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The story of Bluebeard has a mostly happy ending, with the killer's newest bride being rescued in the nick of time by her brothers. Good for her, less good for his previous wives, who she'd discovered hanging on hooks from the walls of a bloody closet. There are countless real-life stories of spouses being killed for money, with no muscular siblings breaking down the door with swords in hand. It's much rarer for a killer to make victims of multiple spouses, but the central character in this week's story had the spirit of Bluebeard in his heart, a man who would try to make a career from killing his wives for profit.Sources: Fatal Charm, Carlton SmithA Rose For Her Grave, Ann Rulehttps://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/law-justice/shes-got-her-name-back-teenager-murdered-in-1977-finally-identified-with-new-dna-technique-and-genetic-genealogy/Follow us, campers!Patreon (join to get all episodes ad-free, at least a day early, an extra episode a month, and a free sticker!): https://patreon.com/TrueCrimeCampfirehttps://www.truecrimecampfirepod.com/Facebook: True Crime CampfireInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/truecrimecampfire/?hl=enTwitter: @TCCampfire https://twitter.com/TCCampfireEmail: truecrimecampfirepod@gmail.comMERCH! https://true-crime-campfire.myspreadshop.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crime-campfire--4251960/support.
Hans and Brian challenge the conventional wisdom around qualified retirement plans and expose the misaligned incentives baked into the 401(k) system.Most people defend their 401(k)s and IRAs with passion—but they're carrying water for institutions whose goals directly conflict with their own. This episode breaks down the four things financial institutions want from your money, reveals the history of how employers shifted pension risk onto employees, and asks the critical question: whose incentives are you serving?The conventional model says lock your money away for 40 years, fund your own retirement, bear all the market risk, and hope you have enough at 65. The qualified plan gives you a 13-year window of control—you can't touch it penalty-free until 59.5, and RMDs force withdrawals starting at 73. That means if you live to 76, you only controlled your money 25% of your life. Meanwhile, the average person retiring today has $537,000 saved but needs $1.5 million. The system is failing, yet people aggressively defend it.Chapters:00:00 - Opening segment 03:40 - Revisiting fundamentals 04:25 - What do financial institutions want from you? 05:25 - The four goals: get your money, hold it systematically, keep it long, give back little 06:40 - We just described a qualified plan 07:50 - The 13-year window: locked until 59.5, forced RMDs at 73 08:45 - Tax benefits: the one real advantage of a Roth 10:00 - Why we're assuming Roth for this discussion 11:30 - The gray area in Roth tax code and the $42 trillion sitting in qualified plans 12:35 - Only controlling your money 25% of your life 13:20 - Teaching kids to be good stewards vs. locking their money away 14:30 - RMD penalties: 25% minimum, up to 50% in some scenarios 16:00 - TSP RMD mechanics: you can't choose which funds to liquidate 17:00 - Taking the employer match and using whole life as a volatility buffer 18:20 - Spending down qualified plans first, not leaving them to heirs 18:50 - The pension system: employers provided capital and bore market risk 21:20 - The shift: now employees fund their own retirement and bear all risk 23:10 - Stockholm Syndrome: aggressively defending the institutions that benefit 24:00 - Median household income $84K, needs $1.5M, average savings $537K 27:40 - Why the average is skewed by millionaires (statistical reality check) 29:25 - Comparing contractual guarantees to projections and prospectuses 31:00 - Strip away the labels: whole life is just an asset, just like mutual funds 32:20 - We want you to understand WHY you believe what you believe 33:35 - The rate of return objection and Nelson's tailwind example 36:15 - Whose incentives align with yours? Insurance companies vs. 401(k) managers 38:05 - Underwriting proves alignment: they want you healthy and financially stable 39:30 - Our mission: cut banks out, create tax-free estates, control your capital 41:15 - Closing thoughtsVisit https://remnantfinance.com for more informationFOLLOW REMNANT FINANCEYoutube: @RemnantFinance (https://www.youtube.com/@RemnantFinance )Facebook: @remnantfinance (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560694316588 )Twitter: @remnantfinance (https://x.com/remnantfinance )TikTok: @RemnantFinanceDon't forget to hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBEGot Questions? Reach out to us at info@remnantfinance.com or book a call at https://remnantfinance.com/calendar !
Drew and Roth are joined by Purple Insider's Matthew Coller to talk football as the NFL season heats up. In this brand new world where K-balls are changing the entire game, how do we even tell if a player or a team is good at all? Are the Cowboys actually any good? The Broncos? The Patriots? Is Matthew buying Caleb Williams? Then, they open up the Funbag to answer real questions from listeners. Do you want to hear your question answered on the pod? Well, give us a call at 909-726-3720. That is 909-PANERA-0!Stuff We Talked AboutMatthew's rescued greyhoundsWhy can't teams pass anymore?Gridiron granddadsTaco TodayChoice culinary crapSponsors- Blueland, where you can get 15% off your first order- Storyworth, where you can save $10 or more- MeUndies, where you can get get up to 50% offCredits- Hosts: Drew Magary & David Roth- Producer: Brandon Grugle- Editor: Mischa Stanton- Production Services & Ads: Multitude Podcasts- Subscribe to Defector!About The ShowThe Distraction is Defector's flagship podcast about sports (and movies, and art, and sandwiches, and certain coastal states) from longtime writers Drew Magary and David Roth. Every week, Drew and Roth tackle subjects, both serious and impossibly stupid, with a parade of guests from around the world of sports and media joining in the fun! Roth and Drew also field Funbag questions from Defector readers, answer listener voicemails, and get upset about the number of people who use speakerphone while in a public bathroom stall. This is a show where everything matters, because everyone could use a Distraction. Head to defector.com for more info.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Carli Roth and Joshua Katz are expecting their first baby after a successful pregnancy with eggs retrieved before they even met. They discuss their journey to pregnancy and what inspired them to create a company based on an often uncomfortable topic - hemorrhoids. Connect with the guest: @getnorms @carli_ar @joshuadanielkatz getnorms.com Grow with us on IP+! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. Watch Growing with Garrett Watch Growing with HeHe Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! informedpregnancy.com @doctorberlin Youtube LinkedIn Facebook X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Learn how to prepare your money for 2026 and invest retirement savings you hope to leave to your family. How do Americans feel about their money heading into 2026? How should you invest retirement accounts you don't plan to spend so your family can benefit later? The Nerds discuss how to invest a seven‑figure nest egg in workplace retirement plans to help you understand how to balance risk, taxes and legacy goals. But first, senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola to discuss NerdWallet's 2026 consumer outlook survey, including how confident people feel about their financial security, which potential money setbacks are weighing on them, and what big financial moves and risks they're planning to take in the new year. Then, credit writer Amanda Barroso and investing writer Taryn Phaneuf join Elizabeth to discuss how a retired military listener and their soon‑to‑be-retired spouse might invest $1.2 million they've saved in a TSP and 403b and hope to leave to their children and grandchildren. They review how TSPs and 403bs work and when it might make sense to roll them into IRAs, how to think about asset allocation when you have a long time horizon but may still face surprise retirement costs like long‑term care, and the rules around required minimum distributions and the 10‑year payout window for inherited retirement accounts. They also explore high‑level estate planning choices such as using trusts and keeping beneficiaries up to date, pros and cons of Roth conversions for heirs (including the Roth IRA five‑year rule), and how to balance leaving a legacy with using some money to create meaningful experiences with family during your lifetime. The Roth IRA 5-Year Rule: What to Know https://www.nerdwallet.com/retirement/learn/roth-ira-5-year-rule Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: 2026 financial outlook, economic outlook 2026, rising prices 2026, inflation 2026, emergency fund savings, how much emergency fund should I have, save 1000 emergency fund, pay off high interest debt, avalanche vs snowball debt payoff, debt consolidation options, nonprofit credit counseling, crypto investing risks, invest in AI stocks, start a business 2026, buying a home in 2026, financial anxiety, Gen Z finances, women and money stress, stock market crash preparation, and TSP investment strategy. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
KKOS Webinar: Solo 401(k) Tax Credit for New and Existing PlansMark and Mat return to the Directed IRA Podcast with holiday cheer, quick-fire banter, and a stocking stuffed with three Roth strategies that can transform your long-term wealth. This is the year-end roadmap every proactive investor needs.They break down how to time Roth conversions for maximum tax efficiency, how a Kid's Roth IRA can quietly grow into a seven-figure legacy, and how the mega backdoor Roth lets both employees and small business owners pump serious dollars into the tax-free zone.If you want your money growing tax-free, your strategy dialed in, and your year-end planning wrapped with confidence, settle in for this quick, insightful, and entertaining episode.Chapters: 0:00 - Warm Welcome And Light Banter1:12 - Roadmap: Three Year-End Roth Strategies1:54 - Strategy One: Roth Conversions And Chunking4:20 - Brackets, Deductions, And Timing The Tax7:16 - Backdoor Roth Clarified For High Earners8:04 - Strategy Two: Kids Roth IRA Mechanics11:18 - Paying Kids Legitimately And Funding Options15:02 - Early Compounding And Grandparent Angle18:27 - Strategy Three: Mega Backdoor Roth OverviewDirected IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
Faith shapes every part of life—not only what we believe, but how we spend, save, invest, and give. Every financial decision reveals something about what we value, trust, and treasure most. That's why conversations about money are never just about budgets or balances; they're deeply spiritual.Today, Afton Phillips, our Head of Content at FaithFi, joins the show to talk about how our faith reshapes the way we steward God's resources. This conversation grew out of our upcoming 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, and the themes behind it.The Heart Behind the New DevotionalAfton has been shaping this project from its earliest concept to its final pages. She shared that when she first joined FaithFi, she longed for a place where people could revisit core biblical principles—not simply hear them once, but reflect on them deeply.