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In this episode, Don and Tom confront the emotionally charged—and often financially tragic—decision to claim Social Security early. They debunk three common justifications: fear of system insolvency, false break-even math, and “I just want my money.” Don shares his own benefit numbers as a real-world example of the value of waiting, especially for married couples. They also address why many can't wait and explore whether alternatives like balanced portfolios or annuities make sense. Later, they roast misleading “hybrid pension” annuity schemes from KCIS, field smart ETF questions about AVGE and AVNM, and talk target-date funds, including why some belong only in tax-deferred accounts. The show ends on a lighter note with a detour into the surprising origin stories of Cocoa Beach, Florida—and a well-earned nod to Don's daughter for her killer disclaimer voiceover. 0:04 Tom's Goldilocks routine: too hot, too cold, never just right 1:05 Why early Social Security claims can be financially tragic 2:11 Top emotional excuses people use to claim early 3:19 The 2033 funding deadline and how Congress will likely delay action 4:16 Misconceptions about break-even math and spousal survivor benefits 5:01 Real example: Don's $49K vs. $58K annual benefit if he waits 6:55 The “just want my money” crowd: emotional logic at its worst 8:13 Average claiming age has improved, but still too early for most 9:38 Can you bridge the income gap to delay claiming? Not if you're broke 10:55 Permanent 30% cut if you claim at 62 vs. full retirement age 11:52 Why working longer might be the best—and only—solution 13:12 Retirement isn't a permavacation: the mental toll of early retirement 14:18 Emotion vs. planning: the real battle in financial decisions 14:41 Listener Q: KCIS hybrid pension pitch = pure annuity sales 16:17 Indexed annuities, tax-free income claims, and SEC loopholes 17:50 Listener Q: AVNM vs. AVGE – how to structure your global ETF allocation 18:50 AVGE = one fund; AVNM + AVUS = smarter two-fund DIY 19:59 Listener Q: iShares target-date ETFs and the risk of fund closure 21:17 Why target-date funds don't belong in taxable accounts 22:19 Why is Cocoa Beach called Cocoa? Three weird theories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to Indexed.We have reached the halfway point of our final season. And with that, we are covering our fan suggested band: Alien Ant Farm! I apologize I did not write down the username of who suggested this, but thank you! This was an interesting dive for us slightly outside of our wheelhouse to cover this (maybe) one hit wonder band.Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
What's the Fastest Way to Get Webpages Indexed (Technical SEO) by Search Engines? with SEO Expert, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This episode focuses on search engine optimization (SEO) and the fastest ways to get indexed by search engines, extending beyond just Google to include other platforms and AI-powered large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT emphasizing that building trust with search engine algorithms is paramount, achieved through consistent content creation, linking strategies (backlinks), and connecting websites via tools like Google Search Console. Favour highlights the importance of updating existing content and addressing user queries to improve visibility across various search and AI platforms, ultimately advocating for a strategic and patient approach to online presence rather than solely focusing on a single ranking metric.AD BREAK: Get 20% off your first booking & be the first to know about our new arrivals, spa deals, and events with Somatic MassageFrequently Asked Questions about Search Engine Indexing and Online PresenceWhat is the fastest way to get indexed by search engines?The fastest way to get indexed by search engines is by building trust and establishing connections. This means having conversations around the questions people are asking and providing answers in the form of website links. These links should then be shared on other reputable websites to create backlinks, which signal to search engines that your website has authority. It's not just about creating a lot of content, but about creating relevant, high-quality content that answers user queries and is linked to by trusted sources.Why isn't my website ranking on search engines?There are several reasons why your website might not be ranking. Common issues include not having your website manually indexed or automatically discovered by search engines, or not being connected to Google Search Console. Additionally, your content might not be seen if it's not frequently updated, as AI servers and search engines prioritize recently modified content. A lack of engagement and underutilization of your website compared to time spent on social media can also hinder its visibility. Essentially, if search engines aren't "seeing" your content, they can't recommend it.How long does it take for SEO efforts to show results?Ranking SEO web pages on Google and other search engines takes time and consistency. While immediate indexing can occur within hours or days for consistent posters, significant milestones, such as receiving your first 10 clicks, can take around six months, even with hundreds of articles. The key is consistent effort, building trust with algorithms, and maintaining an active online presence. The compound effect of consistent content creation can lead to substantial impressions over time.How does trust factor into search engine ranking?Trust is paramount for search engine ranking. Just as in human relationships, search engines, particularly Google, rely on trust to refer content. This trust is established when other third-party websites, which Google already trusts, link to your website, thereby vouching for your site's authority. These "off-page SEO referring domains" (like links on Reddit, Trustpilot, LinkedIn, Pinterest) may have varying impact, but they contribute to your credibility and signal to search engines that your content is valuable and reliable.Is traditional SEO still relevant with the rise of AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT?Yes, traditional SEO is still very relevant and, in fact, synergistic with AI and LLMs. While AI provides generative answers, it often sources its information from traditional search engines like Google. Therefore, optimizing your content for Google through good SEO practices (like answering frequently asked questions, using appropriate keywords, and having a well-structured site map) directly contributes to your brand being cited and mentioned in AI-generated responses. AI and SEO are not competing but are interdependent, with AI leveraging the foundation built by strong SEO.How can I optimize my content for AI search engines?To optimize for AI search engines, focus on providing succinct, evidence-based answers to specific, question-based headings, similar to "People Also Ask" sections on Google. Ensure your content is frequently updated ("last modified" date is recent) as AI prioritizes fresh information. AI servers are looking for up-to-date, relevant context. By consistently creating and updating content that answers user queries and by connecting your website to search engines via tools like Google Search Console, you increase the likelihood of being sourced and mentioned by AI.What is the significance of a "sitemap" and "DNS" in getting indexed?A sitemap acts as a map of your website, providing search engines with a structured list of all your pages, products, and blogs. Submitting an updated sitemap is crucial for search engines to crawl and understand your site's content. DNS (Domain Name Server) is like your unique digital DNA for your website, confirming your ownership of the domain. Connecting your DNS record with a unique identification number (like a TXT record from Google Search Console) gives search engines access to your site's architecture, allowing them to effectively read and index your content.What is the difference between manual and auto-indexing, and how do they impact visibility?Manual indexing involves actively submitting your website or specific pages to search engines (e.g., through Google Search Console) to ensure they are discovered. Auto-indexing refers to the automatic discovery and crawling of your site by search engines over time due to consistent activity and established trust. While manual indexing provides an initial push, consistent content creation and updates increase your "crawl budget," leading to higher priority and more frequent auto-indexing. Both are important; consistent manual effort eventually leads to more efficient auto-indexing and better long-term visibility.Digital Marketing Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> SEO Optimization Blogs>> Book Complimentary SEO Discovery Call>> Subscribe to We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportLoving Me Beauty | Buy Vegan-based Luxury ProductsUnlock your future in real estate—get certified in Ghana today!