Simply Money by Allworth Financial

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 concentrated stock positions, coordinating income across accounts, planning for market downturns, and making sure your financial life is prepared for the unexpected.

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—lifestyle creep—and how even multi-million-dollar portfolios can be undermined by unchecked spending habits.

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 finances if a spouse becomes cognitively impaired.

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 haven” many expected in 2022, how to think strategically about 401(k) contributions across pre-tax, Roth, and after-tax buckets, and answer listener questions on retirement withdrawals, dividend income, and spending in early retirement.

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, joins the show to discuss when life insurance shifts from simple protection to advanced estate and legacy planning, and how high-net-worth families can better align their wealth with their long-term goals.

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 protect both your lifestyle and your legacy.

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 families, and why proactive conversations around aging parents can prevent financial and emotional chaos later on.

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, and the growing threat of elder cyber scams.

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 money actually did its job this year, and your smart money questions answered.

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. Finally, Bob and Brian answer real listener questions on managing capital gains, tapping into dividends, and planning for long-term care.

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 strategy. Plus, estate planning mistakes that can cost your heirs big time, and real answers in the Ask the Advisor segment — from embedded portfolio risk to downsizing dilemmas.

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 sense to start financially helping your kids now, and how to plan your estate beyond just taxes and probate. It’s a jam-packed show for anyone who wants to stay sharp and plan smarter.

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 evaluate your next big move. Also: tech-heavy indexes, the rise of private credit, and what to do with a lump sum after selling a rental property.

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, and dealing with old annuities.

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 have enough.

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 real-life listener questions: why muni bonds might trigger “phantom income,” how mutual funds can lead to unexpected tax bills, tips for coordinating insurance policies, and whether investing through an LLC offers tax or liability advantages.

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 the right time to downsize.

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.

On this week’s episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian put on their “tough teacher hats” to deliver some advice you may not want to hear, but absolutely need to hear. Just because you’ve saved $2 million, $3 million, or even $5 million doesn’t mean you’re automatically set for life. Their lessons cover why retirement isn’t a vacation but a paycheck replacement plan, why your kids don’t need another check but a financial strategy, how treating your portfolio like a casino can wreck decades of hard work, and why taxes could cost you more than your house. Plus, they dive into the real spending patterns of retirees, scams targeting families, and listener questions on concentrated tech stock, charitable remainder trusts, and how to plan for estate taxes on illiquid assets like real estate.

On this week’s episode of Simply Money, Bob and Brian break down the growing role of alternative investments inside retirement plans — and why you should be cautious before diving in. They also tackle whether today’s AI excitement is the new dot-com bubble, the lessons behind a shocking $4 million hospital bill, and what nearly 600,000 new 401(k) millionaires can teach us about long-term discipline. Plus, you’ll hear a personal story about how being overconcentrated in one stock devastated a family financially. And in our listener Q&A, we cover farmland sales, retirement income strategies, umbrella insurance, global diversification, and whether direct indexing beats ETFs.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian break down what the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge is signaling and why mortgage rates may stay stubbornly high despite potential rate cuts. They also explain new tax rules coming in 2026 that could change how you give to charity, and highlight a new study showing many retirees may outlive their savings. Plus, they unpack the “action trap” that even smart investors fall into, compare retirement systems around the world, and tackle your questions on umbrella insurance, capital gains, risk tolerance in marriage, and managing tech-heavy portfolios.

Markets are up, Nvidia is booming, and Taylor and Travis are engaged — but what does any of that mean for your financial plan? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian cut through the noise to show why successful investors don’t chase fads or panic over headlines. From maximizing cash yields to making smart decisions about Roth conversions, inheritances, and even prenups, Bob and Brian explain how discipline and planning — not hype — are what protect and grow wealth.

Ever wonder why even the smartest financial plans sometimes fail in real life? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian unpack the four invisible forces—emotional, social, generational, and logical—that quietly drive every financial decision you make. From keeping up with friends at dinner parties to the money scripts you inherited from your parents, they’ll reveal how these hidden influences can sabotage your best-laid plans—and how to get back in control. Bob and Brian also dive into common estate, investment, tax, and insurance mistakes high-net-worth families. Plus, what divorcing couples often overlook financially, and how to avoid being one of them.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian break down the latest July inflation report and explain why the Fed might finally be ready to cut rates in September. They also dissect investor fears of stagflation and clarify why today's market isn't the 1970s all over again. Later, they dig into why now might be the right time to lock in short-term yields for your cash, whether direct indexing makes sense for higher-net-worth investors, and how to think about pulling money in retirement. Plus, Bob shares how he’s handling the long-term care funding puzzle in his own financial plan.

Has the stock market finally hit choppy waters? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian unpack what the latest jobs report tells us about the economy—and what it means for your portfolio. From resilient job numbers to a rate pause by the Fed, there's a lot to navigate. Plus, what the future of Social Security means for you and how to use ETFs the smart way.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, bold market forecasts are flying, but how accurate have past predictions been? Bob and Brian break it down. Plus, they clear up the confusion surrounding a viral Social Security tax email and discuss the mental trick that could boost your retirement savings.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian dig into what investors should—and shouldn’t—do when the stock market keeps hitting record highs. Should you cash out or lean in? Behavioral finance, loss aversion, and portfolio strategy all come into play. Plus, hear how tools like direct indexing, buffered ETFs, and structured notes can help high-net-worth investors stay smart amid the noise. Then, a reality check on retirement: new data reveals more Americans tapping their 401(k)s early, and a growing crisis in senior housing—especially right here in Cincinnati. Are you making a dangerous assumption about what Medicare actually covers? We’ll walk through the risks of waiting too long to secure care solutions. Also in this episode: the truth about AI and investing—why even the smartest machine learning tools can't consistently beat the market, and how to actually use AI without falling for hype.

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian tackle the invisible force that can quietly wreck your retirement plan—your own mind. From action bias to overconfidence, scarcity to status quo traps, they unpack the psychological pitfalls that can sabotage even the best investment strategy. Learn why your childhood money lessons still echo in your financial decisions today, how FOMO can lead to costly mistakes, and why behavioral coaching may be your greatest financial asset. If you’ve built a solid nest egg but still feel anxious—or if you're tempted to chase trends like AI stocks—this conversation is a must-listen.

Think you're financially secure? If you've got a solid portfolio, a vacation home, or even just a nice cushion saved up, this episode is for you. Bob and Brian uncover the overlooked threats that can sink your financial ship—from lacking umbrella insurance and cybersecurity exposure to the dangers of a sloppy estate plan. They also tackle the pitfalls of over-concentration in company stock and the myth of diversification. Plus, how to fireproof your finances from family drama. If you’ve built wealth, now’s the time to protect it.

As 2025 hits the halfway mark, what do the markets, the economy, and your portfolio really look like? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian dissect the surprising strength of the markets despite geopolitical tensions, tariff fights, inflation fears, and political division. They explore what’s fueling the market’s growth, the role of earnings and inflation, and why long-term investors should stay the course. Plus, insights into Kroger’s strategy shift, the truth about dividend reinvestment, key estate tax updates, and how life changes like retirement or divorce can—and should—reshape your financial plan.

From wars and terror attacks to political strife, global events can shake our nerves—but should they shake our investments too? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian explore how markets have historically responded to geopolitical turmoil, and why staying the course with a solid financial plan could be your smartest move. Plus, a deep dive into the boom in annuity sales and the real costs of those "guarantees," and an important warning about using AI for your online purchases.

Is the traditional idea of retirement outdated? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian challenge the old-school dream of "never working again" and introduce a more dynamic vision: financial flexibility. Discover how shifting your mindset—and your financial strategy—can unlock purpose, passion, and peace of mind in your later years.

Think a $2 million nest egg makes you rich? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian break down the often misunderstood line between being wealthy and being truly financially independent. From benchmark net worth stats to the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies money management, they dive into the crucial questions every high-earner should ask themselves before and during retirement. You’ll also learn why knowing your spending habits matters more than your net worth, how to build a guardrail strategy for market dips, the silent dangers of holding too much cash, and the emotional impact of delayed retirement. Plus, an estate planning expert joins the show to bust some common myths and share what most people overlook. Whether you're nearing retirement or just curious about your financial future, this episode delivers practical advice with a dose of hard truth.

On this week's Best of Simply podcast, Bob and Brian uncover the most common mistake even successful savers make with their money — and it’s not what you’d expect. Learn why having multiple accounts without a strategy could be sabotaging your financial future. They also break down how to manage concentrated stock positions, the role of buffered ETFs in today's volatile markets, and why the first 10 years of retirement spending matter more than you think. Plus, a 5-minute task that could save you thousands in fraud protection. Don't miss these actionable insights to help secure your money now and for years to come!