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Prevalon Energy CFO Ben Hunnewell joins Natalie Brunell to explain why his company became the first to hold STRC, the Bitcoin-backed digital credit instrument from Strategy, and why Bitcoin skeptics have it all wrong. Topics include Why STRC changed everything, and why a cautious CFO finally said yes Whether Strive's daily dividends could challenge Strategy's dominance The truth behind data center power consumption and the "23 Hiroshima bombs" claim How Bitcoin miners turn flare gas and stranded energy into grid stability Why you can't print energy, data centers, or the things that actually matter Follow Ben Hunnewell https://x.com/MSTRProphet ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $10 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Abundant Mines is a fully-managed Bitcoin mining in the U.S. You own the miners. You keep 100% of the Bitcoin. Voted #1 mining company by peers. Get 1 month of free hosting: AbundantMines.com/Natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Strive ($ASST) just launched the first daily Bitcoin dividend in stock market history — paying a 13% yield through $SATA. Chief Risk Officer Jeff Walton breaks down how Strive (now the 8th largest Bitcoin treasury company) is competing with Michael Saylor's Strategy, why he bet his entire savings on MSTR, and how digital credit is reshaping fixed income forever. We discuss: • How Strive beat Strategy to the first-ever daily Bitcoin dividend • Where the 13% yield actually comes from (and why it's not a Ponzi) • The insurance industry analogy that explains Bitcoin treasury risk • Jeff's personal story: from the 2008 crash to his 2,000% MSTR options trade • Why traditional junk bonds and private credit are becoming obsolete Follow Jeff Walton https://x.com/PunterJeff ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Abundant Mines is a fully-managed Bitcoin mining in the U.S. You own the miners. You keep 100% of the Bitcoin. Voted #1 mining company by peers. Get 1 month of free hosting: AbundantMines.com/Natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Most people assume retirement taxes are based on how much they withdraw. The real problem is what the IRS eventually forces them to withdraw.In this episode, James walks through what taxes can actually look like on a $3 million retirement portfolio and why two retirees with the exact same amount saved can end up with completely different tax bills.The difference is not the portfolio size. It is where the money lives. Traditional IRAs, Roth accounts, brokerage accounts, Social Security, and required minimum distributions all interact differently once retirement begins. What looks manageable at 65 can quietly become a much larger tax problem in your seventies and eighties if the wrong accounts are doing all the heavy lifting.James breaks down how required distributions, Medicare surcharges, and shifting tax brackets can reshape retirement over time, along with why Roth conversions and account diversification create far more flexibility than most people realize.Because retirement tax planning is not about avoiding taxes completely. It is about deciding when you pay them and making sure the IRS does not make that decision for you later.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!
What's next for Strategy, STRC, and the Bitcoin industry? In this special live Retail Investor Q&A, Natalie Brunell sits down with Michael Saylor and Phong Le to answer the biggest questions from retail investors. From dividend changes and mNAV targets to DeFi risk, Bitcoin at $10 million, and whether Strategy plans to sell BTC soon, this conversation covers the issues investors are watching most closely. Topics include: STRC's proposed move from monthly to semi-monthly dividends Strategy's plan to restore mNAV to 3–4x Risks around DeFi products built on top of STRC What Strategy looks like in a Bitcoin-at-$10-million world Whether Strategy is gearing up to sell Bitcoin For more information on Strategy's products, visit www.strategy.com/notes ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Macro analyst Craig Tindale joins Natalie Brunell to break down the "hard bifurcation" — the widening gap between our financial system and the physical world it depends on. From Elon Musk's warning of an imminent electricity shortage to the trillion-dollar AI buildout hitting a wall of copper, transformers, and power, this is a sharp look at why you can't print real-world commodities. We discuss: The paper ledger vs. the material ledger — and why it matters Why US defense relies on foreign supply chains How China quietly took balance sheet control of Western miners The energy and copper crunch slowing the AI boom Follow Craig: https://x.com/ctindale | https://ctindale.substack.com/ ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Strategy is hosting a retail investor Q&A virtually on May 20 at 5pm ET. Submit your questions for Michael Saylor and Phong Le: https://x.com/i/broadcasts/1RJjpzBkEmjKw Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Roth vs traditional IRA decisions can have a major impact on your future taxes, retirement income, and long-term financial flexibility. In this episode of the Wise Money Show, the team breaks down the key differences between Roth and pre-tax retirement accounts, including contribution rules, Roth conversions, required minimum distributions, and tax planning strategies. They also explain how income changes, retirement goals, inheritance planning, and future tax law changes can influence which strategy may be best for you. If you want to build a smarter retirement tax strategy and avoid costly mistakes, this episode is packed with practical financial planning insights. Season 11, Episode 39 Download our FREE 5-Factor Retirement guide: https://wisemoneyguides.com/ Schedule a meeting with one of our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™: https://www.korhorn.com/schedule-a-call/ or call 574-247-5898. Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/WiseMoneyShow Listen on podcast: https://pod.link/1040619718 Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mfLuumB51iI Submit a question for the show: https://www.korhorn.com/ask-a-question/ Read the Wise Money Blog: https://www.korhorn.com/wise-money-blog/ Connect with us: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WiseMoneyShow Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wisemoneyshow/ Kevin Korhorn, CFP® offers securities through Silver Oak Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Kevin offers advisory services through KFG Wealth Management, LLC dba Korhorn Financial Group. KFG Wealth Management, LLC dba Korhorn Financial Group and Silver Oak Securities, Inc. are not affiliated. Mike Bernard, CFP® and Joshua Gregory, CFP® offer advisory services through KFG Wealth Management, LLC dba Korhorn Financial Group. This information is for general financial education and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations. All investing and investment strategies involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Asset allocation & diversification do not ensure a profit or prevent a loss in a declining market. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
Don opens this Friday Q&A episode with a personal reflection on finally releasing his historical fiction novel The Line Uncrossed, inspired by his great-great-grandfather's imprisonment at Andersonville during the Civil War. Listener questions then cover the wisdom (or insanity) of converting millions from a traditional IRA to a Roth all at once, the evolving role of “538” savings accounts, why covered calls and options strategies often disappoint despite sounding clever, skepticism over the show's repeated praise of Avantis and Dimensional funds, and the surprisingly massive dollar amounts collected in ETF management fees. Throughout, Don leans hard into skepticism, simplicity, evidence-based investing, and the dangers of overcomplicating portfolios or tax planning.0:05 Friday Q&A tradition and how listeners submit spoken questions1:28 Don talks about releasing The Line Uncrossed next week2:22 Andersonville inspiration and writing historical fiction3:29 Listener asks about converting $4.1M traditional IRA to Roth to avoid RMDs5:55 Why a massive one-time Roth conversion could be financially disastrous7:17 RMD misconceptions and the need for professional tax planning8:13 Discussion of proposed “538” accounts and Roth conversion possibilities10:40 Listener asks about covered calls, selling puts, and options strategies12:06 Why buying options is gambling and covered calls eventually fail13:28 The illusion of downside protection with covered calls14:58 Skeptic questions repeated mentions of Avantis and Dimensional funds17:31 Don explains factor investing, Fama/French research, and fee tradeoffs20:30 Why TRM recommends Avantis and Dimensional despite higher costs20:38 Don responds directly to accusations of compensation or sponsorship21:47 Listener shocked by millions paid in ETF management fees22:26 What ETF management fees actually pay for behind the scenes23:27 Why large ETF operations require huge staffs and compliance teams24:33 Final call for listener questions and advisor meetingsQuestions? Comments? Click!