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this Friday Q&A edition, Don tackles five listener questions spanning kids' UTMAs vs. 529 plans, Roth vs. pre-tax 403(b) contributions, filling portfolio gaps when a workplace plan lacks small-cap value, why indexed annuities are a costly sales pitch wrapped in deceptive promises, and how to help a recently divorced 26-year-old daughter find hope and financial focus. Along the way, he delivers mic technique tips, portfolio simplification advice, and a blistering breakdown of annuity sales incentives—plus a reminder to prioritize life and mental recovery over rushing into big purchases. 0:04 Florida heat, Friday Q&A setup, and microphone placement tips 2:29 UTMA vs. 529 rules, Roth transfer limits, and simplification advice 6:59 Mid-40s couple weighing Roth vs. pre-tax 403(b) contributions 9:29 Workplace plan fund gaps, avoiding PIMCO small-cap, and using other accounts to diversify 12:58 Indexed annuity dinner pitch breakdown—hidden costs, low returns, and high commissions 20:58 Helping a divorced 26-year-old refocus priorities, delay big purchases, and stay patient Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sad Dads assemble!The Sad Boy Saturday roundtable reconvene to discuss not one, but two albums released by The National in 2023! How sad does it get? Tune in and find out.Original Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1654846/episodes/11778720-idx-023-0-the-nationalInstagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Instagram has quietly rolled out a change that lets Google index your public posts, opening the door to evergreen search traffic. In this episode Michelle Thames explains what “indexing” means, why it matters for creators and brands, and three quick optimizations you can apply this weekend to start showing up in Google results. Key Points Covered What changed in 2025: Instagram's new crawlable post wrapper How alt text, captions, and on-page engagement now fuel Google ranking Difference between hashtag reach and true search indexing Three fast wins: keyword-first captions, strategic alt text, and carousel keyword stacking Power tip: cross-linking your post in Threads for instant backlink juice Action Steps Front-load keywords in the first 120 characters of future captions. Write descriptive alt text for at least ten existing posts. Post a fresh carousel with slide-by-slide keyword variants and a clear CTA. Check out the new Visible & Booked merch and share how you're wearing it! Stay inspired and get daily visibility tips—follow Michelle everywhere: Instagram: @michellelthames Threads: @michellelthames LinkedIn: Michelle L Thames YouTube: Michelle L Thames Podcast: Social Media Decoded Book a Power Hour Strategy Session HERE Free 7 Day Authority Shift: Private Audio Experience Story Strategy Guide (Free Download): HERE Shop the Visible & Booked Merch Collection: HERE Follow Michelle on Instagram: @michellelthames Share This Episode! Screenshot this episode and tag @michellelthames with your biggest takeaway.Share your thoughts on Spotify comments or on Threads—Michelle loves featuring listener wins and tips! Instagram SEO update 2025, Google indexing Instagram posts, how to write alt text on IG, Instagram captions for SEO, Instagram carousel SEO strategy, social media search traffic, evergreen Instagram reach, Michelle Thames podcast, IG algorithm changes 2025, optimize Instagram for Google search
In this emergency solo episode I walk you through #ChatGate, the discovery that thousands of “shared” ChatGPT conversations are now fully searchable on Google. We de-mystify the site: operator, trace the unusual timeline that puts OpenAI, Google Cloud and Microsoft on a collision course, and explain why some marketers cheer while privacy advocates panic. Most importantly, you'll learn how to check whether your chats are exposed and what to do next. Key TakeawaysShared ChatGPT links are public if you tick “Enable search indexing.”A sitemap discovered in late 2024 helps Google crawl those pages automatically.OpenAI now pays Google for compute while Microsoft cools its spending — timing that looks suspicious.Marketers cheering the “SEO gold-mine” are ignoring the privacy fallout.Audit yourself (site:chatgpt.com/share "Your Name"), delete stray links, and think twice before sharing sensitive prompts.Enjoy the listen — and remember: what happens in ChatGPT doesn't necessarily stay in ChatGPT.Resources & Further ReadingGoogle Support – Advanced Search Operators (official guide to site:) https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/2466433?hl=enOpenAI Help Center – “Share your conversations” (checkbox controls indexing) https://help.openai.com/en/articles/7925741-chatgpt-shared-links-faqLinkedIn Post by Senthil Kumar – “OpenAI's /shared-convos-sitemap.xml SEO play” https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unboxing-chatgpts-organic-traffic-deep-dive-openais-seo-hariram-jhtkcTechCrunch (31 July 2025) – “Your public ChatGPT queries are getting indexed by Google” https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/31/your-public-chatgpt-queries-are-getting-indexed-by-google-and-other-search-engines/Fast Company (30 July 2025) – “Google is indexing ChatGPT conversations—here's why it's a privacy nightmare” https://www.fastcompany.com/91376687/google-indexing-chatgpt-conversationsYahoo Finance (Dec 2024) – “Microsoft has invested nearly $14 billion in OpenAI but is pulling back” https://finance.yahoo.com/news/microsoft-invested-nearly-14-billion-000512844.htmlReuters (16 July 2025) – “OpenAI taps Google Cloud TPU chips to meet soaring demand” https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/openai-lists-google-cloud-partner-amid-growing-demand-computing-capacity-2025-07-16/Juliana Jackson – Substack Essay “ChatGPT Indexed Conversations” https://julianajackson.substack.com/p/chatgpt-indexed-conversations---If you enjoyed the episode, please share it with a friend!No Hacks websiteYouTubeLinkedInInstagram
Plus, Ford to reveal more about its new low-cost electric vehicles on August 11. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to Indexed.Look in the sky! It's a bird?! It's a plane!? NO! It's the singer-rapper-producer-poet Mike Posner. Indexed explores the varying music of the multi-hyphenate talent for our latest main feed episode.Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
EncycloMedia Series #30 - Indexed Dividend Option Rider In this installment we cover the Indexed Dividend Option Rider. As a policy owner, you have several options of what you can do with the dividend, one of which involves using your dividend with an index where you may gain, and you may lose.You should understand this option. Happy learning!To learn more about Dividend Options: EMS#04 Dividends - https://youtu.be/9qJQvc0hPg8?si=3jwPc2womD5Jc0ohWelcome to our EncycloMedia Series!This series is dedicated to defining, classifying, and describing the particulars of Whole Life Insurance as the ideal asset to use for Infinite Banking as described by R. Nelson Nash in his book, Becoming Your Own Banker. ⚔️LIVE & LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY
Indexed goes "One More Time..." at blink-182 with our review and ranking of their 2023 reunion album with Tom. An apt album name for our latest mini episode!Original Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1654846/episodes/8516614-idx-008-0-blink-182Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Welcome to Indexed.We head back to NYC to cover yet another indie rock revival of the early 2000 aughts: Yeah Yeah Yeahs.To no surprise, another Mike choice. But there is a reason why this band is so good and so revered all these years later.Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Join Dan Vega and DaShaun Carter for the latest updates from the Spring Ecosystem. In this episode, Dan and DaShaun are joined by Redis Developer Advocate, Raphael De Lio. Join us as we explore Redis's ever-growing role in the Spring ecosystem. We will look discuss its common and foundational use cases, then dig into new and exciting use cases, including similarity search, the cutting-edge vector data type, and how Redis is becoming a key player in AI-driven solutions. Get ready to discover the latest ways Spring developers are leveraging Redis to build highly performant and intelligent applications. You can participate in our live stream to ask questions or catch the replay on your preferred podcast platform.Key TakeawaysWhat is Redis?Originally created in 2009 as a fast, horizontally scalable databaseKnown primarily for caching, but it's actually a full database with persistence and transactionsRedis 8 is now open source again with massive performance improvements (87% faster execution, 2x higher throughput)Beyond Caching: Redis Use CasesVector databases for AI applications (semantic search, caching, routing)Time series data for real-time analyticsGeospatial indexing for location-based featuresProbabilistic data structures (Bloom filters, count-min sketch) for high-scale applicationsStreams for message queues and real-time data processingSession storage for distributed applicationsAI & Vector Database ApplicationsSemantic caching: Cache LLM responses using vector similarity (can reduce costs by 60%)Semantic routing: Route queries to appropriate tools without calling LLMsMemory for AI agents: Short-term and long-term conversation memoryRecommendation systems: Power Netflix/YouTube-style recommendationsGetting Started with SpringUse start.spring.io with Docker Compose for easy setupSpring Data Redis for basic caching with @CacheableRedis OM Spring for advanced features (vector search, JSON, etc.)New annotations: @Vectorize and @Indexed for automatic vector embeddingsUpcoming EventsSpring One - 6 weeks away in Las VegasRedis Hackathon - July 23rd via dev.to/challengesLinks & ResourcesRedisRedis OM SpringRedis YouTube ChannelSpring One ConferenceStart Spring IOConnect with Raphael DeLeoEmail: rafael.deleo@redis.comLinkedIn: Raphael DeLeoGitHub: raphaeldelio Blue Sky: raphaeldelio.dev Redis vs Valkey discussion included - Redis 8 returns to open source with significant performance improvements and integrated modules that were previously separate.
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Don and Tom kick off this episode by responding to a one-star Apple Podcast reviewer who promised to upgrade to five stars—if they correct their allegedly false Bitcoin claims. Challenge accepted. Don clarifies his earlier “nobody uses Bitcoin” remark by digging into the actual numbers: only 15,000 businesses worldwide accept it, out of over 359 million—roughly 0.0004%, making it statistically more rare than a lightning strike. They also break down the real costs of converting Bitcoin to dollars: while some exchanges charge under 1%, Bitcoin ATMs routinely charge 5–25% in fees, with total costs sometimes exceeding 30%. Then, a listener calls in with a ChatGPT-generated portfolio featuring VUG, VEA, SMH, and AXON. Don tears it apart for being tech-heavy, overly concentrated, and missing broad market exposure—ironically, even ChatGPT agrees with him. Listeners also get advice on why ETFs are gradually replacing mutual funds, when (if ever) annuities make sense, and why indexed annuities are the financial industry's version of timeshares: opaque, overpriced, and always sold, never bought. Despite the facts and the humor, Don doubts his five-star redemption is coming—but if Greg's Mowing and Septic accepts Bitcoin, there's still hope. 0:26 Don confronts repeat negative podcast reviewers 1:35 NavRep's public offer: “Correct your Bitcoin lies and I'll give 5 stars” 2:31 Bitcoin rebuttal: 15,000 businesses accept it—out of 359 million 5:13 Teaser: Bitcoin conversion fees part 2 coming up after the break 6:26 Don admits his imprecise “nobody accepts Bitcoin” claim 8:19 Clearing up the 8% Bitcoin conversion fee claim—context was ATMs 9:49 Bitcoin ATM fees average 17.5%, sometimes hit 30% 11:04 Exchange conversion under 1% is possible—but not for quick cash 13:10 Volatility and impracticality still make Bitcoin a poor currency 16:00 ChatGPT jokes: “Beer at a Baptist wedding” & “Greg the mower” 16:49 Caller Jason asks ChatGPT for a portfolio; Don and Tom cringe 17:46 ChatGPT suggested a tech-heavy, overly concentrated portfolio 20:40 Better suggestions: VT, AVGE, DFAW—not VUG/SMH/AXON 21:50 Don's GPT criticizes Jason's GPT: “No bonds, no value, no real estate” 23:43 Caller Scott nails TRM's philosophy and nearly retires Don 26:12 The rare “pros” of annuities—and their bigger downsides 28:24 Indexed annuities: regular income taxed as ordinary income 30:02 Betting against the house: how annuity math favors insurers 31:44 Caller Jane asks if ETFs are better than mutual funds 32:05 ETF settlement is faster, but that's not a reason to choose 33:30 Vanguard accounts support ETFs beyond their own funds 34:51 Updated: mutual funds now settle T+1, ETFs also T+1 36:26 Jane warned about National Life Group's indexed annuity pitch 37:07 Why Don hates indexed annuities: high fees, low returns, opaque structure 39:27 Still selling like hotcakes: $27B in indexed annuities sold Q1 2025 40:35 Wrap-up: annuities remain unethical despite legality and popularity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Anyone ready for a little chat about death? Well Depeche Mode was in 2023 with the release of their 15th (!!!) studio album after the tragic passing of their original member Andy Fletcher. Weirdly enough, they were ready to discuss it even prior to his death.Tune your synths, light a candle, and lets get dark with this mini episode for Depeche Mode.Original Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1654846/episodes/11614432-idx-021-0-depeche-mode Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
It's happened to many of us: You work hard on a blog post and wait for traffic to roll in. When that doesn't happen, you start troubleshooting and discover that your post hasn't been indexed by Google. Let's chat about why this happens and what you can do about it!Episode Highlights:What is Google Indexing?Why Aren't My Posts Getting Indexed?What Should I Do About It?Resources Mentioned:Have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here: stephanieroyersolutions.com/podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts so we can help as many teacher business owners as possible:Looking for more organic traffic resources?Dive into my signature course: Bring Your Own Traffic!Check out my favorite places to look for fresh blog post ideas!Or if you're ready to hire support for blogging and Pinterest, check out my services.(affiliate link) My favorite place to keep my blogging and Pinterest assets organized.(referral link) My favorite blog ad networkLet's connect on InstagramMentioned in this episode:Win $50 in the Pay Less for Traffic podcast birthday giveaway!Enter here: https://airtable.com/appgxyp7Y315nRepU/pago3FZ71N0dLiMJE/form Giveaway ends on July 31st.
