Your Life Simplified: A Financial & Wealth Management Podcast

Estate Planning on Your Level Feb 20, 2025

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Jessica Nelson, senior wealth consultant, to discuss estate planning strategies for different net-worth levels. Estate planning impacts everyone, whether you have $1 million or $100+ million net worth. They cover different strategies, what you may need to include in your estate plan and why it's important to create.

Portfolio Income Buffer Feb 06, 2025

In this episode, Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, sits down with Breanna Seech, senior wealth advisor, to explore the strategy of portfolio income buffers. Together, they discuss how these buffers can safeguard against market volatility, enhance cash flow flexibility and support long-term financial goals. Whether you're navigating uncertain markets or planning for retirement, this episode offers actionable insights on managing portfolio risk and creating resilient investment strategies.

Direct Indexing Jan 23, 2025

Join hosts Whitney Reagan, senior wealth advisor, and Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, as they discuss direct indexing. This episode unpacks how direct indexing works, its potential tax advantages and its ability to align investments with individual values and goals. Whitney and Daniel share practical strategies to help implement this portfolio strategy.

Behind the Scenes With a Chief Investment Strategist Jan 09, 2025

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Whitney Reagan, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Jeff Krumpelman, chief investment strategist. He shares his journey to becoming a chief investment strategist, what he does outside of work and his life advice.

Mitigating Concentration Risk Dec 12, 2024

In this episode, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, breaks down the potential dangers of an overly concentrated investment portfolio and shares actionable strategies to help you achieve the right balance between growth and protection. He’ll share valuable insights into the risks of putting too much weight on a single investment or sector, how diversification can enhance long-term financial stability and practical tips to assess and adjust your portfolio.

Fixed Income Explained Nov 14, 2024

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Sandy Pourcillie, head of fixed income. They unpack common misconceptions of fixed income and bonds, strategies and how you may want to think about them as part of your portfolio.

Scary Financial Mistakes to Avoid Oct 31, 2024

Do these financial mistakes have you spooked? They don't have to. Whitney Reagan, wealth advisor, and Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, share four scenarios that often scare people and strategies to overcome that fear. From investing to required minimum distributions, we simplify these common scary financial situations. They also share three things you may want to avoid.

2025 Estate Tax Exemption Oct 17, 2024

Scott Luhnau, vice president of multi-generational wealth planning, joins Dan Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, on this episode of Your Life Simplified to share what you need to know before the 2025 estate tax exemption. Scott shares a few strategies to prepare for this extate tax exposure.

Why the SECURE 2.0 Act Matters More Than Ever Oct 03, 2024

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, host Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Scott Luhnau, vice president of multi-generational wealth planning, to discuss the SECURE 2.0 Act. They’ll cover what has changed in government legislation, how it impacts 401(k), Roth IRA and other retirement accounts, and why it matters more than ever.

Set Your Family Up for a Successful Family Meeting Sep 19, 2024

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, hosts Whitney Reagan, wealth advisor, and Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, continue their discussion on making financial meetings with your family successful. They’ll share tips for making family meetings successful, including getting everyone’s buy-in, making it a singular event, being intentional in your agenda, speaking to different generations and incorporating family history.

The Value of a Family Meeting Sep 05, 2024

Family meetings may sound daunting and challenging but they don't have to be. Hosts Whitney Reagan, wealth advisor, and Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, discuss making these financial meetings with your broader family productive. They'll cover what is a family meeting, why you should have them regularly and what topics are important to include.

Never Pay Full Price for College Aug 08, 2024

College is expensive, so you should never pay full price. Hosts Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, and Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor, discuss ways to reduce college costs. They’ll cover more well-known strategies, like 529 plans, and some lesser-known tactics.

Building Wealth as a Young Professional Jul 11, 2024

Young Professionals: Now that you're past the basics of financial planning, what should you be thinking about as you continue building your wealth? Host Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by Jinger Pajestka, senior wealth advisor, to discuss goal setting, employer benefits, real estate investing, estate planning and insurance, all to help you build your wealth.

In 2024, Should You Rent or Buy Your Home? Jun 13, 2024

Should I rent or buy my home? On this episode, we'll dive into several studies and look at your return on investment, time, taxes, cost of home renovations and more. Host Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, shares historical data, where we're at today and what you should consider as you weigh the pros and cons of homeownership.

Year-Round Tax Planning May 16, 2024

Tax season may be over, but that doesn't mean we're done tax planning. Jennifer Kohlbacher, director of wealth strategy, joins Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, to share the importance of year-round tax planning and what you should be thinking about.

Cash Balance Plans Explained May 02, 2024

Cash balance plans are often understood but can be a win-win for tax savings and retirement planning. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Daniel Sharkey, senior wealth advisor. They dive into what they are, how they're run and who they may be right for.

How Parents Can Teach Teens About Investing Apr 18, 2024

Want to teach your child about investing? It can be difficult to know where to start and even how to answer their questions. Hosts Michael MacKelvie and Valerie Escobar share their advice for parents looking to teach their child or teen about investing including compounding interest, investment accounts, retirement plans and more

Why Working With a Wealth Advisor Is Important Apr 04, 2024

It's not just about the numbers. There is value beyond the data that a wealth advisor can offer. They work to solve complex challenges and guide people during transitions. Hosts Michael MacKelvie and Valerie Escobar share their perspectives on the field before getting into wealth management and what they've learned since.

Tax Implications of Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s Mar 15, 2024

IRAs, Roth IRAs, 401(k)s are among the very basics of building a financial plan, and they apply to just about everybody. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Jodi Robinson, vice president of tax services. They discuss the differences between Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s, required minimum distributions and Roth conversions.

Estate Planning: Protect Your Legacy & Avoid These Mistakes Feb 29, 2024

No one likes planning their mortality, but this is not time made but time spent. The challenges and financial strain without proper planning can, unfortunately, leave a stain on someone’s legacy. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by Michelle Cross, senior wealth advisor. They discuss ways to avoid estate planning challenges and give you a guide to help throughout the process.

Non-Financials of Retirement Feb 15, 2024

What is it that people get wrong about retirement? On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by guest, Keith Lawrence, retired P&G executive & co-author of "Your Retirement Quest". They discuss ways to be happy and healthy during one of the largest transitions in your life.

How to Prepare for Maternity Leave Feb 01, 2024

Having a new child can bring immense amounts of joy, but it can also bring stress, especially when it comes to being financially prepared. This week, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Whitney Reagan, wealth advisor. They’ll discuss aspects like the Family Medical Leave Act, short-term disability and preparing your team for your leave, to help prepare before welcoming a new child.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio Jan 18, 2024

The one constant in life is change, and the markets are no exception to this, which leads to a familiar question for many investors. When should you rebalance your portfolio, if at all? On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by Brad Rollins, vice president of investments. They discuss what rebalancing means and how to get back to your original investment portfolio mix.

Money in the Movies Dec 14, 2023

Money is a topic of conversation in many movies. The question is the legitimacy of some of these movies and how they portray the financial industry. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, will react to hits, like The Big Short and The Wolf of Wall Street, and share the accuracies and inaccuracies.

