Discover
The Big O Money Show
The Big O Money Show
Author: William Altman
Subscribed: 4Played: 21Subscribe
Share
Description
Small changes, made over time, can produce significant results. Much like a high performance engine, or an entire orchestra, when even a small part is not doing what it is supposed to do, everything suffers. And the same is true of your finances. This show is dedicated to the small things that make a significant difference.
384 Episodes
Reverse
In this very special episode Bill welcomes Jennifer McMahan, the Religious Formation Director at St. Vincent De Paul Parish to talk about the impact 1 egg a day can make on children's lives in Tanzania and how you can help raise awareness and donate to provide coops and chickens for the schools. We also touch on the meaning of Advent.
This episode is a crucial guide to the most significant Medicare and Health Insurance changes impacting your financial well-being, particularly with the new Annual Enrollment Period in full swing. We break down key updates, including Part B premium adjustments, the cap on prescription drug out-of-pocket costs, and the major changes happening within Medicare Advantage plans. Tune in to understand how these shifts affect your budget and learn the strategies you need to select the most cost-effective and comprehensive coverage for the coming year.
Veteran Portfolio Manager Mike Binger, President of Gradient Investments, joins us for his highly anticipated market update, providing deep insights gleaned from over 30 years of navigating various economic cycles. He breaks down the current forces driving the markets, from the latest Federal Reserve signals to evolving geopolitical risks, and shares his perspective on where the major indexes are headed next. Tune in for Mike's actionable, balanced investment strategies for positioning your portfolio for both growth and protection in today's complex financial climate.
This episode delivers an urgent update on the financial fallout from the ongoing government shutdown, examining how the political impasse continues to harm the real economy. We then dive into the crisis of outrageous health insurance premium increases, specifically analyzing the looming expiration of key federal subsidies and what this means for millions of Americans' budgets in the upcoming enrollment period. Tune in for expert analysis and actionable steps to help you mitigate rising costs and safeguard your personal finances amid these major Washington uncertainties.
Before the calendar flips to January 1st, there are a few crucial financial moves—with hard deadlines—that can significantly lower your 2025 tax bill and set up a stronger 2026. We break down the checklist: from the last-minute chance for tax-loss harvesting and Roth conversions to maximizing your 401(k) and HSA contributions. Learn the strategic steps you need to take now to lock in tax savings and ensure your financial house is in perfect order for the New Year.
As political gridlock triggers another government shutdown, we analyze the real-world financial consequences for investors, the economy, and federal services. We look at the historical market impact—which is often more noise than actual damage—and discuss why major indexes tend to shrug off short-term political drama. Learn how to strategically use cash reserves, avoid emotional selling, and position your portfolio to weather the temporary uncertainty from Washington.
Don't let valuable tax-saving opportunities slip away as the calendar year closes; this episode walks you through the essential financial checkpoints you need to hit before December 31st. We cover critical year-end moves, including maximizing retirement contributions and HSA funding, performing tax-loss harvesting, and taking your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Tune in for a comprehensive, last-minute checklist to reduce your tax bill, rebalance your portfolio, and set yourself up for financial success in the new year.
This episode ties together Washington gridlock with its real-world economic impact, starting with an analysis of how the current government shutdown is affecting financial markets. Bill shares his recent motorbike trip. Finally, the average American consumer's financial health and what it signals for the broader economic outlook.
With the government shutdown that occurred on October 1st, this episode breaks down the direct financial implications for investors and everyday Americans. We analyze how historical shutdowns have (or haven't) impacted the broader stock and bond markets, offering strategies to weather potential volatility. Finally, we clarify what the shutdown means for essential services like Medicare, and how its funding—or lack thereof—could affect your personal healthcare costs and coverage.
This episode navigates the complex interplay of factors impacting your personal financial health, from the latest changes to Medicare to the Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates. We'll explore how shifting market trends and evolving health care policies can influence your investments and retirement plans. Tune in for a comprehensive look at how to protect and grow your wealth amidst these critical economic developments.
This episode navigates a fascinating trifecta of economic forces: the Fed's rate cuts, the housing market, and even the price of engagement rings. We'll explore how lower interest rates are influencing mortgage affordability and creating new dynamics for both buyers and sellers. Finally, we'll connect the dots to consumer spending on big-ticket items, uncovering how macroeconomic shifts are impacting everything from housing to that once-in-a-lifetime purchase.
Healthcare costs are a major concern for many, impacting personal budgets and retirement savings. This episode breaks down the factors driving up medical expenses and provides actionable advice on how to save money on everything from prescription drugs to emergency room visits. We'll also explore the powerful role of tax-advantaged accounts like HSAs in building a long-term savings strategy to combat rising healthcare costs.
In this episode, we will examine the current state of the U.S. labor market, analyzing key indicators like the jobs report and wage growth. We'll discuss how these trends impact everything from inflation and interest rates to your investment portfolio.
In this episode we talk about Labor Day, Medicare changes, minimizing your tax burden and the importance of working with a team of experts.
In this episode we dig into the reason you invest. We also talk about about life and what's happening!
This episode explores the current state of the U.S. economy, breaking down complex trends into simple, understandable terms. We connect these macroeconomic shifts to your personal finances, providing essential financial education to help you make smarter decisions. Listen in to learn how to navigate today's economic climate and build a more secure financial future for yourself.
Deciding how to save for retirement can be overwhelming, with numerous options and acronyms to navigate. This episode breaks down the most common retirement savings vehicles, including 401(k)s, IRAs, and plans for the self-employed. We'll explore the key differences in contribution limits, tax advantages, and investment flexibility so you can choose the right accounts for your unique financial goals.
This episode explores the current state of financial markets, from the stock market's volatility to the nuanced shifts in the real estate landscape. We'll then shift gears to discuss "The Big Beautiful Parking Lot Party," a unique economic indicator and community phenomenon that offers surprisingly insightful clues about consumer sentiment and local market activity. Tune in to discover how these seemingly disparate topics are interconnected and what they reveal about the broader financial outlook.
This episode unpacks the monumental "Big Beautiful Bill" and its impact on your finances, from newly permanent tax rates and increased deductions to changes in corporate expensing. Beyond the legislative landscape, we explore the surprising "benefits of juicing," delving into how embracing a healthier lifestyle can also contribute to your overall financial well-being. Join us as we connect these seemingly disparate topics, showing you how smart financial planning and personal wellness can truly go hand-in-hand.
In this episode, we demystify everything you need to know about your benefits, from claiming strategies to navigating recent changes. Each episode breaks down complex topics into clear, actionable advice, helping you secure your financial future. And in this special episode, we're saying a fond farewell to our incredible audio engineer, Mitch!