Welcome to Indexed.What better way to celebrate the 4th of July by listening to us discuss the discography of one of the seminal 80s UK bands - The SmithsWe promise we won't cancel on you the week before a show unlike a certain someone in this band *cough* Morrissey *cough*Throw a burger or hot dog on the grill and tune in!Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Breaking Down Fixed and Indexed Annuities for Medicare AgentsIn episode 80 of the Insurance Business Babes podcast, host Kathe Kline is joined by Tiffany Washington, whose unique journey from optometry to Medicare insurance provides valuable lessons for insurance professionals at every stage.Tiffany began her insurance career as a Licensed Only Agent (LOA), not fully understanding the differences between being an LOA and an independent agent. Her turning point arrived after three years with the same company, when she realized a new contract would leave her without ownership of her existing book of business. Despite having 627 clients, Tiffany made the tough decision to start over as an independent agent, underscoring the importance of contract transparency and owning your clientele from the onset.A central focus of this episode is the prospect of cross-selling fixed annuities. Kathe highlights both the opportunities and risks: while annuities can offer clients principal protection and guaranteed income—serving almost like a self-made pension—they come with complexities in terms of product types (like fixed and indexed annuities) and beneficiary options. New agents are urged to master the basics and prioritize clear client communication, especially when discussing accumulation versus annuitization phases or navigating beneficiary selections.Both Kathe and Tiffany agree on the significance of protecting your reputation and client base. Kathe advises agents to stay client-focused, never sell products with high surrender charges unless they're genuinely in the client's best interest, and ensure Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance is properly updated before offering annuities. Tiffany's takeaway: always put yourself in the client's position and document everything.Whether you're considering adding annuities to your offerings or deciding between meeting clients in-person versus virtually, keep your business model flexible and your ethics at the forefront. As Kathe concludes, focusing on clients' needs—and not just the commission—builds both trust and long-term success in the insurance world.This episode is sponsored by CertifiedMedicareAgents.com. Use the coupon code BABES2024 for a free lifetime BRONZE membership.
Oh hello there. Used to the two week cadence of Indexed of old aren't ya? Well since we have been slacking the last 3 seasons on the mini episodes, we're filling in the off weeks with minis all season long!First up is the long overdue follow up to our first (and until now, only) mini episode. We're discussing Red Hot Chili Peppers latest album Return of the Dream Canteen.Original Episode: https://indexed.buzzsprout.com/1654846/7569097-idx-001-0-red-hot-chili-peppersInstagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Welcome to Indexed.We are back with our final season and kicking things off with the seminal band The Strokes who kicked off the garage rock revival in NYC in the early 2000s. Also kicks off Mike's run of picking NYC bands from that era. Tune in. Subscribe. And help us finish off these last 10 episodes.Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
This episode brings the heat on so-called “financial educators” masquerading as fiduciaries while hawking high-commission indexed annuities. Don and Tom dissect the misleading promises of 9% guaranteed returns, break down real disclosure numbers, and expose the enormous commissions driving these “recommendations.” Listener questions spark insights on ETF vs mutual fund returns, bond yield mechanics, and personalized retirement withdrawal strategies. Oh, and say goodbye to the penny—it's headed for extinction. 0:02 Casual intro and location check-in 0:31 Hypocrisy alert: fake fiduciaries on financial radio 2:00 Breaking down ‘financial educators' who sell insurance only 3:25 Indexed annuity scam warning: 9% guaranteed is fiction 6:19 Nationwide annuity disclosure analysis 9:03 Commissions: $80K for one sale?! 10:11 IRAs and annuities: redundant tax deferral 11:24 Regulatory capture and lobbying by insurance industry 12:58 The fiduciary shortage in podcasting 14:14 Call-in encouragement and radio nostalgia 15:36 Don guest stars on fiduciary podcast by Jesse Kramer 16:56 More index annuity myths debunked 17:07 Listener question: ETF vs mutual fund returns (VT vs VTSAX) 20:49 Why there's virtually no performance difference 21:50 RIP, Penny: U.S. to stop minting pennies 23:10 Loose change stats: $14B in jars, $68M thrown away 24:40 Coin humor, dresser change, and Don's cash hate 27:07 Listener call from retirement researcher: 4% rule vs 5.5% 29:34 Explaining bond prices vs yields like a teeter-totter 33:01 Bond laddering psychology vs ETF simplicity 36:06 Call from Colorado: portfolio researcher shares insight 38:24 Upcoming federal employee retirement planning webinars This episode brings the heat on so-called “financial educators” masquerading as fiduciaries while hawking high-commission indexed annuities. Don and Tom dissect the misleading promises of 9% guaranteed returns, break down real disclosure numbers, and expose the enormous commissions driving these “recommendations.” Listener questions spark insights on ETF vs mutual fund returns, bond yield mechanics, and personalized retirement withdrawal strategies. Oh, and say goodbye to the penny—it's headed for extinction. “9% Guaranteed? Yeah, Right.” “Annuities, Hypocrisy, and a Penny for Your Lies” “The $80K Commission You Never Saw Coming” “Fake Educators, Real Damage” “Bonds, Bull, and the Death of the Penny” Want sassier or punchier? I've got reserves. Scene: A retro 1950s-style classroom. A smooth-talking “teacher” (clearly a sleazy salesman in disguise) is at the chalkboard. The chalkboard reads “9% GUARANTEED!” in big bold letters. Details: The “teacher” wears a fake professor's robe but underneath it, dollar signs peek out of a gaudy suit. In the corner, a “fiduciary” badge sits untouched on the desk. A shocked student (maybe a piggy bank with arms) raises its hand in horror. Light sepia-toned filter, mid-century vibe, logo space top left clear. Ready for art now? Say the word and I'll whip up the image. Want to punch up the summary or swap out a title? I'm yours.
