Wealth Redefined®
Michael Reynolds
Subscribe
Practical discussions and insights on money with a modern and socially conscious approach to building wealth. Hosted by Michael Reynolds, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) and Principal of Elevation Financial.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
3 days ago
E178: FDIC Insurance Limits Explained – How Much Coverage Do You Have?
Understanding FDIC insurance limits is crucial for safeguarding your money. Learn about the coverage you have and how to maximize your protection.
playlist_add
Mar 22, 2023
E177: Six Things That Happen When You Switch to Debit Cards
Switching to using debit cards only can be a great way to “detox” from the destructive spending habits that are sometimes created by credit cards.
playlist_add
Mar 15, 2023
E176: Everything You Need To Know About Quarterly Estimated Taxes
Worried about paying estimated quarterly taxes? Get an understanding of what they are, how to calculate them, and the importance of filing on time in this episode.
playlist_add
Mar 8, 2023
E175: A List of Dumb Things I’ve Done With Money
If you struggle with feelings of shame around money, I hope that seeing my speed bumps along the way will help you feel less alone.
playlist_add
Mar 1, 2023
E174: Should I Form an LLC for My Business Activity?
The Limited Liability Company, or “LLC” is a very common type of business structure, and for good reason. It tends to be convenient and easy to establish and comes with some benefits to the owner. So how do you decide if you should form an LLC?
playlist_add
Feb 22, 2023
E173: Demystifying the Different Types of Tax Professionals
Let’s walk through the different types of tax professionals, their credentials, and what they do so you can be better informed as you seek help with taxes.
playlist_add
Feb 15, 2023
E172: The Five Most Common Life Insurance Mistakes
Even for those Americans who are insured, it’s very common to fall into some of the most common mistakes made with life insurance.
playlist_add
Feb 8, 2023
E171: Three Automations to Improve the Flow of Money in Your Life
There are three primary areas of money that I’ve found to be most effective to automate. If you set up automatic recurring transfers in these key areas, you will be on your way to enjoying much more financial stability and lower stress.
playlist_add
Feb 1, 2023
E170: What Does it Mean to "Pay Yourself First?"
So what does it mean to pay yourself first and more importantly, is it a good idea?
playlist_add
Jan 25, 2023
E169: What is an Investment Policy Statement?
So how necessary is an Investment Policy Statement? While it’s not mission-critical, it does provide a valuable framework that can make larger impacts as time goes on. In serving the purpose of creating guidelines for both you and your financial advisor for investing, I would not underestimate the value it can have.
playlist_add
Jan 18, 2023
E168: How to Create a Transfer on Death Deed for Your Home
playlist_add
Jan 11, 2023
E167: My Three Words for 2023
At the beginning of each year, I choose three words to set the direction for the year. Here are my three words for 2023 and insights to help you use this exercise to find success and fulfillment in your own life.
playlist_add
Dec 14, 2022
E166: Basic Estate Documents Everyone Should Have
A complete estate plan includes a few key documents that work together to make sure your money and property gets passed on the way you want and your medical and financial affairs are taken care of if you can't take care of them yourself.
playlist_add
Dec 7, 2022
E165: A Roundup of End of Year Financial Planning Items
So what are some “money” areas to focus on as we approach the end of the year?
playlist_add
Nov 23, 2022
E164: Updates to Contribution Limits and Other Important Numbers for 2023
This is not an exhaustive list of 2023 changes (see the download for more) but it does highlight the most commonly-used numbers when making retirement account contributions and tax planning.
playlist_add
Nov 16, 2022
E163: 6 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score
Your credit score is a metric that can have a significant impact on your ability to have options. So what are some ways to improve your credit score and keep it high?
playlist_add
Nov 9, 2022
E162: Benefits of Creating an Online IRS Account
If you’re not sure what your current tax situation is, you would like to make online payments, or would like a clearer view of your history with the IRS, consider setting up an online IRS account.
playlist_add
Oct 12, 2022
E161: Should I Put My Emergency Fund in I Bonds?
While they don’t really make sense as an investment (since the interest rate is not designed to outpace inflation), I Bonds can serve as a vehicle for others parts of your financial plan, including your emergency fund.
playlist_add
Oct 5, 2022
E160: How to Get Your Resume Noticed While Job Hunting
Having trouble getting an interview? These are a few things you can do to help increase your chances of getting noticed during the hiring process.
playlist_add
Sep 28, 2022
E159: Five Ways to Lower Anxiety in a Stressful Market
While there is no magic button that makes investing easy, there are a few things we can do to help smooth out the ride (emotionally) and experience less stress.
playlist_add
Sep 21, 2022
E158: Can I Contribute to a Traditional IRA and a Roth IRA at the Same Time?
Both the Traditional IRA and the Roth IRA can be great tools for tax-advantaged retirement savings. So can you contribute to both at the same time?
playlist_add
Sep 14, 2022
E157: How to Use a Donor Advised Fund In Your Financial Plan
A Donor Advised Fund can offer many benefits and is worth exploring for those interested in long-term charitable giving.
playlist_add
Sep 7, 2022
E156: SIMPLE IRA vs 401(k)
Setting up a retirement plan for your small business can be confusing. Two popular options include the SIMPLE IRA and the 401(k). But what's the difference? And which one is right for you?
playlist_add
Aug 31, 2022
E155: Starting a Business? Stop Worrying About Your Pricing.
