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Who should be responsible for an American retirement? For the early part of the nation's history, that was never a consideration. The fate of older Americans was on them. Then in the early 20th century, a host of movements ushered in company pensions and Social Security, helping to create the modern-day idea of retirement for many workers. But as pensions fade into 401(k)s and Social Security teeters, workers again find themselves bearing more responsibility and risk of financing their golden years. This episode is part of The Wall Street Journal's USA250: The Story of the World's Greatest Economy, a collection of articles, videos and podcasts aiming to offer a deeper understanding of how America has evolved. Further Reading: The Struggle To Keep America's Workers Safe An Economy Built on Speculation Americans Are Claiming Social Security Early, Fearful of Its Future This New Investing Idea Isn't Right for Your Retirement Plan How to Keep This Hot Stock Market From Melting Your Retirement Dreams Lloyd Blankfein Misses Being Goldman Sachs CEO—Mostly When There's a Market Crisis Wall Street Is Pushing Private Assets Into 401(k)s. We Asked Whether Anyone Wants Them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week on the Retirement Quick Tips podcast, I'm talking about When You Shouldn't Delay Social Security: 5 Smart Reasons to Claim Early Today, I'm talking about the final scenario worth considering when deciding whether or not to start social security earlier rather than later - which is to smooth out your lifetime tax liability in retirement.
On this episode: You buy something and they try to add on and add on. Is your financial advisor doing it too? Your risk profile: Where is your bottom? Or is that even the right question? This could be your biggest hurdle if you retire early. Subscribe or follow so you never miss an episode! Check out Fire Your Financial Advisor on YouTube! Learn more at GoldenReserve.com or follow on social: Facebook & LinkedIn.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are a few birthdays that matter a lot more than the candles on the cake
This week's listener question comes from a self-described “Type-A podcast listener girlie” who—financially speaking—is absolutely crushing it. At 32 years old, she's earning about $100,000, saving 25% for retirement, and has already built roughly $450,000 in Roth accounts, plus a brokerage account and cash savings. Her partner, the same age, entered the workforce later after earning an advanced degree and currently makes about $60,000 while saving 12%. They're planning to get married soon, combine finances, buy a home in the next few years, and maybe even retire early someday. But here's the twist. She's comfortable with the idea that her early savings created a large portion of their future financial security. Her partner isn't so sure. Coming from a blue-collar, dual-income household built around pensions and Social Security, he feels uneasy about benefiting from wealth that largely came from her earlier discipline and opportunity. In other words: When the traditional earning dynamic flips, how do couples navigate the psychology of fairness, partnership, and shared success?
“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” - Psalm 127:3 Children are a precious gift from God—an inheritance to cherish and steward well. Along with the joy of welcoming a new baby comes a new layer of responsibility, including financial decisions that can shape your family's future. A thoughtful checklist can help bring clarity and peace during a season that is both beautiful and demanding. Here are several key financial steps to consider after bringing a newborn home. Add Your Baby to Health Insurance In the midst of sleepless nights and constant diaper changes, don't forget to update your health insurance. Most plans allow about 30 days after birth to add your baby to your policy. While reviewing your coverage, confirm that pediatric care, vaccinations, and potential hospital visits are included. The birth of a child qualifies as a life event, meaning you can make necessary adjustments to your plan. Review Your Life Insurance Coverage Life insurance is essential for parents—not for the baby, but for you. A common guideline is to carry term life insurance equal to at least 10 times the primary breadwinner's salary. Don't overlook the caregiving spouse either. Replacing the cost of childcare, household management, and daily care would be significant, making coverage for both parents wise and necessary. Update Your Budget A new baby brings new expenses—and often quickly. Consider creating a dedicated “baby” category in your budget to account for diapers, wipes, clothing, feeding supplies, and medical needs. You may need to shift funds from other areas to stay balanced. Planning now can ease stress later and help you adjust as needs evolve. Create or Update Your Will A will is not just about distributing assets—it's where you designate a guardian for your child. While this can feel like a difficult decision, having a plan in place is essential. After prayerful consideration, choose someone who would care for your child with wisdom and love. You can always revise your decision later. A clear will can also prevent confusion or conflict and ensure your assets pass according to your wishes. As Proverbs 13:22 reminds us, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children.” That inheritance includes not only finances but also a legacy of faith and stewardship. Strengthen Your Emergency Fund If you don't already have an emergency fund, aim to save three to six months of living expenses. If you had one before your baby arrived, you may need to increase it to reflect higher monthly costs. Unexpected medical bills, job changes, or major purchases—such as strollers or childcare—can quickly strain finances. A strong emergency fund provides stability during uncertain moments. Update Your Taxes and Withholding With a new child, you can claim an additional dependent on your tax return, which may qualify you for a child tax credit of up to $2,200 per child. You'll also want to update your W-4 at work so your withholding reflects your new household size. This may increase your take-home pay throughout the year. Begin Education Savings Starting early can make a significant difference. A 529 plan allows tax-free investment growth for qualified education expenses, including private K–12 schooling, vocational training, and college. You can open a plan in any state, and family members or friends can contribute to it. New options like the Trump Accounts opening up in July of 2026—are government-seeded investment accounts designed to support future education, business startup costs, or homeownership—are also expanding the ways families can plan ahead. Protect Your Child's Identity Finally, consider placing a credit freeze on your child's file with the major credit bureaus. This simple step can help guard against identity theft and prevent unauthorized accounts from being opened in their name. Stewarding the Gift Welcoming a child is one of life's greatest joys—and one of its greatest responsibilities. Financial preparation won't eliminate every uncertainty, but it can create stability and margin for what matters most: loving your child and pointing them toward Christ. As you plan, remember that the ultimate inheritance you pass on is not financial—it's a legacy of faith, wisdom, and trust in the Lord who provides for every season. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: How can I evaluate whether a ministry is a wise place to give? I've received appeals from the Far East Broadcasting Company about outreach into North Korea, but I don't know how to vet them. At 70 and 75, after health and job setbacks, we want to steward about $30,000 wisely for our kids and 15 grandkids. We're not experienced investors—what's the best way to handle this at our stage of life? I began Social Security at full retirement age but still work full-time. My benefit hasn't been recalculated despite higher earnings. Who can help me resolve this—an agency or an attorney? After downsizing and paying off debt, we have a manageable mortgage and solid savings. Should we pay extra to pay off the mortgage quickly, or keep the payments and focus on saving and enjoying this season? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) ECFA | Charity Navigator Betterment | Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® | Sound Mind Investing (SMI) Social Security Administration (SSA.gov) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Chris Stigall brings exclusive conversations from Washington, D.C. First, FDA Deputy Commissioner Kyle Diamantis discusses the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement's momentum on food quality. He credits Secretary Kennedy for elevating issues like food dyes, ultra-processed foods (70% of kids' calories), and the flipped Dietary Guidelines promoting real, whole foods—impacting school meals, SNAP, and $400 million daily federal nutrition spending. Diamantis addresses glyphosate frustrations as part of a non-linear progress toward regenerative farming, while noting industry responsiveness to consumer demand and the protein marketing boom.Then, Congressman Derrick Van Orden previews Trump's State of the Union focus on patriotism and accomplishments (tax cuts, no tax on Social Security/tips/overtime, family farm protections). He explains soaring beef prices due to the New World screw worm parasite (border closed to Mexican feeder cattle imports for protection), the need for small family farms, and upcoming Farm Bill changes for intrastate meat marketing.A deep dive into health policy, rural America, and economic realities.00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:37 - Kyle Diamantis on MAHA & Food Moment00:01:28 - Passion for Food Quality00:03:03 - Flipped Dietary Guidelines00:04:36 - Ultra-Processed Foods Crisis00:05:13 - Europe vs. U.S. Food Spending00:06:16 - Post-WWII Shelf Stability Origins00:07:44 - Food Dyes & Industry Response00:08:35 - Protein Boom in Marketing00:09:51 - Glyphosate Discussion00:11:56 - Derrick Van Orden Interview00:13:14 - Tax Wins and Family Benefits00:14:33 - Rural America & Family Farms00:15:05 - Supply Issues & Small Producers00:16:02 - Screw Worm Threat00:17:24 - Border Closure Explanation00:18:56 - Voter ID Broad Support00:20:36 - On The Filibuster00:21:46 - Frustrations of Congress00:25:30 - Faith and Freedom 250Follow The Lion on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube. You can also sign-up for our newsletter and follow our coverage at ReadLion.com. To learn more about the Herzog Foundation, visit HerzogFoundation.com. Like and follow us on Facebook, X, and Instagram, or sign up to receive monthly email updates. #ChristianEducation #Education #EducationPolicy #EducationReform #FaithAndLearning #Family #FaithInEducation #Faith #Homeschool #ChristianSchool #PrivateSchool #EducationNews #News #Religion #ReligiousNews #PublicSchool #SchoolNews #NewsShow #SchoolChoice
