower income people won't, and that impacts their discretionary spending,” Michael Gunther, senior vice president of research and market intelligence at Consumer Edge, told Forbes. Could Premium Passengers See Bigger Fare Hikes? Instead of raising airfare prices across the board, airlines may decide to hike some fare classes, such as premium and business class, before others. Generally speaking, the legacy airlines—American, Delta and United—attract higher-income customers who are less price sensitive than those who favor budget airlines. At the J.P. Morgan conference Tuesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the upper arm of the K-shaped economy, representing the most affluent Americans, was still strong “and we serve the top end of that K, and probably the highest end of that K,” noting the wealthiest demographic “is, candidly, a bit immune to what goes on with geopolitical events.” But while U.S. airlines “would like to charge more, they know they can't just go out and start charging 20% more, 30% more,” Katy Nastro, spokesperson for the flight-deal company Going, told Forbes this month. “I don't think we can assume premium travelers are just going to eat up this additional cost and lie down and take it.”  Will Airlines Cut Back Their Schedules? For now, U.S. airlines are operating with their schedules mainly intact from before the war. But if the Middle East conflict continues, domestic carriers may begin to rein in capacity to offset their increased costs from jet fuel prices. Around the world, some carriers have already begun cutting flights. Scandinavia's SAS said it plans to nix roughly 1,000 flights in March and April, Air New Zealand announced it would reduce capacity by 5% through early May and Vietnam Airlines warned it soon may have to scrub flights from its schedule What We Don't Know How long the war will continue. “The duration of the Iran conflict will be a key factor for the travel industry,” wrote Windau to investors. “Airport delays associated with the partial government shutdown, ongoing headlines about geopolitical tensions, and rising costs all have the potential to weigh on consumer sentiment and discretionary travel plans.” Read the full story on Forbes: By Suzanne Rowan Kelleher https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2026/03/18/iran-war-airfares-climbing/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Annuities promise peace of mind—but often at a steep and poorly understood cost. Don and Tom break down when (rarely) annuities might make sense, why most—including fixed indexed annuities and QLACs—tilt heavily in favor of the insurance company, and how investors can replicate “guaranteed income” with a disciplined portfolio instead. They also take on a listener question about escaping high fees at Edward Jones (spoiler: yes, run) and dismantle a pitch for a Bitcoin-backed “bond alternative,” explaining why high yields usually signal high risk—and why crypto still fails the basic test of having a rational investment purpose.0:11 Questionable motives behind much of today's investing advice0:50 Why annuities appeal—turning savings into a “personal pension”2:09 The illusion of annuity “returns” vs. reality of payouts4:08 Where annuity decisions get complicated—and costly5:21 Why using IRA money for annuities often makes little sense5:50 QLACs explained—and the uncomfortable truth about dying early7:37 The only annuity worth considering: SPIA (and its trade-offs)8:38 QLAC math vs. simple investing—who really wins10:33 The hidden downsides: illiquidity, opacity, and insurer risk11:16 Where (and how) to actually shop for annuities safely14:05 Why indexed annuities dominate—and why that's a red flag15:42 The myth of “market returns without risk”16:45 Building your own income stream without annuities18:47 Listener: escaping high fees at Edward Jones20:09 Simple, low-cost portfolio solutions for a 30-year-old23:08 Listener: Bitcoin-backed “bond replacement” pitch25:11 Why high yields (11%+) scream risk, not safety27:06 The danger of replacing bonds with speculative assets28:59 Final blunt take: crypto as an investment “has no there there”Questions? Comments? Click!

In this episode of Poised for Exit, Stacey Bartelson, Financial Advisor at Edward Jones, discusses why business owners should start planning their exit from day one. She shares how many owners focus on growth but overlook the long-term strategy needed to successfully transition or sell their business.Stacey explains that enterprise value goes far beyond financials, highlighting the importance of building a strong team, creating systems, and ensuring the business can operate without the owner. She also discusses why a significant percentage of businesses never sell and how a lack of early planning can limit options and reduce overall value.This conversation explores the shift from working in the business to working on the business, along with the importance of continuity, succession planning, and aligning personal and financial goals with long-term exit outcomes. This episode highlights how strategy, structure, and long-term thinking all play a role in whether a business is actually prepared for a successful exit.  Connect with Stacey Bartelson hereLearn more about the Bartelson Blesener Wealth Group at Edward Jones hereLearn more about the Owners Edge Summit hereConnect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor

Most financial advice is built around a default life plan — and it quietly breaks down when you've opted out of that script. Cory Smith is a fee-only financial life planner and founder of Discretionary Inc. in Reno, Nevada, where he works exclusively with childfree individuals, couples, and business owners who want their finances to support the life they actually want — not the one they were expected to want.In this episode, we get into his core concept of discretion: the freedom to determine your own best course of action. We talk about what changes in planning when there are no assumed heirs, why longevity and support structures deserve more attention in this space, and how he works backward from a client's vision to build a financial framework around it.Cory also shares the path that shaped his philosophy — from commission-driven environments and door knocking at Edward Jones to the fee-only model — and how he integrates George Kinder's Real Life Planning process into a modern client experience, including a concurrent planning approach that delivers early wins while the deeper work unfolds.We also cover what's working in his business today: partnerships, community building, and using short-form and long-form content to reach people who are quietly rewriting the rules.If you're interested in values-based planning and building a life on your own terms, this one's worth your time.Cory's Social and Websitehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dincwithcory/https://www.discretionaryinc.com/

Inflation isn't just a headline; for retirees, it's a silent predator chipping away at buying power and long-term financial security. While broad inflation numbers may fluctua

Divorce and finances can feel overwhelming, confusing, and scary—but they don't have to. In this episode, we break down divorce and finances, how to overcome fear, and how to build financial confidence after divorce. If you're navigating divorce and finances, this conversation will help you feel more empowered, informed, and in control of your future.In this episode, Lesa sits down with financial advisor and Certified Transition Specialist Kathleen Judge to talk about one of the biggest fears women face during divorce—finances. Together, they explore how your relationship with money is shaped, why so many women feel disconnected from financial decisions, and how to rebuild confidence step by step.You'll learn the three phases of financial transition, how to avoid costly mistakes, and how to align your finances with what truly matters most in your life. Whether you're going through a divorce, preparing for one, or simply want to feel more confident with your money, this episode is for you.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to divorce and financial fear(03:45) Kathleen's personal story and career transition(08:20) Why women feel disconnected from finances(12:10) Financial triage: what to do first in divorce(18:30) The messy middle: emotions and decision-making(24:15) Common financial mistakes to avoid(28:40) Understanding assets, debt, and beneficiaries(34:10) Aligning money with your values(40:05) Creating a vision for your financial future(45:20) Final thoughts and how to get supportKey Takeaways:Financial fear during divorce is normal—and can be overcome with clarity and supportAvoid major financial decisions in the first 3–6 months (financial triage phase)Understanding your assets, debts, and cash flow creates immediate empowermentYour financial decisions should align with your personal values and life goalsWorking with a financial advisor can prevent costly mistakes and provide peace of mindGuest Bio:Kathleen Judge is a financial advisor with Edward Jones and a Certified Transition Specialist. She specializes in helping individuals navigate major life transitions such as divorce, widowhood, and retirement. Kathleen is passionate about empowering women to understand their finances, build confidence, and create a secure financial future.Resource Links:Kathleen Judge (Edward Jones):Doing Divorce Different PodcastLesa Koski Coaching & Mediation ServicesTags/Keywords:divorce and finances, divorce financial planning, women and money, financial empowerment for women, divorce recovery, financial advisor divorce, budgeting after divorce, divorce coaching, midlife divorce, financial confidence, money mindset, women over 40 finances, divorce mediation, financial independence, life after divorce

