Money Sense

In a market where nothing seems available, this episode breaks down how people are still finding the right home and the strategies that make it possible.Karen Ellenbecker sits down with Shorewest Realtor Beth Jaworski for a conversation about today’s housing reality: tight inventory, a shortage of condos, and the wave of apartment development that’s reshaping options for buyers and downsizers alike. Beth explains what’s driving the shortage and why so many would‑be sellers feel “stuck,” then shares practical ways to create flexibility like using a home‑equity line of credit to buy first and sell second, staging for maximum return, and timing your move to reduce stress.You’ll learn what buyers prioritize today, the simple updates that make the biggest difference, and the offer strategies that help you compete in a fast‑moving market. We also talk about building the right team, from decluttering support to contractors and lenders, and why preparation is the key to successful buying and selling in any season.Connect with Beth Jaworski at bjaworski@shorewest.com or visit bethjaworski.com for additional resources and listings.#RealEstateTips #HousingMarket2026 #HomeBuyingAdvice #DownsizingJourney #WisconsinRealEstate #MoneySensePodcast #EIG #HomeSellingTipsELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.comThis podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

In this episode, wealth advisor Jamie Williams is joined by Dick Schiller of Pavlic Investment Advisors for a clear look at the fixed income landscape in early 2026. Together, they break down how today’s bond ladders are structured, what yields look like across one‑ to ten‑year maturities, and why reinvestment and interest‑rate risk feel different than they did just a few years ago. Jamie and Dick also highlight how the broader market backdrop supports the case for high‑quality bonds and how a thoughtful allocation can help protect five to six years of income needs. They discuss: Current yield ranges across one‑ to ten‑year investment‑grade corporate bonds Why bond ladders help stabilize plans in a shifting rate environment How reinvestment risk affects CDs and money markets The difference between individual bonds and bond funds How to evaluate quality when selecting fixed income holdings How fixed income supports a balanced allocation as volatility returns Register for our March 12th webinar on travel insurance here: bit.ly/4ccSKgaELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.comThis podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

What if retirement felt more like a graduation rather than an ending? Host Karen Ellenbecker sits down with retirement transition expert Elizabeth Parsons to uncover why so many high achievers “fail” at traditional retirement and how to design a chapter filled with purpose.In this episode, Elizabeth Parsons, author of "A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement", breaks down the emotional and identity shifts that often catch people off guard. She explains why financial readiness is only one piece of the puzzle and shares practical strategies for building community, redefining daily structure, and experimenting with new roles that keep life meaningful and energizing.Karen Ellenbecker also reflects on her own journey, including her attempt at a traditional Florida retirement, the loss of structure that surprised her, and the joy she rediscovered through writing, philanthropy, travel, and staying intellectually active. Their conversation offers an honest look at what retirement can feel like behind the scenes and how to create a life that continues to grow, stretch, and inspire you.To learn more, visit highachieverretirement.com, connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn by searching Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, or explore her book "A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement", available online and through major book retailers.#RetirementRedefined #PurposefulLiving #ThrivingInRetirement #NextChapter #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealthELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.comThis podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.

What happens when you’re named the trustee of a loved one’s estate? In this episode, wealth advisor Heather Deaton and estate planning attorney Phil Remmers break down the trustee’s role and explain how to navigate the responsibility with clarity and confidence.Phil Remmers of Kramer‑Maltoff brings more than 25 years of estate planning experience to the conversation. Together, he and Heather walk through the practical steps every trustee must address—from gathering documents and organizing assets to managing real estate, distributing personal property, and working with advisors.Listeners will also learn how to choose the right trustee, what qualities matter most, and how to prepare loved ones in advance. Phil explains trustee liability, communication best practices, and how to wrap up an estate cleanly through accountings, receipts, releases, and final tax filings.To learn more about Phil Remmers and his work, contact him at pjr@cmlawgroup.com or 262‑542‑4278.#EstatePlanning #TrusteeDuties #FinancialPlanning #LegacyPlanning #WealthTransfer #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealthELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUPPresenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: www.ellenbecker.com/This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

In this episode of “Money Sense”, host Karen Ellenbecker is joined by her daughter, Julie Ellenbecker‑Lipsky, President and Senior Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group. Together, they open up about what generational wealth means today, how it differs across age groups, and why legacy is about far more than financial assets.They discuss: Why legacy is less about numbers and more about values How different generations think about saving, giving, and financial security The rising trend of lifetime gifting and why more parents are helping adult children earlier The importance of modeling healthy financial behaviors Why family conversations around money matter, and how to start them How EIG’s Wealth Seed initiative supports emerging investors Whether you’re thinking about your own legacy, supporting adult children, or finding ways to empower the next generation, this episode offers personal stories, practical insights, and actionable steps to help your family talk more openly about wealth and values.#GenerationalWealth #LegacyPlanning #FamilyFinance #EIG #MoneySensePodcast #FinancialEducation #WealthSeed #FinancialConfidence #EmergingInvestorsELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUPPresenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations.Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

Ever wondered how to turn money stress into financial strength? Join Karen Ellenbecker and Anne Lester as they delve into practical strategies for building a secure financial future.In this episode, Anne Lester, a former JP Morgan executive and money mentor, shares her expert advice on transforming your relationship with money. Discover the five-step framework that can help you save for a rainy day, manage debt, and maximize your retirement savings.For more information, visit https://annelester.com/ or check out her award-winning book “Your Best Financial Life". It’s available in stores and through online retailers like Amazon.#FinancialFuture #MoneyMatters #MoneyManagement #FinancialAdvice #SecureFuture #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealthELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

What would happen if tomorrow you became the primary caregiver for a loved one? Most families think they have time, but the reality is caregiving crises hit fast and hard. Today, “Money Sense” host Karen Ellenbecker is joined by Annalee Kruger, founder of Care Right Inc., to discuss why planning ahead is essential. Annalee shares insight from nearly 30 years of experience helping families plan for aging, dementia, and long-term care. She breaks down the emotional, financial, and physical costs of caregiving, the complexities of caring for loved ones with dementia, and how families can plan for aging parents while also protecting their own future care needs. The conversation also addresses the challenge of balancing caregiving responsibilities with careers and family life.For more information, visit www.carerightinc.com or check out Annalee’s book “The Invisible Patient: The Emotional, Financial, and Physical Toll on Family Caregivers”. It’s available in stores and through online retailers like Amazon.#Caregiving #AgingPlanning #DementiaCare #LongTermCare #FinancialPlanning #MoneySensePodcast #EIG #WealthELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com/This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

When it comes to retirement, few decisions carry as much emotional and financial weight as what to do with your home. Should you downsize, relocate, or stay put? On this episode of “Money Sense”, host Karen Ellenbecker sits down with Tammy Niemann, Wealth Advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, to unpack the real estate crossroads many retirees face. Tammy breaks down key considerations retirees should evaluate, including the pros and cons of downsizing, the financial and lifestyle impact of relocating, and when staying put may make the most sense. The conversation also covers topics such as reverse mortgages, housing market dynamics, and how real estate decisions can affect cash flow, taxes, and long-term planning.Listeners will gain clarity on how to align housing choices with personal values, lifestyle goals, and overall retirement plans, so decisions feel intentional, informed, and confident rather than overwhelming.#RetirementPlanning #RealEstateInRetirement #Downsizing #WealthPlanning #FinancialDecisions #MoneySensePodcast #EIGWealthELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com/This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

Ever make a financial decision and later wonder, why did I do that? Maybe it wasn’t logic that drove it—it was emotion. In this episode, host Karen Ellenbecker sits down with Aja Evans, a board-certified therapist, speaker, and author specializing in financial therapy, to explore the deep connection between money, emotion, and mental health. Aja shares insights from her own financial awakening and explains how financial therapy can help individuals and families navigate the stress, shame, and patterns that influence financial decisions. She also discusses practical steps for couples to communicate about money, build trust, and create healthy financial habits together. Listeners will learn how to identify emotional triggers around money, understand the impact of chronic stress on financial and personal well-being, and take actionable steps to develop a healthier relationship with their finances. Aja's book, “Feel Good Finance”, is available now and offers tools to reflect on money habits, understand money narratives from childhood, and begin untangling emotions from financial decisions. You can find it at ajaevanscounseling.com or in stores and online retailers like Amazon. #FinancialTherapy #MoneyMindset #MentalHealth #WealthWellness #FinancialWellness #MoneySensePodcast #FeelGoodFinance ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.comThis podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group. 

What makes a company culture thrive? Host Karen Ellenbecker, founder and senior wealth advisor at Ellenbecker Investment Group, sits down with Dave Molenda, owner of the consulting business Positive Polarity and bestselling author, to explore this question. In this episode, they discuss the power of employee recognition and leadership dynamics. Learn how intentional values and team engagement can drive meaningful growth and success. Perfect for business leaders and team members looking to enhance their workplace environment.

Host Jamie Williams, an EIG Wealth Advisor, delves into the intricacies of real estate and estate planning with Erick Fabyan, Attorney at Haight & Fabyan, S.C. In this episode, they explore the vital role of real estate in financial and estate planning, discussing topics such as property ownership, trusts, and the impact of estate planning on family dynamics. Whether you're a homeowner or an investor, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of real estate and secure your financial future. Tune in weekly to gain advice and practical tips from industry leaders.

Discover how praticing gratitude can reveal the invisible threads of connection in your life and remind you that you're never truly alone. 

Thinking abouot your child's education options? Karen Ellenbecker and Chris McGee discuss smart savings strategies and career trends.

In this episode, we break down what individuals, retirees, and high-earners need to know before year-end following The One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Wealth Advisor Jamie Williams and CEO of Capital Market Consultants Barry Mendelson unpack the market from economic shifts to tech and AI trends, sector performance, and why gold is on the rise. 

Buying a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, Kristina Schnuckel, Wealth Advisor, teams up with mortgage expert Ben Revak from ProVisor, Inc. to break down the home loan process. Learn how transparency and expert guidance can make securing a mortgage stress-free for every homebuyer.

How did the pandemic accelerate tech innovation, and what does that mean for businesses today? Join Karen Ellenbecker, Founder & Senior Wealth Advisor, as she sits down with strategic AI advisor Dan Burrus to explore the latest technology trends shaping industries.

Discover how parents can gracefully transition into the empty nest phase in this episode featuring Corporate Wellness Consultant Jill Butterfield.

What does it really mean to be a trustee? Heather Deaton teams up with estate planning attorney Phil Remmers to break it down in this episode

If Medicare feels confusing or overwhelming, this episode is for you. Jean Range, Senior Wealth Advisor, sits down with Jim Larson, a Licensed Independent Insurance Agent, to break down what you really need to know—whether you're approaching retirement or helping a loved one navigate coverage.