Alternative Minimum Tax Explained Nov 30, 2023

In our last episode, we started our discussion on Incentive Stock Options (ISOs). Now, we’ll continue that discussion and dive deeper into Alternative Minimum Tax (ATM). Steve Moyer, vice president of executive compensation & corporate offerings, joins our host, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, to share more about the tax implications and strategies for ISOs and executive compensation.

Incentive Stock Options Explained Nov 16, 2023

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of stock-based compensation, shedding light on how Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) work and the strategies that can help you maximize their benefits. Steve Moyer, vice president of executive compensation & corporate offerings, joins our host, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, to simplify the complexities of executive compensation and ISOs. Listen to Part 2 to learn about the taxation of stock options.

6 End-of-Year Tax & Financial Planning Strategies Nov 02, 2023

As we near the end of the year, what is it that you should be doing to minimize taxes and make sure that you've got your financial world organized? Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, share 6 tax and wealth planning strategies you should consider before the year wraps up.

RSUs, Restricted Stock and Restricted Securities Oct 19, 2023

As an executive, you probably have some time of restricted stock or security in your compensation. But what is right for you and your portfolio? Steve Moyer, vice president of executive compensation & corporate offerings, joins our host, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, to sort through the noise of executive compensation and explain RSUs, restricted stock and restricted securities.

Cybersecurity: How to Protect Your Finances from Cybercrime Oct 05, 2023

In today's digital age, cybersecurity has become more important than ever. With cybercrime on the rise, it's crucial to know how to protect yourself and your data from online threats. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, sits down with Chris Cook, senior vice president of information security, to provide you with valuable insights into the world of cybercrime and how you can safeguard your personal information.

Alternative Income From Structured Notes and Options Sep 21, 2023

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by special guest, Brett Kunshek, head of options and structured notes. They break down what structured notes and options are and dive into their complexities, different types of structured notes and which investors these may be right for. They’ll also cover why these are growing in popularity in the United States and the fees that come along with them.

3 Things You Need to Know Before Moving Abroad Sep 07, 2023

With flexibility and connectivity in today’s world, many are excited by the idea of moving abroad and traveling; however, with that comes complications that you may not have considered. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Raoul Rodriguez, senior wealth advisor. Here are 3 things you need to consider before moving to another country—taxes, qualified accounts and estate planning.

2023 Tax Planning Strategies Aug 24, 2023

We may not be at the end of the year yet, but now is the time to start end-of-year tax planning. Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, share ways to minimize the amount of taxes you’ll pay for 2023. They’ll cover tax planning strategies like capital gains, tax loss harvesting and Roth conversions to help limit your taxes.

Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts Aug 10, 2023

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Jake Kern, managing director and senior wealth advisor, discuss the powerful strategy of Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts (IDGTs) and how they can benefit you. An IDGT is a trust that is intentionally drafted to be "defective" for income tax purposes. This allows the grantor of the trust to transfer assets to the trust without triggering gift or estate taxes. The grantor also pays the income tax on the trust's income, thus reducing the value of the grantor's estate. One of the key benefits of an IDGT is that it can help you transfer assets to future generations with minimal tax liability. Since the grantor pays the income tax on the trust's income, the assets in the trust can grow tax-free, increasing the value of the trust's assets over time.

Eliminating Guilt From Spending Jul 27, 2023

For many, they've become wealthy because of their focus on saving. They've spent their entire lives being disciplined and saving money. Then, there comes a time when they need to spend it, and that can be a difficult transition. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Abby Foster, associate wealth advisor. They share ways you can eliminate guilt from spending and still reach your goals.

2023 Midyear Crystal Ball Outlook Jul 13, 2023

While we can’t look into the future, each year, we feature a webinar that peers into a crystal ball and shares what we expect to see from the markets during the second half of the year. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, V alerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Jeff Krumpelman, chief investment strategies and head of equities. Jeff gives an overview of how the first half of the year went and where he thinks the markets will go for the rest of 2023.

Advanced Estate Planning Strategies Jun 29, 2023

With larger estates, often come more complicated estate plans. Ben Voelker, director of wealth strategy, is back on this episode of Your Life Simplified to discuss more advanced estate planning techniques and strategies to avoid high estate taxes.

Providing Financial Security for Loved Ones with Special Needs Jun 22, 2023

When we discuss estate planning, it’s a way to communicate our values and decide how we want our legacy to look. When you have a family member with special needs, this is especially important so that they can be taken care of the way that you would want. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by Kevne Sharp, wealth advisor and Chartered Special Needs Consultant. They share ways that you can help provide financial security for a loved one with special needs or a disability

What Young Adults Need to Know Before College Jun 15, 2023

Parents and Teens: Today we have creative hacks that could save you tens of thousands of dollars, regardless of if you qualify for financial aid. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, share their advice for young adults heading to college and how utilizing these strategies could make a significant impact on their educational expenses.

Considerations of Owning a Second Home Jun 08, 2023

The math behind owning a second home: does it make sense or should you just enjoy a vacation in your favorite destination? On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss the pros and cons of buying a second home or if it makes more sense to take a vacation instead.

What is an Annuity and How Does it Work? Jun 01, 2023

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, break down annuities. They cover the different types, the risk and benefits associated with them and what to ask the insurance company before getting an annuity.

Creating Your Estate Plan May 25, 2023

While estate planning can be overwhelming for a lot of families, having a thorough estate plan in place can make a significant impact on how your wealth is transferred and helps ensure that your wishes are followed. Ben Voelker, director of wealth strategy, joins this episode of Your Life Simplified to share what you should consider when creating your plan.

Picking the Right Trustee May 18, 2023

Being a trustee is something that requires knowledge, effort and liability, so when you’re creating your estate plan, it’s important to consider your options and who will make the best choices for you. Cindy Bozik, national managing director of trust services, joins this episode of Your Life Simplified to share her advice for picking the right trustee for you.

Money Markets: What You Need to Know May 11, 2023

What is a money market? What is the difference between a money market and a money market fund? They are at their highest demand since 2008, but there’s still confusion. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, compare the different types and what investors should know, including the risks.

FDIC & SIPC Insurance May 04, 2023

With recent failures in the banking industry, many investors are worried about the safety of their accounts. Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, sit down to break down FDIC and SIPC, what that means for you and how to ensure your deposits are protected.

Teaching Teens About Finances Apr 27, 2023

Starting early can make a significant impact on retirement savings, but how can you help teach your teen to start building wealth? Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, share tips and talking points for talking to your teen about finances and being financially responsible.

How to Find Internships in Wealth Planning Apr 20, 2023

As college students, finding and accepting an internship can be a daunting task. Tracy Hutton, senior manager of recruiting, joins this episode of Your Life Simplified to share tips for getting an internship in financial planning, what you should expect once you’ve started the internship and how to make sure the company and career path are right for you.

Term vs. Permanent Insurance Apr 13, 2023

When looking at insurance, you’re likely faced with two options—term or permanent insurance. Which one makes more sense for you and your situation? This week, Jerry Clark, senior consultant, insurance solutions, joins Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, to help break down term versus permanent insurance and how to figure out which may be right for you.

Types of Life Insurance Explained Apr 06, 2023

With many insurance options available, it can be overwhelming and complicated to decide what is the right choice for you. This week, Jerry Clark, senior consultant, insurance solutions, joins Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, to help break down different types of life insurance. They’ll discuss the pros and cons of whole life insurance, indexed universal life (IUL), variable universal life (VUL) and how to determine which option may be right for you.