“Money isn't just about math,” Afton said. “It's really about our hearts.”The devotional walks readers through foundational truths:God owns it all.Money issues are heart issues.Our financial lives are deeply connected to our spiritual formation.If that's true, then what we need isn't a formula—it's space with God. Scripture. Prayer. Reflection. This devotional is designed to help readers slow down long enough to allow God to reshape how they see and handle money.Redefining Success: What We Surrender, Not What We StoreOne of the early themes in Our Ultimate Treasure is the truth that God doesn't measure success by what we store up, but by what we surrender.We're all tempted to believe that just a little more—more savings, more security, more achievement—will finally bring peace. But no amount of accumulation ever delivers the rest our souls crave.True biblical success is about formation more than finances.Are we growing in Christlikeness?Are the fruits of the Spirit becoming more evident in our lives?Are we learning to let go of fear, control, and comfort so God can shape us?When surrender becomes the lens, money stops being a monument to ourselves and becomes a tool for becoming more like Jesus.Restoring Purpose in Our WorkAnother key section of the devotional explores a truth we often forget: work is not a curse—it's a calling.From the very beginning, God designed work as something good. Not something we merely do to earn or survive, but something through which we participate in His redemptive mission.Your desk, job site, classroom, or kitchen table isn't just a workplace—it's holy ground. Your work is one of the primary arenas where God shapes your character and blesses others through you.Why Margin Matters for Faithful StewardshipMargin is one of the most important threads running through the entire devotional.Afton put it simply:“Margin creates space for God to move.”When we max out:our moneyour timeour energyWe leave no room to listen, pause, or respond to God's leading.Margin isn't restrictive. It's freeing. It enables generosity, rest, trust, and wise decision-making. It's one of the clearest marks of faithful stewardship.The Power of Wise CounselMoney can feel personal—sometimes even private. But Scripture is clear: we're not meant to navigate finances alone.Every day, callers to our program remind us how many people long for guidance, encouragement, and clarity. That's why we devoted an entire day in the devotional to seeking wise counsel.Afton shared:“When we invite wise counsel into our lives, we begin to see things we might have missed.”That's also why Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA) exist—to help believers apply biblical principles to their real-life financial situations. You can find one at FindaCKA.com.Generosity Rooted in Grace, Not GuiltIf there's a single thread that runs through the whole devotional, it's generosity.But not guilt-driven generosity. Grace-driven generosity.We give because God has first given to us—lavishly, sacrificially, joyfully. When we understand His grace, generosity becomes something we get to do, not something we feel pressured into.Every act of giving becomes an act of worship.A Devotional Designed for Reflection, Beauty, and FormationOne of the most unique aspects of Our Ultimate Treasure is its built-in rhythm of reflection.Each day includes:ScriptureA devotionalGuided reflection questionsA written prayerBeautiful, thoughtful imageryThe artwork itself invites contemplation. Everyday images—like a simple desk—are visually transformed to reflect biblical truth, reminding readers that God reshapes the way we see everything, even our work and money.This devotional was designed not just to be read, but to be experienced.Finishing with What Truly Lasts: Eternal RewardsThe final day draws us back to what matters most: our ultimate treasure is Christ Himself.Earthly wealth fades. Opportunities change. Seasons shift. But our life in Christ—His presence, His love, His Kingdom—endures forever. Afton summed it up beautifully:“What are we investing in that will matter in a thousand years? That's eternal treasure.”Experience Our Ultimate TreasureIf you'd like to journey through this 21-day devotional yourself, we would love to send it to you as part of the FaithFi Partner Program.With a monthly gift of $35 or a one-time gift of $400, you'll receive year-long benefits, including early access to studies, devotionals, and our Faithful Steward magazine.You can learn more at FaithFi.com/Partner.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have Roth and traditional IRAs, plus taxable investments with large capital gains. My advisor suggested direct indexing last year, so I opened a small-cap account. It's up slightly overall but includes about a 19% loss I could use to offset gains. I also give appreciated stock to charity, but I need some funds for living expenses. My question is: Is direct indexing a biblically sound strategy, or is it problematic in any way? And how do you tell the brokerage which companies you don't want to own? Do you specify which types of businesses to exclude?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
If you've been enjoying The Independent Advisors podcast for a while now and want to take the next step in your financial journey, I'd encourage you to head to our website, jessupwealthmanagement.com (https://www.jessupwealthmanagement.com/) . Matt offers a 15-minute initial call where you can discuss your financial goals and see if JWM is a good fit for your needs.Scheduling is easy—once you land at jessupwealthmanagement.com (https://www.jessupwealthmanagement.com/) just click “Schedule Initial Call” and select a time that works best for you!There's a quick survey to fill out that will help guide the conversation and ensure your time is used efficiently.If you're ready to learn more, visit jessupwealthmanagement.com (https://www.jessupwealthmanagement.com/) and book your call today!Take advantage of our partnership with LifeLock and get discounts using our link: https://lifelock.norton.com/offers?expid=LLONEYEAR&promocode= JSPW24&VENDORID= _JESSUPWM&om_ext_cid=ext_partner_ JSPW24_Productpage $)Show Notes:New Contribution Limits for Retirement Plans & Other Retirement Plan Changes for 2026https://www.plancorp.com/blog/new-contribution-limits330 Topics: Impact of Top Market Days: Missing the 10 best market days since 1928 could lead to a 21% loss on gains.Fed Interest Rates: Fed cut rates to 3.5%-3.75% with $40B monthly liquidity infusion to boost the economy.Tech Sector Volatility: NASDAQ 100 has seen five down years since 1995, highlighting the need for diverse portfolios.Wage Growth Trends: Wage growth normalizing at 3%-4%, aiding inflation control and reducing recession risk moving forward.Retirement Contribution Limits: 401(k) contribution limits rise to $24,500 in 2026, with Roth options for high earners mandated.
Is it time for me to make the switch from a pre-tax 401(k) to a Roth 401(k)? Have a money question? Email us here Subscribe to Jill on Money LIVE Subscribe to Jill on Money Newsletter YouTube: @jillonmoney Instagram: @jillonmoney Twitter: @jillonmoney "Jill on Money" theme music is by Joel Goodman, www.joelgoodman.com. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Don and Tom take a sharp look at Vanguard's surprising new direction, especially the decision to fold annuities into 401(k) target-date funds through lightly regulated collective trusts. They contrast Vanguard's historical simplicity with today's trend toward complexity, comparing costs, structure, and risk across major providers. Listeners call in with questions about Roth conversions, Schwab target-date funds, entering the market after a forced delay, and whether TIPS or buffered ETFs are worth owning. Throughout, Don and Tom hammer home the fundamentals: low costs matter, complexity harms investors, active management rarely pays, and your stock/bond mix—not gimmicks—drives long-term success. 0:04 Opening and setup: Vanguard's recent drift toward complex products 1:03 Vanguard's dominance in target-date funds and why simplicity used to be the point 1:58 Vanguard adding annuities into 401(k) target-date funds — is this helping anyone? 3:11 What does an annuity inside a target-date fund even mean? 4:03 The 25% annuity allocation example and the misleading “8% payout” illusion 5:03 TIAA's role and why annuity costs remain unclear 6:28 Are annuities inside retirement plans a solution in search of a problem? 7:38 The fine print: Vanguard's new collective trusts and weak disclosure requirements 8:20 Why collective investment trusts are lightly regulated and potentially concerning 9:07 Caller: Roth conversions when you're withdrawing to live on — should you stop? 11:32 When Roth conversions lose their benefit and why you need cash for taxes 12:21 Caller: Are Schwab target-date funds worth it in a Roth? (Short answer: No.) 13:31 Why Schwab's higher fees and low international allocation are a problem 14:52 Active management inside target-date funds — unnecessary and risky 16:12 Risk vs. return: Schwab's higher volatility and lower historical performance 16:41 Caller: Missed market gains while transferring funds — how to get back in 18:49 When market discomfort signals a stock/bond misalignment 20:16 Comparing Schwab vs. Vanguard target-date funds over 15 years 21:37 Why lower cost + lower volatility + better return makes Vanguard the clear win 22:02 Should you fear future gimmicks like private credit inside target-date funds? 23:29 Caller PSA: Realizing capital gains in a low-income year 24:06 ETF explosion — 908 new ETFs this year, most using leverage or derivatives 25:29 Why “ETF” doesn't mean good; junk ETFs equal junk mutual funds 26:05 Structural benefits of ETFs and why the market prefers them 27:29 Soccer vs. NFL detour, then back to phone calls 29:07 Listener question from Colorado: Should you buy a TIPS fund? 31:01 Why TIPS rarely add value in diversified portfolios 33:22 TIPS behave more like inflation bets than true inflation protection 34:34 Why simple, short/intermediate, high-quality bonds—and CDs—often do the job 36:17 Caller: What is a buffered ETF, and why does it sound like an annuity? 37:29 Buffered ETFs explained: expensive, complicated, and unnecessary 38:30 Why gimmicks dominate product launches and how they hurt investors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Jesse's 11th "Ask Me Anything" episode, he unpacks four questions that sit at the center of real-life financial decision-making. He starts with a grounded look at the 15-year vs. 30-year mortgage debate, cutting through rules of thumb to show how interest rates, liquidity, cash-flow, and even your personal comfort with debt shape the right choice far more than blanket advice ever could. From there, he turns to the under-discussed strategy behind Health Savings Accounts—why the "invest and reimburse later" approach works, when it stops working, and how the tax bomb of leaving HSA dollars to non-spouse heirs should change how listeners think about funding and spending those accounts in their 50s and beyond. In a detailed case study, Jesse walks through a listener's complex 2026 tax year involving rental-property capital gains, ACA cliffs, Social Security timing, and potential Roth conversions, revealing how layered tax rules—income brackets, capital gains stacking, depreciation recapture, and NIIT—interact in ways that can either save or silently cost retirees thousands. And finally, he tackles whether a diehard DIY investor or Boglehead should ever hire a financial planner, drawing a sharp distinction between the "Uncle Franks" who truly live and breathe this stuff and the "Nicks" who love markets but miss the deeper planning work. With clarity, nuance, and practical wisdom, Jesse shows listeners not just what to do, but how to think through the tradeoffs that define good long-term planning. Key Takeaways: • A 15-year mortgage saves significant interest, but the higher monthly payments reduce cash-flow flexibility and increase default risk. • A 30-year mortgage often wins mathematically when investors "invest the difference," thanks to potentially higher long-term market returns versus fixed loan rates. • Choosing a mortgage term is partly a psychological decision, not just a financial optimization. • HSA dollars become a tax trap if left to non-spouse heirs, who must treat the entire balance as taxable income in the year of inheritance. • Selling a rental property triggers both capital gains and depreciation recapture, which can dramatically increase taxable income in that year. • DIY investors vary widely—some are true experts, while others know just enough to make avoidable mistakes. Key Timestamps: (02:04) – 15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage Debate (11:03) – Liquidity and Mortgage Payments (13:48) – HSA Accounts: When to Fund and When to Use (25:37) – Spending Down HSA Balances (26:39) – Allison's Financial Planning Dilemma (29:05) – Analyzing Capital Gains and Tax Implications (35:49) – Considering Social Security Timing (38:54) – The Role of Financial Planners for DIY Investors Key Topics Discussed:The Best Interest, Jesse Cramer, Wealth Management Rochester NY, Financial Planning for Families, Fiduciary Financial Advisor, Comprehensive Financial Planning, Retirement Planning Advice, Tax-Efficient Investing, Risk Management for Investors, Generational Wealth Transfer Planning, Financial Strategies for High Earners, Personal Finance for Entrepreneurs, Behavioral Finance Insights, Asset Allocation Strategies, Advanced Estate Planning Techniques More of The Best Interest: Check out the Best Interest Blog at https://bestinterest.blog/ Contact me at jesse@bestinterest.blog Consider working with me at https://bestinterest.blog/work/ Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors is a personal podcast meant for education and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.