If you're starting a business, it can be tempting to agonize over your pricing. Are you charging enough? Here's the thing: it doesn't matter.
playlist_add
Aug 24, 2022
E154: How to Manage Money as a Committed Couple
Managing money as a married or committed couple can come with challenges and benefits. Like most things in personal finance, there is no one right or wrong way to do it. We'll discuss some of the ways to approach money management in a committed relationship.
playlist_add
Aug 17, 2022
E153: Comparing the Risk of Loss vs. the Risk of Missing Out
Fear of loss and volatility can cause anxiety, especially in scary markets. It can cause many to try to reduce risk by staying out of the market or being very conservative. But there is also a risk to NOT taking risks.
playlist_add
Aug 10, 2022
E152: Five Things You Need to Know About Your Roth 401(k)
Everyone has heard of a 401(k), but not as many people are aware of the Roth 401(k). Let's unpack a few facts and insights about the Roth 401(k) and how it works.
playlist_add
Aug 3, 2022
E151: How Big Should My Emergency Fund Be?
We've all probably heard the "3-6 months of expenses" rule of thumb for your emergency fund. But like most things in personal finance, it's not a one-size-fits-all. We'll talk through the nuances of how to think about how much should be in your emergency fund.
playlist_add
Jul 20, 2022
E150: How to Accurately Calculate Your True Monthly Expenses
When asked "what's your typical monthly spending?" most people go full on deer in the headlights. Unless you track your spending with a budgeting tool, it can be very difficult to determine your true expenses. Let's discuss a great way to ballpark it using your online banking and a basic spreadsheet.
playlist_add
Jul 13, 2022
E149: How to Ask for a Raise
Talking about compensation can be uncomfortable for many. But avoiding the topic could leave you under-paid and under-appreciated. Let's talk about how to ask for raise in a way that is constructive, respectful, and productive.
playlist_add
Jul 6, 2022
E148: What Is Investment Management?
For many, investment management can seem like a black box. It sounds mysterious and difficult. In this episode, we'll unpack exactly what goes into investment management and what financial advisors do when managing investments.
playlist_add
Jun 29, 2022
E147: Using Financial Ratios to Make Better Money Decisions
While financial planning is not one-size-fits-all, it can often be helpful to look for rules of thumb or general guidelines when orienting your finances. We'll talk about some key financial ratios that you can track to help you make better money decisions and monitor your financial wellness.
playlist_add
Jun 22, 2022
E146: Does Socially Responsible Investing, ESG, and Impact Investing Really Make a Difference?
SRI/ESG/Impact investing is getting a lot more attention. While some media attention has been positive, there are plenty of naysayers. Let's talk about the true impact of investing in alignment of positive values.
playlist_add
May 25, 2022
E145: Five Simple Money Systems That Will Level Up Your Financial Health
Good habits and systems can lead to great results. In this episode, I will share five of the most impactful (and simple) money systems that can help you significantly improve your financial health.
playlist_add
May 18, 2022
E144: How to Be a Socially Conscious Consumer (While Feeling Overwhelmed)
You try to make a positive impact in the world by buying local, investing responsibly, supporting minority-owned businesses, recycling, re-using, donating, the list goes on and on. But what if you're feeling overwhelmed in the pursuit of ethical perfection as a consumer? Let's discuss.
playlist_add
May 11, 2022
E143: Should I Invest in Gold?
With geopolitical conflicts and inflation, it's natural to look for "safe haven" investments. Gold is one that often holds interest to some. We'll talk through some facts about gold to help you think through whether it makes sense for you.
playlist_add
May 4, 2022
E142: An Overview of "I Bonds"
U.S. Treasury Series I Saving Bonds, commonly called I Bonds, can be a great supplement to your investment & savings plan. Let's unpack I Bonds and discuss how they work.
playlist_add
Apr 27, 2022
E141: Should I Buy Life Insurance Before I Need It?
The common wisdom is that you buy life insurance when someone else is financially dependent on you. But does it make sense to get it before you need it?
playlist_add
Apr 20, 2022
E140: What Documents Do I Need For Financial Planning?
Are you curious what documents and other information might be needed when engaging in a financial planning relationship? We'll talk through the list and explain why each document is important.
playlist_add
Apr 13, 2022
E139: How Does a 401(k) Loan Work?
Did you know that you have the option to take funds from your 401(k) as a loan? There are pros and cons to doing this and it should be considered carefully. We'll discuss how it works and all the details you need to think through when evaluating a 401(k) loan.
playlist_add
Apr 6, 2022
E138: Should I Take Out a Loan For My Business?
Running a business is hard. And cash flow can be challenging at times. Or maybe you're struggling to expand. Does using debt make sense? Let's discuss the pros and cons.
playlist_add
Mar 30, 2022
E137: How to Get a Service Business Up and Running for Less Than $1,000
Starting a business can seem like a daunting concept. But it can be more accessible than you might think. We'll walk through the steps to take action and get a service business off the ground for less than $1,000.
Related Resource: https://www.elevationfinancial.com/my-favorite-easy-to-launch-service-business-ideas
playlist_add
Mar 23, 2022
E136: How to Invest in Cryptocurrency
Interest in digital assets (a.k.a. cryptocurrency) continues to grow. But if you're still learning about it, you may be wondering: "how to I actually invest in crypto?" We'll cover the most common ways to buy and invest in digital assets.
playlist_add
Mar 16, 2022
E135: How to Implement Reverse Budgeting
We've talked about budgeting methods before but this time we will dig into one of the most popular: reverse budgeting. This budgeting style is great for people who hate budgeting. We'll talk about how to set it up for automation and how to track cash flow within this framework.
playlist_add
Mar 9, 2022
E134: How to Use "Investment Buckets" to Manage Growth, Risk, and Liquidity
Most of us are trained to see investing and retirement saving as very binary: either it's in cash or it's our 401(k). Short-term or long-term. But there's a lot of "medium-term" in between. And we can work with that by making use of investment buckets.
playlist_add
Feb 23, 2022
E133: How Money Scripts Influence Your Financial Plan
“Money Script” is a term coined by Dr. Brad Klontz, a thought leader in the world of financial therapy. Basically, money scripts are your unconscious beliefs about money, often rooted in childhood, that affect your adult behaviors and perspectives. We'll discuss the different Money Scripts and what you can learn from them.
playlist_add
Jan 26, 2022
E132: How to Evaluate Socially Responsible Investments
It comes up a lot in discussions about investing: "how do I choose socially-responsible investments"? Many are confused and frustrated by the "greenwashing" that occurs in the industry and feel stuck when it comes to choosing investments. We'll unpack it in this episode and discuss how to evaluate socially-responsible investments including some free tools for analysis.
playlist_add
Jan 19, 2022
E131: Should I Buy the Dip?
