Talking Real Money - Investing Talk

Wes Crill from Dimensional Funds joins us to discuss: 1:47 Election Anxiety 3:51 Presidential Concerns 6:03 Market Concentration 7:37 Diversification Dilemma 10:15 Small Cap Superiority 10:56 Global Market Balance 14:18 Rebalancing Challenge 16:10 New Market Highs 17:18 Equity Portfolio Strategy 23:43 Crypto Curiosity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom meets Don and listeners in Madison, Wisconsin: 0:35 Welcome to Talking Real Money live from Goodland Park 8:19 The insurance industry's challenge with transparency 12:34 The importance of recognizing ethical financial advisors 24:19 The importance of financial literacy for investing 31:26 Making informed decisions about high-interest savings accounts 36:13 Wrapping up the show in Madison, Wisconsin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom meets Don on the road trip in a park in Madison, Wisconsin: 0:04 The Corn Chronicles 1:33 Ethanol Insights 5:31 Financial Decisions 7:32 Risky Yields 10:44 Insurance Insights 13:06 Too Good to Be True 17:00 Retirement Dilemma 25:05 Portfolio Simplification Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Q&A session: 0:07 Die with Zero concept and spending for experiences 1:37 Audience member's humorous desire for a bounced check 9:22 Bill Perkins' extravagant birthday celebration and giving away wealth 11:19 Importance of enjoying life and family experiences 13:53 Valuable life lessons and considerations on money management 17:22 Avoiding risky investments when saving for short-term goals 18:36 Precautions and considerations for Roth conversions 20:25 Impact of Roth conversions on Social Security and taxation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom is back for a new episode featuring: 0:04 Welcome Back Banter 5:01 Shifting Investment Trends 7:13 Generational Investing Shifts 12:27 The Pitfalls of Trading 15:29 VTWAX vs. VT 17:59 Asset Allocation Adjustment 19:36 Advisor Interview Form Review Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode: 3:31 The Dow and Small Company Stocks 6:37 The Value in Small Cap Investing 13:01 Beware of Gimmickry in Investing 15:06 Understanding Risky Investment Strategies 21:09 Get a Second Opinion for Your Financial Future 27:42 Overcoming Hodgepodge-itis in Your Portfolio 36:44 Recommendations for Small Cap Value Funds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In what was supposed to be the Tuesday podcast: 1:46 The Truth About Annuities 5:37 A Bright Financial Future 6:25 Financial Decisions Made Easy 6:43 Slamming the Insurance Industry 7:03 Properly Placed Annuities 7:16 Beware of Variable Annuities 16:52 Basket Portfolios and ETFs 27:33 Overcoming Hodgepodge-itis 30:43 Prioritizing Financial Goals 35:14 Universal Life Insurance Dilemma 36:41 Summer Adventures and Updates Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Q&Apisode: 0:04 On the Road Again 5:24 Planning for Retirement 8:58 Handling Inherited Accounts 13:08 Maximizing Retirement Savings 14:24 Balancing Investment Focus 18:48 Role of Real Estate in Portfolio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Saul-Sehy from Stacking Benjamins joins Don again to discuss: 3:09 Financial Planning Teaching Methods 8:23 Taxation and Financial Planning History 12:25 Efficacy of Fee-Only Planners 16:58 Transition to Lower Commission Annuities 21:10 Portfolio Analysis and Index Fund Consideration 26:54 Stoicism and Investing Philosophy 29:06 Road Trip Update Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another episode on the road: 0:03 Bad Year for Stock Pickers 3:24 Property Value and Lease Analysis 4:35 Triple Net Lease Concerns 5:19 Seeking a Second Opinion 5:31 Fiduciary Advisors at Apella 6:18 Creating a Bright Financial Future 13:17 Starting a Retirement Plan 15:02 Retirement Planning for Contractors 25:24 Reality Radio and Index Funds 27:03 Treating Hodgepodge-itis 28:44 Retirement Planning for Special Needs Children 37:27 Diversification with Vanguard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Don continues his travels, we discuss: 0:03 On the Road Again 5:41 Berry Talk 8:11 Financial Philosophy 12:39 Protecting Your Investments 20:56 Family Inheritance Dilemma 24:48 Setting Expectations 27:36 Overcoming Hodgepodge-itis 33:53 Portfolio Allocation Concerns 36:58 Banking Fees Deception Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Q&A episode: 1:49 The Dangers of Following Market Trends 4:27 Making Decisions Based on Future Feelings 4:58 Investing for Yourself, Not the World 5:19 Welcoming Roxy Butner to the Studio 5:31 Question from Jane about Robo-Advisors 10:24 Estate Planning and Trusts 13:35 Exploring Annuities in Retirement Accounts 18:25 Retirement Planning with Thomas from New Jersey 25:39 Importance of Financial Planning in Retirement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another exciting episode from the mountains of North Carolina: 0:03 Introduction to the Journey 2:40 Looking for exciting investments? 7:45 Importance of Seeking Second Opinions 9:23 Retirement Planning and Investment Allocation 11:05 Sustainable Withdrawal Rate in Retirement 21:43 Investing Should Be Boring 24:32 Discussion on Avoiding Capital Gains Taxes 28:09 Seeking Treatment for Hodgepodge-itis 34:22 Push for Consumer-Centric Financial Industry 38:25 Challenging Live Show Amidst Rainstorm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here's the first true "On the Road" edition: 0:04 On the Road Woes 4:09 Temptation of the S&P 500 13:25 Technical Challenges Resolved 14:24 The Dumb Duo of Investing 14:56 Investment Horrors Unveiled 15:33 Real Estate Syndicates Warnings 25:22 Portfolio Purpose Planning 29:46 Avoiding High Fee Traps 34:18 Great American Road Trip Ahead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Don and Joe Saul-Sehy from Stacking Benjamins as they discuss: 0:04 The Secret Coup 1:27 Stacking Benjamins 3:07 The FIRE Movement 9:18 Work and More 12:22 Retirement Realities 14:56 Retirement Reimagined 17:39 The Power of Need 19:05 Unveiling the Box 21:53 Understanding Complexity 25:03 Analyzing ETF BOXX 26:25 The Greatest Money Show on Earth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don is on the road, so Friday's Q&A is a bit late: 1:28 Maximizing Financial Aid Strategy 4:06 Investing in Individual Stocks 7:49 Converting 401k to IRA 11:37 Creating a Glide Path Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode: 0:03 Slow Roll into Retirement 2:38 Working Beyond Retirement Age 4:38 Managing Retirement Portfolio Successfully 7:48 Housing Dilemma 9:18 Mutual Funds vs. ETFs 14:34 Owning Multiple Houses 16:46 Long-Term Housing Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this edition: 13:09 Exploring Retirement Costs Across the Country 20:44 Importance of Second Opinions in Investing 29:31 Exploring Anti-ESG Funds 35:02 Disputing Charges on Credit Cards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode: 1:34 Don's Dumb Duo 5:23 Get a Second Opinion 8:40 The Value of Gold 11:43 Financial Planning Challenges 14:55 Roth Conversions Advice 16:57 Schwab and Fidelity Comparison 19:50 Clarification on Bond Holdings 22:06 After-Tax Contributions in 401k 29:46 Disagreement on Alternative Investments 33:56 Caution on Private Credit Investments 37:08 Risks of Alternative Investments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's show: 0:04 Slipping into the Matrix 5:01 The Fascination with Market Capitalization 9:45 The Importance of Diversification 13:14 Understanding Pension Plan Options 16:59 Annuities vs. IRAs: Which is Better? 19:16 Opportunities for Financial Guidance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Question and Answer Episode: 0:04 The Gold Rush: Physical vs. Financial 1:18 The Speculation of Gold 3:05 Investing Insights: Stocks vs. Gold 4:36 Q&A with Roxy Butner 5:06 Roth IRA Dilemma: Lump Sum or Dollar Cost Average? 8:06 Portfolio Makeover: Fund Reallocation 11:17 Retirement Planning: Managing 403b and 401k Funds 14:45 Understanding Fund Gains: Net vs. Gross 16:41 Financial Evolution: Trends in Investor Questions 18:23 Special Announcement: Retirement Reprise Event Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we discuss: 0:04 Investment "Cheesecake" 1:46 Market Predictions: To Worry or Not to Worry 1:53 Stock Market History: Looking Back and Moving Forward 6:41 The Unpredictable Future: Market Speculations 9:56 Market Timing Dilemma: Selling and Buying Strategies 16:15 Retirement Investment Queries: Bond Funds and Risk Tolerance 18:49 Evaluating Investment Providers: Avoiding Gimmicks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this show we discuss: 1:12 Parents' Influence on Money Behavior 2:22 Impact of Childhood Money Habits 9:45 Retirement Dilemma Discussion 13:45 Tax Planning Considerations 17:00 Managing Real Estate Assets 20:49 Annuity Evaluation Guidance 24:46 Selecting Investment Funds in 401k 29:08 Annuity Liquidation Tax Implications 32:01 Annuity Sales Pitch Awareness 35:30 Indexed Annuities Podcasts Overview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode: 3:40 A Potential Problem with Some ETFs. 10:12 Understanding Standard Deviation in Investing 14:34 Holding a Diversified Portfolio 19:41 Comparing Avantis and Vanguard Funds 21:29 The Impact of Index Funds on the Market 26:19 Importance of Diversification in Investing 31:13 The Value of Target Date Funds 33:28 The Impact of Small and Value Companies 36:55 Housing Market Trends and Real Estate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's skeptical episode: 0:04 Introduction: The Importance of Trust in Finance 3:09 The Market's Trustworthiness: A Closer Look 5:29 Misconceptions About the Market: Zero-Sum Game 9:53 Addressing Market Manipulation and Trust Issues 13:42 Managing Emotional Responses to Market Fluctuations 17:04 Understanding the Long-Term Value of Market Investing 21:27 Analyzing High Beta and Exponential Tech Investments 23:46 Evaluating the Role of Financial Advisors 25:48 Dissecting Trust Company Practices and Fees Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don takes on more of your queries: 1:45 Listener Experience with Vanguard and Robinhood 5:23 Taking Advantage of Robinhood's Promotion 6:45 Vanguard's New Fees and the $100 Exit Fee 10:08 Annoyance Fees and Pricing Structures 11:47 Exploring Fidelity's Brokerage Link Option 15:01 Historical Perspective on Stock Market Participation 21:18 Invitation to Seek Free Financial Advice and Join the Road Trip Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast: 0:04 Retirement Reflections 21:06 Stock Inclusion Dilemma 22:27 Managing Stock Movements 25:06 Value of Free Financial Help Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode: 0:04 The Problem with Dave Ramsey's mutual fund advice 5:14 Importance of Second Opinions in Investing 11:21 Retirement Income Strategy and Dividend Reinvestment 16:07 Creating Income in Retirement 21:00 Financial Advice and Misinformation 27:15 Overcoming "Hodgepodge-itis" in Investment Portfolios 31:26 Comparison of Actively Managed and Index Funds 36:57 Caller Plays Back Seat Quarterback Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to money, we make a lot of investing mistakes. Today, we talk about: 3:30 The Seven Deadly Sins of Wealth Management 14:59 Seeking a Second Opinion 21:05 Not Making Cash the King & Letting Dollars Be Lazy 22:50 The Purpose of Risk in Investing 32:42 Investing as a Means, Not an End 37:24 Importance of Guidance in the Decumulation Phase 38:43 Stop Dreaming, Start Doing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss the high price of home and auto insurance: 0:04 Midwest Storms and Insurance Costs 1:48 Home and Auto Insurance Rate Increases 4:03 Reinsurance Companies and Rate Hikes 5:23 Factors Impacting Insurance Rates 7:34 Dealing with Scammers and Identity Theft 11:35 Saving Money on Insurance Policies 13:33 Importance of Financial Planning in Retirement 19:19 A Little Chat About Scammers 22:46 Rebalancing and Risk Tolerance in Roth Accounts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's topics: 1:19 Company Stock Purchase Program Dilemma 4:43 Investing Strategies for a 24-Year-Old 7:06 Listener Input on IPOs and Conservative Fund Options 10:05 Retirement Planning with a Large Investment Portfolio 13:36 Investment Decision for a Late 30s Individual 16:06 Retirement Investment Planning for a 64-Year-Old 19:17 Strategy for Investing Proceeds from Property Sale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In This Episode: 1:15 Inaccessible Home Equity 2:24 Tempting Yet Tricky Home Equity Options 3:31 Exploring New Financing Frontiers 4:01 The Evolution of Reverse Mortgages 5:07 Weighing the Home Equity Loan Dilemma 6:11 An Unconventional Option: Home Profit Sharing 7:11 Unpacking Home Profit Sharing Terms 8:45 Evaluating Alternative Financing Routes 9:21 Leveraging Home Equity Strategically 10:26 The Dangers of Early Mortgage Payoff 10:43 Knowledge is Key: Understanding Home Equity Options 15:07 Q&A: Understanding Investment Returns 16:09 Insight into Index vs. Personal Returns 17:43 Clarifying Investment Fund Recommendations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Topics in the episode: 2:02 The Dow Jones Industrial Average 5:23 Financial Second Opinions 10:35 Roth Conversions and Financial Planning 13:45 Trusting Financial Data 16:43 Financial Phone-In Questions 19:11 Vanguard Advisory Service Review 21:01 Managing Inherited IRAs 26:28 Diagnosis: Hodgepodge-itis 27:35 Importance of Financial Planning 33:09 Handling Unexpected Fees 37:59 Talking Real Money Road Trip Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we discuss: 1:00 Money and Happiness 5:31 Second Opinions 12:50 Microphone Woes 27:04 Hodgepodgeitis 37:04 Retirement Account Diversification Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here's what in this episode: 1:02 Understanding the Psychology of Money 2:32 Rethinking Financial Advisor Terminology 3:27 Rise of Financial Therapy Certification 4:17 Impact of Money on Mental Health 7:17 Overcoming Financial Anxiety 10:58 Addressing Financial Concerns & Ideas 14:09 Tips for Managing Investment Emotions 19:27 The Purpose of Life Insurance 20:59 Adjusting Investment Allocation in 401k Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Friday Q&A: 1:52 ETF Purchasing Best Practices 2:53 Avoid Overthinking and Minutiae 5:37 Making Financial Decisions and Pension Options 7:51 Investing Strategy and Career Reset 11:24 Comfort in Financial Decisions 14:45 Long-Term Saving for Family 17:16 Importance of Financial Planning 18:53 Pension Drawing Decision Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we discuss a trading staregy combined with a multi-level marketing scheme MLMs in general. 5:27 Second Opinions and Financial Decisions  8:49 Learning and Correcting Mistakes 12:37 Multi-Level Marketing and Trading Strategies  21:04 Warren Buffett's Timeless Advice 25:13 Investigating Ron Blue Investments 32:49 Researching the National Electrical Annuity Plan  36:38 The Graceland Financial Mystery 39:57 Preparing for College and Paying for It Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, recorded on Saturday May 22: 0:04 Pre-Memorial Day Weekend Banter 4:00 Focus on Investing Mistakes with Christine Benz 4:54 Portfolio Building and Managing Mistakes 18:30 Being Patient vs. Hands-Off Investing 34:40 Discussing American Funds and Expense Ratios Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode: 0:04 The Trust Issue 2:43 Custodians and Fiduciaries 3:12 Finding True Fiduciary Help 3:53 Fee-Only vs Fee-Based 5:43 Various Compensation Models 8:02 Understanding Terminology 10:52 Brokercheck.org Exploration 12:08 Where to Find Trusted Advisors 13:56 Vetting Financial Advisors 15:38 Insurance Companies and Investments 19:30 Dealing with Large Stock Gains 23:13 Dealing with Tax Implications 25:10 Upcoming RetireMeet East Event Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episodes, Don answers listeners questions about: 3:15 Seeking a Fee-Only Fiduciary Advisor for Aging Parents 6:24 Uncovering Red Flags in Financial Advisor Disclosures 11:44 Evaluating the Dodge & Cox Income X Bond Fund 12:46 Importance of Reading Form ADVs for Investment Advisory Firms 18:17 The Aftermath of Removing Social Security 19:11 Understanding Mutual Fund Return Reports 21:24 Replacing Vanguard Bond Fund BND with Risky Alternatives Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode: 1:16 Affinity Fraud in the Military 3:54 Unveiling Investment Fraud in the Military 11:57 Building Trust in Financial Relationships 14:00 Maintaining Boundaries in Financial Relationships 19:33 Trusting Third-Party Sources for Investment Information 23:43 Retirement and Investment Strategies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can a fiduciary fee-only advisor make you more money, even after expenses. Vanguard says, "yes!" We talk about some of their findings and more: 3:53 Cost-Effective Implementation and Rebalancing  6:20 Financial Future and Advisor Second Opinions  7:16 Asset Location and Withdrawal Strategies 9:00 Hodgepodge-itis and Portfolio Simplification 11:57 The Vanguard Experience 14:30 The Importance of Seeking Advice Early 20:14 Backdoor Roth IRA Strategies 26:15 Hodgepodge-itis Treatment and Financial Future  28:57 Morningstar Ratings Debunked 31:51 Roth Conversions and Considerations 35:10 Evaluating Investment Fees at Wells Fargo  36:31 Simplifying Portfolios with TSP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode: 0.54 America's Obsession with New Media and Gurus 1:55 The GameStop Saga Begins 2:43 Reddit's Influence on GameStop Stock 3:33 Lessons from the GameStop Rollercoaster 5:20 Seeking a Second Opinion in Investing 6:19 The Stupidity in Following Stock Recommendations 7:03 GameStop Stock: A Question of Valuation 8:30 The Evolution of the Gaming Industry 8:54 What to Learn from the GameStop Frenzy 9:49 Investing vs. Speculation 12:05 Vanguard's Fiduciary Advisors and Financial Decisions 12:31 Importance of Getting a Second Opinion 15:03 Adjusting Investment Strategy for Retirement 15:31 Vanguard's Changes in Customer Service 16:45 Questioning Vanguard's Decision-Making 21:25 The Significance of Money in Your Life 26:34 Addressing Hodgepodgeitis in Your Investment Portfolio 27:34 Vanguard's Controversial Fee Changes 34:02 Strategies for Protecting Equities After Hours 36:46 The Remarkable Story of Dimensional Funds 38:26 Platforms for Investing: Schwab vs. TD Ameritrade 39:58 Resources and Information at TalkingRealMoney.com 40:49 Important Disclaimer and Legal Information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We don't often have guests, but we do, from time to time, invite some of the best minds in money management to join us. Author and financial educator, Dan Solin spends time with us this week to share some wisdom from his latest book, Wealthier: The Investing Field Guide for Millennials. We discuss buying a home versus renting, saving and investing for retirement, and the future of Social Security. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the week's question and answer session, Tom and Roxy take written questions from listeners about: Social Security spousal benefits. Moving Emergency Cash Short-Term Cash Options Portfolio Diversification AVGE vs. BND Allocation Real Estate Sales and Tax Planning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Was retirement really better in thge past? Have 401k plans been a retirement income benefit or detriment? Might there be a better way to insure a secure retirement income? We also explore the difference in long-term returns between large-cap and small-cap value stocks. Plus, we hear from listeners: Why does the actual income from I-Bonds not match the stated rate? Can income from a court settlement from a stock in an IRA be transferred into the IRA? Is it better to take retirement income from investments annually, monthly, or as needed? Looking for a quick portfolio review? Is it okay to start spending extra money in retirement? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beware of complex investments or those promising to provide higher returns using some financial sleight-of-hand. Higher returns always require some sort of tradeoff. There are no special systems to game the markets, long-term. Then, we hear from listeners: He stayed in bonds and lost money, should he stick with them now? How can current assets be grown to enough to support retirement needs? Does it make sense to buy a second home on the beach? How should a very conservative retiree invest retirement funds? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Millions of people rely on Social Security for a large portion of their income, yet the system is running low on money and won't be able to meet future obligations without major changes. So, which is better, reducing benefits or raising taxes? Plus, we take listeners questions: What's the best way to reduce taxes on retirement plan distributions? What can be done to reduce hodgepodgery in a portfolio? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the episode, instead of discussing all of the bad financial decisions we make, let's take time to acknowledge all of the good things we do with money. Plus, we take questions on: The possible negative impact that passive investing might have on the stock markets. The potential tax ramifications of a portfolio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The questions have started pouring in again. Thanks! Today... Using High-yielding CLOs Instead of Bonds. Adjusting Portfolio for Growth Maryland 529 Plan vs. Other Options Maximizing Growth for Grandchildren Understanding Rebalancing in a 401k Implementing a Three-Bucket Account Strategy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. Labor Department is going to try again to hold some of those who provide advice on retirement assets to actually act in their clients' best interests. Will this new rule actually go into effect this time and who might it protect. Then we take your questions: What to we think of Keith Fitz-Gibbons investing advice? What's the best way to cover three years of expenses before collection Social Security? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After years of diligently saving and investing a your retirement plans, what should you be doing when your accounts have grown to sizable amounts? Plus, we share the reasons for a small cap and value portfolio tilt. Plus, we hear from several listeners who ask: Why don't we talk more about 529 ABLE plans? What do we think of a portfolio with 20-year Treasury bonds? After maxxing out retirement accounts, where should other money be invested? Why can't more people save and invest? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it a mutual fund? Is it an annuity? Can one investment met everyone's retirement needs? That's seems to be the claim of the complex BlackRock LifePath Paycheck funds. Plus, we talk about Warren Buffett's take on corporate taxes and how individuals could all end up paying no income taxes. We also discuss the workings of the "backdoor" Roth IRA. Then, listeners want to know: Nearing retirement is a fiduciary adviser needed and what should one cost? The name of the book Tom mentioned about Crazy Eddie? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gold has gotten hot again, but just because you can get a bar at Costco is it a decent investment? We look hack at the history and returns of gold over decades and longer. Plus, we take some listener questions: Where can information be found on a school districts's 403b plan? In what account order should money be withdrawn for a college education? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's Friday Q&A: Does more money in emerging markets make sense? What should be done with an 401k now that Vanguard has sold their servicing? Are these two funds diversified enough? Is there any way to calculate future call option premiums? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There aren't many ways to improve your odds while investing in stocks. So, why have investors like Warren Buffet been so successful and why do we belive in factor investing? Plus listeners want to know: Why do we suggest more expensive products from firms like Avantis and Dimensional? What are the differences between a 403b and a Roth IRA? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't be fooled by "money illusions." We are often confused about money math, particularly when it comes to the impacts of inflation. Our financial psycology can lead us to make bad decisions. The callers have questions about: Financial Planning for a Special Needs Family Member Estate Planning Strategies for Passing Wealth to Grandchildren Balancing Risk Tolerance with Retirement Savings Directing Inheritance to Grandchildren Understanding Indexed Annuities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After bonds suffered a really bad year in 2022, many investors still hate them. Do all bonds deserve the recent bad reputations? Time for a fixed income reality check. We also discuss the bad advice given by most radio advisors. We also hear from listeners: Why do we dislike anuuities as investments? What do we think of the new DOL rule requiring all retirement rollover advice be held to the fiduciary standard? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Once again, the United States Depratment of Labor is trying to protect retirement investors against the lies told, and the high fees charged, by many providers of advoce for retirement pland rollovers and transfers. Will they succeed against Wall Street and Big Insurance? Plus, we take your questions: What's the best way to pay for a new roof? Why are my ETFs paying out taxable dividends? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Friday's Qs: How should an aggressive investor invest money that is not needed in retirement? Does a QLAC make sense as a toold to control long-term care expenses? Are there any tax ramications from moving from an expensive funds to ETFs in a qualified retirement account? Does his portfolio idea make sense for a lazy retirement investor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is the best investment strategy in a time of higher "safe" interest rates? For many, the tendency is to play it safer, but how might that work out in the long run? Plus, we answer questions: How much is Edward Jones charging for their investment services? How can an investor harvest tax losses? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Far too many businesses offer their employees expensive retirement plans. You must know how much you're paying. Plus, many states are now allowing employees to set up automatic payroll deductions into their own IRAs. We hear from callers: What will interest rates do in the near future? What can be done with IRA distributions to reduce taxation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This seemingly simple retirement quiz stumped most who took it. How will you fare? Take the quiz with us. Plus, what can you do if you have a low interest rate bank savings account? Listeners want to know: How long will mom's retirement assets last? Is there any way to get money back from a federal long-term care policy? How can money in a retirement plan be accessed before 59-1/2 without penalties? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our friend, Mark Hebner from Index Fund Advisors, joins Tom and Don to talk about the most important number to investors, total return. The rise and fall of prices shouldn't be of much concern to investors, it's how much you make on your investments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Friday Q&A edition: How safe are investment in brokerage accounts? Why shouldn't someone tranfer an IRA to Robin Hood to collect a 3% bonus? What do we think of Fisher Investments "bucket" strategy? How should money be invested for the beneficiary of a special needs trust? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the problems with index funds is the fact that they slavishly follow the index. This means that for long periods they can own stocks that are way outside the indexes parameters. This is one argument for rules-basd funds. Then, listeners ask: Are we concerned about the decline in the number of publically-traded stocks? Is it okay to be 100% in stocks close to retirement? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most American's have saved enough for even a $400 emergency? Start there, and then it's time to work on retirement savings. Along the way have those tough financial conversations with your partner. Plus, Don goes on a rant about the financial services industry and it's lack of client care. We hear from callers: With a little help for a previous caller. What do we think of a particular brokerage firm? How can money be moved from a regular IRA in an annuity to a Roth? Is Empower providing good investment advice? How should money be invested in a after-tax IRA? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We recorded this episode as the Iranian attack on Israel was beginning. We discussed the impact of global events on your portfolio and how to invest during market turbulence. Then, we give you the chance to build your perfect economy with a quiz. We hear from some of you, too: Is a Fidelity advisor a fiduciary or not? Where should money for intermediate-term spending be invested? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listeners love our question and and snswer episode, so here a special Monday Q&A featuring Tom and Roxyu Butner answer your written questions: Is a Total World Stock Market Index Fund Enough? Should You Pay Off a Low-Interest Mortgage Early? What do we think of the Geiten Clinger Withdrawal Strategy? Is Vanguard Advisor Services Worthwhile? What has happened to ESG Investing? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's FridayQ we discuss: Robin Hood's recent offer of a 3% bonus on IRA rollovers. Avoiding a tax penalty of an inherited annuity. A listener's Talking Real Money Road Trip suggestion. The proper small cap portfolio allocation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are innundated with articles featuring lists of the "best" investments. Are they really that good and should you invest in them? Plus, we hear from listeners: What's the difference between two bond ETFs? Upset about the performance of her bond fund. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most advisors claim to be fiduciaries and even those who are always required to act in a client's best interests can have conflicts. What makes a true fiduciary financial advisor? We also discuss young investors sources of advice. Callers join in and ask: Does it make sense to split a bond portfolio between US and international bonds? How do you find the right advisor to write a financial plan? Can someone with a 401k still contribute to a Roth IRA? Why didn't a bank supply a 1099 for a CD? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nobel laureate, Robert Shiller, believes that the U.S. stock market may have run its course for awhile. So, what should you do is he's right? You be shocked (wink) at the answer. Then, aa whole lot of listeners call in: Where should money from a property sale be kept for a future tax payment? Does it make sense to buy a little physical gold? Are money market fund yields lower than stated because of expenses? How should an early retiree invest and generate income? How can you calculate the expected future interest rates on an adjustable mortgage? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paying too much for your retirement plan and the investments within can damage your future. Listeners ask: What do we think of direct indexing? Why isn't Don's book available as an audiobook?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Submit your spoken questions at talkingrealfmoney.com. This week: What if "messing around" with a portfolio simply means using Avantis and DFA ETFs? Are Avantis ETFs reall worth the extra expenses versus Vanguard index ETFs? What should be done with a portfolio of broket sold Franklin-Templeton funds? Is there a way to take money out of an IRA early without paying a penalty? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is your retirement number? Everyone should have one. Most people's number is too low, so you really need to try and calculate how much money you will need to have invested to create a decent stream of income for thosee post-work years. Then, we take your questions: Should a target-date fund be held in a non-qualified, taxable account? Instead of investing, why not just keep everything in one of today's high-yield money market products? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Large-cap, U.S. stocks had a very good first quarter. However, many markets and previously hot stocks lagged far behind. What should this mean for your portfolio? We discuss the powerful research on investing psychology by Daniel Kahneman and Don's upcoming road trip. Plus, listeners join in: What's the best way to sell one house, build another, and still have enough money left to live on? How should a grandparent set up IRAs for working grandkids and how much might they eventually have? Thanks for banning "Crypto Bob" from the Q&A podcasts. How is 529 money transferred to a Roth IRA? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every four years investors grow concerned about the terrible impact that "other" presidential candidate might have on the stock market after the election. Yes, the evidence shows that new president's have had no discernable impact on the markets, so stop worrying. The listeners ask: Is it time to start reducing a portfolio's aggressiveness? Should the money from maturing bonds be reinevsted in funds all at once or over time? What's the best way to take money out of retirement savings to buy a RV? What can be done with old Roth contributions for someone with no taxable income? How should money be best withdrawn from an inherited IRA? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can probably stumble through most of your financial life. The one money need for which you must plan is retirement. Today, we discuss some of the most important things you must do to retire comfortably. Plus, we answer your questions: How should money from a maturing annuity be invested? Why should we invest in Avantis ETFs when they don't have a long track record? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don takes on a bunch of your questions again: What can be done about a late required minimum distribution (RMD)? Is there a waiting period before you can withdraw money from a rollover Roth IRA? What's the best way to start properly passively investing? Don't fee-only investment advisors have a conflict becuase of the fee they charge? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For your portfolio to be properly diversified, how many stocks should you own? Is ten enough or do you need ten thousand? We share the Motley Fool's perspective and our own. Plus, listeners ask: What kind of credit card do we suggest for maximum reward potential? How do older investors find the financial help needed for a fiscally disinterested spouse? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest hot investing craze, thematic funds, are actually a recycled old idea, sector funds. As with any other attempt to nbeat the market, we found that "thematic" fund investors actually for worse than the funds themselves. Individual investors continue to prove thatm overall, the market is typically unbeatable. Plus, we show you how to find the best 403b plans. Listeners ask: Is a cheaper price per share ETF better than a pricier one? How much should be withdrawn from a retirement plan? Does someone with no dependents need a million dollar term life policy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You need to understand risk to be a successful investor. Most of us already have a very safe investment and should take risk elsewhere in our portfolio. What is risk and how can you manage it? We hear from listeners asking: How should an 80-year old's money be invested? How can you find a great financial advisor? What is the best way to invest $1.6 million? How should a recent divorced woman invest her settlement money? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The financial product industry knows that you want the highest possible retunr with little (or no) risk. Given the amount of money invoiced, they are willing to try almost anything to pull off this illusion. However, no one has EVER been successful. Don and Tom discuss the latest attempt to provide investors with a near riskless income. Plus we take your questions: Does an employer's contribution count toward 401k limits? Is it better to pay of student loans or fund retirement? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's question and qnswer session features: Does a CD ladder work for portfolio protection? Is Robin Hood's Gold account worth the fee? In moving from indicvidual stocsk to ETFs can one stock's loss offest another's gain? Can we focus a program on the income generating phase of life? Do these three funds make a decent retirement portfolio? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After interest rates hit 5%, some investors seem content to stick with savings and CDs. Tom and Don discuss the downside oif settling for today's safe money returns. What about other investments that promise "safe", high yields? Listeners want to know about: The wisdom of investing in a real estate trust? The impact of interest rate changes on pension payouts? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we share several of the biggest blunders that keep us from building the wealth we need for the future. Learn how to be a better investor with some really simple lifestyle and investing tweaks. Plus, we hear from our listeners: Does paying an advisor 1% per year mean that the 4% rule becomes the 3% rule? A real estate broker believes that real estate agents will thrive despite the NAR settlement. How should money be invested with wither New York Life or Edward Jones? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Americans have a lot of money in cash, earning essentially nothing. Others are happy earning a nice, safe 5% on short-term CDs and bonds. Yet, we could be shortchaging ourselves in the future by not investing properly. Don shares more details on his summer Talking Real Money Road Trip and we discuss the ramifications of the commission settlement by Realtors. Then, on to listeners phone calls: What would have been a reasonable return on a portfolio over the past few years? Which is better: bond funds or individual bonds? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes the hottest investments end up turning icy cold. Today, we share some of once exciting investments that destroyed much of their investors wealth. Plus, listeners join in to discuss: The positive impact our shows have had on a finnacial life. What do we think of a proposed allocation to TSP funds? How do we feel about investing in AI and do we have any suggestions? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We want to answer everyone's questions, without exception, However, every once in awhile a "trolll" takes advantage of our desire to present all sides of an issues. So, to be fair, I give the same listener three "last words" on crypto, before ending his participation. Then: What would it take to become a financial advisor? What are immediate annuities? Is it okay to play with one investment account? Does the wash sale rule apply to purchases right before a sales? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The desire to "keep up with the Joneses" is ingrained in is. However, the result of financial envy can be disastrous. Discover why you need to avoid money jealousy. Plus, listeners ask: How much of a portfolio should be in this particular ETF? What are we referring to when we talk about 7% annuities? How can an investor find a 100% fee-only fiduciary advisor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the stock markets at "all-time highs," should you wait a while before investing? In essence, can you accurately time the market? Then a bunch of listeners call in: What should an older investor do to create a simple retirement portfolio? Does it always make sense to tap taxable accounts before taking money from tax-advantaged account? How can an older person get started investing for retirement? Could Roths be taxed in the future? Would it be wise for an elderly investor to move her money from Edward Jones to Schwab? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After experiencing some radio show technical problems, Tom and Don discuss the shockingly large percentage of your money that goes to Wall Street firms and why should be wary of alternative investments. Then, they bemoan the lack of financial literacy education and the horrible sales pitch passed of as education. Plus, a subject of a financial advisor profile lies about the fees he charges. Listeners chime in: On the Washington legislatures failure to pass a financial listeacy education bill. How is his broker making money off of his IRA account? Should money coming out of an annuity be invested in bonds as well as stock funds? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Retiremeet, question flow increased. So, we added a special Monday Q&A Edition with Tom and Don. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week: A comment about Don's Readastorus podcast. Avoiding taxes on Social Security. Using HSA benefits to indirectly fund a Roth. ChatGPT as an investment advisor. A couple of Bitcoin boosters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we swim against our demographic and address the issue of teengae investing. Don't you wish you would have started investing 30, 40, or even 50 years ago? Today, it's easier than ever to invest while young and we share some thoughts on starting early. Plus, listeners ask: For a "deep dive" into proper account asset allocation. What do we think of these perceived shortcomings of exchange-traded funds (ETFs)? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nvidia. Apple. Microsoft. A huge chunk of the market is made up of just a few high-tech stocks. Yet, today's hot tech often grows cold. Once again, Tom and Don make the case for diversification in your investment portfolio. We also discuss the foolishness of collectible "investing." Then callers want to know: In a banking crisis, can we lose ownership of our stocks? What's the best way to pay for an emergency roof replacement? How should restricted company stock be sold? Does an IRA tax deduction makes sense? What's the best way to set up a retirement plan for a small business? Does a "sell on Friday, buy back on Monday" market timing strategy makes sense? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing your money and building a better financial future are easier than you think. All you need to know are a few simple things you must do and a few you must avoid. Plus, we hear from a bunch of listeners: In what order should retirement accounts be tapped? What happens to stocks if the banking system collapse? How should a family member's portfolio be invested for assisted living? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The very worst thing you can do with money is gambling. Unlike the stock market, which has had an upward bias due to general economic growth, gambling is a less than zero sum game for everyone but the house. Today we talk about the dispicable things that gambling promoters do to keep you filling their pockets. Listeners ask: What do we think of Schwab's Theme ETFs? Is it better to save pre-tax money for retirement or use post-tax dollars to get tax-free growth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices