Dollars&Sense Nelson Financial Planning
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. The podcast covers a range of topics related to retirement planning, investments, and personal finance, aiming to educate listeners on achieving their financial goals.
Episodes
Changes to Trump Accounts, AI Stocks & Market Highs: 6 Moves Retirees Should Consider
Trump Accounts are changing, AI stocks are surging, and markets are reaching all-time highs. What do these developments mean for families, investors, and retirees?In this episode of Dollars and Sense, Chet Cowart and Kristin Kalley discuss:New Trump Account auto-enrollment and individual-stock donationsPotential benefits, concentration risks, and concerns for parentsWhether AI earnings support tod
Health, Fraud & Politics: Three Planning Conversations Investors Can’t Ignore
What does your health portfolio have to do with your financial future? More than you may think.In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning walks through three timely conversations that can affect your retirement, your family, and your investment decisions.First, Joel discusses why retirement planning is about more than account balances. A strong financial portf
What do Rising Interest Rates Mean for Bonds? Plus, what to do if your bank account is hacked
What should you do if your bank account gets hacked—and why are rising interest rates causing so much confusion in the bond market? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Chet Cowart walk through practical steps to take if you discover suspicious activity in your bank account, including how to contact your bank safely, document fraudulent transactions, secure connected accounts, u
Will AI Destroy Humanity? A Calm Look at the Latest Panic
AI is everywhere in the headlines right now—and some of the smartest people in technology are warning that artificial intelligence could pose serious risks to humanity. But is this truly the beginning of the end, or are we seeing another round of fear that often comes with major technological change? In this episode of Dollars and Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning takes a thoughtful,
Marriage Money Mistakes, Trump Accounts & Investor Mind Games
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Kristin Kalley and Christina Lamb discuss three important financial topics that can impact families, couples, and investors.First, they unpack why the phrase “he handles it” can create financial vulnerability in a marriage—and what both spouses should know about accounts, beneficiaries, credit, estate documents, and household finances before a crisis happens
Interest Rates, Market Timing & Smart Giving: 3 Financial Planning Moves to Watch
Interest rates, inflation, investing, and charitable giving may seem like separate financial topics—but they all come back to one important idea: having a plan. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel breaks down how changing interest rates can affect borrowers, savers, bond investors, retirees, and anyone trying to make smart decisions with their money. Joel also explains why waiting for th
Don’t Panic, Plan Ahead: National Debt, Retirement Spending & Your Financial Death Box
The U.S. national debt has crossed $40 trillion — but what does that actually mean for everyday Americans? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Zach Keister of Nelson Financial Planning break down the headlines in plain English and explain why the debt conversation is important, but not necessarily a reason to panic.They also discuss one of the most common retirement planning qu
TikTok Financial Advice, Medicare Costs & Caregiving Tips
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning discusses three important topics that can affect your financial life: knowing your income numbers, understanding the risks of financial advice on TikTok, and preparing for the responsibilities of caregiving.Joel begins by explaining why retirees and those over age 65 need to pay close attention to income thresholds th
Market Optimism, Investor Caution & Better Money Decisions
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Rob Field and Joel Garris discuss how everyday financial decisions are shaped by both market conditions and personal money habits. They break down the latest market themes, including record highs, corporate earnings, interest rates, inflation, and why investors should review their portfolios even when things seem optimistic.Rob and Joel also explore how mind
Before You Retire: Annuity Fine Print, Marriage Money Talks & Tax Traps
Retirement planning is about more than simply saving enough money. In this episode of Dollars and Cents, Joel Garris breaks down several important issues retirees and pre-retirees should understand before making major financial decisions.First, Joel discusses the continued surge in annuity sales and why investors should be cautious before signing a long-term insurance contract. With record amounts
90-Day Student Loan Deadline! Plus, what the changing market leaders means for your portfolio.