For episode 524, Brandon Zemp is joined by Sergio Capanna, Chief Product Officer for SonarX, the one-stop shop for indexed blockchain data.SonarX is the ultimate solution for indexed blockchain data. Offering industry-leading support for over 100 chains, a robust data quality framework, full SOC 2 compliance, scalable pricing, and cutting-edge big data architecture. They've quickly become the go-to choice for financial institutions, enterprises, and blockchain companies in need of comprehensive, high-quality on-chain data. ⏳ Timestamps: 0:00 | Introduction1:06 | Who is Sergio Capanna?6:36 | What is SonarX?10:27 | Data Indexing process18:44 | Data Indexed for 100s of Blockchain's20:16 | Real-time Data & Historical Streaming21:50 | SonarX Compliance & Security of Data23:18 | Future of On-chain Data27:10 | Multi-chain Ecosystem29:27 | SonarX Roadmap32:09 | Conferences & Events32:47 | SonarX website, socials & community
Tariffs, fear, and stockpiling—oh my! Don and Tom break down how consumer sentiment, not just consumer spending, is shifting dramatically under the weight of tariff uncertainty. They connect behavioral shifts—like Googling “recession” and panic-buying tires—to bigger economic signals and what it all means for investors. From the role of emergency savings to the misleading pitch of indexed annuities, they dismantle hype and stress the importance of sticking to a real plan. They also field smart questions on Roth conversions, muni bonds, and whether now is the time to invest that idle cash. Oh, and don't worry: most of our toilet paper is made right here in the good ol' USA! 0:11 Consumers drive the economy—and investment returns0:47 Sentiment is slipping fast, and it could trigger a slowdown2:05 “Recession” and “depression” searches spike amid uncertainty3:11 Tariffs shift what we buy: food in, luxury out4:24 What investors should do now: boost emergency savings7:22 Auto stockpiling and tariff-fueled panic buying8:50 Prices rising, brand loyalty falling, and psychology shifting10:27 Volatility confuses perception—despite flat portfolio returns12:16 Emergency funds are real insurance without the gimmicks14:14 Spry 102-year-olds and the power of Bulgarian yogurt17:47 Best muni bond fund choice for high tax brackets: VTEB20:31 Can't milk a Buckeye, but they might ward off arthritis22:52 Roth conversions: should you pay the tax now or wait?28:57 Indexed annuities: steak dinners, sales tricks, and the ugly truth34:16 Why the commissions are so high—and the returns so low37:55 Got cash on the sidelines? Here's what to do before investing39:27 Final advice: plan first, invest later, ignore the noise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thank you to Ahrefs for sponsoring this episode. Click here to get started with Ahrefs Webmaster Tools.https://ahrefs.com/webmaster-tools?utm_source=CarolynHolzman&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=partnerships&utm_content=Q2_2025In this week's Confessions I share the results of a test that I was running subconsciously! OK, it was by accident that I set this up but WOW did this give a glimpse into how a tiny little line of code is powerful regardless of how you set it.Learn from my "test" and take advantage of the power of this information.Don't just try not to hurt your site, follow the best practice, check your work and this will lead you to create a healthy relationship between Google's crawling system and your site.Last week's episode - SEO Weather SERP inversion Mentioned in the show:Advanced Robots.txt Optimizer & EditorYoutube Channel -https://www.youtube.com/@ConfessionsofanSEO https://g.co/kgs/xXDzBNf
It's been a very busy week in PlayStation Land. For starters, Sucker Punch's long-awaited follow-up to Ghost of Tsushima -- Ghost of Yotei -- has a release date. It'll be coming to PS5 on October 2nd, alongside a non-linear, almost Mega Man-like gameplay structure. We're excited! Let's discuss. Then: Bethesda's Oblivion Remastered has finally arrived, PS5's new firmware memorializes the 30th anniversary celebration once an for all, Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders light up the internet, Star Wars is getting a strategy RPG, and lots of others news, too. Finally: Listener inquiries! How come Sony subsidiary Aniplex isn't publishing Danganronpa-like The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy on PlayStation 5? Which existing entertainment properties would best benefit from the Supermassive/Quantic Dream "CYOA" formula? Is the Catholic Church really canonizing a "gamer saint"? Which Last Stand contributor should we replace with AI first?Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:17:17 - AI replacement 0:23:33 - Crying Woman Part 2 0:36:25 - Skull lining at a funeral? 0:37:28 - Divorce proceedings 0:41:25 - Dave Ramsey 0:53:45 - Letting each other talk 0:55:37 - Ghost of Yotei releases October 2nd 1:24:35 - Switch 2 1:36:01 - Oblivion Remaster released 2:13:18 - New PS5 Firmware 2:20:45 - Devolver Digitals stats 2:28:59 - Star Wars: Zero Company 2:32:50 - Football games release dates 2:34:31 - Onimusha 2 "Hell mode" 2:36:07 - US Sales for March 2:40:50 - What We've Been Playing (Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Lunar: Silver Star Story, Oblivion Remastered, Marathon Alpha, Blue Prince)3:28:48 - Engagement bait 3:47:22 - Non-stop games 3:55:37 - The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy 3:59:20 - Choose your own adventure dream IP 4:03:48 - Indexed archives 4:09:31 - Saint of Gaming Your browser is holding you back. Level up here: https://operagx.gg/SacredSymbols Sponsored by Opera GX! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this week's episode, we'll discuss how you can get gains based on the S&P 500 with NO losses. Are you ready for the next market event? How do Fixed Indexed Annuities work for growth? What's the difference between a fixed and a variable plan? Isn't it time to get answers to the tough retirement questions now?Join Certified Financial Fiduciary® and bestselling author Tim Wood each week to discuss protecting your retirement dollars, guaranteeing your lifetime income, wisely planning for taxes, and more. Visit us online at www.SafeMoneyRetirement.com for more information, to join us for this week's webinar, or to get a FREE copy of Tim's bestselling book.Safe Money Retirement® - Insuring Your Retirement Dreams
We all know that you can't time the market and when a client is entering the distribution phase of their retirement planning, this becomes an increased concern. In this episode, we take a deep dive into how utilizing an IUL allows your clients to strategically use the plan to fund their retirement. Adding a life insurance solution not only offers death benefit protection but also options and flexibility within their portfolio to navigate market fluctuations. By understanding the impact of market cycles and how asset location can impact retirement income, your clients can plan for the unexpected. Indexed universal life insurance (IUL) provides powerful tools to help safeguard your clients' portfolios with a tax-advantaged solution. Case Study discussed in the episode
Through the years, insurance companies have gotten increasingly better at making products that sound better than they really are. Today, Paul and Evan talk about indexed annuities, an annuity product that claims to let you participate in some of the upside of markets and none of the downside. Listen along as these advisors explain how an insurance company can say you'll get a certain return, but historically it's never happened. For more information about what we do or how we can help you, schedule a 15-minute call with us here: paulwinkler.com/call.