From DC restaurants to nationwide enforcement, today's episode dives into how the Department of Homeland Security is cracking down on illegal employment. We explore Trump's legal battles, unprecedented circuit court victories, and how employers nationwide are scrambling to verify employee status. Plus, why this is sending Democrats into a panic. Episode Summary Today's episode uncovers a multi-layered fight over immigration enforcement, legal precedent, and illegal labor in America: Trump vs. Judges: The president faces more injunctions than any in U.S. history, mostly from liberal judges trying to block immigration enforcement. With a strong AG like Pam Bondi, Trump is winning key battles and finally gaining traction to enforce existing laws. IRS Data & Enforcement Breakthrough: A landmark circuit court decision allows DHS to use IRS data to target illegal employees—something previously blocked by activist judges. This has triggered panic in liberal media and among employers. Immediate Impact: Over 130 illegal employees at five DC restaurants were terminated after DHS letters demanded proof of legal work status. Employers across the nation are now under scrutiny. This is the first major enforcement since Bill Clinton's administration. Identity Fraud & Economic Impact: Illegal employment is linked to massive identity theft and economic consequences for Americans. Social Security number fraud is rampant among illegal workers, affecting multiple states and payroll systems. Welfare & Incentives: The episode examines how illegal immigrants have accessed welfare and Medicaid programs, and the Trump administration's efforts to cut these benefits while providing incentives—like plane tickets and cash bonuses—for voluntary return to home countries. Legal & Political Stakes: The crackdown highlights the ongoing battle with Democrat-controlled states over access to food stamp rolls, voter rolls, and enforcement cooperation. Americans are urged to stay engaged in the midterms to support these enforcement efforts. This episode lays out the legal, political, and operational strategies in the fight against illegal employment, showing how new enforcement powers are changing the game. Key Topics Department of Homeland Security enforcement letters & nationwide crackdown Circuit court victories for immigration enforcement Use of IRS and Social Security databases for illegal worker verification Illegal labor & identity fraud Welfare & public assistance for illegal immigrants Implications for Trump's broader immigration strategy Political stakes in the midterms
From immigration enforcement to Iranian assassination plots, today's episode exposes how Trump fights both legal and political battles while Democrats redefine religion and push radical agendas. We break down DOJ victories, ICE enforcement actions, and the bizarre new ideology of “Democrat Christianity.” Episode Summary This episode dives into two massive stories shaking America today: 1. Immigration & Law Enforcement Wins Trump has faced more injunctions than any president in U.S. history, mostly from liberal judges trying to block immigration enforcement. Major victories now allow the Department of Homeland Security to cross-check IRS, Social Security, and citizen databases to identify illegal workers. Employers are reacting: at least 131 illegal immigrant employees at five D.C. restaurants were terminated after DHS letters demanded proof of work eligibility. Identity theft and illegal labor are rampant, and these new enforcement powers are already causing nationwide disruptions. Americans displaced in the workforce now have support: free plane tickets and $2,600 per person to return to their home countries. 2. Iranian Assassination Plot Against Trump Court filings confirm real attempts on Trump's life by Iranian-backed teams, including Pakistani national Asif Merchant and Afghan national Farhad Shakiri. Media and some conservatives, including Matt Walsh and Tucker Carlson, have questioned these plots, creating confusion among supporters. The DOJ prosecutions and federal court filings prove the attempts were real, highlighting the ongoing threat to Trump and other American politicians. 3. Democrats Redefining Christianity & Society Texas Senate candidate James Tallarico promotes a radical interpretation of Christianity: nonbinary heaven, abortion-friendly theology, and support for transgender ideology. Democrats are reshaping religion, claiming white Americans are a “virus” and promoting a version of faith that aligns with progressive politics. The episode exposes these efforts as part of a broader strategy to co-opt traditional institutions and indoctrinate Americans with new-age ideology. This episode connects the dots between law enforcement, national security, and cultural warfare, showing how political, legal, and ideological battles are unfolding simultaneously. Key Topics Trump's immigration enforcement victories and injunction battles DHS letters exposing illegal employment and identity fraud DOJ prosecutions of Asif Merchant & Farhad Shakiri Iranian assassination plots and media/party skepticism Democrat redefinition of Christianity, gender, and race ideology Social and cultural impacts on American institutions
Retirement planning after divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you are suddenly responsible for your financial future on your own. In this episode of The D Shift, Strategic Divorce Consultant Mardi Winder speaks with certified financial planner Eric Blake about how women can make confident, informed retirement decisions after divorce, widowhood, or remaining single.They break down one of the most confusing topics for many women. Social Security. You will learn how ex-spousal and survivor benefits work, why the 10-year marriage rule matters, how remarriage affects eligibility, and how the timing of your claim can significantly impact your long-term income.The conversation also explores:• How to create a retirement strategy after a gray divorce• Why becoming overly conservative with investments can be risky• The impact of inflation on long-term retirement planning• How to manage cash flow, debt, and tax strategy post-divorce• Why women must be active decision makers in their financial futureThis episode is designed for women who want to move from financial uncertainty to clarity and take a strategic approach to retirement after divorce.About the Guest:Eric Blake is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and the founder of Blake Wealth Management, specializing in helping women 55+ navigate retirement with clarity and confidence. With more than 25 years of experience, Eric provides strategies to optimize investments, create reliable income, and minimize taxes. Inspired by his mother and grandmother's financial journeys, Eric has a personal passion for empowering women to take control of their financial future.For Eric's gift: www.womenssocialsecurityguide.comTo connect with Eric: Blake Wealth Management: www.blakewealthmanagement.com The Simply Retirement Podcast: www.thesimplyretirementpodcast.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericblakecfp Facebook: www.facebook.com/EricBlakeCFP YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheSimplyRetirementPodcastAbout the HostMardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce. Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".Connect with Mardi on Social Media:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4womenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4womenThanks for Listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the PodcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcast ReviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the stock market volatility tied to escalating tensions in the Middle East and the critical Strait of Hormuz, where roughly 20% of global oil flows, looking back at the 1973 OPEC oil embargo, stagflation, and how markets have historically responded to geopolitical shocks. They also cover State Farm’s historic $5 billion dividend payout to auto policyholders, Google’s bold move to issue a 100-year bond as a long-term AI confidence play, and the reality of potential Social Security benefit reductions in the early 2030s. Finally, they wrap with listener questions on adjusting stock allocations amid global conflict, calculating emergency cash when income fluctuates, and whether to lock in gains early in retirement or simply rebalance and stay disciplined.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Federal employees with a FERS pension have a unique advantage when deciding when to claim Social Security—but choosing the wrong claiming age can significantly affect your lifetime retirement income. Understanding how Social Security timing works with a FERS pension, TSP savings, and other retirement income sources can help federal retirees build a more flexible and sustainable retirement strategy.If you're a federal employee planning retirement, knowing whether to claim Social Security at 62, wait until full retirement age, or delay until age 70 can impact taxes, survivor benefits, and long-term income. In this episode, we break down Social Security claiming strategies for federal employees, how a FERS pension changes the decision, and key retirement planning factors like longevity, spousal benefits, and break-even analysis.
This episode dives deep into the political battles over election integrity, voter rolls, and Republican infighting: Explosive DHS hearing on ICE and polling place involvement Illegal immigrant voting concerns and blocked voter roll access Senator John Thune's obstruction of Trump's recess appointments SAFE Act delays and Republican party sabotage Upcoming Texas Senate runoff: Ken Paxton vs. Cornyn, and the baggage that comes with it Political theater, media hype, and bizarre campaign stories From Washington to Texas, we break down who's helping or hindering Trump's election and policy goals, plus the drama you won't see on mainstream media.
What if the Bible doesn't just give us advice about money—but reshapes the way we think about it entirely? The messages we absorb from culture shape our fears, our goals, and even where we look for security. But Scripture offers a different foundation—one that brings clarity, freedom, and purpose to every financial decision. Ron Blue—co-founder of Kingdom Advisors and a pioneer in biblical financial stewardship—joined the show today to share how Scripture reframes our assumptions about money and calls us into a deeper, more faithful way of living. The False Promise of Security One of the most powerful cultural assumptions about money is that it provides security. We spend much of our lives trying to answer the question: How much is enough? But Scripture turns that question upside down. True security, the Bible teaches, isn't found in wealth, savings, or income—it's found in God alone. Culture urges us to pursue more, feeding discontent and anxiety. Scripture calls us instead to pursue faithfulness. Money can create the illusion of certainty. But it cannot protect us from life's ultimate realities. It cannot buy peace. It cannot purchase eternity. Only God provides the kind of stability that lasts forever. Contentment Is a Spiritual Choice Many people feel that no matter how much they have, it never feels like enough. Scripture addresses that tension directly. Hebrews 13:5 calls us to “be content with what you have,” reminding us that contentment isn't a financial outcome—it's a spiritual posture. Contentment grows when we trust that God knows our needs and promises to provide for them. Gratitude replaces striving. Peace replaces fear. Joy replaces comparison. Fear often sits beneath our financial habits—the fear of not having enough or losing what we already have. But Scripture gently redirects our hearts: God is our provider, and He will supply what we need when we need it. From Ownership to Stewardship Another assumption Scripture overturns is the idea that what we have belongs to us. The Bible consistently teaches that God is the true owner of everything. He created it. He sustains it. And for a season, He entrusts resources to us. That changes the central question of our financial lives. Ownership asks: What do I want? Stewardship asks: What does God want? When we see money as something entrusted to us rather than as something we possess, it reshapes how we spend, save, give, and plan. We begin to live not as controllers, but as faithful trustees—managing God's resources for His purposes. Scripture also helps us understand a difficult reality: people receive different amounts of resources. God loves each of us equally, but He treats us uniquely. He knows what each person needs and what each can faithfully steward. That perspective invites trust instead of comparison. Much like a loving parent treats each child according to their personality and needs, God provides for each of His children differently. What we have today is not random—it reflects His wisdom and care. The Next Faithful Step When Scripture reshapes our understanding of money, the goal isn't perfection—it's faithfulness. The question becomes simple and practical: What is my next faithful step? Not how much more can I accumulate. Not how secure can I make myself. But how can I steward what God has entrusted to me today? That perspective brings freedom. It replaces pressure with purpose and transforms money from a source of anxiety into a tool for worship, generosity, and trust. Because in the end, the Bible doesn't just change what we do with money—it changes what we believe about it, and ultimately, who we trust to provide. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have about $40,000 in credit card debt, and I'm trying to decide the best way to tackle it. Should I pursue credit counseling or consider a home equity loan—and why might credit counseling be the better option? I want to be a faithful steward of what God has entrusted to me, and I'm trying to understand the difference between tithing and offerings. I haven't been giving a full 10% of my gross income, and I'm wondering if I'm missing the mark. Can you offer some clarity? I'm about to apply for Social Security and want to know the best way to do it. Is it better to apply online, by phone, or in person at a local office? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Tithing: A Fresh Look at an Ancient Practice (Article by John Cortines in Faithful Steward, Issue 3) Christian Credit Counselors Social Security Administration (SSA.gov) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
David McKnight discusses the allocation of $1M if he had it to invest in 2026. David sees a taxable brokerage account as the least efficient investment account you could possibly own – since it's taxed every year and it's exposed to both short- and long-term capital gains. While this type of account is liquid and can serve as an excellent emergency fund, it's the most tax-unfriendly of all the investment alternatives. The goal, says David, isn't to grow wealth within this type of account, rather to use it as a funding source to systematically build multiple tax-free income streams for retirement. Roth IRAs, which can be funded for a combined $17,200 per year (for your and your spouse's Roth IRA) is the first place David believes the money should go. Next, you should aim at maxing out your Roth 401(k)s – which is $24,500 a person for people under 50 and $32,500 per person. David explains how you can convert taxable money into tax-free money without triggering a massive taxable event and without disrupting your lifestyle. 70% total U.S. stock market index fund, 30% total international stock market index fund is the only allocation you'll ever need, says David. Having to properly structure and fully fund an indexed universal life policy (IUL) is the most misunderstood piece of the strategy discussed by David. The idea is to see an IUL as a way to grow a portion of the $1M portfolio safely and productively, and not to use it as an investment replacement or stock alternative… Historically, IULs have grown 5-7% in net fees over time – with zero stock market risks. The goal of day one of retirement is to have 3-5 years of living expenses sitting in your IUL's cash value, tax-free. This is your volatility buffer. According to a recent Ernst & Young study, the strategy discussed in this episode provides far more income, a far greater likelihood that your money will last through life expectancy and far more money to the next generation compared to the investment-only approach. Suze Orman recommends the exact same strategy but with a difference: Instead of using an IUL she suggests using a savings account that has rock bottom taxable rates of return. However, an IUL is a more effective tool, as it grows far more productively as tax-free, protects your principal, and the death benefit can double as long-term care protection. David's strategy doesn't include bonds as an IUL is safer: No sequence of returns risk early in retirement, not being forced to sell stocks in a down market. "I generally don't ever recommend bonds. There are far better instruments that are safer, more productive, and more tax-efficient tools, with IUL being one of them", illustrates David. Many experts expect tax rates to rise dramatically by 2035 to pay interest on the national debt, bail out Social Security, and bail out Medicare and Medicaid. When that happens, you just don't want to be sitting on a massive taxable account..! The goal is to shift as much as possible from the $1M portfolio into tax-free accounts before 2035 – you want to have them in your Roth IRAs, Roth 401(k)s, and IUL cash value. Conversely, you only want about six months' worth of living expenses sitting in your taxable account. Mentioned in this episode: David's new book, available now for pre-order: The Secret Order of Millionaires David's national bestselling book: The Guru Gap: How America's Financial Gurus Are Leading You Astray, and How to Get Back on Track Tax-Free Income for Life: A Step-by-Step Plan for a Secure Retirement by David McKnight DavidMcKnight.com DavidMcKnightBooks.com PowerOfZero.com (free video series) @mcknightandco on Twitter @davidcmcknight on Instagram David McKnight on YouTube Get David's Tax-free Tool Kit at taxfreetoolkit.com Dave Ramsey Ernst & Young Suze Orman
If you'd like to work with us on your Medicare health plan, we're licensed in 45 states and actively helping clients across the country. Christian and the team at Everything Senior Insurance represent many of the top insurance companies in the Medicare space. We're happy to help—just reach out! ➡️ Visit our site: https://www.eseniorinsurance.com✅ Call us: (801) 255-5340
This week on the Retirement Quick Tips podcast, I'm talking about When You Shouldn't Delay Social Security: 5 Smart Reasons to Claim Early Yesterday, I talked about how there could be several benefits - including more predictable income and tax scenarios in retirement from high net worth individuals claiming earlier rather than later. This flies in the face of conventional advice, and can be overly simplistic for the millions of married couples who are trying to decide how and when to claim social security. So today, I'm talking about scenarios where married couples can benefit from claiming earlier.
Retirement security took center stage in the latest State of the Union, but what do the proposed changes really mean for your money? In this episode, Josh breaks down the proposed government-backed retirement accounts, the promise of matching contributions, and the potential long-term risks investors should consider. From tax diversification and Roth strategy to Social Security reliance and asset protection planning, this conversation goes beyond headlines and focuses on what truly builds lasting financial independence. Can't get enough of The Financial Quarterback? Click ‘Subscribe' so you never miss a play. If you're enjoying the show, leave a 5-star rating and drop a review—it helps keep the game going!
