Podcast appearances and mentions of Wes Moss

Inflation, record market highs, early retirement dreams, and complex estate questions—retirement planning doesn't happen in isolation. In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase translate timely headlines and listener scenarios into thoughtful, long-term financial planning considerations. • Assess how rising grocery and beef prices reflect inflation and evaluate ways to think about purchasing power over time. • Review stock market all-time highs alongside historical correction patterns to frame risk within a diversified allocation. • Examine what retiring in your 40s may require, including savings rates, spending assumptions, and trade-offs. • Structure financial support for younger family members through gifting strategies, investment vehicles, and clear boundaries. • Stress-test retirement projections—including tools like Wealthfront's PATH—by applying more conservative inputs. • Balance equity exposure with “dry powder” assets in the context of withdrawal rates and long-term income needs. • Coordinate irregular or business-owner income by aligning tax planning, liquidity, and disciplined investment decisions. • Consider when a commercial trustee may be appropriate for long-term estate and legacy planning goals. Retirement clarity comes from steady evaluation and informed decisions—not short-term noise. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for grounded conversations that may help you think critically about your financial future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steak Night Sticker Shock & Is a Market Correction Coming? Beef and steak prices are soaring. But beyond the grocery store and date night, it's costing you more than you think, as Wes Moss explains. Also, Wes also address the psychological "twinge" investors feel when the stock market hits new all-time highs. What should investors do in 2026? While it's tempting to think an all-time high is a signal to get out, history suggests the opposite. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 24, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Retirement planning isn't happening in isolation—it's intersecting with artificial intelligence, changing health trends, record market highs, and even rising grocery prices. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Connor Miller translate fast-moving headlines into balanced, long-term financial planning considerations designed to inform—not predict. • Assess how GLP-1 medications like Ozempic may be influencing workplace habits, health trends, and broader economic ripple effects. • Evaluate pronounced sector divergence in today's market, including defensive leadership in energy, materials, and consumer staples, alongside lagging technology and financials. • Examine how artificial intelligence may be reshaping industries and workforce expectations, particularly for professionals nearing retirement. • Analyze research suggesting AI adoption may shift competitive advantages toward workers who effectively integrate emerging tools. • Consider how the $27.40 savings framework may help structure retirement contributions while working toward milestones such as building a $10,000 reserve. • Explore automated savings strategies and income-based contribution benchmarks that may support consistency over time. • Review research indicating that written retirement plans may be associated with higher reported levels of happiness and financial confidence. • Recognize behavioral and psychological hurdles retirees often face when determining when—and how—to step away from work. • Break down the economic forces behind rising steak and ground beef prices, including cattle supply constraints and inflation dynamics. • Interpret market behavior at all-time highs by understanding how bull markets have historically unfolded through repeated peaks. Markets evolve, technology advances, and headlines shift—but disciplined, long-term thinking remains foundational. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast for balanced financial education designed to provide perspective during an ever-changing economic landscape.

Retirement decisions don't often happen in isolation—they're shaped by markets, policy shifts, career trends, and personal trade-offs. In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase translate timely financial headlines into practical retirement planning considerations. • Assess cash-flow strategies for small business owners, including how Roth IRA contribution rules may create flexibility. • Interpret the latest U.S. jobs report and education-level unemployment trends to help frame portfolio and career decisions. • Evaluate small-cap and value stock performance after years of lagging returns within a diversified allocation. • Examine why savings account rates may trail broader interest rate moves and what that can mean for cash positioning. • Compare long-term care insurance with self-funding approaches, including planning implications tied to Washington State's LTC program. • Review 457 and 403(b) rollover considerations and clarify how early Social Security benefits are calculated. • Measure total investment results by factoring in dividends and interest income—not just price changes. Explore retirement planning considerations through balanced, long-term thinking grounded in real data and real scenarios. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay aligned with today's evolving financial landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should You Use Your “Sacred” Retirement Fund To Save Your Business? & 2026 Jobs Outlook As rapid technological shifts ripple through every industry, many entrepreneurs are finding themselves in a temporary cash flow crunch. While retirement accounts are often viewed as a "sacred chest" that shouldn't be touched, Wes Moss explores how to strategically leverage your brokerage and Roth IRA accounts to bridge the gap. Also, Wes dives deep into the latest data from the U.S. labor market to see what it actually means for your portfolio. Despite some "ancient history" revisions from 2025 that initially painted a gloomy picture, the January 2026 jobs report tells a much more resilient story. Whether you're managing a business or a retirement timeline, understanding these labor trends is key to staying invested with confidence. Mentioned on the show: Asset Class Returns A Jack Bogle Lesson: Remember Reversion to the Mean How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion What Is Long-Term Care Insurance Cost & Coverage Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 17, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, and recent labor market data has continued to show relative resilience. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd connect fast-moving headlines on AI, jobs, interest rates, and retirement research to long-term investment and planning considerations. • Evaluate how AI is influencing financial services, real estate, and software companies—and how rapid innovation may contribute to sector volatility. • Assess rising cybersecurity and data breach risks as automation expands, while recognizing the ongoing role of human trust in financial decision-making. • Analyze the latest U.S. employment and wage trends alongside consumer spending patterns to better understand current economic conditions. • Connect labor market strength to potential Federal Reserve rate decisions and their possible effects on equity and bond markets. • Examine research indicating that individuals with written retirement plans often report higher confidence and greater retirement satisfaction. • Consider how disciplined, long-term investing approaches have historically helped investors navigate changing market cycles. Stay informed with balanced insights designed to provide perspective—not predictions—during rapidly evolving economic conditions. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast to keep your investment and retirement planning conversations aligned with today's shifting landscape.

