Simply Money by Allworth Financial

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why many investors who think they’re diversified may actually have far more exposure to AI and semiconductor stocks than they realize, how concentration risk has shown up throughout market history, and what wealthy investors can do to protect against it. They also break down the recent pullback in private credit funds, the dangers of relying on active managers to pick the next market winners, why your portfolio’s purpose matters more than its returns, and answer listener questions on direct indexing, family business inheritance plan...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why the biggest risk to your retirement may have nothing to do with the stock market. From rising healthcare costs and long-term care planning to selling a business and navigating looming tax challenges, they cover the financial decisions that can have the biggest impact on your future. Plus, former Cleveland Fed President Dr. Loretta Mester joins the show to share her perspective on the Federal Reserve's latest decision and what investors should be watching next.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain what true diversification looks like in today's market—and why owning more investments doesn't always reduce risk. They also discuss a proposal that could bring private equity, crypto, and other alternative investments into 401(k) plans, and whether highly compensated employees have enough life and disability insurance coverage.

Plus, they answer listener questions on navigating different retirement timelines, protecting family wealth from divorce risk, tax planning after moving to Florida, and preparing to sell a closely held business.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explore whether artificial intelligence is truly the next great investing revolution or just the latest market obsession, drawing lessons from railroads, oil, automobiles, and the dot-com boom. They also discuss why timing matters in major financial decisions, strategies for unwinding concentrated stock positions, opportunities created by low-income years, the latest trends in the Cincinnati housing market, and the most common mistakes first-generation millionaires make.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why having millions saved for retirement still doesn’t guarantee financial freedom—and how many high earners unknowingly sabotage their own retirement plans through lifestyle creep, unchecked spending, and poor cash-flow awareness. They also discuss the psychological dangers of sudden wealth and inheritances, why some people lose massive windfalls within just a few years, how to thoughtfully manage newly inherited money, and the smartest order to draw income from pensions, Social Security, deferred comp, and investment accounts in retirement.

Plus, they break down what...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the modern midlife crisis—and why so many high earners are making more money than ever while feeling more trapped than ever at the same time. They discuss the rise of “golden handcuffs,” lifestyle creep, delayed retirement decisions, and the emotional realization many successful professionals face when they discover they could have stepped away years earlier.

Plus, they dive into costly inherited IRA mistakes families are making under the Secure Act, strategies for managing taxes on retirement accounts, whether direct indexing is worth...

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down the key life moments when calling your financial advisor can make—or cost—you thousands. They also tackle a surprising trend: why retirees with millions saved still feel financially insecure, and how shifting from pension-style income to managing a “pile of money” has changed everything. Plus, insights from CIO Andy Stout on how tax-efficient investing strategies like tax loss harvesting and direct indexing can add real after-tax returns, and practical advice on gifting strategies, insurance gaps, and why not having a power of attorney could create major problems for your...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian tackle a critical question for investors: what happens if the next decade of market returns doesn’t cooperate—and does your financial plan rely on strong returns just to survive? They break down how to properly stress test your retirement plan using real-world scenarios, Monte Carlo analysis, and the importance of separating must-have expenses from discretionary spending to weather any environment.

Plus, they dive into the hidden complexities of restricted stock units (RSUs), including how they’re taxed, vesting schedules, and why they should be tre...

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down three conflicting market predictions making headlines right now—and why reacting to any of them could derail your long-term plan—while also diving into the dangers of turning your 401(k) into a betting platform, whether a “too balanced” portfolio could actually hurt your growth, how appraisal gaps can impact what you really pay for a home, and smart strategies for high-net-worth investors including direct indexing, managing large IRA balances, and planning for long-term care without over-insuring.

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian explain why the market rebounded sharply despite global conflict, highlighting how one company—Micron Technology—is driving a surprising share of earnings growth expectations and what that means for diversification and long-term investors. They also discuss the risks of relying on headline-making company CEOs, answer listener questions on direct indexing, tax planning in retirement, and concentrated stock positions, and wrap up with smart, flexible strategies for funding grandchildren’s education using tools like 529 plans.

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down the biggest stock market mistakes investors still make—even as more Americans than ever are participating in the market. They discuss the shift from pensions to 401(k)s, why younger investors may be taking too little risk, and how to properly align your portfolio with your financial plan instead of your age.

Plus, a deep dive into the Rule of 55 and how it can help unlock early retirement, smart strategies for handling required minimum distributions if you don’t need the income, and how life insurance can...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down how just two trading days over the past year could have dramatically impacted your portfolio—and why trying to time the market based on fear can cost you millions over time. They also cover the risks of having multiple old 401(k)s, smart strategies for Roth conversions and tax-efficient charitable giving, how to approach estate planning conversations with aging parents, the importance of pre-planning end-of-life decisions, and when advanced strategies like direct indexing actually make sense for higher-net-worth investors.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down why investors aren’t panicking despite rising geopolitical tensions, what that means for your portfolio, and how to prepare for volatility with smart planning, liquidity, and tax strategies—plus insights on life insurance decisions, concentrated stock risk, selling a business, Roth conversions, and why having proactive family conversations about long-term care matters more than ever.

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down why so many people who have done everything right—saved, invested, and built significant wealth—still don’t feel confident about their financial future. They explore the difference between passive decision-making and intentional planning, the two factors that truly move the needle, and why “hoping it all works out” can quietly derail even strong portfolios. Plus, why a financial windfall can be a risky moment if you act too quickly, how AI is starting to influence financial decisions (for better and worse), and answers to listener questions on managing c...

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down why your portfolio may not be falling—even when scary headlines suggest markets are in turmoil. They explain the disconnect between media narratives and real investor experience, including why the Dow’s dramatic point swings don’t tell the full story and how proper diversification—especially with international stocks and small cap value—has quietly supported portfolios in 2026.

Plus, a surprising (and alarming) trend: high-income households earning $300K–$500K are more likely to feel “paycheck to paycheck” than those earning far less. Bob and Brian unpack the real culprit...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why the first five years of retirement can make or break even a $5 million portfolio. They break down sequence of returns risk, walk through real-world examples of how early market drops can permanently impact your plan, and share strategies like liquidity buckets and disciplined rebalancing to protect your future.

Plus, common 401(k) mistakes successful investors make, how to prevent concentrated stock from quietly dominating your portfolio, what to do if your financial life is split across multiple advisors, and how to safeguard your...

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down the stock market volatility tied to escalating tensions in the Middle East and the critical Strait of Hormuz, where roughly 20% of global oil flows, looking back at the 1973 OPEC oil embargo, stagflation, and how markets have historically responded to geopolitical shocks.

Plus, they answer listener questions on adjusting stock allocations amid global conflict, calculating emergency cash when income fluctuates, and whether to lock in gains early in retirement or simply rebalance and stay disciplined.

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian tackle a question that hits differently when you’ve built real wealth: if the market dropped 20% tomorrow, what would you actually do? They walk through the emotional and mathematical realities of managing a $2–10 million portfolio, why risk tolerance and plan design don’t always align, and how shifting from accumulation to preservation changes everything. You’ll also hear strategies around sequence of returns risk, separating income streams from piles of money, and why diversification today may mean more than just a 60/40 portfolio. Plus, the guys explain why bonds weren’t the “safe...

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down the most expensive lies couples tell themselves about money—especially the dangerous comfort of saying “we’re fine” —and explain how a lack of communication around retirement timing, estate plans, and financial roles can cost families millions and fracture relationships. They also dig into why a single withdrawal rate like the traditional 4% rule isn’t enough, exploring sequence of returns risk, bucket strategies, flexible spending guardrails, and how small tweaks in Monte Carlo assumptions can dramatically change your plan’s success rate. Plus, Allworth’s in-house insurance expert, Jodee Deutsch, j...

On this episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down why the financial decisions that feel boring or easy to postpone often have the biggest impact on long-term success. From overlooked beneficiary designations and withdrawal strategies to missed tax-planning windows and life risks that don’t show up in market charts, they explain how successful families can do everything “right” and still run into avoidable problems.

The conversation highlights why planning for taxes, longevity, healthcare, control, and flexibility matters just as much as investment returns—especially as net worth grows—and how proactive, thoughtful decisions today can protec...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down whether a strong January really sets the tone for the rest of the market. They explain why diversification is resurfacing as international stocks and small caps outperform, dig into why the world’s largest asset manager says bonds may no longer protect portfolios the way investors expect, and share smarter ways to manage risk and income in retirement, including shorter-duration bonds and buffered strategies.

The show also tackles real planning decisions around selling appreciated investments, evaluating active managers, estate planning for blended fa...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian issue a critical warning for anyone who’s never vetted their financial advisor—breaking down a real-life fraud case and how to protect yourself. They unpack whether gold belongs in your portfolio, reveal the hidden risks of neglected 401(k)s, and explain how to make them work harder for high-net-worth investors. Plus, smart listener questions on helping kids with a home down payment, guarding against early-retirement market drops, and unwinding a concentrated stock position without triggering a massive tax bill.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian unpack the seven most common financial lies we tell ourselves – from “I’ll be happy when I have more money” to “I’ll figure it out on my own.” These aren’t just small white lies; they’re deeply emotional narratives that can quietly sabotage your financial future. Whether you're navigating lifestyle creep, market timing fears, or generational silence around money, this episode helps you recognize these self-deceptions and replace them with smart, actionable advice. Plus, tips for protecting your finances through divorce, estate planning updates you might have missed, a...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian unpack the booming world of alternative investments—from gold and crypto to private equity and real estate. Is now the time to diversify beyond stocks and bonds? Plus, what big bank earnings tell us about the economy, what a Cincinnati real estate expert sees in 2026, and how to financially support aging parents without derailing your own retirement. And if you waited until now to think about your 2025 taxes—don’t worry, there’s still time.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian reveal why January is the most strategic money month of the year. From harvesting capital gains and revisiting direct indexing strategies to maximizing donor-advised funds and managing idle cash, they break down the smartest financial moves you can make right now. Plus, they discuss why a bigger tax refund isn't necessarily a good thing, how poor timing can erode your investment returns, and how to prepare emotionally and financially for long-term care decisions. Later, they answer listener questions about tax alpha, inherited IRAs, and consolidating retirement accounts.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian take a deep dive into what really happened in 2025 — and why the investing fundamentals they shared all year long held up once again. From President Trump’s return and a new wave of tariffs, to a Federal Reserve caught between inflation and politics, to a stock market rally that rewarded patient investors — they told you what to expect, and they were right. Hear what mattered most, what moved the markets, and what lessons investors should take into 2026. Plus, the rise of real financial resolutions, how to measure if your...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian explore a simple phrase that could mean the difference between financial freedom and struggle: “the sooner the better.” They unpack new data around Gen X’s looming retirement crisis and what it means to be the first generation largely retiring without pensions.

Then, they dive into a compelling new study showing how saving—not spending—could be the true key to financial happiness.

Plus, career expert Julie Bauke joins to dissect “the executive dilemma”—when a promotion might not actually be the best next move.

...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian explore whether we’re living through another tech bubble — this time fueled by artificial intelligence. Is the massive investment in AI setting us up for a painful correction in 2026? They dig into market concentration, inflated valuations, and why companies like Nvidia, Oracle, and OpenAI are raising red flags for some investors.

You’ll also hear why now is a smart time to rebalance your portfolio — but not the old way — and how high-net-worth investors are using buffered ETFs and direct indexing to level up their financial st...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian uncover the crucial differences between financial advisors who are just going through the motions and those truly playing offense—actively helping high-net-worth clients reduce taxes, build legacy plans, and take control of their financial futures. Learn the red flags that suggest your advisor may be stuck in the past and the proactive strategies—like Roth conversions and tax-efficient income planning—that can dramatically improve your long-term outcomes.

Plus, find out what Vanguard is doing that could make your 401(k) feel more like a pension, when it makes...

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian reveal a stunning stat: just two companies—Alphabet and Nvidia—are responsible for a third of the S&P 500’s returns this year. If you think you’re diversified just because you own an index fund, think again. They dive into the historical precedent for today’s market concentration, the real risks of overexposure to big tech, and what smart investors should consider instead—including equal-weight ETFs, buffered products, and direct indexing.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian break down the true art of asset location—why it’s not just about what you invest in, but where you hold those investments. They walk through real-life scenarios for high-net-worth investors, explaining how to use pre-tax, Roth, and taxable accounts to build smarter, tax-savvy portfolios. Then, Amazon, Alphabet, and Meta are flooding the market with corporate bonds. Why now? And what does that mean for income-focused investors? Plus, career expert Julie Bauke joins the show to unpack the “Executive Dilemma”—when to stay, when to jump, and how to e...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian ask the question every long-term investor should be thinking about right now: while the headlines fixate on the Fed, are we focusing on the wrong thing? Plus, what a major move involving a media company can teach us about handling company stock. And don’t miss answers to your biggest financial questions, from capital gains strategy to whether ETFs really beat mutual funds in a taxable account.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian explore how your financial plan should stay steady even when the economy doesn’t follow the script. From the double-digit interest rates of the 1980s to the AI-fueled market surge of 2023–24, they unpack the mixed signals investors have faced over the last 40 years—and what you can learn from the surprises. They also dive into how innovations from State Street could reshape your 401(k), how to make smart open enrollment choices, and real-life listener questions about supporting aging parents and adult kids, selling a business, managing inconsistent income...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian dive deep into the AI investment craze that’s dominating headlines. Are we too late to cash in? Or is this just the beginning of a new economic era? They break down the hype, the risks, and the smarter way to invest—without trying to pick a winner. Plus, why international investing may deserve another look, a fresh update on the real estate market, and how to break out of financial decision paralysis. Finally, your listener questions on giving, planning, and the fear of running out—even when you...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian welcome former Cleveland Fed President Dr. Loretta Mester for a rare insider’s view into how interest rate decisions are made, why 2% inflation remains so elusive, and how the Fed stays focused amid political noise. She also recounts navigating the economy through COVID and shares what makes Ohio’s economy uniquely resilient.

Then, Bob and Brian shift gears to dissect huge earnings reports from Microsoft, Meta, Alphabet, and Nvidia — and what they signal for the future of AI and market momentum.

Later, they tackle r...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian challenge the myth of the "magic number" in retirement planning. Just because you've hit $2 million or even $5 million doesn’t mean your future is locked in. Plus, hear stories of high-net-worth individuals navigating the pitfalls of poorly structured wealth. Later, they discuss new research showing that early retirement might actually shorten your life, how to use your empty nest phase for a financial makeover, and whether it’s possible to be too diversified. Finally, as always, Bob and Brian take on real listener questions—from restricted stock units to...

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian celebrate the third birthday of the latest bull market — and reflect on what an 85% rise in the S&P 500 since 2022 really teaches long-term investors. Then, they explore a hidden risk for high-net-worth investors: complacency. When your wealth grows, it’s easy to think it’ll manage itself. Bob and Brian share how rebalancing, tax strategies, and proactive planning can keep success from turning into vulnerability. Plus, the team answers your most pressing financial questions about Roth IRAs, 5% CDs, and more.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian warn against the “paper wealth trap” — mistaking market highs for lasting financial security. They break down how to turn temporary gains into durable wealth with proper liquidity, diversification, and planning. You’ll also hear why buffered ETFs are drawing billions from investors — and when they actually make sense. Plus, real estate pro Michelle Sloan joins to weigh in on the age-old question: rent or buy? And in ‘Ask the Advisor’ — smart moves for deferred comp plans, protecting company stock, and selling rental properties tax-smartly.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian unpack the “smart-sounding” money advice that can quietly sabotage your future—from skipping Roth conversions and “going broke safely” in cash, to estate-planning myths that lead to probate messes, and being sold permanent life insurance instead of building a tax-smart strategy. Plus, they tackle oversized RMDs, executor pitfalls with business interests, smarter stock-option exercises, and whether to migrate from mutual funds to ETFs or direct indexing.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian get Allworth Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout’s take on the Fed’s latest rate cut and what it really means for investors. They also cover new IRS rules pushing high earners’ 401(k) catch-ups into Roths, why HSAs are the most overlooked tax break, and how to protect your retirement from sequence of return risk. Plus, real listener questions on private REITs, pensions, and illiquid wealth—and a quick December tax trick that could save you thousands.