Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor (and Lawyer!)
For most of us, financial planning and investing are intimidating and overwhelming subjects. There are so many elements to consider and so much information from a seemingly endless sea of voices. What if you could cut through the confusion to finally feel confident and in control of your finances? It’s time to get smart about money. In this podcast, you will hear Mike and Maddie have honest conversations about financial concepts and situations you might be facing right now, rules and best practices for you to follow, and how to make sense of the financial media - what you re...
Ep. 59 Millennials and Money: Why Financial Anxiety Still Lingers Then joined by Anne Lester
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Millennials are entering midlife with more wealth than previous generations at the same age, yet many remain anxious about their financial futures. In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike sit down with Maureen to unpack what’s driving this paradox. They explore how economic challenges shaped millennials’ money habits, what today’s numbers really reveal, and what it all means for financial planning moving forward. Later in the episode, Mike and Maddie sit down with Anne Lester, author of Your Best Financial Life...
Ep. 58 Breaking Down the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What You Need to Know
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike break down the sweeping One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a new tax law signed into effect in July.
At 887 pages, this legislation makes several provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanent while introducing new deductions, exemptions, and planning opportunities for individuals, families, and business owners.
Mike, a financial advisor, CFP® practitioner, and estate planning lawyer, explains what these changes mean in practical terms, from permanent lower tax brackets a...
Ep. 57 Breaking Free from Investing’s Memory Traps Then joined by Joe Dillon from Equitable Mediation
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike explore how our personal financial memories, whether shaped by market crashes, bull runs, or housing booms, can cloud judgment and influence investing decisions. Inspired by Jason Zweig’s Wall Street Journal article, they unpack the dangers of recency bias, the evolving role of cash in portfolios, and the importance of balancing historical perspective with real-time adaptability. Learn how to avoid overreacting to market noise, keep emotions in check, and build a strategy that stands the test of time. Then Mike and Maddie were jo...
Ep. 56 What You Need to Know About the 2025 Changes to Inherited IRA Rules
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike break down the upcoming 2025 changes to inherited IRA rules, and why beneficiaries and financial planners alike need to pay close attention. They discuss how the SECURE Act has already reshaped the way IRAs are passed on and what’s coming next as the IRS begins enforcing the 10-year distribution rule more strictly.
Mike explains who the new rules apply to, what beneficiaries need to prepare for, and how to navigate these changes in a way that aligns with your broader financial an...
Ep. 55 Think Twice Before Mailing Retirement Checks
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In this episode, Madison and Mike break down “Mailed, Stolen, and Cashed,” a New York Times article by Ron Lieber that uncovers a disturbing trend: checks being stolen from the mail, altered, and cashed. Mike shares insight into the systemic issues that make this possible, how consumers are being left in the dark, and what to do if it happens to you. From financial literacy to institutional responsibility, this conversation sheds light on the hidden risks of mailing payments and what needs to change.Â
Link to NYT article:Â https...
Ep. 54 Making Sense of Equity Compensation with Maureen Donahue
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike are joined by Certified Financial Planner Practitioner Maureen Donahue to unpack one of the most misunderstood, and potentially most valuable parts of employee compensation: equity. From stock options to RSUs, the team dives into what these benefits actually are, how to evaluate them, and what to consider when they're part of your compensation package. Whether you're a tech professional, executive, or just curious about how equity fits into your total compensation, this episode will help...
Ep. 53 Turning Retirement Savings into a Steady Income Plan Then joined by Eric from The Garden Artisan
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike dive into one of the most common questions clients ask: How do I turn my retirement savings into reliable income? Mike explains the importance of timing Social Security benefits, strategies for minimizing lifetime taxes through smart withdrawal planning, and how to protect your portfolio against market downturns with proper asset allocation. Whether you’re approaching retirement or advising someone who is, this episode offers practical insights for creating a sustainable income plan.
Then, Madison and Mike sit down with Eric, the fo...
Ep. 52 Why Zero Income Tax Doesn’t Mean Zero Financial Surprises
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison and Mike break down a recent Wall Street Journal article that challenges the popular belief that moving to a no-income-tax state guarantees retirement savings. From skyrocketing insurance costs to hidden fees and property taxes, Mike explains why retirees need to think beyond just income tax rates when relocating. Learn how financial strategies like Roth conversions can help reduce state-level tax burdens, and why every move should come with a full cost-of-living analysis. Don’t pack your bags without tuning in first.Â
Link to WSJ...