The S&P 500 is undergoing a historic transformation that could fundamentally reshape the stock market landscape. With the Magnificent Seven experiencing a brutal February and sectoral rotations accelerating, America's flagship index is evolving in unprecedented ways.Today's Stocks & Topics: MPLX LP (MPLX), Market Wrap, Pullback in Precious Metals?, Invesco S&P MidCap 400 GARP ETF (GRPM), Options, The S&P 500 Identity Crisis: Historic Shifts Reshape America's Index, Vanguard Energy Index Fund ETF Shares (VDE), Uber Technologies, Inc. (UBER), Oil Markets, The Wendy's Company (WEN), When to take Social Security, Small Caps ETFs.Our Sponsors:* Check out Anthropic: https://claude.ai/invest* Check out Pebl: https://hipebl.ai* Check out Progressive: https://progressive.com* Check out Quince: https://quince.com/INVESTAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
If you plan to punch the clock for the final time decades before "standard" retirement age, you need a financial strategy that goes beyond just saving. Joe Anderson, CFP® and Big Al Clopine, CPA spitball five different early retirement plans to see whose numbers are tight and who is ready to go for it, today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast 571. George in South Carolina wants to retire in 8 years at 53. Does he have enough in his brokerage account to bridge the gap to Social Security? Joe in Massachusetts is saving a staggering $200,000 a year, but will his high-spending lifestyle make a multi-million dollar nest egg look small? The fellas help 26-year-old Jonathan in Florida map out a path to retire in his 40s using his 457 plan, and they spitball on whether early exit strategies for both Kris and Rojo in California are a "green light" or a reality check. Plus, Joe explains why the "Rule of 55" and Roth conversions might be some of the most important tools in your early retirement toolbox. Free Financial Resources in This Episode: https://bit.ly/ymyw-571 (full show notes & episode transcript) Withdrawal Strategy Guide - free download: https://purefinancial.com/white-papers/withdrawal-strategy-guide/?utm_source=LibsynDestinations&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=YMYW-571 Long-Term Care Planning Guide - free download: https://purefinancial.com/white-papers/long-term-care-planning-options/?utm_source=LibsynDestinations&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=YMYW-571 The #1 Spending Mistake Ruining Retirements - YMYW TV: https://purefinancial.com/ymyw/episodes/number-one-spending-mistake-ruining-retirements/?utm_source=LibsynDestinations&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=YMYW-571 Financial Blueprint (self-guided): https://bit.ly/PureFinancialBlueprint Financial Assessment (Meet with an experienced professional): https://bit.ly/PureFreeAssessment REQUEST your Retirement Spitball Analysis: https://bit.ly/AskJoeAndAl DOWNLOAD more free guides: https://bit.ly/PureGuides READ financial blogs: https://bit.ly/PureFinBlog WATCH educational videos: https://bit.ly/PureEdVideos SUBSCRIBE to the YMYW Newsletter: https://bit.ly/YMYWNewsletter Connect With Us: Subscribe on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments: https://bit.ly/YMYW-YT Subscribe or follow YMYW in your favorite podcast app: https://lnk.to/ymyw Leave your honest reviews and ratings in Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-money-your-wealth/id312900254 Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: This Week on the YMYW Podcast 01:06 - Is Retiring at 53 With No Pension a Smart Move or a Risky Bet? (George, South Carolina) 11:59 - High Income, High Spend, Early Retirement: Does the Math Still Work? (Joe, MA) 18:39 - At 26, Should I Go All In on a 457 to Retire Way Early? (Jonathan, Florida) 26:41 - Can I Retire Early and Still Cover Health Care and Long Term Care Costs? (Kris, California) 33:33 - I'm a Widowed Parent. Can I Retire at 57 and Still Fund College and Legacy Goals? (Rojo, California) 43:08 - Outro: Next Week on the YMYW Podcast
Many investors feel a real tension today. They want their portfolios to reflect biblical convictions. They care about justice, stewardship, and human dignity. Yet they're also navigating volatility, inflation, and economic uncertainty. When markets feel unstable, the question quietly surfaces: Do I have to choose between faithfulness and financial performance? The answer may surprise you. Today, we sat down with Stella Tai, Stewardship Investing Impact and Analysis Manager at Praxis Investment Management, one of the country's oldest faith-based mutual fund families and a valued underwriter of this program. Our conversation centered on whether values-aligned investing can truly pursue both impact and competitive returns—even in uncertain times. The Tension Investors Feel In strong markets, impact investing can sound inspiring and straightforward. But when markets grow choppy, many investors feel drawn into survival mode. “I need to focus on returns.” “I can't afford to think about impact right now.” Stella noted that this tension isn't just financial—it's spiritual. People of faith don't want to pull back from caring about stewardship or community flourishing. But they also worry: Will my returns suffer if I invest with conviction? That's an honest question. Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 21:5 that “the plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” There's a difference between being responsive and being reactionary. When anxiety drives decisions, fear often replaces conviction—and that's when costly mistakes happen. Discipline Over Panic At Praxis, stewardship in uncertain markets begins with discipline. Stella described three anchors: Financial rigor in every market cycle. Serious analysis, ongoing evaluation of risk and opportunity, and team-based decision-making help ensure emotions don't drive the ship. Integration of impact with fundamentals. Impact and performance are not competing priorities. They are designed to work together. A long-term orientation. Rooted in stewardship, not speculation. Hebrews 12:11 reminds us that discipline may feel painful in the moment, but it yields a peaceful fruit of righteousness. That's true in spiritual formation—and in investing. What Values-Aligned Performance Actually Looks Like One common misconception is that screening companies based on faith convictions automatically sacrifices performance. Stella explained that Praxis uses what's called benchmark tracking. In simple terms, that means aiming to closely track the broader market while thoughtfully excluding companies that don't align with biblical values. The goal isn't to “beat the market.” It's to minimize what's known as “tracking error”—the gap between a fund's returns and its benchmark. In other words, you can seek market-level returns while owning companies that better reflect your convictions. Over full market cycles—not just in a single quarter—faith-based investors should expect competitive returns. That commitment to consistency is central. Impact Beyond Screening Screening is often the most familiar strategy in values-aligned investing. But real impact doesn't stop there. Praxis recently released its Real Impact Report, highlighting a framework that includes multiple strategies—from screening and shareholder advocacy to direct community investing. One powerful example involved long-term engagement with a large utility company in the Southeast. Instead of divesting, Praxis used its ownership stake to advocate for: A just transition for workers and communities as coal plants retire Science-based emissions reduction targets Responsible planning tied to renewable energy growth The company published just transition metrics and began tracking progress. That's what patient, long-term engagement looks like. Rather than stepping away, they stayed invested—believing transformation often happens through steady, faithful presence. Where to Begin If you're intrigued by impact investing but feel overwhelmed, start with clarity. Ask yourself: What values matter most to me? What kind of world do I want my capital to help build? What are my long-term financial goals? Then consider working with an advisor familiar with faith-based investing options. You don't have to master every strategy. Firms like Praxis Investment Management handle the research, engagement, and implementation. Your role is simpler—and profound: to say, "I want my money to reflect my values." When multiplied across many investors, even small portfolio decisions can move markets toward greater justice, dignity, and stewardship. And in uncertain times, that kind of disciplined conviction may be one of the most faithful investments you can make. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 60 and recently lost a long-time job. I have about $1.5 million in a volatile 401(k) and would prefer not to draw from it yet. With my wife working part-time and income limited, how should I reposition this account to make it safer and navigate this transition? If I take Social Security before full retirement age and accept the reduced benefit, how do cost-of-living adjustments factor in? Do future COLAs help offset that early-retirement reduction? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Praxis Investment Management Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Confused by the Roth IRA 5-year rule? Did you know there are two different 5-year rules? Well, it can get quite confusing, so this episode is meant to be your complete guide for everything around the Roth 5-year rules.