Cryptocurrency: Digital Assets and How They Fit in Your Portfolio Mar 30, 2023

Blockchain technology has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years for its potential to transform industries such as finance, supply chain, healthcare, and more. Ric Edelman, founder of DACFP, joins this episode of Your Life Simplified where we explore the various aspects of blockchain technology, including how it works and how to buy blockchain technology. Ric shares his advice for how much you should invest in cryptocurrency. We'll also discuss the future of blockchain technology and its potential to create a more transparent and secure world.

ABCs of Medicare Part 2 Mar 23, 2023

Medicare is another cost to consider during retirement. How do you get the most value out of your Medicare package? On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by Tim Mickelson, Medicare specialist. They’ll discuss the costs associated with each part and working with an insurance agent. They’ll also cover the average costs of Medicare.

ABCs of Medicare Part 1 Mar 16, 2023

There can be a lot to unpack when considering the different Medicare coverage components and understanding what may be right for you. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by Tim Mickelson, Medicare specialist. They’ll discuss the basics of Medicare, including Part A, B, C and D, costs, signing up for Medicare and qualifications. Watch Part 2 for a deeper dive on costs and getting the most out of Medicare.

Bond Market: Should You Invest in Bonds? Mar 09, 2023

Considering rising interest rates and inflation, should you invest in bonds? While bonds are a common investment, they can be complex. Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by Carolyn Moriarty, wealth advisor, to break down bonds, their structure, how they work within your portfolio and if you should consider investing in bonds

Planning for Long-Term Care with Your Parents Mar 02, 2023

50% of adults will need long-term care at some point in their life, and this can have major impacts on your emotions and financial plan. Dr. Christina Lynn, practice management consultant, joins this episode of Your Life Simplified to share how to discuss aging and long-term care with your parents, what emotions this may bring, how much to plan for financially, the different types of care and each of their costs.

How to Discuss Prenups with Your Partner Feb 28, 2023

Before saying, “I do,” it can be helpful to discuss finances with your fiancé and have a prenuptial agreement in place. On this episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, hosts, Julia Rodgers, CEO and Co-Founder of HelloPrenup, who shares ways you can approach this topic with your partner, how to have that conversation and ways that you can help protect both people with a prenup.

What to Consider Before Signing a Prenup Feb 16, 2023

Oftentimes, getting a prenuptial agreement may feel unromantic, timely and expensive. But not having a prenup can end up causing more strife and costing more in the long run. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and hosts guest, Julia Rodgers, CEO and Co-Founder of HelloPrenup. They discuss what is a prenup, what should go in it, the process, making sure it is equitable for both parties and postnuptial agreements.

Inherited IRA Strategies Feb 09, 2023

With the passage of the SECURE Act & SECURE 2.0 Act, Stretch IRAs are no longer an option. So, how should investors with an IRA manage this and what should beneficiaries do with their inherited IRA? Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, share strategies investors may consider with their IRAs.

SECURE 2.0 Act: Retirement Saving Changes Feb 02, 2023

In 2022, Congress passed SECURE 2.0 Act, and this new legislation has significant changes to the ways you save for retirement. On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, detail important changes in SECURE 2.0 Act that may affect your retirement savings. They’ll discuss required minimum distributions, Roths, saving for education expenses through 529 Plans, student loan payments and more.

History of the Financial Markets: A Look Back at the Last 100 Years Jan 26, 2023

In celebration of Your Life Simplified’s 100th episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, look back at the last 100 years in finance and the markets. While history doesn’t provide a perfect roadmap for the future, it can teach us useful lessons about bear markets, industry trends, risk and the economy.

5 Costly Roth IRA Mistakes to Avoid Jan 19, 2023

A Roth IRA is an important component of your retirement portfolio. In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss mistakes that can be made when investing in a Roth IRA and how to avoid them. Topics discussed include spousal contributions, Roth 401k options, the 5-year rule and contribution eligibility.

Stock Options Explained Jan 12, 2023

On this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, is joined by special guest, Brett Kunshek, head of options. They break down what an option is and dive into risk mitigation, generating income and return enhancement. They’ll also cover areas of frustration for investors and examples.

Reaching Your Financial Goals & New Year’s Resolutions Jan 05, 2023

To kick off the new year, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, share financial goals and new year’s resolutions you may want to set in 2023. From retirement planning to estate planning and gifting, we cover ways to help you achieve your goals.

End of Year Wealth Planning Checklist Dec 15, 2022

With only a few weeks left in the year, make sure you check everything off your financial list. On this episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor provide an end of year wealth planning checklist, which includes areas like retirement planning, Required Minimum Distributions and gifting.

Navigating Financial Conflicts Between Spouses Part 2 Dec 08, 2022

In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Christina Lynn, practice management consultant, continue their conversation about financial conflicts between spouses. Topics discussed include tips for managing spousal differences as an advisor, suggestions for spouses when talking about financial conflict and examples of financial conflict.

Navigating Financial Conflicts Between Spouses Part 1 Dec 01, 2022

What We’re Grateful For Nov 17, 2022

Health Savings Accounts Nov 10, 2022

Getting the Most Out of Open Enrollment Nov 03, 2022

In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Mike MacKelvie wealth advisor, and special guest Kevin Ahern, Human Resources Manager, discuss how to get the most out of your open enrollment.

Five Financial Decisions That Could Haunt You Oct 27, 2022

In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and special guest Joe Reynoldson, associate wealth advisor, get into the spooky seasons spirit by discussing five financial decisions that can haunt you and tips to avoid making these mistakes.

Donor-Advised Funds Oct 20, 2022

Description: In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss what a donor-advised fund is, the best strategies to use a donor-advised fund and how they can be beneficial to your charitable giving.

The Emotional Side of Financial Decision Making Oct 13, 2022

In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss how financial decision making can be tied to emotion and why it is important to make logical decisions when managing your finances.

Retirement Plan Rollover Oct 06, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss how retirement plan rollover works. They also discuss your rollover options, including but not limited to the pros and cons of using an IRA as a rollover vehicle, and what options may be beneficial to your long-term goals.

End of Year Tax Checklist Sep 29, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, andMichael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss the checklist you should run through before the end of the year to make sure your taxes are in ordergoing into the new year.

Pension Planning Sep 22, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, talk about pensions and how you can use your pension to elevate your retirement plan. Mike and Valerie discuss the factors to consider when thinking about your pension, risk factors and the other pension options that may be available to you.

Tax-Loss Harvesting Sep 15, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Michael MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss the ins and out of tax-loss harvesting. Topics discussed include the selling of a security, capital gains brackets and tax deferrals.

Executive Compensation Sep 08, 2022

Compensation for executives can come in different forms and be more complicated than simply earning a salary. In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Natalie Haggard, senior wealth advisor, discuss the different retirement plans that are advantageous to executives, compensation in the form of stock and strategies to effectively make the most of your executive compensation.

Long-Term Care Insurance Explained Sep 01, 2022

Long-term care insurance can be complex and costly. With so many different plans available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you and your family. In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss the thing you should consider when searching for a long-term care insurance plan and how to have a successful long-term care plan in place to save money and have the essential care required.