Ep. 51 Beyond the Numbers: Preparing Mentally and Emotionally for a Fulfilling Retirement
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike dive into a New York Times article about the mental and emotional challenges of retirement. They discuss why thoughtful preparation beyond finances is essential for a successful and fulfilling retirement, the importance of finding purpose after leaving the workforce, and how social engagement, hobbies, and volunteer work can significantly impact retirees' well-being. Mike shares real-world insights and emphasizes that retirement planning is about much more than just hitting a savings goal — it’s about designing a me...
Ep. 50 Financial Market Recap with Mike Then Employee Spotlight on Amy Garry
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison Demora and Mike Garry introduce April’s Employee Spotlight, Amy Garry—financial planning associate at Yardley Wealth Management. Amy shares her journey into the industry, her dedication to the firm's mission, and a few fun personal details. Mike also dives into a candid discussion about recent market volatility, offering perspective on long-term investing, stress-testing financial plans, and how emotions and news headlines can mislead even seasoned investors. Whether you're new to financial planning or navigating uncertain mark...
Ep. 49 The Psychology of Financial Wellness: A Conversation with Dr. Emily Koochel
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, hosts Mike Garry and Madison DeMora sit down with Dr. Emily Koochel, a leading expert in financial wellness, behavioral finance, and financial psychology. As the Manager of Financial Wellness at eMoney Advisor, Dr. Koochel shares insights on how our relationship with money is shaped from an early age, the impact of financial transparency on trust, and strategies for navigating financial conflicts in relationships. She also discusses the psychological challenges of retirement and the importance of connecting with one’s future self. Whether you’re a financial prof...
Ep. 48 Investing Smarter: Strategies for Long-Term Success with Apollo Lupescu
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In this episode, Mike and Maddie welcome Apollo Lupescu, Vice President at Dimensional Fund Advisors, a premier investment manager with over $800 billion in assets. With a Ph.D. in Economics and Finance from UC Santa Barbara and 21 years at Dimensional, Apollo offers deep insights into the firm’s data-driven approach to investing. He explains key investment concepts, including the differences between mutual funds and ETFs, the benefits of stock ownership, and how bonds serve as an alternative to equities. Apollo also discusses the evolution of investing strategies, the importance of global diversification, and wh...
Ep. 47 Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA: Is a Conversion Right for You? Then joined by Tim and Suzanne from T. Foster & Co.
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison Demora and Mike Garry break down everything you need to know about Roth IRA conversions. If you're considering converting your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA but aren’t sure if it’s the right move, this episode is for you. Mike explains the key differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, the tax implications of a conversion, and who should (or shouldn’t) consider making the switch. They discuss timing strategies, how much to convert, and why fa...
Ep. 46 Retirement Spending Fears: Why Even Wealthy Retirees Hold Back
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers, Madison Demora and Mike Garry discuss the surprising trend of wealthy retirees underspending in retirement despite having the financial means to enjoy it. They explore the "retirement consumption puzzle" and the psychological shift from decades of saving to spending. Mike shares insights from client experiences, explains the importance of planning for meaningful spending, and offers strategies to strike the right balance between financial security and enjoying life's best years.
WSJ article link:Â https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/retirement/retirement-spending-longer-life-savings-4b511053
Ep. 45 Why Paying More Taxes Now Can Be a Smart Move
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison Demora and Mike Garry break down a recent Wall Street Journal article, "Paying More Tax Can Be a Smart Play" by Laura Saunders. They discuss why traditional tax-deferral strategies may backfire, especially for retirees with large tax-deferred accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. Mike explains how proactive tax planning such as strategic Roth conversions and capital gains management can help reduce overall lifetime tax burdens. Tune in for expert insights on navigating required minimum distributions (RMDs), Medicare...
Ep. 44 The Pursuit of a Perfect Credit Score - Is It Worth It? Then joined by Ryan Dittes from RDs Total Lawn
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike discuss the fascinating story of Steve Mitchell, a Texas engineer who became determined to achieve a perfect 850 credit score. They explore Mitchell's journey, the strategies he used, and whether perfection is truly necessary when it comes to credit scores. Mike shares the importance of responsible credit habits, and when focusing on your score can become counterproductive. Tune in for practical advice on maintaining strong credit while keeping your financial health in perspective. Later in the...
Ep. 43 Maximizing Your Stock Awards: A Guide to RSUs and Stock Options
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison Demora and Mike Garry break down the essentials of employer stock awards, including Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), stock options, and the key financial strategies you need to know. Learn how vesting schedules, strike prices, and cashless exercises work, and discover how to manage tax implications while maximizing your income potential. Whether you're new to stock-based compensation or looking to diversify your portfolio, this conversation will help you make informed decisions about your financial future.
Ep. 42 Communicate with Your Loved Ones to Ensure Your Wishes Are Honored then joined by Paula Zimmerman from ProSonder Solutions
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike discuss the critical importance of living wills and advance directives. Inspired by a recent Wall Street Journal article, "When Making a Living Will, Talk to Your Loved Ones." If you’ve ever wondered how to ensure your medical wishes are honored or how to prepare your loved ones for difficult decisions, this episode provides practical advice to help you navigate these essential conversations. Then, we welcome Paula Zimmerman, founder of ProSonder Solutions, an HR consulting fi...
Ep. 41 Job Switching and Your 401(k): How to Stay on Track with Retirement Savings
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison Demora and Mike Garry discuss the hidden financial impacts of job changes on 401(k) savings. Reviewing insights from a recent Wall Street Journal article by Anne Tergesen, they explore how job-switching can disrupt retirement planning, often leading to neglected 401(k) enrollments or lowered savings rates. Together, they discuss practical strategies to avoid common pitfalls, from maintaining steady contributions to understanding the importance of proactive planning when rolling over 401(k) funds into IRAs. Tune in to discover...
Ep. 40 Including Pets in Your Estate Plan for Peace of Mind. Then joined by Michael Silverman from Silver Lining Insurance Agency
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison and Mike discuss the growing trend of including pets in estate planning. They explore why more people are designating guardians and funds for pets in their wills, a practice once limited to the wealthy. Key topics include the benefits and risks of including pets in estate plans, how much money to allocate for their care, the lack of legal oversight for pet guardians, and whether pet trusts, such as the one created by Leona Helmsley, are...
Ep. 39 Understanding Capital Gains: What Mutual Fund Investors Need to Know
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison Demora and Mike Garry dive into an article from the Wall Street Journal titled "These Mutual-Fund Holders Should Brace Themselves for a Big Tax Bill" by Daisy Maxey. They discuss the tax implications of capital gains distributions in mutual funds, why these distributions occur, and how investors can minimize the tax impact. Mike shares personal anecdotes about his connection with the article's author and provides actionable strategies for managing mutual fund investments in taxable accounts. Tune...
Ep. 38 The Hidden Drivers of Market Success: Understanding Stock Market Outliers
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, Madison and Mike dive into the fascinating world of stock market gains. They discuss a recent article by Russ Wiles, highlighting research by Dr. Hendrik Bessembinder, which reveals that just over 4% of stocks account for all net wealth growth in the stock market over the last 100 years. Mike, a CFP® practitioner and estate planning attorney, breaks down the forces behind why such a small percentage of stocks drive long-term gains and challenges common assumptions about stock picking versus i...
Ep. 37 Making the Right Move: 401(k) vs. IRA - What’s Best for Your Retirement?
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In this episode of Not Just Numbers: Honest Conversations with a Financial Advisor and Lawyer, hosts Madison Demora and Mike Garry explore the complexities of managing your retirement savings. In the beginning of the episode, they tackle a listener's question on long-term care insurance. Then, dive into a Wall Street Journal article by Olivia Mitchell, discussing the pros and cons of rolling over a 401(k) into an IRA versus leaving it in an employer-sponsored plan. Mike shares expert insights on investment options, fees, fiduciary protections, and estate planning considerations. Whether you’re nearing re...
Ep. 36 Avoiding Complexity: Why Simplicity Should Drive Your Investment Choices
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Madison and Mike discuss three articles from the Wall Street Journal related to the financial industry, focusing on the implementation of a fiduciary rule, the pros and cons of interval funds, and the high fees and lack of transparency in closed-end funds. They also explore the potential risks and returns of interval funds, the importance of educating investors about complex investment products, and the missed opportunities by Bill Ackman due to not innovating with lower fees and a direct approach to individual investors. The discussion concludes with the importance of lower expenses, transparency...
Ep. 35 Should I Have Umbrella Insurance? Featuring an Employee Spotlight on Madison DeMora
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Madison and Mike discuss the rising need for umbrella insurance due to increasing costs and larger claims, emphasizing its role in providing additional liability coverage. They highlight the importance of considering one's personal assets, risk profile, and net worth when determining the amount of umbrella coverage needed, especially for individuals with high visibility or in certain professions. Later, Mike turns the employee spotlight on Madison for a change! Madison discusses her journey at Yardley Wealth Management, her role in producing the company's podcast, and her personal interests outside of work. Madison also shares...
Ep. 34 Should I Buy Stocks Because of Their High Dividend Yield? Then joined by Ben Madden from Allied Cleaning Services
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Madison and Mike discuss why investors might be drawn to high dividend yields, such as the potential for steady income and the allure of getting returns without waiting for stock appreciation. However, Mike cautions against the risks, including the possibility that a high yield might result from a declining stock price or unsustainable payouts. He also advises against focusing solely on high dividend yield stocks and instead considering a broader investment strategy, aiming for a globally diversified portfolio based on other factors. Later, we sit down with Ben Madden, the owner of Allied...
Ep. 33 Should I Transfer My House into My Children’s Names?
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Madison and Mike discuss the complexities and financial implications of transferring a house to a child, including potential risks, tax liabilities, and the impact on Medicaid eligibility. They emphasize the importance of consulting with a financial advisor and elder law attorney to make a well-informed decision and stress that each individual's situation is unique. The discussion concludes with a call for listeners to gather all necessary information and seek expert advice before making any decisions.
Ep. 32 Pre-Retiree Education Series 5 of 5: Managing the Transition to Retirement
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Madison and Mike discuss the key decisions to be made before and during retirement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong relationships, planning for uncertainties, and creating a retirement budget. They also underscore the need to prioritize physical and mental health, and to have essential legal documents in place. Lastly, they highlighted the importance of finding a balance between relaxation and staying active in strengthening relationships with family and friends.
Ep. 31 Pre-Retiree Education Series 4 of 5: Understanding Medicare Basics
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Madison and Mike discuss the intricacies of Medicare, focusing on its different types of coverage and eligibility criteria. Mike underscores the significance of enrolling during the initial period and the advantages of supplemental coverage like Medicare Advantage plans and Medicaid Gap policies. They also highlight the need for consultation with a Medicare specialist to tailor coverage to individual needs and budget.
Ep. 30 Pre-Retiree Education Series 3 of 5: Is Long Term Care Insurance Something You Should Consider?
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Madison and Mike consider the significance of long-term care insurance in retirement planning, discussing its role in covering costs for individuals needing assistance due to aging, disability, or illness. They also address the complexities and challenges of long-term care insurance, including policy considerations and potential limitations, and highlighted the value of a personal assessment and the role of a financial advisor. Lastly, for those who wish to look into Long-Term Care insurance, they suggest the need for customizing policies to individual circumstances and recommended starting the search for such policies in your late f...
Ep. 29 Pre-Retiree Education Series 2 of 5: Transforming Social Security into a Winning Retirement Strategy
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Madison and Mike kick off series 2 of 5 of pre-retiree education. They discuss the role of social security as a retirement strategy, including its eligibility requirements and the benefits and drawbacks of claiming benefits at different ages. They also explore the impact of spousal and survivor benefits, and emphasized the importance of financial planning in optimizing social security within the larger context of retirement goals.Â
Ep. 28 Pre-Retiree Education Series 1 of 5: Retirement Income
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Madison and Mike introduce a new series involving pre-retiree preparation. In this episode they discuss retirement planning, focusing on income sources, longevity, inflation, healthcare expenses, investment returns, and tax implications. They emphasize the importance of a comprehensive and strategic approach to ensure financial sustainability throughout retirement. They also agree to continue the discussion in future episodes, with the next episode focusing on turning social security into a successful retirement plan.
Ep. 27 Navigating Conflicts with Financial Advice Then Joined by Realtor Amy Patterson
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Madison and Mike discuss the shift towards fee-based and fee-only financial advisors and its impact on reducing conflicts of interest and improving clarity for clients. They also explore the potential conflicts of interest related to social security claiming behaviors and the trend of carrying mortgages into retirement. Lastly, they clarify the difference between a fee-based and a fee-only advisor and emphasize the importance of understanding and managing conflicts of interest in financial decision-making. Then Amy Patterson, a realtor at Remax in Newtown discusses her role in the home selling process, recent trends in...
Ep. 26 Can Bitcoin Become Obsolete? And then Carrie Reininger from Kitchen Me Now
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Madison and Mike discuss the historical and potential risks associated with investing in Bitcoin, comparing it to the decline in value of natural pearls due to technological advancements. They highlight the importance of diversification, risk management, and hedging against Bitcoin's uncertain future. Additionally, they discuss the potential vulnerability of Bitcoin's code and the emergence of new digital currencies, emphasizing that no technology is immune to being replaced or disrupted. Lastly, they stress the importance of maintaining strong skills and financial stability. Later, joins Carrie Reininger from Kitchen Me Now. Carrie and her husband...
Ep. 25 Rethinking Dave Ramsey's Advice Feat. Charles Barrett from FZ Works & FZ Creative
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Madison and Mike discuss the pros and cons of Dave Ramsey’s financial advice, and how even the better parts of it have been challenged by societal and economic changes. They critiqued Ramsey's advice on debt management, car buying, and credit scores, and discussed the importance of considering individual circumstances and seeking help from financial advisors. They also explored the potential generational shift in attitudes towards debt and financial freedom, and the complexities of financial planning, including safe withdrawal rates and stock market returns. Later, Charles Barrett joins from FZ Works and FZ Cr...
Ep. 24 Are you Ready to Start Your Own Business? Feat. Julia Gambell from Salon J Raine
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Madison and Mike discuss entrepreneurship. They emphasize the importance of investigating whether a business idea or passion can be profitable and scalable to be worth the time and money invested. They highlight the challenges of translating a talent or passion into a profitable business, the need for market research, developing a comprehensive business plan, and understanding one's target audience. They also discuss the different types of business structures, and whether someone should choose ad LLC or an S Corp. Later, Julia Gambell joins and shares her professional journey and experiences as a salon...
Ep. 23 Tax Planning Strategies in Your 60’s Featuring an employee spotlight on Maureen Donahue, CFP®
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Madison and Mike stress the significance and opportunity of financial planning for individuals and couples in their sixties who are in the sweet spot of being able to withdraw money without penalty from their IRAs, but don’t yet have to take Social Security or Required Minimum Distributions from their IRAs. Tax planning can make a crucial difference in how much people ultimately pay in taxes and how secure their retirement is. Maddie and Mike also discuss tax-efficient investment strategies and the tax implications of investment income. They conclude that professional financial advice is...
Ep. 22 529 Plan Basics Feat. Heather Manley from Ninja Duds
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Madison and Mike discuss the differences between education savings plans and prepaid tuition plans, and the benefits of 529 college savings plans. Later, they are joined by Heather Manley from Ninja Duds, a local consignment business. Heather explains that Ninja Duds operates by taking in clothing items from consigners, which are then posted on their website. Customers can browse items based on brand, size, or style, and make purchases online and then pick them up at their headquarters in Washington Crossing. Heather, a former teacher, shares her journey of transitioning into a new career...
Ep. 21 Will There be a Soft Landing? Featuring an employee spotlight on Karen Lynch!
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Madison and Mike discuss the article "Beware the most crowded trade on Wall Street" by James Mackintosh of the Wall St. Journal and the widely held belief among investors in a forthcoming soft landing and lower interest rates. They also talk about the potential implications of the Federal Reserve's recent dovish forecast, as well as the potential impact of external factors on the likelihood of a soft landing and lower interest rates. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the importance of having a clear plan and being prepared for unpredictable issues. Later...
Ep. 20 How to Find the Right Financial Adviser
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Madison and Mike discuss an article about the challenges faced by financial advisors competing with large brokerage firms. The article suggested a two-pronged approach of presenting an assigned fiduciary oath and utilizing the FINRA broker check website. Maddie and Mike emphasized the importance of finding a competent and experienced financial planner and the potential advantages and drawbacks of working with a large financial services company.
USA Today article Mike is featured in:Â
https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/2014/07/09/how-to-find-a-financial-adviser/12312291/
