Podcasts about step plan

Clutter is fraught with emotions - especially guilt - which makes it incredibly difficult to let things go. Combined with aspirations of who we “could” be if we only had the time and energy, it's a wonder we can get rid of anything.   In my interview on the No Guilt Mom podcast, host JoAnn Crohn and I chat about:   Why we have so much more stuff than previous generations — and why it just keeps coming The real reason decluttering gets put off again and again (hint: it's not that you don't care) How to handle the guilt of getting rid of a gift — especially when the gift-giver asks where it went   …and much more. Related Episodes: Episode 14: Is Your Family Pressuring You Into Holding Onto Stuff You Don't Want? Say Goodbye to Guilt with These 3 Tips Episode 59: Your 5-Step Plan to Declutter Unwanted Gifts Guilt-Free Episode 233: Listener Question: What Do I Do With Gifts I Don't Want From Loved Ones Who Guilt Me Into Keeping Them?   *** I help moms declutter their homes, heads, and hearts. Contact - > info@simplebyemmy.com  Podcast -＞ https://momsovercomingoverwhelm.podbean.com/ Learn -＞ https://www.simplebyemmy.com/resources Connect -＞ Join our free Facebook group Decluttering Tips and Support for Overwhelmed Moms Instagram -＞ @simplebyemmy and @momsovercomingoverwhelm   *** Don't Know Where to Start? *** 5 Steps to Overcome Overwhelm -＞ https://simplebyemmy.com/5steps/ 5 Mindset Shifts for Decluttering -＞ https://simplebyemmy.com/mindset/ Get podcast playlists for decluttering mindset, tactical decluttering tips, ADHD, getting kids & family on board, and more! https://www.listennotes.com/@momsovercomingoverwhelm/playlists/   Wanna work with me to kick overwhelm to the curb, mama? There are three options for you! Step 1: Join a supportive community of moms plus decluttering challenges to keep you on track at the free Facebook group Decluttering Tips and Support for Overwhelmed Moms Step 2: Sign up for the weekly Decluttering Tips and Resources for Overwhelmed Moms Newsletter and see samples here: https://pages.simplebyemmy.com/profile Step 3: Get more personalized support with virtual OR in-person decluttering and organization coaching (in-person coming soon- Pittsburgh, PA)! https://www.simplebyemmy.com/workwithme

Buying leads may keep your phone ringing, but it can also leave your entire real estate career dependent on a platform you do not control. When the provider controls the price, rules, territory, lead quality, and consumer relationship, do you actually own your business? In this episode, Tim and Julie Harris stage a five-step intervention for real estate agents who have become dependent on purchased leads. They explain why clicks, impressions, transaction count, and sales volume do not automatically equal profitability—and why net income is the metric agents should be watching. You will learn how to evaluate the real return from purchased leads, identify when a lead source has become a dependency, take responsibility for your own lead generation, reconnect with neglected past clients and prospects, and build a business that does not have to be repurchased every month. Tim and Julie also explain why agents should prioritize database conversations, past-client follow-up, expired listings, FSBOs, open houses, referrals, local relationships, and proactive prospecting. Paid leads may have a place, but they should supplement the business you control rather than determine whether your career survives. This is the kind of practical listing and lead-generation training serious real estate agents need to compete in the 2026 market and build a more independent career. Free training: HarrisRealEstateDaily.comCoaching: PremierCoaching.comJoin eXp + Libertas: WhyLibertas.com/HarrisText Tim Direct: 512-758-0206Opinions are my own and not the views of eXp Realty.

If you had the chance to buy your own business today... would you? In this episode, I share one of my favorite coaching exercises that helps business owners step out of the daily grind and see their business through a completely different lens. Imagine you're buying your business from someone else. What would you notice? Would the financials give you confidence? Would the customer experience impress you? Would your employees, systems, inventory, and processes make you excited to invest? This simple exercise helps you stop making excuses and start identifying opportunities. You'll learn how to evaluate your business objectively, uncover hidden weaknesses, and use your business numbers to make smarter decisions that lead to more profit. Sometimes the biggest breakthrough comes from looking at your business with fresh eyes.

Building a business without a clear vision can feel exhausting in a way that is hard to explain. You're working, making decisions, solving problems, and pushing forward, but deep down, it can still feel like you're moving without a real destination. And when all the advice out there sounds vague, fluffy, and impossible to apply, it only makes things more frustrating. In this episode, Omar gets into what it really looks like to create a vision for your business that actually means something to you. This is not about empty buzzwords or generic motivation. It's about getting clear in a way that helps you lead with more confidence, make stronger decisions, and build something your team can truly get behind. If you're ready to shape a business vision that feels real, grounded, and worth chasing, click play at the top of the page and dive into this step-by-step lesson. MBA2808 Create A Vision For Your Business Without Being Cliché (Step By Step Plan) Recommended episode to explore: How Netflix Grew To A $366 Billion Beast. Sharing Their CEO's Secrets Watch the episodes on YouTube: https://lm.fm/GgRPPHi SUBSCRIBE YouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you want to hear a little secret? It's not so much of a "secret" as it is a very surprising fact about me. Despite my undying affinity for Nordstrom, I have never actually shopped during their annual Anniversary sale. Crazy, right? Please don't take my Nordy club card away from me!   But my clients were equally shocked to learn a few weeks ago that I'm not over setting alarms, building wish lists, and refreshing my browser the second the sale opens. I'm just over here buying what I need when I need it throughout the year.   Now, this week, I might browse. But if I do, I'm using the exact strategy I'm sharing with you today, because I have absolutely no interest in a giant cardboard box showing up on my doorstep delivering a whole lot of wardrobe regret. And I don't think you want that either.   So because the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has been buzzing around in our Her Style Collective chats over the past several weeks, you might also be wondering what you should buy, how to identify gaps in your wardrobe, and whether it's worth shopping this year…    I think the question you really want to know isn't "What's on sale?" It's "How can I be a smarter sale shopper?"   Whether you're getting ready to hunt the Nordstrom Sale, the clearance rack at Target, or your favorite thrift store, today's episode is for you. I'm going to map out some important questions to consider before you scoop up that irresistible sale item only to regret it every time you see it hanging in your closet with the tags still on.   FREE 5-MIN PERSONAL STYLE QUIZ: https://herstylellc.com/quiz HER STYLE ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/heatherriggsstyle/ JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR HER STYLE COLLECTIVE: https://herstylellc.com/collective   Related Episodes: 319 – How to Tell If Something Will Actually Work In Your Wardrobe (Before You Buy It) 294 – Black Friday Trap or Smart Buy? How To Know When a Sale Is Actually Worth It 290 – Impulse Buying vs. Smart Investing: How to Shop With Strategy and Clarity 194 – Shop Black Friday Sales More Strategically by Following This 7-Step Plan

Hiring your next employee might be the best decision you ever make... or one of the most expensive mistakes. In this episode, we break down the two questions every business owner needs to answer before adding another person to the team: Do you truly need the help? Can your business actually afford it? We discuss why hiring won't fix an unprofitable business, how to know when your current team is being underutilized, and why adding another employee often masks training, leadership, or process problems. We also cover the difference between employees and subcontractors, when outsourcing makes more sense than hiring, and how every new hire should help create more sales, more profit, or free you up to work on growing the business. If you're thinking about making your first hire or adding to your team, this episode will help you make that decision with confidence.