Is Bitcoin's price actually predictable? Physicist Giovanni Santostasi, Director of the Scientific Bitcoin Institute, joins Natalie Brunell to argue that Bitcoin's 15-year trajectory isn't random — it follows a Power Law, the same pattern behind earthquakes, cities, and galaxies. Giovanni breaks down the formula, what makes Bitcoin's "fingerprint" unique, and what would have to happen for the model to break. If he's right, $1M & $10M Bitcoin isn't a prediction...it's a calculation. Follow Giovanni on X: https://x.com/Giovann35084111 ----- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $10 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join Natalie and Chris Kline, Co-Founder of BitcoinIRA, for a live conversation on how you can create a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve inside a tax-advantaged retirement account. Reserve your spot today https://streamyard.com/watch/xRTAvysyCPiX Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
James Sexton is the world's most famous divorce attorney — 26 years, thousands of cases, and clients ranging from billionaires to celebrities. His verdict? Money isn't what breaks marriages. It's disconnection. James and Natalie discuss: Why 71% of marriages fail, and why money is a symptom, not the cause What billionaire divorces reveal about wealth & happiness How Bitcoin and crypto are dealt with in divorce proceedings (you won't believe one of his stories) The truth about prenups, financial compatibility, and why "enough" is the only number that matters The free daily practice James says could save more marriages Follow James Sexton on X https://x.com/nycdivorcelaw and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@sextonshow ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
James Sexton is the world's most famous divorce attorney — 26 years, thousands of cases, and clients ranging from billionaires to celebrities. His verdict? Money isn't what breaks marriages. It's disconnection. James and Natalie discuss: Why 71% of marriages fail, and why money is a symptom, not the cause What billionaire divorces reveal about wealth & happiness How Bitcoin and crypto are dealt with in divorce proceedings (you won't believe one of his stories) The truth about prenups, financial compatibility, and why "enough" is the only number that matters The free daily practice James says could save more marriages Follow James Sexton on X https://x.com/nycdivorcelaw and https://www.youtube.com/@sextonshow ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ The best time to plan for Bitcoin 2027 is right now. Early bird tickets are live — grab the lowest pricing available and use code HODL for 10% off: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2027?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput=HODL Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Episode: The Tom Dupree Show | Host: Tom Dupree | Co-host: Mike Johnson Episode Summary Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson tackle one of the most common misconceptions in retirement planning: that a 401(k) balance is a retirement plan. It isn’t. It’s a savings vehicle — and a very good one — but it was designed to collect money, not distribute it. This episode explains what that distinction means in practical terms, and what steps to take before retirement to make sure your savings can actually do the job you’re counting on them to do. Topics Covered in This Episode Why a 401(k) is an accumulation vehicle, not a retirement plan The problem with applying a growth portfolio to a withdrawal strategy How rolling a 401(k) into an IRA opens up income-oriented investment options The three-legged stool: income, growth of income, and price appreciation Why selling shares to fund expenses works in a rising market — and fails in a flat or declining one The case for consolidating multiple old 401(k) accounts before retirement How dividend income shifts the focus from watching the balance to watching the cash flow Why pure asset allocation models limit flexibility in retirement The psychological value of knowing what you own and why you own it Key Takeaways The 401(k) did its job — now it needs a different tool. A 401(k) is structured for dollar-cost averaging and tax-deferred growth. That design is a poor match for generating predictable monthly income in retirement. A bigger balance is not a plan. Knowing your account value is not the same as knowing what that value will produce for you each month, for how long, and under what market conditions. Income-first investing changes the math. When a portfolio generates enough dividend income to cover living expenses, you are not forced to sell shares during market downturns — and that distinction is what protects long-term wealth. Rolling to an IRA opens up your options. The investment menu inside a 401(k) is limited by plan design. An IRA allows access to individual dividend-paying stocks and income-generating vehicles that most 401(k) plans don’t offer. Scattered accounts are a retirement hazard. The average person approaching retirement holds three to five old 401(k) accounts. Consolidating simplifies beneficiary designations, RMD calculations, and day-to-day management. Watch cash flow, not just the balance. In retirement, the number that matters most is what the portfolio produces each month — not what it’s worth on any given day. Know what you own and why you own it. Clients who understand their holdings don’t panic when markets get choppy, because they know the income side of the equation hasn’t changed even if the price has. Three Questions Worth Answering Before You Retire Tom closed the episode with three questions every listener should be able to answer: Do you know what fees you’re paying? Do you know what income your portfolio is currently producing? Do you know what you own and why you own it? If you can’t answer even one of those with confidence, that’s worth addressing before retirement — not after. Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between a 401(k) and a retirement plan? A 401(k) is a tax-deferred savings vehicle offered through your employer. It is designed to accumulate money during your working years. A retirement plan is a personalized strategy that determines how you will generate income from your savings throughout retirement — including what you own, how much you withdraw, how taxes are managed, and how long your money needs to last. The 401(k) is one piece of that plan, not the plan itself. Should I roll my 401(k) into an IRA when I retire? For most retirees, rolling a 401(k) into an IRA makes sense because an IRA offers a much wider range of investment options — including individual dividend-paying stocks and income-focused strategies that most 401(k) plan menus don’t include. Pre-tax contributions roll into a Traditional IRA; Roth contributions roll into a Roth IRA. The rollover should always be done institution-to-institution to avoid taxes and penalties. Every situation is different, so it’s worth reviewing your specific plan before making the move. What is wrong with leaving my 401(k) invested in an S&P 500 index fund in retirement? The S&P 500 yields just over 1% in dividends — not enough to cover most retirees’ living expenses. That means you’d need to sell shares regularly to generate cash. When the market is rising, that works. When the market is flat or declining, you’re forced to sell more shares to get the same dollar amount, which depletes your principal at the worst possible time. Over a 20- or 30-year retirement, that pattern can quietly cause serious damage to a portfolio. What is an income-focused retirement portfolio? An income-focused portfolio is built around investments that generate regular cash flow — primarily dividend-paying stocks in companies with long track records of consistent and growing dividends. The goal is for the income produced by the portfolio to cover living expenses, so you are not dependent on selling shares to fund retirement. Price appreciation is still part of the picture, but it’s the third priority, not the first. How many 401(k) accounts should I have going into retirement? Ideally, as few as possible. The average person approaching retirement holds three to five old 401(k) accounts from previous employers. Consolidating them into one or two IRAs — one Traditional, one Roth if applicable — simplifies beneficiary designations, required minimum distribution calculations, and overall portfolio management. It also makes it much harder to lose track of money you’ve worked decades to save. What is a safe withdrawal rate in retirement? A commonly referenced figure is 4% per year, which comes from historical research suggesting that withdrawal rate has a high probability of lasting 30 years across most market environments. However, the right withdrawal rate depends on your specific expenses, other income sources like Social Security or a pension, your tax situation, and how your portfolio is structured. An income-focused portfolio where dividends cover most expenses may allow for more flexibility than a pure growth portfolio using a fixed percentage rule. What does Dupree Financial Group do differently from a typical 401(k) plan? Dupree Financial Group is a fee-only, fiduciary RIA that manages separately managed accounts — meaning your investments are held in your name, not pooled into a fund. The firm builds income-focused portfolios around dividend-paying companies selected for their financial strength, cash flow, and dividend history. There are no products sold, no commissions, and no conflicts of interest. The focus is entirely on building a portfolio that generates reliable income and protects principal over a long retirement. About The Tom Dupree Show The Tom Dupree Show is hosted by Tom Dupree, founder of Dupree Financial Group and a 47-year veteran of the investment business. Each episode covers the financial topics that matter most to retirees and those approaching retirement — in plain English, without the Wall Street spin. Dupree Financial Group is a fee-only, fiduciary Registered Investment Advisory firm based in Lexington, Kentucky. The firm manages separately managed accounts focused on income-generating, dividend-paying portfolios — no products sold, no commissions, no conflicts of interest. Past episodes are available at dupreefinancial.com under the Radio tab. Schedule a Complimentary Portfolio Review If you’re not sure whether your 401(k) can actually support the retirement you’ve planned, we’ll take a look. No charge. No pressure. Just an honest conversation about what you own and whether it’s working for you. Call: 859-233-0400 | Visit: dupreefinancial.com The post Your 401(k) Is Not a Retirement Plan appeared first on Dupree Financial.
Who really had it harder: millennials or boomers? In this episode, we break down the generational money debate (and why the answer isn't so simple). We also cover a big win for retirement savers as more small business employees gain access to 401(k)s, plus a surprising stat: most Americans plan to ignore one of the most talked-about Social Security strategies. Check Out Our Investor Guide Series: https://www.premieriwm.com/investor-guides Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Luana Lopes Lara is the world's youngest self-made female billionaire and co-founder of Kalshi, the prediction market that sued the U.S. government and won. Natalie Brunell sits down with Luana to trace her journey from a rigorous ballet school in Brazil to MIT, then to a trading desk at Citadel, and into a multi-year battle with the CFTC that ended in a federal lawsuit. After 65 lawyers told her the idea was impossible, Kalshi sued the U.S. government — and won one month before the 2024 election. We get into: What prediction markets are, and how Kalshi's data is being used as a forecasting tool What it's like being named the world's youngest self-made woman billionaire - all before she's 30 The four-year regulatory fight with the CFTC and the decision to sue to U.S. government How Kalshi screens for insider trading — and where the stock market doesn't Why nearly 30% of Kalshi's users are women, well above most trading platforms Her first Bitcoin: a $100 giveaway from the MIT Bitcoin Club A Federal Reserve paper found Kalshi's markets outperformed economists at forecasting macro trends Her case for why the American Dream is still alive Follow Luana Lopes Lara on X: https://x.com/luanalopeslara and follow Kalshi at https://x.com/Kalshi ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by lead sponsor Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
What do income taxes, market volatility, and everyday money habits have in common? More than you think. In this episode, we unpack the surprising history of how the modern tax system helped spark America's cocktail culture, why investors who stayed disciplined through recent market swings are being rewarded, and the subtle strategies wealthy individuals use to manage their finances. It's a mix of history, behavior, and practical insight; all designed to help you think a little differently about your finances. Check Out Our Investor Guide Series: https://www.premieriwm.com/investor-guides Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Roxy Butner joins the show to break down practical retirement saving strategies—especially for entrepreneurs who struggle to pay themselves first. The conversation covers foundational options like IRAs and Roth IRAs, then moves into more powerful tools such as Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs for business owners. They highlight the enormous impact of starting early through compounding, common planning mistakes (like neglecting retirement and estate planning), and current client concerns around market volatility and geopolitical risk. Listener questions tackle HSA asset allocation and whether bonds belong in a portfolio nearing withdrawal, along with a comparison between money market funds and bond funds. The episode reinforces a core theme: ignore the noise, build a plan, and stick to it.0:09 Show intro and Roxy joins; focus on practical, common-sense advice0:50 Entrepreneurs and the challenge of saving vs reinvesting in business1:14 Getting started: traditional IRA basics and tax deferral2:41 Roth IRA advantages and contribution limits3:41 Retirement options for self-employed: overview4:20 Solo 401(k): high contribution potential and dual-role benefits5:17 SEP IRA: flexible contributions for variable income6:40 Contribution discipline and “pay yourself first” strategy7:44 SIMPLE IRA for small businesses with employees8:22 The power of compounding and starting early9:12 Early vs late investor example—time beats total contributions10:29 Common mistakes: not planning early, ignoring estate planning12:00 Tax season behaviors and last-minute contributions13:15 Listener question: HSA allocation—100% equity vs adding bonds14:03 Suggested shift toward 80/20 or modest fixed income allocation15:34 Risk considerations and need for stability nearing withdrawals16:00 Listener question: money market vs bond fund performance16:51 Apples-to-apples comparison and limits of historical data17:57 Role of bonds vs money markets in long-term portfolios18:49 Client fears: market drops and volatility concerns19:49 Geopolitical risk and sticking to a long-term plan20:17 Importance of real financial planning vs guessing returns21:57 What listeners get from a free advisor consultation23:16 How to connect with an advisor and submit questionsQuestions? Comments? Click!