Jeremy Keil explores 7 money moves you can consider before the new year to lower your taxes and keep more of your money in retirement. Every December, people scramble to finish holiday shopping, travel plans, and year-end tasks. But one of the most important deadlines — your December 31st tax deadline — often gets overlooked until it's too late. And once the calendar flips to January 1st, many of the smartest tax moves disappear. In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through seven year-end tax steps you should consider to make sure April brings fewer surprises and more savings. With new tax laws taking effect, the stock market sitting near all-time highs, and contribution limits shifting in the coming years, this is the perfect moment to take control of your finances. 1. Manage Your Tax Bracket Before the Year Ends Your income may fluctuate from year to year — especially in retirement. Some retirees have unusually high-income years due to bonuses, pension payouts, early retirement packages, stock vesting, or unexpected distributions. Others have abnormally low-income years. If you're experiencing a higher income year, now is the time to pull deductions forward. Charitable giving, donor-advised fund contributions, and other deductible expenses can help lower your taxable income. If you're in a lower income year, you might choose to accelerate income instead — such as doing a Roth conversion or taking extra withdrawals at a better tax rate. Year-end planning starts with projecting your tax return and understanding which direction to go. 2. Harvest Capital Losses — and Sometimes Gains Even in years when the market is high overall, you may still have individual positions sitting at a loss. Harvesting those losses can offset gains or reduce taxes now or in the future. On the flip side, some retirees find themselves in the 0% long-term capital gains bracket, which creates the perfect opportunity to harvest capital gains on purpose. When you're in a low tax bracket and gains cost nothing, you can reset your cost basis without additional tax. This is one of the most underused year-end strategies — especially when markets have been climbing. 3. Review Mutual Fund Capital Gain Distributions Many mutual funds issue their capital gain distributions in December. You may not receive the money in cash, but it still counts as taxable income. Look up the estimated year-end distributions from your fund companies and double-check your brokerage account. Mutual fund distributions have surprised many retirees — and they can lead to unnecessary underpayment penalties if tax withholding isn't adjusted in time. 4. Get Your Tax Withholding Correct Years ago, tax underpayment penalties weren't a big deal. But with high interest rates today, penalties now operate more like expensive interest charges for not paying taxes in the proper quarterly schedule. If you expect to owe money for 2025, you may want to adjust withholding from your paycheck, pension, Social Security, or IRA distributions. For retirees over 59½, using IRA withholding is one of the easiest ways to catch up — and it is treated as if it was paid evenly all year. To avoid penalties, don't wait until spring. Make corrections before December 31st. 5. Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) If you're age 70½ or older, QCDs allow you to donate directly from your traditional IRA to charity tax-free. This is often better than taking withdrawals and giving afterward — especially if you use the standard deduction. Even if you're not yet required to take RMDs, QCDs can reduce your future RMD burden and help you give in a more tax-efficient way. With 2025 bringing updated QCD limits and ongoing rule changes, it's smart to review your giving strategy now. 6. Make Annual Exclusion Gifts Before Year-End In 2025, the annual exclusion gift limit is $19,000 per person — and it remains the same for 2026. If you're planning to help your children or grandchildren, consider spreading the gifts across the end of this year and the beginning of next year to maximize tax-free amounts. For education planning, 529 plans also allow “superfunding,” letting you front-load up to five years' worth of gifts. Year-end is an ideal time to execute these strategies thoughtfully. 7. Rebalance Your Investments (Especially After a Big Market Year) When markets rise sharply, your portfolio may drift into a risk level you never intended. A portfolio that started at 60% stocks may now sit at 68% or higher. That's more risk than you signed up for — especially if you are nearing retirement. Rebalancing is a critical part of your year-end checklist. It brings your risk back in line, prepares your portfolio for the next year, and supports the long-term stability of your retirement plan. The Bottom Line Year-end planning isn't just about taxes — it's about taking control. Whether it's adjusting your income, harvesting gains or losses, fixing withholding, giving strategically, gifting to family, or rebalancing your investments, December is your opportunity to make meaningful changes before the window closes. Don't let the deadline sneak up on you. Start now so April feels predictable — not painful. Enjoying these episodes? Make sure to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “QCDs: The Tax-Smart Way to Give in Retirement (2025 Qualified Charitable Distributions Guide)” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures
Building a $2.5 million portfolio is hard. Spending it without running out? That's even harder. Welcome to the 700th episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast! To mark this milestone, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench are tackling one of the most critical—and most overlooked—aspects of financial independence: decumulation. Most people obsess over building wealth but stumble when it's time to actually spend it. The withdrawal strategy you choose can mean the difference between a comfortable 40-year retirement and running out of money at the worst possible time. In this episode, we cover: Sequential vs. blended vs. cyclical withdrawal strategies—which is right for you? How to create a tax-efficient drawdown plan that could save you hundreds of thousands The role of Roth accounts, traditional IRAs, and taxable brokerage accounts in your withdrawal strategy When to do Roth conversions and how to time them for maximum benefit Healthcare planning in early retirement and how it affects your withdrawal strategy Estate planning considerations and maximizing what you leave behind Real-world scenarios: what withdrawal strategies look like in practice The biggest mistakes retirees make in the decumulation phase Whether you're just starting your FI journey or you're ready to retire next year, this comprehensive guide will help you spend your money strategically, minimize taxes, and make your nest egg last. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this special seasonal episode, you and Tom resurrect Ha or Duh, tearing through Investopedia readers' “rules to live by” and dismantling the silliest ones with mock gravitas. Between the dad-joke arms race, a spirited defense of compounding, strong opinions on due diligence, and a surprising detour into crypto-mad zip codes, the show blends real financial guidance with holiday-season chaos. The episode also hits deeper listener questions on rebalancing, Roth vs. pre-tax strategy in high brackets, and the danger of thinking blue chips alone equal diversification. 0:04 Seasonal return of Ha or Duh and setup of Investopedia's “investing rules” 1:32 Rule 1: Never sell because of emotions — duh 2:44 Rule 2: “Only invest in what you know” — emphatic huh 3:35 Rule 3: Good investment in a bad market — phrasing unclear, lean duh 4:26 Rule 4: Never underestimate compounding — mega-duh 5:35 Rule 5: Cash and patience as “positions” — hard huh 6:25 Segment break into calls 7:49 Back to Ha or Duh lightning round 8:33 Buy low, sell high — duh (with caveats) 9:58 “Losses are tuition you won't get at uni” — pass 10:21 Hold for the long term — duh 11:09 Marathon, not sprint — duh 11:39 Is education the best investment? Nuanced disagreement 12:45 “Always do your own due diligence” — modified duh (about advisors, not stocks) 15:22 FOMO avoidance — duh 16:27 Final rule: Start now — biggest duh of all 17:41 Wrap-up and transition back to regular Q&A 18:06 Listener question: Finding the “sociopath son” episode 19:28 Setup for Friday's Q&A episode 20:18 Don's town turns into “free Disney World” during holidays 21:51 Disney hotel pricing shock and personal stories 23:42 Don's new original Christmas story: Santaverse 24:01 Story podcasts spike; Short Storyverses mention 25:28 Listener from Bothell: 90% blue chips, 10% cash — how to rebalance? 26:39 Why blue chips aren't diversified and the S&P concentration problem 28:52 Listener in high bracket asks when Roth beats pre-tax 30:26 SECURE Act 2.0 catch-up rules; Roth vs. pre-tax philosophy 32:10 Monte Carlo vs. unknowable future tax rates 33:26 Why all-Roth 401(k)s would simplify life 34:28 Advice: Likely stay pre-tax in 24% bracket 35:50 Shocking stats: Seattle among highest crypto-owning zip codes 37:24 Air Force bases dominate crypto ownership — why it's dangerous Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Deciding when to claim Social Security is one of the most important retirement choices you'll make, but most people approach it the wrong way. They pick an age early, cling to it for years, and assume the “best” decision never changes. In reality, the right claiming strategy shifts as your life shifts: your spouse's benefit, your health, your spending, your tax plan, and even how much joy you're getting out of retirement all matter far more than a hard rule.In this episode, Ari explains why Social Security should never be treated as a one-time, set-it-and-forget-it decision. Through real client stories, a behind-the-scenes look at how Roth conversions, RMDs, and retirement income interact, and a simple framework that fits any household, this conversation reframes the entire question. Sometimes delaying boosts long-term security. Sometimes taking it early frees up your cash flow for meaningful years. And in many cases, the “optimal” age changes as your plan changes.If you've been wondering when to claim Social Security, how it fits into Roth IRA conversions, what it means for your surviving spouse, or how to build a flexible retirement income plan, this episode gives you clarity without the jargon and confidence without the fear.-Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy HereGet access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy hereAri Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.