No, we're not talking about your favorite salsa or party dip. We're talking about investing in "dips" in the market, or "buying low". Is this a good strategy? Let's find out.
playlist_add
Jan 12, 2022
E130: Budget Alternatives for People Who Don't Want to Budget
Let's face it, strict zero-based budgeting is not for everyone. No matter how beautiful and seductive your friends make YNAB (or Mint, or spreadsheets, or whatever) sound, you're just not going to do it. So what's the alternative? Are you doomed to a life of financial anarchy? Have no fear. There is hope for your cash flow even if you're not on the budget bandwagon.
playlist_add
Jan 5, 2022
E129: My Three Words for 2022
Every year, I do Chris Brogan's "Three Words" exercise to start the new year with purpose. I've done it for many years now and I am 100% in love with it. I'll share how I did last year and what my words are going to be this year. And I'll share how you can do it, too.
playlist_add
Dec 15, 2021
E128: What It's Like to Work With Me
I'm indulging myself a bit for the last episode of the year. I'm going to give you a detailed description of what it looks like to work with me as a client.
playlist_add
Dec 8, 2021
E127: Getting in Shape to Be a Solid Home Buyer
Buying a home can be an exciting life transition. But before getting starry-eyed and falling in love with your dream house, it's a good idea to get your financial ducks in a row so you're ready to sign on the dotted line. Dynamic Senior Loan Officer, Brittany Green joins us today to explain how to get in shape to be a solid home buyer and avoid snags and obstacles.
playlist_add
Dec 1, 2021
E126: What I Look for When Evaluating Mutual Funds and ETFs
When I'm choosing mutual funds and ETFs for investments, there are some specific things I look at when screening. I'll share those elements and how I use them to choose funds.
playlist_add
Nov 24, 2021
E125: The Basic Estate Planning Documents that Everyone Needs
The concept of "estate planning" or even a Last Will & Testament can often seem like an abstract and far-off thing to many of us. But there is a basic set of estate planning documents that are important for all of us to have. Jeff Heinzmann from Heinzmann Law Office walks us through these documents and how they work.
playlist_add
Nov 17, 2021
E124: Unpacking the HSA and How It Works
The HSA (Health Savings Account) is a feature of certain health insurance plans and they can make sense for many folks who are choosing plans during open enrollment. We will unpack how an HSA works, discuss the "triple tax benefit" features, and get into the details of what makes this account so useful, even as a supplemental retirement account.
playlist_add
Nov 3, 2021
E123: An Executive Summary of ESG Investing
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) concerns are important to many investors who want to align their money with a positive impact in the world. We'll cover the basics of ESG investing for those who are less familiar with the topic.
playlist_add
Oct 27, 2021
E122: Modern Health Insurance Options for Small Business Owners
Navigating health insurance can be a challenge. Even more so if you're a business owner. Our guest, Matthew Allen has built a business on helping solo and small business owners find opportunities they didn't know existed and design efficient and cost-effective health insurance plans. Matt outlines some ways business owners can find better options beyond the typical plans.
playlist_add
Oct 20, 2021
E121: The Easiest Financial Plan in the World
Financial planning doesn't have to be complicated. Even so, it can feel overwhelming at times. Here is the easiest financial plan in the world to implement even if you never work with a financial advisor.
playlist_add
Oct 13, 2021
E120: Five Reasons to Choose a Solo 401(k) Instead of a SEP
The SEP is a pretty popular retirement plan among solo business owners and they are often recommended by accountants. But what if I told you there were reasons to choose a Solo 401(k)?
playlist_add
Oct 6, 2021
E119: How to Pay Yourself as a Business Owner
As a solo or small business owner, you're in business to make money. But how are you paying yourself? We'll talk through the logistics and concepts around properly paying yourself in your business.
playlist_add
Sep 22, 2021
E118: Should I Try to Beat the S&P 500?
It's easy to have S&P envy when the market is doing well. And we often get stuck on trying to beat the market as our primary goal, making a diversified portfolio seem "boring" in comparison. But that doesn't tell the whole story.
playlist_add
Sep 15, 2021
E117: How to Manage Multiple Jobs or Businesses at the Same Time
It's not uncommon to have more than one source of income. Some people have more than one job while others have a "day job" and a side hustle they are starting. Others are "parallel entrepreneurs" with more than one business. We'll discuss techniques for managing multiple ventures more effectively.
playlist_add
Sep 1, 2021
E116: How Long-term Care Can Wreck Your Financial Plan
We all like to believe that we'll live forever and remain in good health along the way. But the reality is, we sometimes need a little help later in life. And this can come with a cost. We'll talk through some long-term care scenarios and why it's important to consider them in your financial plan.
playlist_add
Aug 18, 2021
E115: Why I Don't Own a Credit Card
I've decided to opt out of credit cards. And I have my reasons. I'm not saying anyone is "wrong" for using credit cards or that credit cards will ruin your life (although they sometimes do ruin lives) but I am suggesting that it may be worth re-examining why you use credit cards and deciding for yourself if they are really worth it. Here are my reasons for not using credit cards.
playlist_add
Aug 11, 2021
E114: Through the Eyes of a Child – How to Bring Creative Thinking Back Into Your Business and Your Life (with Lorraine Ball)
Creativity is a natural ability, but unfortunately, it is often beaten out of us by our life experiences.
Over time, we learn that many people do not want to hear our creative ideas and begin to fear that inner child. We muzzle and mute the part of us which is always ready to jump out and share our excitement and ideas with the world. But it is this inner child who is often at the center of truly great new ideas. So sometimes you have to let it out
In this conversation with Lorraine Ball from Digital toolbox, we will touch on how your creativity is stifled, and ways to re-energize your inner child!
playlist_add
Aug 4, 2021
E113: Busting the Most Common Myths About ESG Investing
ESG investing is the practice of incorporating environmental, social, and governance factors into investing as a way of making a positive impact in the world. But ESG can sometimes be misunderstood. Let's debunk some of the most common myths.
playlist_add
Jul 28, 2021
E112: Don't Let Your 401(k) Become Escheated
It's easy to let old 401(k) accounts sit dormant when you leave a job. So what happens if you forget about it for a while? It may be in danger of escheatment. We'll talk about what that means and how to avoid it.
playlist_add
Jul 21, 2021
E111: A Guide to Quarterly Estimated Taxes (with Kim Padgitt)
As business owners or 1099 contractors, it's likely that we need to pay quarterly estimated taxes. But how do they work? How much do we need to pay? We'll discuss the mechanics of quarterly estimated taxes today with Kim Padgitt from The Tax Advantage LLC.
playlist_add
Jul 14, 2021
E110: How to Build a Socially Conscious Business
For many business owners, it's not enough to just make money. We also want to have a positive impact in the world and in our communities. We'll talk through some ways businesses can align business with values.
playlist_add
Jul 7, 2021
E109: What Documents Do I Need to Keep on File?
We encounter a lot of financial documents throughout our lives. Which ones do we need to keep on file and for how long? This episode includes a downloadable checklist.
playlist_add
Jun 30, 2021
E108: What Issues Should I Consider When Starting a New Job?
playlist_add
Jun 23, 2021
E107: Should I Invest in Digital Assets (Cryptocurrency) Like Bitcoin?
Are you thinking of investing in Bitcoin or other digital assets? Are you experiencing FOMO but not sure if it's wise to invest and if so, how much? And what about the environment? Isn't Bitcoin an energy hog? We'll discuss all this and more.
playlist_add
Jun 16, 2021
E106: What to Do If You Don’t Have a 401(k)
Many people save for financial independence using an employer-provided 401(k) plan. It's the most well-known retirement plan today. But what if you don't have access to one? What are your options?
playlist_add
Jun 9, 2021
E105: Do I Need an EIN as a Business Owner?
If you're starting or running a business, you may have heard of an EIN (Employer Identification Number). Do you need one? What's it for?
playlist_add
May 26, 2021
E104: Budgeting With An Irregular Income
Budgeting with an irregular income can be a challenge. But it's not impossible. We'll cover some approaches and tips for making your budget work even with unpredictable cash flow.
playlist_add
May 19, 2021
E103: How to Build a Business You Can Sell
Are you an entrepreneur or someone with entrepreneurial aspirations? Whether or not you want to have an exit plan, it's important to be intentional about it. And if you do want to sell someday, what does the path look like?
playlist_add
May 12, 2021
E102: Lump Sum Investing vs Dollar Cost Averaging vs Recurring Contributions
Should you invest in bigger lump sums or is it better to invest on a steady recurring schedule? Let's discuss.
playlist_add
May 5, 2021
E101: Independent Contractor or Employee?
Whether you are a business owner hiring people or you are working for someone else. knowing the rules of how people should be classified is really important. We'll unpack the differences in this episode.
playlist_add
Apr 21, 2021
E100: 7 Lies We Tell Ourselves About Money (with Dan VanDusen)
Relating with money can sometimes be complicated and we often lie to ourselves about it. We're joined by fellow financial advisor, Dan VanDusen to discuss 7 of the most common money lies we see.
playlist_add
Apr 14, 2021
E99: Should I Get My Life or Disability Insurance From My Employer?
It's often easy to default to accepting the life or disability insurance from an employer and feel like you've "checked the box". But is this wise?
playlist_add
Apr 7, 2021
E98: What is a Custodian?
When you set up an investment account, you typically store your money at a "custodian". But what is that and why does it matter?
playlist_add
Mar 24, 2021
E97: What Does a Financial Advisor Actually Do?
The world of finance can seem like a mysterious black box at times. Do you often wonder what your financial advisor is actually doing? Let's find out!
playlist_add
Mar 17, 2021
E96: Financial Benefits of Hiring Your Child
Are there financial benefits to hiring your child? Learn how to do it properly and how it can help you transfer money efficiently to your child.
playlist_add
Mar 10, 2021
E95: How to Create a One-Page Financial Plan
Financial planning doesn't (always) have to be complicated. And it's not always 100% about the math. Learn how to create a simple, impactful financial plan that you will actually read and maintain using only a Google Doc or Word Doc.
playlist_add
Mar 3, 2021
E94: Why Your Financial Plan is Wrong (And So Is Everyone Else's)
We envision a financial plan to be this magical roadmap that tells us we're on track and that we'll have enough money. But is that how it works in reality?
playlist_add
Feb 24, 2021
E93: Should I Invest in Target Date Funds?
Target date funds often show up in 401(k) plans and 529 plans as the "default" option. But what is a target date fund and should you use one?
playlist_add
Feb 10, 2021
E92: PPP Round 2 Explained (for Small Business Owners)
PPP2 is available to small business owners. Should you apply? How is this round different? Is it possible to get it twice? What if you're a 1099? We cover these questions and more.
playlist_add
Feb 3, 2021
E91: Should I Play Around in the Stock Market?
Whenever something newsworthy happens related to the stock market, interest increases and FOMO sometimes takes hold. Should you be trading stocks? What are the risks and benefits?
playlist_add
Jan 27, 2021
E90: How to Break Up With Your Financial Advisor
Sometimes things just don't work out. And it's ok. Let's talk about how to break up with your financial advisor gracefully and smoothly.
playlist_add
Jan 20, 2021
E89: Expanding your Business With Referral Marketing (with Tiffanie Kellog)
For entrepreneurs looking for ways to grow and make more money, the array of marketing options can seem overwhelming. But one approach is consistently reliable: referral marketing. Networking and referral marketing expert, Tiffanie Kellog joins us to teach us how to use referral marketing to grow and thrive.
playlist_add
Jan 13, 2021
E88: What is a "Backdoor" Roth IRA?
The Roth IRA is a core retirement account that is a core component of many financial plans. But there are certain restrictions that can prevent people from using it. We'll talk about a workaround today called the "Backdoor" Roth IRA.
playlist_add
Jan 6, 2021
E87: My Three Words for 2021
Every year, I do Chris Brogan's "Three Words" exercise to start the new year with purpose. I've done it for many years now and I am 100% in love with it. I'll share how I did last year and what my words are going to be this year. And I'll share how you can do it, too.
playlist_add
Dec 30, 2020
E86: What It's Like to Work With Me
I'm indulging myself a bit for the last episode of the year. I'm going to give you a detailed description of what it looks like to work with me as a client.
playlist_add
Dec 23, 2020
E85: Implementing Values-based Budgeting (with Bari Tessler)
So you've tried budgeting and you still struggle with it. You're not alone. That's why this episode features a conversation with Bari Tessler: Financial Therapist, Mentor Coach, Mama-preneur, and the Founder of The Art of Money. Bari shares her incredibly simple but powerful method of "Values-based Budgeting" which can create a positive mental shift and help you get "un-stuck" with budgeting.
playlist_add
Dec 16, 2020
E84: The Solo 401(k) Plan — A Powerful Tool for Entrepreneurs
Solo business owners or "solopreneurs" may feel like their retirement plan options are limited. But there is a great tool available: the Solo 401(k) plan. We discuss the details of this plan to help you decide if it's right for you.
playlist_add
Dec 9, 2020
E83: End of Year Tax Planning (with Kim Padgitt)
The end of the year means taxes are on our minds. What can we do to be as tax-efficient as possible before the end of the year? Kim Padgitt from The Tax Advantage LLC has some insights for us.
playlist_add
Dec 2, 2020
E82: Answers To All Your Mortgage Questions (with Brittany Green)
You've got home mortgage questions? We've got answers. We chat with Brittany Green from Tucker Mortgage to cover all those questions that you've been wondering about when it comes to getting a mortgage.
playlist_add
Nov 25, 2020
E81: How to Move Past the Money Issues You've Been Avoiding
We can all struggle with avoidance of money issues at certain points in our lives. Let's talk about how to move past them.
playlist_add
Nov 18, 2020
E80: Should I Start a Business With a Partner?
Starting a business can be an exciting adventure and it can be even more exciting to start it with a partner. Is this always a good idea? What should you think through before launching a partnership?
playlist_add
Nov 11, 2020
E79: A PPP Loan Forgiveness Update
Many small businesses received a PPP Loan earlier this year. Now there are questions about forgiveness. We'll do a short update on the state of PPP Loan forgiveness.
playlist_add
Nov 4, 2020
E78: What Do Presidential Elections Mean for Markets?
Elections lead to heightened stress and emotions for many which can raise concerns about money. What does the data show about investing during a presidential election?
playlist_add
Oct 28, 2020
E77: Reviewing Your Credit Report
It's a good idea to review your credit report once a year. We'll discuss how to do that and what to look for.
playlist_add
Oct 14, 2020
E76: Identity Theft Protection 101
Is ID theft protection worth it? How do these services work? We'll talk about the ins and outs of protecting yourself and whether to consider an ID theft protection service.
playlist_add
Oct 7, 2020
E75: Secure Your Life With a Personal Cybersecurity Audit
We live in a world driven by technology. This can make life easier but it can also open us up to vulnerabilities and hacks. It's a good idea to audit your personal cybersecurity practices on a regular basis to keep your money and life safe. In this episode, we'll walk through some security practices together to help minimize your exposure to nefariousness.
playlist_add
Sep 30, 2020
E74: How to Use a Taxable Brokerage Account in Your Financial Plan
When we think of investment and saving for retirement (or financial independence), we often think of things like 401(k) and Roth IRA accounts. But there's another type of account that is pretty common and very flexible that a lot of people don't take advantage of. We'll discuss the Taxable Brokerage account and how to use it.
playlist_add
Sep 23, 2020
E73: You're Making Other People Rich (with Ryan Sterling)
So many of us struggle with money and even more struggle to truly understand and define what wealth really means to them. And that's why Ryan Sterling wrote a book about it. Ryan is a friend of the show and a dynamic speaker, author, and financial advisor and joins this episode to share insights from his new book, "You're Making Other People Rich."
playlist_add
Sep 16, 2020
E72: Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
Pets are a part of the family, and they deserve quality medical care. But healthcare for pets can get expensive. Is it worth it to consider pet insurance?
playlist_add
Sep 9, 2020
E71: What I Look for in a Bank
Does it really make a difference what bank you use? Let's discuss.
playlist_add
Sep 2, 2020
E70: Emergency Fund Life Hacks
Building an emergency fund is one of the most important steps of a financial plan. But it's hard! What are some tips and tricks to getting it done?
