On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian reveal the four hidden forces that influence every major financial decision — even for the most seasoned, high-net-worth investors. Whether it's fear, guilt, social pressure, or family history, these emotional undercurrents can derail smart planning. Hear real-life stories, and learn how to spot and navigate the subconscious drivers behind your financial choices. Plus, what to do when a dinner table conversation exposes a blind spot in your plan, how to protect your wealth through a divorce, and the most common mistakes multi-millionaires are still making.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian challenge the traditional notion of retirement. Is it really about never working again? Or is the real dream having the freedom to work on your terms? They dig into why more high-net-worth families are choosing “financial flexibility” over full retirement, how to plan for that transition, and the hidden tax advantages that can make it work. Plus, the emotional—and often overlooked—decision to downsize your home, why clinging to old investments could hurt your future, and how a “retirement time machine” approach can help you make smarter money moves today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explore a simple phrase that could mean the difference between financial freedom and struggle: “the sooner the better.” They unpack new data around Gen X’s looming retirement crisis and what it means to be the first generation largely retiring without pensions. Then, they dive into a compelling new study showing how saving—not spending—could be the true key to financial happiness. Plus, career expert Julie Bauke joins to dissect “the executive dilemma”—when a promotion might not actually be the best next move. Finally, Bob and Brian answer real listener questions on managing capital gains, tapping into dividends, and planning for long-term care. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian take a deep dive into what really happened in 2025 — and why the investing fundamentals they shared all year long held up once again. From President Trump’s return and a new wave of tariffs, to a Federal Reserve caught between inflation and politics, to a stock market rally that rewarded patient investors — they told you what to expect, and they were right. Hear what mattered most, what moved the markets, and what lessons investors should take into 2026. Plus, the rise of real financial resolutions, how to measure if your money actually did its job this year, and your smart money questions answered.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down one of the biggest misconceptions in investing: risk. What most people think is risk—market ups and downs—is actually just volatility. The real risk? Overspending your retirement, missing out on growth, or playing it too safe. Bob and Brian walk through the critical differences, offer real-life examples with hard math, and explain how a misread on risk can jeopardize your long-term wealth. Plus, they share insights on stock market bubbles, lessons from the Vanderbilt family's fall from fortune, and whether Roth conversions make sense when you don’t need the money yet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian uncover the #1 mistake even successful savers and investors make: accumulating assets without a real strategy. They dig into what it means to truly have a plan — from organizing scattered accounts, to transitioning from mutual funds to tax-efficient ETFs, and dealing with concentrated stock positions using tools like direct indexing, exchange funds, and collars. Plus, they break down how buffered ETFs can provide downside protection when the market turns, how to avoid overspending in the first 10 years of retirement, and why automated investing might fail you after age 60. Finally, a five-minute task that could save you from financial fraud: how and why to freeze your credit today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian take a deep dive into the surprising ways your brain might be sabotaging your financial future. From action bias and overconfidence to herd mentality and confirmation bias, they reveal how emotional traps become even more dangerous the larger your retirement nest egg grows. You’ll also hear how childhood money lessons still influence your decisions today—whether you realize it or not. Plus, the guys break down why FOMO and a desire to “do something” can upend a perfectly good financial plan, and how the best value a financial advisor provides may not be what you think.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian expose the hidden financial risks that even financially comfortable families often overlook — like gaps in liability protection, cyber threats, and uncoordinated estate plans. They unpack why an umbrella insurance policy is a must-have, especially if your net worth has made you a target. Then, are your investments really diversified — or just duplicated? They dig into how overlapping holdings in your accounts could leave you vulnerable in a downturn, and what true diversification actually looks like. Plus, they tackle the emotional side of money: how to fireproof your finances from family drama, whether it's sibling tensions over a family business or preparing for generational wealth transfer. And for anyone with too much company stock, they explore smart, tax-efficient ways to unwind concentrated positions and protect your portfolio from unnecessary risk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian are joined by Allworth’s Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout to unpack why the latest inflation report might not be as positive as it seemed — including how a government shutdown may have warped the data. Plus, what the SEC just approved that could revolutionize how traditional investments are processed, and how Robinhood’s latest move blurs the line between gambling and investing. Later, the guys dig into the generational divide on fixing Social Security and answer your smart money questions — from multi-account withdrawal strategies to understanding bond fund risk.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explore the hidden financial traps even the smartest, wealthiest investors fall into—often because of their own brains. From overconfidence and loss aversion to chasing performance and underestimating taxes, the co-hosts share real-life stories of multimillionaires who made emotional missteps that cost them dearly. They break down how even savvy executives, business owners, and retirement-ready couples can unintentionally sabotage long-term success. Learn how to protect yourself with smart strategies like automated rebalancing, bucket strategies, asset location, and avoiding costly tax surprises.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down a surprisingly tame inflation report that has Wall Street (and maybe the Fed) rethinking the pace of rate cuts in 2026. But don’t get too comfortable—there are warning signs in the job market that suggest the economy is cooling, not roaring. The guys explain what it all means for interest rates, your mortgage, and long-term investing strategies. Later in the show, they dive into the delicate family dynamics that can erupt when estate plans aren’t clearly communicated—think unequal inheritances, caregiver credit, and vacation home squabbles. Plus, real estate expert Michelle Sloan joins the show to walk through the pros and cons of downsizing into a condo versus staying in a traditional home. And in the Simply Money mailbag: when do alternative investments make sense, how to coordinate charitable giving without triggering higher Medicare premiums, and why your IRA investments shouldn’t change just because you plan to leave money to charity. Finally, in Brian’s Bottom Line, a financial planning playbook for high-net-worth investors in a slowing economy: diversification, liquidity, tax efficiency, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explore a simple phrase that could mean the difference between financial freedom and struggle: “the sooner the better.” They unpack new data around Gen X’s looming retirement crisis and what it means to be the first generation largely retiring without pensions. Then, they dive into a compelling new study showing how saving—not spending—could be the true key to financial happiness. Plus, career expert Julie Bauke joins to dissect “the executive dilemma”—when a promotion might not actually be the best next move. Finally, Bob and Brian answer real listener questions on managing capital gains, tapping into dividends, and planning for long-term care.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explore whether we’re living through another tech bubble — this time fueled by artificial intelligence. Is the massive investment in AI setting us up for a painful correction in 2026? They dig into market concentration, inflated valuations, and why companies like Nvidia, Oracle, and OpenAI are raising red flags for some investors. You’ll also hear why now is a smart time to rebalance your portfolio — but not the old way — and how high-net-worth investors are using buffered ETFs and direct indexing to level up their financial strategy. Plus, estate planning mistakes that can cost your heirs big time, and real answers in the Ask the Advisor segment — from embedded portfolio risk to downsizing dilemmas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian explain why the smartest money on Wall Street is bracing for volatility in 2026 — and why you should be too. With midterm elections looming, sticky inflation, and unpredictable earnings, investors with millions in the market need to prepare for a rockier road ahead. They outline what a “happy but exposed” growth investor should be doing right now to manage risk (especially if you're tech-heavy), and why “underperforming diversifiers” shouldn’t panic — but might need to rethink their strategy. From buffered ETFs to rebalancing to international exposure, hear what tweaks can help your portfolio thrive, not just survive. Plus, the surprising mindset trap that could leave you vulnerable next year — and the one guarantee Brian is willing to make about the markets. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian are joined by a very special guest: Dr. Loretta Mester, former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland and one of the most influential voices in monetary policy. Alongside Allworth's Chief Investment Officer Andy Stout, the team gets Dr. Mester’s exclusive insight on the Fed’s recent rate cut, where inflation is really headed, and what she sees for the economy in 2026. Plus, she pulls back the curtain on what it’s actually like inside a divided Fed when key policy decisions are being made. Later, Bob and Brian break down why your once-smart financial tools—like whole life insurance, muni bonds, or annuities—could now be holding you back. And, could 12-year-olds be the next big investors? They explore a surprising trend among today’s youngest market participants.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the Fed's latest interest rate cut—what it means for mortgages, savings rates, and why younger homebuyers may still feel squeezed. Then, they dive into a critical end-of-year financial planning reminder: take your required minimum distributions (RMDs) by December 31st or risk a 25% IRS penalty. They also tackle a headline-grabbing claim that passive investing is “worse than Marxism” and explain what’s really at stake for your portfolio. Plus, the Better Business Bureau joins to spotlight the biggest holiday scams of 2025, and the guys answer listener questions about tax alpha, benchmarks, and how to unwind capital gains the smart way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian uncover the crucial differences between financial advisors who are just going through the motions and those truly playing offense—actively helping high-net-worth clients reduce taxes, build legacy plans, and take control of their financial futures. Learn the red flags that suggest your advisor may be stuck in the past and the proactive strategies—like Roth conversions and tax-efficient income planning—that can dramatically improve your long-term outcomes. Plus, find out what Vanguard is doing that could make your 401(k) feel more like a pension, when it makes sense to start financially helping your kids now, and how to plan your estate beyond just taxes and probate. It’s a jam-packed show for anyone who wants to stay sharp and plan smarter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian are joined by Allworth CIO Andy Stout to preview the Federal Reserve’s final meeting of the year. With a rate cut all but guaranteed, what really matters is how Jerome Powell sets expectations for early 2026—and how a divided Fed committee might shape the path ahead. Andy unpacks what high-net-worth investors need to watch in the upcoming dot plot and why rebalancing your portfolio now could be crucial. Then, Bob and Brian dig into why more than 70% of millionaires don’t feel wealthy—and how to shift your mindset (and your plan) to regain confidence. They also reveal the three costly financial gaps that can hit if you retire before 65. And in the listener mailbag: mutual funds vs. ETFs in retirement accounts, understanding real bond yields, and how to handle today’s top-heavy S&P 500.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian reveal what wealthy families are doing in December that most people completely overlook. While many go into coast mode during the holidays, high-net-worth individuals are making smart year-end moves—rebalancing their portfolios, harvesting tax losses (and gains), and donating appreciated assets through donor-advised funds. They’ll also explain why December is the perfect time to talk to your kids about your estate plan, how to take advantage of qualified charitable distributions from your IRA if you're over age 70½, and how to gift money to your family now—completely tax-free. Plus, they tie it all together with a powerful message about using the holidays to pass on your values, not just your wealth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian introduce the “financial freedom test drive”—a bold way to rehearse retirement before you take the plunge. Learn why trying out your withdrawal strategy and lifestyle early could save you from major surprises later. Then, they tackle the “millionaire’s income problem,” where pulling money out of your portfolio the wrong way can cost you in taxes, Medicare premiums, and peace of mind. They’ll cover Roth conversion ladders, municipal bonds, rental income strategies, and real-world withdrawal tactics for people with significant assets. Plus, the guys share the uncomfortable but crucial conversation every couple should have: “What happens if I die first?” And finally, they break down the dream—and reality—of retiring overseas. From taxes to healthcare to missing Elder football games, this episode is packed with practical insight for high-net-worth families preparing for the next chapter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.