Today I'm joined in the podcast studio in Bali with my friend and fellow remote business mentor, Luiza Samarova who transformed her life from climbing the corporate ladder in Germany to building a thriving location-independent marketing business and helping others do the same.One of the things I loved most about this conversation is that Luiza teaches a very similar philosophy to what I teach inside the Digital Nomad Life Academy. Different stories. Different personalities. Same truth:You do not need permission to build a life that gives you freedom.And no, you don't have to quit your job tomorrow to make it happen.In this episode, Luiza shares the exact 5-step framework she used to quit corporate, become location independent, and build a sustainable online business that supports her dream lifestyle.In this episode, we cover:Why you don't need to quit your job overnight to become a digital nomadThe biggest mindset shifts required to quit corporate successfullyHow to identify the skills you already have that can become an online businessWhy your current employer could become your very first freelance clientThe power of networking (and why your next client may already know you)How to transition from employee to entrepreneur without unnecessary financial stressThe importance of building confidence before you feel "ready"Why abundance—not scarcity—is one of the biggest keys to building a successful remote businessThe truth about market saturation (spoiler: there is room for you)Practical ways to land your first online clients using LinkedIn, Facebook groups, Upwork, local platforms, and your existing networkThe question is:Which hard are you choosing?Resources & Links✨ Ready to build your own location-independent business?The Digital Nomad Life Academy is my step-by-step mentorship program designed to help professionals quit their 9 to 5, create a remote business, and build a life of freedom without gambling their financial security.If you're curious whether it's the right fit, send me a DM @christabellatravels with the word "APPLY" on Instagram or book a complimentary Remote Readiness Rating Call. We'll help you map out the fastest path from corporate employee to remote entrepreneur.Connect with Luiza Follow Luiza for practical advice on building a remote career, freelancing, and designing a life of freedom.Follow Luiza on InstagramListen to Her Podcast: Not Just His Plus OneIf you enjoyed this episode...Please take 30 seconds to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your reviews help more people discover the show and realize that quitting corporate, building an online business, and becoming a digital nomad isn't just a dream—it's absolutely possible.And if someone came to mind while listening, send this episode to them. It might be the conversation that changes their life.Send us Fan Mail

In today's episode, David McKnight discusses what many people don't get about the IRS and what happens to their IRA and what their children are supposed to get at some point. Many people spend decades building up tax-affirmed retirement accounts without fully appreciating what happens when those accounts pass to the next generation. When a spouse inherits an IRA, they get the most favorable treatment under the tax code. In fact, they have options that nobody else gets - like the spousal rollover. David touches upon the so-called Stretch IRA, which he considers one of the greatest estate planning tools ever created, and the 10-year rule. The scenario in which this episode sits is a time when the U.S.' fiscal trajectory suggests future tax rates are likely to be dramatically higher than they are today. "We're over $39 trillion in debt, with a debt projected to grow by $2 trillion per year for the next 1+ years, and $3 trillion per year after that," says David. David explains why he talks about Roth conversions and Roth IRAs frequently on this channel, as well as what you could give to your children that's more valuable than an inheritance. Mentioned in this episode: 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  

Fear comes in many forms. Sometimes it's fear of numbers. Sometimes it's fear of what those numbers will tell you. Learn why facing your Profit & Loss could be the most profitable decision you make this year.

Want to launch or scale your brand to its first $100K/month?  1. DM me the word MILLION on Instagram ( @ryandanielmoran )  2. I'll send you the details on how we work with clients. This is the complete playbook I used to turn a $600 investment into a $16M exit, and have since repeated across hundreds of client case studies. You'll learn the seven-figure system (a product that sells itself, a responsive audience, and sales channels that deliver automatic sales) and the exact 8-step process to build it from scratch to 100 sales a day. Links mentioned in the episode: ► Free custom GPT that helps you create a recurring revenue product: https://capitalism.com/product ► Free $100K/month playbook, plus a quick and helpful diagnostic tool: https://capitalism.com/100K (0:00) The full plan to $100K/month — and the "sellable brand" it's really after (2:00) The seven-figure system: product, audience, sales channels (4:00) Why a small, responsive audience beats a big one (a $16M exit on ~15K people) (7:00) Why you need all three pieces — what you get with only two (11:00) Inside the product: person, difference, gateway (13:00) Inside the audience: exposure, engagement, conversion (15:00) Inside sales channels: proof, rank, ads (18:00) The 8-step process + the math of 100 sales a day (19:00) Step 1: Choose your person (Jeremy's Razors) (21:00) Step 2: Build a waiting list of 100 emails (Ty Mayfield) (23:00) Step 3: Launch — any reason to promote (AG1, Miguel's $100K pre-sale) (27:00) Step 4: Add 100 reviews as proof (29:00) Step 5: Build your hopper (the Timms margarita story) (33:00) Step 6: Run the flywheel to 25 sales a day (Kill Switch) (36:00) Step 7: Amplify what's working with ads (38:00) Step 8: Launch more products — and why it's last (41:00) How long it really takes + your free diagnostic tool DISCLAIMER: The information contained on this Podcast Channel and the resources available for download/viewing through this Podcast Channel are for educational and informational purposes only.

David McKnight kicks off this Power of Zero Show episode by stressing that, in his opinion, tax rates in the future are likely to be much higher than they are today. Why? Because the U.S. has a national debt that continues to grow at an alarming rate. It has hundreds of trillions of dollars in unfunded obligations for programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. At some point, the Government is going to need huge infusions of cash to meet such obligations. The so-called "Widow's Penalty" is a very compelling reason, David believes, to consider doing Roth conversions while today's tax rates are still around. And that's true even if you don't think that future tax rates will be higher than the current ones… David explains how, when a spouse passes away before the other, the surviving spouse often inherits a tax problem at a moment in life when they're least equipped to deal with it. The ugly truth is that, in many cases, surviving spouses earn nearly the same amount of income as before while being forced to operate within a less favorable tax framework. That means that income that previously fit comfortably inside the 24% tax bracket can suddenly spill over into the 32%, 35% or even 37% bracket! David touches upon the fact that one of the most important tax planning windows in their entire lifetime occurs during the years when both spouses are still alive and filing taxes jointly. Remember: this topic is crucial because tax consequences don't necessarily end with the surviving spouse.  Whatever remains in your IRA may pass on to your children. David's advice is to move money slowly enough that you don't rise into a tax bracket that gives you heartburn, but quickly enough that you get all the heavy lifting done before tax rates go up for good.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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

If I had to start over and break into hand therapy today, here's exactly what I'd do. Learn the three steps that can help you stand out to employers and build confidence faster.