If you watched President Trump's recent State of the Union address, you probably heard about the new Trump accounts, also known as 530A accounts. In this episode, I break down how these tax-advantaged investment accounts are designed to work, who qualifies, and—just as importantly, what we still don't know. There's been a lot of excitement, especially around the $1,000 seed money for eligible children. But before you rush to open one, there are several unanswered questions that deserve your attention. What Are Trump Accounts—and Who Qualifies? Trump accounts were introduced under the 2025 "Big Beautiful Bill Act" and are designed to help U.S. children build long-term wealth. Parents, grandparents, and others can contribute up to $5,000 per year per child until age 18. To jumpstart participation, children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, are eligible for a $1,000 federal seed contribution. Unlike a Roth IRA, these accounts do not require earned income to contribute. That's a major difference. Most children can't fund retirement accounts because they don't have income. These accounts are meant to give them a head start from birth. To qualify, a child must be a U.S. citizen, have a valid Social Security number, and be under age 18. Parents can apply either by filing IRS Form 4547 with their 2025 tax return or by visiting trumpaccounts.gov. You'll Want to Hear This Episode If You're Interested In… [01:00] How the $5,000 annual contribution limit works [01:45] Why these accounts don't require earned income [02:35] How to open an account through your tax return or online [03:00] The upcoming authentication process in May 2026 [03:40] Whether you can invest in individual stocks like Nvidia or Tesla [04:30] Why Treasury guidance suggests broad index funds instead [05:10] Whether billions in seed money could move the stock market [06:00] Which financial institutions may (or may not) offer these accounts [07:45] Potential gift tax filing requirements for contributions [08:45] How withdrawals at age 18 might be taxed The Investment Confusion and Market Impact One of the biggest points of confusion right now is how the funds will actually be invested. The Trump accounts website shows mockups featuring individual stocks like Nvidia, Caterpillar, Home Depot, and Tesla. That certainly grabs attention. But Treasury guidance suggests investments may be limited to broad U.S. equity index funds or mutual funds, not individual stocks. If that holds true, I actually think that may benefit most investors. Broad-based index funds have historically outperformed many individual stock pickers over time. But it's important to understand what you're signing up for before you contribute. Another question I address is whether these accounts could meaningfully impact the stock market. With over 3 million sign-ups already, the initial $1,000 seed funding could total more than $3 billion. Add in private contributions and potential employer matches, and that number could grow to $7–8 billion invested when markets reopen after July 4. That sounds significant, but compared to total daily trading volume, it's less than 2%. It may provide a small positive impact, but it's unlikely to cause a dramatic market surge. Taxes, Custodians, and the Big Unknown at Age 18 There are still major tax questions. Because contributions are considered gifts and the child doesn't have immediate access to the funds, this could create gift tax reporting complications. Even if contributions fall under the $19,000 annual exclusion (for 2026), a gift tax return may still be required due to the lack of "present interest." Then there's the big question: how will withdrawals be taxed at age 18? There's no upfront deduction for contributions, which means this isn't structured like a traditional IRA. But it's also not clearly a Roth. My expectation is that only the gains will be taxed, but we don't yet know whether that will be ordinary income or capital gains. Until we get final guidance, I strongly believe record-keeping will be critical. Track contributions carefully. If custodians change or records are lost, your child could face unnecessary tax complications later. For now, here's what we do know: if your child, or a grandchild, niece, or nephew, qualifies for the $1,000 seed money, make sure the account gets opened. Even with unanswered questions, that initial funding is meaningful. Resources Mentioned TrumpAccounts.gov RetireWithRyan.com Retirement Readiness on Demand Discount Code: RETIRE99 Connect With Ryan Subscribe to the Retire With Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE
In this episode of Retire with Style, Alex and Wade explore the role of Social Security in retirement planning. They examine when to claim benefits, the tradeoffs between early and delayed claiming, and ongoing concerns about the program's long term funding. The discussion highlights how Social Security fits into a broader retirement income strategy and why understanding its value is essential for making informed financial decisions. Listen now to learn more! Takeaways The Retirement Planning Guidebook is updated for new tax rules. Social Security benefits can be claimed between ages 62 and 70. Delaying Social Security can provide higher lifetime benefits. Higher earners should consider delaying benefits for survivor benefits. Social Security is a pay-as-you-go system with funding challenges. The trust fund is projected to deplete by 2034, but benefits won't disappear. The present value of Social Security benefits can be substantial, often exceeding $500,000. Claiming early can lead to significant lifetime benefit differences. Understanding life expectancy is crucial in deciding when to claim benefits. Social Security reforms can be designed to ensure its sustainability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Retirement Planning and Social Security 02:05 Understanding Social Security Benefits 03:40 When to Claim Social Security 11:03 The Debate on Claiming Early vs. Delaying 18:02 Concerns About the Future of Social Security 24:44 The Importance of Social Security in Financial Planning Links
That first meeting with a financial advisor feels intimidating—until you know what actually happens. Jackie Campbell walks through what to expect from an initial consultation and why preparation matters more than perfection. The episode also highlights six milestone birthdays that can quietly impact taxes, penalties, Social Security, and Medicare costs. It’s a practical conversation about organization, timing, and why knowing these age‑based rules can change the long‑term outcome of a retirement plan. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 352-251-1015 or visit www.mycampbellandco.com! Follow us on social media: Facebook | YouTube | X | InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses: Building lifetime income as the real retirement goal Securing your income floor before adding complexity Using annuities to solve income and protection problems Locking in guarantees before longevity shifts the math Key Takeaways: Retirement planning is not about account balances but about creating income you cannot outlive. "Chapter One" is for accumulation, but "Chapter Two" only works when a reliable lifetime income replaces your paycheck. Without that income foundation, lifestyle freedom in retirement is fragile. Guaranteed sources like Social Security, pensions, and recurring IRA distributions form your income floor. If that floor already covers your lifestyle, additional annuities may be unnecessary. Retirement strength begins with certainty, not excess products. Annuities are designed to address four needs: principal protection, income for life, legacy, and long-term care. For lifetime income, structures can protect spouses and beneficiaries, countering the common "money goes poof" misconception. Proper design determines outcomes. As AI and medical advances extend life expectancy, insurers will eventually adjust payout assumptions downward. Today's guarantees may be more favorable than future quotes once updated tables reflect longer lifespans. For those planning to secure a lifetime income, timing could materially impact results. "If lifetime income is the ultimate outcome, you need to start planning for that now. You need to start locking those guarantees in now." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: http://theannuityman.com/ Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!
Retirement planning mistakes federal employees make in their first year — from TSP decisions to FEHB coordination and Social Security timing — can cost decades of peace of mind and financial security. Learn the key retirement mistakes and how to avoid them with strategic planning and benefits coordination.
What happens if Social Security rules change—and what should retirees control instead? Art McPherson discusses Social Security uncertainty, market momentum, and the difference between political noise and long‑term fundamentals. The episode touches on income planning, market complacency, and how investors can separate short‑term headlines from long‑term decisions. It’s a conversation about preparation, perspective, and focusing on what truly impacts retirement outcomes. For more information visit www.artofmoney.com! Follow us on social media: YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Wait until 70. You’ll get 8% more per year.” Sounds simple, right? Not so fast. In this episode, Greg and Kristin tackle one of the most common retirement questions: Should you delay Social Security to maximize your benefit? Learn why there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. While waiting can increase your monthly benefit and potentially protect a surviving spouse, it can also mean draining retirement assets too quickly if you don’t have enough saved. Social Security isn’t the retirement plan. It’s one piece of the income puzzle. The real key? Building a written retirement income plan that’s stress-tested against market volatility, inflation, and tax changes. Because in retirement, cash flow is king!