Today we're joined by Lorenz Lehmann, The Master of Labels at growthepie.xyz. In this episode we're discussing:- What does ‘Grow The Pie' do?- What is Grow The Pie measuring? - Indexed & aggregated data- Most profitable L2 vs biggest loser - Base rollups- Ethereum block time constraints - L1/L2 economics overview - Network fees, Blob space miss-pricing, tariffs needed?- L1 fees vs Blob fees- Who's ETH aligned?- Ethereum calldata, Celestia vs Ethereum Blobs- Celestia's DA economics/scalability- Paying for data/Grow The Pie costs, data as a public good- Block space utilisation - Grow The Pie's labelling solutionAnd much more—enjoy!—Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction(03:07) Why ‘Grow The Pie'?(05:10) What is Grow The Pie measuring? (08:58) Indexed & aggregated data(10:09) Most profitable L2 vs biggest loser (14:33) Base rollups(15:51) Ethereum block time constraints (17:46) L1/L2 economics overview (20:42) Network fees, Blob space miss-pricing, tariffs needed?(32:35) L1 fees vs Blob fees(33:53) Who's ETH aligned?(40:24) Ethereum calldata, Celestia vs Ethereum Blobs(45:03) Celestia's DA economics/scalability(47:39) Paying for data/Grow The Pie costs, data as a public good(55:51) Block space utilisation (56:27) Grow The Pie's labelling solution(1:01:59) Outro—Follow the guest:https://x.com/LehmannLorenzFollow the co-hosts:https://x.com/hildobby_https://x.com/0xBoxerhttps://x.com/sui414Follow the Indexed Podcast:https://twitter.com/indexed_pod—The Indexed Podcast discusses hot topics, trendy metrics and chart crimes in the crypto industry every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month, brought to you by wizards @hildobby_ @0xBoxer @sui414.Subscribe/follow the show and leave a comment to help us grow the show!—DISCLAIMER: All information presented here should not be relied upon as legal, financial, investment, tax or even life advice. The views expressed in the podcast are not representative of hosts' employers views. We are acting independently of our respective professional roles.
Are you interested in elevating your practice through Annuity Sales and Marketing in 2025? If so, Coach Chris, one of the industry's top consultants, and Levinson & Associates strongly recommend you listen to this very powerful podcast! It can lead to an income stream like never before and help build your client base unlike anything else. Learn which carriers and products are the hottest right now and even if you're an Annuity expert, learn the true difference between Indexed, Fixed, and Immediate Annuities. Also, Coach Chris will offer everyone full explanations of Annuity Riders, Income Annuities, and very importantly, Annuity Living Benefits & Long Term Care. Learn the ins and outs of Annuity taxation and how to generate Annuity leads which ultimately lead to sales. So, whether you're an Annuity rookie or an Annuity veteran, this 60-minute podcast with Bill and Coach Chris can be career-changing. Everyone, enjoy! Bio: Chris is a 3rd party industry consultant & Annuity sales professional Check us out online: Agent Back Office Site: https://www.LevinsonAndAssociates.com/ Facebook: / levinsonandassociates X: / levinsonassoc Instagram: / levinsonandassociates Threads: @levinsonandassociates LinkedIn: / bilevinson Podcast: http://levinson.libsyn.com/ Youtube Library: / thelevinson1
Brian is a Financial Representative with extensive knowledge and understanding of Financial Products to assist clients in planning for their retirement needs.Learn More: https://besfinancial.com/Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor. Insurance products may be offered through Brian E. Sirota, also Known as BES Financial which is not affiliated with Osaic Wealth.Influential Entrepreneurs with Mike Saundershttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/influential-entrepreneurs-with-mike-saunders/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-brian-sirota-founder-of-bes-financial-discussing-indexed-annuities
Brian is a Financial Representative with extensive knowledge and understanding of Financial Products to assist clients in planning for their retirement needs.Learn More: https://besfinancial.com/Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor. Insurance products may be offered through Brian E. Sirota, also Known as BES Financial which is not affiliated with Osaic Wealth.Influential Entrepreneurs with Mike Saundershttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/influential-entrepreneurs-with-mike-saunders/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/interview-with-brian-sirota-founder-of-bes-financial-discussing-indexed-annuities
Do you know the differences between Indexed Universal Vs. Whole Life Insurance? Today Rob will teach you what you need to know before choosing between the two, and why one is better than the other. ✅ SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE ✅ https://www.youtube.com/c/EPICFinanci...