College Funding Aug 25, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss the complexity of college funding and strategies to tackle to rising cost of college. Mike and Valerie weed through the complexity of paying for college talk about effective ways to pay for college including 529 plans, Roth IRAs, brokerage accounts, and things to consider before applying to a school.

Cash Flow Management Aug 18, 2022

How do you, as an investor, sift through all these choices that you have when creating your wealth plan? What’s the order of operations when building your financial plan and managing your cash flow? In this week’s podcast episode, Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, is joined by special guest Abby Foster, associate wealth advisor, as they discuss tips to help maximize your wealth through this order of operations as you pursue your financial goals.

ESG: Align investments with Values Aug 11, 2022

The one constant in life is change, and the investment world is certainly no exception. As the world changes, more investors seek to invest in a socially responsible way. In this week’s podcast episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, talk about how you can invest in a socially responsible way. This area of investing can seem overwhelming and complicated, but we break it down for you:

SRI=Socially Responsible Investing – This is typically religious or moral principles. We’ll screen for things people like to avoid and exclude them from investment.

ESG=Environments, Social, Governance – This could be pollution, green energy initiatives, labor relations or customer satisfaction.

SCI=Socially Conscious Investing is a combination of SRI and ESG.

How Inflation Impacts Yields Aug 04, 2022

Inflation is unavoidable right now. You see it every where you look and on the news, but what can we do to combat this inflation? Is there anything you can be doing differently in your portfolio? In this week’s podcast episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, talk through several different variables affecting inflation.

5 Costly Estate Planning Errors Jul 28, 2022

An estate plan can play an important part in your overall wealth plan and can make a large impact on your spouse and children. Taking a few steps can help ensure that your estate doesn’t end up in probate and your family isn’t left with a headache. On today’s episode, Mike MacKelvie is joined by special guest Drew McDowell, attorney and senior wealth advisor at Mariner Wealth Advisors, as they talk through 5 costly estate planning errors that celebrities like Prince, Whitney Houston and James Gandolfini made in their own estate plan and learn what you can do to help make sure you’re not making these same mistakes.

Don't Let Headlines Derail Your Investing Plans Jul 21, 2022

When keeping up with the, sometimes sensational, media coverage of the markets, things can seem bleak without proper context. In this week’s episode, Valerie Escobar and Mike MacKelvie talk us through how to assess the information we glean from these news story headlines, and how it might impact our investing plans.

5 Considerations for Early Retirement Jul 14, 2022

Are you thinking about retiring early? In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, discuss several things you should think about before retiring early. Considerations discussed include Roth conversions, capital gains, when to take social security and how much income you should take during retirement.

Bond Alternatives: Investing in a Down Market Jul 07, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Mike Mackelvie, wealth advisor, and Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, discuss bond alternatives and the pros and cons of bonds. Valerie and Michael talk about the basics of bonds, bond alternatives that you can invest in, rates of return and how impactful bonds can be in the market.

Best Days in the Market - Embracing Volatility Jun 30, 2022

In this episode of Your Life Simplified, Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, and Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, discuss volatility in the stock market and strategies to embrace the up and down rollercoaster that the stock market can be. Valerie and Michael talk about the history of markets, rates of return and impactful days in the market.

Real Estate Investing Part 2: REITs & ETFs Jun 23, 2022

In part 2 of Your Life Simplified’s real estate series, Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, and Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, discuss how REITs, or real estate investment trust, and ETFs, or exchange trades funds, have performed in high interest rate environments and the advantages of investing in real estate assets.

Real Estate Investing Part 1: Holding Property & Interest Rates Jun 16, 2022

Are you looking to invest in real estate? In this week’s episode of Your Life Simplified, Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, and Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, talk about the things you should take into consideration before investing in real estate. The topics discussed include interest rates, return on investment and the advantages and disadvantages of investing in real estate.

The Real Cost of Owning a Pet Jun 09, 2022

Often times, we only look at the short-term cost of owning a pet such as adoption fees, toys, food and vaccinations. However, other costs, such as pet insurance, additional vet bills and housing need to be considered before adopting a furry friend. In this week’s podcast episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, are joined by very special guest Lucy as they talk about the real cost of owning a pet.

How to Help Your Kids Be Financially Literate Jun 02, 2022

How do we get our kids to make better decisions with money? In this week's podcast, Valorie, senior wealth advisor, and Mike, welath advisor, will be sharing with you tips and insights to help you teach your kids how to become financially literate.

5 Tax Strategies to Help Save Money May 26, 2022

In this week’s podcast episode, Valerie Escobar, senior wealth advisor, and Mike MacKelvie, wealth advisor, walk through 5 tax planning strategies and opportunities like Roth conversions, backdoor Roth IRA conversions, asset allocation, tax-loss harvesting and making qualified charitable contributions. They’ll also discuss considerations for each of these strategies and why it’s important to consult with your wealth advisor.

DIY Financial Pitfalls May 19, 2022

Should you or should you not be doing your own investing? In this episode, Valerie and Mike will be covering the 5 most common financial pitfalls of a DIY investor.

Take a Deep Breath: Meditation and Mindfulness Dec 21, 2021

When there are so many outside factors affecting our well-being, it can be very beneficial to take a moment and focus on what’s happening inside you. In this episode, we invite Briana Struemph to help us understand what meditation is, how we can benefit from practicing and lead us through a simple breathing exercise.

Community Involvement: Giving Back So We All Move Forward Nov 30, 2021

If you’ve always wanted to give back to the community where you live and work, but wonder how to get started, learn strategies from Katie Dunn Fitzgerald, principal and senior wealth consultant at Mariner Wealth Advisors, who joined us to talk about how to find an organization to volunteer your time for that’s fits your interests, aligns with your values and operates with integrity.

Here in My Car: What’s Driving the Auto Industry? Nov 09, 2021

We’ve all seen the automotive industry headlines lately; chip shortages and used car scarcities, to name a few. In this episode, we invited back John M. Vincent, an automotive consumer advice writer with U.S. News & World Report, to discuss challenges manufacturers face, how to take advantage of the current car market and his thoughts on electric vehicles.

Legacy Planning: Discussing Wealth Transfer with the Next Generation Oct 19, 2021

When it comes to multi-generational wealth planning and how prepared children and grandchildren are to receive an inheritance, there are a few key concepts to keep in mind. We invite Chad Hamilton of our practice management team to discuss setting up a goals-based, comprehensive foundation of education. Included in this groundwork discussion are building blocks of debt, cash flow management, investment 101 and insurance.

5 Tips for Building Wealth: A Guide for the Next Generation Sep 28, 2021

If you or someone you know is just getting started on the financial paths of life, there are many routes to choose and potholes to avoid. We invite a group of our advisors to sit down and share some tips on how to thoughtfully build wealth based on conversations they’ve had with their clients and experiences in their own lives. From recognizing the difference between good debt and bad debt, to best practices for budgeting, this conversation offers five actionable steps that can be taken to begin building wealth today.

Unleash Greatness: Understanding and Utilizing Leadership Coaching Sep 07, 2021

When looking for ways to improve success within an organization or business, individuals may consider reaching out to a consultant for recommendations. Another avenue for this goal, that employs a more collaborative approach, is leadership coaching. We invite Teresa Carey, CEO and president of PerformancePointe, to discuss the key differences between consulting and coaching, describes methods she uses to work alongside executives and offer some general advice for business success.

Tales from the Crypto…Understanding Digital Assets Aug 18, 2021

Blockchain, cryptocurrency, Digital Ledger Technology. These terms are becoming commonplace in the news cycle, on social media and even in casual conversation, but digital assets can be a very complex topic. So, we invited Scott Duba, portfolio manager and director of our investments team, to give us an introduction to the realm of digital assets and what to think about when considering investing in this asset class.

On the Road Again…Navigating Travel Today Jul 27, 2021

The ongoing pandemic has changed the way we travel and many are changing their approach to transportation, like driving or taking the train. Before you book your next trip, tune in as we invite Erika Richter, with the American society of Travel Advisors to share travel tips like planning ahead and hiring a travel agent who can help you navigate COVID restrictions that vary by state and internationally.

Taxing Decisions…Relocating to Another State Jul 06, 2021

There are currently nine states that have no income tax, which can be an enticing reason to move to one of them – especially for retirees. But are tax advantages on their own a good reason for you to move to Alaska? On this episode, we invited Patrick Kimbrough, managing director of our Dallas, Texas office, to share a more comprehensive view of considerations before packing up for another state.

Women’s Wealth: Beyond Finances Jun 15, 2021

In the realm of managing finances, there are some key issues that are unique to women. Whether that be considerations around the fact that they statistically live longer than men or why it's important women are empowered to take control of their financial future. Recently, several of our wealth advisors joined together to discuss how women can address these challenges and take control of their finances.

Preparing – and Paying – for College May 25, 2021

As students are preparing for their final year of high school and where life may take them after that, many turn their eyes toward going to college. Getting accepted into the school of their dreams can be stressful enough, but then you have to think about how – and who – is going to pay for it. We invite Cozy Wittman, of College Inside Track, to share best practices on financing college, including what scholarships to seek, tips for filling out the FAFSA and how to make your student a more compelling applicant. She also shares her own personal experience of sending 5 of her own children off to college.

The Hydration Sensation...An Often-Overlooked Key to Wellness May 04, 2021

Proper hydration is essential to our overall well-being, especially after being physically active. Whether a professional athlete or a weekend warrior in your local gym, your body needs to rehydrate in order to recover. We invite Anthony Wolfe MS, a senior scientist at Gatorade Sports Science Institute, to share how hydration – whether water or a sports drink – is essential in staying healthy and keeping your muscles, including your brain, in top shape. Plus, he explores the science behind what a sports drink provides over water.

Finding Success in Succession Planning Apr 13, 2021

If you own a business, planning for the transfer of ownership is something that you’ll eventually need to consider. While giving up that ownership may not be an easy consideration, our guest, Rochelle Clarke, Business Transition specialist and CEO of Succession Strength, offers guidance on things you should be considering and how to make the transfer of your business go more smoothly. In this episode, we discuss examining the strengths of potential successors, preparing them for the position and other factors of the process.

Vineyard to Glass: The Wine Experience Mar 23, 2021

Have you ever wanted to ask a professional vintner what, regardless of cost, makes a good wine or what effect the winemaking process has on the overall taste? On this episode, we invite Kelly Trevethan, co-founder of AXR Napa Valley, to talk about his experience and history with wine that goes back to his Italian grandfather who was also a winemaker. Whether your current preference is red, white or rosé, Kelly encourages us to continue exploring regions and varietals as he shares his passion for wine with us.

Social Security 101: Contributions to Distributions Mar 02, 2021

Social Security is something we see taken out of each paycheck, but what does that mean exactly? And, will there be any money left in the Social Security coffer when you’re ready to retire? For many, the benefits, and when to take them, can be confusing. On this episode, we invite Joe Hendrix, of Mariner Wealth Advisors, to simplify this topic for us and offer considerations on your personal plan.

Let Your Conscience Be Your Investing Guide Feb 09, 2021

Many individuals who invest would like to know how their dollar is being put to work while in the market. Is it supporting a company who’s values align with their own? We turned a recent socially responsible investing webinar into our latest Your Life, Simplified podcast. Our host, George Fernandez along with the panel of Brad Rollins, vice president of investment operations, Ken Powell, senior equities portfolio manager and Andy Garrison, senior wealth advisor, discuss how you can align your values with your investing strategies, what opportunities are available and how you can take action.

There’s No Place Like Home…for Work Jan 20, 2021

Even before the pandemic, working from home has become a norm in our society. Whether you do your job from a home office full-time, or have a temporary setup during an unexpected shift in your routine, there are impacts to your overall health that you should consider. We invite Samantha Cooper Cauthon, facility manager & physical therapist at Athletico, to join us in a discussion about ways to improve your workspace, routines to employ and other tips for working from home in a health-conscious manner.

Gut Check: Leading a Healthy Lifestyle Dec 29, 2020

Could stress and environmental factors be derailing our desire to lead a healthy life? On this episode, we invite Sheri Stinson, registered dietician, to discuss societal influences on our health and how nutritional needs ebb and flow based on outside stressors we face on a day-to-day basis. She also explores common errors made when setting weight loss goals, dieting fads, tips for success and how a healthy diet is only part of the puzzle when constructing a healthy lifestyle.

Over-Sharenting? How to Protect Children’s Online Privacy Dec 08, 2020

We live in a digital age where constantly sharing photos with friends and family over social media is the norm. Who else, besides friends and family, is seeing your posts? On this episode, Leah Plunkett, law professor and author of Sharenthood, speaks about the impact sharing information about your children online could have down the road. From privacy settings to location services and user agreements, Leah shares examples of the ways we may be over-sharenting and not know it.

A Season of Gratitude & Giving Nov 17, 2020

As we approach the holidays and gather with family, feelings of gratitude and sharing often arise. In thinking about ways to give back, we’ve invited Andy Garrison, of Mariner Wealth Advisors, to talk about how he’s helped his clients with impact investing. For those who are investing already but would like to make a difference while doing so, Andy shares how to think about putting dollars to work in a way that shapes the community and is socially responsible.

Athletes Unlimited: A New Way to Play Oct 27, 2020

Most of us know at least the basics of softball, volleyball and lacrosse and that the team with the most points wins. Athletes Unlimited has introduced a new scoring model for professional athletes that goes beyond the points on the scoreboard. In this episode, Scott Sturgeon invites Haylie Wagner, a professional softball player with Athletes Unlimited, to share how they play differs from a typical softball game, her journey to becoming a professional athlete and what she’s learned along the way.

Honoring Hispanic Heritage Oct 15, 2020

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, we’d like to take a moment to celebrate a few individuals here at Mariner Wealth Advisors. In this episode, George Fernandez speaks to Valerie Escobar and Alejandro Zayas about the culture that influences who they are today and the financial experiences they’ve had along the way.

ABCs of Medicare…an Introduction to the Different Parts Oct 06, 2020

As we age – or face an event that results in disabilities – we all will have to make the important, and sometimes challenging, decision about Medicare. There can be a lot to unpack when considering the different coverage components and understanding what may be right for you. On this episode, we invite Joe Hendrix, of Mariner Wealth Advisors, to share with us how he breaks down these complexities for his clients.

It’s a Transition, Not a Transaction: Selling Your Business Without Regret Sep 15, 2020

After spending years building up a business, many people may hesitate when it comes time to sell off an asset that has become precious to them. Denise Logan, author of The Seller’s Journey, discusses aspects of selling a business and how this transaction goes much deeper than just monetary value. She shares experiences such as what can cause a deal to fall through, compromises to keep a deal alive and things to keep in mind if you’re approaching a selling point in your journey.

Fore the Love of the Game Aug 25, 2020

From family fun to competitive atmospheres, golf is a game that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of audiences. Not just a leisure activity, golf can have both physical and mental health benefits as well. For this episode, we invite pro golfer turned wealth consultant, Kevin Ward, to join us and share his knowledge of the game as well as tips for improvement.

Difficult Conversations: Long-Term Care for Loved Ones Aug 04, 2020

Long-term care insurance is just for the elderly or chronically ill need, right? While those are common recipients of care, a stroke, sudden disability or other unexpected health issue can raise the need for care to those who may not have planned for it. Asking loved ones if they’re prepared for these situations can be equally difficult. So, we’ve invited Lindsey McCool, Ed Simms and Jerry Clark, of Mariner Wealth Advisors, to join us, share their experiences and help simplify the details of what can be a very complex subject.

The Things Retirees Miss Jul 07, 2020

When thinking of approaching retirement, common themes that come to mind are spending more time traveling, golfing or with family. However, the way you spend your time and money in retirement can have deeper complexities. On this episode, we invite Aaron Fulton of Mariner Wealth Advisors to share with us how he helps his clients comprehensively think about retirement.

Rip Up Your Resume: How to Win the Job Search Jun 09, 2020

Whether by choice or unexpected circumstances, most people have been on the hunt for a new job at one point in their lives, polished their resumes and brushed up on interviewing skills. However, how do you stand out from the crowd when the number of positions is limited or the market is oversaturated in candidates? We invite Karen Fenaroli of Fenaroli & Associates on to the show to share what she looks for as an executive headhunter and offer tips on how to improve your chances of landing that next job.

Moody Money: A Look Into Financial Anxiety May 19, 2020

Many of us have experienced some level of stress when it comes to money, but some individuals experience symptoms of anxiety when they think about their accounts.On this episode, George Fernandez invites financial therapist, Lindsay Bryan-Podvin, to share what it means to have financial anxiety, different ways it can manifest and how she helps her clients through it.

Tax Rewind: A Synopsis of the Recent Changes Apr 23, 2020

SECURE Act, CARES Act, Small Business Loans and Paycheck Protection Program. There have certainly been many changes to the tax landscape recently. In this episode, Brian Leitner, George Fernandez and Scott Sturgeon take a look back at the legislative changes discuss what kind of impacts that may have for individual’s tax situations going forward.

Coping with a Crisis Apr 02, 2020

Whether it is a government-issued, stay-at-home order, an unavoidable crisis or market turmoil, sometimes it can feel like control is out of your hands. In this episode, Brian Leitner and Scott Sturgeon discuss what you can do from the comfort of your home, in any situation, to help regain some sense of normalcy.

Coronavirus Update with Chris Jenson Mar 17, 2020

As you practice precautions to help keep yourself and your family healthy, consider these additional safety tips. Dr. Chris Jenson, a former ER doctor who spent time with the CDC and is now an educator, joins us to help break down COVID-19 and what you should do to help protect yourself.

Coronavirus Infecting the Market? Mar 09, 2020

With drops in the markets over the last two weeks and the spread of the coronavirus, you may have concerns about your investments. We continue to watch the markets and urge against making impulsive actions. Hear what our Chief Investment Strategist Jeff Krumpelman has to say on the topic.

Love or Money…Why Not Both? Feb 18, 2020

Whether couples have shared or separate accounts, it’s important to communicate about finances, values and goals. Having these discussions can result in reduced financial stress and an increase in satisfaction within their relationships. Sonya Lutter, Ph.D., director of School of Family Studies and Human Services at Kansas State University, joins us to help break down the intricacies of love and money and ways for couples to discuss finances.

New Tax Law Could Impact Your Retirement Jan 28, 2020

On December 20, 2019, the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act, or the SECURE Act, became law. While many of us have heard about this in the news, what may not have been immediately apparent is the significant impact this new law could have on your retirement plan and financial goals. Scott Sturgeon, of the Mariner Wealth Advisors practice management team joins us to help simplify the details and explain who is impacted in what way.

Quantity or Quality? Valuating Your Collectibles Jan 07, 2020

From stamps to cars and wine to fine art, there are thousands of different collections that enthusiasts buy and sell, but how do you know if your collection is better at accumulating value than dust? We’re joined by Laura Doyle, vice president, art, jewelry & valuable collections manager at Chubb, who shares her experience in helping her clients appraise, restore and preserve their collections. We explore what collectors just getting started should know, what insuring a collection looks like and how profoundly the provenance of an item can impact its value.

All Year’s Resolutions: Thoughtful Goal Setting Dec 10, 2019

As we approach the end of the year, many of us are winding down for the holidays, traveling to spend time with family and reflecting on the year, and ultimately, setting resolutions for the new year. But is the end of the year or beginning of a new year the best time to set goals and resolutions? Chris Bixby, of Mariner Wealth Advisors, suggests a different approach. In this Episode of Your Life, Simplified, he suggests we spend this time of reflection as a way to set your goals in motion for the next year in a more thoughtful manner, planning out overarching themes and supporting milestones for each quarter to achieve those goals.

Timing is Everything…When Making Withdrawals Nov 19, 2019

Sequence of returns risk is the possibility that an investor will have lower returns over time due to withdrawals made during low or negative return years. It may not be something thought about regularly, but it is something that everyone should consider, especially when planning for retirement. We’re joined by Justin Richter of Mariner Wealth Advisors who helps us understand what the overall impacts of taking distributions in a down market can look like over time and explain what strategies can be put in place to mitigate this risk.

No Deadline In Sight: How Often Should You Be Talking Taxes? Nov 12, 2019

Many people consider their tax situations when there is a filing deadline coming up, but the reality is, by taking a more comprehensive look at your tax plan, you can potentially improve your overall wealth plan. Ryan Drake of the Mariner Wealth Advisors tax planning and preparation group joins us to talk about common mistakes and opportunities he sees when speaking with clients. Additionally, he shares ways in which you could improve your tax situation before year end.

Seven Reasons Your Estate Plan May Be Weak Oct 29, 2019

Estate planning is a topic often put off as a conversation that can be had in the future. However, do you know what would happen if you were to suddenly pass and you didn’t have an estate plan in place or if it was drafted incorrectly? Jadin Winberg of Mariner Wealth Advisors discusses some of the more common mistakes he has encountered with reviewing and discussing estate plans.

Your Financial Questions…Answered Oct 08, 2019

We’ve compiled your top financial questions and are dedicating this episode of Your Life, Simplified to providing answers. Discussing topics such as charitable giving, taxes, investments, risk management, retirement planning, education funding, enrolling in Medicare versus staying on your company’s healthcare plan after age 65, to finding an insurance policy when you have a pre-existing condition, our guests – Pat Kummer and George Fernandez - provide their views in an effort to help make finances, and the ensuing topics around it, less complicated.

Cautiously Optimistic: The Market Is Fluctuating, But Our Strategy Isn’t Sep 10, 2019

The market has been a wild ride in 2019, and the volatility in price swings and investor psychology isn’t letting up. Despite current popular opinion that recession is imminent, we are reading the signs differently. Jeff Krumpelman, chief investment strategist of Mariner Wealth Advisors joins the show to discuss how he and his team views the market changes and why he urges investors to remain cautiously optimistic and focused on trends in data.

Women & Finances: Should Their Approach Be Different Than Men? Aug 27, 2019

Women often take a backseat when it comes to long-term financial planning. They’re busy juggling family, career and professional goals, but it’s imperative that women take charge of their financial futures too. Jana Shoulders of Mariner Wealth Advisors joins us to discuss the importance of women being educated about their finances and finding a wealth advisor that holistically supports them.

Splitting Equitably: The Financial Considerations of Divorce Aug 06, 2019

Divorce can be a very difficult time, and with emotions running high, it can be beneficial to have someone advocating for you when it comes time to look at how to split your finances. We invite Megan Brozowski of Mariner Wealth Advisors to discuss how having an advisor, and specifically a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®, can alleviate the burden of making those decisions on your own as well as running the numbers to know what you need to continue living your lifestyle.

An Alarming Trend: The Opioid Epidemic Jul 16, 2019

Since their introduction, opioids have been an effective tool in pain management for many. Unfortunately, they have also been the path to powerful addiction for others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 130 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose. Dr. Chris Jenson, a former ER doctor who spent time with the CDC and is now an educator, joins the podcast to discuss the opioid epidemic as a situation that could potentially affect any one of us.

Simplifying Senior Living: What’s the Right Choice for You? Jun 25, 2019

As we grow older, we will all need to make choices regarding senior living. Whether you’re making decisions for your parents, a spouse, yourself or other loved ones, it is important to have a clear understanding of the housing options available. Choices can range from facilities with assisted living services or memory care to continuing care retirement communities (also known as life plan communities) to receiving assistance in your home, and each of these options has different implications for your health and finances. Join us as we talk with Sally Abrahms, an award-winning writer and nationally recognized expert on aging, as she shares her insights on trends in senior living that may influence your choice in housing options.

College Planning: Going Beyond the Dollar Signs May 14, 2019

It’s no secret higher education tuition costs are rapidly rising. So when it comes to college planning your mind likely goes right to dollar signs. But there’s more to planning for college than just finances. Cozy Wittman of College Inside Track goes beyond loans and scholarships for an in-depth discussion on college planning considerations you may not be thinking about.

Location, Location, Location! Tips on Home Buying and Selling Apr 23, 2019

Many of us have heard the adage about location being everything when it comes to real estate, but what else should you be thinking about? We invite real estate agent Mike O’Dell on to the show to discuss key decision points from both the buying and selling side. From strategic approaches on coming in with an offer on the buy side, to how to handle lowball offers on the sale of your home, Mike shares his experience on what he has seen work in the industry.

Home Is Where the Heart Is…Especially in Taxes Apr 02, 2019

When it comes to filing your taxes, the rate at which your income is taxed can vary based on the state in which you live, or where your domicile is. In this episode, we invite Adam Kotz of Mariner Wealth Advisors to discuss how the IRS determines your domicile and things to keep in mind when you move to a different state. Additionally, we dive into what this means for individuals who own homes in multiple states.

New Tax Plan…So Many New Decisions To Be Made Mar 12, 2019

New tax season, new tax laws. How do you decide whether you should choose a tax preparer or a tax consultant to help you file? Along with discussing the key differences in this selection, Ryan Drake and Erin Alexander of Mariner Wealth Advisors break down how filing has changed in the first year after the tax law update, and how that may impact the way you file and your refund. In addition, they discuss common filing mistakes and how to avoid them.

Hitting the Jackpot! Managing Financial Windfalls Feb 19, 2019

Financial windfalls come in a variety of forms, from winning the lottery to receiving an inheritance or even selling a business. Regardless of the sort of windfall received, there are some key pieces to keep in mind. On this episode, we ask Suzanne Wheeler of Mariner Wealth Advisors to share what she feels to be important considerations when handling new-found wealth. After taking a moment to step back and look at your situation, some decisions Suzanne recommends you make include deciding how the money should be allocated, if you’d like to donate to charity, how you can protect your assets and what changes should you make in your lifestyle.

Resolution Revolutions: Planning Your Goals for the Year Jan 29, 2019

We know that it is sometimes difficult to stick to those New Year’s resolutions, whether they be related to diet and exercise or saving and spending. So, we have invited George Fernandez and Andy Garrison of Mariner Wealth Advisors to have a conversation about what they are thinking about when planning financial goals for the year. Those planning topics include saving for your retirement, creating an appropriate spending plan, choosing the correct level of insurance coverage and selecting the right gym.

Are You Prepared for an Emergency? Jan 08, 2019

According to Game Plan Experts, there are, on average, 76,000 people killed and 174 billion dollars in average annual losses because of natural disasters every year. These numbers are so high because many people are not prepared for emergency situations like hurricanes, fires, tornadoes, flooding, earthquakes and other extreme weather. Today we invite Shawn Tipping to share his insights and speak to how his company helps people get prepared.

Mariner Mail: Checking Our Inbox Dec 18, 2018

Throughout the life of our podcast, we have been asking you to send in any questions or thoughts you might have that you would like us to cover. In a segment we’re calling Mariner Mail, we have gone through some of these financial questions and invited Scott Voss and Jadin Winberg from Mariner Wealth Advisors to help answer them. Questions answered today include:

We pay our daughter to do chores around the house, can she use these funds to contribute to an individual retirement account?
My attorney who created my estate plan has died. Is there anything I need to do, how do I get copies of the documents and is it still in effect?
Where should I be keeping important documents like my will?
Will I have to pay estate tax when I pass?
What’s the difference between a revocable and irrevocable trust?
When assets are gifted, are there taxes associated with that gift – for either the recipient or giver of that gift?
I’ve done my own taxes for years but have just received a letter from the IRS. What do I do?
What are the most common mistakes in estate planning and tax preparation?

Buying A Car? Hit the Brakes And Listen To This Podcast First. Nov 27, 2018

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, American households spend approximately $500 a month on their automotive transportation. Over a 60-year period of time, that equates to roughly $360,000 – not a small expense by any means. And, let’s face it, buying a car can be overwhelming. In this podcast, our guest expert, John M. Vincent, an automotive consumer advice writer with U.S. News & World Report. John shares his knowledge to help you simplify the car buying process, deciding whether you should buy new, used or lease a car, financing, how to negotiate the best price, what to look for in a car, how to research a car and where to buy a car.

Special Needs Planning: What Qualifies As Special Needs & Why Planning Is Important Nov 06, 2018

One in eight people are related to someone with special needs, according to Pew Research Center. There is a broad definition of special needs and it does not discriminate. If you have a family member with special needs, it’s important to adapt your financial plan. Depending on the severity of the special needs, parents may need to not only plan for their lifetime, but also that of their child or children. This podcast episode focuses on when and where you should start with special needs planning. In addition, items such as schooling, doctors, instructions for guardians and more are discussed to help you ensure you have the bases covered for someone with special needs.

If you have questions or suggestions for future podcasts, please email us at podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com

Cybersecurity: Is Your Personal Financial Information Protected? Oct 16, 2018

We are all impacted by cybersecurity. This podcast includes answers to questions we have received, to help ensure your personal information is kept safe. Many firms spend a great deal of money to protect your data, but are you following steps to protect it too. With the recent data breaches of Facebook, Uber and Equifax, among others, it’s more important than ever to understand cybersecurity and protecting your personally identifiable information. From passwords, to your computer, to wi-fi and much more…this episode covers what you should think about the next time you get online. If you have questions you would like answered, email us at podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com

Life Insurance…Do You Know The Many Roles It Can Serve? Sep 25, 2018

The goal of this episode is to educate you on life insurance – why you need it, the role it can serve in your financial plan, the differences in types, and more. Most importantly, we want to simplify the context of life insurance so you can make an informed decision about your own wealth plan. According to the Life Insurance Market Research Association (LIMRA) and LifeHappens.org, three in five adults have life insurance, but 61 percent know they don’t have enough insurance, but think they can’t afford to buy more. Find out why life insurance is something you seriously need to consider as you evaluate how to navigate your financial future.

Questions for our host? Email us at podcast@mainerwealthadvisors.com

A Health Savings Account…Is It Right For You? Sep 05, 2018

For years, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) were thought of as “the cheap insurance” because consumers paid more out-of-pocket expenses, which resulted in lower premiums for both the consumer and the employer. How do you know if an HSA is a good fit for your medical insurance needs? First, analyze your medical spending habits. Are you a relatively healthy person, or a minimal spender on healthcare? Or, are you on many medications or make frequent trips to the doctor, which would make you a high spender. What are your views on investing? An HSA is an investment too. It’s designed to be a long-term investment. You can invest the funds in the account so they have the opportunity to grow. If you can afford it, let that account grow and pay cash out of pocket for your medical expenses. This podcast, with host Brian Leitner, will walk you through the pros and cons of an HSA, simplifying the decision on if it is right for you. Questions for our host? Email us at podcast@mainerwealthadvisors.com

I’ll Take Some Guac With That… Aug 14, 2018

Shanna Hutcheson, a registered dietitian, talks about how you can improve your health through what you put in your body. She breaks down the pros and cons of the “fad” diets and detox methods out there today, such as Atkins, Keto, cleanses and Paleo, and why she doesn’t endorse any of them. She also explains that “carb” is not a four-letter word, the right carbs to eat daily and why it’s important to eat them every day. The timing behind when you should eat carbs and how to fuel your body before and after a workout is also discussed. Shanna gives tips on how to fill your plate in a healthy manner and portion control. Have a gluten allergy or avoid eating gluten? She provides tips on healthy foods to focus on in your daily diet. This podcast covers the gamut of health and nutrition topics and tips to simplify your healthy eating. If you have questions or topics you would like us to cover, please email podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com

Simplifying the Estate Planning Process Jul 24, 2018

The good news is that whether you realize it or not, you already have an estate plan. Every state in the union provides a process that will pass on your assets upon your death, unless you’ve planned otherwise. The bad news is that it may not be the one you want. In our podcast, Simplifying the Estate Planning Process, Brian Leitner and George Fernandez from Mariner Wealth Advisors break down how to make sure your assets are passed on the right people at the right time and the right way. They take the legal-speak out of the discussion and make it simple. This podcast provides information to help ensure your wishes regarding your assets are considered…and simplifies the entire process. If you have questions or topics you would like us to cover, please email podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com

Travel Hacks To Simplify Your Life Jul 03, 2018

Research indicates that people will spend more time planning a vacation than they do their retirement plan. Why not make it easier? In our podcast, Travel Hacks To Simplify Your Life, guest Shiraz Dalal, a commercial pilot and a travel consultant, shares with host Brian Leitner travel tips and hacks that everyone should be aware of when planning their next vacation. These tips can save you time, money and frustration when you’re trying to book travel, hotels and excursions. Sometimes getting started with the planning is the hardest part. Shiraz also discusses seasons you should travel, when to use a travel agent and when to “do it yourself.”

If you have questions or topics you would like us to cover, please email podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com

Can Money Buy Happiness? Jun 12, 2018

In our podcast, Can Money Buy Happiness?, host Brian Leitner and guest Dr. Elizabeth Dunn, a professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia, explore the research behind how you spend money and the impact that may have on your happiness. Dr. Dunn will give tips to “happier spending” as well as how to get the biggest happiness bang for each dollar you spend. If you have questions or topics you would like us to cover, please email podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com

Simplify Your Environment; Simplify Your Life May 22, 2018

Host Brian Leitner welcomes Kristen Christian and Lisa Foley, the owners of Bee Organized, to this week's podcast. Lisa and Kristen share tips on how being organized can not only help you simplify your life, but also bring peace-of-mind and a calmness to your family or yourself. They offer tips on:

How to determine if you need more organization in your life
How to take the first step
How to be successful in your goal to simplify or de-clutter
Things to think about if you're planning on leaving valuables to loved-ones
Points to ponder if you have a knack for holding on to lots of "things" if you are worried you will lose the memories

Everyone has a relationship with "stuff". Consider if it's a healthy relationship, or one that brings you down. Is it bringing you negative energy or positive? Often, people hold on to "stuff" because it represents a time in their life. This podcast addresses the psychological aspect of holding on to "things" and what it can do to your life when you "let go".

The Tax Cuts & Job Act (TCJA) of 2017: What Does It Mean For You? May 01, 2018

At the end of 2017, President Trump approved the 2017 Tax cuts & Job Act (TCJA). The new law includes some of the largest tax changes since 1986 in an effort to simplify the tax code. What does this mean for you and your 2018 filings? This podcast covers the biggest changes and their impact to tax payers, how you should take advantage of the changes, and what you need to be thinking about now when it comes to deductions. Topics covered include:

Changes to tax rates/withholding tables
Changes to standard deductions/itemized deductions
Changes to child tax credit
Charitable giving strategies
Changes to how you use 529 plans
Changes to deducting interest from home equity lines of credit
Much more

This podcast also includes the pdf 5 Most Common Questions About The Tax Cuts & Job Act

An Introduction To Your Life, Simplified Apr 16, 2018

Our goal, at Mariner Wealth Advisors, is to help you live your best possible life. The Your Life, Simplified podcast will discuss topics that will not only help you make more informed financial decisions, but also address topics that could improve your life in other ways. This might be by hearing from doctors, nutritionist and other professionals. Or, by hearing about favorite travel hacks, how to protect your digital profile, the benefits of being organized, exercise tips, and much more.

In addition, we want to answer your questions and discuss what you want to hear. You can email topics or questions to podcast@marinerwealthadvisors.com and our host, Brian Leitner will address them in the future.

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