With Ryan Guth, Founder, Goldfin Group Overview Jason Diamond speaks with Ryan Guth, Founder of Goldfin Group, on moving beyond Edward Jones to build a business defined by control, differentiation, and entrepreneurial alignment. It's a thoughtful conversation about independence, and what it really means to build a business that fits your clients, your strengths, and your long-term vision. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/SRQSjRbtRzY About this episode… Advisors usually don't set out seeking change. In fact, the opposite is usually true. They build within a system, take advantage of the opportunities in front of them, and grow something meaningful over time. And for a while, that alignment works. But over time, priorities evolve. What once felt like the right environment can start to feel limiting: whether it's how you serve clients, how you present yourself in the market, or how much control you really have over the direction of your business. And that's where things begin to shift. In this episode, Ryan Guth, Founder of Goldfin Group, talks through that evolution in a very real and practical way. Ryan started his career at Edward Jones – an experience he still speaks very highly of – but ultimately decided to go independent to build a business that better reflected how he wanted to serve his entrepreneurial clients and express his entrepreneurial instincts. What makes Ryan's perspective especially interesting is his background. Before wealth management, he was a musical conductor. And that lens carries through into how he thinks about the advisor's role today—not as someone focused on products or portfolios, but as the person coordinating all the moving parts of a client's financial life. Ryan unpacks it all with Jason Diamond, including: The decision to leave Edward Jones—and what he was looking to gain in independence. The importance of marketing—and how “differentiation” plays a major role in Goldfin's success. The inside view of a transition—and what other advisors can learn both operationally and strategically. The alignment of his values and mindset with those of his clients—and how being an entrepreneur became more important over time. The impact of acquisitions—and Ryan's firsthand perspective on the acquisition of his broker dealer, Atria. It's a thoughtful conversation about independence, but more importantly, it's about what it really means to build a business that fits your clients, your strengths, and your long-term vision. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Player or Coach? Why Every Advisor Eventually Has to Choose As advisory firms grow, founders often face a critical inflection point: double down on being a top producer or evolve into a leader who builds lasting enterprise value. The Annual Report on Recruiting, Deals, and Transitions A companion to our annual Advisor Transition Report, Jason Diamond and Louis Diamond unpack what's driving advisor movement in 2025, and what the data reveals about control, growth, and where the industry is heading. IBD vs. RIA – Which Model Fits Your Future This guide offers a clear, side-by-side view of the two models—including distinctions between the DIY route of building an RIA from scratch and opting for a supportive independence platform to help align your business goals with greater options and opportunities. Diamond Consultants Edward Jones Advisor Transition Report 2025 This “firm-focused report” seeks to look under the hood at movement to and from Edward Jones from January to June of 2025. Have You Outgrown Your IBD or the Model Itself? Spending years inside the independent broker dealer framework can eventually spark a deeper reckoning. Advisors begin to look beyond the logo on the statement and ask a more fundamental question: does this structure still align with the future they're building, or has their business outgrown its foundation? Ryan Guth Founder​ I lead Goldfin Group from Franklin, TN and Albuquerque, NM, where I combine strategic financial guidance with a deep understanding of entrepreneurs' pivotal transitions. My leadership reflects a blend of professional insight and personal commitment, guiding clients toward aligning their financial strategies with their God-given purpose and gifts. I am a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. ​I am married to my wife, Amanda, and am the father to three boys. I enjoy all things entrepreneurial and am always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to solve bigger problems for more people, so they can be a greater force for good in the world. I recently became an author in 2024 with my first book Permission to Exit: Prepare to Sell Your Business Without Regret. In my spare time, I enjoy CrossFit, reading/listening to books and podcasts, and finding ways to serve through ministry.

This week, Jack Sharry talks with Tom Lewandowski, Principal and Leader of the High-Net-Worth (HNW) Segment at Edward Jones. Tom leads the development and execution of strategies to better serve HNW households, including defining a unique value proposition for clients and branch teams, product and service strategy, pricing, compensation, operations and infrastructure, integration, and internal and external communication. Tom talks with Jack about how Edward Jones leverages its deep-rooted culture of trust to serve the HNW market. Tom explains how the firm's Generations Program provides branch teams with access to specialized expertise in estate planning, tax strategy, and business transitions, ensuring that complex client needs are met with the same personalized touch the firm is known for. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (01:10) - Tom's role at Edward Jones (02:10) - Tom's journey in the wealth management industry (03:42) - Why Edward Jones leaned into high-net-worth clients (05:53) - The genesis of the Edward Jones Generations Program (07:56) - How Edward Jones' home-office specialists support local branch teams (11:43) - Latest updates on Edward Jones Generations Program (15:25) - Helping families move from uncertainty to clarity (17:10) - Edward Jones' future goals (20:21) - Tom's key takeaways (21:09) - Tom's interests outside of work Quotes "Trust is that gateway to the conversations that matter." ~ Tom Lewandowski "We strongly believe that family conversations are the most important. If you want to remove that burden or turn it into something positive in terms of how that comprehensive plan can impact your family, we'd love you to consider an Edward Jones financial advisor, because we're the best in the business of driving those." ~ Tom Lewandowski "If you can marry the best of both worlds—great advice, solid products and services—into a comprehensive financial planning conversation, that's what clients are really looking for." ~ Tom Lewandowski Links  Tom Lewandowski on LinkedIn Edward Jones EY Husch Blackwell Connect with our hosts LifeYield Jack Sharry on LinkedIn Jack Sharry on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify LinkedIn Twitter Facebook

With Dylan Ripley & Todd Vincent – Managing Partners and Financial Planners, Cedarwood Financial Partners Overview Todd Vincent and Dylan Ripley join Mindy Diamond to share the reality of leaving Edward Jones, defending a two-year lawsuit, and still nearly doubling their business. A candid look at resilience, and what really happens when the firm pushes back. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/G5-oAHz5kWQ About this episode… For many advisors considering change, the concern about legal retaliation from their firm often lingers in the background. But what if you move and that fear comes to fruition? What will it do to your business? And what if – instead of derailing you – it ultimately becomes a catalyst for growth? Every transition comes with some risk and uncertainty—even when you dot every “i” and cross every “t.” And a non-Protocol move adds an extra layer of complexity. This episode's guests, Todd Vincent and Dylan Ripley, learned all that firsthand. Todd spent nearly 30 years at Edward Jones, and Dylan built his career there over more than a decade, eventually partnering with Todd in a multi-office practice overseeing close to $1B in assets. Over time, they realized they could do more for their clients – and grow the business faster – if they stepped outside the traditional firm model. In exploration, they liked the idea of having a support partner rather than building their own RIA and ultimately opted for Commonwealth Financial Network to launch Cedarwood Financial Partners. The transition itself went smoothly—that is, until they found themselves navigating a lawsuit from Edward Jones that lasted nearly two years. In one of our most candid episodes yet, Todd and Dylan walk through that experience with Mindy Diamond, sharing: The choice to leave Edward Jones—and what specifically motivated them to consider change. The initial transition—and when they learned they had “poked the bear.” The reality of defending a lawsuit—and how they worked through it. The value of messaging—and how partnering with a marketing firm was a gamechanger. Nearly doubling their assets under management, despite the lawsuit—and what key traits drove their success. It's an episode that answers the question on every advisor's mind, “What happens if the firm sues me?” and does so with candor and grace. Listen in to learn how resilience drives what comes next: how advisors can steady themselves, rebuild momentum, and grow on the other side of a challenge. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources Top Tips for Setting Your Business Up for Success Years Before a MoveWhether you're just exploring what's out there or actively conducting due diligence, these insights will help you position your business and team for success, whenever the time is right. How to Avoid the Dreaded TRO: Legal Strategies for Advisors in TransitionAs TROs and lawsuits make headlines, two top attorneys who represented Merrill breakaways OpenArc, share how advisors can minimize risk, protect client relationships, and make a clean move with confidence. Dylan RipleyCEO / Financial Planner After serving his clients at Edward Jones for almost ten years, Dylan Ripley co-founded Cedarwood Financial Partners in 2022 following a tabletop discussion on how he and his partner could better serve their clients, scratching out their vision on a napkin. From that initial napkin chat, he began diligently working to make this vision a reality through extensive research and sweat equity. Dylan holds a Bachelor of Business Management from the Carlos Alvarez School of Business at The University of Texas–San Antonio. After joining Edward Jones, he earned the Accredited Asset Management Specialist certification through the College of Financial Planning. He has a passion to serve others and does so through his service to clients and his community involvement. He is a current member of the Rotary Club of Temple, serving on the board for two years. He's also a small group leader at his church and active in local Chamber of Commerce events. Most recently he was asked to serve on the advisory board for the Salvation Army of Bell County. Dylan and his wife, Cayleigh, have three children. When he's not serving his clients or community, he can be found experiencing the world with his family, chasing kiddos around a ball field, golfing, or attending any live concert he can.   Todd VincentChairman / Financial Planner Todd Vincent co-founded Cedarwood Financial Partners after serving his clients at Edward Jones for twenty-six years. Prior to Edward Jones, Todd served four years in the U.S. Army as a field artillery officer with the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. Todd earned his Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Economics from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. He also holds a Master of Theology (ThM) from Dallas Theological Seminary. Todd and his wife, Stefanie, have three young adult children. As a family, they are active in their community and their church. They are an adventurous family who loves travel and outdoor activities. They reside on a 142–acre game ranch they share with others who desire rest, renewal, and recreation. Todd's favorite hobbies include camping, hunting, and riding his Harley-Davidson. Todd specializes in finding creative methods to produce retirement income and efficient wealth transfer strategies.

Ever wondered how the big players in financial services got to where they are? Matt and Micah dive deep into the secret behind Edward Jones' remarkable success story – and why independent advisors should be taking notes instead of throwing shade. They challenge the common "David vs. Goliath" mindset that often leads independent advisors to dismiss larger firms' achievements and reveal how Edward Jones' strategic playbook can be adapted for independent practice success. Listen in as they explore the often-overlooked truth about building a thriving advisory practice: it's not just about working harder but working smarter with intentionality. https://zurl.co/r6F3t

He's seeing AI unfold at one of the oldest financial firms in the world. Today, we're talking to Kevin Adams, CIO at Edward Jones. We discuss how AI is disrupting traditional organizational structures, why humans need to move up the stack while AI handles execution, and how to implement AI at the right speed in highly regulated industries. All of this right here, right now, on the Modern CTO Podcast!  To learn more about Edward Jones, check out their website here.