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Annuity marketing gimmicks The complexity of Indexed Annuities What annuities are for Key Takeaways: Bonuses for annuities are marketing gimmicks and provide no real value. Contractual guarantees are the most important aspect of annuities. Indexed annuities are complex products with components like caps, spreads, and participation rates that limit upside gains. These components can change annually, making the product difficult to understand. Annuities are designed for risk transfer through contractual guarantees, not market growth. Traditional investment vehicles are better options for market growth. "Annuities, regardless of the type are transfer of risk, contractual, guaranteed products. It's a contract between you and the life insurance company." — Stan The Annuity Man. Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: http://theannuityman.com/ Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Planning with simplicity Annuity products overview Consumer-focused future of annuities Tuning out the noise Key Takeaways: Lifetime income is priced primarily on your life expectancy and interest rates play a secondary role in pricing. Shop all carriers for the highest contractual guarantee, don't gamble your retirement on hypothetical and theoretical numbers. Seek simplicity in planning. Indexed annuities are going to keep getting pitched, and often through misleading and hyperbolic statements, by sales agents because of the high commission. Indexed annuities aren't bad products, they are great delivery systems for lifetime income through the attachment of an income rider. Companies must realize the importance of putting consumers first and giving them the power to make the choices that they want to make through education and other helpful resources. Annuities should be bought and not sold, agents have the responsibility to make sure the client understands their contract fully. Tune out the noise of the media and look into your life instead. Think about things that matter to you, things that make you happy, and focus on making more time for that. Eliminate the things in your life that are not adding to your joy. "If you're in chapter two of your life in retirement, I want you to maximize the day. I want you to start structuring your day for fun and for relaxation and for reflection." — Stan The Annuity Man. Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: http://theannuityman.com/ Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!
In this episode, Thomas & Ryan are joined by Justin Shore, EA to dive into the impacts of indexing certain tax deductions for inflation. They cover: - The 25K Special Loss Allowance and Its Potential Impact - The Section 121 Exclusion and Other Key Deductions & Credits - The Dark Side and Bright Side of Indexing for Inflation If you're interested in the effect of inflation on your real estate investments, this is an episode you don't want to miss. To become a client, request a consultation from Hall CPA, PLLC at go.therealestatecpa.com/3KSEev6 Start our free 4-day email series: go.therealestatecpa.com/3ygHVrJ Join the Tax Smart Insiders Community: go.therealestatecpa.com/3Xx1Cpd The Tax Smart Real Estate Investors podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Information on the podcast may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. No reader, user, or listener of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal and tax advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction. Only your individual attorney and tax advisor can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Use of, and access to, this podcast or any of the links or resources contained or mentioned within the podcast show and show notes do not create a relationship between the reader, user, or listener and podcast hosts, contributors, or guests.
In this episode of That Annuity Show, the hosts are joined by Arun Muralidhar, an expert in retirement security. Arun shares his journey and insights into the retirement industry, including his fight against the privatization of pensions and the need for guaranteed retirement income. He introduces the concept of Selfies (Standard of Living, Indexed, Forward Starting, Income Only Securities), a bond-like instrument that provides a steady stream of cash flows in retirement. Arun discusses the benefits of Selfies, such as marketability, inheritability, and flexibility, and explains how they can be funded by the government. He also addresses the risk pooling aspect and the potential for insurance companies to offer annuities based on Selfies. The conversation explores the concept of Selfies (Standard of Living Indexed, Forward-starting Income-only Securities) as a solution for retirement income. Selfies are a financial instrument that provides guaranteed real retirement income by hedging longevity risk. The government can issue Selfies, which are backed by cohorts, to allow insurance companies to offer guaranteed retirement income. The current retirement products in the market, such as annuities and target date funds, are complex, making them unattractive to individuals. Selfies simplify the retirement income process by allowing individuals to determine their desired retirement lifestyle and receive cash flows based on that. Takeaways Arun Muralidhar fought against the privatization of pensions and advocates for guaranteed retirement income. Selfies (Standard of Living, Indexed, Forward Starting, Income Only Securities) are bond-like instruments that provide a steady stream of cash flows in retirement. Selfies offer marketability, inheritability, and flexibility, allowing individuals to make decisions based on their financial conditions and life events. The government can fund Selfies by replacing existing debt with this instrument, providing a low-risk option for retirement savings. Insurance companies can potentially offer annuities based on Selfies, leveraging risk pooling and diversification. Selfies are a financial instrument that provides guaranteed real retirement income by hedging longevity risk. The government can issue Selfies, which are backed by cohorts, to allow insurance companies to offer guaranteed retirement income. Current retirement products in the market, such as annuities and target date funds, are complex, making them unattractive to individuals. Selfies simplify the retirement income process by allowing individuals to determine their desired retirement lifestyle and receive cash flows based on that. Subscribe and tune in for a new episode every Friday: www.thatannuityshow.com
Good for Business Show with LinkedIn Expert Michelle J Raymond.
Here are five reasons to start a LinkedIn newsletter for your business. Lets explore why LinkedIn newsletters are a strategic tool for businesses aiming to outsmart the LinkedIn algorithm and drive business growth. Today's episode is sponsored by Metricool. Make sure to register for a FREE Metricool account today. Use Code MICHELLE30 to try any Premium Plan FREE for 30 days. https://i.mtr.cool/NEDXVZ Key moments in this episode: 00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn Newsletters 00:41 Uplift Live 2025 01:57 The Evolution of LinkedIn Newsletters 05:10 LinkedIn Newsletter Client Success 08:05 Top 5 Reasons to Use LinkedIn Newsletters 09:00 Reason#5: The Power of Two 10:09 Reason #4: Indexed by Google 11:14 Reason #3: Power of Repurposing LinkedIn Content 12:10 Reason #2: Ease of Setup 14:01 Reason #1: Ultimate Algorithm Buster 16:41 LinkedIn Company Page Invites Have Moved 17:43 LinkedIn Newsletter Best Practices Uplift Live 25 - Thu 27 Mar 2025 8:45 AM - 5:00 PM Birmingham UK. ABOUT MICHELLE J RAYMOND Michelle J Raymond is an international LinkedIn™️ B2B Growth Coach. To continue the conversation, connect with Michelle on LinkedIn™️ and let her know you are part of the community of podcast listeners. Connect with Michelle J Raymond on LinkedIn™️ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejraymond/ B2B Growth Co offers LinkedIn™️ Training for teams to build personal and business brands and a LinkedIn™️ Profile Recharge service for Founders/CEOs. Book a free intro call to learn more - https://calendly.com/michelle-j-raymond/book-an-intro-call-15mins Social Media for B2B Growth Podcast is a fully accessible podcast. Audio, Video, Transcript and guest details are available on our podcast website - https://socialmediaforb2bgrowthpodcast.com/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleJRaymond #LinkedIn #LinkedInNewsletters #LinkedInMarketing