playlist_add
Aug 26, 2020
E69: Navigating Available Health Insurance Options (with Matthew Allen)
Health insurance is really important. But it can also be really confusing. We are joined by health insurance expert, Matthew Allen who walks us through all the options available to us and how to evaluate each one to find the best fit for you.
playlist_add
Aug 19, 2020
E68: Business Benefits of a Small Business 401(k) Plan (with Nicolle Willson)
Big companies usually offer 401(k) plans as a standard practice. But many small businesses do not because they aren't clear on the benefits or why it matters. We are joined by Nicolle Willson, JD, CFP, C(k)P, and head of the Retirement Consulting department at Guideline to explain why a small business might want to consider setting up a 401(k) plan and how easy it can be.
playlist_add
Aug 12, 2020
E67: Answers to the 10 Most Common Auto & Home Insurance Questions (with Ashe Abebe)
You have auto & home insurance questions? We've got answers. We're joined by Ashe Abebe, friend of the show and independent insurance agent to talk through top 10 questions about auto & home insurance.
playlist_add
Aug 5, 2020
E66: Three Mistakes You’re Probably Making with Life Insurance (with Mark Maurer)
Life insurance is important for many people but it's easy to overlook a few common details that can lead to problems later on. We are joined today by Mark Maurer, CEO of LLIS which has been providing high touch, high tech insurance services since 1992.
Life insurance is important for many people but it's easy to overlook a few common details that can lead to problems later on. We are joined today by Mark Maurer, CEO of LLIS which has been providing high touch, high tech insurance services since 1992.
Find us at https://www.elevationfinancial.com
playlist_add
Jul 29, 2020
E65: Why is My Friend's Investment Account Doing Better Than Mine?
Has your friend been bragging about how well their investment account is doing while you aren't seeing the same results?
playlist_add
Jul 22, 2020
E64: The Future of Financial Advice (with Tyrone Ross)
Tyrone Ross, Director of Community at Altruist, joins the podcast for an incredible conversation about the changing landscape of the financial industry, how technology is making it easier to get financial advice, what's broken about the industry, and how Altruist is leveling the playing field.
playlist_add
Jul 15, 2020
E63: Do “Lazy” Portfolios Have a Place in Your Investment Plan? (A Mastermind Discussion)
There are a number of popular "lazy" portfolios published, such as the All Weather Portfolio or the Permanent Portfolio. Why do these exist and what's the benefit? Michael is joined by his XYPN Mastermind Group to discuss this.
playlist_add
Jul 8, 2020
E62: Rebalancing Your 401(k) and Investment Accounts (Mid-year Overview)
July is a good time to consider rebalancing your 401(k) and investment accounts. We'll discuss the ins and outs on today's episode.
playlist_add
Jul 1, 2020
E61: Emergency Fund 101
How healthy is your emergency fund? How big should it be? Where should you put it? We talk through these questions and more.
playlist_add
Jun 24, 2020
E60: How to Overcome Your Limiting Beliefs About Money (with Gull Khan)
Do you feel limited by your beliefs about money? Do you feel there is something holding you back from earning the income you deserve? We talk with money mindset expert, Gull Khan about how how to overcome your limiting beliefs about money.
playlist_add
Jun 17, 2020
E59: How to Launch an Online Course or Product
Thinking of launching an online course or product? Following a process can make the journey a bit easier.
playlist_add
Jun 10, 2020
E58: Empower Your Community with YNAB for Good
A call to action to help me spread the word about YNAB for Good.
playlist_add
Jun 3, 2020
E57: A Deep Dive Into Disability Insurance (with Ashe Abebe)
Did you know that statistically, 1 in 4 people are likely to become disabled for more than 12 months at some point in their lives? Join us as we sit down with insurance expert, Ashe Abebe to discuss disability insurance and how it works.
playlist_add
May 27, 2020
E56: My Top Three Ways to Achieve Extreme Productivity
A lot of us struggle with productivity. Being able to get things done is a pretty clear competitive advantage when it comes to money. If you are productive, you are potentially more likely to increase your wealth because you can simply get more done which leads to success in business, work, running your household, and pretty much every area in life.
playlist_add
May 20, 2020
E55: Common Financial Questions Unpacked (A Mastermind Discussion)
Michael's financial advisor mastermind group tackles your most common financial questions in a lively round table format. Everything from tackling debt to student loans to college funding to investing and more.
playlist_add
May 13, 2020
E54: Navigating Family, Work, and Productivity in the Pandemic (with Matthew Brennan)
Professional journalist and copywriter Matthew Brennan joins us today to have a conversation about balancing work, life, and productivity in the pandemic.
playlist_add
May 6, 2020
E53: Pandemic & Your Money - Roundup for May 6, 2020
A timely roundup of money-related updates in the current pandemic.
playlist_add
Apr 29, 2020
E52: Three Financial Best Practices for Solo (or Micro) Business Owners
There are a few issues that trip up small business owners over and over. We will discuss these areas and how to avoid painful situations down the road.
playlist_add
Apr 22, 2020
E51: Tools for Managing Financial and Life Stress (with Kristin Oja, NP)
We're all dealing with increased stress right now, financially and with life in general. In this episode, we talk with Nurse Practitioner and wellness expert Kristin Oja, founder of Stat Wellness, to talk through some ways to manage stress.
playlist_add
Apr 15, 2020
E50: Stop Trying to Time the Market
You're probably seeing lots of ads and promotions on trading stocks and "getting into" investing right now. Don't give in to the hype.
playlist_add
Apr 8, 2020
E49: How to Request Mortgage Forbearance Under the CARES Act
The CARES Act allows the forbearance of mortgage payments due to financial hardship due to the COVID-19 emergency. Here's how to find out if you qualify and how to request it.
playlist_add
Apr 1, 2020
E48: Unpacking the CARES Act and What It Means for You
The CARES Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020. There's a lot to unpack for both individuals and small businesses. We'll talk through the key provisions and what it means for you.
playlist_add
Mar 25, 2020
E47: A Budgeting Crash Course With YNAB
I was going to do a big series on budgeting but I haven't gotten around to it so we're going to do a crash course right now. Because we need it right now.
playlist_add
Mar 18, 2020
E46: Q&A About Money Decisions in Scary Market Conditions
Many people have questions about what to do during scary market conditions like we are experiencing now. We’ll discuss some real questions asked by listeners in today’s episode.
playlist_add
Mar 11, 2020
E45: What Am I Doing With My Money Right Now?