In this episode, Don and Tom saddle up for a tour through Schwab's “Good, Bad, and Ugly.” They applaud CEO Rick Wurster's warning about the growing overlap between gambling and investing, take a hard look at Schwab's retail-side conflicts and non-fiduciary sales practices, and then recoil at the truly ugly: Schwab's acquisition of Forge Global and its push to open private-company speculation to everyday investors. From there, they field listener questions about crypto's pointless search for a purpose, how to implement a disciplined 5 percent retirement withdrawal strategy, the ins and outs of tax-free Vanguard mutual-fund-to-ETF conversions, and whether a younger spouse should convert a large TSP balance to Roth. It's classic Talking Real Money: skeptical, practical, consumer-first, and mildly exhausted by the Wild West of modern finance. 0:04 Investing as the Wild West and why caveat emptor still defines the industry 0:24 Schwab's role as custodian vs. broker and how they reshaped trading costs 1:14 Schwab's discount-broker origins and institutional dominance 2:37 Free trades, market influence, and why Schwab became the industry's leader 3:52 CEO Rick Wurster's warning about gambling creeping into investing 4:43 Sports betting numbers, prop bets, and why only 5 percent come out ahead 5:54 The “bad”: Schwab retail selling and the fiduciary confusion 6:40 The “ugly”: Schwab buying Forge Global and pushing private-company speculation 7:23 Why private equity is riskier, pricier, illiquid, and over-hyped 8:17 The myth of private companies outperforming public ones 9:22 Why the Wild West persists: weak oversight, self-dealing, and revolving doors 10:48 Listener question: stablecoins, crypto legitimation, and the greater-fool problem 13:00 Currency concerns and why crypto still solves nothing 13:50 5 percent withdrawal strategy: when and how to draw from your portfolio 15:28 Rebalancing, total return withdrawals, and annual cash-flow discipline 16:47 Why withdrawals should follow rebalancing, not lead it 17:56 Vanguard mutual-fund-to-ETF conversions: how they work and why they're useful 20:10 Expense-ratio savings vs. capital-gains distributions 20:55 TSP-to-Roth conversion question: tax-rate timing matters 22:44 Only convert if you can pay taxes from outside savings 23:08 Reminder: free adviser meetings, no sales pressure 24:10 TRM's longevity and approaching episode 2,000 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Fritz Gilbert back for his second appearance on the podcast. Fritz is an award-winning blogger and author of The Retirement Manifesto, one of the most influential retirement blogs in the country. He has now been retired for six years, and while many people think the big transition ends the day you leave the workforce, Fritz's journey proves that retirement continues to evolve in meaningful, surprising, and deeply personal ways. Recently, he announced he is stepping away from full-time blogging to spend more of his life "outside the walls," shifting his time toward family, exercise, charitable work, and the flexibility that first drew him to retirement. Fritz explains why stepping back wasn't a loss—it was a necessary reshuffling of cards in the ongoing "game of retirement poker." In our conversation, Fritz discusses the surprising emotional journey of redefining retirement. He explains why he has never struggled with boredom, depression, or identity loss, and highlights how he avoided the most difficult retirement phase that nearly 70% face. We also talk about one of the most overlooked elements of retirement satisfaction: giving yourself permission to spend your money—or gift to your kids—while you can enjoy the benefits, rather than clinging to your savings out of habit or fear. Fritz explains why intentional spending is not only rational but also often essential for living a fully realized, purposeful retirement. In this podcast interview, you'll learn: How Fritz avoided boredom, identity loss, and the infamous "retirement dip." The surprising emotional transition his wife experienced after caregiving. Why replacing the non-financial benefits of work is a must. How to refine a bucket strategy and reduce interest-rate risk in retirement. The real challenge of Roth conversions and why liquidity matters. Why many retirees spend too little and how Fritz overcame that fear. How to support adult children without jeopardizing their independence. Why the 90/10 rule becomes unavoidable in retirement. Show Notes: HowardBailey.com/537
Learn how to shift savings between retirement and a home down payment without derailing your future. How do you balance big life experiences with long-term financial goals? Is it smart to scale back retirement savings to buy a home sooner? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss wedding budgeting, honeymoon spending, and saving trade-offs to help you think through your own big-ticket plans. Fresh off his San Francisco City Hall wedding and multi-city honeymoon through Japan and South Korea, Sean shares how he saved ahead of time, avoided debt, and still came home with money left over. They talk about budgeting for flights and hotels, deciding when to splurge versus save, the realities of travel fatigue, and how to reset your budget afterward by trimming categories like clothing. Elizabeth also opens up about her “37 to 37” joy challenge, holiday shopping stress around Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and the emotions of planning birthday and Christmas spending. Then, fellow Nerds Dalia Ramirez and Kate Ashford join Elizabeth to discuss whether it makes sense to divert retirement savings toward a home down payment. They walk through how to prioritize savings goals, use age-based benchmarks to see if you're on track, and set a clear end date for any “pause” to protect your future self. They also break down key differences between Roth IRAs and 403(b)s, when it may be smarter to lower 403(b) contributions instead of tapping a Roth, how first-time homebuyers might use up to $10,000 in Roth earnings for a purchase, and the trade-offs of sacrificing compound growth today for the long-term benefits of owning a home. Enter to Win NerdWallet's Debt-Free December Sweepstakes: https://www.nerdwallet.com/m/loans/personal-loans/debtfreedecember Use NerdWallet's free retirement calculator to check your progress, see how much retirement income you'll have and estimate how much more you should save: https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/calculators/retirement-calculator Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: retirement savings, home down payment, diverting retirement savings, saving for a house, Roth IRA withdrawal for home, Roth IRA first time homebuyer, 403b vs Roth IRA, pension and retirement savings, retirement savings benchmark by age, compound interest retirement, emergency fund vs house down payment, balancing savings goals, saving for retirement in your 30s, retirement calculator planning, how much to save for retirement, wedding budget, honeymoon budget, travel budget planning, Japan trip cost, Tokyo travel budget, Seoul travel budget, big life event budgeting, saving for wedding and house, Cyber Monday shopping tips, Black Friday shopping stress, holiday gift budget, birthday spending, joyful spending, government pension retirement planning, high interest debt payoff vs investing, reducing 403b contributions, Roth IRA contributions vs earnings, and first time homebuyer rules Roth IRA. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Like what you hear? Please leave us a review and tell a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most people focus on saving for retirement, but what happens when you actually get there? Retirement isn't just about having enough money—it's about managing risks that can threaten your financial security and lifestyle. In this episode, we explore Five Key Retirement Challenges (and Solutions), inspired by a Kiplinger's Personal Finance article by Walt West. From unexpected market downturns to rising healthcare costs, these challenges can catch retirees off guard if they're not prepared. We break down each challenge—financial instability, healthcare expenses, taxes, inflation, and estate planning oversights—and discuss practical strategies to navigate them. Learn how to structure a flexible withdrawal plan, prepare for long-term care costs, use tax-efficient strategies like Roth conversions, and ensure your estate plan protects your loved ones. Plus, we tackle a listener question about using a MIGA ladder strategy to bridge the gap until Social Security—offering insights into the pros and cons of annuities in a retirement portfolio. If you want to retire with confidence and avoid costly missteps, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you're years away from retirement or already in it, understanding these key challenges and their solutions can help you make smarter financial decisions for the road ahead. Resources & People Mentioned The Retirement Podcast Network Kiplinger's Personal Finance "Five Key Retirement Challenges" by Walt West Fidelity's Healthcare in Retirement Report Connect with Benjamin Brandt Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit: http://retirementstartstodayradio.com Subscribe to the newsletter: https://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletter Work with Benjamin: https://retirementstartstoday.com/start Follow Retirement Starts Today in:Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, or iHeart Get the book!Retirement Starts Today: Your Non-financial Guide to an Even Better Retirement
2 out of 3 internet users in the USA pay for Prime. Yet, most of them are irrationally loyal. They feel like the subscription provides more cost savings than reality. Today, on Nudge, Richard Shotton and I explore the behavioural science behind Amazon Prime. We look at the sunk-cost fallacy and pennies-a-day effect to explain why so many are irrationally loyal to Amazon Prime. --- Subscribe to the Nudge Vaults: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/vaults Read Richard's book: https://a.co/d/fEW7amQ Sign up for my newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/ Watch Nudge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nudgepodcast/ --- Today's sources: Arkes, H. R., & Blumer, C. (1985). The psychology of sunk cost. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 35(1), 124–140. Gourville, J. T. (1998). Pennies-a-day: The effect of temporal reframing on transaction evaluation. Journal of Consumer Research, 24(4), 395–403. Gourville, J. T., & Soman, D. (1998). Payment depreciation: The behavioral effects of temporally separating payments from consumption. Journal of Consumer Research, 25(2), 160–174. Roth, S., Robbert, T., & Straus, L. (2015). On the sunk-cost effect in economic decision-making: A meta-analytic review. Business Research, 8(1), 99–138.