Natalie Smolenski is an anthropologist, software executive, editor of the Satoshi Papers, and one of the most original thinkers in the Bitcoin space. We explore America's national identity crisis, the bank-state relationship that funds war and destroys purchasing power, and why individual financial sovereignty is the only meaningful response to systems that can't be voted away. Topics include: Why you can't vote your way out of the bank-state nexus — and what you can do instead The erosion of free speech, privacy, and individual rights in the digital age How the financialization of everything destroyed community, care, and trust The rise of counter-elites and what it means for ordinary Americans Why Bitcoin self-custody is the most powerful political act available today ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak 'n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Your CPA Is Looking in the Rearview MirrorTax preparation records what already happened. Tax planning changes what will happen. Here's the difference — and why it might be costing you tens of thousands of dollars a year.Nobody loves taxes. But the people who hate them the most are usually the ones overpaying. This episode is about closing that gap — using the exact same strategies that high-income earners and savvy business owners have always used, most of which your tax preparer has never once brought up.40%of U.S. households pay zero federal income tax40.4%of all federal taxes paid by the top 1% of earners97%of federal income taxes paid by the top 50% of earners300K+projected CPA shortage in the U.S. over the next decade⏱What's covered in this episode0:00Cold open — why everyone hates taxes (and why you're still listening)2:30What your taxes actually pay for — and the government's "flexible" relationship with efficiency5:00The stats: who actually pays federal income tax in America8:00How tax brackets really work — and busting the biggest myth in personal finance11:30Tax preparation vs. tax planning — the core difference14:00Deductions every business owner should be taking (home office, vehicle, travel)19:00Advanced strategies for high earners: state tax credits, historic preservation22:30Roth vs. pre-tax: paying taxes when rates are lowest25:30The RMD time bomb — and how to defuse it before it goes off1How tax brackets actually workBefore any strategy makes sense, you have to understand the system. The U.S. uses a progressive, marginal tax structure — meaning higher rates only apply to dollars above each threshold. This is the most misunderstood fact in personal finance.The myth that costs people real money"I don't want to earn more — it'll push me into a higher bracket." This is wrong. You cannot take home less money by earning more. The higher rate only applies to the next dollar above the threshold, never to everything below it.Standard deduction — your free pass (2025, married filing jointly)You only pay taxes on income above the standard deduction. For 2025, that's $31,500 for married couples filing jointly. A couple earning $131,500 only pays taxes on $100,000 of it.2025 federal tax brackets — married filing jointlyRateTaxable income rangeTax on this portion10%$0 – $23,850$2,385 max12%$23,850 – $96,950$8,772 max22%$96,950 – $206,700$24,134 max24%$206,700 – $394,600$45,096 max32%$394,600 – $501,050$34,064 max35%$501,050 – $751,600$87,693 max37%Above $751,60037¢ on every dollar aboveWorked exampleA married couple with $150,000 in taxable income pays: $2,385 (10%) + $8,772 (12%) + $11,671 (22%) =$22,828 total. That's an effective rate of 15.2% — not 22%. Their marginal rate is 22%, but that's only on the last dollars earned.2Deductions every business owner should be takingHome office deduction✓Must be used regularly andexclusivelyfor business — the IRS is strict on this✓Two methods: Simplified ($5/sq ft, up to $1,500 max) or Actual Expense — actual almost always wins for homeowners✓W-2 employees: not deductible since 2018's Tax Cuts and Jobs Act — this surprises people constantly✓S-corp owners: have the corporation pay you rent for the space — deductible to the business, potentially tax-free to you✓Hidden risk: depreciation recapture when you sell the home — most preparers never warn clients about thisBusiness use of vehicle✓Standard mileage rate: 70 cents/mile in 2025 — the simplest method, requires a contemporaneous log✓Apps like MileIQ make logging effortless — documentation is the difference between keeping and losing the deduction in an audit✓Heavy SUVs over 6,000 lbs GVWR qualify for Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation — potentially a massive first-year write-offBusiness travel — turning a trip into a deduction✓If the trip's primary purpose is business, transportation is fully deductible — even if you add personal days at the end✓Structure: business meetings at the front of the trip, personal time at the back. Sequence matters — plan before you book.✓Spouse/family travel generally not deductible unless they have a genuine, documented business role✓International trips: if personal days exceed 25% of the trip, transportation costs must be allocated proportionally3Advanced strategies for high earnersState tax credits — the strategy most advisors don't know aboutUnlike deductions (which reduce taxable income), credits reduce your actual tax liability dollar-for-dollar. Many states — including South Carolina and Georgia — offer transferable or refundable credits for affordable housing, historic rehabilitation, film production, and economic development zones.High-income taxpayers can purchase these credits from developers at a discount — buying $1.00 of tax credit for $0.85 creates an immediate 15% return before the tax savings even kick in. This is entirely legal and widely used by high earners who have proactive advisors.Historic preservation & conservation easementsThe Federal Historic Tax Credit (HTC) offers a 20% credit on qualified rehabilitation of certified historic structures. Conservation easements — where a landowner donates development rights to a land trust — can generate substantial charitable deductions.Important distinctionSyndicated conservation easements have been scrutinized by the IRS when promoters inflated valuations. The strategy itself is legitimate — what drew enforcement action were manufactured transactions with 4:1 or 5:1 deduction-to-investment ratios. Due diligence on the appraiser and structure is essential.Other strategies worth knowing✓Qualified Opportunity Zones:defer and potentially eliminate capital gains by reinvesting within 180 days of a sale✓Cash Balance / Defined Benefit Plans:contributions can exceed $200,000/year for high-earning self-employed individuals✓Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT):sell a highly appreciated asset without immediate capital gains, receive an income stream, get a partial charitable deduction✓The Augusta Rule (Section 280A):rent your personal home to your own business for up to 14 days/year — tax-free to you, deductible to the business4Pay taxes when the rate is lowest — Roth vs. pre-taxEvery dollar you earn will be taxed — either on the way in, or on the way out. The only question is when, and at what rate. That's the entire game.The core conceptPre-tax accounts (Traditional IRA, 401k): deduct now, pay taxes on every withdrawal in retirement. Roth: pay taxes now at today's rates, then never pay taxes on that money or its growth again. The math is identical if your rate stays the same — the strategy is about predicting the rate differential.The Roth conversion opportunityYou can convert any amount from a Traditional IRA or 401(k) to Roth in any year — you pay ordinary income tax on the converted amount. The strategy is "filling the bracket" — converting just enough to reach the top of your current bracket without crossing into the next one.A married couple with $150,000 in taxable income has roughly $56,000 of room in the 22% bracket (which runs to $206,700). Converting $56,000 at 22% today could mean avoiding 32%, 35%, or higher rates on those same dollars later.The RMD time bombRequired Minimum Distributions kick in at age 73 — the IRS forces you to withdraw a percentage of your traditional IRA balance every year, whether you need the money or not. On a $2 million IRA, that's potentially $80,000–$100,000+ of forced taxable income annually, often pushing retirees into higher brackets than when they were working.Proactive Roth conversions in the years before RMDs begin can dramatically reduce or eliminate this problem. A preparer sees the RMD on a 1099-R and enters it. A planner sees it coming 15 years out and builds a strategy around it.Key takeaways from this episode01Tax preparation is compliance. Tax planning is strategy. By the time you're sitting with your CPA in February, every decision that affects your return has already been made.0240% of households pay zero federal income tax. If you're a business owner or high earner, the tax code was not designed to protect you — proactive planning is the only protection you have.03Brackets are marginal — you never lose money by earning more. Your effective rate and your marginal rate are different things, and confusing them costs people real money every year.04Home office, vehicle, and travel deductions are available to almost every business owner and are routinely missed due to poor documentation or a purely reactive tax relationship.05State tax credits, historic preservation, opportunity zones, and cash balance plans are legal, proven strategies used by high earners everywhere — they're just unknown to those without proactive advisors.06The Roth conversion strategy is not a one-time decision — it's...