Major student loan repayment changes are here, and borrowers on the SAVE Plan may have only 90 days after receiving their notice to choose a new repayment option. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Chet Cowart and Kristin Kalley break down what happened to the SAVE Plan, why doing nothing could automatically move borrowers into a Tiered Standard Repayment Plan, and how that choice could affec
Financial Literacy, FRS Changes & the Bilt Card: Smart Money Decisions for Renters and Parents
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning breaks down three timely money topics that can impact everyday financial decisions. First, he looks at the Bilt card and whether earning rewards on rent is really worth it—or whether the credit card risks outweigh the marketing hook.Then, Joel explains key Florida Retirement System choices, including the Pension Plan,
Trump Accounts, Tax Breaks & Market Risk: What Families and Investors Need to Know
The One Big Beautiful Bill has been in effect for a year — but are taxpayers actually seeing the benefits? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb break down the latest tax changes, including larger standard deductions, new rules for tips and overtime, the senior deduction, charitable giving updates, and the expanded SALT deduction. They also explain the newly launch
Summer Money Reset: Credit Card Debt, Cyber Scams & Financial Loose Ends
Summer is the perfect time to pause, reset, and make sure your money is still working for you. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Zach Keister and Kristin Kalley walk through practical midyear money moves that can help you review your financial goals, get organized, and protect your household from costly mistakes. First, they cover how to run a simple midyear money reset by reviewing what cam
Will Social Security Be Enough? Retirement Planning Beyond the Safety Net
Is Social Security really running out? And if changes are coming, what should you be doing now to prepare for retirement? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Rob Field and Chet Cowart of Nelson Financial Planning break down the latest Social Security Trustees Report and explain what it may mean for future retirees. They discuss why Social Security is not expected to disappear entirely, what co
Market Index Shifts, Vacation Budgeting, and Potential Tax Refund for Covid-era Penalties
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris of Nelson Financial Planning covers a packed lineup of financial topics—from market volatility and index changes to summer travel planning and a potentially significant tax refund opportunity.First, Joel discusses the recent uptick in market volatility, including how AI-related spending, semiconductor stocks, and market concentration are affectin
Adult Children, Family Finance Tension, and Your Retirement Living
As parents, it’s natural to want to help your children—especially when they’re facing financial challenges. But when that support becomes open-ended, it can create serious risks for your retirement, your emergency fund, your credit, and even your family relationships.In this episode of Dollars and Sense, Joel and Zach discuss five ways helping adult children can unintentionally hurt your retiremen
Discipline Over Drama: How Smart Investors Tune Out Hype
In this episode, we look at three forces that can shape—or sabotage—an investor’s long-term success: exciting investment stories, nonstop financial headlines, and everyday money habits. From the hype around companies like SpaceX to the emotional pull of market news, we discuss why compelling stories and breaking headlines don’t always translate into smart portfolio decisions. We also explore the q
Markets at Record Highs, Too Much Cash, and the Real Retirement Readiness Test
Are today’s market highs a sign of strength—or a reason for caution? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris breaks down what investors should pay attention to as stocks sit near record levels, inflation remains sticky, and interest rate uncertainty continues to shape the financial landscape.Joel also tackles one of the biggest quiet risks in personal finance right now: holding too muc
Smart Financial Moves for New Parents and the Common Costly Misunderstood Tax Rules
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Kristin Kalley and Christina Lamb tackle two important financial topics that can have a big impact on your family’s future. First, they break down which accounts parents should prioritize when they have a baby, including 529 plans, custodial accounts, and newer savings opportunities that could help build long-term, tax-advantaged wealth for children. Then, t
7 Ways Retirees Accidentally Hurt Their Investments
What investment habits can quietly hurt your retirement plan? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Chet and Rob break down 7 common investor behaviors that can create unnecessary risk for retirees—from holding too much cash and trying to time the market to ignoring taxes, chasing yield, skipping rebalancing, overreacting to headlines, and failing to adjust your strategy over time. If you are r
The IRS Dirty Dozen & the Digital Shift: What Every Taxpayer Needs to Know
Tax season may be over, but tax scams are not. In this episode, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb break down the IRS’s annual “Dirty Dozen” list of the most common tax scams targeting taxpayers right now—from phishing texts and AI-powered phone scams to fake charities, ghost preparers, identity theft, and misleading social media tax advice.They also unpack the IRS’s ongoing digital shift and explain
10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor
Join Joel Garris on this insightful episode of Dollars & Sense, where he explores the top questions you should ask your financial advisor, planner, or wealth manager. Discover why it’s crucial to understand how your advisor is compensated, the importance of the fiduciary standard, and how to evaluate investment philosophy, communication practices, continuity planning, portfolio details, risk
Graduation Season: Launching Financial Success for Grads & Parents
Actionable Advice for New Grads and Their Families Ready to celebrate graduation season with a dose of real-world financial wisdom? 🎉 Join Certified Financial Fiduciaries™ Chet Cowart and Zach Keister for a lively, informative episode as they step in for Joel—who’s off attending his son’s college graduation in Boston. Whether you’re a proud parent or a fresh grad, this show is packed with practica
Your Will Doesn’t Decide Who Gets Your Money + Give More to Charity & Pay Less in Taxes
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris tackles two of the most misunderstood—and most impactful—areas of financial and estate planning.First, Joel breaks down a common myth: your will does not control where most of your money goes. Instead, beneficiary designations quietly determine who inherits retirement accounts, life insurance, annuities, and many investment and bank accounts. Wit
Tax Season Reality Check + Market Whiplash: What Your Refund (and Rate) Really Means
April 15 is in the rearview mirror—but what did we actually learn from this tax season? In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and CPA/CFP® Kristin Castello break down the biggest takeaways we saw on real tax returns, plus what the latest IRS/Treasury stats may be signaling for households heading into the rest of the year. 🧾💡 We also connect the dots to the markets: a reminder of how
Tax-Smart Moves, Powerful HSAs, and the New Retirement
This episode covers three topics that can have a big impact on your financial future: how to avoid a surprise tax bill next year, why a Health Savings Account (HSA) may be one of the most underutilized retirement assets, and how retirement planning has changed (it’s not your parents’ retirement anymore). In this episode: Why the IRS is a “pay-as-you-go” system—and what to change if you owed this y
Tax Mistakes, IRS Tips, Sports Gambling & Market Insights
Join Joel Garris and Rob Field for a lively Easter edition of Dollars & Sense! In this episode, we kick things off celebrating Easter and exploring its unique mix of Christian tradition and modern-day commercialization (think chocolate bunnies and Easter egg hunts). Then, with the tax deadline just days away, Joel and Rob share practical tips to avoid common IRS mistakes that could cost you ti
How Interest Rates Impact Tax Bill, Geopolitics and Investing, and Smart Portfolio Strategies
In this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® at Nelson Financial Planning, we tackle some of the hottest financial topics of the week: IRS Interest & Penalties: Did you pay extra on your tax bill? Discover why IRS penalties are on the rise, how interest rates affect what you owe, and actionable steps you can take to avoid unnecessary costs. Market Corre
Market March Madness: Private Credit Squeeze & The Truth About Tax-Free Retirement
Join Joel Garris and Chet Cowart on this week’s episode of Dollars & Sense as they take you courtside for a lively discussion that fuses the excitement of March Madness with the intensity of today's financial headlines. This episode dives into the "private credit squeeze"—how hot new investment products can quickly go from hype to headache, and why liquidity and transparency matter more than e
Often Missed Tax Credits & Five Scams to Dodge This Filing Season
Unlock Savings, Outsmart Scammers, and Take Control of Your Taxes Ready to make your taxes work for you—and not just for Uncle Sam? Join us for a deep dive into the tax credits millions of Americans overlook every year, costing them real money. We break down what credits matter most, how simple life changes—like saving for retirement, child care, and home improvements—can put cash back in your poc
Bombs, Benefits, and Brackets: Navigating Investments, Trump Accounts, and IRMAA Surprises
This week’s episode of Dollars & Sense dives into the headlines shaking up the financial world—from the U.S. and Israel’s military action in Iran and rising oil prices to the launch of new “Trump accounts” for minors and the dreaded IRMAA Medicare adjustments. Joel Garris and Rob Field break down the immediate market reactions, share personal stories (including a real-life gas price dilemma),
Don’t Get Scammed: Smart Tips on Financial Security & Retirement Community Readiness
Ready to safeguard your finances and make confident life transitions? In this must-listen episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, Joel dives into two of today’s most important money topics: protecting yourself from modern scams and preparing for a move to a retirement care community. 🔒Outsmarting Scammers & Protecting Your Data Have you ever received official-looking letters, texts, o
Money & Mindset: Why We Do What We Do With Our Dollars
Understanding the Human Side of Financial Decisions Join Certified Financial Fiduciaries™ Zach Keister and Christina Lamb for an eye-opening episode of Dollars & Sense that dives deep into the psychology of money. This isn't about spreadsheets—it's about the emotions, habits, and mindsets that shape your financial life. Discover why even smart people make puzzling money choices, and learn how
Market Myths & Money Moves! Plus, the questions you should ask your advisor
With gold and silver surging to eye-catching highs, Joel unpacks whether now is really the right time to jump in. Get the unvarnished truth about the risks and realities of investing in gold and silver, including their historical track record, the costs that often go overlooked, and why they’re not always the golden ticket to wealth the headlines might suggest. Discover how herd mentality, FOMO, a
The Marathon of Investing—Strategies for Every Age: Stories of What Investors Wish They Knew
In this episode, Rob Field and Chet Cowart explore the parallels between training for a marathon and investing for the future, emphasizing how each investor's personal goals and circumstances shape their approach. They begin by discussing recent market trends and how growth over the past few years has affected different age groups. The hosts highlight the importance of investment goal-setting, com
Is Your Financial Plan Ready for 2026? Market Shifts, Money Myths & America’s Biggest Wealth Transfer
Join hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister on this action-packed episode of Dollars & Sense as they break down the fast-paced start to 2026. Discover why the stock market’s leadership is changing, what the “Mag 7” becoming the “Fab 4” means for your investments, and how early signs of broad market participation could reshape your portfolio. The duo tackles interest rates, the latest moves from th
Is Your Car Loan Hurting Your Future? Plus, The Hidden Emotional Crisis in Retirement
In this compelling episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, the show dives deep into two urgent financial realities that could reshape your future: the explosion of ultra-long car loans and a retirement crisis few see coming—not about money, but about meaning. First, Joel tackles the “100-month car loan” phenomenon, revealing how soaring auto prices and sky-high average payments (now toppi
What’s New in 2026? Child Tax Credit, Itemized Deduction Caps, and Roth 401(k) Rule Changes Explained!
Curious how the latest tax law updates and retirement plan changes will impact your wallet in 2026? This week on Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb cut through the confusion and deliver essential information every American family and high-income earner needs to know—no jargon, just actionable insights and clear examples. First, Christina revisits the Top 10 Tax Changes for 2026—an
Venezuela’s Political Shakeup & Top 10 Tax Changes: Impact of Global Events and New Laws
Discover the Financial Ripple Effects of Geopolitical Turmoil and 2026’s Major Tax Reforms In this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, hosts Joel and Kristin tackle two high-stakes financial stories shaping headlines and household budgets. First, dive into the dramatic capture of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces—unraveling the international backlash, the future of V
2026 Market Predictions & Financial Resolutions: Will Diversification Win This Year?
Kick off 2026 with Joel Garris on Dollars & Sense as he dives into two critical topics: the latest market trends and practical financial resolutions. This episode opens with a fearless forecast for the year ahead, including a candid review of last year’s predictions—where Joel nailed the impact of deregulation and tax reform but underestimated the power of AI and the surprising market surge. H
Financial Lessons Learned in 2025: Headlines That Shaped Your Money Decisions
How This Year’s Biggest Events and Behavioral Insights Can Transform Your Financial Future 2025 has been a year packed with transformative moments—political shifts, market turbulence, technological leaps, and viral media headlines. In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris guides you through the essential financial lessons we can draw from the past twelve months, exploring how these even
Holiday Spending Smarts & The Gift of Financial Planning: Should You Try "No Spend January"?
Discover budget-friendly holiday tips and creative gift ideas on Dollars & Sense In this festive episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Zach Keister and Rob Field dive into the emotional and financial realities of holiday spending. The show kicks off with lighthearted banter about holiday traditions and a playful debate over whether “Die Hard” counts as a Christmas movie, setting the stage for
Navigating the Corporate Transparency Act & IRA Rule Changes
In this week’s episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, Joel dives into two urgent questions facing American investors and retirees: How will the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) affect your business, and are you prepared for the costly pitfalls of inherited IRA rules? First, Joel unpacks the latest developments in the Corporate Transparency Act, including an interview with Simon Conway. L
Overpaying for Medicare? Plus, Impactful Philanthropy Strategies
Discover How to Manage IRMAA, Avoid 401(k) Mistakes, and Make Your Giving Go Further! Unlock the secrets to smarter financial planning in this week’s episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris! Joel breaks down three hot topics that can impact your wealth and peace of mind: IRMAA & Medicare Premiums: Confused about why your Social Security check is smaller? Learn what IRMAA is, how it aff
Is Your Estate Plan Complete? Plus, 7 Habits of the Stealthy Wealthy
On this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, get ready for a power-packed financial guide as Joel unpacks the must-do year-end financial checklist, reveals the surprising habits of the “millionaire next door,” and exposes the pitfalls of incomplete estate plans. Joel kicks off with a timely reminder: as the holiday season races by, you have just weeks to make smart financial moves befo
Are You Maximizing Your 401k? And What Can You Do To Protect Yourself From AI Scams?
Curious about the latest retirement updates and how to safeguard your finances in a digital world? In this engaging Thanksgiving episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Joel Garris and Chet Cowart kick off with holiday traditions and a brief history of Thanksgiving, then dive into timely financial topics that matter to every listener. The episode covers newly announced 2026 contribution limits for 4
Latest Tax Deductions and Vital Estate Planning Tips to Prevent Beneficiary Mistakes
In this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris and Kristin Castello, listeners get a front-row seat to a lively discussion on the latest government updates, major tax changes taking effect in 2025, and the crucial steps needed to prevent costly mistakes with retirement account beneficiaries. The show kicks off with the recent end of the government shutdown, playful banter about holiday tr
Rent or Buy? The pros and cons of homeownership. Plus, Is AI hype the next tech bubble?
Welcome to this week’s Dollars & Sense episode with Joel Garris! Are you wondering if you should rent or buy in today’s crazy market? Or how AI is really reshaping the economy—and maybe even your job? In this video, Joel breaks down the biggest financial trends of the moment and gives you the tools to make smarter money moves. First up, Joel uncovers why corporate earnings are smashing expecta
Leveraged ETFs & The Rent vs. Buy Dilemma: Unlocking New Wealth Strategies
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 attent
AI’s Investment Impact, RMD Strategies, and Ladybird Deeds
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 mar
Economic Headlines, Wealth Transfer, & Couples with Staggered Retirement Dates
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 Grea
Estate Planning Essentials & Navigating Property Transfers: Key Insights for Securing Your Financial Legacy
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 epi
401k Changes, Alternative Investment Options, Tax Shifts, & Retirement Account Consolidation
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 up
Today’s Market Insights, Paper Stock Certificates, & Retirement Prep
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
Medicare Myths Debunked plus Navigating Divorce's Financial Impacts
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. T
Strategies for strong money habits and psychological insights for your financial future
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 mi
Mastering Financial Risks & Estate Executor: Build Confidence for Whatever the Future Brings
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 fu
Your roadmap to retiring early and mastering Required Minimum Distributions
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
Unlocking Tax Deductions to your Advantage
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 inco
College Costs & Investment Fears: Smart Moves for Your Future
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
No Tax on Tips & Economic Trends: How new tax laws and shifting markets could reshape your wallet.
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
Private Equity Traps & Alzheimer’s Action Plans: Money Moves You Need To Hear
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 pitf
New Tax Breaks, Tariffs, and Investment Insights: Dollars & Sense Unpacks the Big Beautiful Bill
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 affec
Q2 Market Surprises, New Tax Law Details & The 10 Biggest Retirement Pitfalls
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
Startup Tips, Retirement Spending, and Parenting Young Grads with Their Finances
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 t
Property Investments, Social Security Shake-Ups & the Future of Retirement Benefits
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 fo
Social Security Shifts & Sneaky Spending Habits
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 tempti
Are Model Portfolios Serving You? Plus, Exciting Changes for 529 College Savings Plans!
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 yo
Overlooked Retirement Challenges & Housing Market Buyer-Seller Gap
his week’s episode of the Dollars & Sense Financial Podcast dives deep into two crucial financial topics: the emotional and logistical challenges of retirement and the shifting dynamics of the housing market. Hosts Joel Garris and Chet Cowart explore the often-overlooked aspects of retirement, from combating loneliness to crafting a meaningful routine. They also analyze the current real estate
The Tough Topics: Talking Money with Kids & Tackling the Survivor’s Penalty
In this episode of the Dollars & Sense Financial Podcast, host Joel Garris dives into two essential and often overlooked topics: how to discuss finances with your kids and how to prepare for the survivor’s penalty when losing a partner. 💬💰 Joel begins by addressing the taboo nature of financial conversations within families. He highlights the importance of teaching the next generation about mo
Path to Becoming a Millionaire & Smart Portfolio Rebalancing Tips
Looking to unlock the secret to millionaire status while keeping your investments on track? This week's episode of Dollars & Sense dives into the surprising path most U.S. millionaires take—hint: it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme—and reveals how consistent retirement contributions can transform your financial future. 💵💡 Plus, we’re tackling the essentials of portfolio rebalancing! Learn when an
Hot Financial Topics: Student Loan Collections & Upcoming Tax Changes
Ready for some 🔥 financial updates? In this episode of the Dollars and Sense podcast, Kristin Castello and Chet Cowart dive deep into two major conversations affecting your wallet: 💸 **Student Loans in Collections**: Millions of borrowers are facing collections and garnished wages as repayment policies resume. Find out how to navigate these challenges and plan ahead for your financial future. 📊 **
Investment Types to Avoid & Updating Your Estate Plan
Join us on this week's episode of Dollars & Sense for some insightful discussions about the investments you should be cautious about and the important moments to update your estate plan. 💼📈 We kick off the episode with an in-depth look at hedge funds and ETFs, highlighting their potential pitfalls. Did you know that hedge funds can be highly leveraged and come with hefty management fees that e
Tax Trouble Spots and Charitable Giving Strategies
In this episode of Dollars & Sense, financial expert hosts Joel and Christina delve into the complexities of tax season and share the top 10 tax trouble spots that individuals face. They discuss critical issues such as the taxation of social security, where increased income can lead to higher taxes on these benefits, and the Premium Tax Credit (PTC) recapture related to the Affordable Care Act
Understanding the Math in Financial Decisions & Wealth Transfer Tips
📈💰 In this week's episode of Dollars & Sense, we dive deep into the importance of math when making investment decisions. Learn how accurate calculations can make or break your financial future. 🤔💡 We share a specific example of a costly mistake made when not performing basic math before investing. Discover how proper math can reveal true rates of return and help you make wiser choices. 🧮📊 Plus
Pet Estate Planning Tips, Market Insights, and Retirement Secrets!
🚀 Dive into this week's episode where we cover EVERYTHING from volatile markets 📈 to savvy pet financial planning 🐶🐱, and the secret sauce to a successful retirement! 🏖️ 🔥 Key insights: The alarming rise of market volatility and investor sentiment. 📊Protecting and preparing for your pets in case of your untimely demise. 🐾Why having a formal financial plan can make a HUGE difference in your wealth
Market Boom & Social Security Changes for Public Employees
This week's episode of Dollars & Sense dives deep into the latest market developments following President Trump's suspension of tariffs, showcasing an unprecedented surge in the Dow, SP500, and Nasdaq. Hosts Rob Field and Joel Garris delve into the historical significance of such market swings and emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent investment strategy amidst volatility. The e
Common Investor Mistakes To Avoid During These Unpredictable Times & Expert Tips
🎙️ Financial experts, Joel and Chet, discuss the complexities of market volatility and uncover the '7 Deadly Investing Sins.' 🏦💼 Learn how to stay ahead in unpredictable times and make smart investment choices. Chet and Joel will guide you through the importance of diversification, consistency in investment strategies, and managing media consumption. 📉📰 We also discuss the impact of recent tariff
Impact of "Mag 7" stocks and Joel Got a 1099-K – Now What?
🔊 Tune in to this week's episode of Dollars & Sense where we dive into the latest market trends 📊 and essential tax tips 💸! Discover how the "Mag 7" stocks' performance impacts your portfolio and get ready for the new 1099-K reporting requirements. Plus, learn smart strategies to navigate Social Security taxation and optimize your tax returns! Don't miss out on these valuable insights! 🎧✨#Doll
Recommended
The Joe Rogan Experience
TED Talks Daily
Learn English B1 with Daily News | English Listening Practice
Talk About Talk - Executive & Leadership Communication Skills
English with Olivia | Slow Conversations & Vocabulary
Stand In The Circle
SLOW ENGLISH PODCAST (A1-A2) With Subtitles | Daily Videos | English With Us Podcast
Learn English A2 with Daily News | Simple English Listening Practice
پلی لیست | PlayList
Conspiracy Files with Paige Carter
Bad Friends
Learn 50 English Phrases While You Sleep | Everyday English Phrases & Vocabulary
