Podcasts about Roth IRA

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sonia Fears. First Vice President and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She leads The Fears Group, a wealth management team specializing in alternative investments, retirement planning, and financial education.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sonia Fears. First Vice President and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She leads The Fears Group, a wealth management team specializing in alternative investments, retirement planning, and financial education.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Sonia Fears. First Vice President and Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley. She leads The Fears Group, a wealth management team specializing in alternative investments, retirement planning, and financial education.

Help us surprise Clark Howard for his birthday! We're collecting special wishes for Clark (it's a secret!) to celebrate his birthday on June 20th. Use this form to share your wishes for Clark: https://forms.gle/hNtmFTvqkdZc94J49 -- remember it's a secret! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also today, how one state plans to use controversial technology to slow down speeders. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Intelligent Speed Assist: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: “Clark Stinks!” - by Son of Scotland How To Open a Roth IRA 3 Reasons You Should Never Book a Nonrefundable Hotel Room How To Use Priceline To Save on Travel What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Virginia will use technology to slow chronic speeders' cars Car Rental Insurance: Everything You Need To Know Credit Card Car Rental Insurance: What You Need To Know My Credit Card Offers Some Rental Car Coverage. Why Do I Still Need To Involve My Primary Auto Insurance? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you use retirement funds to buy rentals, pay for renovations, or scale your real estate portfolio faster? Saving for a down payment can be tough, and dipping into a retirement account might seem like a tempting shortcut. But is it worth paying the hefty penalty? We're breaking it all down on today's episode! Welcome to another Rookie Reply, where Ashley and Tony answer questions from the BiggerPockets Forums and Real Estate Rookie Facebook group. First, what do you do when a tenant wants to end their lease before it even starts? There are several factors to consider, from your state's landlord-tenant laws to additional turnover costs, but we'll steer you in the right direction. Next, we'll hear from an investor who's considering withdrawing funds from their Roth IRA before retirement age to build their portfolio faster. Is it worth it? We'll crunch the numbers and find out! Finally, where should you list your short-term rentals online, and how do you prevent your property from getting double-booked? As our resident short-term rental expert, Tony has the answer, and it's much simpler than you might think! Looking to invest? Need answers? Ask your question here! In This Episode We Cover Whether you should use retirement accounts to buy more rentals The real cost of withdrawing from your Roth IRA before retirement age What to do when a tenant unexpectedly backs out before their lease begins Where to list your short-term rentals online (and how to avoid double-booking!) The best property management software for your Airbnb business And So Much More! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal appeals court pauses a ruling blocking President Trump's tariffs, while Caroline Levitt slams courts for ignoring past trade wrongs. Dan Bongino uncovers a hidden room of James Comey-era classified documents at the FBI, Tom Homan mourns a Texan killed by illegal immigrants, and Eric Schmidt defines MAGA as fighting for working-class dignity. Wesley Huff explains sin and salvation on the Flagrant podcast, plus Aaron answers your questions, from June's vibe to smoked cream cheese. news, politics, Aaron McIntire, Donald Trump, tariffs, federal appeals court, Caroline Levitt, Dan Bongino, FBI, James Comey, classified documents, Tom Homan, illegal immigration, Ava Moore, Eric Schmidt, MAGA, Wesley Huff, Flagrant podcast, sin, salvation, No Suck Saturday, big beautiful bill, national debt, Roth IRA, current events

Is 2025 the ideal time for a Roth conversion? RIchard Rosso considers future tax rates potentially on the rise and retirement goals in focus, and why converting to a Roth IRA could be a smart move. We'll break down the rules, potential tax implications, and key strategies to maximize your tax-free retirement income. Whether you're planning for retirement or looking to optimize your wealth, don't miss this essential guide to Roth conversions in 2025 and beyond! [NOTE: Due to technical issues, the missing first segment will be reposted in a separate clip.] SEG-1: Markets, Tariffs, & Corporate Concerns (The Lost Segment can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oCeEyCktR4&list=PLVT8LcWPeAuhi47sn298HrsWYwmg8MV7d&index=1 ) SEG-2a: Young Interns & '70's Crime Dramas SEG-2b: Dealing with Decumulation SEG-3: The Problem of Under-spending in Retirement SEG-4: PCE Preview & Needed Tweaks in Social Security Hosted by RIA Advisors Director of Financial Planning, Richard Rosso, CFP, w A&M University Intern, Will Lewis Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch today's video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Lv4vPAF638&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1&t=17s ------- Articles mention in this show: "The Anchoring Problem And How To Solve It" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/the-anchoring-problem-and-how-to-solve-it/ "Trump Tariffs Are Inflationary Claim The Experts" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/trump-tariffs-are-inflationary-claim-the-experts/ ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "The Correction is Over," is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_utj49L0G3I&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1 ------- Our previous show is here: "The Death of Narratives" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIl8rM1AW6w&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=2&t=2s ------- Register for our next in-person event, "Retirement Income Empowerment Workshop," June 14, 2025: https://tracking.realinvestmentadvice.com/l/1052953/2025-05-08/ysxr ------- Get more info & commentary: https://realinvestmentadvice.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/ #RothConversion #TaxFreeRetirement #RothIRA2025 #RetirementStrategies #TaxPlanning #MarketNarratives #SocialSecurity #RothIRA #Roth401k #PCE #Inflation #InvestingAdvice #Money #Investing

This $400K Roth Strategy at 55 Might Change Your Retirement**Schedule your free virtual consultation, click here: https://pearlwealthgroup.com/contact/ or use our calendar link: https://calendly.com/pearlwealthgroup/discoverycall ****Buy My Book: Can I Really Retire https://www.amazon.com/shop/drewblackstoncrc/list/2FDRXX3LFUXQ8?ref_=aipsflist **If you're 55 years old with around $400,000 saved for retirement, a Roth IRA conversion could be a game-changer for your retirement future. In this retirement video, we break down a smart, tax-efficient Roth conversion retirement strategy specifically designed for pre-retirees in their mid-50s. Learn how to potentially reduce your future retirement tax burden, increase tax-free retirement income in retirement, and avoid costly retirement mistakes.❌ **Please make sure you talk with your CPA, Financial Advisor, Retirement Planner, or Investment Advisor Representative, before implementing any content from this channel. All videos are for informational and educational purposes only. None of the content, comments, responses, information, or any other item on this channel constitutes financial advice or recommendations. Please call Pearl Wealth Group at 813-807-5060 to go through your Retirement Income, Retirement Investments, or Retirement Plan in more detail.** ❌

Planning a big move? Learn how to decide whether you should sell or rent your home and fund your next down payment. Should you sell or rent out your home when you move? What's the best way to fund a down payment from multiple accounts? Host Sean Pyles talks to NerdWallet writer Lisa Green about the big financial decisions that come with relocating across a long distance. Joined by listener David, they explore how to evaluate whether keeping a home as a rental makes sense, and what it takes to manage that property from a distance. They begin with a discussion of long-distance landlording, with tips and tricks on hiring a property manager, maintaining a savings cushion, and considering the tax benefits of depreciation and travel deductions. They also discuss which accounts to withdraw from with minimal tax consequences, how to leverage a HELOC before moving, and how the timing of a move can impact your financial strategy. Learn about down payments and calculate how much to put down on a house: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/mortgages/down-payment-calculator  If you're ready to find the right mortgage with expert guidance every step of the way, get started today at https://www.nerdwallet.com/prequalify/m/mortgage-experts/lp1  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: renting out your home after moving, long distance landlord tips, property manager costs, managing a rental property from another state, home equity line of credit for down payment, how to get money for a home down payment, using Roth IRA for home purchase, cashing out taxable investments for a down payment, capital gains tax on investment sales, moving across the country with kids, how to prepare financially for a move, cross-country move costs, downsizing before a move, furnished rental property tax benefits, rental property depreciation, rental property travel tax deduction, renting furnished home to traveling nurses, comparing cost of pods vs U-Haul, best way to move long distance, property management for out-of-state rental, rental vacancy costs, tax benefits of keeping a rental property, how to handle moving logistics, financial planning for relocation, and how to access money for a house down payment. 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.

In this special episode, we catch up on a backlog of insightful listener questions—covering everything from estate planning and Social Security taxation to Roth conversions and Medicare rules. If you've been wrestling with real-world retirement planning decisions, you're not alone. Today's episode delivers practical answers to the kinds of issues many people face but few have clearly explained. We tackle: IRMAA and Social Security Taxation – Does IRMAA include Social Security income if it's not taxable? Capital Gains on a Vacation Home – Should you delay estate planning until after the sale of a property? What about the "2 out of 5 years" exemption? Paying Inheritance Taxes – If all your accounts list beneficiaries, how will state inheritance taxes (like Pennsylvania's) get paid on time? Step-Up in Basis with TOD Deeds – In Oklahoma, does property with a Transfer on Death deed still receive a step-up in basis? Impact of Home Sale on IRMAA and Roth Conversions – How does selling a vacation home affect your income-based Medicare premiums and Roth conversion strategies? Medicare Enrollment Rules at Age 65 – Are you legally required to enroll in Medicare at 65 if not on a qualifying employer plan? Trusts and Anonymity – How can you use estate planning tools while keeping your affairs private and self-directed? Probate Friendliness by State – Which states make probate easy, and which ones almost demand a trust-based plan? Inherited IRAs and Roth Conversions – Can a beneficiary convert inherited IRA funds into a Roth IRA for future tax-free growth? If you've ever had a nuanced question about retirement or estate planning, chances are someone else has too—and we're tackling them head-on in this packed Q&A episode. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 

Check out Sammi's new podcast Social Currency on Spotify, click here!---In this week's episode of the Rich Habits Podcast, Robert Croak and Austin Hankwitz uncover the secrets of Financial Advisors, specifically, what they don't tell you!---

In Romans 2:4, Paul writes, “Do you not know that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” What a powerful reminder that even when we fail, especially when we fail, God's grace invites us back. He doesn't lead with condemnation, but with compassion.That truth has everything to do with our financial lives.Yes, God Cares About MoneyIt's easy to think God isn't concerned with something as “earthly” as money. But Scripture tells a different story. There are over 2,300 verses dealing with money and possessions. Why? Because how we handle money reveals what we value, trust, and believe about God.And just like any other area of our lives, when we fall short financially, whether through poor choices or sinful patterns, we're invited to bring those failures to the Lord in repentance.Grace for Financial FailuresWhen we confess our financial sins, we don't encounter a cold, condemning judge. We meet a loving Father, ready to forgive and restore. No financial mistake is too big for the Cross. Christ paid for every one of them.Take Zacchaeus, for example. The chief tax collector of Jericho was known for financial exploitation. But after one encounter with Jesus in Luke 19, everything changed. His repentance was visible: He gave half his possessions to the poor and repaid those he had wronged four times over. Jesus didn't demand this—grace compelled it. Zacchaeus didn't earn salvation by generosity; his giving revealed a heart transformed by it.We're invited to that same transformation.Financial Sins Worth Repenting OfYou might be wondering, What financial sins should I bring before the Lord? Here are a few worth reflecting on:1. Forgetting God Owns It AllWe are stewards, not owners. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us that God gives us the ability to produce wealth. When we forget that, we risk idolizing what we've earned instead of worshiping the One who provides.2. Dishonesty in Financial DealingsCutting corners, misrepresenting the truth, or taking advantage of others damages our witness. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 8:21, “We aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man.”3. Withholding GenerosityProverbs 11:24 warns that stinginess can actually lead to lack. A lack of generosity can reveal misplaced trust in wealth instead of God.4. Neglecting Diligent WorkWork isn't a punishment—it's a calling. Proverbs 14:23 says, “In all toil there is profit.” Laziness, or lack of engagement with our work, hinders our ability to live out God's purposes.5. Living Beyond Our MeansChronic overspending leads to stress and debt. Proverbs 22:7 says, “The borrower is slave to the lender.” Contentment honors God's provision.6. Coveting Others' WealthEnvy skews our perspective and sows discontentment. Exodus 20:17 calls us to guard our hearts from coveting what others have.Repentance That Leads to RestorationIf any of these hit close to home, remember this: conviction is not the same as condemnation. The goal of repentance is restoration, not shame. God is not asking for perfection—He's asking for surrender.When we confess, He forgives. And in His kindness, He leads us into new patterns of faithfulness marked by integrity, generosity, and wisdom.So wherever you are today—whether gathered with family, enjoying the day off, or reflecting quietly—take a moment to consider how God's kindness might be calling you back in your financial life.Ask Him to search your heart. Repent of anything that's not aligned with His will. And trust that He will meet you with mercy and guide you forward in grace. Because when we place even our financial story in His hands, it becomes a testimony of His faithfulness.And that, friend, is true freedom.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I want to know how to invest my Roth IRA funds. I have a large account with a private custodian in a checkbook LLC, and right now it's just sitting in a bank account, which is shrinking because of inflation. I just want to keep up with inflation. I'm 70 years old and want to invest $30,000 wisely. After financial challenges, I want to create a safety net for my family and 15 grandkids. I don't know much about investing and need advice on what to do with my money.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Schwab Intelligent Portfolios | BettermentSound Mind Investing (SMI)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Let's talk about the money lessons your kids aren't getting in school!

In this episode, Dr. Preston Cherry breaks down key retirement accounts like 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, and traditional IRAs. He explains where to save, invest, and withdraw money for retirement — and why taxes matter. The talk covers contribution limits, tax perks, smart strategies for high earners, and common planning mistakes to avoid.Takeaways:• Know where to save• Use employer plans• Roth vs. traditional• Max out contributions• Avoid common errorsWant to learn more? Connect with us below!Stay informed and inspired! Join our FREE wealth & well-being newsletterDo you want confidence & clarity? Check out our award-winning wealth advice servicesGrab Your Copy of Dr. Cherry's book ‘Wealth In The Key of Life'Disclosure: episodes are educational only, not advice. Review our disclosures here: https://www.concurrentfp.com/disclosures/

In this edition of Five Question Friday (FQF), we look at these five questions:1. My 401k is not employer matched, should I stop contributing to my employer 401k and open a Roth IRA instead?2. Where should we keep cash we'll need to spend in 12 to 18 months?3. Can you implement the bucket strategy in Boldin?4. SCHD + TIPS & Chill?5. Do Short-Term Treasury Bills provide the same inflation protection as TIPS?Join the Newsletter. It's Free:https://robberger.com/newsletter/?utm...

Gene and Alyssa answer questions: He and his wife have some physical concerns.  Can they write off a hot tub on their income taxes? She turns 73 in a month and wants to understand her RMD requirements and options? He got an invite to a financial workshop dinner.  Is the company playing it straight? They rolled over her 401(k) into a Roth IRA – or did they? And we are still feeling very, very blessed Free Second Opinion Meetings Meet with a More than Money advisor to review your entire financial picture or simply project your retirement Meet with our Social Security partner to plan the best S/S strategy for you Meet with our estate planning attorney partner to review your estate plans – if you have any Meet with our insurance partner to review your life or long term care coverages Discover how to have your 401(k) professionally managed without leaving your company plan Schedule a free second opinion meeting with a More than Money advisor? Call today (610-746-7007) or email (Gene@AskMtM.com) to schedule your time with us.

Choosing the best brokerage firm for your investing needs might seem overwhelming, but we're here to help! Most brokerage firms now offer $0 account minimums and commission-free trades. That's the standard, not the standout.These brokerage firms really compete in their tools, features, and support. That's where your needs come into play.Your life will change. Maybe you'll buy a home, get divorced, get married, start a business, have a baby, switch careers, or start planning for a big goal like retirement or a dream vacation. Your brokerage should grow with you.To find the right brokerage firm, ask yourself:Do I want to learn as I go? Look for platforms with strong educational tools that explain the “why” behind each decision.Is it easy to use, or just easy to look at? A clean interface is great, but it should also save you time and help you take action.Do I prefer to manage money on my phone? If mobile is your main device, the app experience really matters.What kinds of investments do I want access to? Beyond stocks and ETFs, consider if you'll want funds, bonds, or retirement accounts like a Roth IRA.How much research do I need to feel confident? If you like digging into details, look for screeners, data, and expert insights.How much money am I starting with? If it's a smaller amount, fractional investing will help you buy into big-name stocks without needing big money.How involved do I want to be? If you're short on time, you might prefer a platform that offers automated investing or robo-advisors.This is your journey. The right platform should meet you where you are, and support where you're headed next. Read the best brokerage guides I've already put together:

Don returns from a exhausting, comedy-of-errors flight to discuss how the markets pulled an equally wild round trip—plunging, then rebounding to the tune of $8 trillion. He and Tom break down the April stock and bond tantrum, laugh off predictions of recession, and offer practical guidance for scared investors, risk-takers, and those tempted by annuities. Listener questions cover mortgages vs. investing, the role of fixed annuities, and a touching thank-you from a longtime fan who retired well thanks to Don's early radio shows. Oh, and Tom's now YouTube famous. Just ask his grandkids. 0:04 Don's cursed travel story: jet lag, delays, and onboard medical drama1:28 Welcome back—Tom's model aircraft museum returns2:48 Market rewind: sharp drop and $8T rebound3:55 April 8 market bottom; temper tantrum or bear tease?4:40 CNN Fear & Greed Index: from panic to euphoria in weeks6:27 Fan mail: “Planes, Trains & Cryptocurrency” and Tesla hate from a Lyft driver7:43 Don's Broadway singalong graduation trip to NYC9:01 Recession odds fall fast—tariffs rise faster11:27 Tom calls out the mayor's interest rate prediction logic13:01 Check your 401(k)? Maybe don't—unless you're learning your risk tolerance14:10 Don's “Tune Out the Noise” video hits 10+ million views16:43 Listener challenge: Why bash Fidelity annuities?18:47 Don's CD ladder vs. annuities—why he prefers federal over contractual guarantees20:10 Even “no load” annuities can be slippery—careful with the fine print21:51 TRM hits 1,648 episodes (and counting)22:44 Listener Bruce: From broke in 1989 to comfortably retired, thanks to Don24:17 Remember load funds? Why no-loads and ETFs rule now25:59 American Funds' ETF pivot: lipstick on a mutual fund28:36 Listener question: Invest inheritance or pay off 6.6% mortgage?33:10 Roth IRA strategy, liquidity concerns, and investing at age 3536:17 Graduation singers belt Sinatra's “New York, New York” at Radio City38:21 Reminder: Free portfolio help at TalkingRealMoney.com39:53 End-of-show degeneracy: full monty jokes, sensitivity training, and accidental innuendo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all know the Roth IRA is a powerful tool for setting our kids up financially, especially when they're earning early and you can stash away a few thousand dollars for decades of tax-free growth. But what happens when your child hits that in-between stage—say, age 19 to 25—still on your health insurance but no longer a tax dependent?  That's where the HSA strategy kicks in, offering a surprisingly overlooked second phase of long-term wealth building. In this episode, we explore how to leverage this window to give your child a tax-free healthcare fund that could quietly grow into hundreds of thousands by retirement.

Today's show: The benefits of credit cards, recommended stock portfolio allocations and resources for helping kids learn about money. Plus: How to execute a rollover or backdoor Roth IRA? (This episode originally aired in 2024)

In today's Five Question Friday (FQF) we'll tackle the following questions:1. Is now a good time to change your asset allocation?2. Do target date funds force you to sell stocks in a down market?3. Does the IRS treat the withdrawal of dividends as taking out earnings or contributions from a Roth IRA?4. Is an 80% Chance of Success in Retirement reasonable?5. How much should you allocate to international stocks?Boldin: https://go.robberger.com/boldin/yt-fqfProjectionLab: https://go.robberger.com/projectionla...FICalc: https://ficalc.app/Chance of Success Guardrail Articles:https://www.kitces.com/blog/monte-car...https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/ris...https://www.kitces.com/blog/probabili...https://www.morningstar.com/retiremen...Join the Newsletter. It's Free:https://robberger.com/newsletter/?utm...

In this episode, Stephen Schmidt interviews John Berlet, a seasoned expert in tax deeds and retirement planning. John shares his extensive experience in the real estate market, particularly focusing on tax deeds and the intricacies of tax lien investing. He discusses the advantages of investing in non-homestead properties, the importance of understanding the redemption process, and how to protect investors in this niche market. John also emphasizes the benefits of using a Roth IRA for tax deed investments and provides insights into the risks and opportunities in the real estate sector.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Wes and Christa compare ETFs vs. index funds and retirement accounts vs. brokerage accounts. Unlock financial clarity and early retirement strategies with this jam-packed episode of dynamic discussion and listener questions, covering topics such as: • The importance of staying invested during market volatility, using a recent market upswing as an example of patience leading to productive results. • The aforementioned differences between ETFs, index funds, and even mutual funds. Discover which ones might be most effective for your specific needs. • An explanation of Lipper Ratings and how tax efficiency can matter in taxable accounts. Are ETFs more tax-friendly? • Learn how the S&P 500, while typically having a strong investment core, can be tech-heavy and may sometimes lack exposure to sectors like energy, materials, and real estate. How can diversification be achieved? • Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) can be exciting but are often risky. A small, speculative allocation might be fine, but is it productive to bet your retirement on IPOs? • Wes introduces a powerful analogy. Retirement accounts = Crockpot: slow-cooking, tax-deferred, long-term. Brokerage accounts = Skillet: accessible, taxable, real-time impact. Use both types of accounts strategically—Wes explains how. • When not to do a Roth conversion. • Can pension income be used for Roth IRA contributions, or do folks need wages or self-employment income to contribute? • Is it safe to link financial accounts to third-party companies to more regularly update info? Or do the cybersecurity risks and diminishing benefits mean manual updates once a year are sufficient?

Curious about how a Roth IRA stacks up against a whole life insurance policy for Infinite Banking? In this episode, we break down the key differences, from control and liquidity to tax treatment and long-term benefits, helping you decide which option fits your financial goals. Audio Production by Podsworth Media - https://podsworth.com 

Retirement planning can feel like a whirlwind, flooded with choices, tight timelines, and the pressure to “get it right.” In this special mailbag episode, David answers real questions from listeners who are navigating this very moment. One is preparing to retire and feeling overwhelmed; the other is already retired and sorting through the complexities of Roth conversions.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode:

“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever…” - Proverbs 27:23-24These days, our “flocks and herds” often look like stocks and mutual funds, not sheep and cattle. But the call to wise stewardship remains. One way we do that is through proxy voting. Jerry Bowyer joins us to explain how and why it matters.  Jerry Bowyer is the President of Bowyer Research and our Resident Economist here at Faith & Finance. He is the author of The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics.What Is Proxy Voting?Proxy voting is similar to civic voting. As a citizen, you vote in elections, attend town halls, and even influence legislation. As a shareholder in a company, if you own the stock directly, you have similar rights: to vote on proposals, ask questions, and even submit resolutions.But if you're invested through mutual funds or ETFs, you hand that vote over to someone else—often a fund manager or institution. And unless you know how they're voting, your values may not be represented at all.Many Christian ministries, nonprofits, and even pro-life organizations are unknowingly voting against their own missions. Why? Because they either don't engage in proxy voting or delegate it without vetting the recipient's values.How Can Investors Reclaim Their Voice?Proxy statements are often long, complex, and written in confusing legal language. For that reason, many advisors default to saying, “Just let the client decide,” rather than helping them engage meaningfully.Of course, that's not a good sign because if it's too complex for the advisor, it's definitely too complex for the client. Instead, we encourage advisors and Christian investors to partner with specialists, like Bowyer Research, who can help decode the process and ensure votes reflect biblical values.They offer audits to show investors how they've been voting—often to their shock. They've never done one where people weren't stunned by what they saw.Mutual Funds, ETFs, and the Challenge of Indirect OwnershipIf you're invested through mutual funds or ETFs, you're likely not voting directly. However, that doesn't mean you're powerless. Here are some things to keep in mind:You can request data on how your funds are voting. Bowyer Research tracks that. You can explore “direct indexing” solutions—an increasingly available strategy that allows you to own shares directly and reclaim your voting rights. You can ask your advisor questions. “How am I voting?” is a simple but powerful question. If your advisor can't answer it, that's a red flag.What You Can Do TodayAsk your advisor how your shares are being voted. If they don't know, press in.Get an audit of your proxy voting records through BowyerResearch.com.Talk to companies, not just about them. Change happens through engagement, not complaint.If you're an investor, advisor, or leader at a Christian ministry or nonprofit, don't let your investments work against your mission. Visit BowyerResearch.com to learn how to align your proxy voting with your values.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 27 and own 20 acres of land. Should I use the land as collateral for a house loan, or use my saved money to get a bigger loan and increase my land's equity?I opened a Roth IRA with National Life Group in 2013. It's past the surrender fee date, but it's not earning me much. I'll be 66 in July, and I'm single with no one to depend on. I also have another annuity with F and G that I'm not happy with. What should I do with these investments?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Bowyer ResearchWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Roger and Elias discuss the economy and recent consumer spending trends. Plus they share money tips for recent grads to help them get started on the right foot.  Take control of your financial future: https://www.btwealthshow.com/start-planning Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC.   The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for  any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for  you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing.   All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly.  Premier Investments of Iowa, Inc. and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional.  Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful.  There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes.  The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies.  All investing involves risk including possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced  All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Rebalancing a portfolio may cause investors to incur tax liabilities and/or transaction costs and does not assure a profit or protect against loss. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 1/2 and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. #personalfinance #retirementincome #financialplanning #financialfreedom #financialadvisor #retirement #investing #stockmarket #mortgage 

