Our 2 Cents

Steve and Gabriel are covering a lot of great topics on this week's podcast episode. They're sharing ways to plan ahead for the unknown, and how doing so can bring you some peace-of-mind in retirement. Plus, steer clear of these expensive cities and financial scams in retirement!How Can You Plan for These Unpredictable Events?:When is the next market crash going to happen?What will healthcare costs look like in 20 years?What will taxes be in the future?Places You May Not Want to Live in Retirement:Top 10 most expensive cities in the world to liveWould you consider retiring to any of these places?Investor Beware! Financial Scams to Avoid:Crypto-Caution: how to "safely" invest in cryptocurrency and avoid fraudulent currenciesNon-regulated investments: they usually sound "too good to be true"Romance scams: online dating partners after for your money

Welcome back to a fresh new episode of Our 2 Cents!On the podcast this week we are discussing a few economic projections that we think might be possible this year. Next, we talk about the findings from a recent study on investors.Then we wrap things up by saving a great listener question for last.Economic Predictions for this Year:GDP Growth Forecast - do we see a recession on the horizon?Housing Market - will we see it cooling off this year, or even the "bubble" burst?Inflation - will it continue to rise as it has been or will it come back down by year-end?The Great Resignation - what impact will the current labor shortage, remote work trends, and people continuing to leave the workforce have on our economy?New Study Finds Clients That Are Using Financial Advisors Are Happier: What correlates using a financial advisor with increased "happiness indicators?"Plus, Steve and Gabriel will share another interesting finding about relationships that came out of this study.Listener Question:"

We've been following playoff football (even without the Bears) and it got us thinking about the "Retirement Red Zone" and why it's critically important to not make a financial fumble when you're so close to the finish line.Next, we had Steve and Gabriel separately fill in the blanks on some financial potpourri, we'll compare their answers and see why they chose what they did. Join now to listen to these great topics and an excellent listener question!Don't Fumble in the Retirement Red Zone:What is the Retirement "Red Zone," and what makes it such an important timeframe for planning?What are some types of retirement fumbles, and can you recover them?The plays you call in the red zone are different than the ones you use during the rest of the game, what kind of shifts should you consider making?Financial Potpourri:The best way to be sure you don’t run out of money in retirement is to _______________The stock market has the ability to ____________.If your advisor tell

It's a new year and we have fresh new show topics to look forward to on the Our 2 Cents podcast!First we're diving into "The Great Resignation" movement and what to keep in mind if you're planning on joining this phenomenon. Plus, we're starting a new monthly planning tip segment in 2022 and we share the very first planning tip today. Listen in now to join the fun!"The Great Resignation":4.2 Million people quit their jobs as of October 2021, many with no plans to return to workAre you considering leaving the workforce, perhaps retiring earlier than originally planned?What questions should you consider before taking a leap and making an exit?Planning Tip of the Month - January 2022:Know / See / Check-Up on how you're doing financiallyThe start of the year is one of the best times to get a "financial map" of where you're goingWhy having savings and spending goals is so importantIncome planning questions to ask that will help you plan aheadGetting to Kn

Your Our 2 Cents podcast co-hosts Steve and Gabriel are back this week to round out their list of 22 money resolutions for 2022. Tune in to hear what's left on the list!Plus, the guys will share one of their non-financial resolutions they're setting for themselves in the new year.2022 Money Resolutions List - Part 2 of 2:There's no shortage of ways to consider making money improvements in the new year.We wrap up this two-part series with the second half of our 22 resolutions for 2022.Whether you resolve to make micro—or macro—improvements to your finances, taking the first step to identify areas in which you could be doing better is a great first step.Steve and Gabriel's Resolutions:Plus, be sure to listen until the end when Steve and Gabriel share a resolution of their own for 2022.

2022 Money Resolutions List - Part 1 of 2:With dozens of money goals to consider, we're sharing common improvements and changes we've seen clients want to make over the years.From behavioral changes to mindset shifts, we're covering it all when it comes to money goals for the new year.Do you have any specific financial goals heading into next year? Reply to this email and let us know, we'd love to hear them!We ran out of time to cover all our resolutions on today's show, so join us next week for the complete list!Listener Question:"My plan has been to work for one more year, then find part-time work for about four years to supplement my retirement income. But now I wonder if I'd just be better off to continue working full-time for two more years, then just be done with working altogether. Which is better?" - Ted

Before the holiday break, Steve and Gabriel recorded a great episode of the Our 2 Cents podcast. To kick off the show, Gabriel shares a great analogy about retirement planning and the ways in which the fundamentals of building a retirement plan resemble those of building a house.Next, the guys answer some thoughtful listener questions and wrap things up with some updates that will be coming to Medicare and Social Security in 2022.Retirement Planning is Like Building a House:When building a house, what is the very first step you should take before digging in?A blueprint is helpful when visualizing what your "house" will look like, and gives you the opportunity to make changes before the building begins. We'll share how this is mirrored in retirement planning.A "Retirement Plan Tracker" or "RPT" is the foundation of every SGL client's plan. So what all is inside this crucial component of the plan?Just as every house depends greatly on each of its cornerstones, every finan

