Episodes

  • Tax Preparation vs. Tax Planning

    Tax Preparation vs. Tax Planning
    Jan 17 2026
    In this episode, we break down the critical distinction between tax preparation—the backward-looking process of filing your annual return—and tax planning, which is the proactive strategy of minimizing your tax burden over a lifetime. We explore how simply "doing your taxes" in April focuses on compliance, while true planning involves year-round decisions like Roth conversions and income timing to keep more of your hard-earned money. Tune in to learn why moving from a reactive mindset to a forward-thinking plan is one of the most effective ways to accelerate your path to financial independence.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • New Year Financial Planning Checklist

    New Year Financial Planning Checklist
    Jan 10 2026
    As you kick off 2026, this episode provides a comprehensive New Year Financial Planning Checklist to ensure your foundation is rock-solid for the year ahead. We break down the most impactful moves you can make right now, from rebalancing your investment portfolio to auditing your recurring subscriptions and debt strategy. Join us as we move beyond vague resolutions and provide the concrete actions you need to achieve financial clarity and confidence this year.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Gratitude and Year-End Planning

    Gratitude and Year-End Planning
    Nov 29 2025
    This episode blends the power of gratitude with the necessity of smart, proactive year-end financial planning to set you up for success in the new year. We discuss key year-end actions, including strategies for tax-loss harvesting, maximizing retirement contributions, and making final charitable donations to minimize your tax bill. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to finishing the current year strong and aligning your financial actions with your personal values and goals.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Why You Need an Emergency Fund

    Why You Need an Emergency Fund
    Nov 15 2025
    An emergency fund is the financial foundation you need to survive unexpected crises without derailing your long-term goals or accumulating high-interest debt. This episode breaks down exactly how much cash you should set aside, the best place to keep that money to ensure liquidity, and the common pitfalls to avoid when building your savings. Learn how to recession-proof your personal finances and gain invaluable peace of mind with a fully funded safety net.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Market Update with Keith Gangl

    Market Update with Keith Gangl
    Nov 8 2025
    This episode features a timely Market Update with our guest, veteran Portfolio Manager Keith Gangl. Keith analyzes the most recent economic releases and central bank decisions, detailing exactly how these factors are influencing market movements across stocks and bonds. Tune in for his expert perspective on current volatility, and the practical investment strategies he recommends for positioning your portfolio today.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Shutdown Status

    Shutdown Status
    Nov 1 2025
    As Washington gridlock continues, we analyze the real-time financial consequences of a government shutdown, from frozen small business loans to delayed critical economic data. We break down the historical impact of shutdowns on the S&P 500, bonds, and Treasuries, revealing why markets often react differently than the headlines suggest. Tune in for smart, non-emotional strategies to recession-proof your portfolio against political uncertainty and short-term volatility.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Scary Financial Mistakes to Avoid

    Scary Financial Mistakes to Avoid
    Oct 25 2025
    This week, we expose the shocking cost of high-interest debt, the terrifying risk of not having an emergency fund, and the silent killer of compounding inflation. Learn to avoid these common mistakes and implement strategies to secure your financial future before they turn your retirement into a nightmare.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Year-End Checklist for 2025

    Year-End Checklist for 2025
    Oct 11 2025
    Finish 2025 strong and set yourself up for financial success in the new year with our essential year-end checklist. We walk you through critical tasks like maximizing your retirement contributions and HSA funds, tackling required minimum distributions (RMDs), and strategically timing your charitable giving for the best tax advantage. Get practical tips on reviewing your budget, rebalancing your investment portfolio, and updating beneficiaries to ensure your finances are organized and optimized before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st.
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    Less than 1 minute