Graduation season isn't just a time for caps, gowns, and celebrations, it's a pivotal financial crossroads for many young adults stepping into independence. As they leave the classroom behind and enter the workforce, the financial decisions they make now can quietly shape the next 40 years of their lives. Today, Lee talks about why it's so important for parents, grandparents, and mentors to help them lay a solid foundation, not just with money, but with mindset. Listen in as Lee shares practical ways to equip recent graduates for long-term success. From starting an emergency fund to making early Roth IRA contributions, he outlines the key conversations and habits that matter most. He also reflects on real stories, including his own, and offers creative gift ideas for families who want to offer more than just a check. Here's what we discuss in today's show:

In this episode of Tax Tuesday, Eliot Thomas, Esq. is joined by Anderson CPA Barley Bowler. They explain how transfer-on-death titles still provide beneficiaries with stepped-up basis advantages and clarify that short-term rentals don't qualify for real estate professional status. You'll hear proper entity structures for rental properties, recommending against holding appreciating real estate in C corporations. They thoroughly explain the 280A "Augusta Rule" that allows tax-free rental income from personal residences to your business for up to 14 days annually. With input from bookkeeping expert Troy Butler, they recommend QuickBooks Online for tracking rental property finances. Additionally, they cover Roth IRA conversions, tax withholding strategies, and 1031 exchange rules for deferring capital gains.   Submit your tax question to taxtuesday@andersonadvisors.com Highlights/Topics: "When a house is under a transfer on death title, does the beneficiary still get a step-up in basis?" - Yes, they still get a stepped-up basis. "If I already qualify as a real estate professional rep status via short-term rentals and add long-term rentals to the mix. Can I lump the two kinds together? And does having an S corporation that manages everything affect my rep status?" - Short-term rentals don't qualify for REP status. S-corps generally don't affect REP status. "Where real estate properties are in individual LLCs, disregarded and owned by my C corporation, does the C corporation maintain one bank account and collect rent for all individual properties?" - Not recommended. Use a management company instead. "If you get started in wholesaling, should you file as an S corporation?" - Yes, use S or C corp. "What kind of bookkeeping is needed for rental real estate? Do you have any bookkeeping software to suggest?" - QuickBooks Online is recommended. Track properties separately. "When doing an IRA to Roth conversion, are there any limits? Are pre-tax conversions always treated as ordinary income? Is it true that the IRS does not know or care when the conversions were done during the year?" - No limits. Yes, ordinary income. IRS treats as earned throughout year. "How does tax work if a business owner is paying himself as an employee, do we have to tax twice? Once for the business income and once as an employee?" - No, payroll is deductible business expense. "How do I do a 1031 exchange? And how do I maximize real estate property depreciation after I do a 1031 exchange? Am I stuck with the previous depreciation rate and amount of the previous property?" - Use a qualified intermediary. Trade up for more depreciation. Resources: Schedule Your Free Consultation https://andersonadvisors.com/strategy-session/?utm_source=can-you-boost-depreciation-after-a-1031-exchange&utm_medium=podcast Tax and Asset Protection Events https://andersonadvisors.com/real-estate-asset-protection-workshop-training/?utm_source=can-you-boost-depreciation-after-a-1031-exchange&utm_medium=podcast Anderson Advisors https://andersonadvisors.com/ Toby Mathis YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TobyMathis Toby Mathis TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@tobymathisesq Clint Coons YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ClintCoons  

Discover the power of the Roth IRA! In this episode, Alec Daril and I are looking at the rules of a Roth IRA, how to start one, and how this simple investing tool can be one of the most powerful ways to build tax-free wealth in retirement! And if you're looking for more resources to help you get started, we've got a free tool available to you at https://sparkmywealth.com

In this episode of the Personal Finance Podcast Money Q&A,  we are going to talk about  the fastest Way to 1 million Roth Rules, and should you rent forever. Watch this episode on Youtube Today we are going to answer these questions! Question 1: How do I build back my emergency fund after using it, and where should I move money from to do this? Question 2: Is it wise to invest my HSA funds? Question 3: I've come across an extra $500/month. Should I put it toward credit card debt or savings? Question 4: Should I roll my rollover IRA back into my new 401(k) plan now that I've started a new job? Question 5: How do I become a millionaire in a rapid-fire way? Question 6: As a 28-year-old in a high cost of living area, would I be better off renting forever and investing the difference instead of owning? Question 7: If I make over $150K/year, should I stop investing in Roth accounts for my IRA and 401(k)? Question 8: Should I still move my money from my Roth 401(k) to a Roth IRA, or are they essentially the same thing? Question 9: My mortgage rate is 6.625%. You always say over 6% is high-interest debt—should I pay it off early? Question 10: Have you heard of the AIQ ETF? What are your thoughts on it? How Andrew Can Help You:  Listen to The Business Show here. Don't let another year pass by without making significant strides toward your dreams. "Master Your Money Goals" is your pathway to a future where your aspirations are not just wishes but realities. Enroll now and make this year count! Join The Master Money Newsletter where you will become smarter with your money in 5 minutes or less per week Here! Learn to invest by joining  Index Fund Pro! This is Andrew's course teaching you how to invest!  Watch The Master Money Youtube Channel! , Ask Andrew a question on Instagram or TikTok.  Learn how to get out of Debt by joining our Free Course  Leave Feedback or Episode Requests here.  Car buying Calculator here Thanks to Our Amazing Sponsors for supporting The Personal Finance Podcast. Shopify: Shopify makes it so easy to sell. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at  shopify.com/pfp Chime: Start your credit journey with Chime. Sign-up takes only two minutes and doesn't affect your credit score. Get started at chime.com/ Thanks to Fundrise for Sponsoring the show! Invest in real estate going to fundrise.com/pfp Thanks to Policy Genius for Sponsoring the show! Go to policygenius.com to get your free life insurance quote. Go to https://joindeleteme.com/PFP20/ for 20% off! Indeed: Start hiring NOW with a SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLAR SPONSORED JOB CREDIT to upgrade your job post at Indeed.com/personalfinance Turn your business dream into reality! Apply now at www.oneday.org/pfp  Go to Acorns.com/pfp and start automating your investments and get a $5 bonus today! Shop Data Plans and Save Big at mintmobile.com/pfp   Links Mentioned in This Episode:  The Ultimate Guide to the HSA (The Super Retirement Account!) Connect With Andrew on Social Media:  Instagram  TikTok Twitter  Master Money Website  Master Money Youtube Channel   Free Guides:   The Stairway to Wealth: The Order of Operations for your Money  How to Negotiate Your Salary  The 75 Day Money Challenge  Get out Of Debt Fast  Take the Money Personality Quiz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Don and Tom tackle the investor's most persistent foe—fear—especially during volatile markets. They draw on insights from Vanguard and others to reinforce the value of long-term investing, explain why missing a few key days in the market can devastate returns, and stress the importance of rebalancing over reacting. The duo also takes on political distractions, market timing myths, asset location dilemmas, and the emotional turbulence that causes people (including Don's wife!) to question their portfolios. It all wraps with a cheeky new market jingle courtesy of ChatGPT and a shirt that reached Everest. Yeah, literally. 0:04 Welcome, podcast humor, and the pain of being downloaded1:10 The recurring fear-driven urge to “do something” with your portfolio1:33 Set it and forget it? Vanguard and others weigh in2:44 Remember AOL? The danger of investing with confidence in the wrong thing3:35 Volatility is the cost of real returns—don't try to dodge it4:50 Presidential influence and personal political biases in investing5:50 Real portfolios with too few stocks and too much risk6:55 Missing just 10 good days in the market could cut your returns in half7:59 Buy and hold ≠ do nothing: how disciplined rebalancing works9:17 Should you be buying international now? Maybe… but only if rebalancing10:21 Feelings ≠ facts: don't let emotions dictate portfolio moves11:31 “Tune Out the Noise”—free advice and a free YouTube documentary13:06 A musical market mantra written by ChatGPT14:47 When even your spouse doubts your strategy: the advisor's personal dilemma16:57 T-shirt spotted at Everest Base Camp—financial fame ascends18:14 Can you contribute to a Roth IRA using last year's wages?19:54 Why young investors should love down markets20:11 Asset location dilemma: comparing AVUV vs FISVX in 401(k) plans23:54 Bedford, TX and a lesson in regional geography24:31 Don't chase performance—get help and rebalance smart25:05 One more round of “Clueless is Smart”—market timing parody jingle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21That powerful truth from Jesus captures the heart of FaithFi's mission and vision.If money issues are ultimately heart issues, then we need more than financial tips—we need a heart change that helps us see God as our ultimate treasure. Today, Taylor Standridge joins us to explore the deeper purpose behind FaithFi and how you can partner in that mission.Taylor Standridge is the Production Director of FaithFi: Faith & Finance and the co-author of Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety.When Your Peace Rises and Falls with the MarketIt's pretty ironic that the stock market graph sometimes looks like a heart rate monitor. The point? Many people's emotions—and even their sense of hope—are tied to their financial situation. When the market dips, so does their peace.But Scripture offers a better way: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).If your peace mirrors the market, it may be a spiritual warning light. Scripture calls us to set our minds on things above, not on the volatility of our savings accounts.Why Our Mission at FaithFi MattersAt the core of FaithFi is a calling to help people glorify God through wise financial decisions. But our vision shapes how we do it: to see every Christian view God as their ultimate treasure.In Jesus's words during the Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 6:21 tells us, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Christian finance is about more than avoiding debt or giving to good causes. Those are great goals, but Jesus is calling us to something deeper: to reexamine what we treasure in the first place.It's not about giving more, it's about loving God more. That's why even the Pharisees, who gave plenty, were still rebuked—because their hearts weren't surrendered. When Christ becomes our greatest joy, giving becomes cheerful, not dutiful.The Daily Struggle: Trusting God or Trusting in WealthOne of the biggest struggles we see on the show frequently is the tension between trusting God and trusting in financial security.The culture says to get more and upgrade everything. But the gospel calls us to steward our resources for God's Kingdom. Ultimately, money can never define our worth—it can only serve as a tool when our identity is rooted in Christ.Wisdom Over Wealth: What Ecclesiastes Teaches UsThis book reminds us that wealth, possessions, and even success are fleeting. Apart from God, they're meaningless—just vapor, or ‘hevel' as Ecclesiastes puts it.But when we view money as a gift from God, not the goal, its purpose becomes clear. Ecclesiastes invites us to stop chasing what won't last and start investing in what will.That's why we're excited about the release of our latest study, Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money, authored by John Cortines. Ecclesiastes speaks so much to our modern struggles with wealth, showing us both the futility of placing our hopes in riches and the true path to a life grounded in God's wisdom. You'll find that this study will challenge you to rethink your relationship with money and inspire deeper trust in God's provision and sovereignty.To get your copy, you can either pre-order it at FaithFi.com/Shop or request a copy to be sent to you when you make a gift of $35 or more to the ministry of FaithFi at FaithFi.com/Give. Practical Tools for a Biblical Approach to FinancesFaithFi isn't just about biblical theory—it's about real-life application. There are several ways we equip people to live out God-honoring stewardship:The FaithFi App—A budgeting tool built on biblical values like generosity, margin, and contentment. It even includes a vibrant in-app community with Certified Christian Financial Counselors (CertCFCs) and Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKAs).  Radio + Podcast—Daily encouragement and wisdom for wherever you are on your financial journey. Devotionals & Studies—Tools like Look at the Sparrows and Wisdom Over Wealth are helping individuals and churches connect their faith and finances. Faithful Steward Magazine—A quarterly, beautifully designed resource full of rich theology, practical advice, and real-life encouragement—exclusively for FaithFi Partners.Join the Movement: Become a FaithFi PartnerThe best way to support FaithFi's work is to become a FaithFi Partner—someone who gives $35 a month or more, or at least $400 a year. In return, partners receive early access to our Bible studies and devotionals, full access to the FaithFi Pro App, and quarterly issues of Faithful Steward. But more importantly, they help millions of people discover how to treasure God above all else.If this vision resonates with you, visit FaithFi.com/Give and join us.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I want to know if charities have to follow minimum wage laws in Florida or the United States.I have about $130,000 between two IRAs, I owe about $125,000 on my mortgage, and about $15,000 on an auto loan. I have a $250,000 term life policy that ends in 2027. I'm shopping around and want to know how much life insurance I should buy, and if you're in favor of life insurance.What's the difference between a Roth IRA and a regular IRA? And can an individual open a 401(k) without being an employee?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Send us a textCody Garrett (not to be confused with our good friend, Justin), is a CFP and a regular on the ChooseFI message boards and FB group. By know, most of us know about the Roth IRA, 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b)...but many of us (myself included) have been in the dark about a taxable brokerage account. Cody is here to talk about all the positives of having one of these amazing accounts.  Remember, after you retire, you won't be able to contribute to your workplace 403(b), 457(b) etc. Also, you need EARNED income (pension doesn't count) to still invest into an IRA. Personally, I opened up a taxable brokerage account when the market dipped in COVID and I like to call it my "opportunity fund". It has been a major blessing to our family! https://youtube.com/@measuretwiceplanners?si=QXits06nDhEEWMykhttps://measuretwicefinancial.com/meet-cody/

Why I won't be buying Palantir technologies anytime soon When I'm out in public many times people ask me what my opinions are when it comes to investing, the markets or individual stocks. I have to say the one stock that people seem to be asking the most about recently is Palantir Technologies, their ticker symbol is PLTR. I believe I'm asked about this company because investors look at the hype of the past performance and the fact that this stock is up over 1,000% since going public in 2020. That creates excitement for investors, but is it worth buying now? The company currently trades around 60 times next year's estimated sales, and again that is sales not earnings! That makes it the most expensive stock in the S&P 500. There are signs that growth outside of the US is slowing and I don't like that they have three unnamed companies that accounted for 17% of the total revenue last year. Usually hype like this goes the same path, which ultimately results in large losses for buyers at this point in the cycle. A more recent example comes from the company Snowflake. In 2021, Snowflake hit an all-time high over $400 per share. Today that stock is down nearly 60% and trades around $167 per share. You don't hear much about it now, but I remember back in 2021 many people were asking about this company as well. I'm also not thrilled with Palantir's CEO, Alex Karp, who during an interview just a few months ago had some pretty nasty comments about analysts who don't agree with him on the stock price. He said “I love the idea of getting a drone and having light fentanyl laced urine spraying on analysts who've tried to screw us.” Maybe I'm old school, but I don't think that is anyway for the CEO of a company of any size to talk about anyone that does not agree with the CEO's position. Especially considering many times they aren't knocking the business, just the fact that this company's valuation is extremely crazy! I will also try my best to refrain from making any comments on Mr. Karp's hairstyle, but it just seems a little bit outlandish for a CEO to have that type of hairstyle. As far as the stock goes, maybe the craziness will continue and perhaps it does go higher, but if people ask me if they should buy, sell, or hold the stock, I would definitely say sell! I guess I now have to be careful of drones flying above my head that could be spraying fentanyl laced urine on me.   Good news, only 26% of big money managers are bullish A recent poll from Barron‘s magazine, which they conduct twice a year, found that only 26% of big money managers were bullish and thought stocks would go up while 74% were either neutral or bearish on stocks. They said 32% of respondents were bearish and that was the highest percent since 1997 while the 26% that were bullish marked the lowest reading since 1997. I think Barron's Magazine is a good source of information, but I was disappointed that they did not list the years of experience of the managers that were being polled. The reason for my concern is that the last big negative in the economy and the market was in 2008, which was 17 years ago. A current manager that graduated school at age 23 would now be 40 years old and they did not experience managing money through 2008. Living through and managing money through a challenge like that provided me with extremely valuable lessons that younger managers would not understand. But why is this negative report a good sign in my opinion? Their current asset allocation is only 64% in equities with 36% in other investments like fixed income and cash. They will not stay bearish forever and if they change direction in the next 6 to 12 months, they will start buying equities again, which will push up prices. If you're looking for value, the least attractive sectors were energy, real estate, and utilities. I have talked about my concerns around the Magnificent Seven and now only 10% of these managers think the Mag Seven will lead the market over the next six months. Even looking out 12 months only climbed 32% thought the group would lead the market. When asked about the strength of the US dollar going forward 12 months, 68% of the money managers said it will be weaker, which I agree with. Only 15% of the managers think it will be stronger a year from now. These surveys also provide an interesting insight into what other money managers are thinking.   Apple's stock continues to amaze me There seems to be so much negative news that continues to come out against Apple, but the stock continues to remain relatively steady given the amount of negativity. We all know about the tariffs and the delayed AI rollout, but I was definitely concerned by a couple announcements that would have large impacts on Apple's service revenue. This segment has been a bright spot for Apple, but in the most recent quarter it missed expectations and grew at just 11.6% compared to last year. The big concern I have is around Alphabet's estimated payment of around $20 billion annually to be the default search engine. There is concern if this will hold up given the ruling that Alphabet holds a monopoly and the need for remedies, but also this week Apple executive, Eddy Cue, added additional concerns. He stated the searches in Apple's Safari browser fell for the first time in April, something that has never happened in 20 years. He then added that the iPhone maker is looking at adding AI search options to the Safari browser. If they did this, would Alphabet really want to keep paying $20 billion a year for that right? I don't think so! The other major concern that seemed to get little attention was the fact that in a recent ruling a judge ordered Apple to immediately stop imposing commissions on purchases made for iPhone apps through web links inside its apps. This has enabled developers like Amazon and Spotify to update their apps to avoid Apple's commissions and direct customers to their own website for payments. This commission rate was around 27% for Apple and it could cost Apple billions of dollars annually. All this comes with the fact that Apple still trades around 25x 2026 earnings even though revenue is only estimated to grow low to mid-single digits. In my opinion, Apple really needs some good/exciting news to get this stock moving higher and at this time I don't see where that is going to come from.   Financial Planning: Breaking Down Retirement Income Taxation Retirement income varies widely in tax treatment, with some sources being far less tax-friendly than others. In order from worst to best, pension payments and traditional IRA withdrawals are among the least favorable—they're fully taxable as ordinary income at both the federal and state levels. Interest income from bonds, CDs, and savings accounts, as well as annuity earnings from non-retirement accounts, are also taxed as ordinary income at both levels and can trigger the additional 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) if income thresholds are exceeded. Rental income is similarly taxed but allows deductions and depreciation to offset some of the tax burden. Long-term capital gains and qualified dividends receive preferential federal tax rates—as low as 0%—but are still taxed as ordinary income in California and many other states. Social Security is partially taxed at the federal level—between 0% and 85% is included as taxable income depending on total income—but is not taxed in most states, including California, making it relatively tax-favorable. Roth IRA withdrawals are the most tax-friendly, being completely tax-free at both the federal and state levels if qualified. Understanding how each income type is taxed can help guide investment decisions during working years and inform how to structure withdrawals in retirement for optimal tax efficiency.   Companies Discussed: The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (SMG), Block, Inc. (XYZ), Amazon, Inc. (AMZN) & McDonald's Corporation (MCD)

On this Talking Real Money episode, Don and Tom tag-team one of the biggest financial myths around: your house as a retirement plan. With over $35 trillion locked in U.S. home equity, they challenge the idea that owning a home equals wealth. From the emotional pull of mortgage payoffs to the liquidity traps of reverse mortgages and HELOCs, the duo breaks down the risks, rewards, and real returns of homeownership. Then it's on to listener questions about IRAs, 401(k)s, rollovers, and... fiber (yes, the breakfast and internet kind). And they end with a little brag—because 154,000 monthly listeners can't be wrong. 0:04 $35 trillion tied up in homes—does that make us rich or just house-poor?1:20 Post-COVID home equity boom: 80% growth, but at what cost?2:53 Renting vs. buying: the case for liquidity over bricks3:44 Property tax pain for retirees and why Florida isn't so tax-free after all4:21 Mortgage payoff: emotional win, financial mistake?5:48 Why home equity shouldn't be your retirement income plan6:37 Housing's historic returns: barely 3% pre-inflation7:54 Forced savings illusion and the real cost of home improvements8:45 If you'd invested instead of buying… you'd have more9:35 Reverse mortgages, HELOCs, and why it's harder to get cash out10:19 Home equity lines now ~8%—not cheap or easy to get12:30 Big picture: don't include home equity in your retirement spending plan14:05 Florida vs. California: which really costs more to live in?16:38 Insurance, taxes, and Florida's fraud problem18:50 Listener Q: Can you do both an IRA and a 401(k) in the same year? (Yes.)20:40 IRA vs. 401(k): pros, cons, and personal strategy22:53 Listener Q: Should we roll an old 403(b) to a Roth IRA?23:44 Talking Real Money's audience numbers: brag-worthy and booming25:19 Retirement prep tip: match income to lifestyle before you retire Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew welcomes Leo this week as they talk to callers about the Medicare enrollment process, estate planning for giving property to children, Roth IRA five-year rule, owning gold, and more! Download and enjoy! 

Tom and Roxy Butner to co-host a packed episode of Talking Real Money, tackling the ever-elusive "magic number" for retirement with a healthy dose of realism, humor, and data. They dig into a Northwestern Mutual study that shows Americans lowering their retirement savings goals—even as confidence continues to slip. Roxy breaks down why retirement planning is all about cash flow, not some mythical lump sum. They field questions on company stock in 401(k)s, bonus check strategies, RMD tax strategies, and how to get young people started right. From Monte Carlo analysis to Roth IRA advantages, the duo bust myths and offer practical steps listeners of all ages can act on today. 0:04 Tom introduces Roxy and the episode's core question: “Do I have enough to retire?”1:01 Why the idea of a single “magic number” is misleading and varies by lifestyle2:41 Roxy: $600k may be enough—or $3M might not be; it's all about cash flow4:32 Despite lowering their goals, only 51% believe their retirement plan will work6:15 Roxy explains Monte Carlo analysis and why asset type (Roth vs. pre-tax) matters7:31 Why tracking actual spending matters more than estimates before retirement8:32 Caller: Should we sell the company stock in my wife's 401(k)?9:18 Tom warns of overconfidence and stock concentration risk, citing WaMu collapse10:45 Roxy and Tom agree: diversify ASAP—don't let company loyalty cloud judgment12:14 Historical cautionary tales on once-great companies that fell apart13:26 Regional bias: How geography skews investor confidence in local companies14:46 Caller: What to do with a $20k bonus after maxing out the 401(k)?16:11 Roth IRA contribution options for him and his wife, and the 5-year rule18:10 Bonus: Enhanced catch-up contributions for ages 60–63 explained20:31 Caller asks about RMDs, tax planning, and long-term care deductions21:53 Only qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) avoid tax on RMDs23:24 Roth contributions early in life can lead to massive long-term advantages24:47 Caller asks about a bond fund change in her HRA and 60/40 portfolio safety29:45 Why “safe” is the wrong word—know your plan, goals, and risk tolerance31:13 Caller wants her daughter to connect with Roxy for help managing her paycheck32:54 Yes—Roxy helps young clients with budgeting and financial foundations34:31 Why early saving and simple investing in your 20s is so powerful36:09 Tom announces upcoming trip to Portland and free portfolio reviews37:08 Final notes: building trust, long-term planning, and why they love the work Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More people are familiar with the Backdoor Roth IRA strategy but there is also a Mega Backdoor Roth Strategy. While the Backdoor Roth Strategy is available to the majority of people, the Mega Backdoor Roth Strategy is more limited since it depends on how your employer sponsored retirement plan, whether it's a 401(k), 403(b) or 401(a), is set up. In this episode, discuss Roth conversions, review the Backdoor Roth IRA strategy (also check-out Episode 38: The Backdoor Roth IRA Explained) and then discuss the Mega Backdoor Roth Strategy. This week's episode covers:·        What a Roth conversion is and how it works·        Why it's important to know whether your IRA contributions are pre-tax or post-tax·        How to handle taxes when performing a Roth conversion·        The income limits for Roth IRA contributions in 2025 and how they affect high earners·        Why the Backdoor Roth IRA remains a valuable strategy despite no upfront deduction·        The step-by-step mechanics of the Mega Backdoor Roth strategy·        Which types of 401(k) plans support Mega Backdoor Roths·        Why business owners and self-employed physicians are uniquely positioned to take advantage of these strategies·        Tax implications and planning considerations, including why consulting with a CPA is essential If you've been wondering how to maximize your retirement savings and achieve greater tax efficiency, especially as a high-income earner, this episode is packed with practical guidance.Please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite Podcasting platform. If you want to start your path to financial freedom, start with the Financial Freedom Workbook. Download your free copy today at https://www.GrowYourWealthyMindset.com/fiworkbook Dr. Elisa Chiang is a physician and money coach who helps other doctors reach their financial goals by mastering their money mindset through personalized 1:1 coaching . You can learn more about Elisa at her website or follow her on social media. Website: https://ww.GrowYourWealthyMindset.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/GrowYourWealthyMindset Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ElisaChiang https://www.facebook.com/GrowYourWealthyMindset YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WealthyMindsetMD Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/ElisaChiang Disclaimer: The content provided in the Grow Your Wealthy Mindset Podcast is for informational and entertainment only and should not be considered professional investment, legal, or tax advice. While Dr Elisa Chiang is a money coach for physicians, she is not a c...

Summary In this conversation, Sam from Financial Samurai shares insights on wealth building, investment strategies, and the importance of intentional spending. He has a net worth over $10 million. He discusses his journey from a finance career to becoming a successful author and investor, emphasizing the significance of real estate and public equities in his portfolio. Sam also reflects on the mindset shift towards spending and investing in education for his children, culminating in the release of his new book, 'Millionaire Milestones.' Sam shares his insights on building wealth, the importance of compounding, and the milestones necessary for achieving financial independence. He discusses the structure of his book, 'Millionaire Milestones', and emphasizes the significance of saving and investing strategically. Sam also reflects on his personal experiences, aspirations for family travel, and the lessons learned from childhood that shape his financial philosophy. He encourages listeners to be intentional with their finances and to seek knowledge from those who have succeeded before them. Takeaways *Sam's new book focuses on building wealth for freedom. *His net worth grew from $3 million to over $8.5 million. *Diversification in investments is key to financial stability. *Maxing out 401k and Roth IRA is essential for retirement. *Taxable brokerage accounts should be prioritized for flexibility. *Real estate provides stability and utility compared to stocks. *Intentional spending became a focus after age 45. *Investing in education is a valuable long-term investment. *The importance of adapting investment strategies over time. *Sam's journey reflects the balance between saving and enjoying life. The experience of 30 years in finance is invaluable. *It's important to read and learn from others' experiences. *Investment milestones are crucial for financial growth. *Compounding interest significantly increases wealth over time. *Financial independence allows for freedom of expression and action. *Intentional living and travel can enrich family experiences. *Spending should be intentional and meaningful. *Childhood lessons shape financial perspectives. *The journey to wealth requires consistent effort and strategy. *Engaging with mentors can accelerate financial learning. Sponsored by: Indeed Indeed.com/unveiled Shopify Shopify.com/unveiled  

In this mailbag episode, Brad and Rachael dive deep into strategies for efficiently withdrawing money from taxable brokerage and retirement accounts. With a focus on understanding the different tax treatments associated with these accounts, listeners gain crucial insights into managing tax liabilities for retirement. Key Takeaways Different Types of Accounts: Taxable brokerage accounts versus traditional IRAs and 401ks have distinct tax consequences affecting retirees. Tax Treatment: Withdrawals from traditional retirement accounts are taxed as ordinary income, while long-term capital gains from taxable accounts are taxed at a lower rate. Strategic Tax Planning: Employing strategies such as Roth conversions and tax gain harvesting can significantly minimize tax impacts during retirement. Investment Placement: It's vital to manage tax-efficient placements for investments, especially during retirement. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Podcast Intro: Introduction to the episode topic. 00:04:36 - Taxable Brokerage Accounts vs Traditional Accounts: Discussion on the terminology and tax implications. 00:09:59 - Tax Strategies and Opportunities: How to minimize taxes in retirement using investments. 00:23:10 - Roth Conversions Explained: Understanding the benefits of converting retirement accounts. 00:48:13 - Conclusion and Future Topics: Wrap up and upcoming episode topics. Key Insights Tax Treatment of Withdrawals: Withdrawals from a traditional IRA are taxed as ordinary income. (00:04:36) Understanding Taxable Brokerage Accounts: "Taxable brokerage accounts" may be better understood as your basic savings or investment accounts. (00:05:07) Investment Strategies: Use tax-advantaged accounts to defer taxes on income. (00:09:59) Minimize taxes with proper investment placements and strategies like tax gain harvesting. (00:23:10) Roth Conversions: Roth conversions allow you to transfer pre-tax retirement accounts into a Roth IRA and pay taxes on the converted amount, providing tax benefits later. (00:26:56) Actionable Takeaways Understand Account Types: Familiarize yourself with the differences in tax treatment between taxable brokerage accounts and traditional retirement accounts. (00:04:36) Maximize Tax Efficiency: Consider implementing Roth conversions to streamline taxes during retirement. (00:26:56) Tax-Efficient Investments: Be strategic about investment placements—opt for tax-efficient funds to minimize taxable income. (00:23:10) Related Resources Kitcis Article on IRA Strategies: Read here (00:52:55)   Rachael Camp   Please note: Rachael Camp offers advisory Services through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Camp Wealth is not affiliated with the CFD companies.

In this episode of Beer and Money, Alex Collins discusses the intricacies of converting traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs, including the types of conversions, strategies for implementation, and the tax implications involved. He emphasizes the importance of consulting with tax advisors and financial planners to navigate these decisions effectively. The conversation also covers the timing of conversions, potential costs, and unintended consequences as individuals approach retirement. Check out our website:  beerandmoney.net For a quick assessment of your current financial life go to: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/RyanBurklo Check out your tax rate (the site Alex mentioned): https://data.qz.com/2012/yourtaxrate/ Takeaways Conversions can be from traditional IRA to Roth IRA. Non-deductible contributions can be converted tax-free. Pre-tax conversions will incur tax liabilities. Timing conversions during low-income years is beneficial. Understanding historical income levels aids in planning. Most people remain in the same or higher tax bracket in retirement. Calculating the cost of conversions is crucial. Medicare costs can be affected by conversions. Consulting with professionals is essential for tax strategies. Unintended consequences can arise from poor planning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Conversions 01:24 Types of Conversions Explained 03:25 Strategies for Converting to Roth 04:40 When to Consider Conversions 07:12 Understanding Tax Implications 09:29 Calculating Costs of Conversion 11:43 Unintended Consequences Near Retirement  

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3127: Wanderer breaks down how to access your 401(k) funds before age 59½ without paying penalties, using a strategy called the Roth Conversion Ladder. By carefully rolling over 401(k) funds into a Traditional IRA and then converting to a Roth IRA within tax-free limits each year, you can build a systematic way to unlock your retirement savings early and maximize tax efficiency. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.millennial-revolution.com/invest/get-money-401k-59-1-2/ Quotes to ponder: "Money inside your 401(k) is kinda like a raw pot roast. You can't eat it right away." "It's all based on the IRS rule that Roth IRA conversions, rather than contributions, can be withdrawn penalty-free 5 years after the conversion has taken place." "When you do quit, you roll-over all of them into a Traditional IRA. This is done tax-free." Episode references: How to access retirement funds early by Mad Fientist: https://www.madfientist.com/how-to-access-retirement-funds-early/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Max Merritt reveal how NIL athletes can turn short-term earnings into long-term wealth. From forming an LLC to electing S corp status and leveraging mega Roth strategies, they lay out the playbook every young athlete—and their advisors—should follow.Here are some of the highlights:Mark emphasizes the similarities between athletes and entrepreneurs, highlighting the self-discipline required in both fields.Max notes that many college athletes become entrepreneurs, often owning their own businesses.The importance of treating NIL income as a business transaction, suggesting the formation of an LLC and potential S corporation election.Mark warns against signing NIL contracts in the athlete's name, suggesting the use of the LLC to protect the athlete's interests.Mark and Max explain the concept of the mega backdoor Roth IRA, allowing athletes to save up to $70,000 annually in a tax-advantaged account.The potential for athletes to save significant amounts in retirement accounts like the solo 401(k).Mark encourages athletes to seek professional advice from tax lawyers and financial advisors to make informed decisions about their income and investments Grab my FREE Ultimate Tax Strategy Guide HERE! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute demo to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the most significant tax & legal event of the year: Tax and Legal 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!

Explore ways fear can sometimes subside in financial markets. Examine how missing the worst days, not just the best ones, can lead to less productive gains over time. Wes and Christa analyze: • Why 2025's market feels more like a “bungee cord” than a rollercoaster. • How to use the VIX (fear index) to gauge investor sentiment—and what it could mean for your investments. • What historical spikes in fear (dot-com crash, 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis, COVID-19, inflation shock) might teach us about recovery patterns. • Why most fear-filled crises eventually subside—and how to spot the turning point in hindsight. • How central bank interventions, Fed rate changes, and global economic actions can sometimes calm markets over time. They answer listener questions about families, retirement, and catch-up plans, including: • How to save for retirement on one income with kids. • If you have to take RMDs at 72 while still working. (Hint: You might not have to!). • Why it's okay for some to tap into their Roth IRA at age 80—and how to optimize account usage. • How much a married couple need to cover basic expenses in retirement. • How ETF providers profit when fees are so low. • Revenue streams, plus the Costco hot dog strategy (yep, that's a thing!). • Elder Care and Safe Spending Tools. Overall, Wes reminds folks that discipline usually means staying the course, because fear doesn't last forever, and markets typically recover. Don't just listen—act! Subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast, share it with a friend, and take one step closer to your happy retirement. Call 800-805-6301 to leave a voicemail or contact us HERE for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Clark - Man From Roth, talks about why now might be the best time to do a Roth conversion. Also - why big bank fees are back and how you can prevent getting your wallet pinched in this way.  Roth Conversion: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Beware Bank Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark.com - The ROTH IRA & 401(K) Retirement Calculator: With Social Security and Pension How Often Should You Re-Shop Insurance? How to Shop for Lower Car Insurance Best Free Checking Accounts   //   Best Savings Accounts  High-Yield Savings Account Calculator Automatic Bill Pay: How It Works and How To Do It Safely Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Should I Contribute to a 529 Plan Only To Roll It Into a Roth IRA Later? Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Personal Finance Podcast,  we are going to do a Money Q&A about  should you pay off debt or keep investing. Today we are going to answer these questions!  Question 1: How do I handle high expense ratios in my child's Roth IRA? Should I switch vendors, change funds, or stay the course? Question 2: How do I get smarter about small business finances—write-offs, taxes, and making better financial decisions? Question 3: Is disability insurance worth it? Who really needs it and what should I look out for in a policy? Question 4: With $150K in student loans and a strong investment strategy, should I focus on paying off debt or keep investing? Question 5: As I start a web design side business in California, should I create an LLC or a Corporation—and what should I consider long term?   How Andrew Can Help You:  Listen to The Business Show here. Don't let another year pass by without making significant strides toward your dreams. "Master Your Money Goals" is your pathway to a future where your aspirations are not just wishes but realities. Enroll now and make this year count! Join The Master Money Newsletter where you will become smarter with your money in 5 minutes or less per week Here! Learn to invest by joining  Index Fund Pro! This is Andrew's course teaching you how to invest!  Watch The Master Money Youtube Channel! , Ask Andrew a question on Instagram or TikTok.  Learn how to get out of Debt by joining our Free Course  Leave Feedback or Episode Requests here.  Car buying Calculator here Thanks to Our Amazing Sponsors for supporting The Personal Finance Podcast. Shopify: Shopify makes it so easy to sell. Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at  shopify.com/pfp Chime: Start your credit journey with Chime. Sign-up takes only two minutes and doesn't affect your credit score. Get started at chime.com/ Thanks to Fundrise for Sponsoring the show! Invest in real estate going to fundrise.com/pfp Thanks to Policy Genius for Sponsoring the show! Go to policygenius.com to get your free life insurance quote. Go to https://joindeleteme.com/PFP20/ for 20% off! Indeed: Start hiring NOW with a SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLAR SPONSORED JOB CREDIT to upgrade your job post at Indeed.com/personalfinance Turn your business dream into reality! Apply now at www.oneday.org/pfp  Go to Acorns.com/pfp and start automating your investments and get a $5 bonus today! Delete Me: Use Promo Code PFP for 20% off! Shop Data Plans and Save Big at mintmobile.com/pfp   Relevant Episodes:  From 100K in Debt to Building Generational Wealth as a Couple with Josh and Ali (The FI Couple) How to Go from in Debt to Millionaire in 10 Years with George Kamel How to Never Go In Debt During The Holidays Again - Money Q&A How I would Invest Large Sums of Cash - Money Q&A How to Invest In Yourself and Earn More (THIS YEAR!) Connect With Andrew on Social Media:  Instagram  TikTok Twitter  Master Money Website  Master Money Youtube Channel   Free Guides:   The Stairway to Wealth: The Order of Operations for your Money  How to Negotiate Your Salary  The 75 Day Money Challenge  Get out Of Debt Fast  Take the Money Personality Quiz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a new Smart Planning segment, a registered investment advisor tackles retirement goals and savings questions with a listener.  How can you gift savings bonds? When is it time to stop saving for retirement early? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola offer tips for “spring cleaning” your finances, including refreshing your budget, resetting your financial goals, updating your insurance and estate plans, and getting back on track if emotional spending crept up earlier this year. Then, they debut Smart Planning, a new segment where a registered financial advisor helps a listener tackle real-life money questions. In this session, Certified Financial Planner Barbara Ginty, host of the Future Rich podcast, talks with listener Kay about navigating the transition from saving to spending. They dive into how to know when you've saved enough to scale back at work, how to plan for rising medical costs in retirement, and how to gift savings bonds the right way. If you've ever wondered what financial freedom could look like after decades of diligent saving, this conversation is packed with insight. Inspired to navigate your finances with an advisor? Use NerdWallet Advisors Match to find vetted professionals today at https://www.nerdwalletadvisors.com/match  Track your budget and credit score on the NerdWallet app, and let the Nerds guide you toward your financial goals: https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/mobile-app  In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: updating financial goals, savings bonds, how to gift savings bonds, budgeting tools, emotional spending, estate planning checklist, updating beneficiaries, Roth IRA contributions, SEP IRA contributions, dollar-cost averaging investing, semi-retirement planning, when to stop saving for retirement, how much to save for retirement by 55, Medicare vs Medicare Advantage, retirement healthcare costs, setting up travel insurance, travel insurance for seniors, Roth vs traditional IRA in retirement, retirement income planning, safe withdrawal rate, 4% rule retirement, and required minimum distributions.. 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.

In this episode of ChooseFI, Brad Barrett is joined by Mindy from BiggerPockets Money and Chris from Can I Retire Yet? to explore the concept of the "middle-class trap." They discuss the challenges faced by many middle-class individuals who appear wealthy on paper, yet find themselves financially restricted due to their assets being tied up in home equity and retirement accounts. The conversation dives into financial independence strategies, the psychological aspect of personal finance, and how to navigate the feeling of being "trapped" financially. Key Takeaways: Understanding the Middle-Class Trap (00:02:37): Individuals may appear wealthy due to equity but feel financially restricted due to inaccessibility of funds in retirement accounts. The Role of Home Equity (00:14:18): Home equity should not be included in your financial independence (FI) number unless you plan to sell the house. Psychological Impact of Personal Finance (00:05:12): The emotional aspect plays a significant role in how individuals view their financial situations, often leading to feelings of being trapped. Multiple Financial Options Exist (00:11:42): It's crucial for individuals to understand the various strategies available to access their funds before retirement age. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00:00 - Introduction to the Middle-Class Trap Setting the stage for the discussion about financial independence and retirement strategies. 00:01:59 - Mindy's Perspective Mindy introduces the concept and discusses her experiences with clients caught in the middle-class trap. 00:04:27 - Chris's Rebuttal Chris provides insights and alternative views regarding the concept of feeling "trapped" financially. 00:11:42 - Importance of Education Discusses how understanding financial choices can alleviate the feeling of being trapped. 00:21:01 - Financial Independence Strategies Different strategies including the Roth IRA conversion ladder, allowing early access to retirement funds. 00:53:01 - Addressing the Feeling of Being Trapped Emphasizes the psychological aspect of finance and personal finance education. 00:55:12 - Conclusion Wraps up the episode with actionable takeaways and a focus on education. Actionable Takeaways: Evaluate Your Net Worth (00:41:02): Understand which assets you can access and how to plan for FI. Diversify Investments (00:29:40): Consider balancing investments in taxable brokerage accounts alongside retirement accounts. Learn About the Roth IRA Conversion Ladder (00:29:00): A significant strategy for accessing retirement funds early without penalties. Related Resources: Brandon's Article on Accessing Retirement Funds Early (00:28:19) ChooseFI Episode 475 - How to Access Retirement Accounts Before 59 and a Half (00:28:19) FAQs: What is the middle-class trap? The middle-class trap refers to individuals who seem wealthy but find their assets inaccessible, mostly tied up in home equity and retirement accounts. (00:02:37) How can I access my retirement funds before 59 and a half? Strategies include the Roth IRA conversion ladder and substantially equal periodic payments. Consult a financial advisor for personalized guidance. (00:28:19) Discussion Questions: How does the middle-class trap affect your perception of financial independence? (00:05:12) What strategies can you implement to better access your funds in retirement? (00:28:19) Does home equity play a significant role in determining your financial independence? (00:14:18)

Today's caller is living the freelance dream—flexible schedule, creative freedom, but… zero employer retirement benefits. If you're self-employed and wondering how the heck you're supposed to save for retirement without a 401(k), this episode is for you. Nicole breaks down the best retirement accounts for freelancers, how to reverse-engineer your savings plan, and how to turn “irregular income” into “regular savings.” Because yes, you can have a dreamy retirement, even without a W-2. To open your Traditional or Roth IRA today, go to public.com/moneyrehab Paid endorsement for Open to the Public Investing, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. This information is for educational purposes only and is not tax or investment advice. Consult your tax advisor for individual considerations. Visit the IRS website for more information on the limitations and tax benefits of Traditional and Roth IRAs. All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Open to the Public Investing, member FINRA & SIPC. *Terms and Conditions apply.  All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. Brokerage services for US-listed, registered securities, options and bonds in a self-directed account are offered by Public Investing, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. Brokerage services for alternative assets are offered by Dalmore Group, LLC, member FINRA & SIPC. Brokerage services for treasury accounts offering 6-month T-Bills are offered by Jiko Securities, Inc., member FINRA & SIPC. Banking services are offered by Jiko Bank, a division of Mid-Central National Bank. Securities investments: Not FDIC Insured; No Bank Guarantee; May Lose Value. See public.com/#disclosures-main for more information. *APY as of 6/20/24, subject to change.