Learning your numbers isn't just about understanding a Profit & Loss statement. It's about building confidence, making better decisions, creating more profit, and giving yourself the freedom to build the business and life you truly want. Whether you're just getting started or you've owned your business for years, your journey changes the moment you stop guessing and start understanding your numbers. I'd be honored to be a small part of that journey. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Recovery is about more than just rest, so in this episode we're making the case for adding a little whimsy to your summer. We share how playfulness can help teachers reconnect with themselves, the science behind why positive emotions matter, and simple ways to create a summer that feels more memorable, meaningful, and fun. Give yourself permission to enjoy things simply because they bring you joy!Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-ideas/Resources:Diaper CaddyQ-Less gameSticker By Number bookWord Search MysteryPlant magnetsPaint markersPreorder our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 262. Crashing Isn't Resting: The Summer Teacher Mistake to Skip This YearEpisode 263. Can't Miss Classic: Stop Letting Guilt and Panic Steal Your Teacher SummerEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn't Feel Like WorkEpisode 14. Best Summer Ever

JOIN PATREON FOR EARLY UNCENSORED EPISODE RELEASES: https://www.patreon.com/JulianDorey CLIPPERS DISCORD: https://discord.gg/8QmWEKJ3BT HENRY ABBOTT - LEON BACK ARTICLE: https://www.truehoop.com/p/questions-for-leon-black FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY IG: https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://x.com/juliandorey FOLLOW JOEY DEEF IG: https://www.instagram.com/joeydeef/ X: https://x.com/TokeMalone JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 0:00 - Hurricane Matan & Ol' Leon Black 2:09 - Epstein Buddy Leon Black BACK in the news 3:58 - Leon Black biggest question marks 10:02 - Epstein 50th Birthday Letter 12:34 - Henry Abbott's Leon Black Congressional Interrogation Ideas 18:57 - Leon Black's DISASTROUS 1-hour Congressional Testimony 22:48 - AG Todd Blanche in hot water 25:55 - Apollo Co-Founder, Josh Harris 27:50 - Leon Black's Quiet 2024 Interview 33:58 - Leon Black hilarious Epstein denial 37:53 - Leon Black's financial relationship w/ Epstein EXPLAINED 43:38 - When did Leon Black meet “James Bond Villain” Epstein? 47:12 - Deef exposes Apollo's “3rd Party” Investigation 50:34 - Jay Clayton's INSANE ties to Apollo, Black, Epstein & Treaty of Versailles 57:10 - Assault Allegations against Leon Black 1:01:07 - Congressional REACTION to Leon Black storming out of hearing 1:06:10 - “Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde” 1:08:23 - Chairman Comer on Leon Black's surprise subpoenas 1:11:36 - Legal Question about NDAs 1:13:35 - Bill Gates Epstein Testimony 1:15:23 - Zorro Ranch Investigation COVERED UP by familiar figure… 1:21:16 - Why Trump wants Epstein to go away (PURE SPEC) 1:23:20 - Epstein's Assistant's Under the Radar Testimony 1:27:49 - Bari Weiss is on the case! 1:30:52 - How to run for American Political Office in 2026 (2-Step Plan) 1:34:49 - Leon Black about to squirm CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - COO, Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 441 - Julian Dorey Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you enjoying your summer lounge time but feel that itch to get ahead for back-to-school? We're revisiting 20 simple “TV tasks” that teachers can tackle from the comfort of the couch while still protecting their summer rest and recovery. We talk about the importance of setting boundaries around summer work, creating both a summer no list and a summer yes list, and finding ways to make back-to-school prep feel less overwhelming. While it's important to remember that rest is productive on its own, these simple tasks will help you enjoy your downtime while making the start of the school just a bit easier!Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/back-to-school-teacher-prep-tasks/Resources:Freebie: End of Year RoadmapReadiness Checklists Wishing Star Printable@Teacherpodcastrecs on InstagramThe Holiday Headstart PodcastSeed ProbioticHero SunscreenCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn't Feel Like WorkEpisode 199. Time, Tech, & Tasks: The 3 Boundaries That Save Teacher SummersMentioned in this episode:Get a free 10-day trial of the Teacher Approved Club, where members are using the Tired Teacher Summer Planner this month to help plan the kind of summer they need: https://secondstorywindow.net/trial

David McKnight discusses the Woman's World article Suze Orman Reveals When to Buy an Annuity - and the One Question You Must Answer First. For years, Orman has warned investors away from annuities, often lumping them into the category of expensive financial products that enrich salespeople at the expense of consumers. David has been surprised by what the current views of Orman appear to be, completely in line with what David has been preaching for years. Orman's analysis begins with a key consideration: annuities can be a helpful tool in retirement, but whether they make sense for you depends on one key factor: your income needs. In the Woman's World article, Orman writes that the first step is to figure out how much money you need each month to cover your essential expenses. Next, you should look at your guaranteed income sources like Social Security, a pension, rental properties, interest, or dividends. David paints out the scenario in which you get permission to take more risk in the stock market portion of your portfolio. A recent BlackRock study showed that people whose living expenses are guaranteed spend 22% more than those who rely on their stock market portfolio alone in retirement. David talks about what he refers to as a "piecemeal internal Roth conversion feature" and why it may be a beneficial asset. David sees Orman's approach as short-sided for the fact that guaranteed lifetime income isn't the only mathematically appropriate use of annuities. True, most retirees own bonds because they want stability, but bonds do come with reinvestment risks, interest rate risks, inflation risks, and often low long-term returns. David explains what would happen if you reached into your portfolio, removed bonds, and replaced them with an annuity. According to David, the conversation needs more nuance because "not all annuities are created equal". Remember: retirement planning isn't about one-size-fits-all financial advice; it's about creating a customized approach that will help you wring the most efficiency out of your retirement savings.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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 Suze Orman Woman's World article - Suze Orman Reveals When to Buy an Annuity - and the One Question You Must Answer First  BlackRock Ken Fisher

Want to know exactly how much you need to sell to hit your profit goal? In this episode, we use a simple formula and your Profit & Loss statement to reverse engineer your sales target and build a more profitable business.

I share my 11 tips to help you stop binge eating today. I hope that you find it helpful. Time slots. 0:57 The morning weigh in and how this sets you off course. 1:28 Setting intentions ahead for the day, rather than being reactive. 1:57 Visualise eating going well. With calmness, intention and enjoyment. 2:26 Breakfast is key; fasting and delaying eating only fuels binge eating. 2:50 The path less travelled - bingeing is often the end point of a cumulation of triggers. 3:49 The yum and satisfaction - so important for managing mental hunger too. No filling up on diet foods and high water content foods. 4:34 Overwhelm and emotions - a key part of the mix. 5:11 The impact of alcohol - it can fuel binge eating. 5:42 Co-regulation - support is vital. 6:18 The tipping point - what is yours? 6:49 Clothes - wear comfortable and flattering clothes everyday.  