Inflation is back in focus—and it's reshaping how many people think about retirement decisions. In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase answer listener questions while providing clear context around markets, portfolios, and long-term planning trade-offs. • Explore how inflation cycles have historically resurfaced and how price shocks may influence spending and wage conversations. • Compare growth and value stocks using simple analogies that help clarify their role in retirement portfolios. • Break down how retirement withdrawals and tax planning are commonly coordinated, including Roth conversions and differences between 457 and 401(k) plans. • Explain key considerations around Employee Stock Ownership Plans, including diversification challenges in private companies. • Discuss where bonds and cash may fit when dependable income already covers everyday expenses. • Consider how lump sums and ongoing savings are often invested while balancing valuation concerns with disciplined approaches like dollar-cost averaging. • Review how buffered investment strategies are typically evaluated, including trade-offs involving downside limits, liquidity, and long-term return expectations. • Clarify pension payout choices by outlining common tax considerations and rollover mechanics tied to lump-sum decisions. • If inflation headlines and market swings have you rethinking your plan, this episode adds perspective without the noise. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay grounded in ongoing market and retirement conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Everything Still Feels Expensive & Growth vs. Value Stocks: Which Is Best? Is inflation going away? The reality is that while the rate of change might slow down to 2% or 3%, the cumulative "stacking" of past inflation remains, leaving consumers anchored to old prices while fighting for higher wages. Wes Moss explores why we can't afford to get complacent and how this cycle is exactly why we invest in the first place. Also, Wes peels back the layers of the market to examine the two main "flavors" of investing: Growth vs. Value. Using the analogy of apples, Wes breaks down the fundamental differences between the fast-moving, low-dividend world of Growth stocks (like Amazon) and the mature, dividend-heavy world of Value stocks. Which fits best in your portfolio? Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 10, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Markets seem to be shifting quickly as artificial intelligence, monetary policy discussion, and sector leadership evolve. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Connor Miller provide educational context around the economic and market topics shaping today's financial conversation. • Review recent advances in artificial intelligence, including new OpenAI releases and the emergence of autonomous agent networks often referenced in productivity discussions. • Discuss recent market volatility alongside sharp movements in gold, silver, and Bitcoin amid ongoing questions surrounding Federal Reserve independence. • Examine the nomination of Kevin Warsh as a potential Federal Reserve chair and his past work with Ben Bernanke, including widely cited views on the Fed's balance sheet. • Describe the challenges facing Software-as-a-Service companies as AI innovation raises questions around competition and margins. • Compare growth and value stocks using commonly referenced valuation metrics, dividend yields, and price characteristics. • Explain what Federal Reserve balance sheet normalization refers to and how it is commonly linked to conversations about interest rates, mortgages, and housing activity. • Explore the scale and economics of Super Bowl advertising and sports betting as examples of evolving consumer attention and media fragmentation. • Summarize research frequently cited in retirement planning discussions regarding written plans and reported retirement satisfaction. Big-picture context can matter when headlines move fast. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast for ongoing, educational conversations about markets, money, and retirement planning.

Concerned about retirement planning in a market full of uncertainty and noise? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase bring practical context to today's financial headlines and common retirement questions. • Analyze movements in gold prices and the U.S. dollar to clarify what currency shifts may indicate for markets and everyday economic conversations. • Explain why a modestly weaker dollar is not inherently negative and how it can affect U.S. company competitiveness. • Break down how the 4% retirement withdrawal rule of thumb is commonly discussed and why flexibility is central to long-term planning. • Compare viewpoints from prominent financial commentators on sustainable retirement withdrawals and why results may differ by household. • Outline considerations for retirement drawdowns, including when cash reserves versus equities are often referenced during market stress. • Evaluate diversification considerations for investors concerned about concentrated exposure to technology- and AI-focused funds. • Address the widespread concern about running out of money in retirement using commonly referenced planning frameworks. • Review how pension cost-of-living adjustments work and the factors considered when comparing lump-sum and annuity options. • Discuss the potential role and risks of high-yield bonds within balanced, income-focused portfolios. • Highlight why aligning brokerage account registrations with a living trust is frequently referenced in estate planning discussions. Listen to the Retire Sooner Podcast for clear, educational context on the retirement topics investors are talking about right now. Subscribe to stay connected to ongoing conversations focused on long-term planning, discipline, and perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dollar vs. Gold: Why You Don't Need To Panic & #1 Retirement Fear (and Ways To Let It Go) While recent headlines might suggest the dollar is "plunging" as gold and silver prices soar, Wes Moss provides a grounded perspective on why the decline, while significant, is still well within historical ranges, and why he believes our economy is still strong. Also, Wes dives into the top fear facing Americans: the fear of running out of money in retirement. As humans, we are wired to prioritize protection and survival, but letting this fear dictate your financial strategy can be counterproductive. Wes breaks down the research behind this common anxiety and introduces five actionable steps designed to eliminate financial dread and help you regain confidence in your long-term plan. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the February 3, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As markets continue to shift, long-term retirement planning often demands clarity rather than reaction. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd provide economic and market context to help listeners interpret today's financial headlines with perspective. • Analyze how recent S&P 500 performance, Federal Reserve decisions, and earnings results seem to be shaping market sentiment. • Interpret an airline's move away from unassigned seating as a reflection of broader consumer behavior and industry competition. • Track U.S. dollar movements and their historical relationship to gold, silver, and international markets. • Review the current health of the U.S. economy, including consumer spending, housing trends, inflation, unemployment, and stimulus considerations heading toward 2026. • Define what qualifies companies as dividend aristocrats and why payout consistency and discipline matter. • Compare which everyday expenses have risen with inflation and which categories have stabilized or declined. • Examine historical data showing how dividends have often outpaced inflation and demonstrated resilience during past market downturns. • Explore how income-focused investing, diversified portfolios, and retirement withdrawal frameworks like the 4% rule of thumb are commonly discussed together. • Revisit personal retirement checklists to assess whether professional planning guidance aligns with individual circumstances. Listen to this episode for a context-driven discussion focused on markets, income, and retirement planning. Subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast to stay connected to thoughtful conversations that span market cycles and economic environments.

Is the American middle class actually shrinking, or evolving? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase offer educational context on widely discussed economic, investing, and retirement planning topics shaping today's financial conversations. Listen as long-term data, market history, and household-level considerations are used to frame—not forecast—how these issues connect. • Examine why the U.S. middle class is often described as shrinking and how income mobility, inflation-adjusted thresholds, and household dynamics influence that narrative. • Review how artificial intelligence is commonly discussed in relation to productivity, workforce demand, and labor market participation. • Outline general considerations around emergency savings, including income consistency, job stability, and insurance coverage. • Explain factors households often weigh when deciding whether to engage a financial professional for planning support. • Provide historical context on gold, market corrections, and why gold is sometimes referenced in diversification discussions. • Summarize why dividends are frequently included in long-term investing conversations across market cycles. • Highlight planning considerations for investment club assets, including potential capital gains implications during account or custodian transitions. • Examine variables that may influence retirement spending needs, reinforcing that planning outcomes vary by household. • Compare commonly discussed perspectives on dollar-cost averaging versus lump-sum investing during periods of market volatility. This episode focuses on education and perspective—not individualized recommendations. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that place investing and retirement topics into long-term context. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the Middle Class Shrinking? & the Quiet Power of Dividend Growth The middle class is shrinking — but perhaps not for the reason you've been told. While headlines often paint a bleak picture of economic decline, the underlying data reveals a much more complex and surprising transformation. Wes Moss dives into the "missing" middle class, using recent data to uncover where those families have actually gone since 1979. Also, Wes pulls back the curtain on a hidden force in the stock market: the math of dividend durability. While many investors are distracted by flashy price targets, they are overlooking a component that has historically accounted for over a third of the market's total return. Wes breaks down why a company's dividend policy is one of the most reliable signals of financial strength and how the "quiet persistence" of dividend growth has consistently outpaced inflation for over sixty years. Mentioned on the show: Fee Only Network - Find A Financial Advisor What Is a Fiduciary Financial Advisor and Do I Need One? How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor Retirement Calculator Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 27, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Market volatility, global headlines, and policy uncertainty continue to shape how investors experience 2026. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd focus on context, not commentary, to help listeners interpret today's fast-moving financial narrative. • Frame rising investor anxiety amid market volatility and geopolitical uncertainty, highlighted by global discussions at Davos. • Contextualize geopolitical developments—including Arctic defense strategy, Greenland, Venezuela, and Middle East tensions—and their influence on markets and sentiment. • Illustrate how rapid headline shifts, from escalation risk to de-escalation, can move markets and emotions within a single trading day. • Outline how fiscal and monetary forces—policy stimulus, liquidity measures, tax dynamics, and regulatory discussions—may be shaping 2026 economic expectations. • Evaluate the role of interest rates and upcoming Federal Reserve meetings in current market narratives. • Review market drawdowns and recoveries since 2020, reinforcing long-term perspective alongside recent volatility. • Emphasize discipline and zooming out as recurring themes when navigating short-term uncertainty. • Examine artificial intelligence discussions through the lens of productivity, workforce evolution, and economic impact. • Compare assets often associated with perceived stability, including gold, utilities, energy, and companies with durable business models. • Revisit historical dividend trends and their role in income-focused investment conversations. • Explain how frequent reaction to news and emotional decision-making have historically influenced investor outcomes, referencing DALBAR research. • Note every day financial changes—such as the end of new penny minting—and their practical implications. Markets will keep changing, but perspective remains essential. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast to follow Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd as they provide structured, long-term context on the financial headlines shaping today's investing conversations.