Ready to take control of your retirement? Start your Retirement TEAM Action Plan at ARHQ.com or call 419-794-3030 to speak with a retirement planning specialist today! What if the biggest risk to your retirement isn’t the market, but the assumptions you’re making right now? In this episode of the How to Retire Radio Show, American Retirement Headquarters digs into the real mechanics of retirement planning, starting with how much monthly income retirement actually requires. They break down the three phases of retirement spending and why income needs often change over time, not all at once. The conversation also tackles the financial trade‑offs of delaying retirement, along with common misunderstandings around Social Security and the widely referenced 4% rule. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize why relying on rules of thumb can leave gaps and how a comprehensive, written financial plan helps bring clarity and structure to retirement decisions. This discussion is designed to challenge conventional thinking and encourage a more deliberate approach to planning the years. About America's Retirement Headquarters: We are dedicated to helping retirees achieve the retirement they deserve. From crafting personalized retirement income strategies to providing a single location for all your retirement solutions, our goal is to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you navigate the complexities of retirement so that you can enjoy financial confidence and peace of mind. Visit Us: 1700 Woodlands Drive, Maumee, OH 43537 Call Us: 419-794-3030 Learn More: ARHQ.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week's Security Squawk episode isn't about phishing. It's about structural weakness. Three separate incidents. Three different industries. One uncomfortable pattern: the systems organizations trust most are expanding risk quietly — and in some cases, architecturally. First, a lawsuit that should make every board member pay attention. Marquis Software Solutions, a fintech serving 74 U.S. banks, is suing SonicWall. The allegation centers on SonicWall's cloud backup system, where firewall configuration backups were allegedly accessible and contained credentials — including MFA scratch codes. Those backups were reportedly used to compromise Marquis, leading to a ransomware incident and downstream exposure. What began as a scoped 5% customer exposure was later reported as potentially impacting all customers. This is not a misconfigured endpoint. This is a control-plane failure. For CEOs, this reframes vendor risk. It's no longer a questionnaire exercise. It's a litigation vector. If a security provider's design exposes authentication artifacts, your internal diligence may not matter. The liability chain now includes vendors and MSPs in a very direct way. For IT Directors, the operational question is simple: what exactly is inside your firewall backups? Are reusable authentication artifacts stored? Who can access vendor-hosted exports? If attackers obtain your configuration backups, can they replay your defenses? For MSPs, the exposure is real. If you manage firewall exports or MFA deployments, you are part of the architecture. And potentially part of the courtroom. Then we shift to UFP Technologies, a medical device manufacturer. Intrusion detected. Billing and shipping label systems disrupted. Data stolen or destroyed. Insurance expected to offset financial impact. But this isn't primarily a data story. Attackers disrupted order-to-cash and fulfillment velocity. In healthcare supply chains, slowing billing and labeling can create immediate executive escalation without touching the factory floor. Modern ransomware groups increasingly target business process choke points — ERP, labeling, scheduling — because leverage doesn't require full encryption anymore. For CEOs, “no material impact expected” is accounting language. Customers measure impact in delayed shipments. For IT leaders, the question becomes operational: can billing, labeling, and fulfillment functions recover independently? Are those systems segmented? Tested? Immutable? For risk managers and insurers, this represents a shift in underwriting focus — from endpoints to process resilience. Finally, the University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center ransomware incident. Roughly 87,000 study participants directly impacted. But historical datasets, including Social Security numbers collected from driver's license and voter registration data dating back to 1998, expanded potential exposure to nearly 1.2 million individuals. They engaged the threat actors. They received a decryptor. They received “assurances” that data was destroyed. That's not verification. That's negotiation. The uncomfortable truth: legacy identity data becomes modern ransom currency. Research environments often have weaker governance than clinical systems, yet they can contain decades of sensitive identifiers. For boards, the issue isn't just security posture. It's data retention discipline. What obsolete identity data are you still holding? Why? For how long? And who owns the risk? Across these stories, three themes emerge: Control-plane trust is fragile. Operational choke points are the new leverage strategy. Data retention is compounded liability. Cybersecurity is no longer just about stopping intrusion. It's about architectural accountability and governance maturity. If you value independent, executive-level analysis without vendor spin, support the show at: buymeacoffee.com/securitysquawk The real question is this: Are your greatest cyber risks coming from external attackers — or from design decisions you haven't revisited in years?
The Metropolitan Police (London) have opened an active investigation into allegations that Prince Andrew, Duke of York in 2011 asked one of his taxpayer-funded protection officers to dig up personal information on Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse when she was under 18. According to reports, the bodyguard was allegedly given Giuffre's date of birth and U.S. Social Security number by the prince, with the aim of finding a criminal record or other damaging material. The police have stated they are “actively looking into” the claims, though so far it is not publicly confirmed whether the officer complied with the request.These revelations come amid wider turmoil for Prince Andrew and the monarchy: he has recently stepped back from some royal titles, including giving up the “Duke of York” style. The allegations raise serious questions about misuse of police resources and the role of protection officers in alleged smear campaigns. The family of Virginia Giuffre (who died by suicide earlier this year) and campaigners are calling for further action, including stripping the prince of his remaining titles, and for parliamentary scrutiny of how the settlement he made with Giuffre and his relationship with convicted sex-offender Jeffrey Epstein have been handled.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:London police investigating report Prince Andrew asked officer to dig up "dirt" on Virginia Giuffre - CBS NewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-moscow-murders-and-more--5852883/support.
Show DescriptionWe talk with Frederik Braun from Mozilla about the Sanitizer API, how it works with HTML tags and web components, what it does with malformed HTML, and where CSP fits in alongside the Sanitizer API. Listen on WebsiteWatch on YouTubeGuestsFrederik BraunGuest's Main URL • Guest's SocialSecurity engineer and manager working on the Mozilla Firefox web browser Links Frederik Braun: Why the Sanitizer API is just setHTML() Frederik Braun freddyb (Frederik B) SponsorsBluehostDo you ever feel like pre-configured hosting is slowing you down? That is where VPS hosting starts to make a lot more sense. With Bluehost VPS, you are not stuck inside someone else's environment. You get full control of the server. You can spin up Docker, deploy containerized apps, run workflows, and connect your CRM, databases, and APIs without weird restrictions. No shared bottlenecks. No artificial limits. If you want to actually own your stack, your data, your performance, your roadmap, VPS is the move.
As U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran dominate headlines, Brian Wiley and Jeremiah Bates break down what a Middle East escalation could mean for oil prices, inflation, and the stock market. They analyze the risk surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, discuss how markets have historically responded to geopolitical shocks, and explain why panic-driven decisions often do more damage than the events themselves. Most importantly, they outline how proper liquidity planning and structured allocation can protect investors from being forced into bad moves during volatile periods. The episode also features CPA Stephanie Helms, who unpacks the real details behind the new federal tax changes. From the fine print on "no tax on tips" and overtime pay to the new senior deduction for Social Security recipients and the complex auto loan interest deduction tied to VIN rules, the conversation exposes what actually qualifies and what doesn't. They also discuss state tax conformity issues, refund delays, and why some taxpayers may need to amend returns. Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask! https://www.therealmoneypros.com Hosts Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates ————————————————————— Ataraxis PEO https://ataraxispeo.com Tree City Advisors of Apollon: https://www.treecityadvisors.com Apollon Wealth Management: https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/ —————————————————————
If you've been watching the headlines in 2026 and thinking, “None of this makes sense,” you're not alone. Stocks can be up while confidence feels shaky. Jobs can cool while other areas of the economy look like they're improving. Bitcoin can be down, silver can be swinging, and emerging markets can be strong… all in the same stretch of time.That's what mixed signals are: real life.This episode is not a market recap and it's definitely not a prediction show. It's a planning lesson built for the 50+ investor (the “millionaire next door”) who wants to retire with confidence, protect cash flow, and stop getting whipped around by noise.Because when headlines conflict, the goal isn't to predict — it's to protect your plan.In this conversation, Moise and Andrew walk through a simple, repeatable system that works whether markets are calm or chaotic. It's the exact framework they use to help pre-retirees and retirees stay disciplined when the economy feels confusing.The 4-Part Mixed Signals System:1) Protect Cash Flow (Paycheck Replacement)Your portfolio has a different job at 50+ than it did at 35. It's not just about growth — it's about replacing income. We talk about building a 12–24 month spending buffer so you're not forced to sell stocks during a downturn.2) Rebalance With Rules (Not Feelings)Doing nothing isn't neutral, because your allocation changes even when you don't. We break down a simple drift rule (like +/- 5%) that helps you rebalance consistently and stay aligned with the risk you actually intended to take.3) Make the Right Tax Moves at the Right TimeMost families don't lose retirement because of one bad market year. They lose it because of taxes, timing, and avoidable mistakes. We cover the importance of tax planning before Social Security and before RMDs, plus tools like Roth conversions (when appropriate), QCDs, DAFs, and intentional gain management.4) Build Behavior Guardrails (Mistake Prevention)The biggest threat to your retirement plan is usually a decision you make under stress. We give practical guardrails to keep you from panic-selling, chasing what's hot, or turning your retirement plan into a highlights reel.If you're 50+ and you want a process you can actually follow when markets feel “mixed,” this episode is for you.
