In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb tackle two of the most pressing topics in personal finance: the power—and pitfalls—of leveraged ETFs, and the shifting wealth equation for young Americans deciding between renting or buying a home. Listeners will discover why leveraged exchange-traded funds can supercharge returns but demand careful strategy and constant attention, as Joel and Christina break down the pros, cons, and key takeaways for investors seeking higher stakes in the market. 

The discussion then pivots to the rent vs. buy debate, exploring whether investing your cash as a renter might outpace the long-term gains of homeownership. It’s a data-driven look at how rising housing costs, changing economic trends, and the influence of social media are reshaping wealth-building decisions for Gen Z and millennials. Joel and Christina share real-world numbers, highlight crucial tax differences, and offer practical advice on making the best choice for your financial situation and life goals. 

If you want to understand the risks and rewards of today’s investing landscape—from leveraged ETFs to smarter housing decisions—this episode delivers actionable insights and thought-provoking perspectives. Click to listen and discover how you can build wealth with confidence in a rapidly changing world! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, listeners are treated to an insider’s perspective from a prestigious investment conference attended by just 100 select guests and hosted by one of the world’s largest asset managers. Joel kicks off with a deep dive into the hottest topic in finance—Artificial Intelligence (AI). He explores AI’s growing influence on investments, the labor market, and society, highlighting both its potential and the cautionary flags, such as possible overcapacity and the challenges it poses for younger generations. 

Joel then shifts focus to three major investment themes: the importance of national security in shaping investment decisions, the surge of private equity and private credit for everyday investors, and the need for careful portfolio allocation to avoid hidden overconcentration in growth stocks. 
Next, Joel breaks down everything you need to know about Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)—from recent changes in age requirements to smart strategies for minimizing tax impact, including withholding and charitable giving. Whether you’re nearing retirement or already enjoying it, this segment offers actionable advice to keep your finances on track. 

The episode also features a practical guide to Ladybird Deeds—an estate planning tool that helps homeowners transfer property to loved ones without the hassle of probate. Joel explains how Ladybird Deeds work, their advantages over traditional probate, and step-by-step instructions to implement this powerful tool. 

Rounding out the show, Joel reviews the latest market headlines, including a strong start to earnings season and how AI-driven efficiencies are helping corporate America outperform expectations. 

If you want to learn how AI is reshaping investments, the keys to managing your retirement withdrawals, and estate planning strategies that save time and money, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this can’t-miss episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister tackle the timely topics reshaping America’s financial landscape. They kick off with a deep dive into tariffs—cutting through the headlines to reveal how the U.S. economy remains resilient, why the actual costs may be less than you think, and what you can do to protect your portfolio.

Next, they demystify the Great Wealth Transfer, exposing the gap between Gen Z’s inheritance expectations and the realities Baby Boomers face, from rising healthcare costs to shifting family values. You’ll hear practical advice and real-life stories that show how open conversations and professional planning can make all the difference. 

Joel and Zach also explore the dynamics of staggered retirement—why most couples don’t retire at the same time, the financial benefits and emotional hurdles involved, and actionable strategies to help partners plan for this new reality. Drawing on client experiences and their “Next Gen Dollars and Sense” workbook, they share tips to help listeners budget smarter, communicate better, and turn uncertainty into opportunity. 

Whether you’re worried about market volatility, planning for inheritance, or figuring out retirement timing with your spouse, this episode delivers step-by-step solutions, expert insights, and engaging banter.  


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this episode of Dollars & Sense, host Joel Garris breaks down the critical steps to "die better"—or at least be better prepared—by mastering the essentials of estate planning. Drawing from Chapter 19, "Death: The Other Certainty," of the Next Gen Dollars and Sense book, Joel shares practical advice to help listeners avoid common estate planning pitfalls and protect their loved ones. The episode highlights the different ways property transfers after death, including operation of law, operation of contract, and wills, explaining how each impacts your financial legacy. 

Listeners will discover tips on titling property, the importance of beneficiary designations, and strategies for making the process smoother, such as using Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) addenda and understanding the use of ladybird deeds. With real-life scenarios and actionable guidance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to take control of their financial future and ensure their wishes are honored. Tune in to learn how proactive estate planning can ease the burden for your family and spark meaningful conversations around the holidays! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

n this episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Kristin Castello and Chet Cowart dive into the hottest topics shaping your retirement future, including the latest proposed changes to 401k investment options and critical updates to catch-up contributions for those aged 50 and above. If you’re curious about how alternative investments like crypto and private equity might soon enter your 401k, or how upcoming tax regulations could affect high earners, this episode has the answers you need to stay ahead. 
Kristin and Chet break down three main topics: 

• Alternative Investments in 401ks: The current administration’s push to add new choices to your 401k sounds appealing, but comes with risks, fees, and potential complications. Learn how these changes could impact your account—and what history has taught us about “too good to be true” investments. 

• Major Tax Changes for High Earners: Starting in 2026, those earning $145,000 or more must put catch-up contributions in Roth accounts, losing some valuable tax deductions. Find out who’s affected, what loopholes exist, and how to plan ahead to avoid nasty surprises on your tax bill. 

• Consolidating Retirement Accounts: Should you roll your old 401ks and IRAs together? Get practical advice on direct transfers vs. 60-day rollovers, when consolidation makes sense, and which exceptions to watch out for—plus real-world client stories to illustrate what could go right or wrong. 

With lively banter, relatable client examples, and clear calls to action, Kristin and Chet make complex financial changes easy to understand—and actionable. Whether you’re nearing retirement, a high earner facing new rules, or just looking to simplify your finances, you’ll come away with smarter strategies for protecting your nest egg. 

Ready to take control of your retirement? Click to listen, get expert insights, and discover how Dollars & Sense can help you make the most of every opportunity—no matter where you are in your financial journey. 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this engaging episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, listeners are taken on a journey through the fascinating world of old paper stock certificates and the essential steps to cashing in on these historical treasures. Did you know there could still be $780 billion in forgotten paper stocks out there? Joel explains how to uncover their value, navigate the process of redeeming them, and avoid leaving money on the table. 

The conversation then shifts to the dream of early retirement. Joel breaks down the real-life factors that determine whether you can retire sooner than expected—including maintaining good health, managing family financial obligations, boosting your savings rate, diversifying your income streams, and eliminating debt. Through client stories and practical advice, he reveals how small steps today can lead to a comfortable tomorrow. 

But that’s not all—this episode also unpacks the rising risks in today’s stock market. Joel highlights how market concentration in tech and AI, along with the dangers of groupthink, could threaten your portfolio. He stresses the importance of diversification and regularly reviewing your risk profile to avoid unexpected pitfalls. 

Ready to discover hidden wealth, take charge of your retirement, and protect your investments? Tune in to this episode of Dollars & Sense for insights you won’t want to miss! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Rob Field take listeners on a practical journey through two crucial areas that impact your wallet—Medicare Advantage and the financial aftermath of divorce. Joel shares real-life insights about enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans, revealing common myths, what to watch out for during the enrollment period, and how to avoid costly mistakes. The duo also dives into the often-overlooked pitfalls of divorce finances, outlining typical errors like overspending, missing hidden assets, and letting emotions drive decisions. 

With relatable stories and expert advice, Joel and Rob break down why it pays to be proactive in both your healthcare and financial planning. If you want to learn how to protect your assets, sidestep common traps, and get the most out of your hard-earned money, click to listen and discover how to make smarter, more confident choices for your future! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Ready to take control of your finances and break free from the mental traps that sabotage your savings? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister share their expert advice on building stronger personal financial habits, including face-the-numbers budgeting and the power of automating savings. But they don't stop there—they dive deep into the surprising ways your mind can trick you through cognitive biases, revealing how illusions of control, hindsight, anchoring, and recency bias can derail even the best financial plans. 

From actionable tips like the 50/30/20 rule and crafting an emergency fund, to fascinating real-world stories of clients who overcame credit hurdles, this episode is packed with insights for listeners at every stage of their financial journey. Joel and Zach break down the psychology behind money decisions, offering easy-to-follow strategies to help you stay focused, avoid costly mistakes, and make the most of your hard-earned dollars. 

Curious about how to protect your investments, boost your financial confidence, and outsmart the common biases holding you back? Click to listen and empower yourself with the tools and wisdom to achieve lasting financial wellbeing—and maybe even learn how to make your favorite cocktail along the way! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Are you prepared to safeguard your financial future and tackle the challenges of estate settlement? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, we dive deep into the essentials of risk management—from understanding investment volatility to balancing risk and reward for lasting financial health. Discover practical strategies like diversification, setting clear financial goals, and building emergency funds to protect what matters most. 

But that’s not all! We also unravel the complexities behind estate planning and the often-thankless role of the executor. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, reduce family conflicts, and streamline the process for a smooth transition of assets. Packed with insights from the acclaimed "Dollars and Sense" and "Next Gen Dollars and Sense" books, this episode equips you with actionable tips to take charge of your finances and confidently navigate life's big transitions. 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Ready to supercharge your retirement strategy? In this episode of "Dollars and Sense," host Joel Garris tackles two of the biggest questions facing today's retirees: how to check off the 5 essential boxes for early retirement, and how to demystify Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) so you can keep more of what you’ve earned. 

Discover the crucial steps you must take if you’re dreaming of leaving the workforce before age 65 — from navigating health insurance to maximizing your retirement contributions, deciding the best time to claim Social Security, and the importance of vanquishing high-interest debt. Then, get the inside scoop on RMDs: what they are, why they matter, how rule changes could impact your withdrawal strategy, and smart ways to avoid costly tax surprises. 

If you want to retire with confidence, avoid common pitfalls, and make sense of the latest financial rules, this episode delivers expert advice, practical tips, and a lively conversation designed to empower your financial future. Tune in now and set yourself up for retirement success! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Ready to make the most of your taxes in 2025 and beyond? In this value-packed episode of Dollar & Sense, Joel and Kristin break down the latest game-changing updates to tax deductions, with a spotlight on the new senior deduction and major changes for charitable contributions. Discover how seniors can benefit from a $6,000 deduction—even if they're not yet on Social Security—and learn the income thresholds you need to know to qualify. 

The hosts also unravel the new opportunities for charitable giving, including a $1,000 deduction for everyone, the upcoming AGI floor of 0.5% for itemized deductions, and smart strategies to maximize your benefits before the rules shift in 2026. From increased state and local tax caps to permanent bonus depreciation for businesses, this episode is full of essential tips for making the most of your money at tax time. Tune in and get ahead of your financial game—your future self will thank you! 

On this episode of Dollar & Sense, hosts Joel and Chet dive into two hot topics that are reshaping financial futures: the rising cost of college and the common fear of investing. Whether you’re sending kids back to school or gearing up for your own academic journey, you’ll get eye-opening insights into how families are really paying for higher education—and smart alternatives that can save you from years of debt. 

But that’s not all! If you (or someone you know) are hesitant to put money into the stock market, this episode breaks down why waiting for the “right time” to invest is often the wrong move. With real-world examples, fresh data, and engaging banter, Joel and Chet reveal how starting early and sticking to a plan can make a huge difference—whether you’re saving for college or retirement. 

Don’t miss practical tips on tax-advantaged savings accounts, the truth behind inflation and interest rates, and a behind-the-scenes look at how Dollar & Sense became one of Feedspot’s top financial podcasts. Tune in and get inspired to take action for your financial future! 

This episode of Dollars & Sense puts the spotlight on the economic headlines shaping your future. Get an insider’s look at the landmark OBBB tax bill, including powerful updates like “Trump accounts,” zero tax on tips and overtime, and a fresh car loan deduction. Our experts break down the practical impact of these changes on everyday finances, revealing who stands to benefit and how. 

We also analyze the latest economic data, from surprising unemployment trends and Federal Reserve rate decisions to rising health insurance costs and how corporate America is navigating volatility. Understand the forces driving the markets, and pick up actionable tips to stay ahead through 2025’s evolving financial landscape. 

If you want to know how new tax rules and market shifts could affect your money—and what you can do about it—don’t miss this episode. Tune in now for thoughtful analysis, fearless forecasts, and the guidance you need to make smarter financial decisions with Dollars & Sense! 

Ready to outsmart the latest financial fads and futureproof your family’s well-being? This episode of Dollar & Sense is packed with candid truth and practical guidance you won’t want to miss. 

We pull back the curtain on the buzz around private equity—why are financial giants suddenly pushing these investments, and what’s lurking in the fine print? Discover the hidden risks, high fees, and pitfalls most investors overlook, plus learn how to spot red flags before your savings get locked away. If you want to stay a step ahead of Wall Street, this is essential listening. 

But there’s more: As Alzheimer’s and dementia diagnoses rise, protecting yourself and your loved ones is more crucial than ever. We share real-life stories and direct advice on the four areas every family must address—from legal docs to money management, home decisions, and digital safety. Make sure you’re prepared before life throws you a curveball. 

This week, hosts Zach and Christina bring their signature blend of expertise and energy to help you navigate some of the hottest financial topics of the season. 

From family adventures to the practical impact of new tariffs hitting on August 1st, you’ll hear personal anecdotes and professional guidance that make complex policies easy to understand. Discover how the latest tariff changes could affect your wallet, business, and even your next shopping trip. 

Then, take a deep dive into the much-anticipated One Big Beautiful Tax Bill. Zach and Christina break down the key updates, including major changes to the standard deduction, child tax credit, SALT deduction, tips and overtime income, and new rules for charitable and car loan interest deductions. Curious about how seniors and tip earners fare under the new law? They’ve got the answers—and plenty of real-life examples to keep things lively! 

Plus, don’t miss their 4 essential questions for reviewing your investment statements. With practical tips on evaluating fees, portfolio allocation, and keeping your accounts up to date, this episode ensures you’re not leaving money—or peace of mind—on the table. 

If you’re looking for smart financial strategies, engaging banter, and clear explanations of today’s most important money topics, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for expert advice, a few laughs, and actionable insights you can use right now! 

We break down the wild swings of Q2 2025 markets (did you know it was the first time since 1938 the S&P 500 was both up AND down 10%+ in a single quarter?! 🤯), explain what the massive new tax bill really means for your wallet (spoiler: most 2017 tax cuts are here to stay 🏛️💸), and dive into the 10 ways to fail at retirement—based on the latest AARP insights. Are you ready to dodge the biggest hazards to your money, health, and happiness? 

Plus: key stats, smart portfolio strategies, and the essential conversations you need before you retire. Whether you’re investing, planning, or just want to stay ahead of the game, this episode is for you! 
Listen now for actionable advice, surprising facts, and all the numbers you need to know to make the most of your money. 

#TaxPlanning #RetirementReady #MarketUpdate #FinancialWellness #DollarsAndSense #AARP #InvestSmart #PersonalFinance #TaxBill #RetirementTips #MoneyMatters 💰📊🧓 

In this insightful episode of "Dollars & Sense," we dive into three financial topics that resonate with many of us. First, we explore the journey of setting up a business, breaking down the common pitfalls, hidden costs, and strategic choices that can make or break your entrepreneurial success. Whether you're launching your first startup or considering a side hustle, these tips will save you time, money, and frustration. 💼📄 

Next, we uncover surprising truths about retirement planning, revealing insights from a JP Morgan study about spending patterns among retirees. Learn why inflation might not be as big of a worry as you think, what temporary spending surges mean, and how tailoring your financial strategy to fit your unique lifestyle can make retirement planning less daunting. 🏖️📈 

And for parents with young adult grads struggling to find their footing, we tackle strategies to provide support without sacrificing your own financial future. From setting realistic support budgets to fostering open communication, this segment offers practical advice for navigating intergenerational financial challenges. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦💵 

Don’t miss these actionable tips, expert analysis, and relatable scenarios that make Dollars & Sense your go-to podcast for financial wisdom. Hit play and start planning smarter today! 🎙️✨ 

Hosts Rob Field and Kristin Castello share practical insights on evaluating real estate as a passive income stream—covering the numbers, the pitfalls, and common misconceptions from rapid home appreciation during the pandemic years. Learn about the true costs, time commitments, and the less obvious tax implications of rental ownership, including depreciation, passive loss rules, and how to plan for those tricky negative returns. 
 
Switching gears, the show breaks down the recent surge in Social Security retirement claims, explores the impact of the 2025 Fairness Act, and discusses strategies current and future retirees can adopt as the trust fund faces depletion. The hosts emphasize that Social Security alone may not be enough for a comfortable retirement, stressing the need for comprehensive planning that considers mental and emotional readiness alongside financial security. 

This episode is packed with knowledge for anyone considering real estate investment or concerned about their retirement outlook in a changing economic landscape. 

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel and Zach dive into two critical financial topics you don’t want to miss!

First, they break down the latest Social Security updates, including why benefits might be reduced sooner than expected and what you can do to prepare. Then, they reveal four sneaky ways you might be spending money without even realizing it—from autopay subscriptions to those tempting impulse purchases. 💳💡 

💥 Plus, we explore how political opinions impact investing decisions and share practical tips to rethink your money habits for big savings. Don’t let FOMO or outdated strategies drain your finances! 🛑💰 

On this week's episode of Dollars & Sense, we dive into two hot financial topics that could impact your wallet and your future investments! 

• Model Portfolios: Did you know assets in model portfolios surged to a record $8 trillion this year? Find out the pros and cons of these pre-packaged investment options and why you need to ask your financial advisor the right questions to truly know what you own. Are these portfolios helping you grow your money—or just serving the institutions? 

• 529 College Savings Plans: There's groundbreaking news on the horizon! Proposed expansions could allow 529 funds to cover more educational expenses, from tutoring fees to curriculum materials and even SAT tests. Learn how these changes may offer greater flexibility and reassurance for parents and grandparents saving for their loved ones' education. 

💡 Key Takeaways: The importance of understanding your investments, the potential pitfalls of one-size-fits-all solutions, and how new legislative changes could reshape education savings plans. Whether you're a savvy investor or a concerned parent, there's something for you in this episode! 

🎧 Tune in now to stay informed and make confident financial decisions. Your money matters!