Advisors everywhere have had some pretty unrealistic requests come up when meeting with clients. Steve and Gabriel will share some of the ones they've heard on this week's episode of Our 2 Cents, and the key takeaways you can learn from them. Then they look at some pretty quirky state taxes that will leave you shaking your head!Unreasonable Financial Requests:Huge market gains, with little to no risk. Is that achievable?Will investors seeking the highest quality financial planning and advice, at the lowest possible price just end up getting what they pay for?Does that sneaky little tax trick some advisors are pitching even exist?Making exceptions—our thoughts on changing our entire investing philosophy for just one clientThe Strangest Ways States Tax You (Or Don't):Arkansas eliminated state income tax for Texarkana residents in exchange for this unprofitable tax hikeDeodorant vs. Antiperspirant—this state taxes these similar products differentlyWhat "candy" bar is exempt from Illinois

After months of negotiation from both sides of the aisle, a new spending package has passed which leaves investors curious how it might impact the American people. Steve and Gabriel are taking a look at the new bill in this week's episode of Our 2 Cents, and sharing some important tax-saving strategies to consider before the end of the year.The 1.2 Trillion Dollar IIJA:The Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has passed in the Senate - we'll break down what that means.How will the $550 Billion in new spending be allocated?We'll discuss two key questions on many American's minds: how will this new bill be paid for, and will it affect our taxes?Strategies for Year-End Tax Planning:November = Tax Planning Time!To itemize, or not to itemize? And what is "bunching?"We'll cover important changes and reminders about RMDs, and share some charitable tax saving opportunities.Plus, other strategies to consider and identify if they apply to you.Get to Know Steve and Gabriel

There's a lot more involved with comprehensive financial planning than simply focusing on the numbers, it actually starts with going back to our most basic needs as humans. That is our main discussion on this week's episode of Our 2 Cents!Plus, Steve and Gabriel are talking about the supply chain disruptions and how the major issues are now being felt by consumers.The Planning Pyramids:The symbol of a pyramid is widely used to illustrate many concepts in our daily lives.From the food pyramid to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, the notion that our most fundamental needs must first be met before we are able to continue up the pyramid is broadly understood.But when it comes to finances, Financial Planning Pyramids are abundant, so which ones are the best to be followed?Steve and Gabriel describe how they flipped the pyramid on its side and instead follow a 4 Pillar Planning approach. They'll share why they believe this is the best way to plan for retirement.Supply Chain Chaos:Are the headlines ab

Welcome back for another great episode of the Our 2 Cents podcast!We're covering a really interesting main topic this week that takes us into the psyche of investors. We also have a listener question that was sent in to us and we wrap up by learning a bit more about Steve and Gabriel!The Danger of Overconfidence:What does the Roman Empire have in common with your financial plan?Overconfidence is an interesting psychological phenomenon, which can be particularly dangerous when it comes to investing and personal finance.Find out how overconfidence in three key planning areas can undermine your investing performance and retirement goals.We also take a look at how confirmation bias can sneak in and compound the negative effects of overconfidence.Listener Question:"My Long-Term Care premium is going up this year based on a notice I received, and it is significant. Should I pay the extra premium cost, or should I just cancel it before it goes up again?" - HannahGetting to Know Steve and Gabriel:What

Steve and Gabriel are "back in the saddle" with a new episode of Our 2 Cents!On the show today, the guys are discussing a variety of planning gaps investors might experience—sometimes without even knowing it. Then they wrap up with a surprise segment that will have you questioning things you hear everyday. Be sure to listen in to the end to join the fun!Does Your Plan Have Gaps?Many people are aware planning gaps exist, however they aren't able to identify them in their own plan. Are you guilty of having any of these Planning Gaps?Income Gap, aka the "Paycheck Gap"Social Security GapInflation GapTax GapA Surprise Trip Down Memory Lane:Have some fun with us as we take you on a trip down memory lane, and test your old-school knowledge!

Two very interesting and important topics have us thinking deep on this week's episode of Our 2 Cents.We're discussing a mindset shift that occurs for retirees when the time comes to spend that nest egg, and whether many investors truly know what investments they own and why. Let's dive in!Article Analysis - "Want a Better Retirement? Spend More of Your Money":Switching from a saving mindset to a spending one has proven difficult for many retirees.Find out what makes some retirees spend double the amount annually in retirement than their peers.What are the two driving reasons retirees don't feel comfortable spending in retirement?Quote of the Month:We dissect a quote from successful investor Peter Lynch and how it relates to your investment portfolio and mutual funds.With roughly 7,943 available funds, how do you choose which one you pick?What are the primary criteria for assessing funds? Hint: there's a lot. We'll explain.

Modern day income planning is the star of the show on this week's episode of Our 2 Cents!Income planning is such an important topic as it relates to your overall retirement plan. So much so that we've decided to give it our full attention this episode. Below is a glimpse at what's covered on the show, you won't want to miss this one!Older, Traditional Income Planning:What exactly is the income planning approach of the past?How and where does this approach fail in retirement?Is the safe withdrawal rate still relevant in today's environment?Modern Day Income Planning:How is it different, what are the available options, and what is it's goal?We'll introduce you to the new ways of planning, backed by research and evidence.Is it really possible to get more for less when it comes to your retirement income?

A pilot, a captain, and a school bus driver? Listen in to this week's episode of Our 2 Cents to find out what Steve's retirement might look like one day. Also in this episode are key retirement timing and career considerations, important components of a custom-tailored retirement plan, and more!Retire or Work Longer - Which is the Right Choice?:Have you considered being a "retired worker"? We explore why down-shifting, yet still working in retirement is a popular option.What are the financial and social impacts of semi-retirement and full retirement?This one thing should be the driving factor in your decision. What is it?Ways to Customize Your Retirement Plan:You need a retirement plan that "fits" you. We talk about why a custom-tailored approach is so important to your success.A variety of factors go into customizing your plan, we look at:Income SequencingRetirement AgeRiskInsurance CoverageAnd more!What does it mean to have an efficient plan, and why is it important?Listener Qu

Retirement planning means different things to different people. Have you given thought to what it means for you personally? That's the focus of this week's episode of Our 2 Cents. Plus, more in-depth questions for getting to know Steve and Gabriel!1,000 People, 5 Words: How Do You Imagine "Life After Career?:With 900+ different words provided, only 28 counted for 1/2 of the responses. Can you guess what the most popular ones are?How did the responses differ from male and female respondents?What words would you use when thinking about your life after your career? Hit reply and let us know!Get to Know Steve and Gabriel - Deep Dive Edition!:Growing up, who was influential in shaping the way you view money and wealth?How did you get into the financial business?Have any people in the financial industry had an impact on you?What would you consider the most gratifying part of your job?If you could change anything about the way people plan for retirement, what would you change?

Welcome back to another new episode of the Our 2 Cents podcast. We're leaving the financial numbers and statistics out of the conversation today, and focusing on the ways people truly think about money and how that may shift with age. Let's dive right in!Age and Wisdom: How Do They Play into Financial Planning?:With age comes more experience, observation, and understanding. How can this shape the way you look at money?We've gathered lots of experience over the years, what can our experience help teach you?Could your goals for your money change as you age?We look at things people said they wish they would have known about or done differently after gaining more wisdom as they've aged.Listener Questions:"I've heard of something called a 'Robo-Advisor,' can you tell me what that is? - Karen"Investing seems simple to me. Why don't you just buy dividend paying stocks and live off the dividends and that way you never need to dip into your principal?" - WilliamGe

After a few weeks off, Steve and Gabriel are back with a brand new episode of the Our 2 Cents podcast. They are talking about retirement spending habits, cracking a few jokes and answering listener questions on the show today. Tune in now to hear it all!The Art and Science of Decumulation:What do you need to know about spending down your money successfully in retirement?What are the problems with spending down your life savings? And what makes people afraid to spend?We'll discuss ways to determine where to take money from to spend in retirement, and who can help you decide.Corny Financial Advisor Jokes:We're sharing some laughs and explaining the hidden meaning behind some financial jokes.Listener Questions:"If interest rates finally start going back up, should I change how I am saving? Right now, I've taken my money out of the bank and invested it because interest rates are so low." - James"My husband and I argue about money almost everyday because we haven't done a great j

Steve and Gabriel discuss how retirement has changed over the years on this week's episode of Our 2 Cents. They also dive into the inflation fears percolating lately and what the media's role has been in creating those fears. Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Not Your Father's Retirement:Retirement today looks much different than it once did, but what all has really changed?We're seeing a new movement among working adults these days. What is the FIRE movement all about?Costlier, longer and, self-directed retirements create big challenges. We'll share how can you plan to manage these potential retirement pains.The Fear Mongers Want You Worried About Inflation:Is rising inflation unusual? And should you actually be worried about it?The so-called "Fear Mongers" of the media want you to be concerned about inflation, we share why that is.How can you achieve peace-of-mind amidst economic uncertainty?Getting to Know Steve and Gabriel:What is a good habit you have now that you

The Our 2 Cents podcast is back with a brand new episode this week. Steve and Gabriel have a lot to cover regarding stock market headlines and creating the most efficient investment portfolios. Listen in now!What to Do if You Have Any "Market Jitters":Are doom and gloom headlines & predictions making you worried about a stock market drop?What is the media trying to do by using click-bait headlines and creating fear & concern?Cash Drag: what is it, and how does it impact your portfolio?The Efficient Frontier: What is the Efficient Frontier, and how can you know if your portfolio is on it?Is it possible to get more for less when it comes to investing?Portfolio diversification, asset allocation & how to maximize returns with the least amount of risk.Quote of the Month: "Retirement is wonderful if you have 2 essentials..."Hear what the essentials are, and if Gabriel and Steve agree with them or not.