Want to know what I'm doing with my money right now in the midst of COVID-19 and the stock market dips? Listen in to find out.
playlist_add
Mar 4, 2020
E44: Introduction to the F.I.R.E. Movement (with Adam Morgan)
Have you heard of the F.I.R.E. movement? What does it mean and how do you do it? We are joined by Adam Morgan, Senior Editor at The Simple Dollar to learn more about the story and approach behind F.I.R.E.
playlist_add
Feb 26, 2020
E43: How to Start an LLC
Thinking of starting a side hustle or a new business? Not sure how to get your LLC up and running? We'll walk you through it.
playlist_add
Feb 19, 2020
E42: What is An HSA and Do I Need One?
What is a Health Savings Account and how does it work? What are these tax benefits everyone keeps talking about? You're in luck. Today we unpack HSAs and how they work.
playlist_add
Feb 12, 2020
E41: Three Great Reasons to Set Up Automatic Contributions
We often have goals of making significant contributions to retirement but sometimes life gets in the way and we end up being inconsistent. Here are three great reasons to put your investing on auto-pilot.
playlist_add
Feb 5, 2020
E40: What Does It Cost to Work With a Financial Advisor?
How do financial advisors get paid? Does it seem like a mystery to figure out how you will be charged? We explain all in this episode.
playlist_add
Jan 29, 2020
E39: Your Small Business Marketing Playbook (with Ashley Monk)
This one is for side hustlers and entrepreneurs! Join us as we talk with small business marketing expert, Ashley Monk. She shares her "playbook" for making the most of your limited time and money while marketing your business. There are lots of gold nuggets in this episode, including "launch ugly", "email is not dead" and "blogging might be dying".
playlist_add
Jan 22, 2020
E38: Tax Efficient Saving Strategies
It's tax time! Everyone loves to save on taxes so let's talk about ways to be as efficient as possible when saving and investing.
playlist_add
Jan 15, 2020
E37: Your Tax Questions Answered (with Kim Padgitt & Julie Pesek)
You've got tax questions? We've got answers. In this episode, we sit down with Kim Padgitt & Julie Pesek from The Tax Advantage LLC to answer tax questions sent in by our listeners. There's something for everyone in this discussion and you won't want to miss it.
playlist_add
Jan 8, 2020
E36: Using Science to Make Better Money Decisions (with Tyler Ludlow)
What is decision science and can it be used to make better decisions about life and money? We find out by sitting down with a real-life decision scientist who happens to be the "Robin Hood" of decision science.
playlist_add
Jan 1, 2020
E35: My 3 Words for 2020
In lieu of New Year's resolutions, I like to define "3 words" for myself to focus on each year. I'll share how the exercise works and my 3 words for 2020.
playlist_add
Dec 18, 2019
E34: De-mystifying 401(k) Rollovers
We've all heard about rolling over your 401(k) into an IRA but what does the process actually look like?
playlist_add
Dec 11, 2019
E33: The Value of Recharging Without Guilt
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of work and business. So much that we feel guilty about taking time off. But recharging is an important part of running a successful business.
playlist_add
Dec 4, 2019
E32: Keeping Your Digital and Financial Life Secure
Fraud, identity theft, and general digital mischief is increasing. We'll cover a few ways to stay protected and keep your money and your identity from being compromised.
playlist_add
Nov 27, 2019
E31: 7 Common Retirement Saving Mistakes
Today we go through 7 of the most common retirement saving mistakes and what they mean.
playlist_add
Nov 20, 2019
E30: What To Do When You’re Scared About the Stock Market
Watching the news can freak us out and make it seem like the stock market is a scary place to put our money. Let's add some calm and clarity to the conversation.
playlist_add
Nov 13, 2019
E29: Life Without Credit Cards (with Amy Foley)
Is it possible to live without credit cards? And why would you even want to do that? Amy Foley and I talk about this and more.
playlist_add
Nov 6, 2019
E28: Considering Entrepreneurship as a Franchise Owner (with Jeff Crane)
What do you do when you're fed up with the corporate world and you want to make a change? Many people in this situation have a goal to start a business. But it can be scary to go it alone, which is why franchise ownership can be appealing to some. We sit down with Jeff Crane from The Entrepreneur's Source to learn all about what it takes to start and own a franchise.
playlist_add
Oct 30, 2019
E27: How to Get Excited about Budgeting (with Rachel Richards)
Would you rather clean your toilets than do a budget? Do spreadsheets and cash flow numbers make you cringe? As important as budgeting is, many of us have a lot of head trash about it. Join us as we talk with best-selling money author Rachel Richards about how to generate excitement about budgeting.
playlist_add
Oct 23, 2019
E26: A Crash Course in Real Estate Investing (with Dan O'Brien)
Investing in real estate can be a good investment for some. However, if you've never done it before it can be intimidating. How do you get started? What kind of returns can you expect? Do you have to be a skilled remodeler to be successful? We discuss all this and more with real estate expert, Dan O'Brien.
playlist_add
Oct 16, 2019
E25: Thinking Through the Options of Self-employment vs. Taking a Job
I worked with a client recently who was weighing the options between growing her business or taking a job. We talked through the emotional and financial aspects of this decision and I share the thought process with you on this episode.
playlist_add
Oct 9, 2019
E24: How (And Why) to Rebalance Your 401(k)
When is the last time you rebalanced your 401(k)?
playlist_add
Oct 2, 2019
E23: 13 Myths About Working With a Financial Advisor
Let's talk about the myths surrounding financial advisors and get the real story.
playlist_add
Sep 25, 2019
E22: How We Paid Off Over $400k in Student Loan Debt
Facing a mountain of debt can be scary. There is a way through it.
playlist_add
Sep 18, 2019
E21: Do That New Thing (And a Podcast Update)
What is stopping you from taking action on that thing you've been stewing about? Also: an update to this podcast.
playlist_add
Sep 11, 2019
E20: Your Money Questions Answered at #XYPNLIVE
We gathered a panel of smart people to answer your money questions at XYPN Live in St. Louis. We discuss student loans, stocks vs. mutual funds, starting a business, and more.
playlist_add
Sep 4, 2019
E19: Send Your Questions for XYPN Live
Michael will be at XYPN Live next week and the Elevation Project podcast will be recorded on-site! We'll take your questions on money and entrepreneurship and answer them with Michael and a few other advisors as a panel discussion.
playlist_add
Aug 28, 2019
E18: What is Financial Coaching?
A financial plan is great. But what happens next? Without accountability and motivation, it can be difficult to stay focused on your goals. Financial coaching can help you implement your plan and move forward. And it can make a huge difference in how money works in your life.
playlist_add
Aug 21, 2019
E17: Keeping Business Focus by Staying in the Zone
We are most effective, productive and happy when we are "in the zone" in our businesses. So let's try to stay there as much as possible.
playlist_add
Aug 14, 2019
E16: Divorced and $500k in Debt - A Comeback Story
In this episode we talk with Annie LaCroix, owner of Brainy Boss and a parallel entrepreneur. Annie shares her story of going through a divorce and facing an overwhelming amount of debt and how she fought through it and is now growing two successful businesses.
playlist_add
Aug 9, 2019
E15: 12 Modern Passive Income Ideas
Passive income is not necessarily the "retire on the beach and make money while you sleep" fantasy that many of us think of. However, with some ingenuity and perseverance, practical passive income can become reality. Here are some ideas.
playlist_add
Aug 6, 2019
E14: Tacos, Netflix Binging and Marketing for Service Firms
Josh Brammer, StoryBrand Certified Guide at Lantern joins us today to discuss how to tell a more compelling story in your business. Also: tacos.
playlist_add
Jul 31, 2019
E13: What is Socially Responsible Investing?
Are you interested in aligning your investing with social or environmental issues? This episode is real talk on Socially Responsible Investing (SRI).
playlist_add
Jul 24, 2019
E12: Growing Slow Without Debt or Investors
There is often pressure on entrepreneurs to grow as fast as possible by relying on debt or investors. But is this really the best path for everyone? We discuss the benefits of slow, controlled business growth and how to manage it.
playlist_add
Jul 17, 2019
E11: Growing a Side Hustle Into a Full-time Business
Why and when is it time to grow a side hustle into a full-time business? We talk through some of the details here.
playlist_add
Jul 10, 2019
E10: Achieving Mental and Emotional Resilience as a Business Owner
Entrepreneurship is grueling and emotionally taxing. In this episode we discuss ways to become more resilient in the face of adversity.
playlist_add
Jul 3, 2019
E9: How to Avoid Over-thinking Your Business
Over-thinking can stifle a business. Let's talk about how to overcome this.
playlist_add
Jun 26, 2019
E8: Launching Initiatives with a One-page Creative Brief
playlist_add
Jun 19, 2019
E7: Charging What You're Worth
Do you struggle to charge appropriate fees for the value you bring to your customers? You're not alone. One of the biggest challenges we have as entrepreneurs is getting paid what we're worth. Co-host Daniel Herndon joins us again.
playlist_add
Jun 12, 2019
E6: Navigating the Challenges of Combining (or Not Combining) Finances with Your Partner
Combining finances can be a touchy subject for many. It's fraught will all sorts of emotional baggage and logistical concerns. So let's talk about it. Kristy Runzer from OnRoute Financial joins as co-host and we navigate the challenges and benefits of combining finances.
playlist_add
Jun 5, 2019
E5: How Do I Make Money With a Blog or a Podcast?
Blogging and podcasting are two great ways to share your knowledge and build a following. But how do you actually make money from it?
playlist_add
May 29, 2019
E4: All About the Solo 401(k) Plan
We discuss the often under-utilized Solo 401(k), who it's for and how it works. Hint: you may be eligible.
playlist_add
May 22, 2019
E3: Parallel Entrepreneurship - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
A discussion on owning multiple businesses at the same time, known as "parallel entrepreneurship." Why do it? Pros and cons? How do you manage multiple ventures? Co-host: Daniel Herndon, owner of MilesHerndon and Gavel Curated Cafe.
playlist_add
May 15, 2019
E2: Optimizing Your Bank Accounts With Intention
Personal finance is often more about behavior than math. Michael shares his "life hacks" for organizing bank accounts for maximum optimization.
playlist_add
May 8, 2019
E1: The 10-step Process for Starting a Business for < $1,500
Interested in starting a side hustle or a new business and not sure where to start? We discuss the simple 10-step blueprint for getting up and running with minimal effort and cost. Co-host Bruce McClain from Two Roads Digital joins us and talks about how he started his business for even less.
playlist_add
May 1, 2019
E0: Introduction to The Elevation Project
The overview and introduction to The Elevation Project! Welcome... we're glad you're here.
playlist_add