Voices of Search // A Search Engine Optimization (SEO) & Content Marketing Podcast
SEO Director at Future, Simon Glanville, discusses the importance of controlling what you allow to be indexed. Indexing is a super important area that many SEOs struggle with. In this episode, Simon shares his perspectives on controlling website indexing, highlighting the significant issues with large websites, at what size to consider a cawl budget, clues to identify pages that should not be indexed, and so much more.Connect With: Simon Glanville: Website // LinkedInThe Voices of Search Podcast: Email // LinkedIn // TwitterBenjamin Shapiro: Website // LinkedIn // TwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, The Annuity Man and Gary Baker discuss: The Secure Act's role in making annuities more accessible within 401(k) plans Lifetime guaranteed income options within 401(k) target date funds The widespread inclusion of lifetime income options How annuities can alleviate pressure on Social Security Key Takeaways: The retirement landscape is evolving, and with the introduction of the Secure Act, annuities are becoming more accessible to a broader market through 401k plans. Employers can now offer annuities as an investment option, providing employees with the opportunity to secure guaranteed lifetime income. There are a lot of various options for integrating annuities into target date funds, including Variable, Indexed, and Fixed Annuities with income benefits. However, the adoption rate of these options remains low due to implementation challenges for small employers and the need for more education and support. Fee-based advisors are also starting to incorporate annuities into their portfolios, recognizing the demographic tidal wave of retirees seeking guarantees. Advancements in technology have made annuities more manageable within their existing practices, allowing them to better serve their clients' needs. As the demand for lifetime income options continues to grow, options too will become more commonplace in defined contribution plans within the next decade. This shift will positively impact the country and alleviate pressure on Social Security. "Financial advisors should know all the tools available, and then, depending upon the client's specific situation, feel comfortable and put in the right spot that's in their best interest and the right thing to do." — Gary Baker Connect with Gary Baker: Website: https://www.cannex.com Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: http://theannuityman.com/ Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!
What is the main problem with any investment that guarantees returns, such as annuities?They're always a tradeoff. Guarantees come with a cost. Typically, the lower the risk, the lower the return. What does the Bible say about this?You won't find the word “annuities'' in the Bible, but there is a biblical principle to guide us on this topic. The Parable of the Talents found in Matthew 25 reveals that one of the servants buried his talent in the ground. The master asked why he did that and the servant said he was afraid, and the master was displeased.All too often, annuities are marketed and purchased based on fear. What should we look out for?If a salesperson is ONLY selling annuities, rather than a full suite of investment options, that's a potential problem. If he or she only has a square peg to sell, they'll always try to sell a square peg, regardless of whether the hole is a square, a circle, or a triangle. Also, if an annuity salesperson is trying to get you to put a large percentage of your money into an annuity? If so, watch out! It's always a good idea to diversify. And do you feel like someone is trying to sell it because it's in your best interest? … or because they're trying to win a contest? Listen to those spirit checks if you feel like they're not acting in your best interest. There are three different types of annuities: Fixed, Indexed, and Variable. Fixed annuities do have some advantages in an era of elevated interest rates. You usually get a higher guarantee than in other types of annuities, at least for a period of time. Variable annuities have a higher potential upside, but a higher potential downside as well. Indexed annuities are a product where you really need to understand the guarantee and proposal. It's difficult to understand what the guarantee really is because there is risk involved that may not be apparent. Indexed annuities look good in brochures but once you "bite into it," it can disappear like cotton candy. It's important to understand how the annuity works and whether you will actually make money if the market goes up.Whatever the annuity, it always makes your money less liquid and available. And if you're going to leave that money alone for a long period of time, why not invest in the things the insurance companies are investing in (the market)? Just take a long-term approach and diversify properly. There are some limited situations in which an annuity makes sense. That could be a situation in which you've exhausted other investment options. Seek out a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA®) if you want to evaluate annuities for your needs.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm an 82 year-old widow and live on a very low income of just over $1,000 a month. I have a little bit of savings in case of car problems but I feel really lost when it comes to my finances. The only thing I own is my home. However, I need to know how to make out a will and an estate plan but I can't afford an attorney or lawyer. Is there someone out there who can help me with all of this?I've got a 401(k) in the previous company that I worked for that has around $2,000 in it. I've been really wanting to change it so that it's invested in a biblically sound company and they're telling me that I can't do that because it was set up through my company that I work for. I was just wondering if I need to pull the money out and reinvest it in an IRA or something so I can have more control over where it goes?Resources Mentioned:Freewill.comLegalzoom.comAmerican Red CrossRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi AppFidelityCharles Schwab Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
WELCOME TO THE WIZARDING WORLD OF TEARS FOR FEARSWe end Season 4 of Indexed by talking about one of the best 80's bands out there, Tears for Fears. Sort of a bucket list band to see, and kinda surprised it took us four seasons to cover them.Thanks for subscribing and tuning in all season. We'll be taking our summer break and be back around Halloween for Season 5!Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Welcome to Indexed.Indexed is going back to high school this week as we cover one of the early bands from the pop punk / piano pop scene: Something Corporate !Maybe if this gains some traction and makes its way to the band, we'll get asked to join them on Andrew McMahon's cruise in November ;)Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Satire is defined as a genre of the arts in which abuses and shortcomings are held up to ridicule, often with the intent that some improvement would result. Our next guest hopes to provide us with a little satire today of what he sees as a popular fad in the financial services industry. And he's hoping you will find the satire useful. Mike Switzer interviews Rick Van Der Noord, a certified financial planner in Greenville SC.
Welcome to Indexed.As we are winding down Season 4, Mike gets to fawn over his latest bandobsession from the past three or so years: Nation of Language ! This newer Brooklyn band brings all the best of the synth-pop genre to the modern times. Get ready to hear about possibly your new favorite band!Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Welcome to Indexed.We are on OVERDRIVE this week. Turn your volume up and let's lose a couple frequencies of hearing as we cover the early 2000s indie buzz / noise rock band, Sleigh Bells.Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)
Welcome to Indexed.Come for the chillwave; stay for the disco synth-pop dance party. We're covering Neon Indian! A tight three albums makes this a quick episode, but tune in and learn how to pronounce the word 'Chasms'.Instagram: @indexed_podFacebook: IndexedShow Email: indexedpodcast@gmail.comIntro / Outro Music by VHX (https://soundcloud.com/djvhx)