In this episode, David McKnight addresses one of the biggest myths in retirement planning: once you retire, you need to dramatically reduce your exposure to stocks. The reason why most financial advisors recommend reducing stock exposure in retirement has very little to do with stocks and everything to do with sequence of returns risk. Sequence of returns risk is what happens when you're forced to withdraw money from your investment portfolio during a market downturn. If the market falls 30% and you're simultaneously taking withdrawals to pay for your living expenses, you're locking in losses and permanently impairing your portfolio's ability to recover. According to David, the way to solve this problem is by ensuring that your essential expenses are covered before you ever retire. When you're at least five years out from retirement, David believes that one of the most important decisions you can make is to create the so-called income floor. An income floor is a guaranteed stream of income that covers your basic living expenses regardless of what the stock market is doing. The volatility shield adds a second layer of protection that has to do with discretionary expenses (e.g., a trip around the world, taking the grandchildren to Disney World, etc.). Suze Orman has controversially recommended that retirees keep 3-5 years' worth of living expenses in a savings account, so they don't have to sell investments during a market downturn. While David agrees with the concept, he doesn't see savings accounts as the most efficient place to put that money in. Instead, he'd rather have retirees accumulate that money in a completely separate account (a volatility shield) – which, unlike a savings account, has the potential to grow 5-7% net fees over time. Looking for an alternative volatility shield? Look at cash value life insurance in the form of indexed universal life (IUL), says David. An Ernst & Young study found that retirees who included the volatility shield strategy and a guaranteed lifetime income annuity in the retirement plan were able to dramatically increase the sustainable withdrawal rate on their investment portfolio. Since the early 1990s, the gold standard on sustainable withdrawal rates has been 4%. The 4% Rule says that if you withdraw approximately 4% of your portfolio each year, there's a reasonably high chance that your money will last a full 30-year retirement. However, when retirees had access to a volatility buffer and could avoid taking distributions following market downturns, sustainable withdrawal rates increased dramatically (in some scenarios, up to 8%). David is a believer of the fact that the portfolio that got you into retirement can also take you through retirement – with a recommended 70% in U.S. stock market index funds and 30% in international stock market index funds. For David, the reason why this approach works well is that, with it, you solve the two biggest issues in retirement: income and volatility. Moreover, if you can position these assets inside tax-free accounts through strategic Roth contributions and Roth conversions, you gain protection against yet another threat, tax rate risk. David concludes by stressing that it is not that the buy-and-hold strategy doesn't work, it's that most retirees don't have the protection tools necessary to stay committed to the strategy when markets become turbulent.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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 Suze Orman Ernst & Young

That idea blew my mind when my friend James Wedmore shared how a crippling lawsuit nearly ended his business… and then forced him to break through fear, build the right container, and jump from $2M to $10M in just one year. Today on the podcast, James and I unpack how you can engineer your own quantum leap no catastrophe required. Listen in and discover:  • Why facing fear exposes what truly matters and ignites unstoppable momentum  • How to build the "infrastructure" that supports massive growth instead of just maintenance  • The shift from playing "not to lose" to playing "to win" (and why it changes everything)  • Which role you must step into next and what to hand off to free your time and energy  • How to leverage AI without losing your unique perspective and authenticity  If you're tired of slow inch-by-inch gains and ready to see what your business is truly capable of, this episode is for you. Tune in now and start your quantum leap. Ready to go further into building a business? Check out this free resource from my mentor and friend James Wedmore: brandonlucero.com/bbd Did you enjoy this episode? I'd love it if you'd share it on Instagram and tag me @iambrandonlucero! Thank you for supporting the show. Find me on: IG: @iambrandonlucero Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAmBrandonLucero  Website: https://www.brandonlucero.com

What if the problem isn't your business? What if the problem is that you're trying to force yourself into a life you no longer want? In this episode, we have an honest conversation about something most business owners never talk about: what happens when you hate being a business owner. Some people are struggling because they simply haven't figured out their numbers yet. They love being a business owner but need to understand their Profit & Loss, pricing, debt, cash flow, and profitability. Others hate every aspect of business ownership. They hate sales. They hate marketing. They hate managing people. They hate the pressure and responsibility. Those are two completely different situations. The question is: Which bucket are you in? Today we're talking about how to know the difference and what to do next.

In this replay episode, we're exploring why boundaries are the secret ingredient to a joyful, restorative summer and a smoother transition back to school. We walk through practical ways to set healthy boundaries around time, technology, and task load so summer doesn't turn into “a quieter form of burnout.” Along the way, we talk about balancing recovery with back-to-school readiness, avoiding comparison traps on social media, creating realistic summer goals, and learning to say no without guilt. Whether you need permission to rest or a plan to head into August feeling more prepared, this episode will help you create a summer that feels both refreshing and intentional.Prefer to read? Grab the original episode transcript and show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/teacher-summer-boundaries/Resources:Freebie: End of Year RoadmapResource: Back to School Pattern Block ActivitiesResource: Back to School Lego Activities Podcast: Happier with Gretchen RubinPre-order our book: Structure and SparkJoin the Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Facebook group, Teacher ApprovedLeave a review on Apple PodcastsLeave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 131. To-Do List Magic - How to Prioritize Your Teacher Tasks This SummerEpisode 134. The 10 Stages of Teacher Summer BreakEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakEpisode 197. A Teacher Summer Self Care and Recovery Plan That Doesn't Feel Like WorkMentioned in this episode:Get a free 10-day trial of the Teacher Approved Club, where members are using the Tired Teacher Summer Planner this month to help plan the kind of summer they need: https://secondstorywindow.net/trial

David McKnight kicks this episode off by explaining how, for decades, conventional financial wisdom has been saying that, as you approach retirement, you should begin dialing down your stock exposure and increasing your bond allocation. A 60-year-old, for example, would have 40% of their portfolio in stocks and 60% in bonds.  Historically, bonds served three primary functions: They provided income, they reduced portfolio volatility, and they protected retirees from so-called sequence of returns risk. David touches upon how the sequence of returns risk works. Retirees who get hit early often run out of money earlier – in some cases, even 15 years prior to life expectancy. The old approach to retirement planning assumes that bonds could provide meaningful returns while still acting as a stabilizer. However, recent years have shown that bonds are not risk-free. Back in 2022, for instance, the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index lost 13%. Long-term treasuries did even worse, as many lost between 25 to 30% due to rapidly rising interest rates. David stresses that an annuity can do something bonds cannot do: It can guarantee income that you cannot outlive. It's important to realize that whenever your basic living expenses are covered, something profound happens psychologically: You stop depending on your investment portfolio to solve every problem. Furthermore, you feel as if you now have permission to spend. Studies show that those who have guaranteed lifetime income spend 22% more than those who rely strictly on a stock bond portfolio. A properly funded IUL can create a pool of tax-free money that's insulated from stock market loss and available during downturns. David unpacks a strategy that can increase the sustainable withdrawal rate on your stock portfolio from 4% to as high as 8% with a 95% success rate. When you combine guaranteed lifetime income from annuities with a volatility shield in the form of IUL, you are no longer reliant on bonds, says David. He also touches upon why retirees who adopt the no-bond power of zero approach begin to take a lot more risk in their stock market allocations. David wraps things up by sharing insights on what retirees should think about and do to increase the likelihood that, in retirement, their money will last as long as they do.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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 Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

Most business owners are busy. The question is: are they actually successful? In this episode, we talk about one of the biggest traps small business owners fall into—confusing activity with progress. Just because you're working long hours, running from job to job, and staying busy every day doesn't mean your business is growing or becoming more profitable. We discuss the difference between working IN your business versus working ON your business, why so many owners avoid looking at their numbers, and how failing to carve out time for planning keeps them stuck in the same cycle year after year. You'll learn why protecting time to review your business, improve systems, develop your team, and understand your Profit & Loss report may be the most important work you do all week. If you're tired of spinning your wheels and ready to build a more profitable business, this episode is for you. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

A recent landmark study from BlackRock caught David McKnight – he shares what it was all about and why you should care in this new episode of the Power of Zero Show. For decades, Americans were told that if they simply contributed faithfully to their 401(k) and avoided emotional decisions during market downturns, they would have enough money in retirement. According to the BlackRock study, retirees who incorporated guaranteed lifetime income in the form of an annuity into their retirement portfolio experienced an average increase of 22% in potential retirement spending. That number became approximately a 25% increase for lower income retirees! The increase came primarily from giving retirees greater confidence to spend money because a portion of their retirement income was guaranteed for life. David explains that, while 30 or 40 years ago retirees could rely on company pensions that provided predictable monthly income for life, the modern retirement system has shifted enormous responsibility onto the shoulders of ordinary Americans. Employers used to bear the responsibility for generating the income stream and ensuring that retirees did not outlive their money.  Today, however, pensions have all but disappeared, and most Americans now rely on 401(k) or other tax-qualified retirement plans. One of the big problems is the fact that such tax-affirmed accounts can help you build wealth, but don't come with instructions on how to make sure your money lasts a full 30-year retirement. The BlackRock study echoes something that David has stressed several times on the show: retirees spend more when at least a portion of their retirement income is guaranteed. David clarifies that when he talks about guaranteed lifetime income, he does not suggest retirees place all of their assets into annuities or eliminate market exposure altogether. David talks about 100% stock allocation and why you can be much more aggressive in your stock market allocation once you create an income floor in retirement. The current status quo of the American fiscal system – and exploding national debt – appears to be painting a picture where future tax rates will be significantly higher than they are today. David is a strong advocate for tax-free investment accounts in retirement. In particular, he points to six different tax-free income streams: Roth IRAs, Roth 401(k)s, Roth conversions, RMDs up to standard deductions, certain types of cash value life insurance as a volatility shield in retirement and, if you can keep your provisional income low enough, your Social Security can be 100% tax-free. David touches upon a strategy that can give you guaranteed tax-free income for life. The old retirement model gave Americans confidence through company pensions. The modern model requires retirees to create their own personal private pension in the form of an annuity. It's important to understand that retirement isn't just about accumulating wealth, but also about creating a stream of lifetime income that's guaranteed to last as long as you do. David concludes by explaining what retirement planning should accomplish beyond merely maximizing account balances.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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 BlackRock BlackRock's paper Who Benefits From Guaranteed Lifetime Income?

Send us Fan MailAre you trading your health for money?  On this episode, I speak with Stevyn Guinnip, author of Grow Wellthy, about the idea of “health net worth,” the compounding effect of daily habits, and why retirement planning should focus on health span, not just life span. Key Takeaways:

In this episode, retirement expert Roger Whitney and Marie Kondo consultant Dr. Lindsey Hardegree explore the transformative power of decluttering. They discuss how clearing physical and emotional clutter can pave the way for a joyful and intentional retirement. Lindsey shares practical strategies from the Konmari method, focusing on identifying what truly sparks joy and letting go of the rest. This conversation is perfect for anyone looking to simplify their life and embrace a clutter-free future. OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) Roger previews the episode, announces the June 18 Noodle Live event, and introduces the final installment of the decluttering series.PRACTICAL PLANNING SEGMENT WITH LINDSEY HARDEGREE(03:15) Roger frames retirement as a major life transition and explains how clutter extends beyond possessions into finances, commitments, and relationships.(06:40) Lindsey introduces the KonMari framework and explains why the first step is creating a clear vision for your ideal life before getting rid of anything.(09:14) Lindsey shares common scenarios that prompt people to seek out an organizer.(12:18) Roger and Lindsey discuss practical ways to define what you want your environment and future life to feel like.(15:31) Lindsey explains emotional attachment, sunk costs, and why gratitude can help people let go of possessions tied to previous seasons of life.(18:12) Why decluttering by category—not room—creates better long-term results and why sentimental items should come last.(25:00) Club members discuss challenges involving spouses, differing organizing styles, and when outside help may be more effective than family support.(30:53) Lindsey addresses difficult situations involving aging parents, inherited belongings, and navigating sentimental attachment during life transitions.(33:01) The discussion shifts toward handling deeply personal and sentimental items, including family keepsakes, clothing, photos, and children's memorabilia.(50:41) Lindsey explains why organization systems should fit the person using them and how overly rigid systems can create frustration instead of simplicity.(55:21) Resources and advice for finding professional organizers and deciding when support may be helpful.SMART SPRINT(59:27) Pick one very small category of personal items—pens, office supplies, coffee mugs, hair clips, or something similar—and spend time decluttering only that category. Focus on building momentum and decision-making reps rather than trying to organize everything at once.REFERENCESlivewithroger.com — Register for Noodle Live on June 18!Submit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleMarie Kondo's Konmari MethodKonmari Certified OrganizersNational Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO)Book: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie KondoNote: The opinions expressed are for informational purposes only and should not replace personalized advice from licensed professionals.

Today's episode of The Power of Zero Show revolves around a question host David McKnight gets asked all the time: "Should I still be doing Roth conversions in my 60s, even if I'm already retired?" In short, David believes that you should not only do a Roth conversion in your 60s, it's actually one of the most optimal times in your entire life to do it. When doing a Roth conversion, you're choosing to pay the IRS its portion of your IRA now, on your terms, instead of paying it a much larger portion later, on their terms. That's why Roth conversions don't only make sense for younger people but for retired folks too. Remember: with Roth conversions, you're not catching up because you're not behind. You're locking in a lower tax rate today to avoid a much higher tax rate down the road. David explains why the so-called "retirement income valley" is a strategically perfect time to do a Roth conversion. The 32% tax bracket is David's least favorite tax bracket, which he recommends avoiding at all costs when doing Roth conversions. David touches upon the Penn Wharton Budget Model and why 2040, or so, will be the do-or-die date for these matters. What if you don't have extra cash sitting around? Would you still need to pay the taxes on your Roth conversion out of pocket? David illustrates what you can do if you find yourself in that situation. David goes over why you should want to get as much of your IRA into Roth as you possibly can – and what's the beauty of doing that in your 60s.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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 Congressional Budget Office Penn Wharton Budget Model

David McKnight unpacks the five most common objections to Roth conversions and why they simply don't hold up under scrutiny.  The first objection has to do with people not wanting to voluntarily pay taxes before the IRS requires them to. While on the surface, postponing this may sound logical, it ignores a fundamental aspect: the state of the U.S. national debt. It has just passed $39 trillion, and it's slated to grow by $2 trillion per year for the next 10 years, and $3 trillion after that. In other words, interest on the national debt is becoming one of the largest line items in the federal budget.  That means that by refusing to pay taxes today, you're making an insanely risky bet that taxes in the future will be lower than they are right now. All, while your IRA keeps growing and compounding over time. Thus, 10 years from now, not only could tax rates be higher, but your required minimum distributions could be dramatically larger. The second most common objection to Roth conversions revolves around people saying, "If I do Roth conversions, that additional income will force me to pay increasingly higher levels of IRMAA or cause my Social Security to be taxed." David points out that Roth conversions do increase your taxable income, which can trigger those additional expenses during the conversion period.  However, while it's true that you'll pay IRMAA and Social Security taxation in the short term, you'll get rid of those additional expenses for the rest of your life once your conversion period is over. Objection #3 is "There's too much opportunity cost, I won't have time to make up for the taxes I paid".  David explains that, despite sounding sophisticated, this objection is based on a flawed premise. Your IRA is a "business partnership" with the IRS – and every year they get to vote on what percentage of your profits they get to keep. So, when you do a Roth conversion, you're not losing money. You're simply buying out your "silent business partner" at today's historically low tax rates. David highlights that, if taxes double in the future, you'll be glad you bought them out while taxes were still on sale. The fourth objection – "In retirement, I'll be in a lower tax bracket" – is actually one of the most dangerous assumptions in all of retirement planning. People assume that when they retire, their taxes automatically go down. For many Americans, the exact opposite happens, though. Once required minimum distributions kick in, they can force huge amounts of taxable income onto your tax returns. David touches upon an additional issue almost nobody talks about: the so-called widow's penalty. The fifth objection to Roth conversions revolves around the question, "Won't the federal government tax Roth IRAs sometime down the road?" People don't realize that the government loves Roth IRAs because they generate tax revenue today – unlike traditional IRAs, which delay tax revenue. That's why, every time Congress needs money, they tend to pass legislation that makes Roth accounts even more attractive. Remember: Roth conversions are about taking advantage of the tax sale of a lifetime before catastrophic levels of debt force tax rates higher.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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

Gas prices go up… so should your prices go up too? This is a question many small business owners are asking, and the answer is not always simple. Today, we break down the pros and cons of passing along higher gas costs to your customers. You will learn when it makes sense to raise prices, when it might hurt your business, and how to think through the decision using your numbers. Pricing should never be based on emotion or panic. It should be based on understanding your costs, your margins, and your overall profitability. If you want to protect your profits and make smart pricing decisions, this is a conversation you need to have. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

As the school year winds down, it's important to find meaningful ways to celebrate the year with intention. Drawing on ideas from our Teacher Approved community, we explore countdowns, theme days, and creative class celebrations that bring both fun and purpose to those final weeks. These strategies will help keep students engaged, create lasting memories, and honor the classroom community you've built, so you can wrap up the year in a way that feels thoughtful, memorable, and manageable.Prefer to read? Grab the episode transcript and resources in the show notes here: https://www.secondstorywindow.net/podcast/last-week-of-school-activities-elementary/Resources:Summer Review PacketsDLITE Day PacketsYours Truly by Abby JimenezJane & Edward: A Modern Reimagining of Jane Eyre by Melodie EdwardCheck out our book Structure and SparkJoin The Teacher Approved ClubConnect with us on Instagram @2ndstorywindowShop our teacher-approved resourcesJoin our Teacher Approved Facebook groupLeave a review on Apple Podcasts!Leave a comment or rating on SpotifyRelated Episodes to Enjoy:Episode 195. Ditch the Countdown: A Better Way to Create End of Year ClosureEpisode 62. End of Year Awards: 5 Reasons You Should Rethink This Classroom TraditionEpisode 7. The Secret to End of Year SurvivalEpisode 196. The 3 Step Plan to Park Those School Thoughts and Enjoy Your Summer BreakMentioned in this episode:Get a free 10-day trial of the Teacher Approved Club, where members are working through The Great Classroom Closeout Plan this month to take the chaos out of end-of-year cleanup: https://secondstorywindow.net/trial

David McKnight dissects a topic that causes a lot of confusion for retirees and pre-retirees: How  Roth conversions affect social security taxation and Medicare premiums (IRMAA). Some warn against Roth conversions in retirement as they can cause your Social Security to become taxable and could also raise your Medicare premiums. While that's true, David believes that the long-term benefits of Roth conversions can far outweigh the temporary, short-term pain they can cause. In order to determine whether your Social Security benefits will be taxed, the IRS tracks the so-called provisional income. If you perform a Roth conversion after you begin collecting Social Security, that additional income can push you above certain thresholds that cause your Social Security benefits to become taxable. Medicare premiums are also influenced by your income through IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount), and they look at your income from two years earlier to determine your IRMAA bracket, Remember: A Roth conversion today could trigger higher Medicare premiums two years from now.  David also explains that Roth withdrawals are not included in provisional income. Not only do they not cause your Social Security benefits to become taxable, but they also do not count towards the income thresholds that trigger higher Medicare premiums. As David points out, with the approach discussed in this episode, you're essentially compressing the tax pain into a few years, so you can enjoy decades of tax-free income later on. The national debt continues to spiral out of control to the point where economists are now predicting massive tax increases within the next 10 to 20 years. If such predictions are accurate, the people who will benefit most are those who have already shifted large portions of their retirement savings into tax-free accounts like Roth IRAs. By performing Roth conversions today – while tax rates are historically low – you're effectively locking in today's tax rates and protecting yourself from the possibility of much higher rates down the road. When talking about Roth conversions affecting Social Security taxation and IRMAA, we have to remember that those impacts are temporary, while the tax-free benefits can last for the rest of your life. David touches upon two reasons why it may make sense to delay taking Social Security while you're performing Roth conversions. Increasing the likelihood that your money will last as long as you do should be the #1 goal of every retirement plan.     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book: 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

Feeling overwhelmed in your business? You might be trying to fix too much at once. Let's focus small and get big results! Today, we break down the 80/20 rule and how it applies directly to your business. The idea is simple. A small portion of what you do is responsible for the majority of your results. That means 20% of your products likely drive 80% of your sales. 20% of your processes may be causing 80% of your problems. And 20% of what is on your Profit & Loss could be driving most of your profit issues. Instead of spreading yourself thin, you need to narrow your focus. Find the few things that matter most and work on those first. When you do, you can create bigger results with less effort and finally start moving your business forward. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Your clients don’t want a portfolio manager. They want someone who’ll catch them when they fall. That’s the truth most advisors are too busy chasing alpha to hear, and it’s exactly why Duncan MacPherson sits down with industry legend Steve Sandusky in this episode. Steve climbs mountains, and he’s spent decades teaching advisors that the most important rope in their practice isn’t tied to the markets. It’s the belay: the quiet discipline of holding the line so your client can keep climbing without fear of the fall. Get that right and you stop selling advice. You become the first call when life cracks open. Duncan and Steve unpack “Return on Life,” the framework reshaping the profession by measuring success not in basis points but in a client’s freedom, time, and meaning. They get into why story and symbolism build trust faster than any performance chart, how celestial navigation can steady clients (and you) when the markets blur, and what it takes to build a practice the AI tsunami can’t touch. Key takeaways: Using story and symbolism to forge trust that compounds Designing a purpose-driven practice that ages well Pricing human judgment in an AI-saturated market Knowing when to lean into technology and when to put it down Finding your North Star when every client is asking, “What now?” If you’re done competing on returns and ready to compete on meaning, this episode is the map. Outthink. Outcare. Outlast. Promotions: Pareto Systems: Turnkey Advisor Membership Pareto Systems Consulting: paretosystems.com/financial-advisor-coaching Connect With Duncan MacPherson: Website: ParetoSystems.com Toll Free: 1.866.593.8020 Learn More: Schedule a Call LinkedIn: Duncan MacPherson Connect With Steve Sanduski: LinkedIn: Steve Sanduski E-mail: ssanduski@belayadvisor.com Website: belayadvisor.com About Our Guest: Steve Sanduski, MBA, CFP® is the Founder and President of Belay Advisor, a financial advisor coaching, consulting, and marketing services company that works with individuals and firms to accelerate growth. For more than 20 years, he's been building businesses and helping professionals become more successful. Prior to founding Belay Advisor, Steve was the Managing Partner of Peak Advisor Alliance, a business coaching and training resources company that grew from 0 to 1,000 coaching clients during his 11 years of managing the company. Earlier in his career, he was a senior leader at an independent broker/dealer and helped build the firm's corporate RIA from $0 to nearly $2 billion in assets under management in a short period of time. An accomplished writer, Steve is a New York Times Bestselling author and the co-author of two books: Tested in the Trenches: A 9-Step Plan for Success as a New-Era Advisor (it has become one of the most sought after practice management books in the industry) Avalanche: The 9 Principles for Uncovering True Wealth (became a New York Times bestseller and a Wall Street Journal #1 bestseller) Steve is also a frequent contributor to the trade press including Investment News. Financial Planning Magazine, and Financial Advisor Magazine. As a professional speaker, Steve has addressed audiences all over the country and he focuses on delivering practical ideas, strategies and tools that attendees can use immediately to reach higher levels of success. He's also the host of several podcasts including Between Now and Success and Barron's Advisor: The Way Forward podcast. On both podcasts, Steve interviews top financial industry leaders as well as other accomplished professional from around the world who have messages that can benefit financial advisors

David McKnight addresses one of the biggest threats to your retirement plan: sequence of returns risk. Are you retired or within 10 years of retirement? Sequence of returns risk may be the single most important concept you need to understand if you want to ensure your money lasts as long as you do. Sequence of returns risk refers to the danger of experiencing a market downturn early in retirement while you're simultaneously taking withdrawals from your portfolio. David explains why this risk is most dangerous during your first 10 years of retirement. Early in retirement, your money still needs to last 20 to 30 years – an early blow to your portfolio can significantly impact its ability to do so. To defend yourself in the most dangerous decade of retirement, you need an account that allows you to avoid touching your stock portfolio until the market has recovered. The reason for that is that, historically, most market downturns take 3-5 years to recover back to their previous peak. David discusses the 4% Rule and the "catch" that comes along with it. Some experts, like Suze Orman, recommend having 3-5 years' worth of expenses accumulated in an emergency fund. David goes over why it may not be a good idea.  David brings Indexed Universal Life insurance (IUL) and the concept of volatility buffer into the conversation. Remember: if you're within 10 years of retirement, now is the time to start thinking seriously about how you'll create a volatility buffer.     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 Suze Orman

Jon drops into Pete Hegseth's live press conference on Project Freedom. Jon and Sam talk through some questionable snack combinations. One listener calls out Jon's Star Wars fandom and Jon turns his attention to Amy Klobuchar's gubernatorial campaign and fraud in Minnesota.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jon drops into Pete Hegseth's live press conference on Project Freedom. Jon and Sam talk through some questionable snack combinations. One listener calls out Jon's Star Wars fandom and Jon turns his attention to Amy Klobuchar's gubernatorial campaign and fraud in Minnesota.

Why should a customer choose you over your competition? If you cannot answer that clearly, you are making it harder than it needs to be to grow your business. In this video, we talk about what it really takes to stand out. Whether it is choosing a niche, delivering exceptional customer service, or solving a specific problem better than anyone else, your goal is to become the obvious choice. We also talk about how your competition is not the enemy. It is actually one of your best teachers. Study what they do well, not just what they do wrong, and use those insights to improve your own business. At the end of the day, standing out is not about being louder. It is about understanding what your customers truly want and becoming the business that delivers it best. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

David McKnight breaks down the approach he would follow if he were to invest a $2 million 401(k) in retirement. David points out that when you retire, you're no longer just investing for growth; you're investing for income.  Remember: If you get this wrong, you don't get a do-over. In the case David discusses, many financial advisors would recommend investing the $2 million in the market and withdrawing whatever your lifestyle requires. The problem with that way of doing things, however, is the exposure to the sequence of returns risk. If the market crashes early in retirement and you're pulling money out at the same time, your portfolio could go into a death spiral from which it never recovers. The main trap those planning their retirement and retirees should avoid is running out of money before running out of life. David touches upon the role that a guaranteed lifetime income annuity plays in retirement planning. As far as annuities are concerned, he's in favor of annuities that have what he refers to as "piecemeal internal Roth conversion feature." That means being able to gradually convert that annuity from tax-deferred to tax-free during the annuity's deferral period. David recommends investing discretionary funds with the following ratio: 70% in a total U.S. stock index, 30% in a total international stock index. He would automatically rebalance if his allocations ever got more than about 5% out of alignment. The reason why David's approach lacks bonds is simple: if your portfolio goes down in your retirement years, your guaranteed lifetime income gives you the luxury of watching it recover before you take further distributions. Long-term care is a piece of the strategy that most advisors completely ignore – David explains why it shouldn't be overlooked. Moreover, the cash value inside that policy can also act as a volatility buffer. David brings up a move that can increase the sustainable withdrawal rate on your stock portfolio from 4% to as high as 8% with a 95% confidence rate. "I believe we're currently experiencing the lowest tax rates we're likely to see in our lifetime," says David. Many experts believe that by 2035, when the debt-to-GDP ratio will hit about 150%, the Federal Government would have to begin phasing in tax increases over time to avoid an all-out economic crisis. That's why David would like to convert his IRA to Roth, little by little, over the next 10 years in the most tax-efficient way possible. David provides a bird's eye view of the entire strategy, which by his own admission, "checks every single box." An Ernst & Young study looked at this type of strategy combining investments with insurance-based solutions like annuities and life insurance – David discusses its findings. "I'm proposing a strategy that gives you certainty where you need it most, your income and tax-free flexibility everywhere else," he adds.  Such an approach allows you to neutralize longevity risk and tax rate risks all in one cohesive strategy.     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 Ernst & Young

Your sales are up… but your profit is down. What is going on? Too many business owners find themselves working harder, bringing in more revenue, and still making less money. The first step to fixing it is not guessing. It is going straight to your Profit & Loss and comparing it to previous time periods. Most people jump straight to cutting expenses, and yes, that matters. But the real issue for many businesses is sitting in payroll, payroll taxes, and subcontractors. Instead of improving processes and developing their team, they keep adding more people. And now payroll is eating up all the profit. Today, we break down where to look, what trends to watch for, and how to address the real problem so your business can become more efficient and more profitable. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

He opened his bank account… and it was negative. His daughter needed diapers… and he couldn't afford them. That moment changed everything. From broke… to becoming a highly consistent trader—this is his story. https://tradingnut.com/humble-trader - Humble Trader's Links

David McKnight explores the so-called "22% Roth conversion mistake," which he considers a common and costly mistake when it comes to Roth conversions. He points out that, despite Trump tax cuts being made permanent with the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July 2025, tax rates can change at any time with a simple act of Congress. That's why he refers to this as a "temporary permanent tax cut." The $200 trillion underfunding of entitlement programs and the exploding interest on the national debt makes it clear that tax rates are unlikely to stay this low for long. Many Americans currently find themselves in the 22% bracket and refuse to bump into the 24% bracket for Roth conversion purposes – because they've been told to stay in their current bracket. However, if you stay in the 22% bracket, you are unlikely to be able to convert a meaningful amount of your IRA to Roth before tax rates go up for good. David shares an example that illustrates why, by trying to save a little bit on taxes today, you actually set yourself up for a massive tax bill down the road. The other scenario – where you allowed yourself to rise into the 24% bracket – buys you the ability to convert a lot more money every single year. Even though most people would be willing to pay 2% more in taxes today if it meant avoiding potentially much higher tax rates in the future, most people don't consider this option.  That's because they have been conditioned to believe that any move into a higher tax bracket during the Roth conversion period is inherently bad… 10 years from now, you are probably going to look back at the 24% tax bracket as a good deal of historic proportions… Remember: you are not trying to minimize taxes this year, you are trying to minimize taxes over the rest of your life. For David, you shouldn't let the 22% Roth conversion mistake keep you from fully insulating your hard-earned retirement savings from the impact of future higher taxes. The goal, he reminds everyone, should be to get to the 0% tax bracket in retirement.     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 One Big Beautiful Bill Act

So you want to spend $500 in your business, but when will you make your money back?  Maybe it is advertising, people, a course, or even a lunch. Everything you spend comes at a cost. Don't make this mistake so many folks make in thinking the first $500 will pay you back. It doesn't work like that.  -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

David McKnight discusses the three biggest retirement planning mistakes that show up over and over again. Avoiding them will dramatically increase the likelihood that your retirement savings will last as long as you do.  Mistake #1 pertains to over-accumulating in tax-deferred accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs – a mistake that surprises many people as they feel they're doing everything right. The problem here is that you're taking a deduction at historically low tax rates only to postpone the payment of those taxes to a point in the future where tax rates are likely to be much higher than they are today. The moment you hit age 73 or 75, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) kick in. In other words, the IRS is forcing you to take money out, whether you need it or not. Those RMDs get combined with all your other sources of income: The taxable portion of your social security, your pension(s), and your investment income. David notes that, before long, you can find yourself in a higher tax bracket in retirement than you were during your working years. Remember, RMDs count as provisional income, which can cause up to 85% of your social security to become taxable – plus, it can trigger IRMAA surcharges on your Medicare premiums too. Building a retirement plan that is almost entirely tax-deferred looks good on paper but leaves you entirely exposed to the impact of higher taxes in the future. The second mistake is waiting too long to execute Roth conversions. David touches upon the so-called "retirement income valley," the ideal window within which to fully execute your Roth conversion. Many people ignore it. They're hesitant, reluctant to pay a tax to the IRS before it's absolutely required of them. Failing to take advantage of the "retirement income valley" puts you at risk of having your social security become taxable, while also paying higher Medicare premiums for the rest of your life. When it comes to Roth conversions, David recommends having a "rip the band-aid off" approach.  It may hurt a little during the conversion period but once that money is in the Roth bucket, it's tax-free for the rest of your life. The third big mistake David sees over and over again is underestimating future tax rates and overestimating your control over them. Most retirement plans today are built on the dangerous assumption that tax rates in the future will look a lot like they do today. However, David stresses that looking at the fiscal trajectory of our country paints a different picture. The national debt will grow by $2 trillion per year over the next 10 years, and $3 trillion per year after that. With the rising interest costs and $200 trillion in unfunded obligations for Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, there will be a financial day of reckoning where tax rates will be forced higher. David predicts that to be around 2035 – which gives you around 10 years to plan and execute on your plan. People spend their entire lives focusing on building as big a retirement nest egg as possible, but they give almost no thought to the type of accounts within which that nest egg is being built. The lack of consideration for the tax implications upon distributions is a huge oversight, says David.  At the end of the day, the only thing that really matters in retirement is how much money you get to spend after taxes. David concludes by highlighting that the best way to regain control over your after-tax income retirement is to pay taxes on it preemptively at historically low tax rates and on your terms (rather than on the IRS' terms).     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

Your Profit & Loss statement is more than just a report. It is a roadmap to better decisions and higher profits. Today, we walk through how to review the last 3 months of your P&L and use it to spot trends that matter. You will learn how to compare your most recent month to prior months, look at year to date performance, and compare it to last year to see what is really changing in your business. We also talk about how to find hidden profits, identify profit leaks, review payroll, and uncover broken processes that are costing you money. Your numbers will show you exactly where the problems and opportunities are if you take the time to look. If you want a more profitable business, start by understanding the trends in your numbers. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Thinking about quitting drinking for 30 days but not sure where to start? In this episode, I break down a simple, practical step-by-step plan to help men go alcohol-free for 30 days without white-knuckling it or relying on willpower alone. This isn't about perfection — it's about discipline, clarity, and building momentum. You'll learn: • Why most men fail to quit drinking• The biggest mistake guys make in the first week• How to prepare your environment for success• What to expect during the first 30 days• How to stay consistent when motivation drops If you're tired of starting over every Monday, this episode will give you a clear path forward. And if you're ready to take action, I created the 30-Day Sober Performance Challenge — a simple daily plan designed to help men build discipline, improve performance, and gain control of their habits. Try our 30-Day Sober Performance Challenge — https://www.thatsoberguy.com/quit-drinking-alcohol-for-30-days Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you handling your subcontractors the right way when you pay them? This is one area where small mistakes can turn into big problems. Let's break down the difference between a subcontractor and an employee, and why it matters for your business. We also walk through the correct way to pay subcontractors, what information you need to collect, and why getting a W9 is not optional. If you skip these steps, you could end up paying more in taxes or even violating the law. This is not about making things complicated. It is about protecting your business and doing things the right way from the start. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Learn how to start a video podcast that makes money in 2026! ☎️ Posting but not growing? Let's fix your YouTube strategy → Apply for Coaching ➡️ http://ViralVideoCoach.comThis video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.

What if you had just seven years to retire and nothing prepared? Most will tell you it's too late, lower your expectations, and settle for less. Omar knows that's wrong. In this Q&A Wednesday episode, Omar answers a question from Vicki, a 53‑year‑old former accountant and empty nester, who is starting late but determined to retire in seven years. Instead of the usual “save harder and sacrifice more” advice, Omar shares the unconventional approach he used himself to turn zero savings into a comfortable retirement. He explains why traditional thinking won't cut it, how to shift from defense to offense, and what really matters when time isn't on your side. If you want to start planning your own seven‑year retirement roadmap, press play at the top of this page and learn the exact steps you can take today. MBA2750 How To Retire In 7 Years Starting With $0 (Proven Step-By-Step Plan) Recommended episode to explore:How To Make Your First Million Dollars In One Year Without Getting Lucky (No Matter Your Circumstances) Watch the episodes on YouTube: https://lm.fm/GgRPPHiSUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.