Cody Garrett, CFP®, and Sean Mullaney, CPA, discuss year-end tax planning, tax moves in 2026, fear-based marketing, Roth conversions, asset tax location, and more in the 89th episode of the Bogleheads® on Investing podcast. • • • Jon Luskin, CFP®, a long-time Boglehead and financial planner, hosts this episode of the podcast. The Bogleheads® are a group of like-minded individual investors who follow the general investment and business beliefs of John C. Bogle, founder and former CEO of the Vanguard Group. It is a conflict-free community where individual investors reach out and provide education, assistance, and relevant information to other investors of all experience levels at no cost. The organization supports a free forum at Bogleheads.org, and the wiki site is Bogleheads® wiki. Since 2000, the Bogleheads® have held national conferences in major cities across the country. In addition, local Chapters and foreign Chapters meet regularly, and new Chapters form periodically. All Bogleheads activities are coordinated by volunteers who contribute their time and talent. This podcast is supported by the John C. Bogle Center for Financial Literacy, a non-profit organization approved by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity on February 6, 2012. Your tax-deductible donation to the Bogle Center is appreciated. Show Notes: Bogleheads® on Investing #87: Ed Slott, CPA 2026 Premium Tax Credit Update Bogleheads® YouTube Bogleheads® Live with Sean Mullaney: Episode 40 Bogleheads on Investing with Cody Garrett: Episode 61 • • • The discussion is intended to be for general educational purposes and is not tax, legal, or investment advice for any individual. Jon and the Bogleheads® on Investing podcast do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services.
Poznáte jeho texty – teraz ich budete môcť aj počuť. Každú nedeľu vo svojej podcastovej aplikácii nájdete trochu iný formát Dobrého rána – Roth číta Marca. Eseje a komentáre publicistu Sama Marca v podaní herca Roberta Rotha. Načítaný text: https://www.sme.sk/komentare/c/ta-vasa-rozdrapenost-je-nechutna-a-raz-na-nu-doplatite-pise-samo-marec – Všetky podcasty denníka SME nájdete na sme.sk/podcasty – Odoberajte aj audio verziu denného newslettra SME.sk s najdôležitejšími správami na sme.sk/brifingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this week's Money Matters, Scott and Pat help a caller streamline her financial life by consolidating accounts — discussing key differences between IRAs and 401(k)s, asset protection considerations, and how annuities can fit into a broader financial planning strategy for long-term freedom. Next, they talk with a caller navigating what to do with a $1 million 401(k) after a career transition. Scott and Pat break down the pros and cons of rolling funds into an IRA versus keeping them in an employer plan, with an eye on long-term tax flexibility, investment control, and strategic financial planning. Finally, Allworth's Head of Wealth Strategies, Victoria Bogner, joins the show to share powerful financial planning insights — including strategies for handling stock options, Roth conversions, tax-loss harvesting, donor-advised funds, and how business owners can better position themselves for lasting financial flexibility. Join Money Matters: Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain live on-air! Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here. You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com. Download and rate our podcast here.
Jim and Chris discuss listener questions on Social Security family maximum and suspending benefits, a listener PSA on IRMAA premiums, a listener PSA on Medicare premiums, a listener PSA on Social Security claiming strategies, Roth contribution rules, and Roth conversion disadvantages.(4:30) George asks how the combined family maximum benefit works when two retirement records are combined to increase the family limit for auxiliary benefits paid to a spouse and two minor children.(16:00) A listener asks what additional factors should be considered when suspending a Social Security benefit at full retirement age and restarting at 70 after previously claiming early.(30:15) The guys share a PSA in which a listener states that IRMAA is a premium rather than a tax because Medicare enrollment is optional.(37:45) Georgette shares her objections to Chris describing the base Medicare premium as “free” and explains why she feels that is misleading.(44:30) A listener offers a couple of PSAs, first sharing their thoughts on Nokbox, then sharing an article on a Social Security claiming strategy they believe could help people concerned about sequence of returns.(51:00) The guys answer a question about how a 529-to-Roth IRA transfer affects the annual Roth contribution limit when part of the rollover is gains.(56:30) Jim and Chris address what disadvantages exist when choosing a Roth conversion instead of a non-RMD IRA withdrawal when both would be taxable. Show Notes: NokBox Social Security | Readjust your claiming strategy | Fidelity The post Social Security, IRMAA, Medicare, Roth Contribution Rules, Roth Conversions: Q&A #2549 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
Are you using the wrong retirement withdrawal strategy? Sequential drawdown—draining one account before touching the next—is the most common approach to early retirement, but it could be costing you tens of thousands in unnecessary taxes. In this episode of the BiggerPockets Money Podcast, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench sit down with Enrolled Agent Mark to break down tax-efficient withdrawal strategies that maximize your retirement savings. Discover blended drawdown strategies and cyclical drawdown methods that optimize which accounts you tap first—Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, taxable brokerage, HSA—to minimize your lifetime tax burden. This episode covers: Sequential vs. blended vs. cyclical retirement drawdown strategies How to optimize withdrawal order from retirement accounts (401k, IRA, Roth, taxable accounts) Tax-efficient retirement planning for early retirees and FIRE followers How to leverage today's historically low tax rates before they expire Healthcare costs in early retirement (ACA subsidies, Medicare planning) Asset protection and estate planning considerations Roth conversion strategies during low-income years How to avoid costly tax mistakes in the decumulation phase Whether you're planning for financial independence, already retired early, or managing multiple retirement accounts, this tax optimization masterclass will help you keep more of your money and make your nest egg last longer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
DIY Money | Personal Finance, Budgeting, Debt, Savings, Investing
Quint and Allie talk through saving in a brokerage account or a Roth account. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on The Pete the Planner Show, we tackle a classic early-retirement temptation: what happens when you want out of the workforce before 59½, but almost all your money is locked inside qualified retirement accounts? A listener from Dayton writes in with solid savings, a paid-off home, and a serious case of “I can't do this job anymore.” The problem? He wants $80,000 a year in retirement income, but he's only 54 — and bridging those five and a half years before penalty-free withdrawals is tougher than people think. We break down his real numbers, explore strategies like 72(t) distributions and Roth conversion ladders, and explain why early retirement is often less about “Can I quit?” and more about “Can I cash-flow the gap years without blowing up my future?” If you've ever dreamed of early retirement (or Googled ‘how bad is the 10% penalty really?'), this episode is for you.
Richard Rosso breaks down a study that modeled hundreds of thousands of retirement scenarios to determine which Roth conversion strategy performs best over a 10-year period: • Staying in a traditional IRA/401(k) and taking RMDs • A one-time Roth conversion • A gradual, multi-year conversion strategy RIA Advisors' Financial Guardrails are timeless principles for building lasting wealth and protecting your financial future. Rich also shares insights from decades of experience helping investors avoid common pitfalls and build financial wellness that lasts generations. 0:00 - INTRO 0:19 - The Roth Account Smile 4:40 - Roth Applications for Different Stages of Life 12:41 - Rules Can Save You in a Turbulent World 14:55 - Annuities Should Be Planned, not Sold 15:52 - A Home is a Liability, not an Asset 18:35 - Set Personal Financial Boundaries 20:28 - Debt Control & Savings Priorities 22:05 - Dealing with Student Loan Debt 24:32 - Invest in Yourself 26:37 - Benefits of AI - Look Ahead 28:34 - Setting Good Financial Wellness Standards Hosted by RIA Advisors Director of Financial Planning, Richard Rosso, CFP Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdFmXFB3sW4&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Volatility May Precede Santa Claus Rally," is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnOnz8np7ps&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1 ------- REGISTER for our 2026 Economic Summit, "The Future of Digital Assets, Artificial Intelligence, and Investing:" https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-ria-economic-summit-tickets-1765951641899?aff=oddtdtcreator ------- Watch our previous show, "Fed Regime Change: Is Groupthink Finally Ending?" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvNL-iyGgj0&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 -------- Get more info & commentary: https://realinvestm entadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #RothIRA #RetirementPlanning #TaxStrategy #IRAConversion #PersonalFinance #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #InvestingTips #RetirementPlanning #MoneyMindset
The jobs picture is an "evolving situation," says Brad Roth, noting it will be "all eyes on the Fed" for next week's interest rate decision. However, he explains his "goldilocks scenario" that could unfold. On stocks, Brad says that rotation out of large caps and into small and mid-cap names make for a healthier market. He adds to that point by making the case that tech "reached its limit" short-term. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – / schwabnetwork Follow us on Facebook – / schwabnetwork Follow us on LinkedIn - / schwab-network About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about
If you're a business owner, high-income earner, or someone who simply wants to stop leaving money on the table, this episode lays out six powerful year-end tax strategies you can still take advantage of before December 31. These are the moves that help reduce taxes, create long-term advantages, and bring real clarity to your financial picture. In this quick yet high-impact conversation, Jason Labrum and Alex Klingensmith break down the exact steps our clients take every December, from fully funding retirement plans and executing Roth conversions to using donor-advised funds and maximizing tax-loss harvesting. Each strategy can create meaningful tax savings when implemented correctly and tailored to your financial situation. If you've ever wondered, "What should I be doing before year-end to avoid overpaying the IRS?" This episode is your guide. What We Cover in This Episode
Welcome to the AZREIA Show! In today's episode, hosts Marcus Maloney and Mike Del Prete sit down with Dr. Harold Wong a CPA and PhD in Economics known for his bold, unconventional approach to tax strategy. Dr. Wong breaks down creative and often controversial tax-saving methods for real estate investors, including equipment leasing, Roth conversions, and solar investment structures. He also exposes the hidden limitations of traditional IRAs and the costly mistakes many real estate professionals don't even know they're making. If you're looking to maximize tax savings, rethink your current strategies, and learn from one of the sharpest minds in the industry, you won't want to miss this episode. It's packed with expert insights, practical tips, and eye-opening revelations. 00:37 Introducing Dr. Harold Wong 01:36 Dr. Wong's Background and Martial Arts Journey 05:11 Economic Studies and Unique Career Path 13:30 Tax Strategies and Real Estate Insights 23:15 Understanding Capital Gains and Tax Implications 24:05 Challenging Conventional Financial Wisdom 24:26 The Pitfalls of Traditional Retirement Accounts 28:48 Tax Strategies for Real Estate Investors 30:52 Maximizing Roth IRA Benefits 33:12 The Importance of Specialized Tax Planning 38:31 Contact Information and Final Thoughts
Jake and Nick tackle a surprisingly common question, whether retirees are holding too much cash and what "safe" really means once your paycheck stops. They walk through how cash fits into a healthy retirement plan, where it can help, and where it can quietly hold you back. Ever wondered how much cash is "too much?" Tune in to hear some clear guidelines to help you decide. Here's what we discuss in this episode:
Drew and Roth are joined by Peter Brannen, author of The Story of CO2 Is the Story of Everything: How Carbon Dioxide Made Our World to talk about CO2's role in our lives, past and present. Should CO2's image be rehabbed? Then, they talk about the NBA–with the OKC Thunder at 21-1, how screwed is the rest of the league? Finally, they open up the funbag to answer real questions from listeners, like are string cheese and mozzarella sticks the same?Do you want to hear your question answered on the pod? Well, give us a call at 909-726-3720. That is 909-PANERA-0!Stuff We Talked AboutDeep sea alkaline hydrothermal ventsEarth's previous science fiction worldsThe Monster energy drink geological layerThe Celtics Abu Dhabi connectionJust passin' through guysBest celebrity + sandwich experienceSponsors- Mint Mobile, where you can get 50% off all Unlimited plans- Raycon, where you can get 20% offCredits- Hosts: Drew Magary & David Roth- Producer: Brandon Grugle- Editor: Mischa Stanton- Production Services & Ads: Multitude Podcasts- Subscribe to Defector!About The ShowThe Distraction is Defector's flagship podcast about sports (and movies, and art, and sandwiches, and certain coastal states) from longtime writers Drew Magary and David Roth. Every week, Drew and Roth tackle subjects, both serious and impossibly stupid, with a parade of guests from around the world of sports and media joining in the fun! Roth and Drew also field Funbag questions from Defector readers, answer listener voicemails, and get upset about the number of people who use speakerphone while in a public bathroom stall. This is a show where everything matters, because everyone could use a Distraction. Head to defector.com for more info.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today on the HerMoney Podcast, we're bringing you something special — an exclusive preview of one of our brand-new Patreon-only AMA episodes. In this series, Jean sits down one-on-one with real listeners to talk through their biggest financial questions in real time. In this episode, you'll meet Donna, a 68-year-old listener who is rebuilding her financial life from scratch after the end of a 30-year marriage, years out of the workforce, and time spent navigating disability. Now she's back at work full-time — earning nearly double what she made before — and she's trying to figure out how to use this new income to build the retirement she wants. Jean and Donna talk through: What it feels like to step back into the workforce at 68 How to choose between Roth and traditional contributions How to invest when you feel “behind” on retirement What to do when advisors tell you your portfolio is “too small.” And how to finally create a plan after years of trying You'll hear the first half of their conversation here. To listen to the full episode — plus all of our new bonus content — join us on Patreon.
Listener Q&A where Andy talks about: A correction on something incorrect I said last week regarding deciding which spouse's pre-tax account to distribute or convert from ( 3:28 )Pros and cons of using a single total global stock market fund vs multiple other funds such as just US and just international ( 8:17 )What's in the calculation for Modified Adjusted Gross Income ("MAGI") for purposes of determining eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA ( 14:49 )Deciding when to start a Roth account, and whether it should be a Roth IRA or Roth 401(K) (if you have the option), and whether it should be funded via conversion or contribution ( 20:40 )What to consider when deciding on which pension payment type of choose ( 27:52 )Should IRA distributions instead be converted to Roth if you don't need to use the money any time soon ( 35:50 )What to consider when retiring late (e.g. late-60s or 70s) ( 42:02 )Explaining certain "fees" on trade confirmations, such as when buying coupon-paying bonds or stocks/ETFs ( 47:21 )Why just looking at unrealized gains or losses on a position in a dividend or distribution paying security don't tell the whole story with regards to how much money you've actually made or lost in the position ( 53:45 )To send Andy questions to be addressed on future Q&A episodes, email andy@andypanko.comLinks in this episode:My company newsletter - Retirement Planning InsightsFacebook group - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Taxes in Retirement)YouTube channel - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Retirement Planning Demystified)Retirement Planning Education website - www.RetirementPlanningEducation.com
Stay informed about today's highly-searched retirement and financial planning topics in this new episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase. Gain clear, accessible context on economic trends, retirement rules, portfolio structures, and planning conversations that are shaping long-term decision-making discussions. • Explore how the proposed 50-year mortgage is influencing conversations around affordability, home-equity timelines, and shifting real estate structures. • Recognize how the K-shaped economy reflects differing financial experiences across households and shapes discussions about consumer sentiment and wealth-building patterns. • Clarify how mortgage leverage and ultra-long terms relate to borrowing structures, payoff timelines, and the considerations homeowners may evaluate. • Understand how equal-weighted investing frameworks are designed to help distribute exposure more evenly across sectors to address concentration awareness. • Review how equal-weighted and sector-weighted ETFs and mutual funds structure market exposure and present alternative allocation methodologies. • Assess the factors often discussed when evaluating early Social Security filing, especially when immediate income needs are already met. • Compare modeled scenarios that illustrate how different 401(k) contribution timelines can affect projected balances under various assumptions. • Examine informational considerations for highly compensated employees, including restoration plan structures, tax mechanics, and withdrawal rules. • Weigh the structural differences between W-2 and 1099 income in high-income medical professions, including taxation, liability frameworks, and benefits access. • Explore available approaches for high earners encountering Roth IRA limits, such as after-tax contributions, mega-backdoor Roth structures, and ETF allocation strategies. • Hear listener questions addressing savings habits, employer-plan options, and retirement-plan mechanics discussed in real-world scenarios. • Identify informational steps that may support ongoing awareness throughout different stages of retirement planning. If you want to stay current on the retirement conversations shaping today's financial landscape, listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast. Join Wes Moss, Christa DiBiase, and the Retire Sooner community for grounded, ongoing discussions aimed at helping listeners stay informed and intentional about long-term planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When two faith-based financial institutions come together, the goal isn't simply to grow in size—it's to grow in Kingdom impact. That's precisely what's taking place with the launch of AdelFi Christian Banking, a newly unified identity shaped by a shared mission to honor Christ and serve His people.Recently, we sat down with Aaron Caid, Chief Marketing Officer at AdelFi Christian Banking, to talk about how this merger came together, why the new name matters, and what it means for Christians who want their finances to reflect their faith.A New Identity Rooted in ScriptureAccording to Caid, the new name is much more than rebranding—it's a declaration of purpose.