Welcome to The Retirement Quick Tips Podcast, your daily guide to preparing for and living your best retirement. I'm your host Ashley Micciche, and this week, I'm talking about: When You Shouldn't Delay Social Security: 5 Smart Reasons to Claim Early
In this episode, Gregory Ricks and Mortgage Gumbo's Dwayne Stein discuss mortgage rates reaching 3 year lows and what this could mean for homebuyers this spring. Then, Gregory talks about why needing a financial advisor is so important.For financial news talk radio, tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" on Saturday Mornings on:WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM New Orleans - 10 am - 12 pmWBUV-News Talk 104.9 FM Biloxi - 10 am - 12 pmORFor financial news talk ON DEMAND, tune into the Ask Gregory Podcast for more financial topics that may interest you! Visit: https://gregoryricks.com/podcast/Download the Winning at Life app to never miss a replay!Investment Advisory products and services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC or registered investment advisor, insurance products are offered through the insurance business Gregory Ricks and Associates, Incorporated AE wealth management does not offer insurance products, the insurance products offered by Gregory Ricks and Associates incorporated are not subject to investment advisor requirements. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal, any references to protection, safety or lifetime income generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying ability of the issuing Carrier. This radio show was intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for a financial decision, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual situation. Gregory Ricks and Associates is not permitted to offer and no statement made during the show shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the US government or any governmental agency. The Information and opinions contained herein provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by Gregory Ricks and Associates. Please remember that converting an employer plan account to a Roth IRA is a taxable event. Increased taxable income from the Roth IRA conversion may have several consequences, including, but not limited to a need for additional tax withholding or estimated tax payments, the loss of certain tax deductions and credits and higher taxes on Social Security benefits and higher Medicare premiums. Be sure to consult with a qualified tax advisor before making any decisions regarding your IRA. Neither AE Wealth Management nor advisors providing investment advisory services through AE Wealth Management recommend or facilitate the buying or selling of cryptocurrencies. Third parties and guests of the show are not affiliated with nor do their opinions reflect those of Gregory Ricks and associates or AE wealth management. Ae Wealth Management provides services without regard to political affiliation. And the views of individual advisors are not necessarily the views of AE Wealth Management.
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Retiring at 55 is not just retiring ten years earlier. It changes the entire math of your life. From 55 to 65, expenses are often at their highest. You are covering healthcare before Medicare, traveling more, and living fully. At the same time, Social Security has not started. Everything comes from your portfolio. On paper, that can feel uncomfortable. Withdrawal rates look high. The numbers can scare you.But that spike is temporary. Once Medicare and Social Security begin, the pressure on your portfolio drops dramatically. The mistake many people make is evaluating retirement as if every year must look the same. It will not. The early years are different, and planning for them requires intention, not fear.There are also powerful tax decisions available in that window. Roth conversions, capital gain strategies, and income management for health insurance subsidies all compete for priority. You cannot optimize everything at once. The right move depends on how your assets are structured and what future taxes may look like.And then there is the part that does not show up in a spreadsheet. Your highest energy years are limited. Waiting from 55 to 65 does not just shorten retirement. It compresses the healthiest, most active chapter of it. Ten years earlier can mean tripling the time you have in your true go go years.The question is not simply whether you can afford to retire at 55. It is whether you can afford not to examine the opportunity carefully. Retirement planning is math. It is also life. When those two align, the decision becomes clearer.Learn the tips & strategies to get the most out of life with your money._ _ Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsementsParticipation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.Create Your Custom Strategy ⬇️ Get Started Here.Join the new Root Collective HERE!
In today's show, I tackle two hot topics listeners have been asking about: tax planning in retirement and the role of life insurance in your golden years. Drawing from real questions and common scenarios. But that's not all: I also dig into the nuances of life insurance in retirement, explaining when it makes sense to keep or reconsider a policy, and how it can be a powerful tool for risk management, legacy planning, or supplementing income. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... 06:03 Tax planning vs. preparation 11:17 Optimizing Roth conversions in retirement 16:05 Capital gains and tax strategies 18:37 Retirement income planning strategies 24:50 Survivor benefits explained 26:41 Life insurance for younger spouses 28:57 Whole life policy loan insights 32:41 Retirement life insurance benefits 39:35 Annuities, IRAs, and tax considerations Tax Planning in Retirement: Looking Beyond This Year Too often, tax strategies are left for CPAs or accounting firms during busy tax season, which is not the ideal time for personalized planning. Many people believe their taxes will drop in retirement and ignore future implications such as Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), possible tax rate changes, or status changes like moving from joint to single filing after a spouse's death. I recommend a proactive, multi-year approach, planning not just for today but for years ahead. Mapping out your future retirement income and tax liabilities allows you to make strategic decisions that optimize withdrawals, conversions, and gifting options. Key strategies include: Roth Conversions: Moving funds from pre-tax accounts (like IRAs or 401(k)s) to Roth IRAs can create future tax-free income. Timing is crucial; for example, the years before Social Security starts can be optimal for conversions without bumping up your taxable income. Roth Contributions: Don't forget about spousal Roth IRAs and annual contribution limits. In 2026, for couples over 50, you can contribute up to $17,200 combined to Roth IRAs (subject to income eligibility). Capital Gains Harvesting: Understanding the rules for primary residence sales and brokerage accounts means you can maximize capital gain exclusions and possibly pay 0% on gains when your income is lower. Charitable Giving: Proper planning can help you meet your philanthropic goals while minimizing taxable income. Gifting: Gifting appreciated assets helps save on future tax dollars, especially when gifting to individuals or charities. Who Needs Life Insurance and Why? Life insurance typically protects against the financial risk of premature death in your working years, especially if you have dependents, debt, and income that others rely on. But its purpose shifts in retirement. Life insurance is not an investment; it's a tool to transfer risk. As you approach or enter retirement, your financial picture often changes, the mortgage may be paid off, children are independent, and asset balances may be at their peak. At this stage, you should revisit whether life insurance still fits your needs or whether your money could be better utilized elsewhere. Life insurance can serve several purposes in retirement: For pension holders who opt for the "single life" payout, life insurance can provide financial security to surviving spouses or dependents if their pension stops at death. It also acts as bridge funding, where if an age gap exists between spouses, a policy can bridge the gap until Social Security survivor benefits begin (especially since these benefits only start at age 60 for most spouses). Some retirees use life insurance to ensure a tax-free inheritance for loved ones or to supplement other tax-free assets like homes (due to step-up in basis) and Roth IRAs. Hybrid life insurance policies can include riders for long-term care, providing benefits if care is needed and a tax-free payout at death. However, not all old policies continue to make sense. Whole life policies bought decades ago may have modest death benefits that no longer provide impactful coverage, and their cash values may be underperforming. It's worth reviewing these policies and considering whether surrender, exchange, or repurpose is wiser. Resources & People Mentioned 3 Steps to Retirement Planning Connect With Gregg Gonzalez Email at: Gregg.gonzalez@lpl.com Podcast: https://RetireStrongFA.com/Podcast Website: https://RetireStrongFA.com/ Follow Gregg on LinkedIn Follow Gregg on Facebook Follow Gregg on YouTube Subscribe to Retirement Made Easy On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts
In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed: Building an income floor before chasing growth Using annuities for risk transfer, not market upside Avoiding hype and choosing guarantees that last Key Takeaways: Retirement is about securing essential expenses with contractual guarantees, not chasing hypothetical returns. The priority is creating an income floor through sources like Social Security, pensions, and properly structured annuities. Once that foundation is set, the rest of the portfolio can pursue growth without threatening stability. Annuities are transfer-of-risk products, not growth engines meant to mirror the stock market. They are designed to provide principal protection, lifetime income, legacy options, and long-term care support. Buying them for upside potential misunderstands their purpose and creates misplaced expectations. Promises of upside with no downside, flashy bonuses, and inflated back-tests are red flags because nothing in an annuity is free. The right questions are what you want the money to contractually do and when those guarantees should begin. Strong lifetime income planning also requires highly rated carriers, since once you commit, there are no mulligans. "What's the best annuity? The answer is, it's the one that solves for your specific situation and provides the highest contractual guarantee with a solid, highly rated company." — Stan The Annuity Man Connect with The Annuity Man: Website: http://theannuityman.com/ Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security survivor benefits, IRMAA relief and the SSA-44 process, the Social Security earnings test, disclaiming inheritances that are brokerage accounts, and Roth conversion rules for retirees. (6:00) A listener asks whether his wife’s early Social Security claim at 62 would reduce the survivor benefit she’d receive upon his death. (14:00) George asks several questions stemming from a successful SSA-44 IRMAA relief request, including whether a retroactive refund is due, whether Step 3 covers the following year, and whether a separate filing is needed for his own income reduction. (27:30) Jim and Chris respond to a listener who clarifies that benefits withheld under the Social Security earnings test are deferred, not lost, and are returned as a higher benefit at full retirement age. (31:00) Georgette asks when it makes sense to disclaim an inherited brokerage account and whether passing the assets directly to their children is the right move. (40:45) The guys are asked about the rules and tax implications of converting brokerage account funds to a Roth IRA, including whether having no earned income in retirement disqualifies someone from doing The post Social Security, IRMAA, Disclaiming Inheritances, Roth Conversions: Q&A #2609 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
Independent investigative journalism, broadcasting, trouble-making and muckraking with Brad Friedman of BradBlog.com
Value, dividends, and overseas stocks are suddenly working. And a Deutsche Bank economist explains why 2032 is the next national debt deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Millions of dollars allegedly misused in welfare programs. Illegal immigrants on voter rolls. And the Trump administration fights to get the data states refuse to share. Today on AmperWave Daily, we break down the latest updates from JD Vance's crackdown on welfare and voter fraud, and what it could mean for elections and taxpayers.
Illegal immigrants getting Social Security numbers. Welfare fraud fueling voter rolls. And Democrat officials refusing to turn over critical data. Today on AmperWave Daily, we connect the dots between immigration, welfare, and voter fraud — and explore why some allege it's shaping elections and party behavior nationwide.
What if the greatest change you could make in your financial life didn't start with budgeting, investing, or earning more—but with surrender? We don't usually think of surrender as a financial word. Yet Scripture places it at the center of faithful stewardship. The life-changing truth that God owns everything reshapes how we live, give, and manage what we've been entrusted. The First Question Scripture Asks About Money When we talk about finances, we tend to ask familiar questions: How much do I have? How much do I need? Am I doing well? They're natural questions—but they're not the first question Scripture asks. From the beginning, the Bible establishes that God is the owner. Before humanity ever managed a garden or named a creature, God formed, filled, and ruled creation. Psalm 24:1 declares it plainly: “The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof.” Simply put, God is the owner—and we are the stewards. For many of us, that's a familiar idea. But familiarity doesn't always lead to surrender. We may affirm God's ownership in theory while living as if everything depends on our effort. We say, “I worked for this,” or “I earned this.” Yet Scripture adds an essential truth: “It is He who gives you power to get wealth” (Deuteronomy 8:18). Even our ability to work is a gift from God. Faithfulness, Not Outcomes Jesus reinforces this perspective in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30). A master entrusts resources to three servants. Two invest faithfully. One buries what he's been given out of fear. When the master returns, he doesn't praise them for increasing his net worth—he commends their faithfulness. That distinction matters. The world measures success by outcomes. God measures success by trust and faithfulness. If God owns everything, then we are not owners—we are managers. Scripture uses the term oikonomos, meaning household manager: someone who manages resources they didn't create, for purposes they didn't define, under a master they serve. At first, that may sound restrictive. In reality, it's freeing. If I'm not the owner, then I'm not the ultimate provider or protector. The weight shifts from my shoulders to God's. As Ron Blue often says, “If God owns it all, you can't lose anything.” Ownership carries pressure. Stewardship carries trust. Everyday Decisions Become Worship When we truly embrace stewardship, ordinary financial decisions take on spiritual meaning. Budgeting becomes aligning our desires with God's priorities. Giving becomes a response to His generosity. Planning becomes obedience rather than anxiety. Investing becomes multiplying what belongs to the Lord, not securing independence from Him. The Puritan preacher Thomas Watson once wrote, “What we keep we may lose. What we give to God is kept forever.” Paul echoes this in 1 Timothy 6:7: “We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” That reality isn't meant to discourage us—it's meant to liberate us. When we stop clinging to what we cannot keep, we're free to invest in what we can never lose. What Does God Expect From Us? If God owns everything, what does He ask of us? Jesus answers simply: “One who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much” (Luke 16:10). Faithfulness isn't about the size of what we manage—it's about surrender. And surrender always begins in the heart. When we embrace God's ownership, two gifts follow: Humility—we stop boasting in what we've accomplished. Hope—we realize we're not carrying the burden alone. God equips, guides, and provides. Where Is God Inviting You to Surrender? Where might God be inviting you to shift from being an owner to a steward? In your giving? Your planning? Your savings or lifestyle? Or in the quiet belief that your security depends more on markets than on the God who “owns the cattle on a thousand hills” (Psalm 50:10)? Stewardship isn't about God getting something from you. It's about God doing something in you. It reorders the heart so money takes its proper place—not as a master, but as a tool. If this idea resonates with you—that God owns it all and stewardship begins with surrender—I invite you to explore it further in Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship. You can learn more or order a copy for yourself, your church, or your small group at FaithFi.com/Shop. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: My wife and I are in our late 30s, have accumulated some debt, and have struggled to stick to a budget. We want to be better stewards, but keep falling off track. Can you offer simple, practical guidance to help us manage money and stay consistent? I'm 24 and living with my parents, hoping to buy a home instead of renting. What steps should I take now to move toward homeownership? I'm nearing 65 and will have about $70,000 from my 401(k), plus a small annuity. What's the wisest way to invest that money at this stage to support my future? I'm 65 and trying to decide when to take Social Security and how to draw from our accounts. We're mostly debt-free and financially stable, but I hear conflicting advice. Should I delay benefits, start my wife's earlier, and in what order should we tap our savings and IRAs? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Cuba's border guard kills four on U.S. speedboat in alleged infiltration attempt, judge rules Trump administration's policy for "third-country" deportations is unlawful, and what does it mean that Social Security will "dry up" earlier than expected.
Listener Q&A where Andy talks about: Income tax treatment of buying bonds in a normal non-qualified brokerage account when you buy or sell bonds in between coupon periods ( 8:37 )When still working, are 50 or older, are maxing out your 401(k) contributions, and are high income and therefore would need to have your catch-up contribution go into your Roth (instead of pre-tax) 401(k), would it be better to skip the catch-up and instead put that money in a normal brokerage account ( 14:40 )Taxation of Social Security lump sums received for prior month's retroactive payments; is it taxable in the year received or in the prior year that the payments were attributable to ( 17:56 )Does the imputed wage income from employer group life insurance in excess of $50,000 death benefit qualify as earned income for purposes of making Roth IRA contributions ( 24:26 )Deciding how/when to sell out of appreciated assets in a brokerage account you no longer want but don't want to have to deal with realizing taxable gains ( 29:11 )Thoughts on direct indexing, and whether it's a strategy worth considering ( 37:01 )Whether or not to pay off a mortgage, especially now that interest rates are higher than they were a few years ago ( 44:07 )Thoughts on when to stop saving if/when you've saved "enough," balancing planning for the future you vs the present you, deciding how much to sacrifice now for saving for the future, etc. ( 49:24 )The differences in step-up in basis rules for spouses in community property states vs common law states, and how that impacts federal taxes (even if the gains aren't taxable at the state level) ( 55:10 )What to keep in mind when spouses want to maximize gift giving and not have to file a gift tax return ( 1:01:44 )Deductibility of donating appreciated securities vs cash and how to plan large donations in years of doing Roth conversions to help manage taxable income ( 1:07:47 )To send Andy questions to be addressed on future Q&A episodes, email andy@andypanko.comLinks in this episode:My company newsletter - Retirement Planning InsightsFacebook group - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Taxes in Retirement)YouTube channel - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Retirement Planning Demystified)Retirement Planning Education website - www.RetirementPlanningEducation.com
#692: Anonymous (02:01) is excited about early retirement and family time but worried about his brother-in-law, who just returned from a vacation in Mexico with a bold plan: sell everything, move there, and buy an Airbnb to live in one unit and rent out the others. He wants to support him without watching him get in over his head. How can he navigate this tricky mix of family loyalty and financial risk? Maryanne (33:41) is retired and living on Social Security. Her IRA has doubled in value in the past year and a half, leaving her unsure whether to sell and live off interest or reinvest in ETFs. How do you manage sudden growth in retirement savings responsibly without taking unnecessary risks? Brandon (48:18) has rolled over two old 401(k)s into IRAs but just learned that 401(k)s are generally better protected from lawsuits than IRAs. Now he's hesitant to roll over his latest 401(k) from his recent job. Is it ever worth keeping a 401(k) separate, or should all retirement accounts eventually be consolidated? *Note: Timestamps will vary on individual listening devices based on dynamic advertising segments. The provided timestamps are approximate and may be several minutes off due to changing ad lengths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices