The Financial Answer

The Future of Retirement in America

When we look toward the future, what’s ahead? Whether you take more of an optimistic or pessimistic view of things, it’s important to know what to expect. In this episode, we talk about what Americans may face when it comes to retiring in the years ahead. Listen in as we discuss Social Security, healthcare, tax rates and more.
 
Here’s what we discuss on today’s show:
Social Security has been strong and stable. Will it continue to be?
Healthcare is essential, but it’s expensive.
Tax rates have the potential to change.
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 
 

Bashing the Roth?

In a shocking turn of events, we’re going to spend some time bashing the Roth today. Inspired by an article we found on Yahoo Finance, Nathan shares his thoughts on a Roth. Is it really the right thing for you? Instead of basing your decisions on some one-size-fits-all financial advice, it’s important to consider your unique and personal financial situation.
 
Here’s what we talk about on today’s show:
What does Nathan think about investing in a Roth?
Are you destined for a lower tax bracket in retirement?
Is the Roth a bad choice?
What does the future hold with taxes?
Is there reason to convert to a Roth?
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 
Check out the article here
 

Financial Lessons From Ron Swanson

We’re back for another segment where we see what lessons we can learn from popular quotes. Join us as we delve into the world of fiction and explore the valuable financial lessons we can learn from the beloved character Ron Swanson, portrayed by Nick Offerman, in the iconic TV series “Parks and Recreation.”
 
Here are some key takeaways from this episode:
Be cautious of financial advisors who may be promoting products that are not suitable for your specific needs. Just like skim milk may not be the best choice for everyone, some financial products may not be appropriate for your financial goals.
Don't rely on hope or luck when it comes to your finances; instead, plan and prepare for various scenarios and have a well-thought-out retirement plan to avoid potential financial challenges in the future. 
Seek advice from financial advisors who can help you make informed decisions and create a tailored financial plan that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 

Till Debt Do Us Part: Resolving Financial Tension Between Couples (Part 2)

Welcome back to part two of our discussion on resolving financial tension between couples. In this episode, we'll explore five more common areas of financial strain: emergency fund size, charitable contributions, handling inheritances, insurance needs, and financial management style. Stay tuned to learn how advisors like Nathan work to resolve conflicts in these areas as they arise.  
 
Here’s what we’ll discuss on today’s show:
Agreeing on a number for your savings account. (2:28)
Being on the same page about charitable contributions. (5:11) 
Deciding what to do with an inheritance. (7:01)
Having conversations about insurance and long-term care. (9:41)
How will you handle financial management in retirement? (11:40)
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 

Till Debt Do Us Part: Resolving Financial Tension Between Couples (Part 1)

Money can't buy love, but it can certainly start some spicy debates between you and your better half. In this episode, we're digging into the financial face-offs that make Monopoly fights look like child's play and exploring some money minefields that can test even the most solid relationships. Listen in as we explore how to resolve some of the most common financial sources of tension between couples.
 
Here’s what we’ll discuss on today’s show:
Differing views on risk tolerance in investments. (3:19)
Disagreeing on the best age to retire. (6:24) 
Leaving behind a legacy for your children. (8:14)
Should we keep our home or downsize? (10:25)
Are you on the same page about your retirement lifestyle? (12:18)
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 
 

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Invest in a 401(k)

For many people, their 401(k) is one of their main investment vehicles. While it can be a fantastic choice, today we highlight the reasons why it might not be the right fit for everyone. There are times when you might not want to invest in a 401(k) or invest as much into it.
 
Here are the reasons we talk through on today’s show:
Are you worried about having enough in your retirement account? (4:25)
If you don’t have an emergency fund, should you put money into a 401(k)? (4:56)
If you aren’t getting a match, is it worth it? (7:44)
If you don’t work at the company, why is your money there? (10:33)
Do you need the money before retirement? (11:38)
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 

Bad Money Habits That Can Spoil The Retirement Party

When you have a party, you want it to be a success! A party should be full of fun, joy, and festivity! In fact, Nathan just celebrated 20 years with his clients with a party. But what ruins a party? Things like procrastination and poor planning can be a recipe for disaster. On today’s show we talk about the bad money habits that could spoil the party that is your retirement.
 
Here are the bad habits we break down on today’s show:
Ignoring your account statements. (2:32)
Being addicted to the rise and fall of the market. (4:26)
Procrastination on financial decisions, even simple ones. (6:28)
Investing emotionally instead of strategically. (8:45)
Taking unnecessary risks. (10:56)
Living beyond your means. (12:28)
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 

What Weddings and Retirement Planning Have in Common

Following the wedding of Nathan’s son, we wanted to discuss the many things retirement planning and wedding planning have in common. From financial management in the planning process to preparing for the needs and wants of multiple people, there’s a lot to think about. Everybody hopes it will be perfect, but you know that life is going to throw you curveballs. Having a plan will help you prepare and having a good mindset will help you get through the tougher times in both marriage and retirement planning. 
 
Here’s what you’ll learn about on today’s show:
Financial management is required for weddings and retirement. (3:29)
The planning process involves setting goals and priorities. (6:45)
You have to consider the needs of multiple people. (10:03)
Both wedding and retirement planning can be stressful. (12:55)
Both events require a giant leap of faith. (16:19)
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 
 

Breaking Down The Commentary After Recent Bank Collapses

After a string of recent bank collapses, should we feel comfortable with having money in the banks? What safeguards have been put in place by the government to offer some protection? A lot of talking heads have weighed in on this issue recently, so we’re going to discuss some of those quotes in today’s episode. We’ll take a closer look at what happened and what strategies you might want to consider as well.
 
Here’s what we discuss today:
What’s going on with the banks? (2:02)
“This is a crisis of some banks, not a banking crisis.” (4:34)
“If you embrace inaction in this turbulent moment, you may have it right.” (8:06)
“Investors should avoid buying the dip.” (10:03)
Should I spread my money out across multiple banks? (11:53)
 
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com 
 

How Age and Wisdom Impact Your Financial Planning

One of the reasons that financial planning is not a one-size-fits-all answer is that everyone’s age, goals, and experiences are different. What you needed in your 20s might look very different from what you need to do in your 50s. Today we talk through the impact both age and wisdom have when you sit down and make a financial plan with a qualified professional.
 
Here’s what you’ll learn on today’s show:
Why does age matter? (1:19)
What does wisdom mean and actually look like? (4:50)
Should you incorporate life experiences into your plan? (7:45)
Technology has changed our financial tools. (9:10)
Cultural differences can change how you invest. (11:14)
For more, visit us online: http://thefinancialanswer.com