“Our new name and identity are a visual representation of what we desire to accomplish with the merger,” he explains. The name AdelFi is derived from the Greek word adelphos, which is used more than 300 times in the New Testament to describe brothers and sisters in Christ.“That's who we are,” Caid says. “Staff, members, and ministries—coming together as a family of believers to build a financial institution centered on Christ and dedicated to advancing God's Kingdom.”The addition of the phrase “Christian Banking” is equally intentional—a bold statement about who they serve and the mission that drives them.The merger was completed on December 1, and throughout 2026, AdelFi Christian Banking will progressively roll out its new brand identity. Milestones include a new website in Q2 and an enhanced digital banking experience in Q3.Combining Strengths for Greater Kingdom ImpactWhat happens when two long-standing Christian credit unions combine their gifts and experience? Caid says the result is far more powerful than the sum of its parts.Both AdelFi and Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU) bring decades of ministry-focused service—over 125 years combined. Each also carries a unique tradition of generosity:AdelFi tithes 10% of its earnings to Christian ministries and mission-sending organizations.CCCU donates a portion of every debit and credit card swipe to Christian causes—over $6.5 million given to date.“Together, we will amplify our giving,” Caid notes. “And with our union, we will form the nation's largest Christian credit union, creating a digital-forward banking experience that honors God and meets members wherever they are.”The merger also expands lending capacity for churches, ministries, and Christian businesses—allowing more Kingdom-minded projects to flourish.Strengthening the Christian Banking MovementChristian banking is still a small, often overlooked sector. But Caid believes this merger marks a turning point.“Most Americans don't even know a Christian banking option exists,” he says. “By merging, we're aligning resources to create more awareness, more growth, and more impact.”With AdelFi Christian Banking emerging as the clear leader in this space, Caid hopes believers increasingly see banking as an area of stewardship—not just convenience.“Our desire is to be the go-to financial solution for Christ followers who seek to align their finances with their faith,” he says. “We want to help steward God's resources to His glory.”Why Christian Banking Is Countercultural—and NeededCaid acknowledges that choosing a Christian financial institution is, in many ways, a countercultural move.“We've seen a major shift among Christians who are fed up with secular banks using their funds for causes that don't align with their values,” he explains.Believers want their money—God's money—to be managed with integrity and used to advance gospel-centered work.“That's why we're boldly stating there is a quality alternative,” Caid says. “A place where your finances are stewarded in ways that reflect biblical priorities, not worldly ones.”The creation of AdelFi Christian Banking reflects a unified vision, a strengthened mission, and a renewed commitment to serving Christ's people well. For those seeking to align their financial lives with their faith, this merger offers a meaningful way forward.To learn more about AdelFi Christian Banking or explore opening an account, visit: FaithFi.com/Banking.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I was offered a $45,000 loan at 8.675% for 20 years. I could use it to pay off two loans—one at 10.44% and one at 9.84%—and still have $15,000 left over. If I then put an extra $300 a month toward the new loan, is this a good deal?I'm 65 with a little over $1 million in a traditional IRA. Should I start converting some of it to a Roth before I have to take RMDs at 73?I budgeted $25,000 for a remodel. The contractor offered 0% financing for 72 months, bringing the cost to $21,000 with a $3,000 down payment—or I could pay cash and get an extra 5% discount by putting $6,000 down. Should I take the 0% option to keep more cash on hand? And will it affect my credit score?We owe $56,000 on our mortgage. I could pull from my retirement to pay it off, but that would nearly drain the account. Would it be wise to do that and then redirect the mortgage payment into investing?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)AdelFi Christian BankingWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
As 2025 winds down, Money Tales hosts Sandi Bragar and Cammie Doder take the mic for a practical conversation packed with personal finance wisdom. This episode is all about reflection, intention and preparation—how to thoughtfully close out the year and step into 2026 with clarity and purpose. Sandi and Cammie explore everything from the power of revisiting your financial vision and refreshing goals to nurturing open money conversations with loved ones and building confidence in your financial habits. They dive deep into specific year-end planning opportunities, including tax strategies, charitable giving, Roth conversions and using health care deductibles wisely. Sandi also highlights emerging client trends like cross-border planning, financial parenting and developing a philanthropic mission. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your cash flow, deepen your money knowledge or reset your financial mindset, this episode will leave you with actionable ideas to carry forward into the new year. Take Control of Your Financial Year Discover how reflection, intentional planning and open money conversations can help you close out 2025 with clarity and step into 2026 with confidence. If you'd like to work with an Aspiriant advisor to align your financial plan with your goals and values, connect with us here. Subscribe to Money Tales on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube Music for more inspiring stories on purpose, money and personal growth.
In this episode, President and Senior Financial Planner Paul L. Moffat and Director of Financial Planning Jordan Naffa break down five powerful financial planning strategies that help clients protect wealth, reduce taxes, and build long term financial security. With laws constantly changing and new opportunities emerging, many investors are unaware of the tools available to them. Paul and Jordan shine a light on the strategies that can make a meaningful difference in a client's financial life.They cover topics ranging from real estate tax strategies and rebalancing to modern 529 uses, backdoor Roth contributions, and the step up in basis at death. Through real examples and clear explanations, they show how thoughtful planning can help cut unnecessary taxes, grow assets more efficiently, and support multigenerational wealth.In this episode: ● How 1031 exchanges can defer taxes on investment properties ● New ways 529 plans can support education and long term planning ● Why rebalancing and asset location matter for growth and tax efficiency ● How backdoor Roth IRA contributions create powerful tax free opportunities ● The importance of the step up in basis and how it protects inherited wealth ● Why proactive planning helps reduce taxes and maximize long term outcomesIf you have any questions, call the Arista Wealth Management office located in Las Vegas, NV at 702-309-9970Connect with Arista Wealth:Website: https://www.aristawealth.comEmail: support@aristawealth.comThe opinions expressed in this podcast are for general purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual or on any specific security. It is only intended to provide education about the financial industry. It is not intended to provide tax or legal advice. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. Any past performance discussed during this program is no guarantee of future results. Any indices referenced for comparison are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. As always please remember investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital: please seek advice from a licensed professional.Arista Wealth Management is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where our firm and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. No advice may be rendered by Arista Wealth Management unless a client service agreement is in place.
Most people think retiring at 58 is “too early”… but after working with hundreds of pre-retirees, I can tell you — many could walk away years sooner than they think.In this episode, I break down the framework behind early retirement and show you why the biggest retirement mistake isn't leaving too soon… it's waiting too long based on outdated assumptions.You'll hear the real story of Mark and Susan — a couple who came to me at 58 feeling unsure, unprepared, and afraid they didn't have enough. With $1.8 million saved, a pension starting in two years, and a timely inheritance, we designed a strategy that allowed them to retire confidently, travel early, and enjoy their healthiest years instead of working through them.In today's episode, you'll learn:Why “the number” is one of the most misleading retirement mythsHow retirement spending naturally drops 20–30% after leaving workWhy your late 50s may be your best health and energy windowThe bridge-income strategies that make 58 retirement realistic— pensions, Roth contributions, ACA planning, and part-time workHow regret prevention should guide your timing decisionsWhat a comprehensive 58-retirement plan actually looks likeHow the Red Zone Retirement Planning Process™ supports early retireesIf you're in your mid-50s and wondering whether you're actually closer to retirement than you think, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.Want to see whether retiring at 58 works for you?Take my free Retirement Readiness Quiz — and I'll send you a personalized planning video based on your results.How much you need to retire quiz: https://bit.ly/Adam-OlsonInvesting involves risk, including loss of principal. Be sure to understand the benefits and limitations of your available options and consider all factors prior to making any financial decisions. Any strategies discussed may not be suitable for everyone. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Adam Olson, Representative. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services is not affiliated with any entity listed herein. This podcast is for educational purposes only and may include references to concepts that have legal and/or tax implications. Mutual of Omaha Investor Services and its representatives do not offer legal or tax advice. The information presented is subject to change without notice and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security or insurance product.Mutual of Omaha Investor Services and its various affiliates do not endorse or adopt comments posted by third parties. Comments posted by third parties are their own and may not be representative or indicative of other's opinions, views, and experiences.
Have you ever wondered what would change in your life if you finally reached the point where your investments could grow on autopilot even if you stopped contributing? What kind of freedom would that give your family? And what possibilities might open up if you did not have to hustle at 110 percent forever? In today's episode, Marko Zlatic from Whiteboard Finance shares how he and his wife reached Coast FIRE in their mid-thirties with over $730,000 invested. Marco breaks down the exact moves that got them there, from early investing habits to their simple index fund strategy to building a life that blends ambition with balance. He also opens up about parenting, marriage, culture, and why he believes Coast Fire is the most realistic financial independence path for families. This Best of MKM episode earned more than 40,000 YouTube views when it first aired, and for good reason. It is transparent, motivating, and packed with actionable takeaways for anyone aiming to build wealth while still enjoying life today. CHAPTERS
On episode 200 of Ask The Compound, Ben Carlson and Duncan Hill are joined by Ritholtz CFO and ATC legend Bill Sweet to discuss: housing prices in 2026, retirement tax strategies, Gen Z loves Roth, renting during retirement, trading in the military and more. Submit your Ask The Compound questions to askthecompoundshow@gmail.com! This episode is sponsored by Compound Insider. Subscribe to The Compound Newsletter for all the latest Compound content, live event announcements, find out who the next TCAF guest is, get updates on the latest merch drops, and more! https://www.thecompoundnews.com/subscribe
Send us a textYear-end is the last chance to lock in major tax savings for your business.In this episode, Mike walks through the exact steps business owners need to take now, from S Corp requirements and accountable plans to AGI phaseouts, QBI planning, and the Augusta Rule.You'll also learn how to hire your kids correctly, hit retirement deadlines, use timing strategies as a cash-basis filer, harvest tax losses, and document every move so you enter tax season clean, organized, and ready.
David McKnight addresses three key questions you must be able to answer before executing a single Roth conversion. Too many people go for Roth conversions without a game plan – this is something that can lead to overpaying taxes and running out of money sooner than anticipated. David points out that if you can't answer the three key questions, you should stop and reevaluate because guessing here can cost you big. "What's the total amount I should convert from my IRA or 401(k) to tax-free?" is the first and most critical of the three questions. Remember, the goal of a Roth conversion isn't to get your tax-deferred bucket to zero at all costs. It's to get to the right amount of tax-deferred dollars shifted to tax-free, the amount that allows you to stay in the 0% tax bracket in retirement. "How much should I convert each year?" is the second question and is about pacing your conversion so as to avoid unnecessary exposure to higher tax brackets. The goal is to convert to Roth slowly enough that you don't rise into a tax bracket that gives you heartburn. "Over what time frame should I complete my Roth conversions?" is the third question you should address before executing a Roth conversion. Addressing each of the three questions helps you shift from Roth conversion guesswork to Roth conversion strategy. Be careful. Most financial gurus will say "Roth conversions are great, just pay the tax and move on!" Mentioned in this episode: David's new book, available now for pre-order: The Secret Order of Millionaires David's national bestselling book: The Guru Gap: How America's Financial Gurus Are Leading You Astray, and How to Get Back on Track Tax-Free Income for Life: A Step-by-Step Plan for a Secure Retirement by David McKnight DavidMcKnight.com DavidMcKnightBooks.com PowerOfZero.com (free video series) @mcknightandco on Twitter @davidcmcknight on Instagram David McKnight on YouTube Get David's Tax-free Tool Kit at taxfreetoolkit.com OBBBA (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) Donald Trump David Walker
#665: If you've ever stared at an insurance quote and wondered, “Is this really worth it?”, you're not alone. Liability and umbrella policies can feel like an expensive mystery, especially when your net worth is growing and your risks are shifting. In today's episode, we dig into a listener's dilemma about soaring liability and umbrella insurance costs, and we explore how to think clearly about protection, exposure, and the parts of your portfolio that may already be shielded. Along the way, we unpack how shifting household risks, driver ages, and asset location change the insurance strategy year by year. From there, we take questions about Roth choices, future tax brackets, and whether it's worth giving up investment flexibility to build a stronger tax triangle. These conversations get to the heart of how we balance risk, taxes, and long-term planning in the FI journey. Listener Questions in This Episode Andy asks: How can I protect my $2 million net worth without paying nearly $950 a month for increased auto, home, and umbrella coverage, especially with a teenage driver in the mix? (01:47) Mike asks: Given our high current tax bracket and expected lower tax rate in retirement, does contributing to a Roth still make sense for us? (25:50) Cindy asks: Should I move my rollover IRA into my new 401(k) so I can start doing backdoor Roth contributions, even if the investment choices are more limited? (39:47) Key Takeaways Sometimes the question isn't “umbrella or nothing,” it's “what risk am I truly trying to insure, and for how long,” especially when a teenage driver temporarily changes the household risk profile. You already may have more asset protection than you think. Retirement accounts and primary residences often carry their own layers of protection, which influences how much liability insurance you actually need. The Roth decision hinges less on math in isolation and more on your likely future earnings, work style, and appetite for locking in today's tax rates. Building a balanced tax triangle gives you flexibility later, especially when future tax rates are unknowable and retirement timing is uncertain. Backdoor Roths can be powerful, but only when the tradeoff between investment choice and long-term tax flexibility makes sense for your goals and timeline. Related Episode: Episode 649: Umbrella insurance deep dive Chapters Note: Timestamps are approximate and may vary greatly across listening platforms due to dynamically inserted ads. (00:00) Offense versus defense and setting up today's questions (01:47) Andy asks about protecting a $2 million net worth (12:00) What's already protected and how coverage layers work (17:00) Managing short-term risk when a teenager starts driving (29:50) Mike asks whether high earners should prioritize Roth contributions (35:07) How career trajectory and future tax rates shape Roth logic ( 45:54) Building a balanced tax triangle (47:47) Cindy asks about using a backdoor Roth to shift her tax triangle ( 52:10) Tradeoffs of moving an IRA into a 401k (54:06) How long Roth dollars need to grow to matter Share this episode with a friend, colleagues, your tax advisor: https://affordanything.com/episode665 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
McDreamy Dempsey wants to know if converting to Roth in the 37% tax bracket ever makes sense, and Gary in La Crosse warns Joe Anderson, CFP® and Big Al Clopine, CPA about Roth conversion "lag" and when it DOESN'T make sense to convert, today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast 558. Plus, Wine Guy and Gal in Northern California want a spitball on whether they should protect their ACA subsidies or keep converting to Roth before Medicare kicks in. Then it's the classic question for Robert in Napa, Luke and Lorelai in Indiana, and Phil and Claire in California: should they save for retirement in their traditional, pre-tax, tax-deferred accounts, or their post-tax, tax-free Roth accounts? Different needs and situations, same big question: which strategy gives you the smarter tax outcome? Free Financial Resources in This Episode: https://bit.ly/ymyw-558 (full show notes & episode transcript) Top 10 Tax Tips Guide - limited time special offer, download yours before Friday, Dec 5, 2025! Ultimate Guide to Roth IRAs - free download 2025 Key Financial Data Guide - free download 10 Tax-Cutting Moves to Make Now - YMYW TV Financial Blueprint (self-guided) Financial Assessment (Meet with an experienced professional) REQUEST your Retirement Spitball Analysis DOWNLOAD more free guides READ financial blogs WATCH educational videos SUBSCRIBE to the YMYW Newsletter Connect With Us: YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation in the comments Podcast apps: subscribe or follow YMYW in your favorite Apple Podcasts: leave your honest reviews and ratings Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: This week on the YMYW Podcast 00:57 - Should High Earners Do Roth Conversions in the 37 Percent Bracket? (McDreamy Dempsey) 06:50 - The Hidden Roth Conversion Lag: When Conversions Don't Actually Pay Off (Gary, LaCrosse, WI) 18:03 - Should You Prioritize the ACA Subsidy Cliff or Roth Conversions Before Medicare? (Wine Guy & Gal, No CA) 26:27 - Traditional vs Roth Contributions: What's Better When You Make $400K? (Robert, Napa) 33:09 - Roth or Traditional Contributions? Save More or Coast After Debt Payoff? (Luke & Lorelai, Indiana) 42:13 - Roth or Traditional at Age 48: Which Strategy Makes More Sense? (Phil & Claire, CA) 49:19 - Outro: Next Week on the YMYW Podcast
Tom and Don spend this post-Thanksgiving episode dismantling the illusion that big insurance companies—Northwestern Mutual in particular—are “financial advisors” rather than high-pressure sales organizations built on whole-life commissions. Don recounts his own early days as a Dean Witter cold-call cowboy, and the two walk listeners through a damning Guardian investigation revealing recruitment practices, high-pressure quotas, and the wealth-destroying math behind whole life. The phones open to calls about Cambridge's nearly 3% wrap fees, sociopathic insurance sales relatives, term-insurance needs for young families, Roth vs. pre-tax decisions, and how to find a real fiduciary advisor. The theme is consistent: avoid sales machines masquerading as advice, and keep investors from being devoured by the industry's worst incentives. 0:04 Tech glitches, Thanksgiving jokes, and Tom's three-week vacation cadence 1:45 Why this is “not the best-of”—it may be the worst-of 2:26 Don's Dean Witter cold-call origin story and the culture of selling, not advising 3:35 Northwestern Mutual's rebrand and the Guardian investigation 4:08 False promises: “You'll make $200K in three years” 5:12 The cold-calling boot camp and why only one trainee survived (Don) 6:46 Inside the student recruitment pipeline and the friends-and-family harvesting 8:11 Whole life math: the S&P at +3700% vs. Northwestern at +44% 10:50 Why whole life persists: commissions 12:41 Wrap-up of the Guardian findings and the industry's structural sleight-of-hand 16:23 CALL: Cambridge Wealth “index” portfolio with hidden fees 23:14 The reveal: Cambridge's small-account wrap fees approach 3% per year 25:54 CALL: Son-in-law selling insurance, knows it's a ripoff, loves the money 28:55 Thanksgiving family drama and the “sociopath vs. psychopath” riff 29:59 CALL: How much term life insurance should a high-income parent carry? 32:52 CALL (same): Splitting Roth vs. pre-tax contributions when income is high 34:28 CALL: How to find a true fiduciary (and avoid annuity traps) 37:59 The advisor interview form and how to make salespeople disqualify themselves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 1, 2025 – As year-end approaches, prioritize Roth conversions before December 31st to capitalize on low tax rates. Complete critical actions like 529 contributions, gifting, RMDs, and charitable distributions by year-end to ensure tax benefits...
Join Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Roth of Las Vegas Plastic Surgery and co-host Darrell Craig Harris as they break down exactly what it takes to become a plastic surgeon. From the years of medical school and residency training to the intense commitment, discipline, and hands-on experience required, this episode gives a clear, insider look at the full journey. Perfect for future medical students, anyone considering a surgical specialty, or listeners curious about the path behind one of the most competitive fields in medicine. We invite you to contact us with your questions including suggestions for topics to cover on future episodes! email: inquiry@darrellcraigharris.com Meet Dr. Jeffrey J. Roth from Las Vegas Plastic Surgery Drawn to medicine by his innate desire to help others, he received his medical degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He completed his general surgery residency at the Medical College of Pennsylvania/Hahnemann University in Philadelphia and his plastic surgery residency at the University of California, San Francisco, serving as chief resident in both programs. He then furthered his training with a fellowship in microsurgery and hand surgery at USC, where he also served on the faculty. Having gathered the kind of expertise and experience that makes him a leader in his field, Dr. Roth returned to Las Vegas in 2003 and opened his practice, Las Vegas Plastic Surgery, Inc. Website www.JJRothMD.com Social media www.Instagram.com/lasvegasplasticsurgery www.Instagram.com/lookinggoodfeelinggreatpodcast www.Facebook.com/lasvegasplasticsurgery www.Twitter.com/DrJeffreyRoth