This week Roger & Elias discuss how sharing your biggest money mistake can help teach your kids about money. Plus they look at the IRS's Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2026. Download Free Resources For Teaching Your Kids About Money: https://www.premieriwm.com/kids-and-money Check Out Our Investor Guide Series: https://www.premieriwm.com/investor-guides Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Bitcoin OG, investor and anlyst Simon Dixon predicted Trump's return to the White House, the Iran War, and the dollar's collapse as primary reserve asset — all by doing one thing: following the money. In this episode, he reveals where it actually goes and what it means for you. We discuss: Why the American empire is being dismantled on purpose and who benefits The financial industrial complex that sits above presidents, governments, and you How the entire global economy is a Ponzi scheme approaching its endgame Why self-custody Bitcoin is your only real exit from the system How Simon lost his father and his Bitcoin on the same day — and what it taught him about the "spiritual energy" of money Follow Simon Dixon on X https://x.com/SimonDixonTwitt ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Check out my favorite lightning wallet and trivia app Speed Wallet. If you're a business, let Speed help you accept BTC like they did for Steak n Shake! Visit http://speed.app/natalie/ and use code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Matyáš Kuchař is the co-founder of BTC Prague (Europe's largest Bitcoin-only conference) and he joins Natalie with a frank assessment of where Europe stands on Bitcoin: over-regulated, energy-stressed, and falling behind. But Czech Republic is a surprising bright spot, with a Bitcoin-friendly central bank governor, a thriving Bitcoin community, and a conference drawing 8,000 attendees and speakers like Michael Saylor, Jeff Booth, and Jack Cruz. We discuss: How MiCA regulation killed Bitcoin payments at over 1,000 restaurants and shops overnight The Czech National Bank governor who understands Bitcoin, and what that means for Europe What makes BTC Prague different from other Bitcoin conferences Why a bear market is actually the best time to attend a Bitcoin conference Get your tickets to the conference using code HODL at www.btcprague.com Follow Matyáš Kuchar on X https://x.com/Matyas44Cook **This interview can be viewed with Czech language subtitles on YouTube and Rumble. ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Earn up to 4% back in sats on everyday purchases like gas and groceries. Sign up today https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. Ads in this episode are baked-in and may reference promotions or offers that are no longer available at the time of listening. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
This week's theme on the Retirement Quick Tips podcast is The Hidden Tax Traps in Retirement Today, I'm talking about required minimum distributions. Talk to any retiree in their mid 70s with a large 401k or Traditional IRA balance, and you'll no doubt hear them grumble about their required minimum distributions, or RMDs.
Are things really as bad as they feel right now? In this episode of Behind The Wealth, we explore the growing gap between how people perceive the economy and markets versus what the data and history actually show. When headlines, volatility, and uncertainty pile up, it's easy for fear to shape our decisions—but that doesn't always align with reality. We break down how emotions—especially fear and recency bias—can distort how investors interpret the market. You'll also hear why market volatility impacts retirees differently, and how risks like sequence of returns should be managed with a plan, not a reaction. Finally, we zoom out and highlight several positive signals and overlooked strengths in today's market, helping bring context back into the conversation. Check Out Our Investor Guide Series: https://www.premieriwm.com/investor-guides Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Strategy CEO Phong Le returns to Coin Stories for a deep dive on STRC — the perpetual preferred stock he says is fixing the yield gap in America. In this episode, Phong breaks down exactly how Stretch works in plain English, why he just bought $250K worth himself, and what makes this the fastest-growing financial product launch in history. In this episode: The "yield gap" no one talks about: half of America earns near-zero on savings while the wealthy collect 2–3% STRC hit $5 billion in 7 months — growing faster than the iPhone and the gold ETF did 11.5% yield, tax-deferred, paid monthly — and you can buy it on Robinhood like a stock Bitcoin crashed nearly 50% and STRC barely flinched — here's why that changes everything ----- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
A detailed comparison of Roth and traditional IRAs: What is a Roth IRA, what is a traditional IRA, Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA: What are some important differences, when should you use each, and more. Show notes and transcript at: Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA: A Simple Comparison for Kids, Teens & Beginners A detailed ... Read More
If you've been watching the headlines and wondering what's actually going on with Bitcoin — this episode is for you. James Seyffart is one of the most respected ETF analysts on Wall Street. He tracks the data behind who's buying Bitcoin, who's selling, and where the big money is really going. His insights cut through the noise. If you want to understand what's actually happening in the ETF markets right now - including gold, Bitcoin, tech stocks and electrical infrastucture - this is the conversation to watch. Everyday Bitcoin ETF holders didn't panic — even when prices crashed hard One of America's biggest banks just made a major Bitcoin move Will Bitcoin ETFs eventually surpass gold? A quiet rule change just made it easier for institutions to buy Bitcoin Smart money is leaving tech — here's where it's going instead The private credit market is flashing warning signs most people are missing Follow James at https://x.com/jseyff ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
On this episode of Behind The Wealth, we explore how retirement is evolving, how paying yourself first can have a long term impact on your retirement trajectory, and why so many Americans feel like they are falling behind. Check Out Our Investor Guide Series: https://www.premieriwm.com/investor-guides Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Macro investor and former hedge fund CIO Jordi Visser returns to Coin Stories for a wide-ranging conversation with Natalie Brunell on the forces reshaping markets, money, and the future of work. Is the geopolitical chaos part of a real strategy — or are we watching improvisation in real time? Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and rare earths — why energy control is the most important chess move nobody is talking about "Software stocks may never be investable again" The institutional floodgates are opening — Jordi's framework for when money managers have no choice but to buy Bitcoin The one geopolitical scenario that could set the global economy back decades — and how to protect yourself "We are not the top of the food chain anymore. A superintelligent being stronger and smarter than any human will be here in five years." Follow Jordi Visser at: https://x.com/jvisserlabs ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Bitcoin 2026 in Las Vegas is just weeks away, and BTC Inc's Lana Miles is pulling back the curtain on what's coming. From a brand new Deal Day event to a very special 5th anniversary Women of Bitcoin bash honoring U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis, this year is shaping up to be the biggest one yet. Get discounted tickets using code HODL! We discuss: AI conversations, emerging voices Why down markets are actually the best time to attend a Bitcoin conference How the conference has launched careers — including Natalie's! Special changes for the 5th anniversary WOB event! ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Are you on track for retirement—or just comparing numbers? In this episode, we look at average 401(k) balances for those nearing retirement and what they may (and may not) mean for your situation. We also cover why reviewing beneficiary designations is an important step many people overlook. Plus, we break down how Social Security fits into a broader plan—from income timing to taxes and spousal considerations—highlighting why it's more than just a claiming decision. Check Out Our Investor Guide Series: https://www.premieriwm.com/investor-guides Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Joining us on this episode of Living Off Rentals is someone who helps investors take control of their retirement investments. Nick Sahagun is an expert in self-directed retirement investing and alternative assets. He works closely with investors who want more control over their retirement funds and the ability to invest in opportunities outside the traditional stock market, including real estate. Listen as he shares how self-directed IRAs and 401(k)s allow investors to deploy retirement capital into alternative investments, along with the rules, advantages, and key considerations investors should understand before using retirement funds for real estate. He also breaks down some of the most common mistakes investors make when setting up and using self-directed retirement accounts. Enjoy the show! Key Takeaways: [00:00] Introducing Nick Sahagun and his background [03:06] How Nick first discovered the self-directed IRA space [06:37] The difference between conventional retirement accounts and self-directed accounts [11:08] Question before doing self-directed 401k [13:25] Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA [17:16] Setting up a brokerage within your self-directed IRA [20:46] Self-directed IRA as a vehicle for diversification [26:14] Understanding prohibited transactions and common mistakes [32:27] Investing in a real estate deal using money in an IRA [37:28] Lending and using leverage in an IRA [39:35] About unrelated business income tax [41:00] About unrelated debt, finance, and income tax [46:44] Investing in short-term rentals with your self-directed IRA [51:06] On the administrative side of work [52:07] The role of Safeguard Advisors [57:21] Price structure in the self-directed IRA landscape [01:01:52] Connect with Nick Sahagun [01:03:25] Outro Guest Links: Website: https://www.ira123.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-sahagun/ Scheduling Link: https://calendly.com/nsahagun-9cf2/living-off-rentals-safeguard-self-directed-intro Coupon Code: LOR25 for 25% off Show Links: Living Off Rentals YouTube Channel – youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentals Living Off Rentals YouTube Podcast Channel - youtube.com/c/LivingOffRentalsPodcast Living Off Rentals Facebook Group – facebook.com/groups/livingoffrentals Living Off Rentals Website – https://www.livingoffrentals.com/ Living Off Rentals Instagram – instagram.com/livingoffrentals Living Off Rentals TikTok – tiktok.com/@livingoffrentals
What happens when you give 130 employees a $30,000 bonus... and they forget they got it? That's exactly what pushed Mike Coffey, CEO of BlueCotton, to do something radical: pay employees in Bitcoin. Mike runs a 130-person custom apparel company in Bowling Green, Kentucky — and he's quietly turning his small business into a Bitcoin case study. In this episode, we dig into why he made the switch, how it's impacting his employees' financial futures, what it's done for his bottom line, and why Bitcoin is the only bonus people actually remember. If you're a business owner wondering whether Bitcoin is right for your company — this is the episode that will change your mind. ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
“I'm Not Paying for Oil—I'm Protecting the Engine” There's a moment in our house where Lucas will look at me—calm as can be—and say, “Rachel… I'm not paying for oil. I'm protecting the engine.” And every time he says it, it reminds me of how people think about taxes. https://www.youtube.com/live/1bgZWYxu3jo Because an oil change feels annoying. It's inconvenient. It's not “fun money.” It's something you can easily delay—especially when life is full. But what Lucas understands is what most families don't realize until it's painful: small, responsible decisions today protect what you've built tomorrow. That's exactly what a Roth conversion strategy is. Not a trendy tactic. Not clickbait. Not “always do this” or “never do this.” It's stewardship. And it's one of the most misunderstood decisions families make—because it's not just about your tax bracket this year. It's about your lifetime taxes… and in many cases, your kids' taxes too. “I'm Not Paying for Oil—I'm Protecting the Engine”A Long-Range Roth Conversion StrategyRoth Conversion Strategy: Start With the Right Lens (Not a Hot Take)What Is a Roth Conversion?Why Roth Conversions Are Everywhere Right NowRoth Conversion and Future Tax Rates: The Real Issue Is ControlShould I Do a Roth Conversion? When It Makes Sense1) You're trying to reduce lifetime taxes (not just this year's taxes)2) You have high tax-deferred balances and don't expect to spend them down3) You have a window of lower-income years4) Your goal is tax diversification and retirement flexibilityRoth Conversion Mistakes to AvoidMistake #1: Ignoring IRMAA (Medicare Premium Surcharges)Mistake #2: Treating Roth conversions as staticMistake #3: Trying to time the market perfectlyHow Does a Roth Conversion Affect Your Heirs?Roth Conversion Estate Planning Strategy: When Roth Isn't the End GameReframe the Goal: Not “Highest Return,” but “Best Outcome After Taxes”What This Roth Conversion Strategy Changes for Your FamilyListen to the Full Roth Conversion Strategy EpisodeBook A Strategy CallFAQWhat is a Roth conversion strategy?When does a Roth conversion make sense?What are the downsides of a Roth conversion?Is it better to do Roth conversions when the market is down?How do I avoid Roth conversion mistakes? A Long-Range Roth Conversion Strategy In this blog (and podcast), Bruce Wehner and I unpack Roth conversions the way we believe every financial decision should be unpacked: with a long-range view, a clear understanding of tradeoffs, and a focus on control. If you're asking questions like: Should I do a Roth conversion? When does a Roth conversion make sense? What are the downsides of a Roth conversion? How does a Roth conversion affect my Medicare premiums (IRMAA)? How does the SECURE Act change inherited IRA taxes for my heirs? …this article is for you. You'll learn what a Roth conversion is, why people are talking about it more right now, and the biggest blind spots that can cost families real money—especially under the SECURE Act's inheritance rules. We'll also show you why this isn't a one-variable decision. The best Roth conversion planning is dynamic and integrated—because taxes, Medicare premiums, market timing, and estate planning all collide here. Roth Conversion Strategy: Start With the Right Lens (Not a Hot Take) Bruce opened our conversation with something that matters: There is no such thing as universal Roth conversion advice. If someone on social media tells you, “Always do a Roth conversion,” they're selling certainty—not stewardship. And if someone tells you, “Never do a Roth conversion,” they're doing the same thing in reverse. A real Roth conversion strategy requires your full financial picture. And not just your picture. It often requires understanding your heirs' tax picture, too. Because what happens after you're gone is part of the strategy—not an afterthought. If your goal is to pay the least amount of taxes over your lifetime and your family's lifetime, then this is a conversation worth slowing down for. What Is a Roth Conversion? A Roth conversion is when you move money from a tax-deferred account (like a Traditional IRA) into a Roth IRA. Here's the simple trade: With a Traditional IRA, you get a tax break today, but you pay taxes later when you withdraw. With a Roth IRA, you pay taxes now, and then your money can grow tax-free, and you can access qualified withdrawals tax-free. So the core question isn't “Do I like Roths?” The core question is: Do I want to pay the tax now or later—and what does that choice do to my lifetime tax bill and my heirs' tax burden? This is why we call it Roth conversion planning—because the conversion itself is just a move. The strategy is the plan around it. Why Roth Conversions Are Everywhere Right Now If you've noticed the sudden spike in Roth conversion content, you're not imagining it. Yes, people are thinking about inflation and national debt. But the bigger driver is a policy change that quietly shifted the math for families: The SECURE Act and the 10-Year Rule The SECURE Act changed how inherited IRAs work for most non-spouse beneficiaries. Before the SECURE Act, many beneficiaries could “stretch” distributions over their lifetime. That often meant smaller annual distributions and a more manageable tax impact. Now, in many cases, heirs must empty an inherited IRA within 10 years. That means more money forced out over a shorter time window, often during your child's peak earning years—when they're already in higher tax brackets. This is why the question “How does a Roth conversion affect your heirs?” is not a niche question. It's central. Roth Conversion and Future Tax Rates: The Real Issue Is Control One of Bruce's strongest points was this: You can try to predict future tax rates… but the bigger issue is control. Tax policy changes. Brackets change. Deductions change. Rules change. And governments are always solving for revenue. So instead of pretending we can forecast everything perfectly, we ask: How do we increase your control over when and how taxes are paid? That's what a tax diversification retirement strategy is about: having money in different “tax buckets” so you can choose how you pull income in retirement. Because a family with options has leverage. A family with only tax-deferred money has constraints. Should I Do a Roth Conversion? When It Makes Sense Let's bring it down to practical guidance. A Roth conversion can make sense when: 1) You're trying to reduce lifetime taxes (not just this year's taxes) If you're doing a Roth conversion to reduce lifetime taxes, you're looking at: your expected retirement income your required minimum distributions (RMDs) your spouse's situation your heirs' likely income levels future tax law uncertainty This is not a “this year only” decision. It's long-range strategy. 2) You have high tax-deferred balances and don't expect to spend them down Bruce sees this often with high net worth families. They have significant IRA/401(k) balances, but they live on cash flow from businesses, real estate, or other income sources. So the tax-deferred accounts are likely to be inherited—not consumed. That's when the SECURE Act 10-year rule becomes a real problem for adult children. 3) You have a window of lower income years Many families have lower income years: early retirement before Social Security a gap between selling a business and reinvesting proceeds years with unusually high deductions These windows can be ideal for Roth conversion planning, because you can “fill up” lower tax brackets strategically. 4) Your goal is tax diversification and retirement flexibility A Roth IRA can be a powerful tool for controlling adjusted gross income in retirement—especially when it comes to Medicare premiums and other phaseouts. But that leads to a major pitfall… Roth Conversion Mistakes to Avoid Mistake #1: Ignoring IRMAA (Medicare Premium Surcharges) If you're near Medicare age, this is huge. A Roth conversion increases your adjusted gross income (AGI). Higher AGI can trigger IRMAA—Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. In plain language:the more income you show, the more you can pay for Medicare Part B and Part D premiums. Bruce shared how common it is for people (and even many advisors) to miss this entirely. And here's the kicker: IRMAA is based on a two-year lookback so a conversion today can impact Medicare premiums two years from now This doesn't mean “don't convert.”It means: run the math. Because sometimes the tax savings over your lifetime is still worth it. But you should know what you're trading. Mistake #2: Treating Roth conversions as static Bruce said it well: this can't be a static strategy. It must be dynamic. He gave an example of a client who retired, started a multi-year Roth conversion plan, and then unexpectedly received a consulting contract paying several hundred thousand dollars. That income changed everything. Their conversion strategy had to be adjusted immediately—because the tax brackets, Medicare implications, and intended “conversion window” shifted. The point is simple: A Roth conversion strategy needs ongoing review. Mistake #3: Trying to time the market perfectly Yes, it can be advantageous to convert when markets are down. But most families wait for the perfect moment… and miss years of opportunity. Bruce's guidance is the steady kind of wisdom we live by: Control what you can control. Don't pretend you have a crystal ball. A good strategy often beats “perfect timing.” And in some cases, converting a depressed holding into a Roth can be a smart move—because future growth happens inside the Roth structure.