Gain clear, educational context on today's investing and retirement planning topics with the Retire Sooner Podcast, hosted by Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase. This episode places market trends, investor behavior, and retirement account considerations into long-term perspective using historical data and widely referenced research. In this episode, you'll hear discussions that: • Define the differences between small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap stocks and explain how market-capitalization classifications are commonly discussed in retirement planning. • Examine why individual investors have historically experienced returns that differ from market benchmarks, referencing behavioral research frequently cited by DALBAR. • Compare recent performance trends between the S&P 500 and small-cap indexes while reinforcing that market leadership shifts across cycles. • Explain how trillion-dollar companies have reshaped modern definitions of large-cap and mega-cap stocks. • Review the types of investment options typically available in employer-sponsored retirement plans and discuss why chasing recent performance is often identified as a behavioral risk. • Discuss why small-cap equities remain part of long-term market history conversations while acknowledging higher volatility and variability. • Compare Roth IRAs and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) by outlining differences in tax treatment, eligibility, and planning considerations. • Explain how dividend-focused ETFs are commonly referenced in retirement income discussions and the historical role of dividends in total return. • Reinforce the importance of diversification and disciplined decision-making by addressing behavioral tendencies such as fear of missing out, or FOMO. • Address listener questions on market timing, lump-sum investing, Roth versus traditional 401(k) contributions, and Roth IRAs for younger earners using educational frameworks rather than personalized guidance. Listen to the Retire Sooner Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform—and subscribe to stay connected to conversations designed to provide context, discipline, and long-term perspective on retirement and investing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Large Cap vs. Small Cap: Which Is Best? & Why Your Returns Don't Match the Headlines With the median S&P 500 company now valued at $35 billion and "Mega Caps" like Microsoft reaching the $3+ trillion mark, the scale of the market has reached levels that are difficult to even conceptualize. While large caps have dominated the last three years with returns, Wes highlights why investors shouldn't ignore small and mid-cap categories. With small caps currently catching up in 2026 and offering more attractive valuations, diversifying beyond the top 10 stocks in the S&P 500 is more critical than ever. Also, have you ever wondered why individual investors consistently underperform the broader market. While the S&P 500 has averaged a 13% return over the last decade, the average balanced investor has seen closer to 8%. Wes discusses the framework needed to stop chasing headlines and start building long-term wealth. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 20, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast.. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gain clear, educational perspective on today's highly talked-about market, inflation, and household finance trends in this episode of the Money Matters Podcast. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd connect economic data, market history, and real-world stories to help listeners evaluate financial decisions through a long-term planning lens. • Review the start of earnings season and explain why early results from major banks are drawing attention. • Analyze the latest inflation data and discuss how current trends may affect everyday household expenses. • Clarify how small-cap, mid-cap, and mega-cap classifications are evolving amid growing market concentration. • Examine rising youth sports costs, proposed tax incentives, and why Congress seems increasingly focused on family affordability. Also, connect youth sports economics with personal stories involving travel teams, car repairs, and the changing balance between recreational and elite competition. • Define the concept of the “Tomorrow Investor” while exploring long-term shifts in middle-class wealth and saving behavior. • Highlight national championship ticket prices and how event costs can reflect broader inflation pressures. • Assess the impact of the recent Verizon outage and review typical customer compensation practices following service disruptions. • Compare asset class returns from 1928 through 2025, including inflation, cash, housing, bonds, gold, and U.S. stocks. • Evaluate historical S&P 500 drawdowns, bear markets, and how often market volatility has occurred over time. • Break down the latest U.S. inflation report and discuss why some indicators are described as a “Goldilocks” scenario. • Track changes in average 30-year mortgage rates and what rate movement may signal for homebuyers. • Monitor legislative proposals to cap credit card interest rates and their potential impact on consumer affordability discussions. • Survey improvements in inflation-adjusted income, household net worth, and changes in America's class structure. • Illustrate long-term growth in U.S. productivity, S&P 500 values, and dividend trends using historical data. This episode emphasizes context over commentary by pairing market history with real-life financial experiences. **Listen and subscribe to the **Money Matters Podcast to stay informed on markets, inflation, and long-term financial decision-making.

The Retire Sooner Podcast welcomes Clark Howard alongside Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase for a special episode focused on market history, long-term investing principles, and today's most talked-about financial transitions. The conversation emphasizes context over commentary and highlights how investors often think through uncertainty, change, and market structure. • Highlight Clark Howard's perspective on Warren Buffett stepping down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at age 95 and the transition to Greg Abel. • Review Berkshire Hathaway's long-term role in markets and why its history is frequently referenced alongside the S&P 500. • Frame why long-term market participation is commonly emphasized during periods of leadership change at iconic companies. • Discuss why Clark Howard views this transition as the close of a defining chapter in modern investing history. • Explain how Berkshire Hathaway's conglomerate structure differs from traditional private equity, including transparency and fee considerations. • Examine growing market concentration and the shrinking number of U.S. public companies—and why those trends continue to matter. • Outline how exposure to both public stocks and privately held businesses is often discussed when considering diversification. • Summarize several big-picture themes shaping 2026 conversations, including artificial intelligence, tax-refund dynamics, and election-cycle uncertainty. • Clarify what “dry powder” means and how cash, money market funds, and select bonds are commonly described in retirement safety discussions. • Address listener questions by reviewing general considerations around investing settlement proceeds, tax-advantaged accounts, and dividend-oriented ETFs. This episode offers a thoughtful conversation featuring Clark Howard with Wes Moss, focused on long-term perspective rather than short-term reaction. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions that bring clarity and context to retirement and investing topics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is It Time To Sell Berkshire Hathaway? & 5 Predictions for Investors in 2026 In this episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss dive deep into the legacy of Warren Buffett and what the future holds for Berkshire Hathaway as it enters a new chapter. Wes breaks down the staggering math of Buffett's success, and Clark discusses the "jockey vs. the horse" theory, questioning if the company can maintain its magic without Buffett at the helm. Also, Wes provides his definitive 2026 market outlook by answering five critical questions for investors. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 13, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With markets, economic policy, and investing headlines moving quickly as 2026 begins, separating signal from noise matters more than ever. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Connor Miller provide structured context on widely discussed market and policy topics relevant to long-term financial decision-making. • Review early-2026 market and economic headlines, including federal policy activity and legislative developments affecting financial markets. • Examine institutional investor participation in single-family housing markets across the Southeast and related affordability discussions. • Analyze policy proposals that would limit large investors from purchasing single-family homes and the uncertainties surrounding their potential effects. • Explain the proposed design of Trump accounts, a child-focused savings framework often compared to features of IRAs and 529 plans. • Discuss how geopolitical developments involving Venezuela are commonly reflected in energy markets and global pricing narratives. • Describe characteristics frequently associated with later-stage bull markets using historical market cycle examples. • Compare current market conditions with long-term averages for bull-market length and performance for context. • Evaluate recent shifts in market leadership from a narrow concentration of stocks toward broader participation. • Assess how artificial intelligence is moving from conceptual narratives to practical corporate implementation across sectors. • Review discussions surrounding tax refunds, recent tax code changes, and their relationship to economic activity. • Outline recent Federal Reserve interest-rate decisions and how monetary policy is typically evaluated in portfolio discussions. • Summarize historical volatility patterns during midterm election years within the presidential election cycle. Listen to the Money Matters Podcast with Wes Moss and Connor Miller for educational discussions on markets, investing, and financial planning topics shaping today's headlines. Subscribe to stay informed as economic narratives evolve throughout 2026 and beyond.

Start the year with structured context around today's most frequently discussed retirement planning questions on the Retire Sooner Podcast, hosted by Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase. This episode presents an educational review of real listener scenarios, placing retirement, investing, and planning topics within a long-term analytical framework. • Review current U.S. wealth statistics by discussing commonly cited data on net worth, retirement account balances, and generational financial trends. • Outline household risk considerations by examining how families often think about emergency savings, retirement contributions, and income stability. • Discuss real estate planning considerations by evaluating factors involved in purchasing a condo for college-bound children, including cash flow and potential resale dynamics. • Describe fiduciary planning relationships by outlining services commonly associated with comprehensive retirement planning, tax coordination, and advisory fee structures. • Explain the “Rule of 55” by clarifying how early access to employer-sponsored retirement plans is typically referenced. • Summarize shared characteristics of long-term savers by highlighting recurring themes reported by listeners with higher household savings levels. • Compare buffered ETFs by discussing how downside buffers and capped upside features are typically weighed within diversified portfolios. • Examine mortgage buyout scenarios by outlining considerations for co-owned property, interest-rate assumptions, and loan structure implications. • Analyze bond duration risk by discussing how interest-rate changes and yield-curve movements may influence long-duration bond pricing. If you're searching for clear, educational discussions around retirement planning, investing considerations, and household financial decision-making, this episode may add perspective. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that help place financial topics in a long-term context. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are You Wealthy? Use These Numbers To Find Out & Simple Math Behind Millionaires Are you curious how your net worth compares to the rest of the country? Wes Moss dives into the latest data from the Federal Reserve's Study of Consumer Finances and top financial institutions to paint a clear picture of wealth in America today. Also, Wes helps to draw the roadmap for the next generation of millionaires. Inspired by the wisdom of the Clark Howard community, Wes outlines a simple, repeatable blueprint for financial freedom. By focusing on patience and the power of consistent contributions, reaching a seven-figure nest egg is more achievable than ever. Whether you are starting with $1,000 a month or aiming to max out your 401(k), we show you how a few decades of discipline can transform your financial future and put you on the path to becoming a "financial force of nature." Mentioned on the show: Retirement Calculator Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the January 6, 2026, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Searching for clear context around retirement planning, investing decisions, and household finance questions? In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase walk through commonly discussed financial planning scenarios using an educational, long-term framework grounded in real listener questions. • Examine how mortgage payoff considerations are often weighed against investing after-tax dollars in taxable brokerage accounts. • Explain how 401(k) providers typically track traditional and Roth contributions and why contribution records can matter over time. • Compare UGMA, UTMA, and 529 accounts by outlining ownership rules, flexibility trade-offs, and financial-aid considerations. • Describe how fund expense ratios and asset-based fees are commonly reflected in investment performance reporting. • Outline frequently discussed approaches to working with fiduciary financial planners, including hourly services versus ongoing advisory relationships. • Discuss how portfolio risk and asset allocation are often evaluated as investors approach retirement. • Illustrate how dollar-cost averaging is commonly referenced when investing lump sums amid market uncertainty. • Review dividend reinvestment options by distinguishing between automatic reinvestment and manual cash allocation decisions. • Clarify spousal IRA contribution rules that are often cited when one spouse has limited or no earned income. Listen to this episode of the Money Matters Podcast for a practical, educational conversation about retirement planning and investment decision-making. Subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast to stay connected to ongoing discussions focused on clarity, context, and long-term financial thinking.

What actually shapes life in retirement—your finances, your relationships, or both? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase walk through new research on happiness in retirement and unpack several financial and economic topics that often come up in retirement planning conversations. • Share findings from a 2025 Money and Happiness in America study that looks at how social connection is commonly linked to reported retirement satisfaction. • Talk through research showing how the number of close personal relationships is often discussed when measuring happiness among retirees. • Reflect on how American friendships have changed over time and why staying socially connected is frequently part of retirement lifestyle discussions. • Put into context recent government jobs reports by explaining what unemployment and labor-market numbers generally indicate. • Walk through estate-planning considerations around life insurance, guardians, and trustees that many families review over time. • Cover the core factors people often look at when evaluating bond funds, including yield, duration, expenses, and benchmarks. • Discuss how Roth IRAs, traditional IRAs, brokerage accounts, and HELOCs are commonly weighed when addressing short-term cash needs during real-estate transitions. • Answer listener questions about Roth IRA contributions, in-plan conversions, account-funding priorities, and retirement-plan considerations when changing jobs. The episode keeps the focus on education, context, and real-world questions retirees and pre-retirees are already asking. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations that connect money, lifestyle, and long-term planning—without the hype. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Little-Known '3.6 Rule' for a Happy Retirement & Is the Job Market Good or Bad? Wes Moss dives into the critical connection between social capital and financial security, revealing a surprising "magic number" from his 2025 Money and Happiness in America Study. While most people focus strictly on their 401(k), the data shows that intentionality in your social life is just as vital as intentionality in your investments. Also, Wes breaks down the latest labor data to determine if the "Goldilocks" era of employment is here to stay. With the unemployment rate ticking up to 4.6%, Wes looks past the headlines to analyze the Employment-Population Ratio, which remains strong. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 30, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments!Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want clearer context around today's most discussed retirement planning questions—without hype or shortcuts? In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase address listener questions and planning scenarios that illustrate how retirement income, investing decisions, and lifestyle priorities are commonly evaluated over time. • Explore how holiday traditions and intentional rest are often discussed as elements of lifestyle planning throughout retirement. • Review early retirement scenarios by outlining how asset allocation, withdrawal considerations, and legacy goals are typically framed in planning conversations. • Compare alternatives to 529 plans for grandchildren by discussing custodial Roth IRAs, joint accounts, and UTMA accounts, along with commonly referenced considerations. • Clarify how financial advisors are frequently described beyond investment selection by addressing coordination, decision-making support, and long-term planning oversight. • Explain how the Rule of 55 is commonly referenced when discussing early access to retirement accounts and retirement timing considerations. • Illustrate an international retirement example through “Almost Free Freddie,” reviewing how cost-of-living assumptions, pensions, VA income, and rental properties are often evaluated. • Discuss the role of small- and mid-cap stocks within diversified portfolios and how companies may evolve across market cycles. • Reassess the “happy retiree” home-value benchmark by placing housing inflation and mortgage status into broader retirement planning context. Designed to provide clarity, perspective, and education—not predictions—this episode adds structure to complex retirement topics. Listen to the Money Matters Podcast and subscribe for ongoing discussions centered on retirement planning, investing principles, and long-term financial decision-making.

Looking for clear context around today's most talked-about retirement planning issues? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase present an educational discussion covering healthcare planning, retirement income considerations, Social Security decisions, and how current economic conditions are commonly framed in retirement conversations. • Review current healthcare enrollment periods, including Affordable Care Act considerations, and why coverage timing is often discussed by early retirees. • Illustrate a real-world healthcare planning example that examines estimating and managing medical costs before age 65 using publicly available comparison tools. • Explain recent healthcare policy changes by outlining how subsidy rules and updated federal poverty thresholds are referenced in retirement healthcare planning. • Contextualize recent Federal Reserve rate cuts by discussing how interest-rate changes are typically viewed in relation to mortgages, housing activity, and broader economic conditions. • Address listener questions by outlining commonly discussed considerations around retirement timing, asset allocation approaches, principal-protected notes, and early retirement trade-offs. • Compare Social Security claiming considerations by reviewing trade-offs associated with different filing ages based on individual circumstances. • Clarify how taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts are often viewed together when discussing overall portfolio allocation. • Share perspectives from retirees on aligning lifestyle goals—such as travel, part-time work, or relocating abroad—with sustainable withdrawal planning discussions. • Reinforce why significant financial and healthcare decisions are commonly reviewed with qualified professionals before implementation. Interested in an educational retirement podcast focused on context, trade-offs, and long-term planning awareness? Listen to this episode and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing conversations designed to inform retirement planning decisions—not predict outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Secret to Affordable Healthcare & Will Mortgage Rates Go to 5% Soon? Wes Moss reveals a critical, little-known healthcare secret that can save early retirees, job-leavers, and other Americans thousands of dollars a month on medical coverage before age 65. Hear the incredible story of Rebecca, who thought she was stuck paying $2,500/month for COBRA but discovered a way to slash her premium to less than $200 through the ACA, thanks to enhanced subsidies. Wes walks through how to use free resources to save big. Also, Wes breaks down the latest Fed rate cut and explains why it may not mean cheaper mortgages. Mentioned on the show: Calculator: ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credit National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 23, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Economic data, market trends, and retirement planning topics are often discussed without sufficient historical context. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd present an educational discussion that places recent economic releases and market observations within a long-term analytical framework. • Review the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release by situating current inflation readings within more than 80 years of historical inflation data. • Examine the historical development of the Federal Reserve's 2% inflation target by comparing it with observed inflation outcomes across multiple economic periods. • Discuss how recent government shutdowns delayed scheduled economic data releases and why temporary reporting gaps can affect short-term market narratives. • Explain commonly referenced employment metrics by outlining the differences between the household survey and the establishment survey used in labor market reporting. • Evaluate the employment-to-population ratio (EPOP), including prime working-age participation, as a frequently cited measure of labor market conditions. • Illustrate how year-over-year and multi-year inflation rates can demonstrate the compounding effect of price changes on purchasing power over time. • Compare historical inflation trends with long-term S&P 500 dividend growth to provide context on income-oriented equity characteristics. • Revisit balanced 60/40 portfolio performance in historical discussions to reinforce diversification as a commonly referenced investment framework. • Place the current bull market within a broader historical context by reviewing average cycle durations and the range of outcomes observed over time. • Observe market behavior following spring volatility, including changes in sector participation within the S&P 500. • Highlight ongoing public discussion around artificial intelligence and its potential role in productivity and efficiency across multiple economic sectors. • Review publicly reported fiscal stimulus expectations, including projected changes to tax refunds in 2026 and their possible macroeconomic implications. • Consider housing and real estate themes for the coming year by outlining economic and demographic factors commonly associated with market activity. • Summarize research-based observations on retiree well-being, including written planning approaches, engagement in meaningful activities, and social connection. For listeners seeking discussion about inflation, employment data, market history, and retirement planning concepts, this episode provides structured context grounded in long-term observations. Listen to the Money Matters Podcast and subscribe to stay informed about highly searched financial topics.

Looking for an educational overview of today's most commonly searched retirement planning topics? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase provide context around retirement income planning, tax considerations, and widely referenced financial frameworks, helping listeners better understand how these concepts are typically discussed. • Review how Roth IRA conversions are generally evaluated and why converting an entire retirement account balance in a single tax year can materially affect taxable income calculations. • Explain how marginal tax brackets apply to large conversions and why simplified terms like “tax bomb” may not fully reflect how tax liability is determined. • Highlight considerations associated with forgotten or inactive 401(k) accounts and why consolidation is often discussed from an organizational or administrative perspective. • Examine how withdrawal flexibility prior to Social Security eligibility is commonly framed when discussing early-retirement income planning. • Outline factors frequently reviewed when evaluating whether life insurance coverage remains appropriate as family and financial circumstances change. • Clarify how Secure 2.0 legislation outlines limited 529 plan–to–Roth IRA rollovers, including applicable statutory rules, eligibility criteria, and contribution constraints. • Compare the traditionally cited 4% withdrawal framework with alternative retirement income scenarios that include pensions or guaranteed fixed-rate income sources. • Discuss how “dry powder” reserves are often described using bond ETFs or money market ladders within retirement planning conversations. • Evaluate the role small- and mid-capitalization stocks may play alongside large-cap equities within diversified, long-term portfolio discussions. • Reframe home value benchmarks in an inflationary environment while noting why mortgage status is often considered when assessing retirement readiness. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions that explore retirement planning concepts, market context, and long-term financial considerations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How To Feel Good About Spending in Retirement & Big Changes to Your 2026 Taxes Are you a lifelong saver struggling to spend your retirement nest egg? You're not alone! Many people who successfully save a significant amount face a major psychological hurdle when it comes time to shift from an accumulation mindset to a distribution (spending) mindset. Wes Moss breaks down how to overcome the psychological barrier of watching your retirement balance go down and how to finally feel good about enjoying the money you worked so hard to save. Also, Wes tackles the most timely and impactful tax changes coming up, including a checklist of six critical actions to consider before the end of the year to potentially lower your tax bill for 2026. Mentioned on the show: How To Find and Choose a Financial Advisor  Best Financial Advisors in 2025 Year-End Tax Moves Worth Your Time IRS Announces New Tax Brackets and Other Changes for 2026 What Brokerage Do You Recommend for First-Time Investors or Kids? Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA): What It Is and How It Works Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 16, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Connor Miller offer an educational discussion on current financial market headlines, retirement planning considerations, and developments in artificial intelligence. • Review publicly reported details of Disney's collaboration with OpenAI and discuss how large media organizations are evaluating AI-enabled content tools. • Examine Time Magazine's recognition of the collective “Architects of AI” as 2025's Persons of the Year and what that designation reflects about technology's growing prominence. Then, reflect on past Time Person of the Year selections to provide cultural and economic context across different market eras. • Discuss widely cited data on the increase in millionaire 401(k) accounts and explain how market conditions and contribution patterns can sometimes influence account balances. • Summarize the Federal Reserve's recent monetary policy decision, often described as a “hawkish cut,” including how commentators interpret interest-rate signaling. • Compare the recent performance of the Magnificent Seven stocks with the broader S&P 500 to illustrate changes in market concentration over time. • Highlight market data showing broader participation in equity returns, with a greater share of S&P 500 companies posting positive performance. • Revisit common asset allocation discussions involving balanced portfolios, including equities and fixed income, in long-term planning contexts. • Explain how short-term and long-term interest rates can respond differently to policy changes and why those distinctions are often referenced in borrowing discussions. • Review current U.S. labor market indicators—such as jobless claims, labor force participation, and wage growth—based on widely followed economic releases. • Outline health insurance marketplace open-enrollment timelines and general considerations individuals often review when evaluating coverage options. • Discuss survey-based research identifying an association between having a written retirement plan and reported retirement satisfaction, without implying causation. • Consider how economists and analysts describe AI's potential role in productivity and economic growth, acknowledging uncertainty and variability. • Preview commonly discussed themes for 2026, including historical patterns around election cycles, market volatility, and consumer spending behavior. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast for ongoing discussions that help frame financial topics within a broader, long-term perspective.

Gain a grounded, research-informed perspective on retirement planning in this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, where Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase examine the emotional, behavioral, and organizational factors that often influence how individuals approach life after work. This conversation highlights commonly referenced frameworks and planning considerations, offering context for listeners seeking to better understand the many moving parts of a thoughtful retirement process. • Explore the behavioral and psychological dynamics behind transitioning from a saver mindset to a spending mindset in retirement, including the frequently cited “millionaire's paradox.” • Understand how creating a written retirement plan may help provide structure, along with why general withdrawal frameworks—such as the commonly referenced 4%+ rule—are used for discussion rather than as recommendations. • Consider approaches for maintaining emotional objectivity when making financial decisions throughout retirement. • Reflect on why some financial professionals continue working and how their experience may contribute to broader retirement-planning conversations. • Review the potential role a fiduciary or financial advisor may play in helping individuals identify common planning pitfalls, organize long-term strategies, and evaluate tax and estate considerations. • Identify widely used criteria for assessing whether a fiduciary advisor aligns with an individual's values, communication preferences, and planning philosophy. • Explore end-of-year tax-related considerations—including SALT limits, charitable deduction rules, HSAs, clean-energy credits, bonus depreciation provisions, and updates to 529 plan flexibility—while recognizing that tax implications depend on each household's specific circumstances. • Evaluate the educational value some families see in establishing custodial investment accounts for children or grandchildren as part of broader financial learning. • Assess the administrative reasons some individuals review whether consolidating retirement accounts may support clearer oversight of their financial landscape. If you're interested in expanding your understanding of the factors that may shape retirement decision-making, this episode offers context to help you think through your own process. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for ongoing discussions centered on thoughtful, well-informed retirement planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Costly IRA Conversion Warning & the Hidden Billions Americans Are Leaving Behind In this episode, fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss tackles a piece of financial advice that he calls "lunacy" and "insanity" – a recent Op-Ed arguing that retirees should convert their entire Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA in a single year. Wes explains why this academic advice is a dangerous real-world strategy, warning listeners about the potential for a massive tax bill that could reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. Also, Wes addresses a sinister issue in retirement savings: billions of dollars in "forgotten" 401(k) balances. Wes warns that this money is often parked in cash or a low-interest money market, missing out on decades of critical growth. Mentioned on the show: Forgotten 401(k) Accounts Are Costing Americans Billions in Lost Investment Gains Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 9, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Year-End Money Moves, Market Shifts, and Tax Changes: What's Shaping Retirement Conversations Description: Get ready for a clear, well-structured look at today's widely searched financial and retirement topics. In this episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd provide informational context on market history, tax rules, consumer data, and economic developments—without forecasting or suggesting strategies. Review the Enron collapse as a historical case study and explain how Nvidia's position in the S&P 500 reflects the routine rebalancing and evolution of major market indexes. Outline the Federal Reserve's interest rate cycle and describe recent policy decisions as part of the current economic backdrop. Summarize Black Friday and Cyber Monday spending figures to illustrate how consumer activity is monitored during peak shopping periods. Note how changes in gas prices may affect household cash flow and day-to-day spending considerations. Highlight that all S&P 500 sectors reported positive performance this year and acknowledge the sectors that showed stronger historical results, without implying any future performance or recommendations. Present scheduled 2026 tax provisions and identify areas often reviewed by taxpayers, including SALT deduction parameters and charitable contribution thresholds. Explain updates related to HSA eligibility and outline expanded flexibility introduced within 529 plan guidelines. Clarify the timing requirements associated with the 30% clean energy credit for qualifying home improvements completed within the current tax year. Describe the reinstatement of 100% bonus depreciation for certain types of business equipment under current tax law. This episode offers an informational overview for listeners who want to stay aware of economic and financial topics relevant to retirement planning conversations. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast to continue receiving clear, well-framed discussions about markets, taxes, and long-term financial structures.

Stay informed about today's highly-searched retirement and financial planning topics in this new episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase. Gain clear, accessible context on economic trends, retirement rules, portfolio structures, and planning conversations that are shaping long-term decision-making discussions. • Explore how the proposed 50-year mortgage is influencing conversations around affordability, home-equity timelines, and shifting real estate structures. • Recognize how the K-shaped economy reflects differing financial experiences across households and shapes discussions about consumer sentiment and wealth-building patterns. • Clarify how mortgage leverage and ultra-long terms relate to borrowing structures, payoff timelines, and the considerations homeowners may evaluate. • Understand how equal-weighted investing frameworks are designed to help distribute exposure more evenly across sectors to address concentration awareness. • Review how equal-weighted and sector-weighted ETFs and mutual funds structure market exposure and present alternative allocation methodologies. • Assess the factors often discussed when evaluating early Social Security filing, especially when immediate income needs are already met. • Compare modeled scenarios that illustrate how different 401(k) contribution timelines can affect projected balances under various assumptions. • Examine informational considerations for highly compensated employees, including restoration plan structures, tax mechanics, and withdrawal rules. • Weigh the structural differences between W-2 and 1099 income in high-income medical professions, including taxation, liability frameworks, and benefits access. • Explore available approaches for high earners encountering Roth IRA limits, such as after-tax contributions, mega-backdoor Roth structures, and ETF allocation strategies. • Hear listener questions addressing savings habits, employer-plan options, and retirement-plan mechanics discussed in real-world scenarios. • Identify informational steps that may support ongoing awareness throughout different stages of retirement planning. If you want to stay current on the retirement conversations shaping today's financial landscape, listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast. Join Wes Moss, Christa DiBiase, and the Retire Sooner community for grounded, ongoing discussions aimed at helping listeners stay informed and intentional about long-term planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

50-Year Mortgage: Game Changer or Gimmick? & the Key to Winning a 401(k) Wes Moss dives into the new 50-year mortgage, which he calls a gimmick but sees one potential benefit. Since ownership is key to financial security and the median home-buying age is rising, the concept of starting the equity journey sooner is good. However, Wes and Christa talk about a huge warning if you're considering it. Also, Wes shares a powerful story about the key to winning your 401(k). The story illustrates a real-life outcome for many Americans, emphasizing how a few years' delay or a few percentage points of savings are huge variables that compound over time. Mentioned on the show: Is Robinhood Gold Worth It? The Key to a Winning 401(k) Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the December 2, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to stay informed about today's highly searched retirement topics and financial planning questions? The latest Money Matters Podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase brings together real-world case studies, retirement strategies, and economic context to help listeners think clearly about long-term decisions. • Reconsider how to frame financial inheritance and lifelong money habits by emphasizing independence, planning skills, and non-monetary lessons. • Reflect on a story about balancing parental support with maintaining retirement priorities, including decisions around student loan assistance for adult children. • Review how Target Date Funds work—covering structure, glide paths, and withdrawal considerations—and assess how often individuals may revisit retirement plans based on lifestyle or market changes. • Track the ongoing conversation around backdoor Roth IRA strategies and compare the broader points often considered in the Roth vs. Traditional IRA evaluation, from FIRE approaches to traditional retirement timelines. • Observe how artificial intelligence is reshaping labor market trends and identify emerging fields—technology, agriculture, home services, estate planning—affected by demographic shifts and innovation. • Examine the considerations related to managing one-time payments such as settlements or back pay, including the potential impact of timing on taxable income. • Enjoy a light segment on popular apple varieties as an illustration of everyday value-focused consumer choices. • Clarify how to think about retirement readiness by evaluating predictable income sources alongside your total savings picture. This episode provides grounded, educational context without predictions or guarantees. Listen and subscribe to the Money Matters Podcast to stay informed and connected to today's most relevant conversations in personal finance and retirement planning.

Are you prepared for the major life catalysts that may influence your retirement planning and long-term lifestyle? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Producer Mallory highlight key moments that can shape financial decisions, expectations, and overall well-being. • Explore how the “Retire Sooner Richter Scale” frames the relative influence of major life catalysts on retirement planning. • Recognize how family transitions—college milestones, caring for aging parents, or losing a spouse—may shift emotional, logistical, and financial considerations. • Consider how relationship changes, such as marriage, remarriage, or divorce, may alter household finances and planning priorities. • Evaluate how moving, home renovations, or major projects can temporarily affect budgets and long-term plans. • Embrace core pursuits, travel decisions, and lifelong learning as accessible ways to support purpose and engagement in retirement. • Assess job changes, early retirement offers, or selling a business as catalysts for reassessing benefits, income, and next-phase goals. • Acknowledge that inheritance may help, but generally works best as a supplemental planning element. • Track milestone ages—59½, 62, 65, 67, 70, 73—that align with key retirement, Social Security, and healthcare rules. • Explore “unretirement,” including part-time work or renewed professional involvement. • Monitor market conditions and potential tax law changes that may influence planning assumptions. • Prioritize reducing debt, including mortgages, to support long-term flexibility. • Anticipate long-term care needs and evaluate available coverage options. • Update estate documents—wills, trusts, and powers of attorney—as circumstances evolve. If you want a concise, research-informed overview of catalysts that may influence retirement readiness, this episode delivers meaningful context. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast, and share it with someone who may appreciate clear, objective discussions around long-term financial planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to explore the real questions shaping today's retirement conversations? In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase respond to listener scenarios on family financial decisions, workplace retirement plans, and the changing job landscape—offering context to help listeners better understand the factors involved in long-term planning. In this episode, you'll: • Explore how non-monetary inheritance can influence family values, expectations, and financial communication across generations. • Review key considerations when evaluating whether to help adult children with debt while maintaining alignment with your own financial priorities. • Understand how focusing on personal financial stability can contribute to more durable and sustainable multigenerational planning. • Clarify what may occur when accessing target date funds and how portfolio allocation generally functions within workplace retirement plans. • Analyze the current discussion surrounding backdoor Roth IRA strategies in connection with 2025 tax legislation and broader tax-advantaged planning choices. • Assess situations that may prompt a review of your financial plan, including market fluctuations, life transitions, or meaningful changes in account balances. • Highlight World Economic Forum projections on how artificial intelligence may influence workforce trends and job categories over the coming years. • Identify occupations that may evolve, contract, or emerge as technology expands—from smart-home system roles to next-generation agricultural positions. • Compare traditional and Roth considerations commonly discussed within the FIRE community across various income situations. • Outline factors individuals may consider when receiving lump-sum back pay, including potential implications for overall financial planning. • Enjoy a lighthearted discussion about Gala versus SnapDragon apples and how everyday preferences can reflect broader spending habits. • Examine how fixed-income sources can be viewed within the context of an individual's overall retirement framework. This episode provides clear, educational discussion for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of retirement-related topics. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to stay connected to future conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Ultimate Inheritance for Your Kids and Will AI Actually Create More Jobs? In this episode, Wes Moss shares the real-life story of a couple who is wrestling with the common parental dilemma of whether to pay off their son's significant student debt. While the urge to help is strong, Wes breaks down the financial reality, explaining why protecting your own retirement is actually the greatest act of love and generational generosity you can give your kids. Also, Wes shifts gears to the economy, diving into the fear that AI is taking all the jobs. Drawing on a comprehensive World Economic Forum report, he offers a surprisingly optimistic outlook: while some existing jobs will be displaced, the creation of an estimated 170 million new jobs globally will result in a substantial net gain. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the November 18, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast.. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready to explore thoughtful, research-driven ways to help plan for financial confidence and fulfillment in retirement? In this episode of The Retire Sooner Podcast with Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase, the hosts unpack timely topics around housing trends, investment considerations, and purposeful living—helping listeners make informed, values-based decisions for their next chapter. • Review current housing market trends and how shifting buyer and seller dynamics may be influencing property values across the U.S. • Identify regions where housing supply and demand are changing, and how local factors might shape opportunities for homeowners and prospective buyers. • Clarify the relationship between Federal Reserve rate changes and mortgage rates, and understand the broader economic influences that affect borrowing costs. • Compare the considerations of maintaining retirement assets in a TSP versus transferring to another investment platform, including factors like plan flexibility, fees, and ERISA protections. • Evaluate ways to balance cash, bonds, and equities in a diversified portfolio when interest rates fluctuate, keeping long-term goals and risk tolerance in focus. • Discuss how Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) and TIPS ladders might function as inflation-aware options within a retirement income strategy. • Explore the potential role of dividend-paying stocks in retirement portfolios, recognizing both their income potential and market risk factors. • Reflect on the story of a 58-year-old who joined a college football team, illustrating how personal growth and purpose can possibly remain central at any stage of life. • Hear examples of retirees finding meaning in second careers, creative work, and volunteer efforts, highlighting how purpose may support emotional and financial well-being. • Consider how partnering with a fiduciary financial advisor can sometimes help you evaluate choices, understand trade-offs, and create a plan that aligns with your family's priorities. Stay informed and intentional as you think through what your own version of a fulfilling, financially confident retirement could look like. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast for thoughtful discussions on investing, financial planning, and attempting to live a happier, more purposeful life in retirement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Top 10 'Overvalued' Cities and Second Act Career: A One-in-a-Million Story In this episode, Wes Moss dives deep into the housing market, revealing why it has become the most extreme buyer's market in a decade. Wes breaks down the latest data, pinpointing the top 10 "overvalued" cities that have the biggest seller-to-buyer imbalance, with some areas seeing over 160% more sellers. He also covers the updated list of the most and least expensive housing markets in the U.S. Also, Wes shares an incredible story about a one-in-a-million "second act" career. Meet Tom Cillo, a 58-year-old who is living out an unfinished purpose by playing college football. Wes shares how Tom's journey can motivate you to find fulfillment, connection, and a sense of purpose in your own "second act," proving it's never too late to pursue a dream. Mentioned on the show: WSJ - He's 58 and Trying to Break Into College Football. Is Basketball Next? Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the November 11, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stay informed about the changing retirement landscape with hosts Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase as they unpack today's relevant financial topics—from the growing influence of AI-related stocks to strategies for maintaining a well-balanced retirement plan. This episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast focuses on education, awareness, and practical insights to help you better understand the factors that can potentially shape your long-term financial journey. • Explore how AI-related stocks are influencing the S&P 500 and what increased market concentration may mean for maintaining a diversified investment mix. • Review thoughtful rebalancing considerations designed to help preserve diversification across asset classes—including small caps, mid caps, international equities, and fixed income. • Understand the structure and potential risks of employee stock purchase plans (ESPPs), including holding periods and portfolio exposure considerations. • Clarify what the idea of a “million-dollar retirement” represents by examining how individual goals, income needs, and household spending habits differ. • Consider long-term planning concepts such as Roth IRA conversions for inherited assets and the potential benefits of engaging multiple generations in family financial discussions. • Examine the latest Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), how it compares historically, and common perspectives regarding future program sustainability. • Evaluate options for managing excess savings allocated toward shorter-term goals—such as travel or home projects—based on time horizon and comfort with potential market movement. • Discuss flexible withdrawal and income planning considerations that may help support the transition from early retirement to Social Security eligibility. Enhance your financial awareness and stay up to date with the Retire Sooner Podcast. Listen and subscribe for educational discussions on market trends, retirement fundamentals, and strategies to help you make well-informed financial decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Your Portfolio Too AI-Heavy? and Does Social Security COLA Keep Up With Inflation? In this episode, Wes Moss shares startling JP Morgan research: just 41 AI-related stocks now account for nearly 50% of the S&P 500's weight, making the market severely overweight in a single theme. Wes offers actionable advice on how to rebalance your portfolio. Also, with the new COLA increase, Wes sets the record straight on Social Security, demonstrating that it has quietly been one of America's best inflation fighters since 1975. He examines the history of COLA adjustments and provides an honest assessment of the fear surrounding the Social Security trust fund running out, clarifying what that worst-case scenario truly means for current and future retirees. Mentioned on the show: Rule 72(t): Secret Rule To Access Your IRA Early Rule of 72 Calculator - Clark Howard Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the November 4, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clark Howard and Wes Moss: Is the Market Overvalued? and 401(k) Private Equity Debate Is today's stock market dangerously overvalued — or still worth riding? In this special Ask an Advisor episode, Clark Howard and Wes Moss break down what's driving record-high valuations, and how to stay invested without taking on too much risk. Then, the pair debate a big change coming to retirement plans: private equity in 401(k)s. Clark warns this could open the door to hidden fees and confusion for everyday workers, while Wes sees potential benefits if costs come down and transparency improves. Together, they offer a candid look at how investors can protect their savings — and their peace of mind — in an evolving market. All this and more on the October 28, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes.  Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Next Big Shift in Retirement Investing For decades, your 401(k) has meant stocks and bonds — but that's about to change. Wes Moss dives into a major shift coming to retirement investing: private equity entering your 401(k). Private equity could open the door to investing in the other 87% of the U.S. economy — but should you be excited or cautious? Wes explains what this new era of 401(k) investing might really look like. Mentioned on the show: Wall Street Is Pushing Private Assets Into 401(k)s. We Asked Whether Anyone Wants Them.Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the October 21, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bull Market Turns 3: Can It Keep Going? and the Truth About Feeling Financially “Set” We've hit the three-year mark of this bull market — stocks are up, dividends are strong, and history tells us there could still be room to run. But what happens next? Wes Moss breaks down the data and explains what history says about how long bull markets typically last — and why patience and balance matter most right now. Also, Wes explores what it really means to be financially “set” — and why that doesn't always mean being settled. Whether you have $100,000 or $10 million, peace of mind comes from having a plan — and revisiting it often. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the October 14, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Inflation Good or Bad for the Market? and the $5 Million Dollar American Dream The market loves a "Goldilocks" environment, but what is the magic number for inflation that delivers the highest stock returns? Wes dives into the data to show how inflation rates directly impact your portfolio. Also, Investopedia put a price tag on the American Dream, but Wes has a reality check. Find out what you need to earn over your working career to afford a home, raise kids, pay for college, and reach the "Green Zone" in retirement. Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the October 7, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions at clark.com/ask. We hope you enjoy our weekly Ask An Advisor episodes, in which Christa and Wes discuss investing and retirement savings in depth. Let us know what you think in the comments! Learn more about Wes:  BOOKS BY WES MOSS   Wes Moss, CFP®  Wes Moss - Clark.com Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices