#71 – U.S. Debt Downgrade, Tax Bills, Global Productivity, and A Happy Retiree Summer Challenge For Kids

Wes and Connor deliver timely insights on U.S. debt, tax reform, interest rates, and practical strategies for family life and financial planning. From economic breakdowns to a creative summer challenge for kids, this episode blends national headlines with personal empowerment, including: Honor and Reflect: As Memorial Day passes, remember the brave service members who gave […]
#253 – Are You Too Passive? Rethinking Index Funds, Roth Tactics, and Retirement Timing

Tackle Roth IRA strategies, dollar cost averaging, passive investing risks, strategic retirement withdrawals, and more. Whether you’re planning early retirement or optimizing your current portfolio, Wes and Christa deliver actionable insights and answer listener questions, including: Is Passive Investing Creating a Bubble? Are index funds inflating markets? Or do global diversification and ongoing price discovery […]
#70 – Why Staying Invested Often Wins: Lessons from a Rapid Market Rebound

Wes Moss and Conner Miller provide historical context and perspective on the latest financial news, including: The markets staged a dramatic V-shaped recovery following tariff fears. Investors, take note: Volatility can reverse quickly. Once you’ve chosen a solid strategy, it’s often more productive to stay the course rather than letting fear drive decisions. The S&P […]
#252 – ETF or Index Fund? Retirement or Brokerage? Wes Moss Unpacks Strategic Moves for Early Retirement

Wes and Christa compare ETFs vs. index funds and retirement accounts vs. brokerage accounts. Unlock financial clarity and early retirement strategies with this jam-packed episode of dynamic discussion and listener questions, covering topics such as: The importance of staying invested during market volatility, using a recent market upswing as an example of patience leading to […]
#69 – From Buffett’s Big Exit to the High School Job Boom: Money Moves That Matter Now

Jeff Lloyd joins Wes to tackle the week’s critical issues, such as: Celebrate Mother’s Day with purpose! From heartfelt shout-outs to family meal plans, honoring Mom is always a worthwhile investment. Tariffs hit home—literally! Wes’s son tackled the “Guac Tax” in a school project on avocado tariffs. Learn how trade policies might hit your wallet. […]
#251 – Should You Still Buy a Home? + 5 Financial Planning Essentials You Can’t Ignore

Is owning a home still a good investment? What are the 5 most important topics to cover when meeting with someone for financial guidance? Wes and Christa cut through the noise to explore these issues and answer listener questions, including: Explore the pros and cons of that homeownership question, housing as a long-term investment, and […]
#68 – Passion, Planning, and Portfolio Power: Lessons from Microsoft, Market Trends, and the Mappiness Project

Jeff Lloyd joins Wes to explore the latest news, compelling financial insights, and human psychology: Consider the Mappiness Project—What truly brings you joy? Are you building a life that includes high-ranking endeavors? Rediscover Your Core Pursuits—Jeff recounts his lifelong love for Pearl Jam concerts and music tourism, including a trip with Wes to see Chris […]
#250 – Fear, the VIX, And The Bungee Market Of 2025: Why Staying Invested Still Wins

Explore ways fear can sometimes subside in financial markets. Examine how missing the worst days, not just the best ones, can lead to less productive gains over time. Wes and Christa analyze: Why 2025’s market feels more like a “bungee cord” than a rollercoaster. How to use the VIX (fear index) to gauge investor […]
#67 – Are We Having Fun Yet? Market Volatility, Trade Wars, the VIX, Bond Risks, And Real-Life Happy Retirees With The Power Of Purpose

Connor joins Wes to analyze essential current events: Connor asks, “Are We Having Fun Yet?” with the constant scary headlines and market volatility from tariff repercussions. Stress from the ongoing uncertainty in trade talks with China. Understanding the VIX (fear index) and its historical spikes. The administration’s intermittent public criticism and praise for Jerome Powell […]
#249 – Bear Market Retirement Guide: Investment Strategies, Tax Moves, Vacation Decisions, Timing, And Understanding Portfolio Benchmarks

Make informed decisions about your retirement plans, even in a bear market. Learn whether to cancel your vacation plans due to stock market concerns and discover how to manage your investments effectively. Explore strategies like layering for early retirement and understand the implications of drawing down your TSP defined contribution plan. Examine rebalancing your taxable […]