Episode SummaryGeopolitical events feel catastrophic in the moment — but history says otherwise. In this episode of the Weekly Wealth Podcast, Certified Financial Planner David Chudyk breaks down exactly what investors should (and shouldn't) do during the ongoing Iran conflict and the market volatility it has created. From reevaluating your risk tolerance to turning off the news, David shares the same actionable strategies he discusses daily in his wealth management practice with business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and mass affluent clients.If you've been watching the markets with anxiety lately, this episode is your antidote.What's Covered in This EpisodeWhat history tells us about markets and geopolitical crisesHow to reevaluate your risk tolerance without panic sellingWhy cash and cash equivalents matter more than you thinkTax loss harvesting explained — how to turn a down market into a tax advantageRoth conversions during a market dip — why NOW could be the perfect timeHow to build a personal "Financial Fortress" that weathers any stormWhy social media and cable news are engineered to cost you moneyWhat you should absolutely NOT do during market volatilityA real client story about staying calm and coming out aheadKey Talking Points & Timestamps
For decades, retirement income in America has often been described as a three-legged stool. The first leg is Social Security, which historically provides roughly 35–45% of a retiree's monthly income. The second leg used to be company pensions, but those have largely been replaced by employer-sponsored plans such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s, which now provide roughly 15–20% of retirement income on average. The third leg—and the one individuals have the most control over—is personal savings. One of the most important tools for building those savings is the Individual Retirement Account, or IRA. This is especially important for people who don't have a strong employer retirement plan. In those cases, personal savings often need to carry even more of the load in retirement. What an IRA Actually Is Before diving into the different types of IRAs, it helps to understand one key point: an IRA itself isn't an investment. An IRA is simply a tax-advantaged account that holds investments. Inside an IRA, you can own many of the same assets you might hold elsewhere—stocks, bonds, mutual funds, CDs, and more. The main benefit of an IRA is the tax treatment. Depending on the type you choose, your contributions or withdrawals may receive special tax advantages that can significantly affect your long-term financial plan. Traditional vs. Roth: The Key Difference When people talk about IRAs, they are usually referring to two primary types: the traditional IRA and the Roth IRA. Traditional IRAs Traditional IRAs have been around since 1974. Their main advantage is the immediate tax deduction many contributors receive. When you contribute to a traditional IRA, you may be able to deduct that contribution from your taxable income. Your investments then grow tax-deferred, meaning you don't pay taxes on the gains each year. However, when you begin withdrawing money in retirement, those withdrawals are taxed as income. In simple terms: Traditional IRA = tax break now, taxes later. Roth IRAs Roth IRAs were introduced in 1997, and they reverse the traditional model. With a Roth IRA, contributions are not tax-deductible today. However, the major benefit comes later: qualified withdrawals in retirement—including investment gains—are completely tax-free. In other words: Roth IRA = no tax break now, but no taxes later. Which One Is Better? The decision between traditional and Roth IRAs largely depends on your expected tax situation. If you believe your tax rate will be higher in retirement, a Roth IRA can be very attractive because you pay taxes today at a lower rate and enjoy tax-free income later. This is why Roth accounts are often recommended for younger workers who are early in their careers and likely in a lower tax bracket. However, the decision can become more complicated for people who are within 10–15 years of retirement. At that stage, many people are in their peak earning years and higher tax brackets, which may make a traditional IRA more appealing. Taxes aren't the only factor, but they are often the most important one. Contribution Limits You Should Know Contribution limits for IRAs change periodically, and it's important to stay current. For 2026, the limits are: $7,500 per person under age 50 $8,600 per person for those age 50 or older (thanks to catch-up contributions) If you're married filing jointly, each spouse can contribute to their own IRA, even if one spouse doesn't have earned income—as long as the household's earned income covers the total contributions. One important note: there is no such thing as a joint IRA. Each account must belong to an individual. IRA vs. 401(k): Which Should Come First? Employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as 401(k)s, have significantly higher contribution limits. In 2026, employees can contribute: $24,500 annually $32,500 if age 50 or older But the biggest advantage of workplace plans is often employer matching. If your employer matches contributions, the general rule is simple: Always contribute enough to receive the full match first. That match is essentially free money and should be viewed as part of your compensation. After reaching the match threshold, you can evaluate whether to continue contributing to your 401(k) or begin funding an IRA—especially if the IRA offers better investment choices. Income Limits and Eligibility IRA eligibility can become more complicated depending on income levels and workplace plans. For traditional IRAs, whether you can deduct your contribution depends on: Whether you're covered by a workplace retirement plan Your modified adjusted gross income For married couples with workplace coverage, deductibility typically phases out between $129,000 and $149,000 of income. For Roth IRAs, workplace plans don't matter, but income limits still apply. Married couples generally lose eligibility to contribute directly to a Roth once their income exceeds $252,000. Because these rules can be complex, reviewing them carefully—or consulting a financial professional—is often wise. What About Old 401(k)s? Many people accumulate retirement accounts as they change jobs. If you've left a company, you typically have the option to roll an old 401(k) into an IRA. The main advantages include: Simplifying your accounts Access to a wider range of investments However, there is one important exception. If you leave an employer at age 55 or later, you may be able to withdraw from that company's 401(k) penalty-free before age 59½. Rolling the funds into an IRA would eliminate that special flexibility. When Does a Roth Conversion Make Sense? One of the most powerful planning strategies is a Roth conversion, in which funds from a traditional IRA are moved into a Roth IRA. When you convert, you pay taxes on the amount converted—but those funds can then grow tax-free going forward. For many people, the ideal window for conversions is between retirement and age 73, when required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin. During those years, income may be temporarily lower, allowing retirees to strategically convert portions of their IRA each year while staying in a manageable tax bracket. Done carefully over time, this strategy can significantly reduce taxes later in retirement. Stewarding Retirement with Wisdom Ultimately, retirement planning isn't only about maximizing returns—it's about wisely stewarding what God has entrusted to us. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” Thoughtful planning today—whether choosing the right IRA, managing taxes wisely, or simplifying your accounts—can create greater freedom later to live generously and faithfully. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I run a small pool cleaning business in Florida and am finally starting to grow. I want to manage the finances the right way, but I don't have much experience with accounting tools like spreadsheets. What are some practical steps I can take to start properly tracking my business finances and cash flow? I've recently realized that God owns everything—my money, my property, and even my business. That's been a big shift for me, and I want to honor Him with all of it. Sometimes I even wonder if God approves of the small things I spend money on. How can I practically walk with God in this area and steward my finances in a way that honors Him? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Sound Mind Investing (SMI) Making Sense of Your IRA Options (Article by Mark Biller and Matt Bell at Sound Mind Investing) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West 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.
In this episode of Coin Stories, Natalie Brunell sits down with James Check -- one of Bitcoin's most respected on-chain analysts -- to decode what the data actually says about market cycles, investor psychology, and where we are right now. We discuss: Read the market, not the noise — How on-chain data reveals what investors are really doing Cycle signals decoded — Key indicators at tops, bottoms, and trend reversals Who's actually buying? — Real capital flow dynamics and myths busted Why timing the bottom is a trap — Strategic frameworks for navigating market extremes Quantum computing & Bitcoin — The real threat timeline and what the network is doing ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Join us for the biggest Bitcoin conference in Europe at BTC Prague this June 10-13 with a keynote from Michael Saylor, Code HODL for discounted passes: https://btcprague.com/ Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
What if the real foundation of entrepreneurship is less about making money and more about mastering your mindset around it? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood explores how our early experiences and psychological beliefs about money shape our financial behaviors—and ultimately, our freedom to create and build. Guest Shang Saavedra, who reached retirement savings goals by age 31, shares her journey from a frugal upbringing as the child of immigrants to graduating from Harvard, thriving in management consulting, and building the Save My Cents community. She's passionate about helping others use psychology and practical strategies to rewrite their financial stories, break the cycle of fear, and pave the way for meaningful wealth. This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs and anyone needing a mindset reset around finances. With actionable advice on automating savings, understanding investment options, and handling financial setbacks, Shang Saavedra proves that changing how you think about money can transform your life—and your business. To get the latest from Shang Saavedra, you can follow her below! https://www.linkedin.com/in/shangsaavedra/ https://savemycents.com/ https://www.instagram.com/savemycents/?hl=en Wealth Is a Mindset: Change Your Mind, Change Your Money Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing! Website: www.marciadawood.com Do Good While Doing Well Learn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.com And don't forget to follow us wherever you are! Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.apple Spotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotify LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX and CIO of Maelstrom, joins Coin Stories to discuss Bitcoin, AI disruption, and what comes next in the crypto cycle. We discuss: Why Bitcoin is a "liquidity alarm" for global markets How AI job disruption could trigger the next financial crisis Why central banks may need to print more than during COVID Whether institutions are changing Bitcoin's market dynamics Why Arthur Hayes says wait for money printing before buying Follow Arthur Hayes on X https://x.com/CryptoHayes ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU ---- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
In this compilation program, Justin Klein and Luke Guerrero field a variety of finance and investment questions from callers across the United States and around the World.Today's Stocks & Topics: A-I Stocks, Bond Maturity, Short-Term Rental Market, The VIX, Crypto, Pre-Tax Allocation vs. Roth I-R-A, Poorly Managed Companies, Publicly Traded Sports Teams, P.E. Ratios, Oil, Portfolio Management, Converting a Traditional IRA to a Roth, Cash Management, How to Calculate Company's Debt, 529 Plan, Entry Point.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
Is Bitcoin just "number go up?" Or is it something far bigger? Natalie Brunell sits down with Africa Bitcoin Corporation Executive Chairman Stafford Masie explore why Bitcoin adoption in Africa looks radically different than in the West. While many investors focus on price volatility, Africans are using Bitcoin as money ... as a lifeline against debasement, capital controls, and broken banking systems. We discuss: Why Bitcoin is money in Africa, not just "store of value" 1 Bitcoin = 5 African jobs Stablecoins vs Bitcoin adoption Lowering capital costs with Bitcoin The human yield flywheel Follow Stafford Masie on X https://x.com/staffordmasie ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Strategy World 2026 in Las Vegas on February 23-26th - Use code HODL for discounted tickets: https://www.strategysoftware.com/world26 Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Say the word "taxes" out loud. Did your shoulders just clench? Yeah. That's not an accident. In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Cole — artist, tax expert, author of Taxes for Humans, and founder of Sunlight Tax — to talk about why the tax industry profits from keeping you afraid, and what you can actually do about it. Hannah breaks down the three main IRA options available to self-employed women in plain, clear language that finally makes it click. She talks about why creatives, women, and anyone who doesn't fit the traditional financial mold has been left out of this conversation on purpose — and how that changes when you have access to someone who sounds like your best friend instead of a shaming accountant. This is one of those conversations that will make you exhale. Because the tax system isn't as scary as you've been led to believe. And the tools available to you are far more powerful than most people realize. If you've ever felt like money — or taxes — weren't meant for someone like you, this episode is going to change that. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why the tax industry's marketing mechanism is fear — and how to stop falling for it Why nobody gets a tax education in this country (and why that's not your fault) The real difference between a Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, and SEP IRA in plain language Why creativity is a synonym for resourcefulness when it comes to money How to start thinking of money and taxes as a tool that works for you instead of against you FREE GIFT FROM HANNAH COLE Download Hannah's Free Visual Guide to Tax Deductions here: https://www.sunlighttax.com/deductionsguide CONNECT WITH HANNAH COLE Website: https://www.sunlighttax.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunlighttax LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-cole-3775561/ ABOUT HANNAH COLE Hannah Cole is an artist, tax expert, author of Taxes for Humans [link: https://amzn.to/4a2Mu9m ], and founder of Sunlight Tax. She specializes in educating entrepreneurs and creative professionals in taxes and financial empowerment. A long-time working artist with a high-level exhibition history, Hannah is a frequent speaker on stages and podcasts, a money columnist for the art blog Hyperallergic, and the host of a global top 2% podcast, the Sunlight Tax Podcast. Her company, Sunlight Tax, specializes in friendly, informative tax education for self-employed people with big visions, and engaging, savvy tax education workshops for creative groups. READY TO BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE? Book a free 15-min call with Sarah to talk about where you are in your business and see if working together feels right. Schedule here: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=13047670&appointmentType=34706781 FREE GIFT FROM SARAH Get Sarah's Freedom Calculator and discover how much your business needs to make to finally be free. Download at https://sarahwalton.com/freedom LEARN FROM SARAH Explore Sarah's online courses and free resources to start building your business with confidence. Online Courses: https://sarahwalton.com/online-courses Free Resources: https://sarahwalton.com/free-resources CONNECT WITH SARAH Website: https://sarahwalton.com/podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSarahWalton Instagram: https://instagram.com/thesarahwalton ABOUT SARAH WALTON Sarah Walton is a business coach, podcast host, and mentor who helps women entrepreneurs build businesses they love. She's the creator of the Abundance Academy, Effortless Sales, and the Game On Girlfriend® podcast. Sarah's mission is to put more money in the hands of more women while teaching authentic, heart-centered business strategies. RELATED GAME ON GIRLFRIEND® EPISODES YOU'LL LOVE Episode 230: You Deserve the Money with Bookkeeper Ashley Chamberlain — https://sarahwalton.com/bookkeeping-for-women/ Episode 227: How to Clear a Money Fog with Mikelann Valterra — https://sarahwalton.com/clear-money-fog/ Episode 95: When Your Life Falls Apart Because of Money with Michelle Arpin Begina — https://sarahwalton.com/michelle/ LOVE THE SHOW? LEAVE US A REVIEW! Thank you so much for listening. I'm honored that you're here and would be grateful if you could leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here, scrolling to the bottom, and clicking "Write a review." Your reviews help other women entrepreneurs find the show and get the support they need to build businesses they love. Thank you for being part of the Game On Girlfriend® community! (If you're not sure how to leave a review, you can watch this quick tutorial.)
Retirees obsess over the exact safe withdrawal rate they think they'll need while simultaneously building layer after layer of backup plans. Dividends, buckets, multiple years of cash, constant Monte Carlo recalculations are all done in the name of safety. Jordan Grumet's argument to this problem is simple and provocative: If you believe in the safe withdrawal rate, then act like it. Stop stacking contingencies on top of contingencies and chasing 100% certainty in a world where it doesn't exist. We go over Jordan's article "Stop Chickening Out" in our headline segment. Then we answer Robert's question: "What if you just use the Traditional IRA for living expenses instead? If both approaches reduce the IRA balance and lower future RMDs, is Roth conversion strategy overhyped?" And we wrap up the show with a story from one of our happiest retired listeners in our newest listener-sourced segment "Retire to Something". Resources: Article: "Stop Chickening Out" by Jordan Grumet Jordan Grumet interview on our show: https://retirementstartstodayradio.com/purpose-vs-purpose-an-interview-with-doc-g-ep-382 Connect with Benjamin Brandt: Subscribe to the This Week in Retirement: http://thisweekinretirement.com Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit: http://retirementstartstodayradio.com Work with Benjamin: https://retirementstartstoday.com/start Get the book!Retirement Starts Today: Your Non-financial Guide to an Even Better Retirement Follow Retirement Starts Today in:Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, or iHeart
A distribution from your traditional IRA could cost you if you're not aware of your responsibilities. Many investors are saving up for their retirement in workplace accounts like 401(k)s. Those administrators handle tasks that IRA custodians don't. And it's up to you to take charge and keep track of your hard-earned money, so you're not taxed twice. Denise Appleby is known as “The IRA Whisperer.” The Morningstar contributor has written about how to protect your IRA from costly mistakes. Don't Pay Taxes Twice: Here's How to Save Thousands on IRA Distributions https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/dont-pay-taxes-twice-heres-how-save-thousands-ira-distributions On this episode: 00:00:00 Welcome 00:01:28 What is a Traditional IRA and How It's Funded 00:02:29 How IRA Withdrawals Are Taxed When Accounts Hold Taxable and Tax-Free Dollars 00:05:36 What IRA Custodians Don't Track and Why Investors Should 00:09:05 What to Check on Form 1099‑R and Why Form 8606 Matters 00:12:02 How to Fix IRA Mistakes 00:13:44 What Records to Keep Track of to Avoid Double Taxation Watch more from Morningstar: Elevate Your 60/40 Portfolio With These Simple Tweaks Why REIT ETFs Still Work as Real Estate Slumps How to Make the Most of Your IRA in 2026 Follow Morningstar on social: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/ X https://x.com/MorningstarInc Instagram https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Michael Saylor answered every single question I threw at him — including the ones most people are afraid to ask. Nearly 2 hours. Nothing off limits. Topics include: Why Michael Saylor says critics fundamentally misunderstand Bitcoin Are people actively rooting for him to fail — and how he deals with it Why Bitcoin didn't break past $126K and what he thinks really happened His honest take on price suppression — is it real? Why Bitcoin's upside volatility is shrinking and what that signals Is quantum computing an actual threat to the network? His reaction to Bitcoin being mentioned in the Epstein files The strongest argument against Bitcoin — in his own words Why retail investors sat out the last bull market and what it means for the next one Michael Saylor is Founder and Executive Chairman of Strategy. Follow him on X at: https://x.com/saylor ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Strategy World 2026 in Las Vegas on February 23-26th - Use code HODL for discounted tickets: https://www.strategysoftware.com/world26 Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Jim and Chris are joined by Jake Turner to discuss listener emails in this special tax related episode covering Roth conversions after RMD age, balancing Roth versus Traditional IRA contributions, HSA versus Roth contributions, IRA reporting questions, filing deceased tax returns, and a listener PSA on tax planning software. (11:30) A listener asks whether converting to a Roth makes sense at age 75 while currently in the 12% bracket and taking RMDs, and whether recent tax law changes create a strategy opportunity. (20:20) George wonders whether his 30-something children should continue using Roth contributions exclusively or begin balancing with Traditional IRA contributions as their wages increase, and asks what percentage split between Traditional and Roth accounts looks reasonable in retirement. (48:45) The guys discuss whether covering medical expenses from an HSA and contributing to a Roth IRA, or leaving the HSA intact and paying medical bills out of pocket will result in greater retirement spending flexibility. (57:00) Jim, Chris, and Jake address whether a spouse who retired during the year is considered covered by a workplace plan, how to answer prior nondeductible IRA contribution questions, and whether Form 8606 is required after making and converting a small IRA contribution in the same year. (1:10:30) George asks how to handle the direct deposit of a refund on a deceased final 1040, including whether to use the estate bank account with an EIN or the decedent's existing account, and whether a paper check remains an option. (1:15:30) A listener PSA introduces Catalyst Tax Insights, a free tool to run “what if” scenarios and estimate taxes owed without using full tax software. The post Tax Special – Conversions, Contributions, HSAs, Tax Returns, Tax Software PSA: Q&A #2608 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
Should you take the tax deduction today… or build tax-free wealth for tomorrow? In this episode of the Main Street Business Podcast, Mark J. Kohler and Mat Sorensen break down the Roth vs. Traditional IRA debate and explain why the “lower tax bracket in retirement” argument doesn't always hold up in the real world.They walk through the math, the mindset, and the long-term strategy behind both options — including inheritance planning, self-directing for higher returns, tax rate uncertainty, flexibility in retirement, and why most entrepreneurs don't actually earn less in retirement. You'll also learn how the backdoor Roth IRA works for high-income earners and how to use creative tax strategies to offset Roth conversions.If you're rushing to make a last-minute IRA contribution before the tax deadline, this episode could change your decision. Make sure you understand the long-term consequences before chasing a short-term deduction!You'll learn:The real difference between a Roth IRA and a Traditional IRA — and why the math isn't the whole storyWhy the “you'll be in a lower tax bracket in retirement” argument often fails for entrepreneurs and investorsHow paying taxes on the seed vs. the harvest dramatically impacts long-term wealthWhy a Roth IRA can be the most powerful asset to leave to your kidsHow high-income earners can legally use the backdoor Roth IRA strategyWhen a Traditional IRA might still make sense — and how to use both strategicallyHow to create offsetting tax strategies to fund a Roth without increasing your tax burdenWhy contributing early (not just before the deadline) can significantly increase long-term returnsGet a comprehensive tax consultation with one of our Main Street tax lawyers that can build a tax strategy plan with an affordable consultation that will leave you speechless!! Here's the link - https://kkoslawyers.com/services/comprehensive-bus-tax-consult/?utm_source=buzzsprout&utm_medium=description-link&utm_campaign=main-street-business-podcast&utm_content=msbp609-traditional-vs-roth-ira Grab my eBook 30 Unique Strategies Every Business Owner Should Know! You don't want to miss this! Secure your tickets for the #1 Event For Small Business Owners On Main Street America: Main Street 360 Looking to connect with a rock star law firm? KKOS is only a click away! Are you ready to get certified in EVERY strategy I teach? Start your journey with a FREE 15-minute discovery call to explore the Main Street Tax Pro Certification. Check out our YOUTUBE Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/markjkohler Craving more content? Check out my Instagram!
Natalie Brunell sits down with BitcoinIRA Co-Founder Chris Kline to discuss: The staggering reality of America's retirement shortfall and why it's worse than most people think The surprising demographics putting bitcoin in their retirement accounts — it's not just young tech bros Chris breaks down where the market is headed and what needs to happen for bitcoin to hit a new all-time high The wake-up call: why treating your retirement savings casually is the biggest financial risk you're taking Sign up for your BitcoinIRA and get up to $1000 for your account: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Strategy World 2026 in Las Vegas on February 23-26th - Use code HODL for discounted tickets: https://www.strategysoftware.com/world26 Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
When you're standing at a major financial crossroads, the timing of your decisions can mean the difference between success and failure. Joe Anderson, CFP® and Big Al Clopine, CPA spitball on the "when" of five retirement decisions, today on Your Money, Your Wealth podcast number 569. We'll kick things off with a whale of an email: "Fine and Dandy" is 42 years old with a multimillion dollar private equity offer on the table. Should he sell his business now or hold out for a second bite of the apple later? He also wonders if it's crazy to spend more on his vacation home than on his primary residence. David calls himself an "elderly orphan," flying solo at 66 and in need of a plan to protect his million-dollar portfolio as he ages. BB and Shell are trying to time their final year of retirement contributions to save as much as possible before moving to a lower-tax state. Should they go Roth IRA or traditional? Joel wonders when to take required minimum distributions from retirement accounts for the maximum tax benefit, and Brian in New York needs a spitball on when it makes sense to have an emergency fund as a retiree, and for how much. Free Financial Resources in This Episode: https://bit.ly/ymyw-569 (full show notes & episode transcript) Growing Your Wealth Guide - free download Retirement Readiness Guide - free download Retire at 62: Great Idea or Huge Mistake? - YMYW TV Financial Blueprint (self-guided) Financial Assessment (Meet with an experienced professional) REQUEST your Retirement Spitball Analysis DOWNLOAD more free guides READ financial blogs WATCH educational videos SUBSCRIBE to the YMYW Newsletter Connect With Us: YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation in the comments Podcast apps: subscribe or follow YMYW in your favorite Apple Podcasts: leave your honest reviews and ratings Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: This Week on the YMYW Podcast 01:09 - Should I Sell My Business or Wait? Is It Crazy to Spend More on My Vacation Home Than My Primary Residence? (Fine and Dandy, IL) 20:48 - Saving to Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA in the Final Year Before Retirement (BB and Shell) 23:50 - When to Take Your First RMD for the Maximum Tax Benefit (Joel, CA) 27:33 - Aging Alone in Retirement: How to Protect Assets Before Cognitive Decline (David, 68, Logan, NM) 35:37 - Why Some CPAs Cap Roth Conversions at $500K AGI (Shweta, CA) 37:05 - When Does It Make Sense for Retirees to Have an Emergency Fund - and How Much? (Brian, Albany, NY) 42:03 - Outro - Next Week on the YMYW Podcast
Macro analyst Lyn Alden returns to Coin Stories with Natalie Brunell to break down the state of Bitcoin and what comes next. We dive into: Is the Bitcoin bottom in or is more pain ahead? Why Lyn expects a gradual money print, not a "big" or "nuclear" print Where is retail? Why everyday investors haven't shown up this last Bitcoin cycle Capitulation and nerves — what Lyn has to say about sentiment The catalysts that could spark Bitcoin's next major run Why Lyn is no longer as bullish on gold & precious metals as she was in recent years ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Strategy World 2026 in Las Vegas on February 23-26th - Use code HODL for discounted tickets: https://www.strategysoftware.com/world26 Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Bitcoin is no longer just a savings technology. It's collateral for the real economy. Andrew Hohns, Founder & CEO of Newmarket Capital and Battery Finance, explains how his firm structured one of the first Bitcoin-backed real estate loans, why credit markets desperately need Bitcoin, and how BTC could reshape mortgages, commercial buildings, and even small-business lending. We discuss: Why Bitcoin is pristine collateral for credit instruments The first Bitcoin-backed apartment building Bitcoin mortgages vs traditional financing Will institutions change or be changed by Bitcoin ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Strategy World 2026 in Las Vegas on February 23-26th - Use code HODL for discounted tickets: https://www.strategysoftware.com/world26 Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing
Is Bitcoin about to face a deeper downturn before the next great bull market? Chart analyst Kevin Wadsworth, co-founder of Northstar & Badcharts, joins Natalie Brunell to break down the signals he sees across Bitcoin, gold, equities, and the bond market. Topics include: Could Bitcoin drop to $40K? Kevin forecasts bottom for asset in Q3 or Q4... Why Bitcoin is losing to gold this cycle What a "capital rotation event" really means - Repeating 1930, 1970, 2002 markets M2, money velocity, inflation dynamics When will the next bull run for Bitcoin start? Follow Kevin on X: https://x.com/NorthstarCharts ---- Order Natalie's new book "Bitcoin is For Everyone," a simple introduction to Bitcoin and what's broken in our current financial system: https://amzn.to/3WzFzfU --- Coin Stories is powered by Gemini. Invest as you spend with the Gemini Credit Card. Sign up today to earn a $200 intro Bitcoin bonus. The Gemini Credit Card is issued by WebBank. See website for rates & fees. Learn more at https://www.gemini.com/natalie ---- Ledn is the global leader in Bitcoin-backed loans, issuing over $9 billion in loans since 2018, and they were the first to offer proof of reserves. With Ledn, you get custody loans, no credit checks, no monthly payments, and more. Get .25% off your first loan, learn more at https://www.Ledn.io/natalie ---- Earn passive Bitcoin income with industry-leading uptime, renewable energy, ideal climate, expert support, and one month of free hosting when you join Abundant Mines at https://www.abundantmines.com/natalie ---- Natalie's Bitcoin Product Partners: For easy, low-cost, instant Bitcoin payments, I use Speed Lightning Wallet. Play Bitcoin trivia and win up to 1 million sats! Download and use promo code COINSTORIES10 for 5,000 free sats: https://www.speed.app/coinstories Block's Bitkey Cold Storage Wallet was named to TIME's prestigious Best Inventions of 2024 in the category of Privacy & Security. Get 20% off using code STORIES at https://bitkey.world Master your Bitcoin self-custody with 1-on-1 help and gain peace of mind with the help of The Bitcoin Way: https://www.thebitcoinway.com/natalie With BitcoinIRA, you can invest in bitcoin 24/7 inside a tax-advantaged IRA. Choose a Traditional IRA to defer taxes, or a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals later. Take control of your future with BitcoinIRA: https://www.bitcoinira.com/natalie Natalie's Upcoming Events: Bitcoin 2026 will be here before you know it. Get 10% off Early Bird passes using the code HODL: https://tickets.b.tc/event/bitcoin-2026?promoCodeTask=apply&promoCodeInput= Strategy World 2026 in Las Vegas on February 23-26th - Use code HODL for discounted tickets: https://www.strategysoftware.com/world26 Extra Services to Consider: Protect yourself from SIM Swaps that can hack your accounts and steal your Bitcoin. Join America's most secure mobile service, trusted by CEOs, VIPs and top corporations: https://www.efani.com/natalie Ditch your fiat health insurance like I did four years ago! Join me at CrowdHealth: www.joincrowdhealth.com/natalie ---- This podcast is for educational purposes and should not be construed as official investment advice. ---- VALUE FOR VALUE — SUPPORT NATALIE'S SHOWS Strike ID https://strike.me/coinstoriesnat/ Cash App $CoinStories #money #Bitcoin #investing